bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Propiedades magnéticas en sistemas bidimensionales : efecto de defectos magnéticos sustitucionales
Authors:   , Arias Camacho Isabel María
Published: October 2024

In recent years, two-dimensional materials have attracted a great deal of attention due to their completely different properties compared to conventional three-dimensional materials. The search for a two-dimensional material that simultaneously fulfills certain properties such as a suitable gap, high in-plane carrier mobility or good environmental stability is the focus of much current research for use in spintronics or optoelectronics, to name but a few applications. If magnetism can also be introduced into them, their range of usefulness is considerably extended. This thesis offers a detailed study of the electronic and structural properties of different types of Bi2O2Se monolayers, using DFT calculations, and after doping them with transition metal impurities (Mn, Fe, Co and Ni) which will introduce magnetism into the system from their unpaired d electrons. This material is interesting because it simultaneously satisfies many of the desired properties, and also provides the possibility of being fabricated in a quasi-two-dimensional form, thanks to the alternation of the Bi2O2 and Se layers, joined by electrostatic interactions. Throughout this work we will see how the original monolayer is very sensitive to the introduction of "extra" carriers, changing easily from a semiconducting to a conducting character, how the passivation of the monolayer with hydrogen atoms is able to "stop" the electronic transfer between Bi and Se, thus maintaining the semiconducting identity of the three-dimensional material, although it is a model that does not adequately reproduce the experimental work, and the appearance of a reconstruction of the monolayer with identical stoichiometry to the initial one, but with very different properties. The introduction of the dopant will add additional magnetic properties, showing how the impurity is able to polarize the Se atoms of the surrounding planes and the appearance of low dispersion bands caused by the d orbitals which, in turn, could imply interesting phenomena for possible applications. In addition, this action also has consequences on the electronic properties of the material, producing a change in the valence of certain Bi atoms that will lead to the break of symmetry along the plane perpendicular to the monolayer. Finally, the study of other monolayer models which have the disadvantage of breaking the symmetry with respect to the Se planes, but which reproduce the desired electronic properties more adequately, is covered. In this way, this thesis tries to offer a detailed description of the advantages and disadvantages of each of the models seen from different electronic, structural and magnetic perspectives.
Campaña ¡Cuida tu Salud Mental! Intervención psicoeducativa sobre el buen dormir como hábito saludable para la salud mental
Authors:   , Canales Javiera
Published: October 2024

El presente trabajo se enmarca en la campaña "¡Cuida tu Salud Mental! Intervención psicoeducativa sobre el buen dormir como hábito saludable para la salud mental", resaltando la relevancia global de la salud mental, con aproximadamente el 13,04% de la población mundial viviendo con algún trastorno mental, especialmente depresivos y ansiosos (Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation [IHME], 2019). En el contexto de Chile, el 15,66% de la población presenta trastornos mentales, siendo la depresión y ansiedad los más prevalentes (IHME, 2019). Ante esta problemática, la campaña “¡Cuida tu Salud Mental!" 2023, ha implementado una estrategia de prevención y promoción de la salud mental, enfocada en hábitos saludables y considerando determinantes sociales. El trabajo forma parte de la campaña "¡Cuida tu salud mental! 2023", impulsada por Fundación PsiConecta, Instituto Milenio para la Investigación de la Depresión [MIDAP] y la Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile, Metro de Santiago y apoyada por la productora "Loca Santiago". Se propusieron hábitos para regular el ritmo circadiano y mejorar la calidad del sueño, los cuales fueron entregados a través de material psicoeducativo en la plataforma web de la campaña y pantallas de Metro de Santiago. La metodología de investigación involucró una revisión de la literatura y la creación de material psicoeducativo relevante por medio de la retroalimentación de profesionales y usuarios que evaluaron el producto para la construcción de los guiones de la campaña. Este trabajo es el resultado de un esfuerzo colaborativo de profesionales en psicología comprometidas con la promoción de hábitos saludables para la salud mental.
Implementação do SIASS nas Instituições Federais de Ensino Superior: uma revisão narrativa
Authors: Imamura Marcos Massaki , Pereira Gabrielly de Queiroz , Pilatti Luiz Alberto
Published: October 2024

Este estudo busca identificar os principais desafios e avanços na implementação do Subsistema Integrado de Atenção à Saúde do Servidor Público Federal (SIASS), com foco nas Instituições Federais de Ensino Superior. Por meio de uma revisão narrativa, foram analisadas publicações relevantes para entender como a política de saúde ocupacional tem sido aplicada. Os resultados destacam barreiras significativas, como infraestrutura inadequada, falta de recursos e pessoal capacitado, e uma ênfase desproporcional nas perícias médicas, em detrimento de ações preventivas e de promoção da saúde. Além disso, observou-se uma alta prevalência de transtornos mentais entre os servidores, sugerindo a necessidade de políticas mais eficazes nessa área. A implementação do SIASS requer uma abordagem mais integrada e participativa, com maior foco na capacitação contínua e na reorientação das prioridades para alcançar seus objetivos de promover a saúde e o bem-estar dos servidores públicos.
Propagação da pitombeira do pantanal (Melicoca lepidopetala Radlk) por clonagem
Authors: Rosa Artur Guerra , Silva Adriana de Castro Correia da , Silva Daniel Lima da , Rosa Andréia Alves
Published: October 2024

A pitomba do Pantanal (Melicoca lepidopetala Radlk) é uma espécie nativa cujos frutos comestíveis apresentam grande potencial para as indústrias farmacêutica e gastronômica. Para que o cultivo comercial desta planta seja viável, é necessário desenvolver técnicas de propagação vegetativa que garantam a produção de mudas e plantas uniformes. Com a crescente demanda por espécies nativas de alto potencial, a pitomba do Pantanal está ganhando destaque. Este estudo teve como objetivo avaliar a viabilidade da propagação vegetativa da pitombeira do Pantanal por meio de estaquia. Foram realizados três experimentos, o primeiro e o segundo utilizando estacas lignificadas com folhas já desenvolvidas nas estações da primavera e verão, respectivamente; já no terceiro experimento utilizou estacas herbáceas com folhas não desenvolvidas, sem atividade fotossintética, colhidas no inverno. Em todos os experimentos, foram testadas diferentes concentrações de ácido indolbutírico (AIB): 0, 1000, 2000, 4000, 6000 e 8000 mg/L. Os resultados indicaram uma taxa de enraizamento de 5%, observada exclusivamente na primavera, quando se utilizaram estacas lenhosas. Apesar de mostrar que a propagação vegetativa da pitombeira do Pantanal é possível, os dados sugerem que mais pesquisas são necessárias para otimizar a técnica e determinar a necessidade e a eficácia do uso do regulador vegetal AIB.
Sustentabilidade social: importância do Comitê da Diversidade nas políticas de recrutamento e retenção de talentos, alinhadas aos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (SDGS) 5, 8 e 10. Um estudo de caso no SESC RJ
Authors: Medina Filho Antonio Luiz de , Ranha Antonio , Barbosa Bruno Silva , Francisco Marcela Lobo , Trannin Maria Cecilia
Published: October 2024

Neste artigo, exploramos a importância da diversidade e da inclusão nas empresas, com foco na instituição Serviço Social do Comércio (Sesc RJ). Analisamos a construção da conscientização sobre a inclusão e diversidade, bem como seus benefícios diante dos desafios enfrentados por essas pessoas. Além disso, examinamos o impacto do trabalho da Organização das Nações Unidas (ONU) na promoção de mudanças culturais dentro das empresas, por meio dos Objetivos de Desenvolvimento Sustentável (ODS), com destaque para as metas relacionadas às ODS 5 (Igualdade de Gênero), 8 (Trabalho Decente e Crescimento Econômico) e 10 (Redução das Desigualdades). Por fim, examinamos como o comitê de diversidade pode efetivamente promover essas mudanças por meio de uma abordagem de pesquisa qualitativa, empregando perguntas abertas e fechadas e realizadas apenas com os representantes dos grupos de afinidade. Como resultado, 70% dos participantes convidados aderiram e avaliaram o Comitê da Diversidade do Sesc como "Muito Importante" para a instituição. Eles acreditam que o comitê tem influenciado suas vidas, ajudando a mudar suas compreensões e percepções sobre a diversidade. Além disso, classificaram o trabalho do Comitê da Diversidade em promover uma cultura de inclusão e diversidade no Sesc RJ como "Muito bom".
Postural Assessment and Risk Evaluation of Workers among Selected Textile Industries in Lagos, Nigeria
Authors: Muraina A. B. , Onawumi A. S. , Akinrinade N. A.
Published: October 2024

Textile industry workers specifically Nigerians often encounter health challenges associated with Work-Related Musculoskeletal Disorders (WRMSDs) stemming from factors like uncomfortable postures, repetitive tasks, prolonged sitting or standing, and inadequate workplace design. This study evaluated the risk level of workers associated with working postures for selected textile industries in Lagos, Nigeria. Five textile manufacturing companies were randomly selected in Lagos State. Standard nordic questionnaires were administered to workers to assess their demography and musculoskeletal issues such as fatigue, stress, back pain, headache, and dissatisfaction. The working postures (neck, trunk, leg, upper arm, lower arm, and wrist positions) of the selected workers were obtained from the pictures captured during engagements on different factory operations. These positions were used to obtain Rapid Entire Body Assessment (REBA) scores and the associated risk levels utilizing the REBA Employee Assessment Worksheet. Based on WRMSDs, the data revealed that 88% of workers suffer from fatigue, 45% experience stress, 73% report back pain, 75% suffer from headaches, and 34% of workers are dissatisfied with their working environment. Analysis of the workers' physical environment showed that 55% are exposed to excessive heat, 71% are subjected to noise and dust, and nearly half (48%) are involved in manual materials handling. A large number of workers in the five selected textile manufacturing industries face significant risks of musculoskeletal disorders.
The Effect of Scaffolding Teaching Strategy on the Achievement and Retention of Lower Basic 5 Special Needs Pupils in Abia State, Nigeria
Authors: Chibuzor Imelda Ndubuka, , Obunadike J.C. , Esiowu A.P.
Published: October 2024

The study investigated effect of Scaffolding Teaching Strategy on the Achievement and Retention of Lower Basic Five Pupils' in Special Needs Schools in Abia State, Nigeria. The study was a quasi-experimental research design. The study determined the difference in the mean achievement and retention scores of lower basic five male and female students taught Home Economics using scaffolding teaching strategy and those taught using lecture method. Three research questions and three null hypotheses guided the study. The sample consisted of 40 lower basic five pupils drawn from the population of 309 special needs pupils, using stratified simple random sampling technique. Home Economics Achievement Test (HEAT) which contained 34 multiple-choice questions and four options: three distractors and one correct answer, with stability of reliability index of 0.81 was used for data collection. The data collected from the pupils were analyzed using mean and standard deviation to answer the three research questions that guided the study, while the Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA) was used to test the null-hypotheses at 0.05 level of significance. The results revealed that scaffolding teaching strategy independently had increasing effect on the pupils’ academic achievement and retention in Home Economics respectively, having recorded higher mean gain than those in control group. It also showed that scaffolding teaching strategy independently had more increasing effect on the male pupils’ academic achievements and retention in Home Economics respectively than on the female pupils.
Modified Calibration Variance Estimators in the Presence of Non- response and Measurement Error
Authors: Abubakar Z. , Audu A. , Kane L. , Dogondaji A. M. , Yunusa M. A.
Published: October 2024

Samples from a population that can be divided into smaller groups are taken using a technique called stratified sampling. When subpopulations within the total population differ, it may be beneficial to sample each stratum (subpopulation) separately in sample surveys. Government organizations, independent consultants, and applied statisticians all frequently use this crucial strategy. There are many problems encountered by survey statisticians in estimating the population variance of the study variable. These problems include the presence of outliers in data collected for analysis, non-response, and measurement errors occurring during the survey. Shahzad et al. [1] developed variance estimators by addressing the problem of outliers using the L-moment and calibration approach. However, they do not consider the situation of non-response and measurement errors. This paper addresses these problems by proposing modified variance estimators in the presence of non-response and measurement errors. The properties (Biases and MSEs) were derived up to the first order of approximation using the Taylor series approach. The efficiency conditions of the modified estimators over the existing estimators considered in the study were established. The result of simulation studies revealed that the estimators are efficient.
Evaluation of the Effect of Funneliformis mosseae Inoculation on Agronomic Parameters of Maize (Zea mays L.) under a Substrate Subjected to Gold Mining
Authors: Tchassanti Latifou , Tchabi Atti , Sourassou Nazer Famah , M’Boumba Etienne Blaise , Kadanga Pana , Kombieni Emmanuel , Batawila Komlan
Published: October 2024

Aim: Evaluate, in a greenhouse, the effect of the AMF, Funneliformis mosseae, on the agronomic performance of maize grown on soil degraded by gold mining.
Study Design:  Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six replications.
Place and Duration of Study: University of Lomé, between September 2022 and January 2023.
Methodology: The experiment utilized four treatment levels - pure mineral fertilizers (To), pure AMF (Funneliformis mosseae) (T1), the combination of AMF and mineral fertilizers (T2) and a control (Co) – employing a Completely Randomized Design (CRD) with six replications. A pot of 5 liters capacity having received 5 kg of soil substrat (washed gold-bearing soil or soil taken under natural vegetation) composed the experimental unit. The experimental data were collected and analyzed.
Results: gold-bearing soils are sandy and poor in organic and mineral compounds compared to soils under natural vegetation. The mycorrhization parameters do not take soil type into account. On average, 73.62 % of plants in simple inoculation were mycorrhized where as 33.43 % of plants were mycorrhized in inoculation with a synthetic fertilizer (NPK+Urea) at 60 days after sowing. The respective mycorrhization intensities corresponding to these mycorrhization rates are 41.43 and 45.67 % for the same period. The inoculation with AMF affect positively the growth, development and the productivity of maize compared to the control.
Conclusion: Results suggest that Funneliformis mosseae can be used as a biofertilizer on gold mining soils in Togo for sustainable maize production.
Effect of Biogenic Silica Seed Coating on Sorghum (VAR. K 12) Seed Storage Using Different Storage Containers under Ambient Condition
Authors: Krishnaarivanandhan A , Albert V Alex , Sujatha K , Kannan P , Arunachalam P
Published: October 2024

The objective of this study was to investigate the seed quality parameters of biogenic silica coated sorghum seeds on seed storage using different storage containers under ambient condition. Proper seed storage until next sowing season is crucial for sorghum seed production. seeds can lose vigor and viability during storage. Decrease in seed vigour leads to decrease in seed quality. The seed's storage environment and packaging materials significantly impact its long-term viability and effectiveness. Coating seeds before storing them helps preserve their quality over time. Pre-storage seed coating is essential for preventing seed deterioration and maintaining quality throughout the storage period. The present study revealed that, after six months of storage period, seed coating with biogenic silica with carbon @ 5 ml kg-1 seeds observed highest germination percentage, root and shoot length, dry matter production, vigour index I and II compared to control. With respect to containers seeds packed in super grain bag performed better than cloth bag. The results clearly indicated that, coating of seeds with biogenic silica with carbon @ 5 ml kg-1 stored in the supergrain bag-maintained vigour and viability throughout the storage period and also maintained the seedling length.
Characterisation and Spatial Distribution of Sediments on the Cote d'Ivoire Continental Shelf (Abidjan to Assinie)
Authors: Aimé Gbamble Bi Youzan , Mathurin Saimon Aby Atsé , Albéric Aka Charles , Sylvain Séhi Zokagon , Marie-Paule Kpenou Christine Josiane , Sylvain Monde
Published: October 2024

The continental shelf of Côte d'Ivoire, particularly the Abidjan-Assinie area, has been studied due to its importance and potential, although little research has focused on its sedimentological aspects. Sediment samples were collected using a Shipeck grab, and grain size analyses revealed the presence of fine sands, medium sands, and rarely very fine sands. These sands exhibit a skewness toward finer grains, which is abundant, followed by nearly symmetrical and highly skewed towards finer grains, describing five (05) types of sorting. Deposited in a more or less turbulent environment or due to excess load, the sands have been transported in water — as indicated by their shiny, abraded state — by saltation, suspension, and mixed modes. These sands preferentially reside in a continental domain.
Patterns of Corticosteroid Prescriptions among Patients at Community Pharmacies in Lahore, Pakistan
Authors: Bibi Gulzaib , Shahzadi Huzaima , Nadeem Ayesha , Naveed Muneeba , Abid Laraib , Nazeer Jawaria , Iqbal Asfa , Munir Tasmia , Afzaal Tahreem , Saqib Zarqa , Ali Ayesha Zulfiqar , Iqbal Muhammad Zahid
Published: October 2024

Background: Corticosteroids are a class of steroid hormones produced by the adrenal gland and are used to treat many diseases, including autoimmune diseases and inflammatory diseases. Besides their role in many diseases, long-term use, misuse, and overuse cause side effects including hypertension, diabetes mellitus, and osteoporosis.
Objective: The aim of current study is to evaluate the prescription pattern of corticosteroids in different community pharmacies, among patients, in Lahore.
Methods: The cross-sectional stratified convenient study performed using a validated questionnaire to analyse the prescription pattern of corticosteroids in patients at different community pharmacies in Lahore. Total 92 patients are participating in this study.
Results: A total of 92 patients take part in the study. In this research 67.4% females are participated. The average age of patients is above 30 years. Asthma is the most common reason for corticosteroids administration (19.6%) followed by rheumatoid arthritis (12.0%) whereas in inflammatory bowel disease they are least prescribed (1.1%). Prednisolone is the most prescribed drug (33.7%) and Oral route is the frequently given route.
Conclusion: Our data shows that the prescription pattern of corticosteroid must be improved. Health care providers should pay attention to counseling of patients and guide them about dose tapering to avoid adverse effects.
The Canadian AIDA and the EU AI Act: Will Sanity Prevail as they more closely align? – Part 1
Authors: Beardwood John
Published: October 2024

On June 16, 2022, the Canadian government introduced Bill C- 27, sponsored by the Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, to update Canada’s federal privacy legal landscape. As earthshaking as that legislation was to the privacy regime in Canada, the impact of Bill C-27 was not limited to privacy regulation. Notably, Bill C-27 also introduced the Artificial Intelligence and Data Act (“AIDA”), which aims to introduce regulations in Canada regarding the design, development, and use of artificial intelligence (“AI”) systems. As we have previously written, while the AIDA is Canada’s first potential law aimed explicitly at regulating AI, it is in many cases influenced by the European Union’s then-proposed Regulation (EU) 2024/1689 (the “EU AI Act”) introduced on April 21, 2021. Time has since elapsed, and now AIDA - with the November 2023 introduction of new proposed (and substantive) amendments - and the July 2024 publication of the final EU Council-approved EU AI Act, have become increasingly aligned: good news for organizations in the AI industry. There do, however, continue to exist differences between the two items of legislation which can present traps for the unwary.
Rechtsprechungsübersicht zum Wohnraummietrecht 2023
Authors: Artz Markus
Published: October 2024

Der folgende Beitrag schließt an die Übersicht über die Rechtsprechung zum Wohnraummietrecht aus dem Jahre 2022 in der MDR 2023, 819 an und behandelt die Entscheidungen des VIII. Zivilsenats des BGH zum Wohnraummietrecht aus 2023. Schwerpunkte des Berichts bilden die Themen: Miethöhe, Gewährleistung, Schönheitsreparaturen, Kündigung, Betriebskosten und Untervermietung.
Unentgeltliche Zuwendungen und Vorsteuerabzug – Mehrfache Besteuerung des Endverbrauchs bei Erschließungsmaßnahmen?
Authors: Merkel Christian
Published: October 2024

Das BMF hat mit Schreiben vom 24.1.2024 (BStBl. I 2024, 213 = UR 2024, 149) zum Folgeurteil des BFH v. 16.12.2020 (XI R 26/ 20 (XI R 28/17), BStBl. II 2024, 146 = UR 2021, 465) zur Entscheidung des EuGH in der Rs. Mitteldeutsche Hartstein-Industrie v. 16.9.2020 (C-528/19, UR 2020, 840) Stellung genommen und tendiert zu einer einschränkenden Auslegung der Urteilsgrundsätze zu Lasten der zur Abführung der Umsatzsteuer verpflichteten Unternehmer. Der nachfolgende Beitrag untersucht anhand des Beispiels der Erschließungskosten eines Gewerbegebiets, ob in diesem Fall eine Besteuerung einer unentgeltlichen Wertabgabe oder eine Versagung des Vorsteuerabzugs erforderlich ist, um der gesetzlichen Konzeption der Umsatzsteuer als allgemeiner Verbrauchsteuer gerecht zu werden. Dabei wird kritisch hinterfragt, ob eine solche Besteuerung oder Versagung des Vorsteuerabzugs auch dann geboten ist, wenn die bezogenen Leistungen konkret und als Preisbestandteil in die Leistungserstellung eines Unternehmers einfließen, der steuerpflichtige Ausgangsleistungen erbringt.
A chemical perspective of day and night tropical (10°N–15°N) mesospheric inversion layers
Authors: Ramesh K. , Sridharan S. , Raghunath K. , Rao S. Vijaya Bhaskara
Published: February 2017

The various occurrence characteristics of day and night tropical (10°N–15°N, 60°E–90°E) mesospheric inversion layers (MILs) are studied by using TIMED Sounding of the Atmosphere using Broadband Emission Radiometry satellite data products of kinetic temperature; volume mixing ratios of O, H, and O3; volume emission rates of O2 (1Δ) and OH (1.6 µm channel), and chemical heating rates due to seven dominant exothermic reactions among H, O, O2, O3, OH, HO2, and CO2 cooling rates for the year 2011. Although both dynamics and chemistry play important roles, the present study mainly focuses on the chemical processes involved in the formation of day and night MILs. It is found that the upper level height of daytime (nighttime) MIL descends (ascends) from ~88 km (~80 km) in winter to ~72 km (~90 km) in summer. The day and night inversion amplitudes are correlated with total chemical heating rates and CO2 cooling rates, and they show semi annual variation with larger (smaller) values during equinoxes (solstices). The daytime (nighttime) inversion layers are predominantly due to the exothermic reaction, R5: O + O + M → O2 + M and R6: O + O2 + M → O3 + M (R3: H + O3 → OH + O2). In addition, the CO2 causes large cooling at the top and small heating at the bottom levels of both day and night MILs. In the absence of dynamical effects, the chemical heating and CO2 cooling jointly contribute for the occurrence of day and night MILs.
Boundary layers at a dynamic interface: Air‐sea exchange of heat and mass
Authors: Szeri Andrew J.
Published: February 2017

Exchange of mass or heat across a turbulent liquid‐gas interface is a problem of critical interest, especially in air‐sea transfer of natural and anthropogenic gases involved in the study of climate. The goal in this research area is to determine the gas flux from air to sea or vice versa. For sparingly soluble nonreactive gases, this is controlled by liquid phase turbulent velocity fluctuations that act on the thin species concentration boundary layer on the liquid side of the interface. If the fluctuations in surface‐normal velocity
and gas concentration
are known, then it is possible to determine the turbulent contribution to the gas flux. However, there is no suitable fundamental direct approach in the general case where neither
nor
can be easily measured. A new approach is presented to deduce key aspects about the near‐surface turbulent motions from measurements that can be taken by an infrared (IR) camera. An equation is derived with inputs being the surface temperature and heat flux, and a solution method developed for the surface‐normal strain experienced over time by boundary layers at the interface. Because the thermal and concentration boundary layers experience the same near‐surface fluid motions, the solution for the surface‐normal strain determines the gas flux or gas transfer velocity. Examples illustrate the approach in the cases of complete surface renewal, partial surface renewal, and insolation. The prospects for use of the approach in flows characterized by sheared interfaces or rapid boundary layer straining are explored.
Hygroscopicity and cloud condensation nucleus activity of forest aerosol particles during summer in Wakayama, Japan
Authors: Kawana Kaori , Nakayama Tomoki , Kuba Naomi , Mochida Michihiro
Published: February 2017

Size‐resolved distributions of the hygroscopic growth factor (g) and the ratios of cloud condensation nuclei (CCN) to condensation nuclei were observed at a forest site during summer in Japan. The g distributions at 85% relative humidity were unimodal. During 0900–2100 Japan Standard Time (JST) on new particle formation (NPF) event days, less hygroscopic particles (g ~ 1.1) were dominant in the Aitken‐mode range and the CCN activation diameters of the aerosols were large. These results are explained by the substantial contribution from newly formed biogenic secondary organic aerosol (BSOA). Hygroscopicity parameter κ for newly formed Aitken particles, calculated from g and CCN activation diameters, were 0.12 and 0.16, respectively, which were estimated to be the κ of organics. The κ values of particles were higher during 2100–0900 JST on NPF event days, in which the aerosols were characterized by the dominance of large and more hygroscopic particles. The number fractions of CCN that were predicted from time‐ and size‐resolved g at 0.23% and 0.41% supersaturations better matched the measured values compared to the cases with the time‐averaged g and/or g for the bulk composition, which suggests that the differences in particle hygroscopicity with time and size are important to CCN activation. A cloud parcel model indicates that the contributions from less hygroscopic particles to the number concentrations of CCN and cloud droplets were potentially large during NPF event days, which suggests a marked contribution from locally formed BSOA particles alongside particles from background air.
Bias correction and downscaling of future RCM precipitation projections using a MOS‐Analog technique
Authors: Turco M. , Llasat M. C. , Herrera S. , Gutiérrez J. M.
Published: February 2017

In this study we assess the suitability of a recently introduced analog‐based Model Output Statistics (MOS) downscaling method (referred to as MOS‐Analog) for climate change studies and compare the results with a quantile mapping bias correction method. To this aim, we focus on Spain and consider daily precipitation output from an ensemble of Regional Climate Models provided by the ENSEMBLES project. The reanalysis‐driven Regional Climate Model (RCM) data provide the historical data (with day‐to‐day correspondence with observations induced by the forcing boundary conditions) to conduct the analog search of the control (20C3M) and future (A1B) global climate model (GCM)‐driven RCM values. First, we show that the MOS‐Analog method outperforms the raw RCM output in the control 20C3M scenario (period 1971–2000) for all considered regions and precipitation indices, although for the worst‐performing models the method is less effective. Second, we show that the MOS‐Analog method broadly preserves the original RCM climate change signal for different future periods (2011–2040, 2041–2070, 2071–2100), except for those indices related to extreme precipitation. This could be explained by the limitation of the analog method to extrapolate unobserved precipitation records. These results suggest that the MOS‐Analog is a spatially consistent alternative to standard bias correction methods, although the limitation for extreme values should be taken with caution in cases where this aspect is relevant for the problem.
Tracking the Pacific Decadal Precession
Authors: Anderson Bruce T. , Furtado Jason C. , Di Lorenzo Emanuele , Short Gianotti Daniel J.
Published: February 2017

Events of recent years—including extended droughts across California, record fires across western Canada, and destabilization of marine ecosystems—highlight the profound impact of multiannual to decadal‐scale climate shifts upon physical, biological, and socioeconomic systems. While previous research has focused on the influence of decadal‐scale climate oscillations such as the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation/Interdecadal Pacific Oscillation, recent research has revealed the presence of a quasi‐decadal mode of climate variability that, unlike the quasi‐stationary standing wave‐like structure of the oscillatory modes, involves a progression of atmospheric pressure anomalies around the North Pacific, which has been termed the Pacific Decadal Precession (PDP). In this paper we develop a set of methods to track the spatial and temporal evolutions of the PDP within historical observations as well as numerical model simulations. In addition, we provide a method that approximates the time evolution of the PDP across the full period of available data for real‐time monitoring of the PDP. Through the development of these tracking methods, we hope to provide the community with a consistent framework for future analysis and diagnosis of the PDP's characteristics and underlying processes, thereby avoiding the use of different, and disparate, phenomenological‐ and mathematical‐based indices that can confound our understanding of the PDP and its evolution.
Level of neutral buoyancy, deep convective outflow, and convective core: New perspectives based on 5 years of CloudSat data
Authors: Takahashi Hanii , Luo Zhengzhao Johnny , Stephens Graeme L.
Published: February 2017

This paper is the follow on to a previous publication by the authors, which investigated the relationship between the level of neutral buoyancy (LNB) determined from the ambient sounding and the actual outflow levels using mainly CloudSat observations. The goal of the current study is to provide a more complete characterization of LNB, deep convective outflow, and convective core, and the relationship among them, as well as the dependence on environmental parameters and convective system size. A proxy is introduced to estimate convective entrainment, namely, the difference between the LNB (based on the ambient sounding) and the actual outflow height. The principal findings are as follows: (1) Deep convection over the Warm Pool has larger entrainment rates and smaller convective cores than the counterpart over the two tropical land regions (Africa and Amazonia), lending observational support to a long‐standing assumption in convection models concerning the negative relationship between the two parameters. (2) The differences in internal vertical structure of convection between the two tropical land regions and the Warm Pool suggest that deep convection over the two tropical land regions contains more intense cores. (3) Deep convective outflow occurs at a higher level when the midtroposphere is more humid and the convective system size is smaller. The convective system size dependence is postulated to be related to convective lifecycle, highlighting the importance of cloud life stage information in interpretation of snapshot measurements by satellite. Finally, implications of the study to global modeling are discussed.
Quantitative three‐dimensional ice roughness from scanning electron microscopy
Authors: Butterfield Nicholas , Rowe Penny M. , Stewart Emily , Roesel David , Neshyba Steven
Published: February 2017

We present a method for inferring surface morphology of ice from scanning electron microscope images. We first develop a novel functional form for the backscattered electron intensity as a function of ice facet orientation; this form is parameterized using smooth ice facets of known orientation. Three‐dimensional representations of rough surfaces are retrieved at approximately micrometer resolution using Gauss‐Newton inversion within a Bayesian framework. Statistical analysis of the resulting data sets permits characterization of ice surface roughness with a much higher statistical confidence than previously possible. A survey of results in the range −39°C to −29°C shows that characteristics of the roughness (e.g., Weibull parameters) are sensitive not only to the degree of roughening but also to the symmetry of the roughening. These results suggest that roughening characteristics obtained by remote sensing and in situ measurements of atmospheric ice clouds can potentially provide more facet‐specific information than has previously been appreciated.
Wintertime water‐soluble aerosol composition and particle water content in Fresno, California
Authors: Parworth Caroline L. , Young Dominique E. , Kim Hwajin , Zhang Xiaolu , Cappa Christopher D. , Collier Sonya , Zhang Qi
Published: February 2017

The composition and concentrations of water‐soluble gases and ionic aerosol components were measured from January to February 2013 in Fresno, CA, with a particle‐into‐liquid sampler with ion chromatography and annular denuders. The average (±1σ) ionic aerosol mass concentration was 15.0 (±9.4) µg m−3, and dominated by nitrate (61%), followed by ammonium, sulfate, chloride, potassium, nitrite, and sodium. Aerosol‐phase organic acids, including formate and glycolate, and amines including methylaminium, triethanolaminium, ethanolaminium, dimethylaminium, and ethylaminium were also detected. Although the dominant species all came from secondary aerosol formation, there were primary sources of ionic aerosols as well, including biomass burning for potassium and glycolate, sea spray for sodium, chloride, and dimethylamine, and vehicles for formate. Particulate methanesulfonic acid was also detected and mainly associated with terrestrial sources. On average, the molar concentration of ammonia was 49 times greater than nitric acid, indicating that ammonium nitrate formation was limited by nitric acid availability. Particle water was calculated based on the Extended Aerosol Inorganics Model (E‐AIM) thermodynamic prediction of inorganic particle water and κ‐Köhler theory approximation of organic particle water. The average (±1σ) particle water concentration was 19.2 (±18.6) µg m−3, of which 90% was attributed to inorganic species. The fractional contribution of particle water to total fine particle mass averaged at 36% during this study and was greatest during early morning and night and least during the day. Based on aqueous‐phase concentrations of ions calculated by using E‐AIM, the average (±1σ) pH of particles in Fresno during the winter was estimated to be 4.2 (±0.2).
Coarse‐grained debris flow dynamics on erodible beds
Authors: Lanzoni Stefano , Gregoretti Carlo , Stancanelli Laura Maria
Published: February 2017

A systematic set of flume experiments is used to investigate the features of velocity profiles within the body of coarse‐grained debris flows and the dependence of the transport sediment concentration on the relevant parameters (runoff discharge, bed slope, grain size, and form). The flows are generated in a 10 m long laboratory flume, initially filled with a layer consisting of loose debris. After saturation, a prescribed water discharge is suddenly supplied over the granular bed, and the runoff triggers a debris flow wave that reaches nearly steady conditions. Three types of material have been used in the tests: gravel with mean grain size of 3 and 5 mm, and 3 mm glass spheres. Measured parameters included: triggering water discharge, volumetric sediment discharge, sediment concentration, flow depth, and velocity profiles. The dynamic similarity with full‐sized debris flows is discussed on the basis of the relevant dimensionless parameters. Concentration data highlight the dependence on the slope angle and the importance of the quasi‐static friction angle. The effects of flow rheology on the shape of velocity profiles are analyzed with attention to the role of different stress‐generating mechanisms. A remarkable collapse of the dimensionless profiles is obtained by scaling the debris flow velocity with the runoff velocity, and a power law characterization is proposed following a heuristic approach. The shape of the profiles suggests a smooth transition between the different rheological regimes (collisional and frictional) that establish in the upper and lower regions of the flow and is compatible with the presence of multiple length scales dictated by the type of contacts (instantaneous or long lasting) between grains.
Confined Amorphous Red Phosphorus in MOF‐Derived N‐Doped Microporous Carbon as a Superior Anode for Sodium‐Ion Battery
Authors: Li Weihan , Hu Shuhe , Luo Xiangyu , Li Zhongling , Sun Xizhen , Li Minsi , Liu Fanfan , Yu Yan
Published: February 2017

Red phosphorus (P) has attracted intense attention as promising anode material for high‐energy density sodium‐ion batteries (NIBs), owing to its high sodium storage theoretical capacity (2595 mAh g−1). Nevertheless, natural insulating property and large volume variation of red P during cycling result in extremely low electrochemical activity, leading to poor electrochemical performance. Herein, the authors demonstrate a rational strategy to improve sodium storage performance of red P by confining nanosized amorphous red P into zeolitic imidazolate framework‐8 (ZIF‐8) ‐derived nitrogen‐doped microporous carbon matrix (denoted as P@N‐MPC). When used as anode for NIBs, the P@N‐MPC composite displays a high reversible specific capacity of ≈600 mAh g−1 at 0.15 A g−1 and improved rate capacity (≈450 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1 after 1000 cycles with an extremely low capacity fading rate of 0.02% per cycle). The superior sodium storage performance of the P@N‐MPC is mainly attributed to the novel structure. The N‐doped porous carbon with sub‐1 nm micropore facilitates the rapid diffusion of organic electrolyte ions and improves the conductivity of the encapsulated red P. Furthermore, the porous carbon matrix can buffer the volume change of red P during repeat sodiation/desodiation process, keeping the structure intact after long cycle life.
A Dual‐Organic‐Transistor‐Based Tactile‐Perception System with Signal‐Processing Functionality
Authors: Zang Yaping , Shen Hongguang , Huang Dazhen , Di Chong‐An , Zhu Daoben
Published: February 2017

Organic‐device‐based tactile‐perception systems can open up new opportunities for the next generation of intelligent products. To meet the critical requirements of artificial perception systems, the efficient construction of organic smart elements with integrated sensing and signal processing functionalities is highly desired, but remains a challenge. This study presents a dual‐organic‐transistor‐based tactile‐perception element (DOT‐TPE) with biomimetic functionality by the construction of organic synaptic transistors with integrated sensing transistors. The unique geometry of the DOT‐TPE permits instantaneous sensing of pressure stimuli and synapse‐like processing of an electric signal in a single element. More importantly, these organic‐transistor‐based tactile‐perception elements can be built into arrays to serve as bionic tactile‐perception systems. The combined biomimetic functionality of tactile‐perception systems, together with their promising features of flexibility and large‐area fabrication, makes this work represent a step forward toward novel e‐skin devices for artificial intelligence.
High‐Quality‐Factor Mid‐Infrared Toroidal Excitation in Folded 3D Metamaterials
Authors: Liu Zhe , Du Shuo , Cui Ajuan , Li Zhancheng , Fan Yuancheng , Chen Shuqi , Li Wuxia , Li Junjie , Gu Changzhi
Published: February 2017

With unusual electromagnetic radiation properties and great application potentials, optical toroidal moments have received increasing interest in recent years. 3D metamaterials composed of split ring resonators with specific orientations in micro‐/nanoscale are a perfect choice for toroidal moment realization in optical frequency considering the excellent magnetic confinement and quality factor, which, unfortunately, are currently beyond the reach of existing micro‐/nanofabrication techniques. Here, a 3D toroidal metamaterial operating in mid‐infrared region constructed by metal patterns and dielectric frameworks is designed, by which high‐quality‐factor toroidal resonance is observed experimentally. The toroidal dipole excitation is confirmed numerically and further demonstrated by phase analysis. Furthermore, the far‐field radiation intensity of the excited toroidal dipoles can be adjusted to be predominant among other multipoles by just tuning the incident angle. The related processing method expands the capability of focused ion beam folding technologies greatly, especially in 3D metamaterial fabrication, showing great flexibility and nanoscale controllability on structure size, position, and orientation.
Genetic risk variants for social anxiety
Authors: Stein Murray B. , Chen Chia‐Yen , Jain Sonia , Jensen Kevin P. , He Feng , Heeringa Steven G. , Kessler Ronald C. , Maihofer Adam , Nock Matthew K. , Ripke Stephan , Sun Xiaoying , Thomas Michael L. , Ursano Robert J. , Smoller Jordan W. , Gelernter Joel ,   On behalf of the Army STARRS Collaborators
Published: February 2017

Social anxiety is a neurobehavioral trait characterized by fear and reticence in social situations. Twin studies have shown that social anxiety has a heritable basis, shared with neuroticism and extraversion, but genetic studies have yet to demonstrate robust risk variants. We conducted genomewide association analysis (GWAS) of subjects within the Army Study To Assess Risk and Resilience in Servicemembers (Army STARRS) to (i) determine SNP‐based heritability of social anxiety; (ii) discern genetic risk loci for social anxiety; and (iii) determine shared genetic risk with neuroticism and extraversion. GWAS were conducted within ancestral groups (EUR, AFR, LAT) using linear regression models for each of the three component studies in Army STARRS, and then meta‐analyzed across studies. SNP‐based heritability for social anxiety was significant (h2g = 0.12, P = 2.17 × 10−4 in EUR). One meta‐analytically genomewide significant locus was seen in each of EUR (rs708012, Chr 6: BP 36965970, P = 1.55 × 10−8; beta = 0.073) and AFR (rs78924501, Chr 1: BP 88406905, P = 3.58 × 10−8; beta = 0.265) samples. Social anxiety in Army STARRS was significantly genetically correlated (negatively) with extraversion (rg = −0.52, se = 0.22, P = 0.02) but not with neuroticism (rg = 0.05, se = 0.22, P = 0.81) or with an anxiety disorder factor score (rg = 0.02, se = 0.32, P = 0.94) from external GWAS meta‐analyses. This first GWAS of social anxiety confirms a genetic basis for social anxiety, shared with extraversion but possibly less so with neuroticism. © 2017 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.
Outcomes after diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment in a large autopsy series
Authors: Abner Erin L. , Kryscio Richard J. , Schmitt Frederick A. , Fardo David W. , Moga Daniela C. , Ighodaro Eseosa T. , Jicha Gregory A. , Yu Lei , Dodge Hiroko H. , Xiong Chengjie , Woltjer Randall L. , Schneider Julie A. , Cairns Nigel J. , Bennett David A. , Nelson Peter T.
Published: February 2017

Objective

To determine clinical and neuropathological outcomes following a clinical diagnosis of mild cognitive impairment (MCI).

Methods

Data were drawn from a large autopsy series (N = 1,337) of individuals followed longitudinally from normal or MCI status to death, derived from 4 Alzheimer Disease (AD) Centers in the United States.

Results

Mean follow‐up was 7.9 years. Of the 874 individuals ever diagnosed with MCI, final clinical diagnoses were varied: 39.2% died with an MCI diagnosis, 46.8% with a dementia diagnosis, and 13.9% with a diagnosis of intact cognition. The latter group had pathological features resembling those with a final clinical diagnosis of MCI. In terms of non‐AD pathologies, both primary age‐related tauopathy (p < 0.05) and brain arteriolosclerosis pathology (p < 0.001) were more severe in MCI than cognitively intact controls. Among the group that remained MCI until death, mixed AD neuropathologic changes (ADNC; ≥1 comorbid pathology) were more frequent than “pure” ADNC pathology (55% vs 22%); suspected non‐Alzheimer pathology comprised the remaining 22% of cases. A majority (74%) of subjects who died with MCI were without “high”‐level ADNC, Lewy body disease, or hippocampal sclerosis pathologies; this group was enriched in cerebrovascular pathologies. Subjects who died with dementia and were without severe neurodegenerative pathologies tended to have cerebrovascular pathology and carry the MCI diagnosis for a longer interval.

Interpretation

MCI diagnosis usually was associated with comorbid neuropathologies; less than one‐quarter of MCI cases showed “pure” AD at autopsy. Ann Neurol 2017;81:549–559
Two‐Phase Reactions in Microdroplets without the Use of Phase‐Transfer Catalysts
Authors: Yan Xin , Cheng Heyong , Zare Richard N.
Published: February 2017

Many important chemical transformations occur in two‐phase reactions, which are widely used in chemical, pharmaceutical, and polymer manufacturing. We present an efficient method for performing two‐phase reactions in microdroplets sheared by sheath gas without using a phase‐transfer catalyst. This avoids disadvantages such as thermal instability, high cost, and, especially, the need to separate and recycle the catalysts. We show that various alcohols can be oxidized to the corresponding aldehydes and ketones within milliseconds in moderate to good yields (50–75 %). The scale‐up of the present method was achieved at an isolated rate of 1.2 mg min−1 for the synthesis of 4‐nitrobenzylaldehyde from 4‐nitrobenzyl alcohol in the presence of sodium hypochlorite. The biphasic nature of this process, which avoids use of a phase‐transfer catalyst, greatly enhances synthetic effectiveness.