bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Origins of Heavy Precipitation Biases in the TRMM PR and TMI Products Assessed with CloudSat and Reanalysis Data
Authors: Sekaranom Andung Bayu , Masunaga Hirohiko 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThis study aims to characterize the background physical processes in the development of those heavy precipitation clouds that contribute to the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) active and passive sensor differences. The combined global observation data from TRMM, CloudSat, and European Centre for Medium-Range Weather Forecasts (ECMWF) interim reanalysis (ERA-Interim) from 2006 to 2014 were utilized to address this issue. Heavy rainfall events were extracted from the top 10% of the rain events from the Precipitation Radar (PR) and TRMM Microwave Imager (TMI) rain-rate climatology. Composite analyses of CloudSat and ERA-Interim were conducted to identify the detailed cloud structures and the background environmental conditions. Over tropical land, TMI tends to preferentially detect deep isolated precipitation clouds for relatively drier and unstable environments, while PR identifies more organized systems. Over the tropical ocean, TMI identifies heavy rainfall events with notable convective organization and clear regional gradients between the western and eastern Pacific Ocean, while PR fails to capture the eastward shallowing of convective systems. The PR–TMI differences for the moist and stable environments are reversed over tropical land.
A Moment-Based Polarimetric Radar Forward Operator for Rain Microphysics
Authors: Kumjian Matthew R. , Martinkus Charlotte P. , Prat Olivier P. , Collis Scott , van Lier-Walqui Marcus , Morrison Hugh C. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractThere is growing interest in combining microphysical models and polarimetric radar observations to improve our understanding of storms and precipitation. Mapping model-predicted variables into the radar observational space necessitates a forward operator, which requires assumptions that introduce uncertainties into model–observation comparisons. These include uncertainties arising from the microphysics scheme a priori assumptions of a fixed drop size distribution (DSD) functional form, whereas natural DSDs display far greater variability. To address this concern, this study presents a moment-based polarimetric radar forward operator with no fundamental restrictions on the DSD form by linking radar observables to integrated DSD moments. The forward operator is built upon a dataset of >200 million realistic DSDs from one-dimensional bin microphysical rain-shaft simulations, and surface disdrometer measurements from around the world. This allows for a robust statistical assessment of forward operator uncertainty and quantification of the relationship between polarimetric radar observables and DSD moments. Comparison of “truth” and forward-simulated vertical profiles of the polarimetric radar variables are shown for bin simulations using a variety of moment combinations. Higher-order moments (especially those optimized for use with the polarimetric radar variables: the sixth and ninth) perform better than the lower-order moments (zeroth and third) typically predicted by many bulk microphysics schemes.
North Atlantic Summertime Anticyclonic Rossby Wave Breaking: Climatology, Impacts, and Connections to the Pacific Decadal Oscillation
Authors: Zavadoff Breanna L. , Kirtman Ben P. 
Published: November 2018

AbstractAnticyclonic Rossby wave breaking (RWB) is characterized by the rapid and irreversible deformation of potential vorticity (PV) contours on isentropic surfaces manifesting as a pair of meridionally elongated high- and low-PV tongues that transport extratropical stratospheric air equatorward and tropical tropospheric air poleward, respectively. Previous studies have noted connections between different types of RWB and the modulation of localized atmospheric phenomena such as the North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) and tropical cyclogenesis. Despite being the season in which anticyclonic RWB events are most prevalent, no work has focused solely on the frequency, genesis, or variability of the synoptic environment surrounding the equatorward branch of anticyclonic RWB events during the North Atlantic summertime, providing motivation for this study. Using 58 years (1960–2017) of NCEP–NCAR reanalysis data, a comprehensive spatiotemporal climatology of North Atlantic equatorward anticyclonic RWB identified on the 350-K isentropic surface is developed and the synoptic environment surrounding these events from time- and high-PV-tongue centroid-relative perspectives is investigated. Consistent with previous studies, composites suggest that high-PV tongues associated with equatorward anticyclonic RWB introduce anomalously dry, stable extratropical air into the tropical environment, subsequently inhibiting convection there. Additionally, a connection between atmospheric responses to Pacific decadal oscillation (PDO) sea surface temperature (SST) anomalies and the intrabasin frequency of anticyclonic RWB events is uncovered and explored. Results from this study may aid short- to medium-range forecasts of North Atlantic tropical convection, with applications extending into the field of tropical cyclogenesis forecasting.
Energy Conversion Routes in the Western Mediterranean Sea Estimated from Eddy–Mean Flow Interactions
Authors: Capó Esther , Orfila Alejandro , Mason Evan , Ruiz Simón 
Published: November 2018

AbstractEnergy conversion routes are investigated in the western Mediterranean Sea from the eddy–mean flow interactions. The sources of eddy kinetic energy are analyzed by applying a regional formulation of the Lorenz energy cycle to 18 years of numerical simulation at eddy-resolving resolution (3.5 km), which allows for identifying whether the energy exchange between the mean and eddy flow is local or nonlocal. The patterns of energy conversion between the mean and eddy kinetic and potential energy are estimated in three subregions of the domain: the Alboran Sea, the Algerian Basin, and the northern basin. The spatial characterization of the energy routes hints at the physical mechanisms involved in maintaining the balance, suggesting that flow–topography interaction is strongly linked to eddy growth in most of the domain.
Alternative Power Plants for Automotive Purposes
Authors: Estes E. M. 
Published: November 2018

In the last 20 years, automotive engineers in the United States have made considerable progress in emission control. Hydrocarbons, carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides have been reduced substantially. Despite this, new legislation passed in 1970 requires an additional reduction below the present levels by 1975–1976, and this lecture discusses this new engineering challenge. General Motors’ latest progress with alternative power plants and their relative feasibility in both the near and more distant future is discussed.
Recent Developments in the Ironfounding Industry
Authors: Morrogh H. 
Published: November 2018

Iron castings are in extensive use throughout engineering construction and are available in a wide range of properties, casting size and complexity. Ironfounding is in part associated with a particular industry—the ironfounding industry—and is in part a production engineering technique adopted by firms, their designers and engineers, on the basis of its process and product merits compared with those of other techniques. The changing pattern of manufacture and competition from other techniques is having important influences on the structure and capacity of industry producing iron castings. Additionally, the repeated cycles of business recession may result in the disappearance of the facilities for the production of certain types of foundry product. Although most recent developments in ironfounding are a continuation of trends which could be discerned or forecast a long time ago, the cumulative effect of these changes has been to revolutionize completely some aspects of the process of iron casting. The range of cast irons has been somewhat increased in recent years by addition to the variety of spheroidal graphite (s.g.) irons, malleable irons and alloy cast irons available. Most of the recent developments in ironfounding have, however, been concerned with improving production efficiency and the introduction of new melting, moulding and coremaking processes, enabling the ironfounder to provide the engineer and designer with a better service—maintaining prices at low level, improving dimensional accuracy and casting soundness with reduced delivery times. This has been achieved by the increased use of scrap made possible by developments in melting furnaces and molten metal treatment, by the introduction of new and improved moulding machinery and by the adoption of new methods of bonding sand used for moulds and cores, replacing many traditional techniques. These changes have had their influence equally in the large, highly mechanized mass-production foundries and in the jobbing foundries catering for short run work. An ironfoundry is an extremely exacting environment for mechanical equipment and for all control engineering. For this reason automatic moulding and other foundry plant need special design and robust construction. Most mechanized foundry plant of an automatic character represents a high capital investment which must run for long periods without breakdown, requiring long orders and work of a repetitive character.
Instability in Condensing Flow of Steam
Authors: Yousif F. H. , Campbell B. A. , Bakhtar F. 
Published: November 2018

The condensing flow of supercooled steam in a convergent–divergent nozzle is treated theoretically. It is shown that when condensation occurs in the supersonic section of the flow, if the heat released by condensation exceeds the quantity which reduces the flow Mach number to unity, the flow becomes unstable. As a result of the investigation, critical instability boundaries have been plotted as a locus on the Mollier diagram which divide the initial entry conditions to a nozzle into stable and unstable zones. The findings have been verified experimentally on a converging–diverging nozzle and good agreement obtained between theoretical and experimental results.
First Paper: Numerically Controlled Machines in Shipbuilding
Authors: Chadbund J. E. , Parker M. N. 
Published: November 2018

The paper describes the preparation of machine control tapes using a computer programme package, and the B.S.R.A. (British Ship Research Association) part-programming processor system. The comprehensive nature of the system, the development of a modular basis and the modification of the general engineering 2CL to provide a shipbuilding version are described. N.C. (Numerical Control) machines in use in shipbuilding include automatic draughting machines, several varieties of N.C. flame-cutting machines and their associated computer programmes, and a N.C. frame bending machine. The advantages of Numerical Control are listed and the importance of considering the system as a whole is emphasized.
Third Paper: The Application of Interactive Techniques to Numerically Controlled Programming
Authors: Brewer S. J. 
Published: November 2018

This paper examines the problems encountered when batch-processing methods are used for N.C. (numerically controlled) work, and shows the extent to which various remote-access techniques can be used in solving these problems. It then describes some of the features of a highly interactive N.C. system being developed utilizing the telcomp system, and indicates the advantages that are offered by this environment.
Performance of the Air-Cushion–Surface-Contacting Hybrid Vehicle for Overland Operation
Authors: Wong J-Y. 
Published: November 2018

The air-cushion concept has been considered for application to off-road transport ever since the early days of its development. Recently, the rapid increase in resource exploration and exploitation in remote areas has stimulated new interest in applying air-cushion technology to overland transportation. It appears to offer solutions to a wide variety of cross-country transportation problems. Although existing vehicles fully supported by an air cushion can function overland, experience to date indicates that considerable improvements in controllability and manoeuvrability are required for continuous overland operation. One practical solution is to provide some degree of surface contact. The feasibility of an air-cushion–surface-contacting hydrid vehicle has been demonstrated by the Benin Terra-plane BC7, Vickers-Armstrongs Hovertruck, etc. However, the operating performance, capabilities and limitations of this type of vehicle have not been investigated in a systematic way. This paper attempts to provide a theoretical basis for evaluating and optimizing the performance and design of the hybrid vehicle. The basic power requirements of this type of vehicle are first analysed and compared with those of the fully-air-cushion-supported vehicle. The approaches to minimizing the power consumption and to improving the economics of operation are then investigated. It is found that among other design parameters, the load distribution between the air-cushion and the ground-contacting gear of the hybrid vehicle has a considerable effect on its power requirements. For a given vehicle in a particular type of terrain, there is an optimum load distribution which minimizes the power consumption. Finally, an analytical approach to evaluating and predicting the controllability and mobility of this kind of vehicle is discussed. It is found that using the wheel as a yaw-control device for the hybrid vehicle is quite effective. It is also shown that wheeled propulsion has limitations in cross-country operation. In order to provide the hybrid vehicle with adequate off-road mobility, an auxiliary air propulsive system appears to be necessary.
Heat Transfer in Two-Dimensional Turbulent Confined Flows
Authors: Hatton A. P. , Woolley N. H. 
Published: November 2018

Measurements of displacement and momentum thickness, friction factor and Stanton number were made in a narrow angle diverging duct consisting of two plane walls, width 0·82 m. The height of the duct varied from 0·051 to 0·152 m over a length of 3·94 m. Reynolds numbers ranged from 8·7 × 104 to 20·7 × 104. The results are compared with a prediction method using a numerical solution of the two-dimensional equation of motion and energy. An eddy diffusivity hypothesis was used, based on the turbulence energy equation and an empirical length scale distribution. Good agreement was obtained between the theoretical and experimental results, both before and after the boundary layers interfered, and with previously reported experiments in a parallel duct. It was necessary to change the value of one of the constants in the analysis for each geometry.
High Speed Induced Flow Reciprocating Pumps
Authors: Creedon R. L. , Lobo-Guerrero J. , Selwood P. R. , Burton J. D. 
Published: November 2018

Reciprocating pumps have been used for many years in conjunction with an air vessel or hydraulic accumulator placed between pump and discharge line, in order to control maximum cylinder pressures and to reduce the work done in overcoming friction. The air vessel and the discharge line are, in fact, capacitive and inductive components which together have some natural frequency generally different from the pump frequency. In this paper, it is shown that by matching the natural frequency of the discharge impedance to the pump frequency it is possible to obtain volumetric efficiencies of 200 per cent or more. This ‘induced flow principle’ was incorporated in a small high speed pump developed specifically to overcome the relative bulk and cost of conventional diaphragm pumps. Performance data for the new type of pump are compared with theoretical analogue computer solutions, and it appears that the induced flow principle may have a wider range of application than originally anticipated.
Patients’ understanding of clinical research: An Italian cancer patient survey
Authors: Rudnas Britt , Montanari Emanuela , Dall’Agata Monia , Petracci Elisabetta , Nanni Oriana 
Published: November 2018

Introduction: Patients’ awareness of clinical research and their involvement in clinical trials is of great importance, but it is difficult to estimate the extent of knowledge on the research being undertaken. Methods: We evaluated the level of knowledge about clinical research using a self-reporting survey distributed to 967 adult patients with cancer attending the Departments of Medical Oncology and Onco-Haematology Units of IRST IRCCS and 4 hospitals in the region of Emilia-Romagna, Italy. The questionnaire was composed of 10 specific items on research knowledge. Patients responding correctly to at least 8 of the 10 items were considered to have a good understanding of clinical research. Results: The questionnaire was completed by 769 patients (response rate 79.5%). Only 19% of patients were found to have a good understanding of clinical research. Patients with higher education and those who had previous clinical trial experience showed a significantly better understanding. Fifty-three percent of patients said that they would be willing to participate in a trial studying a new drug and 75% expressed an interest in taking part in informative meetings/events about clinical studies. Conclusions: Our results show that patients’ understanding of clinical research is limited and highlight an interest in learning more.
Transgender ward allocation in single-sex mental health wards: contemporary considerations
Authors: Kealy-Bateman Warren , Daws Tessa , Ouliaris Calina 
Published: November 2018

Objectives: Allocation of transgender patients to single-sex mental health wards in Australasia can be a complex and challenging decision in the absence of adequate awareness, education and policy that prioritize consumer safety and preference. It is a point of care that can go wrong for a transgender person. We examine relevant literature, law and existing principles of care and offer an approach. Conclusion: Transgender individuals experience an excess health burden and have difficulties that are poorly understood by many health practitioners. This is partly the result of both informational and institutional biases. Relevant legal frameworks, while supportive, are still to be translated into policy. We suggest a framework that canvasses the needs of various stakeholders and considers them equally in the decision-making process.
Psychological distress and health-related quality of life in parents of children referred to an outpatient service for children with developmental disorders
Authors: Karaivazoglou Katerina , Papadaki Ermioni , Iconomou Gregoris , Touliatos Gerasimos , Kotsopoulos Sotirios , Assimakopoulos Konstantinos 
Published: November 2018

Objectives: The current study’s aim was to measure anxiety, depression and quality of life in parents of children referred for developmental evaluation. Methods: The Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and the Short Form 36 Health Survey were used to assess anxiety, depression and quality of life, respectively. Results: One hundred and thirty parents participated in the study, 95 with a child referred for evaluation and 35 with healthy children. Parents of developmentally impaired children reported increased anxiety ( p=0.002) and depression ( p<0.001) and worse social functioning ( p=0.002) and mental health ( p=0.017). Mothers of developmentally impaired children reported significantly increased anxiety symptoms ( p=0.012) and bodily pain ( p=0.046) and lower levels of vitality ( p=0.009), social functioning ( p=0.005) and mental health ( p=0.008). More children in the family correlated with increased anxiety scores ( p=0.021), while higher child age was associated with more anxiety symptoms ( p=0.002), more role limitations due to emotional problems ( p=0.003) and worse mental health ( p=0.002). Conclusions: Parenting children with developmental difficulties is associated with significant psychological distress and disturbed quality of life.
How often does computed tomography (CT) of the brain demonstrate a cause for psychosis? A 7-year retrospective study at a tertiary metropolitan hospital
Authors: Harris Guy , Xiang Hao , Tan Irene , Randhawa Varundeep 
Published: November 2018

Objectives: The aim of the study was to determine the diagnostic yield of computed tomography (CT) of the brain for the investigation of psychosis. Methods: CT brain requests describing psychosis over a 7-year period at a 500-bed major metropolitan hospital were identified retrospectively. Patients were excluded if they were aged greater than 50 years or if the CT request described focal neurological findings on examination, trauma/falls or known brain tumour, demyelinating disorder, encephalopathy, seizure disorder, congenital brain anomaly, stroke or traumatic brain injury. Results: A total of 805 patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria were identified, representing the largest published study on this topic. Only 0.4% of patients (3 out of 805) had a potential cause for psychosis demonstrated on CT. None of these patients had their management altered as a result. An additional 0.6% of patients (5 out of 805) had significant pathology that was deemed unrelated to their psychosis. Conclusions: The diagnostic value of CT in the setting of psychosis was found to be extremely low in patients meeting the inclusion and exclusion criteria. Given the risk of ionising radiation and the expenditure of time and cost, more judicious use of CT is suggested.
Novel feline viruses: Emerging significance of gammaherpesvirus and morbillivirus infections
Authors: Beatty Julia A , Sharp Claire R , Duprex W Paul , Munday John S 
Published: November 2018

Practical relevance: New technologies capable of sequencing the genetic material in any given biological sample, combined with computer-based algorithms for sequence assembly and analysis, have revolutionised infectious disease research. The rate at which novel viruses are being discovered now exceeds our understanding of their clinical relevance. Novel viruses may contribute to diseases that are major causes of feline morbidity and mortality, including cancer and chronic kidney disease. The identification of new viral pathogens raises the prospect of not only improved patient outcomes through specific treatment but even disease prevention through viral control measures. Clinical challenges: It can be difficult to determine the role of a novel virus in disease development. Disease may be an occasional outcome, often years after infection. A high prevalence of infection in the general population can make disease associations harder to identify and almost impossible to rule out. Host cofactors such as immune dysfunction, genetic background or coinfections may be required for manifestation of disease, and one virus species may be linked to a range of pathological sequelae. Establishing causality relies on evaluating accumulating evidence from multiple investigations, which is often hard to access by practitioners. Global importance: The worldwide distribution of gammaherpesvirus and morbillivirus infections in domestic cats underlines the potential of these viruses to negatively impact feline health and welfare globally. Evidence base: This review relies on grade Ia–III evidence.