Search

On the basis of a definition of ecology centred on Merleau-Ponty's thought, this essay examines the various phases of Foucauldian thought and their respective relationships to possible ecological outcomes: the Dionysian phase, which lasts until The Order of Things; the microphysics of power phase, in which a philosophy of the will that radically breaks with any idea of the original becomes central; and the late Foucault phase, characterised by the themes of the hermeneutics of the self, subjectivity and critique. In the latter period in particular, in which Foucault's rapprochement with Canguilhem and the idea of a living being immersed in a dialectical relationship with the environment and with others is very strong, a model is identified that is particularly amenable to interpretation in ecological terms. The essay concludes with some research hypotheses on the possible relationship between a philosophy of the will, such as that mediated by Foucault from Nietzsche and Schopenhauer, and ecology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the paper is to outline the development of later Foucault's thought concerning the study of power. Foucault often changed his approaches to power, and this investigation changed his thinking about power. At the beginning he dealt with the microphysics of power, later he focused on the study of governmentality as the art of governing, which includes both the ways of governing and the modes of subjectivation. Problematiziation of governmentality allowed Foucault to link two major topics he had addressed in the last years of his life, politics and ethics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) satellite is a novel mission to observe rainfall from space. The precipitation radar onboard the TRMM operates at 13.8 GHz. It measures several parameters which help to understand the cloud microphysics, viz. the characteristics of the melting layer, rainfall intensity, etc. However, at such a high frequency, the raindrops cause absorption and scattering of the signal leading to attenuation. Thus, the signal strength reduces, causing degradation of the signal. The knowledge of attenuation is of immense importance to the link designers. Besides, it has its applications in defense. The knowledge of attenuation is also necessary for climate study as it gives an insight into drop-size distribution. In this paper, the authors have attempted to estimate attenuation from the ITU-R model by using the TRMM-retrieved rainfall as an input. They have validated the attenuation measured by the TRMM against that estimated using the ITU-R model. The study includes a few locations in the Indian subcontinent, namely, Bangalore (12.97°N, 77.59°E), Guwahati (26.14°N, 91.74°E), Chennai (13.08°N, 80.27°E), Delhi (28.70°N, 77.10°E), Kakdwip (21.87°N, 88.18°E), Kolkata (22.57°N, 88.36°E), Karaikal (10.92°N, 79.83°E), Mumbai (19.07°N, 72.87°E), Panjim (15.49°N, 73.82°E), Puri (19.81°N, 85.83°E), Machilipatnam (16.19°N, 81.13°E), Vishakhapatnam (17.68°N, 83.21°E), Salem (11.66°N, 78.14°E), Trivandrum (8.52°N, 76.93°E), and Mangalore (12.91°N, 74.85°E). Some of the locations so chosen lie along the East and West coasts of India. The period of study includes 1998-2002. The study shows that over Trivandrum and Kakdwip, the two matches very well. However, over other locations, sometimes the TRMM-estimated attenuation values overestimate. At times, these underestimate. The RMS error over these locations varies between 0.177 at Trivandrum to 22.004 at Bangalore. Besides, the investigation shows that the rainfall versus attenuation relationship is not always a power relation as accepted globally. Instead, the relationship between the two varies from one location to another. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a review of the torus radiation transfer and hydrodynamics code. torus uses a 1-D, 2-D or 3-D adaptive mesh refinement scheme to store and manipulate the state variables, and solves the equation of radiative transfer using Monte Carlo techniques. A framework of microphysics modules is described, including atomic and molecular line transport in moving media, dust radiative equilibrium, photoionisation equilibrium, and time-dependent radiative transfer. These modules provide a flexible scheme for producing synthetic observations, either from analytical models or as post-processing of hydrodynamical simulations (both grid-based and Lagrangian). A hydrodynamics module is also presented, which may be used in combination with the radiation-transport modules to perform radiation-hydrodynamics simulations. Benchmarking and validation tests of each major mode of operation are detailed, along with descriptions and performance/scaling tests of the various parallelisation schemes. We give examples on the uses of the code in the literature, including applications to low- and high-mass star formation, cluster feedback, and stellar winds, along with an Appendix listing the refereed papers that have used torus. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

TSV technology can achieve heterogeneous integration by stacking different technologies and functions of logic chip, memory, MEMS, etc., as a system. There are many significant advantages for heterogeneous integration in terms of cost, performance, and time to market. TSV technology has the potential to improve 3D packaging. As the important physical connection and electrical connection between the chips, TSV's reliability is undoubtedly the key to determine the reliability of TSV three-dimensional integrated devices. As a new interconnect technology, TSV technology faces many process difficulties and challenges. Its reliability has not been fully studied and guaranteed. The process optimization and reliability improvement of TSV have become a hot topic in recent years. Recognition process defects and analysis of the failure mechanism play important roles in the optimization and improvement of design, production, and use of TSV three-dimensional integrated devices. In this paper, the square TSV and circular TSV with different ratios were researched by microphysical analysis and data analysis. The analysis results revealed the key technological factors and physical mechanism of formation of the TSV defects, which can support TSV device development, production, and reliable application. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article, I discuss the life cycle of cumulus clouds. The events of birth, growth and demise of clouds are discussed in terms of microphysical processes that underlie them. My hope is that the next time you raise your eyes to the sky and see a cloud, it will present itself to your mind's eye as more than a 'white fluffy thing'. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the TiO2:Cr3+ composite coatings were formed in phosphate-based electrolyte with the addition of Cr2O3 by micro-arc oxidation (MAO) treatment. The chemical and physical properties of coatings were investigated. The results showed that the TiO2:Cr3+ coatings are mainly composed of Ti, O, P and Cr. And the Cr content in the coatings increased with the MAO treatment time. XRD results showed the TiO2:Cr3+ coatings are composed of anatase phase and anatase content varied with the treatment time. XPS results indicated that Ti2p spin-orbit components of the TiO2:Cr3+ coatings are shifted towards higher binding energy, compared with the pure TiO2 coating, suggesting that some of the Cr3+ ions are incorporated into TiO2 lattice. The photocatalytic experiment results showed that the TiO2:Cr3+ coatings are of higher photocatalytic activity than that of the pure TiO2 coatings. Besides, the Cr3+ is of positive effect on photocatalytic properties of TiO2:Cr3+ coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study implements a two-box model coupled with ultrafine particle (UFP) multicomponent microphysics for a compartmentalised street canyon. Canyon compartmentalisation can be described parsimoniously by three parameters relating to the features of the canyon and the atmospheric state outside the canyon, i.e. the heterogeneity coefficient, the vortex-to-vortex exchange velocity, and the box height ratio. The quasi-steady solutions for the two compartments represent a balance among emissions, microphysical aerosol dynamics (i.e. evaporation/condensation of semi-volatiles, SVOCs), and exchange processes, none of which is negligible. This coupled two-box model can capture significant contrasts in UFP number concentrations and a measure of the volatility of the multi-SVOC-particles in the lower and upper canyon. Modelled ground-level UFP number concentrations vary across nucleation, Aitken, and accumulation particle modes as well-defined monotonic functions of canyon compartmentalisation parameters. Compared with the two-box model, a classic one-box model (without canyon compartmentalisation) leads to underestimation of UFP number concentrations by several tens of percent typically. By quantifying the effects of canyon compartmentalisation, this study provides a framework for understanding how canyon geometry and the presence of street trees, street furniture, and architectural features interact with the large-scale atmospheric flow to determine ground-level pollutant concentrations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a three-dimensional air quality model with detailed aerosol microphysics (NAQPMS + APM) was applied to simulate the fine particle number size distribution and to explain the spatiotemporal variation of fine particle number concentrations in different size ranges over Beijing and surrounding areas in the haze season (Jan 15 to Feb 13 in 2006). Comparison between observations and the simulation indicates that the model is able to reproduce the main features of the particle number size distribution. The high number concentration of total particles, up to 26600 cm −3 in observations and 39800 cm −3 in the simulation, indicates the severity of pollution in Beijing. We find that primary particles with secondary species coating and secondary particles together control the particle number size distribution. Secondary particles dominate particle number concentration in the nucleation mode. Primary and secondary particles together determine the temporal evolution and spatial pattern of particle number concentration in the Aitken mode. Primary particles dominate particle number concentration in the accumulation mode. Over Beijing and surrounding areas, secondary particles contribute at least 80% of particle number concentration in the nucleation mode but only 10–20% in the accumulation mode. Nucleation mode particles and accumulation mode particles are anti-phased with each other. Nucleation or primary emissions alone could not explain the formation of the particle number size distribution in Beijing. Nucleation has larger effects on ultrafine particles while primary particles emissions are efficient in producing large particles in the accumulation mode. Reduction in primary particle emissions does not always lead to a decrease in the number concentration of ultrafine particles. Measures to reduce fine particle pollution in terms of particle number concentration may be different from those addressing particle mass concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Steel containing 0.65 wt % nitrogen has been investigated for armour applications by subjecting it to different percentages of hot rolling. The effect of percentage reduction during hot rolling on microstructures, mechanical properties and ballistic performance has been studied. The ballistic performance of 6.5 mm, 7.5 mm thick plates against 7.62 ball and 16 mm, 17 mm thickness against 7.62AP projectiles were assessed. The nature of damage has been studied by varying percentage reduction during hot rolling of these plates for providing full protection. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study describes the experimental results pertinent to the penetration of AA-2024, AA-6061 and AA-7017 plates with two different non-deformable steel projectiles. The diameters of the projectiles used for ballistic impact testing are 7.62 and 12.7 mm. The projectiles are impacted on the aluminium targets of 70 mm thickness with velocities in the range of 840±10 m/s. The results presented include variation in damage pattern in experimental alloys with respect to different projectiles. The microstructures and micro-hardness values along the projectile penetration path have been investigated to understand the material deformation behaviour. Some observations relating to the adiabatic shear band formation have also been presented. From the ballistic testing experiments, it is observed that AA-7017 plates display higher ballistic resistance among the tested aluminium alloys. The ballistic performance of the aluminium alloy plates have been correlated with their respective mechanical properties. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A coarse grained microstructure of Al6061 alloy was processed by Equal Channel Angular Pressing (ECAP) via route C (rotating the sample to 180 0 between each pass) at room temperature. The samples were processed up to four passes through a die having channel angle of 90 0 . Mechanical behaviour was studied by the tensile testing of the specimens in the extrusion direction exhibiting a significant increase in the mechanical properties of the alloy. The results revealed that the tensile strength is increased to 388MPa and yield strength was remarkably increased from 105MPa before ECAP to 330MPa after four passes. Microhardness values were taken on top and bottom surfaces demonstrate that the hardness increases from an initial value of ∼60 Hv to ∼123 Hv after four ECAP passes, an increase of almost 105%. Further, the texture strength decreases after four ECAP passes for the considered {111}, {200}, {220} and {311} pole figures. The paper also aims to investigate the surface roughness measurements after each ECAP pass and its variation with the number of passes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study focuses on the improvement of the accuracy and construction of a real-time, short-term rainfall prediction system in watershed, comparing the prediction results with radar observed rainfall intensity, to provide a reliable tool for disaster and water resource management. The short-term prediction of rainfall is very important for hydrologie forecasting for watershed with a short response time, especially under the global warming and extreme weather. Last September 9th (2015), heavy rain came a day after Tropical Storm Etau and triggered widespread flooding in Kinu Watershed. We use the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) to confirm the uncertainty of the rain prediction in Kinu watershed first, then will modify the WRF to suit the 6h, 12h, 24h rainfall prediction in Kinu watershed. Also, radar rainfall data will be employed to correct the WRF prediction in real-time meaning. Finally, we will check the possibility of general application of the system in other watersheds. We now are working on reproducing the heavy rain in Kinu watershed last September. We tried different microphysics, which describes the formation of cloud, to find one to reproduce the heavy rain in this case. The coverage, location of rain bands and distribution of heavy rainfall are applied to comparisons between calculations and observations by C-band radar. We found no Microphysics does well in this case and the area of heavy rain is underestimated by WRF, but the accumulated precipitation is overestimated. Detail insight at microphysics and modification are required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to response for security purposes, many developments have been developed for counter terrorism and/or military applications. Chemical sensors are promising sensors for trace detection because of their sensitivity and selectivity. Fluorescent sensors have already demonstrated their ability for explosives compounds. In this paper, a polycarbosilane functionalised with pyrene(PCS-Py), a new fluorescent material was tested for explosives detection. Several aspects and characteristic of polymer film were studied: in particular the microstructure of the film and its stability under air flow. Relationship between microstructures and performances were investigated depending of coating methods. Experiments were lead to demonstrate that photo bleaching phenomenon is the main contributing factor in the reduction of stability under air flow. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A Very Severe Cyclonic Storm (VSCS) “Phailin” crossed Odisha coast near Gopalpur on 12 October, 2013 and caused significant damage to property due to both wind and surge. High surge(∼2.3m) generated by the cyclone washed away some of the coastal structures(groins and break waters) constructed at the Gopalpur port besides causing coastal erosion. Wind damage was quite extensive around 50 km radius of the cyclone track. In the present study, an attempt is made to simulate and test the capability of the state of art Weather Research and Forecastingmeso-scale model (WRFV3) in capturing the wind intensity and track of cyclone accurately. The simulation has been carried out using two domains with a horizontal resolution of 27 km for domain1 and 9 km for domain2. Multiple simulations using initial conditions (NCEP FNL) at an interval of 6 hours, same cumulus parameterization and time integration schemes but with different microphysics schemes are carried out. The objective of the present study is to find the best microphysics for accurate simulation of intensity and track of tropical cyclone. Because, the main source of energy for tropical cyclone is the latent heat release (convective heating) in clouds, which depend on microphysical processes and the related cloud dynamical properties. The model was integrated for 108 hours starting from 9 October, 2013 to 13 October, 2013. Simulated features include track, intensity, rainfall and other synoptic conditions. As a test of the model performance, some observed features (track, maximum sustained wind, and sea level pressure) were compared with simulations and it was observed that simulations with WRF Single Moment-3 (WSM3) class microphysics scheme compare well with observations. Other synoptic features like, low level divergence, vorticity, and simulated rainfall are also discussed in relation to model performance. Impacts of Phailin on coastal structures are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We have demonstrated the effect of micrite content on the acoustic properties of well-controlled microstructures that are created in the laboratory to closely mimic those of carbonate rocks. In particular, we examined the effect of micrite content on the acoustic velocity, sensitivity of velocity to pressure, and changes in velocity resulting from dissolution upon saturation with a reactive fluid. We followed Dunhams classification and fabricated the samples by mixing coarse (sand-sized) and very fine (micrite-sized) calcite grains in different ratios and then cold compressing the mixture. The acoustic velocities were measured under benchtop conditions and as functions of confining pressure before and after the injection of a CO2 aqueous solution. The benchtop measurements indicated that the addition of micrite made the frame of the carbonate samples stiffer. Because the sensitivity of velocity to pressure decreases as the content of micrite increases, we hypothesized a stiffer pore structure in micrite-richer fabrics. Moreover, the content of micrite seems also to affect the change in elastic moduli upon dissolution. Micrite-rich samples experience a drop in elastic moduli after fluid injection, with respect to the moduli measured under dry conditions. This was interpreted as being likely due to dissolution, which weakens the rock frame. Such an effect seems to overcome the stiffening that results from dispersion mechanisms under high-frequency conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present study is concerned with laser beam welding of 15CDV6 steel, that is in the hardened (quenched and tempered) condition before welding. Autogenously butt-welded joints are made using carbon dioxide laser with a maximum output of 3.5 kw in the continuous wave mode. Weld microstructure, microhardness measurement across the weldment, transverse tensile properties, and room temperature impact properties of the weldment have been evaluated. The fusion zone exhibits a epitaxial grain growth. The microstrutural features of heat-affected zone and fusion zone vary, due to different thermal cycles for which these were subjected during welding. The average weld metal hardness was 480 Hv. The observed hardness distribution across the welds were correlated with the microstructures. The welds exhibited lower toughness of 50 joules as compared to parent metal of 55 joules and the tensile strength values of the welded specimens are close to that obtained for sheet specimens. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The processing induced active particle assembly determines the internal microstructure and resultant performance of the electrode in a lithium-ion battery. A morphology-detailed mesoscale model has been developed to gain fundamental understanding of the influence of active particle morphology, size, volume fraction, solvent evaporation, and multi-phase (active particle, conductive additive, binder and solvent) interaction. Our results demonstrate that smaller isometric active particles tend to form favorable aggregation with conductive additive particles. Two regimes, namely spontaneous aggregation and evaporation induced aggregation, have been identified. Low solvent evaporation rate promotes spontaneous aggregation resulting in an enhanced interfacial area than that in evaporation-induced aggregation. The influence of active material morphology and volume fraction on conducting pathway formation has been conjectured. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cloud radiation interactions are important in the global climate system. However, an understanding of mixed-phase boundary layer clouds in the Arctic remains poor. During May–June 2011, ground-based in situ measurements were made at Zeppelin Station, operated by the Norwegian Polar Institute (altitude 474 m) in Ny-Ålesund (78.9°N, 11.9°E), Svalbard. The instruments used comprised a Cloud, Aerosol and Precipitation Spectrometer (CAPS), and a Cloud Particle Microscope imager. The CAPS incorporated a Cloud and Aerosol Spectrometer and Cloud Imaging Probe (CIP). During the observation period, clouds associated with cyclonic disturbances and those associated with outbreaks of westerly cold air masses from the sea were observed. Atmospheric temperature during all measurements ranged from 0 to −5 °C. In every case, columns were the major type of ice particle measured by the CAPS–CIP. Cloud microphysical properties were observed continuously on 9 June 2011. Size spectra, liquid/ice water content, and particle effective size changed depending on progress stages. Based on the observed microphysics, optical properties were calculated and investigated. Optical properties were determined mainly by those of liquid water particles, even during periods when the relative contribution of ice particles to total water content was at the maximum. It was confirmed that the wavelength region of 1.6 and 2.2 μm can be used in remote sensing. This study shows that it is possible to measure detailed changes of cloud properties in the Arctic region by using instruments installed at a ground-based mountain station. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Atmosphere -- Ocean (Taylor & Francis Ltd) is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

The article delineates a critical approach to libidinal microphysics of the capital. The anxiety is considered to be one of the core element for understanding of the late capitalism. The former is defined in a wide historical and anthropological perspective, on the one hand, and within the detailed psychoanalytical framework, on the other. The analysis of different dimensions of anxiety allows to correlate basic structures of economic activity and subject formation. The article comes to the conclusion about the «bad» economy of anxiety causing lack of desire in the age of late capitalism and describes some cultural practices that reproduce it. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of B on microstructure and various properties including coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), HV hardness, and both smooth and notch stress rupture properties of modified Thermo- Span alloy was studied. The results show that B hardly dissolves in matrix. Increasing B content constrains the formation of Laves phase and grain boundary (GB) precipitation of Laves and G phases, but promotes the formation of M(Co, Fe)NbB boride. In low B doped alloy, its intrinsic high susceptibility to intergranular cracks leads to reduced rupture life and notch sensitivity. Increasing B improves grain boundary cohesion, tying up vacancies and reducing GB diffusion, which constrains the nucleation and propagation of intergranular microcracks, prolongs the rupture life and eliminates the notch sensitivity in the new alloy. Compared with conventional Thermo-Span alloy, the B doped modified alloy shows lower CTE and improved notch sensitivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microstructural evolution of Ti-45·9Al-8Nb and Ti-45·9Al-8Nb-0·2C (at-%) alloys fabricated by centrifugal investment casting is studied. It is found that both Ti-45·9Al-8Nb and Ti-45·9Al-8Nb-0·2C are mainly composed of γ phase and a small amount of α2 phase, and the microstructure is mainly fully lamellar in C containing alloy but again the C free alloy is mainly nearly fully lamellar. Nb distributes homogeneously in the γ and α2 phases but is depleted in the interdendritic regions. The addition of C reduces the lamellar spacing of Ti-45·9Al-8Nb alloy. The mean interlamellar spacings between α2 and α2 of Ti-45·9Al-8Nb and Ti-45·9Al-8Nb-0·2C alloys are about 950 and 700 nm, and those between γ and α2 lamellae are about 320 and 220 nm respectively. Oil cooling from the α phase field after 1h treatment at 1360°C leads to massive transformation to γm for both Ti-45·9Al-8Nb and Ti-45·9Al-8Nb-0·2C alloys. Subsequent aging in the α+γ phase field results in α phase precipitates within the γm phase, which leads to convoluted microstructures. However, the C addition retards the precipitation of α2 phase. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A study of the microstructural characteristics of laser arc hybrid welded nickel based IN738 superalloy was performed. Laser arc hybrid welding produced a desirable weld profile in the alloy, similar to what is usually obtained during laser beam welding, and no cracking occurred exclusively in the fusion zone. Elemental partitioning pattern in the fusion zone was studied by electron probe microanalysis and calculating the volume fraction of the weld metal that resulted from the consumption of the filler wire. The result showed that Ti, Ta, Nb, Mo, Al and Zr partitioned into the interdendritic regions of the fusion zone. SEM and TEM examination of the fusion zone showed the presence of secondary solidification reaction constituents, which consists of MC type carbides. The study further revealed that non-equilibrium liquation of various second phases that were present in the alloy prior to welding contributed to intergranular liquation in the heat affected zone (HAZ), which consequently resulted in extensive HAZ intergranular cracking during welding. Although laser arc hybrid welding appears promising for improving the weldability of nickel based IN738 superalloy, a suitable weldability improvement procedure is required in order to minimise HAZ intergranular cracking and thereby enhance the applicability of this technology to the joining of the superalloy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Organic solar cells have a potential for use in lightweight, flexible, inexpensive and large scale solar cells. However, significant improvements of photovoltaic efficiencies are mandatory for use in future solar power plants. One of the improvements is donor-acceptor proximity in the devices, which are called bulk heterojunction solar cells. Bulk heterojunction is an efficient method to generate free charge carriers, and the charge transfer is possible at the semiconductor interface. The purpose of the present work is to fabricate and characterise C60 based solar cells with copper oxides, CuInS2, phthalocyanines, porphyrin, poly-vinylcarbazole, nanodiamond, germanium and exciton diffusion blocking layers. In the present work, C60 and fullerenol [C60(OH)10-12] were used for n-type semiconductors, and metal copper oxides, metal phthalocyanine derivative, porphyrin and poly-vinylcarbazole were used for p-type semiconductors. In addition, nanodiamond and germanium based molecules were added into the active layers of the solar cells. The novel aspect of the research is to investigate the relation between properties and microstructures of the solar cells using transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction and electronic structure calculation. The impact of the research concerns the study of organic solar cells by means of microstructural analysis, property measurements and theoretical calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this article is to present the basics of cloud physics and their practical applications. Cloud physics investigate the microphysical processes that contributethe formation and development of clouds, and the interactions between these processes. the development of now-casting, observations and model simulations of physical processes in clouds are essential. Model simulations of clouds are also needed for global climate change attribution, because they facilitate to gain more accurate results about physical processes which affect our climate. For weather modification it is essential to know the processes that control the formation of ice and water particles, the rate of conversion of cloud droplets and ice particles into solid and liquid precipitation, and also about the cloud dynamics which drive the amount and phase of precipitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: Evidence will be presented from a wide spectrum of recent empirical and theoretical research to advance the thesis that the laws of nature, particularly in the astrophysical and microphysical arenas, are in some sense contextual, possibly dependent on both location and to a certain extent direction. The most compelling evidence to date to support this hypothesis will be brought forth – the surprising 2010 finding that the value of the fine structure constant appears slightly smaller than it was eons ago, if one looks in the northern sky direction, and incrementally higher if one scans the southern sky. This and the “chameleon” principle, which has been advanced to explain the anomalous acceleration of cosmic expansion, will also be shown to call into question one of the sacrosanct foundational tenets of general relativity, the Equivalence Principle. In the microphysical realm, it will be shown that the principles underlying quantum mechanics, especially superposition and counter-intuitive nature of entanglement, inherently exhibit contextual qualities that have yet to be recognized and fully probed. Finally, it is demonstrated that this considerably fairly well hidden contextual aspect of natural laws, might be brought to bear to account for physical anomalies heretofore inexplicable using current paradigms, such as the claimed efficacy of homeopathic protocols. Moreover, acknowledgment of this novel principle of contextual posturing of natural laws even in the macroscopic regime might imply unplumbed prospects for development of new energy sources and forms of energy generation. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Copyright of Atmosphere -- Ocean (Taylor & Francis Ltd) is the property of Taylor & Francis Ltd and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Abstract: By the use of GPS and CINDAR, the physical tests were made for the operation of weather modification in Guangxi on 16 February, 2008 and 21 January, 2010. The study shows that after the cloud seeding, microphysical changes in the supercooled clouds may lead to the mitigation of the basic reflectivity of radar in the supercooled layer of cloud, while the enhancement of the basic reflectivity on radar in the warm cloud and rain layer, and the reflectivity over the targeted regions was more quickly in reaching the maximum value than the non-operated clouds which are under the similar conditions, and lasting a more longer period. After the cloud seeding, the maximum of the changing rate of the echo reflectivity in warm region may be 100% or more. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A technique for modeling the fog droplet size distributions using modified gamma distribution has been demonstrated by considering two separate radiation fog events recorded in Graz (Austria) and Prague (Czech Republic). The measurement of liquid water content (LWC) and the optical attenuations at visible wavelength are used to form equations to obtain the three parameters of the modified gamma distribution i.e., the slope (L), the intercept (N0) and the shape parameter (m). Calculated attenuation or LWC from the retrieved parameters are in excellent agreement with attenuation or LWC obtained from the measurement. Hence this method is useful in the study of fog microphysics and in modeling the fog attenuations for terrestrial FSO links in situations when our measurement data contains values of attenuations only, or liquid water content only or both at a particular location. For the two case studies, Graz and Prague, we obtained the DSD parameters Λ=3.547 ± 1.935, N0=3.834 ± 2.239, m=6.135 ± 2.692 and Λ 5.882 ± 2.889, N0=13.41 ± 3.875, m=5.288 ± 3.113, respectively. It is evident that the observed behavior of computed modified gamma distribution parameters for Graz and Prague is closely the same and is consistent with the previous literature for the radiation (continental) fog. Moreover, we observed the variation of the computed DSD parameters at the different stages of fog (formation, maturity and dissipation phases) indicating different microphysical processes at each stage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article analyzes educational policies in Canada using Michel Foucault's concept of governmentality. These policies are designed to prepare the new generations to compete in a global marketplace and internationalized knowledge economy. The article explores ways technologies of and for accountability were produced in terms of specific forms of knowledge and sources of authority, and the ways microphysics of power operate in specific and provisional ways to set in place certain conditions of possibility, impossibility, inclusion and exclusion. It also draws a picture of advanced liberal or neoliberal mentality of rule in Canada.

Abstract: The scavenging processes of chemical species have been previously studied with numerical modeling, in order to understand the gas and particulate matter intra-reservoir transferences. In this study, the atmospheric (RAMS) and scavenging (B.V.2) models were used, in order to simulate sulfate concentrations in rainwater using scavenging processes as well as the local atmospheric conditions obtained within the LBA Project in the State of Rondonia, during a dry-to-wet transition season. Two case studies were conducted. The RAMS atmospheric simulation of these events presented satisfactory results, showing the detailed microphysical processes of clouds in the Amazonian region. On the other hand, with cloud entrainments, observed values have been overestimated. Modeled sulfate rainwater concentration, using exponential decay and cloud heights of 16km and no entrainments, presented the best results, reaching 97% of the observed value. The results, using shape parameter 5, are the best, improving the overall result. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

A preceding companion article introduced the slot jet approach for large-scale quasi-steady modelling of a downburst outflow. This article extends the approach to model the time-dependent features of the outflow. A two-dimensional slot jet with an actuated gate produces a gust with a dominant roll vortex. Two designs for the gate mechanism are investigated. Hot-wire anemometry velocity histories and profiles are presented. As well, a three-dimensional, subcloud numerical model is used to approximate the downdraft microphysics, and to compute stationary and translating outflows at high resolution. The evolution of the horizontal and vertical velocity components is examined. Comparison of the present experimental and numerical results with field observations is encouraging. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper reviews a number of microphysics issues in annular flows. These include the atomisation (drop formation) processes, the formation and behaviour of interfacial waves, the deposition of particles (droplets) and the effects of drag reducing agents. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The prediction of how phases distribute in a flow field is of first order importance in developing a scientific approach to multiphase flow. This involves the specification of the type of pattern and a quantitative description of where the phases are located for a given pattern. A striking feature of the physics is that macroscopic behavior is governed by small-scale interactions. A first step is to identify the critical microphysics by careful scientific (rather than empirical) analyses of results from studies in long pipelines. The "fully-developed" flows, that evolve far enough downstream, offer a simple system to test physical understanding. Furthermore, such studies provide results that can find direct use. Striking examples of the influence of small scale behavior in multiphase systems are the sensitivity of the flow pattern in a gas-solid fluidized bed to the characteristics of the solid particles and the influence of polymers on the behavior of a gas-liquid flow. An annular flow pattern changes to a stratified pattern because polymers destroy disturbance waves on the wall film (Al-Sarkhi and Hanratty, 2001a, 2001b). This eliminates atomization and reduces the ability of the film to climb up the wall against gravity. Polymers have also been observed to delay the transition to slug flow by decreasing the stability of slugs (Soleimani et al., 2002). The shedding of liquid from a slug can be related to the velocity of the gas bubble behind it. Polymers cause an increase in the velocity of this bubble by damping turbulence and, thereby, changing the flow pattern in the slug and the bubble velocity. This paper illustrates the approach outlined above by considering gas-liquid flows in horizontal or near-horizontal pipes. Stratified, slug and annular configurations are considered. The following recommendations are made: (1) An understanding of the physics governing the transition from one regime to another should be a top priority. (2) Critical issues in annular... [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This Summary introduces and discusses papers presented in this issue of Multiphase Science and Technology which had their origin at the Workshop on Scientific Issues in Multiphase Flow held at the University of Illinois in May 2002. The areas covered were: Flow Regimes in Multi-fluid Flow, Disperse Flow, Computational Physics and Micro Physics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Atmosphere - Ocean (Canadian Meteorological & Oceanographic Society) is the property of Canadian Meteorological & Oceanographic Society and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Atmosphere - Ocean (Canadian Meteorological & Oceanographic Society) is the property of Canadian Meteorological & Oceanographic Society and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Copyright of Atmosphere - Ocean (Canadian Meteorological & Oceanographic Society) is the property of Canadian Meteorological & Oceanographic Society and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Traffic-generated ultrafine particles (UFPs) in the urban atmosphere have a high proportion of their composition comprised of semi-volatile compounds (SVOCs). The evaporation/condensation processes of these SVOCs can alter UFP number size distributions and play an important role in determining the fate of UFPs in urban areas. The neighbourhood-scale dispersion (over distances < 1 km) and evolution of traffic-generated UFPs for a real-world street network in central London was simulated by using the WRF-LES model (the large eddy simulation mode of the Weather Research and Forecasting modelling system) coupled with multicomponent microphysics. The neighbourhood scale dispersion of UFPs was significantly influenced by the spatial pattern of the real-world street emissions. Model output indicated the shrinkage of the peak diameter from the emitted profile to the downwind profile, due to an evaporation process during neighbourhood-scale dispersion. The dilution process and the aerosol microphysics interact with each other during the neighbourhood dispersion of UFPs, yielding model output that compares well with measurements made at a location downwind of an intense roadside source. The model captured the total SVOC concentrations well, with overestimations for gas concentrations and underestimations for particle concentrations, particularly of the lighter SVOCs. The contribution of the intense source, Marylebone Road (MR) in London, to concentrations at the downwind location (as estimated by a model scenario with emissions from MR only) is comparable with that of the rest of the street network (a scenario without emissions from MR), implying that both are important. An appreciable level of non-linearity is demonstrated for nucleation mode UFPs and medium range carbon SVOCs at the downwind receptor site. Image 1 • The spatial pattern of UFP dispersion at the neighbourhood scale was captured. • Interaction of dilution and microphysical processes affected the UFP evolution. • Smaller particles and medium carbon SVOCs had appreciable levels of non-linearity. • Both Marylebone Road and the rest of the street network contributed to downwind UFP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of urbanization over the Bhubaneswar-Cuttack urban complex, a twin city of eastern India, is investigated in this study. For this purpose, the realistic representation of urban land use (LU) from the 'Indian Space Research Organization (ISRO)' and the older 'United States Geological Survey' is considered. The sensitivity experiment was performed to choose microphysics that was suitable for the study location. The recent LU simulations improved the amount and spatio-temporal distribution of rainfall over the city. Results suggested that the underlying impervious layer has a remarkable impact on the precipitation, temperature, and other meteorological variables during thunderstorms. Most of the simulated rain is found in the downwind direction of the city core and over the suburban periphery. The variation of the rainfall, showing dual peak characteristics during late evening hour, has excellent correspondence with the associated atmospheric moisture transport and dynamics and thermodynamics. The near-surface temperature and urban heat island found to be well simulated, covering the entire urban core from 12 UTC onward. • The urban growth induced land-use change has a remarkable impact on the meteorological variables during thunderstorms. • Realistic representation of urbanization is essential for effective simulations of thunderstorm related processes. • The urban area plays an important role not only in modifying the city weather but also that of non-urban neighborhoods. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neutral air temperatures at 90 km altitude over Svalbard (78°N, 16°E) for the period 2002 to 2019 inclusive have been estimated from observations by the Nippon/Norway Svalbard Meteor Radar (NSMR). The data are presented per se and we shall not attempt to identify contributions from extra-terrestrial or anthropogenic driving. On the other hand, comparison with the corresponding period of solar UV flux notably fails to exhibit similarities. Moreover, there is indeed evidence of systematic temporal changes, possibly with a breakpoint around 2012. Selecting winter and summer months and years before and after 2012 and fitting trend-lines, we see strong evidence for cooling during summer. An apparent winter cooling prior to 2012 lacks statistical significance. A suggestion of reversal to winter warming after 2012 is also very uncertain. The summer cooling is found to be 9.9 ± 2.9 K decade−1 between 2002 and 2012, and 4.3 ± 1.2 K decade−1 between 2002 and 2019. Importantly, there is a suggestion (although lacking statistical significance) that summer cooling alleviated after 2012, and even reversed in winter. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The microphysics of forced convective boiling is discussed in the context of boiling in nuclear fuel assemblies. The prediction of wall heat transfer and local area concentration are unsolved problems. It is suggested that these problems be addressed using micro-visualization and direct numerical simulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The author reflects on chance as a superior form of freedom. He stresses that chance comes into existence as the final cause in microphysics, astronomy and anthropology, as well as in art. He notes a specific role of chance in the context of the theory of naturalist Charles Darwin which depicts the development of human beings in many small steps. He also talks about randomness in art.