Total Height Research Articles

Green nano-coated carbon electrodes for detecting furosemide drug

In this study, new coated carbon electrodes were created and utilized to estimate the furosemide (FUR) drug. Ion-pair preparation for the electrode construction involved a reaction of furosemide drug with silver nanoparticles (Ag-NPs) made from pomegranate peel extract, plasticizers that use dibutyl phthalate (DBP) without the use of any organic precipitant. Several techniques (AFM, XRD, FTIR, SEM) were used to characterize the characteristics. This electrode shows excellent sensitivity to furosemide (FUR) with a linear range of 10<sup>-6</sup> -10<sup>-1</sup> M and a correlation coefficient of 0.9798. The electrode has a lifetime of 45 days, ideal temperatures of 20-45 ºC, an optimum pH range of 3-6, a slope of 61.286 mv/decade, and a detection limit of 3.62×10<sup>-8</sup> M. The AFM was measured, the total height was 2.53 nm, and the shape was spherical or semi-spherical. The average crystal size measured by XRD was 43.52, 47, and 55.03 nm with an average size of 14.25067 nm; the particles were spherical or semi-spherical in shape, as seen using the SEM. The identification of functional aggregates was conducted by measuring them using FTIR. In conclusion, this method could be an efficient tool for determining the drug in pharmaceutical formulations.

Spatial Distribution and Ecological Determinants of Coexisting Hybrid Oak Species: A Study in Yushan's Mixed Forest.

Ecological niche partitioning is crucial in reducing interspecific competition, fostering species coexistence, and preserving biodiversity. Our research, conducted in a hybrid mixed oak forest in Yushan, Jiangsu, China, focuses on Quercus acutissima, Q. variabilis, Q. fabri, and Q. serrata var. brevipetiolata. Using Point Pattern Analysis, we investigated the spatial relationships and ecological trait autocorrelation, including total carbon (TC), nitrogen (TN), phosphorus (TP), potassium (TK), and breast height diameter (DBH). Our findings show aggregated distribution patterns within the oak populations. The Inhomogeneous Poisson Point model highlights the impact of environmental heterogeneity on Q. variabilis, leading to distinct distribution patterns, while other species showed wider dispersion. This study reveals aggregated interspecific interactions, with a notable dispersal pattern between Q. acutissima and Q. variabilis. We observed significant variability in nutrient elements, indicating distinct nutrient dynamics and uptake processes. The variations in total carbon (TC), nitrogen (TN), phosphorus (TP), and potassium (TK) suggest distinct nutrient dynamics, with TK showing the highest variability. Despite variations in TC, TK, and TP, the species did not form distinct classes, suggesting overlapping nutritional strategies and environmental adaptations. Furthermore, spatial autocorrelation analysis indicates strong positive correlations for DBH, TC, and TP, whereas TK and TN correlations are non-significant. The results suggest habitat filtering as a key driver in intraspecific relationships, with a finer spatial scale of ecological niche division through TC and TP, which is crucial for maintaining coexistence among these oak species.

Evaluation of the skeletal and dental effects of a hybrid aesthetic functional appliance (HAF) in skeletal class II division 1 malocclusion: A prospective uncontrolled clinical trial.

The present study investigated the skeletal and dental effect in class II division I growing patients due to mandibular deficiency treated with the hybrid aesthetic functional (HAF) appliance. A sample of 16 growing patients (5 boys and 11 girls; mean age: 9.50 years, standard deviation: 1.15) with class II division I malocclusion were treated using the HAF appliance for an average period of 10±3 months. For each patient, a cephalometric radiograph was taken before and after treatment, and digital analysis was applied using the WebCeph program. The statistical analysis was performed to evaluate dental and skeletal changes associated with the HAF appliance and determine if there were any statistically significant variations in anatomical measurements between the start and completion of the treatment. The data showed a significant increase in SNB angle (P=0.002), leading to a significant decrease in ANB angle (P=0.001). The mandibular length significantly increased (P=0.008), the lower incisors were flared significantly (P=0.028), and the lower molars were extruded significantly (P≤0.001). Also, this study revealed a significant decrease in Wits appraisal (P≤0.001), overjet (P≤0.001), and overbite (P=0.041). Additionally, a significant increase in lower anterior facial height (P≤0.001), total facial height (P=0.001), and posterior facial height (P=0.037) were observed. The HAF appliance showed that it could be used to correct class II division 1 skeletal discrepancy by mandibular advancement. The HAF appliance increased all facial heights significantly.

The Relationship Between Hand Preference and Mandibular Asymmetry: A Preliminary Study

Objective: The objective of this study was to evaluate the relationship between functional laterality (hand preference) and mandibular asymmetry in skeletal Class I, normodivergent patients.
 Methods: 21 left-handed and 40 right-handed Class I normodivergent patients were included in the study. The hand preferences of the participants were determined by using the Oldfied hand preference questionnaire. Mandibular condylar height (CH), ramal height (RH), and total height (CH+RH) were measured on pretreatment panoramic radiographic images of the patients, and asymmetry values were obtained according to the formula of asymmetry indices. Data were analyzed with the Student’s t-test and Pearson chi-square.
 Results: Right and left CH values were greater in left-handed patients than in right-handed patients. Right and left RH and CH+RH values were greater in right-handed patients than in left-handed. However, there was no difference between the measurements (p > .05). There was no significant relationship between the functional values and hand-use preference (p > .05).
 Conclusions: Hand use preference was not associated with condylar, ramal, and total mandibular asymmetry.

VOLUMETRIC QUANTIFICATION OF EUCALYPTUS SP. STANDS THROUGH AERIAL PHOTOGRAPHS OBTAINED BY RPAS

Volumetric quantification of Eucalyptus sp. stands through aerial photographs obtained by RPAS. The data collection for forest management is necessary to carry out the inventory, being a procedure that requires field work, high cost and time. Therefore, the objective of this work was to develop dendrometric equations based on aerial images of RPAS (Remotely Piloted Aircraft System) combined with the manipulation of vector data, and to estimate the forest production of Eucalyptus sp., in the southern region of the state of Rondônia. The extraction of the variables crown projection area (ACRPAS) and total height (hRPAS) were derived from RPAS images, these have been validated from data obtained in the field by means of forest inventory and by standing trees rigorous scaling. Diametric and volumetric equations were adjusted according to the variables obtained by RPAS. The total height (h) of the scaled trees and hRPAS did not show significant differences (X²= 31.013). When comparing the estimates obtained by the v equation with their respective values of the scaling, it is verified that the v equation is accurate for estimates of the variable under study (X²= 0.8077). The results indicated success in tree detection, even with the difficulties in delimiting the crowns due to occlusion. Despite the challenges arising from flight altitudes below 250 m, the estimates of diameter, height, and individual volume using metrics derived from RPAS products were accurate, consistent with those obtained in the traditional forest inventory. The use of RPAS for volumetric quantification of forest stands in Rondônia represents an innovative approach in the sector, despite the challenges encountered.

Effect of fertilizer, planting density and variety on growth and yield of stem cuttings of cassava

The shortage of cassava stem cuttings presents a significant constraint to cassava production in Kilosa district, Tanzania. To address this issue, a field experiment was conducted within the research plots of TARI Ilonga, Kilosa, to evaluate the impact of fertilizer application, planting density, and variety on cassava stem cutting yield. Employing a split-split plot design in a randomized complete block design (RCBD), the experiment featured variety, planting density, and rates of fertilizer combinations as main, sub, and sub-sub factors, respectively. The study focused on three improved varieties of cassava (Kiroba, Chereko, and Mkuranga 1), with planting densities of 10,000, 13,000, and 20,000 plants per hectare, and ten fertilizer treatment rates. Data collected encompassed soil physico-chemical characteristics of the site, total plant height, stem height, stem diameter, number of stem cuttings, and nodes per stem cutting. Analysis of the plant data involved variance analysis, with significant treatments distinguished using Tukey’s honesty significance test (p<0.05). Notably, the application of 150 kg N ha-1 resulted in statistically higher total plant height and stem height, while a planting density of 20,000 plants ha-1 combined with the Kiroba variety exhibited statistically higher numbers of stem cuttings ha-1. The study concludes that for effective stem multiplication, a planting density of 20,000 plants ha-1 and the application of N fertilizers at a rate of 150 kg N ha-1 are recommended.

Evaluation of the External Soft Tissue Changes Following the Correction of Class II Skeletal Malocclusion in the Adolescence Period Using Removable and Fixed Functional Appliances: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

In this systematic review, we aimed to assess the current evidence regarding the effectiveness of functional treatment with both removable and fixed appliances to normalize the external soft tissue for skeletal class II adolescent individuals. We performed a broad electronic search to retrieve relevant studies from nine databases to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and controlled clinical trials (CCTs) that investigated soft tissue changes following functional treatment and evaluated the changes using 2D lateral cephalometric radiographsand 3D-optical surface laser scanning. A total of three RCTs and eight CCTs were included. Ages ranged from 11 to 16 years with the fixed functional appliances, and from eight to 12 years with the removable ones, including 689 skeletal class II patients. Version 2 of Cochran's risk-of-bias (RoB2), and the risk of bias in non-randomized studies of interventions (ROBIN-I) were used to assess the risk of bias for the included papers. Of the 11 eligible studies, three studies were included in the meta-analysis to assess the upper and lower lip position in relation to the E-line (Ricketts's aesthetic line) in addition to the nasolabial angle. The meta-analysis showed that the upper lip retracted after functional treatment with Twin-block in relation to E-line (mean difference (MD) = -1.93; 95% CI: -2.37, -1.50; p < 0.00001; χ² = 5.43; p = 0.07; I2 = 63%), while the lower lip position did not change after functional treatment with Twin-block in relation to E-line (MD = 0.03; 95% CI: -0.56, 0.61; p = 0.92; χ² = 1.74; p = 0.42; I2 = 0%). The nasolabial angle increased after Twin-block treatment (MD = 5.75; 95% CI: 4.57, 6.93;p < 0.00001; χ² = 6.77; p = 0.03; I2 = 70%). The mentolabial angle and Z-angle also increased after functional therapy, where the facial convexity angle decreased, regardless of the functional devices used. On the other hand, using the 3D-optical surface laser scanning showed that the upper lip length and the commissural width did not change following therapy, but the lower lip increased in length, as well as the total face height. More high-quality RCTs are required to obtain accurate evidence in this field.

Morphometric evaluation of the linea alba in fresh corpses

PurposeDiastasis recti abdominis is an increase in the distance between the medial borders of the two rectus muscles. It is most often triggered after intra-abdominal pressure increases, such as postpartum or in obesity. Most publications are based on radiological studies or are done in certain subgroups, without unanimous reference values of the distance between the rectus abdominis or standardization. MethodsForty-one cadavers were studied. Exclusion criteria: signs of abdominal trauma, major burns, presence of scar from previous abdominal surgery, clinical signs of abdominal hernia, and identification of hernia during cadaver dissection. Linea alba (LA) length, width, and thickness were measured with a flexible tape measure and digital caliper. Anatomical landmarks were established, and subdivisions were described based on them to compare the cadavers. ResultsSex and age had little effect on LA width, thickness, or length. Obesity (compared to normal weight) was the only variable that promoted an increase in the LA width (p < 0.01). The supraumbilical length varied with the total height of the evaluated cadavers (p < 0.01), but the infraumbilical length did not (p = 0.11). ConclusionThe general statistical results of this study, regarding the evaluation of LA measurements in cadavers, showed that ethnicity, sex, and age have little effect on the width, thickness, or length of the LA. LA width differed significantly with abdominal circumference.

How growing conditions are influential on the agronomic attributes and fiber-related quality parameters of flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) fibers: A seismomorphogenesis approach

Among industrial crops, flax (Linum usitatissimum L.) is a multi-purpose crop grown for production of stem fiber and seed oil. Through longterm domestication for these purposes, cultivated flax has diversified into two main types, namely fiber and oil or linseed types, as well as an intermediate type. This study was designed to investigate the effect of flax fibers of flax varieties (Antares, Dakota and Mures) in field and greenhouse cultivation on fiber mechanical performances, morphological properties and fatty acid composition in flaxseed was investigated. Additionally, plants can change their morphology and mechanical properties when exposed to stress, as is particularly the case when plants respond to wind, a phenomenon known as seismomorphogenesis. Greenhouse plants were found to be significantly lower than field grown plants, with an increase of 16.79cm in technical stem length and 56.02cm in technical stem height. In addition, the total plant height of flax grown in the field was 59.33 cm compared to 17.32 cm in the greenhouse. The Mures variety was found to be the highest both in the field (79.50-76.10cm) and in the greenhouse (18.36-17.47cm). Considering the fatty acid percentages, the highest α-linolenic acid was found in Dakota (29.23%) and the lowest in Antares (20.53%) in the field, while the highest was found in Dakota (19.25%) and the lowest in Mures (16.13%) in the greenhouse. In addition, the highest tensile strength was found in Dakota (704.6 Mpa) and the closest Antares (692.2 Mpa) under field conditions, while the lowest was found in Dakota (198.5 Mpa) and Mures varieties (288.8 Mpa) under greenhouse conditions. In order to reduce the dimension, correlate and visualize the measured parameters, the relevant data of the study were subjected to principal component analysis and heat-map clustering.

Direct ink writing of viscous inks in variable gravity regimes using parabolic flights

Additive manufacturing (AM) has significant utility for off-planet fabrication where dedicated infrastructure is severely limited, weight reduction and in situ resource utilization is desirable, and demands for complex systems are high. Direct ink writing (DIW) is a useful AM technique since it enables the deposition of a broad set of materials and the co-printing of multiple materials simultaneously. This allows for the fabrication of complex functional devices and systems in addition to structural objects. To evaluate this technique for space applications, this study characterized DIW in low gravity environments. Parabolic flights were used to simulate Martian, Lunar, and Micro gravity, and the effects that these 3 gravity regimes have on two critical print performance parameters, drooping and slumping, was evaluated using viscous paste inks deposited with an auger-driven extrusion head. In the drooping case, bridging structures were printed across gaps without support material, and the deformation was monitored. In the slumping case, a wall was printed through sequential layer deposition, and the vertical displacement of each layer under reduced gravity was explored. As expected, we found that a reduction in apparent gravity led to a decrease in the droop of a printed line, and as apparent gravitational acceleration is decreased its impact on the magnitude of drooping becomes less significant. For wall structures printed in simulated Lunar or Martian gravity regimes, the total structure height was found to be similar to that of a structure printed under Earth's gravitational conditions. In contrast, for prints performed in microgravity, it was found that slumping was significantly reduced and structure height was larger. These results provide experimental data to enable the design and optimization of appropriate structures and tool paths for printing objects using DIW for off-planet manufacturing.

Brown macro-seaweeds derived agro-biostimulant for Zea mays farming in saline conditions: Growth enhancement and optimum biochemical and ion feedback

Salinity negatively affects maize growth, a cereal crop and used as a vital source of food production. Seaweeds are macro-aquatic biocatalysts and might act as a promising biostimulant for conferring crop salinity resistance by providing essential nutrients and growth-promoting regulators. This study was designed for the first time to examine the effects of two commonly found seaweeds, Iyengaria stellata and Colpomenia sinuosa, on the growth of maize under 0, 100, and 200 mM NaCl application. Plants treated with both salinities reduced plant growth, but the application of seaweed I. stellata and C. sinuosa significantly increased growth parameters, especially plant biomass (fresh and dry), length (root and shoot), and total plant height than other treatments. In addition, higher growth under seaweed amends was supported by improved chlorophyll, carbohydrates, carotenoids, and polyphenols as well as lower electrolyte leakages to escape from oxidative stress. Plants treated with both algal species enhanced Na+ and K+, which is important for osmotic balance and precise ion homeostasis and could be effective for optimum leaf metabolism for growth resilience of maize plants under saline-stress conditions. This study emphasizes the potential of C. sinuosa and I. stellata as effective biostimulants. They offer a sustainable approach to cultivating climate-resilient maize that can thrive in salt-affected environments.

Free-Flowing Polymer-Bonded Powder Composition of Hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine Using Solvent-Slurry Coating.

A number of coating techniques have been used to improve the processability of high explosives. These techniques are typically used for developing compositions, such as boosters and fillers. The most typically used technique is the "solvent-slurry coating". Several compositions of polymer-bonded explosives have been industrialized using this technique. The NUPC-6 polymer-bonded powder composition of hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine is optimized using the solvent-slurry coating. It involved multiple processes, i.e., preparing a slurry of high explosives in an aqueous phase, dissolving the modified polymer binder in an organic solvent, maintaining both the solvent and slurry at controlled temperatures, introducing polymer binder solution and ingredients in the slurry, distilling the solvent, mixing contents homogeneously, filtering the polymer-coated hexahydro-1,3,5-trinitro-1,3,5-triazine composition, and drying in a vacuum oven. The phlegmatizing and hydrophobic agents enhance flowability and hydrophobicity. The mass flow rate, bulk density, tapped density, compressibility index, and Hausner ratio are determined to evaluate its flowability during filling operations. The results show that the composition is flowable using a filling funnel, with a 150 mm upper diameter, 25 mm flow diameter, and 136 mm total funnel height. The raw polymer binder was modified using diisooctylsebacate and SAE-10 oil. The additives in the composition enhance its flowability, and it might be used in underwater applications.

Effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses and capsular tension rings implantation for cataract patients with axial high myopia.

To assess effectivity and safety of trifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs) and capsular tension rings in treating cataract patients with axial high myopia. A prospective nonrandomized controlled clinical trial was conducted. Totally 98 eyes (74 patients) who underwent femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) with trifocal IOLs were enrolled in the study and followed up for 2y after surgery: 46 eyes (33 patients) with capsular tension ring implantation in the long axial lengths (AL) group (26<AL<29 mm) and 52 eyes (41 patients) in the normal AL group (22<AL<24.5 mm). Postoperative outcomes about effectivity and safety, including the subjective and objective visual quality, and postoperative complications were assessed. Uncorrected distance visual acuity at 5 m and uncorrected intermediate visual acuity at 60 and 80 cm in the long AL group were significantly worse than those in the normal AL group at 3mo postoperatively (P<0.05). The differences in reading speed, spectacle independence and potential visual complaints between the two groups were not statistically significant (P>0.05). The dysfunctional lens index and total modulation transfer function (MTF) average height were similar between the two groups. The postoperative internal coma aberrations in the axial high myopia eyes were significantly higher than that in the normal AL group (P<0.05). The total satisfaction score in the long AL group (91.32±2.76) was slightly higher than that in the normal AL group (90.36±3.47), but there was no difference (P=0.136). A statistically negative correlation was found between corrected distance visual acuity (CDVA) and dysfunctional lens index (r=-0.382, P=0.009), and between CDVA and the total MTF average height (r=-0.374, P=0.01). But there was no significant correlation between CDVA and total satisfaction score (r=0.059, P=0.696). Postoperative complications mainly presented as posterior capsular opacity (PCO), retinal detachment and cystoid macular edema. There was no difference in the incidence of fundus disease (6.5% vs 3.8%, P=0.663) or PCO (17.4% vs 7.7%, P=0.217) between the two groups at two years. The utilization of trifocal IOL and capsular tension ring implantation is beneficial for cataract patients with axial high myopia undergoing FLACS. This approach not only ensures excellent subjective feelings and objective visual quality, but also does not increase the incidence of postoperative complications.

Categorical variable modeling for estimating pulp biomass and recovered residues from Eucalyptus harvesting

The definition of stem diameter limits between pulp production and residues recovered from harvesting for energy can influence the dry biomass content of forest products. In this context, the aim of this study was to build linear regression models employing categorical variables to accurately estimate the biomass of pulp and residues from Eucalyptus saligna and E. urophylla × E. grandis clonal stands. Forest inventory and dry biomass data from thirty trees distributed in diameter classes of each stand were used as a database. The measurements of pulp dry mass and residues were treated as dependent variables. Concurrently, variables such as diameter at 1.3 m above the ground, total height, and transformations and combinations of these variables were considered as independent variables. The stem diameter limits of 8, 10, 12, and 14 cm along the stems were considered as categorical variables. To predict pulp and energy biomasses based on stem diameter limits, the categorical variable assumes a value of 1 (indicating an estimate within a particular k-factor), while the other k-factors were set to 0 (zero). The fitted models allowed for the estimation of dry biomass within the forest stands, resulting in percentage errors of estimation per hectare ranging between 4.5% and 11.2%. Moreover, these models incorporating categorical variables facilitated the simplification of estimates for both pulp biomass and recovered residues within commercial Eucalyptus stands.

Enhancing Chinese Cabbage Production and Quality through IoT-Based Smart Farming in NFT-Hydroponics

The rising adoption of agricultural technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT) or “smart farming” aims to boost crop production in terms of both quantity and quality. This study compares the benefits of a smart farm employing an IoT-based hydroponic system with those of a conventional hydroponic farm, using Chinese cabbage (Brassica pekinensis L.) as the experimental crop. Our primary objective was to automate environmental monitoring, achieving pH level and electrical conductivity (EC) maintenance through smartphone or computer interfaces for nutrient and acid–base solution adjustments. Additionally, we evaluated plant growth and crop quality, finding superior results with the smart hydroponic system. On average, there were substantial increases in various parameters, including total fresh weight (27.14%), total dry weight (48.90%), plant height (11.14%), stem diameter (32.89%), leaf area (94.30%), leaf width (32.36%), leaf length (38.12%), and chlorophyll content (22.73%). Nitrate accumulation in the edible parts of Chinese cabbage remained within safe limits for both systems, reflecting careful nutrient management. These findings highlight the potential of IoT-based technology in enhancing productivity and quality in hydroponic farming, marking a significant step towards revolutionizing traditional agricultural practices for more efficient crop production systems.

Improving the WAVEWATCH-III wave model results using data assimilation in the Persian Gulf

In this study, data assimilation with bulk and partitioned spectral parameters were integrated into the WAVEWATCH-III (WW3) wave model. The dependency of future forecasts on the current state in numerical models leads to an error flow in the results. Data assimilation schemes, such as the optimum interpolation, compensate for the problem by using available observations to minimize the error in the current state of the model. Different wind input and wave dissipation packages of WW3 were assessed for the Persian Gulf. The data assimilation scheme was integrated with the most successful formulation, ST3BJA. The enhanced WW3 model was assessed for two time periods in the Persian Gulf in which the wave data from three in-situ ADCPs were available. In addition, the satellite-derived wave height data within the computational domain were also used for model assessment. Assimilating the significant wave height data from in-situ measurements improved the model results in all cases and reduced the underestimation of significant wave height and improved the wave period statistics, significantly. The inclusion of mean wave period or use of partitioning the spectrum in the assimilation process resulted in spurious oscillations in the time series of peak wave period and significant wave height. Since the swells are not energetic in the Persian Gulf, the results from assimilation with partitioning spectrum scheme is not as successful as from assimilation scheme with the bulk parameters in reproducing accurate total wave height.

Field-based measurement tools to distinguish clonal Typha taxa and estimate biomass: a resource for conservation and restoration.

Two species of clonal Typha [T. latifolia (native) and T. angustifolia (exotic)] hybridize to form the highly invasive, heterotic (high vigor) T. × glauca in North American wetlands leading to increased primary production, litter accumulation, and biodiversity loss. Conservation of T. latifolia has become critical as invasive Typha has overwhelmed wetlands. In the field, Typha taxa identification is difficult due to subtle differences in morphology, and molecular identification is often unfeasible for managers. Furthermore, improved methods to non-destructively estimate Typha biomass is imperative to enhance ecological impact assessments. To address field-based Typha ID limitations, our study developed a predictive model from 14 Typha characters in 7 northern Michigan wetlands to accurately distinguish Typha taxa (n = 33) via linear discriminant analysis (LDA) of molecularly identified specimens. In addition, our study developed a partial least squares regression (PLS) model to predict Typha biomass from field collected measurements (n = 75). Results indicate that two field measurements [Leaf Counts, Longest Leaf] can accurately differentiate the three Typha taxa and advanced-generation hybrids. The LDA model had a 100% correct prediction rate of T. latifolia. The selected PLS biomass prediction model (sqrt[Typha Dry Mass] ~ log[Ramet Area at 30 cm] + Inflorescence Presence + Total Ramet Height + sqrt[Organic Matter Depth]) improved upon existing simple linear regression (SLR) height-to-biomass predictions. The rapid field-based Typha identification and biomass assessment tools presented in this study advance targeted management for regional conservation of T. latifolia and ecological restoration of wetlands impacted by invasive Typha taxa.

Accuracy Evaluation of Ocean Wave Spectra from Sentinel-1 SAR Based on Buoy Observations and ERA5 Data

Doppler mis-registrations in azimuth can lead to ocean waves shorter than a specific wavelength being undetectable by SAR. In order to evaluate the actual ocean wave observation ability, the accuracy of Sentinel-1 SAR ocean wave spectra from January 2016 to December 2021 is evaluated by comparisons to NDBC buoys, ERA5 wave height, and CMEMS buoys. The results compared with NDBC show that the spectral shape of Sentinel-1 SAR ocean wave spectra is accurate, while the spectral values need to be improved. The wave spectra of Sentinel-1 have the best observations in season autumn. The comparison results of total wave height show the RMSE and bias are 0.91 m and −0.52 m for the comparisons to NDBC buoy wave spectra data, 0.93 m and −0.68 m for the comparison to ERA5 wave height data, and 0.9 m and −0.35 m for the comparisons to CMEMS buoy data. The comparison results of wave height in different wind speeds and areas shows that the accuracy of Sentinel-1 wave mode data is relatively good in the open ocean located in middle and low latitude area under the medium wind speed, while those are relatively poor in high latitude areas or the areas with excessively high or low wind speed.

Discovering new living Pinna nobilis populations in the Sea of Marmara

Fan mussel (Pinna nobilis) is one of the largest bivalve species in the Mediterranean Sea. The situation of the species is critical as it faces widespread mass mortality attributed to pathogens in various parts of the Mediterranean Sea. The Sea of Marmara (SoM) offers a unique environment for fan mussel populations, with some areas hosting alive populations. This study aims to explore and describe new P. nobilis populations in the SoM that are known to be not affected by mortality. An area of 28,200 m2 at 47 stations along the 105 km coastline in the southern part of the SoM was explored using underwater visual transects. A total of 544 alive fan mussels were recorded during the underwater surveys, ranging in total shell height from 11.8 to 31.4 cm. The mean density was estimated as 5.3 ind 100 m−2 although maxima of 18.8 ind 100 m−2 were recorded in some stations. These density hotspots were distributed from the shoreline to a 10 m depth range and 100 m distance from the shoreline in sandy and seagrass meadow habitats. The presence of juveniles provided evidence of successful recruitment. The distribution pattern and recorded mortalities were attributed to hydrodynamic factors and intense human activities. Potential environmental factors (low salinity and temperature) in the SoM may control or delay the possible spread of the lethal pathogens. Favorable conditions result in mussels’ resilience and survival mechanisms. The SoM offer a promising larval reservoir for the recolonization of affected areas, such as those found in the Aegean Sea, through larval exportation.

Cloud Characteristics during Intense Cold Air Outbreaks over the Barents Sea Based on Satellite Data

The Arctic experiences remarkable changes in environmental parameters that affect fluctuations in the surface energy budget, including radiation and sensible and latent heat fluxes. Cold air masses and cloud transformations during marine cold air outbreaks (MCAOs) substantially influence the radiative fluxes, thereby shaping the link between large-scale dynamics, sea ice conditions, and the surface energy budget. In this study, we investigate various cloud characteristics during intense MCAOs over the Barents Sea from 2000 to 2018 using satellite data. We identify 72 intense MCAO events that propagated southward using reanalysis data of the surface temperature and potential temperature at the 800 hPa level. We investigate the macro- and microphysical parameters and radiative properties of clouds within selected MCAOs, their dependence on sea ice concentration, and their initial air mass properties using satellite data. A significant increase in low-level clouds near the ice edge (up to +25% anomalies) and a smooth transition to upper-level clouds is revealed. The total cloud top height during intense MCAOs is generally 500–700 m lower than under neutral conditions. MCAOs induce a positive net cloud radiative effect, which peaks at +20 W m−2 (100 km from the ice edge) and gradually decreases towards the continent (−2.3 W m−2 per 100 km). Our study provides evidence for the importance of changes in the cloud radiative effect within MCAOs, which should be accurately simulated in regional and global climate models.