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Ximenia americana, Vitex doniana and Lophira lanceolata are species prized by the populations of the Guinean savannah highlands of Cameroon. They are unfortunately still in the wild where they are subjected to various pressures. From the perspective of the conservation and enhancement of local biodiversity, their domestication appears necessary. The objective of the work is to study the vegetative propagation by air layering of these fruit trees. The experimental device used is a split-split-plot with three repetitions. Species represents the main treatment; the substrates constitute the secondary treatment while the covering of the layers wit h aluminum foil represents the tertiary treatment. The experimental unit was 30 layers. The rooting rate of layers varies significantly (0.000<0.001) from 48.88±1.89% in Ximenia americana to 81.38±2.08% in Lophira lanceolata. Sphagnum was the best substrate with 69.63±1.38% against 61.66±1.54% for the black soil-sawdust mixture. The analysis of variance reveals a significant difference for the substrates (0.0025<0.01). Covering the layers with aluminum foil presented a rate of 69.44±2.15% while the uncovered layers presented 61.85±1.54%, the analysis of variance shows a significant difference (0,0031<0.01). Lophira lanceolata exhibited the best air layering ability; the rooted layers were weaned and acclimatized for two months before being transferred to the field. During this process 19% and 52% respectively of the layers of Vitex doniana and Ximenia americana flowered. This inexpensive technique is an essential step in the process of their domestication. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mulberry (Moraceae) is the type of seed plant grown in the deciduous trees and cultivated in numerous temperate regions. Air layering is the technique of plant propagation through cutting; wounding and layering are often performed. This study was conducted with the investigation of air layering survival growth of roots and other plant growth parameters in mulberry plant by using three different types of composts. Vermicompost is a nutritious natural fertilizer with plant obtainable form of macro and micronutrients, beneficial to soil microbes, nitrogen-fixing and plant growth regulators. Therefore, present experiment was undertaken in the Department of Zoology, Kongunadu Arts and Science, (Coimbatore) during the year 2019-2020. The healthy mulberry plants were chosen for practices of air layering by using three different types of vermicomposts i.e. Elephant Dung (100% ED), Cow Dung (100% CD), Elephant Dung + Cow Dung (50% ED + 50% CD) and soil were used as control in triplicates. Best results were achieved with elephant dung vermicompost recorded significantly higher values for rooted air layer length, number of primary roots and secondary roots, root shoot ratio, number of fruits and number of leaves. Hence the shoot length and Shoot weight greater in vermicompost of cow dung, but growth of the plants were recorded significantly higher in plants which treated with all vermicompost, when compared to that of control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Brosimum alicastrum is a tree species in Mexico with wide potential for animal and human food, which is distributed naturally with no silvicultural management, so there is little information on the propagation methods of the species. The objective of this work was to analyze the scientific research published on B. alicastrum, through literature review to know the techniques that exist on its propagation. In addition, the quality of the seedling obtained by sexual propagation and asexual methods (cuttings, layers and grafts) was evaluated in the nursery, by means of experimental designs. 550 scientific articles on B. alicastrum were found, the disciplines where they were published were: Ecology (44.18%), Botany (13.27%), Forest Sciences (11.27%, of which 2.54% worked propagation in the nursery), Zoology (11.09%), Agriculture (9.64%), Anthropology (5.45%) and others (5.10%). Regarding the seed propagation method, the best seedling quality was associated with low porosity substrates (bush soil) and containers with large diameters (36 cm). In the case of asexual propagation, with the layering method when peat was used as the substrate 90% survival was obtained, and by lateral grafting technique 75% yield was found. Due to the little research that exists on the propagation of the species, it is recommended that the selection of the propagation technique is based on the purpose of the seedling; if it is required to shorten the seed production cycles of B. alicastrum the asexual techniques grafting and layering can be more efficient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research was conducted in the College of Agricultural Sciences Engineering, University of Sulaimani, Kurdistan region/Iraq, to study the possibility of propagation of pistachio Pistacia vera cv. Batoury by air layering through treating the girdling wounds with IBA, and spray of layered shoots with IBA and GA3. The experiment was laid out by RCBD design with three replications on six trees. 20000 ppm IBA applied to the girdling wounds of layered shoots gave values of rooting percentage (63%), root number (4.6), root length (5.7 cm) and survival percentage (80%), while control gave no rooting. The rooting percentage of (33.4%) was achieved from layered shoots without spray and from those sprayed by 25 and 50 ppm IBA. A survival percentage of (50%) was achieved from layered shoots sprayed by 25, 50 ppm IBA and 30 ppm GA3. Interaction of 20000 ppm IBA treatment of girdling wound with 25 and 50 ppm IBA spray of layered shoots and without spray gave (70%) rooting percentage. 20000 ppm IBA treatment of girdling wound with spray of layered shoots by 25, 50 ppm IBA and 30 ppm GA3 showed the highest (100%) survival percentage. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nutmeg is an important perennial spice crop, which is dioecious in nature. Vegetative propagation is the norm in commercial propagation of the tree. The existing practice of propagation is grafting and budding which needs good skill and expertise for reasonable success. As an alternative to these two methods, air layering was attempted in matured trees for the first time in the country. Air layering was successful in plagiotropic and orthotropic shoots with 100 per cent survival. This method is cost effective and is easy for adoption. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study was conducted to define the best auxin application method with or without the inoculation with beneficial microorganism (Bacillus subtilis and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi "AMF") to improve rooting characteristics of F. benjamina air-layers. The treatments were arranged in a split-plot design. Seven combined treatments of auxin concentrations and application methods (control, 50 and 100 ppm IBA in rooting substrate, 1500 and 3000 ppm IBA by painting girdled zone, 1500 and 3000 ppm IBA in talc paste) were assigned to the main plots. The sub-plots comprehended the application of B. subtilis and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi in addition to the control. Data recorded on air-layers performance exhibited significant variation among different application methods and concentrations of IBA compared with the control with clear superiority of applying IBA at 3000 ppm by painting girdled zone in enhancing rooting%, number, length, fresh and dry weights of roots per rooted air-layer, as well as total contents of both carbohydrates and phenolics, and showed the shortest period required for root appearance. Similar trend was noticed regarding survival percentage, increment in plant height and number of leaves and shoots after detaching air-layers from mother plants. All root and growth characteristics showed significant increment when air-layers were treated with B. subtilis or AMF compared to the control with clear superiority of B. subtilis. The combined treatment of IBA at 3000 ppm by painting girdled zone and B. subtilis recorded the highest rooting (100%) and survival percentages (100%) and the best root and growth characteristics. This treatment could be recommended for propagation of Ficus benjamina by air layering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The current experiment was conducted to study the response of Ficus elastica var. decora air-layers to seven treatments of IBA (control, 50 and 100 ppm in rooting substrate, 1500 and 3000 ppm by painting girdled zone, and 1500 and 3000 ppm in talc paste) in the presence of root promoting microorganisms including Bacillus subtilis and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi (AMF). The obtained results indicated that 3000 ppm IBA applied by painting girdled zone gave a significant increase in rooting percentage and the best root and growth characteristics (number of days for root appearance, number, length, fresh and dry weights of roots per rooted air-layer, survival percentage, plant height and number of leaves and shoots) as well as total content of carbohydrates and phenolics, and showed the shortest period required for root appearance in comparison with the other treatments. Air-layers treated with B. subtilis were superior to those treated with AMF. The best results concerning rooting percentage, root characteristics, total contents of carbohydrates and phenolics, survival percentage, increment in growth of air-layers after six months from detachment were observed in airlayers treated with 3000 ppm IBA by painting girdled zone in combination with B. subtilis followed by the same IBA treatment combined with AMF. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During the 2012 deployment of the NASA Hurricane and Severe Storm Sentinel (HS3) field campaign, several flights were dedicated to investigating Hurricane Nadine. Hurricane Nadine developed in close proximity to the dust-laden Saharan air layer and is the fourth-longest-lived Atlantic hurricane on record, experiencing two strengthening and weakening periods during its 22-day total life cycle as a tropical cyclone. In this study, the NASA GEOS-5 atmospheric general circulation model and data assimilation system was used to simulate the impacts of dust during the first intensification and weakening phases of Hurricane Nadine using a series of GEOS-5 forecasts initialized during Nadine's intensification phase (12 September 2012). The forecasts explore a hierarchy of aerosol interactions within the model: no aerosol interaction, aerosol--radiation interactions, and aerosol--radiation and aerosol--cloud interactions simultaneously, as well as variations in assumed dust optical properties. When only aerosol--radiation interactions are included, Nadine's track exhibits sensitivity to dust shortwave absorption, as a more absorbing dust introduces a shortwave temperature perturbation that impacts Nadine's structure and steering flow, leading to a northward track divergence after 5 days of simulation time. When aerosol--cloud interactions are added, the track exhibits little sensitivity to dust optical properties. This result is attributed to enhanced longwave atmospheric cooling from clouds that counters shortwave atmospheric warming by dust surrounding Nadine, suggesting that aerosol--cloud interactions are a more significant influence on Nadine's track than aerosol--radiation interactions. These findings demonstrate that tropical systems, specifically their track, can be impacted by dust interaction with the atmosphere. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The effect of timing intervals on the rooting response and performance of olive cultivars through Air-Layerage was determined at Olive Model Farm, Sangbhatti Mardan-Pakistan during the year 2014. The experiment was laid out according to Randomized Complete Block Design with two factors factorial arrangement. Air layerings were practiced on July 1, 16, 31; August 15, 30 and September 14 in plants of olive cultivars Frontoio, Manzanilla, Ottobratica, Pendolino and Picual. Significant variations were recorded among olive cultivars regarding asexual propagation through air-layerage. The daughter saplings of cultivar Manzanilla took less number of days (47.94) to root appearance, produced more rooting percentage (38.89%), number of roots (4.31), root length (4.61 cm) and root weight (1.77g) with more number of re-sprouts (3.18) and shoot length (5.28 cm). The time intervals of air layering also significantly influenced the rooting and growth attributes of olive cultivars. Mid August, proved to be the most favorable time for air-layering in terms of rooting percentage (42.40%), number of root (4.37), root length (4.35 cm), weight (1.68 g), number of re-sprout (3.67) and shoot length (5.61 cm) while late (September 14) and early (July 1) layering responded poorly to all the studied attributes. The response of individual cultivar was dissimilar to different times of layering. Cultivars: Frontoio, Manzanilla and Pendolino took minimum days to root appearance, attained high rooting percentage, produced maximum number of roots, root length and root weight with more number of lengthy re-sprouts, when air-layered during mid August while Ottobratica and Picual, layered during mid and late July respectively, responded well to all these attributed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The needs to reduce the frictional component of the resistance of a ship leads researchers to find new solutions. The air cavity solution seems to be one of the most promising one. Usually, it is very difficult with the experimental tests to understand the air distribution under the hull and the streamlines during the injection of air. The principal objective of this paper is evaluating the potentiality of the CFD approach in the study of Air Cavity Ships (ACS) for a planing yacht. The first part of paper describes the CFD evaluation of the resistance curves without air-injection. The second part deals with the injection of the air under the hull. In this case the boundary conditions are the results of the first campaign of simulations. A comparison between the experimental and CFD results is shown. An assessment of the streamlines and air distribution is proposed and an evaluation of the wetted and ventilated areas is conducted in order to understand the relation between the flow rate, the velocity of the hull and the air distribution. The results can be used for modifying the hull geometry in order to better accommodate the air layer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present investigation was undertaken to study the effect of different concentrations of Indole 3-butyric acid (0, 2000, 4000, 8000 and 10000 ppm), different types of rooting media (i.e. sphagnum moss, coco peat, vermicompost, sphagnum moss + coco peat and sphagnum moss + coco peat + vermicompost) and the interaction of these in different combinations on rooting and growth characteristic of guava, cv. L-49. The results revealed that the exogenous application of Indole 3-butyric acid (IBA) 8000 ppm with media combination of sphagnum moss + coco peat + vermicompost (I3M5) significantly increased the root characters i.e. success percent of air-layers (83.3%), callus formation (23.7), number of primary roots (24.21) and secondary roots (32.57); and growth characters i.e. number of leaves (48.17), branches (7.92) and sprouts (8.48) and survival percentages (83.18) over the other treatments and control. Among the rooting media, the combination of sphagnum moss + coco peat + vermicompost (M5) produced the highest rooting percentage (71.27), root characters and growth characters during months of July and August. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper aims to make clear the effects of two important parameters, namely thickness of soil layer and leaf area index of plant layer, on green roof energy and thermal performance. Based on a coupled hygrothermal transfer model validated by field experiments in Shanghai area, energy balance of plant and soil layer is analyzed. Then 18 cases are simulated for different combinations of soil thickness and leaf area index, the results show that soil thickness has a significant effect on long term thermal performance of green roof in both summer and winter, while the effect of leaf area index is only great in summer. Compared with the hypothetical case without evaporation and transpiration, it is found that evaporation of soil layer makes a greater contribution in summer but a less one in winter compared with insulation effect of soil layer. For plant layer, shading is the main cooling way of roof deck while transpiration plays a minor role. Finally, based on the simulation results of long-term thermal performance, two new indexes are proposed to evaluate the relative thermal characteristic of green roof. And the influences of soil thickness, leaf area index and evapotranspiration on the two indexes are analyzed respectively. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The composition of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) in Lake Baikal water and adjacent air layer and PAH emission composition profiles of possible sources were investigated. Analysis of emission composition data showed that the source profiles could not be grouped by fuel type or pyrogenic/petrogenic origin. Because of the similarity of source PAH profiles, the drawing of 3D mixing diagrams was the only way to check whether some of the potential PAH sources were the true sources. The mixing diagrams showed that the sources of air pollution were paper mills and wood burning and that the sources of water pollution were coal-fired and oil-fired boilers. The common source for both air and water was only oil and petroleum products. To determine the locations of PAH sources, their contributions to air and water pollution were calculated and mapped. Based on the results, air and water were polluted from both local and regional sources. The location of the zone influenced by a particular source was conditioned by physical properties of source emission, direction of air/water flows that transfer PAHs and temperature differences between mixing air/water flows. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In hot climates tiled pitched roofs significantly reduce the heat transfer across the roof structure, due to the ventilated air layer between tiles and roofing underlay formed by the arrangement of battens and counter-battens supporting the tiles. This so-called Above Sheathing Ventilation (ASV) depends on the air entering and leaving at the eaves, ridge and the gaps between the tiles. With a view towards higher energy savings in space cooling, the natural and forced convection occurring in ASV could be enhanced by increasing the roof air permeability by means of novel tile shapes, as here analysed in two stages. The first stage of designing the new tile shapes was to measure the air permeability for a type of existing tile (Marseillaise style) using an experimental test rig, by monitoring the volumetric flow rate through the tiles over a range of pressure differences across the tiles. Then, a three-dimensional CFD model was implemented to replicate the full test rig geometry, and this was calibrated against the experimental data. In the next stage, the calibration was used to support the design of novel Marseillaise tile shapes, and to compare their performance against existing tiles. Finally, in order to analyse the variation in air flow under typical wind conditions for a pitched roof, a parametric study was undertaken, consisting of 72 scenarios varying wind speed, direction and angle of incidence. An increase in volumetric flow rate through the tiles was found to be related not only to an increase in the open area between tiles, but also to the design of the tile locks. By redesigning the geometry of these locks, whilst still giving consideration to their primary purpose of preventing the ingress of driving rain, it was possible to yield an improvement in air permeability of up to 100% in comparison with the original designs. Additionally, these novel designs were shown to increase the air flow rate as the wind angle moved from being directly up the roof slope around to the side, in contrast to the decrease seen with existing tile shapes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

'Guabijuzeiro' and 'cerejeira da mata' are plant species from the Myrtaceae family, with many difficulties in asexual multiplication. Thus, the aim of this study was to evaluate 'cerejeira da mata' (Eugenia involucrata DC.) tree and 'guabijuzeiro' [Myrcianthes pungens (Berg) Legrand] tree propagation by air layering, using different IBA concentrations (0, 1000, 2000 and 3000 mg L-1) and materials to wrap the substrate (transparent plastic, black plastic and transparent plastic + aluminum foil). The experimental design for both experiments was a randomized blocks, in a 3 x 4 factorial (wrapping material x IBA concentration), with three repetitions of five air layering each. After 180 days, the percentage of rooting, length and number of roots were evaluated. Sixty days after rooting the percentage of survival plants were evaluated. The air layering technique was not efficient in the 'guabijuzeiro' propagation. This technique could be used in 'cerejeira da mata' plants without the IBA application and using transparent plastic, but with low performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Artifact caching, soil layering, and other intentional depositional practices-archaeologically defined 'ritual deposits' of the past-are especially prevalent during the Mississippian period. Employing a perspective of relational ontology, however, we interrogate the validity of a past partitioned into religious, political, and daily spheres. Rather, this perspective emphasizes the multi-experiential and multi-dimensional aspects of social life. Meaning, intentional depositional acts can no longer be usefully described as simply 'sacred' or 'ritual' practices. Rather, these deposits should be explored as experiences tied to multiple layers of social life, investigating the relationships constructed through such deposits between humans, nonhuman agents, and the landscape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the advanced lightweight characteristic of sandwich structures, ambient air can significantly affect their natural frequency. In order to clarify the importance and magnitude of this effect, the natural frequency of a sandwich panel surrounded by air layers using experiment and numerical simulation was investigated in this study. The experiment setup based on modal testing was proposed with the feature of simulating air layers around the sandwich panel. The numerical simulation was formulated on the basis of fluid–structure interaction analysis. The experimental and numerical simulation results correspondingly demonstrated that the fundamental natural frequency of sandwich panel tends to decrease to be less than 25% of the frequency neglecting the air effect when the air layer thickness becomes thinner than 3 mm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The variability of air-earth electric currents in the lower 3-m air layer is analyzed in a complex with measurement data on the physical parameters that affect charge transfer in the atmosphere. Three types of air-earth current density profiles have been revealed during experimental observations in summer in Rostov region: (1) the current density decreases with an increase in the distance from the Earth's surface and then stabilizes (nighttime conditions); (2) the current density increases with altitude up to 1 m and then decreases as altitude increases (day hours); (3) transient between types 1 and 2 that are observed in the morning and evening hours. The intensity of charge transfer in the surface air layer under the action of mechanical forces under different stratifications is estimated on the basis of data on altitude variations in the air-earth current density in view of the stationarity of electric processes and the constancy in the altitude of the total air-earth current density. Thermodynamic conditions are estimated with the use of wind velocity measurements and calculations of the turbulence factor and vertical component of the air temperature gradient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Although Brazil is the largest fig (Ficus carica L.) producer in the Southern Hemisphere, it mainly uses only one cultivar, 'Roxo de Valinhos'. In addition, propagation is almost entirely through hardwood cuttings. Therefore, the aim of this study was to establish a propagation method that provides more successful rooting of stem segments of fig cultivars for the purpose of expanding the genetic base of the fig tree. The cultivars used were 'Brunswick', 'Calabacita', 'Negro de Bursa', 'Mini Figo', 'Lampa Preta', 'Lemon', 'Troiano',' Nazaré', 'Três num Prato', 'Princesa', 'Colo de Dama', 'Montes', 'Bêbera Branca', 'Pingo de Mel', and 'Roxo de Valinhos'. The propagation methods used were layering, hardwood cuttings, nodal segments, herbaceous cuttings originating from the removal of sprouts, and herbaceous cuttings obtained during growth. We found that the propagation method influences the rooting of stem segments, and cultivars differ in their rooting potential. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted at Horticultural Research Institute, Ayub Agricultural Research Institute, Faisalabad over two years (2014-2016) for standardization of clonal propagation technique in litchi (Litchi chinensis Sonn) Application of different levels (0, 1500, 2500 and 3500 ppm ) of IBA (indole butyric acid) were applied on litchi (cv. Bedana) during the month of July to enhance rooting in air layering, and produce true-to-type nursery plants. The results showed that maximum number of roots (17.00) were counted in trees where IBA @ 2500 ppm was applied while in control the roots remained at 10.00. Number of leaves corresponding different treatments indicated that IBA @ 2500ppm produce (31.75) as compared to 6.25 leaves in untreated trees. The length of sprouts was found maximum (70.5cm) in trees treated with 2500ppm IBA air layering branches and 31.75cm in case of control. The study produced encouraging results to employ this technique of air layering with 2500ppm IBA application for commercial production of nursery plants and ensuring varietal/cultivar purity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cheng, Z., 2018. Thermal characteristics of aluminum conductor composite core. In: Liu, Z.L. and Mi, C. (eds.), Advances in Sustainable Port and Ocean Engineering. Journal of Coastal Research, Special Issue No. 83, pp. 356–358. Coconut Creek (Florida), ISSN 0749-0208. In this paper, the thermal characteristics of aluminum conductor composite core (ACCC) are studied with the example of ACCC315/40 conductor. The simulation software is used to simulate the relationship between the temperature and the temperature of the conductor under the condition of ACCC, and the influence of the wind speed on the surface temperature of the wire. The results show that with the increasing of numerical operation line current, wire surface temperature will increase, when the environment temperature changes, the temperature of wire will change the wind speed in the range of 0–1m/s, the wire surface temperature drop more largely, as the wind speed increases, the wire surface temperature drops greatly. The research of this paper provides the basis for the real-time monitoring of the conductor. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of this study was to develop an in situ hybridized poly(vinyl alcohol)/calcium silicate (PVA/Ca 2 OSi) nanofibrous antibacterial wound dressing with calcium phosphate [Ca 3 (PO 4 ) 2 ] surface precipitation for enhanced bioactivity. This was achieved by hybridizing the antibacterial ions Zn 2+ and/or Ag + in a Ca 2 O 4 Si composite. The hybridization effect on the thermal behavior, physicochemical, morphological, and physicomechanical properties of the nanofibers was studied using Differential Scanning calorimetric (DSC), X-ray Diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR), Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) and Textural Analysis, respectively. In vitro bioactivity, biodegradation and pH variations of the nanofiber composite were evaluated in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF). The antibacterial activity was assessed against Staphylococcus aureus and Pseudomonas aeruginosa . Hybridization of Zn 2+ and/or Ag + into the PVA/Ca 2 O 4 Si nanofiber composite was confirmed by DSC, XRD and FTIR. The thickness of the nanofibers was dependent on the presence of Zn 2+ and Ag + as confirmed by SEM. The nanofibers displayed enhanced tensile strength (19–115.73 MPa) compared to native PVA. Zn 2+ and/or Ag + hybridized nanofibers showed relatively enhanced in vitro bioactivity, biodegradation (90%) and antibacterial activity compared with the native PVA/Ca 2 O 4 Si nanofiber composite. Results of this study has shown that the PVA/Ca 2 O 4 Si composite hybridized with both Zn 2+ and Ag + may be promising as an antibacterial wound dressing with a nanofibrous archetype with enhanced bioactivity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Air layer involved envelopes (ALIEs) have gained considerable popularity in modern building design and construction, owing to their great potential in improving the building thermal performance. Basically, the air layer functions as an extra insulation layer or as a ventilation channel. This paper presents a literature review on building envelopes that contain inner air layers by tracing recent studies on existing air layer involved applications and technologies in walls, windows, roofs. The structural characteristics, the driving forces, the effects of the inner air layers, and the benefits of different types of ALIE systems are summarized and classified. And then operation modes of air layer used in building envelopes are roughly classified into three types: the enclosed type, the naturally ventilated type and the mechanically ventilated type. At the end, this paper analyzes current research gaps and provides possible future research directions on air layer technologies in building envelopes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted during 2014-15 at the Research Orchard of Horticulture, College of Agriculture Gwalior to study the interaction effect of different rooting media and hormone concentrations on growth, success and survivability of air layers in guava . Results revealed that maximum length of primary and secondary root (4.34 cm), (2.18cm) and diameter of primary and secondary root (2.65 mm),(2.04mm) and dry weight and callus formation (1.16 mg),(7.26 mm), respectively. The number of new sprouts, success of rooting and air layer per cent (6.18),(91.84) and (83.84) was recorded with treatment combination of soil +coco peat +leaf mould) with IBA 15,000 ppm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The production of quality seedlings is important for the crop cycle and the main propagation type is by the air layering technique, which can be enhanced by using different substrates and plant growth regulators. Therefore, the objective of this study was to evaluate the use of a biostimulant and substrate types in the propagation of litchi tree by air layering. The experiment was installed in a commercial area in the city of Mogi Mirim, SP, Brazil and conducted in a randomized block design with a 5×2 factorial with four replications. The treatments consisted of five Stimulate® biostimulant concentrations (0, 3, 6, 9, and 12 ml L-1) and two substrate types (Plantmax® and earthworm humus). After 120 days, the root length (cm), number of roots, calloused and rooted layers percentage (%), root fresh and dry mass (g) and root volume (cm3) were evaluated. Based on the results, it was found that the concentrations of 6.1 and 6.9 ml L-1 promoted greater success in litchi tree propagation and that the layers can be produced on both evaluated substrates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Prosopis africana is a species of great socioeconomic importance but threatened with extinction in Niger because of overuse and regeneration problem. This study, conducted in the Maradi (Niger) area, precisely at El Gueza in the south of Gazaoua department, aims to evaluate the vegetative propagation capacity of P. africana by air layering under the Sudano-Sahelian climate of the south-central Niger. A ring of bark was taken on each selected branch and the wound was covered with a black plastic filled with a damp mixture of soil and wood debris. The chosen parameters are the diameter class and the position on the branch. In all, 60 branches were treated and followed for 130 days: 28.33% produced shoots and there was no significant difference between the diameter classes and between the positions. These results show that propagating trees of the species by air layering is possible and this technique can be used to multiply and keep this species, which will reduce the regeneration problem linked to a low seed germination rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Injection of air could lead to creation of a bubbly mixture or air layer near the surface that can significantly adjust the flow within the turbulent boundary layer. In this paper, stress wave propagation techniques and Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) are used in underwater launching experiment. Simulation with volume of fluid (VOF) method and modified renormalization group (RNG) k- ε model is also performed to study the physical process of drag reduction of axisymmetric body. Comparison between numerical and experimental air layer length shows good correlation. Results indicate that air layer has good effect on drag reduction. Friction drag reduction mechanism is analyzed from two aspects due to different air volume fraction α . At area with high α , fluid is heterogeneous and layered. Drag reduction is from decrease of velocity gradient and dynamic viscosity at the wall. At area with small α , the mixture is homogeneous. Empirical equation of turbulent boundary layer shear stress is applied to describe drag reduction mechanism. The unsteady evolution of drag with injection of air is also studied at last. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cinnamon is a cross pollinated species and seed propagation has resulted in development of considerable variability in growth, yield and quality among the populations. Air layering has been considered as one of the efficient methods of multiplication in cinnamon. However, the success of layering varies greatly depending on the local environmental conditions. In the present investigation, air layering was performed at 20 days interval during rainy season (July 3rd to October 11th) of two consecutive years in Bay islands. Result revealed that first week of July was the most suitable time for air layering in cinnamon as it supported better rooting percentage (87.5%). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The evolution of cold air layers near the surface was investigated for a night with stable conditions near the surface. Spatial air temperature observations at 276 co-located vertical profiles were made using high-resolution fibre-optic based distributed temperature sensing (DTS) in a quasi three-dimensional geometry oriented along a shallow depression in the landscape and analysed for patterns in near-surface flow. Temperature stratification was observed to be interrupted by transient temperature structures on the scale of metres for which the flow direction and velocity could be quantified. The high spatial resolution and large spatial domain of the DTS revealed temperature structures in a level of detail that exceeded the capability of traditional point observations of air temperature at low wind speeds. Further, composition techniques were applied to describe wave-like motions in the opposite direction of the mean flow, at intervals of approximately 200 s (5 mHz). The DTS technique delivered tomography on a scale of tens of metres. The spatial observations at high spatial (fractions of a metre) and temporal (sec) resolution provided new opportunities for detection and quantification of surface-flow features and description of complicated scale interactions. High-resolution DTS is therefore a valuable addition to experimental research on stable and weak-wind boundary layers near the surface. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

During launch, satellites and their equipment are subjected to vibration loads of random nature and within a wide frequency range. Their vibro-acoustic response is an important issue to be analysed, in particular, for structural components such as solar arrays in folded configuration. The modelling of these structures in the low frequency range (low modal density) requires combining models for the air layers, the structural elements and the surrounding air. This work studies different combinations of numerical methodologies (FEM, BEM, SEA) to model the system in order to simulate the modal and the vibro-acoustic responses outlining their advantages and drawbacks. The modal and acoustic simulated responses are determined and analysed to find out the efficiency of the combinations of the numerical methodologies proposed. Two different cases are considered: a simple benchmark case (two structural elements and one air layer) and a real solar wing design (three solar panels and two air layers). For the latter, experimental results on both the modal and vibro-acoustic responses are also presented. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Most photovoltaic/thermal (PV/T) systems have an air layer between the glass cover and the cells to minimize heat loss and to improve overall efficiency. This feature is not found in typical PV systems. The frame border that supports the glass cover casts a shadow over the cells near the frame when sunlight is slanted. This design is common in PV/T systems. The objective of this study is to determine the effects of a frame shadow on PV/T systems. A mathematical model of a PV module in a PV/T system is established. An experimental research on a partly shaded single cell is then conducted. Based on the module model and the results of the experiment, a single cell model that simulates the performance of partly shaded cells is developed and integrated into an existing system model. The new model can be applied to simulate frame shadow in a PV/T system. Results show that the performance of a partly shaded single cell can be calculated as the cell operates below the average irradiation intensity of the shaded and unshaded parts. In the worst-case scenario, the frame shadow can cause a 39.3% decrease in photoelectric efficiency. Although the parallel circuit performs better than the series circuit in minimizing loss caused by the frame shadow, the latter has a higher total output. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses a study of three 18th and 19th century Chinese export lacquer objects. Topics include a discussion of factory-produced lacquerware in China for export to Europe and America; methods of analysis such as histochemical staining and pyrolysis gas chromatography-mass spectrometry with derivation by tetramethylammonium hydroxide (THMPy-GC-MS); and a discussion of the layering of lacquer, use of substrates, ground layers and fiber. Chemical analysis suggests laccol was derived mainly from Toxicodendron succedaneum or urushiol.

Abstract: Ozone (O3) reduction caused by dust particles is a challenging topic that has not been sufficiently investigated. Previous studies have provided limited quantification of O3, mainly based on case studies or short-term campaigns. In this paper, 157 O3 vertical profiles from ozone soundings launched from the Canary Islands over 13 summers are analyzed. Using aerosol optical depth as a discrimination tool, the data are classified into two groups: clean atmospheric conditions and dusty conditions under the presence of the Saharan Air Layer (SAL). The results show that ozone mixing ratios on SAL days are systematically lower than those during clean conditions, with a difference of as much as 35%. An analysis of independent total ozone columns from ground-based and satellite spectrometers confirm the observed O3 reductions. In addition, a vertical redistribution of the total water content takes place during these events. A comparison of the vertical shape of the O3 reductions with the vertical distribution of dust loading and precipitable water vapor shows that although O3 reductions occur in parts of the layer where the dust is present, a better correlation is found with the total amount of water present in the air. This finding suggests that the latter component plays a role in the observed O3 reduction within the SAL. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Prosopis laevigatais commonly known in Mexico as mesquite, and it is mostly found in the Central Mexican States. Mesquite has been driven to scarcity because the local population has used it for different purposes. Therefore, efficient, inexpensive, and reliable propagation methods are an aim to preserve and increase the mesquite resources. Air layering (treatment applied to young 1–1.2 m-long and 1.0–1.5.0 cm-wide branches) and tiny-air layering (applied to young 25–30 cm-long and 0.3–0.5 cm-wide branches) were investigated as asexual mesquite propagation methods. IBA (100, 250, and 500 mg l−1); NAA (50, 100, and 250 mg l−1); IAA (100, 250, and 500 mg l−1); and 2,4-D (100 and 1000 mg l−1) were used for the air layering method, whereas for the tiny-air layering protocol IBA (0.1, 0.3, 1.0, 3.0, 5.0, and 10.0 mg l−1) alone or combined with Chrysal were utilized. The highest response (90%) of air layerings was obtained with 500 mg l−1IBA, having an average number of 1,785 roots per layering. For the tiny-air layering method, the best treatment was 3.0 mg l−1IBA + Chrysal, which induced 90% of rooting, with an average number of 31.8 roots per layering. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Over recent decades there has been a growing interest in the attributes of non-timber forest products (NTFPs) to food security, income generation, and poverty alleviation. In the Guinean Savannah Highlands (GSH) of West Africa, species producing these products are still in wild stands where they are subjected to various pressures. To conserve these species, their domestication is required. Air layering is a low-cost propagation technique easy to use by farmers. The present study aims at evaluating the effects of the wood type (hardwood, semi-hardwood, and softwood) as well as branch diameter (Φ ≤ 6.67 cm; Φ > 6.67 cm) in the rooting ability of the marcots (air-layered propagules) ofLophira lanceolataVan Tiegh. Ex Key.,Parkia biglobosa(Jacq.) Benth,Syzygium guineensevar.macrocarpumEngl.,Vitex donianaSweet.,Vitex madiensisOliv., andXimenia americanaL. The experimental design was a split-plot with three replications. The rooting percentage of the marcots varied significantly from 13.5 (X. americana) to 55.85% (Lophira lanceolata;p< .001). The diameter * wood type interaction was significant (p< .05) due to the high rooting percentage obtained in large semi-hardwood cuttings (40%).Lophira lanceolata,Syzygium guineensevar.macrocarpum, andVitex madiensiswere the easiest marcotting rooting species. Large branch diameters as well as semi-hardwood are suitable for layering. This information will help in developing appropriate domestication strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: We study the nonlinear effect of photonic band gap (PBG) by inserting a nonlinear layer in a layered periodic structure consists of air layer and semiconductor metamaterial which is composed of Al-doped ZnO (AZO) and ZnO. Transfer matrix method is use to analyze the transmittance of our layered periodic structure, and the PBG properties at different air-layer thickness, incident angle and nonlinear-layer thickness are also discussed. In addition, the magnetic field distribution and optical multistability are analyzed by simulation results when incident angle or nonlinear coefficient is different, which show that the magnetic field distribution is not proportional to the nonlinear coefficient and the upper and lower thresholds of optical multistability are rather sensitive to the incident angle. [Copyright &y& Elsevier]

Observational data on the content and distribution of radon to a depth of 2 m are given. A model of radon transport from the interior of the earth to the near-surface soil and air layers due to bubble hydrogen and methane formations is proposed. This model has been verified for soil methane contents of 10-10 and 10-10% by volume. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The three-step upright cup method was employed to determine the total moisture transfer resistance and the two air layer resistances on both sides of the membrane. The effective moisture diffusion coefficient in air layer between the membrane and water surface was determined by the regressive method, and the effective moisture diffusion coefficient of membrane was calculated. Experiments were conducted on a non-porous hydrophilic thermoplastic polyester elastomer membrane. The moisture transfer process through the membrane was modeled by using the solution-diffusion model. The effects of membrane microstructure on membrane permeation were analyzed based on the solution-diffusion model and experimental data. The results show that the effective diffusion coefficient can be used to evaluate the mass transfer process through the non-porous hydrophilic thermoplastic polyester elastomer membrane. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An experiment was conducted to evaluate asexual propagation of olive cultivars through air layering. The experiment was laid out in randomized complete block design with split plot arrangements having four replications. Timing factor was allotted to main plot while various cultivars were kept in sub plots. Layering was done at different times, i.e. 15th May, 15th June and 15th July in various olive cultivars i.e. Pendallino, Coratina and Hamdi. Shoots were wounded by complete removal of ring bark just below the buds in the month of May, June and July. Garden soils were used to cover the wounds on shoots. Maximum number of days to rooting (30.12) was taken by layering in Pendallino, root diameter (0.15) cm in Hamdi and Coratina and root length (5.84 cm) in Hamdi, while maximum number of roots (10.97) was observed in Pendallino and percent plant survival (60.24%) was recorded in Coratina. Minimum no of days to rooting (28.11) and number of roots (6.22) were recorded in Coratina. While minimum root diameter (0.14 cm) and root length (2.78 cm) were observed in Pendallino and minimum percent plant survival (55.16%) in Hamdi. In case of timing Maximum days to root initiation (37.19) was taken by layer made on 15 May. While higher root diameter (0.16 cm), root length (5.21 cm) and number of roots (12.25) were noticed by the layers, which were made on 15 June. Maximum plant survival (64.44%) was recorded in the layers, which were made on 15 July. While minimum days to rooting (21.97) and lower root diameter (0.13 cm) were noticed by layer made on 15 July. Minimum root length (3.08 cm) and percent plant survival (47.55%) was recorded by the layer made on 15 May. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Saharan air layer (SAL) has received considerable attention in recent years as a potential negative influence on the formation and development of Atlantic tropical cyclones. Observations of substantial Saharan dust in the near environment of Hurricane Helene (2006) during the National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA) African Monsoon Multidisciplinary Activities (AMMA) Experiment (NAMMA) field campaign led to suggestions about the suppressing influence of the SAL in this case. In this study, a suite of satellite remote sensing data, global meteorological analyses, and airborne data are used to characterize the evolution of the SAL in the environment of Helene and assess its possible impact on the intensity of the storm. The influence of the SAL on Helene appears to be limited to the earliest stages of development, although the magnitude of that impact is difficult to determine observationally. Saharan dust was observed on the periphery of the storm during the first two days of development after genesis when intensification was slow. Much of the dust was observed to move well westward of the storm thereafter, with little SAL air present during the remainder of the storm's lifetime and with the storm gradually becoming a category-3 strength storm four days later. Dry air observed to wrap around the periphery of Helene was diagnosed to be primarily non-Saharan in origin (the result of subsidence) and appeared to have little impact on storm intensity. The eventual weakening of the storm is suggested to result from an eyewall replacement cycle and substantial reduction of the sea surface temperatures beneath the hurricane as its forward motion decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We provide an experimental demonstrationthat a novel macroscopic,dynamic continuous air layer or plastron can be sustained indefinitelyon textured superhydrophobic surfaces in air-supersaturated waterby a natural gas influx mechanism. This type of plastron is an intermediatestate between Leidenfrost vapor layers on superheated surfaces andthe equilibrium Cassie–Baxter wetting state on textured superhydrophobicsurfaces. We show that such a plastron can be sustained on the surfaceof a centimeter-sized superhydrophobic sphere immersed in heated waterand variations of its dynamic behavior with air saturation of thewater can be regulated by rapid changes of the water temperature.The simple experimental setup allows for quantification of the airflux into the plastron and identification of the air transport modelof the plastron growth. Both the observed growth dynamics of suchplastrons and millimeter-sized air bubbles seeded on the hydrophilicsurface under identical air-supersaturated solution conditions areconsistent with the predictions of a well-mixed gas transport model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: [•] The oil wettability in water and water wettability in oil is studied. [•] The oil contact angle in water on the surface is about 0°. [•] The water contact angle in oil on the surface is 180°. [•] The wettability in liquid accord with liquid spreading in air. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we sought to define system features that impact air delivery in subsurface drip irrigation systems. A 58 % decrease in emitter cross-sectional area caused a 71 % reduction in the water flow rate, but the 37 % decrease in emitter air flow rate was statistically non-significant. For emitters with symmetric connectors, delivery of air from the emitters depended on the length of the connector relative to the air layer flowing at the top of the pipe. Emitters with asymmetric connectors yielded greater air flow rates compared to those with symmetric connectors, a result ascribed to a low-pressure region at the tip of asymmetric connectors. When symmetric connectors were used, an increase in pipe diameter was directly related to an increase in the uniformity of emitter air flow rate distribution expressed by the Christiansen uniformity coefficient (CUC), and inversely related to the efficiency of air bubble delivery and mean emitter air flow rate. In contrast, when asymmetric connectors were used, an increase in pipe diameter was associated with a decrease in CUC, and an increase in the efficiency of air bubble delivery and mean emitter air flow rate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The results of a three-dimensional numerical simulation of thermal-gravitational convection for an arbitrary direction of the gravity force are presented. The calculations were carried out for a rectangular domain with the solid-wall aspect ratio 4:0.5:1. The cavity filled with air was heated from below. The convection regime was laminar with Rayleigh numbers Ra = 10-10. The cavity was gradually turned about the short side in different directions in the range 0-90° to study how the initial conditions affect the convection. The average heat transfer characteristics and the spatial flow patterns are presented. A comparison with two-dimensional calculations is given. The conditions of the occurrence of a hysteresis in the steady state of convection are found, a regime map is constructed, and the specific features of the interaction of heat fluxes are described. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article presents a novel 16-element array antenna designed by Competitive Algorithm of Simulating Natural Tree Growth. The array antenna has an impedance bandwidth ranging from 5.5 to 6.2 GHz for S11 <−10 dB, and the directive gain reaches 18.4 dBi. According to the simulated result, a prototype was fabricated and measured. Good agreement was obtained between the simulated and measured results. © 2012 Wiley Periodicals, Inc. Int J RF and Microwave CAE 22: 669-674, 2012. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article offers information on Zen Buddhism and the art of plant communities. Several principles of Zen for horticulture and landscape design for creating naturalistic landscapes are discussed. Principles followed by Boyce Thompson Arboretum including establishment of plant community, each garden telling a story, allowing the visitor to be surrounded by the area and the idea of layering are presented.

Layering, long-term development of foliation, beech nut fertility and plant species composition have never before been studied in Fagus sylvatica stands above the alpine timberline in Central Europe. F. sylvatica forms and is present above the timberline (1,260 m a. s. l.) on only one south-facing slope along a 1-km-long stretch of the Giant Mts., which represents the northernmost timberline featuring F. sylvatica worldwide. We investigated the long-term development of this unique stand in which layering of F. sylvatica was discovered (LP-1,310 m a. s. l.), comparing it with a control plot (CP-1,190 m a. s. l.). Research plots were established in 1980, with monitoring of foliation, masting, beech nut fertility and plant species composition performed over the following 30 years. In the LP plot, F. sylvatica was able to reproduce only clonally by layering. Development of adventitious roots on branches reaching the ground took many years. In the LP plot, F. sylvatica was able to survive heavy air pollution during the 1980s and since that time substantial improvement of its health status has been recorded. Generative reproduction of F. sylvatica in the LP plot was extremely rare, as production of fertile nuts was recorded only once in 2007 and seedlings have never been recorded at all. An improvement in F. sylvatica foliation in the LP plot was probably the reason for a decrease in species richness and cover of bryophytes. The herb layer, dominated by Calamagrostis villosa, was highly stable in the LP plot over the 30-year period, contrasting significantly with the marked changes in species composition observed in the understory of the CP plot where massive regeneration of F. sylvatica occurred. Layering, stability of herb layer and rare masting can be expected in F. sylvatica stands above the alpine timberline. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]