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The sequence of events associated with the triggering of energy release during substorm expansion phase onset is still not well‐understood. Oberhagemann and Mann (2020b, https://doi.org/10.1029/2019gl085271) proposed a new substorm onset mechanism, where the transition toward parallel proton pressure anisotropy during tail stretching in the late growth phase could trigger a pressure anisotropic ballooning instability. Here we examine the evolution of energetic proton parallel pressure anisotropy at geosynchronous altitudes, seeking evidence in support of the proposed substorm onset mechanism. We use the Geostationary Operational Environment Satellite (GOES) proton flux and magnetometer data combined with substorm onset indicators derived from ground‐based magnetometers. Superposed epoch analysis of substorm onset times for 2014 using the isolated substorm list (Ohtani & Gjerloev, 2020, https://doi.org/10.1029/2020ja027902) clearly shows signatures of energetic proton parallel pressure anisotropy immediately before substorm onset, potentially supportive of the Oberhagemann and Mann theory. Plain Language Summary: Substorms are disturbances in the nightside region of the geospace associated with the rapid release of stored magnetic energy. In the ionosphere, the signatures of this energy release are the spectacular dancing lights known as aurorae (northern and southern lights). The processes that lead to energy storage are well‐known. However, there are competing theories on what triggers the release of this significant amount of energy at substorm onset. According to a new substorm onset theory proposed by Oberhagemann and Mann, when the magnetic field stretches in the nightside during the energy storage, the pressure becomes more parallel to the magnetic field, leading to a ballooning instability at substorm onset. Here, we look for observational support for the association of such pressure profile at geosynchronous altitudes with substorm onset to examine the proposed model. Superposed epoch analysis of isolated substorms in 2014 shows increasing energetic proton parallel pressure anisotropy at the onset, providing evidence to support the Oberhagemann and Mann theory. Key Points: Oberhagemann and Mann theory proposes that proton parallel temperature anisotropy triggers ballooning instability leading to substorm onsetWe use pitch angle resolved energetic proton fluxes at geosynchronous altitudes seeking observational evidence in support of the modelSuperposed epoch analysis of isolated substorms shows signatures of increasing energetic proton parallel anisotropy which peaks near onset [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Wayand‐Nilambur granulite terrain in Kerala (India) is well‐known for vein‐type gold mineralization within the quartz veins. Based on the previous geological, petro‐physical and geophysical characteristics of Wayand‐Nilambur gold deposit, the integrated geophysical survey was carried out to delineate the favourable prospecting zones. In the present study, detailed ground geophysical surveys, that is, magnetic, electrical resistivity/chargeability surveys were carried out in an area of 2 km2 in Kattikallu and Kalkulam blocks to delineate the ore deposits in terms of depths and extensions through the structural shear zone, locate the anomalous sources and the geometry of the Au‐rich sulphide zone and its depth continuity in the subsurface. These surveys brought out prominent resistivity and chargeability zones over known magnetite‐quartz veins that are associated with low‐grade sulphide bands at the central part of the Kattikallu block. The prominent potential zone is characterized by strong bipolar magnetic anomalies over the quartz veins. Based on the 2D inversion of resistivity data, the resistivity low zone of order 80–600 Ω m and chargeability of 21–25 mV/V are observed at a depth range of 5–20 m. In Kalkulam block, the magnetic survey has also brought out high intensity anomaly zones over quartz veins, the same quartz veins are mapped by high chargeability of 10–35 mV/V and low resistivity of 185–400 Ω m. The dipole‐dipole configuration produces two parameters, that is, resistivity and chargeability, these methods distinguish the anomalies along the two selected profiles in the study area. An attempt was made for combining the resistivity and chargeability values to identify the anomalous zone boundaries. The results of inversion indicated that the conductive bodies are located at the subsurface, with depths ranging from 5 to 25 m. Based on this integrated geophysical study, we suggested two borehole sites for further geo‐scientific studies in view of mineralization. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The relationship between auroral, ground, and plasma sheet signatures in the late growth phase is crucial for understanding the sequence of events during a substorm expansion phase onset. Here we show conjugate ground‐auroral‐satellite observations of a substorm that occurred on 18 September 2021, between 04:45 and 05:00 UT, where four auroral activations were detected in the all‐sky imagers. An initial activation showed the brightening of an equatorward arc within the cutoff of the 630 nm emissions, indicating activity on closed field lines well inside the open‐closed field line boundary (OCFLB). During a second activation, auroral beads were observed on a brightening arc, equatorward and within the OCFLB, followed by the transformation from small‐scale to large‐scale vortices. The tail current sheet was highly disturbed during the auroral vortex evolution, including pressure and magnetic disturbances, an apparent broadening of a previously thin current sheet, and a breakdown of the frozen‐in condition. Our observations clearly show late growth phase dynamics, including arc brightenings, the formation of auroral beads, and auroral vortex development, can occur well in advance of fast Earthward flows in the tail. Indeed, it is only during that later activity that auroral breakup and strong Earthward flows, which we associate with magnetic reconnection further down the tail, are observed together with strong magnetic bays on the ground. The sequence of events is consistent with an inside‐to‐outside model at substorm expansion phase onset, most likely via a shear‐flow ballooning instability in the transition region from dipole to tail‐like fields in the near‐Earth plasma sheet. Plain Language Summary: Substorm onset is associated with the explosive release of stored magnetic energy, which can be visualized as auroral activity in the ionosphere, magnetic‐field disturbances in the ground‐based magnetometers, and plasma sheet disturbances in the magnetosphere. Even though the processes that lead to energy storage are well known, the exact sequence of events and the triggering factors that lead to the release of this stored energy are poorly understood. In this study, we show conjugate auroral‐ground‐satellite observations of a substorm event that occurred on 18 September 2021. Four auroral activations were observed in the all‐sky imagers, all of which can be associated with plasma sheet disturbances observed in the satellites. Our observations show an initial activation and bead‐like structures on a brightening arc, followed by the formation and expansion of vortex‐like auroral forms, all of which can be associated with magnetic field and pressure fluctuations in the near‐Earth nightside magnetosphere on closed field lines. Auroral breakup and strong magnetic bays on the ground are only observed after the arrival of fast Earthward flows in the magnetosphere. Overall, this paper identifies disturbances in the near‐Earth plasma environment which are the counterparts to the evolving auroral forms seen leading up to the substorm expansion phase onset. Key Points: Plasma sheet dynamical counterparts are reported for an evolving sequence of late growth phase auroral formsPlasma sheet current disruption and ion kinetic scale perturbations occur in advance of fast Earthward flows and magnetic reconnectionOne‐to‐one correspondence between plasma sheet disturbances and auroral forms implies ballooning instability in advance of auroral breakup [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

India boasts of a vast freshwater resource network (rivers, wetlands, and groundwater), which has unique ecological, social and economic values associated with it. Despite their importance for both people and biodiversity, its freshwater ecosystems (FWEs) are heavily impacted through multiple factors such as pollution, overexploitation, habitat loss/modification and climate change. India is also among the hotspots of water resource overuse that has caused a serious decline in freshwater availability.Given that healthy FWEs lie at the centre for supporting the country's ecology, health, economy, livelihoods and ultimately achieving multiple policy goals, it is crucial that holistic and focused efforts are made to protect, conserve, and restore all types of FWEs.We call for an urgent and a greater focus on implementing conservation actions for FWEs in India and suggest the following strategy to enhance focus on their conservation: (1) establishing a shared freshwater conservation vision at a national scale, (2) developing and including national freshwater conservation goals within global efforts, (3) conducting simultaneous conservation action planning at regional scales and (4) bridge planning to implementation gap by strengthening key enabling conditions: i) mainstream FWE conservation within key existing governance instruments, ii) secure sustainable conservation funding, iii) improve data access and knowledge translation; iv) create national awareness around importance of FWEs; v) facilitate collaboration among key actors. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Non‐methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) are ubiquitous trace gases and profoundly affect the Earth's atmosphere and climate change. Mixing ratios of light NMHCs were measured over the northern Indian Ocean during winter‐2018 as part of the Integrated Campaign for Aerosols, gases, and Radiation Budget (ICARB‐2018). Higher levels of NMHCs over the coastal regions were due to the efficient transport of anthropogenic and biogenic air masses and higher air‐sea exchanges due to the higher biological productivity. Although oceanic emissions dominated the open ocean, the transport of aged continental air also influenced the levels of some NMHCs. The higher and lower propane/ethane ratios of 2.41 ± 0.34 and 1.13 ± 0.78 ppbv ppbv−1 over coastal and open oceans indicated the prevalence of fresh and aged air masses, respectively. Ethene and propene show a strong correlation, but the ethene/propene ratios over open ocean (2.2 ± 0.25 ppbv ppbv−1) were slightly lower than the coastal region (2.5 ± 0.34 ppbv ppbv−1). Principal component analysis reveals the major associated sources identified in this study are from oceanic and nearby anthropogenic sources, explaining nearly 51% and 21% of variance. Light alkenes accounted for ∼70% of the total ozone and secondary organic aerosol formation potential. A higher alkene/alkane ratio, strong correlation of alkene with organic aerosol mass, and new particle formation events highlight the role of alkenes in secondary aerosol formation over the equatorial Indian Ocean. Overall, the levels of NMHCs were much higher than those measured nearly two decades ago during the Indian Ocean Experiment (INDOEX)‐1999. Plain Language Summary: Non‐methane hydrocarbons (NMHCs) constitute a major fraction of volatile organic compounds (VOCs), which play a vital role in atmospheric chemistry and air quality. To characterize the impact of South Asian outflow and the role of oceanic sources, we performed in‐situ measurements of key NMHCs over the Arabian Sea in winter of 2018. Various sources, such as anthropogenic emissions from the Indian subcontinent, oceanic emissions, biogenic emissions from the Western Ghats, and shipping lane emissions, contributed to the observed NMHCs concentrations. However, marine sources dominated the measurements in the remote regions. Light alkenes showed a higher potential for ozone and organic aerosol formations, accounting for ∼70% of total formation potentials. The simultaneous measurements of organic aerosol mass concentrations provide the role of light alkenes in the new particle formation over the equatorial Indian Ocean. VOCs, with their diverse sources, influence the atmospheric chemistry and radiative balance over coastal as well as remote marine environments. Interestingly, the levels of NMHCs measured in this study are much higher than those measured about two decades ago during the INDOEX campaign. Therefore, it is essential to improve our understanding of the sources and effects of VOCs to develop effective strategies for mitigating their negative impacts. Key Points: Oceanic sources control the levels of light alkenes over the equatorial Indian Ocean and are likely to contribute to the observed new particle formation eventsLevels of non‐methane hydrocarbons in coastal regions were mainly influenced by the transport of different air masses originated from South AsiaSignificantly higher contributions of alkenes to ozone formation potential suggest their potential impact on ozone formation in remote marine regions [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The widespread presence of organic aerosols (OA) in the atmosphere and their dominant role in climate forcing are increasingly recognized. Measurements from the high‐altitude region provide insights into the natural processes and long‐range transport of aerosols. We studied water‐soluble organic compounds in PM1.1 during January‐March 2020 and February‐April 2021 at Ponmudi (8.8°N and 77.1°E), a tropical hill station (960 m a.s.l.) located on the Western Ghats of India. The 5‐day backward trajectories of air masses presented that continental and marine sources impacted the site during the campaign, and thus we classified samples as mixed and marine air masses. Their molecular fingerprints revealed the prevalence of oxalic acid (C2), followed by terephthalic acid in mixed air mass and malonic (C3) or succinic (C4) acid in maritime air mass aerosol samples. This feature and the phthalic to azelaic acid ratio, as well as the C3 to C4 and fumaric to maleic acid ratios, evidenced that water‐soluble OA were of anthropogenic origin and less photochemically aged in mixed air mass samples, whereas they derived from biogenic sources and more photochemical aging in marine air mass samples. However, we found their comparable contributions in water‐soluble organic carbon under mixed and marine air masses. Linear correlations between C2 relative abundance and its ratios with the precursor compounds implied that the oxidation of precursors to oxalic acid occurs during atmospheric transport. The results revealed that the input of anthropogenic and biogenic precursors followed by atmospheric processing controlled the burden of water‐soluble OA across the Western Ghats. Plain Language Summary: Dicarboxylic acids (DCAs), oxocarboxylic acids and dicarbonyls are ubiquitous water‐soluble components of organic aerosol (OA) that can serve as cloud condensation nuclei and affect the climate of the Earth. We reveal for the first time the molecular fingerprints and sources as well as formation processes of water‐soluble OA in PM1.1 at a tropical hill station in Western Ghats of India. Significant differences in the molecular fingerprints and atmospheric processes of water‐soluble OA were found due to the influence of different air masses. DCAs and related compounds in mixed air mass aerosols originated from anthropogenic sources and produced in the atmosphere by photooxidation during long‐range transport whereas they were of biogenic origin followed by intense photochemical aging of biogenic volatile organic compounds such as isoprene and unsaturated fatty acids during atmospheric transport in marine air mass aerosols. The results revealed that DCAs substantially contribute to water‐soluble OA not only in mixed air mass aerosols but also in marine air mass aerosols at the tropical hill station in the Western Ghats. These findings have implications for assessing climate‐forcing feedback of secondary OA over the Western Ghats that is driven by anthropogenic and biogenic sources followed by photochemical processes. Key Points: Mixed and marine air masses drive the molecular fingerprints of atmospheric water‐soluble organic compounds over the Western GhatsAerosols of mixed air masses comprised dicarboxylic acids (DCAs) of anthropogenic origin and less photochemically processedDCAs were produced from biogenic sources followed by intense photochemical aging in marine air mass aerosols [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fipronil is a broad‐spectrum phenyl pyrazole insecticide that has a high degree of environmental toxicity. Commonly available chilies in the market are treated with fipronil insecticides. Demand for insecticide‐free chili has thus been increasing globally. This needs various sustainable and economical methods to remove insecticides from chilies. The present study examined the effectiveness of several cleaning methods to remove pesticide residues in chili fruits. A supervised field trial was conducted in randomized block design at Rajasthan Agricultural Research Institute, Durgapura, Jaipur, India. Chili samples were subjected to seven different household methods. The samples were extracted using the quick, easy, cheap, effective, rugged, and safe (QuEChERS) method. The residues were analyzed using a gas chromatograph–electron capture detector and confirmed by GC–MS. Of the seven methods, the acetic acid treatment removes the maximum residue effect of fipronil and its metabolites (desulfinyl [MB046513]), sulfide (MB045950), and sulfone (MB046136) on chili fruits. By contrast, the tap water treatment was the least effective. The Food Safety and Standards Authority of India (FSSAI) have set the maximum residue limit value of 0.001 mg kg−1 for fipronil on green chili. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The present synthetic methodology is related to the synthesis of novel azabicycloalkanes and their synthetic analogues. New and convenient synthetic routes were developed for access to the novel Pyrrolizine, and its analogue was synthesized using a multi‐step synthesis methodology. A novel efficient synthesis of the azabicyclic ring system via Michael addition followed by the intramolecular ring closing method of pyrrolizine has been developed utilizing deprotection of the CBz group by hydrogenation followed by in‐situ Michael addition and intramolecular cyclization reaction as the key step. This methodology can be further taken forward to the pharmaceutically active natural products containing azabicyclic ring systems. All the synthesized compounds were characterized by spectroscopic methods like IH‐NMR, 13C‐NMR, LC‐MS, IR, and elemental analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rapidly developing electronics industry is striving for higher energy‐storage capability dielectric capacitors for pulsed power electronic devices. Both high dielectric permittivity and high dielectric breakdown strength are essential properties to meet the desired device performance. However, due to materials limitations and their preparation requirements, there are significant challenges which limit the use of current dielectrics in high‐energy storage capacitors. In addition material limitations such as, low dielectric permittivity, low breakdown strength, and high hysteresis loss decrease these materials' energy density and efficiency, restricting potential applications. Thus, a thorough understanding of the implementation, optimization and limitations of ferroelectric, relaxor‐ferroelectric, and anti‐ferroelectric thin films in high‐energy storage dielectric capacitors is an essential and important research topic for the incorporation of these materials in near future applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Four new donor–acceptor–π‐bridge–accepter–donor hole‐transporting materials (HTMs) were developed based on the 2,2′‐(4,8‐bis(octyloxy)benzo[1,2‐b:4,5‐b′]dithiophene (OBDT) core moiety functionalised with two diphenylamine‐based donor units as outlying moieties. The compounds were designed, synthesised and used in perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Each HTM was thoroughly characterized with various spectroscopic techniques, and the surface and cross‐sectional morphologies of the thin‐film topmost layer, steady‐state photoluminescence, hole mobility and PSC efficiency were estimated and correlated with a standard Spiro‐OMeTAD HTM. The stabilized photocurrent and power conversion efficiency (PCE) measurements at maximum power point tracking, and J‐Voc curves under forward, and reverse bias, were studied. The film of the methyl‐substituted derivative provided a very consistent and compact protected layer to the whole perovskite layer, which is the key to the enhancement of the Voc and fill factor (FF). The PSC device based on the methyl derivative as HTM showed a high PCE of 19.07 % (active area 0.42 cm2) which is compared to the SpiroOMeTAD control device (17.90 %; active area 0.42 cm2). Optimized devices retained about 90 % PCE for 60 days, suggesting the reported HTM framework as a promising material for PSC application, considering also that they are tuneable and can be synthesized on a large scale. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electric vehicles (EV) are the future of mobility solutions. The EV's are driven by an electric motor with the help of a power electronic interface. The power electronic interface needs to be designed in an efficient way both in mechanical and electrical aspects. This paper proposes the concept of design, simulation and analysis of a 10 kW Multi‐Device Interleaved DC‐DC Boost Converter (MDIBC) to drive a 4 kW Induction Motor. The output DC voltage is to be maintained at a constant 400 V irrespective of the input variations. MDIBC consists of semi‐controlled switches topology excited by Phase Shifted PWM technique to reduce the ripple current in interleaving inductors. The dual loop control of the MDIBC is implemented using both PI and ANN controllers. The MATLAB/Simulink environment is used to simulate and analyze the design and control implementations. The results obtained through the implementation of ANN control proves that the control of MDIBC is simpler and is superior when compared to PI control. © 2022 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan. Published by Wiley Periodicals LLC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

(Ba0.955Ca0.045)(Zr0.17Ti0.83)O3 [BCZT] epitaxial were grown on La0.67Sr0.33MnO3 (LSMO)‐coated (100)‐oriented MgO single crystal substrates by the pulsed laser deposition (PLD) technique. Herein, we report crystal structure, ferroelectric, piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM), and energy storage properties near the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB) composition of [Ba0.850Ca0.15Zr0.1Ti0.90O3] solid solution. Epitaxial growth of the films was confirmed using X‐ray diffraction (XRD) spectra. Room‐temperature Raman spectroscopy confirms perovskite phase of BCZT films. Room‐temperature polarization‐electric field (P‐E) loops confirm the ferroelectric nature of BCZT films. Ferroelectric hysteresis loops demonstrate high saturation polarization (Pmax ~ 97.96 μC/cm2) and remanant polarization (Pr ~ 70.1 μC/cm2) at an applied maximum electric field ~2.77 MV/cm. The optimized BCZT epitaxial thin films have shown moderate dielectric properties at different measured frequencies (10‐100 kHz). Nanoscale piezoresponse force microscopy (PFM) images demonstrate switchable ferroelectric polarization of these thin films above ±9 V of dc voltage applied. Energy storage properties measured from ferroelectric loops revealed a high discharge curve energy density ~27.5 J/cm3 at a maximum electric field of 2.77 MV/cm. Epitaxial‐grown BCZT films are suitable candidate materials for capacitor applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aerosol‐induced snow albedo effect (SAE) and its feedback on the dust emission over the Tibetan Plateau are investigated using the regional climate model (RegCM4.6) coupled with the SNow, ICe, and Aerosol Radiative model. The deposition of absorbing aerosols (black carbon and dust) decreases the albedo of snow over the Himalayan‐Tibetan region, which results in significant surface warming of 1–4 K. This aerosol‐induced surface warming and accelerated snow melting decreased fractional snow cover by 8% and number of snow cover days by 20 days over the region. Compared to the control simulation, this early and more exposure of nonvegetated land resulted in the increase of the dust emission flux by 60% over central Tibet and therefore the columnar dust loading by 10%–40%. This effect alone results in a surface cooling of −4 Wm−2 and also increases the occurrence of dust events by 10%–20%. Therefore, the snow darkening effect due to the deposition of black carbon and dust increases the local emission of dust aerosols, which further increases the aerosol‐induced snow melting and thus perturbs the air quality and radiation balance over the high mountains of Asia. Key Points: Aerosol‐induced snow darkening decreases snow cover over the Himalayan‐Tibetan regionAerosol radiative effects on snow strengthens the local emission of dust aerosolsThe feedback of aerosol‐induced snow darkening enhances the direct effect of dust aerosols [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Aerosol‐induced snow darkening and its feedback on seasonal snow cover, snowmelt, and runoff were investigated using the Regional Climate Model (RegCM4.6) coupled with SNow, Ice, and Aerosol Radiation (SNICAR) and aerosol modules over the Himalayas during the melting season (March‐September). The snow albedo reduction due to the deposition of absorbing aerosols increases the 2 m air temperature (1.47°C) and thus decreases the snow cover (10.6%) over the Himalayas during spring. This aerosol‐induced excess warming accelerates the seasonal snowmelt (1.2 mm day−1), which reduces the number of snow‐covered periods by more than 20 days throughout the Himalayas. The accumulated total snowmelt also increased by 41.3% over the Himalayas during the melting season. The early snowmelt and increase in runoff due to aerosol forcing have significant implications on rivers originating from the western Himalayas (Indus Basin). The change in snowmelt distribution and doubling of snowmelt extremes due to aerosol‐induced snow darkening could also translate to an increase in flood risks across the Himalayan river basins. Therefore, the present study highlights the importance of aerosol‐induced snow albedo forcing and its feedback on snowmelt and runoff over the Himalayan region, which has further implications on water availability over the South Asian region. Key Points: Snow darkening due to aerosol deposition accelerates the seasonal snowmelt over the HimalayasAerosol forcing shift the snowmelt timing over the Himalayas by more than 20 daysAerosol‐induced surface warming increase the occurrence of the snowmelt extremes by almost twice during the melting season [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: Cognitive radio, which is called an intelligent radio, will dynamically access the available spectrum. This mechanism will bring revolt in wireless communication, which lightens the spectrum utilization problem. Machine learning plays a vital role in every technology. Here, in cognitive radio, it helps train the model to predict the free spectrum. The cognitive clients utilize range‐detecting procedures to detect the groups previously transmitting on them to stay away from impact with the authorized clients that prompts deferral and moderates more vitality. To decrease postponement and vitality utilization and to foresee the future use of channels, range expectation procedures are utilized. Spectrum prediction is used to anticipate the future channel status in light of gathered chronicled information; here, to take care of the issue, the neural system‐based spectrum prediction utilizes a backpropagation training model that has been proposed. To enhance the structure of the neural system and to decrease the forceful weight auxiliary pattern, genetic algorithm (GA) along with the hybrid combination of shuffled frog‐leaping algorithm (SFLA) is proposed. Here, GA has been utilized to abstain from catching nearby ideal solutions. The selection, crossover, and mutation functions were performed to build the haphazardness, which stretches out the populace unite to the set that contains the global ideal solution. SFLA has been proposed for structure improvement; the paired structure has been recommended to demonstrate the memes with the motivation behind building up a subaccumulation with lesser measurements than that of the original group where recognizing affectability and precision would be versatile with that of the primary status. Simulation results show the GA‐SFLA‐based hybrid algorithm that is used has increased the results of getting the best weights by improving the system; additionally, the proposed conspire results show high forecast accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Summary: We convened a multidisciplinary Working Party on behalf of the Association of Anaesthetists to update the 2011 guidance on the peri‐operative management of people with hip fracture. Importantly, these guidelines describe the core aims and principles of peri‐operative management, recommending greater standardisation of anaesthetic practice as a component of multidisciplinary care. Although much of the 2011 guidance remains applicable to contemporary practice, new evidence and consensus inform the additional recommendations made in this document. Specific changes to the 2011 guidance relate to analgesia, medicolegal practice, risk assessment, bone cement implantation syndrome and regional review networks. Areas of controversy remain, and we discuss these in further detail, relating to the mode of anaesthesia, surgical delay, blood management and transfusion thresholds, echocardiography, anticoagulant and antiplatelet management and postoperative discharge destination. Finally, these guidelines provide links to supplemental online material that can be used at readers' institutions, key references and UK national guidance about the peri‐operative care of people with hip and periprosthetic fractures during the COVID‐19 pandemic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Global distribution of aerosol direct radiative forcing (DRF) is estimated using Clouds and Earth's Radiant Energy System (CERES) synoptic (SYN) 1° datasets. During 2001–2017, a statistically significant change of global DRFs is revealed with a general decreasing trend (i.e., a reduced cooling effect) at the top of the atmosphere (DRFTOA ~ 0.017 W⋅m−2⋅year−1) and at the surface (DRFSFC ~ 0.033 W⋅m−2⋅year−1) with rapid change over the land compared to the global ocean. South Asia and Africa/Middle East regions depict significant increasing trend of atmospheric warming by 0.025 and 0.002 W·m−2⋅year−1 whereas, the rest of the regions show a decline. These regional variations significantly modulate the global mean DRF (−5.36 ± 0.04 W·m−2 at the TOA and − 9.64 ± 0.07 W·m−2 at the surface during the study period). The observed DRF trends are coincident with the change in the underlying aerosol properties, for example, aerosol optical depth, Ångström exponent and partly due to the increasing columnar burden of SO2 over some of the regions. This indicates that increasing industrialization and urbanization have caused prominent change in the DRF during recent decades. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wintertime fog and severe aerosol loading in the boundary layer over South Asia, especially Indo Gangetic Plain (IGP), causes disruptions in the day‐to‐day life of millions of people living in the region, and these heavy pollution episodes result in relentless effects on human health. Weather Research Forecasting model coupled with aerosol chemistry is used to investigate the radiative effects and feedbacks of aerosols on the evolution and structure of the planetary boundary layer over the region. In general, aerosols lead to cooling at the surface, which decreases the nonradiative fluxes (latent and sensible heat fluxes), weakens the turbulent diffusion, and inhibits/delays the growth of convective boundary layer. The impact was maximum over IGP where aerosol‐induced solar dimming (60–80 W/m2) led to a cooling of −0.6 to −2 ° C at the surface, which decreases the noontime boundary layer height by ∼200 m. This effect overwhelms the diabatic heating due to absorbing aerosols in the atmosphere. The significant decrease in sensible (∼11–23 W/m2) and latent heat flux (5–14 W/m2) was observed over IGP and western India. Aerosol boundary layer interaction increases the aerosol loading near the surface (PM2.5) by 3 to 30 μg/m3, which further deteriorate the air quality and visibility over the region. The aerosol forcing increases the relative humidity in the lower boundary layer and amplifies the aerosol forcing. The fog events over the Indian regions identified using INSAT‐3D observations coincide with the regions where aerosol‐boundary layer interactions are very significant. The aerosol‐boundary layer interaction has significance in forecasting fog events and planning mitigation strategies for improving the air quality over the region. Key Points: Aerosol‐boundary layer interaction is one of the major forcing mechanism affecting air quality over South Asia during winterAerosol forcing decreases the boundary layer height, heat fluxes, and surface temperature significantlyAerosol‐boundary layer interaction leads to the accumulation of pollutants and thus favors fog events [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We examine long‐term trends in the near‐surface black carbon mass concentration, using multiyear primary data obtained from a dense network (ARFINET) of observatories over the Indian region. We report for the first time the statistically significant decreasing trend in black carbon mass concentration, based on primary data from this region, at an average rate of ~242 ± 53 ng · m−3 · year−1 during the period 2007–2016. This finding contrasts with the generally increasing trend in the columnar aerosol optical depth, reported earlier, and the steadily increasing trend in anthropogenic activities over this region. The roles of different possible mechanisms, including possible changes in the vertical redistribution of aerosols, are discussed. Over the period 2007–2015, a significant though weak, increasing trend is seen in the contribution from aerosols above 1 km to the columnar aerosol optical depth. These observations imply possible long‐term climate consequences. Key Points: We report the first time regional synthesis of black carbon aerosols over the Indian region using primary dataThe study revealed surprising observation of decreasing trend in the near surface black carbon aerosol concentrationWe found an increasing trend in contribution from free tropospheric aerosols to the columnar aerosol optical depth [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The vertical distribution of aerosol and dust extinction coefficient over the Bay of Bengal is examined using the satellite observations (Cloud Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization (CALIOP) and Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS)) for the period from 2006 to 2017. Distinct seasonal pattern is observed in the vertical structure of both aerosol and dust over the Bay of Bengal with an enhancement of 24% in the aerosol extinction above 1 km from winter (December, January and February) to premonsoon (March, April, and May). Significant contribution of dust is observed over the northern Bay of Bengal during premonsoon season where 22% of the total aerosol extinction is contributed by dust aerosols transported from the nearby continental regions. During winter, dust transport is found to be less significant with fractional contribution of ~10%-13% to the total aerosol optical depth over the Bay of Bengal. MODIS-derived dust fraction (fine mode based) shows an overestimation up to twofold compared to CALIOP dust fraction (depolarization based), whereas the Goddard Chemistry Aerosol Radiation and Transport-simulated dust fraction underestimates the satellite-derived dust fractions over the Bay of Bengal. Though the long-term variation in dust aerosol showed a decreasing trend over the Bay of Bengal, the confidence level is insufficient in establishing the robustness of the observed trend. However, significant dust-induced heating is observed above the boundary layer during premonsoon season. This dust-induced elevated heating can affect the convection over the Bay of Bengal which will have implication on the monsoon dynamics over the Indian region. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Familial eosinophilia ( FE) is a rare autosomal dominant inherited disorder characterized by the presence of lifelong peripheral eosinophilia (>1500/μL). Mapped to chromosome 5q31-q33, the genetic cause of FE is unknown, and prior studies have failed to demonstrate a primary abnormality in the eosinophil lineage. Objective The aim of this study was to identify the cells driving the eosinophilia in FE. Methods Microarray analysis and real-time PCR were used to examine transcriptional differences in peripheral blood mononuclear cells ( PBMC), and in purified cell subsets from affected and unaffected family members belonging to a single large kindred. Cytokine levels in serum and PBMC culture supernatants were assessed by suspension array multiplexed immunoassays. Results Whereas IL-5 m RNA expression was significantly increased in freshly isolated PBMC from affected family members, this was not accompanied by increased m RNA expression of other Th2 cytokines ( IL-4 or IL-13). Serum levels of IL-5 and IL-5 receptor α, but not IgE, were similarly increased in affected family members. Of note, IL-5 m RNA expression was significantly increased in purified CD3+ CD4+, CD14+, CD19+, and ILC2 cells from affected family members, as were IL-5 protein levels in supernatants from both stimulated PBMC and ILC2 cultures. Conclusions These data are consistent with the hypothesis that the eosinophilia in FE is secondary to dysregulation of IL-5 production in PBMC (and their component subsets). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to understand the climatic implications of atmospheric aerosols, top of atmosphere (TOA) shortwave (SW, 0.3–5 μm) fluxes and aerosol optical depth (AOD) at 550 nm retrieved simultaneously by clouds and the earth's radiant energy system (CERES) and moderate resolution imaging spectroradiometer (MODIS) instruments, respectively, are analysed over North-East India and its adjoining areas for the period July 2002–December 2013. The aerosol-free TOA flux obtained by establishing the linear regression between CERES SW TOA fluxes and MODIS AODs exhibits strong seasonality with peak values in monsoon and minimum in winter. Same seasonality is captured by the Santa Barbara DISORT Atmospheric Radiative Transfer (SBDART) model, but with difference in absolute values. SBDART code is used to extend instantaneous radiative forcing estimates into 24-h averages. AOD over the North East India region with complex terrain shows altitudinal variationwith maximum value at the lowest elevation site Dhaka and minimum value at the high-altitude locations Shillong and Aizwal. In general, strong seasonality in AOD is observed with a peak in pre-monsoon (March–May) and dip in post-monsoon (October–November) at all the locations. The direct instantaneous TOA shortwave aerosol radiative forcing (SWARF) shows maximum values in pre-monsoon over all the locations except at Guwahati, Banmauk, Aizawl, and Shillong. The lowest value of instantaneous SWARF is observed in post-monsoon except at Banmauk and Shillong. Climatologically TOA diurnally averaged SWARF varies between -6.95 W m-2 in Aizawl to -20.39 W m-2 in Shillong. In general, the TOA SW forcing efficiency is highest in monsoon at all the locations. The radiative forcing efficiency is found to be less negative when surface reflectance increases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Nd3+-doped lead-free zinc phosphate glasses with the chemical compositions (60- x) NH4H2PO4 + 20ZnO + 10BaF2 + 10NaF + xNd2O3 (where x = 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0 and 2.5 mol%) were prepared using a melt quenching technique. Vibrational bands were assigned and clearly elucidated by Raman spectral profiles for all the glass samples. Judd-Ofelt (J-O) intensity parameters (Ωλ: λ = 2, 4, 6) were obtained from the spectral intensities of different absorption bands of Nd3+ ions. Radiative properties such as radiative transition probabilities ( AR), radiative lifetimes (τR) and branching ratios (βR) for different excited states were calculated using J-O parameters. The near infrared (NIR) photoluminescence spectra exhibited three emission bands (4F3/2 level to 4I13/2, 4I11/2 and 4I9/2 states) for all the concentrations of Nd3+ ions. Various luminescence properties were studied by varying the Nd3+ concentration for the three spectral profiles. Fluorescence decay curves of the 4F3/2 level were recorded. The energy transfer mechanism that leads to quenching of the 4F3/2 state lifetimes was discussed at higher concentration of Nd3+ ions. These glasses are suggested as suitable hosts to produce efficient lasing action in NIR region at 1.05 μm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Lymphatic filariasis is a vectorborne parasitic disease that results in morbidities, disabilities and socio-economic loss each year globally. Inflammatory consequences associated with any form of filariasis have drawn special attention. However, the molecular insight behind the inflammation of host macrophage (MФ) is considered as one of the shaded areas in filarial research. Herein, major emphasis was given to study the signalling pathway of MФ inflammation induced by surface proteins ( SPs) of filarial parasite through in vitro and in vivo approaches. Twenty-four hours of in vitro stimulation of Raw MФs with endotoxin-free SPs of Setaria cervi resulted in the secretion of pro-inflammatory cytokines ( TNF-α and IL-1β) that revealed induction of inflammation, which was found to be elicited from classical NF-кB activation. Moreover, this NF-кB activation was found to be signalled from TLR4 and mediated by the downstream signalling intermediates, viz. MyD88, pTAK1 and NEMO. In vivo studies in adult Wistar rats, experimentally injected with SPs, clearly supported the outcomes of in vitro experiments by showing higher degree of inflammation rather classical activation of the peritoneal MФs. Therefore, SPs from S. cervi cuticle could be responsible for the induction of pro-inflammatory response in MФ, which appears to be propagated through TLR4- NF-кB route. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safe vascular access is integral to anaesthetic and critical care practice, but procedures are a frequent source of patient adverse events. Ensuring safe and effective approaches to vascular catheter insertion should be a priority for all practitioners. New technology such as ultrasound and other imaging has increased the number of tools available. This guidance was created using review of current practice and literature, as well as expert opinion. The result is a consensus document which provides practical advice on the safe insertion and removal of vascular access devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Polymer electrolyte fuel cells are highly efficient and offer high power density, but high precious-metal loading and degradation of carbon-supported platinum (Pt) catalysts still hinder commercialization. Ionomer binders in conventional electrodes also introduce undesirable, high oxygen-transport resistance. This paper presents an alternative composite Nafion nanofiber catalyst support electrode, in which the nanofibers provide robust internal proton transport to a conformal Pt catalyst coating without impeding O2 transport. The high-surface-area electrodes are prepared by solution casting ionomer onto a sacrificial template to simultaneously fabricate the nanofibers and the membrane. Thin Pt films are deposited on the nanofibers using either physical vapor deposition or chemical vapor deposition. The electrochemical characterization of the nanofiber electrodes demonstrates the high current density and specific activity of this nanofiber approach relative to prior electrodes fabricated by depositing Pt directly onto other Nafion surfaces. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Genetic similarities between patients from the United States and South African ( SA) Addison's Disease ( AD) strengthen evidence for genetic association. SA-AD ( n = 73), SA healthy controls ( N = 78), and US-AD patients ( N = 83) were genotyped for DQA1, DQB1, DRB1, and HLA-B alleles. Serum was tested for the quantity of 21OH-AA and IFNα-AA at the Barbara Davis Center. Although not as profound as in US-AD, in SA-AD 21OH-AA + subjects the predominantly associated risk haplotypes were DRB1*0301- DQB1*0201 ( DR3), DRB1*04xx- DQB1*0302 ( DR4), and the combined DR3/4 genotype. DQB1*0302 associated DRB1*04xx haplotypes conferred higher risk than those DRB1*04xx haplotypes associated with other DQB1 alleles. We found negative association in 21OH-AA + SA-AD for DQA1*0201- DQB1*0202 and DQA1*0101- DQB1*0501 vs SA controls, and positive association for DQA1*0401- DQB1*0402 vs US-AD. Apart from the class II DR3 haplotype, HLA-B8 did not have an independent effect; however together DR3 and HLA-B8 conferred the highest risk vs 21OH-AA negative SA-AD and SA-controls. HLA-B7 (often with DR4) conferred novel risk in 21OH-AA + SA-AD vs controls. This study represents the first comparison between South African and United States AD populations utilizing genotyping and serology performed at the same center. SA-AD and US-AD 21OH-AA + patients share common HLA risk haplotypes including DR4 (with HLA-B7) and DR3 (with HLA-B8), strengthening previously described HLA associations and implicating similar genetic etiology. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The immune responses to filarial parasites encompass a complex network of innate and adaptive cells whose interaction with the parasite underlies a spectrum of clinical manifestations. The predominant immunological feature of lymphatic filariasis is an antigen-specific Th2 response and an expansion of IL-10 producing CD4+ T cells that is accompanied by a muted Th1 response. This antigen-specific T-cell hyporesponsiveness appears to be crucial for the maintenance of the sustained, long-standing infection often with high parasite densities. While the correlates of protective immunity to lymphatic filariasis are still incompletely understood, primarily due to the lack of suitable animal models to study susceptibility, it is clear that T cells and to a certain extent B cells are required for protective immunity. Host immune responses, especially CD4+ T-cell responses clearly play a role in mediating pathological manifestations of LF, including lymphedema, hydrocele and elephantiasis. The main underlying defect in the development of clinical pathology appears to be a failure to induce T-cell hyporesponsiveness in the face of antigenic stimulation. Finally, another intriguing feature of filarial infections is their propensity to induce bystander effects on a variety of immune responses, including responses to vaccinations, allergens and to other infectious agents. The complexity of the immune response to filarial infection therefore provides an important gateway to understanding the regulation of immune responses to chronic infections, in general. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The response of Black Carbon ( BC) concentrations to a near cut-off of vehicular and industrial emissions favoured by a regional 'strike call' by organized trade unions, that brought to a halt of all industrial activities and commercial road traffic for 2 days is presented. In a dramatic, spectacular response to the seizure of emissions, BC concentrations dropped rapidly to ∼22% of the average concentrations that prevailed before the strike depicting the rapidity with which the concentrations deplete and the 'rather slow' replenishment as the emissions restart. These observations support the argument that controlling BC emissions yields quick results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We isolated B acillus anthracis-like strain from internal tissues of marketed vegetables (onion and cucumber). Further analysis of the pigment-producing cucumber strain implicates a possible horizontal gene transfer of pyoverdine ( pvd) uptake receptor gene from P seudomonas sp. augmenting B acillus strain's ability to infect and survive in cucumber internal tissues. To our knowledge, the animal anthrax causing bacterium has not been reported previously in agricultural produce and hence we propose that acquired virulence gene provides enhanced survivability within alternate hosts. Thus, we present the first report of this pathogen being isolated from internal tissues of marketed vegetables. Practical Application The observation of B acillus anthracis-like strain in onion and cucumber tissues indicates changing ecology of this pathogenic bacterium. This warrants proper pre-harvest as well as post-harvest handling as these vegetables are consumed as fresh salads also. The results of the study will help in developing strategies to avoid contamination from farm to the dining table. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regular measurements of spectral Aerosol Optical Depth (AOD) at ten wavelengths, obtained from multi-wavelength radiometer (MWR) under cloudless conditions in the outskirts of the tropical urban region of Hyderabad, India for the period January 2008 to December 2009, are examined. In general, high AOD with a coarse-mode abundance is seen during the pre-monsoon (March to May) and summer monsoon (June to September) with flat AOD spectra and low Ångström wavelength exponent ( α), while in post-monsoon (October-November) and winter (December-February) seasons, fine-mode dominance and steep AOD spectra are the basic features. The aerosol columnar size distribution (CSD) retrieved from the spectral AOD using King's inversion showed bimodal size distributions for all the seasons, except for the monsoon, with an accumulation-mode radius at 0.12-0.25 µm and a coarse-mode one at 0.86-1.30 µm. On the other hand, the CSD during the monsoon follows the power law for fine mode and the unimodal distribution for coarse mode. The fine-mode aerosols during post-monsoon and winter appear to be associated with air masses from continental India, while the coarse-mode particles during pre-monsoon and monsoon with air masses originating from west Asia and western India. The single-scattering albedo (SSA) calculated using the OPAC model varied from 0.83 ± 0.05 in winter to 0.91 ± 0.01 during the monsoon, indicating significant absorption by aerosols due to larger black carbon mixing ratio in winter, whereas a significant contribution of sea-salt in the monsoon season leads to higher SSAs. Aerosol radiative forcing (ARF) calculated using SBDART shows pronounced monthly variability at the surface, top of atmosphere (TOA) and within the atmosphere due to large variations in AOD and SSA. In general, larger negative ARF values at the surface (−65 to −80 W m−2) and TOA (∼−17 W m−2) are observed during the pre-monsoon and early monsoon, while the atmospheric heating is higher (∼50-70 W m−2) during January-April resulting in heating rates of ∼1.6-2.0 K day−1. Copyright © 2012 Royal Meteorological Society [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An investigation was made to evaluate the effect of the incorporation of jatropha oil cake (JOC) alone and in combination with silicon carbide (SiC) on the mechanical and tribological wear behaviour of glass fabric–epoxy (GE) composites. A vacuum-assisted resin transfer moulding (VARTM) technique was employed to obtain a series of GE composites containing different fillers viz., silicon carbide, jatropha oil cake and a mixture of SiC and JOC. The effect of different loads (22 and 32 N) and abrading distances from 135 to 540 m on the performance of the wear resistance of the composites were measured. The mechanical properties such as tensile behaviour and hardness of the composites were evaluated. A linear relationship was found between the wear volume loss and the abrading distances. The JOC filled GE composite exhibited a lower specific wear rate by 6 and 10% at 540 m abrading distance for a load of 22 and 32 N, respectively, as compared to that of unfilled GE composites. The worn surface features of unfilled and filled GE composites were examined using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]