In this study we develop a first-order, nonstationary stochastic model for steady state, unsaturated flow in randomly heterogeneous media. The model is applicable to the entire domain of a bounded vadose zone, unlike most of the existing stochastic models. Because of its nonstationarity, we solve it by the numerical technique of finite differences, which renders the flexibility in handling diff...

A network of 24 beech (Fagus sylvatica L.) tree-ring chronologies has been developed for the Italian peninsula. Principal component and cluster analyses were used to identify geographical and altitudinal patterns of tree growth. Correlations and response functions were then applied to the main modes of tree-ring variability to uncover climatic signals. In a landscape occupied by humans for mill...

We present results from simulations to examine how the separation between two convectively unstable layers affects their interaction. We show that two convectively ustable layers remain connected via the overshooting plumes even when they are separated by several pressure scale heights.

There are currently three major competing views on the nature of earthquake fault zones. The first is that faults are (possibly segmented and heterogeneous) Euclidean zones in a continuum solid. The second focuses on granular aspects of faults and deformation fields. The third is that faults are fundamentally rough fractal objects at all relevant scales. The existing data can not distinguish un...

This chapter presents a critical approach to software development that implements reflective competences in software engineering teams. It is grounded within qualitative research on software engineering and critical design practice and presents conceptual work in progress. Software development is a socio-technological process of negotiation that requires mediation of different approaches. Resea...

Adequately contoured implant restorations need to transition from the circumferential design of the implant head to the correct cervical tooth anatomy. The implant abutment may be used to effect this transition provided there is sufficient running room. Implant restorations have been described as overcontoured, flat, and undercontoured. It has been shown that overcontouring will generally cause...

As part of the study on the Mantaro river basin’s (central Andes of Perú) current vulnerability to climate change, the temporal and spatial characteristics of frosts were analysed. These characteristics included intensity, frequency, duration, frost-free periods, area distribution and historical trends. Maps of frost risk were determined for the entire river basin, by means of mathematical algo...