bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Distinct chemical and mineralogical composition of Icelandic dust compared to northern African and Asian dust
Authors: Baldo Clarissa , Formenti Paola , Nowak Sophie , Chevaillier Servanne , Cazaunau Mathieu , Pangui Edouard , Di Biagio Claudia , Doussin Jean-Francois , Ignatyev Konstantin , Dagsson-Waldhauserova Pavla , Arnalds Olafur , MacKenzie A. Robert , Shi Zongbo
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Iceland is a highly active source of natural dust.
Icelandic dust has the potential to directly affect the climate via
dust–radiation interaction and indirectly via dust–cloud interaction,
the snow/ice albedo effect and impacts on biogeochemical cycles. The impacts of
Icelandic dust depend on its mineralogical and chemical composition.
However, a lack of data has prevented an accurate assessment of the role of
Icelandic dust in the Earth system. Here, we collected surface sediment
samples from five major Icelandic dust hotspots. Dust aerosols were
generated and suspended in atmospheric chambers, and PM10 and PM20
fractions were collected for further analysis. We found that the dust
samples primarily consist of amorphous basaltic materials ranging from 8 wt %
(from the Hagavatn hotspot) to 60 wt %–90 wt % (other hotspots). Samples
had relatively high total Fe content (10 wt %–13 wt %). Sequential extraction
of Fe to determine its chemical form shows that dithionite Fe (Fe oxides
such as hematite and goethite) and ascorbate Fe (amorphous Fe) contribute
respectively 1 %–6 % and 0.3 %–1.4 % to the total Fe in Icelandic dust. The
magnetite fraction is 7 %–15 % of total Fe and 1 %–2 wt % of PM10,
which is orders of magnitude higher than in mineral dust from northern Africa.
Nevertheless, about 80 %–90% of the Fe is contained in pyroxene and
amorphous glass. The initial Fe solubility (ammonium acetate extraction at
pH 4.7) is from 0.08 % to 0.6 %, which is comparable to low-latitude dust such
as that from northern Africa. The Fe solubility at low pH (i.e. pH 2) is
significantly higher than typical low-latitude dust (up to 30 % at pH 2
after 72 h). Our results revealed the fundamental differences in
composition and mineralogy of Icelandic dust from low-latitude dust. We
attribute these differences to the low degree of chemical weathering, the
basaltic composition of the parent sediments and glacial processes.
Icelandic dust contributes to the atmospheric deposition of soluble Fe and
can impact primary productivity in the North Atlantic Ocean. The distinct
chemical and mineralogical composition, particularly the high magnetite
content (1 wt %–2 wt %), indicates a potentially significant impact of
Icelandic dust on the radiation balance in the subpolar and polar regions.
Contrasting ice formation in Arctic clouds: surface coupled vs
decoupled clouds
Authors: Griesche Hannes J. , Ohneiser Kevin , Seifert Patric , Ansmann Albert , Engelmann Ronny
Published: November 2020

Abstract. In the Arctic summer of 2017 (June, 1st to July, 16th) measurements with the multiwavelength polarization lidar PollyXT-OCEANET, 35-GHz cloud radar of the OCEANET platform, and radiosonde measurements were conducted during cruise PS106 of the research vessel Polarstern around Svalbard. In the scope of the presented study, the influence of cloud height and surface coupling on the probability of clouds to contain and form ice is investigated. The analyzed data set shows a significant impact of the surface-coupling state on the probability of ice formation. Surface-coupled clouds, identified by a quasi-constant potential temperature profile from the surface up to liquid layer base, in the same cloud-top temperature range contain ice more frequent than decoupled clouds by a factor of up to 5 for cloud-top intervals between −7.5 and −5 °C (169 vs. 31 profiles). These findings provide evidence that heterogeneous ice formation in Arctic mixed-phase clouds occurs by a factor of 2–5 more likely when the cloud layer is coupled to the surface. In turn, for cloud-top temperatures below −15 °C, the frequency of ice-containing cloud profiles for coupled and decoupled conditions approached the respective curve for the Central-European site of Leipzig, Germany (51° N, 12° E). This provides further evidence that the free-tropospheric ice nucleating particles (INP) reservoir over the Arctic is controlled by continental aerosol. One possible explanation for the observation is that turbulent mixing of the air below surface-coupled clouds allows ice particles, acting as seeds for ice multiplication, or marine aerosols, acting as INP, to be transported into the cloud layer more efficiently than in the case of decoupled conditions. This hypothesis is corroborated by recent in-situ measurements of INP in the Arctic, of which much higher concentrations were found in the surface-coupled atmosphere in close vicinity to the ice shore. Using lidar measurements we also found evidence for enhanced INP number concentrations (INPC) within surface-coupled cloud-free air masses. The INPC have been estimated based on particle backscatter profiles, published freezing spectra of biogenic INP and existing parameterizations.
Simultaneous measurement of δ13C, δ18O and δ17O of atmospheric CO2 – Performance assessment of a dual-laser absorption spectrometer
Authors: Steur Pharahilda M. , Scheeren Hubertus A. , Nelson Dave D. , McManus J. Barry , Meijer Harro A. J.
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Using laser absorption spectrometry for the measurement of stable isotopes of atmospheric CO2 instead of the traditional Isotope Ratio Mass Spectrometry (IRMS) method decreases sample preparation time significantly, and uncertainties in the measurement accuracy due to CO2 extraction and isobaric interferences are avoided. In this study we present the measurement performance of a new dual-laser instrument developed for the simultaneous measurement of the δ13C, δ18O and δ17O of atmospheric CO2 in discrete air samples, referred to as the Stable Isotopes of CO2 Absorption Spectrometer (SICAS). We compare two different calibration methods: the ratio method (RM) based on measured isotope ratio and a CO2 mole fraction dependency correction (CMFD), and the isotopologue method (IM) based on measured isotopologue abundances. Calibration with the RM and IM is based on three different assigned whole air references calibrated on the VPBD scale. An additional quality control tank (QC) is included in both methods to follow long-term instrument performance. Measurements of the QC tank show that best performance is achieved with the RM for both the δ13C and δ18O measurements with mean residuals of 0.007 ‰ and 0.016 ‰ and mean standard errors of 0.009 ‰ and 0.008 ‰ respectively, during periods of optimal measurement conditions. The δ17O standard error in the same measurement period is 0.013 ‰. In addition, intercomparing a total of 14 different flask samples covering a CO2 mole fraction range of 344–439 ppm with the Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry shows a mean residual of 0.002 ‰ and a standard deviation of 0.063 ‰ for δ13C, using the RM. The δ18O could not be compared due to depletion of the δ18O signal in our sample flasks because of too long storage times. Finally, we evaluated the potential of our Δ17O measurements as a tracer for Gross Primary Production (GPP) by vegetation through photosynthesis. Here, a measurement precision of
Very high-resolution terrain surveys of the Chã das Caldeiras lava
fields (Fogo Island, Cape Verde)
Authors: Vieira Gonçalo , Mora Carla , Pina Pedro , Ramalho Ricardo , Fernandes Rui
Published: November 2020

Abstract. Fogo in the Cape Verde archipelago off Western Africa is one of the most prominent and active ocean island volcanoes on Earth, posing an important hazard to both local populations and at a regional level. The last eruption took place between 23 November 2014 and 8 February 2015 in the Chã das Caldeiras area at an elevation close to 1,800 m above sea level The eruptive episode gave origin to extensive lava flows that almost fully destroyed the settlements of Bangaeira, Portela and Ilhéu de Losna. In December 2016 a survey of the Chã das Caldeiras area was conducted using a fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle and RTK GNSS, with the objective of improving the mapping accuracy derived from satellite platforms. The main result is an ultra-high resolution 3D point cloud with a Root Mean Square Error of 0.08 m in X, 0.11 m in Y and 0.12 m in Z, which provides unprecedented accuracy. The survey covers an area of 23.9 km2 and used 2909 calibrated images with an average ground sampling distance of 7.2 cm. A digital surface model and an orthomosaic with 25 cm resolution are provided, together with elevation contours with an equidistance of 50 cm and a 3D texture mesh for visualization purposes. The delineation of the 2014–15 lava flows shows an area of 4.53 km2 by lava, which is smaller but more accurate than the previous estimates from 4.8 to 4.97 km2. The difference in the calculated area, when compared to previously reported values, is due to a more detailed mapping of flow geometry and the exclusion of the areas corresponding to kīpukas. Our study provides an ultra high-resolution dataset of the areas affected by Fogo's latest eruption – crucial for local planning – and provides a case study to determine the advantages of ultra high-resolution UAV surveys in disaster-prone areas. The dataset is available for download at http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.4035038 (Vieira et al., 2020).
Description and evaluation of a detailed gas-phase chemistry scheme in the TM5-MP global chemistry transport model (r112)
Authors: Myriokefalitakis Stelios , Daskalakis Nikos , Gkouvousis Angelos , Hilboll Andreas , van Noije Twan , Williams Jason E. , Le Sager Philippe , Huijnen Vincent , Houweling Sander , Bergman Tommi , Nüß Johann Rasmus , Vrekoussis Mihalis , Kanakidou Maria , Krol Maarten C.
Published: November 2020

Abstract. This work documents and evaluates the tropospheric
gas-phase chemical mechanism MOGUNTIA in the three-dimensional chemistry
transport model TM5-MP. Compared to the modified CB05 (mCB05) chemical
mechanism previously used in the model, MOGUNTIA includes a detailed
representation of the light hydrocarbons (C1–C4) and isoprene, along with a
simplified chemistry representation of terpenes and aromatics. Another
feature implemented in TM5-MP for this work is the use of the Rosenbrock
solver in the chemistry code, which can replace the classical Euler backward
integration method of the model. Global budgets of ozone (O3), carbon
monoxide (CO), hydroxyl radicals (OH), nitrogen oxides (NOx), and
volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are analyzed, and their mixing ratios are
compared with a series of surface, aircraft, and satellite observations for
the year 2006. Both mechanisms appear to be able to satisfactorily represent
observed mixing ratios of important trace gases, with the MOGUNTIA chemistry
configuration yielding lower biases than mCB05 compared to measurements in
most of the cases. However, the two chemical mechanisms fail to reproduce
the observed mixing ratios of light VOCs, indicating insufficient primary
emission source strengths, oxidation that is too fast, and/or a low bias in the
secondary contribution to C2–C3 organics via VOC atmospheric oxidation.
Relative computational memory and time requirements of the different model
configurations are also compared and discussed. Overall, the MOGUNTIA scheme
simulates a large suite of oxygenated VOCs that are observed in the
atmosphere at significant levels. This significantly expands the possible
applications of TM5-MP.
Modeling lightning observations from space-based platforms (CloudScat.jl 1.0)
Authors: Luque Alejandro , Gordillo-Vázquez Francisco José , Li Dongshuai , Malagón-Romero Alejandro , Pérez-Invernón Francisco Javier , Schmalzried Anthony , Soler Sergio , Chanrion Olivier , Heumesser Matthias , Neubert Torsten , Reglero Víctor , Østgaard Nikolai
Published: November 2020

Abstract. We describe a computer code that simulates how a satellite observes optical radiation emitted by a lightning flash after it is scattered within an intervening cloud. Our code, CloudScat.jl, is flexible, fully open source and specifically tailored to modern instruments such as the Modular Multispectral Imaging Array (MMIA) component of the Atmosphere–Space Interactions Monitor (ASIM) that operates from the International Space Station. In this article, we describe the algorithms implemented in the code and discuss several applications and examples, with an emphasis on the interpretation of MMIA data.
Evaluating a landscape-scale daily water balance model to support spatially continuous representation of flow intermittency throughout stream networks
Authors: Yu Songyan , Do Hong Xuan , van Dijk Albert I. J. M. , Bond Nick R. , Lin Peirong , Kennard Mark J.
Published: November 2020

Abstract. There is a growing interest globally in the spatial distribution and
temporal dynamics of intermittently flowing streams and rivers, and how this
varies in relation to climatic and other environmental factors. However,
biases in the distribution of stream gauges may give a misleading impression
of spatial-temporal variations in streamflow intermittency within river
networks. Here, we developed an approach to quantify catchment-wide
streamflow intermittency over long time frames and in a spatially explicit
manner, using readily accessible and spatially contiguous daily runoff data
from a national-scale water balance model. We examined the ability of the
water balance model to simulate streamflow in two hydro-climatically
distinctive (subtropical and temperate) regions in Australia, with a
particular focus on low-flow simulations. We also evaluated the effect of
model time step (daily vs. monthly) on flow intermittency estimation to
inform future model selection. The water balance model showed better
performance in the temperate region characterised by steady baseflow than in
the subtropical region with flashy hydrographs and frequent cease-to-flow
periods. The model tended to overestimate low-flow magnitude mainly due to
overestimation of gains (e.g. groundwater release to baseflow) during
low-flow periods. Modelled patterns of flow intermittency revealed highly
dynamic behaviour in space and time, with cease-to-flow events affecting
between 29 and 80 % of the river network over the period of
1911–2016, using a daily streamflow model. The daily flow model did not
perform better than the monthly flow model in quantifying flow intermittency
at a monthly time step, and model selection should depend on the intended
application of the model outputs. Our general approach to quantifying
spatio-temporal patterns of flow intermittency is transferable to other
parts of the world, and it can inform hydro-ecological understanding and
management of intermittent streams where limited gauging data are available.
Extreme waves and climatic patterns of variability in the eastern North Atlantic and Mediterranean basins
Authors: Morales-Márquez Verónica , Orfila Alejandro , Simarro Gonzalo , Marcos Marta
Published: November 2020

Abstract. The spatial and temporal variability of extreme wave climate in the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea is assessed using a 31-year wave model hindcast. Seasonality accounts for 50 % of the extreme wave height variability in the North Atlantic Ocean and up to 70 % in some areas of the Mediterranean Sea. Once seasonality is filtered out, the North Atlantic Oscillation and the Scandinavian index are the dominant large-scale atmospheric patterns that control the interannual variability of extreme waves during winters in the North Atlantic Ocean; to a lesser extent, the East Atlantic Oscillation also modulates extreme waves in the central part of the basin. In the Mediterranean Sea, the dominant modes are the East Atlantic and East Atlantic–Western Russia modes, which act strongly during their negative phases. A new methodology for analyzing the atmospheric signature associated with extreme waves is proposed. The method obtains the composites of significant wave height (SWH), mean sea level pressure (MSLP), and 10 m height wind velocity (U10) using the instant when specific climatic indices have a stronger correlation with extreme waves.
Parameterizing anisotropic reflectance of snow surfaces from airborne digital camera observations in Antarctica
Authors: Carlsen Tim , Birnbaum Gerit , Ehrlich André , Helm Veit , Jäkel Evelyn , Schäfer Michael , Wendisch Manfred
Published: November 2020

Abstract. The surface reflection of solar radiation comprises an important boundary condition for solar radiative transfer simulations. In polar regions above
snow surfaces, the surface reflection is particularly anisotropic due to low Sun elevations and the highly anisotropic scattering phase function of
the snow crystals. The characterization of this surface reflection anisotropy is essential for satellite remote sensing over both the Arctic and
Antarctica. To quantify the angular snow reflection properties, the hemispherical-directional reflectance factor (HDRF) of snow surfaces was derived
from airborne measurements in Antarctica during austral summer in 2013/14. For this purpose, a digital 180∘ fish-eye camera (green channel,
490–585 nm wavelength band) was used. The HDRF was measured for different surface roughness conditions, optical-equivalent snow grain
sizes, and solar zenith angles. The airborne observations covered an area of around 1000 km × 1000 km in the vicinity of
Kohnen Station (75∘0′ S, 0∘4′ E) at the outer part of the East Antarctic Plateau. The observations include
regions with higher (coastal areas) and lower (inner Antarctica) precipitation amounts and frequencies. The digital camera provided upward,
angular-dependent radiance measurements from the lower hemisphere. The comparison of the measured HDRF derived for smooth and rough snow surfaces
(sastrugi) showed significant differences, which are superimposed on the diurnal cycle. By inverting a semi-empirical kernel-driven bidirectional
reflectance distribution function (BRDF) model, the measured HDRF of snow surfaces was parameterized as a function of solar zenith angle, surface
roughness, and optical-equivalent snow grain size. This allows a direct comparison of the HDRF measurements with the BRDF derived from the Moderate
Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer (MODIS) satellite product MCD43. For the analyzed cases, MODIS observations (545–565 nm wavelength
band) generally underestimated the anisotropy of the surface reflection. The largest deviations were found for the volumetric model weight
fvol (average underestimation by a factor of 10). These deviations are likely linked to short-term changes in snow properties.
A new partial differential equation for image inpainting
Authors: Benseghir Mounder , Nouri Fatma Zohra , Tauber Pierre Clovis
Published: November 2020

A considerable interest in the inpainting problem have attracted many researchers in applied mathematics community. In fact in the last decade, nonlinear high order partial dierential equations have payed a central role in high quality inpainting developments. In this paper, we propose a technique for inpainting that combines an anisotropic diusion process with an edge-corner enhancing shock ltering. This technique makes use of a partial differential equation that is based on a nonlinear structure tensor which increases the accuracy and robustness of the coupled diusion and shock ltering. A methodology of partition and adjustment is used to estimate the contrast parameters that control the strength of the diffusivity functions. We focus on restoring large missing regions in grey scale images containing complex geometries parts. Our model is extended to a three dimensional case, where numerical experimentations were carried out on lling brain multiple sclerosis lesions in medical images. The efficiency and the competitiveness of the proposed algorithm is numerically compared to other approaches on both synthetic and real images.
Did Ancients Know the Testaments Were Pseudepigraphic? Implications for 2 Peter
Authors: Richards E. Randolph , Boyle Kevin J.
Published: November 2020

Richard Bauckham argues for the pseudonymity of 2 Peter on the basis of its genre. He argues that 2 Peter was written as a “testament” of Peter, and since other ancient Jewish testaments are clearly pseudonymous, 2 Peter’s testamental genre indicates its pseudonymity. Moreover, since it was well known in antiquity that the testaments were pseudonymous, those who wrote them did not intend to deceive. Petrine authorship of 2 Peter is thus, in Bauckham’s words, a “transparent fiction.” But did ancients know the testaments were pseudepigraphic? Bauckham provides no evidence. He only suggests that the pseudonymity of the testaments is so obvious that it was “self-evident.” The authors of this paper examined ancient authors who cited material from the testaments or testamental-type material. They found no evidence the authors or their audiences knew the testaments were pseudepigraphic. Rather, they appear to cite the testamentary material as authentic, reliable, even authoritative material.
An analysis of all-clefts
Authors: Tellings Jos
Published: November 2020

This paper provides an in-depth analysis of the semantic and syntactic properties of all-clefts (All I ate for dinner was a salad). The main characteristic of all-clefts is the inference that what is designated by the cleft is not much (the “smallness effect”). On the basis of novel observations on all-clefts with multi-clausal precopular clauses, and the interaction with negation and questions, I argue for three claims: (i) the word all is the head of a relative clause (not a free relative), (ii) the precopular clause is derived by syntactic movement, and (iii) the source of the smallness effect is the mirativity of only (Beaver & Clark 2008; Zeevat 2009). The little formal work that exists on all-clefts (Homer 2019) does not offer an analysis that reflects these three claims. Instead I propose a derivational account of all-clefts based on Boeckx (2007).
Gabapentin-induced myositis in a patient with spinal cord injury – a case report
Authors: Ghosh Sabyasachi , Villan Sarafdheen , Al Yazeedi Wafa
Published: November 2020

Myositis and rhabdomyolysis are the same forms of myopathy, with rhabdomyolysis being a more severe form of myopathy. Gabapentin is frequently used in patients with spinal cord injury for neuropathic pain. We report a case of probable gabapentin-induced myositis in a patient with spinal cord injury who was on an increasing dose of gabapentin.

This paraplegic patient was receiving an increasing dose of gabapentin for neuropathic pain in the lower limbs. Gabapentin-induced myositis was diagnosed by a combination of new-onset generalized body pain with tenderness, an increase in creatine kinase, elevated myoglobin levels, and a score of 6 on the Naranjo adverse drug reaction probability scale. Withdrawal of the gabapentin resolved the symptoms completely. Blood parameters became normal within two weeks.

We suggest that myopathy, in the form of myositis, should be recognized as a potential side effect of gabapentin in the literature.
Dissimilarity of parameterized maps generated in geostatistics and the assumption of an automatic software model in precision agriculture
Authors:   Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Malvezi Katiaíres Evangelista Delpin Malvezi , Sibaldelli Rubson Natal Ribeiro ,   Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Pereira Neto Osvaldo Coelho ,   Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Moraes Larissa Alexandra Cardoso ,   EMBRAPA Soja, Saab Otávio Jorge Grigoli Abi ,   Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Moreira Adônis ,   EMBRAPA Soja
Published: November 2020

Geostatistics is the main technique used to efficiently determine spatial variability. The objective of this study was to evaluate the applicability of the principles of geostatistics in the use of semivariograms elaborated through parametric monitoring and the assumption automatically made by software in the map preparation of soil chemical attributes. Available phosphorus (P), potassium (K+), calcium (Ca2+), magnesium (Mg2+), base saturation (V%), sulfur (SO42-), and pH were compared from the soil chemical attributes of 60 samples of a Typical Oxisol collected at a 0-20 cm depth and a distance of 300 m between the points. The maps were compared using error matrices and evaluated by the Global Accuracy (GA), Kappa (K), and Tau (T) indexes. The parameterized semivariograms and the automatic software model assumption did not present a high coincidence for the available P and Mg2+, making it necessary to adjust the semivariogram variables in the spatial analysis as a function of the outliers, sum of squares of residuals, coefficient of determination, and cross-validation to better represent the variability of the data and thus avoid distortions of the sample point range that would affect the adequate representativeness of the attributes, which contrasts with the automatic model generated by the software.
Sunflower cultivation under different irrigation systems and planting spacings in the sub-middle region of São Francisco Valley
Authors:   Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Semiárido, Simões Welson Lima , Silva Jucicléia Soares da ,   Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Semiárido, Oliveira Anderson Ramos de ,   Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Semiárido, Regitano Neto Amadeu ,   Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Semiárido, Drumond Marcos Antonio ,   Empresa Brasileira de Pesquisa Agropecuária, Embrapa Semiárido, Lima Jair Andrade ,   Universidade de Pernambuco, Nascimento Bruno Rodrigues do ,   Universidade de Pernambuco
Published: November 2020

The growth and yield of sunflower plants can be influenced by the plant population arrangement and the type of irrigation system adopted to meet the water requirements of the crop. This study examines the influence of different irrigation systems and spacings between planting rows on the development of sunflower cultivars for the sub-middle region of São Francisco Valley. The experiment was laid out in a randomized block design with a split-plot arrangement in which the plots consisted of three irrigation systems (drip, micro-sprinkler and sprinkler); sub-plots were represented by three spacings between planting rows (0.65, 0.55 and 0.45 m); and sub-sub-plots corresponded to two sunflower cultivars (Hélio 251 and Hélio 360). The following variables were analyzed: plant height; number of leaves; stem diameter; number of heads; head diameter; dry biomass of stems, leaves and heads; and achene yield. The different irrigation systems and row spacings markedly influenced the growth of the sunflower cultivars. The highest yield of cultivar Hélio 251 was obtained with the drip irrigation system and 0.55 m spacing. Cultivar Hélio 360 achieved the highest yields when irrigated by the micro-sprinkler system at 0.55 and 0.45 m spacing. In the sprinkler irrigation system, cultivar Hélio 360 obtained the highest yield at 0.45 m spacing.
Physiological changes and growth of soursop plants under irrigation with saline water and H2O2 in post-grafting phase
Authors:   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Veloso Luana Lucas de Sá Almeida , Lima Geovani Soares de ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Azevedo Carlos Alberto Vieira de ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Nobre Reginaldo Gomes ,   Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido, Silva André Alisson Rodrigues da ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Capitulino Jessica Dayanne ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Gheyi Hans Raj ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Bonifácio Benedito Ferreira ,   Universidade Federal Rural do Semi-Árido
Published: November 2020

The low availability of water associated with high salt concentrations in irrigation water has become one of the leading challenges for agricultural production in the semiarid region of Northeastern Brazil. Thus, the study of strategies to enable the use of saline water in agriculture is essential. From this perspective, this study aimed to evaluate alterations in gas exchange, chloroplast pigments, and cell damage in soursop (Anonna muricata L.) irrigated with saline water and under exogenous application of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) in the post-grafting phase. A study was conducted in Campina Grande, PB, under greenhouse conditions. The treatments were distributed in a randomized block design, in a 4 × 2 factorial arrangement, consisting of four levels of electrical conductivity of water (ECw; 1.6; 2.4; 3.2 and 4.0 dS m-1) and two concentrations of H2O2 (0 and 20 µM) with four replications. Irrigation water salinity from 1.6 dS m-1 caused changes in the stomatal conductance, respiration, and internal CO2 concentration of soursop plants. A 20 µM concentration of H2O2 reduced the effects of salinity on transpiration and CO2 assimilation values, in addition to promoting the biosynthesis of photosynthetic pigments and reducing cell damage in soursop plants, at 150 days after transplantation. The exogenous application of 20 µM H2O2 reduced the deleterious effects of salinity on the stem diameter of both rootstock and scion in soursop plants irrigated with ECw of 1.6 dS m-1. The exogenous application of 20 µM H2O2 was not efficient in mitigating the damage caused by salinity on the stem diameter of the soursop at grafting point.
Gas exchange, growth, and production of mini-watermelon under saline water irrigation and phosphate fertilization
Authors:   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Lima Geovani Soares de , Félix Charles Macedo ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Silva Saulo Soares da ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Soares Lauriane Almeida dos Anjos ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Gheyi Hans Raj ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Soares Marcos Denilson Melo ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Sousa Pedro Francisco do Nascimento ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande, Fernandes Pedro Dantas ,   Universidade Federal de Campina Grande
Published: November 2020

In the semi-arid region of Northeastern Brazil, due to the occurrence of excess salts, both in the water and soil, plants are constantly exposed to various conditions of abiotic stress. Thus, it is extremely important to identify methods capable of minimizing the effects of salt stress on plants as a way to ensure the expansion of irrigated areas. In this context, the objective of this study was to evaluate the gas exchange, growth, and production of mini-watermelon irrigated with saline waters and fertilized with phosphorus. The experiment was conducted in pots under greenhouse conditions in Pombal, PB, Brazil, using a randomized block design in a 5 x 4 factorial scheme, corresponding to five levels of electrical conductivity of irrigation water—ECw (0.3, 1.3, 2.3, 3.3, and 4.3 dS m-1), four phosphorus doses— PD (60, 80, 100, and 120% of the recommendation), and with three replicates. Watermelon plants cv. Sugar Baby were sensitive to water salinity greater than 0.3 dS m-1, with more pronounced inhibition of gas exchange, growth, and production. Reduction in the CO2 assimilation rate of watermelon plants cv. Sugar Baby was associated with factors of stomatal and non-stomatal origin. Phosphorous doses corresponding to 73 and 88% of the recommended values promoted an increase in the intercellular CO2 concentration and stem diameter of mini-watermelon plants. P2O5 doses ranging from 60 to 120% of the recommendation did not mitigate the effects of salt stress on the cultivation of watermelon cv. Sugar Baby.
Gene characterization of Bradyrhizobium spp. strains contrasting in biological nitrogen fixation efficiency in soybean
Authors:   Universidade Paranaense, Medeiros Camila de , Pereira Gilberto Aguiar ,   Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Freitas Janyeli Dorini Silva de ,   Universidade Paranaense, Oliveira Filho Olavo Bilac Quaresma de ,   Universidade Paranaense, Valle Juliana Silveira do ,   Universidade Paranaense, Linde Giani Andrea ,   Universidade Paranaense, Paccola-Meirelles Luzia Doretto ,   Universidade Paranaense, Colauto Nelson Barros ,   Universidade Paranaense, Barcellos Fernando Gomes ,   Universidade Paranaense
Published: November 2020

Bacteria from genus Bradyrhizobium can establish symbiosis with soybean and supply the plant nitrogen demands via biological nitrogen fixation (BNF). This study aimed to characterize genes related to BNF efficiency in B. japonicum strains contrasting in BNF efficiency. These gene sequences were previously identified in B. japonicum (strain S370) as probably related to the BNF efficiency in soybean using a DNA subtractive technique. These genes were amplified with primers based on B. japonicum USDA110 genome. The PCR products were digested with restriction endonucleases and the RFLP products were analyzed by horizontal electrophoresis. Among the four genes, only blr3208 and blr4511 amplified for most of the strains. Neither polymorphism of the restriction profile of blr3208 and blr4511 genes nor with endonuclease for PCR-RFLP was observed. The contrasting strains had blr3208 and blr4511 genes sequenced and the multiple alignment analysis of nucleotide sequences showed the presence of preserved internal regions, confirming the analysis with PCR-RFLP. The blr3208 and blr4511 genes are highly conserved among B. japonicum strains, which may be related to adaptive function during the evolutionary process of Bradyrhizobium genus.
What are the main uncertainties in estimating earthquake risk?
Authors: Vere-Jones D.
Published: November 2020

The general heading of seismic risk covers a variety of problems, of which the following at least may be distinguished:

risk analyses for a particular structure on a particular site;  

the determination of large-scale zoning schemes;  

microzoning;  

risk analyses for earthquake insurance ;  

risk analyses for civil defence and hazard reduction programmes.  

This paper is concerned chiefly with the first of these, although a few remarks concerning the others appear in the final section. Its intention is to identify the major uncertainties which enter into the estimation of seismic risk (in the sense of 1. above) and to place an order of magnitude estimate on the errors each is likely to cause. Some earlier papers with a similar theme are by Cornell and Vanmarke (1969), Donovan and Bernstein (1978), McGuire and Shedlock (1981), McGuire and Barnhard (1981) among others. Evidently there is a considerable element of personal judgement in such an attempt; the principal aim is to draw attention to the effects of aspects which are difficult to bring into explicit consideration and as a consequence are in danger of being ignored or otherwise brushed under the carpet.
Effects of Environmental Temperature and Precipitation Pattern on Growth Stages of Magnifera indica cv. Harumanis Mango
Authors: Talib Shaidatul Azdawiyah Abdul , Hassan Muhamad Hafiz Muhamad , Rashid Mohd Aziz , Sabdin Zul Helmey Mohd , Rashid Muhammad Zamir Abdul , Ibrahim Wan Mahfuzah Wan , Rahman Mohammad Hariz Abdul , Rusli Mohd Ghazali , Bakar Syarol Nizam Abu , Mustaffa Mohd Alif Omar
Published: November 2020

Magnifera indica cv. Harumanis is one of the most commercially grown mango cultivar in Malaysia due to market demand and price. However, the fruit supply never meets the demand as Harumanis is highly sensitive towards the climate and only grows in Perlis and part of Kedah. Crop productivity and development are mainly related to climatic variables where temperature and precipitation are the most importance. Temperature and precipitation distribution pattern affect flowering, fruit set, fruit growth and also fruit development. This study evaluates the relationship between temperature and precipittaion distribution pattern towards development of Harumanis growth stages including flowering and fruit development aspects in Zone 1 (area with a clear dry season up to three or four months) and Zone 2 (area with a clear dry season between one to two months). Thermal calendar based on daily and accumulated growing degree days (GDD) used to predict growth stages. Results indicate that Harumanis need a hot and dry environment (high temperature with less precipitation) during reproductive stage. However, there is no significant difference between Zone 1 and Zone 2 on the GDD required during every growth stages. On yield and fruit quality aspects, Zone 1 produced higher yield and better quality than Zone 2 due to the environmental factor even though there is no significant difference. Future study needs to be done as this information together with projection of future climate change scenarios are crucial in developing Decision Support Tool (DST) to guide the farmers in planning their crop management practices for the upcoming season.
Artificial Insemination Training Program for Smallholder Pig Farms in Gauteng Province, South Africa
Authors: Thivhilaheli Richard Netshirovha , Tsatsimpe Mammikele , Muller Thabo , Ramukhithi Fhulufhelo Vincent , Mphaphathi Masindi Lotus , Makgothi Gogamatsamang , Thomas Ronald Sylvester
Published: November 2020

The aim of this study was to facilitate artificial insemination training to enhance sustainable pig production within the developing smallholder pig production sector in Gauteng Province, South Africa. Eighteen smallholder pig farmers with requisite structures (pig house, pens), pigs (large white, landrace duroc or South African indigenous) and management (feeding, cleaning and record keeping) capacity were trained on routine pig management and artificial insemination procedures in a “learning by doing” on-farm supervised programme administered by Agricultural Research Council, Animal Production pig training team. Following estrus detection, 96 sows were artificially inseminated and 31 naturally served (NS). Farrowing rates (FR), total born (TB) and born alive (BA) piglets were recorded. The occurrence ccurrence of mummified fetuses (0.019 vs. 0.022%) and weak piglets (0.038 vs. 0.049%) did not differ between artificially inseminated sows and naturally mated sows. Born alive, birth weight and weaning weight were higher for artificial inseminated sows. The average litter size was 15± and 13±, birth weight 1.98±0.79 kg and 1.48±0.58 kg and weaning weight 9.89±0.87 kg and 7.23±0.71 kg for the AI and NS litters, respectively. Farmer demographic factors (age, gender and educational level) had no effect on farrowing rate, total born and piglets born alive. Therefore, implementation of artificial insemination techniques and pig production training was feasible under a smallholder pig production system.
Distribution of Araceae and the Diversity of Life Forms
Authors: Croat Thomas B. , Ortiz Orlando O.
Published: November 2020

This paper discusses the family Araceae, emphasizing its worldwide distribution and the diversity of morphological and ecological characteristics of the family that have enabled it to reach such a prominent position with diverse habitats. Few families of its size have come to inhabit such a diverse spectrum of habits and biomes. The family has important habit forms and growth structures that have enabled such distributional patterns. The very broad spectrum of life forms it demonstrates is one of the main characteristics of the family, namely broad habitat diversity. This coupled with high species diversity; high rates of endemism and the presence of large numbers of unknown species (probably the highest of any family percentage-wise) constitute principal characteristics of the family.
The effects of NP-POL, the nonapeptide constituent
of Colostrinin, on intracellular antioxidant system
Authors: Lemieszewska Marta , Rymaszewska Joanna , Stańczykiewicz Bartłomiej , Zabłocka Agnieszka
Published: November 2020

Introduction: Latest findings show that the proline-rich polypeptide complex (PRP), known as Colostrinin,
and its component peptides may have beneficial effects on cellular response to oxidative
stress, which is the main aspect of aging and an essential feature in neurodegenerative disorders.
Recently isolated and described nonapeptide NP-POL (RPKHPIKHQ) was shown to have
potential protective properties in neuronal cells, including the regulation of cell survival,
neurite protection and intracellular ROS release. Based on those findings, further studies were
performed covering the possible effects of NP-POL on molecular and enzymatic mechanisms
of response to oxidative stress.
Materials/Methods: To evaluate the regulatory effects of NP-POL on oxidative stress, 6-hydroxydopamine-treated
rat pheochromocytoma (PC12) cells were used as an experimental model and a series of assays
were performed, including H2O2 release, glutathione turnover and the expression and activity
of superoxide dismutases (Mn-SOD and Cu-Zn-SOD).
Results: NP-POL was shown to modify the cellular antioxidative response to reverse the toxic effects of
6-hydroxydopamine. The direct effects of NP-POL include a significant reduction of the total
amount of released H2O2 and enhanced glutathione activation. Moreover, NP-POL enhanced
the expression of superoxide dismutase in untreated cells, which confirms its contribution
in secondary enzymatic response.
Discussion: The newly discovered peptide NP-POL, isolated from the colostrum-derived polypeptide
complex Colostrinin, was shown to have potential antioxidant and neuroprotective properties,
which makes it very promising as a natural therapeutic in neurodegenerative diseases.
Bazele stiintei informatiei
Authors:   Editura Universitara, Dragulanescu Nicolae-George
Published: November 2020

Cursul Bazele Stiintei informatiei (BSI) deschide studentilor – viitori ingineri in Electronica, Telecomunicatii si Tehnologia informatiei – largi si inedite perspective spre domenii si ocupatii/ profesii noi, specific Societatii informationale. Astfel sunt, de exemplu, Ingineria informatiei (privind metodologia de proiectare, dezvoltare si realizare a sistemelor informationale), Managementul informatiei/ cunostintelor (privind gestionarea informatiei/ cunostintelor existente la nivelul unei organizatii), Securitatea informatiei (privind confidentialitatea, integritatea si disponibilitatea datelor si informatiilor in cadrul sistemelor informationale, organizatiilor si retelelor informatice), Managementul calitatii informatiei (privind evaluarea si asigurarea calitatii datelor, informatiilor, produselor si serviciilor informationale), etc.
Despre frica de necunoscut
Authors:   Editura Universitara, Farca Speranta
Published: November 2020

eama de necunoscut este o etapa naturala a dezvoltarii noastre. Explorand-o, putem sa ne intelegem la diferite varste si putem sa le fim alaturi copiilor nostri mici si adolescenti. Relatia pe care o avem cu strainii ne formeaza mai mult decat credem. Ea ne ajuta sa ne raspundem unor intrebari despre noi insine: • De ce uneori suntem nesiguri si agresivi, intoleranti si rigizi? • De ce avem nevoie sa punem etichete si sa ne razboim? • Cum ajungem sa anticipam viitorul, sa-l planificam, sa facem proiecte? • Ce ne face sa radem in hohote, sa ne jucam, sa avem simtul umorului? • De ce facem surprize, de ce exploram? • De ce suntem prevazatori?
Different Approaches to Managing Innovation Activities: An Analysis of Strong, Moderate, and Modest Innovators
Authors: Prokop Viktor , Stejskal Jan
Published: November 2020

In the present day, innovation has become a key element of competitive advantage. However, most countries are failing in their innovative activities, and their innovative performance is below that of the EU average. Therefore, the European Commission annually publishes its Innovation Union Scoreboard, which provides a comparative assessment of the EU member states’ research and innovation performance. The countries are divided into four groups according to their innovation performance: innovation leaders, strong innovators, moderate innovators, and modest innovators. In this paper, we have selected countries whose innovation performance was close to, below, or well below that of the EU average in 2015, and we have performed microeconomic analysis of the situation in these countries’ firms to analyze the conditions of their innovation environment and uncover barriers to their innovation activities. We analyzed firms in the manufacturing industries in Slovenia (a strong innovator), Croatia (a moderate innovator), and Romania (a modest innovator) by using original multiple regression models and data from the 2010–2012 Community Innovation Survey. The results demonstrate the different backgrounds for innovation in each country. In Romania, there is a lack of both a satisfactory environment for innovation and sufficient capacity for absorbing public funds; investment into innovation-related activities is also absent. In Croatia, the innovation potential has not been fully exploited. However, we show that the appropriate targeting of innovation determinants (e.g., collaboration with different partners or public financing) could lead to the creation of synergies and spillover effects that would be able to support their innovative activities and strengthen the country’s competitiveness. There is a completely different situation in Slovenia. Firms there effectively utilize the various determinants of innovation activities, and these determinants have strong influence when utilized on their own. On the other hand, results also show that certain significant combinations of determinants of innovation activities are missing in Slovenia. In conclusion, we have proposed practical implications for policy makers that would be able to support innovative activities and help each country to improve its innovation ranking.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ee.28.1.16111
Mining Hot-Personae Approach Based on Local Social Microblog Graph
Authors: Yajun Du , Peng Biao , Su FangHong , Cheng Fei , Du Shangyi
Published: November 2020

With the increasing popularity of online social media platforms, netizens always chat with their friends and share information, such as what they like in their daily lives, on these platforms. Netizens publish tons of information on social platforms every day. These platforms converge many people and information. The processes by which the publishers find the sharers who are interested in their publications and the sharers find some interesting things and information in what the publishers published have resulted in the challenge of retrieving information from social network fields. To address these issues, we propose a novel algorithm, named Hot Persona Mining, to analyze the users' focus personae from microblog posts in the online social networks. During mining, we first utilize local-based graph clustering to establish the nearest neighbor nodes of target users. Then, we mine users' focused personae entities from their neighbors' published microblog posts in different periods. Then, we construct the users' active score vector and their interest matrix to mine the hot personae in every local social graph. The experimental results show that our algorithm effectively mines current focus of the target user, and exhibits good performance as shown by its precision, recall and F-measures.