bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Methane efflux from an American bison herd
Authors: Stoy Paul C. , Cook Adam A. , Dore John E. , Kleindl William , Brookshire E. N. Jack , Gerken Tobias
Published: February 2020

Abstract. American bison (Bison bison L.) have recovered from the brink of extinction over the past century. Bison reintroduction creates multiple environmental benefits, but their impacts on greenhouse gas emissions are poorly understood. Bison are thought to have produced some 2 Tg year−1 of the estimated 9–15 Tg year−1 of pre-industrial enteric methane emissions, but few contemporary measurements have been made due to their mobile grazing habits and safety issues associated with direct measurements. Here, we measure methane and carbon dioxide fluxes from a bison herd on an enclosed pasture during daytime periods in winter using eddy covariance. Methane emissions from the study area were negligible in the absence of bison (mean ± standard deviation = 0.0024 ± 0.042 μmol m−2 s−1) and were significantly greater than zero, 0.048 ± 0.082 μmol m−2 s−1 with a positively skewed distribution, when bison were present. We coupled an eddy covariance flux footprint analysis with bison location estimates from automated camera images to calculate a mean (median) methane flux of 38 μmol s−1 (22 μmol s−1) per animal, or 52 ± 14 g CH4 day−1 (31 g CH4 day−1), less than half of measured emission rates for range cattle. Emission estimates are subject to spatial uncertainty in bison location measurements and the flux footprint, but from our measurements there is no evidence that bison methane emissions exceed those from cattle. We caution however that our measurements were made during winter and that evening measurements of bison distributions were not possible using our approach. Annual measurements are ultimately necessary to determine the greenhouse gas burden of bison grazing systems. Eddy covariance is a promising technique for measuring ruminant methane emissions in conventional and alternate grazing systems and can be used to compare them going forward.
Bacterial and fungal predator – prey interactions modulate soil aggregation
Authors: Erktan Amandine , Rillig Matthias C. , Carminati Andrea , Jousset Alexandre , Scheu Stefan
Published: February 2020

Abstract. The formation and stabilisation of soil macro-aggregates protects soils from erosion, a major worldwide threat on soils. While the role of bacteria and fungi in soil aggregation is well established, how predators feeding on microbes modify soil aggregation has hardly been tested. Here, we studied how predators modulate the effect of microbial prey on soil aggregation. We focused on two predator – prey interactions: bacterial-based interactions comprising amoebae (Acanthamoeba castellanii) grazing on free-living bacteria (Pseudomonas fluorescens), and fungal-based interactions comprising collembolans (Heteromurus nitidus) grazing on saprotrophic fungi (Chaetomium globosum). We conducted a microcosm experiment lasting six weeks and assessed changes in soil aggregate formation and stabilisation, together with modifications in soil microbial communities (PLFAs). We further traced the food resource consumed by microbes using δ13C isotopic tracing. The protist A. castellanii increased the formation of soil aggregates but decreased their stability, without affecting bacterial abundance and community composition, suggesting that the changes were due to amoebae-mediated changes in the production of bacterial mucilage. Saprotrophic fungi showed the highest positive effect on soil aggregate formation and stabilisation, associated with a more efficient use of particulate organic carbon (chopped litter) added to the microcosms. Adding collembolans decreased the abundance of fungi and their ability to capture carbon of litter origin, with negative consequences on soil aggregation. Our work here has demonstrated that trophic interactions are important for achieving a mechanistic understanding of biological contributions to soil aggregation.
Mitigation of the double ITCZ syndrome in BCC-CSM2-MR through improving parameterizations of boundary-layer turbulence and shallow convection
Authors: Lu Yixiong , Wu Tongwen , Li Yubin , Yang Ben
Published: February 2020

Abstract. The spurious double intertropical convergence zone (ITCZ) is one of the most prominent systematic biases in coupled atmosphere-ocean general circulation models (CGCMs), and the underestimated marine stratus over eastern subtropical oceans has been recognized as a possible contributor. Rather than modifying the cloud scheme itself, this study significantly promotes the marine stratus simulation through improving parameterizations of boundary-layer turbulence and shallow convection in the medium-resolution Beijing Climate Center Climate System Model version 2 (BCC-CSM2-MR). The University of Washington moist turbulence scheme is implemented in BCC-CSM2-MR to better represent the stratocumulus, and a decoupling criterion is also introduced to the shallow convection scheme for improving the simulation of the stratocumulus-to-cumulus transition. Results show that the simulated precipitation in the eastern Pacific south of the equator is largely reduced, alleviating the double ITCZ problem. The tropical precipitation asymmetry index increases from −0.024 in the original BCC-CSM2-MR to 0.147 in the revised BCC-CSM2-MR, which is much closer to the observation. The study suggests that improving parameterizations of boundary-layer turbulence and shallow convection is effective for mitigating the double ITCZ syndrome in CGCMs.
Beyond binary baseflow separation: a delayed-flow index for multiple streamflow contributions
Authors: Stoelzle Michael , Schuetz Tobias , Weiler Markus , Stahl Kerstin , Tallaksen Lena M.
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Understanding components of the total streamflow is important to assess the ecological functioning of rivers. Binary or two-component separation of streamflow into a quick and a slow (often referred to as baseflow) component are often based on arbitrary choices of separation parameters and also merge different delayed components into one baseflow component and one baseflow index (BFI). As streamflow generation during dry weather often results from drainage of multiple sources, we propose to extend the BFI by a delayed-flow index (DFI) considering the dynamics of multiple delayed contributions to streamflow. The DFI is based on characteristic delay curves (CDCs) where the identification of breakpoint (BP) estimates helps to avoid rather subjective separation parameters and allows for distinguishing four types of delayed streamflow contributions. The methodology is demonstrated using streamflow records from a set of 60 mesoscale catchments in Germany and Switzerland covering a pronounced elevation gradient of roughly 3000 m. We found that the quickflow signal often diminishes earlier than assumed by two-component BFI analyses and distinguished a variety of additional flow contributions with delays shorter than 60 d. For streamflow contributions with delays longer than 60 d, we show that the method can be used to assess catchments' water sustainability during dry spells. Colwell's predictability (PT), a measure of streamflow periodicity and sustainability, was applied to attribute the identified delay patterns to dynamic catchment storage. The smallest dynamic storages were consistently found for catchments between approx. 800 and 1800 m a.s.l. Above an elevation of 1800 m the DFI suggests that seasonal snowpack provides the primary contribution, whereas below 800 m groundwater resources are most likely the major streamflow contributions. Our analysis also indicates that dynamic storage in high alpine catchments might be large and is overall not smaller than in lowland catchments. We conclude that the DFI can be used to assess the range of sources forming catchments' storages and to judge the long-term sustainability of streamflow.
Simulation of extreme rainfall and streamflow events in small Mediterranean watersheds with a one-way coupled atmospheric-hydrologic modelling system
Authors: Camera Corrado , Bruggeman Adriana , Zittis George , Sofokleous Ioannis , Arnault Joël
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Few studies evaluate the hydrologic performance of coupled atmospheric-hydrologic models when forced with observed rainfall and even fewer when forced with modelled precipitation. This information is crucial for the study of floods and in general for the use of the models for water management purposes. This study's objectives were: (i) to calibrate the one-way coupled WRF-hydro model for simulating extreme events in Cyprus with observed precipitation; and (ii) to evaluate the model performance when forced with WRF-downscaled (1 × 1 km2) re-analysis precipitation data (ERA-Interim). Streamflow was modelled during extreme rainfall events that occurred in January 1989 and November 1994 over 22 mountain watersheds. In six watersheds, Nash-Sutcliffe Efficiencies (NSE) larger than 0.5 were obtained for both events. The WRF-modelled rainfall showed an average NSE of 0.83 for January 1989 and 0.49 for November 1994. Nevertheless, hydrologic simulations of the two events with the WRF-modelled rainfall and the calibrated WRF-Hydro returned negative streamflow NSE for 13 watersheds in January 1989 and for 18 watersheds in November 1994. These results indicate that small differences in amounts or shifts in time or space of modelled rainfall, in comparison with observed precipitation, can strongly modify the hydrologic response of small watersheds to extreme events. Thus, the calibration of WRF-Hydro for small watersheds depends on the availability of observed rainfall with high temporal and spatial resolution. However, the use of modelled precipitation input data will remain important for studying the effect of future extremes on flooding and water resources.
Ice layer formation in the snowpack due to preferential water flow:
case study at an alpine site
Authors: Quéno Louis , Fierz Charles , van Herwijnen Alec , Longridge Dylan , Wever Nander
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Ice layers may form in the snowpack due to preferential water flow, with impacts on the snowpack mechanichal, hydrological and thermodynamical properties. This case study at a high-altitude alpine site aims at monitoring their formation and evolution during winter 2017 thanks to the combined use of a comprehensive observation dataset at daily frequency and detailed snowpack modelling. In particular, daily SnowMicroPen penetration resistance profiles enabled to better identify ice layer temporal and spatial heterogeneity when associated with traditional snowpack profiles and measurements, while upward-looking ground penetrating radar measurements enabled to detect the water front and better describe the snowpack wetting when associated with lysimeter runoff measurements. One-dimensional snowpack simulations with the SNOWPACK model successfully represented the formation of some ice layers when using Richards equation and preferential flow domain parameterization, with a newly implemented ice reservoir. Detailed snowpack simulations with snow microstructure representation, associated with high-resolution comprehensive observation dataset were shown relevant for studying and modelling such complex phenomena, despite limitations inherent to 1D modelling.
The MOSAiC ice floe: sediment-laden survivor from the Siberian shelf
Authors: Krumpen Thomas , Birrien Florent , Kauker Frank , Rackow Thomas , von Albedyll Luisa , Angelopoulos Michael , Belter H. Jakob , Bessonov Vadlimir , Damm Ellen , Dethloff Klaus , Haapala Jari , Haas Christian , Hendricks Stefan , Hoelemann Jens , Hoppmann Mario , Kaleschke Lars , Karcher Michael , Kolabutin nikolai , Lenz Josefine , Morgenstern Anne , Nicolaus Marcel , Nixdorf Uwe , Petrovsky Tomash , Rabe Benjamin , Rabenstein Lasse , Rex Markus , Ricker Robert , Rohde Jan , Shimanchuk Egor , Singha Suman , Smolyanitsky Vasily , Sokolov Vladimir , Stanton Tim , Timofeeva Anna , Tsamados Michel
Published: February 2020

Abstract. In September 2019, the research icebreaker Polarstern started the largest multidisciplinary Arctic expedition so far, the MOSAiC (Multidisciplinary drifting Observatory for the Study of Arctic Climate) drift experiment. Being moored to an ice floe for a whole year, thus including the winter season, the declared goal of the expedition is to better understand and quantify relevant processes within the atmosphere-ice-ocean system that impact the sea ice mass and energy budget, ultimately leading to much improved climate models. Satellite observations, atmospheric reanalysis data, and readings from a nearby meteorological station indicate that the interplay of high ice export in late winter and exceptionally high air temperatures resulted in the longest ice-free summer period since reliable instrumental records began. We show, using a Lagrangian tracking tool and a thermodynamic sea ice model, that the MOSAiC floe carrying the Central Observatory (CO) formed in a polynya event north of the New Siberian Islands at the beginning of December 2018. The results further indicate that sea ice in the vicinity of the CO (
Comparison of electrical collection topologies for multi-rotor wind turbines
Authors: Pirrie Paul , Campos-Gaona David , Anaya-Lara Olimpo
Published: February 2020

Abstract. Multi-rotor wind turbines (MRWT) have been suggested in literature as a solution to achieving wind turbine systems with capacities greater than 10 MW. MWRT's utilise a large number of small rotors connected to one support structure instead of one large rotor, with the aim of circumventing the square cube law. Potential benefits of MRWT's include cost and material savings, standardisation of parts, increased control possibilities and improved logistics for assembly and maintenance. Almost all previous work has focused on mechanical and aerodynamic feasibility, with almost no attention being paid to the electrical systems. In this research eight different topologies of the electrical collection network for MRWT's are analysed to assess which are the most economically and practically viable options. AC and DC collection networks are presented in radial, star, cluster and DC series topologies. Mass, capital cost and losses are estimated based on scaling relationships from academic literature and up to date commercial data. The focus of this study is the assessment of the type of electrical collector topology so component type and voltage level are kept consistent between topology designs in order to facilitate a fair comparison. Topologies are compared in terms of four main criteria; capital cost, cost effectiveness, total mass, and reliability. The most suitable collection topology for MRWT's is shown to be of the star type, in which each turbine is connected to the step up transformer via its own cable. DC topologies are generally found to be more expensive when compared to their AC counterparts due to the high cost of DC-DC converters and DC switchgear.
Quality of life in inflammatory bowel diseases: it is not all about the bowel
Authors: Keller Ronald , Mazurak Nazar , Fantasia Laura , Fusco Stefano , Malek Nisar P , Wehkamp Jan , Enck Paul , Klag Thomas
Published: February 2020

Background/Aims: The inflammatory bowel diseases (IBD), ulcerative colitis (UC), and Crohn’s disease (CD) are chronic diseases mostly affecting young patients. As they are diseases accompanying patients for their entire life, and the quality of life (QUOL) interacts with disease activity, improving QUOL should be one of the main goals of therapy. This study aims to identify factors contributing to good or impaired QUOL.Methods: Questionnaires addressing health-related QUOL and other psychological and social features were positioned on our institutions’ webpage and on the webpage of the largest self-help group for IBD in Germany. Patients were subdivided according to their QUOL score with a cutoff of <60. We used the Short Inflammatory Bowel Disease Questionnaire, the Assessment of the Demand for Additional Psychological Treatment, and the Fear of Progression Questionnaire Short Form.Results: High numbers of patients in both subgroups showed an impaired QUOL (87.34% in UC, 91.08% in CD). Active extraintestinal manifestations, smoking, high fear of progression and high demand for psychotherapy were associated with reduced QUOL. In addition, polypharmacological interventions did not result in a good QUOL, but ostomies are linked to improved QUOL especially in CD patients.Conclusions: Scores used in clinical day-to-day-practice mainly focusing on somatic factors do not sufficiently address important aspects concerning QUOL. Most importantly, extraintestinal manifestations show a hitherto underestimated impact on QUOL.
MODELAGEM DA DISPERSÃO DE POLUENTES ATMOSFÉRICOS PARA AVALIAÇÃO DA QUALIDADE DO AR EM SÃO JOSÉ DA LAPA/MG
Authors: Ribeiro Marcos Vinicius , Ferreira Thaysa Karolyne Aguiar , Santos Jasmim Dias dos
Published: February 2020

A área objeto de estudo deste trabalho é o município de São José da Lapa em Minas Gerais. Devido ao seu relevo cárstico, essa área é fortemente explorada por 2 mineradoras, aqui tratadas como A e B, que trabalham com beneficiamento de calcário. Os dados referentes às emissões de Partículas Totais em Suspensão (PTS) foram obtidos na Fundação Estadual do Meio Ambiente, a seguir elaborou-se a modelagem através do software AERMOD para estudo da dispersão através de 2 cenários (inverno e verão), que correspondem ao período de maior seca (junho a setembro) e de maior pluviosidade (dezembro a fevereiro). As modelagens foram realizadas para todo o ano de 2016, considerando a emissão máxima diária e a média de cada período estudado. No cenário mais crítico que é a emissão máxima em 24 horas, a modelagem mostra a maior concentração verificada que é 151,1 μg/m³ - valor que ultrapassa o padrão secundário definido para PTS, de acordo com a resolução do CONAMA 03/90. Os resultados indicam a necessidade de ações mais incisivas para o controle da poluição atmosférica local, propõe-se a aspersão mais frequente de água, adensamento da cortina arbórea ao redor das mineradoras e implantação de tecnologias mais efetivas nos fornos de calcinação, na tentativa de reduzir as emissões destes poluentes. A modelagem mostrou-se uma ferramenta bastante interessante para estudos de avaliação da qualidade do ar.
APLICAÇÃO DE TÉCNICAS DE INTERPOLAÇÃO PARA ESPACIALIZAÇÃO DE CHUVAS DA REDE HIDROGRÁFICA: ESTUDO DE CASO CALHA NORTE – PA
Authors: Filho David Figueiredo Ferreira , Bezerra Paulo Eduardo Silva , Alves da Silva Maria De Nazaré , Silva Rodrigues Rodrigo Silvano , Figueiredo Nélio De Moura
Published: February 2020

O presente estudo tem por objetivo analisar o comportamento hidrológico da média das precipitações pluviométricas, por meio de ferramentas de geoprocessamento e estatística - Krigagem e Interpolação pela Ponderação do Inverso da Distância – IDW. Esses métodos de interpolação são ferramentas usualmente utilizadas para gerar superfícies distribuídas de uma determinada variável a partir de dados pontuais de precipitação. Assim, avaliou-se comparativamente, dois métodos de interpolação de chuvas para a bacia hidrográfica da Calha Norte, localizada no Estado do Pará. Os dados para a interpolação foram extraídos da plataforma online Hidroweb disponível pela Agência Nacional de Águas – ANA. A análise dos dados foi executada em 3 etapas, das quais filtrou-se todas as séries histórica, a primeira consistiu em interpolar dados de 30 anos ou mais de série, a segunda de dados maiores de 15 anos e a terceira dados menores de 30 anos. A interpolação dos dados foi executada no software Arcgis 10.5. Posteriormente, utilizou-se 1500 pontos de controle em toda bacia para verificar a correlação de Pearson entre os métodos geoestatísticos. Os resultados mostraram comportamentos similares na área de estudo, sendo que 4 análises obtiveram uma correlação maior que 0,8 (forte). Portanto, apesar de um número reduzido de estações na área de estudo, os métodos de interpolação foram satisfatórios na análise da distribuição da chuva na RH da Calha Norte.
Concomitant Coracoid Process Fracture with Bony Bankart Lesion Treated with the Latarjet Procedure
Authors: Min Seung Gi , Kim Dong Hyun , Lee Ho Seok , Lee Hyun Joo , Park Kyeong Hyeon , Yoon Jong Pil
Published: February 2020

Bony lesions of the glenoid and Hill-Sachs lesions are the most common injuries after a ﬁrst-time traumatic shoulder dislocation. However, fracture of the coracoid process after traumatic shoulder dislocation is rare. A single, open surgical procedure could be performed by a Latarjet procedure using a fractured fragment of the coracoid process. If a fracture of the coracoid process is associated with a traumatic anterior shoulder dislocation, the Latarjet procedure may be the most appropriate surgical option.
Orthopaedic Manifestations of Melanoma and Their Management
Authors: DiCaprio Matthew R. , Abousayed Mostafa M. , Kambam Madhavi L. R.
Published: February 2020

Melanoma is an aggressive form of skin cancer associated with significant morbidity and mortality. Although commonly seen in dermatologist clinics, orthopaedic surgeons must be aware of these lesions in various ways. The five common musculoskeletal manifestations of melanoma will be discussed as well as the epidemiology, pathogenesis, diagnosis, staging, treatment, and prognosis of melanoma. With an index of suspicion and awareness of melanoma, a thorough history and detailed physical examination are critical in establishing a diagnosis. An adequately performed biopsy will confirm the diagnosis and assist in determining prognosis. As ambassadors of health for the musculoskeletal system, orthopaedic surgeons may be the first practitioners to encounter a pigmented skin lesion. Acral pigmented lesions should prompt a concern for melanoma with appropriate subsequent steps for management to follow. Finally, it is important for every orthopaedic surgeon to consider disseminated melanoma in the differential diagnosis of a skeletal metastasis, a deep soft-tissue mass, or lymphadenopathy in a patient with a previous history of a melanotic lesion.
On Generalized (Sigma,Tau)-Derivations in 3-Prime Near-Rings
Authors: Koç Emine
Published: February 2020

Let N be a 3-prime left near-ring with multiplicative center Z, f  be a generalized (σ,τ)- derivation on N with associated (σ,τ)-derivation d and I be a semigroup ideal of N. We proved that N must be a commutative ring if f(I)⊂Z  or f act as a homomorphism or f act as an anti-homomorphism.
Perception of Work Flexibility among Students as Representatives of Generation Z and Employers from the SME Sector
Authors: Stankiewicz-Mróz Anna
Published: February 2020

The aim of the study is to identify the approach to work flexibility as represented by surveyed employers from the SME sector as well as the perception of work flexibility among students who represent Generation Z. The idea behind the research is based on the confrontation of opinions presented by employers and students. The aim is to identify areas of potential convergence and divergence in the perception of work flexibility understood as the performance of work based on forms of employment and work organization that deviate from traditional employment relations. Understanding the young employee values connected with work flexibility and areas of divergence in the perception of these values by employers and employees should help organizations in building personnel policy when considering Generation Z.
Generation Diversity Management in an Enterprise: The Example of Michelin Polska S.A.
Authors: Stachowska Sylwia
Published: February 2020

Fitting in with the wider issue of diversity management, the concept of age management is a response to the changing socio–demographic conditions on the labor market and the resulting need to focus the personnel policy of enterprises on the full use of the potential of employees representing various generational groups. The main purpose of the research presented in this study was to analyze and evaluate the effectiveness of solutions used at Michelin Polska S.A. in the management of age diverse employee potential.
Association of the thyroid hormone responsive spot 14 alpha gene with growth-related traits in Korean native chicken
Authors: Cahyadi Muhammad , Park Hee-Bok , Seo Dong Won , Jin Shil , Choi Nuri , Heo Kang Nyeong , Kang Bo Seok , Jo Cheorun , Lee Jun Heon
Published: February 2020

Objective: Thyroid hormone responsive spot 14 alpha (THRSP) has been used to investigate the regulation of de novo lipogenesis because the variation of THRSP mRNA content in the tissue affects directly the ability of that tissue to synthetize lipids. Also, this gene responds to thyroid hormone stimulation and high level of carbohydrate feeding or insulin-injection. This study was carried out to investigate variations within THRSP and their effects on body and carcass weights in Korean native chicken (KNC).Methods: A total of 585 chickens which represent the five lines of KNC (Black, Gray-Brown, Red-Brown, White, and Yellow-Brown) were reared and body weight data were recorded every two weeks from hatch until 20 weeks of age. Polymerase chain reaction- restriction fragment length polymorphism, DNA chips for Agilent 2100 Bioanalyzer, and Fluidigm Genotyping Technology, were applied to genotype selected markers. A linear mixed-effect model was used to access association between these single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers and growth-related traits.Results: A total of 30 polymorphisms were investigated in THRSP. Of these, nine SNPs for loci were selected to perform association analyses. Significant associations were detected between g.-49G>T SNP with body weight at 20 weeks of age (BW20), g.451T>C SNP with growth at 10 to 12 weeks of age (GR10-12), and g.1432A>C SNP with growth at 14 to 16 weeks trait (GR14-16) and body weight at 18 weeks of age (BW18). Moreover, diplotype of the THRSP gene significantly affected body weight at 12 weeks of age (BW12) and GR10-12 traits. Diplotype of ht1/ht2 was favorable for BW12 and GR10-12 traits.Conclusion: These results suggest that THRSP can be regarded as a candidate gene for growth traits in KNC.
Identifying early indicator traits for sow longevity using a linear-threshold model in Thai Large White and Landrace females
Authors: Plaengkaeo Suppasit , Duangjinda Monchai , Stalder Kenneth J.
Published: February 2020

Objective: The objective of the study was to investigate the possibility of utilizing an early litter size trait as an indirect selection trait for longevity and to estimate genetic parameters between sow stayability and litter size at different parities using a linear-threshold model for longevity in Thai Large White (LW) and Landrace (LR) populations.Methods: The data included litter size at first, second, and third parities (NBA1, NBA2, and NBA3) and sow stayability from first to fourth farrowings (STAY14). The data was obtained from 10,794 LR and 9,475 LW sows. Genetic parameters were estimated using the multipletrait animal model. A linear-threshold model was used in which NBA1, NBA2, and NBA3 were continuous traits, while STAY14 was considered a binary trait.Results: Heritabilities for litter size were low and ranged from 0.01 to 0.06 for both LR and LW breeds. Similarly, heritabilities for stayability were low for both breeds. Genetic associations between litter size and stayability ranged from 0.43 to 0.65 for LR populations and 0.12 to 0.55 for LW populations. The genetic correlation between NBA1 and STAY14 was moderate and in a favorable direction for both LR and LW breeds (0.65 and 0.55, respectively).Conclusion: A linear-threshold model could be utilized to analyze litter size and sow stayability traits. Furthermore, selection for litter size at first parity, which was the genetic trait correlated with longevity, is possible when one attempts to improve lifetime productivity in Thai swine populations.
Expanding Navigation Systems by Integrating It with Advanced Technologies
Authors: Domb Menachem
Published: February 2020

Navigation systems provide the optimized route from one location to another. It is mainly assisted by external technologies such as Global Positioning System (GPS) and satellite-based radio navigation systems. GPS has many advantages such as high accuracy, available anywhere, reliable, and self-calibrated. However, GPS is limited to outdoor operations. The practice of combining different sources of data to improve the overall outcome is commonly used in various domains. GIS is already integrated with GPS to provide the visualization and realization aspects of a given location. Internet of things (IoT) is a growing domain, where embedded sensors are connected to the Internet and so IoT improves existing navigation systems and expands its capabilities. This chapter proposes a framework based on the integration of GPS, GIS, IoT, and mobile communications to provide a comprehensive and accurate navigation solution. In the next section, we outline the limitations of GPS, and then we describe the integration of GIS, smartphones, and GPS to enable its use in mobile applications. For the rest of this chapter, we introduce various navigation implementations using alternate technologies integrated with GPS or operated as standalone devices.
Current Issues in Early Warning and Development Initiatives Towards Enhanced Flood-Related Resilience in Nigeria
Authors: C. Nkwunonwo Ugonna
Published: February 2020

More than 4 years since the UNISDR Sendai framework replaced its predecessor, Hyogo, communities’ resilience to flooding is still a major issue for especially the developing countries (DCs) such as Nigeria where there are unresolved limitations with early warning systems. The recent increase in human and economic damages caused by floods and the inability of communities to recover from the effects, despite years after the disaster, indicate that the global concept of resilience has not been fully grasped. Nigeria, which is the subject of this chapter, typifies this situation. Evidently, the historic flooding of 2012 and its predecessors affected many communities and individual victims most of whom are still struggling with disaster recovery and reconstruction. This raises important research questions. What is not understood in the present context is that government institutions have made a lot of politicizing various interventions and local initiative, but the present reality is a “pathetic travesty of disaster recovery.” This chapter elucidates on these issues through theoretical discussions on community participation, risk-informed investment, and rural adaptation, all of which can be advocated to facilitate community resilience and coping capacity to all variants of flood hazards in Nigeria.
Review of the genus classification of Abiinae (Cimbicidae, Hymenoptera)
Authors: Vilhelmsen Lars , Shinohara Akihiko
Published: February 2020

Abiinae is the second-largest subfamily in Cimbicidae, a small family of true sawflies (Tenthredinoidea). The subfamily is adequately defined, but the generic classification has been unstable. Currently, only two genera are regarded as valid: Abia Leach, 1817 and Allabia Semenov & Gussakovskij, 1937. We evaluate the generic classification of Abiinae in a phylogenetic context. A total of 32 species (out of 57 described for the subfamily), including the type species of Allabia, Allabia infernalis (Semenov, 1896), are scored for 150 adult morphological characters. Results show some resolution, but only few clades can be circumscribed by consistent character combinations. Most of the characters that have previously been used to define genera are not congruent; consequently, most suggested genus definitions appear to be random character state combinations and few natural groups can be identified. For these reasons, we treat Allabia syn. nov. as a junior synonym of Abia and make the following additional taxonomic changes: Abia infernalis Semenov, 1896 comb. rev. and Abia malaisei (Semenov & Gussakovskij, 1937) syn. nov. For the purpose of long-term stability of the classification of Abiinae, we recommend recognizing only one genus, Abia, within the subfamily.
Impacto de la activación emocional en el reconocimiento de emociones en personas adultas con Trastornos del Espectro del Autismo y Discapacidad Intelectual [Impact of Emotional Activation on the Recognition of Emotions in Adults with Autism Spectrum Disorders and Intellectual Disability]
Authors: Jodra Marina , García-Villamisar Domingo
Published: February 2020

ResumenUno de los síntomas nucleares de los Trastornos del Espectro del Autismo (TEA) es el déficit en el área socioemocional, mostrando patrones de respuesta atípicos ante los estímulos sociales y respondiendo con distintos niveles de activación o arousal (hiperexcitación o hipoexcitación). Algunas investigaciones han podido comprobar como la exposición a imágenes de valencia negativa tiene efectos en el reconocimiento posterior de emociones en población sin TEA. En cambio, los escasos estudios que existen acerca de la permeabilidad emocional en personas con TEA, muestran patrones atípicos de respuesta fisiológica ante la inducción de emociones. En la presente investigación se analiza la repercusión de la inducción emocional «negativa», a través de imágenes del International Affective Picture System (IAPS; Lang, Bradley y Cuthbert, 1995), en el reconocimiento de emociones a través del rostro mediante la Facial Discrimination Battery (FDB; Rojahn, Esbensen y Hoch, 2006), en un grupo de 31 personas adultas con TEA y discapacidad intelectual. Se realizó una ANOVA de medidas repetidas y los resultados demostraron la existencia de cierta «impermeabilidad» emocional, ya que la inducción de emociones no influyó en el reconocimiento emocional posterior. Estos resultados son coherentes con el modelo de hipoexcitación, que defiende que las personas con TEA experimentan menos excitación o recompensa cuando atienden a los estímulos sociales.AbstractOne of the core symptoms of Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) is the deficit in the socio-emotional area, showing atypical response patterns to social stimuli and responding with different levels of activation or arousal (hyperexcita­tion or hypoexcitation). Some investigations have shown how exposure to negative valence images has an effect on the subsequent recognition of emotions in a population without ASD. In contrast, the few studies that exist on emotional permeability in people with ASD show atypical patterns of physiological response to the induction of emo­tions. In the present investigation, the impact of "negative" emotional induction is analyzed, through images of the In­ternational Affective Picture System (IAPS, Lang et al., 1995), in the recognition of emotions through the face through Facial Discrimination Battery (FDB; Rojahn et al., 2006), in a group of 31 adults with ASD and intellec­tual disability. An ANOVA of repeated measures was per­formed and the results demonstrated the existence of a cer­tain emotional "impermeability", since the induction of emotions did not influence the subsequent emotional recognition. These results are consistent with the hypoex­citation model, which argues that people with ASD expe­rience less excitement or reward when they attend to social stimuli.
The Statistics of Computer Clocks and the Design of Synchronization
Algorithms
Authors: Levine Judah
Published: February 2020

In this study, I used standard statistical tools (such as the various forms of the
two-sample Allan variance) to characterize the clocks in computers, and I show how the
results of this study are used to design algorithms to synchronize the computer clocks.
These synchronization algorithms can be used to synchronize the time of a computer to a
local reference clock or to a remote server. The algorithms by themselves are not
intended to be a simple replacement for software that implements the Network Time
Protocol (NTP) or any other similar application. Instead, they describe the statistical
principles that should be used to design an algorithm to synchronize any computer clock
by using data from any external reference received in any format. These algorithms have
been used to synchronize the clocks of the computers that support the Internet Time
Service operated by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), and I
illustrate the performance of the algorithm with real-time data from these servers. In
addition to presenting the design principles of the algorithm, I illustrate the
principles with two specific examples: synchronizing a computer clock to a local
reference signal, and the design of a synchronization process that is based on
time-difference data received from a remote server over the public Internet. The message
exchange between the local system and the remote server in this configuration is
realized in NTP format, but that is not a fundamental requirement.
A native prokaryotic voltage-dependent calcium channel with a novel selectivity filter sequence
Authors: Shimomura Takushi , Yonekawa Yoshiki , Nagura Hitoshi , Tateyama Michihiro , Fujiyoshi Yoshinori , Irie Katsumasa
Published: February 2020

Voltage-dependent Ca2+ channels (Cavs) are indispensable for coupling action potentials with Ca2+ signaling in living organisms. The structure of Cavs is similar to that of voltage-dependent Na+ channels (Navs). It is known that prokaryotic Navs can obtain Ca2+ selectivity by negative charge mutations of the selectivity filter, but native prokaryotic Cavs had not yet been identified. We report the first identification of a native prokaryotic Cav, CavMr, whose selectivity filter contains a smaller number of negatively charged residues than that of artificial prokaryotic Cavs. A relative mutant whose selectivity filter was replaced with that of CavMr exhibits high Ca2+ selectivity. Mutational analyses revealed that the glycine residue of the CavMr selectivity filter is a determinant for Ca2+ selectivity. This glycine residue is well conserved among subdomains I and III of eukaryotic Cavs. These findings provide new insight into the Ca2+ selectivity mechanism that is conserved from prokaryotes to eukaryotes.
Evaluation of Phytochemical and Mineral Constituents of Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn. and Piper Umbellatum Linn: Implications for Ethnomedicine
Authors: Isikhuemen E. M. , Ogbomwan B. O. , Efenudu I. U.
Published: February 2020

Aims: A significant number of tropical rainforest shrubs and lianes are inextricably linked to human use as food, spices and/or medicine. This study evaluates phytochemical and mineral constituents and ethnomedicinal uses of Piper guineense Schum. & Thonn and Piper umbellatum Linn.         

Methods: Two phased investigations – ethnomedicinal uses and phytochemical/mineral constituents of P. guineense and P. umbellatum – were carried out in Benin City, Edo State, Nigeria. Firstly, key informants’ interview and questionnaire were used to elicit reactions from respondents (vendors and end users) on ethnomedicinal and sundry uses of P. guineense and P. umbellatum in nine purposively selected markets out of 27. Secondly, samples of leaves and stems of P. guineense and P. umbellatum were collected and analysed in the laboratory for selected phytochemicals (alkaloid, cyanogenic glycosides, tannin, flavonoid, tannins, anthraquinones, saponin and phenol), and minerals (Ca, Mg, Na, K, P, Fe, Zn).

Results: Market survey revealed that vendor/end users (85%) were well-informed on the uses of the plants for food (spices, condiments) and ethnomedicine. Most respondents (80%) affirmed that the leaves were frequently used for flavouring; and for preparing traditional medicinal soups when combined with assorted vegetables. Respondents (80%) averred that the leaf was the most frequently used followed by stems (10.9%), roots (5.5%) and seeds (3.6%). P. guineense was considered best for stomach disorder/ulcer, respiratory/urinary tract infections; P. umbellatum most preferred for arthritis, fever and fertility/womb cleansing. Phytochemical analysis revealed P. umbellatum stem had more alkaloids, flavonoids and phenol; and anthraquinone in the leaf while P. guineense stem had more saponins and tannins. However, mineral analyses revealed more Ca and Mg in P. guineense leaf; and K, Na, Zn and P in P. umbellatum stem while Fe was higher in the leaf.

Conclusion: P. guineense and P. umbellatum are aromatic liane and shrub used for flavouring and spicing of food, and medicine. These fairly ubiquitous and underutilized plants can contribute significantly to food and health needs of forest dependent people in Nigeria and elsewhere in West Africa. The study has revealed that these aromatic plants are rich sources of phytomedicines and important minerals. Further investigation on the phytochemical/pharmacological potentials and ecological idiosyncrasies of these underutilized aromatic rainforest liane and shrub is recommended.
Interpretation of Depositional Environment of Rho Field Using Sequence Stratigraphic Analysis, Shallow Offshore Depobelt, Niger Delta
Authors: Austin Okoli Emeka , Edward Acra Jones , Ngozi Ehirim Chukwuemeka
Published: February 2020

Candidate Maximum Flooding Surfaces (MFS) identified on Rho-1, Rho-2 and Rho-3 were the basis of correlation across the wells for sequence Stratigraphic analysis in the field. Three (3) candidate MFS which include MFS-1, MFS-2 and MFS-3 were identified using the method adopted by Okoli [1]. Erosional surfaces were also delineated in wells from the observed stacking pattern between a sequence from Galloway model (1989) leading to the correlation of SB-1 and SB-2 across the wells. Using the Galloway model, four (4) depositional sequences were inferred SEQ (1-4). In the first sequence (SEQ 1), deposition occurred in a transgressive episode. Depositional environment was interpreted from electrofacies and revealing stacked sequences of reservoirs predominantly composed of fluvial channels which incised the Upper and Lower Shorefaces on a delta front system. In SEQ 2, looking at the aggradational pattern of the sequence, the formed channels were under the influence of both tidal and fluvial systems. In SEQ 3 and 4, based on electro-facies, the stacked reservoir sands were deposited predominantly in a shoreface/delta front environment and channel incisions in a wave subjugated high energy deltaic setting.

The entire well section showed deposition in a regressive phase. Proposed conceptual models were generated using Petrel software and could be used as an input reconstruction of subsurface geological models. Indicating correct orientation of geo-bodies and facies belts (pinch outs of sands and shales), depositional dips and gross permeability architecture.
Highly variable rates of survival to metamorphosis in wild boreal toads (Anaxyrus boreas boreas)
Authors: Crockett John G. , Bailey Larissa L. , Muths Erin
Published: February 2020

Life history theory suggests that long‐lived, pond‐breeding amphibians should have low and highly variable early life‐stage survival rates, but this theoretical expectation is often untested and the causes of variation are usually unknown. We evaluated the impact of hydroperiod, presence of a pathogen (Batrachochytrium dendrobatidis[Bd]), presence of a potential predator (cutthroat troutOncorhychus clarki stomias), and whether animals had been reintroduced into a site on survival of early life stages of boreal toads (Anaxyrus boreas boreas). We used a multistate mark‐recapture framework to estimate survival of boreal toad embryos from egg to metamorphosis at four sites over 5 years. We found substantial spatial and temporal variation in survival to metamorphosis and documented some evidence that monthly tadpole survival was lower in sites with Bd, without trout, and at permanent sites. Our results support theories of amphibian life history, aid in the management of this species of conservation concern, and contribute to our knowledge of the ecology of the species. Additionally, we present methodology that allows practitioners to account for different lengths of time between sampling periods when estimating survival probabilities which is especially applicable to organisms with distinct biological stages.
Mechanistic Insight into Palladium‐Catalyzed Enantioselective Remote meta‐C−H Arylation and Alkylation by Using Density Functional Theory (DFT) Calculations
Authors: Jia Feiyun , Luo Jiewei , Zhang Bo
Published: February 2020

Steric hindrance is usually the only determining factor in controlling the enantioselectivity of a reaction. Here, we disclose a different way in which steric hindrance and electronic properties cooperate to control the transformation enantioselectivity. In this study, palladium‐catalyzed enantioselective remote meta‐C−H arylation and alkylation via a chiral transient mediator was investigated to elucidate the mechanistic details and essence of the excellent enantioselectivity by using density functional theory methods. The calculations indicate that the deprotonation process is the rate‐determining step of the reaction, whereas norbornene insertion is most likely the enantioselectivity‐determining step. Although transition state structure analysis indicates that steric hindrance indeed contributes to this enantioselectivity, its individual action is insufficient to account for the excellent S‐configuration selectivity. The electronic nature of substituents on the C=C double bond of norbornene as a chiral transient mediator plays a crucial role in this enantioselective conversion. A weak electron‐withdrawing group is favorable for enantioselectivity, whereas strong electron‐withdrawing and electron‐donating groups are exactly the opposite. Computations reveal that a weak electron‐withdrawing group slightly lowers the charge density of the chiral norbornene C=C double bond, resulting in a decrease in reactivity. Especially, for the R‐configuration, the insertion reaction energy barrier increases to approximately 29.3 kcal/mol. Such a high barrier is commensurate with that of the S‐configuration rate‐determining step (28.2 kcal/mol), thereby preventing the formation of R‐configuration products and ultimately determining the enantioselectivity of the protocol.

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Reliability of macaques as seed dispersers
Authors: Sengupta Asmita , Gazagne Eva , Albert‐Daviaud Aurelie , Tsuji Yamato , Radhakrishna Sindhu
Published: February 2020

Seed dispersal is an ecological process crucial for forest regeneration and recruitment. To date, most studies on frugivore seed dispersal have used the seed dispersal effectiveness framework and have documented seed‐handling mechanisms, dispersal distances and the effect of seed handling on germination. In contrast, there has been no exploration of “disperser reliability” which is essential to determine if a frugivore is an effective disperser only in particular regions/years/seasons or across a range of spatio‐temporal scales. In this paper, we propose a practical framework to assess the spatial reliability of frugivores as seed dispersers. We suggest that a frugivore genus would be a reliable disperser of certain plant families/genera if: (a) fruits of these plant families/genera are represented in the diets of most of the species of that frugivore, (b) these are consumed by the frugivore genus across different kinds of habitats, and (c) these fruits feature among the yearly staples and preferred fruits in the diets of the frugivore genus. Using this framework, we reviewed frugivory by the genus Macaca across Asia to assess its spatial reliability as seed dispersers. We found that the macaques dispersed the seeds of 11 plant families and five plant genera including at least 82 species across habitats. Differences in fruit consumption/preference between different groups of macaques were driven by variation in plant community composition across habitats. We posit that it is essential to maintain viable populations of macaques across their range and keep human interventions at a minimum to ensure that they continue to reliably disperse the seeds of a broad range of plant species in the Anthropocene. We further suggest that this framework be used for assessing the spatial reliability of other taxonomic groups as seed dispersers.