bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Cascade Rainfall Disaggregation Application in U.S. Central Plains
Authors: Garbrecht Jurgen D. , Gyawali Rabi , Malone Robert W. , Zhang John C.
Published: October 2017

Long-term observations of daily rainfall are common and routinely available for a variety of hydrologic applications. In contrast, observations of 10 or more years of continuous hourly rainfall are rare. Yet, sub-daily rainfall data are required in rainfall-runoff models. Rainfall disaggregation can generate sub-daily time-series from available long term daily observations. Herein, the performance of Multiplicative Random Cascade (MRC) model at disaggregating daily-to-hourly rainfall was investigated. The MRC model was parameterized and validated with 15 years of continuous observed daily and hourly rainfall data at three weather stations in Oklahoma. Model performance, or degree to which the disaggregated rainfall time series replicated observations, was assessed using 46 variables of hourly rainfall characteristics, such as longest wet spell duration, average number of rainfall hours per year, and largest hourly rainfall. Findings include: a) average-type hourly rainfall characteristics were better replicated than single value characteristics such as longest, maximum, or peak hourly rainfall; b) the large number of sub-trace hourly rainfall values (<0.254 mm h-1) generated by the MRC model were not supported by observations; c) the random component of the MRC model led to a variation under 15% of the average value for most rainfall characteristics with the exceptions of the “longest wet spell duration” and “maximum hourly rainfall”; and d) the MRC model produced fewer persistent rainfall events compared to those in the observed rainfall record. The large number of generated trace rainfall values and difficulties to replicate reliably extreme rainfall characteristics, reduces the number of potential hydrologic applications that could take advantage of the MRC disaggregated hourly rainfall. Nevertheless, in most cases, the disaggregated rainfall generated by the MRC model replicated observed average-type rainfall characteristics well.
The Capital Structure Choice of European Firms: The Role of Financial System and Institutional Setting
Authors: Venanzi Daniela , Naccarato Alessia
Published: October 2017

Recent international financial research finds that a firm’s capital structure is not only influenced by firm- and industry-specific determinants, but also by country-specific factors. Starting from the last decade’s studies on the country effect and addressing some areas of potential development in empirical testing, we test, on a sample of seven apparently similar European countries and more than 800,000 variously sized firms (from the BACH-ESD database) over a ten year period (2000-2009), the direct effects of country characteristics on leverage, as well as their mediating role on the effects of firm- and industry-specific determinants, by using a simultaneous equation model (SEM) never used before by any scholar in this field. The emerging empirical evidence: i) highlights the relevance of many institutional, financial, and macroeconomic country characteristics; ii) confirms the better ability of banks in selecting, monitoring, and financing small and risky firms; iii) shows that the demand-side perspective can better explain some counter-intuitive effects of some determinants on leverage.
Thermodynamic Computations for Ion Exchange and Surface Protonation Reactions and the Implications for Acid Induced Contact Angle Evolution in Silica Rich Saline Aquifer Systems
Authors: Amadu Mumuni , Miadonye Adango
Published: October 2017

To reduce current high concentrations of anthropogenic greenhouse gases in the atmosphere to levels stipulated by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, geological sequestration has been universally proposed. On the basis of cost analysis and global availability, deep saline aquifers are the prime targets for most proposed commercial and pilot scale projects.While the geological storage of anthropogenic carbon dioxide is expected to mitigate global warming, the technical aspects of the injection deserve to be considered for efficient injection projects. The water rock interaction phenomenon occurs due to carbonic acid generation which causes surface protonation reactions and has the potential to decrease water wettability of the system leading to enhanced water mobility and efficient gas injection. Therefore, for a saline aquifer rock with minerals capable of ion exchange reactions that consume solution protons, the wettability of such a system is likely to be preserved leading to reduced water mobility and poor gas injection. Generally, the extents to which surface protonation and ion exchange reactions occur depend on the free energy change of the reaction.In this paper, we have carried out thermodynamic computations for the free energies of surface protonation and ion exchange reactions. Based on the values of computed free energies, which show that ion exchange reactions have lower free energies, we have discussed the wettability implications for geological storage in silica rich saline aquifer systems.
A Review of Research on the Use of Higher Order Thinking Skills to Teach Writing
Authors: Singh Rhashvinder K. A. , Singh Charanjit K. S. , M. T. M. Tunku , Mostafa Nor A. , Singh Tarsem S. M.
Published: October 2017

This paper reviews the literature on the teaching of higher order thinking skills to teach writing in Malaysian context. The issues pertaining the usage of higher order thinking skills to teach writing are also discussed in this paper. ESL teachers are only trained to ask Higher Order Thinking Skills questions where the teaching of writing is concerned but most of them have very little knowledge on implementing the pedagogical knowledge of higher order thinking skills. Despite having multiples of programs to help teachers to infuse higher order thinking skills to teach writing, past studies have reported that teachers were not prepared to teach higher order thinking skills in their own classrooms. Hence, this paper further analyses the need to investigate the issues that are related on the usage of higher order thinking skills to the teaching of writing which needs immediate attention.
Tratamento da Gota na Atenção Primária à Saúde
Authors: Guimarães Flávio Manuel Gomes
Published: October 2017

Objetivo: O objetivo desta revisão é fornecer informação atualizada e orientações práticas sobre a abordagem da gota na Atenção Primária à Saúde. Métodos: Foram pesquisadas normas de orientação clínica, revisões sistemáticas, meta-análises e estudos originais publicados entre 1 janeiro de 2011 e 31 dezembro de 2016, nas línguas inglesa, portuguesa e espanhola. Resultados: Os fármacos de primeira linha no tratamento da gota aguda são os anti-inflamatórios não esteroides, a colchicina e os corticoides, em monoterapia ou associação. Na gota crônica são usados hipouricemiantes, sendo a primeira linha o alopurinol. O febuxostate e os uricosúricos são alternativas ao alopurinol em casos de intolerância ou ineficácia. A profilaxia das crises de gota agudas está recomendada quando se inicia o tratamento hipouricemiante durante pelo menos 6 meses. Conclusão: A abordagem correta da gota deve fazer parte das competências de um médico especialista em Atenção Primária à Saúde de modo a prestar cuidados adequados à comunidade.
The genus Dasydorylas Skevington in Iran, with the description of two new species (Diptera: Pipunculidae)
Authors: Motamedinia Behnam , Kehlmaier Christian , Mokhtari Azizollah , Rakhshani Ehsan , Gilasian Ebrahim
Published: October 2017

The genus Dasydorylas Skevington, 2001 is recorded from two provinces in Iran (Sistan-o Baluchestan and Kermanshah Provinces). Dasydorylas derafshani sp. nov. and D. zardouei sp. nov. are illustrated and characterized morphologically and by DNA barcoding of the mitochondrial COI gene. Eudorylas antennalis Kapoor, Grewal & Sharma, 1987 is transferred to Dasydorlyas (comb. nov.). An existing identification key to the males of the western Palaearctic species of Dasydorylas is complemented to include the newly described species.
Neuroendocrine Tumors of the Breast
Authors: Rosen Lauren Elizabeth , Gattuso Paolo
Published: October 2017

Primary neuroendocrine tumors of the breast are a rare and underrecognized subtype of mammary carcinoma. Neuroendocrine tumors of the breast occur predominately in postmenopausal women. The tumors are subclassified into well-differentiated and poorly differentiated neuroendocrine tumors, and invasive breast carcinoma with neuroendocrine features. Well-differentiated tumors show architectural similarity to carcinoids of other sites but lack characteristic neuroendocrine nuclei. Poorly differentiated neuroendocrine tumors are morphologically identical to small cell carcinoma of the lung. Neuroendocrine differentiation, seen in up to 30% of invasive breast carcinomas, is most commonly associated with mucinous and solid papillary carcinomas. The diagnosis of neuroendocrine differentiation requires expression of the neuroendocrine markers synaptophysin or chromogranin. The main differential diagnosis is a metastatic neuroendocrine tumor from an extramammary site. Neuroendocrine tumors of the breast are treated similarly to other invasive breast carcinomas. Although no consensus has been reached on the prognosis, most studies suggest a poor outcome.
IgG4-Related Disease: A Reminder for Practicing Pathologists
Authors: Weindorf Steven C. , Frederiksen John Karl
Published: October 2017

IgG4-related disease (IgG4-RD) is a systemic autoimmune fibroinflammatory disease that produces sclerotic, tumefactive masses containing dense lymphoplasmacytic infiltrates rich in immunoglobulin (Ig) G4+ plasma cells. Initially characterized as a form of autoimmune pancreatitis, the distinctive histopathology of IgG4-RD has now been described in almost every organ system. However, because the clinical manifestations of IgG4-RD are diverse and nonspecific, the disease may go unsuspected until a biopsy or resection specimen is obtained to diagnose a presumed malignancy. Pathologists thus play a key role in the diagnosis of IgG4-RD, and familiarity with its histopathologic features is essential to preventing the irreversible comorbidities associated with this treatable disease. This brief review outlines the epidemiology, clinical manifestations, and histopathology of IgG4-RD, with the aim of furthering pathologists' awareness of and ability to diagnose this disorder.
Efeito país de origem e comportamento do consumidor: a percepção feminina sobre cosméticos
Authors: Fanton Andrea , Lazzari Fernanda , Milan Gabriel Sperandio , Eberle Luciene
Published: October 2017

This study analyses the country of origin effect related to trust, affect, loyalty, hedonic value and utilitarian value on the consumers perception about cosmetics. For this matter, an experimental research was done, in which the same sample of moisturizer cream were distributed for three different groups who experienced, rated the product and after completed a questionnaire. The only difference in the application of the experiment was in reference to the country of origin of the moisturizer cream. The results demonstrated hat the group who received the moisturizer cream thinking it was produced inFrancehad higher averages in relation to all the analyzed constructs, compared to the control group. Conversely, compared to the control group, the group that experienced the moisturizer cream thinking it was produced inChinahad lower averages in relation to the analyzed constructs, except the construct that measures the utilitarian value of the product.
A Future Vision of Mathematics Education Research: Blurring the Boundaries of Research and Practice to Address Teachers' Problems
Authors: Cai Jinfa , Morris Anne , Hohensee Charles , Hwang Stephen , Robison Victoria , Hiebert James
Published: October 2017

We began our editorials in 2017 seeking answers to one complex but important question: How can we improve the impact of research on practice? In our first editorial, we suggested that a first step would be to better define the problem by developing a better understanding of the fundamental reasons for the divide between research and practice (Cai et al., 2017). This sparked subsequent editorials in which we delved deeper into some of the many complicated facets of this issue. In our March (Cai et al., 2017b) editorial, we argued that impact needs to be defined more broadly than it often has been, notably, to include cognitive and noncognitive outcomes in both the near term and longitudinally. This led us to focus our May (Cai et al., 2017a) editorial on the ways that research might have a greater impact on the learning opportunities that help students reach broader learning goals. We argued that it is not enough to identify learning goals–it is also necessary to conduct research that breaks those learning goals into subgoals that can be appropriately sequenced. We highlighted research on learning trajectories as an example of this sort of work but also emphasized the need to work at a grain size that is compatible with teachers' classroom practice. Finally, in our July (Cai et al., 2017c) editorial, we argued that the implementation of learning opportunities in the classroom is an integral element of research that has an impact on practice.
Keeping the Focus on Underserved Students, Privilege, and Power: A Reaction to Clements and Sarama
Authors: Kitchen Richard , Berk Sarabeth
Published: October 2017

In our response to Clements and Sarama (2017), we address the 5 issues that they identify as criticisms of our Research Commentary (Kitchen & Berk, 2016). As in our original commentary, we highlight concerns we have regarding the delivery of CAI programs and potential misuses of CAI, particularly at Title I schools that largely serve historically marginalized student groups. Specifically, we concentrate on how CAI may contribute to underserved students generally experiencing mathematics in impoverished ways that do not align with reforms being advocated by the mathematics education community. We also argue that Clements and Sarama appear to dismiss or ignore our central argument that some CAI programs are not designed or are not being used to support the development of students' mathematical reasoning and fluency.
Does extreme political ideology predict conspiracy beliefs, economic evaluations and political trust? Evidence from Sweden
Authors: Krouwel Andre , Kutiyski Yordan , van Prooijen Jan-Willem , Martinsson Johan , Markstedt Elias
Published: October 2017

A large volume of academic research has demonstrated that individuals who profess radical political ideology, both left- and right-wing, tend to share similar underlying psychological patterns. By utilizing data collected through a voting advice application in Sweden, this study aims to assess whether extreme leftists and rightists share similarities in the psychological and political understanding of how society functions. We propose three hypotheses to test this pattern: Extreme left and right individuals are more inclined to believe in conspiracy theories than moderates; they are more likely to have negative economic evaluations; and they are less politically and interpersonally trustful. By means of hierarchical regression analyses, we reveal a quadratic relationship between extreme political ideology and conspiracy beliefs. Moreover, we find a similar linkage between ideology and economic evaluations. However, the empirical analyses fail to provide evidence that extreme ideology is related to lower political and interpersonal trust.
Reconstruction of the Foot Using a Superficial Inferior Epigastric Artery Free Flap
Authors: Han Jin Ho , Shin Hyun Woo , Yoon Kun Chul , Kim June-Kyu
Published: October 2017

When foot reconstruction is performed in the pretibial area, the ankle, or the dorsum of the foot, the need for a reliable flap remains a challenge. We found that the superficial inferior epigastric artery (SIEA) free flap can be used as an alternative tool for this purpose, as it helps to solve the problems associated with other flaps. We describe 2 cases in which we reconstructed the foot using an SIEA free flap, which was pliable enough to fit the contours of the area. Postoperatively, the flaps were intact and showed excellent aesthetic results. Thus, the SIEA free flap can be an alternative tool for patients with a low body mass index who undergo reconstructive surgery involving the pretibial area, ankle, knee, or dorsum of the foot, all of which require a soft and flexible flap.
Multiple venous anastomoses decrease the need for intensive postoperative management in tamai zone I replantations
Authors: Ryu Deok Hyeon , Roh Si Young , Kim Jin Soo , Lee Dong Chul , Lee Kyung Jin
Published: October 2017

Background Venous anastomosis is an important component of digital replantation, but is not always feasible, as some cases require external bleeding to treat venous congestion in the replanted tissue. In the present study, we evaluated the relationship between the number of vein anastomoses and the survival rate of Tamai zone I replantations.

Methods A retrospective review was performed of all patients who underwent replantation of a fingertip amputation between 2014 and 2016. Patient charts were reviewed for demographic information, the mechanism of injury, the number of venous anastomoses, and the use of anticoagulation, external bleeding, and/or leeches. The cohort was divided into 3 groups depending on the number of venous anastomoses: no veins (group 1), a single vein (group 2), and 2 or more veins (group 3). Survival rates and external bleeding rates were analyzed across the groups.

Results The review identified 143 fingertip replantations among 134 patients. The overall survival rate was 94% (135 of 143). Failures were due equally to venous complications (n=4, 50%) and to arterial complications (n=4, 50%). Our analysis did not identify any correlation between the number of veins anastomosed and the replant survival rate (P=0.689). However, a greater number of anastomoses was associated with a significantly lower frequency of external bleeding (P=0.017).

Conclusions The number of venous anastomoses was not correlated with the survival rate. However, a greater number of venous anastomoses was associated with a decreased need for external bleeding, corresponding to a significant decrease in the need for postoperative monitoring and leech therapy.
Salvage of Infected Breast Implants
Authors: Song Joon Ho , Kim Young Seok , Jung Bok Ki , Lee Dong Won , Song Seung Yong , Roh Tai Suk , Lew Dae Hyun
Published: October 2017

Background Implant-based breast reconstruction is being performed more frequently, and implants are associated with an increased risk of infection. We reviewed the clinical features of cases of implant infection and investigated the risk factors for breast device salvage failure.

Methods We retrospectively analyzed 771 patients who underwent implant-based breast reconstruction between January 2010 and December 2016. Age, body mass index, chemotherapy history, radiation exposure, and smoking history were assessed as potential risk factors for postoperative infection. We also evaluated the presence and onset of infection symptoms, wound culture pathogens, and other complications, including seroma, hematoma, and mastectomy skin necrosis. Additionally, we examined the mastectomy type, the use of acellular dermal matrix, the presence of an underlying disease such as hypertension or diabetes, and axillary node dissection.

Results The total infection rate was 4.99% (58 of 1,163 cases) and the total salvage rate was 58.6% (34 of 58). The postoperative duration to closed suction drain removal was significantly different between the cellulitis and implant removal groups. Staphylococcus aureus infection was most frequently found, with methicillin resistance in 37.5% of the cases of explantation. Explantation after infection was performed more often in patients who had undergone 2-stage expander/implant reconstruction than in those who had undergone direct-to-implant reconstruction.

Conclusions Preventing infection is essential in implant-based breast reconstruction. The high salvage rate argues against early implant removal. However, when infection is due to methicillin-resistant S. aureus and the patient’s clinical symptoms do not improve, surgeons should consider implant removal.
Modified toe pulp fillet flap coverage: Better wound healing and satisfactory length preservation
Authors: Baek Sang Oon , Suh Hyo Wan , Lee Jun Yong
Published: October 2017

Background Amputation is commonly performed for toe necrosis secondary to peripheral vascular diseases, such as diabetes mellitus. When amputating a necrotic toe, preservation of the bony structure is important for preventing the collapse of adjacent digits into the amputated space. However, in the popular terminal Syme’s amputation technique, partial amputation of the distal phalanx could cause increased tension on the wound margin. Herein, we introduce a new way to resect sufficient bony structure while maintaining the normal length, based on a morphological analysis of the toes.

Methods Unlike the pulp of the finger in the distal phalanx, the toe has abundant teardrop-shaped pulp tissue. The ratio of the vertical length to the longitudinal length in the distal phalanx was compared between the toes and fingers. Amputation was performed at the proximal interphalangeal joint level. Then, a mobilizable pulp flap was rotated 90° cephalad to replace the distal soft tissue defect. This modified toe fillet flap was performed in 5 patients.

Results The toe pulp was found to have a vertically oriented morphology compared to that of the fingers, enabling length preservation through cephalad rotation. All defects were successfully covered without marginal ischemia.

Conclusions While conventional toe fillet flap coverage focuses on the principle of length preservation as the first priority, our modified method takes both wound healing and length into account. The fattiest part of the pulp is advanced to the toe tip, providing a cushioning effect and enough length to substitute for phalangeal bone loss. Our modified method led to satisfactory functional and aesthetic outcomes.
Comportamento estratégico ambiente e desempenho em empresas que comercializam automóveis em Itajaí e balneário Camboriú
Authors: Kummel Larissa Kepler , Verdinelli Miguel Angel
Published: October 2017

Este artigo analisa o tipo de comportamento estratégico de empresas, concessionárias e revendas, que comercializam veículos nas cidades de Itajaí e Balneário Camboriú em Santa Catarina, conforme o modelo de Miles e Snow (1978). Avalia também o tipo de munificência ambiental e o desempenho organizacional percebido pelos gestores ou proprietários, na amostra escolhida. Na amostra colhida foram contatadas 81 concessionárias e revendas de veículos em Itajaí e 22 em Balneário Camboriú, totalizando 103 empresas deste ramo. Os procedimentos metodológicos incluíram as seguintes análises estatísticas: análise fatorial exploratória, análise de variância e análise de correlação. Os comportamentos estratégicos que predominaram segundo o modelo adotado foram defensores e analistas. Entretanto, conforme os resultados das Anovas foram os prospectores os que mais bem pontuam o desempenho e percebem o ambiente como munificente. Ao avaliar como os comportamentos se relacionam com a percepção da munificência ambiental se confirma que os defensores foram os menos satisfeitos, além do mais verificou-se que a munificência ambiental e do desempenho é positiva e significante. Os resultados obtidos no presente trabalho constituem uma contribuição para o setor analisado, pois a partir deles os gestores ou proprietários podem definir suas estratégias para melhorar o desempenho. Também pode se reconhecer uma contribuição no âmbito acadêmico ao trazer novos resultados empíricos na compreensão das relações entre os constructos pesquisados.
Gerenciamento de Projetos por meio de Equipes Virtuais: desafios
Authors: Silva Edson Coutinho da
Published: October 2017

O trabalho em equipes virtuais tem início na década de 1980, mas, somente na década de 1990, com o surgimento da Internet, as organizações têm mudado a sua forma de trabalho. Uma equipe virtual pode ser compreendida como um conjunto de indivíduos que são independentes (ou autônomos) em suas atividades, contudo, compartilham responsabilidades pelos objetivos, metas e resultados que tem relações além das fronteiras organizacionais. Assim sendo, este artigo tem o objetivo de identificar desafios que a equipe virtual e o gestor de projetos tem vivenciado no gerenciamento de projetos de uma organização alemã de seguros. Em termos metodológicos, a pesquisa foi exploratória e ação; oito foram as entrevistas realizadas na pesquisa; o instrumento de pesquisa continha 15 questões que buscaram percorrer pelos pontos que seriam analisados na pesquisa; os dados foram analisados qualitativamente, uma vez que de maneira quantitativa, seria difícil chegar aos resultados propostos. Muitos benefícios foram observados com a implementação das equipes virtuais, do mesmo modo, muitos desafios estão postos para que a organização possa amadurecer este modelo de trabalho.
La prosopographie, une méthode historique multiscalaire entre individuel et collectif
Authors: Didier Sébastien
Published: October 2017

Inventée il y a plus d’un siècle, la prosopographie est loin d’être obsolète. Perfectionnée depuis les années 1980, cette méthode historique devrait aujourd’hui prendre sa place parmi les méthodes multiscalaires comme les récentes histoire connectée et histoire croisée. Elle conserve l’intérêt de la biographie historique dans des études de groupes socio-politiques. Comparative, la prosopographie offre surtout la possibilité de faire dialoguer les échelles du passé humain, l’individuel et le collectif.
Management of Plantar Keratodermas
Authors: Porter Rebecca M. , Bravo Albert A. , Smith Frances J.D.
Published: October 2017

Plantar keratodermas can arise due to a variety of genetically inherited mutations. The need to distinguish between different plantar keratoderma disorders is becoming increasingly apparent because there is evidence that they do not respond identically to treatment. Diagnosis can be aided by observation of other clinical manifestations, such as palmar keratoderma, more widespread hyperkeratosis of the epidermis, hair and nail dystrophies, or erythroderma. However, there are frequent cases of plantar keratoderma that occur in isolation. This review focuses on the rare autosomal dominant keratin disorder pachyonychia congenita, which presents with particularly painful plantar keratoderma for which there is no specific treatment. Typically, patients regularly trim/pare/file/grind their calluses and file/grind/clip their nails. Topical agents, including keratolytics (eg, salicylic acid, urea) and moisturizers, can provide limited benefit by softening the skin. For some patients, retinoids help to thin calluses but may lead to increased pain. This finding has stimulated a drive for alternative treatment options, from gene therapy to alternative nongenetic methods that focus on novel findings regarding the pathogenesis of pachyonychia congenita and the function of the underlying genes.
Motor-Evoked Potentials of the Abductor Hallucis Muscle and Their Relationship with Foot Arch Functional Anatomy
Authors: Mayorga Tyrone , Giokas Erato , Abagyan Anaida , Patel Dhaval , Sarraf Yasmin , Paula Michael , Chusid Eileen , D'antoni Anthony , Battaglia Fortunato
Published: October 2017

Background:

The present study aimed to investigate the correlation between abductor hallucis (AH) muscle motor evoked potential (MEP) amplitude and foot arch anatomy.

Methods:

Twelve healthy individuals underwent foot arch measurement using a digital photographic technique and measurements of cortical excitability using transcranial magnetic stimulation applied on the cortical representation area of the right AH muscle. Truncated foot length and dorsal height were then measured and used to create the arch height index (AHI). Resting motor threshold, MEP amplitude (using a stimulation intensity of 110% resting motor threshold), and cortical silent period duration were also measured.

Results:

Mean ± SE values were as follows: truncated foot length, 16.72 ± 0.3 cm; dorsal height, 5.62 ± 0.13 cm; AHI, 0.34 ± 0.01; resting motor threshold, 81.6% ± 2.12%; MEP amplitude, 0.71 ± 0.1 mV; and cortical silent period duration, 108.05 ± 0.45 msec. A significant correlation was found between MEP amplitude and AHI (Spearman's rho: P < .01).

Conclusions:

These results indicate that AH muscle functional neuroanatomy measurements are reliable and might be used by clinicians and therapists to investigate foot arch physiology and monitor the efficacy of treatments and rehabilitative protocols.
Comparative demography of two common scleractinian corals:Orbicella annularisandPorites astreoides
Authors: Soto-Santiago Francisco J. , Mercado-Molina Alex , Reyes-Maldonado Koralis , Vélez Yaileen , Ruiz-Díaz Claudia P. , Sabat Alberto
Published: October 2017

Background

Studies directed at understanding the demography and population dynamics of corals are relatively scarce. This limits our understanding of both the dynamics of coral populations and our capacity to develop management and conservation initiatives directed at conserving such ecosystems.

Methods

From 2012 to 2014, we collected data on the growth, survival, and recruitment rates of two common Caribbean coral species, the stress-tolerantOrbicella annularisand the weedyPorites astreoides. A set of size-based population matrix model was developed for two localities in Northeastern Puerto Rico and used to estimate population growth rates (λ) and determine the life cycle transition(s) that contribute the most to spatiotemporal differences in λs. The model was parameterized by following the fate of 100 colonies of each species at the two sites for two years.

Results

Our data indicate that spatial variability in vital rates of both species was higher than temporal variability. During the first year, populations ofO. annularisexhibited λs below equilibrium at Carlos Rosario (0.817) and Palomino (0.694), followed by a considerable decline at both sites during the second year (0.700 and 0.667). Populations ofP. astreoidesshowed higher λs thanO. annularisduring the first census period at Carlos Rosario (0.898) and Palomino (0.894) with a decline at one of the sites (0.681 and 0.893) during the second census period. Colony fate in both species exhibited a significant interaction with respect to location but not to time (G2 = 20.96;df= 3 forO. annularisandG2 = 9.55;df= 3 forP. astreoides).

Discussion

The similar variability of λs as well as the similar survival rates for both species during the two-year census period (2012–2014) show similar variability on demographic patterns in space and time. Our results suggest that location rather than time is important for the resiliency in coral colonies. Also,P. astreoideswill show higher resistance to disturbance in the future thanO. annularis.
Skin and fur bacterial diversity and community structure on American southwestern bats: effects of habitat, geography and bat traits
Authors: Winter Ara S. , Hathaway Jennifer J.M. , Kimble Jason C. , Buecher Debbie C. , Valdez Ernest W. , Porras-Alfaro Andrea , Young Jesse M. , Read Kaitlyn J.H. , Northup Diana E.
Published: October 2017

Microorganisms that reside on and in mammals, such as bats, have the potential to influence their host’s health and to provide defenses against invading pathogens. However, we have little understanding of the skin and fur bacterial microbiota on bats, or factors that influence the structure of these communities. The southwestern United States offers excellent sites for the study of external bat bacterial microbiota due to the diversity of bat species, the variety of abiotic and biotic factors that may govern bat bacterial microbiota communities, and the lack of the newly emergent fungal disease in bats, white-nose syndrome (WNS), in the southwest. To test these variables, we used 16S rRNA gene 454 pyrosequencing from swabs of external skin and fur surfaces from 163 bats from 13 species sampled from southeastern New Mexico to northwestern Arizona. Community similarity patterns, random forest models, and generalized linear mixed-effects models show that factors such as location (e.g., cave-caught versus surface-netted) and ecoregion are major contributors to the structure of bacterial communities on bats. Bats caught in caves had a distinct microbial community compared to those that were netted on the surface. Our results provide a first insight into the distribution of skin and fur bat bacteria in the WNS-free environment of New Mexico and Arizona. More importantly, it provides a baseline of bat external microbiota that can be explored for potential natural defenses against pathogens.
NewCernotinacaddisflies from the Ecuadorian Amazon (Trichoptera: Polycentropodidae)
Authors: Camargos Lucas M. , Ríos-Touma Blanca , Holzenthal Ralph W.
Published: October 2017

Two new species of the caddisfly genusCernotinaRoss, 1938 (Polycentropodidae) are described from the lowland Amazon basin of Ecuador,Cernotina tiputini, new species, andCernotina waorani, new species. These represent the first new species described from this region. We also record from Ecuador for the first timeCernotina hastilisFlint, previously known from Tobago, and present new Ecuadorian locality records forC.cygneaFlint, andC.lobisomemSantos & Nessimian. The homology of the intermediate appendage of the male genitalia of this genus is established. The region surveyed is under severe environmental threat from logging, mining, and crude oil extraction, making the description of the biodiversity of the region imperative.
Chemical profile, nutraceutical and anti-phytobacterial properties of the essential oil from Dalea foliolosa (Fabaceae)
Authors: Ruano Nemesio Villa- , Hernández Yesenia Pacheco- , Rosas Efraín-Rubio- , Reyes José A. Zárate- , Gloria Edmundo Lozoya- , Durán Ramiro Cruz-
Published: October 2017

The present work describes the chemical composition of the leaf essential oils from the annual plant Dalea foliolosa, which was collected in three consecutive years (2014-2016). The amount of monoterpenes (69.5-84.6%) was higher to that of sesquiterpenes (10.3-22.9%) and aliphatic hydrocarbons (1-2.1%). Cryptone (22.3-30.6%) was the most abundant oxygenated monoterpene, followed by linalool (10.4-17.6%), caryophyllene oxide (4.6-15.3%), ascaridole (4.5-7.4%) and β-citronellol (3.8-5.6%). The hydrodistillated extract showed antioxidant activity against DPPH radical (IC50, 45-156 µg mL-1), strong anti-α-glucosidase activity (IC50, 14-47 µg mL-1) and inhibited the growth of Pseudomonas syringae pv. tabaci TBR2004 (MIC, 44-105 µg mL-1) and P. syringae pv. tomato DC3000 (MIC, 35-155 µg mL-1). The possible use of the essential oil as a novel additive for anti-hyperglycemic supplements and for the biological control of the analyzed Pseudomonas syringae varieties, may be contemplated.
Using Space Lidar Observations to Decompose Longwave Cloud Radiative Effect Variations Over the Last Decade
Authors: Vaillant de Guélis Thibault , Chepfer Hélène , Noel Vincent , Guzman Rodrigo , Winker David M. , Plougonven Riwal
Published: October 2017

Measurements of the longwave cloud radiative effect (LWCRE) at the top of the atmosphere assess the contribution of clouds to the Earth warming but do not quantify the cloud property variations that are responsible for the LWCRE variations. The CALIPSO space lidar observes directly the detailed profile of cloud, cloud opacity, and cloud cover. Here we use these observations to quantify the influence of cloud properties on the variations of the LWCRE observed between 2008 and 2015 in the tropics and at global scale. At global scale, the method proposed here gives good results except over the Southern Ocean. We find that the global LWCRE variations observed over ocean are mostly due to variations in the opaque cloud properties (82%); transparent cloud columns contributed 18%. Variation of opaque cloud cover is the first contributor to the LWCRE evolution (58%); opaque cloud temperature is the second contributor (28%).
Diapycnal Fluxes of Nutrients in an Oligotrophic Oceanic Regime: The South China Sea
Authors: Du Chuanjun , Liu Zhiyu , Kao Shuh‐Ji , Dai Minhan
Published: October 2017

Nutrients from depth have been hypothesized as a primary source of new nutrients that sustain new productivity in oligotrophic oceans; however, the flux is challenging to quantify. Here we show for a first time in the oligotrophic South China Sea an extremely low diapycnal dissolved inorganic nitrogen (DIN) flux as 1.8 × 10−4 mmol m−2 d−1 in the nutrient‐depleted layer (NDL) above the nutricline, where other nutrient supplies sustain the new production. Here higher phosphate and silicate fluxes relative to DIN than Redfield stoichiometry further indicate N‐limited biological productivity and additional removal of DIN by diatoms. Below the NDL across the nutricline to the base of euphotic zone, termed as nutrient replete layer, the DIN flux is three orders of magnitude larger and sufficient in supporting the export production therein. Here higher DIC flux relative to DIN than Redfield stoichiometry further infers DIC excess in the upper ocean.
Estimation of Seismic Centroid Moment Tensor Using Ocean Bottom Pressure Gauges as Seismometers
Authors: Kubota Tatsuya , Saito Tatsuhiko , Suzuki Wataru , Hino Ryota
Published: October 2017

We examined the dynamic pressure change at the seafloor to estimate the centroid moment tensor solutions of the largest and second largest foreshocks (Mw 7.2 and 6.5) of the 2011 Tohoku‐Oki earthquake. Combination of onshore broadband seismograms and high‐frequency (~20–200 s) seafloor pressure records provided the resolution of the horizontal locations of the centroids, consistent with the results of tsunami inversion using the long‐period (≳10 min) seafloor pressure records although the depth was not constrained well, whereas the source locations were poorly constrained by the onshore seismic data alone. Also, the waveforms synthesized from the estimated CMT solution demonstrated the validity of the theoretical relationship between pressure change and vertical acceleration at the seafloor. The results of this study suggest that offshore pressure records can be utilized as offshore seismograms, which would be greatly useful for revealing the source process of offshore earthquakes.
High‐Pressure γ‐CaMgSi2O6: Does Penta‐Coordinated Silicon Exist in the Earth's Mantle?
Authors: Hu Yi , Kiefer Boris , Bina Craig R. , Zhang Dongzhou , Dera Przemeslaw K.
Published: October 2017

In situ X‐ray diffraction experiments with natural Fe‐ and Al‐ bearing diopside single crystals and density functional theory (DFT) calculations on diopside end‐member composition indicate the existence of a new high‐pressure γ‐diopside polymorph with rare penta‐coordinated silicon. On compression α‐diopside transforms to the γ‐phase at ∼50 GPa, which in turn, on decompression is observed to convert to the known β‐phase below 47 GPa. The new γ‐diopside polymorph constitutes another recent example of penta‐coordinated silicon (VSi) in overcompressed metastable crystalline silicates, suggesting that VSi may exist in the transition zone and the uppermost lower mantle in appreciable quantities, not only in silicate glass and melts but also in crystalline phases contained in the coldest parts of subducted stagnant slabs. VSi may have significant influences on buoyancy, wave velocity anomalies, deformation mechanisms, chemical reactivity of silicate rocks, and seismicity within the slab.
Seismic Velocity Changes in the Backarc Continental Crust After the 2011 Mw 9.0 Tohoku‐Oki Megathrust Earthquake
Authors: Hong Tae‐Kyung , Lee Junhyung , Chi Donggeun , Park Seongjun
Published: October 2017

The 2011 Mw 9.0 Tohoku‐Oki megathrust earthquake accompanied coseismic and postseismic displacements around the eastern Eurasian continental plate. Noise cross correlations produced transient seismic waveforms along interstation paths in the Korean Peninsula. We measured the traveltime changes of the fundamental mode Rayleigh waves over the range of 0.03–0.08 Hz after the megathrust earthquake. The temporal seismic velocity changes in the lower crust were assessed from the traveltime changes. The traveltimes increased instantly after the megathrust earthquake and were gradually recovered over several hundreds to thousands of days. The instant shear wave velocity decreases ranged between 0.731 (±0.057)% and 4.068 (±0.173)%. The temporal medium perturbation might be caused by the transient uniaxial tensional stress due to the coseismic and postseismic displacements. The medium properties may be recovered by progressive stress field reconstruction.
Origin of the 2016 QBO Disruption and Its Relationship to Extreme El Niño Events
Authors: Barton C. A. , McCormack J. P.
Published: October 2017

The descent of the westerly phase of the quasi‐biennial oscillation (QBO) in equatorial stratospheric zonal wind was interrupted by the development of easterlies near 40 hPa (~23 km altitude) in early 2016. We use tropical meteorological analyses of wind and temperature to describe in detail the special circumstances by which equatorward‐propagating planetary waves produced this unprecedented disruption in the QBO. Our findings show that the subtropical easterly jet in the winter lower stratosphere during the 2015–2016 winter was anomalously weak owing to (1) the timing of the QBO relative to the annual cycle and (2) an extreme El Niño event. The weak jet allowed an unusually large flux of westward momentum to propagate from the extratropical Northern Hemisphere to the equator near the 40 hPa level. Consequently, the QBO westerlies at that level experienced sustained easterly acceleration from extratropical wave breaking, leading to the observed wind reversal.
Global Ionospheric and Thermospheric Effects of the June 2015 Geomagnetic Disturbances: Multi‐Instrumental Observations and Modeling
Authors: Astafyeva E. , Zakharenkova I. , Huba J. D. , Doornbos E. , van den IJssel J.
Published: October 2017

By using data from multiple instruments, we investigate ionospheric/thermospheric behavior during the period from 21 to 23 June 2015, when three interplanetary shocks (IS) of different intensities arrived at Earth. The first IS was registered at 16:45 UT on 21 June and caused ~50 nT increase in the SYM‐H index. The second IS arrived at 5:45 UT on 22 June and induced an enhancement of the auroral/substorm activity that led to rapid increase of thermospheric neutral mass density and ionospheric vertical total electron content at high latitudes. Several hours later, topside electron content and electron density increased at low latitudes on the nightside. The third and much larger IS arrived at 18:30 UT on 22 June and initiated a major geomagnetic storm that lasted for many hours. The storm provoked significant effects in the thermosphere and ionosphere on both dayside and nightside. In the thermosphere, the dayside neutral mass density exceeded the quiet time levels by 300–500%, with stronger effects in the summer hemisphere. In the ionosphere, both positive and negative storm effects were observed on both dayside and nightside. We compared the ionospheric observations with simulations by the coupled Sami3 is Also a Model of the Ionosphere/Rice Convection Model (SAMI3/RCM) model. We find rather good agreement between the data and the model for the first phase of the storm, when the prompt penetration electric field (PPEF) was the principal driver. At the end of the storm main phase, when the ionospheric effects were, most likely, driven by a combination of PPEF and thermospheric winds, the modeling results agree less with the observations.
Regional Effects of the Mount Pinatubo Eruption on the Middle East and the Red Sea
Authors: Osipov Sergey , Stenchikov Georgiy
Published: October 2017

The 1991 eruption of Mount Pinatubo had dramatic effects on the regional climate in the Middle East. Though acknowledged, these effects have not been thoroughly studied. To fill this gap and to advance understanding of the mechanisms that control variability in the Middle East's regional climate, we simulated the impact of the 1991 Pinatubo eruption using a regional coupled ocean‐atmosphere modeling system set for the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) domain. We used the Coupled Ocean‐Atmosphere‐Wave‐Sediment Transport (COAWST) framework, which couples the Weather Research and Forecasting Model (WRF) model with the Regional Oceanic Modeling System (ROMS). We modified the WRF model to account for the radiative effect of volcanic aerosols. Our coupled ocean‐atmosphere simulations verified by available observations revealed strong perturbations in the energy balance of the Red Sea, which drove thermal and circulation responses. Our modeling approach allowed us to separate changes in the atmospheric circulation caused by the impact of the volcano from direct regional radiative cooling from volcanic aerosols. The atmospheric circulation effect was significantly stronger than the direct volcanic aerosols effect. We found that the Red Sea response to the Pinatubo eruption was stronger and qualitatively different from that of the global ocean system. Our results suggest that major volcanic eruptions significantly affect the climate in the Middle East and the Red Sea and should be carefully taken into account in assessments of long‐term climate variability and warming trends in MENA and the Red Sea.
Emission of Methane and Heavier Alkanes From the La Brea Tar Pits Seepage Area, Los Angeles
Authors: Etiope G. , Doezema L. A. , Pacheco C.
Published: October 2017

Natural hydrocarbon (oil and gas) seeps are widespread in Los Angeles, California, due to gas migration, along faults, from numerous subsurface petroleum fields. These seeps may represent important natural contributors of methane (CH4) and heavier alkanes (C2‐C4) to the atmosphere, in addition to anthropogenic fossil fuel and biogenic sources. We measured the CH4 flux by closed‐chamber method from the La Brea Tar Pits park (0.1 km2), one of the largest seepage sites in Los Angeles. The gas seepage occurs throughout the park, not only from visible oil‐asphalt seeps but also diffusely from the soil, affecting grass physiology. About 500 kg CH4 d−1 is emitted from the park, especially along a belt of enhanced degassing that corresponds to the 6th Street Fault. Additional emissions are from bubble plumes in the lake within the park (order of 102–103 kg d−1) and at the intersection of Wilshire Boulevard and Curson Avenue (>130 kg d−1), along the same fault. The investigated area has the highest natural gas flux measured thus far for any onshore seepage zone in the USA. Gas migration, oil biodegradation, and secondary methanogenesis altered the molecular composition of the original gas accumulated in the Salt Lake Oil Field (>300 m deep), leading to high C1/C2+ and i‐butane/n‐butane ratios. These molecular alterations can be important tracers of natural seepage and should be considered in the atmospheric modeling of the relative contribution of fossil fuel (anthropogenic fugitive emission and natural geologic sources) versus biogenic sources of methane, on local and global scales.