bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Camera Calibration Robust to Defocus Using Phase-Shifting Patterns
Authors: Cai Bolin , Wang Yuwei , Wang Keyi , Ma Mengchao , Chen Xiangcheng
Published: October 2017

Camera parameters can’t be estimated accurately using traditional calibration methods if the camera is substantially defocused. To tackle this problem, an improved approach based on three phase-shifting circular grating (PCG) arrays is proposed in this paper. Rather than encoding the feature points into the intensity, the proposed method encodes the feature points into the phase distribution, which can be recovered precisely using phase-shifting methods. The PCG centers are extracted as feature points, which can be located accurately even if the images are severely blurred. Unlike the previous method which just uses a single circle, the proposed method uses a concentric circle to estimate the PCG center, such that the center can be located precisely. This paper also presents a sorting algorithm for the detected feature points automatically. Experiments with both synthetic and real images were carried out to validate the performance of the method. And the results show that the superiority of PCG arrays compared with the concentric circle array even under severe defocus.
The Dominance of Food Supply in Changing Demographic Factors across Africa: A Model Using a Systems Identification Approach
Authors: Wei Hualiang , Bigg Grant R.
Published: October 2017

Demographic indicators linked to general health have been strongly linked to economic development. However, change in such indicators is also associated with other factors such as climate, water availability, and diet. Here, we use a systems modelling approach, bringing together a range of environmental, economic, dietary, and health factors, to seek possible dominant causes of demographic change across Africa. A continent-wide, north-south transect of countries allows for the exploration of a range of climates, while a longitudinal transect from the Atlantic to the Red Sea provides a range of socio-economic factors within the similar climatic regime of Sahelian Africa. While change in national life expectancy and death rate since 1960 is modelled to be linked to a varying number and type of factors across the transects, the dominant factor in improving these demographic indicators across the continent is food availability. This has been strongly modulated by HIV infection rates in recent decades in some countries.
The Contribution of Physical Geographers to Sustainability Research
Authors: Day Terence
Published: October 2017

A physical geographers’ scope of practice is not defined by any regulatory or academic organization, so perception of the potential contribution of physical geography to sustainability research has been nebulous or informal, at best. In order to understand what physical geographers can do to enhance sustainability, this paper describes a systematic review of peer-reviewed research on sustainability published in three physical geography journals. The results show that physical geographers are active in sustainability research in terms of a spatial perspective, an understanding of human interactions with the environment, and an ability to recognize, interpret, and project environmental change and its impacts. The depth of this understanding is facilitated by a physical geographers’ understanding of the natural world, process and system concepts, the ways that systems are linked and interact, and a willingness to deploy a wide range of methodologies to secure that knowledge. The expertise of physical geographers makes an important contribution to sustainability research and should be considered when multidisciplinary teams are assembled.
Urban Growth Control DSS Techniques for De-Sprinkling Process in Italy
Authors: Romano Bernardino , Fiorini Lorena , Zullo Francesco , Marucci Alessandro
Published: October 2017

This article relates to the concept of urban expansion reduction in limited areas, called “de-sprinkling districts”, and methods of designation of their range, as well as modelling and management of their network. This concept was developed from research concluded in 2016, referring to 50 years of urban evolution in Italy, that investigated and diagnosed the forms of urban growth focusing on the Italian model. For this model, the authors of this paper proposed an alternative definition (urban sprinkling) with respect to the sprawl international standard. Certainly this urban model established in Italy during the mentioned years is due to an inefficient control of peripheral areas and new conurbations’ development, both in forms and functions. The cause is to be searched for in the importance given to single towns’ general plans and the minor role of strategic planning (province and region). The political and social assumption that urban development according to the extreme sprinkling model is no longer feasible is gaining ground. However, implementing de-sprinkling processes will not be easy. In this paper, criteria to create a decision support system (DSS) for administrators and municipalities is illustrated. These criteria aim at dealing, technically and politically, with sprinkling and planning medium-term containment.
An Approach for the Simulation of Ground and Honed Technical Surfaces for Training Classifiers
Authors: Rief Sebastian , Ströer Felix , Kieß Simon , Eifler Matthias , Seewig Jörg
Published: October 2017

Training of neural networks requires large amounts of data. Simulated data sets can be helpful if the data required for the training is not available. However, the applicability of simulated data sets for training neuronal networks depends on the quality of the simulation model used. A simple and fast approach for the simulation of ground and honed surfaces with predefined properties is being presented. The approach is used to generate a diverse data set. This set is then applied to train a neural convolution network for surface type recognition. The resulting classifier is validated on the basis of a series of real measurement data and a classification rate of >85% is achieved. A possible field of application of the presented procedure is the support of measurement technicians in the standard-compliant evaluation of measurement data by suggestion of specific data processing steps, depending on the recognized type of manufacturing process.
Statistical Approach to the Computation of an Influence of the Yangtze Dam on Gravity Fluctuations
Authors: Birylo Monika , Pajak Katarzyna
Published: October 2017

Due to the realization of the Three Gorges Dam on the Yangtze River and its content of 40 billion tons of water many geodynamical consequences can still be observed. It is obvious that global geodynamical changes are noticeable at whole basin of the Yangtze river. Such changes can be observed by the GRACE (Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment) gravimetric satellites (Ilk et al. 2005). The GRACE gravity field model data are available in the form of spherical harmonic expansion; by defining a specific filter, one can compute geoid variations at specific locations. As a reference, EGM2008 model was used, on its basis geoid variations were determined. According to the results, geoid variations at the Yangtze river become more stable after filling the Dam. In the article a statistical methods were used for the purpose of the evaluation of a differences EGM08-GRACE time series in the area of the Three Gorges Dam. In the article the authors want to present trend analysis and short-term forecasting with ARIMA model usage.
INTEGRAL Detection of the First Prompt Gamma-Ray Signal Coincident with the Gravitational-wave Event GW170817
Authors: Savchenko V. , Ferrigno C. , Kuulkers E. , Bazzano A. , Bozzo E. , Brandt S. , Chenevez J. , Courvoisier T. J.-L. , Diehl R. , Domingo A. , Hanlon L. , Jourdain E. , von Kienlin A. , Laurent P. , Lebrun F. , Lutovinov A. , Martin-Carrillo A. , Mereghetti S. , Natalucci L. , Rodi J. , Roques J.-P. , Sunyaev R. , Ubertini P.
Published: October 2017

We report the INTernational Gamma-ray Astrophysics Laboratory (INTEGRAL) detection of the short gamma-ray burst GRB 170817A (discovered by Fermi-GBM) with a signal-to-noise ratio of 4.6, and, for the first time, its association with the gravitational waves (GWs) from binary neutron star (BNS) merging event GW170817 detected by the LIGO and Virgo observatories. The significance of association between the gamma-ray burst observed by INTEGRAL and GW170817 is 3.2σ, while the association between the Fermi-GBM and INTEGRAL detections is 4.2σ. GRB 170817A was detected by the SPI-ACS instrument about 2 s after the end of the GW event. We measure a fluence of (1.4 ± 0.4 ± 0.6) × 10−7 erg cm−2 (75–2000 keV), where, respectively, the statistical error is given at the 1σ confidence level, and the systematic error corresponds to the uncertainty in the spectral model and instrument response. We also report on the pointed follow-up observations carried out by INTEGRAL, starting 19.5 hr after the event, and lasting for 5.4 days. We provide a stringent upper limit on any electromagnetic signal in a very broad energy range, from 3 keV to 8 MeV, constraining the soft gamma-ray afterglow flux to <7.1 × 10−11 erg cm−2 s−1 (80–300 keV). Exploiting the unique capabilities of INTEGRAL, we constrained the gamma-ray line emission from radioactive decays that are expected to be the principal source of the energy behind a kilonova event following a BNS coalescence. Finally, we put a stringent upper limit on any delayed bursting activity, for example, from a newly formed magnetar.
The Electromagnetic Counterpart of the Binary Neutron Star Merger LIGO/Virgo GW170817. VIII. A Comparison to Cosmological Short-duration Gamma-Ray Bursts
Authors: Fong W. , Berger E. , Blanchard P. K. , Margutti R. , Cowperthwaite P. S. , Chornock R. , Alexander K. D. , Metzger B. D. , Villar V. A. , Nicholl M. , Eftekhari T. , Williams P. K. G. , Annis J. , Brout D. , Brown D. A. , Chen H.-Y. , Doctor Z. , Diehl H. T. , Holz D. E. , Rest A. , Sako M. , Soares-Santos M.
Published: October 2017

We present a comprehensive comparison of the properties of the radio through X-ray counterpart of GW170817 and the properties of short-duration gamma-ray bursts (GRBs). For this effort, we utilize a sample of 36 short GRBs spanning a redshift range of

z
≈
0.12
–
2.6

discovered over 2004–2017. We find that the counterpart to GW170817 has an isotropic-equivalent luminosity that is

≈
3000

times less than the median value of on-axis short GRB X-ray afterglows, and ≳104 times less than that for detected short GRB radio afterglows. Moreover, the allowed jet energies and particle densities inferred from the radio and X-ray counterparts to GW170817 and on-axis short GRB afterglows are remarkably similar, suggesting that viewing angle effects are the dominant, and perhaps only, difference in their observed radio and X-ray behavior. From comparison to previous claimed kilonovae following short GRBs, we find that the optical and near-infrared (NIR) counterpart to GW170817 is comparatively under-luminous by a factor of

≈
3
–
5

, indicating a range of kilonova luminosities and timescales. A comparison of the optical limits following short GRBs on

≲
1

day timescales also rules out a “blue” kilonova of comparable optical isotropic-equivalent luminosity in one previous short GRB. Finally, we investigate the host galaxy of GW170817, NGC 4993, in the context of short GRB host galaxy stellar population properties. We find that NGC 4993 is superlative in terms of its large luminosity, old stellar population age, and low star formation rate compared to previous short GRB hosts. Additional events within the Advanced Laser Interferometer Gravitational-wave Observatory (LIGO)/Virgo volume will be crucial in delineating the properties of the host galaxies of neutron star–neutron star (NS–NS) mergers, and connecting them to their cosmological counterparts.
The Rapid Reddening and Featureless Optical Spectra of the Optical Counterpart of GW170817, AT 2017gfo, during the First Four Days
Authors: McCully Curtis , Hiramatsu Daichi , Howell D. Andrew , Hosseinzadeh Griffin , Arcavi Iair , Kasen Daniel , Barnes Jennifer , Shara Michael M. , Williams Ted B. , Väisänen Petri , Potter Stephen B. , Romero-Colmenero Encarni , Crawford Steven M. , Buckley David A. H. , Cooke Jeffery , Andreoni Igor , Pritchard Tyler A. , Mao Jirong , Gromadzki Mariusz , Burke Jamison
Published: October 2017

We present the spectroscopic evolution of AT 2017gfo, the optical counterpart of the first binary neutron star (BNS) merger detected by LIGO and Virgo, GW170817. While models have long predicted that a BNS merger could produce a kilonova (KN), we have not been able to definitively test these models until now. From one day to four days after the merger, we took five spectra of AT 2017gfo before it faded away, which was possible because it was at a distance of only 39.5 Mpc in the galaxy NGC 4993. The spectra evolve from blue (∼6400 K) to red (∼3500 K) over the three days we observed. The spectra are relatively featureless—some weak features exist in our latest spectrum, but they are likely due to the host galaxy. However, a simple blackbody is not sufficient to explain our data: another source of luminosity or opacity is necessary. Predictions from simulations of KNe qualitatively match the observed spectroscopic evolution after two days past the merger, but underpredict the blue flux in our earliest spectrum. From our best-fit models, we infer that AT 2017gfo had an ejecta mass of

0.03

M

⊙

, high ejecta velocities of 0.3c, and a low mass fraction ∼10−4 of high-opacity lanthanides and actinides. One possible explanation for the early excess of blue flux is that the outer ejecta is lanthanide-poor, while the inner ejecta has a higher abundance of high-opacity material. With the discovery and follow-up of this unique transient, combining gravitational-wave and electromagnetic astronomy, we have arrived in the multi-messenger era.
The Old Host-galaxy Environment of SSS17a, the First Electromagnetic Counterpart to a Gravitational-wave Source*
Authors: Pan Y.-C. , Kilpatrick C. D. , Simon J. D. , Xhakaj E. , Boutsia K. , Coulter D. A. , Drout M. R. , Foley R. J. , Kasen D. , Morrell N. , Murguia-Berthier A. , Osip D. , Piro A. L. , Prochaska J. X. , Ramirez-Ruiz E. , Rest A. , Rojas-Bravo C. , Shappee B. J. , Siebert M. R.
Published: October 2017

We present an analysis of the host-galaxy environment of Swope Supernova Survey 2017a (SSS17a), the discovery of an electromagnetic counterpart to a gravitational-wave source, GW170817. SSS17a occurred 1.9 kpc (in projection; 10.″2) from the nucleus of NGC 4993, an S0 galaxy at a distance of 40 Mpc. We present a Hubble Space Telescope (HST) pre-trigger image of NGC 4993, Magellan optical spectroscopy of the nucleus of NGC 4993 and the location of SSS17a, and broadband UV-through-IR photometry of NGC 4993. The spectrum and broadband spectral-energy distribution indicate that NGC 4993 has a stellar mass of

log
(
M

/

M

⊙

)
=

10.49

−
0.20

+
0.08

and star formation rate of 0.003

M

⊙

yr−1, and the progenitor system of SSS17a likely had an age of >2.8 Gyr. There is no counterpart at the position of SSS17a in the HST pre-trigger image, indicating that the progenitor system had an absolute magnitude

M

V

>
−
5.8

mag. We detect dust lanes extending out to almost the position of SSS17a and >100 likely globular clusters associated with NGC 4993. The offset of SSS17a is similar to many short gamma-ray-burst offsets, and its progenitor system was likely bound to NGC 4993. The environment of SSS17a is consistent with an old progenitor system such as a binary neutron star system.
Genome Subsequences Assembly Using Approximate Matching Techniques in Hadoop
Authors: Raja Govindan , Reddy U. Srinivasulu
Published: October 2017

Sequencing DNA will provide valuable insights into several aspects of human life. The major requirement of this domain is for a faster and more accurate sequencing mechanism. The process becomes difficult due to the huge size of DNA. This paper presents an effective genome assembly technique in Hadoop architecture using MapReduce. The fragment assembly is based on initially matching the subsequences and then depending on the matching levels, the final complete matching subsequences are filtered. The consensus alignment and recalibration are performed using Greedy approximate matching techniques. The experimental results show that our approach is more accurate and exhibits better coverage; however, the processing time is found to be high. In future, our contributions will be based on reducing the processing time. Discussions about these techniques are also presented in this paper.
Leadership training and delivery prospects of team leaders in Communication Network Support Services Limited, Ilorin
Authors: Olatunji Abdulahi G. , Ojelabi Ademola , Isiaq Abdulwaheed A. , Moshood Issah , Ewaoda Amali S.
Published: October 2017

Training and development of staff has been one of the key focuses of every human resources department of any formal work organisation. This is as a result of the realisation that training is an important determinant of people’s behaviour as well as their general delivery ability at work. In realisation of this, intellectuals and researchers in industrial relations generally have put vested interest in the phenomena of training and work delivery ability. However, despite the enormous volume of literatures available in this regard, very few among them have specifically examined the importance of leadership training as a possible determinant of work delivery. Thus, this study is an attempt to cover this gap. In order to achieve this objective, survey design was used as the research design for the study. A questionnaire was used to elicit information from the respondents, while simple random sampling technique was used to select the study sample. Frequency distribution and percentage were used as descriptive tools, while chi-square was used as an inferential statistical tool in the study. The study found out that leadership training has a significant relationship with the identified work delivery elements measured in the study. The study concluded that leadership training has a significant effect on delivery ability of team leaders and thus recommended that leadership training should be given utmost priority in work organisations so that work delivery prospects of the employees could be realised.
Signet-ring cell adenoma of the thyroid and rheumatoid arthritis: incidental association or methotrexate-related change?
Authors: Handra-Luca Adriana
Published: October 2017

NA (Letter to the Edito section)
Signet-ring cell adenoma of the thyroid and rheumatoid arthritis: incidental association or methotrexate-related change?
Signet-ring cell change in thyroid adenoma is rarely reported [1-3]. We have recently seen such a tumor in case of rheumatoid arthritis (RA) treated by methotrexate. Thyroid tumors are rarely reported in RA patients to our knowledge, mainly of carcinoma-type [4,5]. In conclusion, we report a case of signet-ring cell thyroid adenoma occurring in rheumatoid arthritis treated by methotrexate. The histogenesis of the cytoplasmic vacuoles, negative for thyrocyte classical markes as well as for CD56 and CD138, remains to be elucidated.
Cervical spine instability in the course of rheumatoid arthritis – imaging methods
Authors: Mańczak Małgorzata , Gasik Robert
Published: October 2017

Cervical spine is affected in more than a half of patients with rheumatoid arthritis (RA). Depending on the degree of damage to the individual joints and ligaments RA-related cervical spine instability takes the form of atlanto-axial subluxation, subaxial subluxation or cranial settling. In the advanced cases spinal stenosis can occur as well as spinal cord injuries with typical neurological symptoms. The identification of patients with cervical spine instability before the occurrence of neurological complications still constitutes a diagnostic challenge.

The article presents the methods of cervical spine imaging with the use of plain radiographs, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and computed tomography (CT). We discuss the advantages and disadvantages associated with each method and the possibility of its application in the diagnosis of cervical spine instability in RA. The knowledge of the above mentioned issues is indispensable to select an appropriate time for surgical intervention.
Relapsing granulomatosis with polyangiitis with severe lung and upper respiratory tract involvement successfully treated with rituximab
Authors: Masiak Anna , Zdrojewski Zbigniew
Published: October 2017

Granulomatosis with polyangiitis (GPA) is a chronic, relapsing, primary systemic small vessel vasculitis associated with anti-neutrophil cytoplasmic antibodies. The disease is characterised by the involvement of various organs. The relapse rate rises from about 20% at 12 months to about 60% at 5 years. The combination of glucocorticoids and cyclophosphamide remains the standard therapy for patients with generalised GPA; nevertheless, some patients do not respond satisfactorily to this treatment. According to EULAR-EDTA recommendations for the management of ANCA-associated vasculitis, RTX should be considered for remission-induction of new-onset as well as major relapse of organ-threatening or life-threatening GPA. Here we present a 35-year-old patient with relapsing GPA successfully treated with RTX. We also highlight the infectious complications of immunosuppressive treatment.
A new somatic cell count index to more accurately predict milk yield losses
Authors: Jeretina Janez , Škorjanc Dejan , Babnik Drago
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Intramammary infection and clinical mastitis in dairy cows leads to considerable economic losses for farmers. The somatic cell concentration in cow's milk has been shown to be an excellent indicator for the prevalence of subclinical mastitis. In this study, a new somatic cell count index (SCCI) was proposed for the accurate prediction of milk yield losses caused by elevated somatic cell count (SCC). In all, 97 238 lactations (55 207 Holstein cows) from 2328 herds were recorded between 2010 and 2014 under different scenarios (high and low levels of SCC, four lactation stages, different milk yield intensities, and parities (1, 2, and  ≥  3). The standard shape of the curve for SCC was determined using completed standard lactations of healthy cows. The SCCI was defined as the sum of the differences between the measured interpolated values of the natural logarithm of SCC (ln(SCC)) and the values for the standard shape of the curve for SCC for a particular period, divided by the total area enclosed by the standard curve and upper limit of ln(SCC)  =  10 for SCC. The phenotypic potential of milk yield (305-day milk yield – MY305) was calculated using regression coefficients estimated from the linear regression model for parity and breeding values of cows for milk yield. The extent of daily milk yield loss caused by increased SCC was found to be mainly related to the early stage of lactation. Depending on the possible scenarios, the estimated milk yield loss from MY305 for primiparous cows was at least 0.8 to 0.9 kg day−1 and for multiparous cows it ranged from 1.3 to 4.3 kg day−1. Thus, the SCCI was a suitable indicator for estimating daily milk yield losses associated with increased SCC and might provide farmers reliable information to take appropriate measures for ensuring good health of cows and reducing milk yield losses at the herd level.
Shifts in stream hydrochemistry in responses to typhoon and non-typhoon
precipitation
Authors: Chang Chung-Te , Huang Jr-Chuan , Wang Lixin , Lin Teng-Chiu
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Climate change is projected to increase the intensity and frequency of extreme climatic events such as tropical cyclones. However, few studies have examined the responses of hydrochemical processes to climate extremes. To fill this knowledge gap, we compared the relationship between stream discharge and ion input-output budget during typhoon and non-typhoon periods in four subtropical mountain watersheds with different levels of agricultural land cover in northern Taiwan. The results indicated that the high predictability of ion input-output budgets using stream discharge during non-typhoon periods largely disappeared during the typhoon periods. For ions such as Na+, NH4+, and PO43−, the typhoon periods and non-typhoon periods exhibited opposite discharge-budget relationships. In other cases, the discharge-budget relationship was driven by the typhoon period, which consisted of only 7 % of the total time period. Watersheds with a 17–22 % tea plantation cover showed large increases in NO3− export with increases in stream discharge. In contrast, watersheds with 93–99 % forest cover showed very mild or no increases in NO3− export with increases in discharge and very low levels of NO3− export even during typhoon storms. The results suggest that even mild disruption of the natural vegetation could largely alter hydrochemical processes. Our study clearly illustrates significant shifts in hydrochemical responses between regular and typhoon precipitation. We propose that hydrological models should separate hydrochemical processes into regular and extreme conditions to better capture the whole spectrum of hydrochemical responses to a variety of climate conditions.
Modeling particle transport and discoloration risk in drinking water distribution networks
Authors: van Summeren Joost , Blokker Mirjam
Published: October 2017

Abstract. Discoloration of drinking water is a worldwide phenomenon caused by accumulation and subsequent remobilization of particulate matter in drinking water distribution systems (DWDSs). It contributes a substantial fraction of customer complaints to water utilities. Accurate discoloration risk predictions could improve system operation by allowing for more effective programs on cleaning and prevention actions and field measurements, but are challenged by incomplete understanding on the origins and properties of particles and a complex and not fully understood interplay of processes in distribution networks. In this paper, we assess and describe relevant hydraulic processes that govern particle transport in turbulent pipe flow, including gravitational settling, bed-load transport, and particle entrainment into suspension. We assess which transport mechanisms are dominant for a range of bulk flow velocities, particle diameters, and particle mass densities, which includes common conditions for DWDSs in the Netherlands, the UK, and Australia. Our analysis shows that the theoretically predicted particle settling velocity and threshold shear stresses for incipient particle motion are in the same range as, but more variable than, previous estimates from lab experiments, field measurements, and modeling. The presented material will be used in the future development of a numerical modeling tool to determine and predict the spatial distribution of particulate material and discoloration risk in DWDSs. Our approach is aimed at understanding specific causalities and processes, which can complement data-driven approaches.
Hourly mass and snow energy balance measurements from Mammoth Mountain, CA USA, 2011–2017
Authors: Bair Edward H. , Davis Robert E. , Dozier Jeff
Published: October 2017

Abstract. The mass and energy balance of the snowpack govern its evolution. Direct measurement of these fluxes is essential for modeling the snowpack, yet there are few sites where all the relevant measurements are taken. Mammoth Mountain CA USA is home to the Cold Regions Research and Engineering Laboratory and University of California – Santa Barbara Energy Site (CUES), one of five energy balance monitoring sites in the Western US. There is a ski patrol study site on Mammoth Mountain, called the Sesame Street Snow Study Plot, with automated snow and meteorological instruments where new snow is hand weighed to measure its water content. For this dataset, we present a clean and continuous hourly record of selected measurements from both sites covering the 2011–2017 water years which can be used to run a variety of snow models. The 2011–2017 period was marked by exceptional variability in precipitation, even for an area that has high year-to-year variability. The driest year on record, and one of the wettest years, occurred during this time period, making it ideal for studying climatic extremes. This dataset complements a previously published dataset from CUES containing a smaller subset of daily measurements. In addition to the hand weighed SWE, novel measurements include hourly broadband snow albedo corrected for terrain and other measurement biases. This dataset is available with Digital Object Identifier: https://doi.org/10.21424/r4159q.
SaLEM (v1.0) – A Soil and Landscape Evolution Model for simulation of regolith depth in periglacial environments
Authors: Bock Michael , Conrad Olaf , Günther Andreas , Gehrt Ernst , Baritz Rainer , Böhner Jürgen
Published: October 2017

Abstract. We propose the implementation of a soil and landscape evolution model (SaLEM) for the spatiotemporal investigation of soil parent material evolution following a lithologically differentiated approach. Relevant parts of the established model GOLEM have been adapted for an operational GIS tool within the open source software framework SAGA, thus taking advantage of SAGA's capabilities for geomorphometric analyses. The model is driven by paleo-climatic data (temperature, precipitation) representative for periglacial areas in Northern Germany over the last 50.000 years. The initial conditions have been determined for a test site by a digital terrain model and a geological model. Weathering, erosion and transport functions are calibrated using extrinsic (climatic) and intrinsic (lithologic) parameter data. First results indicate that our differentiated SaLEM approach shows some evidence for the spatiotemporal prediction of important soil parental material properties particularly its depth. Future research will focus on the v alidation of the results against field data, and the influence of discrete events (mass movements, floods) on soil parent material formation has to be evaluated.
Programa retales de una vida del Proyecto AR.S Alzheimer: Herramientas para dialogar y estimular recuerdos a través del Arte
Authors: López-Méndez Lorena
Published: October 2017

El presente articulo expone el programa "Retales de vida" del Proyecto AR.S (Arte y Salud Alzheimer), proyecto que se viene desarrollando desde el 2011 hasta el 2015. Este proyecto utiliza el archivo y el diario digital y analógico, como herramientas para dialogar y trabajar los recuerdos aún latentes en personas con Alzheimer y otras Demencias, a partir del análisis y pensamiento en imágenes. Los talleres han sido implementados en el Centro de Referencia Estatal para personas con Alzheimer y otras Demencias (CRE) de Salamanca, durante los periodos comprendidos entre 2011 y 2014-2015 y en la Asociación de Alzheimer de Madrid, durante 2012 y 2013. Actualmente, cuenta con un fichero compuesto por cuarenta y cinco talleres cuya tematica gira entorno a temas y actividades de la vida cotidiana (AVDS), representados por las obras de artistas de diferentes epocas y estilos, así como por un diario de imágenes,producto del registro fotográfico del proceso del taller y de las obras de los propios participantes que, nos permite mantener activa la memoria de los usuarios durante y posteriromente  a las sesiones del programa de educación artística implementado.
La expresión artística como estrategia didáctica para el desarrollo de la afectividad y la autoestima en una persona con Discapacidad Intelectual y Síndrome Alcohólico Fetal (SAF)
Authors: Cárdenas Ramón E. , Barriga Alejandra P. , Lizama Julio I.
Published: October 2017

Este artículo describe las experiencias artísticas de una persona con Discapacidad Intelectual y Síndrome Alcohólico Fetal (SAF) en un taller de artes visuales realizados en dependencias de un establecimiento de Educación Municipal de la comuna de Yungay, Chile. A partir de la investigación exploratoria, la metodología de estudio de caso y la aproximación de los resultados por medio de diferentes técnicas de pintura y dibujo como herramientas didácticas para desarrollar los aprendizajes artísticos en el contexto escolar, se concluye que las artes visuales amplían los canales de la expresión visual y permite la comunicación subjetiva de la afectividad y la autoestima a partir de determinados ejercicios prácticos y actividades sistemáticas que benefician la salud mental de las personas con Discapacidad Intelectual. La conclusión también refuerza la importancia de un ambiente propicio para la enseñanza de la Educación Artística y la valoración de la actividad creadora en el marco de la diversidad, el autodescubrimiento y una inclusión más afectiva con la comunidad educativa en general.
Álbum de vida. Alzheimer e imagen
Authors: Viñuales David
Published: October 2017

El proyecto Álbum de Vida. Alzheimer e imagen se ha desarrollado en el marco de Visiona (Programa de la Imagen de Huesca) y en colaboración con la Asociación Alzheimer de Huesca. Ha sido concebido mediante el diálogo con la Asociación para promover la mejora de la calidad de vida de sus enfermos y cuidadores de Alzheimer y otras demencias, desde prácticas culturales, fundamentadas en la imagen fotográfica como motor de procesos cognitivos y culturales. El proyecto explora vías que promocionen el descubrimiento, la movilización y el diálogo entre personas afectadas por la enfermedad, con especial interés en la relación (y su mejora) entre enfermos y cuidadores.
El telar de la desmemoria y la metáfora del bordado. Arte relacional desde una perspectiva intergeneracional y de género
Authors: Martínez-Vérez Maria V. , Abad-Molina Javier , Hernández-Pinzón Dulima
Published: October 2017

Se presenta, a través de la metáfora del bordado, una experiencia de arte intergeneracional y relacional que reconoce la creación de puentes afectivos entre pasado y presente para generar conexiones a través de la meoria emocional y la representación del recuerdo. Este encuentro conforma un relato construido mediante breves narraciones dese la voz, pensamiento y testimonio femenino (abuela-nieta, madre-hija, hermana-hermana) que cruzan sus biografías en un tiempo compartido para el cuidado de un ser querido con Alzhimer. La acción simbólica de bordar juntas, acto íntimo de comunicación mediado por la palabra y el silencio, la mirada, la escucha y el tacto, posibilita la reconstrucción de una identidad que la enfermedad diluye y permite ser resignificada en cada lugar, objeto, persona y comprtamiento social.Como en la trma de la vida, los hilos que se tejen juntos posibilitan el vínculo y la permanencia a una historia común a la que arraigarse en el tejido del Ser, enhebrado nombres, pensamientos, emociones y sucesos que nos definen en relación con Otro y en la alteridad. Más allá de la estimulación cognitiva, la acción artística del bordado revela el universo simbólico del conocimiento y los significados de cuidar y ser cuidado.
“Tenemos cita con el arte”. Un programa piloto de visitas a museos y talleres con personas afectadas con Alzheimer y otro tipo de demencias.
Authors: Ávila Noemí , Hernández Clara
Published: October 2017

En el presente artículo se explica el programa piloto “Tenemos cita con el Arte” realizado por educadores artísticos de la Universidad Complutense con personas afectadas con Alzheimer u otras demencias y sus cuidadores. En este programa se desarrollaron una serie de visitas al Museo del Prado y al Museo Nacional Centro de Arte Reina Sofía así como talleres de creación artística relacionados con estas en la Facultad de Bellas Artes de la Universidad Complutense, con el objetivo de generar unos protocolos de visitas y talleres que puedan servir como referencia para artistas, educadores y profesionales.
La representación artística de la locura. Interpretaciones metaforológicas contemporáneas a través de la Nave de los locos
Authors: Orozco-Quibrera Olivia , Mínguez-García Hortensia
Published: October 2017

Este artículo tiene como objetivo describir la naturaleza metaforológica de una de las formas alegóricas de la representación de la locura más utilizadas en las artes en Occidente desde el s. XV hasta la fecha: La nave de los locos. A través del análisis de piezas inspiradas en dicha metáfora en sus orígenes con la obra de Brant y El Bosco, se pretende comprender cómo en la actualidad el Arte utiliza tal recurso, en su afán por comprender los límites de la cordura en la contemporaneidad. Para ello, analizaremos obras como “Perder la cabeza” (2000) de Francesc Torres y “La balsa de George W. Bush” (2006) de Joel Peter Witkin. Obras contemporáneas que reflejan el manejo de discursos neobarrocos inmanentes a las prácticas de la intertextualidad, la disolución del autor, la estetización de la existencia, lo cotidiano y la desmaterialización de la obra del arte, en aras a reflexionar acerca de la complejidad de la mente humana y la liminalidad fronteriza entre la cordura y la locura.
Evaluación del efecto de un programa de arteterapia aplicado a personas con enfermedad de Alzhéimer u otras demencias seniles
Authors: Domínguez-Toscano Pilar M. , Román-Benticuaga Juan R. , Montero-Domínguez M. del Aire
Published: October 2017

Se presenta un estudio experimental con grupo control, de metodología mixta (cuantitativa y cualitativa) que evalúa un programa de arteterapia para personas mayores con alzhéimer u otras demencias seniles. Tras 4 meses de intervención, más una segunda fase de 16 meses objeto de evaluación cognitiva de seguimiento, los resultados son: utilizando T de Student para dos muestras independientes, con un nivel de confianza del 0.95 (α=.05), 26 g.l., los tests sobre desarrollo cognitivo (MMSE) constatan una mejora comparativa en el grupo de intervención en la evaluación de seguimiento (-3.25), mejora no significativa tras la primera fase de intervención (-0.73). Del contraste de medidas post de depresión obtenidas con el BDI-II resulta un T=-3.47, valor significativo. Las medidas de estado funcional y calidad de vida, obtenidas mediante COOP/WONCA (9 escalas), arrojan como resultado: no se aprecian cambios significativos en dos escalas; mejora significativa pero moderada en 4 escalas; el grupo intervenido con arteterapia ha obtenido una mejora significativa y alta en Sentimientos (T=-3.22) y Actividades Sociales (-5.05). Se añade cálculo de T para muestras dependientes (experimental) en dos medidas (pre y post) o tres (pre, post y seguimiento en Estado Cognitivo). Se añade una visión de los contrastes de medidas en el grupo control, también utilizando el estadístico T para muestras dependientes. Para la evaluación cualitativa se utilizan la observación directa y entrevistas semiestructuradas. Respecto a la autoestima, fortalecimiento emocional, motivacional, actitudinal y relaciones interpersonales, los resultados muestran incrementos en las personas participantes en el programa. Palabras clave: arteterapia, mayores, alzhéimer, demencia senil, depresión.
Positive and Negative Effects of Using Electronic Banking on Customers and Small Entrepreneurs: An Exploratory Study in the Western Region of Saudi Arabia
Authors: Ghamri Nayef Salah
Published: October 2017

Currently, the exchange of digital knowledge is not confined to a place or time. Knowledge is being shared among peoples all over the world regardless of the geographical and political boundaries. Technology, from the time of its existence, has contributed in changing many people’s rooted concepts that they have been accustomed to in their lives. While technology has positively contributed in shortening the time and distances among nations, it has also created some negative consequences such as the difficulty of protecting the individual’s privacy. In the era of widespread technology, new types of money thefts have emerged. These thefts do not include breaking into houses and banks but rather, Internet piracy. This is one of the modern types of thefts, which is represented in many forms such as identity theft, transferring money from one bank account into another, and the thefts of sensitive and confidential information. Therefore, information technology has an important role to play in our life, and it became one of our priorities. This research study focuses on assessing the risks related to the theft of the information of the clients of the commercial banks and even considering the level of security and theft prevention of such information as one of the key factors of quality that most banks show as one of their competitive advantages which they are trying to maintain.
High Level of Emotional Intelligence is Related to High Level of Online Teaching Self-Efficacy among Academic Nurse Educators
Authors: Ali Nagia , Ali Omar , Jones James
Published: October 2017

This study examined the relationship between emotional intelligence (EI) and online teaching self-efficacy among 115 academic nurse educators who teach online (totally, blended, or both). The sample was randomly drawn from the list of nursing schools accredited by Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education (CCNE) with baccalaureate, master’s and/or doctoral programs. The hypothesis tested states “Academic nurse educators who teach online and who report higher levels of EI would also report greater online teaching self-efficacy.” Results showed a significant moderate relationship (r=0.446, p< .01) between EI and online teaching self-efficacy. The coefficient of determination R2 was 0.199, which indicates that about 20% of the variation in online teaching self-efficacy can be explained by EI contribution. The hypothesis was supported. Results also indicated that online teaching self-efficacy was positively related to duration of being an academic nurse educator (r = 0.212, p<0.05) and duration of teaching online (r = 0.203, p< 0.05). Further, there was no significant difference between the different age groups regarding EI and online teaching self-efficacy. Similarly, there was no significant difference among university degrees attained of participants regarding EI and online teaching self-efficacy. The Implications for enhancing EI and online teaching self-efficacy are discussed.
Sustainability Index for the Management of River Basins Based Upon Ecological, Environmental and Hydrological Integrity and the Minimization of Long Term Risks to Supply
Authors: Oxley Robert L. , Mays Larry W.
Published: October 2017

A new methodology for determining a sustainability index (SI) for the management of river basins is developed. Sustainability is defined in terms of minimizing the long-term risks to supply and maintaining the ecological, environmental and hydrological integrity of a river resource. The SI procedure developed uses two groups of performance criteria. The first group is based on demand-supply deficits and measures the risk to water supplies. The second group is only applied to river demands and compares a river’s allocation to a target flow regime using the Range of Variability Approach (RVA) and the Modified Hydrological Alteration factor. The RVA measures differences in flow regimes and is used to compare a projected flow regime to a targeted flow regime. This is the first attempt to use the RVA to develop a sustainability index for river basin management. A combined sustainability metric for the system (SS) is also determined. The methodology is applied to an area including the Prescott Active Management Area (AMA) in north-central Arizona. Sustainability for the entire system is determined using the weighted sum of the sustainability indices. The methodology has been used to measure and compare the sustainability of two allocation scenarios for the Prescott AMA.
Genetic Diversity of Isolates of Macrophomina phaseolina Associated with Cowpea from Brazil Semi-Arid Region
Authors: Gomes-Silva Fabiola , Almeida Clebia M. A. , Silva Alexandre G. , Leão Mariele P. C. , Silva Karla P. , Oliveira Luciana G. , Silva Márcia V. , Costa Antonio F. , Lima Vera L. M.
Published: October 2017

Cowpea crops have the highest social and economic relevance to Brazil, being the food base of families mainly in the semi-arid areas of the country. Charcoal rot caused by Macrophomina phaseolina is an economically important disease of cowpea that can cause significant reductions in bean yield. This study aimed to access the genetic diversity of M. phaseolina isolates obtained from cowpea grown in the Pernambuco semi-arid region, by molecular analysis. Fifty-one isolates, collected from municipality of Belém do São Francisco from cowpea plants and displaying typical symptoms and signs of charcoal rot, were studied using inter-simple sequence repeat (ISSR) markers. Unweighted pair-group method using arithmetic means (UPGMA) clustering of data showed that isolates clearly differentiate into two groups. The group 1 comprises the majority of isolates and the group 2 contains two isolates, isol46 and isol47. The highest similarity index (0.9) was observed between the isolates isol22 and isol35 and the lowest similarity index (0.2) was observed between isol37 and isol46 isolates. Our results revealed that the ISSR-PCR fingerprinting patterns were useful for differentiating M. phaseolina isolates from V. unguiculata plants sampled. Therefore, genetic characterization of this fungus is of importance for the effective disease management.
Gender and Transaction Costs in Crush-Pen Spraying for Trypanosomiasis Control in Kenya
Authors: Mose Jared Isaboke
Published: October 2017

Trypanosomiasis a widespread constraint in livestock production, mixed farming and human health in Africa has necessitated development of several technologies to ameliorate the effects of the disease. However delivery of these technologies to farmers has been undertaken on trial and error basis without a proper strategy leading to more failure than success and wastage of scarce resources. The purpose of this paper was to carry out an analysis of transaction costs associated with the use of communal crushpen in tsetse fly and trypanosomiasis control among smallholder cattle farms in Busia County, Kenya. The study utilized cross-sectional survey design and was guided by the New Institutional Economics approach. Stratified and simple random sampling technique was adopted to get 211 respondents. Data was collected by use of structured questionnaires and analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Conjoint results showed that price was the most important factor influencing the farmers’ decision for crushpen use, accounting for 55.58%; distance accounted for 20.7% while trust accounted for 14.6% and group affiliation 8.7%. It is recommended that crush pens should be close to farms, managed by trustworthy people preferably belonging to farmers’ groups and charges levied for spraying the cows should be within the reach of farmers. The necessity of developing affordable Tsetse fly and Trypanosomiasis control methods in the war against Tsetse and Trypanosomiasis is supported by this study.