bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
LPJ-GM 1.0: simulating migration efficiently in a dynamic vegetation model
Authors: Lehsten Veiko , Mischurow Michael , Lindström Erik , Lehsten Dörte , Lischke Heike
Published: March 2019

Abstract. Dynamic global vegetation models are a common tool to assess the effect of
climate and land use change on vegetation. Though most applications of
dynamic global vegetation models use plant functional types, some also
simulate species occurrences. While the current development aims to include
more processes, e.g. the nitrogen cycle, the models still typically assume
an ample seed supply allowing all species to establish once the climate
conditions are suitable. Pollen studies have shown that a number of plant
species lag behind in occupying climatological suitable areas (e.g. after a
change in the climate) as they need to arrive at and establish in the newly
suitable areas. Previous attempts to implement migration in dynamic
vegetation models have allowed for the simulation of either only small areas or have
been implemented as a post-process, not allowing for feedbacks within the
vegetation. Here we present two novel methods simulating migrating and
interacting tree species which have the potential to be used for simulations
of large areas. Both distribute seeds between grid cells, leading to
individual establishment. The first method uses an approach based on fast
Fourier transforms, while in the second approach we iteratively shift the
seed production matrix and disperse seeds with a given probability. While
the former method is computationally faster, it does not allow for
modification of the seed dispersal kernel parameters with respect to terrain
features, which the latter method allows. We evaluate the increase in computational demand of both methods. Since
dispersal acts at a scale no larger than 1 km, all dispersal simulations
need to be performed at maximum at that scale. However, with the currently
available computational power it is not feasible to simulate the local
vegetation dynamics of a large area at that scale. We present an option to
decrease the required computational costs through a reduction in the number of grid cells
for which the local dynamics are simulated only along migration transects.
Evaluation of species patterns and migration speeds shows that
simulating along transects reduces migration speed, and both methods
applied on the transects produce reasonable results. Furthermore, using
the migration transects, both methods are sufficiently computationally
efficient to allow for large-scale DGVM simulations with migration.
The Open Global Glacier Model (OGGM) v1.1
Authors: Maussion Fabien , Butenko Anton , Champollion Nicolas , Dusch Matthias , Eis Julia , Fourteau Kévin , Gregor Philipp , Jarosch Alexander H. , Landmann Johannes , Oesterle Felix , Recinos Beatriz , Rothenpieler Timo , Vlug Anouk , Wild Christian T. , Marzeion Ben
Published: March 2019

Abstract. Despite their importance for sea-level rise, seasonal water availability, and
as a source of geohazards, mountain glaciers are one of the few remaining
subsystems of the global climate system for which no globally applicable,
open source, community-driven model exists. Here we present the Open Global
Glacier Model (OGGM), developed to provide a modular and open-source
numerical model framework for simulating past and future change of any
glacier in the world. The modeling chain comprises data downloading tools
(glacier outlines, topography, climate, validation data), a preprocessing
module, a mass-balance model, a distributed ice thickness estimation model,
and an ice-flow model. The monthly mass balance is obtained from gridded
climate data and a temperature index melt model. To our knowledge, OGGM is
the first global model to explicitly simulate glacier dynamics: the model
relies on the shallow-ice approximation to compute the depth-integrated flux
of ice along multiple connected flow lines. In this paper, we describe and
illustrate each processing step by applying the model to a selection of
glaciers before running global simulations under idealized climate forcings.
Even without an in-depth calibration, the model shows very realistic
behavior. We are able to reproduce earlier estimates of global glacier volume
by varying the ice dynamical parameters within a range of plausible values.
At the same time, the increased complexity of OGGM compared to other
prevalent global glacier models comes at a reasonable computational cost:
several dozen glaciers can be simulated on a personal computer, whereas
global simulations realized in a supercomputing environment take up to a few
hours per century. Thanks to the modular framework, modules of various
complexity can be added to the code base, which allows for new kinds of model
intercomparison studies in a controlled environment. Future developments will
add new physical processes to the model as well as automated calibration
tools. Extensions or alternative parameterizations can be easily added by the
community thanks to comprehensive documentation. OGGM spans a wide range of
applications, from ice–climate interaction studies at millennial timescales
to estimates of the contribution of glaciers to past and future sea-level
change. It has the potential to become a self-sustained community-driven
model for global and regional glacier evolution.
Qualidade ambiental da área urbana de Paranaguá, Pr.
Authors: Tonetti Emerson Luis , Nucci João Carlos , Jorge Felipe Vanhoni
Published: March 2019

O presente estudo teve por objetivo identificar e representar cartograficamente a qualidade ambiental em um segmento urbano do Município de Paranaguá, no litoral do Estado do Paraná. A carta de qualidade ambiental urbana foi elaborada com base no levantamento e representação cartográfica de parâmetros negativos de determinados critérios em escalas que valorizem o cotidiano do cidadão, que foram: cobertura vegetal reduzida ou ausente, arborização viária reduzida ou ausente, usos do solo e vias potencialmente poluidores, ausência de espaços de uso público e livres de edificação e suas áreas de influência, verticalidade das edificações acima de quatro pavimentos, áreas frequentemente inundáveis e/ou alagáveis, calçadas e ciclovias com dificuldades para o deslocamento de pedestres ou ciclista. Evidenciou-se uma grande área com baixa qualidade ambiental que acompanha o traçado das principais vias de acesso rodoviário e ferroviário ao Porto Dom Pedro II. Da mesma forma, a intensa presença do uso comercial e\ou a intensidade do tráfego de veículos leves em muitas localidades favorecem as perdas da qualidade ambiental da área estudada.

Palavras chave: Paranaguá, qualidade ambiental, planejamento da paisagem.
Global agricultural trade and genetic resources as a point of contention
Authors: Barbosa Jr Ricardo , Pfrimer Matheus Hoffmann
Published: March 2019

International agricultural trade has greatly altered the way food is grown, negatively affecting peasant livelihood and the natural environment. While the literature on this is extensive, efforts to understand how genetic variety is effected within such a process is limited. Wherefore, in this paper we explore the factors that determine the place of genetic resources in international trade. This is done by creating a conceptual framework to analyse different forms of power, a process necessary due to its contemporary fungible nature, in an attempt to asses how biotechnology can disclose power’s other characteristics. We demonstrate how the instrumental use of biotechnology has become an apparatus to control food production globally and a means by which the international market homogenises food production. Through the use of a bio/geopolical gaze we identify that this course occurs within the realm of bioecnomics and geoeconomics.
Keywords: international agricultural trade; genetic resources; bio/geopolitics.
The principle of morality (administrative, tax and "public") in the Brazilian Federal Constitution of 1988
Authors: Nichele Macei Demetrius , Cardozo Oliveira Francisco
Published: March 2019

This study aims to analyze the issue of tax morality and ethical (or unethical) attitudes identifiable in the tax legal relationship, considering the performance of duties in its two faces, the public (tax authority) and the private (taxpayer). The work approaches the aspects of Tax Justice, Equity and Fair Tax, inspired by the teachings of Klaus Tipke, leading to the confirmation that a tax is sustainable not only when it respects the ability to contribute, but also when the society accepts it as legitimate and necessary, even in a context of high tax burden. Thus, for this to occur is fundamental that the State manifests an ethical posture in dealing with taxpayers and with the resource’s application, whether in order to legitimize this conduct or to inspire the taxpayers to adopt the same behavior, assuming that their misconduct (tax evasion) is a direct reflection of the State posture.
Identification, pathogenicity and distribution of the causal agents of dieback in avocado orchards in Spain
Authors: Arjona-Girona Isabel , Ruano-Rosa David , López-Herrera Carlos J.
Published: March 2019

An increased incidence of dieback from branches in several avocado orchards in southern Spain was observed in 2014. Surveys were conducted from May to October 2014, sampling the affected branches to isolate the causal agents. A total of 68 fungal isolates, recovered from ten avocado orchards, were identified, by morphological characterisation and DNA sequencing, as belonging to the genera: Neofusicoccum parvum (50%), Colletotrichum gloeosporioides (17.6%), Neofusicoccum luteum (16.2%), Neofusicoccum australe (13.2%), Neofusicoccum mediterraneum (1.5%) and Lasiodiplodia theobromae (1.5%). A decreasing level of virulence in artificial inoculations on avocado plants was observed in N. parvum, N. luteum, N. mediterraneum, N. australe, C. gloeosporioides and L. theobromae, there were significant differences among N. parvum and the rest of species of this genus, and significant differences were only observed between N. luteum and C. gloeosporioides. The geographical distribution of N. parvum and N. Luteum covers different areas, while C. gloeosporioides and N. australe are located only in the areas around Benamocarra and Vélez-Málaga (southern Spain), while N. mediterraneum and L. theobromae appear only occasionally. This is the first study of avocado branch cankers in Spain which identifies the causal agents and establishes their pathogenicity groups, with N. parvum as the most important causal agent of avocado dieback in this area.
Buddhism and Buddhist Business Practices
Authors: Dunn Samuel L. , Jensen Joshua D.
Published: March 2019

The 21st century global business environment is more diverse and interconnected than ever before. As organizations continue to expand their global reach, business professionals often find themselves having to navigate challenging cultural and religious terrain, which they may not be prepared for. While it is impossible for someone to learn the intricacies of all cultures and religions throughout the world, one can seek to learn about some of the more prominent cultures and religions of the world – particularly those they have a high likelihood of engaging with at some point in his or her business career. This paper examines Buddhism, a prevalent religion throughout many parts of the world, and discusses how its culture and beliefs are manifested through Buddhist business practices. Particular focus is placed on business in Thailand, the country with the highest percentage of Buddhists. The purpose of this paper is to provide business professionals with a basic understanding of the history of Buddhism, an overview of the major beliefs of Buddhists, and to present information that will assist business professionals in successfully navigating intercultural affairs when doing business with Buddhists in Thailand or around the world.
Examination of the Physical and Motoric Characteristics of Elite Soccer Players According to Their Positions
Authors: Aksoy Duygu , Baydemir Baris
Published: March 2019

The purpose of the present study was to examine the physical and motoric characteristics of elite soccer players playing at different positions in U21 team. A total of 64 male soccer players participated in the present study (4 goalkeepers, 16 defense players, 21 midfield players, and 23 strikers). The Body Mass Indices of the players were computed by measuring their height and weights. The Yo-Yo Intermittent Recovery 2 Test and the t-test were applied to the players. The VO2max values ​​of the players were computed according to the formula that was developed by Bangsbo et al. The statistical package programs were employed for data analyses. The “Independent Sampling One-Way Variance Analysis” was applied to compare the physical and motoric characteristics of elite soccer players according to their positions. When differences were detected between the measurements, the “Tukey Analysis” was carried out to determine the direction of these differences. The results were evaluated according to (p<0.05) significance level. It was determined that there was a statistically significant difference between the BMI values of elite soccer players according to their positions (p<0.05). It was also determined that the motoric characteristics of the players did not have any significant differences according to their positions (p>0.05). The lowest values ​​were determined in goalkeepers, strikers, midfield players and defense players according to the BMI values ​​of the elite soccer players. This situation might be associated with the fact that in today’s soccer, players show performance in different areas of the field for attack and defense without considering their positions. According to the BMI values ​​of the elite soccer players, the lowest values ​​were determined in goalkeepers, strikers, midfield players and defense players; and no differences were detected in terms of motoric characteristics.
ESPAÇO PÚBLICO DE LAZER – PROJETO URBANÍSTICO PARA O BALNEÁRIO
MUNICIPAL DE PAULICÉIA / SP
Authors: Akinaga Marotti Luana , Ruiz Maria Yeda
Published: March 2019

This paper will present brief definitions that encompass the concepts of public space, leisure
and tourism and the relationship with the area under study. Aiming at understanding the
place, through current uses, punctuating its needs and potential, raising the existing leisure
activities in the city and the Municipal Balneary of Paulicéia - SP, to add greater value to the
space. Thus, the study was carried out through bibliographic research, analyzes of the object
of study and its surroundings, through photos and visits in loco. Resulting in the observation
that there is a lack of public spaces of leisure in the city and the Balneary is the main means
to meet these needs. Therefore, the study space in question is underutilized by the lack of
infrastructure and variety of uses, which allows the place to become the main means of
leisure for the population and tourists of the city.
DESAFIOS DE TRATAMENTOS PARA DEPENDENTES QUÍMICOS
Authors: Leonardo Delgado Longo Asllen , Oliveira da Silva Regiane , Yurie Moura da Silva Danielle
Published: March 2019

The study aims to explore the challenges encountered in treatments performed by drug addicts
and the consequences that this phenomenon causes in the legal environment, governed by Law
No. 11,343 / 06, which is the National System of Public Policies on Drugs, as a form of prevention
of undue use and also of users and dependents of unauthorized drugs, the difficulties encountered
are intrinsic and extrinsic throughout the treatments. The applied methodology was hypotheticodeductive, legislation, doctrines and books pertinent to the theme. Thus, dependency
voluntariness is one of the main problems encountered, as well as the persistence of the family in
taking it to trained people and showing the acquired results of other dependents, so that they can
mirror and acquire the willpower to change their behaviors. a reversal in the situation in which it
was. In the juridical and public environment, new projects of qualified professionals and
professionals are expected.
DIREITOS DOS ANIMAIS E A MANIFESTAÇÃO CULTURAL DO RODEIO NO BRASIL
Authors: Pablo Santos Caputo Wesley , Aparecida Rosa Cintra Glaucia
Published: March 2019

The human species, through all the Evolution, comes from the anthropocentrism premise that: allnatural resources are exclusively for human beings use. As such, for centuries human beings have
reaped the life and liberty from other animal species, searching for a way to sate their own needs.
Even with society’s evolution, there still is cultural manifestations that use animals, like rodeo and
its modalities. Therefore, this work has the purpose to show the conflicts of interest between the
practice of this events and the animals rights. It was applied the legal deductive method through
extensive bibliographic, legal, jurisprudence and electronic articles research. The conclusion is that
every rodeo manifestation result in animal’s mistreatment, and so, the culture must not prevail
above their rights, as the Federal Constitution banish cruelty.
Using environmental DNA to monitor the reintroduction success of the Rhine sculpin (Cottus rhenanus) in a restored stream
Authors: Hempel Christopher A , Peinert Bianca , Beermann Arne J , Elbrecht Vasco , Macher Jan-Niklas , Macher Till-Hendrik , Jacobs Gunnar , Leese Florian
Published: March 2019

As a consequence of the strong human impact on freshwater ecosystems, restoration measures are increasingly applied to restore and maintain their good ecological status. The ecological status of freshwaters can be inferred by assessing the presence of indicator species, such as the Rhine sculpin (Cottus rhenanus). However, traditional methods of monitoring fish, such as electrofishing, are often challenging and invasive. To augment or even replace the traditional fish monitoring approach, the analysis of environmental DNA (eDNA) has recently been proposed as an alternative, sensitive approach. The present study employed this modern approach to monitor the Rhine sculpin, a species that has been reintroduced into a recently restored stream within the Emscher catchment in Germany, in order to validate the success of the restorations. We monitored the dispersal of the Rhine sculpin using replicated 12S end-point PCR eDNA surveillance at a fine spatial and temporal scale to investigate the applicability of analyzing eDNA for freshwater ecosystem monitoring. We also performed traditional electrofishing in one instance to compare visual and eDNA-based assessments. We could track the dispersal of the Rhine sculpin and showed a higher dispersal potential of the species than we assumed. Furthermore, the eDNA analysis showed higher sensitivity for detecting the species than traditional electrofishing, although false negative results occurred at early reintroduction stages. Our results show that analyzing eDNA is capable of validating and tracking ecological reintroductions and contribute to the assessment and modelling of ecological status of streams.
Spatiotemporal establishment of dense bacterial colonies growing on hard agar
Authors: Warren Mya R , Sun Hui , Yan Yue , Cremer Jonas , Li Bo , Hwa Terence
Published: March 2019

The physical interactions of growing bacterial cells with each other and with their surroundings significantly affect the structure and dynamics of biofilms. Here a 3D agent-based model is formulated to describe the establishment of simple bacterial colonies expanding by the physical force of their growth. With a single set of parameters, the model captures key dynamical features of colony growth by non-motile, non EPS-producing E. coli cells on hard agar. The model, supported by experiment on colony growth in different types and concentrations of nutrients, suggests that radial colony expansion is not limited by nutrients as commonly believed, but by mechanical forces. Nutrient penetration instead governs vertical colony growth, through thin layers of vertically oriented cells lifting up their ancestors from the bottom. Overall, the model provides a versatile platform to investigate the influences of metabolic and environmental factors on the growth and morphology of bacterial colonies.
Mechanical instability and interfacial energy drive biofilm morphogenesis
Authors: Yan Jing , Fei Chenyi , Mao Sheng , Moreau Alexis , Wingreen Ned S , Košmrlj Andrej , Stone Howard A , Bassler Bonnie L
Published: March 2019

Surface-attached bacterial communities called biofilms display a diversity of morphologies. Although structural and regulatory components required for biofilm formation are known, it is not understood how these essential constituents promote biofilm surface morphology. Here, using Vibrio cholerae as our model system, we combine mechanical measurements, theory and simulation, quantitative image analyses, surface energy characterizations, and mutagenesis to show that mechanical instabilities, including wrinkling and delamination, underlie the morphogenesis program of growing biofilms. We also identify interfacial energy as a key driving force for mechanomorphogenesis because it dictates the generation of new and the annihilation of existing interfaces. Finally, we discover feedback between mechanomorphogenesis and biofilm expansion, which shapes the overall biofilm contour. The morphogenesis principles that we discover in bacterial biofilms, which rely on mechanical instabilities and interfacial energies, should be generally applicable to morphogenesis processes in tissues in higher organisms.
Den norske videobutikken: 1979–2017
Authors: Øfsti Marius
Published: March 2019

De første norske videobutikkene åpnet dørene i 1979 og de siste stengte i 2017. I løpet av denne tidsperioden rakk de å bryte NRKs monopol på film og tv-serier i hjemmet, de ble utskjelt, de ble en av de viktigste kulturinstitusjonene i landet og de tilbød et relativt stort utvalg i film. Ved å studere bransjeblader, annonser, lokalaviser og kommunale arkiver tegner denne artikkelen et bilde av de norske videobutikkenes historie på nasjonalt plan og utdyper dette med en lokal case.The first Norwegian video-stores opened its doors in 1979 and the last ones closed in 2017. During this time, they were the first to break the state monopoly on filmed home entertainment. The video-stores became notorious, but they also established themselves as some of the most important cultural institutions in the country, with a relatively wide selection of films to offer customers. By studying trade magazines, advertisements, local newspapers and local council archives, this article traces the history of the Norwegian video-stores on a national level and, through the use of one case example, on a local level.
In vitro observation: the GFP-E. coliadhering to porcine erythrocytes can be removed by porcine alveolar macrophages
Authors: Yin Wei , Wang Chun , Fan Kuohai , Sun Na , Sun Yaogui , Li Hongquan
Published: March 2019

Although the activation of pathogen phagocytosis via complement system has been studied, erythrocyte-phagocyte interactions in pigs are not clearly understood. Therefore, we sought to investigate the ability of porcine erythrocytes to clear immune complexes (ICs) by using laser confocal microscopy and flow cytometry to observe the immune adhesion of porcine erythrocytes to fluorescent bacilli and the immune presentation process of transferring fluorescent bacilli to macrophages. Isolated porcine alveolar macrophages (PAMs) had uniform morphology and size, and a survival rate of 97.2%. The phagocytosis rate was 98.8%. After WTE. coliwas labeled with Fluorescein Isothiocyanate (FITC), the bacteria showed a bright green fluorescence, and the labeling rate was 92.3%. When laser confocal microscopy was utilized to observe the co-incubation system of porcine erythrocytes, PAM, and fluorescentE. coli, the fluorescence intensity of bacilli decreased with increasing observation time and even disappeared. Flow Cytometry examination showed that the average fluorescence intensity of PAMs co-incubated with porcine erythrocytes adhered to WT-E. coli-FITC, was significantly higher than that of normal PAMs. Furthermore, when porcine erythrocytes adhered to WTE. coliwere incubated with PAMs, the surface mean fluorescence intensity of porcine erythrocytes was significantly higher than that of the blank control group. This shows that PAMs can competitively bind to the oposinizedE. coliadhered to the surface of porcine erythrocytes, and these oposinized pathogens can enter macrophages by the process of phagocytosis, which promoting the internalization of ICs or pathogens. During this process, the physical morphology of porcine erythrocytes was not damaged, but the levels of its main functional protein CR1-like were reduced.
Modulating pain thresholds through classical conditioning
Authors: Traxler Juliane , Madden Victoria J. , Moseley G. Lorimer , Vlaeyen Johan W.S.
Published: March 2019

Background

Classical conditioning has frequently been shown to be capable of evoking fear of pain and avoidance behavior in the context of chronic pain. However, whether pain itself can be conditioned has rarely been investigated and remains a matter of debate. Therefore, the present study investigated whether pain threshold ratings can be modified by the presence of conditioned non-nociceptive sensory stimuli in healthy participant.

Methods

In 51 healthy volunteers, pain threshold to electrocutaneous stimuli was determined prior to participation in a simultaneous conditioning paradigm. Participants underwent an acquisition phase in which one non-painful vibrotactile stimulus (CS+) was repeatedly paired with a painful electrocutaneous stimulus, whereas a second vibrotactile stimulus of the same quality and intensity (CS−) was paired with a non-painful electrocutaneous stimulus. Stimulation was provided on the lower back with close proximity between the conditioned stimulus and the unconditioned stimulus. In the test phase, electrocutaneous stimuli at the individually-set threshold intensity were simultaneously delivered together with either a CS+or CS−. Pain intensity ratings were obtained after each trial; expectancy ratings were obtained after each block. The primary outcome was the percentage of test stimuli that were rated as painful.

Results

Test stimuli were more likely to be rated as painful when they were paired with the CS+than when they were paired with the CS−. This effect was not influenced by contingency awareness, nor by expectancies or mood states.

Discussion

The findings support the notion that the judgement of an event being painful or non-painful can be influenced by classical conditioning and corroborate the possible role of associative learning in the development and maintenance of chronic pain.
An Appraisal of Software Requirement Prioritization Techniques
Authors: Olaronke Iroju , Rhoda Ikono , Ishaya Gambo
Published: March 2019

In recent times, there is a paradigm shift from the use of paper based systems to the use of software systems in all spheres of life. However, the development of high quality, cost effective and useable software systems is a major challenge. One of the major obstacles confronting the successful implementation of software systems is the inability to implement all stakeholders' requirements in software development projects. This constraint is usually due to limited human resources, budget and time. Thus, most software systems have failed. It, therefore, becomes pertinent to prioritize software requirements. Requirement prioritization involves the selection of requirements that are considered more important from an accumulated list of stakeholders' requirements. There are two techniques that are used for categorizing software requirements. These techniques include the requirement prioritization methods and the negotiation methods. Requirement prioritization methods are based on different scales which include nominal scale, ordinal scale and ratio scale. The accuracy of these methods, however, is a challenge especially when prioritizing large number of requirements.

Aims: Hence, this paper reviews different techniques for prioritizing requirements by highlighting their strengths and weaknesses. Techniques such as binary search tree, AHP, hierarchy AHP, priority group/Numerical Analysis, bubble sort, MoSoW, simple ranking and Planning Game were analyzed and compared in this study.

Methodology: The study is based on previous literature on requirement prioritization.

Results: The study showed that numerical assignment and simple ranking methods require less time in the prioritization process and they also have low scalability and reliability. The study also showed that the analytic hierarchy process requires more time for requirement prioritization; it is reliable but it is not scalable. The study also revealed that it is difficult to prioritize requirements with the existing prioritization techniques when multiple stakeholders are involved.

Conclusion: The study suggests that future researches should be based on the design of requirement prioritization techniques that will have the ability to accommodate large stakeholders and requirements.
Mitigating Botnet Attack Using Encapsulated Detection Mechanism (EDM)
Authors: Scale Uwadia Osagie Maxwell , I. Okoye C. , Joy Osagie Amenze
Published: March 2019

Botnet as it is popularly called became fashionable in recent times owing to it embedded force on network servers. Botnet has an exponential growth of about 170, 000 within network server and client infrastructures per day. The networking environment on monthly basis battle over 5 million bots. Nigeria as a country loses above one hundred and twenty five (N125) billion naira to network fraud annually, end users such as Banks and other financial institutions battle daily the botnet threats. The most worrisome part of the botmaster’s botnet is it propagation as an entity even when it is known to be large pool of malicious threats. The attacks leave end users (clients) to the risk of losing valuable credentials when connected to the affected infrastructure. It is on the above premise that this paper sort to expose the botnet method of propagation through proactive mechanism called Encapsulated Detection Mechanism (EDM) for botnet on Server Systems with further operations on conceptual framework, structural modules, usability and application of botnet. The mechanism uses one dimensional data stream evolutionary window approach of Distance Base Model (DBM) as an Outlier Analysis (OA). The Captcha, Username password and EDM Analyzer act as the front end of the data stream checker using Bot-Stream OutlieR Miner (B-STORM) algorithm and B-Exact Algorithm. The research work showed high level of data entering compliance efficiency on the server end network by neutralizing and mitigating botnet attack that falls short of the predefined data order within the networking signature.
An Investigation into the Effect of Smartphones Back Button Location on Users' Experience: A Case Study Comparing Apple iPhone and Android UI
Authors: Rufai Ahmad , Sani Umar
Published: March 2019

The use of touchscreens as an input method on Smartphones has become the norm in the mobile phone industry. This has changed the way keys are traditionally arranged on Smartphones devices. One of these changes is on the location of “back button”. Few studies, However, have been conducted to investigate the effect of key locations on users performance and experience.

Aims: In this paper, we investigate the effect of back button location on users’ experience of using Smartphones. We made a  comparison between Android Samsung Galaxy S3 and iPhone 5s.

Place and Duration of Study: Participants: Sokoto State University, Sokoto, Nigeria.  between May 2017 and July 2017.

Methodology: A total of 40 participants all Students of Sokoto State University participated in the study. 26 were males and 14 females. 30 owned Android Smartphones while the remaining  10 owned Apple iPhone. We used observation to observe how users navigate through Facebook and Gmail app on both iPhone and Android while paying attention to their use of the back button, the time it takes to locate these buttons and first point of reference. A semi-structured interview was also conducted on users, requesting them to compare how the difference in the location of the back button on iPhone and Android has affected their experience of navigating through both  Facebook and Gmail app.

Results: The study reveals that back button key location affects the user experience of using Smartphones, keys located at the bottom edges are easier to locate and those located at top edges are harder to locate and press.

Conclusion: Based on the results, the study concludes that designers of Smartphones user interfaces should strongly consider user preferences when deciding the location for back buttons and on Smartphones.
Offline Gesture Recognition System for Yorùbá Numeral Counting
Authors: Oyewumi Jimoh Kudirat , Morufat Adepoju Temilola , A. Sobowale Aladejobi , A. Ayilara Oluwatobi
Published: March 2019

Aims: The study aimed to determine the specific features responsible for the recognition of gestures, to design a computational model for the process and to implement the model and evaluate its performance.

Place and Duration of Study: Department of Computer Engineering, Federal Polytechnic, Ede, between August 2017 and February 2018.

Methodology: Samples of hand gesture were collected from the deaf school. In total, 40 samples containing 4 gestures for each numeral were collected and processed. The collected samples were pre-processed and rescaled from 340 × 512 pixels to 256 × 256 pixels. The samples were examined for the specific characteristics responsible for the recognition of gestures using edge detection and histogram of the oriented gradient as feature extraction techniques. The model was implemented in MATLAB using Support Vector Machine (SVM) as its classifier. The performance of the system was evaluated using precision, recall and accuracy as metrics.

Results: It was observed that the system showed a high classification rate for the considered hand gestures. For numerals 1, 3, 5 and 7, 100% accuracy were recorded, numerals 2 and 9 had 90% accuracy, numeral 4 had 85.67% accuracy, numeral 6 had 93.56%, numeral 8 had 88% while numeral 10 recorded 90.72% accuracy. An average recognition rate of 95% on tested data was recorded over a dataset of 40 hand gestures.

Conclusion: The study has successfully classified hand gesture for Yorùbá Sign Language (YSL). Thus, confirming that YSL could be incorporated into the deaf educational system. The developed system will enhance the communication skills between hearing and hearing impaired people.
Performance Evaluation of Various Scheduling Algorithm Based on Cloud Computing System
Authors: Chowdhury Nobo , M. Aslam Uddin K. , Afrin Sadia , Adhikary Apurba , Rabbi Fazly
Published: March 2019

Cloud computing is an information technology archetype which has been used significantly for providing various services through Internet. It ensures easier access to resources and high-level services. The working procedure of cloud systems must be scheduled, so as to efficiently provide services to people. The goal of task scheduling is to acquire best system throughput and to allocate various computing resources to applications. The unpredictable situation increases with the size of the task and becomes high potential to solve effectively. Numerous intellectual methods are recommended to clarify this situation in the territory of scheduling of cloud computing. In this research, a comparative analysis has been conducted for different types of existing scheduling algorithms in the cloud environment with their respective parameters.
Facilitating Factors for Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities in Kenyan County Governments
Authors: Victor Chitechi Kadima , Mbugua Samuel , Omieno Kelvin
Published: March 2019

Globally, ICT is regarded as a driver and enabler; thus, organisations which have integrated ICT in their systems have had immense growth and output. The adoption of ICT into the Kenyan County Governments, therefore, promises equal growth and output. These benefits notwithstanding, integration of ICT systems into County Governments is faced with a number of challenges in terms of vulnerabilities and other cybersecurity risks. This paper sought to identify the key facilitators of cybersecurity vulnerabilities in Kenyan County Governments only. The exploratory research design was used as a methodology. Questionnaires and interview schedules were the main instruments of data collection. The data was analysed using descriptive and inferential statistics. The findings indicate that there is a need for County Governments in Kenya to prepare for cybersecurity related challenges through policy formulations, End-users and ICT experts awareness on cybersecurity-attacks, Management support through resources funding and cybersecurity infrastructure is key to any system controls. The solutions to cybersecurity vulnerabilities in Kenyan County governments can be solved when these keys are implemented.
Predictors of successful endovascular treatment in severe cerebral venous sinus thrombosis
Authors: Yang Xiaoxu , Wu Fang , Liu Yuehong , Duan Jiangang , Meng Ran , Chen Jian , Li Debiao , Fan Zhaoyang , Fisher Marc , Yang Qi , Ji Xunming
Published: March 2019

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate the thrombus characteristics affecting the extent of recanalization to identify patients with severe cerebral venous sinus thrombus (CVT) more likely to benefit from endovascular therapy.

Methods

Severe CVT patients scheduled for endovascular treatment were prospectively recruited into the study. Each thrombosed venous segment was evaluated regarding complete or partial recanalization based on digital subtraction angiography (DSA) after treatment. Magnetic resonance black‐blood thrombus imaging (MRBTI) was performed 1 day before endovascular treatment. The signal‐to‐noise ratio (SNR) of the clot, age of the clot, and baseline volume of the clot were compared between the complete and partial recanalization groups. A logistic regression analysis was performed to identify the association between these clot characteristics and recanalization status.

Results

Twenty‐one CVT patients undergoing endovascular therapy were prospectively included. There were 110 thrombosed segments, 54 of these segments were completely recanalized after endovascular treatment. An acute clot sign (ACS) was found in 39 segments and a subacute clot sign (SCS) was found in 71 segments. There was no significant difference on baseline volume of the clot (1638.8 ± 1432.2 mm3 vs. 1957.5 ± 2056.1 mm3, P > 0.05) between the complete and partial recanalization groups. Logistic regression analysis showed that ACS on MRBTI was associated with complete recanalization (P < 0.001, odds ratio = 3.937, 95% confidence interval, 1.6–9.5).

Interpretation

ACS can be used to predict complete recanalization in patients undergoing endovascular treatment. MRBTI provides a robust method to define clot composition and is potentially useful in selecting the most appropriate CVT patients for endovascular treatment.
Prolonged–release melatonin in patients with idiopathic REM sleep behavior disorder
Authors: Jun Jin‐Sun , Kim Ryul , Byun Jung‐Ick , Kim Tae‐Joon , Lim Jung‐Ah , Sunwoo Jun‐Sang , Lee Soon‐Tae , Jung Keun‐Hwa , Park Kyung‐Il , Chu Kon , Kim Manho , Lee Sang Kun , Jung Ki‐Young
Published: March 2019

Objective

We investigated the effects of prolonged‐release melatonin (PRM) on idiopathic rapid eye movement (REM) sleep behavior disorder (iRBD).

Methods

In this 4‐week, randomized, double–blind, placebo–controlled pilot study, 30 participants with polysomnography–confirmed iRBD were assigned to receive PRM 2 mg per day, PRM 6 mg per day, or placebo. Medication was administered orally 30 min before bedtime. Primary outcomes included scores from the Clinical Global Impression‐Improvement (CGI‐I) and the Korean version of the RBD questionnaire‐Hong Kong (RBDQ‐KR). The secondary outcomes included RBDQ‐KR factor 1 and factor 2 subscores, the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index score, the Epworth Sleepiness Scale score, the Short Form Health Survey version 2 score, and the frequency of dream–enacting behaviors assessed using a sleep diary.

Results

After 4 weeks, there were no differences in the proportions of patients with a CGI‐I score of much improved or very much improved among the study groups. In addition, RBDQ‐KR scores and secondary outcomes were not improved in all groups at 4 weeks, and there were no differences between the groups.

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that PRM may not be effective in treating RBD–related symptoms within the dose range used in this study. Further studies using doses higher than 6 mg per day are warranted.
Research suggests possible role of e‐cigs for smoking cessation in OUD patients
Authors: Enos Gary
Published: March 2019

Smoking cessation is considered a particularly vexing challenge for patients with opioid use disorders (OUDs), in part because of ways in which nicotine can interact with opioid agonist therapies. In order to add to the base of knowledge on whether electronic cigarette use could be considered a viable strategy for smoking cessation in this population, researchers at the Yale School of Medicine have released data on the prevalence of e‐cigarette use among patients seeking agonist treatment for opioid dependence.
Sublocade: Why a placebo arm?
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: March 2019

In a time when people are dying from illicit fentanyl overdoses, why would a trial for a new medication to treat opioid use disorder — a formulation of buprenorphine, already proven to be safe and effective in oral form — include a placebo arm? This was the question asked by many when the results of Indivior's trial for Sublocade, a buprenorphine injection that lasts a month, were published last month in The Lancet (see ADAW, Feb. 25). The trial results were what led to Sublocade's approval by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the treatment of opioid use disorder more than a year ago (see ADAW, Dec. 11, 2017).
High‐Voltage Charging‐Induced Strain, Heterogeneity, and Micro‐Cracks in Secondary Particles of a Nickel‐Rich Layered Cathode Material
Authors: Mao Yuwei , Wang Xuelong , Xia Sihao , Zhang Kai , Wei Chenxi , Bak Seongmin , Shadike Zulipiya , Liu Xuejun , Yang Yang , Xu Rong , Pianetta Piero , Ermon Stefano , Stavitski Eli , Zhao Kejie , Xu Zhengrui , Lin Feng , Yang Xiao‐Qing , Hu Enyuan , Liu Yijin
Published: March 2019

Nickel‐rich layered materials LiNi1‐x‐yMnxCoyO2 are promising candidates for high‐energy‐density lithium‐ion battery cathodes. Unfortunately, they suffer from capacity fading upon cycling, especially with high‐voltage charging. It is critical to have a mechanistic understanding of such fade. Herein, synchrotron‐based techniques (including scattering, spectroscopy, and microcopy) and finite element analysis are utilized to understand the LiNi0.6Mn0.2Co0.2O2 material from structural, chemical, morphological, and mechanical points of view. The lattice structural changes are shown to be relatively reversible during cycling, even when 4.9 V charging is applied. However, local disorder and strain are induced by high‐voltage charging. Nano‐resolution 3D transmission X‐ray microscopy data analyzed by machine learning methodology reveal that high‐voltage charging induced significant oxidation state inhomogeneities in the cycled particles. Regions at the surface have a rock salt–type structure with lower oxidation state and build up the impedance, while regions with higher oxidization state are scattered in the bulk and are likely deactivated during cycling. In addition, the development of micro‐cracks is highly dependent on the pristine state morphology and cycling conditions. Hollow particles seem to be more robust against stress‐induced cracks than the solid ones, suggesting that morphology engineering can be effective in mitigating the crack problem in these materials.
Magnetic Nanoparticles‐Embedded Enzyme‐Inorganic Hybrid Nanoflowers with Enhanced Peroxidase‐Like Activity and Substrate Channeling for Glucose Biosensing
Authors: Cheon Hong Jae , Adhikari Manab Deb , Chung Minsoo , Tran Tai Duc , Kim Jungbae , Kim Moon Il
Published: March 2019

It is reported that glucose oxidase (GOx)‐copper hybrid nanoflowers embedded with Fe3O4 magnetic nanoparticles (MNPs) exhibit superior peroxidase‐mimicking activity as well as substrate channeling for glucose detection. This is due to the synergistic integration of GOx, crystalline copper phosphates and MNPs being in close proximity within the nanoflowers. The preparation of MNP‐embedded GOx‐copper hybrid nanoflowers (MNPs‐GOx NFs) begins with the facile conjugation of amine‐functionalized MNPs with GOx molecules via electrostatic attraction, followed by the addition of copper sulfate that leads to full blooming of the hybrid nanoflowers. In the presence of glucose, the catalytic action of GOx entrapped in the nanoflowers generates H2O2, which is subsequently used by peroxidase‐mimicking MNPs and copper phosphate crystals, located close to GOx molecules, to convert Amplex UltraRed substrate into a highly fluorescent product. Using this strategy, the target glucose is successfully determined with excellent selectivity, stability, and magnetic reusability. This biosensor based on hybrid nanoflowers also exhibits a high degree of precision and reproducibility when applied to real human blood samples. Such novel MNP‐embedded enzyme‐inorganic hybrid nanoflowers have a great potential to be expanded to any oxidases, which will be highly beneficial for the detection of various other clinically important target molecules.
Revealing the Cluster‐Cloud and Its Role in Nanocrystallization
Authors: Jin Biao , Wang Yanming , Liu Zhaoming , France‐Lanord Arthur , Grossman Jeffrey C. , Jin Chuanhong , Tang Ruikang
Published: March 2019

Elucidating the early stages of crystallization from supersaturated solutions is of critical importance, but remains a great challenge. An in situ liquid cell transmission electron microscopy study reveals an intermediate state of condensed atomic clusters during Pd and Au crystallizations, which is named a “cluster‐cloud.” It is found that nucleation is initiated by the collapse of a cluster‐cloud, first forming a nanoparticle. The subsequent particle maturation proceeds via multiple out‐and‐in relaxations of the cluster‐cloud to improve crystallinity: from a poorly crystallized phase, the particle evolves into a well‐defined single‐crystal phase. Both experimental investigations and atomistic simulations suggest that the cluster‐cloud‐mediated nanocrystallization involves an order–disorder phase separation and reconstruction, which is energetically favored compared to local rearrangements within the particle. This finding grants new insights into nanocrystallization mechanisms, and provides useful information for the improvement of synthesis pathways of nanocrystals.