bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Intermolecular Interaction In Binary Blends From Estimated Sound Velocity
Authors: Sasikumar P. , Thiyagarajan R. , Palaniappan L. , Nithiyanantham S.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: To understand the nature of liquids the need of physico-chemical behavior of liquid mixtures or in pure form Sound velocity, viscosity and density values have been calibrated in binary and ternary system of some of the Aniline+1-alkanols with benzene, toluene, and hexane at 303K. Several theoretical models have been applied to evaluate the sound velocity values for the binary and ternary systems compared with the experimental values.

Method: The ultrasonic velocity, density and viscosity measured with ultrasonic interferometer, specific gravity bottle with Oswald’s viscometer respectively. The measured ultrasonic velocity compared with theoretical models to understand the existence of molecular interactions from models like Nomoto’ Relation, Free Length Theory, ideals mixture relation etc.

Results: NR predictions provide better closeness with test values and FLT predictions are not completely acceptable. FLT prediction is found to fail even for pure liquids. IMR predictions are more acceptable than NR, only for aniline + 1-pentanol binary and NR seem to be the best of all other systems. In binary, IMR predicted values are always lower than test values, but NR predictions are, in most cases, higher than test values. In ternary systems, especially at high mole fractions of aniline, the predicted sound velocity values (NR & IMR) are always lower than the experimentally observed values. Among the many theories considered, NR gives the best prediction of sound speed. The sequence of qualifications for predicting sound speed decreases as NR and IMR and FLT are completely invalid for all considered systems.

Conclusion: Strong molecular interaction with the structure formation increases with mole fractions. Azeotropic destruction has been found to be the most common of the compounds considered.
Assessment Cooling of Photovoltaic Modules Using Underground Water
Authors: Chaichan Miqdam T. , Kazem Hussein A. , Alnaser Naser W. , Gholami Aslan , Al-Waeli Ali H. A. , Alnaser Waheeb E.
Published: June 2022

Purpose: The drop in photovoltaic energy conversion efficiency under actual operating conditions because of cell temperature increase is a significant challenge to PV adoption and utilization. In this study, the efficiency and effectiveness of using underground water in cooling and cleaning photovoltaics will be practically ascertained in Baghdad-Iraq.

Method: The cooling mechanism utilizes copper pipes in a modified spiral flow configuration. This developed system is referred to as Photovoltaic thermal (PV/T). To study the effect of using underground water wells on the performance of the PV system, two wells were drilled four meters apart to prevent the interference of cold well water and hot water from the heat exchanger. The water is drawn from the first well, with a depth of 8.86 m, and the hot water flowing out of the collector is injected into the ground through the second well, which has a depth of 8.43 m.

Results: The outcome reveals that relying on a cooling source with a constant - low temperature (21°C) offers excellent cooling for the PV module, compared to an uncooled PV module, by 6°C at 7:00 AM and increased to reach 22°C at 1:00 PM. This reduction in temperature resulted in an average increase in electrical efficiency by 16.7%. The thermal efficiency ranges from 14% at 7:00 AM to 58% at 2:30 PM.

Conclusion: The findings suggest that this approach is energy efficient and effective during the summer season.
A Pilot study screening bank currency in community circulation for potential carriage of SARS-CoV-2: how safe handling the currency is?
Authors: Shahid Mohammad , Deifalla Abdel Halim , Ismaeel Abdulrahman Yusuf , Tabbara Khaled Saeed , Al-Mahmeed Ali , Shadab Mohd. , Ramadan Ahmed
Published: June 2022

Purpose: Currency seems to represent an important vehicle for transmission of pathogenic microorganisms, thus a potential in affecting the public health. Digital transactions are more common in developed countries; however, handling cash currency is still very common in many countries including Bahrain. A recent study from Australia reported that SARS-CoV-2 may survive for 28 days on smooth surfaces (including banknotes), however the study was purely experimental and done in controlled laboratory environment. There were worldwide speculations suggesting the possible transmission of SARS-CoV-2 infection through currency notes. A recent study from Bangladesh reported presence of SARS-CoV-2 in approximately 7% of currency samples collected from the community. No such study has been performed on Bahraini currency, so the present study was proposed to screen the cash currency in circulation in Bahrain for the possible presence of SARS-CoV-2.

Method: We collected notes and coins of Bahraini currency and a few of Saudi riyals from different public sources of currency exchange. Two time points were selected for collection when percentage of tested positive cases was on its peak. All the samples were tested for the presence of SARS-CoV-2 antigen with rapid antigen detection kit and qRT-PCR method. For initial validation, 5 samples each of potential SARS-CoV-2 RNAs extracted from known positive cases and 5 samples of extracted RNA from known negative persons were tested by rapid antigen detection kit and qRT-PCR. The results of qRT-PCR were interpreted as per the interpretation chart provided by the supplier.

Results: During the study period, a total of 250 currency samples were collected including different denominations of currency notes and coins. Majority of the currency samples were collected from grocery stores followed by food outlets. Following validation, the currency samples were tested, and all turned negative for SARS-CoV-2 by rapid antigen detection test as well as by RT-PCR.

Conclusion: This study predicts on Bahraini currency posing no threat of SARS-CoV-2 transmission via currency exchange.
General overview on SARS-CoV-2 and potential role of natural compounds as antiviral drugs targeting SARS-CoV-2 proteins
Authors: Dassamiour Saliha , Ghebache Widad , Gharbi Hala
Published: June 2022

Purpose: The novel coronavirus disease namely COVID-19 is a viral disease induced by severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus (SARS-CoV-2). The cases were first reported in Wuhan, China, by the end of 2019 and subsequently spread worldwide. The virus can be transferred through direct or indirect contact and leads to several manifestations; the most common are fever, dry cough, pneumonia, and acute respiratory distress syndrome (ARDS). COVID-19 has caused massive human and economic losses, posing an ongoing threat. Understanding the current situation and developing a treatment which can be both safe and effective has become essential. In this regard, natural products could be an important resource in the development of treatment for COVID-19, as they have contributed to the treatment of other viruses in the past. This review aims to understand the cellular machinery of SARS-CoV-2 and to identify its drug targets.

Methods: Emphasis has been given on the literature survey based on in vitro, in vivo, and in silico studies of natural products as anti-SARS-CoV-2. The important role of these compounds in boosting the immune system was also highlighted.

Results: It was found that some natural products showed prominent antiviral activity against coronaviruses through impeding the main machinery used in their pathogenesis and replication cycle. Based on in vitro, in vivo, and in silico investigations, several classes of secondary metabolites, particularly polyphenols, have the ability to disrupt the interaction between SARS-CoV-2 S protein and the ACE2 receptor, resulting in virus entry inhibition. As well as the ability to block the activity of several enzymes involved in the virus replication cycle, including, 3CLpro, PLpro and RdRp. On the other hand, several vitamins and minerals can improve the immune response and are useful for COVID-19 prevention. Essential oils also show the ability to disrupt the fluidity of the virus envelope.

Conclusion: Many phytonutrients are counted as bioactive components against SARS-CoV-2, phenolic compounds by their potent mechanisms of action via the immune system rank first. Group B vitamins, vitamins A, C and E as well as minerals such as zinc, selenium and magnesium also play an important role in in preventing the attack by this virus.
The Effect of Secondary-Treated Municipal Wastewater Discharge on Nutrient Concentrations in Leaves and Soils of Gray Mangrove in Bahrain
Authors: Abido Mohammad S. , Abou Seedo Kholoud , Salih Ahmed A. , Abahussain Asma
Published: June 2022

The wastewater discharge into the marine environment may affect the integrity of the mangrove ecosystem. In this context, the possible effect of secondary-treated municipal wastewater discharge on the nutrient concentrations in the leaves and soils of Tubli Bay gray mangrove (Avicennia marina (Forsk.) Vierh.) was assessed at three sites. Physical properties and the percent of organic matter content in mangrove soil were measured. The nitrogen concentration was measured using the Kjeldahl method. Extractable phosphorus was quantified using the dry-ash method. Plant and soil concentration of K, Ca, Mg, and Na was determined using an inductively coupled plasma analyzer. Soil organic matter was estimated using the dry-ash method. The results showed no significant differences in the mangrove leaves’ nutrient concentration between sites regarding all the measured variables except N and Na. Wastewater discharge significantly affects mangrove leaves N content at the Tubli site where heavy wastewater loads are discharged. Leaf nutrients’ concentration followed the order: Na> K> N> Mg> Ca> P. Nutrients were concentrated in the topsoil layers in the following order: Ca > Mg > Na > K > N > P. Nutrient level showed a decreasing pattern with soil depth, except for Ca. Significant differences were observed in N and P’s levels in the soil layers between the affected site and the other two sites. Furthermore, the soil analysis indicated significant differences in N and P levels in the Tubli site soil compared to the other two sites due to wastewater discharge. No significant correlations were found between nutrient levels in the leaves of mangrove and its underlying soils. Additionally, the release of wastewater into the Bay significantly increased soil organic matter in the affected site. The study’s findings indicate that the continued release of the secondary effluent into the Tubli Bay may alter the Bay ecosystem’s Physico-chemical properties in general and mangrove survival in particular.
Using Geographic Information Systems to Produce Maps of The Water Cost of Olives in Jordan for The 2020-2019 Water Year
Authors: Aburukba Rasha Ahmed , Albrezat Ali Omar
Published: June 2022

The study aims to employ geographic information systems to produce maps of the water cost of the olive harvest in Jordan for the water year 2019-2020 through the concepts of water consumption: (Reference Evapotranspiration, Crop Evapotranspiration, Water Requirement, virtual water, net water consumption, actual water demand. Virtual water trade) by following the FAO56 method, based on the climatic data of a group of climatic stations distributed throughout the Kingdom and the yield and productivity factors, by using the cartographic criteria necessary to produce digital maps to express the true reality of water consumption of the olive crop. The Reference Evapotranspiration accumulation rate was estimated at 1688 mm, and the values ranged between (lowest value 1129 mm and highest value 2222) mm. The average water requirements for each dunum of olive cultivated was estimated 923 m3 of water, and the values ranged between (the lowest value 621 and the highest value 1227) m3 / dunum. The net Crop Water Demand of the area (569.5 thousand donums) planted with olives was estimated at 525.649 m3 of water. The Virtual water rate for olive productivity (0.22 tons / dunum) was estimated at 4194 m3 / ton, and the values ranged between (the lowest value 2821 and the highest value 5576) m3 / ton. The Specific Water Demand was estimated as follows: (for the production of olives (125150 tons) with 524.879 mm3 of water, for the production of preserved olives (24691 tons) with 103.554 mm3 for the production of olive oil (20706 tons) for 86.841 m m3 of water). The Virtual water trade was estimated as follows: (for olive exports (1585 tons / year) amount to 6.647 m m3/ year of water, for Preserved olives exports (5442 tons / year) amount to 22,824 mm3 / year for water, for olive oil exports (575 tons /year) with 2.412 mm3 / year water. The study recommends the necessity of adopting the concept of virtual water as a wise tool for determining the water cost in irrigated agriculture, and using geographic information systems in producing crop water cost maps.
Effect of Gamma Irradiation on Peanut (Arachis Hypogaea.L)
Authors: Al-Bachir Mahfouz , Othman Yasser
Published: June 2022

This work report the effect of irradiation with gamma rays (1, 2 and 3 kGy) on the chemical composition, microbial loads, chemical characteristics and sensorial properties of the peanut seeds. The data obtained from the experiments showed that gamma irradiation process has no effect on the proximate composition (water content, proteins, sugars, lipids, and ash), and chemical attributes (free fatty acids, pH value and based nitrogen value (BVN)) of peanut seeds. Irradiation was found to cause significant reduction in microbial load and no fungal colonies were detected in irradiated samples with 2 and 3 kGy. Bacterial and fungal load of irradiated peanut seeds and there comparison with control samples suggest that gamma irradiation treatment at low doses is an effective post-harvest treatment and quarantine control for fungal load. However, non-irradiated and irradiated peanut seeds did not show significant differences in the sensorial test (texture, odor, color and test).
The Effect of Tertiary Treated Sewage Effluent on Activity of major Piercing-Sucking Mouth-Parts Insects and their Natural Enemies on Alfalfa Crop
Authors: Ghanim Isa Ahmed , Abdul Kareem Abdul Aziz Mohamed , Salih Ahmed Ali , Al Ajmi Asadullah
Published: June 2022

This study was conducted during the period April 2009 to March 2010 in the Northern Governorate, Kingdom of Bahrain, to study the effect of treated sewage water on major alfalfa pests (aphids, leafhopper and plant bugs) and their natural enemies. The study was conducted on six farms, three irrigated by groundwater in the villages of Karranah, Jannusan and Jasra and three irrigated with treated sewage effluent in the villages of Dumistan, Elsahala and Abu Saiba. Insect samples were collected every ten days from five replicates using the standard sweeping net procedure to estimate the numbers of the above insects and their natural enemies. Pitfall traps were used to collect soft dwelling natural enemies. The results showed that irrigating alfalfa with treated sewage water led to a significant increase in population density of aphids and that the groundwater used for irrigation has led to a significant increase in the number of leafhoppers and plant bugs. As for natural enemies, Geocorissp, Dereaocorispallns were significantly increased in alfalfa plants irrigated by ground water, while Coccinella beetles significantly increased in numbers in alfalfa irrigated with treated sewage water Damselbug, aphids lions, ground beetle, tiger beetles, earwigs were not significantly affected by the type of water used. Regarding the seasonal activity of insects, leafhoppers, aphids,and plant bugs, results showed that the highest density of aphids was occurred during the second and third week of December and first week of January, leafhoppers in the second week of December and third week of February, and Plant bug in the second week of October. The activity of seasonal natural enemies had registered the highest density of Geocorissp during the first and third weeks of August. Coccinella beetles showed highest density during the second week of March, while Damselbugs highest density was noted in the fourth week of December and the first week of January. Aphid lions were most active during the fourth week of December and second week of February, whereas the predator Dereaocoris pallens was active during the third week of May and first week of July and ground beetles active during the first weekof May and the fourth week of July through first week of August. Cutting of alfalfa fields more frequent in activity period is a suggested tactic for the management of this pest, as IPM programs designed by the seasonal activity of the pest.
Mud Crab (Scylla serrata) Fattening in Pen Culture System: Changes of Proximate Composition due to Fattening
Authors: Amin Md. Anwarul , Asadujjaman Md. , Hossain Md. Belal , Hasan Md. Tawheed , Hassan Md. Fuad , Chowdhury Muhammad Tanvir Hossain
Published: June 2022

The study was conducted to know the crab fattening in pen system and to evaluate the changes of proximate composition of mud crab due to fattening. After fattening, proximate composition was analyzed to assess the changes of nutritional value. The average survival rates of male and female crab were 64.722 ± 1.204% and 65.889 ± 0.701% respectively. The mean specific growth rate (SGR) was 1.245 ± 0.334% (male) and 0.976 ± 0.152% (female). The average value of FCR was 5.833 ± 0.119 and production rate was 0.4116 ± 0.095 kg/m2. Due to fattening, the moisture content of mud crab was decreased from 77.747 ± 0.705 to 75.551 ± 1.537% in male and from 75.030 ± 0.370 to 74.332 ± 0.202% in female. The mean crude protein content of the male mud crab (Scylla serrata) with shell was decreased but in case of female it was increased. The mean crude lipid content of mud crab was increased from 0.420 ± 0.110 % to 1.113 ± 0.102% and 1.093 ± 0.110 to 2.208 ± 0.204% respectively both of male and female. During fattening period the mean ash content was also increased in male and female. In addition the study showed that the mean crude fibre content also increased from 1.162 ± 0.089 to 1.613 ± 0.580% and 1.556 ± 0.367 to 1.884 ± 0.020% respectively in male and female. Furthermore nitrogen free extract content increased from 0.838 ± 0.064 to 0.982 ± 0.238% in male and from 1.251 ± 0.421 to 1.682 ± 0.640% in female. It was observed that all the nutritional compositions were changed due to fattening.
Measurement report: The importance of biomass burning in light extinction and direct radiative effect of urban aerosol during the COVID-19 lockdown in Xi'an, China
Authors: Tian Jie , Wang Qiyuan , Liu Huikun , Ma Yongyong , Liu Suixin , Zhang Yong , Ran Weikang , Han Yongming , Cao Junji
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Due to the complexity of emission sources, a better
understanding of aerosol optical properties is required to mitigate climate
change in China. Here, an intensive real-time measurement campaign was conducted in
an urban area of China before and during the COVID-19 lockdown in order to explore the impacts of anthropogenic activities on
aerosol light extinction and the direct radiative effect (DRE). The mean light
extinction coefficient (bext) decreased from 774.7 ± 298.1 Mm−1
during the normal period to 544.3 ± 179.4 Mm−1 during the
lockdown period. A generalised additive model analysis indicated that the
large decline in bext (29.7 %) was due to sharp reductions
in anthropogenic emissions. Chemical calculation of bext based on a
ridge regression analysis showed that organic aerosol (OA) was the largest
contributor to bext in both periods (45.1 %–61.4 %), and the contributions
of two oxygenated OAs to bext increased by 3.0 %–14.6 % during the
lockdown. A hybrid environmental receptor model combined with chemical and
optical variables identified six sources of bext. It was found that
bext from traffic-related emissions, coal combustion, fugitive dust, the
nitrate and secondary OA (SOA) source, and the sulfate and SOA source
decreased by 21.4 %–97.9 % in the lockdown, whereas bext from biomass
burning increased by 27.1 %, mainly driven by the undiminished need for
residential cooking and heating. An atmospheric radiative transfer model
was further used to illustrate that biomass burning, rather than
traffic-related emissions, became the largest positive effect (10.0 ± 10.9 W m−2) on aerosol DRE in the atmosphere during the lockdown. Our
study provides insights into aerosol bext and DRE from anthropogenic
sources, and the results imply the importance of controlling biomass
burning for tackling climate change in China in the future.
Satellite-detected sea surface chlorophyll-a blooms in the Japan/East Sea: magnitude and timing
Authors: Wang Dingqi , Fang Guohong , Jiang Shuming , Xu Qinzeng , Wang Guanlin , Wei Zexun , Wang Yonggang , Xu Tengfei
Published: June 2022

Abstract. The Japan/East Sea (JES) is known as a mid-latitude “Miniature Ocean” that features multiscale oceanic dynamics processes. We investigate the variability of the sea surface chlorophyll-a concentration (SSC) and bloom timing in the JES based on satellite remote sensing products spanning 1998–2019. The JES SSC exhibits strong seasonal variability and blooms twice annually, which are mainly governed by the physical environmental conditions. However, the influences of local oceanic dynamic processes (e.g., upwelling, oceanic fronts, mesoscale eddies, and near-inertial oscillations) on the bloom magnitude and timing of the entire JES are not critical, compared with the PAT and stratification. In addition, significant interannual variabilities of spring bloom magnitude occur along the JES's northwestern coast, and that of fall bloom magnitude occur in the deep Japan Basin. For spring bloom, the interannual variability of the bloom timing (initiation timing, termination timing and duration), which significantly affect the interannual bloom magnitude anomalies, are correlated with climate modes such as AO and ENSO. For fall bloom, on the interannual time scale, the bloom duration is mainly affected by the initiation timing. Both of them have a significant influence on the bloom magnitude. The initiation/termination timing of spring blooms has shifted earlier by 0.37/0.45 days annually along the JES's northwestern coast; the counterpart of fall blooms has shifted 0.49/1.28 days earlier annually in the deep Japan Basin.
SDUST2021GRA: Global marine gravity anomaly model recovered from Ka-band and Ku-band satellite altimeter data
Authors: Zhu Chengcheng , Guo Jinyun , Yuan Jiajia , Li Zhen , Liu Xin , Gao Jinyao
Published: June 2022

Abstract. With the launch of altimetry satellites with different observation frequencies and different survey missions, it is necessary to integrate multi-satellites altimeter data to establish a new global marine gravity anomaly model. Based on Ka-band SSHs from SARAL/AltiKA and Ku-band SSHs from other satellites (including HY-2A) in geodetic missions and exact repeat missions, the global marine gravity anomaly model of SDUST2021GRA on a 1′×1′ grid is derived. Gridded deflections of vertical (DOVs) are determined from along-track geoid gradients by the least-squares collocation method, in which the noise variances of along-track geoid gradients are obtained by the iteration method for Ka-band geodetic mission and by the SSH crossover discrepancies for other altimetry missions. SDUST2021GRA is recovered from the gridded DOVs by the inverse Vening-Meinesz formula, and analyzed by comparing with the recognized marine gravity anomaly models of DTU17 and SIO V30.1. Final, the accuracy of SDUST2021GRA, DTU17 and SIO V30.1 is assessed by preprocessed shipborne gravity anomalies. In conclusion, the differences between SDUST2021GRA and recognized models are small, indicating the reliability of SDUST2021GRA. The differences are mainly concentrated between -5 mGal and 5 mGal, which accounts for more than 95 % of the total number. Assessed by shipborne gravity, the accuracy of SDUST2021GRA is 2.37 mGal in the global, which is higher than that of DTU17 (2.74 mGal) and SIO V30.1(2.69 mGal). The precision advantage of SDUST2021GRA is mainly concentrated in offshore areas. SDUST2021GRA is concluded to reach an international advanced level for the altimeter-derived marine gravity model, especially in the offshore area. The SDUST2021GRA model are freely available at the site of https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.6668159 (Zhu et al., 2022).
The analysis of slip tendency of major tectonic faults in Germany
Authors: Röckel Luisa , Ahlers Steffen , Müller Birgit , Reiter Karsten , Heidbach Oliver , Henk Andreas , Hergert Tobias , Schilling Frank
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Seismic hazard during subsurface operations is often related to the reactivation of pre-existing tectonic faults. The analysis of the slip tendency, i.e., the ratio of shear to normal stress acting on the fault plane, allows an assessment of the reactivation potential of faults. We use the total stresses that result from a large-scale 3D geomechanical–numerical model of Germany and adjacent areas to calculate the slip tendency for three 3D fault geometry sets with increasing complexity. This allows us to draw general conclusions about the influence of the fault geometry on the reactivation potential. In general, the fault reactivation potential is higher in Germany for faults that strike NW–SE and NNE–SSW. Due to the prevailing normal stress regime in the geomechanical–numerical model results, faults dipping at an angle of about 60∘ generally show higher slip tendencies in comparison to steeper or shallower dipping faults. Faults implemented with a straight geometry show higher slip tendencies than those represented with a more complex, uneven geometry. Pore pressure has been assumed to be hydrostatic and has been shown to have a major influence on the calculated slip tendencies. Compared to slip tendency values calculated without pore pressure, the consideration of pore pressure leads to an increase in slip tendency of up to 50 %. The qualitative comparison of the slip tendency with the occurrence of seismic events with moment magnitudes Mw>3.5 shows areas with an overall good spatial correlation between elevated slip tendencies and seismic activity but also highlights areas where more detailed and diverse fault sets would be beneficial.
Polyester microplastic fibers affect soil physical properties and erosion as a function of soil type
Authors: Ingraffia Rosolino , Amato Gaetano , Bagarello Vincenzo , Carollo Francesco G. , Giambalvo Dario , Iovino Massimo , Lehmann Anika , Rillig Matthias C. , Frenda Alfonso S.
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Microplastics are recognized as a factor of global change contaminating many environmental compartments. Agricultural soils are very likely to receive microplastic contamination and are of particular concern due to their role in food production. Microplastic fibers have already been shown to be able to affect soil properties, but their effect on different soil types is poorly understood. Moreover, limited information is available on how the presence of this pollutant can affect soil water erosion processes, which are extremely important issues in many environments. In the light of this, we performed two experiments (carried out on a microscale) to investigate how the presence of polyester microplastic fibers affects soil physical and hydrological parameters and processes such as aggregate formation and soil erosion in three different agricultural soil types (a Vertisol, an Entisol, and an Alfisol). Our data show that the effects of polyester microplastic fibers on soil physical parameters and erosion are strongly dependent on soil type. We found that microplastic fiber contamination can affect soil bulk density, capacitive indicators of soil physical quality, and decrease the formation of new aggregates (labile in the incubation period applied in our experiments) but did not affect their stability in water. However, we found that polyester microplastic fibers reduced soil loss and sediment concentration, especially in the most erodible soils. In this paper, we provide some hypotheses, but certainly future data are still needed to confirm or disprove our hypotheses. Overall, our results highlight the importance of broadly exploring soil properties, such as texture, mineralogy, organic carbon content, etc., to better understand how the various soil types respond to microplastic fiber contamination.
Formation of glacier tables caused by differential ice melting: field observation and modelling
Authors: Hénot Marceau , Langlois Vincent J. , Vessaire Jérémy , Plihon Nicolas , Taberlet Nicolas
Published: June 2022

Abstract. Glacier tables are structures frequently encountered on temperate glaciers. They consist of a rock supported by a narrow ice foot which forms through differential melting of the ice. In this article, we investigate their formation by following their dynamics on the Mer de Glace (the Alps, France). We report field measurements of four specific glacier tables over the course of several days, as well as snapshot measurements of a field of 80 tables performed on a given day.
We develop a simple model accounting for the various mechanisms of the heat transfer on the glacier using local meteorological data, which displays a quantitative agreement with the field measurements. We show that the formation of glacier tables is controlled by the global heat flux received by the rocks, which causes the ice underneath to melt at a rate proportional to the one of the surrounding ice. Under large rocks the ice ablation rate is reduced compared to bare ice, leading to the formation of glacier tables. This thermal insulation effect is due to the warmer surface temperature of rocks compared to the ice, which affects the net long-wave and turbulent fluxes. While the short-wave radiation, which is the main source of heat, is slightly more absorbed by the rocks than the ice, it plays an indirect role in the insulation by inducing a thermal gradient across the rocks which warms them. Under a critical size, however, rocks can enhance ice melting and consequently sink into the ice surface. This happens when the insulation effect is too weak to compensate for a geometrical amplification effect: the external heat fluxes are received on a larger surface than the contact area with the ice. We identified the main parameters controlling the ability of a rock to form a glacier table: the rock thickness, its aspect ratio, and the ratio between the averaged turbulent and short-wave heat fluxes.
Statistics on the catwalk: The importance of models in training researchers in statistics
Authors: Mclean Alan
Published: June 2022

This paper emphasises the pervasive role of probability models in statistics, and the importance of the role of prediction in statistics. I argue that all thinking, including everyday decision making, is based on the use of models: theories, stereotypes, metaphors, stories, myths, equations, diagrams, blueprints. Scientific thinking, including statistical thinking, is not different from ‘everyday’ thinking, but is a formalisation of it. Just as we ‘learn from experience’, a scientific theory is tested against observed data. Statistics is a body of techniques for developing and assessing models, particularly those involving uncertainty. This modelling process takes place at all levels of a statistical analysis, not only in ‘model selection’. Examples are given to illustrate these processes. Particular attention is given to the role of hypothesis testing, showing how it is a form of model selection between two models, one of which is ‘privileged’. Researchers, if they are to understand the role of statistics in scientific research, must understand the role of models in science generally and in statistics in particular.
Design of an internet course for training medical researchers in Bayesian statistical methods
Authors: Stangl Dalene
Published: June 2022

Access to statistical information is at an all-time high, and the information age is fuelling this access at an extraordinary pace. This access increases the capacity for medical researchers to use statistics to guide decision making, yet few courses teach methods to do so. Rarely does statistics training include methods for incorporating statistical output into decision making. Mass education and educational reform is needed. Technological advances of the past decade make this goal possible, and allow us to dramatically change how we use, teach, and think about statistics. This paper covers the conceptual development of an Internet continuing-education course designed to teach the basics the Bayesian statistics to medical researchers. Two questions are discussed: Why the Internet, and why the Bayesian paradigm?
The impact of the internet on researchers' training
Authors: Galmacci Gianfranco
Published: June 2022

The paper explores the reasons that have made the Internet even more important for the training of researchers, both for pure statisticians and scientists who use statistics for analysing experimental data. The author discusses various aspects of the role of the Internet and focuses on those contributions that populate the network with valuable tools and services (electronic journals, electronic books, virtual labs, data archives and examples of data analysis, etc.). An extensive bibliography has been provided to guide new users, through the millions of sites of the chaotic World Wide Web, towards the most interesting places for people involved in statistics.
Meeting the statistical needs of researchers in the biological and health sciences
Authors: Harraway John , Manly Bryan , Sutherland Hilary , McRae Allan
Published: June 2022

The results of a survey on the use of statistics in research in five subject areas representative of the biological and health sciences are reported. The main component of the survey is a review of statistical methods in 2927 research papers published during 1999 in 16 high impact journals from botany, ecology, food science, marine science and nutrition. A factor analysis establishes that research papers in the different subject areas use different methods. The opinions of research staff and postgraduate students working in these areas are also reported. To support these opinions we provide details of five postgraduate studies involving advanced statistical analyses, which have either resulted in publication or should result in publication in the near future. Discussion develops recommendations about topics important in a statistics curriculum for research students, where statistics courses should be taught, what is needed in terms of level of theory, the use of short courses and workshops, and the value of project work.
Statistical thinking for novice researchers in the biological sciences
Authors: Bishop Glenys , Talbot Mike
Published: June 2022

Postgraduate students from non-statistical disciplines often have trouble designing their first experiment, survey or observational study, particularly if their supervisor does not have a statistical background. Such students often present their results to a statistical consultant hoping that a suitable analysis will rescue a poorly designed study. Unfortunately, it is often too late by that stage. A statistical consultant is best able to help a student who has some grasp of statistics. It is appropriate to use the Web to deliver training when required and that is the mechanism used in this project to encourage postgraduate students to develop statistical thinking in their research. Statistical Thinking is taught in terms of the PPDSA cycle and students are encouraged to use other Web resources and books to expand their knowledge of statistical concepts and techniques.
Developing probabilistic and statistical reasoning at the secondary level through the use of data and technology
Authors:   Belfast Royal Academy, Nicholson James
Published: June 2022

Technology offers an end to the tedious and laborious computations in data analysis, but it also offers the possibility of a total lack of feeling for what is being done in the analysis, and a blind assumption that if the computer or calculator has done it then it must be right.
A framework for the evaluation of software for teaching statistical concepts
Authors:   The University of Minnesota, delMas Robert
Published: June 2022

As an instructor of introductory statistics, I have developed several computer applications aimed at facilitating students' development of statistical concepts. The software design has been influenced by my experience in teaching statistics; the knowledge of learning, problem solving, and cognition that I have gathered as a cognitive psychologist; and my experience with computers as both a computer user and a computer programmer. My teaching experience has left me with the impression that many students find it particularly difficult to gain a rich understanding of some statistical concepts, such as the central limit theorem. The ideas in cognitive psychology and learning that I gravitate toward hold that students develop concepts by actively testing ideas (i.e., hypotheses) based on conjectures and implications formulated as they try to make meaning out of their experiences.
QUERCUS and STEPS: the experience of two CAL projects from Scottish universities
Authors:   University of Strathclyd, McCloskey M
Published: June 2022

In response to the expansion of post-secondary education in the UK, the Teaching and Learning Technologies Programme (TLTP) was launched by the Universities Funding Council in February, 1992. The invitation to bid stated that “the aim of the programme is to make teaching and learning more productive and efficient by harnessing modern technology.” To maximize the impact of the program on higher education, the invitation also stated that preference would be given to bids from consortia of several universities rather than from single institutions. In total, 160 submissions were made of which 43 projects were funded at an estimated cost of £7.5 million per year.
Overview of ConStatS and the ConStatS assessment
Authors:   Tufts University Medford, Cohen Steve , Chechile Richard ,   Tufts University
Published: June 2022

ConStatS has been in development at the Tufts University Curricular Software Studio for the past nine years. From the beginning, the goal of the project was to develop software that offered students a chance to actively experiment with concepts taught in introductory statistics courses. It is a joint product of faculty from engineering, psychology, sociology, biology, economics, and philosophy. During the past nine years, there have been periods alternatively devoted to development, assessment, and classroom use.
Toward a theory and practice of using interactive graphics in statistics education
Authors:   Arizona State University, Behrens John
Published: June 2022

Graphic approaches to data analysis have been gaining ground since the work of Feinberg (1979), Tukey (1977), Wainer (1992; Wainer & Thissen 1981) and others. This has been spurred on in part by great advances in computing machinery. Although a number of aspects of graphics lend themselves to statistical instruction, some of the value of graphics can be demonstrated using data presented by Anscombe (1973). Anscombe presented bivariate data in which the x variable had a mean of 9 and a standard deviation (SD) of 3.3, and the y variable had a mean of 7.5 and a SD of 2.0. For this data, the slope was 3 and the r was .82.
Computer software in statistics education: student views on the impact of a computer package on affection and cognition
Authors:   University of Gent, Schuyten Gilberte , Dekeyser Hannelore ,   University of Gent
Published: June 2022

The Data Analysis subdepartment of the department of Psychology and Educational Sciences is conducting several studies focus on the use of computers in statistics learning. One project investigates the computer as a learning environment for statistics. In an experimental setting, three different learning conditions are studied: computer-based independent learning, pen-and-paper-based independent learning, and lecture-based learning. The results of this research were presented at ICOTS IV Marrakech (Schuyten, Dekeyser, & Goeminne, 1994). A second project focuses on student characteristics; that is, individual differences in dealing with verbal explanations, graphical displays, and formula. Their impact on the learning of statistics is investigated. In this study, the computer is used not only as a research tool to register the activities of the students in logfiles, but also as a didactic tool to explore the possibilities of computer-based materials for differentiation and individualization. Some findings were presented at ISI in Beijing in August 1995 (Schuyten, Goeminne, & Dekeyser, 1995). A third project, discussed here, focuses on the added value of standard scientific computer packages. The added value of these packages to the traditional course (consisting of lectures and pen-and-paper exercises) is discussed. Students' views on the impact of the computer package on affection and cognition are collected with a structured questionnaire.
The internet: A new dimension in teaching statistics
Authors:   Dartmouth College, Snell J. Laurie
Published: June 2022

The Internet was developed to permit researchers at universities and colleges to freely communicate their ideas and results with others doing similar research. This was accomplished by connecting the universities by an electronic network called the Internet and providing a method for sending messages called Electronic Mail or E-mail.
The role of technology in statistics education: a view from a developing region
Authors:   University of Transkei, Glencross Michael , Binyavanga Kamanzi ,   University of Transkei
Published: June 2022

Although statistics education has been a concern of statisticians for over a century, it was only following the establishment of the Educational Committee within the International Statistical Institute at the end of 1948 that serious efforts began to stimulate international research and debate on the needs for education and training in statistics, as well as measures and programs to meet these needs. A detailed survey of how actively this committee and its recent successor, the International Association for Statistical Education, took up this challenge appears in Vere-Jones (1995).
TEKNOLOJİDEKİ DÖNÜŞÜMLER ÇERÇEVESİNDE DİJİTAL GAZETELERDE İTİBAR YÖNETİMİ
Authors: HANÇER Ebru
Published: June 2022

Teknolojideki gelişmelere bağlı olarak internet tabanlı iletişim platformları aracılığı ile bireyler dış dünyada olup bitenlerle ilgili anında ve kolay haberdar olmaktadır. Dış dünyaya yönelik gözlem, değerlendirme ve anında bilgi sahibi olma imkanlarının geliştiği bir ortamda bireyler, kurumların topluma yönelik yapmış olduğu çalışmalardan anında haberdar olmaktadır. Bu nedenle kurumların itibar yönetimi de teknoloji dolayımlı bir sürecin içinde ilerlemektedir. Internet teknolojisi sayesinde sosyal yaşamda olduğu gibi medya sektöründe bu değişimden payını almıştır. Yeni teknolojilerin basın sektörüne etkilerinden biri de dijital gazetelerin ortaya çıkmasıdır. Gazeteciliğin dijital dönüşüm sürecinde dünyada en çok ihtiyaç duyulan ama bir türlü karşılanamayan taleplerden biri de doğru, bilgilendirici, yorumlardan uzak nitelikli haberciliktir. Özellikle de dijital ana akım haber platformlarının önemli bir kısmı okuyucularına nitelikli içerikler sunmayı başaramayıp, itibarlarının yitirilmesine neden olmaktadır. Dijital haber kuruluşlarının da varlıklarını devam ettirebilmesi için iyi bir itibara sahip olmalıdırlar. Bu sebeple çalışmada okuyucuların dijital haber kuruluşlarının itibarını etkileyen ana faktörlerin belirlenmesi ve irdelenmesi üzerine kurumsal itibarın ölçümü için Fombrun ve arkadaşları tarafından geliştirilen kurumsal itibar ölçeği göz önünde bulundurularak konuyla ilgili literatür taraması yapılarak değerlendirmeler analiz edilmiştir. Analiz sonucunda dijital haber kuruluşlarının itibar algısının düşük olduğu tespit edilmiştir.
THE RISE OF AUDIO-BASED COMMUNICATION TECHNOLOGIES: A RESEARCH ON PODCAST, CLUBHOUSE AND AUDIOBOOK APPLICATIONS
Authors: ATALAY Gül Esra , AZAP Eda , KINAY Kumsal , ÖZŞİRİN Sena
Published: June 2022

Due to development of digital technologies traditional cultural forms have been transferred to digital platforms and old forms are being re-used by being adapted to digital sphere. Recently, the use of digital technologies based on sound has become widespread. During the COVID 19 epidemic, the use of audiobooks, podcasts, and voice messaging applications has increased, and a voice-based social media platform called Clubhouse has emerged. In the last decade, although new media technologies have enabled uninterrupted and social media has created a new digital culture, the demand for applications based only on sound is in need of academic inquiry. Based on the qualitative method, this research aims to understand why these technologies are preferred and the reasons for their increased use, through in-depth interviews with individuals who use voice-based digital communication opportunities. Individuals using audio digital technologies prefer to use these technologies because they allow them to do more than one job at the same time, can be listened to anywhere at any time, and are based on speech. The results of the research showed that digital communication possibilities based on sound on the basis of the techno-determinist approach are the latest milestone in the development of "secondary oral culture”.
A COMPARATIVE RESEARCH ON CUSTOMER SERVICE EXPECTATIONS AND SERVICE QUALITY PERCEPTIONS OF LOW COST CARRIERS IN THE TURKISH REPUBLIC OF NORTHERN CYPRUS
Authors: UMARBEYLİ Şükrü , GELİRLİ Nalan
Published: June 2022

Bu çalışma, KKTC'ye uçan havayollarının yolculara sunduğu hizmetleri yolcular açısından değerlendirmeyi amaçlamıştır. KKTC merkezli bir havayolunun olmaması, Türkiye merkezli Low Cost Carrier modeliyle uçan iki havayolunun pazara hakim olmasına neden olmuştur. Sektörde sadece bu iki havayolunun verdiği hizmetler baz alınarak bir değerlendirme yapılmış ve bu havayollarıyla uçuş tecrübesi olan 402 yolcuya anket uygulanmıştır. Ankette toplam 44 soru oluşturulmuş olup bu soruların 22'si hizmet beklentisini, diğer 22'si ise hizmet algısını ölçmek için tasarlanmıştır. Yolcuların hizmet beklentileri ve algıları Servqual Ölçeği yöntemi ile analiz edilmiştir. Elde edilen sonuca göre müşterilerin hizmet algısı müşteri beklentilerinin altında kalmıştır. Havayollarının müşteri memnuniyetini sağlayabilmesi için hizmet kalitesini gözden geçirmesi ve hizmet kalitesini artıracak önlemler alması gerekmektedir.

This study aimed to evaluate the services offered to passengers by airlines flying to the TRNC in terms of passengers. The absence of an airline based in the TRNC has caused two airlines to dominate the market, flying with the Turkey-based Low Cost Carrier model. An evaluation was made on the basis of the services provided by only these two airlines in the sector, and a survey was conducted on 402 passengers who had flight experience with these airlines. In the survey 44 question were generated; 22 of these questions were designed to measure service expectation and the other 22 were designed to measure service perception. The service expectations and perceptions of the passengers were analyzed with the Servqual Scale method. According to the result, service perception of customers remained below customer expectations. Airlines need to review their service quality and take measures to improve service quality in order to make costumer satisfaction.