bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavioural Intention of Customers Towards Smartwatches in an Ambient Environment Using Soft Computing
Authors: Gladys Gnana Kiruba B.  , Acharjya Debi Prasanna
Published: March 2020

The growth of new technologies and ambient intelligence is an emerging technology that enhances our life by adding sensors and networks. Ambient technology is a revolution on smart devices that makes human life efficient. Smartwatches are one that provides flexibility in people's daily lives by adopting sensing and reasoning of their activities and the surrounding environment. Analyzing a customer's behaviour towards smartwatches that use ambient intelligence is a critical issue. This article analyses the behavioural intention of customer satisfaction towards smartwatch users in an ambient environment with the help of structured equation modeling using partial least squares and fuzzy rough sets. The structural equation modeling is used to check the reliability and validity of the constructs whereas a fuzzy rough set is used for rule generation and studying customer satisfaction. This enhances the personalization of human beings with the assistance of human-computer interaction capabilities of ambient intelligence.
The Security Aspects of Automotive Over-the-Air Updates
Authors: Howden James , Maglaras Leandros , Ferrag Mohamed Amine
Published: March 2020

Over-the-air (OTA) update is a method for vehicle manufacturers to remotely distribute maintenance updates, performance, and feature enhancements through the vehicle's lifespan. Recalls of vehicles cost the manufactures a lot of money. OTA solves the recall issue, while allowing consumers to pay for services and features via an update. The OTA ecosystem includes the coders who first developed the firmware, the 1st Tier suppliers, the vehicle manufacturers, and the vehicle itself. Currently, manufacturers designed the networks for speed and responsiveness, and not security. This article examines these elements and drills into the security available for each. The slowest and one of the most vulnerable parts of the system is the communications within the vehicle. The vehicle networks must ensure the integrity and authenticity of messages transmitted to guarantee software programmed onto ECUs are authorized and tamper-free. Specialist hardware within the vehicle makes this possible in an operation environment, such as hardware security modules.
A Different Approach for Solving the Shortest Path Problem Under Mixed Fuzzy Environment
Authors: Kumar Ranjan , Jha Sripati , Singh Ramayan
Published: March 2020

The authors present a new algorithm for solving the shortest path problem (SPP) in a mixed fuzzy environment. With this algorithm, the authors can solve the problems with different sets of fuzzy numbers e.g., normal, trapezoidal, triangular, and LR-flat fuzzy membership functions. Moreover, the authors can solve the fuzzy shortest path problem (FSPP) with two different membership functions such as normal and a fuzzy membership function under real-life situations. The transformation of the fuzzy linear programming (FLP) model into a crisp linear programming model by using a score function is also investigated. Furthermore, the shortcomings of some existing methods are discussed and compared with the algorithm. The objective of the proposed method is to find the fuzzy shortest path (FSP) for the given network; however, this is also capable of predicting the fuzzy shortest path length (FSPL) and crisp shortest path length (CSPL). Finally, some numerical experiments are given to show the effectiveness and robustness of the new model. Numerical results show that this method is superior to the existing methods.
Can Video Gameplay Improve Undergraduates' Problem-Solving Skills?
Authors: Emihovich Benjamin , Roque Nelson , Mason Justin
Published: March 2020

In this study, the authors investigated if two distinct types of video gameplay improved undergraduates' problem-solving skills. Two groups of student participants were recruited to play either a roleplaying video game (World of Warcraft; experimental group) or a brain-training video game (CogniFit; control group). Participants were measured on their problem-solving skills before and after 20 hours of video gameplay. Two measures were used to assess problem-solving skills for this study, the Tower of Hanoi and The PISA Problem Solving Test. The Tower of Hanoi measured the rule application component of problem-solving skills and the PISA Problem Solving test measured transfer of problem-solving skills from video gameplay to novel scenarios on the test. No significant differences were found between the two groups on either problem-solving measure. Implications for future studies on game-based learning are discussed.
IT Backsourcing
Authors: von Bary Benedikt , Westner Markus , Strahringer Susanne
Published: March 2020

With the growing importance of IT as competitive advantage, companies aim to increase their digital transformation activities. Consequently, companies are also revisiting their existing IT sourcing arrangements. In the article at hand, the authors explore the concept of IT backsourcing by presenting the results from a quantitative online survey with global IT practitioners. The authors confirm that backsourcing is frequently applied in practice, with key reasons being dissatisfaction with service or relationship quality and higher than expected costs. Further, the authors identify IT services with an increased likelihood of being backsourced, e.g., application development or data center, and discuss the effect of a CIO change on the backsourcing decision. In addition, the authors show that there are differences in the perceptions on the antecedents and the results of backsourcing decisions between management and operational level. The authors conclude with practical implications for IT managers based on their findings.
Physical Characterization of Latex from Artocarpus heterophyllus Lam. (Jackfruit) and Four Related Artocarpus spp.
Authors: Nepacina Maria Rejane J. , Linis Virgilio C. , Janairo Jose Isagani B.
Published: March 2020

This study focused on the physical properties of latex extracted from five species of Artocarpus J.R.Forster & G.Forster, namely: A. altilis (Parkinson) Fosberg, A. blancoi Merr, A. camansi Blanco, A. heterophyllus Lam., and A. ovatus Blanco as potential natural adhesives. Surface morphology showed that all five Artocarpus spp. have no specific forms, but otherwise flexible and viscoelastic. Contact angle measurements showed that all samples of Artocarpus spp. were hydrophilic with low contact angle values owing to the contents of natural source of the latex. FTIR analysis matched all Artocarpus latex samples to that of Polyvinyl acetate. Highest resin content was found on A. ovatus with all the species containing natural resin. It was also confirmed that out of the three stress strain analyses, A. camansi had the highest values for tensile strength, A. ovatus had the highest values for Young’s modulus of elasticity and the highest percentage elongation values belonged to A. heterophyllus. Adhesive shear strengths with maximum force values were highest in A. ovatus. Through cluster analysis, out of the eight variables tested A. heterophyllus was the outgroup being attributed to its latex gum-like property. All the above tests and analyses suggested that latex of all five Artocarpus spp. were similar in characteristics to polymer adhesive. Among which A. camansi and A. ovatus exhibited high results on adhesive strength tests.
Transesterification Catalytic Performance of Mechanically Alloyed Eggshell Ash, Magnesium and Aluminum Oxides for Sustainable Biodiesel Production
Authors: Okwundu Onyeka Stanislaus , El-Shazly Ahmed Hassan , El-Kady Marwa Farouk , Shouman Mahmoud Abdelghany
Published: March 2020

Use of quicklime as a sole catalyst for transesterification is limited by poor chemical stability and post-reaction recovery. This study investigates the effect of dry milling time on the transesterification catalytic performance (activity and recovery) of mechanically alloyed MgO, Al2O3 and eggshell derived quicklime. Raw chicken eggshells were calcined at 900 °C. The resulting flaking eggshell ash was directly mixed and comminuted with MgO and Al2O3 in ball milling (BM) machine for 15, 30, 60, 90, 120 and 150 minutes. Each of the catalyst samples was analyzed for surface morphology and particle size distribution, and then utilized for biodiesel production. Analyses of catalyst samples showed that mean particle size reduced, while powder agglomeration advanced with milling time. Optimum catalytic performance was achieved with the composite alloyed for 120 minutes (Z120) and that resulted in fatty acid methyl ester (FAME) yield of 88.4% and catalyst recovery of 98.3%. Sample Z120 was further characterized by TEM, EDX, XRD and BET. Calcination of the composite catalyst enhanced its activity. Dry high energy BM of oxides can be utilized effectively for synthesis of composite catalysts.
Characteristics Investigation of the Initial Development of Miniplate Made from Composite of Magnesium/Carbonate Apatite Fabricated by Powder Metallurgy Method for Biodegradable Implant Applications
Authors: Setyadi Iwan , Pribadi Pancar Muhammad , Marsetio Aldo Fransiskus , Kamal Achmad Fauzi , Rahyussalim Ahmad Jabir , Suharno Bambang , Supriadi Sugeng
Published: March 2020

The development of magnesium-based materials, applied for a biodegradable implant, attracted the attention of many researchers. In this research, the initial development of the Mg/carbonate apatite (CA) miniplate was carried out. The miniplate Mg/5CA is fabricated through powder metallurgy and is followed by a sintering process. Pure magnesium is also fabricated with the same process and is used as a reference. The visual form, microstructure (OM), bending test and corrosion test of miniplate were investigated. The results showed that the visual form of the Mg/5CA miniplate is still not perfect. Flexural stress, flexural strain, and elasticity modulus were obtained at 34.02 MPa, 0.9%, and 3.53 GPa, respectively. The corrosion rate is obtained at 12.64 mm/year. The compaction process of Mg/5CA powder followed by sintering is considered to be less appropriate. The addition of the extrusion process and/or the ECAP process in fabrication can be an option to improve its properties.
Synthesis of Carbonate and Fluorine Substituted Nanocrystalline Hydroxyapatite by Mechanochemical Method
Authors: Saikiran Amruthaluru , Mamidi Siva Kumar , Harilal Manu , Hariprasad Sampatirao , Nagumothu Rameshbabu
Published: March 2020

The present work is aimed at the synthesis of fluorine substituted and carbonate substituted hydroxyapatites (FHA, CHA) by the mechanochemical method. The shortest milling time required for the synthesis of FHA and CHA using calcium hydroxide and diammonium hydrogen phosphate as precursors was estimated. In addition to the Ca and P precursors, ammonium carbonate and ammonium fluoride were used for carbonate and fluorine substitutions, respectively. Thermal stability of the synthesized FHA and CHA was evaluated. The phase composition and crystallite size were evaluated by the X-Ray Diffraction (XRD). Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FTIR) technique was employed to confirm the functional groups corresponding to the FHA and CHA. Thermal stability of the FHA and CHA was determined by the XRD and FTIR studies on the FHA and CHA powders annealed at 900 °C. From the XRD and FTIR results, it is observed that the 30 min milling time is the shortest time for the complete formation of FHA and CHA. The powders synthesized with a minimum milling time of 30 min exhibited better thermal stability.
The Experiment of Thickness Relationship on Ceramic Fiberboard and Silicon Carbide to Temperature Rise in Microwave Oven for Sintering Hydroxyapatite
Authors: Saragih Agung Shamsuddin , Putra Alfi Eko , Dhelika Radon
Published: March 2020

Commercial microwave oven 800 W for sintering hydroxyapatite is being developed. The required temperature for sintering hydroxyapatite is 1200°C. A temperature 1200°C can be achieved if commercial microwave combined with susceptor and insulators material. This research is aiming to study about the effect configuration of SiC and Ceramic Fiberboard thickness to temperature rise. The results show that the presence of SiC with a thickness of the thinnest affect significantly temperature rise. The presence of CFb, as a second insulator, decrease the temperature rise and more the CFb thickness increases, more the temperature decreases.
A Comparative Study of EDD and PM-EDD in Producing Holes in Inconel 718 Alloy
Authors: Davis Rahul , Singh Abhishek , Kachhap Sabindra , Nath Neeraj
Published: March 2020

In recent times, aerospace, chemical industries and nuclear plant have usually used Inconel 718 alloy because of its excellent mechanical and chemical properties at elevated temperatures. It falls under the category of difficult-to-cut materials due to its high toughness, poor thermal conductivity and high hardness. The set-ups for electric discharge drilling (EDD) and powder-mixed electric discharge drilling (PM-EDD) were developed, and experiments were conducted on them separately. This research shows a comparative study amid producing holes by EDD and PM-EDD in Inconel 718 alloy workpiece with copper tool electrode. SiC was used as an abrasive powder because of its better thermal conductivity in order to get properly mixed with dielectric in a separate tank. Output response was assessed in the form of material removal rate, under the influence of discharge current, duty factor, pulse-on-time and tool speed, as the input parameters.
Effects of Cu Addition on Age Hardening Response of Al-7Si-4Mg Alloys at 130 °C
Authors: Jauhari Inas M. , Bahar Danny Taufik , Nisa Syarah Khayrun , Sofyan Bondan Tiara
Published: March 2020

The effects of Cu addition of 0.38, 3.82, and 6 wt. % in Al-7Si-4Mg alloy on hardness and age hardening response were discussed. Samples were solution treated at 495 °C for 2 h, quenched, and aged at 130 °C for 0 to 498 h. Characterization included hardness test, microstructural observation by an optical microscope (OM) and Scanning Electron Microscope (SEM) combined with Energy Dispersive X-Rays Spectroscopy (EDX), as well as Simultaneous Thermal Analysis (STA) testing. The results showed an increased in as-cast hardness along with addition of Cu. Peak hardness increased to 64.47, 65.8, and 70.1 HRB by addition of 0.38, 3.82, and 6 wt. % Cu, respectively. The addition of Cu promoted the formation of Al2Cu and Al5Cu2Mg8Si6 which contributed to higher as-cast hardness. Formation of GP-zone, θ”, and θ’ was observed after ageing at 48, 240, and 290 °C, respectively and no effects of Cu was detected on the formation temperatures of the precipitates.
Characters of Deformation and Surface Quality and Cutter Wearing at High-Speed Cutting
Authors: An Hu Ping , Rui Zhi Yuan , Iyer R.
Published: March 2020

In this paper, the impact of cutting speed and feed amount on cutting deformation and surface quality and cutter wear have been studied by the test of high manganese steel cutting with metal ceramic tool at high speed. The results show that it is feasible by cutting high manganese steel with cermet tool at high-speed cutting (HSC). Chip changes into succession segment from band in macrostate. Sawteeth can be seen on the top surface of chip while high temperature feature in burning color and cold welding form appear on the bottom of the chip. The model of surface roughness built can be used to predict surface quality at HSC, and provided cutting optimized parameters scheme. Further research indicates that high-speed cutting has its special deformation mechanism and plastic chips exhibit hot brittleness which provides a favorable condition for solving the chip breaking problem in the cutting of high manganese steel.
Effects of Complex Enzymes Modification on Functional Properties of Soybean Protein Isolate Based on Orthogonal Experiment
Authors: Yu Lei , Yan Guang Yu , Beattie John
Published: March 2020

Soybean protein isolate (SPI) is widely used in food industry because of its high protein nutritional function and good functional characteristics. However, due to the effect of amino acid composition and spatial structure on natural protein, its practical application is greatly limited. So it needs to be properly modified to meet the needs of production. In this study, SPI was used as substrate to explore the most suitable modification conditions by using complex enzymes (flavor protease, neutral protease, alkaline enzyme and transglutaminase) enzymolysis and then TG enzyme cross linking, in order to obtain SPI products with both solubility and gel as a special protein isolate for surimi products. The results show that: through the single factor experiment and orthogonal experiment, the optimized conditions of gel strength were determined: flavor protease: neutral protease: alkaline enzyme 1:1:2, pH 7, enzymolysis temperature 45°C, enzymolysis time 30 min. The optimized conditions of solubility: flavor protease: neutral protease: alkaline enzyme 1:2:2, pH 7, enzymolysis temperature 55°C, enzymolysis time 60 min. The result of orthogonal experiment: the optimized conditions was that flavor protease: neutral protease: alkaline enzyme 1:1:2, pH 7, enzymolysis temperature 55°C, enzymolysis time 60 min. The gel strength of products was 35.45 g, decreased 5.33% with control; Solubility was 36.24%, increased 54.01% with control. The modified SPI has excellent gel and solubility, and can be further applied to surimi products industry. And the results of this study provide a theoretical basis for its further application in surimi products.
The Function of Water Absorption and Purification of Lotus Fiber
Authors: liu Yun Juan , Wang Yan , Yuan Xiao Hong , Prasad Gaurav
Published: March 2020

In order to understand the water absorption and purification performance of lotus fiber, the relationship between the structure of lotus fiber and water absorption and purification performance was analyzed through experimental tests. Under standard conditions, the characteristics of the absorption and desorption characteristics of lotus fiber were determined, and from this, the regression equations of moisture regain and time and the equations of the rate of moisture absorption and desorption of lotus fiber during the process of reaching equilibrium between absorption and desorption were deduced.The results showed that the lotus fiber had better absorption and desorption properties, and the resorption and desorption rates of lotus fiber were higher than those of cotton fiber and flax fiber.The moisture absorption rate of lotus fiber is the highest, the flax is centered, and the cotton fiber is the lowest;The water absorption and purification performances of the three fibers were similar, and the lotus fiber was slightly higher than the cotton fiber and the flax fiber.
The "Halliwick" swimming method for the handicapped (adults and children)
Authors: Lochau A. C.
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
Report of Symposium of the Obstetric Group of S.A. Society of Physiotherapy
Authors: Tobias Phillip V.
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
Report of first A.G.M. of obstetric group of S.A.S.P.
Authors: Haute R.
Published: March 2020

No abstract available.
Omega-3 and -6 Fatty Acid Intake and Colorectal Cancer Risk in Swedish Women’s Lifestyle and Health Cohort
Authors: Shin Aesun , Cho Sooyoung , Sandin Sven , Lof Marie , Oh Moon Young , Weiderpass Elisabete
Published: March 2020

PurposeWe aimed to assess the association between the dietary intake of fish-derived omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and the risk of colorectal cancer among Swedish women.Materials and MethodsA total of 48,233 women with information on dietary intake were included in the analysis. Participants were followed for incident colorectal cancer until 31 December 2012. Cox proportional hazard models were used to assess the association between baseline fatty acid intake and colorectal cancer risk. All analyses were stratified by colon and rectal cancers.ResultsDuring a median of 21.3 years of follow-up, a total of 344 colorectal cancer cases were ascertained. Although there was no overall association between omega-3 fatty acid intake and colorectal cancer risk, high intake of fish-derived docosahexaenoic acid was associated with reduced risk of rectal cancer (hazard ratios for the third and the highest quartiles were 0.59 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.37 to 0.96) and 0.62 (95% CI, 0.39 to 0.98), respectively).ConclusionIn conclusion, we found only limited support for an association between omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids and colorectal cancer in a large Swedish cohort of middle-aged women.
Guarantees in Ṣukūk between Sharīʿah Objectives and Contract Conditions
Authors: Ali bin Hussein Aidi Ali bin Hussein Aidi
Published: March 2020

Guarantees offered for ṣukūk in Islamic finance have become a problematic
issue of discussion. From the authors’ perspective, the issue should be approached
from two aspects: one considering the required conditions for the validity of contracts
and the other considering the Sharīʿah objectives. This research aims to emphasize the
necessity of considering the objectives of contracts from a Sharīʿah perspective before
judging their validity; particularly with regard to guaranteed ṣukūk. To achieve this
goal, the research employs two methods: one descriptive and the other analytical as
well as critical. The research has concluded that it is not permissible to stipulate
holding the ṣukūk issuer liable neither for the ṣukūk nominal values nor for a
predetermined amount of profit; that the idea of holding the ṣukūk issuer responsible
based on considering him a joint muḍārib is not founded on solid evidence; that it is
not permissible for the muḍārib, partner, or wakīl to be committed to give loan to ṣukūk
holders when the actual return for ṣukūk is less than expected; that, in some of their
applications, ṣukūk based on lease ending with ownership involve the impermissible
ʿīnah transaction; that guarantees in ṣukūk contradict Sharīʿah rules when the issuer
undertakes to purchase the ṣukūk assets at their nominal values at the end of the
muḍārabah, mushārakah, or wakālah; and that the criteria to assess Islamic ṣukūk on
the basis of Sharīʿah objectives can be divided into: criteria related to the motive,
criteria related to the contract structure, and criteria for the outcomes of implementing
the product.
Estimating the Income Distribution of Some
Muslim Countries Based on Entropy Measures
Authors: Omar Abdul Rahman Kittaneh Omar Abdul Rahman Kittaneh
Published: March 2020

Having biased and unjustified income distribution in a country can have
many unpleasant consequences such as, poor health, frustration and dissatisfaction,
increase in social problems and criminal activities, unreliable education systems, etc.
Therefore, determining the income distribution of a country is of great importance and
benefit for social safety and economic growth. Using real data for the year 2016 for
three Muslim countries, Saudi Arabia (KSA), United Arab Emirates (UAE) and Egypt,
this paper utilizes the so-called entropy measures in the problem of estimating the
income probability distribution, using the least available information or incomplete
information such as the average and range of income. The paper also provides rough
estimates of the Coefficient of Variation (CV) and Gini Index for each country.
Construction of Islamic Human Development Index
Authors: Ali Rama Ali Rama
Published: March 2020

The existing HDI concept is value neutral and unable to capture the religious and ethical perspective of socio-economic development in Muslim countries. It is argued that Muslim countries have some special features, cultures, and values that are not completely accommodated by the HDI measurement. Therefore, the current study is an attempt to propose an Islamic Human Development Index (I-HDI) as a holistic and comprehensive index for human development derived from the five dimensions of maq??id al-Shar??ah: religion (d?n), life (nafs), intellect (?aql), family (nasl) and wealth (m?l). The computation method of an I-HDI is parallel with the HDI method. The constructed index is utilized to rank the human development level for 33 provinces in Indonesia. The study finds that the composition rank between I-HDI and HDI is slightly different. However, the two indices have a statistical positive correlation confirming the assumption that I-HDI might serve as a predictor for the rank of HDI. The findings also show that the majority of the provinces in Indonesia have a poor performance in overall score of I-HDI.
A inserção da tecnologia nas aulas de matemática e seu processo avaliativo: um estudo preliminar sobre as percepções de professores polivalentes
Authors: Mastroianni Maria Teresa Merino Ruz , Oliveira Gerson Pastre de
Published: March 2020

Este trabalho busca investigar as percepções de duas professoras dos anos iniciais sobre a inserção da tecnologia aos processos de ensino nas aulas de matemática bem como sobre a avaliação que fazem desse processo. O contexto é uma experiência realizada em uma escola da rede particular da cidade de São Paulo, envolvendo o uso de um aplicativo tecnológico digital. Tanto o tema quanto o ambiente e sujeitos investigados, são elementos de um projeto de pesquisa ligado à formação de professores que pretende fornecer subsídios para uma tese de doutorado em Educação Matemática. As referências teóricas exploram as ideias provenientes de uma proposta conhecida como  Technological Pedagogical Content Knowledge (TPACK), especialmente as que propõem uma estrutura conceitual para a tecnologia educacional em integração com seus equivalentes didático e do conteúdo, ou seja, uma concepção integrada destes três aspectos. A investigação, de abordagem qualitativa, na fase aqui exposta, traz como instrumento um questionário, a partir do qual foi possível identificar, preliminarmente, que as professoras ainda posicionam os saberes relativos à tecnologia como elementos desconectados em relação ao elenco dos demais saberes necessários ao trabalho docente, atribuindo a este componente um papel secundário, destinado à motivação e ao aguçamento da curiosidade dos estudantes.  Em contrapartida, foi possível vislumbrar que em função de uma nova prática e do processo avaliativo da mesma, novas mediações dos professores podem se constituir nas bases aqui discutidas.Palavras-chave: formação de professores que ensinam Matemática; tecnologias para o ensino de Matemática; TPACK; processo avaliativo; novas mediações
Characteristics and performance of vertical winds as observed by the radar wind profiler network of China
Authors: Liu Boming , Guo Jianping , Gong Wei , Shi Lijuan , Zhang Yong , Ma Yingying
Published: March 2020

Abstract. Vertical wind profiles are the foundation for numerical weather prediction systems research. Large-scale vertical wind data have been previously documented from network observations in several countries, but the nationwide vertical wind observations are poorly understood in China. In this study, the salient characteristics and performance of vertical winds as observed by the radar wind profiler network of China was investigated, which consists of more than 100 stations instrumented with 1290-MHz Doppler radar designed primarily for measuring vertical-resolved winds. This network has good spatial coverage, with denser sites in coastal areas. The vertical wind profiles observed by this network can provide the horizontal wind direction, horizontal wind speed, and vertical wind speed for every 120 m interval within the height of 0 to 3 km. The availability of the radar wind profiler network has been investigated in terms of effective detection height, data acquisition rate, data confidence, and data accuracy. Further comparison analysis with reanalysis data indicated that the observation data at 89 stations are recommended, and 17 stations are unrecommended. The vertical wind profiles can serve as important input dataset assimilated into numerical weather prediction system at both regional and global scales.
An Overview on Isotopic Divergences – Causes for instability of Tree-Ring Isotopes and Climate Correlations
Authors: Savard Martine M. , Daux Valérie
Published: March 2020

Abstract. Climatic reconstructions based on tree-ring isotopic series convey substantial information about past conditions prevailing in forested regions of the globe. However, in some cases, the relations between isotopic and climatic records appear unstable over time, generating the ‘isotopic divergences’. Former reviews have thoroughly discussed the divergence concept for tree-ring physical properties, but not for isotopes. Here we want to take stock of the isotopic divergence problem, express concerns and stimulate collaborative work for improving paleoclimatic reconstructions. There are five main causes for divergent parts in isotopic and climatic series. (1) Artefacts due to sampling and data treatment, relevant for dealing with long-series using sub-fossil stems. (2) Stand dynamics, including juvenile effects mostly occurring in the early part of tree-ring series. (3) Rise in atmospheric pCO2, which can directly influence the foliar behaviour. (4) Change of climate, which may modify the isotope-climate causal links. Finally (5), atmospheric pollution, which may alter leaf and root functions. Future paleoclimate research would benefit from interdisciplinary efforts designed to develop further process-based models integrating multi-proxy inputs, so to help identify causes of isotopic divergences and circumvent some of them in inverse applications.
A Dynamical Systems Characterisation of Atmospheric Jet Regimes
Authors: Messori Gabriele , Harnik Nili , Madonna Erica , Lachmy Orli , Faranda Davide
Published: March 2020

Abstract. Atmospheric jet streams are typically separated into primarily eddy-driven, or polar-front jets and primarily thermally-driven, or "subtropical" jets. Some regions also display merged jets, resulting from the (quasi) co-location of the regions of eddy generation with the subtropical jet. The different locations and driving mechanisms of these jets issue from very different underlying mechanisms, and result in very different jet characteristics. Here, we link our understanding of the dynamical jet maintenance mechanisms, mostly issuing from conceptual or idealised models, to the phenomena observed in reanalysis data. We specifically focus on developing a unitary analysis framework, grounded in dynamical systems theory, which may be applied to both idealised model and reanalysis data, and allow for direct intercomparison. Our results provide a proof-of-concept for using dynamical systems indicators to diagnose jet regimes in a versatile, conceptually intuitive and computationally efficient fashion.
Technical note: An improved discharge sensitivity metric for young water fractions
Authors: Gallart Francesc , von Freyberg Jana , Valiente María , Kirchner James W. , Llorens Pilar , Latron Jérôme
Published: March 2020

Abstract. Recent virtual and experimental investigations have shown
that the young water fraction Fyw (i.e. the proportion of catchment
outflow younger than circa 2–3 months) increases with discharge in most
catchments. The discharge sensitivity of Fyw has been defined as
the rate of increase in Fyw with increasing discharge (Q) and has been
estimated by the linear regression slope between Fyw and Q, hereafter
called DS(Q). The combined use of both metrics, Fyw and DS(Q), provides a
promising method for catchment inter-comparison studies that seek to
understand streamflow generation processes. Here we explore the discharge
sensitivity of Fyw in the intensively sampled small Mediterranean
research catchment Can Vila. Intensive sampling of high flows at Can Vila
allows young water fractions to be estimated for the far upper tail of the
flow frequency distribution. These young water fractions converge toward 1
at the highest flows, illustrating a conceptual limitation in the linear
regression method for estimating DS(Q) as a metric of discharge sensitivity:
Fyw cannot grow with discharge indefinitely, since the fraction of young
water in discharge can never be larger than 1. Here we propose to quantify
discharge sensitivity by the parameter of an exponential-type equation that
expresses how Fyw varies with discharge. The exponential parameter
(Sd) approximates DS(Q) at moderate discharges where Fyw is well below
1; however, the exponential equation and its discharge sensitivity metric
better capture the non-linear relationship between Fyw and Q and are
robust with respect to changes in the range of sampled discharges, allowing
comparisons between catchments with strongly contrasting flow regimes.
A revised ocean glider concept to realize Stommel's vision and supplement Argo floats
Authors: Bruvik Erik M. , Fer Ilker , Våge Kjetil , Haugan Peter M.
Published: March 2020

Abstract. This paper revisits Stommel's vision for a global glider
network and the Argo design specification. A concept of floats with wings,
so-called slow underwater gliders, is explored. An analysis of the
energy or power consumption shows that, by operating gliders with half the
vehicle volume at half the speed compared to present gliders, the energy
requirements for long-duration missions can be met with available battery
capacities. Simulation experiments of slow gliders are conducted using the
horizontal current fields from an eddy-permitting ocean reanalysis product.
By employing a semi-Lagrangian, streamwise navigation whereby the glider
steers at right angles to ocean currents, we show that the concept is
feasible. The simulated glider tracks demonstrate the potential for
efficient coverage of key oceanographic features and variability.
A reconstruction of Iberia accounting for W-Tethys/N-Atlantic kinematics since the late Permian-Triassic
Authors: Angrand Paul , Mouthereau Frédéric , Masini Emmanuel , Asti Riccardo
Published: March 2020

Abstract. The West European kinematic evolution results from the opening of the West Neotethys and the Atlantic oceans since the late Paleozoic and the Mesozoic. Geological evidence shows that the Iberian domain well preserved the propagation of these two rift systems and is therefore key to significantly advance our understanding of the regional plate reconstructions. The Late Permian-Triassic tectonic evolution of Iberian rift basins shows that they have accommodated significant extension, but this tectonic stage is often neglected in most plate kinematic models, leading to the overestimation of the movements between Iberia and Europe during the subsequent Mesozoic (Early Cretaceous) rift phase. By compiling existing seismic profiles and geological constraints along the North Atlantic margins, including well data over Iberia, as well as recently published kinematic and paleogeographic reconstructions we propose a coherent kinematics model of Iberia that considers both the Neotethyan and Atlantic evolutions. Our model shows that the Europe-Iberia plate boundary was a domain of distributed and oblique extension made of two rift systems, in the Pyrenees and in the Iberian intra-continental basins. It differs from standard models that consider left-lateral strike-slip movement localized only in the northern Pyrenees in introducing a significant strike-slip movement south of Ebro accounting for Late Permian-Triassic extension and by emphasizing the need for an Ebro microcontinent. At a larger scale it emphasizes the role played by the late Permian-Triassic rift and magmatism, as well as strike-slip faulting in the evolution of the western Neotethyan Ocean and their control on localization of the Atlantic rift.
Nuevas formas de consumo 3.0. El retorno del sujeto al algoritmo
Authors: Riesgo Gómez Víctor
Published: March 2020

Se realiza un somero repaso a la evolución conceptual y metodológica de la sociología del consumo. Se identifican los puntos en común de esta evolución con los cambios ocurridos en el sistema productivo. Posteriormente se analizan los nuevos tipos de consumo derivados de la transformación tecnológica que ha tenido lugar en el nuevo ecosistema digital, para finalmente realizar algunas reflexiones derivadas del análisis producido.
CLIMATIC CHARACTERISTICS AND HOURLY VARIATIONS IN BIOGAS CONCENTRATION IN A SANITARY LANDFILL IN NORTHEAST BRAZIL
Authors: Mota Francisco Suetônio , Monteiro Lorena S. , Silva Wildson Max B. da , Borges David A.
Published: March 2020

This study determined the hourly variations in the concentration of methane
(CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and oxygen (O2) during 24-hour periods in a
sanitary landfill located in Northeast Brazil, with a predominantly hot tropical
mild semi-arid climate. Data were collected over 24 hours in four campaigns in
November 2014 and January, March, and April 2015. The measurements were
taken in a drain of the sanitary landfill using a portable gas analyzer. We
found that, in general, the highest methane concentrations corresponded to the
highest biogas temperatures. The maximum concentration of CH4 (59.2%)
occurred at a temperature of 36.8ºC, while the minimum concentration of
CH4 (43.2%) was identified at a temperature of 25.4ºC. No relationship was
found between CH4 emissions and rainfall, with temperature being the factor
that most influenced the concentration of this gas.
PAZ E CRIME ORGANIZADO NA AGENDA 2030: O PAPEL DA ORGANIZAÇÃO DOS ESTADOS AMERICANOS
Authors: Ferreira Marcos Alan S.V. , Ramalho Gonçalves Anna Beatriz , Lages Lucena Mirelle
Published: March 2020

Este artigo, fundamentado nas discussões sobre paz e desenvolvimento promovidos na Agenda 2030, busca refletir como o ODS 16.4 pode contribuir nos estudos para a paz ao reconhecer a importância da cooperação no combate ao crime organizado. Há no mainstream dos estudos de paz uma tendência a perceber a violência somente em contextos de conflitos armados regulares, na qual o Estado é a principal unidade de análise. Neste sentido, exploramos a seguinte pergunta: quais os caminhos da cooperação internacional promovidos pela Agenda 2030, em seu objetivo 16.4, podem avançar com a atuação da Organização dos Estados Americanos? Metodologicamente fazemos uma análise documental desde 2015, combinados com análise exploratória com enfoque nos estudos críticos de paz, bem como a observação do contexto atual da segurança pública na região latino-americana. Espera-se demonstrar a relevância de examinar o crime organizado como um impedimento à construção de sociedades pacíficas regionalmente.
Eco-Sustainable Metropolises: An Analysis of Budgetary Strategy in Italy’s Largest Municipalities
Authors: Gesso Carla Del
Published: March 2020

The sustainable urban development agenda calls for city governments worldwide to integrate sustainability goals into their budgetary processes. This article presents the findings of an analysis of the integration of urban environmental sustainability into the budgetary strategy of fourteen Italian metropolitan municipalities. Its purpose is to find out the extent to which they are committed to the promotion of environmentally sustainable cities. A documentary research of both strategic planning documents and municipal budgets was conducted. Correlation and linear regression techniques were used for a quantitative data analysis which indicated a strong positive linear relationship between the amount of resources invested in environmental sustainability and the total availability of budgetary resources. Furthermore, the study found that all Italian metropolitan municipalities are integrating urban environmental sustainability objectives and supporting resources into their budgetary strategy but to a different extent and with a focus on waste. Further efforts are needed for an effective full integration, which is an enduring challenge for local government managers.
Branch Configuration Impacts on Production, Fruit Quality, and Leaf Minerals of ‘Aztec Fuji’ Apple Trees in an Upright Single Row High-Density Orchard System Over Five Years
Authors: Fallahi Esmaeil , Fallahi Bahar , Mahdavi Shahla
Published: March 2020

Tree architectures play a critical role in the productivity of high-density orchards, but limited information is available in this subject. We studied effects of three branch configurations on tree growth, yield components, fruit quality and leaf mineral nutrients in ‘Aztec Fuji’ apple (Malus domestica Bork.) in a single row upright high-density system under southwest Idaho, USA conditions over 2012-2016. This study revealed that trees trained into a Tall Spindle (TS) had larger trunk cross sectional area (TCSA) than those with an Overlapped Arm (OA) system. Trees trained into a TS had higher number of fruit and yield per tree, three years after planting in 2012, than those with a Tipping Arm (TA) or OA system. However, in 2013, trees with a TA system had higher yield than those with a TS or OA configuration due to trees’ biennial bearing habit and higher spur formation in trees with a TA system. Trees receiving a TA training had lower biennial bearing index between all consecutive years. Trees with an OA training had smaller fruit than those with either a TA or TS training in all years between 2012-2016. Training systems did not have any effect on fruit color, soluble solids concentration, or starch degradation pattern at harvest. However, fruit from trees with an OA training had higher firmness and lower water core than those from trees with a TS or TA training. Leaves from trees receiving a TA training had greater leaf area, fresh weight, and potassium (K) and magnesium (Mn) concentrations than those with other trainings. Leaves from trees receiving an OA training had higher leaf iron (Fe), zinc (Zn), and copper (Cu) than those with a TS training. In this study, we concluded that training trees into a TA configuration rather than an OA system is recommended if the management and operation of apple production mandate the use of an “upright wall” structure to facilitate mechanical harvesting.
Grain Sorghum Grown Under Drought Stress at Pre- and Post-flowering in Semiarid Environment
Authors: Souza Andrey Antunes de , Carvalho Abner José de , Bastos Edson Alves , Portugal Arley Figueiredo , Torres Luciane Gonçalves , Batista Paulo Sérgio Cardoso , Julio Marcos Paulo Mingote , Julio Bruno Henrique Mingote , Menezes Cícero Beserra de
Published: March 2020

In the current scenario of climate change, sorghum crop has high growth potential, requiring adaptation and selection studies for the various Brazilian production environments. Sorghum is among the most drought-tolerant cereals; however, extended summer can reduce the size and number of grains in the plant, reflecting into poorer yields. Sorghum breeding programs aim to develop hybrids more tolerant to water deficit, to ensure profitable yield even in the face of drought stress. The objective of the present study was to evaluate the effects of water restriction on grain sorghum hybrids in the pre- and post-flowering phases in the Brazilian semiarid. Twenty-five hybrids were evaluated under controlled irrigation conditions in Nova Porteirinha-MG and Teresina-PI. In the Nova Porteirinha, the hybrids were cultivated under conditions of non-drought stress and with drought stress in pre- and post-flowering stage. On the other hand, in Teresina, the experiment took place with non-drought stress and drought stress at post-flowering stage. The experimental design was in randomized complete blocks, in factorial scheme, with three replications. Drought stress reduced grain yield by more than 40%, showing that even being resistant, sorghum is affected by drought. Hybrids 1168093, 1167092, 1236020 and 1423007 showed high yields in the various environments, outyielding the commercial controls, what allows the recommendation of these cultivars for the semiarid areas or late off-season in the Cerrado region.
ADVERSIDADES REPRODUTIVAS EM BOVINOS FRENTE A MÁ ABSORÇÃO DE NUTRIENTES E DEFICTS DE VITAMINA/ ANTIOXIDANTES E MINERAIS
Authors: de Sousa Freitas Anjos Elivaine , Cunha Silva Maysa Vitoria , Nogueira Chaves Dielson , Oliveira Cunha Tassia , Nogueira dos Santos Carolina , Carla Luquetti Brenda , Eustáquio de Moraes Junior Cláudio
Published: March 2020

O sistema digestório dos ruminantes tem a função de captação, digestão e absorção de substâncias nutritivas, os quais são capazes de utilizar e converter a celulose, através de uma grande população microbiana ativa. A má absorção ocorre quando os nutrientes não conseguem translocar do lúmen intestinal para a corrente sanguínea. As entereparasitoses estão envolvidas nesse processo, possuindo um papel de grande importância na patogenia da síndrome de má absorção, causando lesões teciduais no trato digestório em bovinos, o qual leva a um processo inadequado do aproveitamento dos elementos constituintes na dieta. Assim, é descrito as principais formas de má absorção de nutrientes e as consequências do déficit de vitaminas e minerais frente aos problemas reprodutivos em bovinos.
Borgernes følelser over for islam i den offentlige rum - islamofobi eller kontekstbestemt negativitet?
Authors: Aarøe Lene
Published: March 2020

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En enkel eller mere kompliceret forklaring?
Authors: Svensson Palle
Published: March 2020

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Grønlandisering: Grønlands elite 2000-2009
Authors: Vedel Ankersen Pia , Munk Christiansen Peter
Published: March 2020

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Inference of nonlinear receptive field subunits with spike-triggered clustering
Authors: Shah Nishal P , Brackbill Nora , Rhoades Colleen , Kling Alexandra , Goetz Georges , Litke Alan M , Sher Alexander , Simoncelli Eero P , Chichilnisky EJ
Published: March 2020

Responses of sensory neurons are often modeled using a weighted combination of rectified linear subunits. Since these subunits often cannot be measured directly, a flexible method is needed to infer their properties from the responses of downstream neurons. We present a method for maximum likelihood estimation of subunits by soft-clustering spike-triggered stimuli, and demonstrate its effectiveness in visual neurons. For parasol retinal ganglion cells in macaque retina, estimated subunits partitioned the receptive field into compact regions, likely representing aggregated bipolar cell inputs. Joint clustering revealed shared subunits between neighboring cells, producing a parsimonious population model. Closed-loop validation, using stimuli lying in the null space of the linear receptive field, revealed stronger nonlinearities in OFF cells than ON cells. Responses to natural images, jittered to emulate fixational eye movements, were accurately predicted by the subunit model. Finally, the generality of the approach was demonstrated in macaque V1 neurons.
A highly responsive pyruvate sensor reveals pathway-regulatory role of the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier MPC
Authors: Arce-Molina Robinson , Cortés-Molina Francisca , Sandoval Pamela Y , Galaz Alex , Alegría Karin , Schirmeier Stefanie , Barros L Felipe , San Martín Alejandro
Published: March 2020

Mitochondria generate ATP and building blocks for cell growth and regeneration, using pyruvate as the main substrate. Here we introduce PyronicSF, a user-friendly GFP-based sensor of improved dynamic range that enables real-time subcellular quantitation of mitochondrial pyruvate transport, concentration and flux. We report that cultured mouse astrocytes maintain mitochondrial pyruvate in the low micromolar range, below cytosolic pyruvate, which means that the mitochondrial pyruvate carrier MPC is poised to exert ultrasensitive control on the balance between respiration and anaplerosis/gluconeogenesis. The functionality of the sensor in living tissue is demonstrated in the brain of Drosophila melanogaster larvae. Mitochondrial subpopulations are known to coexist within a given cell, which differ in their morphology, mobility, membrane potential, and vicinity to other organelles. The present tool can be used to investigate how mitochondrial diversity relates to metabolism, to study the role of MPC in disease, and to screen for small-molecule MPC modulators.