bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Knowledge Discovery and Data Visualization
Authors: Kasemsap Kijpokin
Published: June 2017

This article reviews the literature in the search for the theories and perspectives of knowledge discovery and data visualization. The literature review highlights the overview of knowledge discovery; Knowledge Discovery in Databases (KDD); Knowledge Discovery in Textual Databases (KDT); the overview of data visualization; the significant perspectives on data visualization; data visualization and big data; and data visualization and statistical literacy. Knowledge discovery is the process of searching for hidden knowledge in the massive amounts of data that individuals are technically capable of generating and storing. Data visualization is an easy way to convey concepts in a universal manner. Organizations, that utilize knowledge discovery and data visualization, are more likely to find both knowledge and information they need when they need them. The findings present valuable insights and further understanding of the way in which knowledge discovery and data visualization efforts should be focused.
Software Reliability Prediction Using Cuckoo Search Optimization, Empirical Mode Decomposition, and ARIMA Model
Authors: Choudhary Ankur , Baghel Anurag Singh
Published: June 2017

The demand of highly reliable and superior quality open source software's are increasing day by day. This demand force software developers to improvise the reliability of their software's. Authors have proposed several parametric and non-parametric software reliability models but they have their own limitations, like parametric model suffer from unrealistic model assumptions, operating environment condition dependencies. In contrast to parametric, non-parametric models overcome these issues but they are computationally costlier. So, the scope of optimization or development of new reliable model still exists. This paper presents an effective software reliability modeling based on Cuckoo Search optimization, Ensemble Empirical Mode Decomposition and ARIMA modeling of time series to provide more accurate prediction. Extensive experiments on 5 real datasets is conducted and results are collected. The analysis of results indicates the superiority of proposed technique over existing parametric and non-parametric models for open source software's and propriety software's.
SMoBAICS
Authors: Klinger Volkhard
Published: June 2017

Simulation and modelling are powerful methods in computer aided therapy, rehabilitation monitoring, identification and control. The smart modular biosignal acquisition and identification system (SMoBAICS) provides methods and techniques to acquire electromyogram (EMG)- and electroneurogram (ENG)-based data for the evaluation and identification of biosignals. In this paper the author focuses on the development, integration and verification of platform technologies which support this entire data processing. Simulation and verification approaches are integrated to evaluate causal relationships between physiological and bioinformatical processes. Based on this we are stepping up of efforts to develop substitute methods and computer-aided simulation models with the objective of reducing animal testing. This work continues the former work about system identification and biosignal acquisition and verification systems presented in (Bohlmann et al., 2010), (Klinger and Klauke, 2013), (Klinger, 2014). This paper focuses on the next generation of an embedded data acquisition and identification system and its flexible platform architecture. Different application scenarios are shown to illustrate the system in different application fields. The author presents results of the enhanced closed-loop verification approach and of the signal quality using the Cuff-electrode-based ENG-data acquisition system.
Videogames as Therapy
Authors: Griffiths Mark D. , Kuss Daria J. , Ortiz de Gortari Angelica B.
Published: June 2017

There is a long history of using videogames in a therapeutic capacity including rehabilitation for stroke patients, people with traumatic brain injuries, burns victims, wheelchair users, Erb's palsy sufferers, children undergoing chemotherapy, children with muscular dystrophy, autistic children and individuals looking to overcome real-life challenges (including symptoms of depression) and boost their wellbeing (including boosting life satisfaction, self-efficacy and social support). This paper briefly and selectively examines a number of areas including: (1) videogames as physiotherapy and occupational therapy, (2) videogames as distractors in the role of pain management, (3) videogames and cognitive rehabilitation, (4) videogames and the development of social and communication skills among the learning disabled, (5) videogames and impulsivity/attention deficit disorders, (6) videogames and therapeutic benefits in the elderly, (7) videogames in psychotherapeutic settings, (8) videogames and health care, (9) videogames and anxiety disorders, and (10) videogames and psychological wellbeing. It is concluded that there has been considerable success when games are specifically designed to address a specific problem or to teach a certain skill. However, generalizability outside the game-playing situation remains an important consideration.
Performance Measurement System in Telecommunication Services
Authors: Yadav Vinod Kumar
Published: June 2017

Fast changing technology, increased competition and dynamics in consumer usages in telecommunication services has sidelined the company's focus of excellence in services shifting their strategy from customer to technology. This has further led to increased non-standardized services in telecommunication services in India. The aim is to not only sustain in field, but also compete in the market. This study is an effort to address the questions, which includes: (a) the different performance measurement systems adopted by Indian companies in telecommunication services; (b) the approaches used to measure the performance of the organization in telecommunication services in India; (c) the different factors distorting the PMS of the organization and (d) the effectiveness of PMS and need for the change in the existing PMS. The primary data as well as secondary data has been used to decipher the trends in performance measurement practices in telecommunication services in India. The findings of the study indicate the inspiring facts to study the performance measurement system in India.
Teaching Online Computer-Science Courses in LMS and Cloud Environment
Authors: Riabov Vladimir V.
Published: June 2017

The author shares his experiences teaching various online computer-science courses (via the Canvas™ and synchronous web conferencing tools) using state-of-the-art free-license software tools for conducting online virtual labs and numerous students' projects. The labs were designed to help students explore modern, sophisticated techniques in several areas of computer science: computer-system analysis and design, programming in C/C++ and Java, software quality assurance, data communication in networking systems, computer security, system simulation and modeling, numerical analysis, image processing, multimedia applications, Web development, and database design and management. All the online courses include “warm-up” exercises and lab-based projects that provide students with knowledge, instructions, and hands-on experience, and that motivate them in selecting topics for technology overviews and research. To concentrate mostly on the students' hands-on training, the “flipped classroom” pedagogy and individual or team tutoring were used in the online classes. The preventive strategies on plagiarism and cheating among students were developed and successfully implemented in the virtual classroom using the Cloud environment.
System Dynamics Base-Model of Humanitarian Supply Chain (HSCM) in Disaster Prone Eco-Communities of India
Authors: Bhushan Sanjay
Published: June 2017

Humanitarian Supply Chain is central to the capacity building in the eco-communities which are located in the disaster prone regions. In this study, an attempt has been made to develop a system dynamics model of humanitarian supply chain in order to capture causal dynamics and inter linkages within the system under investigation and suggest some critical intervention strategies for enhancing overall performance. An economic sub-sector base model for the Indian tribal communities has been calibrated and used for simulation analysis as a reference case-study. Conclusion & Results: It has been established through the simulation results that the success of short-term relief work lies in the long-term capacity building and, is critical to the performance of both current and future humanitarian operations and programs. The scenarios studied in this paper are with respect to those crucial decision environments and their underlying complexities which create an inherent endogenous dynamics perpetuated by various stakeholders giving functional response towards the humanitarian supply chain.
NPD Projects Simulation Model Incorporating Managerial Aspects Using System Dynamics Approach
Authors: Alkadeem Reem , Backar Soheir , Haddad Heba , Eldardiry Mohamed
Published: June 2017

This work develops a system dynamic model for the NPD work system, focusing on the impact of managerial variables such as, managerial flexibility, feedback, autonomy, and Professionalism on the decision process of updating the NPD projects to cope with market uncertainties. Therefore, this model can be used as a “flight simulator” in managerial training to test the ability of different managerial systems to mitigate projects' probability of failure. As a result, this research serves to help project managers in improving the performance of the NPD projects by understanding how the NPD work system is better designed. Furthermore, the model can assist the managers of NPD projects to understand the dynamic interactions among the different elements in the NPD work system and feedback dynamics during the adjustment of accomplished tasks in response to market changes. Also, the integrative nature of the model allows illustration of the interactions between NPD project elements and macroergonomic elements, which is consistent with the cross-functional nature of NPD projects.
A Chaotic Time-Delay System with Saturation Nonlinearity
Authors: Pham Viet-Thanh , Volos Christos , Vaidyanathan Sundarapandian
Published: June 2017

Complex dynamics are observed in time-delay systems because the presence of time delay could induce unexpected oscillations. Therefore, time-delay systems are effective for constructing chaotic signal generators which have used in various engineering applications. In this paper, a new system with a single scalar time delay and a saturation nonlinearity is introduced. Dynamics of such time-delay system are investigated by using phase planes, bifurcation diagrams and the maximum Lyapunov exponent with the variance of system parameters. It is interesting that the time-delay system can generate double-scroll chaotic attractors despite its elegant model. Circuitry of the system is also presented to show the feasibility of the theoretical model.
Energy Policy Issues in Turkey
Authors: Dinç Dilek Temiz , Gökmen Aytaç , Kanık Zehra Burçin
Published: June 2017

Energy is the source of development of the mankind and an indispensable input for economic growth. Currently, most of the energy consumed in the world is composed of fossil fuels which are not environmentally friendly and reliable since their prices are volatile and their supply compels importing countries dependent on energy exporting countries. Thus, a good remedy to reduce fossil fuel dependency is to utilize more renewable energy resources. Renewable resources can be replenished quickly, are almost infinite and would lead a country to sustainable development. The Republic of Turkey is a net importer of energy. The diversification of energy sources and supply security is of great importance for it. Thus, the objective of this study is to analyze the relationship between renewable energy production and economic growth in Turkey by using Johansen Cointegration Test, Vector Error Correction Model (VECM), Granger Causality Test and the Augmented Dickey-Fuller Test (ADF). Consequently, both long run and short run a casualty running from GDP growth to renewable energy production is determined in the study.
The Performance of Location Aware Shilling Attacks in Web Service Recommendation
Authors: Gao Min , Li Xiang , Rong Wenge , Wen Junhao , Xiong Qingyu
Published: June 2017

The location aware collaborative filtering (LACF) is one of the most successful technique of predicting the Quality of Service (QoS) in Internet of Things (IoT) service recommendation systems. However, the openness of CF web service recommendation renders them vulnerable to the injection of attack profiles consisting of apocryphal QoS values (also identified as shilling attacks). Combined with location factors, such profiles might exert greater impact on the LACF compared with traditional CF method. Unfortunately, to the best of the authors' knowledge, there is few research on such kind of attack model in the literature. Therefore, in this paper, the authors first construct three kinds of attack models including LAA, LAB, and LAR (location aware - average, bandwagon, and random) models and compare the impact of the classical shilling attacks (CSA) and location aware shilling attacks (LASA) on LACF. Furthermore, the authors use two attack detectors to compare the robustness of CSA and LASA. The experimental results on WS-DREAM dataset indicate that the LACF indeed suffers from CSA and LASA. Besides, in comparison with CSA, the LASA models do not always exert more influence on the LACF and the profiles injected by LASA are easier to be detected.
El efecto condicional indirecto de la expectativa de rendimiento en el uso de Facebook, Google+, Instagram y Twitter por jóvenes
Authors: Arcila Calderón Carlos , López Marcela , Peña Jennie
Published: June 2017

Estudios anteriores han encontrado una relación entre el grado en que las personas perciben que una tecnología ayudará a mejorar su desempeño (expectativa de rendimiento) y el uso de dicha tecnología, pero existe poca investigación que compruebe los mecanismos y condiciones por los que este efecto opera en la adopción de medios sociales. Metodología: Se encuestaron 502 estudiantes de Colombia y se realizó un análisis de mediación moderada. Resultados y conclusiones: Se encuentran altas tasas de adopción (68%) de los medios sociales populares (Facebook, Google+, Instagram, Twitter).  Consistente con la Teoría Unificada de Aceptación y Uso de Tecnología (UTAUT), el efecto condicional indirecto de la expectativa de rendimiento sobre el uso de los medios sociales resultó un predictor relevante con pesos de hasta 0,53. Este efecto estuvo mediado por la intención de uso y en algunos casos moderado por la edad y sexo.
El estereotipo de mujer en las revistas femeninas españolas de alta gama durante la crisis
Authors: Almansa-Martínez Ana , Gómez de Travesedo-Rojas Ruth
Published: June 2017

Esta investigación tiene como objetivo analizar si las revistas femeninas comerciales de alta gama han adaptado el estereotipo femenino presente en sus páginas a la nueva situación de crisis económica que atraviesa nuestro país en los últimos años. Metodología: Análisis de contenido de la publicidad y la información de las cuatro revistas más representativas en función de criterios como el número de lectores y difusión, Cosmopolitan, Glamour, Elle y Vogue, y en el periodo correspondiente a los meses de julio, agosto y septiembre de 2007, 2011 y 2014. Resultados y conclusiones: Los resultados nos permiten apreciar cómo los contenidos publicitarios e informativos reflejan un modelo femenino que se aleja del patrón de supermujer del siglo pasado y se acerca al de una mujer glamurosa y chic, entendiendo estos conceptos como asociados a la preocupación por la moda, en ocasiones relacionada con el lujo y la exclusividad.
Reactivación participativa del espacio público. Estudios de caso en Valencia y Madrid
Authors: Ruiz Gallego Rosaura
Published: June 2017

Este trabajo tiene como objetivo entender el fenómeno de lo que proponemos denominar “reactivación participativa del espacio público”, caracterizado por la participación directa de los ciudadanos en la creación y gestión de actividades sociales y culturales en el espacio público, como parte de una voluntad general por recuperar dicho espacio como lugar realmente “público”, donde los ciudadanos tengan poder en la toma de decisiones. Este movimiento se ha visto reforzado por la aparición de colectivos de carácter profesional y de iniciativas desde algunas instituciones públicas.

Siete estudios de caso de entidades de Valencia y Madrid fueron realizados, mediante entrevistas semiestructuradas en profundidad, para definir los rasgos compartidos, la eventual sostenibilidad de los colectivos profesionales y el papel que juega la cultura y la gestión cultural en el fenómeno. 
El Arrastre de Caudas del Cantón Saquisilí de Ecuador como patrimonio cultural inmaterial
Authors: Velásquez Cajas Ángel , Abad Andrés
Published: June 2017

Este artículo, basado en una investigación de campo, busca identificar y rescatar la manifestación cultural del Arrastre de Caudas del cantón Saquisilí, ubicado en la provincia de Cotopaxi, Ecuador. En primera instancia, se realiza un análisis del patrimonio inmaterial, de los conceptos, ámbitos y subámbitos, así como del método de registro cultural oficial ecuatoriano. La segunda parte describe cronológicamente la celebración del arrastre de la bandera, los personajes de la fiesta religiosa (priostes, almasantas, cucuruchos, etc.) y los símbolos (cauda, sombrero, llave) utilizados. Para finalizar, se relaciona las dos partes antes mencionadas en una propuesta práctica: una ficha de registro de patrimonio inmaterial, tomando como referencia el modelo del Instituto Nacional de Patrimonio Cultural (INPC).
Numerical simulations of windblown dust over complex terrain: the Fiambalá Basin episode in June 2015
Authors: Mingari Leonardo A. , Collini Estela A. , Folch Arnau , Báez Walter , Bustos Emilce , Osores María Soledad , Reckziegel Florencia , Alexander Peter , Viramonte José G.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. On 13 June 2015, the London Volcanic Ash Advisory Centre (VAAC) warned the Buenos Aires VAAC about a possible volcanic eruption from the Nevados Ojos del Salado volcano (6879 m), located in the Andes mountain range on the border between Chile and Argentina. A volcanic ash cloud was detected by the SEVIRI instrument on board the Meteosat Second Generation (MSG) satellites from 14:00 UTC on 13 June. In this paper, we provide the first comprehensive description of this event through observations and numerical simulations. Our results support the hypothesis that the phenomenon was caused by wind remobilization of ancient pyroclastic deposits (ca. 4.5 ka Cerro Blanco eruption) from the Bolsón de Fiambalá (Fiambalá Basin) in northwestern Argentina. We have investigated the spatiotemporal distribution of aerosols and the emission process over complex terrain to gain insight into the key role played by the orography and the condition that triggered the long-range transport episode. Numerical simulations of windblown dust were performed using the ARW (Advanced Research WRF) core of the WRF (Weather Research and Forecasting) model (WRF-ARW) and FALL3D modeling system with meteorological fields downscaled to a spatial resolution of 2 km in order to resolve the complex orography of the area. Results indicate that favorable conditions to generate dust uplifting occurred in northern Fiambalá Basin, where orographic effects caused strong surface winds. According to short-range numerical simulations, dust particles were confined to near-ground layers around the emission areas. In contrast, dust aerosols were injected up to 5–6 km high in central and southern regions of the Fiambalá Basin, where intense ascending airflows are driven by horizontal convergence. Long-range transport numerical simulations were also performed to model the dust cloud spreading over northern Argentina. Results of simulated vertical particle column mass were compared with the MSG-SEVIRI retrieval product. We tested two numerical schemes: with the default configuration of the FALL3D model, we found difficulties to simulate transport through orographic barriers, whereas an alternative configuration, using a numerical scheme to more accurately compute the horizontal advection in abrupt terrains, substantially improved the model performance.
The influence of the ocean circulation state on ocean carbon storage and CO2 drawdown potential in an Earth system model
Authors: Ödalen Malin , Nycander Jonas , Oliver Kevin I. C. , Brodeau Laurent , Ridgwell Andy
Published: June 2017

Abstract. During the four most recent glacial cycles, atmospheric CO2 during glacial maxima has been lowered by about 90–100 ppm with respect to interglacials. There is widespread consensus that most of this carbon was partitioned in the ocean. It is however still debated which processes were dominant in achieving this increased carbon storage. In this paper, we use an Earth system model of intermediate complexity to constrain the range in ocean carbon storage for an ensemble of ocean circulation equilibrium states. We do a set of simulations where we run the model to pre-industrial equilibrium, but where we achieve different ocean circulation by changing forcing parameters such as wind stress, ocean diffusivity and atmospheric heat diffusivity. As a consequence, the ensemble members also have different ocean carbon reservoirs, global ocean average temperatures, biological pump efficiencies and conditions for air-sea CO2 disequilibrium. We analyse changes in total ocean carbon storage and separate it into contributions by the solubility pump, the biological pump and the CO2 disequilibrium component. We also relate these contributions to differences in strength of ocean overturning circulation. In cases with weaker circulation, we see that the ocean's capacity for carbon storage is larger. Depending on which ocean forcing parameter that is tuned, the origin of the change in carbon storage is different. When wind stress or ocean vertical diffusivity is changed, the response of the biological pump gives the most important effect on ocean carbon storage, whereas when atmospheric heat diffusivity or ocean horizontal diffusivity is changed, the solubility pump and the disequilibrium component are also important and sometimes dominant. Finally, we do a drawdown experiment, where we investigate the capacity for increased carbon storage by maximising the efficiency of the biological pump in our ensemble members. We conclude that different initial states for an ocean model result in different capacities for ocean carbon storage, due to differences in the ocean circulation state. This could explain why it is difficult to achieve comparable responses of the ocean carbon pumps in model intercomparison studies, where the initial states vary between models. The drawdown experiment highlights the importance of the strength of the biological pump in the control state for model studies of increased biological efficiency.
An Orphan Problem Looking for Adoption: Responding to Ocean Acidification Utilising Existing International Institutions
Authors: Harrould-Kolieb Ellycia R.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Ocean acidification poses a substantial threat to the ocean, marine wildlife and the goods and services they provide. As a result it presents a substantial regulatory challenge at the international, regional, national and sub-national levels. In the international realms, ocean acidification is not currently addressed by any international instrument or stand-alone agreement, nor does there appear to be any coherent framework for responding to the issue. Despite this, there are a number of international institutions, including treaty bodies and specialised UN agencies that have expressed an interest in ocean acidification and have begun to initiate an array of relevant activities – a small number of which may be considered substantive activities, including rule-making and implementation. This paper is an effort to explore the existing international frameworks that are applicable to forming a response to ocean acidification in an attempt to prevent worsening acidification and respond to impacts now and into the future. Six policy domains are outlined that together comprise a comprehensive response to ocean acidification. Each of these are then addressed with respect to what institutions are currently doing to respond to acidification and what could be done in the future. This paper finds that only three international institutions have initiated substantive policy-making in response to ocean acidification with respect to the regulation of carbon capture and storage and the protection of species. While these are important policy interventions, they are simply not enough to prevent worsening ocean acidification or respond to the impacts resulting from increased acidity, even when coupled with policies, such as regulation of carbon dioxide under the UNFCCC that have been implemented without reference to ocean acidification. In order to fill the existing gaps, this paper proposes a series of, as yet un-utilized mechanisms that could be employed to enhance a response to ocean acidification.
Seasonal variability of the inorganic carbon system in a large coastal plain estuary
Authors: Joesoef Andrew , Kirchman David L. , Sommerfield Christopher K. , Cai Wei-Jun
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Carbonate geochemistry research in large estuarine systems is limited and widely understudied. Further, changes in land use activity have profoundly influenced watershed export of organic and inorganic carbon, acids, and nutrients to the coastal ocean. To investigate the seasonal variation of the inorganic carbon system in the Delaware Estuary, one of the largest estuaries along the U.S. east coast, dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), total alkalinity (TA), and pH were measured down the estuary from June 2013 to April 2015. In addition, to explore how drainage basin mineralogy, weathering intensity, and tributary discharge impact total riverine DIC and TA fluxes to the estuary and export fluxes to the ocean, DIC, TA, and pH were periodically measured from March to October 2015 in the non-tidal freshwater Delaware, Schuylkill, and Christina rivers. Strong negative relationships between river TA and discharge support that changes in HCO3− concentrations reflect the dilution of the weathering derived products in the drainage basin. The ratio of DIC to TA, a rarely studied but important property, is high (1.11) during high discharge and low (0.94) during low discharge, reflecting additional CO2 input most likely from land surface organic matter decomposition other than HCO3− input from the drainage basin weathering processes. Our data further suggest that DIC in the Schuylkill River can be substantially different from DIC in the Delaware River, and thus in any river system, tributary contributions must be considered when addressing DIC inputs to the estuary. Long-term records of increasing alkalinity in the Delaware and Schuylkill river support global shifts toward higher alkalinity in estuarine waters with time. Annual DIC input flux to the estuary and export flux to the ocean are estimated to be 15.7 ± 8.2 × 109 mol C yr−1 and 16.5 ± 10.6 × 109 mol C yr−1, respectively. CO2 flux produced within the estuary inclusive of inputs from intertidal marshes is small (5.1 × 109 mol C yr−1) when compared to total riverine flux. This finding suggests that, in the case of the Delaware Estuary and perhaps other large coastal systems with long freshwater residence times, the majority of the DIC produced by biological processes is exchanged with the atmosphere rather than exported to the sea. Based on a CO2 mass balance model, we concluded that annually the Delaware Estuary is a weak heterotrophic system (−1.3 ± 3.8 mol C m−2 yr−1), which is in contrast to many highly heterotrophic smaller estuaries.
Southern Hemisphere anticyclonic circulation drives oceanic and climatic conditions in late Holocene southernmost Africa
Authors: Hahn Annette , Schefuß Enno , Andò Sergio , Cawthra Hayley C. , Frenzel Peter , Kugel Martin , Meschner Stephanie , Mollenhauer Gesine , Zabel Matthias
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Due to the high sensitivity of southern Africa to climate change, a reliable understanding of its hydrological system is crucial. Recent studies of the regional climatic system have revealed a highly complex interplay of forcing factors on precipitation regimes. This includes the influence of the tropical easterlies, the strength of the southern hemispheric westerlies as well as sea surface temperatures along the coast of the subcontinent. However, very few marine records have been available in order to study the coupling of marine and atmospheric circulation systems. Here we present results from a marine sediment core, recovered in shallow waters off the Gouritz River mouth on the south coast of South Africa. Core GeoB18308-1 allows a closer view of the last  ∼  4 kyr. Climate sensitive organic proxies, like the distribution and isotopic composition of plant-wax lipids as well as indicators for sea surface temperatures and soil input, give information on oceanographic and hydrologic changes during the recorded time period. Moreover, the micropaleontology, mineralogical and elemental composition of the sediments reflect the variability of the terrigenous input to the core site. The combination of down-core sediment signatures and a catchment-wide provenance study indicate that the Little Ice Age ( ∼  300–650 cal yr BP) was characterized by climatic conditions favorable to torrential flood events. The Medieval Climate Anomaly ( ∼  950–650 cal yr BP) is expressed by lower sea surface temperatures in the Mossel Bay area and humid conditions in the Gouritz River catchment. These new results suggest that the coincidence of humid conditions and cooler sea surface temperatures along the south coast of South Africa resulted from a strengthened and more southerly anticyclonic circulation. Most probably, the transport of moisture from the Indian Ocean by strong subtropical easterlies was coupled with Agulhas Bank upwelling pulses, which were initiated by an increase in Agulhas Current strength.
Regional-scale brine migration along vertical pathways due to CO2 injection – Part 2: A simulated case study in the North German Basin
Authors: Kissinger Alexander , Noack Vera , Knopf Stefan , Konrad Wilfried , Scheer Dirk , Class Holger
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Saltwater intrusion into potential drinking water aquifers due to the injection of CO2 into deep saline aquifers is one of the hazards associated with the geological storage of CO2. Thus, in a site-specific risk assessment, models for predicting the fate of the displaced brine are required. Practical simulation of brine displacement involves decisions regarding the complexity of the model. The choice of an appropriate level of model complexity depends on multiple criteria: the target variable of interest, the relevant physical processes, the computational demand, the availability of data, and the data uncertainty. In this study, we set up a regional-scale geological model for a realistic (but not real) onshore site in the North German Basin with characteristic geological features for that region. A major aim of this work is to identify the relevant parameters controlling saltwater intrusion in a complex structural setting and to test the applicability of different model simplifications. The model that is used to identify relevant parameters fully couples flow in shallow freshwater aquifers and deep saline aquifers. This model also includes variable-density transport of salt and realistically incorporates surface boundary conditions with groundwater recharge. The complexity of this model is then reduced in several steps, by neglecting physical processes (two-phase flow near the injection well, variable-density flow) and by simplifying the complex geometry of the geological model. The results indicate that the initial salt distribution prior to the injection of CO2 is one of the key parameters controlling shallow aquifer salinization. However, determining the initial salt distribution involves large uncertainties in the regional-scale hydrogeological parameterization and requires complex and computationally demanding models (regional-scale variable-density salt transport). In order to evaluate strategies for minimizing leakage into shallow aquifers, other target variables can be considered, such as the volumetric leakage rate into shallow aquifers or the pressure buildup in the injection horizon. Our results show that simplified models, which neglect variable-density salt transport, can reach an acceptable agreement with more complex models.
Sonar gas flux estimation by bubble insonification: application to methane bubble flux from seep areas in the outer Laptev Sea
Authors: Leifer Ira , Chernykh Denis , Shakhova Natalia , Semiletov Igor
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Sonar surveys provide an effective mechanism for mapping seabed methane flux emissions, with Arctic submerged permafrost seepage having great potential to significantly affect climate. We created in situ engineered bubble plumes from 40 m depth with fluxes spanning 0.019 to 1.1 L s−1 to derive the in situ calibration curve (Q(σ)). These nonlinear curves related flux (Q) to sonar return (σ) for a multibeam echosounder (MBES) and a single-beam echosounder (SBES) for a range of depths. The analysis demonstrated significant multiple bubble acoustic scattering – precluding the use of a theoretical approach to derive Q(σ) from the product of the bubble σ(r) and the bubble size distribution where r is bubble radius. The bubble plume σ occurrence probability distribution function (Ψ(σ)) with respect to Q found Ψ(σ) for weak σ well described by a power law that likely correlated with small-bubble dispersion and was strongly depth dependent. Ψ(σ) for strong σ was largely depth independent, consistent with bubble plume behavior where large bubbles in a plume remain in a focused core. Ψ(σ) was bimodal for all but the weakest plumes. Q(σ) was applied to sonar observations of natural arctic Laptev Sea seepage after accounting for volumetric change with numerical bubble plume simulations. Simulations addressed different depths and gases between calibration and seep plumes. Total mass fluxes (Qm) were 5.56, 42.73, and 4.88 mmol s−1 for MBES data with good to reasonable agreement (4–37 %) between the SBES and MBES systems. The seepage flux occurrence probability distribution function (Ψ(Q)) was bimodal, with weak Ψ(Q) in each seep area well described by a power law, suggesting primarily minor bubble plumes. The seepage-mapped spatial patterns suggested subsurface geologic control attributing methane fluxes to the current state of subsea permafrost.
A statistical fracture model for Antarctic glaciers
Authors: Emetc Veronika , Tregoning Paul , Sambridge Malcolm
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Antarctic and Greenland hold more than 99 % of all fresh water on Earth and, therefore, can significantly influence global sea level. Predicting future ice sheet mass balance depends upon ice sheet modelling, but it is limited by knowledge of a number of processes, some of which are still poorly understood. One such process is the calving of the ice shelves, where blocks of ice break off from the ice front. However, large scale ice flow models do not include an accurate representation of this process and the most commonly used damage mechanics and fracture mechanics methods have a large number of uncertainties. Here we present an alternative, statistics-based method to model the most probable zones of nucleation of fractures. We test our theory on all main ice shelf regions in Antarctica, including the Antarctic Peninsula. We can model up to 99 % of observed fractures, with an average rate of 77 % which represents a 50 % improvement over previously used damage-based approaches, thus providing the basis for modelling calving of ice shelves. We found that classifying Antarctic ice shelf regions based on the factors that controlled fracture formation led to grouping of ice shelves/glaciers with similar physical characteristics and geometry.
Influence of Demographic factors on Investment Performance
Authors: Subramaniam Arumugam , Velnampy Thirunavukkarasu
Published: June 2017

Investment involves commitment of money with the expectation of earning additional return. Investment performance generally indicates the outcome of an investment programme and it depends on several factors. When making investment different type of investors behave in different manner. Thus it is important to examine the influence of demographic factors of investors on investment performance. The objective of the study is to investigate the influence of demographic factors on the investment performance of household investors in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka. The respondents of the study were 1810 household investors in the Northern Province of Sri Lanka, who were selected under proportionate stratified random sampling technique. The collected data were analyzed with the support of analytical tools of independent t - test and one way ANOVA test. The results of the study reveal that gender, age, educational qualification, occupation and income of investors influence the investment performance whereas marital status of investors has no influence on investment performance. Based on the findings it is recommended to conduct investment training and awareness programme and to design new financial products and services which are particularly appropriate to specific segment of investors.
The Beni Hassan in Late Antiquity Project: Report on the 2014 Season
Authors: Bucking Scott
Published: June 2017

This article reports on the 2014 field season of the Beni Hassan in Late Antiquity Project. The project is the first of its kind to be carried out at Beni Hassan, Middle Egypt and aims to systematically document the architectural and epigraphic evidence for late antique monasticism (ca. 500 CE). This evidence derives from the monks' adaptive reuse of Pharaonic tomb, temple, and quarry spaces in the project's concession area, bounded on the north by the Beni Hassan necropolis and on the south by the wadi known as the Batn al-Baqara. The results of the project make a significant contribution to understanding regional patterns of monastic settlement in Byzantine Egypt.
Entangled Temporalities in the Theban Necropolis: A Materiality and Heritage Approach to the Excavation of Theban Tomb 187
Authors: Lemos Rennan , Seehausen Pedro L. von , Giovanni Marialaura Di , Giobbe Marcella , Menozzi Oliva , Brancaglion Antonio
Published: June 2017

The article discusses the excavation of Theban Tomb 187 from a materiality and heritage perspective. TT 187 is located in the Neferhotep (TT 49) tomb complex in el-Khokha. The tomb provides evidence of various phases of reuse, exhibiting ancient and modern temporalities in its final deposition contexts. People from communities near Luxor used to live close to and inside tombs in the Theban necropolis, interacting on a daily basis with heritage sites and thereby affecting the ancient necropolis's materiality, which encompasses the relationships between the site, its human agents and its landscape. The article proposes a perspective that emphasizes the entanglements of temporalities at TT 187, which define the formation processes of the archaeological record. Our aim is to identify and discuss the possibilities of material engagements in the Theban necropolis, considering both ancient and modern people as social agents that shaped the site.
Palestinian Looted Tombs and their Archaeological Investigation
Authors: al-Houdalieh Salah H. , Bernbeck Reinhard , Pollock Susan
Published: June 2017

This report describes archaeological rescue work in four looted tombs from late Roman and early Byzantine times in the surroundings of Ramallah, located in the Occupied Palestinian National Territories (OPNT). One goal of our work was to assess in detail how much of the original remains of a tomb are left behind after looting. A second aim was to explore the actual practices of looting by comparing interviews with looters with the results of an archaeological examination of looting practices of these tombs. This provides a unique comparative perspective that draws on oral history and its material correlates. Finally, this work helps to assess future possibilities for reconstructing what has been lost during looting events. The results of the research include unexpected insights, such as the repetitive character of looting single tombs, the presence of modern material remains of the looting process itself, but also the use of previously looted tombs for new purposes.
La investigación científica en los estudiantes de grado y posgrado
Authors: Escalante Hector , Corrales Rafael , Barahona Miguel
Published: June 2017

No resumenRevista Portal de la Ciencia, No.11, diciembre 2016, p.19-25
Participación comunitaria, cambios urbanos: el caso de la colonia Flor del Campo, Distrito Central
Authors: Murillo Arambú Héctor Darío , Hernandez Ana Corina
Published: June 2017

En la actualidad el crecimiento de las zonas urbanas es tema de agenda a nivel mundial, situación que conlleva a la generación de nuevos espacios y demandas por parte de las personas que habitan en ellos. La sociedad urbana con la incorporación del movimiento social, genera dentro del concepto actor y su territorio, coyunturas que forjan la reacción de necesidades individuales al contexto colectivo, permitiendo volcar la lluvia de ideas para la búsqueda de solventar las necesidades existentes. Los actores sociales dentro de la Colonia Flor del Campo permiten visualizar el desarrollo de las relaciones sociales enmarcadas al ámbito urbano; durante los treinta y cinco años de fundación de la colonia Flor del Campo, el escenario urbano se ha dibujado a lo largo del tiempo, dándonos cambios urbanos en los cuales solo el tiempo y sus actores han sido testigos de este. Conocer nuestra propia situación en materia de participación comunitaria no es cuestión de simple información o curiosidad, se trata de ver como ese factor pasa a formar parte de la toma de conciencia sobre los problemas y elementos que son obstáculo para el desarrollo individual o grupal en materia de comunidad. El objetivo general del estudio es conocer la participación comunitaria como un factor determinante en los procesos de cambios urbanos desde su inicio hasta su conformación, desarrollando objetivos específicos como el conocimiento de las modalidades de participación y de la organización social-participación comunitaria. Los actores claves tomados en cuenta son: adultos mayores que han vivido en la colonia por más de 30 años, y las actividades entre líderes de la comunidad y los jóvenes. La metodología empleada fue de un enfoque de investigación cualitativo, utilizando un paradigma interpretativo, la observación y el levantamiento de encuestas semiestructuradas.  Revista Portal de la Ciencia, No.11, diciembre 2016, p.125-139
Federalism as Protagonist or as Nemesis for Nigeria’S Political Development
Authors: Oyedeji Babatunde
Published: June 2017

Despite the plethora of findings and feelings surrounding federalism and the acerbity of the cynical discomfort at the negative nuances about the ideology, the federal system has produced stable and settled societies in Canada, Australia, the United States of America, India, Germany, Switzerland, New Zealand, Brazil, Malaysia and Mexico. Nevertheless, the frequent conclusion is its inherent attraction to ‘inevitability of instability’ generally in Africa and specifically in Nigeria. This typology seems to apply to developing countries more than others, in any case, at least nineteen countries containing some 40% of the world’s population. This puts and acute pressure on Nigeria, the surviving big federal country in Africa. It can be asked, did the British leave meaningful alternatives to federalism whilst ruling Nigeria between 1900 and 1914 and 1960? Can’t it not be deduced that federalism was indeed a natural product of decisions and phenomena like the Indirect Rule, the political activism on the part of Southern Nigerian politicians. Was the complex nature of Nigeria’s federalism a product of residual colonialist autocracy? The paper aims at delving into variants contributing to the sticky challenge and complexities of the Nigerian federation. It would be expository and analytical as it examines the advantages and attractions prior to the shortcomings and deficiencies of federalism. There would be references to the applicability of these deductions to the Nigerian example.
A new genus and species of uncertain phylogenetic position within the family Hydrobiidae (Caenogastropoda: Truncatelloidea) discovered in Tunisian springs
Authors: KHALLOUFI Noureddine , BÉJAOUI Mustapha , DELICADO Diana
Published: June 2017

The species richness of the aquatic (non-marine) gastropod family Hydrobiidae Stimpson, 1865 reaches its peak in the European region partly because other areas, such as North Africa, remain to be extensively surveyed. Most of the hydrobiid species described in North Africa have been ascribed to the subfamilies Pseudamnicolinae, Hydrobiinae and the genus Mercuria. Little is known about the presence of other hydrobiid subfamilies. This study examines several specimens of gastropods collected from two springs in Tunisia. Based on a comprehensive literature review and rigorous anatomical and molecular comparisons with known species from North Africa, Europe and Asia Minor of similar morphology, we here describe a new genus, Bullaregia gen. nov., and new species Bullaregia tunisiensis gen. et sp. nov. Although the shell shape of this Tunisian species resembles that of European hydrobiid genera such as Belgrandiella, it differs in other anatomical structures (i.e., penis with a glandular strap-like lobe, and two seminal receptacles, SR1 pedunculate, SR2 sessile and less developed). Using maximum likelihood and Bayesian approaches, phylogenetic relationships inferred from mtCOI sequences point to an independent evolutionary lineage for this new taxon outside Belgrandiella and other known hydrobiid subfamilies.
Des de la perifèria del discurs: Maria-Mercè Marçal i Dolors Miquel
Authors: Riba Sanmartí Caterina
Published: June 2017

Resum: L’article analitza diverses estratègies utilitzades per dues poetes catalanes, Maria-Mercè Marçal i Dolors Miquel, per deconstruir els discursos mitjançant els quals s’han construït els rols de gènere. Assenyalarem algunes coincidències entre les dues poetes com el fet que ambdues reformulin els estereotips femenins, que presentin un jo líric fragmentat i canviant, i que dialoguin amb les sagrades escriptures, reescrivint el parenostre i feminitzant Déu. Tant Maria-Mercè Marçal com Dolors Miquel aborden a través del discurs poètic alguns dels anhels, propostes i debats dels moviments feministes contemporanis.Paraules clau: Maria-Mercè Marçal, Dolors Miquel, estereotips femenins, subjecte androcèntric, feminització de Déu