bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of Amino-Functionalized CAU-1/Cellulose Acetate Mixed Matrix Membranes for CO2/N2 Separation
Authors: Yeong Yin Fong , Khoo Tou Seng
Published: March 2019

In this work, a new type of mixed matrix membranes comprising of amino-functionalized CAU-1 as filler and cellulose acetate as polymer phase were fabricated for CO2 separation from N2. The crystallinity and morphology of the resultant fillers were verified by using X-ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The energy-dispersive X-ray (EDX) results showed that, sedimentation and agglomeration of fillers were found at loading of more than 5 wt%. Subsequently, the gases permeation results revealed that, an increase in CO2 permeability and CO2/N2 selectivity of 149% and 81%, respectively, were achieved for the membrane loaded with 5 wt% of CAU-1-NH2, as compared to pure cellulose acetate membrane.
Waste Characteristics Study and Recycling Practice Trend at Tuanku Abdul Halim Mu’adzam Shah Engineering Complex, UiTM
Authors: Khamaruddin Putri Faizura Megat , Tony Tiffany Anak , Alias Azil Bahari , Kadir Sharifah Aishah Syed A. , Suhaili Emma Qarmilla
Published: March 2019

In Malaysia, waste management via recycling is highly promoted, however, recycling bins are not fully utilized as almost all the recycling bins provided are filled with other wastes. As institutional waste is a part of municipal solid waste (MSW), this composition study will be crucial to obtain a conventional management of the waste. In other words, waste composition studies are vital for a more effective and proper management of the waste generated. Hence, the objectives of the research are to analyse the trend of the recycle waste composition obtained during both semester session and semester break and to determine the recycle waste composition collected at UiTM engineering complex. Sorting of the solid wastes from the recycle bins are done manually before weighing of each waste category. The trend shows that paper has the highest composition both during semester session and semester break which is at 65% and 84% respectively followed by plastic bottle with 25% and 13% and aluminum can at 10% and 3%. A sample of recyclable wastes is taken from each recycle bins to the instrumental analysis laboratory for ultimate analysis. The ultimate analysis result shows 43.68% carbon and 1.27% nitrogen for paper wastes, which give a C/N ratio of 34.67. This indicates that paper wastes are compostable when mixed with yard wastes. In determining the economic benefits of recycling, potential revenue of RM78.37 can be obtained from a 10-week period of study and hence, if recycling practice is made compulsory, the revenue can be increased.
Synthesis of Hybrid Cu-Doped TiO2 Photocatalyst for Dye Removal
Authors: Lim Ying Pei , Lim Ying Chin
Published: March 2019

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) photocatalyst is one of the promising semiconductors used for the degradation of commercial dyes. However, it has to be doped with other metals to increase its efficiency, reactivity and stability. This study was carried out to synthesize hybrid Cu-doped TiO2 using wet impregnation method by varying the loading of copper precursor (0.3-1.0 wt%), incubation temperature (50-90°C) and incubation time (1-24 h). The synthesized hybrid Cu-doped TiO2 was characterized using XRD, EDX, FESEM and BET to obtain the structural, elemental, and surface morphological information. The photocatalytic activities of the synthesized Cu-doped TiO2 were investigated for the degradation of methyl orange (MO) under UV-light irradiation. The results revealed that the optimum Cu loading was at 0.5wt% Cu with incubation temperature of 50°C and 2h incubation time. The hybrid Cu-doped TiO2 showed an excellent dye degradation efficiency ranging from 40-82% under UV-light irradiation.
Embedding cell monolayers to investigate nanoparticle-plasmalemma interactions at transmission electron microscopy
Authors: Costanzo Manuela , Malatesta Manuela
Published: March 2019

Transmission electron microscopy is the technique of choice to visualize the spatial relationships between nanoconstructs and cells and especially to monitor the uptake process of nanomaterials. It is therefore crucial that the cell surface be preserved in its integrity, to obtain reliable ultrastructural evidence: the plasmalemma represents the biological barrier the nanomaterials have to cross, and the mode of membrane-nanoconstruct interaction is responsible for the intracellular fate of the nanomaterials. In this paper, we describe a simple and inexpensive method to process cell monolayers for ultrastructural morphology and immunocytochemistry, ensuring consistent preservation of the cell surface and of the occurring interactions with nanoparticles of different chemical composition.
Quality parameters of hunted game meat: Sensory analysis and pH monitoring
Authors: Viganò Roberto , Demartini Eugenio , Riccardi Fiammetta , Corradini Annafrancesca , Besozzi Martina , Lanfranchi Paolo , Chiappini Pietro Luigi , Cottini Andrea , Gaviglio Anna
Published: March 2019

The aim of the present research is to propose a new, quick and objective method for the certification of hunted and/or culled wild game meat quality and to monitor its origin and the hunting practices adopted by hunters. The expected deliverable is a new labelling scheme for Italian hunted wild game meat that will guarantee high quality and safety standards for consumers and will decrease transaction costs of the supply chains. During the 2015, 2016 and 2017 hunting seasons, 1,056 hunted wild ungulates were sampled. Specifically, alpine chamois (n=537), roe deer (n=113), red deer (n=342) and wild boar (n=64), which were all hunted in the VCO2-Ossola Nord hunting district (Verbania Province, Piedmont, Italy). Samples of the longissimus dorsi were collected to evaluate the nutritional parameters and the acid profiles of the products. As a measure of meat quality, pH values have been recorded after slaughtering by inserting a probe in the semimembranosus muscle. The results were categorized as DFD (pH≥6,2), intermediate DFD (5,8≤pH<6,2) and high-quality meat (pH <5,8). As explanatory variables for the quality of wild game meat, differences based on age, gender and hunting practices were considered. Concerning the latter variables, measures were collected from animals received at hunting districts control centers by trained technicians who also collected information on the hunting practices, i.e., bleeding and evisceration of the carcasses and number of shots. Nutritional values showed low fat (<3 g per 100 g), low saturated fat (<1,5 g per 100 g) and high protein contents. Furthermore, wild game meat has high values of ω3 and CLA, ensuring a positive ω6/ω3 ratio. Differences were found in the concentrations of fat between age and gender, considering that during the mating season, adult males’ weight loss can exceed 40%. Hunting practices seem to affect meat quality.
Balancing the Roles of a Junior Faculty Member: Perspectives from Athletic Training and Physical Therapy
Authors: Barrett Jessica L. , Mazerolle Stephanie M. , Nottingham Sara L.
Published: March 2019

Context

The role of a faculty member in higher education includes engaging in the 3 facets of research, service, and teaching. Allied health faculty members face additional responsibilities such as administration, patient care, and addressing external accreditation. It is not understood how junior faculty members balance these multiple roles.

Objective

Gain an understanding of athletic training and physical therapy junior faculty members' ability to find and maintain role balance.

Design

Qualitative phenomenology.

Setting

Accredited athletic training and physical therapy programs.

Patients or Other Participants

Twenty-six participants—13 physical therapists (7 male, 6 female) and 13 athletic trainers (4 male, 9 female)—completed interviews. All participants held academic terminal degrees (21 doctor of philosophy, 5 doctor of education).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Data were collected using a one-on-one semistructured phone interview, which was digitally recorded and professionally transcribed. Following saturation, data were analyzed using the interpretive phenomenological analysis method. Trustworthiness was ensured through peer review, multiple analyst triangulation, and member checking.

Results

Two primary themes were identified: role overload and strategies. Role overload describes overwhelming responsibilities placed on junior faculty and the conflict they face when attempting to balance each of these responsibilities. Strategies articulate the participants' reliance on time management, scheduling and planning, and keeping work and home lives separate.

Conclusions

Junior faculty members are overloaded by the plethora of responsibilities they must assume, causing role strain. The time-management techniques of scheduling and planning allow junior faculty members to attempt to balance their roles by designating chunks of time for each responsibility. They also keep their work and home lives separate to buffer the strain. Though faculty members have developed adaptations, the primary way to reduce role overload is to decrease the number of duties for which they are responsible.
Postprofessional Learners' Reflections After a Standardized Patient Encounter and Debriefing Session
Authors: Bush Joshua M. , Walker Stacy E. , Sims-Koenig Kristen N. , Winkelmann Zachary K. , Eberman Lindsey E.
Published: March 2019

Context

Simulations are commonly used in medical education to facilitate instructional and assessment experiences for learners. Standardized patients (SPs) are a form of simulation with actors trained to present conditions that occur in health care. The most important feature in simulation-based education is feedback; one form of group feedback is debriefing, intended to improve learning, future performance, and patient outcomes.

Objective

To explore reflections on learning after an SP encounter and debriefing session.

Design

Action research design with consensual qualitative research tradition.

Setting

One Midwestern University.

Patients or Other Participants

Seventeen postprofessional doctor of athletic training students with no previous experience with SPs (age = 25 ± 4 years; male = 5, 29.4%, female = 12, 70.6%; highest degree earned professional bachelor's = 12, 70.6% and postprofessional master's = 5, 29.4%, experience = 24.8 ± 30.5 months).

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Participants completed 1 of 3 SP encounters and the following day engaged in a diamond-debriefing session. After both the SP encounter and debriefing session, participants completed a 5-item open-ended questionnaire. The open-ended questions asked participants to self-reflect on what they learned after the SP encounter and the debriefing session. The questions were evaluated by a panel of qualitative researchers for content and face validity. Consensual qualitative research data analysis approach was used to analyze all open-ended responses.

Results

Our qualitative analysis revealed that reflections after both the SP encounter and debriefing session revolved around 3 overarching themes: organization of clinical exam, vulnerability, and patient-centered care.

Conclusions

The SP encounter and diamond-debriefing technique did facilitate self-reflection and inform and motivate learners to alter their future approach to patient-centered care. Future research could explore if reflection would differ if it occurred immediately after an SP encounter or 1 day after SP encounter.
Student Perceptions of Standardized Patient Use in Athletic Training Education
Authors: Gardiner Allison M. , Cuchna Jennifer W. , Walker Stacy E. , Clines Stephanie , Welch-Bacon Cailee E. , Van Lunen Bonnie
Published: March 2019

Context

Though commonplace in medical education, standardized patients (SPs) have only recently been introduced into athletic training curricula. Limited research exists on students' perceptions of SPs as an evaluative and learning tool.

Objective

To determine how students interact with SPs within their curricula and to explore students' perceptions of SP experiences.

Design

Consensual qualitative research.

Setting

Individual phone interviews.

Patients or Other Participants

Nine athletic training students (5 professional baccalaureate, 4 professional postbaccalaureate; 8 females, 1 male; age = 23.89 ± 3.33 years) enrolled in the final semester of their program.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Semistructured interviews were recorded, transcribed verbatim, and coded into themes and categories. To ensure trustworthiness, we used member checks and multiple analyst triangulation.

Results

Two themes emerged regarding the perceptions of the SP experiences: (1) encounter characteristics and (2) perceived value. Participants described typical SP encounter characteristics, including the environment where they occurred and the format and content of the encounter. Standardized patients were used to provide exposure to orthopaedic evaluation, general medical conditions, and emergency situations. Students felt SPs were valuable for improving both clinical and soft skills. Most participants felt the encounters were authentic and that they were able to transfer skills learned into their clinical practice. Students expressed desire for more SP encounters throughout their curriculum to increase preparedness for clinical practice. Challenges associated with SP experiences included difficulty interacting with peers in group encounters and limitations in the accuracy of the portrayals. Overall, participants perceived SP encounters to be positive and worthwhile experiences.

Conclusions

Programs should ensure that SP experiences are authentic, applicable, and emphasize the development of soft skills, such as communication. Based on the demonstrated benefits of SP encounters for students, athletic training faculty should consider exploring ways to incorporate SPs into their curricula.
Repeatability characteristics of insulin response patterns and measures of insulin resistance
Authors: Crofts Catherine A.P. , Wheldon Mark C. , Zinn Caryn , Merien Fabrice , Schofield Grant
Published: March 2019

Background: Hyperinsulinaemia is emerging as an independent risk factor for metabolic disease, but diagnostic measures are limited. It is plausible that insulin resistance measures, such as homeostatic model assessment (HOMA) type 2 variants, may model hyperinsulinaemia, but repeatability data are limited. Kraft and Hayashi insulin response patterns may not only add value in diagnosing hyperinsulinaemia, but also lack suitable repeatability data.Aim: The aim of this study was to investigate the repeatability of insulin response patterns, and fasting and dynamic measures of insulin resistance, and to determine whether these latter measures can predict the insulin response pattern.Setting: This study was conducted at Auckland University of Technology Millennium Institute’s sports performance laboratories.Methods: Oral glucose (100 g) tolerance tests were conducted weekly on eight people. Six people completed four tests, while two completed at least two tests. Each test assessed insulin resistance and response patterns. Insulin resistance measures included fasting tests (HOMA2, McAuley Index) and a dynamic test (oral glucose insulin sensitivity [OGIS]). The insulin response patterns were assessed with both Kraft and Hayashi methodologies. Repeatability characteristics of ordinal variables were assessed by Bland and Altman methods, while Fleiss’ κ was applied to categorical variables.Results: Fasting measures of insulin resistance recorded poor repeatability (HOMA2) or poor sensitivity (McAuley Index) compared to the dynamic measure (OGIS). Kraft insulin response patterns were more repeatable compared to Hayashi patterns, based on a combination of Fleiss’ κ (0.290 vs. 0.186,) p-value (0.15 vs. 0.798) and 95% confidence intervals.Conclusions: Both hyperinsulinaemia and insulin resistance should be dynamically assessed with a multi-sampled oral glucose tolerance test. Further investigations are required to confirm a preferred methodology.
Heisenberg Modules over Quantum 2-tori are Metrized Quantum Vector Bundles
Authors: Latrémolière Frédéric
Published: March 2019

The modular Gromov–Hausdorff propinquity is a distance on classes of modules endowed with quantum metric information, in the form of a metric form of a connection and a left Hilbert module structure. This paper proves that the family of Heisenberg modules over quantum two tori, when endowed with their canonical connections, form a family of metrized quantum vector bundles, as a first step in proving that Heisenberg modules form a continuous family for the modular Gromov–Hausdorff propinquity.
Geospatial analysis and epidemiological aspects of human infections with Blastocystis hominis in Mazandaran Province, northern Iran
Authors: Asfaram Shabnam , Daryani Ahmad , Sarvi Shahabeddin , Pagheh Abdol Sattar , Hosseini Seyed Abdollah , Saberi Reza , Hoseiny Seyede Mahboobeh , Soosaraei Masoud , Sharif Mehdi
Published: March 2019

OBJECTIVES: Blastocystis hominis is a very common large intestinal protozoan with global prevalence in humans and non-human hosts. No precise statistics exist regarding the geographical distribution of Blastocystis that would enable the identification of high-risk communities. Therefore, the current research aimed to characterize the spatial patterns and demographic factors associated with B. hominis occurrence in northern Iran.METHODS: The current study was performed among 4,788 individuals referred to health centers in Mazandaran Province, from whom stool samples were obtained. Socio-demographic data were gathered using a questionnaire. Samples were examined by a direct wet mount, the formalin-ethyl acetate concentration technique, and trichrome staining. Moran local indicators of spatial association and a geographically weighted regression model were utilized to analyze the results.RESULTS: Generally, the infection rate of Blastocystis parasites was 5.2%, and was considerably higher in the age group of 10-14 years (10.6%) than in other age groups (p=0.005). Our data showed important associations between the occurrence of B. hominis and age, residence, job, contact with domestic animals, anti-parasitic drug consumption, and elevation above sea level (p<0.001).CONCLUSIONS: The current study characterized for the first time the infection rate and risk of B. hominis in the north of Iran, and produced a prediction map. It is expected that this map will help policymakers to plan and implement preventive measures in high-risk areas and to manage already-infected patients.
Structures and Practices of Cross-Sector Engagement in Counter-Human Trafficking Coalitions in the Global South
Authors: Foot Kirsten A. , Sworn Helen , Alejano-Steele AnnJanette
Published: March 2019

Human trafficking is a violation of human rights that takes many forms (U.S. Department of State, 2017). Participation in same-sector and multisector coalitions and collaborative counter-trafficking efforts are being actively encouraged by the aid industry globally. Working in partnership with other organizations within and across sectors is increasingly perceived as necessary. There is a wide variety of models for structuring and enacting multisector collaboration to counter human trafficking, but little is known yet about the effects of various models combined with the communication practices of leaders and members, on the functioning and outcomes of the collaborations, and most extant studies overlook the Global South. This paper helps redress the dearth of research on coalitions in the Global South through a multimethod, comparative analysis of three national level counter-trafficking coalitions (CTCs) operating in the regions of sub-Sahara Africa, Asia-Pacific Islands, and Southeast Asia. All three CTCs began in the civil society sector and are comprised primarily of nongovernmental organizations (NGOs). The primary research question addressed in this paper is: Through what structures and practices do NGO-led CTCs in Global South countries engage with public and private sector entities? Findings indicate similarities in the vulnerabilities of NGO-led CTCs in Global South countries, and the challenges they face in cross-sector interactions, but variations in the strategies they employ in those interactions. Each CTC engages the public and private sectors in their country in multiple ways: through membership in the CTC, partnerships with the CTC, and/or a range of engagement practices. Finally, NGO-led CTCs in the Global South engage in the kinds of cross-sector and local-global dynamics that are a key focus in critical cosmopolitan theorizing.
Influence of adding fibrolytic enzymes on the ruminal fermentation of date palm by-products
Authors: Abid Khalil , Jabri Jihene , Beckers Yves , Yaich Hela , Malek Atef , Rekhis Jamel , Kamoun Mohamed
Published: March 2019

Abstract. This study was conducted in order to assess the influence of four doses (0, 0.5, 1, and 2 mg (g dry matter)−1 of commercial fibrolytic enzymes (MAXFIBER-I®, SHAUMANN GmbH, Wahlstedt, Germany) on in vitro fermentation of date palm (Phoenix dactylifera) by-products: date kernels, wasted dates, floral stems, and palm fronds. Rumen contents were obtained from two non-lactating Holstein cows. Enzyme supplementation to by-products was carried out 12 h prior to incubation. Compared to the control, the enzymatic supplementation quadratically increased the extent but not the gas production rate of date kernel fermentation. Indeed, the potential gas production increased notably by 14.8 % with the lowest enzymes dose following recorded gas production after 48, 72, and 96 h of incubation. The estimated organic-matter digestibility, metabolisable energy, and total volatile fatty acids in the incubation fluid tended to be increased with the lowest dose by 7.8 %, 8.4 %, and 13.9 % respectively. For the wasted dates, this feed additive tended to linearly increase the gas production rate of fermentation with the highest dose. On the other hand, this supplementation had no effect on the ruminal fermentation of the floral stems and palm fronds. The exogenous fibrolytic enzymes were more effective on fibrous but not on lignified date palm by-products.
Behaviour of domestic rabbits during 2 weeks after weaning
Authors: Kaźmierczak Sandra , Cwojdzińska Aleksandra , Górecki Marcin T.
Published: March 2019

Abstract. Thirty three rabbits from five litters that were weaned at the age of 5 weeks were observed. The animals were kept in pens that were enriched with an elevation made of bricks. In total, 150 h of observations made at feeding time (07:30–10:00 and 18:00–20:30 LT, local time) were analysed. A number of affiliative, exploratory, comfort, eating, resting and locomotor behaviours were observed. Agonistic behaviour was not observed. Rabbits showed companion and location preferences: 56 % of animals had a preferred companion, and 84 % preferred a particular place in the pen. Significant effects of group size and time of day on the frequency of some forms of behaviour were found, e.g. rabbits performed comfort behaviours more often in the morning. Sex did not influence the rabbits' behaviour. Correlations were also found between different forms of behaviour, e.g. animals that performed more exploratory behaviours also showed more locomotor behaviours and affiliative interactions.
Hypomethylation in the promoter region of ZPBP as a potential litter size indicator in Berkshire pigs
Authors: An Sang Mi , Kwon Seulgi , Hwang Jung Hye , Yu Go Eun , Kang Deok Gyeong , Park Da Hye , Kim Tae Wan , Park Hwa Chun , Ha Jeongim , Kim Chul Wook
Published: March 2019

Abstract. In pigs, litter size is typically defined as the total number of piglets born
(TNB) or the number of piglets born alive (NBA). Increasing pig litter size
is of great economic interest as a means to increase productivity. The
capacity of the uterus is a critical component of litter size and may play a
central role in prolificacy. In this study, we investigated
litter-size-related epigenetic markers in uterine tissue from Berkshire pigs
with smaller litter size groups (SLGs) and larger litter size groups (LLGs)
using genome-wide bisulfite sequencing (GWBS). A total of 3269 differentially
methylated regions (DMRs) were identified: 1566 were hypermethylated and 1703
hypomethylated in LLG compared to SLG. The zona pellucida binding protein
(ZPBP) gene was significantly hypomethylated in the LLG promoter
region, and its expression was significantly upregulated in uterine tissue.
Thus, the methylation status of ZPBP gene was identified as a
potential indicator of litter size. Furthermore, we verified its negative
correlation with litter size traits (TNB and NBA) in whole blood samples from
172 Berkshire sows as a blood-based biomarker by a porcine
methylation-specific restriction enzyme polymerase chain reaction (PMP)
assay. The results suggest that the methylation status of the ZPBP
gene can serve as a valuable epigenetic biomarker for hyperprolific sows.
Genetic diversity of κ-casein (CSN3) and lactoferrin (LTF) genes in the endangered Turkish donkey (Equus asinus) populations
Authors: Özdil Fulya , Bulut Hasan , Işık Raziye
Published: March 2019

Abstract. In this study, the κ-casein (CSN3) and lactoferrin
(LTF) genes which were found in association with milk production
traits in different animal species were studied firstly in Turkish donkey
populations. A total of 108 donkeys from different regions of Turkey were
used in order to reveal the different genotypes of CSN3 and
LTF genes by using polymerase chain reaction – restriction fragment
length polymorphism (PCR-RFLP) and DNA sequencing methods. To determine the
genetic polymorphism, we attempted to digest a fragment of 235 bp of the
CSN3 gene and a fragment of 751 bp of the LTF gene using
PstI, and DraII, EagI and MboI
restriction enzymes, respectively. Neither the CSN3 gene nor the
LTF gene had enzyme recognition sites with the PstI,
DraII and MboI restriction enzymes in all of the studied
samples. However, the LTF gene was only distinguished with the
EagI restriction enzyme. Three genotypes were identified in the
LTF gene with the EagI restriction enzyme: GG homozygotes
(667, 84 bp), AG heterozygotes (751; 667, 84 bp) and AA homozygotes
(751 bp). The transition from guanine to adenine in 89 bp of the
LTF gene lacks the restriction site and different genotypes are
obtained. This novel single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) has been firstly
detected in donkeys. According to the results, the G allele was predominant
in the LTF-EagI gene in the studied Turkish donkey populations. In
this study, all the genotype distributions of LTF-EagI were not
found in Hardy–Weinberg equilibrium (P<0.05). The CSN3
and LTF genes have not been studied before in donkeys, so the
results are the preliminary results of these gene regions in donkeys.
Gas-Phase Pyrolysis Products Emitted by Prescribed Fires in Pine Forests with a Shrub Understory in the Southeastern United States
Authors: Scharko Nicole K. , Oeck Ashley M. , Myers Tanya L. , Tonkyn Russell G. , Banach Catherine A. , Baker Stephen P. , Lincoln Emily N. , Chong Joey , Corcoran Bonni M. , Burke Gloria M. , Ottmar Roger D. , Restaino Joseph C. , Weise David R. , Johnson Timothy J.
Published: March 2019

Abstract. In this study we capture and identify pyrolysis gases from prescribed burns conducted in pine forests with a shrub understory using a manual extraction device. The device selectively sampled emissions ahead of the flame front, minimizing collection of oxidized gases, with the captured gases analyzed in the laboratory using infrared absorption spectroscopy. Results show that emission ratios (ER) relative to CO for ethene, and acetylene were significantly greater than previous fire studies, suggesting that the sample device was able to collect gases prior to ignition. Further evidence that ignition had not begun was corroborated by novel infrared detections of several species, in particular naphthalene. With regards to oxygenated species, several aldehydes (acrolein, furaldehyde, acetaldehyde, formaldehyde) and the carboxylic acids (formic, acetic) were all observed; results show that ERs for acetaldehyde were noticeably greater while ERs for formaldehyde and acetic acid were lower compared to other studies. The acetylene-to-furan ratio also suggests that high temperature pyrolysis was the dominant process generating the collected gases. This hypothesis is further supported by the presence of HCN and the absence of NH3.
Development and validation of a supervised machine learning radar Doppler spectra peak finding algorithm
Authors: Kalesse Heike , Vogl Teresa , Paduraru Cosmin , Luke Edward
Published: March 2019

Abstract. In many types of clouds, multiple hydrometeor populations can be present at the same time and height. Studying the evolution of these different hydrometeors in a time-height perspective can give valuable information on cloud particle composition and microphysical growth processes. However, as a prerequisite, the number of different hydrometeor types in a certain cloud volume needs to be quantified. This can be accomplished using cloud radar Doppler velocity spectra from profiling cloud radars if the different hydrometeor types have sufficiently different terminal fall velocities to produce individual Doppler spectrum peaks. Here we present a newly developed supervised machine learning radar Doppler spectra peak finding algorithm (named PEAKO). In this approach, three adjustable parameters (spectrum smoothing span, prominence threshold, and minimum peak width at half-height) are varied to obtain the set of parameters which yields the best agreement of user-classified and machine-marked peaks. The algorithm was developed for Ka-band ARM Zenith-pointing Radar (KAZR) observations obtained in thick snow fall systems during the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement Program’s (ARM) mobile facility AMF2 deployment at Hyytiälä, Finland, during the Biogenic Aerosols – Effects on Clouds and Climate (BAECC) field campaign. The performance of PEAKO is evaluated by comparing its results to existing Doppler peak finding algorithms. The new algorithm is found to perform well. Its advantage is that the detected features are less noisy and more consistent in time and height than the peak finding results of other algorithms. In the future, the PEAKO algorithm will be adapted to other cloud radars and other types of clouds consisting of multiple hydrometeors in the same cloud volume.
Discrete k-nearest neighbor resampling for simulating multisite precipitation occurrence and model adaption to climate change
Authors: Lee Taesam , Singh Vijay P.
Published: March 2019

Abstract. Stochastic weather simulation models are commonly employed in water
resources management, agricultural applications, forest management,
transportation management, and recreational activities. Stochastic
simulation of multisite precipitation occurrence is a challenge because of
its intermittent characteristics as well as spatial and temporal
cross-correlation. This study proposes a novel simulation method for
multisite precipitation occurrence employing a nonparametric technique, the
discrete version of the k-nearest neighbor resampling (KNNR), and couples
it with a genetic algorithm (GA). Its modification for the study of climatic
change adaptation is also tested. The datasets simulated from both the discrete KNNR
(DKNNR) model and an existing traditional model were evaluated using a number of
statistics, such as occurrence and transition probabilities, as well as
temporal and spatial cross-correlations. Results showed that the proposed
DKNNR model with GA-simulated multisite precipitation occurrence preserved
the lagged cross-correlation between sites, while the existing conventional
model was not able to reproduce lagged cross-correlation between stations, so
long stochastic simulation was required. Also, the GA mixing process
provided a number of new patterns that were different from observations,
which was not feasible with the sole DKNNR model. When climate change was
considered, the model performed satisfactorily, but further improvement is
required to more accurately simulate specific variations of the occurrence
probability.
Significant Improvement of Cloud Representation in Global Climate Model MRI-ESM2
Authors: Kawai Hideaki , Yukimoto Seiji , Koshiro Tsuyoshi , Oshima Naga , Tanaka Taichu , Yoshimura Hiromasa , Nagasawa Ryoji
Published: March 2019

Abstract. The development of the climate model MRI-ESM2, which is planned for use in the sixth phase of the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project (CMIP6) simulations, involved significant improvements to the representation of clouds from the previous version MRI-CGCM3, which was used in the CMIP5 simulations. In particular, the serious lack of reflection of solar radiation over the Southern Ocean in MRI-CGCM3 was drastically improved in MRI-ESM2. The score of the spatial pattern of radiative fluxes at the top of the atmosphere for MRI-ESM2 is better than for any CMIP5 model. In this paper, we set out comprehensively the various modifications related to clouds that contribute to the improved cloud representation, and the main impacts on the climate of each modification. The modifications cover various schemes and processes including the cloud scheme, turbulence scheme, cloud microphysics processes, interaction between cloud and convection schemes, resolution issues, cloud radiation processes, interaction with the aerosol model, and numerics. In addition, the new stratocumulus parameterization, which contributes considerably to increased low cloud cover and reduced radiation bias over the Southern Ocean, and the improved cloud ice fall scheme, which alleviates the time-step dependency of cloud ice content, are described in detail.
Coronosporidium ecuadorianum gen. & sp. nov. from submerged decaying leaf from Ecuador
Authors: Sosa Daynet , Quevedo Adela , Espinoza Fernando , Serrano Lizette , Magdama Freddy , Vera Marcos , Pérez-Martinez Simón , Malosso Elaine , Castañeda-Ruiz Rafael F.
Published: March 2019

A new genus and species Coronosporidium ecuadorianum are described and illustrated. The fungus, found on a submerged decaying leaf of an unidentified plant, is distinguished by blastic production of stauroconidia, obpyramidal coronate, 1-septate, and inequilateral sympodial extensions
of the conidiogenous cells after rhexolytic conidial secession.
Trichoglossum tetrasporum, newly recorded from India
Authors: Debnath Sanjit , Chakraborty Kripamoy , Datta Badal Kumar , Das Panna , Saha Ajay Krishna
Published: March 2019

The uncommon earth tongue, Trichoglossum tetrasporum, is recorded for the first time from India. Macroscopic and microscopic characters of the species are described and illustrated along with its world distribution.
Anamylopsora altaica sp. nov. from Northwestern China
Authors: Ahat Parida , Tumur Anwar , Guo Shou-Yu
Published: March 2019

Anamylopsora altaica, collected from rocks in the Hot Spring Valley Forest Park in the Altay Mountains, Xinjiang, Northwestern China, is described as a new species, based on morphological and chemical characteristics, as well as ITS DNA sequence data. The new lichen species is
characterized by its crowded, overlapping squamules with upturned margins, crowded globose apothecia with eight simple hyaline spores per ascus, and the presence of psoromic acid. A detailed description and colour photographs are provided.
Lemonniera yulongensis sp. nov. from Yunnan, China
Authors: Yu Ze-Fen , Lv Yi-Fan , Feng Bo , Qiao Min
Published: March 2019

Lemonniera yulongensis, isolated from submerged decaying leaves on Yulong Snow Mountain, is described as a new species. The fungus is characterized by monophialidic conidiogenous cells and branched conidia with mainly four septate arms. The new species also extends the distribution
of Lemonniera into higher elevations than is typical for the genus.
Sulzbacheromyces yunnanensis, a new record for Thailand
Authors: Suwannarach Nakarin , Kumla Jaturong , Satienperakul Kanitta , Sungpalee Witchaphart , Hermhuk Sutheera , Suttiprapan Piyawan , Sri-Ngernyuang Kriangsak , Lumyong Saisamorn
Published: March 2019

Specimens of a clavarioid basidiolichen collected in Thailand were identified as Sulzbacheromyces yunnanensis, based on morphology and similarities of ITS genes. A full description and illustration are provided. This is the first record of S. yunnanensis from Thailand
Meta-Analysis and Quality of Self-Monitoring Behavior Interventions with Children and Adolescents
Authors: Maag John W.
Published: March 2019

Self-monitoring is an intervention that has been used for decades to improve academic fluency in reading, mathematics, spelling, and promote strategies for solving problems, and increasing attention to task and decreases off-task related behaviors. There have been a few reviews of self-monitoring on the variables listed previously, but only one examined study quality and no meta-analysis of self-monitoring behavior (versus academic tasks) has been undertaken. The purpose of this review was to conduct a meta-analysis of the 20 studies that focused on self-monitoring behavior and apply the Council for Exceptional Children’s eight quality indicators. Results from standard mean difference, improvement rate difference, and Tau-U effect size calculations were all in the effective range. Implications for practice are presented.
The Role of Counseling Service Center and Its Implementation in Madda Walabu University: Qualitative Research
Authors: Getachew Abera , Daniel Gobena , Abayineh Sisay
Published: March 2019

Background: University students often face challenges to adjust to a new environment. The challenges include: - adjustment to university, peer groups, and new academic atmosphere. These challenges possibly lead students to personal crisis, emotional disturbance, stress, and academic failure. Counseling service can help mitigate adjustment problem facing university students.  The main objective of this study is to identify the roles of counseling service center and its implementation in Madda Walabu University (MWU).Methods: Explorative qualitative research was conducted on Madda Walabu University (MWU) students’ counselor and concerned management bodies in March 2016. Accordingly, four management bodies; the President, the Academic Vice President, the Student Dean and Student Counselor were purposefully selected for in-depth interview. Besides, international, national and organizational documents were analyzed on thematic basis.Results: Result of study showed that the counseling center of MWU lacked intra-organization network, administrative independence and autonomy. Besides, the service providers were not counselors by profession; the center did not have network with relevant domestic and international organizations, and there was poor client data base management. In addition, MWU counseling center fell short to meet national and international standards.Conclusion:  There is increased need for counseling service in university. Standardization of counseling service center, allocation of sufficient materials and human resources, collaboration with relevant bodies is needed to improve the role and practice of the center. Lastly, the importance of crisis interventions, professional development, and academic skills training are recommended to be included under the functions of the center.
Konsistenztheorien & Selective Exposure
Authors: Zillich Arne Freya
Published: March 2019

Do people prefer information that is consistent with their own attitude and avoid contradicting information? Which individual and societal effects arise of selective exposure to confirming information? These questions are examined in research on theories of consistency and selective exposure. The book outlines the central theoretical assumptions, exemplifies typical research designs and commonly applied methods and reviews the state of research from the early social-psychological research until current debates about the emergence of echo chambers and filter bubbles in social media. Conclusively, alternative explanatory approaches for the systematic preference of information are presented. The book is suitable as textbook for students and lecturers of communication studies as well as an introductory reading for communication practitioners and other interested parties.
Der Arrestvollzug in Seeschiffe während eines Insolvenzverfahrens
Authors: Otto Johannes
Published: March 2019

Despite the economic relevance of insolvency cases with maritime implications, there is a lack of research studies that examine the associated problems in this respect. In particular, the arresting of vessels counteracts the objectives of insolvency proceedings. This comparative treatise offers scientific scrutiny of this topic and proposes practice-oriented solutions. It examines the protective mechanisms provided by the German and English insolvency laws and measures them according to their cross-border effects. In Germany, effective protection on the basis of the current legal situation is only achievable by classifying registered vessels as movable property. This contrasts with the unanimous opinion to date. This study’s dogmatic starting point is a detailed interpretation of the legal definition of immovable property under insolvency law in § 49 of InsO (Germany’s insolvency code).
Management des Crowdsourcing-Prozesses in der Organisation
Authors: Stumpp Stefan
Published: March 2019

Crowdsourcing - the integration of a large group of Internet users into the value chain - is becoming increasingly important for organisations. In his dissertation Stefan Stumpp examines what makes this principle so valuable, which areas of the organization benefit from it and how this integration works.
On the basis of a systematic literature search, interviews with experts, crowdsourcing practitioners and innovation decision makers and an online survey of 212 organisations, a management process is developed that serves as a guide for organisations to integrate crowds into their own value creation. In addition, areas of application along the value activities are shown and the added value and risks of crowdsourcing are demonstrated.
As a result, the author gives a comprehensive picture of a method that allows to take advantage of the manpower, knowledge, creativity and assets of the crowd.
Decomposition of wind velocity and temperature fluctuations into wave and turbulent signals, using wavelet transform
Authors: Krusche Nisia , Moraes Osvaldo Luis Leal de , Machado Birajara S.
Published: March 2019

In the stable stratified atmospheric boundary layer, spectra might be affected by several kinds of waves. Since the problem of turbulent diffusion is closely related to the spectra of wind velocity fluctuations, it is necessary to separate the contributions of those waves from that of turbulence. Discrete wavelet packets transform was applied to temperature and vertical velocity fluctuations measured in Candiota, RS (31°28´ S, 53°40´ W), sampled with a frequency of 10 Hz and 1 Hz. In these datasets, waves have been detected through cospectral techniques. Wavelet transform was used to decompose the series. It allowed identification of those contributions that are related to the detected waves, which were then removed from the original signals. Therefore, this method may be used to decompose the series in two signals, one containing waves and other corresponding to random turbulence of the flow.
Turbulent velocity and temperature probability density functions in the Amazonian surface boudary layer
Authors: Sá Leonardo Deane de Abreu , Bolzam Maurício José Alves , Ramos Fernando Manuel , Rodrigues Neto Camilo , Rosa Reinaldo Roberto
Published: March 2019

We present a statistical model for the distribution of increments of wind velocity and temperature of turbulence data measured in the atmospheric surface layer above the Amazonian forest, on a micrometeorological tower in Rebio-Jaru Reserve (10°04' S; 61°56' W) during LBA (Large Scale Biosphere Atmosphere Experiment in Amazonia) wet season campaign. The data were measured using 3D Campbell sonic anemometer and a Campbell fast response thermometer located at a height of 66 m (the forest canopy has a mean height of 35 m; but some of the higher tree branches may reach the height of 45 m), at a sampling rate of 60 Hz. The goal of this investigation is to detect noextensivity properties of the turbulent field in such a peculiar environment. To do this we calculate the probability density function (PDF) for wind velocity increments Vr(x) = V(x) - V(x+r) (and temperature increments) at different length scales r. The preliminary results show some evidence that the nonextensive thermostatistics modelling proposed by Tsallis (1988) provides a new and simple framework for explaining the statistical behavior of fully developed mechanical turbulence. We also investigate the relationship between intermittency and nonextensivity using a single parameter q, from Tsallis thermostatistics. The results of the wind velocity turbulent signals measured at the level of 66m show a very good agreement with the Tsallis model but the temperature signals show some discrepancy with respect to the proposed model. Physical discussions are proposed to explain our results.
Better living through chems: Fallout’s post-apocalyptic pharmacy
Authors: Wallin Jason James
Published: March 2019

Contemporary climate change research today speculates that life as we know it is at an end (Scranton, 2015). As planetary conditions optimal to the survival of the human species are undergoing profound transformation, the question of what future awaits the human species has become both prominent and pervasive. Extending into the speculative art of video games, this post-apocalyptic mis-en-scene today constitutes something of a familiar reference point for gamers, who might find in such popular games as Left 4 Dead (2008) and Gears of War (2006) a particular speculation on survival where life as we know it encounters the destructive forces of nuclear devastation, epidemic, invasion, or any one of a myriad catastrophic scenarios now cliché in the medium. Yet, the ways that video games think survival nevertheless constitutes a speculative fulcrum on which is dramatized both “world without-us”, or rather, an impersonal hostile world unremitting to the desires of ‘man’, and the human that might survive it (Thacker, 2011). Significant amongst such speculative games are the massive post-apocalyptic worlds of Fallout 3, Fallout: New Vegas, and Fallout 4, each of which evokes the question of how we might survive after nuclear catastrophe and its transformation of the planet into a foreboding ecology populated by mutated animals, radioactive dead-zones, loosely organized bandit hordes, and nomads foraging the resource scarce post-apocalyptic future.
Pieces of people in the Pavlovian
Authors: Trinkaus Erik , Sázelová Sandra , Svoboda Jiří
Published: March 2019

The rich earlier Mid Upper Palaeolithic (Pavlovian) sites of Dolní
Vĕstonice I and II and Pavlov I (∼32,000–∼30,000 cal
BP) in southern Moravia (Czech Republic) have yielded a series of human burials,
isolated pairs of extremities and isolated bones and teeth. The burials occurred
within and adjacent to the remains of structures (‘huts’), among
domestic debris. Two of them were adjacent to mammoth bone dumps, but none of
them was directly associated with areas of apparent discard (or garbage). The
isolated pairs and bones/teeth were haphazardly scattered through the occupation
areas, many of them mixed with the small to medium-sized faunal remains, from
which many were identified post-excavation. It is therefore difficult to
establish a pattern of disposal of the human remains with respect to the
abundant evidence for site structure at these Upper Palaeolithic sites. At the
same time, each form of human preservation raises questions about the
differential mortuary behaviours, and hence social dynamics, of these foraging
populations and how we interpret them through an archaeological lens.