bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
GEOCHEMICAL CHARACTERIZATION OF BANANA, BURITI PALM, JUTE AND COIR FIBRES FOR USE AS BIOGEOTEXTILES FOR EROSION CONTROL
Authors: Egbujuo Charles Izuchukwu , Fullen Michael A. , Guerra Antonio J. T. , Opara Alexander Iheanyi
Published: October 2018

Geochemical analysis of selected plant fibres used as geotextiles for erosion control was conducted to evaluate their geochemical composition and to determine the elements that could potentially be nutrients for plants or cause heavy metal contamination in soils. Analysis of the samples was performed using X-ray Diffraction and X-ray Fluorescence spectrometry. Results revealed that potassium concentrations varied from 3.63% in jute-mat (India)-50.73% in banana-leaf (São Romão, Brazil), with a mean of 27.17%. Similarly, calcium concentrations varied from 0.09% in banana-leaf (São Romão) –37.0% in banana-leaf/stem (Oleo, Brazil). Iron concentrations varied from 0.15% in banana-leaf/stem samples (Oleo) –4.47% in jute-cloth (India). Since banana-leaf/stem had the highest concentration of macro-nutrients, it is therefore proposed that banana-leaf has the highest potential for adding nutrients to the soil system when biodegraded. In addition, heavy metal analysis of the samples revealed that none of the fibres have high concentrations that may contaminate the soil upon decomposition.
FINANCIAL ANALYSIS AS A STRATEGIC TOOL: THE CASE OF SMES IN THE REPUBLIC OF KOSOVA
Authors: Qehaja Albana Berisha , Ismajli Hysen
Published: October 2018

This paper examines the use of financial analysis as a strategic tool in SMEs. Empirical data are collected from 303 SMEs in the Republic of Kosova, operating in production, trade and service sectors. The aim of this study is to assess the extent to which the business financial analysis is employed in the sampled enterprises and to determine whether there are differences in the usage of it, within small and medium-sized enterprises and sectors. The results show that Kosovan SMEs greatly use financial analysis as a strategic tool. Moreover, significant differences are found between small and medium-sized enterprises regarding its usage and no significant differences among production, trade and service sectors. This paper contributes to the existing scientific literature, especially in the strategic management field. Additionally, this paper will likely contribute to decision makers’ increased use of business financial analysis as a strategic tool in their enterprises.
The 2.4 μm Galaxy Luminosity Function as Measured Using WISE. II. Sample Selection
Authors: Lake S. E. , Wright E. L. , Assef R. J. , Jarrett T. H. , Petty S. , Stanford S. A. , Stern D. , Tsai C.-W.
Published: October 2018

The WISE satellite surveyed the entire sky multiple times in four infrared (IR) wavelengths (3.4, 4.6, 12, and 22 μm). This all-sky IR photometric survey makes it possible to leverage many of the large publicly available spectroscopic redshift surveys to measure galaxy properties in the IR. While characterizing the cross-matching of WISE data to a single survey is a straightforward process, doing it with six different redshift surveys takes a fair amount of space to characterize adequately, because each survey has unique caveats and characteristics that need addressing. This work describes a data set that results from matching five public redshift surveys with the AllWISE data release, along with a reanalysis of the data described in Lake et al. The combined data set has an additional flux limit of 80 μJy (19.14 AB mag) in WISE’s W1 filter, imposed in order to limit it to targets with high completeness and reliable photometry in the AllWISE data set. Consistent analysis of all of the data is only possible if the color bias discussed in Ilbert et al. is addressed (e.g., the techniques explored in Lake et al.). The sample defined herein is used in a companion paper in this series to measure the luminosity function of galaxies at 2.4 μm rest-frame wavelength, and the selection process of the sample is optimized for this purpose.
Taxonomy and phylogeny of Dichostereum (Russulales), with descriptions of three new species from southern China
Authors: Liu Shi-Liang , He Shuang-Hui
Published: October 2018

Nine species of Dichostereum were subjected to phylogenetic analyses, based on a combined dataset of ITS1-5.8S-ITS2-nrLSU-tef1 sequences. The morphology of specimens collected from China and Australia were studied. Three species, D.austrosinense, D.boidinii and D.eburneum, collected from southern China, are described and illustrated as new to science, based on the morphological and molecular evidence. Dichostereumaustrosinense is characterised by the relatively large gloeocystidia (80–130 × 8–15 µm) and basidiospores (7.3–8 µm in diam.) with large warts and crests. Dichostereumboidinii is distinguished by its thick basidiomata and relatively small basidiospores (5.5–6.5 µm in diam.) with large warts and crests. Dichostereumeburneum is unique in having pale basidiomata growing on bark of living Castanopsis, abundant crystals in the context and basidiospores with dense and large ornamentations. A key to the 5 species of Dichostereum in China is given.
Coexisting ecosystem states in a tropical coastal lagoon under progressive eutrophication in the northern Cuban keys
Authors: González-De Zayas Roberto , Merino-Ibarra Martin , Valdespino-Castillo Patricia M. , Olivera Yunier , Castillo-Sandoval Sergio F.
Published: October 2018

Through a nested suite of methods here we contrast the coexistence of different ecosystem states in a tropical coastal lagoon, the Laguna Larga, with increasing eutrophication stress between 2007 and 2009. Water temperature averaged 27.4°C in the lagoon and showed a slight positive trend during the study period. Salinity averaged 35.0±6.2, exhibiting high spatial and temporal variability, and also a slight positive trend in time. In contrast, dissolved oxygen showed a substantial decreasing trend (–0.83 ml L–1 y–1; –13.3% y–1) over the period, while nutrients increased dramatically, particularly total phosphorus (2.6 µM y–1), in both cases sustaining the progression of eutrophication in the lagoon during the three years we sampled. The Karydis nutrient load-based trophic index showed that the lagoon has a spatial pattern of increasing eutrophication from the sea and the outer sector (oligotrophic-mesotrophic) to the central (mesotrophic) and the inner sector (mesotrophic-eutrophic). Two ecosystem states were found within the lagoon. In the outer oligotrophic sector, the dominant primary producers were macroalgae, seagrasses and benthic diatoms, while mollusc assemblages were highly diverse. In the inner and central sectors (where trophic status increased toward the inner lagoon) a phytoplankton-dominated ecosystem was found where mollusc assemblages are less diverse. In spite of the progression of eutrophication in the lagoon, these two different ecosystems coexisted and remained unchanged during the study period. Apparently, the effect of water residence time, which increases dramatically toward the inner lagoon, dominated over that of nutrient loadings, which is relatively more homogeneously distributed along the lagoon. Therefore, we consider that actions that reduce the water residence time are likely the most effective management options for this and other similarly choked lagoons.
The influence of mesh size and shape on the size selection of European hake (Merluccius merluccius) in demersal trawl codends: An investigation based on fish morphology and simulation of mesh geometry
Authors: Tokaç Adnan , Herrmann Bent , Gökçe Gökhan , Ahm Krag Ludvig , Sadegh Nezhad Davud
Published: October 2018

European hake (Merluccius merluccius) is an important commercial species for several European bottom trawl fisheries. Therefore, understanding the influence of codend mesh size and shape on the size selection of European hake is critical for defining technical measures for fisheries targeting this species. Based on morphology data collected on European hake, the influence of mesh size and shape on bottom trawl codend size selectivity was investigated by simulation using the FISHSELECT methodology successfully applied previously for other species. The predicted size selection for European hake was found to agree well with previous experimental results for a wide range of mesh sizes if it was assumed that the codend meshes had a relatively small opening angle, between 20° and 40°, during trawling. This study enables detailed prediction of size selectivity for European hake and offers a potential explanation for previous experimental size selectivity results.
The Processing and Structure of Steel Matrix Syntactic Foams Prepared by Infiltration Casting
Authors: Yang Quan Zhan , Wei Yan Peng , Miao Zhi Quan , Gao Peng , Yu Bo
Published: October 2018

Metal matrix syntactic foams are consisting of metal matrix and hollow spheres in closely or randomly packed, which own multifunctional properties with lightweight, damping, heat insulation, energy absorption and have a vast application prospect. Steel matrix can extend the potential of syntactic foams as a materials class to several new fields of application. In this paper, the hollow alumina spheres were introduced into the steel matrix by infiltration casting, the minimum diameter of hollow spheres for infiltration is analyzed in theory, the steel matrix syntactic foams were successfully prepared, which contain two different sphere types with average diameter sizes 3.97mm and 4.72mm, and the average densities of syntactic foams were calculated to be 4.39 (spheres occupy 43.7% of the volume) and 3.74 g/cm3 (spheres occupy 52.1% of the volume), respectively. The microstructure characteristics of the steel matrix syntactic foam were analyzed by means of scanning electron microscopy and energy spectrum.
Microstructure and Compressive Properties of Al/Al2O3 Syntactic Foams
Authors: Su Ming Ming , Wang Han , Li Kai Yan , Hao Hai
Published: October 2018

Metal matrix syntactic foams with relativity low density (2.03 g/cm3) were prepared by stir casting method. The syntactic foam is comprised of alumina hollow spheres with a diameter range of 1.0-1.5 mm as reinforcement and ZL111 aluminum alloy as matrix. Calcium particles are used to increase the viscosity of the melt to ensure that low density hollow spheres are immersed in the melt. Microstructure characteristics and quasi-static compressive properties of syntactic foams were studied. The hollow spheres were uniformly distributed in the aluminum matrix, and the interface between them was in continuous contact. Compressive stress-strain curve exhibits three distinct stages of deformation: (i) the linear elastic stage; (ii) the plateau area; (iii) final densification stage. The compression strength and plateau stress are 85 MPa and 75 MPa, respectively. The main reasons for the sample failure are the collapse of hollow spheres and the formation of multiple shear bands.
Preparation and Sound Absorption Coefficient Test of Aluminum Foam with CaO Granules Infiltrating Agent
Authors: Zhang Yong , Chen Zong Min , Wang Zhao Jun , Liu Jing Hui
Published: October 2018

Three kinds of aluminum foam of different pore sizes were prepared with a tailor-made low-pressure infiltration device. CaO granules in three sizes (0.45~0.71mm,0.71~090mm and 1.25~1.60mm) were selected as infiltrating agents. The processing parameters were as follows: granules preheat temperature of 700 °C,infiltration pressure of 0.04 MPa and aluminum liquid temperature of 720 °C. In order to improve the removal performance and porosity, mixture of CaO powder of finer than 300 mesh and pure alcohol was mixed uniformly with granules, which made the slurry-coating granules conformal contacts rather than point contacts as in the traditional infiltration method. The testing results show that among all aluminum foam specimens tested with transfer function methods, two kinds have high sound absorption coefficient in low frequency (250~1600Hz).
Cutting Edge: IL-1α and Not IL-1β Drives IL-1R1–Dependent Neonatal Murine Sepsis Lethality
Authors: Benjamin John T. , Moore Daniel J. , Bennett Clayton , van der Meer Riet , Royce Ashley , Loveland Ryan , Wynn James L.
Published: October 2018

Sepsis disproportionately affects the very old and the very young. IL-1 signaling is important in innate host defense but may also play a deleterious role in acute inflammatory conditions (including sepsis) by promulgating life-threatening inflammation. IL-1 signaling is mediated by two distinct ligands: IL-1α and IL-1β, both acting on a common receptor (IL-1R1). IL-1R1 targeting has not reduced adult human sepsis mortality despite biologic plausibility. Because the specific role of IL-1α or IL-1β in sepsis survival is unknown in any age group and the role of IL-1 signaling remains unknown in neonates, we studied the role of IL-1 signaling, including the impact of IL-1α and IL-1β, on neonatal murine sepsis survival. IL-1 signaling augments the late plasma inflammatory response to sepsis. IL-1α and not IL-1β is the critical mediator of sepsis mortality, likely because of paracrine actions within the tissue. These data do not support targeting IL-1 signaling in neonates.
Addison’s Disease due to Bilateral Adrenal Tuberculosis on 18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Positron Emission Tomography Computed Tomography
Authors: Koh Sung Ae
Published: October 2018

We present a case of a 60-year-old woman diagnosed with disseminated tuberculosis with bilateral adrenalitis resulting in Addison’s disease. The 18-fluorodeoxyglucose (18-FDG) positron emission tomography computed tomography (CT) was performed, which revealed increased FDG uptake in the neck, mediastinal, and abdominal lymph nodes, and both adrenal glands, similar to the lesions noted on CT. We suspected the patient to have a lymphoma; therefore, axillary biopsy was performed, which revealed chronic granulomatous lesion with focal caseous necrosis.
The relationship between social support and participation in stroke: A systematic review
Authors: Elloker Toughieda , Rhoda Anthea J.
Published: October 2018

Background: The incidence of cerebrovascular accidents with its devastating effects on individuals is increasing. Post-stroke, restrictions in participation are common and social support could have an influence on this. Social support provided to individuals post-stroke is vital, but the relationship between social support and participation is not well understood.Objectives: This review aimed to systematically determine the relationship between social support and participation post-stroke, based on the literature available.Method: Ebscohost, Science Direct, Biomed Central, Cochrane Library, Google Scholar, Pedro Central and Wiley Online were the electronic databases searched between 2001 and 2016. Articles were deemed to be eligible if they met the inclusion criteria and successfully underwent scrutiny to determine their relevance and methodological quality, using tools from the Critical Appraisal Skills Programme and Milton Keynes Primary Trust. A narrative synthesis method was used to analyse the included studies.Results: A total of 54 articles were identified after screening, and six articles were deemed eligible for inclusion. The articles consisted of cross-sectional, qualitative and cohort studies. Articles showed distinct, significant relationships between social support and participation where the quality and quantity of social support were important. High levels of social support had a positive influence on participation, social and leisure activities, as well as returning to work post-stroke.Conclusion: A positive relationship exists between social support and participation post-stroke. Health professionals need to include social support interventions when attempting to manage the individual with stroke holistically, as this will have positive effects on participation.
The role of financial policy
Authors: Farmer Roger E.A.
Published: October 2018

I review the contribution and influence of Milton Friedman's 1968 presidential address to the American Economic Association. I argue that Friedman's influence on the practice of central banking was profound and that his arguments in favour of monetary rules were responsible for 30 years of low and stable inflation in the period from 1979 through 2009. I present a critique of Friedman's position that market economies are self-stabilizing and I describe an alternative reconciliation of Keynesian economics with Walrasian general equilibrium theory from that which is widely accepted today by most neoclassical economists. My interpretation implies that government should intervene actively in financial markets to stabilize economic activity.
Ice crystal number concentration estimates from lidar–radar satellite remote sensing – Part 2: Controls on the ice crystal number concentration
Authors: Gryspeerdt Edward , Sourdeval Odran , Quaas Johannes , Delanoë Julien , Krämer Martina , Kühne Philipp
Published: October 2018

Abstract. The ice crystal number concentration (Ni) is a key property of
ice clouds, both radiatively and microphysically. Due to sparse
in situ measurements of ice cloud properties, the controls on the
Ni have remained difficult to determine. As more advanced
treatments of ice clouds are included in global models, it is becoming
increasingly necessary to develop strong observational constraints on the
processes involved. This work uses the DARDAR-Nice Ni retrieval described in Part 1
to investigate the controls on the Ni at a global scale. The
retrieved clouds are separated by type. The effects of temperature, proxies
for in-cloud updraft and aerosol concentrations are investigated.
Variations in the cloud top Ni (Ni(top))
consistent with both homogeneous and heterogeneous nucleation are observed
along with differing relationships between aerosol and
Ni(top) depending on the prevailing meteorological
situation and aerosol type. Away from the cloud top, the Ni
displays a different sensitivity to these controlling factors, providing a
possible explanation for the low Ni sensitivity to temperature
and ice nucleating particles (INP) observed in previous in situ studies. This satellite dataset provides a new way of investigating the response of
cloud properties to meteorological and aerosol controls. The results
presented in this work increase our confidence in the retrieved
Ni and will form the basis for further study into the processes
influencing ice and mixed phase clouds.
Low-level summertime isoprene observed at a forested mountaintop site in southern China: implications for strong regional atmospheric oxidative capacity
Authors: Gong Daocheng , Wang Hao , Zhang Shenyang , Wang Yu , Liu Shaw Chen , Guo Hai , Shao Min , He Congrong , Chen Duohong , He Lingyan , Zhou Lei , Morawska Lidia , Zhang Yuanhang , Wang Boguang
Published: October 2018

Abstract. To investigate the atmospheric oxidative capacity (AOC) in forested high
mountain areas adjacent to the photochemistry-active Pearl River Delta (PRD)
region in southern China, one-month online observations of isoprene and its
oxidation products methyl vinyl ketone (MVK) and methacrolein (MACR) were
conducted at a national background station in Nanling Mountains in summer
2016. The results showed that the observed daytime isoprene levels (377±46 pptv) were significantly lower in comparison with other forest sites
within and outside China, although the sampling site was surrounded with
subtropical evergreen broad-leaved trees which are strong isoprene emitters.
Also, high daytime (MVK + MACR) ∕ isoprene ratios (1.9±0.5)
were observed. Based on the observations, we hypothesized that the lower
isoprene levels in the study forest might be attributable to a strong AOC in
relation to the elevated regional complex air pollution. In further data
analyses, high site-level concentrations of daytime OH (7.3±0.5×106 molecules cm−3) and nighttime NO3 radicals (6.0±0.5×108 molecules cm−3) were estimated by using a
photochemical box model incorporating the master chemical mechanism
(PBM-MCM), and high regional mixing ratios of OH (19.7±2.3×106 molecules cm−3) during 09:00–15:00 LT were also obtained by
applying a parameterization method with measured aromatic hydrocarbons. And
besides, high initial mixing ratios (1213±108 pptv) and short
atmospheric reaction time (0.27 h) of isoprene during the day were derived
by a sequential reaction approach. All these indicate that isoprene was
rapidly and highly oxidized in this forest, which supports our hypothesis.
The study suggests that the complex air pollution in the PRD may have
significantly elevated the background AOC of the adjacent forests, and
probably affects the regional air quality and ecological environment in the
long term. The feedback of forest ecosystems to the increasing AOC in
southern China warrants further studies.
Atmospheric Δ17O(NO3−) reveals nocturnal chemistry dominates nitrate production in Beijing haze
Authors: He Pengzhen , Xie Zhouqing , Chi Xiyuan , Yu Xiawei , Fan Shidong , Kang Hui , Liu Cheng , Zhan Haicong
Published: October 2018

Abstract. The rapid mass increase of atmospheric nitrate is a critical driving force
for the occurrence of fine-particle pollution (referred to as haze hereafter)
in Beijing. However, the exact mechanisms for this rapid increase of nitrate
mass have not been well constrained from field observations. Here we present
the first observations of the oxygen-17 excess of atmospheric nitrate
(Δ17O(NO3-)) collected in Beijing haze to reveal the
relative importance of different nitrate formation pathways, and we also
present the simultaneously observed δ15N(NO3-). During
our sampling period, 12 h averaged mass concentrations of PM2.5
varied from 16 to 323 µg m−3 with a mean of (141±88(1SD)) µg m−3, with nitrate ranging from 0.3 to 106.7 µg m−3. The observed Δ17O(NO3-) ranged from
27.5 ‰ to 33.9 ‰ with a mean of
(30.6±1.8) ‰, while δ15N(NO3-)
ranged from −2.5 ‰ to 19.2 ‰ with a
mean of (7.4±6.8) ‰. Δ17O(NO3-)-constrained calculations suggest nocturnal pathways
(N2O5+H2O/Cl- and NO3+HC) dominated
nitrate production during polluted days (PM2.5≥75 µg m−3), with a mean possible fraction of 56–97 %.
Our results illustrate the potentiality of Δ17O in tracing nitrate
formation pathways; future modeling work with the constraint of isotope data
reported here may further improve our understanding of the nitrogen cycle during
haze.
A neural network aerosol-typing algorithm based on lidar data
Authors: Nicolae Doina , Vasilescu Jeni , Talianu Camelia , Binietoglou Ioannis , Nicolae Victor , Andrei Simona , Antonescu Bogdan
Published: October 2018

Abstract. Atmospheric aerosols play a crucial role in the Earth's system,
but their role is not completely understood, partly because of the large
variability in their properties resulting from a large number of possible
aerosol sources. Recently developed lidar-based techniques were able to
retrieve the height distributions of optical and microphysical properties of
fine-mode and coarse-mode particles, providing the types of the aerosols. One
such technique is based on artificial neural networks (ANNs). In this
article, a Neural Network Aerosol Typing Algorithm Based on Lidar Data
(NATALI) was developed to estimate the most probable aerosol type from a set
of multispectral lidar data. The algorithm was adjusted to run on
the EARLINET 3β+2α(+1δ) profiles. The NATALI algorithm is
based on the ability of specialized ANNs to resolve the overlapping values of
the intensive optical parameters, calculated for each identified layer in the
multiwavelength Raman lidar profiles. The ANNs were trained using synthetic
data, for which a new aerosol model was developed. Two parallel typing
schemes were implemented in order to accommodate data sets containing (or not)
the measured linear particle depolarization ratios (LPDRs): (a) identification
of 14 aerosol mixtures (high-resolution typing) if the LPDR is available in
the input data files, and (b) identification of five predominant aerosol types
(low-resolution typing) if the LPDR is not provided. For each scheme, three
ANNs were run simultaneously, and a voting procedure selects the most
probable aerosol type. The whole algorithm has been integrated into a Python
application. The limitation of NATALI is that the results are strongly
dependent on the input data, and thus the outputs should be understood
accordingly. Additional applications of NATALI are feasible, e.g. testing the quality of
the optical data and identifying incorrect calibration or insufficient cloud
screening. Blind tests on EARLINET data samples showed the
capability of NATALI to retrieve the aerosol type from a large variety of
data, with different levels of quality and physical content.
Considerations for temperature sensor placement on rotary-wing unmanned aircraft systems
Authors: Greene Brian R. , Segales Antonio R. , Waugh Sean , Duthoit Simon , Chilson Phillip B.
Published: October 2018

Abstract. Integrating sensors with a rotary-wing unmanned aircraft system (rwUAS) can
introduce several sources of biases and uncertainties if not properly
accounted for. To maximize the potential for rwUAS to provide reliable
observations, it is imperative to have an understanding of their strengths
and limitations under varying environmental conditions. This study focuses on
the quality of measurements relative to sensor locations on board rwUAS.
Typically, thermistors require aspiration and proper siting free of heat
sources to make representative measurements of the atmosphere. In an effort
to characterize ideal locations for sensor placement, a series of experiments
were conducted in the homogeneous environment of an indoor chamber with a
pedestal-mounted rwUAS. A suite of thermistors along with a wind probe were
mounted inside of a solar shield, which was affixed to a linear actuator arm.
The actuator arm was configured such that the sensors within the solar shield
would travel underneath the platform into and out of the propeller wash. The
actuator arm was displaced horizontally underneath the platform while the
motors were throttled to 50 %, yielding a time series of temperature and
wind speed that could be compared to temperatures being collected in the
ambient environment. Results indicate that temperatures may be biased in the
order of 0.5–1.0 ∘C and vary appreciably without aspiration,
sensors placed close to the tips of the rotors may experience biases due to
frictional and compressional heating as a result of turbulent fluctuations,
and sensors in proximity to motors may experience biases approaching
1 ∘C. From these trials, it has been determined that sensor
placement underneath a propeller on an rwUAS a distance of one quarter the
length of the propeller from the tip is most likely to be minimally impacted
from influences of turbulence and motor, compressional, and frictional
heating while still maintaining adequate airflow. When opting to use rotor
wash as a means for sensor aspiration, the user must be cognizant of these
potential sources of platform-induced heating when determining sensor
location.
Lidar temperature series in the middle atmosphere as a reference data set – Part 1: Improved retrievals and a 20-year cross-validation of two co-located French lidars
Authors: Wing Robin , Hauchecorne Alain , Keckhut Philippe , Godin-Beekmann Sophie , Khaykin Sergey , McCullough Emily M. , Mariscal Jean-François , d'Almeida Éric
Published: October 2018

Abstract. The objective of this paper and its companion (Wing et al., 2018) is to show
that ground-based lidar temperatures are a stable, accurate, and precise
data set for use in validating satellite temperatures at high vertical
resolution. Long-term lidar observations of the middle atmosphere have been
conducted at the Observatoire de Haute-Provence (OHP), located in southern
France (43.93∘ N, 5.71∘ E), since 1978. Making use of
20 years of high-quality co-located lidar measurements, we have shown that
lidar temperatures calculated using the Rayleigh technique at 532 nm are
statistically identical to lidar temperatures calculated from the
non-absorbing 355 nm channel of a differential absorption lidar (DIAL)
system. This result is of interest to members of the Network for the
Detection of Atmospheric Composition Change (NDACC) ozone lidar community
seeking to produce validated temperature products. Additionally, we have
addressed previously published concerns of lidar–satellite relative warm bias
in comparisons of upper-mesospheric and lower-thermospheric (UMLT)
temperature profiles. We detail a data treatment algorithm which minimizes
known errors due to data selection procedures, a priori choices, and
initialization parameters inherent in the lidar retrieval. Our algorithm
results in a median cooling of the lidar-calculated absolute temperature
profile by 20 K at 90 km altitude with respect to the standard OHP
NDACC lidar temperature algorithm. The confidence engendered by the long-term
cross-validation of two independent lidars and the improved lidar temperature
data set is exploited in Wing et al. (2018) for use in multi-year satellite
validations.
A long-term hydrometeorological dataset (1993–2014) of a
northern mountain basin: Wolf Creek Research Basin, Yukon
Territory, Canada
Authors: Rasouli Kabir , Pomeroy John W. , Janowicz J. Richard , Williams Tyler J. , Carey Sean K.
Published: October 2018

Abstract. A set of hydrometeorological data is presented in this paper, which can be used to characterize the hydrometeorology and climate of a subarctic mountain basin and has proven particularly useful for forcing hydrological models and assessing their performance in capturing hydrological processes in subarctic alpine environments. The forcing dataset includes daily precipitation, hourly air temperature, humidity, wind, solar and net radiation, soil temperature, and geographical information system data. The model performance assessment data include snow depth and snow water equivalent, streamflow, soil moisture, and water level in a groundwater well. This dataset was recorded at different elevation bands in Wolf Creek Research Basin, near Whitehorse, Yukon Territory, Canada representing forest, shrub tundra, and alpine tundra biomes from 1993 through 2014. Measurements continue through 2018 and are planned for the future at this basin and will be updated to the data website. The database presented and described in this article is available for download at https://doi.org/10.20383/101.0113.
GHOST: Geoscientific Hollow Sphere Tessellation
Authors: Thieulot Cedric
Published: October 2018

Abstract. I present in this work the GHOST (Geoscientific Hollow Sphere Tessellation) software which allows for the fast generation of computational meshes in hollow sphere geometries counting up to 100 million cells. Each mesh is composed of concentric spherical shells which are built out of quadrilaterals or triangles. I focus here on three commonly used meshes used in geodynamics/geophysics and demonstrate the accuracy of shell surfaces and mesh volume measurements as a function of resolution. I further benchmark the built-in gravity and gravitational potential procedures in the simple case of a constant density geometry and finally show how the produced meshes can be used to visualise the S40RTS mantle tomography model. The code is open source and is available on the GitHub sharing platform.
Faking the News: Intentional Guided Variation Reflects Cognitive Biases in Transmission Chains Without Recall
Authors: Stubbersfield Joseph , Tehrani Jamshid , Flynn Emma
Published: October 2018

Two potential forms of mutation in cultural evolution have been identified: ‘copying error’, where learners make random modifications to a behaviour and ‘guided variation’ where learners makes non-random modifications. While copying error is directly analogous to genetic mutation, guided variation is a specifically cultural process that does not have a close parallel in biological evolution. It has been suggested that the decision-making processes underlying intentional guided variation may produce similar results to cultural transmission as both are likely to be influenced by cognitive biases. This study uses a unique linear transmission chain design, without any influence of recall, to examine intentional guided variation. Participants were asked to alter news stories however they wished in order to make them more interesting, the product of their modification was then passed to the next participant and so on down the chain. The products of the chains were then compared with the original material so as to assess any underlying biases in the changed content. Through this process of guided variation, original material which scored low for bias-exploiting content significantly increased in at least one known content bias, whereas original material which scored high for bias-exploiting content was not significantly altered in this respect.
Physiological alterations and production of guava under water salinity and nitrogen fertilizer application
Authors: Bezerra Idelfonso Leandro , Gheyi Hans Raj , Nobre Reginaldo Gomes , Barbosa Joicy Lima , Fátima Reynaldo Teodoro de , Elias Jutahy Jorge , Souza Leandro De Pádua , Azevedo Felipe Luenio de
Published: October 2018

Adequate management of saline water irrigation and nitrogen (N) fertilizer application in agriculture can contribute substantially to expanding guava cultivation in the semi-arid region of Northeast Brazil. This study aimed to evaluate gas exchange and production of ‘Paluma’ guava cultivated with different levels of water salinity and N. The experiment was carried out in drainage lysimeters under field conditions in an experimental area of the Federal University of Campina Grande (UFCG), Campus of Pombal, PB, Brazil. The experimental design was randomized blocks, in a 5 × 4 factorial scheme, with five levels of water salinity – ECw (0.3, 1.1, 1.9, 2.7 and 3.5 dS m-1) and four doses of N (70, 100, 130 and 160% of the recommendation) with three replicates. The dose relative to 100% corresponded to 541.1 mg of N dm-3 of soil. The following production components were evaluated: number of fruits, mean fruit weight, polar and equatorial diameter of fruits, and polar diameter/equatorial diameter ratio. In addition, the following physiological variables were evaluated at 180 days after fruit pruning: stomatal conductance, CO2 assimilation rate, internal CO2 concentration and transpiration rate. CO2 assimilation and transpiration rate were used to calculate instantaneous water use efficiency. The interaction between water salinity and N doses did not cause significant effects on any variable studied. Irrigation water salinity above 0.3 dS m-1 hampered gas exchange at 180 days after fruit pruning and negatively affected production components.
Risk factors associated with the epidemiology of Toxoplasma gondii in cattle and buffaloes in the state of Pará, Brazil
Authors: Oliveira Jefferson Pinto de , Casseb Alexandre Do Rosário , Ramos Anelise De Sarges , Rolim Filho Sebastião Tavares , Nogueira Henrique Low , Pinho Rogério Oliveira , Pereira Washington Luiz Assunção
Published: October 2018

Toxoplasma gondii is an obligate intracellular protozoan that parasitizes several hosts worldwide, of which cats are definitive hosts. The objective of this study is to evaluate the risk factors associated with the epidemiology of T. gondii in cattle and buffaloes in the state of Pará, Brazil. A total of 2,070 bovine samples (1,749 cattle and 321 buffaloes) were evaluated in 100 rural properties distributed in 51 municipalities from all mesoregions of the state. The evaluated risk factors were animal gender, type of farm, and number of cats in the properties. The serological prevalence of T. gondii was evaluated using the indirect enzyme immunoadsorption assay (iELISA). The samples with a sample/positive (S/P) ratio ? 0.5 were considered positive and analyzed using the indirect immunofluorescence assay (IFA). The samples diluted at 1:64 were considered positive. The chi-square test with a level of significance of 5% and the odds ratio (OR) with a confidence interval of 95% was applied.The data were analyzed using BioEstat software version 5.0.The prevalence of T. gondii in bovines was 35.79% and 45.12% in ELISA and IFAT, respectively. The prevalence was 34.48% and 44.14% in cattle and 42.99% and 50.47% in buffaloes using ELISA and IFA, respectively. The mesoregion with the highest prevalence of infection was Marajó Island, corresponding to 42.86% (129) and 50.5% (152) in ELISA and IFA, respectively. In buffaloes, the prevalence of T. gondiiusing ELISA was higher in males (p < 0.05) in the two age groups. In contrast, the prevalence of T. gondii using IFA was higher in males in the age group 13 to 24 months (p < 0.05). The type of farm did not affect the prevalence of T. gondii in cattle (p > 0.05). However, the presence of cats strongly affected the occurrence of infection in cattle. These results demonstrate the high levels of anti-T. gondii antibodies in cattle and buffaloes in Pará and this may be a public health problem. Furthermore, the presence of cats is a risk factor for infection with T. gondii in these species in Pará.
Sustainability and typology of dairy production systems
Authors: Kuwahara Kellen Cristina , Damasceno Julio Cesar , Bánkuti Ferenc Istvan , Prizon Rodrigo César , Rossoni Diogo Francisco , Eckstein Ilton Isandro
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study is to analyze the typology of dairy production systems (DPS) in Paraná, Brazil, based on sustainable practices adopted by agricultural producers. A total of 153 semi-structured questionnaires containing variables for general characterization of DPS, socioeconomic characteristics of farmers, as well as environmental, social, and economic sustainability actions implemented by rural workers were applied. Common factor analysis (CFA) was used to evaluate sustainability variables. Three factors were created: economic (F1), social (F2), and environmental (F3). Hierarchical clusters were formed using the factor scores obtained in CFA. Three clusters were defined and were compared with F1, F2, and F3. There were significant differences in F1 and F2 between clusters 1, 2, and 3. Cluster 1 contained DPS highly compliant with economic, social, and environmental sustainability practices. Cluster 2 was defined by DPS with negative mean values for all three factors. Cluster 3 contained DPS that were highly compliant with F1 and F2 activities compared to cluster 2 and poorly compliant with F1 and F2 actions compared to cluster 1. Therefore, the DPS in Paraná vary according to the sustainable activities implemented by farm managers. In addition, most analyzed DPS have low survival capacity in the medium- and long-term. The most critical sustainability factor was F3, followed by F2 and F1.
Production performance of crossbred dairy cows fed palm kernel cake in feedlots
Authors: Pimentel Leidiane Reis , Silva Fabiano Ferreira da , Silva Robério Rodrigues , Porto Junior Antônio Ferraz , Costa Evely Giovanna Leite , Schio Alex Resende , Souza Dicastro Dias de , Rodrigues Eli Santana de Oliveira , Silva Gonçalo Mesquita da , Menezes Murilo De Almeida
Published: October 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the effect of inclusion of palm kernel cake in the diet on dietary intake and digestibility and performance of lactating crossbred cows. Twelve Holstein × Zebu crossbred cows were distributed in three 4 × 4 Latin squares with the following treatments: control (no inclusion of palm kernel cake in the diet); inclusion of 50 g of palm kernel cake kg-1 in the total dry matter, 100 g of palm kernel cake kg-1 in the total dry matter, and 150 g of palm kernel cake kg-1 in the total dry matter. There was no effect of palm kernel cake on the intakes of dry matter, corrected neutral detergent fiber, non-fibrous carbohydrates, and total digestible nutrients. The intakes of crude protein and ether extract increased linearly. Inclusion of palm kernel cake in the diet did not influence the digestibility coefficients of dry matter, protein, ether extract, and non-fibrous carbohydrates, or milk production, feed efficiency, and body weight change. Fat-corrected milk yield increased linearly with the addition of palm kernel cake. Inclusion of up to 150 g of palm kernel cake in diets did not influence the dietary intake and performance of lactating cows or the composition of their milk.
Using CLIL Approach to Improve English Language in a Colombian Higher Educational Institution
Authors: Salamanca Carolina , Montoya Sara I
Published: October 2018

In Colombia, the development of communicative skills of English as a foreign language in students of Higher Educational Institutions (HEIs) is considered as a priority so the professionals can face the challenges of a globalized world. This project aimed to determine the effectiveness of using CLIL approach through the academic subjects in first learning level students of a Nursing program. The research had a mixed quasi experimental design of a control group not equivalent with measurements before and after CLIL interventions, which consisted in accompanying and guidance to six teachers who instruct the seven subjects of the academic program in which the experimental group was. Along 17 applications designed from the 4C’s (Content, Cognition, Communication and Culture), and the methodology collaborative work, students showed a significant progress in using communicative and cognitive abilities according with the development performances. The used tests to evaluate students’ English level showed from the statistical data analysis, applying T-student test, that initiating the process the mean of the control group was significantly higher than the mean of the experimental group, and posteriorly to CLIL approach applications, a mean improvement of the experimental group was observed becoming statistically similar to the mean of the control group. The research results provide a pedagogical path to strengthen bilingualism processes and to contribute with graduate’s communicative competences in a foreign language.
Effect of Processing on Mungbean (Vigna radiata) Flour Nutritional Properties and Protein Composition
Authors: Skylas Daniel J. , Molloy Mark P. , Willows Robert D. , Salman Hayfa , Blanchard Christopher L. , Quail Ken J.
Published: October 2018

Pulses are traditionally processed prior to consumption, providing opportunities for modifying nutritional composition, dependant on the type of pulse and method used. In this study, we investigated the effect of whole seed, dehulling (dahl), germination and roasting on changes in mungbean flour nutritional properties, protein composition and relative protein abundance. Processed flours were analysed and compared for protein content, moisture, fat, ash, dietary fibre, total starch and amylose. Significant differences were imparted on dietary fibre content, with roasting and germination increasing the ratio of insoluble/soluble fibre as well as resistant starch. Comparative proteomic analysis resulted in a combined total of 539 protein identifications, searching against the Mungbean reference genome (NCBI Vigna radiata Annotation Release 100). Normalised spectral abundance factors were used as a measure of relative abundance and statistical analysis was applied (Students’ T-Test), where proteins with a p-value of < 0.05 considered significantly different. Processing imparted considerable changes to nutritional composition and should be further exploited for food applications. The comparative proteomic analyses carried out in this study proved useful for investigating the effect of processing on subsequent changes in protein composition and relative abundance.
Profitability of Cowpea Intercropped With Maize in West Africa Guinea Savanna
Authors: Haruna Abdulai , Kombiok James Matent , Mohamed Askia Musah , Sarkodie-Addo Joseph , Larbi Asamoah , Rahman Nurudeen Abdul
Published: October 2018

An on-farm trial was conducted over a 2-year period in Tibali in the Savelugu district of Northern region of Ghana to evaluate the productivity and economic returns of hybrid and open pollinated maize (OPV) either in pure stands or intercropped with erect and trailing cowpea. The maize varieties used were medium maturing (110 days) whie the cowpea varieties were early maturiing (70 days). The experiment was conducted in a randomized complete block design with 14 treatments (sole pan53, sole Etubi, sole mamaba, sole obatampa, sole erect cowpea, sole trailing cowpea, erect cowpea + pan53, erect cowpea+etubi, erect cowpea+mamaba, erect cowpea+obatampa, traing cowpea + pan53, traling cowpea+etubi, trailing cowpea+mamaba and trailing cowpea + obatampa) replicated on 10 farms. Intercropping had better productivity and economic returns than sole cropping. Intercropping maize with trailing cowpea type had better productivity and economic return than intercropping with erect type of cowpea. Intercropping the OPV maize with cowpea had better productivity and economic return than intercropping hybrid maize with cowpea. Farmers may either intercrop OPV maize with trailing cowpea type or hybrid maize variety Pan 53 maize with trailing cowpea type for better productivity and economic return.
Grensoverschrijdende fraudebestrijding?
Authors: Walter T.
Published: October 2018

Grensoverschrijdende fraudebestrijding? De interpretatie van artikel 225 Sr als Nederlandse variant van de Amerikaanse books and records provisions

In deze bijdrage wordt gesteld dat het Openbaar Ministerie in grote corruptiezaken een interpretatie geeft aan valsheid in geschrift, die gebaseerd lijkt te zijn op de Amerikaanse books and records provisions. Het Nederlandse strafbare feit valsheid in geschrifte en de books and records provisions worden in deze bijdrage met elkaar vergeleken, en er wordt geconcludeerd dat valsheid in geschrift, in het bijzonder valsheid van bedrijfsadministratie, een aanzienlijk beperktere reikwijdte heeft dan de books and records provisions. De interpretatie die het Openbaar Ministerie aan valsheid in geschrift lijkt te hebben gegeven in recente fraudezaken, dient dan ook met enige argwaan te worden beschouwd.
Criminele inmenging in sportverenigingen een probleem?!
Authors: Vrouwenfelder J. , Liem V.
Published: October 2018

Criminele inmenging in sportverenigingen een probleem?! Een korte verkenning van problemen van financieel-economische criminaliteit in de sportwereld aan de hand van cases uit de praktijk

Sport en criminaliteit zijn twee zaken die op het eerste gezicht niet goed samen lijken gaan. Toch zien we met regelmaat berichten waarin sport en criminaliteit met elkaar in verband worden gebracht. Uit een recent onderzoek volgt onder meer dat personen met een dubieuze achtergrond zich regelmatig positief proberen te profileren met het steunen van maatschappelijk nuttige activiteiten. Ze sponsoren bijvoorbeeld sportverenigingen. Minimaal een op de drie Nederlandse gemeenten kent wel een dergelijke (criminele) ‘weldoener’. Tijd voor een korte verkenning van problemen van financieel-economische criminaliteit in de sportwereld.
Naar een meer samenhangend mededingings- en gegevensbeschermingstoezicht in datagedreven markten
Authors: Graef Inge
Published: October 2018

Naar een meer samenhangend mededingings- engegevensbeschermingstoezicht in datagedreven markten

Deze bijdrage betoogt dat het mededingings- en gegevensbeschermingstoezicht beter op elkaar afgestemd moeten worden om consumentenbelangen in datagedreven markten te waarborgen. De nasleep van de Facebook/WhatsApp-concentratie laat zien dat het toezicht op digitale markten te wensen overlaat, ondanks de vele handhavingsacties in verschillende lidstaten. Vanuit het perspectief van het mededingingsrecht worden aanbevelingen voor een meer samenhangend toezicht op misbruik van economische machtspositie en concentraties gedaan, zowel inhoudelijk bij de toepassing van concepten als institutioneel bij het uitoefenen van bevoegdheden door de betreffende toezichthouders. Geconcludeerd wordt dat er ruimte is voor synergieën maar dat er ook sprake kan zijn van spanning tussen de twee rechtsgebieden.