bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Calibration of METRIC Model to Estimate Energy Balance over a Drip-Irrigated Apple Orchard
Authors: De la Fuente-Sáiz Daniel , Ortega-Farías Samuel , Fonseca David , Ortega-Salazar Samuel , Kilic Ayse , Allen Richard
Published: June 2017

A field experiment was carried out to calibrate and evaluate the METRIC (Mapping EvapoTranspiration at high Resolution Internalized with Calibration) model for estimating the spatial and temporal variability of instantaneous net radiation (Rni), soil heat flux (Gi), sensible heat flux (Hi), and latent heat flux (LEi) over a drip-irrigated apple (Malus domestica cv. Pink Lady) orchard located in the Pelarco valley, Maule Region, Chile (35°25′20′′LS; 71°23′57′′LW; 189 m.a.s.l.). The study was conducted in a plot of 5.5 hectares using 20 satellite images (Landsat 7 ETM+) acquired on clear sky days during three growing seasons (2012/2013, 2013/2014 and 2014/2015). Specific sub-models to estimate Gi, leaf area index (LAI) and aerodynamic roughness length for momentum transfer (Zom) were calibrated for the apple orchard as an improvement to the standard METRIC model. The performance of the METRIC model was evaluated at the time of satellite overpass using measurements of Hi and LEi obtained from an eddy correlation system. In addition, estimated values of Rni, Gi and LAI were compared with ground-truth measurements from a four-way net radiometer, soil heat flux plates and plant canopy analyzer, respectively. Validation indicated that LAI, Zom and Gi were estimated using the calibrated functions with errors of +2%, +6% and +3% while those were computed using the standard functions with error of +59%, +83%, and +12%, respectively. In addition, METRIC using the calibrated functions estimated Hi and LEi with error of +5% and +16%, while using the original functions estimated Hi and LEi with error of +29% and +26%, respectively.
Comparing Performance of Biomass Gasifier Stoves: Influence of a Multi-Context Approach
Authors: Kersten Wouter , Long Nguyen , Diehl Jan , Crul Marcel , Van Engelen Jo
Published: June 2017

Millions of people worldwide die prematurely or suffer from severe health ailments due to cooking equipment that causes unhealthy doses of (household) air pollution. Many attempts to address this have fallen short because technology was not improved sufficiently or the way it was introduced constituted an ill fit with the broader “cooking eco-system”. In terms of technology, (biomass) gasifier stoves look promising on all three sustainability dimensions (people, planet, profit) but have not been adopted on a substantial scale across cultures and regions either. We therefore used a design approach that takes multiple contexts (target groups) into account and compared the performance of a gasifier stove that was developed following this multi-context approach with four previous gasifier versions. With the comparative assessment using criteria well beyond mere technological performance we found that it performed better than these versions as well as than what could be expected based on historical learning, while providing additional systemic advantages. These results encourage verification of the value of the multi-context approach in more settings while providing clues for refinement of the assessment method.
Comparative Performance of Various Disc-Type Furrow Openers in No-Till Paddy Field Conditions
Authors: Ahmad Fiaz , Weimin Ding , Qishou Ding , Rehim Abdur , Jabran Khawar
Published: June 2017

Different furrow openers are required to be evaluated for their suitability to manage rice straw for direct planting of wheat in paddy fields. This study was carried out to assess the straw-cutting ability and draft requirements of four different disc-type furrow openers (notched, toothed, smooth-edge single disc, and double disc) in no-till paddy fields. The openers were attached to an in-field traction rig equipped with S-type load cells, and tested using three operating depths of 30, 60, and 90 mm, and three traveling speeds of 0.1, 0.2, and 0.3 m s−1. Vertical and horizontal forces acting on the openers were observed using LabVIEW software based data acquisition system. The results of this study indicated that the furrow opener type, operating depth, and speed significantly influenced the horizontal and vertical forces, as well as straw-cutting ability of the furrow openers. The highest draft and vertical force were noted for double disc-type furrow openers. The mean straw-cutting efficiency of notched, toothed, and smooth-edge single disc and double disc furrow openers were 12.4, 46.2, 11.4, and 78.5%, respectively. The double disc furrow opener (DD) produced the lowest level of hair-pinned straw and had the highest straw-cutting efficiency with a value of 88.6% at 90 mm operating depth, and therefore had the best performance in comparison with other furrow openers.
Sustainability Implications of Deficit Irrigation in a Mature Water Economy: A Case Study in Southern Spain
Authors: Expósito Alfonso , Berbel Julio
Published: June 2017

Deficit irrigation (DI) is an agricultural practice in which the volume of irrigation water applied during the crop cycle is below the irrigation requirements for maximum production, the aim of which is to increase irrigation water productivity. Most research on this technique has focused on agronomic strategies while the economic and environmental consequences have received little attention. This study aims to shed some light on this matter and presents preliminary results regarding the implications of DI with respect to the sustainable use of water resources. The analysis is based on the DPSIR analytical framework (Driving force/Pressure/State/Impact/Response) and the microeconomics of DI. The case study focuses on intensive olive groves in the Guadalquivir river basin in Southern Spain (where olive cultivation accounts for 50% of the total irrigated area). The analysis shows that the widespread use of DI practices, which is the farmers’ response to a decreasing net water supply and falling farm incomes (driving force) in the context of a mature water economy, may help to break the DPSIR chain of causality, provided that there are restrictions on any expansion in irrigated area. They can, thus, play a role in achieving sustainable water use. Conversely, demand and supply (regulator) responses involving raising the price of water would lead to higher pressures on the resource and represent a negative driving force in our DPSIR model.
Water Treatment Measures to Improve Ecological Value in Traditional Korean Villages: The Case of Oeam Village, Asan City, Korea
Authors: An Byung-Chul , Park Eun-Yeong
Published: June 2017

Maintaining and improving the ecological soundness and value of Korea’s traditional villages can contribute to their role as tourism resources. This study examined water treatment measures intended to improve the ecological value of one of South Korea’s traditional villages by analyzing the efficiency of water treatment in a pond at the village’s entrance and changes in flora around the village pond. The results demonstrated a statistically significant reduction of non-point pollutant sources flowing from the pond into surrounding farmland. Treatment efficiencies of Total Nitrogen, Dissolved Oxygen, Biochemical Oxygen Demand, and Chemical Oxygen Demand and Total Phosphorus were 75.33, 30.02, 65.52, 59.12 and 78.85 percent respectively. Moreover, changes to the flora around the village pond were analyzed. Prior to the village pond being dug, the flora consisted of a single-species gramineous plant; however, after the village pond was constructed, nine types of aquatic plants were identified, including lotus plants. The flora diversity was increased, with the aquatic plants showing strong growth. This pond function influences the reduction of pollution load for streams outside the village, and distributes the treatment effects of pollution sources that occur inside the village.
Effective Suckling C57BL/6, Kunming, and BALB/c Mouse Models with Remarkable Neurological Manifestation for Zika Virus Infection
Authors: Yu Jianhai , Liu Xuling , Ke Changwen , Wu Qinghua , Lu Weizhi , Qin Zhiran , He Xiaoen , Liu Yujing , Deng Jieli , Xu Suiqi , Li Ying , Zhu Li , Wan Chengsong , Zhang Qiwei , Xiao Weiwei , Xie Qian , Zhang Bao , Zhao Wei
Published: June 2017

Since 2015, 84 countries and territories reported evidence of vector-borne Zika Virus (ZIKV) transmission. The World Health Organization (WHO) declared that ZIKV and associated consequences especially the neurological autoimmune disorder Guillain–Barré syndrome (GBS) and microcephaly will remain a significant enduring public health challenge requiring intense action. We apply a standardization of the multi-subcutaneous dorsal inoculation method to systematically summarize clinical neurological manifestation, viral distribution, and tissue damage during the progress of viremia and systemic spread in suckling mouse models. We found that C57BL/6 and Kunming mice (KM) both showed remarkable and uniform neurologic manifestations. C57BL/6 owned the highest susceptibility and pathogenicity to the nervous system, referred to as movement disorders, with 100% incidence, while KM was an economic model for a Chinese study characterized by lower limb weakness with 62% morbidity. Slight yellow extraocular exudates were observed in BALB/c, suggesting the association with similar ocular findings to those of clinical cases. The virus distribution and pathological changes in the sera, brains, livers, kidneys, spleens, and testes during disease progression had strong regularity and uniformity, demonstrating the effectiveness and plasticity of the animal models. The successful establishment of these animal models will be conducive to expound the pathogenic mechanism of GBS.
Systemic Propagation of a Fluorescent Infectious Clone of a Polerovirus Following Inoculation by Agrobacteria and Aphids
Authors: Boissinot Sylvaine , Pichon Elodie , Sorin Céline , Piccini Céline , Scheidecker Danièle , Ziegler-Graff Véronique , Brault Véronique
Published: June 2017

A fluorescent viral clone of the polerovirus Turnip yellows virus (TuYV) was engineered by introducing the Enhanced Green Fluorescent Protein (EGFP) sequence into the non-structural domain sequence of the readthrough protein, a minor capsid protein. The resulting recombinant virus, referred to as TuYV-RTGFP, was infectious in several plant species when delivered by agroinoculation and invaded efficiently non-inoculated leaves. As expected for poleroviruses, which infect only phloem cells, the fluorescence emitted by TuYV-RTGFP was restricted to the vasculature of infected plants. In addition, TuYV-RTGFP was aphid transmissible and enabled the observation of the initial sites of infection in the phloem after aphid probing in epidermal cells. The aphid-transmitted virus moved efficiently to leaves distant from the inoculation sites and importantly retained the EGFP sequence in the viral genome. This work reports on the first engineered member in the Luteoviridae family that can be visualized by fluorescence emission in systemic leaves of different plant species after agroinoculation or aphid transmission.
Rotavirus Genomic RNA Complex Forms via Specific RNA–RNA Interactions: Disruption of RNA Complex Inhibits Virus Infectivity
Authors: Fajardo Jr. Teodoro , Sung Po-Yu , Celma Cristina , Roy Polly
Published: June 2017

Rotavirus (RV), a member of the Reoviridae family, causes infection in children and infants, with high morbidity and mortality. To be viable, the virus particle must package a set of eleven RNA segments. In order to understand the packaging mechanism, here, we co-synthesized sets of RNA segments in vitro in different combinations and detected by two alternate methods: the electrophoretic mobility shift assay (EMSA) and the RNA-bead pull-down assay. We showed that viral positive-sense RNA segments interact with each other in a specific manner, forming RNA complexes, and that the RNA–RNA interactions followed a sequential order initiated by small RV segments. Further, we demonstrated that RNA complexes were perturbed by targeted specific antisense oligoribonucleotides (ORNs) complementary to short RNA sequences, indicating that the RNA–RNA interactions between different segments were sequence-specific. The same inhibitory ORNs also had the capability to inhibit virus replication. The combined in vitro and in vivo data inferred that RNA–RNA interactions and specific complex formation are essential for sorting different segments, possibly prior to, or during, genome packaging. As genome assembly is a universal requirement in the Reoviridae family, this work offers an approach towards a further understanding of the sorting and packaging mechanisms of RV and related dsRNA (double-stranded RNA) viruses.
Pixel-Level Spatiotemporal Analyses of Vegetation Fractional Coverage Variation and Its Influential Factors in a Desert Steppe: A Case Study in Inner Mongolia, China
Authors: Song Yifan , Guo Zhongxiao , Lu Yajing , Yan Denghua , Liao Zilong , Liu Huiwen , Cui Yingjie
Published: June 2017

Determining vegetation variation and its influential factors in a desert steppe under the impacts of climate change and human activities is crucial and meaningful for improving the understanding of desertification and taking targeted measures in ecological restoration. As compared to a large spatial scale such as a region or a whole catchment, which are more common in published studies, a micro perspective at the pixel level is provided in this study to investigate the vegetation fractional coverage dynamics and build the correlations between vegetation fractional coverage and its multiple influential factors, including precipitation, temperature, soil water, groundwater and human activities in a desert steppe region in the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China. The average vegetation fractional coverage in August for the years 2000–2011 is 0.38 in the study area. The interaction of rain (R = 0.80) and heat (R = −0.76) significantly determines the growth and distribution of the vegetation in the study area. Besides, the effects of some other factors on vegetation fractional coverage should not be neglected, including groundwater (R = 0.04), available water content of soil (R = 0.23) and livestock density (R = 0.28). From the perspective of centre dynamics for the years 2000–2011, the annual precipitation centre has better synchronism with the vegetation centre, while the movement of the temperature centre is more stable.
REPRESENTATIVENESS OF EUROPEAN BIOCHAR RESEARCH: PART I – FIELD EXPERIMENTS
Authors: VERHEIJEN Frank G. A. , MANKASINGH Utra , PENIZEK Vit , PANZACCHI Pietro , GLASER Bruno , JEFFERY Simon , BASTOS Ana Catarina , TAMMEORG Priit , KERN Jürgen , ZAVALLONI Costanza , ZANCHETTIN Giulia , SAKRABANI Ruben
Published: June 2017

A representativeness survey of existing European Biochar field experiments within the Biochar COST Action TD1107 was conducted to gather key information for setting up future experiments and collaborations, and to minimise duplication of efforts amongst European researchers. Woody feedstock biochar, applied without organic or inorganic fertiliser appears over-represented compared to other categories, especially considering the availability of crop residues, manures, and other organic waste streams and the efforts towards achieving a zero waste economy. Fertile arable soils were also over-represented while shallow unfertile soils were under-represented. Many of the latter are likely in agroforestry or forest plantation land use. The most studied theme was crop production. However, other themes that can provide evidence of mechanisms, as well as potential undesired side-effects, were relatively well represented. Biochar use for soil contamination remediation was the least represented theme; further work is needed to identify which specific contaminants, or mixtures of contaminants, have the potential for remediation by different biochars.
The Discovery of λ Bootis Stars: The Southern Survey I
Authors: Gray R. O. , Riggs Q. S. , Koen C. , Murphy S. J. , Newsome I. M. , Corbally C. J. , Cheng K.-P. , Neff J. E.
Published: June 2017

The λ Boo stars are a class of chemically peculiar Population I A-type stars characterized by under-abundances of the refractory elements, but near-solar abundances of carbon, nitrogen, oxygen, and sulfur. There is some evidence that λ Boo stars have higher frequencies of “bright” debris disks than normal A-type stars. The discovery of four exoplanets orbiting HR 8799, a λ Boo star with a resolved debris disk, suggests that the λ Boo phenomenon may be related to the presence of a dynamic debris disk, perhaps perturbed by migrating planets. However, only 64 λ Boo stars are known, and those stars were discovered with different techniques, making it problematic to use that sample for statistical purposes, including determining the frequency of debris disks. The purpose of this paper is to derive a new sample of λ Boo stars using a technique that does not lead to biases with respect to the presence of infrared excesses. Through spectroscopic observations in the southern hemisphere, we have discovered 33 λ Boo stars and have confirmed 12 others. As a step toward determining the proportion of λ Boo stars with infrared excesses, we have used WISE data to examine the infrared properties of this sample out to 22 μm. On this basis, we cannot conclude that λ Boo stars have a greater tendency than normal A-type stars to show infrared excesses. However, observing this sample at longer wavelengths may change that conclusion, as many λ Boo debris disks are cool and do not radiate strongly at 22 μm.
Nonlinear Color–Metallicity Relations of Globular Clusters. VII. Nonlinear Absorption-line Index versus Metallicity Relations and Bimodal Index Distributions of NGC 5128 Globular Clusters
Authors: Kim Sooyoung , Yoon Suk-Jin
Published: June 2017

Spectroscopy on the globular cluster (GC) system of NGC 5128 revealed bimodality in absorption-line index distributions of its old GCs. GC division is a widely observed and studied phenomenon whose interpretation has depicted host galaxy formation and evolution such that it harbors two distinct metallicity groups. Such a conventional view of GC bimodality has mainly been based on photometry. The recent GC photometric data, however, presented an alternative perspective in which the nonlinear metallicity-to-color transformation is responsible for color bimodality of GC systems. Here we apply the same line of analysis to the spectral indices and examine the absorption-line index versus metallicity relations for the NGC 5128 GC system. NGC 5128 GCs display nonlinearity in the metallicity-index planes, most prominently for the Balmer lines and by a non-negligible degree for the metallicity-sensitive magnesium line. We demonstrate that the observed spectroscopic division of NGC 5128 GCs can be caused by the nonlinear nature of the metallicity-to-index conversions and thus one does not need to resort to two separate GC subgroups. Our analysis incorporating this nonlinearity provides a new perspective on the structure of NGC 5128's GC system, and a further piece to the global picture of the formation of GC systems and their host galaxies.
Des Attalides aux empereurs, Pergame et le culte des souverains
Authors: Gros Pierre
Published: June 2017

Un nouveau livre de Filippo Coarelli présente, au terme d’un réexamen des principaux ensembles monumentaux de Pergame et de l’analyse des monographies ou études de détail qui en ont été proposées, la première approche globale de ce vaste complexe réparti sur des terrasses, en portant une attention particulière aux édifices et cérémonies destinés à exalter la puissance des souverains et de leurs divinités protectrices. Il contient un nombre important d’identifications et d’hypothèses nouvelles qui sont de nature à éclairer la cohérence topographique et les finalités idéologiques d’un système urbanistique dont les fonctions essentielles se sont maintenues jusqu’au ii e  s. de n. ère.
Les flux ferroviaires à partir des ports de commerce pendant la première guerre mondiale
Authors: Prévot Aurélien
Published: June 2017

Durant la Première Guerre mondiale, les ports français sont intensément utilisés pour réceptionner hommes (soldats britanniques, des colonies ou américains) et marchandises (munitions, ravitaillement...). Après le débarque­ment, c’est au chemin de fer qu’il revient de les transporter à travers le territoire pour ravitailler le front certes mais aussi les populations civiles. Or ces flux ferroviaires en nette hausse bouleversent les courants de trafic traditionnels et imposent d’importants travaux à réaliser dans l’urgence dans les ports ou sur les lignes. Au-delà des travaux, le manque de matériel roulant ne permet pas une évacuation rapide des marchandises qui encombrent les ports. C’est pourquoi, dès 1915, des solutions novatrices d’exploitation (trains complets, rames navettes...) sont mises en place pour accélérer les flux, sans succès. Pourtant, face à toutes ces difficultés, les transports parviennent à s’effectuer, sous les bombardements et la mitraille, grâce à l’engagement sans faille de tous les hommes mobilisés.
Les exécutions d’otages en France au premier semestre 1942
Authors: Poulhès Louis
Published: June 2017

Entre deux grandes vagues d’exécution d’otages, celle de septembre-octobre puis décembre 1941, et celle d’août-septembre 1942 renouvelée en octobre 1943, les 251 otages exécutés entre janvier et mai 1942 sont mal connus. Leur étude met en lumière « l’imaginaire répulsif » des nazis qui visent principalement communistes et Juifs. La très fréquente dispersion des exécutions sur le territoire occupé peut être interprétée comme une tentative contradictoire du commandement militaire allemand de conserver un impact fort à ces mesures tout en tout en gardant une relative modération.
The Intra-articular “Wave Sign” as a Landmark for Suture Anchor Placement in Arthroscopic Remplissage
Authors: Kahlenberg Cynthia A. , Garcia Grant H. , Degen Ryan M. , Liu Joseph N. , Dines Joshua S.
Published: June 2017

In arthroscopic remplissage, surgeons may inadvertently pass sutures through the teres minor rather than the infraspinatus tendon. This misplacement of the sutures may lead to poor outcomes. The authors describe the novel use of the posterior band of the inferior glenohumeral ligament, known as the “wave sign,” as a reliable intra-articular landmark for suture anchor placement to improve suture passage accuracy. Twelve cadaveric shoulders underwent arthroscopic remplissage by a fellowship-trained surgeon. During the first phase of the study, remplissage was performed on 6 specimens with standard technique. The intra-articular wave sign was visualized on all specimens. Specimens were dissected to the level of the joint, and the location of each suture anchor and suture pass was noted. Using the results from the first set of specimens, the surgeon performed remplissage in the second set of 6 specimens using specific measurements from intra-articular landmarks. On dissection of the initial 6 specimens, 75% of sutures were passed through the infraspinatus and 25% were passed through the teres minor. For the remaining 6 specimens, care was taken to place 1 suture anchor at the superior edge of the wave sign and 1 suture anchor 1 cm superior to the wave sign. When suture anchors were successfully passed above the superior tip of the wave sign, the likelihood of infraspinatus tendon penetration was 17 times greater. Placement of the suture anchors at or above the superior tip of the intra-articular wave sign most reliably produced capsulotenodesis of the infraspinatus muscle. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(5):e831–e835.]
Mechanics of Herbert Pendulum Hardness Tester and its Application
Authors: Halama Radim , Podešva Jiří , Suzuki Ryosuke , Matsubara Masaaki , Čech Rostislav
Published: June 2017

The knowledge of classical mechanics gives deeper insight into the Herbert hardness tester applicability for material testing. Elastic materials with low friction presence between contact surfaces are supposed to be investigated in this study. Firstly the dynamics approach is used to obtain simplified solution of swing angle. Then a new solution of the problem is gained by means of an energy approach. Slight decrease of the swing angle is predicted by the new solution as also shown in experiments. After comparison of both solutions a new formulae useful for evaluation of rolling resistance coefficient is applied for measurements performed on some metallic materials and artificial sapphire. Rolling resistance coefficients obtained by the way are always less than maximal estimated value.
Fracture Toughness of Massively Transformed and Subsequently Heat Treated TiAl Intermetallic Compound
Authors: Sakurai Koji , Hasegawa Makoto , Dlouhý Ivo
Published: June 2017

The effects of massive transformation and subsequent heat treatments on the microstructure of Ti-46Al-7Nb-0.7Cr-0.2Ni-0.1Si (mol%) intermetallic compounds are studied. Massive transformation occurs at the center region of the specimen by cooling from α single phase state. At the surface side of the specimen, α phase has remained. Fine convoluted microstructure with α2, γ phases and lamellar structure has formed by heating at (α+γ) two phase state after massive transformation. Colony size or grain size is about 25 μm. Fine fully lamellar structure is obtained after heat treatment of convoluted microstructure at α phase for 60 s. Fracture toughness seems to be increasing with the increase in lamellar colony size. However, some massively transformed specimens show lower toughness due to the formation of microdamage present in samples before the test.
Influence of Sintering Conditions on Mechanical Properties of Ag-Nano Sintered Material
Authors: Okuno Shota , Yu Qiang , Nakata Yusuke
Published: June 2017

Recently, sintering joint using Ag-nanohas been attracting attention as a new joint method to replace the solder. However, the joint layer would contain a lot of voids after sintering processes. Since the voids affect mechanical property, the proper sintering conditions have to be selected in order to reduce these voids. In this research, the authors focus on the effect of pressure conditions at sintering process. Then, by creating FEM models including voids from cross section image of the joint layer and carrying out tensile analysis, the mechanical property of the joint layer has been acquired. Using this approach, the influence of pressure conditions on the mechanical properties is revealed.
B Cell–Extrinsic Myd88 and Fcer1g Negatively Regulate Autoreactive and Normal B Cell Immune Responses
Authors: Sweet Rebecca A. , Nickerson Kevin M. , Cullen Jaime L. , Wang Yujuan , Shlomchik Mark J.
Published: June 2017

MyD88 and FcR common γ-chain (Fcer1g, FcRγ) elicit proinflammatory responses to exogenous Ags. Deletion of these receptors in autoimmune models has generally led to reduced overall disease. In B cells, Myd88 is required for anti-DNA and anti-RNA autoantibody responses, whereas Fcer1g is not expressed in these cells. The roles of these receptors in myeloid cells during B cell autoimmune activation remain less clear. To investigate the roles of Myd88 and Fcer1g in non-B cells, we transferred anti–self-IgG (rheumatoid factor) B cells and their physiologic target Ag, anti-chromatin Ab, into mice lacking Fcer1g, Myd88, or both and studied the extrafollicular plasmablast response. Surprisingly, we found a markedly higher and more prolonged response in the absence of either molecule; this effect was accentuated in doubly deficient recipients, with a 40-fold increase compared with wild-type recipients at day 10. This enhancement was dependent on CD40L, indicating that Myd88 and FcRγ, presumably on myeloid APCs, were required to downregulate T cell help for the extrafollicular response. To extend the generality, we then investigated a classic T cell–dependent response to (4-hydroxy-3-nitrophenyl)acetyl conjugated to chicken γ globulin and found a similar effect. Thus, these results reveal novel regulatory roles in the B cell response for receptors that are typically proinflammatory.
Investigating the accessibility factors that influence antenatal care services utilisation in Mangwe district, Zimbabwe
Authors: Nyathi Leoba , Tugli Augustine K. , Tshitangano Takalani G. , Mpofu Molyn
Published: June 2017

Background: Maternal and infant mortality remains a huge public health problem in developing countries. One of the strategies to minimise the risks of both maternal and infant mortality is access to and utilisation of antenatal care (ANC) services.Aim: This study aimed to investigate the accessibility factors that influence the use of ANC services in Mangwe district.Methods: A qualitative approach using explorative design was adopted to target women who have babies under 1 year of age. The study was conducted in Mangwe district, Matabeleland South province, Zimbabwe. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and observations. Data saturation was reached after 15 women who were conveniently sampled were interviewed. Field notes were analysed thematically using Tech’s steps. Lincoln and Guba’s criteria ensured trustworthiness of the study findings.Results: Accessibility factors such as lack of transport, high transport costs and long distances to health care facilities, health care workers’ attitudes, type and quality of services as well as delays in receiving care influence women’s utilisation of ANC services in Mangwe district, Zimbabwe.Conclusion: The study concluded that women were still facing problems of unavailability of nearby clinics; therefore, it was recommended that the government should avail resources for women to use.Recommendations: Mangwe District Health Department should provide mobile clinics rendering ANC services in distant rural areas.
Coal extraction causes sediment toxicity in aquatic environments in Santa Catarina, Brazil
Authors: Freitas Lucimaira Amaral de , Rambo (in memoriam) Cassiano Lazarotto , Franscescon Francini , Barros Antônio Felipe Primon de , Lucca Guilherme Dos Santos De , Siebel Anna Maria , Scapinello Jaqueline , Lucas Elaine Maria , Magro Jacir Dal
Published: June 2017

This study evaluated water parameters in ponds affected by coal extraction. Allium cepa assay was used to measure genotoxicity/mutagenicity of the sediment. Samples were collected from four ponds in the southern state of Santa Catarina. Water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, conductivity and turbidity were measured. Sediments were analyzed for heavy metals. Elutriate samples were prepared at a ratio of 1:4 sediment:water. Allium cepa bulbs were placed in samples prepared from each pond, with ultrapure water used as negative control and methyl methane sulfonate as positive control. Root length, mitotic index, chromosomal aberrations, micronuclei, and nuclear abnormalities were measured. The pH of two ponds, as well as electrical conductivity and dissolved oxygen of all ponds were below the minimum limits set by Brazilian regulation. All heavy metals analyzed were found in all sediment samples, but only Cd concentration was above the legal limit set by Brazilian law. Allium cepa root growth for samples from Ponds 1, 2, and 4 was significantly lower than the negative control. Meristematic cells exposed to elutriate samples showed no significant changes in cell division. There was a significant increase in total chromosomal aberrations in all treated samples in comparison with the negative control. This study demonstrates that even low concentrations of heavy metals can damage exposed biota, possibly due to synergistic effects. We also found the A. cepa bioassay to be a simple and useful tool for genotoxicity/mutagenicity analyses, and recommend its use for environmental monitoring and management in areas influenced by mining activities.
Response of fish communities to intense drought in Brazilian savanna streams
Authors: Silva Dianne Michelle Alves da , Teresa Fabrício Barreto
Published: June 2017

The physical structures of streams are subjected to intense changes throughout the seasons. Intense drought in dry periods has been frequent and potentially harmful to aquatic species. In this study, we tested whether the changes in the habitat structure of the streams during the dry period determine the organization of fish communities. Five streams in the Upper Tocantins River were studied in the dry and rainy seasons. The species were characterized by 13 functional traits based on morphological measurements. The descriptors of functional diversity were: mean pairwise functional distance of species in the community (MPD) and mean functionally nearest species distance (MNTD). We also calculated the standardized effect size for MPD and MNTD, an indicator of functional redundancy, and compared the observed patterns with those expected by chance. Streams differed between seasons with respect to environmental variables. Functional diversity in the rainy season did not differ from the pattern expected by chance for both metrics. While functional diversity in the dry season has not differed from the pattern expected by chance for SESMPD, a greater functional redundancy for SESMNTD was found in this season. These results indicate that environmental changes in the streams during the dry season are important constraints for fish occurrence, preventing the occurrence of functionally original species. Therefore, a prospective scenario of dry-period intensification could result in functionally redundant communities, with functional homogenization of the regional species pool.
Water Safety Plan for drinking water risk management: the case study of Mortara (Pavia, Italy)
Authors: Sorlini Sabrina , Biasibetti Michela , Abbà Alessandro , Collivignarelli Maria Cristina , Damiani Silvestro
Published: June 2017

The Water Safety Plan (WSP) approach is an iterative method focused on analyzing the risks of water contamination in a drinking water supply system, from catchment to consumer, in order to protect human health. This approach is aimed at identifying and drastically reducing water contamination in the entire drinking water system, through the identification and mitigation or, if possible, elimination of all factors that may cause a chemical, physical, microbiological and radiological risk for water. This study developed a proposal of WSP for the drinking water supply system (DWSS) of Mortara, Italy, in order to understand which are the preliminary evaluation aspects to be considered in the elaboration of a WSP. The DWSS of Mortara (a town of 15,500 inhabitants, located in northern Italy) consists of three drinking water treatment plants (DWTPs), considering the following main contaminants: arsenic, iron, manganese and ammonia. Potential hazardous events and associated hazards were identified in each part of the water supply system. The risk assessment was carried out following the semi‑quantitative approach. The WSP proposal for Mortara was very useful not only as a risk mitigation approach, but also as a cost-effective tool for water suppliers. Furthermore, this approach will reduce public health risk, ensure a better compliance of water quality parameters with regulatory requirements, increase confidence of consumers and municipal authorities, and improve resource management due to intervention planning. Further, some new control measures are proposed by the WSP team within this work.
“Two Sides of the Same Coin”: Yokohama Pidgin Japanese and Japanese Pidgin English
Authors: AVRAM Andrei A.
Published: June 2017

The paper is a comparative overview of the phonology, morphology, syntax and lexicon of Yokohama Pidgin Japanese and Japanese Pidgin English, formerly spoken in Japan. Both varieties are shown to exhibit features typical of pre-pidgins, while they differ considerably in the circumstances of their emergence and the context of use.
Musicology: The Key Concepts
Authors: Stefanija Leon
Published: June 2017

David Beard and Kenneth Gloag. Musicology: The Key Concepts (second edition). (London and New York: Routledge, 2016. 360 pp. Hardback £80. Paperback and E-book £22.99. ISBN-13: 978-0415679671.)
Glasbeno življenje upokojencev na slovenskem Koroškem
Authors: Veršnik Vojko
Published: June 2017

Osrednji namen doktorske disertacije je bil raziskati in prikazati glasbeno življenje upokojencev na slovenskem Koroškem ter na temeljih aplikativne etnomuzikologije predlagati strategije za izboljšave ugotovljenega stanja. Disertacija na 355 straneh obsega pet poglavij in vsebuje 80 prilog (grafov, tabel, fotografij). Uvodno poglavje predstavlja teoretična in metodološka izhodišča disertacije. Sledijo poglavja, ki obravnavajo upokojence in glasbo na splošni ravni (drugo poglavje), na Slovenskem (tretje) ter na slovenskem Koroškem (četrto).
Estimating the atmospheric concentration of Criegee intermediates and their possible interference in a FAGE-LIF instrument
Authors: Novelli Anna , Hens Korbinian , Tatum Ernest Cheryl , Martinez Monica , Nölscher Anke C. , Sinha Vinayak , Paasonen Pauli , Petäjä Tuukka , Sipilä Mikko , Elste Thomas , Plass-Dülmer Christian , Phillips Gavin J. , Kubistin Dagmar , Williams Jonathan , Vereecken Luc , Lelieveld Jos , Harder Hartwig
Published: June 2017

Abstract. We analysed the extensive dataset from the HUMPPA-COPEC 2010 and the HOPE 2012 field campaigns in the boreal forest and rural environments of Finland and Germany, respectively, and estimated the abundance of stabilised Criegee intermediates (SCIs) in the lower troposphere. Based on laboratory tests, we propose that the background OH signal observed in our IPI-LIF-FAGE instrument during the aforementioned campaigns is caused at least partially by SCIs. This hypothesis is based on observed correlations with temperature and with concentrations of unsaturated volatile organic compounds and ozone. Just like SCIs, the background OH concentration can be removed through the addition of sulfur dioxide. SCIs also add to the previously underestimated production rate of sulfuric acid. An average estimate of the SCI concentration of  ∼  5.0  ×  104 molecules cm−3 (with an order of magnitude uncertainty) is calculated for the two environments. This implies a very low ambient concentration of SCIs, though, over the boreal forest, significant for the conversion of SO2 into H2SO4. The large uncertainties in these calculations, owing to the many unknowns in the chemistry of Criegee intermediates, emphasise the need to better understand these processes and their potential effect on the self-cleaning capacity of the atmosphere.
Spatial variability of CO2 uptake in polygonal tundra: assessing low-frequency disturbances in eddy covariance flux estimates
Authors: Pirk Norbert , Sievers Jakob , Mertes Jordan , Parmentier Frans-Jan W. , Mastepanov Mikhail , Christensen Torben R.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. The large spatial variability in Arctic tundra complicates the representative assessment of CO2 budgets. Accurate measurements of these heterogeneous landscapes are, however, essential to understanding their vulnerability to climate change. We surveyed a polygonal tundra lowland on Svalbard with an unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) that mapped ice-wedge morphology to complement eddy covariance (EC) flux measurements of CO2. The analysis of spectral distributions showed that conventional EC methods do not accurately capture the turbulent CO2 exchange with a spatially heterogeneous surface that typically features small flux magnitudes. Nonlocal (low-frequency) flux contributions were especially pronounced during snowmelt and introduced a large bias of −46 gC m−2 to the annual CO2 budget in conventional methods (the minus sign indicates a higher uptake by the ecosystem). Our improved flux calculations with the ogive optimization method indicated that the site was a strong sink for CO2 in 2015 (−82 gC m−2). Due to differences in light-use efficiency, wetter areas with low-centered polygons sequestered 47 % more CO2 than drier areas with flat-centered polygons. While Svalbard has experienced a strong increase in mean annual air temperature of more than 2 K in the last few decades, historical aerial photographs from the site indicated stable ice-wedge morphology over the last 7 decades. Apparently, warming has thus far not been sufficient to initiate strong ice-wedge degradation, possibly due to the absence of extreme heat episodes in the maritime climate on Svalbard. However, in Arctic regions where ice-wedge degradation has already initiated the associated drying of landscapes, our results suggest a weakening of the CO2 sink in polygonal tundra.
Marine isoprene production and consumption in the mixed layer of the surface ocean
– A field study over 2 oceanic regions
Authors: Booge Dennis , Schlundt Cathleen , Bracher Astrid , Endres Sonja , Zäncker Birthe , Marandino Christa A.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Parameterizations of surface ocean isoprene concentrations are numerous, despite the lack of source/sink process understanding. Here we present isoprene and related field measurements in the mixed layer from the Indian Ocean and the East Pacific Ocean to investigate the production and consumption rates in two contrasting regions, namely oligotrophic open ocean and coastal upwelling region. Our data show that the ability of different phytoplankton functional types (PFTs) to produce isoprene seems to be mainly influenced by light, ocean temperature, and salinity. Our field measurements also demonstrate that nutrient availability seems to have a direct influence on the isoprene production. With the help of pigment data, we calculate in-field isoprene production rates for different PFTs under varying biogeochemical and physical conditions. Using these new calculated production rates we demonstrate that an additional, significant and variable loss, besides a known chemical loss and a loss due to air sea gas exchange, is needed to explain the measured isoprene concentration. We hypothesize that this loss, with a lifetime for isoprene between 10 and 100 days depending on the ocean region, is attributed to heterotrophic respiration mainly due to bacteria.
Flood risk perception and adaptation capacity: a contribution to the socio-hydrology debate
Authors: Fuchs Sven , Karagiorgos Konstantinos , Kitikidou Kyriaki , Maris Fotios , Paparrizos Spyridon , Thaler Thomas
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Dealing with flood hazard and risk requires approaches rooted in both natural and social sciences, which provided the nexus for the ongoing debate on socio-hydrology. Various combinations of non-structural and structural flood risk reduction options are available to communities. Focusing on flood risk and the information associated with it, developing risk management plans is required but often overlooks public perception of a threat. The perception of risk varies in many different ways, especially between the authorities and the affected public. It is because of this disconnection that many risk management plans concerning floods have failed in the past. This paper examines the private adaptation capacity and willingness with respect to flooding in two different catchments in Greece prone to multiple flood events during the last 20 years. Two studies (East Attica and Evros) were carried out, comprised of a survey questionnaire of 155 and 157 individuals, from a peri-urban (East Attica) and a rural (Evros) area, respectively, and they focused on those vulnerable to periodic (rural area) and flash floods (peri-urban area). Based on the comparisons drawn from these responses, and identifying key issues to be addressed when flood risk management plans are implemented, improvements are being recommended for the social dimension surrounding such implementation. As such, the paper contributes to the ongoing discussion on human–environment interaction in socio-hydrology.
System Identification, Fuzzy Control, and Simulation Results for
Fixed Length Tether of Kite Power System
Authors: Dief Tarek N. , Fechner Uwe , Schmehl Roland , Yoshida Shigeo , Ismaiel Amr M. M. , Halawa Amr M.
Published: June 2017

Abstract. Upon the research community in wind energy, airborne wind energy systems would be one of the promising energy sources in the near future. They can extract more energy from the high altitude wind currents compared to the conventional wind turbines. This could be achieved with the aid of the aerodynamic lift generated by a wing tethered to the ground. Significant savings in the investment costs and overall system mass would be obtained since no tower is required. In order to solve the problems of wind speed uncertainty and kite deflections throughout the flight, system identification is needed to be applied. Consequently, the kite governing equations could be accurately described. In this work, a simple model was presented for a tether with fixed length and compared to another model for parameter estimation. In addition, for the purpose of stabilizing the system, fuzzy control was also applied. The design of the controller was based on the concept of Mamdani. Due to its robustness, fuzzy control can cover different wind conditions more than the classical controller. Finally, system identification was compared to the simple model at various wind speeds which helps to tune the parameters of fuzzy control.
Análisis de la calidad de vida de las personas con discapacidad intelectual: Un estudio comparativo entre gitanos y no gitanos
Authors: Álamo Martín María Teresa del , Ruiz Sanz María
Published: June 2017

Nuestro estudio se deriva de la necesidad de evaluar las áreas que influyen en la calidad de vida de las personas gitanas con discapacidad intelectual, en comparación con los no gitanos, con el fin de planificar los apoyos necesarios para mejorarla. Se trata de un estudio cuantitativo cuasi-experimental, con base en los datos proporcionados por informantes cualificados, trabajadores sociales, de siete centros de discapacidad intelectual de Valladolid y Segovia (España). Mediante el uso de la escala Gencat evaluamos la calidad de vida de la muestra dividida en dos grupos de 32 personas con discapacidad intelectual cada uno, uno de etnia gitana y el otro de etnia no gitana. Comparamos las dimensiones y el índice de la calidad de vida entre gitanos y no gitanos, y también las diferencias por género para ambos grupos. Llegamos a la conclusión de que la mejora de la calidad de vida de las personas con discapacidad intelectual de etnia gitana requiere acciones que muestren un impacto significativo en las dimensiones de: bienestar emocional, relaciones interpersonales, bienestar material y la inclusión social.
Hacia una voz propia y feminista en el movimiento campesino de Santiago del Estero
Authors: Pena Mariela
Published: June 2017

El trabajo aborda la cuestión de las trayectorias múltiples de los feminismos en movimientos sociales rurales de América Latina y sus intersecciones con otras categorías de opresión. Con esta finalidad se explora el caso del Movimiento Campesino de Santiago del Estero, de Argentina, y su articulación con las propuestas feministas de las agrupaciones globales más amplias que la organización integra. El enfoque es etnográfico, con trabajo de campo convivencial, entrevistas en profundidad a mujeres militantes y análisis de contenido de fuentes escritas. Se sugiere que el movimiento da cuenta de la elaboración de un propio marco de significado en relación al género y que intenta resolver ciertas tensiones entre un feminismo de la diferencia o ecofeminismo extendido regionalmente y un planteamiento basado en la igualdad de roles entre los sexos, más cercano a su experiencia organizativa local. Palabras clave: feminismo, ecofeminismo, movimientos sociales rurales, mujeres campesinas, interseccionalidad.