bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Changes in Minimum Reflectance on Cloud Discrimination
Authors: Oishi Yu , Sawada Yoshito , Kamei Akihide , Murakami Kazutaka , Nakamura Ryosuke , Matsunaga Tsuneo
Published: May 2018

Greenhouse Gases Observing SATellite-2 (GOSAT-2) will be launched in fiscal year 2018. GOSAT-2 will be equipped with two Earth-observing instruments: the Thermal and Near-infrared Sensor for carbon Observation Fourier Transform Spectrometer 2 (TANSO-FTS-2) and TANSO-Cloud and Aerosol Imager 2 (CAI-2). CAI-2 can be used to perform cloud discrimination in each band. The cloud discrimination algorithm uses minimum reflectance (Rmin) for comparisons with observed top-of-atmosphere reflectance. The creation of cloud-free Rmin requires 10 CAI or CAI-2 data. Thus, Rmin is created from CAI L1B data for a 30-day period in GOSAT, with a revisit time of 3 days. It is necessary to change the way in which 10 observations are chosen for GOSAT-2, which has a revisit time of 6 days. Additionally, Rmin processing for GOSAT CAI data was updated to version 02.00 in December 2016. Along with this change, the resolution of Rmin changed from 1/30° to 500 m. We examined the impact of changes in Rmin on cloud discrimination results using GOSAT CAI data. In particular, we performed comparisons of: (1) Rmin calculated using different methods to choose the 10 observations and (2) Rmin calculated using different generation procedures and spatial resolutions. The results were as follows: (1) The impact of using different methods to choose the 10 observations on cloud discrimination results was small, except for a few cases, e.g., snow-covered regions and sun-glint regions; (2) Cloud discrimination results using Rmin in version 02.00 were better than results obtained using Rmin in the previous version, apart from some special situations. The main causes of this were as follows: (1) The change of used band from band 2 to band 1 for Rmin calculation; (2) The change of spatial resolution of Rmin from 1/30° to 500-m.
Modeling Solar Radiation in the Forest Using Remote Sensing Data: A Review of Approaches and Opportunities
Authors: Olpenda Alex S. , Stereńczak Krzysztof , Będkowski Krzysztof
Published: May 2018

Solar radiation, the radiant energy from the sun, is a driving variable for numerous ecological, physiological, and other life-sustaining processes in the environment. Traditional methods to quantify solar radiation are done either directly (e.g., quantum sensors), or indirectly (e.g., hemispherical photography). This study, however, evaluates literature which utilized remote sensing (RS) technologies to estimate various forms of solar radiation or components, thereof under or within forest canopies. Based on the review, light detection and ranging (LiDAR) has, so far, been preferably used for modeling light under tree canopies. Laser system’s capability of generating 3D canopy structure at high spatial resolution makes it a reasonable choice as a source of spatial information about light condition in various parts of forest ecosystem. The majority of those using airborne laser system (ALS) commonly adopted the volumetric-pixel (voxel) method or the laser penetration index (LPI) for modeling the radiation, while terrestrial laser system (TLS) is preferred for canopy reconstruction and simulation. Furthermore, most of the studies focused only on global radiation, and very few on the diffuse fraction. It was also found out that most of these analyses were performed in the temperate zone, with a smaller number of studies made in tropical areas. Nonetheless, with the continuous advancement of technology and the RS datasets becoming more accessible and less expensive, these shortcomings and other difficulties of estimating the spatial variation of light in the forest are expected to diminish.
The Characteristics of the Aerosol Optical Depth within the Lowest Aerosol Layer over the Tibetan Plateau from 2007 to 2014
Authors: Zhang Miao , Wang Lunche , Bilal Muhammad , Gong Wei , Zhang Ziyue , Guo Guangmeng
Published: May 2018

The characteristics of aerosol optical depth (AOD) over the Tibetan Plateau (TP) were analyzed using 8-year (from January 2007 to December 2014) Cloud-Aerosol LiDAR and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) level 2 aerosol layer products. Firstly, the overall feature of AOD over the Tibetan Plateau was investigated, including the seasonal diversities of AODS (the sum of AODs from all aerosol layers), and A (the amounts of aerosol layers). Then we deeply studied the characteristics of AOD within the lowest aerosol layer over TP, including the seasonal variations of AOD1 (The AOD of the first aerosol layer), HB1 (the height of the first aerosol layer base), TL1 (the thickness of the first aerosol layer) and PAOD1 (The AOD proportion of the first aerosol layer). The AODS was generally low (<0.2) in the main body of TP in each season. The value of A was lower (~1–1.5) than other areas around the TP, indicating that the main body of TP generally had only one aerosol layer. The HTT (height of the highest aerosol layer top) was higher in spring (~8 km) and summer (~9 km), and lower in fall (~6.5 km) and winter (~6.5 km). The PAOD1 was high in each season except spring. The high PAOD1 values (>0.9) indicated that the aerosols were mainly concentrated in the lowest layer in summer, fall, and winter in the main body of TP. In spring, the PAOD1 value was relatively low (~0.7–0.85) and the distribution exhibited obvious differences between the southern (~0.85) and the northern (~0.75) TP, which appeared to be consistent with A. Most of the aerosol loads in summer were concentrated in the lowest aerosol layer with high aerosol loads. Most of the aerosol loads in fall and winter were also concentrated in the lowest aerosol layer, but with low aerosol loads.
Updating Absolute Radiometric Characteristics for KOMPSAT-3 and KOMPSAT-3A Multispectral Imaging Sensors Using Well-Characterized Pseudo-Invariant Tarps and Microtops II
Authors: Yeom Jong-Min , Ko Jonghan , Hwang Jisoo , Lee Chang-Suk , Choi Chul-Uong , Jeong Seungtaek
Published: May 2018

Radiometric calibration of satellite imaging sensors should be performed periodically to account for the effect of sensor degradation in the space environment on image accuracy. In this study, we performed vicarious radiometric calibrations (relying on in situ data) of multispectral imaging sensors on the Korea multi-purpose satellite-3 and -3A (KOMPSAT-3 and -3A) to adjust the existing radiometric conversion coefficients according to time delay integration (TDI) adjustments and sensor degradation over time. The Second Simulation of a Satellite Signal in the Solar Spectrum (6S) radiative transfer model was used to obtain theoretical top of atmosphere radiances for both satellites. As input parameters for the 6S model, surface reflectance values of well-characterized pseudo-invariant tarps were measured using dual ASD FieldSpec® 3 hyperspectral radiometers, and atmospheric conditions were measured using Microtops II® Sunphotometer and Ozonometer. We updated the digital number (DN) of the radiance coefficients of the satellites; these had been used to calibrate the sensors during in-orbit test periods in 2013 and 2015. The coefficients of determination, R2, values between observed DNs of the sensors, and simulated radiances for the tarps were more than 0.999. The calibration errors were approximately 5.7% based on manifested error sources. We expect that the updated coefficients will be an important reference for KOMPSAT-3 and -3A users.
Heading Estimation of Robot Combine Harvesters during Turning Maneuveres
Authors: Rahman Md Mostafizar , Ishii Kazunobu
Published: May 2018

Absolute heading is an important parameter for a robot combine harvester or a robot tracked combine harvester, especially while it is turning, but due to the rapid turning of robot combine harvesters, its inertial measurement unit gives a gyro measurement bias that causes heading drift. Our research goal is to estimate the absolute heading of robot combine harvesters by compensating this gyro measurement bias during non-linear turning maneuvers. A sensor fusion method like the extended Kalman filter combined with the tracked combine harvester dynamic model and sensor measurements was used to estimate the absolute heading of a robot combine harvester. Circular, sinusoidal and concave shapes were used to evaluate the estimated heading produced by the sensor fusion method. The results indicate that the estimated heading is better than measured heading which was calculated from the integration of yaw rate gyro measurements, and the root mean square errors (RMSEs) for estimated headings are smaller than the measured headings. In practics, the target of this paper is thus the estimation of a heading or absolute heading that is bias compensated, and can be further used to calculate the exact crop periphery for automatic path planning of robot combine harvesters.
Dispersed Sensing Networks in Nano-Engineered Polymer Composites: From Static Strain Measurement to Ultrasonic Wave Acquisition
Authors: Li Yehai , Wang Kai , Su Zhongqing
Published: May 2018

Self-sensing capability of composite materials has been the core of intensive research over the years and particularly boosted up by the recent quantum leap in nanotechnology. The capacity of most existing self-sensing approaches is restricted to static strains or low-frequency structural vibration. In this study, a new breed of functionalized epoxy-based composites is developed and fabricated, with a graphene nanoparticle-enriched, dispersed sensing network, whereby to self-perceive broadband elastic disturbance from static strains, through low-frequency vibration to guided waves in an ultrasonic regime. Owing to the dispersed and networked sensing capability, signals can be captured at any desired part of the composites. Experimental validation has demonstrated that the functionalized composites can self-sense strains, outperforming conventional metal foil strain sensors with a significantly enhanced gauge factor and a much broader response bandwidth. Precise and fast self-response of the composites to broadband ultrasonic signals (up to 440 kHz) has revealed that the composite structure itself can serve as ultrasound sensors, comparable to piezoceramic sensors in performance, whereas avoiding the use of bulky cables and wires as used in a piezoceramic sensor network. This study has spotlighted promising potentials of the developed approach to functionalize conventional composites with a self-sensing capability of high-sensitivity yet minimized intrusion to original structures.
Formation of the Azodication (ABTS2+) from ABTS [2,2′-Azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate)] in Sterile Plant Cultures: Root–Exuded Oxidoreductases Contribute to Rhizosphere Priming
Authors: Gramss Gerhard
Published: May 2018

Rhizosphere priming by terrestrial plants comprises increased or repressed efflux of CO2 and N from soil organic matter (SOM), decaying under the impact of temperature, moisture, and the composition of rhizodeposits. Contemporarily, increases in water solubility vs. losses in molecular size, aromaticity, and the content in phenolic OH groups denote the degradation of SOM in planted soil. Root peroxidases (POs) and ‘polyphenoloxidases’ are surmised to contribute to these effects, however, final evidence for this is lacking. Therefore, seedlings of white mustard, alfalfa, and oilseed rape with wide spans in PO release were grown in hydroponic cultures at variable levels of Cu/Fe/Mn as Fenton metals, but also under P and Fe starvation to stimulate the release of carboxylic acids that form catalytic Mn3+ chelants from Mn2+ and MnO2. The shortage in active oxygen as a cosubstrate of POs delayed the immediate oxidation of 2,2′-azinobis-(3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulphonate) (ABTS) supplements to the green ABTS•+ by PO/H2O2, the possible formation of Mn3+ via PO catalyzed aryloxy radicals from root–released phenolics, and of HO• by metal cations in H2O2 dependent Fenton–like reactions. Enhanced by exuded and external malate, O2 independent MnO2 supplements in some treatments formed ABTS•+ spontaneously. The culture fluids then turned red in all treatments within 24–60 h by the formation of azodication (ABTS2+) derivatives in a second plant initiated oxidation step that is known to be catalyzed by substrate radicals. It is concluded that plants initiate oxidative activities that contribute to rhizosphere priming in an environment of oxidoreductase and carboxylate exudates, the indicated presence of mediating substrate radicals, and the cations and (hydr)oxides of transition metals. Pathways of H2O2 production upon the degradation of carboxylates and by the POs themselves are indicated.
Substrate Influences Temperature Sensitivity of Dissolved Organic Carbon (DOC) and Nitrogen (DON) Mineralization in Arid Agricultural Soils
Authors: AlMulla Abdulaziz A. , Jones Davey , Roberts Paula
Published: May 2018

The bioavailability of nitrogen (N) in soil relies on the progressive breakdown of necromass protein to peptide and amino acid components and conversion to inorganic N forms. We understand the fluxes and pathways of the N cycle downstream from amino acids, but our understanding of the factors controlling peptide and amino acid mineralization, particularly in arid soils, is lacking. We investigated the influence of temperature on the rate of dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and nitrogen (DON) cycling in three agricultural soils from Saudi Arabia. Although the physical and chemical properties of the soils differed markedly, phospholipid fatty acid (PLFA) analysis revealed they had similar topsoil and subsoil microbial communities. Soils behaved similarly in terms of the rate of substrate use, microbial C-use efficiency, and response to temperature. Substrate mineralization rate increased with temperature with more C being allocated to microbial catabolic rather than anabolic processes. Our results show that climate change is likely to lead to changes in soil organic matter turnover and shift C allocation patterns within the soil microbial community. This is expected to reduce soil quality and exacerbate nutrient losses. Management strategies are required to promote the retention of organic matter in these soils.
Sustainability Assessment of the New Residential Projects in the Baltic States: A Multiple Criteria Approach
Authors: Tupenaite Laura , Kaklauskas Arturas , Lill Irene , Geipele Ineta , Naimaviciene Jurga , Kanapeckiene Loreta , Kauskale Linda
Published: May 2018

Housing is one of the most important public priorities affecting urban development and therefore has a significant impact on sustainable development. A housing project can be regarded as sustainable only when all the dimensions of sustainability (environmental, economic, and social) are dealt with. The aim of the present article is to propose an integrated, hierarchy-based, multiple-criteria approach for the sustainability assessment of new residential development projects, which is achieved through the accomplishment of three objectives. First, this paper proposes an original framework for a multiple-criteria assessment of new residential projects. Second, the proposed methodology is demonstrated in the assessment of nine residential development projects in Lithuania, Latvia, and Estonia according to a hierarchical system of 53 sustainability indicators developed specifically for the Baltic context. Finally, based on the research results, the paper proposes recommendations to stakeholders for enhancing the performance of new residential projects according to the principles of sustainability. The proposed sustainability assessment approach is not limited to the Baltic States and can also be used in other countries, applying the adapted sustainability assessment indicators.
Regional Variability of Agriculturally-Derived Nitrate-Nitrogen in Shallow Groundwater in China, 2004–2014
Authors: Li Jing , He Zhibin , Du Jun , Zhao Liwen , Chen Longfei , Zhu Xi , Lin Pengfei , Fang Shu , Zhao Minmin , Tian Quanyan
Published: May 2018

Increasing diffuse nitrate loading of groundwater has long been a major environmental and health concern in China, but little is known about the spatial and temporal variability of nitrate concentrations in groundwater at regional scales. The aim of this study was to assess the spatial distribution and variation of nitrate-nitrogen (NO3−-N) concentrations in groundwater. We used groundwater quality monitoring data and soil physical characteristics from 21 agro-ecosystems in China for years 2004 to 2014. The results indicated that NO3−-N concentrations were highly variable in shallow groundwater across the landscape. Over the study period, most of the NO3−-N concentrations were below the World Health Organization permissible limit for drinking water (<10 mg N·L). NO3−-N concentrations in groundwater neither significantly increased nor decreased in most agro-ecosystems, but fluctuated with seasons. In addition, groundwater NO3−-N under purple soil (6.81 mg·L−1) and Aeolian sandy soil (6.02 mg·L−1) were significantly higher (p < 0.05) than that under other soil types, and it was medium-high (4.49 mg·L−1) under aquic cinnamon soil. Elevated nitrate concentrations occurred mainly in oasis agricultural areas of northwestern China, where farmlands with coarse-textured soils use flood irrigation. Therefore, arid and semi-arid areas are expected to sustain high NO3−-N concentrations in groundwater. Mitigation strategies can prevent this problem, and include control of N fertilizer input, balanced fertilization, proper rotation system, adoption of improved irrigation methods, and establishment of environmental policies.
Change of Real and Simulated Energy Production of Certain Photovoltaic Technologies in Relation to Orientation, Tilt Angle and Dual-Axis Sun-Tracking. A Case Study in Hungary
Authors: Zsiborács Henrik , Bai Attila , Popp József , Gabnai Zoltán , Pályi Béla , Farkas István , Baranyai Nóra Hegedűsné , Veszelka Mihály , Zentkó László , Pintér Gábor
Published: May 2018

The aim of the study is to compare the tilt angle-orientation and dual-axis tracking characteristics of mono- (m-Si), polycrystalline (p-Si), and amorphous silicon (a-Si) modules in the summer of 2017, under real meteorological conditions with simulated data. The most important new element of our study is that, besides a comparison of the three most significant photovoltaic types, the technologies are differentiated by examining specific energy generation using dual-axis tracking and four different orientations at 5-degree intervals compared to simulated values, near to the summer solstice. For these types of measurements, as far as we are aware, there is no previous reliable, well-supported, comparative data. The simulated data show less accurate results, proving the importance of real data. Based on simulated data, the tilt angle and orientation showed about 10% favorable values compared to reality. Knowing our results can make it easier to plan investment, and estimate the investment and operational costs and their return on crystalline and amorphous silicon solar modules, for both sun-tracking and fixed systems with various orientations and tilt angles.
Enhancing the Practical Utility of Risk Assessments in Climate Change Adaptation
Authors: Connelly Angela , Carter Jeremy , Handley John , Hincks Stephen
Published: May 2018

In 2012, the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) moved from a vulnerability to a risk-based conception of climate change adaptation. However, there are few examples of work that translates this approach into climate change adaptation practice, in order to demonstrate the practical utility of following a risk-based approach to adapting to climate change. The paper explores critically the differing conceptions of vulnerability and risk across the literature relating to disaster risk management and climate change adaptation. The paper also examines a selection of spatially focused climate change vulnerability and risk assessment methodologies in this context. In doing so, we identify issues with the availability of spatial data to enable spatial risk-based climate change assessments. We argue that the concept of risk is potentially favorable in helping cities to understand the challenges posed by climate change, identify adaptation options, and build resilience to the changing climate. However, we suggest that change is needed in the way that practitioners and policymakers engage with risk-based concepts if they are to be embed into climate change adaptation activities.
Effects of Biochar on the Net Greenhouse Gas Emissions under Continuous Flooding and Water-Saving Irrigation Conditions in Paddy Soils
Authors: Qi Le , Niu Hai-Dong , Zhou Peng , Jia Rui-Jie , Gao Ming
Published: May 2018

In this study, we investigated the greenhouse gas emission under different application of biochar in the conditions of continuous flooding and water-saving irrigation in paddy fields, whereas, plant and soil carbon sequestration were considered in the calculation of net greenhouse gas emissions. The emission rates of methane (CH4), carbon dioxide (CO2), and nitrous oxide (N2O) gases were simultaneously monitored once every 7–10 days using the closed-chamber method. As a whole, the net greenhouse gas emission in the water-saving irrigation was more than that of the continuous flooding irrigation conditions. Compared with the water-saving irrigation, the continuous flooding irrigation significantly increased the CH4 in the control (CK) and chemical fertilizer treatments (NPK). The CO2 emissions increased in each treatment of the water-saving irrigation condition, especially in the chemical fertilizer treatments (NPKFW). Similarly, the soil N2O emission was very sensitive to the water-saving irrigation condition. An interesting finding is that the biochar application in soils cut down the soil N2O emission more significantly than NPKFW in the water-saving irrigation condition while the effect of biochar increased under the continuous flooding irrigation condition.
An Exact Analytical Solution for Thermoelastic Response of Clamped Beams Subjected to a Movable Laser Pulse
Authors: Yang Xianfeng , Ma Jingxuan , Liu Shoubin , Xing Yun , Yang Jialing , Sun Yuxin
Published: May 2018

The thermoelastic dynamic response of a clamped Bernoulli beam was studied when it was irradiated by a movable, temporally non-Gaussian, laser pulse. Both the energy absorption depth and the time decaying effects were considered. The temperature distribution, deflection, vibration acceleration, and stress of the beam were derived analytically, and the variations of them with time and space were illustrated. It was shown that the vibration frequency is independent of the scanning speed of the laser pulse. It is important to notice that, although the deflection of the beam is small, high vibration acceleration can be induced in microbeams, which is important for failure and fracture of the beam. Moreover, compressive stress is induced in the beam, but the importance of temperature-induced stress and deformation-induced stress may be different according to the duration time and moving speed of the laser pulse.
Multiple Criteria Group Decision-Making Considering Symmetry with Regards to the Positive and Negative Ideal Solutions via the Pythagorean Normal Cloud Model for Application to Economic Decisions
Authors: Zhou Jinming , Su Weihua , Baležentis Tomas , Streimikiene Dalia
Published: May 2018

Pythagorean fuzzy sets are highly appealing in dealing with uncertainty as they allow for greater flexibility in regards to the membership and non-membership degrees by extending the set of possible values. In this paper, we propose a multi-criteria group decision-making approach based on the Pythagorean normal cloud. Some cloud aggregation operators are presented in this paper to facilitate the appraisal of the underlying utilities of the alternatives under consideration. The concept and properties of the Pythagorean normal cloud and its backward generation algorithm, aggregation operators and distance measurement are outlined. The proposed approach resembles the TOPSIS technique, which, indeed, considers the symmetry of the distances to the positive and negative ideal solutions. Furthermore, an example from e-commerce is presented to demonstrate and validate the proposed decision-making approach. Finally, the comparative analysis is implemented to check the robustness of the results when the aggregation rules are changed.
A Secure, Scalable and Elastic Autonomic Computing Systems Paradigm: Supporting Dynamic Adaptation of Self-* Services from an Autonomic Cloud
Authors: Jaleel Abdul , Arshad Shazia , Shoaib Muhammad
Published: May 2018

Autonomic computing embeds self-management features in software systems using external feedback control loops, i.e., autonomic managers. In existing models of autonomic computing, adaptive behaviors are defined at the design time, autonomic managers are statically configured, and the running system has a fixed set of self-* capabilities. An autonomic computing design should accommodate autonomic capability growth by allowing the dynamic configuration of self-* services, but this causes security and integrity issues. A secure, scalable and elastic autonomic computing system (SSE-ACS) paradigm is proposed to address the runtime inclusion of autonomic managers, ensuring secure communication between autonomic managers and managed resources. Applying the SSE-ACS concept, a layered approach for the dynamic adaptation of self-* services is presented with an online ‘Autonomic_Cloud’ working as the middleware between Autonomic Managers (offering the self-* services) and Autonomic Computing System (requiring the self-* services). A stock trading and forecasting system is used for simulation purposes. The security impact of the SSE-ACS paradigm is verified by testing possible attack cases over the autonomic computing system with single and multiple autonomic managers running on the same and different machines. The common vulnerability scoring system (CVSS metric) shows a decrease in the vulnerability severity score from high (8.8) for existing ACS to low (3.9) for SSE-ACS. Autonomic managers are introduced into the system at runtime from the Autonomic_Cloud to test the scalability and elasticity. With elastic AMs, the system optimizes the Central Processing Unit (CPU) share resulting in an improved execution time for business logic. For computing systems requiring the continuous support of self-management services, the proposed system achieves a significant improvement in security, scalability, elasticity, autonomic efficiency, and issue resolving time, compared to the state-of-the-art approaches.
Ergot Alkaloids at Doses Close to EU Regulatory Limits Induce Alterations of the Liver and Intestine
Authors: Maruo Viviane Mayumi , Bracarense Ana Paula , Metayer Jean-Paul , Vilarino Maria , Oswald Isabelle P. , Pinton Philippe
Published: May 2018

An increase in the occurrence of ergot alkaloids (EAs) contamination has been observed in North America and Europe in recent years. These toxins are well known for their effects on the circulatory and nervous systems. The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of EAs on the liver and on the intestine using the pig both as a target species and as a non-rodent model for human. Three groups of 24 weaned piglets were exposed for 28 days to control feed or feed contaminated with 1.2 or 2.5 g of sclerotia/kg, i.e., at doses close to EU regulatory limits. Contaminated diets significantly reduced feed intake and consequently growth performance. In the liver, alteration of the tissue, including development of inflammatory infiltrates, vacuolization, apoptosis and necrosis of hepatocytes as well as presence of enlarged hepatocytes (megalocytes) were observed. In the jejunum, EAs reduced villi height and increased damage to the epithelium, reduced the number of mucus-producing cells and upregulated mRNA coding for different tight junction proteins such as claudins 3 and 4. In conclusion, in term of animal health, our data indicate that feed contaminated at the regulatory limits induces lesions in liver and intestine suggesting that this limit should be lowered for pigs. In term of human health, we establish a lowest observed adverse effect level (LOAEL) of 100 μg/kg body weight (bw) per day, lower than the benchmark dose limit (BMDL) retained by European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) to set the tolerable daily intake, suggesting also that regulatory limit should be revised.
Echinococcus Granulosus Infection in Two Free-Ranging Lumholtz’s Tree-Kangaroo (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) from the Atherton Tablelands, Queensland
Authors: Shima Amy , Constantinoiu Constantin , Johnson Linda , Skerratt Lee
Published: May 2018

Infection with the larval stage of the cestode, Echinococcus granulosus sensu lato (s.l.), causes hydatid disease (hydatidosis) in a range of hosts, including macropods and other marsupials, cattle, and humans. Wild macropods are an important sylvatic reservoir for the life cycle of E. granulosus (s.l.) in Australia, and so provide a conduit for transmission of hydatid disease to domestic animals and humans. Two Lumholtz’s tree-kangaroos (Dendrolagus lumholtzi) from the Atherton Tablelands of Far North Queensland were recently found to have hydatid cysts in both liver and lung tissues. Tree-kangaroos may travel across the ground between patches of forest but are primarily arboreal leaf-eating macropods. The finding of hydatid cysts in an arboreal folivore may indicate that the area has a high level of contamination with eggs of E. granulosus (s.l.). This finding may be of significance to human health as well as indicating the need for further investigation into the prevalence of hydatid disease in domestic stock, wildlife and humans living in this rapidly urbanizing region.
Comparative Pathogenesis of Asian and African-Lineage Zika Virus in Indian Rhesus Macaque’s and Development of a Non-Human Primate Model Suitable for the Evaluation of New Drugs and Vaccines
Authors: Rayner Jonathan O. , Kalkeri Raj , Goebel Scott , Cai Zhaohui , Green Brian , Lin Shuling , Snyder Beth , Hagelin Kimberly , Walters Kevin B. , Koide Fusataka
Published: May 2018

The establishment of a well characterized non-human primate model of Zika virus (ZIKV) infection is critical for the development of medical interventions. In this study, challenging Indian rhesus macaques (IRMs) with ZIKV strains of the Asian lineage resulted in dose-dependent peak viral loads between days 2 and 5 post infection and a robust immune response which protected the animals from homologous and heterologous re-challenge. In contrast, viremia in IRMs challenged with an African lineage strain was below the assay’s lower limit of quantitation, and the immune response was insufficient to protect from re-challenge. These results corroborate previous observations but are contrary to reports using other African strains, obviating the need for additional studies to elucidate the variables contributing to the disparities. Nonetheless, the utility of an Asian lineage ZIKV IRM model for countermeasure development was verified by vaccinating animals with a formalin inactivated reference vaccine and demonstrating sterilizing immunity against a subsequent subcutaneous challenge.
Hydraulic Performance of Lined Permeable Pavement Systems in the Built Environment
Authors: Støvring Jan , Dam Torben , Jensen Marina
Published: May 2018

The hydraulic performance of permeable pavement (PP) systems has been well demonstrated when based on full or partial on-site infiltration, while there is only limited research on lined PP systems built to provide detention and volume reduction by evaporation only. In this study, we tested the performance of commercially available PP components when constructed as lined PP systems with un-throttled discharge to explore basic hydraulic function in a real-life-setting. Four types of PP surface products and three types of sub-base aggregates were tested in six unique combinations, built as side-by-side parking lots into an existing parking area, each stall having a size of 25 m2 and 0.5 m of depth with individual lining. Based on 12 months of monitoring precipitation and discharge from each stall, total volume reduction ranged from 3% to 37%. Analysis of up to 22 single events, representing return periods of up to two years, revealed marked detention capacities, expressed as median volume reduction of 40%, spanning 27–69% and median lag time of 1:38 h, spanning 0:39–3:16 h, across all stalls. The considerable range in hydraulic properties can be ascribed to both surface and sub-base properties.
Assessment of Historical Flood Risk to the Groundwater Regime: Case Study of the Kolubara Coal Basin, Serbia
Authors: Polomčić Dušan , Bajić Dragoljub , Ratković Jelena
Published: May 2018

Heavy rainfall and slow movement of the cyclone Tamara caused record floods in May 2014 across Serbia. As a result, levees were breached, a large portion of the open-pit lignite mine Tamnava–West Field was flooded and a flood lake was created. Due to an active hydraulic link with aquifers, the water table rose and the amount of stored groundwater increased dramatically. Based on in situ surveys and hydrodynamic modeling, three distinct periods of the groundwater regime are identified and the flood impact on the groundwater regime in the study area quantified. The paper describes correlations between flood lake water levels and the water table, and shows calculated groundwater volumes as a result of flooding and those of residual groundwater after dewatering of the open-pit mine. This extreme historical flood in Serbia had disastrous economic and social consequences, given that the studied open-pit mine supports more than 25% of Serbia’s electric power output. The assessment of the flood wave and its impact on the groundwater regime is an important example of the groundwater system response to an extreme rainfall and flood event. The paper presents the operating algorithm which leads to the approach of assessing the impact of floods on increasing the volume of accumulated groundwater. The paper presents a developed methodology for groundwater level status exploration in the wider area of open-pit mine Tamnava-West Field during the flooding that occurred in this mine. The developed method encompasses the creation and calibration of a groundwater model and fate and transport model for groundwater state prior to the flooding, a verification model for groundwater level during the extreme floods and a control verification model which corresponds to the period after the passing of the flood wave. The applied operational algorithm offers reliable bases for adopting a strategy for groundwater management during floods.
An Overview of Hydropower Reservoirs in Brazil: Current Situation, Future Perspectives and Impacts of Climate Change
Authors: De Souza Dias Viviane , Pereira da Luz Marta , Medero Gabriela , Tarley Ferreira Nascimento Diego
Published: May 2018

Global climate change, related to the greenhouse gases emission, impacts hydroelectric power generation mainly due to the increase in air temperature and changes in the precipitation patterns. As a consequence, it affects basin evapotranspiration process, runoff, sediment transport as well as evaporation of reservoirs. This study analysed the current and future Brazilian context of hydroelectric reservoirs and investigated the potential impacts of climate change on hydropower generation and possible mitigation adjustments, giving relevant examples from around the world. Moreover, it is key to consider other factors that influence the availability of water resources such as: (a) upstream development of reservoirs, mainly the development of agricultural systems, which can contribute to increased water demand; (b) changes in land use, which can have an impact on soil degradation and sediment transport. Hydroelectric dams are a possible alternative to mitigate the impacts of climate change considering that those impacts could generate the need of adaptive actions. The assessment of climate change impacts’ projections anticipates possible future scenarios and can assist in strategic planning together with the definition of adaptive operational policies.
Écriture et méthode de réalisation d'un programme multimédia interactif
Authors: Pellay Maryvonne
Published: May 2018

La réalisation d'un produit multimédia exige non seulement une nouvelle écriture mais aussi des méthodes de production et de gestion des donnée adaptées à la quantité des documents traités et à leur utilisation interactive.
Pour une gestion globale des évaluations de compétence
Authors: Authier Michel , Lévy Pierre
Published: May 2018

Les arbres de compétence sont une méthode informatisée pour la gestion globale des compétences et de la formation dans les établissements d'enseignement, les entreprises, les collectivités locales et les associations. L'arbre des connaissances rend visible la multiplicité organisée des compétences disponibles dans une communauté. Cet arbre ne résulte pas d'une quelconque classification a priori des savoirs : il est l'expression, évoluant en temps réel, des parcours d'apprentissage et d'expérience de tous les membres d'une collectivité donnée. Des messageries connectées à l'arbre des compétences permettent d'exprimer l'ensemble des offres et des demandes de savoir-faire au sein de la communauté, ainsi que les disponibilités de formations et d'échange de savoirs pour chaque compétence élémentaire. Toutes les transactions et interrogations enregistrées par le système contribuent à déterminer en permanence la valeur des compétences élémentaires en fonction de différents critères économiques, scientifiques, pédagogiques et sociaux.
Les hypertextes : au delà des liens, la connaissance.
Authors: Nanard Marc
Published: May 2018

Pour un lecteur, un hypertexte rend possible et aisée une lecture non linéaire d'un ensemble de documents, en navigant le long de liens entre documents. La notion de lien apparaît alors comme une généralisation de celle de référence. Nous proposons une analyse plus profonde des mécanismes mis en jeu dans les hypertextes. Un lien est fondamentalement une relation sémantique entre deux informations. Ceci conduit à distinguer les rôles de deux entités distinctes, l'une perçue de façon classique par le lecteur, que nous appelons information, et l'autre utilisée par la machine pour permettre la navigation. Cette dernière est appelée connaissance (au sens informatique de représentation de connaissance). Elle matérialise pour la machine des relations sémantiques entre informations et sert à cette dernière à effectuer les rapprochements des informations présentées au lecteur lors d'une navigation. Cette interprétation de ce qu'est un hypertexte permet de mieux comprendre le rôle de l'auteur d'un hyperdocument. En tissant un réseau de liens sur un ensemble d'informations, il lui ajoute sa propre connaissance, il valorise ces informations. Plus encore, ce modèle traduit bien le fondement de systèmes multi-webs tels Intermedia qui est utilisé dans l'enseignement. Il montre de façon simple comment des hyperdocuments distincts peuvent être construits sur un même ensemble d'informations par des auteurs différents. Un hyperdocument est une structure d'observation plaquée sur un ensemble de documents.
Visualiser sur ordinateur pour enseigner les sciences. Application à l'enseignement de l'informatique et, en particulier, du parallélisme
Authors: Chataignier Philippe
Published: May 2018

ABSTRACT. This paper deals with the use of visualization of phenomena by a computer as a tool to teach sciences. It presents :

-visualizations to teach computer science : program and algorithm animations and others,

-visualizations realised by the author to teach parallelism : animations to present concepts and simulations to visualize parallel and distributed algorithms.
La modélisation et la mise en œuvre de processus de diagnostic par un système générateur de systèmes de transfert intelligent de connaissances.
Authors: Lima Cabral
Published: May 2018

Le but de cet article est de décrire une méthodologie de modélisation et de mise en œuvre de processus de diagnostic contextuels et intelligents pour des systèmes de transfert intelligent de connaissances. Cette modélisation et mise en œuvre sont faites par la construction des modèles de réponses structurés : ce sont des systèmes experts spécialisés dont les activations dynamiques s'intercalent pour former l'interaction avec l'utilisateur de ces systèmes et aussi pour construire et maintenir le modèle de l'utilisateur. Nous illustrons la modélisation et l'implantation de ce type de processus de diagnostic par une utilisation du système générateur SINTONIA, un système spécialement conçu et implémenté pour la génération des systèmes de transfert intelligent de connaissances.
Le diagnostic de la correction d'une figure géométrique : le système TALC.
Authors: Desmoulins Cyrille
Published: May 2018

Nous présentons un système pour l'enseignement de la géométrie, TALC, dont l'objectif est de donner à un apprenant un diagnostic sur la correction de la figure qu'il a construite par rapport à son énoncé défini par un enseignant. Ce système est essentiellement défini par le contrat d'enseignement qui lie enseignant et apprenant à travers lui. Ce contrat est défini d'un part par les langages donnés à chacun des contractants et d'autre part par une relation logique reliant objectif, contexte et solution. A partir de cette définition, nous présentons les principales questions liées à sa mise en œuvre et les résultats obtenus. Nous présentons finalement les recherches que nous avons engagées dans la génération d'explication sur les erreurs de l'apprenant.
Une assistance multimédia interactive pour les séances de travaux pratiques ? Evaluation
Authors: Cartonnet Yves , Durey Alain
Published: May 2018

Since 1987 we have seen a change in the methods of technology and design education. Pratical work is part of all courses. At first it is difficult for the teacher because he can't explain to every group of students at the same time. This research compares the effectiveness of three different teaching protocols : demonstrations, handbooks and multimedia aids. It analyses the success of each method in explaining the use of technical equipment. The results of this research is as follows. Firstly we established a means of depicting the time scales needed by the students for each stage of the pratical work. The outcome was that the means of teachers interventions was the best (19 measurements were carried out by the students), next multimedia aids (15...). The least effective was the handbook with 8.5 measurements. The differences between the statistical results are significant (p <.01). Finally, we defined the multimedia aid specifications and two prototypes were developped and are currently used by the students.
Les interactions homme-machine dans un contexte éducatif : un espace interactif hétérogène
Authors: Pochon Luc-Olivier , Grossen Michèle
Published: May 2018

From an interactionist standpoint, human-machine interactions cannot be restricted to human-interface interactions but create an heterogeneous interactive space, the main characteristic of which is to gather directly and indirectly various actors belonging to different social groups who have developed their own uses for the machine and orientated the machine towards the achievement of specific projects or scopes. A case-study concerning the use of the computer in a learning situation illustrates which are the various elements and actors (the learner, his or her peers, the teachers, but also the designers) taking part in this interactive space. The article proposes then to make a distinction between four levels ranging from the design of a system to an application in a specific field. It shows that each of these four levels frames the other levels from the bottom to the top, and vice versa. The result of this analysis shows that the notions of «designer » on the one hand, and «user » on the other, are closely related and do not constitute separate categories. The conclusion is that the notion of expertise itself is relative and cannot be defined independently from the way the users actually use the machine and from the objectives they try to reach.
Effet du type d'activité sur les stratégies d'exploration d'un hyperdocument
Authors: Zeller Philippe , Dillenbourg Pierre
Published: May 2018

Cet article présente une étude sur la navigation dans les hyper documents. Notre question principale était de savoir si les sujets explorent un hyperdocument de manière différente selon l 'activité pédagogique : dans une activité, ils doivent rechercher dans l 'hyperdocument les réponses à une série de questions ; dans l 'autre, ils peuvent explorer librement l 'hyperdocument. Les résultats montrent que les sujets parcourent l 'hyperdocument de manière différente. Les sujets qui répondent à des questions ont des stratégies de navigation plus ciblées, alors que les étudiants en exploration libre ont tendance à suivre les cheminements induits par l'hypertexte. Ces résultats triviaux illustrent un point qui l'est moins : les effets d'un environnement d'apprentissage ne sont pas dus aux seules propriétés intrinsèques de l'outil, mais dépendent surtout de l'exploitation pédagogique qui en est faite. Nos résultats montrent aussi que les stratégies de navigation sont influencées par le niveau de connaissances préalables du sujet par rapport au contenu de l'hypertexte et de sa familiarité avec l'informatique. Ces trois effets (questions/libre, niveau de pré-acquis, familiarité) semblent s 'additionner en termes de charge cognitive.
Quelques méthodes d'intelligence artificielle pour la modélisation de l'élève.
Authors: Py Dominique
Published: May 2018

Cet article présente quelques-unes des techniques d'intelligence artificielle qui ont été utilisées pour la modélisation de l'élève : la planification, l'apprentissage, le diagnostic et la révision de croyances. Chacune de ces techniques est décrite brièvement, puis son application à la modélisation de l'élève est présentée et illustrée par un ou deux exemples représentatifs. Les avantages et les inconvénients de ces différentes méthodes sont discutés. Enfin, nous dressons un bilan de ce tour d'horizon et évoquons quelques perspectives.
Dimension graphique et aspects cognitifs de la table des matières dans le livre imprimé et le livre électronique.
Authors: Platteaux Hervé , Rickenmann René
Published: May 2018

Les outils de lecture jouant le rôle de table des matières dans les livres imprimé et électronique, et leurs composantes graphiques, permettent au lecteur d'établir des relations entre les caractéristiques du support matériel et la structure fonctionnelle de ses contenus. Leur comparaison éclaire un nouveau contexte d'utilisation propre aux hypermédias : la navigation interactive dans une structure fonctionnelle non linéaire. Elle amène aussi à proposer, pour les hypermédias éducatifs, des interfaces organisées autour de la notion de «carte des contenus».
La simulation : outil pédagogique pour l'enseignement de l'automatique dans les formations professionnalisées.
Authors: Riera Bernard , Martel Grégory , Angué Jean-Claude
Published: May 2018

Cet article présente différentes utilisations de la simulation en tant qu'outil pédagogique pour l'apprentissage de l'automatique. Il est montré que l'utilisation de la simulation peut se faire à tous les niveaux (cours, travaux dirigés et travaux pratiques). Une application très séduisante concerne le développement de maquettes virtuelles qui sont une représentation simulée fidèle des fonctions, de la structure et du comportement des maquettes utilisées habituellement en travaux pratiques. A ce sujet, plusieurs maquettes virtuelles ont été développées et reposent sur l'utilisation d'un simulateur auteur qui est présenté dans l'article. Enfin, une expérience de préparation de travaux pratiques au moyen d'une maquette virtuelle menée à l'Université de Valenciennes avec des étudiants de deuxième cycle (formation initiale et formation continue) est détaillée. Les résultats obtenus sont encourageants mais montrent la nécessité d'une organisation des modules pédagogiques adaptée à l'introduction de ces nouvelles technologies.