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The caviomorph rodent Abrocoma uspallata Braun, J.K. and Mares, M.A. (2002). Systematics of the Abrocoma cinerea species complex (Rodentia: Abrocomidae), with a description of a new species of Abrocoma. J. Mammal. 83: 1–19, doi: 10.1093/jmammal/83.1.1, stands as the most recently described species within its genus and remains one of the least studied. Known from two localities in northwestern Mendoza Province, Argentina, this elusive rodent has been the subject of four field studies conducted during 2022. The obtained evidence, including craniodental remains and fecal samples, suggest a moderate abundance of the species and a broader geographical range spanning at least 1,050 km2. Abrocoma uspallata has scattered occurrences at mid-elevations, typically around 2,000 m, across the Sierra de Uspallata and adjacent hilly systems. These findings point the species as a pre-Andean Abrocoma Waterhouse, 1837, together with Abrocoma schistacea Thomas, O. (1921). On mammals from the Province of San Juan, Western Argentina. Ann. Mag. Nat. Hist. 8th Series 9: 214–221, which occurs in the nearby province of San Juan. In addition, although treated as Vulnerable according to the last Argentinean conservation assessment, the species should be considered Least Concern. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to reveal the non-uniform distribution of grain size in thick direction for engineering heavy plate, microstructure of 40 mm-thick Q345 steel was observed and measured under different short-term high temperature environments formed by fire. Moreover, the influence of the short-term high temperature environment was revealed on the distribution of ferrite grain size in the Q345 steel. Under different fire service environments, there was a log-normal distribution relationship between the distribution parameter Nf (number of ferrite grains) and df (average grain diameter), as well as ρAf (area fraction density) and df, at different positions along the thickness direction. However, the statistical results are greatly affected by the length of the statistical interval. When df is about 4 to 6 times the length of the statistical interval, the statistical accuracy is higher. By using nonlinear fitting method, multiple non-uniform distribution empirical models including Nf-df empirical formulas and ρAf-df empirical formulas were established at different positions along thick direction under various fire environments. Furthermore, the interrelationships between fire temperature T and Nf , T and ρAf , fire duration t and Nf , t and ρAf were revealed, respectively.

In Ecuador, the main tick species affecting cattle are Rhipicephalus microplus and Amblyomma cajennense sensu lato. Understanding their spatial distribution is crucial. To assess their distribution, data from 2895 farms visited between 2012 and 2017 were utilized. Ticks were collected during animal inspections, with each farm's location georeferenced. Bioclimatic variables and vapor pressure deficit data were obtained from Climatologies at High resolution for the Earth´s Land Surface Areas (CHELSA) dataset. They were overlaid to develop predictive maps for each species using Random Forest (RF) models. The cross-validation results for RF prediction models showed high accuracy for both R. microplus and A. cajennense s.l. presence with values of accuracy = 0.97 and 0.98, sensitivity = 0.96 and 0.99, and specificity = 0.96 and 0.93, respectively. A carefully selected subset of bioclimatic variables was used to describe the presence of each tick species. Higher levels of precipitation had positive effect on the presence of R. microplus but a negative effect on A. cajennense s.l. In contrast, isothermality (BIO3) was more important for the presence of A. cajennense s.l. compared to R. microplus. As a result, R. microplus had a broader distribution across the country, while A. cajennense s.l. was mainly found in coastal areas with evident seasonality. The coexistence of both species in some regions could be attributed to transitional zones, whereas high altitudes limited tick presence. This information can aid in developing appropriate tick management plans, particularly considering A. cajennense s.l.'s broad host range species and R. microplus's specificity for cattle. Moreover, the predictive models can identify areas at risk of associated challenging hemoparasite, requiring special attention and mitigation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Worldwide climate‐driven shifts in the distribution of species is of special concern when it involves habitat‐forming species. In the coastal environment, large Laminarian algae—kelps—form key coastal ecosystems that support complex and diverse food webs. Among kelps, Macrocystis pyrifera is the most widely distributed habitat‐forming species and provides essential ecosystem services. This study aimed to establish the main drivers of future distributional changes on a global scale and use them to predict future habitat suitability. Using species distribution models (SDM), we examined the changes in global distribution of M. pyrifera under different emission scenarios with a focus on the Southeast Pacific shores. To constrain the drivers of our simulations to the most important factors controlling kelp forest distribution across spatial scales, we explored a suite of environmental variables and validated the predictions derived from the SDMs. Minimum sea surface temperature was the single most important variable explaining the global distribution of suitable habitat for M. pyrifera. Under different climate change scenarios, we always observed a decrease of suitable habitat at low latitudes, while an increase was detected in other regions, mostly at high latitudes. Along the Southeast Pacific, we observed an upper range contraction of −17.08° S of latitude for 2090–2100 under the RCP8.5 scenario, implying a loss of habitat suitability throughout the coast of Peru and poleward to −27.83° S in Chile. Along the area of Northern Chile where a complete habitat loss is predicted by our model, natural stands are under heavy exploitation. The loss of habitat suitability will take place worldwide: Significant impacts on marine biodiversity and ecosystem functioning are likely. Furthermore, changes in habitat suitability are a harbinger of massive impacts in the socio‐ecological systems of the Southeast Pacific. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Impulse waves that are generated by landslides in narrow reservoir areas threaten the stability of buildings and bank slopes. To discuss the action process and evolution law of the wave pressure on bank slopes, a three-dimensional physical model test that considers impulse waves generated by landslides was performed, and factors including landslide width, thickness, slope angles of the sliding surface, and bank slope angle were considered. Based on wave forms on the bank slopes, wave pressure curve characteristics, and peak value, the action process of wave pressure could be divided into the following stages: maximum pulsating pressure stage, wave impact stage (when waves break), and stationary pulsation stage. It was found that wave breaking is dependent on the value of the surf similarity parameter ξ. The distribution pattern of impact pressure decays linearly on both sides of the maximum impact pressure point, and the attenuation degree decreases when it attains 40% of the maximum value. Thus, it is proposed that the prediction formula for the maximum effective impact pressure of the bank slope be related to the reciprocal of wave steepness, relative water depth, and slope rate. The prediction formula provides strong theoretical support for early safety warning and for predicting the bank slope under impulse waves generated by landslides. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract Background Affordability and accessibility of hospital care are under pressure. Research on hospital care financing focuses primarily on incentives in the financial system outside the hospital. It is notable that little is known about (incentives in) internal funding in hospitals. Therefore, our study focuses on the budget allocation in hospitals: the distribution model. Based on our hypothesis that the reimbursement and distribution models in hospitals might interact, we gain knowledge about-, and insight into, the interaction of different reimbursement and distribution models used in Dutch hospitals, and how they affect the financial output of hospital care. Methods An online survey with 22 questions was conducted among financial senior management as an expert group in 49 Dutch hospitals. Results Ultimately, 38 of 49 approached experts fully completed the survey, which amounts to 78% of the hospitals we approached and 60% of all Dutch hospitals. The results on the reimbursement model indicate price * volume with adjusted prices above a maximum cap as the most common dominant contract type. On the internal distribution model, 75–80% of the experts reported incremental budgeting as the dominant budgeting method. Results on the interaction between the reimbursement and the distribution model show that both general and specific changes in contract agreements are only partially incorporated in hospital budgets. In 28 out of 31 hospitals with self-employed medical specialists, a relation is reported between the reimbursement model and the contracts with the Medical Consultant Group(s) in which the medical specialists are united. Conclusions Our results in Dutch setting indicate a limited interaction between the reimbursement model and the distribution model. This lack of congruence between both models might limit the desired effects of incentives in contractual agreements aimed at the financial output. This applies to different reimbursement and distribution models. Further research into the various interactions and incentives, as visualized in our conceptual framework, could result in evidence-based advice for achieving affordable and accessible hospital care.

Context: The Patagonian huemul, an endangered Odocoilinedeer, has an estimated 350–500 individuals remaining in Argentina. Today's population size, representing a numerical reduction of >99% of original estimates, is fragmented into small groups along ~2000 km of Andean mountains. The species' numbers were heavily reduced by past overexploitation and they disappeared in areas of high anthropogenic activity, predominantly the fertile valley bottoms. Aims: This research delineates the current potential distribution of Patagonian huemul by using climatic indicators, topographic and vegetational proxies, and anthropogenic pressure, to determine the relevance of the climatic envelope on current distribution. Methods: Occurrence records (latitude and longitude) were compiled (n = 159) by consulting the literature. Twenty environmental variables were used (WorldClim database) and two other representative environmental variables (normalised difference vegetation index (NDVI) and enhanced vegetation index (EVI)) were added to test their predictive power. We added the human footprint index (HFP) as a variable to control for model bias. Using the maximum entropy algorithm (MaxEnt), we modelled the species' potential distribution. We designated the historical distribution as area M. Additionally, we calculated three areas of distribution: current, historical and potential. Finally, we calculated distributional retraction of the species and area lost per year. Key results: The model showed good predictive power (AUCTest = 0.764 ± 0.091). However, low values were obtained for AUCtrain and AUCprom for the different predictor scenarios. Although the model shows the interaction among several climatic, environmental, and topographic variables, the human footprint index (39.9%) was the variable that most influenced the current potential distribution of this species. Conclusion: Our model shows that most of Patagonia's surface is climatically suitable for huemul. This suggests that the causes of distributional retraction are not related to limitations imposed by the climate envelope, but rather concur with recent research showing impact owing to the species' behavioural response to anthropogenic activity. Implications: Current populations are small, fragmented, and confined to poor-quality sites. Although the species is currently found mainly within protected areas, management actions must be initiated that promote innovative strategies in unprotected areas, as well as high-value habitats, particularly as protected areas contain limited fertile lower-valley habitats. Different anthropogenic factors heavily reduced the number of the huemul, an endangered Patagonian deer. Our aim was deliminated potencial distribution of huemul by using climatic indicators, topographic, vegetational, and anthropogenic. Our model shows that most of argentine Patagonia is climatically suitable for huemul, suggesting that the causes of the distributional retraction are linked to factors derived from the combination of characteristics of the species' biology and the increased anthropic. Therefore, it is necessary to conduct management and protection actions for species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Incidental capture of non-target species by fisheries, also referred to as bycatch, is a major concern for the management of marine megafauna species. In Norway, it has been estimated that 555 harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) get entangled and drown in gillnets every year. The majority of these bycatch events occur in large-mesh gillnet fisheries targeting cod (Gadus morhua) and monkfish (Lophius piscatorius). Young-ofthe-year individuals represent the largest proportion of bycaught harbor seals. To increase our understanding of harbor seal bycatch events along the Norwegian coast, times and areas of potential bycatch risk were identified. Seasonal variation in the at-sea distribution of harbor seals was simulated based on movement from their molting site to predicted at-sea locations. Relative age-specific bycatch abundances were used to weigh the different seasons (times of the year) based on harbor seal age. The overlap in the distribution of harbor seals and the documented distribution of fishing effort was then used to estimate the relative bycatch risks between harbor seals and fisheries in defined Statistical Sea Locations (SSLs) in each of the four seasons. The method used here provides a general framework for understanding temporal and spatial interaction between harbor seals and coastal gillnet fisheries. The times and areas of high interaction risk that were identified can be used in management practices to increase our understanding of bycatch events, and to ultimately reduce unwanted bycatch of harbor seals in coastal fisheries along the Norwegian coast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The common name of pampas cat includes a complex of small Neotropical felid species found in various habitats of South America. Recently several species of this complex were proposed, but there are few records in the northernmost distribution of the continent, and reports of the pampas cat's presence in Colombia have been ambiguous. Current northern limits of Leopardus garleppi are limited to the Andes of Ecuador. Here we present the northernmost record of the species, validating its presence in Colombia and review previous controversial records from the country. The new record is based on a road-killed specimen in a dry tropical forest ecosystem in the municipality of Mercaderes, Department of Cauca. Our morphological and genetic comparisons also shown that a previous record from Colombia supported by a single skin recently used to described a new species named Leopardus narinensis belong to Leopardus tigrinus. With the information compiled from new localities in Colombia and Ecuador, the known distribution range for L. garleppi is increased towards the northern part of South America into areas of Tropical Dry Forest. The distribution now includes 14 ecoregions from Colombia to Bolivia, and four in Colombia (Eastern Cordillera real montane forests, Northwestern Andean montane forests, Northern Andean paramo, and the Patía Valley dry forests), which correspond to similar ecosystems inhabited by the species in other Andean landscapes. The potential distribution hypothesis showed that the species has high suitability in large areas of southwestern Colombia (Nariño). With the recording of L. garleppi in Colombia, the number of extant felid species in the country has increased to seven. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Predictive modelling is fundamental to ecology and essential for objective biodiversity assessment. However, while predictive biodiversity models are generally well‐developed, models for predicting patterns within (e.g. composition, structure) and among ecosystems (e.g. ecosystem identity, spatial properties) have not been adequately operationalized. We contend the scarcity of such models marks a concerning gap in the scientific community's ability to make ecosystem predictions across landscapes, and more broadly for supporting the conservation of biodiversity and ecosystem functions. We propose ecosystem spatial pattern models (ESPM) to fill this gap in modelling capacity. Under our approach to ESPM, spatial patterns of ecosystem properties are the basis for resolving ecosystem organization at local and landscape extents. Our integrative modelling framework differs from others in that it accords biotic and abiotic constituents equally, consistent with their joint mechanistic influence on ecosystem establishment and dynamics. Development of ESPM is especially timely for ecosystem assessment is undergoing a groundswell, as scientists and conservation groups propose ambitious targets for ecosystem conservation and restoration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Affordability and accessibility of hospital care are under pressure. Research on hospital care financing focuses primarily on incentives in the financial system outside the hospital. It is notable that little is known about (incentives in) internal funding in hospitals. Therefore, our study focuses on the budget allocation in hospitals: the distribution model. Based on our hypothesis that the reimbursement and distribution models in hospitals might interact, we gain knowledge about-, and insight into, the interaction of different reimbursement and distribution models used in Dutch hospitals, and how they affect the financial output of hospital care. Methods: An online survey with 22 questions was conducted among financial senior management as an expert group in 49 Dutch hospitals. Results: Ultimately, 38 of 49 approached experts fully completed the survey, which amounts to 78% of the hospitals we approached and 60% of all Dutch hospitals. The results on the reimbursement model indicate price * volume with adjusted prices above a maximum cap as the most common dominant contract type. On the internal distribution model, 75–80% of the experts reported incremental budgeting as the dominant budgeting method. Results on the interaction between the reimbursement and the distribution model show that both general and specific changes in contract agreements are only partially incorporated in hospital budgets. In 28 out of 31 hospitals with self-employed medical specialists, a relation is reported between the reimbursement model and the contracts with the Medical Consultant Group(s) in which the medical specialists are united. Conclusions: Our results in Dutch setting indicate a limited interaction between the reimbursement model and the distribution model. This lack of congruence between both models might limit the desired effects of incentives in contractual agreements aimed at the financial output. This applies to different reimbursement and distribution models. Further research into the various interactions and incentives, as visualized in our conceptual framework, could result in evidence-based advice for achieving affordable and accessible hospital care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research seeks to create a predictive model of habitat suitability for use in determining waterbodies vulnerable to introduced species within the state of Michigan. Three members of the genus Faxonius (Decapoda, Cambaridae) were selected as test taxa for the model due to several species' propensity for significantly altering the ecosystems they inhabit in Michigan and elsewhere. Michigan State University and the Michigan Department of Natural Resources (MDNR) conducted extensive field surveys of crayfish species assemblages across 461 stream sites from 2014-2016. This project compares these field data to data from publicly available national datasets with the purpose of revealing ecosystems that are vulnerable to population expansion. We identify patterns in Faxonius habitat at local (100 acres) and landscape (1000 acres) scales by associating crayfish occurrences throughout Michigan with variables characterizing landscape conditions thought to be important factors affecting their spread, growth, and survival. An Artificial Neural Network (ANN) model using variables from Soil Survey Geographic Database (SSURGO) and National Land Cover Database (NLCD) successfully identified stream sites and watersheds in Michigan vulnerable to range expansion by Faxonius rusticus (Girard, 1852), Faxonius propinquus (Girard, 1852), and/or Faxonius virilis (Hagen, 1870). We found several habitat variables that influence our predictions. The most important variable describing F. rusticus presence was local (100-acre) scale Open Water land cover class, whereas for F. propinquus , the high-intensity developed land cover class at the local scale was the most important, while it was the shrubland land cover class at the local scale for F. virilis. This research demonstrates a powerful method to identify locations using remote sensing data that can be prioritized for conservation efforts that are threatened by invasive crayfish species. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study evaluated the spatial variation of the photosynthetic pigments along the length of the wheat leaf. The biological material was represented by the 'Dacic' wheat cultivar, cultivated under the conditions of SCDA Lovrin, Romania. The fully developed leaf, third leaf, stage BBCH 30, was considered for analysis. 50 leaves were taken at random, from which 10 leaves with a length of 30 cm were selected. The photosynthetic pigments (chlorophyll - Chl, carotenoids - Car) were determined in 29 positions along the length of the leaf, at intervals of 1 cm (p1 to p29). Based on the determined values, the Chl/Car and Car/Chl ratios were calculated. The chlorophyll content (Chl) varied between 36.70 - 67.80±0.51 units, the carotenoid content (Car) varied between 4.90 - 17.10±0.17 units. In the case of the calculated ratios, the Chl/Car ratio values were between 3.95 - 7.65±0.04, and the Car/Chl ratio values were between 0.13 - 0.25±0.001. The analysis of the data was done on the basis of a proposed logical scheme. The distribution of Chl and Car along the length of the leaf was described by polynomial equations of degree 4, under statistical safety conditions (R2=0.963 for Chl; R2=0.928 for Car, p<0.001). The cluster analysis facilitated the grouping of the determination positions (p1 to p29) based on similarity in relation to Chl values (Coph.corr.=0.738). Starting from the equations that described Chl and Car variation in relation to the position on the leaf (p1 to p29) were found the areas on the leaf where pigment content values were determined at the level of the calculated average values (Chl_Avg, Car_Avg; p8-p9, p24-p25), and the area with the maximum level of pigment content (p16 - p18). These areas were also identified in the dendrogram resulted from the cluster analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cold chain logistics(CCL) plays an increasingly important role in modern logistics. In order to achieve efficient and high-quality CCL, providing feasible methods in vehicle transportation and distribution(VCD) is crucial. This article adopts an improved ant colony algorithm(ACA), with transportation cost and time as the main objectives, to optimize common path selection problems in VCD processes, and proves the effectiveness of this algorithm through experiments. The improved ACA is introduced to enhance the search ability, and the pheromone is constantly updated in the search process to find a better path. The experimental results show that the total cost of CCL transportation for agricultural products obtained by improving the ACA is 821 yuan, and customer satisfaction reaches 100%. The advantage of this algorithm is that it can comprehensively consider various factors, search for global optimal solutions, adapt to various complex scenarios, and is not easily trapped in local optima. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the construction characteristics and evaluates the advertising distribution model by utilizing the case of beauty products as an example. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The understanding of dark matter distribution in galaxies plays a crucial role in unraveling the structure and evolution of galaxies. This research utilizes Monte Carlo probability analysis to investigate the density distribution of dark matter in galaxies. Multiple distribution models, including the Beta Model, Brownstein Model, Burkert Model, Einasto Model, Spherical Exponential Model, and Isothermal Model, are employed to estimate the density of galaxy matter at different distances from the galactic center. The analysis involves assessing the goodness of fit, sensitivity analysis of parameters, and chi-square analysis to evaluate the compatibility and accuracy of each model with the observed data. The results highlight the variations in dark matter density with increasing distance from the galactic center, indicating a higher concentration near the center and a lower concentration in the galaxy's outer regions. Understanding the distribution of dark matter density provides insights into the gravitational effects, dynamics, and observed structures of galaxies. The Monte Carlo probability analysis facilitates the estimation of probability distributions and the assessment of model uncertainty, enhancing our understanding of the dark matter distribution in galaxies. The research findings suggest the suitability of certain distribution models, such as the Beta and Brownstein models, for describing the observed dark matter distribution. However, further research is required to validate and refine these models, considering the complexities and variabilities of dark matter distribution in galactic systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose – Time headway (THW) is an essential parameter in traffic safety and is used as a typical control variable by many vehicle control algorithms, especially in safety-critical ADAS and automated driving systems. However, due to the randomness of human drivers, THW cannot be accurately represented, affecting scholars’ more profound research. Design/methodology/approach – In this work, two data sets are used as the experimental data to calculate the goodness-of-fit of 18 commonly used distribution models of THW to select the best distribution model. Subsequently, the characteristic parameters of traffic flow are extracted from the data set, and three variables with higher importance are extracted using the random forest model. Combining the best distribution model parameters of the data set, this study obtained a distribution model with adaptive parameters, and its performance and applicability are verified. Findings – In this work, two data sets are used as the experimental data to calculate the goodness-of-fit of 18 commonly used distribution models of THW to select the best distribution model. Subsequently, the characteristic parameters of traffic flow are extracted from the data set, and three variables with higher importance are extracted using the random forest model. Combining the best distribution model parameters of the data set, this study obtained a distribution model with adaptive parameters, and its performance and applicability are verified. Originality/value – The results show that the proposed model has a 62.7% performance improvement over the distribution model with fixed parameters. Moreover, the parameter function of the distribution model can be regarded as a quantitative analysis of the degree of influence of the traffic flow state on THW.

Abstract It is to be expected that there will be a shift toward electromobility with regard to private passenger cars in the coming years. This will oblige the respective power grid providers to upgrade their networks in future years. So that grid operators can plan and operate their grids to meet future needs, they have to have as complete information as possible about the loads they will be required to handle. Depending on voltage level, geographic location, general grid load, and spread of e-mobility, the situation will vary. The assumption explored in this paper is that external factors influence the distribution of EV chargers. As a second task, the impact on the power grid is simulated by means of various scenarios on the basis of this identified distribution, with the focus on low voltage (LV) grids. Sociodemographic data is used as a geographic grid to determine potential distribution. For this, machine learning methods from the field of “Species Distribution Modeling” are applied for a prospective distribution concept. Using this distribution model, the results of simulation of power grid utilization reveal vulnerabilities scattered around the networks. It is shown that e-mobility will, in the future, present a challenge for power grid operators, for which solution concepts are needed.

Early shoot borer or shoot borer Chilo infuscatellus Snellen (Lepidoptera: Crambidae), is a major pest of sugarcane in many countries, targets the plant in early stage leading to the death of shoots and consequently yield reduction. The present study aimed at characterizing the seasonal variation and predicting the distribution of C. infuscatellus and its parasitoid Sturmiopsis inferens Townsend (Diptera: Tachinidae) in Salem, Tamil Nadu State, India. Field surveys were conducted at monthly interval in nine sugarcane farms for two consecutive years (2015 & 2016) to assess seasonal variation of C. infuscatellus. Light traps were used to assess the abundance of S. inferens. The relationship between climatic variables and population density of C. infuscatellus and S. inferens was determined. The GIS maps using Inverse Distance Weighted interpolation technique. While C. infuscatellus was active in sugarcane farms throughout the growing period with peak population between May and June, S. inferens was higher during February. GIS maps showed the highest populations of C. infuscatellus (≈ 500 insects/acre/year) in western and southern parts of Salem district and the high parasitoid population was seen in Mettur, Idappadi, Sankagiri, Salem and Omalur taluks, with a density of ≈ 400 parasitoids/acre/year in both the years. Our results will help to understand the distribution/abundance of C. infuscatellus and S. inferens, and contribute to develop management strategies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The classical source-to-trap petroleum system concept only considers the migration and accumulation of conventional oil and gas in traps driven dominantly by buoyance in a basin, although revised and improved, even some new concepts as composite petroleum system, total petroleum system, total composite petroleum system, were proposed, but they do not account for the vast unconventional oil and gas reservoirs within the system, which is not formed and distributed in traps dominantly by buoyancedriven. Therefore, the petroleum system concept is no longer adequate in dealing with all the oil and gas accumulations in a basin where significant amount of the unconventional oil and gas resources are present in addition to the conventional oil and gas accumulations. This paper looked into and analyzed the distribution characteristics of conventional and unconventional oil/gas reservoirs and their differences and correlations in petroliferous basins in China and North America, and then proposed whole petroleum system (WPS) concept, the WPS is defined as a natural system that encompasses all the conventional and unconventional oil and gas, reservoirs and resources originated from organic matter in source rocks, the geological elements and processes involving the formation, evolution, and distribution of these oil and gas, reservoirs and resources. It is found in the WPS that there are three kinds of hydrocarbons dynamic fields, three kinds of original hydrocarbons, three kinds of reservoir rocks, and the coupling of these three essential elements lead to the basic ordered distribution model of shale oil/gas reservoirs contacting or interbeded with tight oil/gas reservoirs and separated conventional oil/gas reservoirs from source rocks upward, which is expressed as "S\T-C". Abnormal conditions lead to other three special ordered distribution models: The first is that with shale oil/gas reservoirs separated from tight oil/gas reservoirs. The second is that with two direction ordered distributions from source upward and downward. The third is with lateral distribution from source outside. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The influence of 39 solute atoms under uniform distribution on the generalized plane fault energy (GPFE) and twinnability of the basal plane in Mg solid solutions at various concentrations has been investigated through first-principles calculations. Firstly, it is revealed that the interaction between solute atoms and the GPFs on basal plane of Mg extends beyond the fault layer to encompass multiple atomic layers. Moreover, it is observed that as the distance from the fault layer increases, the interaction energy is decreased. And the increase in the total interaction energy between the solute atoms and the deformed intrinsic stacking fault (SF) I 2 results in a corresponding enhancement of their interaction with other key points of GPF, namely UI 2 , T 2 , and UT 2 , establishing a roughly linear relationship. Finally, based on this interaction, we employ a uniform distribution model to investigate the influence of solute atom concentration on the twinnability of basal plane in Mg solid solution alloys. It is observed that with an increase in solute atom concentration, several conventional elements such as K, S, Sr, Zr, As, as well as most rare earth (RE) elements including Y, Pr, La, Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ce, Tb, Ho, etc., gradually enhanced the twinnability of Mg solid solution alloys. Conversely, certain elements like B, P, Cs, Se, Er, Tl, etc., were found to diminish the twinnability of Mg alloys. This study can provide valuable insights for designing high-strength and toughness Mg alloys. [Display omitted] • The interaction between GPFs and solute atoms extends several atomic layers. • As the distance of the solute atom from the slip plane increases, the GPF-solute atom interaction energy decreases. • The linear relationship of the I 2 -solute atoms (SA) interaction with other key points in GPFs-SA is determined. • As the SA concentration increased, K, S, Sr, Zr, Y, Pr, La, Nd, Eu, Gd, Dy, Ce, Tb, Ho improve the twinning tendency of Mg. • Some elements, such as B, P, Cs, Se, Er, Tl, etc., can reduce the twinning ability of Mg alloys at any concentration. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study investigates the construction characteristics and evaluates the advertising distribution model by utilizing the case of beauty products as an example.

Cedrela odorata is a native tree of economic importance, as its wood is highly demanded in the international market. In this work, the current and future distributions of C. odorata in Mexico under climate change scenarios were analyzed according to their optimal temperature ranges for seed germination. For the present distribution, 256 localities of the species' presence were obtained from the Global Biodiversity Information Facility (GBIF) database and modelled with MaxEnt. For the potential distribution, the National Center for Atmospheric Research model (CCSM4) was used under conservative and drastic scenarios (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5 Watts/m2, respectively) for the intermediate future (2050) and far future (2070). Potential distribution models were built from occurrence data within the optimum germination temperature range of the species. The potential distribution expanded by 5 and 7.8% in the intermediate and far future, respectively, compared with the current distribution. With the increase in temperature, adequate environmental conditions for the species distribution should be met in the central Mexican state of Guanajuato. The states of Chihuahua, Mexico, Morelos, Guerrero, and Durango presented a negative trend in potential distribution. Additionally, in the far future, the state of Chihuahua it is likely to not have adequate conditions for the presence of the species. For the prediction of the models, the precipitation variable during the driest month presented the greatest contribution. When the humidity is not limiting, the thermal climatic variables are the most important ones. Models based on its thermal niche for seed germination allowed for the identification of areas where temperature will positively affect seed germination, which will help maximize the establishment of plant populations and adaptation to different climate change scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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A fundamental consideration in aquatic invasive species risk management is the distribution of invasive taxa relative to the risk assessment area. However, sampling the distribution of aquatic invasive species (AIS) is costly and time consuming, especially when they are rare or clustered. While random sampling removes bias in most estimates, it could lead to many zeroes in the response variable if the target species is not evenly distributed. We surveyed the distribution of Tubifex tubifex, the obligate secondary host of Myxobolus cerebralis, an invasive parasite that causes whirling disease in salmonids. We used intensive grid and random sampling in a lake and two river systems but collected many samples with zero T. tubifex. Zeroaltered models identified a single source of zero T. tubifex counts in each dataset and improved model validation compared to Poisson or negative binomial models. While T. tubifex counts were not predictable using the covariates we measured, the binomial processes identified zero odds of a T. tubifex occurrence at lake sites with water depths > 2 m and stream sites with channel slopes > 3%. These covariates could be used to stratify the landscape for future sampling, which would save survey time and resources and likely reduce uncertainty in parameter estimates. Model-based sample stratification could address some of the challenges with AIS surveys when species are at low abundance or are clustered. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Kelp forests are the largest vegetated marine ecosystem on earth, but vast areas of their distribution remain unmapped and unmonitored. Efficient and cost-effective methods for measuring the standing biomass of these ecosystems are urgently needed for coastal mapping, ocean accounting and sustainable management of wild harvest. Here we show how widely available acoustic equipment on vessels can be used to perform robust and large-scale (kilometer) quantifications of kelp biomass which can be used in assessments and monitoring programs. We demonstrate how to interpret echograms from acoustic systems into point estimates of standing biomass in order to create spatial maps of biomass distribution. We also explore what environmental conditions are suitable for acoustic measures. This has direct application for blue carbon accounting, coastal monitoring, management of wild seaweed harvest and the protection and conservation of marine habitats supporting high biodiversity.

Question: Alpine vegetation is sensitive to climate change, with shifts in species ranges, changes in community composition, and an upward shift in the forest limit over decades. Under climate change, habitats suitable for alpine vegetation will progressively decrease in scale, making their protection and conservation particularly important. In the Taisetsu Mountains of Japan, alpine vegetation has changed remarkably during the last decade. The aim of this study was to estimate the distribution of habitats suitable for alpine and subalpine vegetation types (snowbeds, shrubs, and alpine heathland/fellfield) and competing vegetation types (Sasa spp. and subarctic forest), while considering uncertainties in future predictions and climate scenarios. Location: Taisetsu Mountains, Daisetsuzan National Park, Hokkaido (northern Japan). Methods: We estimated the habitat area suitable for each vegetation type from current vegetation maps on the basis of the predictions by three global climate models (GCMs) under two climate change scenarios (RCP2.6 and RCP8.5) using five habitat suitability models (HSMs) in two periods (2046-2050 and 2096-2100). We also compared the performances of the HSMs. Results: Mean summer temperature and snow-cover period had significant effects on the distribution of all vegetation types. The estimated distribution area for suitable habitat did not differ markedly among GCMs and HSMs. Under the RCP2.6 scenario, habitats suitable for snowbeds and alpine heathland/fellfield drastically decreased overall but were preserved in some regions. Under the RCP8.5 scenario, however, subarctic forest almost completely replaced alpine and subalpine vegetation types over time. Conclusions: Our projections indicate that the severity of future climate change will determine whether or not habitats suitable for alpine vegetation will remain. Monitoring the dynamics of endemic and rare species for the effects of global warming should be the priority for adaptation strategies to enable timely conservation measures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is to be expected that there will be a shift toward electromobility with regard to private passenger cars in the coming years. This will oblige the respective power grid providers to upgrade their networks in future years. So that grid operators can plan and operate their grids to meet future needs, they have to have as complete information as possible about the loads they will be required to handle. Depending on voltage level, geographic location, general grid load, and spread of e-mobility, the situation will vary. The assumption explored in this paper is that external factors influence the distribution of EV chargers. As a second task, the impact on the power grid is simulated by means of various scenarios on the basis of this identified distribution, with the focus on low voltage (LV) grids. Sociodemographic data is used as a geographic grid to determine potential distribution. For this, machine learning methods from the field of "Species Distribution Modeling" are applied for a prospective distribution concept. Using this distribution model, the results of simulation of power grid utilization reveal vulnerabilities scattered around the networks. It is shown that e-mobility will, in the future, present a challenge for power grid operators, for which solution concepts are needed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The wrinkled-faced bat (Centurio senex) is an enigmatic species widely distributed in Mesoamerica. Besides its wide distribution it is considered rare in almost the entire range and little is known about its life history. We provide notes and discuss on the natural history of the species and performed a distribution model and an elevation profile in order to understand the distribution patterns in Northern Central America. We found that C. senex inhabits ecosystems from lowlands to 1943 m, with higher probability of occurrence in the Pacific region and the mountains of Guatemala in which seasonal precipitation regimes predominates. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human activities alter ecosystems everywhere, causing rapid biodiversity loss and biotic homogenization. These losses necessitate coordinated conservation actions guided by biodiversity and species distribution spatial data that cover large areas yet have fine‐enough resolution to be management‐relevant (i.e., ≤5 km). However, most biodiversity products are too coarse for management or are only available for small areas. Furthermore, many maps generated for biodiversity assessment and conservation do not explicitly quantify the inherent tradeoff between resolution and accuracy when predicting biodiversity patterns. Our goals were to generate predictive models of overall breeding bird species richness and species richness of different guilds based on nine functional or life‐history‐based traits across the conterminous United States at three resolutions (0.5, 2.5, and 5 km) and quantify the tradeoff between resolution and accuracy and, hence, relevance for management of the resulting biodiversity maps. We summarized 18 years of North American Breeding Bird Survey data (1992–2019) and modeled species richness using random forests, including 66 predictor variables (describing climate, vegetation, geomorphology, and anthropogenic conditions), 20 of which we newly derived. Among the three spatial resolutions, the percentage variance explained ranged from 27% to 60% (median = 54%; mean = 57%) for overall species richness and 12% to 87% (median = 61%; mean = 58%) for our different guilds. Overall species richness and guild‐specific species richness were best explained at 5‐km resolution using ~24 predictor variables based on percentage variance explained, symmetric mean absolute percentage error, and root mean square error values. However, our 2.5‐km‐resolution maps were almost as accurate and provided more spatially detailed information, which is why we recommend them for most management applications. Our results represent the first consistent, occurrence‐based, and nationwide maps of breeding bird richness with a thorough accuracy assessment that are also spatially detailed enough to inform local management decisions. More broadly, our findings highlight the importance of explicitly considering tradeoffs between resolution and accuracy to create management‐relevant biodiversity products for large areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous studies have clarified that there are certain regularities in the spatial organization of traditional Chinese rural market towns as viewed from the perspective of the economic geography and local society. Nevertheless, the results of some studies concerning distribution patterns and factors influencing these patterns are contradictory, and there are few comprehensive analyses of the influence of interconnected variables. Taishan County in the Pearl River Delta of Guangdong Province is used as an example, and the results of the identification of the distribution pattern of market towns within this county are determined as clustered by using the Voronoi method and the calculated coefficients of variation (Cv). The correlation between the market towns and the physical and social environment is quantified and illustrated through Geographic Information Systems (GIS), logistic regression analysis, and graphic methods, and the application of nuclear density change rates clarifies the development trajectory, which explains the phenomenon of market town clustering with ecological and cultural significance. Overall, the results indicate traditional preferences for sites characterized by low elevation, little slope, proximity to water, and productive agricultural land, while at the local scale, the spatial–temporal arrangement of market towns reflects partitioning and interactions between distinct clans. Further integrating the perspective of environmental history, we propose that the structural relationships of natural ecology, subsistence mode, and social organization crucially constitute the site selection and layout logic of market towns. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Mechanical ventilation is essential to ensure the safety of persons, equipment, and structures in cruise ship fire incidents. The mass loss rate, smoke temperature, and comprehensive heat transfer coefficient during large-scale fire experiments are researched in cruise ship flat space. The results indicate that the mass loss rate of four pool fires with different sizes presents different rules in mechanical ventilation conditions compared with open conditions. In addition, the vertical distribution of temperature appears to be stratification, which aligns with the "dual-zone model". The horizontal distribution of the temperature has a "mutation point". With the mutation point as the boundary, the temperature drops rapidly from the fire source to the mutation point and decreases more slowly. Furthermore, the distribution model of comprehensive heat transfer coefficient and average temperature are established. The comprehensive heat transfer coefficient is in direct proportion to the 1.00 power of heat release rate and inversely in proportion to the 0.69 power of the number of mechanical ventilation. However, the average temperature is in direct proportion to the 0.52 power of heat release rate and inversely in proportion to the 1.40 power of the number of mechanical ventilation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Given the prospects of climate change and its influence on the species' geographic range, it is important to clarify which climate indicators best explain current distributions, as tools for the conservation of threatened species. It is also important to know the percentage of protection of suitable habitats for these species. In this paper we identify the main climatic variables that explain the distribution patterns of 16 species of medium and largemammals in Patagonia through the MaxEnt model, using 19 bioclimatic variables from WorldClim, elevation, NDVI and EVI and a proxy for anthropic pressure (human footprint). We calculated the percentage of coverage of protected areas for each species and found that most of the ideal habitat is outside them, and that strictly protected areas (I and II) have more records of presence than managed resource areas (III to VI). Species with restricted distributions are the most vulnerable to extinction because they are less resilient to changes in the climatic envelope, especially outside protected areas. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In recent years, a low-grade vanadiferous titanomagnetite concentrate (LVTC) produced in the northwest area of Liaoning has attracted more and more attention. However, it is difficult to recover and utilize valuable minerals such as iron, titanium, and vanadium, due to their special physical and chemical properties and complex mineral composition. Grinding and magnetic separation are two important operational units for recovering valuable metal components from vanadiferous titanomagnetite. Therefore, the grinding kinetics of the LVTC in northwestern Liaoning were first studied by means of grinding kinetics equations in this paper. The results show that the grinding process of LVTC is consistent with the grinding kinetics equation, and the sieve residues of particles approached a constant value after grinding for 30 min, resulting from equilibrium between the fragmentation and agglomeration processes. In addition, equivalent particle size (EPS) and specific surface area (SSA) were linearly proportional to the double logarithm of grinding time, and the correlation coefficients for fitted data by the Rosin–Rammler–Bennet (RRB) model were slightly higher than those by the Swebrec model, and could reflect the dispersibility and uniformity of particle size distribution (PSD) quantitatively. Then, the grinding products were separated by magnetic separation, and the influence of grinding conditions on the grade and recovery ratio of Fe and TiO2 in the LVTC was analyzed. As a result, grinding time has a significant impact on the recovery ratio and grade of Fe and TiO2 during the magnetic separation process, and the LVTC grinding duration is not as prolonged as it might be, as the optimal grinding time is 20 min. Titanomagnetite, ilmenite, and titanite are still the predominant phases in all magnetic separation products at optimal grinding time, but the intensity or content of these three minerals varies between magnetic separation products, and 232 kA/m magnetic field intensity has a higher separation efficiency than 134 kA/m magnetic field intensity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this work was to estimate the potential geographical distribution of HLB in South America, under historical climate records and future climate change scenarios, based on climatic conditions at the sites where HLB has been established in South America. Different spatial modeling algorithms were used. Climate change estimates of the Fifth IPCC Assessment Report, by the 2050s and 2070s, were considered. Results of assessed models differed significantly in the estimation of areas with greater climatic risk for the establishment of HLB in South America. According to the estimates of the fifth IPCC report, the effects of climate change would determine that in future, high-risk areas for HLB establishment would be displaced towards the southwest of the areas considered riskier nowadays. Even individual models do not present a clear pattern for HLB establishment and distribution, the integration of the results generated by different algorithms in a consensus model, can provide additional information for phytosanitary decision making.

The peak time of a received signal in a molecular channel is random and generally assumed to follow the Normal distribution. However, the untested validity of the assumption motivates this letter. Considering an absorbing receiver placed in a free-diffusion molecular communication via diffusion (MCvD) system, we analyze the randomness in terms of the distribution of the peak time using simulated data and define one of the parameters. In addition, we derive the semi-analytical expressions of the distribution by using Poisson and Normal approximations of the absorbed molecules. Through numerical analysis, we evaluate the accuracy of the models and demonstrate that the Poisson model achieves a better fit. The key finding is that the distribution has extreme values resulting in a heavy right-tail and this information can be a useful tool to develop improved channel models. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To discuss the thermal decomposition mechanism of asphalt materials, the kinetic parameters were calculated and their distribution models were established based on differential scanning calorimetry (DSC) test results of saturates, aromatics, resins and asphaltenes (SARA) fractions in asphalt. Results indicate that the thermal decomposition processes of SARA fractions are accompanied by complicated endothermic and exothermic reactions, and the exothermic reactions are predominant. The DSC curve is shifted to higher temperature when the heating rate is elevated, and the thermal effects, reaction progress and decomposition rate are increased simultaneously. Also, the Friedman–Reich–Levi (FRL) isoconversional method is suitable to calculate the kinetic parameters during the thermal decomposition of SARA fractions. The conversion ratio (α) of each SARA fraction shows obvious effects on the calculated activation energy (E). As the α of each SARA fraction is increased, the calculated E of saturates is more accurate at a lower α at the decomposition stages 1 and 3, but is always accurate at stage 2. Additionally, the calculated E is more accurate at the lower and higher α than that at the middle α at the two decomposition stages of aromatics. The calculated E of resins is fluctuated between 99 and 112 kJ mol−1, and its accuracy is satisfactory. The calculated E of asphaltenes is changed between 8 and 80 kJ mol−1, and is more accurate at the lower and higher α than that at the middle α. Finally, the distributed activation energy models of each SARA fraction are established to provide an insight into thermal decomposition mechanism of asphalt materials. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Seamounts are common features of the deep seafloor that are often associated with aggregations of mega-epibenthic fauna, including deep-sea corals and sponges. Globally, many seamounts also host abundant fish stocks, supporting commercial bottom trawl fisheries that impact non-target benthic species through damage and/or removal of these non-target species. However, the effects of bottom trawling on seamount benthic communities, as well as their recovery potential, will vary over the total seamount area because of differences in within seamount habitat and community structure. It is therefore important to understand fine-scale community dynamics, community patch characteristics, and the environmental drivers contributing to these patterns to improve habitat mapping efforts on seamounts and to determine the potential for benthic communities on seamounts to recover from fishing disturbances. Here we analysed the structure and distribution of mega-epibenthic communities on two New Zealand seamounts with different physical environments to determine which environmental variables best correlated with variation in community structure within each seamount. We used the identified environmental variables to predict the distribution of communities beyond the sampled areas, then described the spatial patterns and patch characteristics of the predicted community distributions. We found the environmental variables that best explained variations in community structure differed between the seamounts and at different spatial scales. These differences were reflected in the distribution models: communities on one seamount were predicted to form bands with depth, while on the other seamount communities varied mostly with broadscale aspect and the presence of small pinnacles. The number and size of community patches, inter-patch distances, and patch connectedness were found to differ both within and between seamounts. These types of analyses and results can be used to inform the spatial management of seamount ecosystems.

Global wind-energy development has increased exponentially in recent decades and is expected to double in capacity in Canada by 2040. Wind-farm development has significant implications for wildlife, particularly for raptors, where injury or death from turbine strikes and other cumulative effects are well documented. Minimizing conflict is important for species at risk, such as the Ferruginous Hawk (Buteo regalis), because negative impacts from wind farms may hinder conservation and recovery actions. Understanding Ferruginous Hawk habitat selection is needed to assess the potential spatial overlap with wind-farm development and make spatially explicit predictions of conflict risk. Our objectives were (1) to develop a predictive map of habitat selection by Ferruginous Hawks at the home-range scale; and (2) to identify areas of high and low potential conflict with current and future wind-energy developments, by overlaying predictive habitat maps with wind potential within the Canadian Ferruginous Hawk range. We showed that landscape composition and configuration, current industrial development, soil characteristics, and seasonal climate influenced Ferruginous Hawk home-range habitat selection. Our risk analyses identified areas at medium to very high risk of conflict with wind energy, but also large areas with low wind-energy development potential and high conservation value that would be valuable for species conservation and management. Importantly, how wind potential is measured has a strong influence on the level of risk. Our habitat model and risk assessment do not replace ground assessments, but can be used during the pre-development phase to proactively site new wind farms away from potential risk for Ferruginous Hawks.