bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Results of 45 Years of Atmospheric Corrosion Study in the Czech Republic
Authors: Kreislova Katerina , Knotkova Dagmar
Published: April 2017

Atmospheric corrosion poses a significant problem with regard to destruction of various materials, especially metals. Observations made over the past decades suggest that the world’s climate is changing. Besides global warming, there are also changes in other parameters. For example, average annual precipitation increased by nearly 10% over the course of the 20th century. In Europe, the most significant change, from the atmospheric corrosion point of view, was an increase in SO2 pollution in the 1970s through the 1980s and a subsequent decrease in this same industrial air pollution and an increase in other types of air pollution, which created a so-called multi-pollutant atmospheric environment. Exposed metals react to such changes immediately, even if corrosion attack started in high corrosive atmospheres. This paper presents a complex evaluation of the effect of air pollution and other environmental parameters and verification of dose/response equations for conditions in the Czech Republic.
Synthesis and Antibacterial Evaluation of Novel 3-Substituted Ocotillol-Type Derivatives as Leads
Authors: Bi Yi , Liu Xian-Xuan , Zhang Heng-Yuan , Yang Xiao , Liu Ze-Yun , Lu Jing , Lewis Peter , Wang Chong-Zhi , Xu Jin-Yi , Meng Qing-Guo , Ma Cong , Yuan Chun-Su
Published: April 2017

Due to the rapidly growing bacterial antibiotic-resistance and the scarcity of novel agents in development, bacterial infection is still a global problem. Therefore, new types of antibacterial agents, which are effective both alone and in combination with traditional antibiotics, are urgently needed. In this paper, a series of antibacterial ocotillol-type C-24 epimers modified from natural 20(S)-protopanaxadiol were synthesized and evaluated for their antibacterial activity. According to the screening results of Gram-positive bacteria (B. subtilis 168 and MRSA USA300) and Gram-negative bacteria (P. aer PAO1 and A. baum ATCC19606) in vitro, the derivatives exhibited good antibacterial activity, particularly against Gram-positive bacteria with an minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC) value of 2–16 µg/mL. The subsequent synergistic antibacterial assay showed that derivatives 5c and 6c enhanced the susceptibility of B. subtilis 168 and MRSA USA300 to chloramphenicol (CHL) and kanamycin (KAN) (FICI < 0.5). Our data showed that ocotillol-type derivatives with long-chain amino acid substituents at C-3 were good leads against antibiotic-resistant pathogens MRSA USA300, which could improve the ability of KAN and CHL to exhibit antibacterial activity at much lower concentrations with reduced toxicity.
A Study about Regioisomeric Hydroquinones with Multiple Intramolecular Hydrogen Bonding
Authors: Martínez-Cifuentes Maximiliano , Cardona Wilson , Saitz Claudio , Weiss-López Boris , Araya-Maturana Ramiro
Published: April 2017

A theoretical exploration about hydrogen bonding in a series of synthetic regioisomeric antitumor tricyclic hydroquinones is presented. The stabilization energy for the intramolecular hydrogen bond (IHB) formation in four structurally different situations were evaluated: (a) IHB between the proton of a phenolic hydroxyl group and an ortho-carbonyl group (forming a six-membered ring); (b) between the oxygen atom of a phenolic hydroxyl group and the proton of an hydroxyalkyl group (seven membered ring); (c) between the proton of a phenolic hydroxyl group with the oxygen atom of the hydroxyl group of a hydroxyalkyl moiety (seven-membered ring); and (d) between the proton of a phenolic hydroxyl group and an oxygen atom directly bonded to the aromatic ring in ortho position (five-membered ring). A conformational analysis for the rotation around the hydroxyalkyl substituent is also performed. It is observed that there is a correspondence between the conformational energies and the IHB. The strongest intramolecular hydrogen bonds are those involving a phenolic proton and a carbonyl oxygen atom, forming a six-membered ring, and the weakest are those involving a phenolic proton with the oxygen atom of the chromenone, forming five-membered rings. Additionally, the synthesis and structural assignment of two pairs of regioisomeric hydroquinones, by 2D-NMR experiments, are reported. These results can be useful in the design of biologically-active molecules.
Engineering of Syndiotactic and Isotactic Polystyrene-Based Copolymers via Stereoselective Catalytic Polymerization
Authors: Laur Eva , Kirillov Evgueni , Carpentier Jean-François
Published: April 2017

This contribution presents an updated overview of the different copolymers containing stereoregular polystyrene blocks. Special emphasis is placed on syndiospecific and isospecific copolymerization of styrene with co-monomers (ethylene and α-olefins, conjugated and non-conjugated dienes, styrene derivatives, etc.). The catalytic systems involved are described and the polymerization mechanisms are discussed. Alternative approaches (simultaneous, living, chain-transfer and graft copolymerization) and the resulting detailed structures and characteristics of the copolymers are also reported.
Cellular Response to Titanium Dioxide Nanoparticles in Intestinal Epithelial Caco-2 Cells is Dependent on Endocytosis-Associated Structures and Mediated by EGFR
Authors: Krüger Kristin , Schrader Katrin , Klempt Martin
Published: April 2017

Titanium dioxide (TiO2) is one of the most applied nanomaterials and widely used in food and non-food industries as an additive or coating material (E171). It has been shown that E171 contains up to 37% particles which are smaller than 100 nm and that TiO2 nanoparticles (NPs) induce cytotoxicity and inflammation. Using a nuclear factor Kappa-light-chain enhancer of activated B cells (NF-κB) reporter cell line (Caco-2nfkb-RE), Real time polymerase chain reaction (PCR), and inhibition of dynamin and clathrin, it was shown that cellular responses induced by 5 nm and 10 nm TiO2 NPs (nominal size) depends on endocytic processes. As endocytosis is often dependent on the epithelial growth factor receptor (EGFR), further investigations focused on the involvement of EGFR in the uptake of TiO2 NPs: (1) inhibition of EGFR reduced inflammatory markers of the cell (i.e., nuclear factor (NF)-κB activity, mRNA of IL8, CCL20, and CXCL10); and (2) exposure of Caco-2 cells to TiO2 NPs activated the intracellular EGFR cascade beginning with EGFR-mediated extracellular signal-regulated kinases (ERK)1/2, and including transcription factor ELK1. This was followed by the expression of ERK1/2 target genes CCL2 and CXCL3. We concluded that TiO2 NPs enter the cell via EGFR-associated endocytosis, followed by activation of the EGFR/ERK/ELK signaling pathway, which finally induces NF-κB. No changes in inflammatory response are observed in Caco-2 cells exposed to 32 nm and 490 nm TiO2 particles.
Relationships among Different Water-Soluble Choline Compounds Differ between Human Preterm and Donor Milk
Authors: Moukarzel Sara , Soberanes Lynda , Dyer Roger A. , Albersheim Susan , Elango Rajavel , Innis Sheila M.
Published: April 2017

Choline is essential for infant development. Human milk choline is predominately present in three water-soluble choline (WSC) forms: free choline (FC), phosphocholine (PhosC), and glycerophosphocholine (GPC). It is unclear whether mother’s own preterm milk and pooled donor milk differ in WSC composition and whether WSC compounds are interrelated. Mother’s own preterm milk (n = 75) and donor milk (n = 30) samples from the neonatal intensive care unit, BC Women’s Hospital were analyzed for WSC composition using liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Associations between different WSC compounds were determined using Pearson’s correlations, followed by Fischer r-to-z transformation. Total WSC concentration and concentrations of FC, PhosC, and GPC did not significantly differ between mother’s own milk and donor milk. FC was negatively associated with PhosC and GPC in mother’s own milk (r = −0.27, p = 0.02; r = −0.34, p = 0.003, respectively), but not in donor milk (r = 0.26, p = 0.181 r = 0.37, p = 0.062, respectively). The difference in these associations between the two milk groups were statistically significant (p = 0.03 for the association between PhosC and FC; and p = 0.003 for the association between FC and GPC). PhosC and GPC were positively associated in mother’s own milk (r = 0.32, p = 0.036) but not donor milk (r = 0.36, p = 0.062), although the difference in correlation was not statistically significant. The metabolic and clinical implications of these associations on the preterm infant need to be further elucidated.
Ultra-High-Capacity Optical Packet Switching Networks with Coherent Polarization Division Multiplexing QPSK/16QAM Modulation Formats
Authors: Delgado Mendinueta José , Shinada Satoshi , Furukawa Hideaki , Wada Naoya
Published: April 2017

Optical packet switching (OPS) networks and its subsystems, like the burst-mode receiver, are an essential technology currently used in passive optical networks (PONs). Moreover, OPS may play a fundamental role on future hybrid optical circuit switching (OCS)/OPS networks and datacenter networks. This paper focuses on two fundamental subsystems of packetized optical networks: the digital coherent burst-mode receiver and the electro-optical switch. We describe and experimentally characterize a novel digital coherent burst-mode receiver that makes uses of the Stokes parametrization to rapidly estimate the state of polarization (SOP) and optimize the equalizer convergence time. This burst-mode receiver is suitable for optical packetized networks that make use of advanced modulation formats such as quadrature amplitude modulation (QAM). We study the suitability of (Pb,La)(Zr,La)O3 (PLZT) optical switches for amplitude-variable coherent polarization division multiplexing (PDM) 16QAM modulation format and demonstrate a switching capacity of 10.24 Tb/s/port. We demonstrate a full 2 × 2 OPS node with a control plane capable of solving packet contention by means of packet dropping or buffering with a switching capacity of 10.24 Tb/s/port. Finally, we demonstrate the operation of the 2 × 2 OPS node with a record capacity of 12.8 Tb/s/port plus 100 km of dispersion-compensated fiber transmission.
Novel Polyvinyl Alcohol/Starch Electrospun Fibers as a Strategy to Disperse Cellulose Nanocrystals into Poly(lactic acid)
Authors: López de Dicastillo Carol , Roa Karina , Garrido Luan , Pereira Alejandro , Galotto Maria
Published: April 2017

In this work, electrospun fibers of polyvinyl alcohol (PV) and starch (ST) were obtained to improve dispersion of cellulose nanocrystals (CNC) within a poly(lactic acid) (PLA) matrix with the aim of enhancing mechanical and barrier properties. The development and characterization of electrospun fibers with and without CNC, followed by their incorporation in PLA at three concentrations (0.5%, 1% and 3% with respect to CNC) were investigated. Morphological, structural, thermal, mechanical and barrier properties of these nanocomposites were studied. The purpose of this study was not only to compare the properties of PLA nanocomposites with CNC embedded into electrospun fibers and nanocomposites with freeze-dried CNC, but also to study the effect of electrospinning process and the incorporation of CNC on the PV and starch properties. SEM micrographs confirmed the homogenous dispersion of fibers through PLA matrix. X-ray analysis revealed that the electrospinning process decreased the crystallinity of PV and starch. The presence of CNC enhanced the thermal stability of electrospun fibers. Electrospun fibers showed an interesting nucleating effect since crystallinity of PLA was strongly increased. Nanocomposites with electrospun fibers containing CNC presented slightly higher flexibility and ductility without decreasing barrier properties.
The Development of Sensor Applications in the Sectors of Energy and Environment in Italy, 1976–2015
Authors: Di Francia Girolamo
Published: April 2017

Although sensor technologies have been developing quite similarly all over the world, the investigation of their applications has been more affected by the specific industrial and economic characteristics of each country. This paper aims to investigate the development of applications based on sensor devices in the sectors of energy and the environment, in Italy, throughout the last forty years (1976–2015), examining the most relevant papers published by Italian R & D groups working in this field. Italy depends on foreign imports for more than 80% of its primary energy needs, and this has directed the research effort on the development of sensor applications both to improve load shaping and consumers’ awareness and to develop specific equipment to maximize renewable energy production. Similarly, for the environment sector, there are increasing efforts to develop solutions to support a more and more capillary control of the environment itself using a cooperative approach. In both the sectors it seems that the solutions proposed can help to relieve the structural problems that Italy suffers and that the scientific and technical results obtained so far also have significant international relevance.
EasyPCC: Benchmark Datasets and Tools for High-Throughput Measurement of the Plant Canopy Coverage Ratio under Field Conditions
Authors: Guo Wei , Zheng Bangyou , Duan Tao , Fukatsu Tokihiro , Chapman Scott , Ninomiya Seishi
Published: April 2017

Understanding interactions of genotype, environment, and management under field conditions is vital for selecting new cultivars and farming systems. Image analysis is considered a robust technique in high-throughput phenotyping with non-destructive sampling. However, analysis of digital field-derived images remains challenging because of the variety of light intensities, growth environments, and developmental stages. The plant canopy coverage (PCC) ratio is an important index of crop growth and development. Here, we present a tool, EasyPCC, for effective and accurate evaluation of the ground coverage ratio from a large number of images under variable field conditions. The core algorithm of EasyPCC is based on a pixel-based segmentation method using a decision-tree-based segmentation model (DTSM). EasyPCC was developed under the MATLAB® and R languages; thus, it could be implemented in high-performance computing to handle large numbers of images following just a single model training process. This study used an experimental set of images from a paddy field to demonstrate EasyPCC, and to show the accuracy improvement possible by adjusting key points (e.g., outlier deletion and model retraining). The accuracy (R2 = 0.99) of the calculated coverage ratio was validated against a corresponding benchmark dataset. The EasyPCC source code is released under GPL license with benchmark datasets of several different crop types for algorithm development and for evaluating ground coverage ratios.
Optimization and Analysis of a Manufacturing–Remanufacturing–Transport–Warehousing System within a Closed-Loop Supply Chain
Authors: Turki Sadok , Didukh Stanislav , Sauvey Christophe , Rezg Nidhal
Published: April 2017

This paper deals with the optimization of a manufacturing–remanufacturing–transport–warehousing closed-loop supply chain, which is composed of two machines for manufacturing and remanufacturing, manufacturing stock, purchasing warehouse, transport vehicle and recovery inventory. The proposed system takes into account the return of used end-of-life products from the market. Manufactured and re-manufactured products are stored in the manufacturing stock. The used end-of-life products are stored in the recovery inventory for remanufacturing. The vehicle transports products from the manufacturing stock to the purchasing warehouse. The objective of this work is to simultaneously evaluate the optimal capacities of manufacturing stock, purchasing warehouse and the vehicle, as well as the optimal value of returned used end-of-life products. Those four decision variables minimize the total cost function. A discrete flow model, which is supposed to be the most realistic, is used to describe the system. An optimization program, based on a genetic algorithm, is developed to find the decision variables. Numerical results are presented to study the influence of transportation time, unit remanufacturing cost and configuration of the manufacturing/remanufacturing machines on the decision variables.
Use of Natural Light vs. Cold LED Lighting in Installations for the Recovery of Victims of Gender Violence: Impact on Energy Consumption and Victims’ Recovery
Authors: Amorim Raquel , López Juan , Molina-Moreno Valentín , Peña-García Antonio
Published: April 2017

The efficiency of lighting installations is a major challenge concerning Governments, productive sectors and individuals. However, the importance of accurate lighting in some areas, especially those related to Health and Wellbeing is so critical that the constraints of energy efficiency and sustainability are not always a priority. This situation has become more critical with the current boom in the application of non-visual effects of light to these areas. In this study, the effects oftwo different kinds of lighting on femalevictims of gender violence are compared and analyzed in terms of positive results and impact on energy consumption and sustainability. The lighting technologies used are integrated in facilities where these women carry out different activities aimed at their integration into daily life after their traumatic experiences. The results are expected to become a tool for professionals working with these collectives and for installation designers. In spite of the well-known effects of cold light, especially for tasks involving arousal, sleepiness and other critical variables, it is demonstrated that daylight, which is obviously cheaper from productive and environmental perspectives, is better for this application.
Modeling Knowledge in Environmental Analysis: A New Approach to Soundscape Ecology
Authors: Milone Flavia , Camarda Domenico
Published: April 2017

Planning activities are inherently technical, political and organizational exercises, being both constructions of action optimization over time and “social” organizations promoting action. Thus, they require organization and consensus. In this context, the concept of processes that develop based on diffused interactions between different agents appears useful and rather effective. Cognitive agents and reactive agents coexist in a system of relations and interactions. This allows the context in which environmental management and/or planning processes take place to be modeled in its essential parts. Scholars and researchers have often wondered if behavioral proxies of the environment-agent can be singled out for possible inclusion in a multi-agent system (MAS) layout. This challenge is of particular interest today, considering the potential offered by the spread of intelligent sensor networks, able to represent and model various “behaviors” of the environment-agent. Today’s growing interest in research in the field of planning is enhanced by an awareness of the complexity issue embedded in planning. In this framework, this paper is realized as a pilot study on the knowledge of sound and soundscapes as elements characterizing the environment-agent in the context of environmental planning processes. The study reflects a contextual difficulty of collecting extensive data in uneasy conditions: nevertheless it reports results and suggestions useful in an innovative MAS-oriented perspective.
An Ex-Post Evaluation of Agricultural Extension Programs for Reducing Fertilizer Input in Shaanxi, China
Authors: Hua Chunlin , Woodward Richard T. , You Liangzhi
Published: April 2017

It is difficult to control agricultural Non-point Source (NPS) pollution, caused by overusing of chemical fertilizer, through laws alone. An agricultural extension program is an alternative way to reduce fertilizer input. This paper estimates the average change in fertilizer use of farmers, which is attributable to their participation in the agricultural extension program. The Inverse-Probability Weighted matching method is used to evaluate the average treatment effect for the farmers who engaged in the program and, to a limited extent, evaluate the impact of individual elements of the program. Surprisingly, we find that farmer-to-farmer training may have had a counterproductive effect while the posters may be the most effective program element in reducing fertilizer use in the context.
Concordance between Plasma and Filter Paper Sampling Techniques for the Lymphatic Filariasis Bm14 Antibody ELISA
Authors: Masson Jesse , Douglass Jan , Roineau Maureen , Aye Khin , Htwe Kyi , Warner Jeffrey , Graves Patricia
Published: April 2017

Diagnostic testing for the antibody Bm14 is used to assess the prevalence of bancroftian and brugian filariasis in endemic populations. Using dried blood spots (DBS) collected on filter paper is ideal in resource-poor settings, but concerns have been raised about the performance of DBS samples compared to plasma or serum. In addition, two versions of the test have been used: the Bm14 CELISA (Cellabs Pty Ltd., Manly, Australia) or an in-house CDC version. Due to recent improvements in the CELISA, it is timely to validate the latest versions of the Bm14 ELISA for both plasma and DBS, especially in settings of residual infection with low antibody levels. We tested plasma and DBS samples taken simultaneously from 92 people in Myanmar, of whom 37 (40.2%) were positive in a rapid antigen test. Comparison of results from plasma and DBS samples demonstrated no significant difference in positive proportions using both the CELISA (46.7% and 44.6%) and CDC ELISA (50.0% and 47.8%). Quantitative antibody unit results from each sample type were also highly correlated, with coefficients >0.87. The results of this study demonstrate that DBS samples are a valid collection strategy and give equivalent results to plasma for Bm14 antibody ELISA testing by either test type.
COMPREHENSIVE STUDY ON UNDERSLUNG GIRDER BRIDGE
UNDER DIFFERENT LOADING CONDITIONS
Authors: Misiūnaitė Ieva , Juozapaitis Algirdas , Laurinavičius Alfredas
Published: April 2017

The comprehensive study on the structural behaviour of underslung girder bridge is examined in this study
through both numerical modelling and experimental 3D model tests. The structural design of steel bridges in many
cases is governed by their ability to withstand asymmetric loading conditions. Three different symmetric and asymmetric
load cases were investigated to capture the deformational and flexural response of the main girder. It was found that
under distributed load the structural response of underslung girder bridge was similar to beam-column with intermediate
elastic supports. The numerical model was validated against experimental data with good agreement perceived,
allowing an extensive parametric study to be performed. The observed influence of initial geometric imperfections and
nonlinearities are discussed. It was found that symmetric load governs the ultimate limit state. However, the asymmetric
one takes over in the case of serviceability. Finally, the study presented herein summarises experimental investigations,
numerical simulations and design proposals obtained through the recent few years research program, carried on
to deepen the knowledge on the structural behaviour of underslung girder bridges.
INVESTIGATION ON INDICES OF WORKABILITY AND RUTTING
RESISTANCE FOR WEARING COURSE MIXTURES
Authors: Nhat Tran Thanh , Takahashi Osamu
Published: April 2017

Simple indices easily help to evaluate a performance of hot mix asphalt mixtures. This study aimed to develop
a simple workability index and rutting resistance index for wearing course mixtures. Seven aggregate gradations were
prepared to investigate dense, coarse, and fine-graded hot mix asphalt mixtures. The study used the Marshall compactor
to fabricate specimens. The Superpave Gyratory Compaction was employed to measure the workability of the seven
blends, namely the workability energy parameter of asphalt mixtures. The study also conducted Wheel Tracking Test to
evaluate rutting resistance of those mixtures. The results showed a strong relationship between the workability index and
the workability energy of hot mix asphalt mixtures, namely increasing the workability energy of mixtures with increasing
the workability index value. The workability energy value of an asphalt mixture may be high when the area of continuous
maximum density for a proportion of stone, which illustrates a degree of far away from the Fuller maximum density
line, is low. Moreover, the rutting resistance index correlated well with rutting resistance of the hot mix asphalt mixtures.
STEREO VISION METHOD APPLICATION TO ROAD INSPECTION
Authors: Staniek Marcin
Published: April 2017

The paper presents the stereo vision method for the mapping of road pavement. The mapped road is a set of
points in three-dimensional space. The proposed method of measurement and its implementation make it possible to
generate a precise mapping of a road surface with a resolution of 1 mm in transverse, longitudinal and vertical dimensions.
Such accurate mapping of the road is the effect of application of stereo images based on image processing technologies.
The use of matching measure CoVar, at the stage of images matching, help eliminate corner detection and filter
stereo images, maintaining the effectiveness of the algorithm mapping. The proper analysis of image-based data and
application of mathematical transformations enable to determine many types of distresses such as potholes, patches,
bleedings, cracks, ruts and roughness. The paper also aims at comparing the results of proposed solution and reference
test-bench. The statistical analysis of the differences permits the judgment of error types.
TRAFFIC POLLUTION ASSESSMENT USING
ARTIFICIAL NEURAL NETWORK AND MULTIVARIATE ANALYSIS
Authors: De Luca Mario , Žilionienė Daiva , Gadeikis Saulius , Dell’Acqua Gianluca
Published: April 2017

The work addressed a study on pollution caused by traffic on the highway. In particular, it was considered
the concentration of pollutant, resulting from the passage of vehicles on the freeway. Five different stations (sensors
and samples) used to collect data. The data collection period around six months. Also, the following parameters were
detected: wind speed and direction, temperature and traffic flow rate. Data processed with Multivariate Analysis and
Artificial Neural Network approach. The best model it obtained with Artificial Neural Network approach. In fact, this
model presented the best fit to the experimental data.
Electromagnetic Signals Following Stellar-mass Black Hole Mergers
Authors: Mink S. E. de , King A.
Published: April 2017

It is often assumed that gravitational-wave (GW) events resulting from the merger of stellar-mass black holes are unlikely to produce electromagnetic (EM) counterparts. We point out that the progenitor binary has probably shed a mass ≳10 M
⊙ during its prior evolution. If even a tiny fraction of this gas is retained in a circumbinary disk, the sudden mass loss and recoil of the merged black hole shocks and heats it within hours of the GW event. Whether the resulting EM signal is detectable is uncertain. The optical depth through the disk is likely to be high enough that the prompt emission consists only of photons from its optically thin skin, while the majority may take years to emerge. However, if some mechanism can release more photons in a time comparable to the few-hour energy production time, the peak luminosity of the EM signal could be detectable. For a disk retaining only ∼10−3 of the mass shed in the earlier binary evolution, medium-energy X-rays to infrared emission would be observable hours after the GW event for source distances of ∼500 Mpc. Events like this may already have been observed, but ascribed to unidentified active galactic nuclei. Improved sky localization should eventually allow identification based on spatial coincidence. A detection would provide unique constraints on formation scenarios and potentially offer tests of strong-field general relativity. Accordingly, we argue that the high scientific payoff of an EM detection fully justifies search campaigns.
The Magnetar Model of the Superluminous Supernova GAIA16apd and the Explosion Jet Feedback Mechanism
Authors: Soker Noam
Published: April 2017

Under the assumption that jets explode core collapse supernovae (CCSNe) in a negative jet feedback mechanism (JFM), this paper shows that rapidly rotating neutron stars are likely to be formed when the explosion is very energetic. Under the assumption that an accretion disk or an accretion belt around the just-formed neutron star launch jets and that the accreted gas spins-up the just-formed neutron star, I derive a crude relation between the energy that is stored in the spinning neutron star and the explosion energy. This relation is (E
NS-spin/E
exp) ≈ E
exp/1052 erg; It shows that within the frame of the JFM explosion model of CCSNe, spinning neutron stars, such as magnetars, might have significant energy in super-energetic explosions. The existence of magnetars, if confirmed, such as in the recent super-energetic supernova GAIA16apd, further supports the call for a paradigm shift from neutrino-driven to jet-driven CCSN mechanisms.
Intimae Theologiae : The Christocentric Cosmology of John Scottus Eriugena in the Homilia super « In principio erat Verbum »
Authors: Giltner T. Alexander
Published: April 2017

La christologie de Jean Scot Erigène n’a pas reçu toute l’attention qu’elle aurait méritée, sans doute parce qu’elle a été étudiée par les historiens de la philosophie qui se sont surtout penchés sur le Periphyseon . Cet article soutient que c’est dans l’ Homélie que Jean Scot Erigène expose clairement les contours de sa pensée christologique. Ainsi s’avère-t-il que le cosmos d’Erigène est réellement christocentré.
La quaestio de mixtione elementorum di Taddeo da Parma
Authors: Fioravanti Gianfranco
Published: April 2017

Il s’agit de l’édition critique de la Quaestio de mixtione elementorum de Thaddée de Parme, disputée à Bologne dans l’année 1321. L’édition prend en compte les trois manuscrits jusqu’ici connus. L’introduction essaye de situer dans son contexte historique et théorique la solution donnée par Thaddée à la question de la permanence dans le mixte des formes substantielles des éléments et analyse les relations très complexes de la quaestio du maître bolonais avec les textes où Averroès traite du même problème.
La formation des intentions professionnelles des adolescent.e.s se reconnaissant dans une orientation sexuelle minoritaire
Authors: Sahin  Poyraz , Olry-Louis Isabelle
Published: April 2017

L’article part de l’idée générale que la question des choix professionnels peut se poser dans un contexte spécifique chez les adolescent.e.s se reconnaissant comme homosexuels ou bisexuels, notamment parce que cette période les expose à des tensions identitaires particulièrement fortes, à de possibles actes homophobes en milieu scolaire ou à l’éventuelle incompréhension de leur entourage face à des choix de métiers potentiellement atypiques au regard du genre. Dès lors, il propose de mettre en relation les principales études relatives à la construction d’une identité sexuelle minoritaire avec les travaux portant sur le développement des intentions d’orientation professionnelle d’adolescent.e.s et d’adultes émergents se reconnaissant une telle identité. Sur la base d’une synthèse de ces deux ensembles de travaux, l’article interroge plus largement les modèles de construction des choix professionnels adolescent.e.s – notamment ceux de Super (1990) et de Marcia (1966) – quant à la place, dans ces choix, d’une orientation sexuelle elle-même en cours d’élaboration.
Le décrochage scolaire comme processus de stress : des profils hétérogènes sous forme d’ennui et de surmenage
Authors: Núñez-Regueiro Fernando
Published: April 2017

Cet article théorique propose un modèle de décrochage scolaire fondé sur le processus de stress qui explique l’hétérogénéité des profils de décrochage. Une première partie présente la théorie du stress individuel. Une deuxième partie construit un modèle de stress-décrochage qui se structure autour des contraintes des besoins psychologiques de l’élève et des demandes scolaires. Dans une troisième partie, il est montré que ce modèle explique une diversité de profils de décrochage liés à l’ennui et au surmenage scolaire. Une dernière partie soumet l’idée que les croyances de justice sous-tendent le processus de stress-décrochage et déterminent en partie son hétérogénéité.
Autonomic Computing in a Biomimetic Algorithm for Robots Dedicated to Rehabilitation of Ankle
Authors: de Souza Euzébio D. , Lima II Eduardo José
Published: April 2017

Human mobility is the key element of everyday life, its reduction or loss deeply affects daily activities. In assisted rehabilitation, robotic devices have focuses on the biomechanics of motor control. However, biomechanics does not study the neurological and physiological processes related to normal gait. Biomimetics combined with biomechanics, can generate a more efficient stimulation of the motor cortex and the locomotor system. The highest efficiency obtained through torque generation models, based on the physiological response of muscles and bones to reaction forces, together with control techniques based on autonomic computation. An autonomic control algorithm has a self-adjusting behaviour, ensuring patient safety and robot operation without the continuous monitoring of the physiotherapist. Thus, this work will identify the elements that characterize the physiological stimuli related to normal human gait, focusing on the ankle joint, aiming the development of biomimetic algorithms for robots for rehabilitation of the lower limbs.
Biometric Image Security Using Chaos Algorithm
Authors: Agarwal Sugandha , Singh O.P. , Nagaria Deepak
Published: April 2017

In this world of Advanced Technology, the Biometrics are proved to be a significant method for user identification. However, the use of biometric is not new, but these days, with the increase in multimedia applications, it has gained its popularity in analysing human characteristics for security purposes. Biometric Encryption using Chaos Algorithm is a technique used to make it more convenient to the user and to provide high level security. The most prominent physical biometric patterns investigated for security purposes are the fingerprint, hand, eye, face, and voice. In the proposed image encryption scheme, an external secret key of 160-bit is used. The initial conditions for the logistic map are derived using the external secret key. The results obtained through experimental analysis provide an efficient and secure way for real-time image encryption and transmission.
Uncertainty Aversion and Its Role in Travel Decision Making Under Uncertainty
Authors: Li Zheng
Published: April 2017

Travel time variability is a random phenomenon, and within the presence of it, uncertainty is associated with decision making. When a choice is made in an uncertain situation, the probability distribution is based on the subjective judgments of a decision maker. This paper introduces a psychological perspective to the concept of travel time variability, by embedding a belief-based weighting, so as to better understand decision making under uncertainty. This research argues that a subjective probability approach accounting for degrees of belief should be addressed in order to capture the impact of travel time variability on decision making. Using a simulated choice data set, the author provides an example of modelling uncertainty aversion, and illustrate its impacts on model performance.
The Impact of Legal Advocacy Experience Within the US Supreme Court on Trial Decision Outcomes
Authors: D'Rosario Michael
Published: April 2017

Can advocacy experience differentials be used in formulating a model to predict trial outcomes in the US Supreme Court? In recent years, a number of studies have considered the role of experience before the Supreme Court in the determination of trial outcomes. The work of Sheehan, Mishler and Songer supports the assertion that trial experience possessed by trial lawyers is associated with disproportionate rates of success. McGuire is a significant study into the impact of the experience of competing trial lawyers on judicial decision making. The study identified the experience differentials of lawyers and sought to determine the impact of these differentials on trial outcomes. The study found that trial experience possessed by trial lawyers was associated with favourable trial outcomes. The current study extends upon McGuire, assessing the robustness of the original study employing a series of more advanced parametric estimation techniques. The study then uses the McGuire logistic model framework to develop a model of prediction, employing a backward propagation, multilayer perceptron network model.
Decision-Making Process of Farmers' in Present Political Economy of Agrarian Crisis with a Study of Burdwan District of West Bengal, India
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Partha , Sengupta Partha Pratim
Published: April 2017

The agricultural sector is less contributing sector than service and manufacturing sector in terms of share in the total GDP in India. For last two decades, farmers suicide in India has been. The question is how the individual farmers are taking such drastic decision. Decision-making process is the most complex function of any individuals. But the judgment is influenced by a number of factors like emotion, mania, framing bias etc. By combining behavioral and cognitive psychological theory with conventional economics and finance, Behavioral Economics seeks to provide explanation for peoples' decision-making process such as economic decision. Recently, Burdwan District has become the news headlines for farmers' suicide. In this study the authors have been applying Behavioral theories to the farmers' decision-making process to find the influencing variable(s) and by factor analysis and Structural Equation Modelling. It is found that only Herding effect and Market information have strongly influenced the decision-making process of the farmers of the said district.
A Method for Identifying Fatigue State of Driver's Face Based on Improved AAM Algorithm
Authors: Li Zuojin , Peng Jun , Chen Liukui , Wu Ying , Shi Jinliang
Published: April 2017

The change of lighting conditions and facial pose often affects the driver's face's video registration greatly, which affects the recognition accuracy of the driver's fatigue state. In this paper, the authors first analyze the reasons for the failure of the driver's face registration in the light conditions and the changes of facial gestures, and propose an adaptive AAM (Active Appearance Model) algorithm of adaptive illumination and attitude change. Then, the SURF (speeded up robust feature) feature extraction is performed on the registered driver's face video images, and finally the authors input the extracted SURF feature into the designed artificial neural network to realize the recognition of driver's fatigue state. The experimental results show that the improved AAM method can better adapt to the driver's face under the illumination and attitude changes, and the driver's facial image's SURF feature is more obvious. The average correct recognition rate of the driver's fatigue states is 92.43%.
Education in Conflict Resolution Using ICT
Authors: Sánchez Ana Dolores Vargas , Chamucero Luis Eduardo Veloza
Published: April 2017

Education in today's society has meant that new challenges arise, including training on coexistence and a culture of peace in technological media. This article presents the results of a study that aimed to identify how information and communications technology (ICT) can support training in conflict resolution in Colombian public education. To address the use of technology for training in conflict resolution in this experience, the authors took into account the following categories of analysis: peaceful strategies or techniques for conflict resolution; methods and models for conflict resolution; and best practices with ICT. The research results helped identify the relevance of the use of technological tools for education in conflict resolution at an early age and the importance of providing training for teachers in these cross-sectional areas of school contexts.
The local forms of Zootecus (Gastropoda: Pulmonata: Subulinidae) of Pakistan: an archaeomalacological case study
Authors: Girod Alberto , Balzarini Antonio
Published: April 2017

In the past, several Asian subspecies and local forms of Zootecus have been described and some of them can be linked back to Zootecus insularis. Their collecting sites, shell shapes, dimensions and number of whorls have been listed in the past. In recent years, collections, observations and biometrics of dead shells have been carried out in five sites in Pakistan, in both Balochistan and Sindh, The samples have quite different dating; two of them come from archaeological excavations. The biometrics indicate that different shell shapes are locally present among the empty shells accumulated over the years; in the Siranda Lake they have floated from different of areas. A comparison between the Zootecus shells cited in the past literature and the shells from the five sites shows, that in these mounds of shells a variety of shapes exists, including those known as Zootecus agrensis, Z. chion, Z. gracilor minor, Z. polygyratus and Z. pullus. Given the ample polymorphism present in every sample, it is difficult to ascribe the specimens of Siranda Lake to one of the above taxa.
Long-Term Cognitive and Neuropsychiatric Consequences of Repetitive Concussion and Head-Impact Exposure
Authors: McAllister Thomas , McCrea Michael
Published: April 2017

Initially, interest in sport-related concussion arose from the premise that the study of athletes engaged in sports associated with high rates of concussion could provide insight into the mechanisms, phenomenology, and recovery from mild traumatic brain injury. Over the last decade, concerns have focused on the possibility that, for some athletes, repetitive concussions may raise the long-term risk for cognitive decline, neurobehavioral changes, and neurodegenerative disease. First conceptualized as a discrete event with variable recovery trajectories, concussion is now viewed by some as a trigger of neurobiological events that may influence neurobehavioral function over the course of the life span. Furthermore, advances in technology now permit us to gain a detailed understanding of the frequency and intensity of repetitive head impacts associated with contact sports (eg, football, ice hockey). Helmet-based sensors can be used to characterize the kinematic features of concussive impacts, as well as the profiles of typical head-impact exposures experienced by athletes in routine sport participation. Many large-magnitude impacts are not associated with diagnosed concussions, whereas many diagnosed concussions are associated with more modest impacts. Therefore, a full understanding of this topic requires attention to not only the effects of repetitive concussions but also overall exposure to repetitive head impacts. This article is a review of the current state of the science on the long-term neurocognitive and neurobehavioral effects of repetitive concussion and head-impact exposure in contact sports.
Epidemiology of Sport-Related Concussions in High School Athletes: National Athletic Treatment, Injury and Outcomes Network (NATION), 2011–2012 Through 2013–2014
Authors: O'Connor Kathryn L. , Baker Melissa M. , Dalton Sara L. , Dompier Thomas P. , Broglio Steven P. , Kerr Zachary Y.
Published: April 2017

Context:

Sports participation is one of the leading causes of concussions among nearly 8 million US high school student-athletes.

Objective:

To describe the epidemiology of sport-related concussion (SRC) in 27 high school sports during the 2011–2012 through 2013–2014 academic years.

Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Setting:

Aggregate injury and exposure data from 27 sports in 147 high schools in the National Athletic Treatment, Injury and Outcomes Network (NATION).

Patients or Other Participants:

Boy and girl high school athletes during the 2011–2012 through 2013–2014 academic years.

Main Outcome Measure(s):

Sport-related concussion counts, percentages, rates per 10 000 athlete-exposures (AEs), rate ratios (RRs), and injury proportion ratios (IPRs) were reported with 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Rate ratios and IPRs with 95% CIs not containing 1.0 were considered significant.

Results:

Overall, 2004 SRCs were reported among 27 high school sports, for a rate of 3.89 per 10 000 AEs. Football had the highest SRC rate (9.21/10 000 AEs), followed by boys' lacrosse (6.65/10 000 AEs) and girls' soccer (6.11/10 000 AEs). The SRC rate was higher in competition than in practice (RR = 3.30; 95% CI = 3.02, 3.60). Among sex-comparable sports, the SRC rate was higher in girls than in boys (RR = 1.56; 95% CI = 1.34, 1.81); however, the proportion of SRCs due to player-to-player contact was higher in boys than in girls (IPR = 1.48; 95% CI = 1.27, 1.73). Common symptoms reported among all athletes with SRCs were headache (94.7%), dizziness (74.8%), and difficulty concentrating (61.0%). Only 0.8% of players with SRCs returned to play within 24 hours. The majority of athletes with SRCs (65.8%) returned to play between 7 and 28 days. More players had symptoms resolve after 7 days (48.8%) than less than a week (40.7%).

Conclusions:

Our findings provide updated high school SRC incidence estimates and further evidence of sex differences in reported SRCs. Few athletes with SRCs returned to play within 24 hours or a week. Most injured players returned after 7 days, despite a smaller proportion having symptoms resolve within a week.