bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Dynamic Multi-Projection-Contour Approximating Framework for the 3D Reconstruction of Buildings by Super-Generalized Optical Stereo-Pairs
Authors: Yan Yiming , Su Nan , Zhao Chunhui , Wang Liguo
Published: September 2017

In this paper, a novel framework of the 3D reconstruction of buildings is proposed, focusing on remote sensing super-generalized stereo-pairs (SGSPs). As we all know, 3D reconstruction cannot be well performed using nonstandard stereo pairs, since reliable stereo matching could not be achieved when the image-pairs are collected at a great difference of views, and we always failed to obtain dense 3D points for regions of buildings, and cannot do further 3D shape reconstruction. We defined SGSPs as two or more optical images collected in less constrained views but covering the same buildings. It is even more difficult to reconstruct the 3D shape of a building by SGSPs using traditional frameworks. As a result, a dynamic multi-projection-contour approximating (DMPCA) framework was introduced for SGSP-based 3D reconstruction. The key idea is that we do an optimization to find a group of parameters of a simulated 3D model and use a binary feature-image that minimizes the total differences between projection-contours of the building in the SGSPs and that in the simulated 3D model. Then, the simulated 3D model, defined by the group of parameters, could approximate the actual 3D shape of the building. Certain parameterized 3D basic-unit-models of typical buildings were designed, and a simulated projection system was established to obtain a simulated projection-contour in different views. Moreover, the artificial bee colony algorithm was employed to solve the optimization. With SGSPs collected by the satellite and our unmanned aerial vehicle, the DMPCA framework was verified by a group of experiments, which demonstrated the reliability and advantages of this work.
Curvature Continuous and Bounded Path Planning for Fixed-Wing UAVs
Authors: Wang Xiaoliang , Jiang Peng , Li Deshi , Sun Tao
Published: September 2017

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) play an important role in applications such as data collection and target reconnaissance. An accurate and optimal path can effectively increase the mission success rate in the case of small UAVs. Although path planning for UAVs is similar to that for traditional mobile robots, the special kinematic characteristics of UAVs (such as their minimum turning radius) have not been taken into account in previous studies. In this paper, we propose a locally-adjustable, continuous-curvature, bounded path-planning algorithm for fixed-wing UAVs. To deal with the curvature discontinuity problem, an optimal interpolation algorithm and a key-point shift algorithm are proposed based on the derivation of a curvature continuity condition. To meet the upper bound for curvature and to render the curvature extrema controllable, a local replanning scheme is designed by combining arcs and Bezier curves with monotonic curvature. In particular, a path transition mechanism is built for the replanning phase using minimum curvature circles for a planning philosophy. Numerical results demonstrate that the analytical planning algorithm can effectively generate continuous-curvature paths, while satisfying the curvature upper bound constraint and allowing UAVs to pass through all predefined waypoints in the desired mission region.
The Total-Factor Energy Efficiency of Regions in China: Based on Three-Stage SBM Model
Authors: Huang Haifeng , Wang Tao
Published: September 2017

This paper constructs a three-stage Slacks-Based Measure (SBM) model to evaluate and analyze the total-factor energy efficiency (TFEE) of 276 cities in China during the period of 2000–2012 from the management and environment dual perspectives according to the principles of multi-stage Data Envelopment Analysis (DEA) model. In the first stage, a SBM-DEA model is applied to assess TFEE scores to illustrate the effects of the energy factors, while considering the undesirable output. In the second stage, we adjust the original data, and then in the third stage, we use SBM model again to get efficiency evaluation and obtain pure management efficiency of every decision unit. The results show that Chinese TFEE is still low and energy saving potential can be up to 34–46%, showing an inverted “U” shape tendency and characteristic of regional imbalance. Based on these findings, we further put forward some paths and strategies to improve Chinese energy efficiency.
THE ENDURANCE OF THE MODERNIST PLANNING PARADIGM: THE FUNCTIONAL CITY IN CONTEMPORARY PLANNING IN MEDELLĶN, COLOMBIA
Authors: Calderón Edwar
Published: September 2017

The Functional City principles steered the development of Latin American cities post WWII, but their influence in current urbanisation in LA has not been acknowledged or studied, due to the presumption by planners that contemporary planning operates within a very different planning paradigm to the earlier modernist one. In contrast, this paper argues that contemporary urban planning practices in Colombia are still dependent today on functionalist urbanism. Through a case study of three of the 28 approved Planes Parciales (sectorial plans) in Medellin, Colombia, based on primary data sources, I argue how the Functional City principles have been overshadowed by and formulated from a socio-economic perspective which creates discrepancies between local planners and academics regarding their application. This study contributes to a better understanding of current urbanisation patterns in Latin America. Furthermore, this study will invite reflection and public debate over questions such as: urbanization for whom/against whom and who decides?
The Role of Spontaneous Succession in Reclamation
of Mining Waste Tip in Area of Ruda Slaska City
Authors: Banaszek Jarosław , Leksy Marzena , Rahmonov Oimahmad
Published: September 2017

Coal exploitation has produced a huge amount of mining waste whose considerable part is being piled on
the waste dumps. The analysis was carried out in the area of Ruda Slaska city. The waste dumps are located within the
city limits. The spontaneous processes of succession can thus help to manage such urban landscapes in compliance
with the principles of sustainable development.
The majority of such territories are managed and restored. However, some areas avoid reclamation processes and
instead undergo the process of spontaneous vegetation or even landscape succession. The aim of the research is first
and foremost to characterize the spontaneous succession of vegetation in terms of habitat requirements to which we
include light, temperature, humidity, trophic conditions, reaction (pH), granulometric composition and plant life
forms. In the second place the aim was to determine the direction of the spontaneous succession of vegetation as well
as to demonstrate the usefulness of such types of research while planning the reclamation of the post-mining areas that
have been deformed to suit the urban landscape.
The result of the analysis showed the occurrence of 108 vascular plants in I and 60 in II waste dump. It was mostly
photophilous species that prevailed on both waste dumps. They were mostly native as well as non-native species.
Some species like Calamagrosits epigejos, Robinia pseudoacacia, Betula pendula have high biological productivity
despite unfavorable conditions. The overgrown dumps shaped the image of the city landscape in a specific way.
However, the investigation showed that the number of species on the waste dumps increases with time. The results of
the research into the conditions that reign on the dumping grounds provide the basis for projects of reclaiming the
post-mining sites, in particular the waste dumps, from raw material extraction, as well as demonstrate the usefulness
of the spontaneous succession of plants.
Urban Transportation Conditions from the Metropolitan
Area of Kuala Lumpur that will Impact and Endanger Putrajaya’s
Sustainability Plan
Authors: Bonasif Jorge
Published: September 2017

There is a growing demand for mobility and accessibility from the Klang Valley (The Greater Kuala Lumpur)
into the city of Putrajaya. Putrajaya is the federal administrative Capital of Malaysia, conceived as the first sustainable
intelligent city-garden. The public connectivity in Kuala Lumpur is mainly centralized with the RR (Rapid rail)
integrated by the Light Rail Transit (LRT) and the MRT (Mass Rapid Transit) with connections by bus to the peripheral
zones. However the primary mode of transportation is still private vehicles such as cars and motorcycles, with an
increased use from 458,294 in 2006 to 628,239 in 2012. In 1990, these numbers increased from 247 vehicles per 1,000
persons to 546 and 994 vehicles per 1,000 persons in 1996 and 2002 respectively, beyond the national level per 1,000
population of 91 vehicles in 1990, 133 in 1996 and 210 vehicles in 2002 incrementing the heavily congested conditions
existent in the traffic grid, thus also affecting the connection with Putrajaya (Kuala Lumpur Structured Plan 2020).
This paper highlights the necessity for a closer examination to some of the factors that exert influence on the motivation
of the preference in the use of private transportation in detriment of the existent public urban network that will affect
and endanger the sustainable nature of Putrajaya.
The primary methodology used is the consultation of available literature, newspapers, published reports, and interview
with experts. A secondary source is the observation in situ to help support the conclusions. The constant growth on the
demand for private transportation in the population is hypothesized to be directly positively correlated to a very ingrained
tradition, unchangeable weather conditions and the unreliable connectivity. These factors directly affect the lack
of incentives to improve existent public transportation from Klang Valley to Putrajaya.
Cellulose Fibres as a Reinforcing Element in Building Materials
Authors: Hospodarova Viola , Stevulova Nadezda , Vaclavik Vojtech , Dvorsky Tomas , Briancin Jaroslav
Published: September 2017

Nowadays, construction sector is focusing in developing sustainable, green and eco-friendly building
materials. Natural fibre is growingly being used in composite materials. This paper provides utilization of cellulose
fibres as reinforcing agent into cement composites/plasters. Provided cellulosic fibres coming from various sources as
bleached wood pulp and recycled waste paper fibres. Differences between cellulosic fibres are given by their physical
characterization, chemical composition and SEM micrographs. Physical and mechanical properties of fibre-cement
composites with fibre contents 0.2; 0.3and 0.5% by weight of filler and binder were investigated. Reference sample
without fibres was also produced. The aim of this work is to investigate the effects of cellulose fibres on the final
properties (density, water absorbability, coefficient of thermal conductivity and compressive strength) of the fibrecement
plasters after 28 days of hardening. Testing of plasters with varying amount of cellulose fibres (0.2, 0.3 and 0.5
wt. %) has shown that the resulting physical and mechanical properties depend on the amount, the nature and structure
of the used fibres. Linear dependences of compressive strength and thermal conductivity on density for plasters with
cellulosic fibres adding were observed.
Land Value Capture to Promote Local Development in Baltics: a Comparative study of Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania
Authors: Jürgenson Evelin , Auzinš Armands , Burinskienė Marija
Published: September 2017

By capturing value increase, it should be used for specific purposes in the way that would support implementation of infrastructure projects and promote local development. Accordingly, the stakeholders’ interests have to be balanced and fair decision-making promoted. The research emphasises on comparative analysis of Estonian, Latvian and Lithuanian experiences in covering development costs and absorbing value increase. The purpose of the study is to give an overview of the land value capture as well as to discuss how it promotes local development and what is an institutional environment supporting it in three Baltic countries with similar historical evolution during last two decades. The functions of local authorities and spatial planning systems have been analysed in the study. The comparative analysis and synthesis, the logical-constructive and graphical methods mainly are used for the research. Direct and indirect models, which are used for the absorption of the surplus value of developed land, have been observed in the study. The outcome of the research shows an interim conclusion for Estonia, Latvia and Lithuania, and it may contribute to comparative analysis in larger – European context – in order to get an overview of land value capture across Europe.
Preinduction-focused Transthoracic Echocardiography by Anesthesiologists in Cardiac Surgical Patients: “Checks and Balances” Approach improves Patient Care!
Authors: Wells Cynthia
Published: September 2017

How to cite this article

Liora Y, Wells C, Subramaniam K. Preinduction-focused Transthoracic Echocardiography by Anesthesiologists in Cardiac Surgical Patients: “Checks and Balances” Approach improves Patient Care!. J Perioper Echocardiogr 2017;5(1):1-2.
Double Interatrial Septum appearing as an Atrial Myxoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature
Authors: Wyrobek Julie , Chales H Brown IV , Kostibas Megan P , Mayer Susan A , Cameron Duke E , Hayanga Heather K
Published: September 2017

A double interatrial septum (DIS) is a rare finding during echocardiographic evaluation and can often be mistaken for other more common atrial anomalies. The interatrial cavity created by the septum creates a low-flow state that increases risk of thrombus formation and thromboembolic events. Transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) plays a vital role in accurate diagnosis as a DIS is often not seen during transthoracic echocardiography (TTE). In this case, we report a patient who presented for surgery with a preoperative diagnosis of an atrial myxoma, was instead discovered to have a DIS, and then subsequently underwent DIS resection without complication. We discuss the differential of a DIS, including an atrial septal pouch, cor triatriatum, atrial myxoma, and aneurysmal interatrial septum and the classic features of each anomaly for appropriate diagnosis and management.

How to cite this article

Wyrobek J, Brown CH IV, Kostibas MP, Mayer SA, Cameron DE, Hayanga HK. Double Interatrial Septum appearing as an Atrial Myxoma: A Case Report and Review of the Literature. J Perioper Echocardiogr 2017;5(1):16-20.
New Intracardiac Mass in Right Atrium Postcardiac Surgery: Thrombus or Artifact?
Authors: Choudhary Minati , Aggarwal Shivani , Bhoje Amolkumar
Published: September 2017

Intracardiac masses namely thrombus, vegetation, and tumors may have overlapping echocardiographic appearance. Differentiating them from artifacts and normal anatomic structures further adds to the confusion. We report a similar scenario about the appearance of a new hyperechoic mass in the right atrium (RA) after mitral valve replacement (MVR) surgery.

How to cite this article

Choudhary M, Aggarwal S, Bhoje A. New Intracardiac Mass in Right Atrium Postcardiac Surgery: Thrombus or Artifact? J Perioper Echocardiogr 2017;5(1):25-26.
Role of Perioperative Echocardiography in the Diagnosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Decoding Special Problem in the Background of Commoners
Authors: Mandal Banashree , Ghotra Gurpinder S
Published: September 2017

We present a case posted for CABG with double valve replacement (DVR) for triple-vessel coronary artery disease (CAD), rheumatic severe mitral regurgitation, and severe aortic stenosis. However, preprocedure echocardiography in the operation theater confirmed the diagnosis of hypertrophic obstructive cardiomyopathy (HOCM) instead of valvular aortic stenosis, thereby altering the procedure performed to CABG, mitral valve replacement (MVR), and myectomy.

How to cite this article

Mandal B, Rana SS, Munirathinam GK, Ghotra SS. Role of Perioperative Echocardiography in the Diagnosis of Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Decoding Special Problem in the Background of Commoners. J Perioper Echocardiogr 2017;5(1):27-30.
Modification in Surgical Plan following Intraoperative Detection of Co-existent Right Atrial Thrombus by Transesophageal Echocardiography in Chronic Constrictive Pericarditis
Authors: Mahajan Sachin , Ganesan Rajarajan
Published: September 2017

Introduction

Chronic constrictive pericarditis (CCP) is common in developing countries, tuberculosis being the most common cause. Dyspnea and congestive symptoms are the most common nonspecific presenting symptoms that require further evaluation for clinching the diagnosis. Coexistent right atrial (RA) thrombus and CCP are rare occurrences. Preoperative detection of RA thrombus is very important to avoid the risk of pulmonary thromboembolism during pericardiectomy or cannulation for establishing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). Perioperative echocardiography may play a crucial role in this setting. We report a case of CCP in which preoperative transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) detected RA thrombus that led to change in surgical plan and provided continuous monitoring during surgery.

Case Report

A 14-year-old male presented with a history of abdominal distension and pedal edema for 5 months. Physical examination revealed raised jugular venous pulse with normal heart sounds and no murmurs. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) revealed constrictive physiology and thickened pericardium. After induction of anesthesia, TEE revealed an irregular hyperechoic mass (50 × 36 × 30 mm) in the RA free wall that was not detected on preoperative TTE and computerized tomography (CT). Thickened pericardium all around mandated limited pericardiectomy under TEE guidance to allow bicaval cannulation for establishing CPB. This was followed by surgical removal of the thrombus and remaining pericardiectomy using CPB. His postoperative period was uneventful and the patient was discharged home on postoperative day 7.

Conclusion

The TEE may be instrumental in diagnosis of coexistent RA thrombus in the case of CCP resulting in major change in surgical plan and providing perioperative monitoring to avert significant morbidity and mortality.

How to cite this article

Ganesan R, Kumar B, Munirathinam GK, Bhat I, Mahajan S. Modification in Surgical Plan following Intraoperative Detection of Co-existent Right Atrial Thrombus by Transesophageal Echocardiography in Chronic Constrictive Pericarditis. J Perioper Echocardiogr 2017;5(1):34-37.
A Novel Approach for the Closure of Multiple Diastema: A Clinical Technique
Authors: Karale Rupali , Jha Shirin , Aswathanarayana Srirekha , Santhosh Lekha , Kapadia Megha
Published: September 2017

Correction of multiple diastema without much preparation of the teeth is one of the challenges in clinical esthetic dentistry. Indirect restorative procedures render excellent esthetics; however, these are invasive procedures that lead to the removal of unnecessary tooth structure in order to achieve the desired result. Whenever possible, the most conservative approach is preferred over the invasive procedures. Many innovative techniques have been advocated, varying from restorative procedures, frenectomy, or orthodontic treatment for the closure of spaces in between the anterior teeth. When a relatively smaller diastema is present in between the teeth, extensive preparation of the tooth structure is not necessary and utilization of free hand bonding of composite resin may yield the desired result. So far, innumerable cases have been reported in the literature which has illustrated various techniques for closure of diastema. The following case report discusses a novel technique for closure of multiple diastema.

How to cite this article

Jha S, Aswathanarayana S, Karale R, Santhosh L, Kapadia M. A Novel Approach for the Closure of Multiple Diastema: A Clinical Technique. J Oper Dent Endod 2017;2(2):84-87.
Conservative Management of Traumatic Tooth Fracture by Fracture Fragment Reattachment and Single Visit Nonsurgical Endodontic Treatment
Authors: Mazumdar Paromita
Published: September 2017

Anterior crown fractures are common form of traumatic dental injuries that mainly affect the maxillary anterior teeth in children, teenagers as well as adult population. A trauma with accompanying fracture of anterior teeth is an agonizing experience for an individual requiring immediate attention, not only because of the physical disfigurement but also because of the psychological impact on the patient. Over time numerous techniques and materials have evolved for the restoration of the injured teeth, such as, resin composite with or without pin, orthodontic bands, resin crown, and ceramic crowns. Reattachment of fractured tooth fragments can provide good and long-lasting esthetics and function. Patient cooperation and understanding of the limitations of the treatment is important for good prognosis. This article reports management of complicated coronal tooth fracture treated by reattachment on tooth fragments on the palatal aspect and single visit nonsurgical endodontic treatment.

How to cite this article

Mazumdar P. Conservative Management of Traumatic Tooth Fracture by Fracture Fragment Reattachment and Single Visit Nonsurgical Endodontic Treatment. J Oper Dent Endod 2017;2(2):93-96.
“ENDOCROWN”—An Effective Viable Esthetic Option for Expurgated Endodontically treated Teeth: Two Case Reports
Authors: Vinola Selvanathan MJ , Balasubramanian Saravanakarthikeyan , Mahalaxmi Sekar
Published: September 2017

Endocrowns are a viable option for the restoration of extensively damaged endodontically treated posterior teeth. The main objective is to achieve a bonded biomimetic reconstruction, i.e., minimally invasive of root canals. The clinical procedure that involves the endocrown fabrication may be considered less complex, more practical, and easier to perform when compared with that of conventional crowns with post and core. This article highlights two different case reports of badly mutilated endodontically treated teeth, effectively managed by means of endocrown-type restorations fabricated with both metal-free and metal ceramic-based prostheses with a 6-month follow-up period.

How to cite this article

Vinola SMJ, Balasubramanian S, Mahalaxmi S. “ENDOCROWN”—An Effective Viable Esthetic Option for Expurgated Endodontically treated Teeth: Two Case Reports. J Oper Dent Endod 2017;2(2):97-102.
Capacity Analysis and Simulations of Distributed Wireless Communication System
Authors: Chundi Xiu , Jing Wang
Published: September 2017

The information theoretic capacity of a single user distributed wireless communication system (DWCS) is investigated and compared to that of traditional cellular MIMO system. Simulation results show that, DWCS always outperforms traditional MIMO system, and the capacity gain increase with the incremental number of the fixed antennas. Moreover, the use of distributed antennas in DWCS can average the shadowing effect and solve the near-far problem efficiently.
Future Open Mobile Services
Authors: Thanh Do Van
Published: September 2017

The major barriers for the success of mobile data services are the lack of comprehensible mobile service architectures, their confusing business models and the complexity combined with the inconsistency of the technology enablers. This paper attempts to present a more structured and comprehensive analysis of the current mobile service architectures and their technology enablers. The paper starts with a thorough study of the evolution of mobile services and their business models, and a collection of expectations of the different actors, including the end-user. Next, starting from the original mobile services architecture and environment, an attempt to place the different technology enablers in relation to each other and in relation to their position in the mobile system, will be carried out. Each technology enabler together with their contribution in the enhancement of mobile services are then summarised in a complete and comprehensive way. The paper concludes with a recapitulation of the achievement of the state-of-the-art technology enablers and an identification of future improvements.
Using SIP as P2P Technology
Authors: Caviglione Luca , Veltri Luca
Published: September 2017

Nowadays peer-to-peer (p2p) technologies are widely adopted and used for building even more sophisticated services: from ubiquitous file-sharing systems to the even more popular Internet telephony. In addition, the Session Initiation Protocol (SIP) has been used for different purposes. Due to its intrinsic generality and flexibility, it could be adopted to build and manage also p2p applications. Moreover, the p2p philosophy could be applied to the existing SIP architecture, to cope with issues such as Denial of Service (DoS). In this paper, we survey the state of the art of the joint use of p2p and SIP. Some hints and examples in using SIP as a core technological component of the p2p world are also presented.
Research Trends in ICT
Authors: Agbinya Johnson Ihyeh , Adjeroh Donald , Chan Anthony H.
Published: September 2017

Issue preface by Johnson Ihyeh Agbinya, Donald Adjeroh, and Anthony H. Chan.
An Overview of Internet Measurements:Fundamentals, Techniques, and Trends
Authors: Ziviani Artur
Published: September 2017

The Internet presents great challenges to the characterization of its structure and behavior. Different reasons contribute to this situation, including a huge user community, a large range of applications, equipment heterogeneity, distributed administration, vast geographic coverage, and the dynamism that are typical of the current Internet. In order to deal with these challenges, several measurement-based approaches have been recently proposed to estimate and better understand the behavior, dynamics, and properties of the Internet. The set of these measurement-based techniques composes the Internet Measurements area of research. This overview paper covers the Internet Measurements area by presenting measurement-based tools and methods that directly influence other conventional areas, such as network design and planning, traffic engineering, quality of service, and network management.
Aspects of Delay Diversity in OFDM
Authors: Bauch Gerhard
Published: September 2017

We consider several aspects of delay diversity in coded OFDM. The cyclic properties of the FFT allow to do delay diversity in a cyclic manner without exceeding the guard interval. We investigate the impact of different cyclic delays in terms of achievable diversity level, information theory and BER performance. Furthermore, we propose an interleaving and user assignment strategy which allows multiple users to exploit the full spatial diversity in an OFDMA system with appropriately chosen cyclic delays. Finally, we introduce a scheme with low delay and low reference symbol overhead for differential modulation in frequency direction which can be detected non-coherently and is able to cope with the increased frequency-selectivity which is caused by the cyclic delays.
"Scenario"-adaptivity for e-service management in heterogeneous networks
Authors: Iera Antonio , Molinaro Antonella , Pudano Alfredo , Ursino Domenico
Published: September 2017

A "Situation-Location" aware system has the main task of handling the set of distributed information and resources available within heterogeneous networks to provide a user with seamless and optimized network access to the desired service from any location. A suitable description of Situation&Location and its whole set of variables can be a powerful means to trade-off among user requirements, application constraints, and underlying network conditions. We propose a Multi Agent System able to capture the concept of Situation&Location and perform the task highlighted above. We follow a general-purpose approach with the aim of guaranteeing the highest versatility is possible. The main strength of our proposed system is its "adaptability" that can be achieved without the use of either new terminals or novel technologies. The only requirement is the introduction of a middleware functionality into already existing terminals and into some network servers.
An Adaptive Power and Bit Allocation Algorithm for MIMO OFDM/SDMA System Employing Zero-Forcing Multi-user Detection
Authors: Uthansakul Peerapong , Bialkowski Marek E
Published: September 2017

The paper describes an adaptive algorithm for power and bit allocations in a multiple user Multiple Input Multiple Output Orthogonal Frequency Division Multiplexing (MIMO OFDM) system with Space Division Multiple Access, which operates in a frequency selective fading channel. The zero forcing (ZF) technique is applied to accomplish multi user detection (MUD). A Lagrange multiplier method is applied to obtain a one-step solution for optimal power and bit allocations in this system. The resulting algorithm is advantageous over an alternative Greedy algorithm, because it does not require a time-consuming iterative procedure for its implementation. The algorithm assigns bits and power for all users according to the channel state information (CSI), which is assumed to be fully or partially available to the transmitter. The simulation results show the proposed algorithm operates successfully in multiple user access scenarios.
Authors Guidelines for Preparation of Papers
Authors: Agbinya Johnson
Published: September 2017

Guidelines
HCI as an engineering discipline: to be or not to be!?
Authors: Rauterberg Matthias
Published: September 2017

One of the major challenges in the emerging interdisciplinary field of human-computer interaction (HCI) is the specification of a research line that can enable the development of validated design knowledge with a predictive power for the design of interactive systems. Based on the three different elements in the design of interactive systems: (1) human being(s), (2) technical artefact(s), and (3) context of use, different academic disciplines contribute with different research paradigms to this new field: social sciences with a strong empirical and experimental approach, industrial and interaction design with a strong emphasise on artistic form giving, and engineering disciplines with a strong technical and formal approach. This programmatic paper presents, discusses and recommends a possible way to integrate the strengths of different research and design paradigms based on triangulation, and we argue for HCI as an engineering discipline.
A MARK-UP APPROACH TO SERVICE CREATION
Authors: Atanasov Ivaylo , Pencheva Evelina
Published: September 2017

The paper presents a new mark-up approach to service creation in Next Generation Networks. The approach allows access to network functions exposed by open application programming interfaces. Based on ontology analysis of the application domain, language constructions are synthesized and formally defined. Language supporting tools are developed. The approach functionality is tested by simulation.
Author Guidelines
Authors: Board Editorial
Published: September 2017

This document guides would be authors of papers for review in the AJICT on how to write their papers to meet the requirements for submissions, reviews and publications in the AJICT
Optical Character Recognition of Amharic Documents
Authors: Meshesha Million , Jawahar C V
Published: September 2017

In Africa around 2,500 languages are spoken. Some of these languages have their own indigenous scripts. Accordingly, there is a bulk of printed documents available in libraries, information centers, museums and offices. Digitization of these documents enables to harness already available information technologies to local information needs and developments. This paper presents an Optical Character Recognition (OCR) system for converting digitized documents in local languages. An extensive literature survey reveals that this is the first attempt that report the challenges towards the recognition of indigenous African scripts and a possible solution for Amharic script. Research in the recognition of African indigenous scripts faces major challenges due to (i) the use of large number characters in the writing and (ii) existence of large set of visually similar characters. In this paper, we propose a novel feature extraction scheme using principal component and linear discriminant analysis, followed by a decision directed acyclic graph based support vector machine classifier. Recognition results are presented on real-life degraded documents such as books, magazines and newspapers to demonstrate the performance of the recognizer.
An Empirical Study of Information and Communication Technology for Empowerment of Rural Women in Ghana
Authors: Kwapong O. Adwoa Tiwaah Frimpong
Published: September 2017

There is a relationship between ICTs and empowerment of rural women. ICTs are applicable to all sectors of development for women, most especially education, livelihoods, healthcare and government which are directly linked to poverty alleviation. Meanwhile there are arguments that tight fiscal constraints facing Ghana may frustrate the widespread use of ICT by households. This is especially troublesome in the case of poor rural female households because without some type of government assistance, the ICT revolution may escape them altogether. Most scholars and policy leaders recognize that ICT is one of the contributing factors to social and economic disparities across different social and economic groups, for example, disparities between developed and developing countries, between rural and urban dwellers, and between men and women. The critical information needed for making appropriate and relevant ICT policies to improve rural conditions for women is to identify the characteristics of rural female households, and how these characteristics influence the choice of ICT technology.

The study uses results from a survey of 1000 households from the ten regions in Ghana to assess rural female household heads’ willingness to pay for alternative ICT use in the delivery of information to them. A pooled cross section technique was used to estimate an aggregate technology choice function for the entire country. Among the principal factors in the empirical model were households’ incomes, levels of education, sizes of households, availability of cooperatives or community organizations, age, and marital status. Standard regression techniques that correct for possible heteroscedastic errors due to the differences in regional and households’ attributes were used to estimate the model.

The results of the study leads to a need to set rural empowerment policies and programs within the broader poverty reduction policies of the government and also within the attainment of the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). The results enforce that the attainment of the MDGs would boost ICT use in delivering information to rural households since income was found to be consistently statistically significant in explaining rural women’s willingness to pay for information. Considering the context of the relationship between incomes and ICT use to empower rural women the key issue is for policy and program planners to better understand the dynamics in the enterprises of rural women and to recognize shifts in economic activity that may be counter to the historical pattern of economic activity which is agriculture oriented and design programs that will respond adequately to such shifts. By so doing rural women will be in a good position to utilize the full potential of ICT which will in turn improve their productivity/income and facilitate their empowerment
Copyright Transfer Form
Authors: Board Editorial
Published: September 2017

This is the official copyright transfer form for the AJICT. It is required prior to publications.
Open Access to Resource Management in Multimedia Networks
Authors: Pencheva Evelina Nikolova , Atanasov Ivaylo Ivanov
Published: September 2017

The paper is dedicated to mechanisms for open

access to resource management in the Internet Protocol (IP)

multimedia networks. First we present the concept of IP

Multimedia Subsystem (IMS) and explain the IMS functional

architecture, principles of quality of service management and

service control in IMS. Then we describe the idea behind the

opening of network interfaces for third parties so that others

besides the network operator can create and deploy services.

Open Service Access (OSA) and Parlay appear to be the

technologies for value-added service delivery in multimedia

networks. In the paper we take a closer look to the

Parlay/OSA interfaces that allow third party applications to

access the resource management functions in IMS. OSA

"Connectivity Manager" interfaces and OSA "Policy

Management" interfaces are considered. Parlay X Web

Services interfaces provide a higher level of abstraction than

Parlay/OSA interfaces and gain an amazing amount of

support among service developers. We address "Applicationdriven Quality of Service" Parlay X Web Service and

"Policy" Parlay X Web Service also.
Layered Mobility Model Architecture - LEMMA
Authors: Pelov Alexander P , Noel Thomas
Published: September 2017

This paper presents the

generic layered architecture for mobility

models (LEMMA), which can be used to

construct a wide variety of mobility

models, including the majority of models

used in wireless network simulations. The

fundamental components of the

architecture are described and analyzed,

in addition to its benefits. One of the core

principles stipulates that each mobility

model is divided in five distinct layers that

communicate via interfaces. This allows

their easy replacement and

recombination, which we support by

reviewing 19 layers that can form 480

different mobility models. Some of the

advanced features provided by the

architecture are also discussed, such as

layer aggregation, and creation of hybrid

and group mobility models. Finally, some

of the numerous existing studies of the

different layers are presented.
Authors Guidelines
Authors: Board Editorial
Published: September 2017

Authors wishing to submit papers to the AJICT should use this guideline and format for their papers.
Lower than expected volatility of secondary organic aerosols
formed during α-pinene ozonolysis
Authors: Sato Kei , Fujitani Yuji , Inomata Satoshi , Morino Yu , Tanabe Kiyoshi , Ramasamy Sathiyamurthi , Hikida Toshihide , Shimono Akio , Takami Akinori , Fushimi Akihiro , Kondo Yoshinori , Imamura Takashi , Tanimoto Hiroshi , Sugata Seiji
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Traditional yield curve analysis shows that semi-volatile organic compounds are a major component of secondary organic aerosols (SOAs). We investigated the volatility distribution of SOAs from α-pinene ozonolysis using positive electrospray ionization mass analysis and dilution- and heat-induced evaporation measurements. Laboratory chamber experiments were conducted on α-pinene ozonolysis, in the presence and absence of OH scavengers. Among these, we identified not only semi-volatile products, but also less volatile highly oxygenated molecules (HOMs) and dimers. Ozonolysis products were further exposed to OH radicals to check the effects of photochemical aging. HOMs were also formed during OH-initiated photochemical aging. Most HOMs that formed from ozonolysis and photochemical aging had ten or less carbons. SOA particle evaporation after instantaneous dilution was measured at
Eurasian contribution to the last glacial dust cycle: how are loess sequences built?
Authors: Rousseau Denis-Didier , Svensson Anders , Bigler Matthias , Sima Adriana , Steffensen Jorgen Peder , Boers Niklas
Published: September 2017

Abstract. The last 130 000 years have been marked by pronounced millennial-scale climate variability, which strongly impacted the terrestrial environments of the Northern Hemisphere, especially at middle latitudes. Identifying the trigger of these variations, which are most likely associated with strong couplings between the ocean and the atmosphere, still remains a key question. Here, we show that the analysis of δ18O and dust in the Greenland ice cores, and a critical study of their source variations, reconciles these records with those observed on the Eurasian continent. We demonstrate the link between European and Chinese loess sequences, dust records in Greenland, and variations in the North Atlantic sea ice extent. The sources of the emitted and transported dust material are variable and relate to different environments corresponding to present desert areas, but also hidden regions related to lower sea level stands, dry rivers, or zones close to the frontal moraines of the main Northern Hemisphere ice sheets. We anticipate our study to be at the origin of more sophisticated and elaborated investigations of millennial and sub-millennial continental climate variability in the Northern Hemisphere.
Reliability Ensemble Averaging of 21st century projections of
terrestrial net primary productivity reduces global and regional
uncertainties
Authors: Exbrayat Jean-François , Bloom A. Anthony , Falloon Pete , Ito Akihiko , Smallman T. Luke , Williams Mathew
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Multi-model averaging techniques provide opportunities to extract additional information from large ensembles of simulations. In particular, present-day model skill can be used to evaluate their potential performance in future climate simulations. Multi-model averaging methods have been used extensively in climate and hydrological sciences, but they have not been used to constrain projected plant productivity responses to climate change, which is a major uncertainty in earth system modelling. Here, we use three global observation-orientated estimates of current net primary productivity (NPP) to perform a reliability ensemble averaging (REA) using 30 global simulations of the 21st century change in NPP based on the Inter-Sectoral Impact Model Intercomparison Project (ISI-MIP) business as usual emissions scenario. We find that the three REAs support an increase in global NPP by the end of the 21st century (2090s) compared to the 2000s, which is 4–6 % stronger than the ensemble ISIMIP mean value of 23.7 Pg C y−1. Using REA also leads to a 43–67 % reduction in the global uncertainty of 21st century NPP projection, which strengthens confidence in the resilience of the CO2-fertilization effect to climate change. This reduction in uncertainty is especially clear for boreal ecosystems. Conversely, the large uncertainty that remains on the sign of the response of NPP in semi-arid regions points to the need for better observations and model development in these regions.
Clay mineralogy, strontium and neodymium isotope ratios in the
sediments of two High Arctic catchments (Svalbard)
Authors: Hindshaw Ruth S. , Tosca Nicholas J. , Piotrowski Alexander M. , Tipper Edward T.
Published: September 2017

Abstract. The identification of sediment sources to the ocean is a pre-requisite to using ocean sediment cores to extract information on past climate and ocean circulation. Sr and Nd isotopes are classical tools with which to trace source provenance. Yet, despite considerable interest in the Arctic Ocean, the circum-Arctic source regions are poorly characterised in terms of their Sr and Nd isotopic compositions. In this study we present Sr and Nd isotope data from the Paleogene Central Basin sediments of Svalbard, including the first published data of river sediments from Svalbard. The bulk sediments exhibit considerable isotopic variation (εNd0 = −24.2 to −11.9; 87Sr/86Sr = 0.72449 to 0.75243) which can be related to the depositional history of the sediments. In combination with analysis of the clay mineralogy of the sediments, we suggest that the Central Basin sediments were derived from two proto sediment sources. One source is Proterozoic sediments derived from Greenland which are rich in illite and have high 87Sr/86Sr and low εNd0 values. The second source is Carboniferous to Jurassic sediments derived from Siberia which are rich in smectite and have low 87Sr/86Sr and high εNd0 values. Due to a change in deposition conditions throughout the Paleogene (from deep-sea to continental) the relative proportions of these two sources varies in the Central Basin formations. The modern river suspended sediment isotopic composition is then controlled by modern processes, in particular glaciation, which determines the present-day exposure of the formations and therefore the relative contribution of each formation to the suspended sediment load. This study demonstrates that the Sr and Nd isotopic composition of river sediment from the continents exhibits significant seasonal variation, which almost certainly mirrors longer-term hydrological changes, with implications for source provenance studies based on fixed sources through time.
Radar-Based Quantitative Precipitation Estimation for the
Identification of Debris-Flow Occurrence over Earthquake affected
Region in Sichuan, China
Authors: Shi Zhao , Wei Fangqiang , Venkatachalam Chandrasekar
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Both of Ms8.0 Wenchuan earthquake on May 12, 2008 and Ms7.0 Lushan earth quake on April 20, 2013 occurred in Sichuan Province of China. In the earthquake affected mountainous area, a large amount of loose material caused a high occurrence of debris flow during the rainy season. In order to evaluate the rainfall Intensity–Duration (I-D) threshold of the debris flow in the earthquake-affected area, and for filling up the observational gaps caused by the relatively scarce and low altitude deployment of rain gauges in this area, raw data from two S-band China New Generation Doppler weather radar (CINRAD) were captured for six rainfall events which triggered 519 debris flows between 2012 and 2014. Due to the challenges of radar quantitative precipitation estimation (QPE) over mountainous area, a series of improving measures are considered including the hybrid scan mode, the vertical reflectivity profile (VPR) correction, the mosaic of reflectivity, a merged rainfall-reflectivity(R-Z) relationship for convective and stratiform rainfall and rainfall bias adjustment with Kalman filter (KF). For validating rainfall accumulation over complex terrains, the study areas are divided into two kinds of regions by the height threshold of 1.5 km from the ground. Three kinds of radar rainfall estimates are compared with rain gauge measurements. It is observed that the normalized mean bias (NMB) is decreased by 39 % and the fitted linear ratio between radar and rain gauge observation reaches at 0.98. Furthermore, the radar-based I-D threshold derived by the Frequentist method is I = 10.1D−0.52, and it's also found that the I-D threshold is underestimated by uncorrected raw radar data. In order to verify the impacts on observations due to spatial variation, I-D thresholds are identified from the nearest rain gauge observations and radar observations at the rain gauge locations. It is found that both kinds of observations have similar I-D threshold and likewise underestimate I-D thresholds owing to under shooting at the core of convective rainfall. It is indicated that improvement of spatial resolution and measuring accuracy of radar observation will lead to the improvement of identifying debris flow occurrence, especially for events triggered by the small-scale strong rainfall process in the study area.
A Pedagogy for Integrating a Value Congruence and Ethics Connection into Course Work: The Nine Dots Exercise
Authors: Weinstein Dianne
Published: September 2017

Value congruence, i.e., the agreement between personal and organizational values, may be viewed as the foundation for one’s ethical well-being on-the-job. Yet, the linkage between value congruence and ethics is not soundly addressed in college classrooms. This article describes the pedagogy used to successfully incorporate the value congruence-ethics connection into course work. The author first provides a theoretical introduction as a backdrop for developing the pedagogy including research on value congruence and ethics, the rationale for strengthening the role of “values” in ethics education, and the teaching strategy applied.  Thereafter, the author describes steps to teach value congruence and ethics, including learning objectives and an instructional model. The learning objectives and instructional model can be modified to apply within ethics training programs in the workplace.