bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Nordic Walking Performance Analysis with an Integrated Monitoring System
Authors: Mocera Francesco , Aquilino Giuseppe , Somà Aurelio
Published: May 2018

There is a growing interest in Nordic walking both from the fitness and medical point of views due to its possible therapeutic applications. The proper execution of the technique is an essential requirement to maximize the benefits of this practice. This is the reason why a monitoring system for outdoor Nordic walking activity was developed. Using data obtained from synchronized sensors, it is possible to have a complete overview of the users’ movements. The system described in this paper is able to measure: the pole angle during the pushing phase, the arms cycle frequency and synchronization and the pushing force applied to the ground. Furthermore, data from a GPS module give an image of the environment where the activity session takes place, in terms of the distance, slope, as well as the ground typology. A heart rate sensor is used to monitor the effort of the user through his/her Beats Per Minute (BPM). In this work, the developed monitoring system is presented, explaining how to use the gathered data to obtain the main feedback parameters for Nordic walking performance analysis. The comparison between left and right arm measurements allowed validating the system as a tool for technique evaluation. Finally, a procedure to estimate the peak pushing force from acceleration measurements is proposed.
Self-Tuning Method for Increased Obstacle Detection Reliability Based on Internet of Things LiDAR Sensor Models
Authors: Castaño Fernando , Beruvides Gerardo , Villalonga Alberto , Haber Rodolfo E.
Published: May 2018

On-chip LiDAR sensors for vehicle collision avoidance are a rapidly expanding area of research and development. The assessment of reliable obstacle detection using data collected by LiDAR sensors has become a key issue that the scientific community is actively exploring. The design of a self-tuning methodology and its implementation are presented in this paper, to maximize the reliability of LiDAR sensors network for obstacle detection in the ‘Internet of Things’ (IoT) mobility scenarios. The Webots Automobile 3D simulation tool for emulating sensor interaction in complex driving environments is selected in order to achieve that objective. Furthermore, a model-based framework is defined that employs a point-cloud clustering technique, and an error-based prediction model library that is composed of a multilayer perceptron neural network, and k-nearest neighbors and linear regression models. Finally, a reinforcement learning technique, specifically a Q-learning method, is implemented to determine the number of LiDAR sensors that are required to increase sensor reliability for obstacle localization tasks. In addition, a IoT driving assistance user scenario, connecting a five LiDAR sensor network is designed and implemented to validate the accuracy of the computational intelligence-based framework. The results demonstrated that the self-tuning method is an appropriate strategy to increase the reliability of the sensor network while minimizing detection thresholds.
Real-Time Adaptive Control of a Magnetic Levitation System with a Large Range of Load Disturbance
Authors: Zhang Zhizhou , Li Xiaolong
Published: May 2018

In an idle light-load or a full-load condition, the change of the load mass of a suspension system is very significant. If the control parameters of conventional control methods remain unchanged, the suspension performance of the control system deteriorates rapidly or even loses stability when the load mass changes in a large range. In this paper, a real-time adaptive control method for a magnetic levitation system with large range of mass changes is proposed. First, the suspension control system model of the maglev train is built up, and the stability of the closed-loop system is analyzed. Then, a fast inner current-loop is used to simplify the design of the suspension control system, and an adaptive control method is put forward to ensure that the system is still in a stable state when the load mass varies in a wide range. Simulations and experiments show that when the load mass of the maglev system varies greatly, the adaptive control method is effective to suspend the system stably with a given displacement.
Microwave Metamaterial-Based Sensor for Dielectric Characterization of Liquids
Authors: Soffiatti André , Max Yuri , G. Silva Sandro , M. de Mendonça Laércio
Published: May 2018

This article proposed to build a system founded on metamaterial sensor antennas, which can be used to evaluate impurities in aqueous substances according to the quality of transmission between the sensor antennas. In order to do this, a dedicated setup with tests in several frequencies was deployed so as to monitor the behavior of transmission variation between sensors. These sensors are microstrip antennas with a ground plane of resonant cleaved metallic rings; the substrate functions as a metamaterial for the irradiating element. In this study, an analysis was made of transmission between the sensors, looking for variation in angles of incidence of signal and of distance between the antennas. The sensor was tested at various operating frequencies, as such 1.8 GHz, 2.4 GHz, 3.4 GHz and 4.1 GHz, resulting in different values of sensitivity. The prototypes were constructed and tested so as to analyze the dielectric effects of the impurities on NaCl and C2H4O2 substances. The research aims to use these control systems of impurities in industrial premises.
Household Energy Expenditures in North Carolina: A Geographically Weighted Regression Approach
Authors: Sultana Selima , Pourebrahim Nastaran , Kim Hyojin
Published: May 2018

The U.S. household (HH) energy consumption is responsible for approximately 20% of annual global GHG emissions. Identifying the key factors influencing HH energy consumption is a major goal of policy makers to achieve energy sustainability. Although various explanatory factors have been examined, empirical evidence is inconclusive. Most studies are either aspatial in nature or neglect the spatial non-stationarity in data. Our study examines spatial variation of the key factors associated with HH energy expenditures at census tract level by utilizing geographically weighted regression (GWR) for the 14 metropolitan statistical areas (MSAs) in North Carolina (NC). A range of explanatory variables including socioeconomic and demographic characteristics of households, local urban form, housing characteristics, and temperature are analyzed. While GWR model for HH transportation expenditures has a better performance compared to the utility model, the results indicate that the GWR model for both utility and transportation has a slightly better prediction power compared to the traditional ordinary least square (OLS) model. HH median income, median age of householders, urban compactness, and distance from the primary city center explain spatial variability of HH transportation expenditures in the study area. HH median income, median age of householders, and percent of one-unit detached housing are identified as the main influencing factors on HH utility expenditures in the GWR model. This analysis also provides the spatial variability of the relationship between HH energy expenditures and the associated factors suggesting the need for location-specific evaluation and suitable guidelines to reduce the energy consumption.
Applying Place-Based Social-Ecological Research to Address Water Scarcity: Insights for Future Research
Authors: Castro Antonio J. , Quintas-Soriano Cristina , Brandt Jodi , Atkinson Carla L. , Baxter Colden V. , Burnham Morey , Egoh Benis N. , García-Llorente Marina , Julian Jason P. , Martín-López Berta , Liao Felix Haifeng , Running Katrina , Vaughn Caryn C. , Norström Albert V.
Published: May 2018

Globally, environmental and social change in water-scarce regions challenge the sustainability of social-ecological systems. WaterSES, a sponsored working group within the Program for Ecosystem Change and Society, explores and compares the social-ecological dynamics related to water scarcity across placed-based international research sites with contrasting local and regional water needs and governance, including research sites in Spain and Sweden in Europe, South Africa, China, and Alabama, Idaho, Oklahoma, and Texas in the USA. This paper aims to provide a commentary on insights into conducting future solutions-oriented research on water scarcity based on the understanding of the social-ecological dynamics of water scarce regions.
Institutional Pressures, Green Supply Chain Management Practices on Environmental and Economic Performance: A Two Theory View
Authors: Saeed Amer , Jun Yun , Nubuor Saviour Ayertey , Priyankara Hewawasam Puwakpitiyage Rasika , Jayasuriya Mahabaduge Prasad Fernando
Published: May 2018

The adoption of green practices within and outside organizational boundaries is imperative to ascertain environmental and economic performance goals. This article examined whether internal and external green supply chain management (GSCM) practices have the same or different kinds of regulatory, market, or competitive pressures. We employed institutional theory to identify different kinds of pressures, and resource dependence theory to explore the impact of internal and external GSCM practices on performance. An empirical study was conducted by collecting data through a structured questionnaire administered in Pakistan to the executives in the manufacturing industry. A total of 207 responses were used for data analysis by employing the partial least squares structural equation modeling (PLS-SEM) method. Normative pressures were found to be the most significant in both internal and external GSCM practices, while coercive and mimetic pressures positively affected internal and external GSCM practices, respectively. Internal GSCM practices proved to be more significant in improving environmental performance, and also had a substantial impact on external GSCM practices. In contrast, External GSCM practices had a significant positive effect on economic performance, while environmental performance also contributed to improving economic performance. The theoretical and managerial implications are discussed for academics, policymakers, and industry practitioners.
Analysis of Regional Difference and Spatial Influencing Factors of Human Settlement Ecological Environment in China
Authors: Yang Wanping , Zhao Jinkai , Zhao Kai
Published: May 2018

The importance of regions in shaping sustainable economic growth trajectories has been the subject of extensive research in recent years. When sustainable growth has been investigated in developing countries, a particular focus has been on China’s unsustainable development approach, which is characterized by high energy consumption and high pollution. Crucially, most of the research so far has focused on topics concerning ecological environment improvement. However, little is known regarding how the quality of human settlements environment can be accurately measured in terms of the concept of strong sustainability at the regional level. This study investigated human settlement environmental quality across 30 provinces in China from the perspective of strong sustainability and attempts to shed light on its spatial influence factors. Estimates are presented using a projection pursuit method. The results reveal that the quality of human settlement ecological environment declined over the period 2002–2014 with a significant geographical disparity in index performance. The results also suggest an observable spatial effect. The energy structure, energy intensity, and environmental control in a province not only have significantly positive effects on ecological quality of a province itself, but also bring spillover effects on its neighboring provinces. These three factors are also important in determining human settlement ecological quality in China.
Sustainable Tourism in Sensitive Areas: Bibliometric Characterisation and Content Analysis of Specialised Literature
Authors: Sánchez-Cañizares Sánchez-Cañizares , Castillo-Canalejo Castillo-Canalejo , Cabeza-Ramírez Cabeza-Ramírez
Published: May 2018

Thirty years after the emergence of the term “sustainable tourism” and in view of the proliferation of literature on the subject, it seems appropriate to carry out a bibliographical review, based on empirical bibliometric data, in order to find out who the leading research pioneers are for this type of tourism, discover gaps in our understanding, and redefine the concept’s frontiers. This paper focuses specifically on sustainable tourism in sensitive areas, in a first attempt to provide understanding of the accumulated knowledge of the sub-theme by looking at research presented by impact publications. A total of 985 papers published on this topic on Web of Science were selected to this end, and after applying the H-Classics methodology, a content analysis of the forty papers with the greatest impact was carried out. This has led to the discovery of research trends, gaps in the analysis of polar and mountainous areas, and a lack of a core group of highly productive researchers in this area.
Data Decision and Drug Therapy Based on Non-Small Cell Lung Cancer in a Big Data Medical System in Developing Countries
Authors: Wu Jia , Tan Yanlin , Chen Zhigang , Zhao Ming
Published: May 2018

In many developing or underdeveloped countries, limited medical resources and large populations may affect the survival of mankind. The research for the medical information system and recommendation of effective treatment methods may improve diagnosis and drug therapy for patients in developing or underdeveloped countries. In this study, we built a system model for the drug therapy, relevance parameter analysis, and data decision making in non-small cell lung cancer. Based on the probability analysis and status decision, the optimized therapeutic schedule can be calculated and selected, and then effective drug therapy methods can be determined to improve relevance parameters. Statistical analysis of clinical data proves that the model of the probability analysis and decision making can provide fast and accurate clinical data.
Correction: Occurrence of β-N-methylamino-l-alanine (BMAA) and Isomers in Aquatic Environments and Aquatic Food Sources for Humans. Toxins 2018, 10, 83
Authors: Lance Emilie , Arnich Nathalie , Maignien Thomas , Biré Ronel
Published: May 2018

The authors wish to correct the citation of some references in this paper[...]
Transcriptomic Analysis of Ciguatoxin-Induced Changes in Gene Expression in Primary Cultures of Mice Cortical Neurons
Authors: Rubiolo Juan Andrés , Vale Carmen , Boente-Juncal Andrea , Hirama Masahiro , Yamashita Shuji , Camiña Mercedes , Vieytes Mercedes R. , Botana Luis M.
Published: May 2018

Ciguatoxins are polyether marine toxins that act as sodium channel activators. These toxins cause ciguatera, one of the most widespread nonbacterial forms of food poisoning, which presents several symptoms in humans including long-term neurological alterations. Earlier work has shown that both acute and chronic exposure of primary cortical neurons to synthetic ciguatoxin CTX3C have profound impacts on neuronal function. Thus, the present work aimed to identify relevant neuronal genes and metabolic pathways that could be altered by ciguatoxin exposure. To study the effect of ciguatoxins in primary neurons in culture, we performed a transcriptomic analysis using whole mouse genome microarrays, for primary cortical neurons exposed during 6, 24, or 72 h in culture to CTX3C. Here, we have shown that the effects of the toxin on gene expression differ with the exposure time. The results presented here have identified several relevant genes and pathways related to the effect of ciguatoxins on neurons and may assist in future research or even treatment of ciguatera. Moreover, we demonstrated that the effects of the toxin on gene expression were exclusively consequential of its action as a voltage-gated sodium channel activator, since all the effects of CTX3C were avoided by preincubation of the neurons with the sodium channel blocker tetrodotoxin.
A Genomic and Proteomic Approach to Identify and Quantify the Expressed Bacillus thuringiensis Proteins in the Supernatant and Parasporal Crystal
Authors: Gomis-Cebolla Joaquín , Scaramal Ricietto Ana Paula , Ferré Juan
Published: May 2018

The combined analysis of genomic and proteomic data allowed us to determine which cry and vip genes are present in a Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt) isolate and which ones are being expressed. Nine Bt isolates were selected from Spanish collections of Bt based on their vip1 and vip2 gene content. As a first step, nine isolates were analyzed by PCR to select those Bt isolates that contained genes with the lowest similarity to already described vip1 and vip2 genes (isolates E-SE10.2 and O-V84.2). Two selected isolates were subjected to a combined genomic and proteomic analysis. The results showed that the Bt isolate E-SE10.2 codifies for two new vegetative proteins, Vip2Ac-like_1 and Sip1Aa-like_1, that do not show expression differences at 24 h vs. 48 h and are expressed in a low amount. The Bt isolate O-V84.2 codifies for three new vegetative proteins, Vip4Aa-like_1, Vip4Aa-like_2, and Vip2Ac-like_2, that are marginally expressed. The Vip4Aa-like_1 protein was two-fold more abundant at 24 h vs. 48 h, while the Vip4Aa-like_2 was detected only at 24 h. For Vip2Ac-like_2, no differences in expression were found at 24 h vs. 48 h. Moreover, the parasporal crystal of the E-SE10.2 isolate contains a single type of crystal protein, Cry23Aa-like, while the parasporal crystal from O-V84.2 contains three kinds of crystal proteins: 7.0–9.8% weight of Cry45Aa-like proteins, 35–37% weight of Cry32-like proteins and 2.8–4.3% weight of Cry73-like protein.
Proteomic Investigation to Identify Anticancer Targets of Nemopilema nomurai Jellyfish Venom in Human Hepatocarcinoma HepG2 Cells
Authors: Choudhary Indu , Lee Hyunkyoung , Pyo Min Jung , Heo Yunwi , Chae Jinho , Yum Seung Shic , Kang Changkeun , Kim Euikyung
Published: May 2018

Nemopilema nomurai is a giant jellyfish that blooms in East Asian seas. Recently, N. nomurai venom (NnV) was characterized from a toxicological and pharmacological point of view. A mild dose of NnV inhibits the growth of various kinds of cancer cells, mainly hepatic cancer cells. The present study aims to identify the potential therapeutic targets and mechanism of NnV in the growth inhibition of cancer cells. Human hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells were treated with NnV, and its proteome was analyzed using two-dimensional gel electrophoresis, followed by matrix-assisted laser desorption/ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (MALDI/TOF/MS). The quantity of twenty four proteins in NnV-treated HepG2 cells varied compared to non-treated control cells. Among them, the amounts of fourteen proteins decreased and ten proteins showed elevated levels. We also found that the amounts of several cancer biomarkers and oncoproteins, which usually increase in various types of cancer cells, decreased after NnV treatment. The representative proteins included proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA), glucose-regulated protein 78 (GRP78), glucose-6-phosphate dehydrogenase (G6PD), elongation factor 1γ (EF1γ), nucleolar and spindle-associated protein (NuSAP), and activator of 90 kDa heat shock protein ATPase homolog 1 (AHSA1). Western blotting also confirmed altered levels of PCNA, GRP78, and G6PD in NnV-treated HepG2 cells. In summary, the proteomic approach explains the mode of action of NnV as an anticancer agent. Further characterization of NnV may help to unveil novel therapeutic agents in cancer treatment.
Objectives and Indexes for Implementation of Sponge Cities—A Case Study of Changzhou City, China
Authors: Li Zhengzhao , Dong Mingjing , Wong Tony , Wang Jianbin , Kumar Alagarasan , Singh Rajendra
Published: May 2018

This paper presents a framework of objectives and indexes for sponge cities implementation in China. The proposed objectives and indexes aims to reflect whether the city is in accord with the sponge city. Different cities have different objectives and indexes as each city has its own geologic and hydrogeological conditions. Therefore, the main problems (e.g., water security and flood risks) in the central urban area of Changzhou city, China were evaluated scientifically. According to the local conditions, four objectives and eleven indexes have been made as a standard to estimate the sponge city and set a goal for the city development to reach the goal of sustainable urban development. The strategy of process control was implemented to improve the standard of urban drainage and flood control facilities, regulate total runoff and reduce storm peak flow, and the ecological monitoring of the function of the rivers and lakes. The objectives of sponge cities include water security, water quality improvement, healthy water ecosystems, and water utilization efficiency. Urban flood prevention capacity, river and lake water quality compliance, and annual runoff control are the key objectives to encourage the use of non-conventional water resources.
A Simulation-Based Linear Fractional Programming Model for Adaptable Water Allocation Planning in the Main Stream of the Songhua River Basin, China
Authors: Fu Qiang , Li Linqi , Li Mo , Li Tianxiao , Liu Dong , Cui Song
Published: May 2018

The potential influence of natural variations in a climate system on global warming can change the hydrological cycle and threaten current strategies of water management. A simulation-based linear fractional programming (SLFP) model, which integrates a runoff simulation model (RSM) into a linear fractional programming (LFP) framework, is developed for optimal water resource planning. The SLFP model has multiple objectives such as benefit maximization and water supply minimization, balancing water conflicts among various water demand sectors, and addressing complexities of water resource allocation system. Lingo and Excel programming solutions were used to solve the model. Water resources in the main stream basin of the Songhua River are allocated for 4 water demand sectors in 8 regions during two planning periods under different scenarios. Results show that the increase or decrease of water supply to the domestic sector is related to the change in population density at different regions in different target years. In 2030, the water allocation in the industrial sector decreased by 1.03–3.52% compared with that in 2020, while the water allocation in the environmental sector increased by 0.12–1.29%. Agricultural water supply accounts for 54.79–77.68% of total water supply in different regions. These changes in water resource allocation for various sectors were affected by different scenarios in 2020; however, water resource allocation for each sector was relatively stable under different scenarios in 2030. These results suggest that the developed SLFP model can help to improve the adjustment of water use structure and water utilization efficiency.
Synthesis of Lithium Manganate Powders by Spray Pyrolysis and its Application to Lithium Ion Batteries for Trams
Authors: Ozawa Hironori , Ogihara Takashi , Mukoyama Izumi , Myojin Kenich , Aikiyo Hitoshi , Okawa Takashi , Harada Akio
Published: May 2018

Spinel type lithium manganate nanopowders were prepared by spray pyrolysis using metal nitrate solution. Chemical analysis and X-ray diffraction showed that homogeneous and high purity lithium manganate powders were obtained. The charge/discharge capacity of lithium manganate was 110mAh/g at 1C. A lithium ion battery module was also developed for the tram and its performance examined. The energy and power density of lithium ion cells were 110Wh/kg and 1920W/kg, respectively. The performance of a tram using a 20kWh type lithium ion battery module was examined. The tram ran for 20km on one charge.
Adaptive State-of-Charge Indication System for Li-ion Battery-Powered Devices
Authors: Pop V. , Bergveld H.J. , Danilov D. , Notten P.P.H. , Regtien P.P.L.
Published: May 2018

An algorithm that combines adaptive system with Electro-Motive-Force (EMF) measurements during equilibrium and current measurement and integration during (dis)charge states has been implemented in a real-time SoC evaluation system. During the discharge state also the effect of the overpotential is considered. The overpotential model includes a variety of parameters that are changing during cycling of the battery. Adaptive methods for the battery maximum capacity and for the overpotential model parameters are presented in this paper. The final aim is to predict the SoC and the remaining run-time of a Li-ion battery within 1% inaccuracy under all realistic user conditions.
Hypervalent iodine-mediated Ritter-type amidation of terminal alkenes: The synthesis of isoxazoline and pyrazoline cores
Authors: Park Sang Won , Kim Soong-Hyun , Song Jaeyoung , Park Ga Young , Kim Darong , Nam Tae-Gyu , Hong Ki Bum
Published: May 2018

Hypervalent iodine-mediated olefin functionalization provides a rapid gateway towards accessing both various heterocyclic cores and functional groups. In this regard, we have developed a Ritter-type alkene functionalization utilizing a PhI(OAc)2 ((diacetoxyiodo)benzene, PIDA)/Lewis acid combination in order to access isoxazoline and pyrazoline cores. Based on allyl ketone oximes and allyl ketone tosylhydrazones, we have developed an alkene oxyamidation and amido-amidation protocol en route to accessing both isoxazoline and pyrazoline cores. Additionally, acetonitrile serves as both the solvent and an amine source in the presence of this PIDA/Lewis acid combination. This operationally straightforward and metal-free protocol provides an easy access to isoxazoline and pyrazoline derivatives.
Star Formation Rate Distribution in the Galaxy NGC 1232
Authors: de Souza Alexandre Araújo , Martins Lucimara P. , Rodríguez-Ardila Alberto , Fraga Luciano
Published: May 2018

NGC 1232 is a face-on spiral galaxy and a great laboratory for the study of star formation due to its proximity. We obtained high spatial resolution Hα images of this galaxy, with adaptive optics, using the SAM instrument at the SOAR telescope, and used these images to study its H ii regions. These observations allowed us to produce the most complete H ii region catalog for it to date, with a total of 976 sources. This doubles the number of H ii regions previously found for this object. We used these data to construct the H ii luminosity function, and obtained a power-law index lower than the typical values found for Sc galaxies. This shallower slope is related to the presence of a significant number of high-luminosity H ii regions (log L > 39 dex). We also constructed the size distribution function, verifying that, as for most galaxies, NGC 1232 follows an exponential law. We also used the Hα luminosity to calculate the star formation rate. An extremely interesting fact about this galaxy is that X-ray diffuse observations suggest that NGC 1232 recently suffered a collision with a dwarf galaxy. We found an absence of star formation around the region where the X-ray emission is more intense, which we interpret as a star formation quenching due to the collision. Along with that, we found an excess of star-forming regions in the northeast part of the galaxy, where the X-ray emission is less intense.
The Direct Imaging Search for Earth 2.0: Quantifying Biases and Planetary False Positives
Authors: Guimond Claire Marie , Cowan Nicolas B.
Published: May 2018

Direct imaging is likely the best way to characterize the atmospheres of Earth-sized exoplanets in the habitable zone of Sun-like stars. Previously, Stark et al. estimated the Earth twin yield of future direct imaging missions, such as LUVOIR and HabEx. We extend this analysis to other types of planets, which will act as false positives for Earth twins. We define an Earth twin as any exoplanet within half an e-folding of 1 au in semimajor axis and 1 

in planetary radius, orbiting a G-dwarf. Using Monte Carlo analyses, we quantify the biases and planetary false-positive rates of Earth searches. That is, given a pale dot at the correct projected separation and brightness to be a candidate Earth, what are the odds that it is, in fact, an Earth twin? Our notional telescope has a diameter of 10 m, an inner working angle of 3λ/D, and an outer working angle of 10λ/D (62 mas and 206 mas at 1.0 μm). With no precursor knowledge and one visit per star, 77% of detected candidate Earths are actually un-Earths; their mean radius is 2.3 

, a sub-Neptune. The odds improve if we image every planet at its optimal orbital phase, either by relying on precursor knowledge, or by performing multi-epoch direct imaging. In such a targeted search, 47% of detected Earth twin candidates are false positives, and they have a mean radius of 1.7 

. The false-positive rate is insensitive to stellar spectral type and the assumption of circular orbits.
Broadband X-Ray Spectral Analysis of the Double-nucleus Luminous Infrared Galaxy Mrk 463
Authors: Yamada Satoshi , Ueda Yoshihiro , Oda Saeko , Tanimoto Atsushi , Imanishi Masatoshi , Terashima Yuichi , Ricci Claudio
Published: May 2018

We present a broadband (0.4–70 keV) X-ray spectral analysis of the luminous infrared galaxy (LIRG) system Mrk 463 observed with Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR), Chandra, and XMM-Newton, which contains double active galactic nuclei (AGNs; Mrk 463E and Mrk 463W) with a separation of ∼3.8 kpc. Detecting their transmitted hard X-ray >10 keV continua with NuSTAR, we confirm that Mrk 463E and Mrk 463W have AGNs with intrinsic luminosities of (1.6–2.2) × 1043 and (0.5–0.6) × 1043 erg s−1 (2–10 keV) obscured by hydrogen column densities of 8 × 1023 and 3 × 1023 cm−2, respectively. Both nuclei show strong reflection components from cold matter. The luminosity ratio between X-ray (2–10 keV) and [O iv] 25.89 μm of Mrk 463E is ∼5 times smaller than those of normal Seyfert galaxies, suggesting that the intrinsic SED is X-ray weak relative to the UV luminosity. In fact, the bolometric AGN luminosity of Mrk 463E estimated from L′-band (3.8 μm), [O iv] 25.89 μm, and [Ne v] 14.32 μm lines indicate a large bolometric-to-X-ray luminosity ratio, κ
2–10 keV ≈ 110–410, and a high Eddington ratio, λ
Edd ∼ 0.4–0.8. We suggest that the merger triggered a rapid growth of the black hole in Mrk 463E, which is not yet deeply “buried” by circumnuclear dust. By contrast, the L′-band luminosity of Mrk 463W is unusually small relative to the X-ray luminosity, suggesting that the Eddington ratio is low (<10−3) and it might be still in an early phase of merger-driven AGN activity.
The Unified Astronomy Thesaurus: Semantic Metadata for Astronomy and Astrophysics
Authors: Frey Katie , Accomazzi Alberto
Published: May 2018

Several controlled vocabularies have been developed and used by the astronomical community, each designed to serve a specific need and a specific group. The Unified Astronomy Thesaurus (UAT) attempts to provide a highly structured controlled vocabulary that will be relevant and useful across the entire discipline, regardless of content or platform. Because classifying articles and data will be the two major functions of the UAT, we examine the UAT in comparison with the Astronomical Subject Keywords used by major publications and the JWST Science Keywords used by STScI’s Astronomer’s Proposal Tool.
Data Analysis Recipes: Using Markov Chain Monte Carlo*
Authors: Hogg David W. , Foreman-Mackey Daniel
Published: May 2018

Markov Chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) methods for sampling probability density functions (combined with abundant computational resources) have transformed the sciences, especially in performing probabilistic inferences, or fitting models to data. In this primarily pedagogical contribution, we give a brief overview of the most basic MCMC method and some practical advice for the use of MCMC in real inference problems. We give advice on method choice, tuning for performance, methods for initialization, tests of convergence, troubleshooting, and use of the chain output to produce or report parameter estimates with associated uncertainties. We argue that autocorrelation time is the most important test for convergence, as it directly connects to the uncertainty on the sampling estimate of any quantity of interest. We emphasize that sampling is a method for doing integrals; this guides our thinking about how MCMC output is best used.
sunstardb: A Database for the Study of Stellar Magnetism and the Solar-stellar Connection
Authors: Egeland Ricky
Published: May 2018

The “solar-stellar connection” began as a relatively small field of research focused on understanding the processes that generate magnetic fields in stars and sometimes lead to a cyclic pattern of long-term variability in activity, as demonstrated by our Sun. This area of study has recently become more broadly pertinent to questions of exoplanet habitability and exo-space weather, as well as stellar evolution. In contrast to other areas of stellar research, individual stars in the solar-stellar connection often have a distinct identity and character in the literature, due primarily to the rarity of the decades-long time-series that are necessary for studying stellar activity cycles. Furthermore, the underlying stellar dynamo is not well understood theoretically, and is thought to be sensitive to several stellar properties, e.g., luminosity, differential rotation, and the depth of the convection zone, which in turn are often parameterized by other more readily available properties. Relevant observations are scattered throughout the literature and existing stellar databases, and consolidating information for new studies is a tedious and laborious exercise. To accelerate research in this area I developed sunstardb, a relational database of stellar properties and magnetic activity proxy time-series keyed by individual named stars. The organization of the data eliminates the need for the problematic catalog cross-matching operations inherent when building an analysis data set from heterogeneous sources. In this article I describe the principles behind sunstardb, the data structures and programming interfaces, as well as use cases from solar-stellar connection research.
AAS WorldWide Telescope: A Seamless, Cross-platform Data Visualization Engine for Astronomy Research, Education, and Democratizing Data
Authors: Rosenfield Philip , Fay Jonathan , Gilchrist Ronald K , Cui Chenzhou , Weigel A. David , Robitaille Thomas , Otor Oderah Justin , Goodman Alyssa
Published: May 2018

The American Astronomical Society’s WorldWide Telescope (WWT) project enables terabytes of astronomical images, data, and stories to be viewed and shared among researchers, exhibited in science museums, projected into full-dome immersive planetariums and virtual reality headsets, and taught in classrooms, from middle school to college. We review the WWT ecosystem, how WWT has been used in the astronomical community, and comment on future directions.
Cyberhubs: Virtual Research Environments for Astronomy
Authors: Herwig Falk , Andrassy Robert , Annau Nic , Clarkson Ondrea , Côté Benoit , D’Sa Aaron , Jones Sam , Moa Belaid , O’Connell Jericho , Porter David , Ritter Christian , Woodward Paul
Published: May 2018

Collaborations in astronomy and astrophysics are faced with numerous cyber-infrastructure challenges, such as large data sets, the need to combine heterogeneous data sets, and the challenge to effectively collaborate on those large, heterogeneous data sets with significant processing requirements and complex science software tools. The cyberhubs system is an easy-to-deploy package for small- to medium-sized collaborations based on the Jupyter and Docker technology, which allows web-browser-enabled, remote, interactive analytic access to shared data. It offers an initial step to address these challenges. The features and deployment steps of the system are described, as well as the requirements collection through an account of the different approaches to data structuring, handling, and available analytic tools for the NuGrid and PPMstar collaborations. NuGrid is an international collaboration that creates stellar evolution and explosion physics and nucleosynthesis simulation data. The PPMstar collaboration performs large-scale 3D stellar hydrodynamics simulations of interior convection in the late phases of stellar evolution. Examples of science that is currently performed on cyberhubs, in the areas of 3D stellar hydrodynamic simulations, stellar evolution and nucleosynthesis, and Galactic chemical evolution, are presented.
On the Use of Hydrogen Recombination Energy during Common Envelope Events
Authors: Ivanova Natalia
Published: May 2018

In this Letter we discuss what happens to hydrogen recombination energy that is released during regular common envelope (CE) events as opposed to self-regulated CE events. We show that the amount of recombination energy that can be transferred away by either convection or radiation from the regions where recombination takes place is negligible. Instead, recombination energy is destined to be used either to help CE expansion, as a work term, or to accelerate local fluid elements. The exceptions are donors that initially have very high entropy material, S/(k
B
N
A) > 37 mol g−1. The analysis and conclusions are independent of specific stellar models or evolutionary codes, and rely on fundamental properties of stellar matter such as the equation of state, Saha equation, and opacities, as well as on stellar structure equations and the mixing length theory of convection.
Measurements of the Activation Energies for Atomic Hydrogen Diffusion on Pure Solid CO
Authors: Kimura Y. , Tsuge M. , Pirronello V. , Kouchi A. , Watanabe N.
Published: May 2018

The diffusion of hydrogen atoms on dust grains is a key process in the formation of interstellar H2 and some hydrogenated molecules such as formaldehyde and methanol. We investigate the adsorption and diffusion of H atoms on pure solid CO as an analog of dust surfaces observed toward some cold interstellar regions. Using a combination of photostimulated desorption and resonance-enhanced multiphoton ionization methods to detect H atoms directly, the relative adsorption probabilities and diffusion coefficients of the H atoms are measured on pure solid CO at 8, 12, and 15 K. There is little difference between the diffusion coefficients of the hydrogen and deuterium atoms, indicating that the diffusion is limited by thermal hopping. The activation energies controlling the H-atom diffusion depend on the surface temperature, and values of 22, 30, and ∼37 meV were obtained for 8, 12, and 15 K, respectively.
Two New Super Li-rich Core He-burning Giants: A New Twist to the Long Tale of Li Enhancement in K Giants
Authors: Kumar Yerra Bharat , Singh Raghubar , Reddy B. Eswar , Zhao Gang
Published: May 2018

In this Letter we report two new super Li-rich K giants, KIC2305930 and KIC12645107, with Li abundances exceeding that of the interstellar medium (ISM; A(Li) ≥ 3.2 dex). Importantly, both of the giants have been classified as core He-burning red clump (RC) stars based on asteroseismic data from Kepler mission. Also, both of the stars are found to be low mass (M ≈ 1.0 M
⊙), which, together with an evidence of their evolutionary status of being RC stars, implies that the stars have gone through both the luminosity bump and He-flash during their red giant branch (RGB) evolution. The stars’ large Li abundance and evolutionary phase suggest that Li enrichment occurred very recently, probably at the tip of the RGB either during He-flash, an immediate preceding event on the RGB, or by some kind of external event such as merger of an RGB star with white dwarf. The findings will provide critical constraints to theoretical models for understanding of Li enhancement origin in RGB stars.
Revision of genus Pericalus from China, with descriptions of four new species (Carabidae, Lebiini, Pericalina)
Authors: Shi Hongliang , Liang Hongbin
Published: May 2018

Nine taxa of the genusPericalusMacleay from China are revised, with four new species described:Pericalusgibbosussp. n.(type locality: Putao, Myanmar; one paratype from Mêdog, Xizang),Pericaluseleganssp. n.(type locality: Mêdog, Xizang),Pericalusacutidenssp. n.(type locality: Longchuan, Yunnan), andPericalusobscuratussp. n.(type locality: Fanjingshan, Guizhou). Four taxa are newly recorded from China:PericalusornatusornatusSchmidt-Göbel (Yunnan, Hainan),P.obtusipennisFedorenko (Yunnan),P.amplusAndrewes (Yunnan), andP.duxAndrewes (Yunnan).PericalusformosanusDupuis is newly ranked as a subspecies ofP.ornatusSchmidt-Göbel. An improved key to world species of the subgenus Pericalus is provided, along with distribution maps and images of habitus and male and female genitalia for all Chinese species.
An Update on Common Chromosome Microdeletion and Microduplication Syndromes
Authors: Goldenberg Paula
Published: May 2018

This review summarizes common microdeletion and microduplication syndromes and highlights important updates in patient-care needs for people with these conditions (22q11.2, 7q11.23, 17p11.2, and 16p11.2). These conditions are in chromosomal “hotspots” and have an estimated prevalence of 1 in 1,000 to 1 in 25,000. Some conditions have possible increased or decreased genetic risk of schizophrenia (22q11.2 deletion and duplication), or risk of aortic dilation (7q11.23 duplication) versus aortic stenosis (7q11.23 deletion). Many of these conditions are associated with developmental delay, autism, and/or multiple congenital anomalies and would not be detected with a karyotype. Chromosomal microarray analysis will detect all these conditions with a single screening test, allowing for the appropriate diagnosis and management of these patients.

[
Pediatr Ann.
2018;47(5):e198–e203.]
Updates in Newborn Screening
Authors: Rajabi Farrah
Published: May 2018

Newborn screening in the United States is an important public health measure to provide early detection for specified disorders when early treatment is both possible and beneficial. As technology improves, newborn screening can be offered for many more conditions. In the past 10 years, screening has expanded to include severe combined immunodeficiency, congenital heart disease, lysosomal storage disease, and X-linked adrenoleukodystrophy. This article reviews the current state of newborn screening with updates on recent developments.

[
Pediatr Ann.
2018;47(5):e187–e190.]
Robustness of Norway Economy and Energy Supply/Demand
Authors: Aslani Alireza , Hamlehdar Maryam , Saeedi Reza
Published: May 2018

Energy has a strategic role in the social and economic development of the countries all over the world. Due to the high dependency on fossil fuels, fluctuations in prices and supply have macro/micro-economics effects for both energy exporters and importers. Therefore, understanding economic stability based on energy market changes is an important subject for policy makers and researchers. Norway, as a fossil fuel export country, is a good choice for the analysis of the relationships between the economics robustness and fossil fuel economics fluctuations. While the country is one of the pioneers in the field of sustainable energy utilization, they have tried to provide a robust economic situation for the oil exports revenues. In this article, the effects of energy changes on the economy are investigated in Norway. In this regard, first, the impact of oil price on macro-economic parameters is discussed. Afterwards, the main issues related to the energy economics including resilience of the energy sector, energy policies, economics analysis of the energy sector, and the electricity markets are discussed.
A Virtual Machine Placement Algorithm with Energy-Efficiency in Cloud Computing
Authors: Cai Yu
Published: May 2018

Energy efficient virtual machines (VM) management and distribution on cloud platforms is an important research subject. Mapping VMs into PMs (Physical Machines) requires knowing the capacity of each PM and the resource requirements of the VMs. It should also take into accounts of VM operation overheads, the reliability of PMs, Quality of Service (QoS) in addition to energy efficiency. In this article, the authors propose an energy efficient statistical live VM placement scheme in a heterogeneous server cluster. Their scheme supports VM requests scheduling and live migration to minimize the number of active servers in order to save the overall energy in a virtualized server cluster. Specifically, the proposed VM placement scheme incorporates all VM operation overheads in the dynamic migration process. In addition, it considers other important factors in relation to energy consumption and is ready to be extended with more considerations on user demands. The authors conducted extensive evaluations based on HPC jobs in a simulated environment. The results prove the effectiveness of the proposed scheme.
Agent Based Noise Detection Using Real Time Data Analysis Towards Green Environment
Authors: De Sarkar Nivedita Ray , Kundu Anirban , De Mou , Bera Anupam
Published: May 2018

The authors propose an agent-based noise detection system based on Internet of Things (IOT) for handling abnormality in sound levels of a specified zone and further analysis of data received. Our research work is important for managing different noise levels and to control fully automated emergency response unlike existing mechanism. Increased requirement of safety and security of typical organizations triggers the idea of IOT based framework creating safer zone for highly secured data and/or substances. Agents are to be considered for producing a particular effect based on external noise values. In this article, the authors have used noise agents to identify noise levels in enclosed spaces. The safety of any zone or organization should be monitored having live noise data generated by sensors situated in specific locations of users' interests at any time instance. Generated live data is sent for further analysis for identifying noise patterns. These noise patterns determine intensity of abnormality in real environments. Their predefined set of values identifies the intensity and helps system to respond appropriately. Based on specific values of noise, distinct thresholds are decided for different enclosed zones. An alert system is based on distinct thresholds. Noise sensors have been used at sender's side and receiver's side for smooth transmission of data. New theory based on data sent, data received and dependency of noise of an agent on weightage factors has been proposed in this paper.
Introducing Eco Friendly Urban Traffic Control Room
Authors: Bhadra Somasree , Kundu Anirban , Khatua Sunirmal
Published: May 2018

In this article, new services in Green Computing environment is introduced. Energy and power is saved in an efficient manner using proposed services. These services are still undefined to the researchers in most of the cases. A typical framework of hierarchical structure for typical software managed central urban traffic control room is considered as case study. Each type of services is shown with an example which is interrelated with central traffic control room scenario. The authors' aim is to produce an energy efficient and power savings method in computing environment. Urban Traffic Control Room is considered as a case study. This is because in today's world urban traffic management is one of the most burning issues of any smart city management. Use of complex yet efficient software in the urban traffic control room may aid in proper management of road traffic. Keeping in mind growing environmental concerns, efficient green system architecture needs to be in place to ensure high performance, reliability and security of such an important public service sector.