bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Chance Favors Those in Motion
Authors: Hupfield Maria
Published: October 2017

I recently found a slip of paper I saved from a fortune cookie in my travel case
with my passport that read, “Chance favors those in motion.” I wondered how
many trips I had carried this silent wish around for as a reminder of personal
agency. Items surface and reoccur in my work to be activated, reinvented, and
coded. New memories are formed, interpreted in conversation with all my relations,
the more-than-human, others, myself, and various locations. I believe
in change and that the borders and boundaries that try to neatly contain and
explain everything are not fixed but rather fluid in a constant system of interconnectedness.
Like Brooklyn, the city where I now live, I too am comprised
of a multiplicity of truths. If I keep moving, thinking, dreaming, and creating,
to have mobility to not be stuck, I can imagine a future on my terms. The objects
I create are a work of self-definition, and they carry hope into my life that
crosses the social limits of gender, race, and class.
Becoming-Wolf
Authors: Prokić Tanja
Published: October 2017

Wild tells the story of an intelligent and sensitive young woman who lives
quite a boring life caught in routines in a German city. The accidental encounter
with a wild wolf changes her life forever. What is interesting about the film
is the way in which it tends to blur the line that typically separates animal
and human life by highlighting the process of mutual affection. According to
the French philosopher Gilles Deleuze, affection induces bodily transformations,
which take place on a precognitive level of perception. By way of various
cinematographic techniques, Wild is aesthetically able to both reflect on
and perform such transformations, presenting them as a motif and a form of
spectatorship at one and the same time.
Extent and duration of Antarctic surface melting
Authors: Jay Zwally H. , Fiegles Stephen
Published: October 2017

The extent and duration of surface melting on the Antarctic ice shelves and margins of the Antarctic ice sheet are derived from satellite passive-microwave data for 1978–87. The occurrence of surface melting in daily maps of Tb is indicated by a marked increase in microwave brightness temperature (Tb), which is caused by moisture in the near-surface firn. Tb increases of more than 30 deg above the annual-mean Tb are chosen to indicate melting. Most Antarctic surface melting occurs during December and January. The observed melting is correlated with regional air temperatures, but some melt patterns also appear to be related to katabatic-wind effects. The correlations suggest that the surface melting in Antarctica increases about 3.5 × 106 d km2 per degree of summer temperature increase. The surface-melt index (duration times area of melting) calculated for Antarctica is 24 × 106 d km2, averaged over nine summers. The observed inter-annual and regional variability is large. Surface melting was most extensive during the 1982/83 summer (36 × 106 d km2) and least extensive during the 1985/86 summer (15 × 106d km2). The data indicate a decline in surface melting over the 9 years, but meaningful inferences regarding trends in surface melting are precluded by the large inter-annual variability.
Theoretical limitations to englacial velocity calculations
Authors: Bahr David B. , Pfeffer W. Tad , Meier Mark F.
Published: October 2017

To study the dynamics of ice sheets and glaciers, velocities at the bed of a glacier must be measured directly or calculated using data gathered from boreholes and surface surveys. Boreholes to the bed are expensive and time-consuming to drill, so the determination of basal velocity is almost exclusively by numerical inversion of velocities observed at the surface. For non-linearly viscous glaciers, a perturbation analysis demonstrates that inversions for englacial velocities will magnify measurement errors at an exponential rate with depth. The rate at which calculation errors grow is proportional to a Lyapunov exponent, a measure of “information loss” which is shown to be a simple linear function of spatial frequency with a coefficient depending on Glen’s flow-law exponent, n. The coefficient decreases with increasing non-linearity, demonstrating that inversions with non-linearly viscous ice have smaller calculation errors than inversions with linearly viscous ice. In both the linear and nonlinear cases, the Lyapunov exponent (and rate of error growth) increases with decreasing wavelength, which limits velocity calculations at the bed to wavelengths on the order of one ice thickness or greater. This limitation is theoretical and cannot be countered by more accurate survey data or special numerical techniques.
Mechanisms of fast flow in Jakobshavns Isbræ, West Greenland: Part II. Modeling of englacial temperatures
Authors: Funk M. , Echelmeyer K. , Iken A.
Published: October 2017

A model for the calculation of two-dimensional temperature fields is described and applied along the central flowline of Jakobshavns Isbræ, West Greenland, and along a flowline through the adjacent ice sheet. The model calculates the velocity-depth distribution based on Glen’s flow law and subject to the condition that the calculated velocities agree with the measured surface velocity and the estimated sliding velocity. The model allows for two-dimensional conduction and advection, for deformational energy dissipation and for the development of a basal layer of temperate ice. The results of modeling are compared to the englacial temperatures measured in boreholes reaching a depth of 1550 m which corresponds to 60% of the total depth at the center line. While there is a good agreement of the measured and modeled minimum temperatures, the shape of the temperature—depth profiles is quite different. We attribute this difference in shape to a characteristic three-dimensional ice deformation taking place in the convergent sub-surface channel of the actual ice stream. The model does not account for this three-dimensional effect. Adjustment of the modeled central temperature profile, so that its shape matches that of the measured profile, leads to an increase of thickness of the temperate basal layer by about 30%. Hence, the predicted temperate basal layer in the ice stream is likely to be about 300 m thick while the two-dimensional model suggests about 230 m. Such a thickening of the temperate basal layer by three-dimensional ice deformation may be an important mechanism of fast ice-stream flow.
Chemical Composition of Different Brands of Bottled Drinking Water Sold in Oman as Labelled by Manufacturers
Authors: Al Aamri Zakariya M. , Ali Badreldin H.
Published: October 2017

Information about the safety of bottled drinking water in Oman is lacking. Therefore, we aimed to compare the chemical composition (as labelled by manufacturers) of 17 local and imported brands of bottled drinking water sold in Oman, and compare them with WHO and USEPA standards. Seventeen brands of bottled drinking water were purchased from local stores in Muscat, Oman. The chemical composition of those brands was recorded from the labels, and compared with WHO and USEPA standards. The results showed that the pH of the bottled water of all the brands was within the normal range prescribed by both WHO and USEPA. Total dissolved solids, hardness, sodium, chloride and nitrate were less than the primary or secondary (aesthetic) maximum limits set by WHO and/or USEPA. Fluoride levels were not reported in 53% of the brands and were less than recommended limits in the remaining brands. Further studies are warranted to analyze water samples of those brands and compare them with the labels.
Assessment of Heavy Metal Contamination in Groundwater of Khetri Copper Mine Region, India and Health Risk Assessment
Authors: Punia Anita , Siva Siddaiah Neelam
Published: October 2017

The present study determines the abundance of heavy metals (Cu, Zn, Fe, Ni, Co, Mn and Pb) in the groundwater (pre and post monsoon) of the Khetri copper mine region, India and evaluates the pollution indices and risk assessment to assess the suitability of groundwater for human consumption. In majority of the groundwater samples, the concentration of heavy metals exceeds the desirable limits set by WHO, 2011 and Bureau of Indian Standards (BIS), 2012, whereas, average Fe concentration is 1.65 and 1.9 ppm during pre and post monsoon season respectively, which is above the BIS permissible limit (0.3 ppm) probably due to oxidation of iron-rich sulfides. Principal component analysis (PCA) and correlation matrix indicate a common source i.e. anthropogenic activity (mines) for Cu, Co, Ni and Mn. The calculated pollution indices namely contamination index (CI) and index of environmental risk (IER) for the heavy metals suggest that majority of the studied groundwater samples are in the slightly contaminated zone. However, a few of the samples close to mines, overburden rocks and tailings fall in the highly contaminated zone indicating their unsuitability for drinking purposes. The calculated hazard quotient for non-carcinogenic health effects is in the acceptable limit for all the groundwater samples except samples from Chaandmari (an abandoned mine), while the Health Index (HI) is in the medium range for all the samples barring a few samples.
Recycling of Waste and Used Papers: A Useful Contribution in Conservation of Environment: A Case Study
Authors: Kumar Vijay
Published: October 2017

The aim of this article is to make people aware about the needs and requirements of the recycling of the waste papers as the traditional papers are made from the wooden pulp of trees. Thus trees are cut for the fulfillment of papers in the whole world. The paper mills are the world’s third largest industry that are responsible for the pollution. The paper industry is responsible not only for air pollution but also land pollution, water pollution etc. If we encourage the people for recycling, we can save the trees and also environment. A waste paper can be recycled seven times for reuse again and again. Thus we should recycle the waste papers whenever it is possible.
Assessment of Metallic Pollution along with Geochemical Baseline of Soils at Barapukuria Open Coal Mine Area in Dinajpur, Bangladesh
Authors: Zakir H.M. , Arafat M.Y. , Islam M.M.
Published: October 2017

A total 42 (5 + 37) soil samples surrounding 4 km2 of Barapukuria open coal mine area were collected to determine the geochemical baseline and concentrations of different metals after digestion with aqua regia. The mean total concentration and geochemical baseline values of Cu, Zn, Pb, Cd and Cr in soil samples were 28.43, 44.83, 20.94, 0.19 and 55.79 μg g−1, and 20.40, 32.80, 20.47, 0.12 and 42.69 μg g−1, respectively. Out of 37 sampling stations, 92-100% locations had the values higher for Cu, Zn, Cd and Cr, while it was 65% for Pb, than that of the geochemical baseline value. The deposition of outlet fly ash and waste water may be responsible to increase metal concentrations in surface soils around the coal mining area. Copper, Zn, Cd, Cr and Pb concentrations upto carbonate bound fraction were 2.52-17.12, 2.62-40.67, 0, 1.47-17.62 and 4.53-16.10 μg g−1, respectively. Zinc, Cu, Cd and Cr were the major pollutants in the surrounding soils of Barapukuria because these metals have contamination factor >1.0 for most sampling stations. Study also revealed moderate pollution level by these metals after calculated Igeo values. According to risk assessment code, although adjacent soils of Barapukuria are contaminated with Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr and Pb but these metals are relatively strongly bound to the soils and are of low risk (<10% for these metals) as regards to mobilization. The study results inferred that if proper attention is ignored, the concentration of metals will increase to intolerable limits that may have severe impacts on the soil environment.
Forecasting of PM10 Using Autoregressive Models and Exponential Smoothing Technique
Authors: Yadav Vibha , Nath Satyendra
Published: October 2017

Particulate matter with 10 μm or less in diameter (PM10) have adverse effects on environment and human health. To reduce PM10 emissions in India, it is essential to have models that accurately estimate and predict PM10 concentrations for reporting and monitoring purposes. In this paper Exponential Smoothing Technique and Autoregressive (AR) models are developed to forecast 1-month ahead value of PM10 for Allahabad city which is novelty of this study. AR (1) and AR (5) models are developed using Burge and Yule Walker methods. The mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) for Burge method in AR (1) and AR (5) are 14.23% and 10.20%. The MAPE for Yule Walker method in AR (1) and AR (5) are 32.72% and 31.13%. The MAPE in Exponential Smoothing Technique is 5.81% which shows it forecasts better than AR model based on Burge and Yule Walker methods. It is found that Burge Method in AR (5) has less MAPE than Yule Walker Method. Therefore Exponential Smoothing Technique can be used to forecast PM10 for cities in India, showing it is beneficial for giving prior information for human health.
MicroRNA-937 inhibits cell proliferation and metastasis in gastric cancer cells by downregulating FOXL2
Authors: Yu Liang , Chen Jun , Liu Yu , Zhang Zengfeng , Duan Shaobin
Published: October 2017

This article has been retracted, and the online PDF replaced with this retraction notice.
Advancing the EU data economy: Conditions for realizing the full potential of data reuse
Authors: Custers Bart , Bachlechner Daniel
Published: October 2017

The rise of big data promises a plethora of opportunities for a data-driven economy, including accelerated innovation and growth, and increased productivity and competitiveness. However, there are still many legal, technological, societal and economic barriers that inhibit the use and reuse of data. It’s not enough to have large volumes of data to capitalize on the benefits of big data. Data, for instance, must also be accessible, reliable and up-to-date, and there must be clarity about the provenience of data and the right business model. Companies can collect data themselves, but with respect to many use cases, it seems to be more reasonable to reuse existing data, which was collected by third-parties, at least to some extent. However, this is only happening to a very limited extent. This paper presents and discusses conditions that are prerequisites to realize the full potential of data reuse. The viability of data reuse depends on (1) compliance with legislation, (2) technical possibilities, (3) public acceptance, and (4) business cases that yield added value. Data reuse and a thriving data economy rely on these conditions. Solutions are offered to policy makers and company leaders to facilitate data reuse and to advance the data economy.
Auction mechanisms for preference driven ad exchanges
Authors: Azoulay Rina , David Esther
Published: October 2017

In this paper we concentrate on ad exchange mechanisms that take into consideration the publishers’ preferences concerning the attributes of ads published in their ad space, in addition to their desire to earn money from the ads. We suggest allocation (ad placement) and pricing protocols which take into account preferences of both the publishers and the advertisers. The most promising protocol, the Weighted Bipartite Hungarian VCG protocol, collects the preferences of the auction’s participants and uses the Hungarian algorithm to maximize a weighted function of their preferences. Simulations show that this advantageous protocol can maintain a balanced budget over time while preserving most of the desired economic properties (e.g., individual rational, and truth telling), and reaches near optimal solutions.
An affinity analysis based CIM-to-PIM transformation
Authors: Zhou Dongdai , Chen Xue , Jin Qiuzhi , Kuang Zhejun , Yang Hongji
Published: October 2017

To tackle the problems such as the imperfection and inconsistency in software requirements in traditional Computation Independent Model (CIM) modelling, the low degree of automation as well as the imperfection in the description of Platform Independent Model (PIM) in CIM-to-PIM transforming, in this article, we propose a Business-Process-based CIM modelling method and a CIM-to-PIM transformation approach. Business Process Model is used to express CIM, and UML’s Sequence Diagram, State Chart Diagram as well as Class Diagram are used to express PIM. Firstly, the users’ requirements are obtained through business process models. We extract use cases from business processes and create use case specifications. A verification mechanism is also added for the use case specification. Secondly, we transform CIMs into PIMs automatically with use case specifications as the inputs as well as combining with use case based thinking, responsibility based thinking and affinity analysis. Finally, by comparing with the methods in other studies, we conclude that methods proposed in this article can ensure model integrity and increase the degree of model transformation automation.
Art care: A multi-modality coronary 3D reconstruction and hemodynamic status assessment software
Authors: Siogkas Panagiotis K. , Stefanou Kostas A. , Athanasiou Lambros S. , Papafaklis Michail I. , Michalis Lampros K. , Fotiadis Dimitrios I.
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND:

Due to the incremental increase of clinical interest in the development of software that allows the 3-dimensional (3D) reconstruction and the functional assessment of the coronary vasculature, several software packages have been developed and are available today.

OBJECTIVE:

Taking this into consideration, we have developed an innovative suite of software modules that perform 3D reconstruction of coronary arterial segments using different coronary imaging modalities such as IntraVascular UltraSound (IVUS) and invasive coronary angiography images (ICA), Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT) and ICA images, or plain ICA images and can safely and accurately assess the hemodynamic status of the artery of interest.

METHODS:

The user can perform automated or manual segmentation of the IVUS or OCT images, visualize in 3D the reconstructed vessel and export it to formats, which are compatible with other Computer Aided Design (CAD) software systems. We employ finite elements to provide the capability to assess the hemodynamic functionality of the reconstructed vessels by calculating the virtual functional assessment index (vFAI), an index that corresponds and has been shown to correlate well to the actual fractional flow reserve (FFR) value.

RESULTS:

All the modules of the proposed system have been thoroughly validated. In brief, the 3D-QCA module, compared to a successful commercial software of the same genre, presented very good correlation using several validation metrics, with a Pearson’s correlation coefficient (R) for the calculated volumes, vFAI, length and minimum lumen diameter of 0.99, 0.99, 0.99 and 0.88, respectively. Moreover, the automatic lumen detection modules for IVUS and OCT presented very high accuracy compared to the annotations by medical experts with the Pearson’s correlation coefficient reaching the values of 0.94 and 0.99, respectively.

CONCLUSIONS:

In this study, we have presented a user-friendly software for the 3D reconstruction of coronary arterial segments and the accurate hemodynamic assessment of the severity of existing stenosis.
Target of physiological gait: Realization of speed adaptive control for a prosthetic knee during swing flexion
Authors: Cao Wujing , Yu Hongliu , Zhao Weiliang , Li Jin , Wei Xiaodong
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND:

Prosthetic knee is the most important component of lower limb prosthesis. Speed adaptive for prosthetic knee during swing flexion is the key method to realize physiological gait.

OBJECTIVE:

This study aims to discuss the target of physiological gait, propose a speed adaptive control method during swing flexion and research the damping adjustment law of intelligent hydraulic prosthetic knee.

METHODS:

According to the physiological gait trials of healthy people, the control target during swing flexion is defined. A new prosthetic knee with fuzzy logical control during swing flexion is designed to realize the damping adjustment automatically. The function simulation and evaluation system of intelligent knee prosthesis is provided. Speed adaptive control test of the intelligent prosthetic knee in different velocities are researched.

RESULTS:

The maximum swing flexion of the knee angle is set between sixty degree and seventy degree as the target of physiological gait. Preliminary experimental results demonstrate that the prosthetic knee with fuzzy logical control is able to realize physiological gait under different speeds. The faster the walking, the bigger the valve closure percentage of the hydraulic prosthetic knee.

CONCLUSIONS:

The proposed fuzzy logical control strategy and intelligent hydraulic prosthetic knee are effective for the amputee to achieve physiological gait.
A passive RFID-based location system for personnel and asset monitoring
Authors: Hsiao Rong-Shue , Kao Chun-Hao , Chen Tian-Xiang , Chen Jui-Lun
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND:

Typical radio frequency identification (RFID) access control system can be ineffective if an unauthorized person tailgates an authorized person through an access area.

OBJECTIVE:

To propose a system by using indoor locating and tracking techniques address this problem, which is to prevent unauthorized Alzheimer’s and dementia patients from getting lost including by tailgating.

METHODS:

To achieve accurate target location, passive RFID deployment strategy is studied and a fingerprinting based passive RFID localization algorithm is proposed. The proposed system was evaluated in a building environment to simulate the performance of access control. RFID reader was installed on ceiling near the access area and tags were stitched on both shoulders of the experiment subject’s garments.

RESULTS:

The probability of the error distance within 0.3 m achieved 97% in the warning area; the location precision achieved 97% within 0.4 m in the monitoring area.

CONCLUSIONS:

The result showed that if an unauthorized person enters the restricted area, the system can initiate an alert signal accurately. Therefore, the proposed system is very suitable to be used in nursing home or hospital to prevent unauthorized personnel and assets entering/exiting a confined location.
Surface Structure Analysis of Syntactic Metal Foams Machined by Milling
Authors: Szalóki István , Viharos Zsolt János
Published: October 2017

In the automotive and aerospace industries the engineers are encouraged to develop new materials, having special features mainly for the purposes of mass reduction, favourable (specifi) mechanical properties, appropriate strength, heat resistance, and environmental impacts, becoming even more critical technically. The matrix of the metal matrix composite, being the subject of our research, is an AlMgSi1 aluminum alloy: it contains 50-55 volume per cent of Al2O3 particles as reinforcement, having an average diameter of 100 - 150 μm. After machining, the surface of materials, having such large particles, is divided by open cavities, therefore other methods have to be used in order to describe and characterise the surface structure than in the case of steel or aluminum components, having a homogeneous structure. In our present article the aim is to analyse the microgeometrical properties of the surface of metal matrix composite materials, produced to the tests and machined with shoulder milling; furthermore, the measures, being able to evaluate the produced surface in an exact way, will be determined.
Annotation Between Formation And Information
Authors: Leonhardt Jürgen
Published: October 2017

Between 1490 and 1525 various German print shops produced a great number of rather short texts that were the subject of university lectures as fascicles for students. Wide margins and line spacing left room for hand-written notes taken during the lecture course. Many of such annotated copies allow us to assume that the annotations are not textual commentaries in the usual sense. Rather, they are examples of a media practice indicating the tension between orality, handwriting, and printed books, especially since both the oral lecture course and the individual notes represent processes of transmitting and storing knowledge in which the text that is being explained does not even play a central role. We may compare them to modern, frequently collaborative practices that pursue aims going beyond straightforward models of text explication, which may help us develop more precise descriptions as well as a deeper understanding of the hermeneutics of textual annotation.
Explanatory Annotation of Literary Texts and the Reader: Seven Types of Problems
Authors: Bauer Matthias , Zirker Angelika
Published: October 2017

While most literary scholars wish to help readers understand literary texts by providing them with explanatory annotations, we want to go a step further and enable them, on the basis of structured information, to arrive at interpretations of their own. We therefore seek to establish a concept of explanatory annotation that is reader-oriented and combines hermeneutics with the opportunities provided by digital methods. In a first step, we are going to present a few examples of existing annotations that apparently do not take into account readerly needs. To us, they represent seven types of common problems in explanatory annotation. We then introduce a possible model of best practice which is based on categories and structured along the lines of the following questions: What kind(s) of annotations do improve text comprehension? Which contexts must be considered when annotating? Is it possible to develop a concept of the reader on the basis of annotations—and can, in turn, annotations address a particular kind of readership, i.e.: in how far can annotations be(come) individualised?
The Effect of Taurine on the Recovery from Eccentric Exercise-Induced Muscle Damage in Males
Authors: McLeay Yanita , Stannard Stephen , Barnes Matthew
Published: October 2017

Eccentric exercise is known to bring about microstructural damage to muscle, initiating an inflammatory cascade involving various reactive oxygen species. This, in turn, can significantly impair physical performance over subsequent days. Taurine, a powerful endogenous antioxidant, has previously been shown to have a beneficial effect on muscle damage markers and recovery when taken for a few days to several weeks prior to eccentric exercise. However, to date no studies have looked at the effects of supplementing over the days following eccentric exercise on performance recovery. Thus, this study aimed to determine whether supplementing with taurine over three days following eccentric exercise attenuated the rise in serum creatine kinase and improved performance recovery in males. In a blinded, randomized, crossover design, ten recreationally-fit male participants completed 60 eccentric contractions of the biceps brachii muscle at maximal effort. Following this, participants were supplemented with 0.1 g∙kg−1 body weight∙day−1 of either taurine or rice flour in capsules. Over the next three mornings participants underwent blood tests for the analysis of the muscle damage marker creatine kinase and carried out performance measures on the isokinetic dynamometer. They also continued to consume the capsules in the morning and evening. The entire protocol was repeated two weeks later on the alternate arm and supplement. Significant decreases were seen in all performance measures from pre- to 24-h post-eccentric exercise (p < 0.001) for both taurine and placebo, indicating the attainment of muscle damage. Significant treatment effects were observed only for peak eccentric torque (p < 0.05). No significant time × treatment effects were observed (all p > 0.05). Serum creatine kinase levels did not significantly differ over time for either treatments, nor between treatments (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that taurine supplementation taken twice daily for 72 h following eccentric exercise-induced muscle damage may help improve eccentric performance recovery of the biceps brachii.
Aerosol Optical Properties over China from RAMS-CMAQ Model Compared with CALIOP Observations
Authors: Wu Tong , Fan Meng , Tao Jinhua , Su Lin , Wang Ping , Liu Dong , Li Mingyang , Han Xiao , Chen Liangfu
Published: October 2017

The horizontal and vertical distributions of aerosol optical properties over China in 2013–2015 were investigated using RAMS (Regional Atmospheric Modeling System)-CMAQ (Models-3 Community Multiscale Air Quality) simulations and CALIOP (Cloud-Aerosol Lidar with Orthogonal Polarization) observations. To better understand the performance of the RAMS-CMAQ model over China, comparisons with the ground-based Sun photometers AERONET (Aerosol Robotic Network), MODIS (Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometers) data and the on-board Lidar CALIOP were used for comprehensive evaluations, which could characterize the abilities of the model to simulate the spatial and vertical distributions of the AOD (Aerosol Optical Depth) as well as the optical properties for four seasons. Several high value areas (e.g., the Sichuan Basin, Taklamakan Desert, North China Plain, and Yangtze River Delta) were found over China during the study period, with the maximum mean AOD (CALIOP: ~0.7; RAMS-CMAQ: >1) in the Sichuan district. Compared with AODs of AERONET, both the CALIOP and RAMS-CMAQ AODs were underestimated, but the RAMS-CMAQ data show a better correlation with AERONET (AERONET vs. RAMS-CMAQ R: 0.69, AERONET vs. CALIOP R: 0.5). The correlation coefficients between RAMS-CMAQ and CALIOP are approximately 0.6 for all four seasons. The AEC (Aerosol Extinction Coefficient) vertical profiles over major cities and their cross sections exhibit two typical features: (1) most of the AEC peaks occurred in the lowest ~0.5 km, decreasing with increasing altitude; and (2) the RAMS-CMAQ AEC underestimated the region with high AODs in the northwest of China and overestimated the region with high AODs in the east–central plain and the central basin regions. The major difference in the AEC values of RAMS-CMAQ and CALIOP is mainly caused by the level of relative humidity and the hygroscopic growth effects of water-soluble aerosols, especially, in the Sichuan district. In general, both the column and vertical RAMS-CMAQ aerosol optical properties could be supplemented efficiently when satellite observations are not available or invalid over China in the applications of climate change and air pollution.
The Peñalara Mountain Meteorological Network (1999–2014): Description, Preliminary Results and Lessons Learned
Authors: Durán Luis , Rodríguez-Muñoz Irene , Sánchez Enrique
Published: October 2017

This work describes a mountain meteorological network that was in operation from 1999 to 2014 in a mountain range with elevations ranging from 1104 to 2428 m in Central Spain. Additionally, some technical details of the network are described, as well as variables measured and some meta information presented, which is expected to be useful for future users of the observational database. A strong emphasis is made on showing the observational methods and protocols evolution, as it will help researchers to understand the sources of errors, data gaps and the final stage of the network. This paper summarizes mostly the common sources of errors when designing and operating a small network of this kind, so it can be useful for individual researchers and small size groups that undertake a similar task on their own. Strengths and weaknesses of some of the variables measured are discussed and some basic calculations are made in order to show the otential of the database and to anticipate future deeper climatological analyses over the area. Finally, the configuration of an automatic mountain meteorology station is suggested as a result of the lessons learned and the the common state of the art automatic measuring techniques
Real-Time Information Derivation from Big Sensor Data via Edge Computing
Authors: Kang Kyoung-Don , Chen Liehuo , Yi Hyungdae , Wang Bin , Sha Mo
Published: October 2017

In data-intensive real-time applications, e.g., cognitive assistance and mobile health (mHealth), the amount of sensor data is exploding. In these applications, it is desirable to extract value-added information, e.g., mental or physical health conditions, from sensor data streams in real-time rather than overloading users with massive raw data. However, achieving the objective is challenging due to the data volume and complex data analysis tasks with stringent timing constraints. Most existing big data management systems, e.g., Hadoop, are not directly applicable to real-time sensor data analytics, since they are timing agnostic and focus on batch processing of previously stored data that are potentially outdated and subject to I/O overheads. Moreover, embedded sensors and IoT devices lack enough resources to perform sophisticated data analytics. To address the problem, we design a new real-time big data management framework to support periodic in-memory real-time sensor data analytics at the network edge by extending the map-reduce model originated in functional programming, while providing adaptive sensor data transfer to the edge server based on data importance. In this paper, a prototype system is designed and implemented as a proof of concept. In the performance evaluation, it is empirically shown that important sensor data are delivered in a preferred manner and they are analyzed in a timely fashion.
A Diagnosis of Denial: How Mental Health Classification Systems Have Struggled to Recognise Family Violence as a Serious Risk Factor in the Development of Mental Health Issues for Infants, Children, Adolescents and Adults
Authors: Bunston Wendy , Franich-Ray Candice , Tatlow Sara
Published: October 2017

Child and adolescent mental health services (CAMHS) routinely overlook assessing for, and providing treatment to, infants and children living with family violence, despite family violence being declared endemic across the globe. As contemporary neuro-developmental research recognises the harm of being exposed to early relational trauma, key international diagnostic texts such as the DSM-5 and ICD-10 struggle to acknowledge or appreciate the relational complexities inherent in addressing family violence and its impacts during childhood. These key texts directly influence thinking, funding and research imperatives in adult services as well as CAMHS, however, they rarely reference family violence. Their emphasis is to pathologise conditions over exploring causality which may be attributable to relational violence. Consequently, CAMHS can miss important indicators of family violence, misdiagnose disorders and unwittingly, not address unacceptable risks in the child’s caregiving environment. Notwithstanding urgent safety concerns, ongoing exposure to family violence significantly heightens the development of mental illness amongst children. CAMHS providers cannot and should not rely on current diagnostic manuals alone. They need to act now to see family violence as a significant and important risk factor to mental health and to treat its impacts on children before these develop into enduring neurological difficulties.
Creative Arts Therapies as Temporary Home for Refugees: Insights from Literature and Practice
Authors: Dieterich-Hartwell Rebekka , Koch Sabine
Published: October 2017

One of the frequently overlooked psychosocial problems of refugees is the phenomenon of homesickness. Being forced into exile and unable to return home may cause natural feelings of nostalgia but may also result in emotional, cognitive, behavioral and physical adversities. According to the literature, the creative arts therapies with their attention to preverbal language—music, imagery, dance, role play, and movement—are able to reach individuals through the senses and promote successive integration, which can lead to transformation and therapeutic change. These forms of therapy can be a temporary home for refugees in the acculturation process, by serving as a safe and enactive transitional space. More specifically, working with dance and movement can foster the experience of the body as a home and thus provide a safe starting place, from which to regulate arousal, increase interoception, and symbolize trauma- and resource-related processes. Hearing, playing, and singing music from the home culture may assist individuals in maintaining their cultural and personal individuality. Creating drawings, paintings, or sculpturing around the topics of houses and environments from the past can help refugees to retain their identity through art, creating safe spaces for the future helps to look ahead, retain resources, and regain control. This article provides a literature review related to home and homesickness, and the role the arts therapies can play for refugees in transition. It further reports selected interview data on adverse life events and burdens in the host country from a German study. We propose that the creative arts therapies are not only a container that offers a temporary home, but can also serve as a bridge that gently guides refugees to a stepwise integration in the host country. Several clinical and research examples are presented suggesting that the support and affirmation through the creative arts can strengthen individuals in their process of moving from an old to a new environment.
The Challenge of Behaviour Change and Health Promotion
Authors: Laverack Glenn
Published: October 2017

The evidence about the effectiveness of behaviour change approaches—what works and what does not work—is unclear. What we do know is that single interventions that target a specific behavioural risk have little impact on the determinants that actually cause poor health, especially for vulnerable people. This has not prevented health promoters from continuing to invest in behaviour change interventions which are widely used in a range of programs. The future of behaviour change and health promotion is through the application of a comprehensive strategy with three core components: (1) a behaviour change approach; (2) a strong policy framework that creates a supportive environment and (3) the empowerment of people to gain more control over making healthy lifestyle decisions. This will require the better planning of policy interventions and the coordination of agencies involved in behaviour change and empowerment activities at the community level, with government to help develop policy at the national level.
An Update on the Invasion of Weakfish Cynoscion regalis (Bloch & Schneider, 1801) (Actinopterygii: Sciaenidae) into Europe
Authors: Morais Pedro , Cerveira Inês , Teodósio Maria
Published: October 2017

New information on weakfish introduction vectors, its invasive status, distribution, and use as a fishing resource arose after the publication of “The transatlantic introduction of weakfish Cynoscion regalis (Bloch & Schneider, 1801) (Sciaenidae, Pisces) into Europe” by Morais and Teodósio (2016). Currently, the first known report of weakfish in Europe dates back to September 2009, with a specimen captured in the Schelde estuary (Belgium/The Netherlands). This fact suggests that weakfish could have been introduced into Europe via multiple and independent ballast water introduction events, and not through a point-source introduction event with subsequent dispersion as previously hypothesized. It is also unlikely that Schelde weakfish migrated southwards to colonize Iberian aquatic ecosystems. Weakfish have established a population in the Gulf of Cádiz region and have already reached an invasive status in the Sado estuary (Portugal). Weakfish were also captured in several other locations along the Portuguese coast, including the Tagus and Mira estuaries at least since 2013 or 2014, and the Ria Formosa lagoon in 2017. Tagus anglers caught weakfish specimens of ~1 kg and ~40 cm in November 2016, which corresponds to fish of 3+ years of age in the native range. The presence of weakfish in the Tagus estuary is still fairly unknown to local anglers. Sado weakfish has already been sold in local fish markets in southern Portugal for 3 to 10 € kg−1. However, we consider that the weakfish sale price is underrated in comparison with other wild species (e.g., meagre, seabass, gilthead seabream). Increasing sale price will convince fishers to use weakfish as a new fishing resource; however, it is necessary to promote the species among consumers and evaluate consumers’ preference in respect to other species. A putative biological threat might turn into a new valuable fishing resource by implementing adequate management solutions.
Implementing a Multidisciplinary Tumor Board in the Community Practice Setting
Authors: Lesslie Michele , Parikh Jay
Published: October 2017

Multidisciplinary tumor boards are an opportunity for radiologists to demonstrate value to referring clinicians, the hospital, and patients. Multidisciplinary tumor boards are commonly utilized in academic institutions, but may not be readily available in community practice. We discuss strategies academic radiologists may employ to assist in the implementation of a multidisciplinary tumor board in the community practice setting. Summary: Strategies to assist in the implementation of a multidisciplinary tumor board in the community practice setting are described.
Prospective Comparison of F-18 Choline PET/CT Scan Versus Axial MRI for Detecting Bone Metastasis in Biochemically Relapsed Prostate Cancer Patients
Authors: Huysse Wouter , Lecouvet Frédéric , Castellucci Paolo , Ost Piet , Lambrecht Valerie , Artigas Carlos , Denis Marie-Laurence , Man Kathia De , Delrue Louke , Jans Lennart , Bruycker Aurélie De , Vos Filip De , Meerleer Gert De , Decaestecker Karel , Fonteyne Valerie , Lambert Bieke
Published: October 2017

We compared fluor-18 choline positron emission tomography/computed tomography (PET/CT) and axial skeleton magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) prospectively obtained for the detection of bone metastases in non-castrated patients with biochemically recurrent prostate cancer following primary treatment. PET/CT was performed 45 min post-injection of 3–4 MBq/kg F-18 methyl choline. MRI included T1- and fluid sensitive T2-weighted images of the spine and pelvis. Readers were initially blinded from other results and all scans underwent independent double reading. The best valuable comparator (BVC) defined the metastatic status. On the basis of the BVC, 15 out of 64 patients presented with 24 bone metastases. On a patient level, the sensitivity and specificity of MRI and PET were not significantly different. On a lesion level, the sensitivity of MRI was significantly better compared to PET, and the specificity did not differ significantly. In conclusion, axial MRI is an interesting screening tool for the detection of bone metastases because of its low probability of false negative results. However, F-18 choline PET is a valuable addition as it can overrule false positive MRI results and detect non-axial metastases.
Hydrogen Generation through Solar Photocatalytic Processes: A Review of the Configuration and the Properties of Effective Metal-Based Semiconductor Nanomaterials
Authors: Clarizia Laura , Russo Danilo , Di Somma Ilaria , Andreozzi Roberto , Marotta Raffaele
Published: October 2017

Photocatalytic water splitting and organic reforming based on nano-sized composites are gaining increasing interest due to the possibility of generating hydrogen by employing solar energy with low environmental impact. Although great efforts in developing materials ensuring high specific photoactivity have been recently recorded in the literature survey, the solar-to-hydrogen energy conversion efficiencies are currently still far from meeting the minimum requirements for real solar applications. This review aims at reporting the most significant results recently collected in the field of hydrogen generation through photocatalytic water splitting and organic reforming, with specific focus on metal-based semiconductor nanomaterials (e.g., metal oxides, metal (oxy)nitrides and metal (oxy)sulfides) used as photocatalysts under UVA or visible light irradiation. Recent developments for improving the photoefficiency for hydrogen generation of most used metal-based composites are pointed out. The main synthesis and operating variables affecting photocatalytic water splitting and organic reforming over metal-based nanocomposites are critically evaluated.
Multi-Objective Analysis of a CHP Plant Integrated Microgrid in Pakistan
Authors: Waqar Asad , Shahbaz Tanveer Muhammad , Ahmad Jehanzeb , Aamir Muhammad , Yaqoob Muneeb , Anwar Fareeha
Published: October 2017

In developing countries like Pakistan, the capacity shortage (CS) of electricity is a critical problem. The frequent natural gas (NG) outages compel consumers to use electricity to fulfill the thermal loads, which ends up as an increase in electrical load. In this scenario, the authors have proposed the concept of a combined heat & power (CHP) plant to be a better option for supplying both electrical and thermal loads simultaneously. A CHP plant-based microgrid comprising a PV array, diesel generators and batteries (operating in grid-connected as well as islanded modes) has been simulated using the HOMER Pro software. Different configurations of distributed generators (DGs) with/without batteries have been evaluated considering multiple objectives. The multiple objectives include the minimization of the total net present cost (TNPC), cost of generated energy (COE) and the annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, as well as the maximization of annual waste heat recovery (WHR) of thermal units and annual grid sales (GS). These objectives are subject to the constraints of power balance, battery operation within state of charge (SOC) limits, generator operation within capacity limits and zero capacity shortage. The simulations have been performed on six cities including Islamabad, Lahore, Karachi, Peshawar, Quetta and Gilgit. The simulation results have been analyzed to find the most optimal city for the CHP plant integrated microgrid.
Experimental Study of a Centralized Control Strategy of a DC Microgrid Working in Grid Connected Mode
Authors: Salas-Puente Robert , Marzal Silvia , González-Medina Raúl , Figueres Emilio , Garcera Gabriel
Published: October 2017

The results concerning the integration of a set of power management strategies and serial communications for the efficient coordination of the power converters composing an experimental DC microgrid is presented. The DC microgrid operates in grid connected mode by means of an interlinking converter. The overall control is carried out by means of a centralized microgrid controller implemented on a Texas Instruments TMS320F28335 DSP. The main objectives of the applied control strategies are to ensure the extract/inject power limits established by the grid operator as well as the renewable generation limits if it is required; to devise a realistic charging procedure of the energy storage batteries as a function of the microgrid status; to manage sudden changes of the available power from the photovoltaic energy sources, of the load power demand and of the power references established by the central controller; and to implement a load shedding functionality. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed power management methodology allows the control of the power dispatch inside the DC microgrid properly.