bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Object Classification in Semi Structured Enviroment Using Forward-Looking Sonar
Authors: Dos Santos Matheus , Ribeiro Pedro , Núñez Pedro , Drews-Jr Paulo , Botelho Silvia
Published: September 2017

The submarine exploration using robots has been increasing in recent years. The automation of tasks such as monitoring, inspection, and underwater maintenance requires the understanding of the robot’s environment. The object recognition in the scene is becoming a critical issue for these systems. On this work, an underwater object classification pipeline applied in acoustic images acquired by Forward-Looking Sonar (FLS) are studied. The object segmentation combines thresholding, connected pixels searching and peak of intensity analyzing techniques. The object descriptor extract intensity and geometric features of the detected objects. A comparison between the Support Vector Machine, K-Nearest Neighbors, and Random Trees classifiers are presented. An open-source tool was developed to annotate and classify the objects and evaluate their classification performance. The proposed method efficiently segments and classifies the structures in the scene using a real dataset acquired by an underwater vehicle in a harbor area. Experimental results demonstrate the robustness and accuracy of the method described in this paper.
Finite Element Analysis of Grouting Compactness Monitoring in a Post-Tensioning Tendon Duct Using Piezoceramic Transducers
Authors: Jiang Tianyong , Zheng Junbo , Huo Linsheng , Song Gangbing
Published: September 2017

With the development of the post-tensioning technique, prestressed concrete structures have been widely used in civil engineering. To ensure the long-term effectiveness of the prestressed tendon, the grouting quality of the tendon duct is one of the important factors. However, it is still a challenge to monitor the grouting quality of post-tensioning tendon ducts, due to the invisibility of the grouting. The authors’ previous work proposed a real-time method that employed a stress wave-based active sensing approach with piezoceramic transducers to monitor the grouting compactness of a Post-Tensioning Tendon Duct (PTTD). To further understand the piezoceramic induced stress wave propagation in the PTTD with different grouting levels, this paper develops a two-dimensional finite element model for monitoring the grouting compactness of the tendon duct with a piezoceramic transducer. A smart aggregate (SA) developed to utilize one Lead Zirconate Titanate (PZT) transducer with marble protection is installed in the center location of the tendon duct as an actuator. Two PZT patches are bonded on the bottom and top surface of the tendon duct as the sensors. The analysis results show that the finite element analysis results are in good agreement with the experimental results, which demonstrates that the finite element analysis is feasible and reliable. For the top half of the specimen, not much stress wave could be detected before the full grouting level, except for negligible signals that may propagate through the walls of the tendon duct. When the tendon duct grouting is at 100%, the stress wave propagates to the top of the specimen, and the displacements are symmetric in both left-right and top-bottom directions before the stress waves reach the boundary. The proposed two-dimensional finite element model has the potential to be implemented to simulate the stress wave propagation principle for monitoring grouting compaction of the post-tensioning tendon duct.
3D Power Line Extraction from Multiple Aerial Images
Authors: Oh Jaehong , Lee Changno
Published: September 2017

Power lines are cables that carry electrical power from a power plant to an electrical substation. They must be connected between the tower structures in such a way that ensures minimum tension and sufficient clearance from the ground. Power lines can stretch and sag with the changing weather, eventually exceeding the planned tolerances. The excessive sags can then cause serious accidents, while hindering the durability of the power lines. We used photogrammetric techniques with a low-cost drone to achieve efficient 3D mapping of power lines that are often difficult to approach. Unlike the conventional image-to-object space approach, we used the object-to-image space approach using cubic grid points. We processed four strips of aerial images to automatically extract the power line points in the object space. Experimental results showed that the approach could successfully extract the positions of the power line points for power line generation and sag measurement with the elevation accuracy of a few centimeters.
To Take the Stairs or Not to Take the Stairs? Employing the Reflective–Impulsive Model to Predict Spontaneous Physical Activity
Authors: Daou Marcos , Lohse Keith , Miller Matthew
Published: September 2017

The reflective–impulsive model (RIM) has been employed to explain various health behaviors. The present study used RIM to predict a spontaneous physical activity behavior. Specifically, 107 participants (75 females; Mage = 20.6 years, SD = 1.92 years) completed measures of (1) reflections about spontaneous physical activity, as indexed by self-report questionnaire; (2) impulse toward physical activity, as indexed by the manikin task; and (3) (state) self-control, as indexed by the Stroop task. The dependent variable was whether participants took the stairs or the elevator to the study laboratory. Results revealed reflections toward spontaneous physical activity positively predicted stair-taking. Further, a significant impulse toward physical activity × self-control interaction was observed. This interaction revealed that participants with high self-control who had a high impulse toward PA were more likely to take the stairs than their counterparts with a low impulse toward PA, whereas the opposite was the case for participants with low self-control. However, the impulse × self-control interaction was not significant when employing a self-report measure of trait self-control. Thus, RIM may be a good framework with which to consider spontaneous physical activity, but careful consideration must be given when examining variables within RIM (e.g., the boundary condition of self-control).
Logical and Geometrical Distance in Polyhedral Aristotelian Diagrams in Knowledge Representation
Authors: Demey Lorenz , Smessaert Hans
Published: September 2017

Aristotelian diagrams visualize the logical relations among a finite set of objects. These diagrams originated in philosophy, but recently, they have also been used extensively in artificial intelligence, in order to study (connections between) various knowledge representation formalisms. In this paper, we develop the idea that Aristotelian diagrams can be fruitfully studied as geometrical entities. In particular, we focus on four polyhedral Aristotelian diagrams for the Boolean algebra B 4 , viz. the rhombic dodecahedron, the tetrakis hexahedron, the tetraicosahedron and the nested tetrahedron. After an in-depth investigation of the geometrical properties and interrelationships of these polyhedral diagrams, we analyze the correlation (or lack thereof) between logical (Hamming) and geometrical (Euclidean) distance in each of these diagrams. The outcome of this analysis is that the Aristotelian rhombic dodecahedron and tetrakis hexahedron exhibit the strongest degree of correlation between logical and geometrical distance; the tetraicosahedron performs worse; and the nested tetrahedron has the lowest degree of correlation. Finally, these results are used to shed new light on the relative strengths and weaknesses of these polyhedral Aristotelian diagrams, by appealing to the congruence principle from cognitive research on diagram design.
A comparative study of the nanoscale and macroscale tribological attributes of alumina and stainless steel surfaces immersed in aqueous suspensions of positively or negatively charged nanodiamonds
Authors: Curtis Colin K , Marek Antonin , Smirnov Alex I , Krim Jacqueline
Published: September 2017

This article reports a comparative study of the nanoscale and macroscale tribological attributes of alumina and stainless steel surfaces immersed in aqueous suspensions of positively (hydroxylated) or negatively (carboxylated) charged nanodiamonds (ND). Immersion in −ND suspensions resulted in a decrease in the macroscopic friction coefficients to values in the range 0.05–0.1 for both stainless steel and alumina, while +ND suspensions yielded an increase in friction for stainless steel contacts but little to no increase for alumina contacts. Quartz crystal microbalance (QCM), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) measurements were employed to assess nanoparticle uptake, surface polishing, and resistance to solid–liquid interfacial shear motion. The QCM studies revealed abrupt changes to the surfaces of both alumina and stainless steel upon injection of –ND into the surrounding water environment that are consistent with strong attachment of NDs and/or chemical changes to the surfaces. AFM images of the surfaces indicated slight increases in the surface roughness upon an exposure to both +ND and −ND suspensions. A suggested mechanism for these observations is that carboxylated −NDs from aqueous suspensions are forming robust lubricious deposits on stainless and alumina surfaces that enable gliding of the surfaces through the −ND suspensions with relatively low resistance to shear. In contrast, +ND suspensions are failing to improve tribological performance for either of the surfaces and may have abraded existing protective boundary layers in the case of stainless steel contacts. This study therefore reveals atomic scale details associated with systems that exhibit starkly different macroscale tribological properties, enabling future efforts to predict and design complex lubricant interfaces.
Study on 3D Point Clouds Accuracy of Elongated Object Reconstruction in Close Range – Comparison of Different Software
Authors: Gabara Grzegorz , Sawicki Piotr
Published: September 2017

The image based point clouds generated from multiple different oriented photos enable 3D object reconstruction in a variety spectrum of close range applications. The paper presents the results of testing the accuracy the image based point clouds generated in disadvantageous conditions of digital photogrammetric data processing. The subject of the study was a long shaped object, i.e. the horizontal and rectilinear section of the railway track. DSLR Nikon D5100 camera, 16MP, equipped with the zoom lens (f = 18 ÷ 55mm), was used to acquire the block of terrestrial convergent and very oblique photos at different scales, with the full longitudinal overlap. The point clouds generated from digital images, automatic determination of the interior orientation parameters, the spatial orientation of photos and 3D distribution of discrete points were obtained using the successively tested software: RealityCapture, Photoscan, VisualSFM+SURE and iWitness+SURE. The dense point clouds of the test object generated with the use of RealityCapture and PhotoScan applications were filtered using MeshLab application. The geometric parameters of test object were determined by means of CloudCompare software. The image based dense point clouds allow, in the case of disadvantageous conditions of photogrammetric digital data processing, to determine the geometric parameters of a close range elongated object with the high accuracy (mXYZ < 1 mm).
Concept of INS/GPS Integration Algorithm Designed for
MEMS Based Navigation Platform
Authors: Tomaszewski Dariusz
Published: September 2017

Nowadays, along with the advancement of technology one can notice the rapid development of various types
of navigation systems. So far, the most popular satellite navigation, is now supported by positioning results calculated
with the use of other measurement system. The method and manner of integration will depend directly on the destination
of developed system. To increase the frequency of readings and improve the operation of outdoor navigation systems,
one can support satellite navigation systems (GPS, GLONASS ect.) with inertial navigation (INS/GPS systems). For
the last two decades, due to the miniaturization in electronics it is possible to build GPS/INS systems with the use of
low cost MEMS devices. The following study presents the concept of Kalman filter based integration algorithm designed
for cheap micro – electronic navigation platform. The tests of considered algorithm were made with the use of MEMS
smartphone sensors. Subsequently the results of the study were analyzed to determine the accuracy of featured algorithm.
Radiometric Quality Assessment of Video Sequences Acquired from UAV Photogrammetric Systems
Authors: Wierzbicki Damian , Fryskowska Anna
Published: September 2017

The issue of imagery data collection and its implementation in photogrammetric studies with the use of unmanned aerial vehicles is still valid and provides a wide field of research in the creation of new and expansion of existing solutions. It is particularly important to increase the accuracy of photogrammetric products. These days low altitude unmanned aerial vehicles are being used more and more often in photogrammetric applications. Compact digital cameras had acquired single, high-resolution imagery. Data obtained from low altitudes were often (and still are) used in mapping and 3D modelling. Due to the low costs of flights of UAV systems in comparison with traditional flights, applications of such platforms are also attractive for many remote sensing applications. However, due to the use of non-metric video cameras, one of the main problems when trying to automate the video data processing, is the video sequences’ relatively poor radiometric quality. The article addresses the issue of assessing the quality of the video imagery acquired from a low altitude UAV platform. The Authors presented quality Indicators dedicated to UAV video sequences. The method is based on the analysis of the video stream, obtained in the different weather and lighting conditions. As a result of the research, an objective quality index for video acquired from low altitudes was determined.
Integral Field Spectroscopy of Balmer-dominated Shocks in the Magellanic Cloud Supernova Remnant N103B
Authors: Ghavamian Parviz , Seitenzahl Ivo R. , Vogt Frédéric P. A. , Dopita M. A. , Terry Jason P. , Williams Brian J. , Winkler P. Frank
Published: September 2017

We present results of integral field spectroscopy of Balmer-dominated shocks in the LMC supernova remnant (SNR) N103B, carried out using the Wide Field Integral Spectrograph (WiFeS ) on the 2.3 m telescope at the Siding Spring Observatory in Australia. Existing X-ray studies of N103B have indicated an SN Ia origin. Radiative shock emission from clumpy material surrounding the SNR may result from interaction of the forward shock with relic stellar wind material, possibly implicating a thermonuclear explosion in a single-degenerate binary system. The recently discovered Balmer-dominated shocks mark the impact of the forward shock with low density, partially neutral CSM gas, and form a partial shell encircling clumps of material exhibiting radiative shocks. The WiFeS spectra of N103B reveal broad Hα emission having a width as high as 2350 km s−1 along the northern rim, and both Hα and Hβ broad profiles having widths around 1300 km s−1 along the southern rim. Fits to the Hα line profiles indicate that in addition to the usual broad and narrow emission components, a third component of intermediate width exists in these Balmer-dominated shocks, ranging from around 125 km s−1 up to 225 km s−1 in width. This is consistent with predictions of recent Balmer-dominated shock models, which predict that an intermediate-width component will be generated in a fast neutral precursor. We derive a Sedov age of approximately 685 ± 20 years for N103B from the Balmer-dominated spectra, consistent with the young age of 380–860 years estimated from light echo studies.
Les formations à la prise de parole en public
Authors: Le Mazier Julie
Published: September 2017

Cet article s’attache à identifier ce qui permet aux étudiants membres d’organisations d’être mieux préparés que d’autres à s’exprimer en public en comparant des formations à la prise de parole organisées au sein de deux syndicats étudiants, l’Union nationale des étudiants de France (UNEF) et SUD Étudiant. Ces formations sont appréhendées comme un indicateur – parmi d’autres possibles – du façonnage organisationnel qui y est opéré sur les militants, c’est-à-dire de la façon dont des organisations distinctes produisent des socialisations et, partant, des manières d’agir et de penser, différentes. À l’UNEF, les formations visent à faire de chaque militant un porte-parole de l’organisation, tandis qu’à SUD Étudiant on apprend plutôt à se mouvoir dans les luttes comme un « poisson dans l’eau ».
Sortir de cellule/demeurer en cellule
Authors: Solini Laurent , Basson Jean-Charles
Published: September 2017

Cette sociologie des expériences de la détention réalisée dans l’établissement pénitentiaire pour mineurs de Lavaur (Tarn) saisit les pratiques sociales des détenus dans et aux abords de leur cellule afin d’appréhender les formes d’expression du contrôle tout autant que les stratégies employées pour s’en détourner. Car si l’encellulement est une expérience éprouvante pour le jeune détenu, il peut, paradoxalement, recouvrir les propriétés d’une expérience critique de résistance à l’emprise carcérale. Ainsi la cellule est-elle conjointement le lieu de l’isolement et de la prépotence : un espace privé qui se prête à la réappropriation. De même, s’en extraire pour échapper à la discipline carcérale conduit les adolescents à rejoindre les activités collectives destinées à les (ré)éduquer.
Un contrôle pénal négociable
Authors: Bugnon Géraldine
Published: September 2017

Sur la base d’un corpus d’entretiens réalisés avec des jeunes Brésiliens soumis à la mesure de liberté assistée, cet article interroge les contours du gouvernement de la délinquance juvénile propre aux mesures dites « en milieu ouvert » : quelles sont les formes d’adhésion ou de résistance au « gouvernement par la parole » qui prédomine dans ces mesures ? Quelle est la place de la confiance, du mensonge, ou de la réflexivité au sein des échanges verbaux entre jeunes et professionnels ? Nos analyses montrent que le contrôle flexible et individualisé qui caractérise ces mesures produit des formes d’inégalités singulières, intrinsèquement liées aux capitaux détenus par les jeunes et à leur trajectoire institutionnelle antérieure.
Mutualité de l’autonomie et représentations de relation d’objet au Rorschach
Authors: Prudent Cécile , Evrard Renaud , Laurent Mélanie , Rodriguez Claire , de Tychey Claude
Published: September 2017

Les auteurs présentent l’échelle américaine de mutualité d’autonomie d’Urist (1977) et une brève synthèse des travaux de validation montrant son intérêt en clinique diagnostique et thérapeutique. Ils se proposent pour l’affiner de la mettre en correspondance avec une grille d’analyse de la représentation de relation d’objet au Rorschach, élaborée à partir d’une perspective psychanalytique structurale (Bergeret, 1974, 1986). Des pistes de recherche pour valider cette dernière sont ensuite suggérées.
Engineering Courses on Computational Thinking Through Solving Problems in Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Silapachote Piyanuch , Srisuphab Ananta
Published: September 2017

Computational thinking sits at the core of every engineering and computing related discipline. It has increasingly emerged as its own subject in all levels of education. It is a powerful cornerstone for cognitive development, creative problem solving, algorithmic thinking and designs, and programming. How to effectively teach computational thinking skills poses real challenges and creates opportunities. Targeting entering computer science and engineering undergraduates, we resourcefully integrate elements from artificial intelligence (AI) into introductory computing courses. In addition to comprehension of the essence of computational thinking, practical exercises in AI enable inspirations of collaborative problem solving beyond abstraction, logical reasoning, critical and analytical thinking. Problems in machine intelligence systems intrinsically connect students to algorithmic oriented computing and essential mathematical foundations. Beyond knowledge representation, AI fosters a gentle introduction to data structures and algorithms. Focused on engaging mental tool, a computer is never a necessity. Neither coding nor programming is ever required. Instead, students enjoy constructivist classrooms designed to always be active, flexible, and highly dynamic. Learning to learn and reflecting on cognitive experiences, they rigorously construct knowledge from collectively solving exciting puzzles, competing in strategic games, and participating in intellectual discussions.
Stirring up Engineers’ Systems Intelligence: A Case Study of Life-Philosophical Pedagogy
Authors: Lappalainen Pia Helena
Published: September 2017

In their role as problem solvers, engineers are expected to take responsibility for the grand societal challenges that require technical expertise and innovation. This urges them to broaden their horizon from the traditional, deeply technological world view to one that examines the surrounding globe with empathy and social responsibility. Such a call for systems intelligence necessitates a novel approach to engineering education to allow students to practice systemic capabilities.

As methodology, life-philosophical pedagogy was experimented with in an English language course that was integrated with the Philosophy and Systems Thinking lecture series. Such pedagogy deviates from conventional methodology in that instead of focusing on correcting deficiencies and filling competence gaps, it takes a midwife approach and recognizes the potential in individuals and delivers the abundance in them. The principles of positive psychology and frameworks of socio-emotive intelligence guide the reflective workout in the course, catalyzing, stimulating and rooting new thinking. Ultimately the course promotes self-growth, intentional change and overall life management, while allowing students to rehearse various interpersonal skills relevant for industrial tasks.
How Can We Find Out What Makes a Good Requirements Engineer in the Age of Digitalization?
Authors: Sedelmaier Yvonne , Landes Dieter
Published: September 2017

Good requirements are commonly viewed as a key success factor for IT (and non-IT) projects, but still there seems to be insufficient insight into which competences requirements engineers need to have these days. Digitalization is likely to pose new challenges to requirements engineering. Chances are that digitalization will change the competences that are necessary for successful requirements engineering.

This paper proposes a research design that will be used for clarifying which competences requirements engineers need nowadays and how these competences change due to digitalization. To that end, qualitative and quantitative research methods will be combined for developing a comprehensive competence profile for requirements engineering on a scientific basis. The resulting competence profile constitutes a starting point for devising competence-oriented learning settings. Thus, our research contributes to a better understanding of competences for requirements engineering and improves education of future requirements engineers, in particular for coping with challenges posed by digitalization.
Roma and Gypsies in the Mediterranean: Circulating Categories, Maintaining Boundaries
Authors: Doytcheva Milena
Published: September 2017

The article is based on results under development of the research project “Roma Migrants in the Public Arena” (LabEx TEPSIS, Ville de Paris). Drawing on various fieldworks focused on politicization processes (media coverage, collective action, local policies of “inclusion”), it examines in a cross-scalar approach the differentiated integration strategies developed towards these immigrants by a plurality of actors. Through a critical review of the comparative results issued from the fresh release of Confluences Mediterranée journal, we point out some tensions between processes of “transnationalization” and rooted national and local configurations. We thus favour a particular research-path that focuses on entrenchment and mobilities of categorical ethnic ascriptions and identifications.
Rapport d'évaluation 2015-2016 de l'IDS-Arctique
Authors: Giff G
Published: September 2017

Ce document présente un rapport succinct de l'évaluation de l'IDS-Arctique. Le rapport comporte les sections suivantes : une introduction au projet d'évaluation de l'IDS-Arctique, une brève discussion sur le concept de l'évaluation de
l'IDS et ses avantages, les méthodes d'évaluation d'une IDS, les méthodes d'évaluation de l'IDS-Arctique, l'élaboration du cadre d'évaluation de l'IDS-Arctique, la mise en oeuvre du cadre d'évaluation, la présentation des résultats de l'évaluation,
l'analyse de ces résultats, les recommandations formulées sur la base des résultats de l'évaluation et une discussion sur l'analyse comparative de l'état actuel de mise en oeuvre de l'IDS-Arctique.
Appropriateness of admissions of children with cancer to intensive care facilities in a resource-limited setting
Authors: Beringer Nadia , Poole Janet E. , Ballot Daynia E. , Geel Jennifer A.
Published: September 2017

Background: The increasing intensity of treatment of paediatric malignancies has led to improved survival rates, but often necessitates intensive supportive care. The decision to admit a child to the paediatric intensive care unit (PICU) is based on the probability of both short-term and long-term survival in the context of severe resource constraints. Resource constraints in South Africa result in limited access of children with cancer to PICU facilities.
Objectives: The aim of this study was to determine whether referrals by paediatric oncologists to a PICU in Johannesburg were appropriate by analysing indications for admission, underlying diagnoses, duration and costs of admissions, and overall outcomes.
Methods: A retrospective review of consecutive PICU admissions over a 12-year period was performed. Data from all patients with histologically proven malignant conditions were included and analysed using descriptive statistical methods, Kaplan–Meier curves, log-rank analysis and Fisher’s exact test.
Results: There were 5704 recorded admissions to PICU in the study period. Of these admissions, 120 (2.1%) were for patients with malignancies. The majority of PICU oncology admissions were for post-operative care, and the median duration of stay was 1 day (interquartile range: 1–3 days). The short-term mortality rate of oncology patients in PICU was 13.3% in comparison with 16.2% in the overall PICU population. The 4-year overall survival rate post PICU discharge was 54%.
Conclusion: The documented short-term mortality rate indicates that referrals by paediatric oncologists are consistent with current PICU admission policies. Oncologists should assess the prognosis for survival before requesting admission to PICU, and, resources permitting, these patients should be accepted to PICU.
Mécanismes d’action des toxines bactériennes et hygiène des denrées alimentaires
Authors: Catsaras Marc
Published: September 2017

Après examen des spécificités, du classement et de l’utilisation des toxines pour la bactérie productrice, sont envisagés les mécanismes d’action des toxines membranaires, soit qu’elles modifient un lipide membranaire ou qu’elles soient inductrices de pores au sein de la membrane. Enfin, est considéré le mécanisme d’action par internalisation et modification d’une cible intracellulaire, en particulier dans le cas de Bacillus anthracis.
Modèles et économie de la santé : l’exemple de la Fièvre Aphteuse
Authors: Vindrinet Robert , Faye Bernard
Published: September 2017

La préparation d’un mémoire de DESS “Productions animales en régions chaudes”, fut l’occasion de quantifier la rareté des études consacrées au coût des pathologies ou des luttes. En outre, les travaux sont presqu’exclusivement consacrés à des études ex ante recourant à des modèles.

Un modèle présenté à l’O.A.A. qui servit à appuyer la décision d’arrêt de la vaccination anti-aphteuse dans l’Union Européenne en 1991 est rapidement analysé à titre d’exemple et les critiques formulées en son temps, sont complétées et éclairées par l’épizootie qui a débuté en février 2001 en Grande-Bretagne avant de dégager quelques propositions opérationnelles.
Les isolateurs au service de la sécurité des aliments
Authors: Kahn Jean , Foncuberta Philippe
Published: September 2017

The isolators for the service of security of foods

The authors explain die solutions used to-day for security of foods : so-called white pieces, laminary flux models.

A new solution is described ; the isolator permitted 4 different functions : containment, manipulation, transfer and air treatment. That method is utilized by beverages industry since several years. Others are interested for dairy products, pork meat and sea products or cooked dishes. Three major advantages are recognized : hygiene marketing and economy.
Iwulite Amumamu Asusu Igbo site n’Usoro Ozi Ozuru Uwa na Senchuri nke Iri Abuo na Otu
Authors: Ilechukwu Daniel Ihunanya , Ogwudile Christian E. C.
Published: September 2017

Ederede a nyochara usoro ozuru wa d ka mettara mm ass Igbo na Najiria. A malitere site n’kwa ihe Ozuru wa ptara na mkprokwu nd z mettara ya. E lebara anya n’uru usoro ozuru wa nwere ike ba n’ammam ass Igbo. A chptara na e nwere ihe mkpbi kw nye uru nd a wee gbala gosipta z d iche iche e nwere ike isi gbanah ihe mkpbi kw nd ah. Aro nd ah b site n’gba mb h na e nwere ezi chch n’obodo, ime l ego ka kwr chm, ime ka l mmebe iwu kwr onwe ya, inwe ezi l akwkw d iche iche na bagide r mmepe a na-ah anya n’obodo. Mbunuche ederede a b iji uru nd a na-erite n’usoro ozuru wa na ICT kwalite mm ass Igbo ka ghara nw. Nsogbu nchcha a chr igbo b ime ka ass Igbo na-ada ada ka nwny anya kwrkwa chm maka azm aha, ekpem ikpe, agm akwkw, wdg, dka ass nd e nwere na mba wa nd z. Att e ji nyochaa ederede a b nke Nkzi na Mmta Lawrence (2011) b nke kwuru na e nwere ike iji ngwa r bla d ire mee ka mm ass gaa n’ihu. Ederede a ga-abara nd Igbo niile uru n’ihi na br na e site na ya gbochie ass Igbo da, b nd Igbo niile ga-erite uru na ya n’ihi na ass b njirimara nd na akara nhbabma. Nd z ga-abara uru b nd mgbasa ozi, nd nkzi Igbo, m akwkw Igbo, wdg. Ebe e nwere otu ab gbasara odide ass Igbo – otu ndek na otu ndesa, odee hr idesa mkprokwu edesa. Mana nd niile e dekr n na kass nke SPILC kad etu ha d n’akwkw kass n’ederede a.
Spanish in Sub-Saharan Africa: Whither Nigeria?
Authors: Uchechukwu Purity Ada
Published: September 2017

The apparent lack of recognition of the need for Spanish as a foreign language is surprising in Nigeria where only one federal university offers Spanish (Uchechukwu, 2014). Even the Spanish government’s Action Plans for Africa (2001-2012), efforts at the diplomatic level to foster bilateral relationships through cultural exchange, and introduction of Spanish as a foreign and international language into the African continent did not have any resonancein Nigeria. Investigations however, confirm a tremendous increase in learning Spanish in many countries in sub-Saharan Africa with the francophone countries in the forefront (Serrano, 2014). This paper presents the situation of Spanish in Nigeria and poses the question of the country’s standin this emerging trend in the West African sub-Saharan region.Key Words: Spanish in Sub-Saharan Africa, Spanish in Francophone countries, Spanish in Nigeria
Musicians and Nation Building- Need for Quality Control: Old and New Generation Music and Musicians Exemplified
Authors: Ibekwe Eunice U.
Published: September 2017

The growth of any nation is largely dependent upon a number of factors, which may be viewed from such perspectives as, fiscal status, economic development, political system, cultural awareness, social integration, security management, educational attainment, health facilities and other global endowment and or empowerment. One may then ask, what business has Music and Musicians on these afore mentioned developmental strategies. Obviously, music and musicians are integral to the full realization of any nation’s growth. They are culture propagators, indicators or pointers to nation’s identity, revenue generators, social and health promoters, moral censors, astute educationists and in fact, they constitute strong steering forces to a whole gamut of nation building. Therefore, if such powers are credibly inherent in music and musicians, the quality should be of utmost importance, otherwise the situation becomes farcical and unyielding to nation building. Well cultured individuals will make a better society. Standing on such premise, the paper made a comparative case, by critically analyzing some samples of music drawn from old and modern artistes between 60’s-80’s, and 2000 to date. It was discovered that most of the old generation music and musicians fulfill societal expectations better than the new and suggest that the later be properly censored to achieve a desired objective.
Modeling rhizosphere carbon and nitrogen cycling in Eucalyptus plantation soil
Authors: V. Valadares Rafael , L. Neves Júlio C. , D. Costa Maurício , J. Smethurst Philip , A. Peternelli Luiz , L. de Jesus Guilherme , B. Cantarutti Reinaldo , R. da Silva Ivo
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Vigorous Eucalyptus plantations produce 105 to 106 km ha−1 of fine roots that probably increase carbon (C) and nitrogen (N) cycling in rhizosphere soil. However, the quantitative importance of rhizosphere priming is still unknown for most ecosystems, for instance Eucalyptus plantations. Therefore, the objective of this work was to propose and evaluate a mechanistic model for predicting rhizospheric C and N cycling in Eucalyptus plantations. The potential importance of the priming effect was estimated for a typical Eucalyptus plantation in Brazil. The process-based model (ForPRAN – Forest plantation rhizospheric available nitrogen) predicts the change in rhizosphere C and N cycling resulting from root growth and consists of two modules: (1) fine root growth, and (2) C and N rhizosphere cycling. The model describes a series of soil biological processes: root growth, rhizodeposition, microbial uptake, enzymatic synthesis, depolymerization of soil organic matter, respiration, mineralization, immobilization, microbial death, microbial emigration and immigration, SOM formation. Model performance was satisfactory quantitatively and qualitatively when compared to observed data in the literature. The input variables that most influenced N gain by rhizospheric mineralization were (in order of decreasing importance): root diameter > rhizosphere thickness > soil temperature > clay content. The priming effect in a typical Eucalyptus plantation producing 42 m3/ha/year of wood, with assumed losses of 40 % of the total N mineralized, was estimated to be 24.6 % of plantation N demand (shoot + roots + litter). The rhizosphere cycling model should be considered for adaptation to other forestry and agricultural production models where the inclusion of such processes offer the potential for improved model performance.
Moving beyond the age-depth model paradigm in deep sea palaeoclimate archives: dual radiocarbon and stable isotope analysis on single foraminifera
Authors: Lougheed Bryan C. , Metcalfe Brett , Ninnemann Ulysses S. , Wacker Lukas
Published: September 2017

Abstract. Late-glacial palaeoclimate reconstructions from deep-sea sediment archives provide valuable insight into past rapid changes in ocean chemistry, but only a small proportion of the ocean floor is suitable for such reconstructions using the existing state-of-the-art using the age-depth approach. We employ ultra-small radiocarbon (14C) dating on single microscopic foraminifera to demonstrate that the longstanding age-depth method conceals large age uncertainty caused by post-depositional sediment mixing, meaning that existing studies may underestimate total geochronological error. To overcome these problems, we use dual 14C and stable isotope (δ18O and δ13C) analysis on single microscopic foraminifera to produce a palaeoclimate time series independent of the age-depth paradigm. This new and novel method will address large geographical gaps in late-glacial benthic palaeoceanographic reconstructions by opening up vast areas of previously disregarded deep-sea archives, leading to improved understanding of the global interaction between oceans and climate.
Corneal Endotheliitis following Systemic West Nile Virus Infection
Authors: Ferrari Giulio , Dagna Lorenzo , Ferretti Francesca , Rama Paolo
Published: September 2017

Background

We report the case of monolateral corneal endotheliitis, which occurred following systemic West Nile virus (WNV) infection.

Methods

A 56-year-old male patient with right eye (RE) endotheliitis, diffuse arthralgias, and diagnosis of previous WNV systemic infection underwent a measurement of best spectacle corrected visual acuity (BSCVA), full ophthalmic examination, biomicroscopy, and in vivo scanning laser confocal microscopy (IVCM), before and after topical immunomodulatory treatment. In addition, a polymerase chain reaction test on aqueous humor was performed to test for WNV RNA sequences.

Results

Photophobia was reported at presentation. A mild corneal haze was noted at the slit lamp exam. BSCVA in RE was 0.1 LogMar, corneal thickness was 667 micron, and confocal microscopy showed stromal folds. No WNV RNA sequences were detected in the aqueous humor. The cytomegalovirus and herpes virus were not tested as the patient refused additional procedures. One month after topical corticosteroid application in the RE, the patient reported significant improvement in photophobia, BSCVA improved to −0.1 LogMar, and corneal thickness was reduced to 540 microns. In addition, IVCM showed a disappearance of stromal folds.

Conclusions

A presumptive diagnosis of WNV-associated endotheliitis was formulated. Improvement following topical corticosteroid treatment suggests an immune-based pathophysiology.
A Segmentation Study of Non-Performing Loans Rates in Turkish Credit Market
Authors: Vatansever Metin , Demir Ibrahim
Published: September 2017

Non-performing loans (NPLs) rate is one of the main risks in commercial banks and is also a critical measure of the bank’s financial performance and stability. Banks meet the growth rate of NPLs when the debtors are not able to meet their financial obligations in terms of repayment of loans. Regional diversification can impact NPLs rate as well as macroeconomic and bank-specific factors. The purpose of this study is to detect homogeneous credit risk groups by geographical locations. Diversification across regions can help banks and financial institutions to determine appropriate market areas and identify effective diversified investment strategies by reducing the overall risk of the credit portfolios.
Remarkable Funders: How Early-Late Backers and Mentors Affect Reward-Based Crowdfunding Campaigns
Authors: Gangi Francesco , Daniele Lucia Michela
Published: September 2017

In recent years, the growth of the reward-based crowdfunding model has offered new opportunities to meet the funding requirements of start-ups. However, the achievement of the funding target is still a complex goal, given the existence of several information barriers between insiders (project proponents) and outsiders (backers) of a crowdfunding campaign. Within the framework of the information asymmetry and the theory of signals, this study aims to analyse the role of two kinds of previously un-investigated funders in determining the success of crowdfunding campaigns: early-late backers (who are placed at the beginning of the tail of the campaign) and mentors (who are represented by firms acting as more expert backers). The findings indicate that both types of funders are remarkably important for the success of a crowdfunding campaign.
Kuwaitis’ Attitudes towards Vehicles’ Stickers in Kuwait: A Sociolinguistic Investigation
Authors: Dashti Abdulmohsen A.
Published: September 2017

Language attitudes cover a wide variety of emphases, and the reasons for studying language attitudes attract sociolinguists. Language attitudes may well tackle issues extend to all sociolinguistic and social psychological phenomena, such as how we locate ourselves socially and how we relate to other individuals and groups. They may also shape our behaviors and experiences. This study investigates Kuwaitis’ Attitudes towards vehicles’ stickers in Kuwait. Data were collected from responses to 17 items - questionnaire and 1 open-ended question aimed at investigating Kuwaitis’ attitudes towards the content (political, religious, aesthetic, etc. and the shape (size, color, etc.) of vehicles’ stickers. Findings were analyzed statistically. Means, Standard deviations, T-tests, and ANOVA were utilized. Results show that Kuwaitis, in general expressed negative attitudes towards both the content and the shape of the stickers. The open-ended question data provided inclusive data as to the reasons behind such a negative attitude.
Effect of a 50-Hz Magnetic Field on the Degradation of Plasmid in the Presence of Cu(II) Ions and Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Kawashima Yuuichi , Fujii Honoka , Nakayama Maresuke , Hasegawa Masahiko , Shimanuki Satoru , Miyata Hidetake
Published: September 2017

Power-line frequency (50/60 Hz) magnetic fields enhance DNA strand breaks in the cell. In order to understand the molecular mechanism underlying this phenomenon, we analyzed the conversion of plasmid from the supercoiled to the linear form. This conversion is promoted by hydroxyl radical generated by the reaction between Cu2+ and H2O2. The plasmid pHSG298 was incubated with 1 mM Cu2+ and 1 mM H2O2 and exposed to a 1.2 mT, 50-Hz magnetic field for 30, 60, and 90 min. The conversion of supercoiled DNA to linear DNA was analyzed by agarose gel electrophoresis. We found that exposure to the magnetic field for 90 min significantly enhanced the degree of conversion.
Aesthetic Preferences for Visual Quality of Urban Landscape in Derak High-Rise Buildings (Shiraz)
Authors: Keshtkaran Reza , Habibi Amin , Sharif Hamidreza
Published: September 2017

The purpose of this study is to extract the indices of Aesthetic preferences for visual quality of urban landscape in high-rise buildings which contribute designers to make better decisions for designing urban landscape. As the research focuses on the high-rise buildings, this study goal address the question as follows: ‘What are aesthetic preferences in high-rise buildings? How can these preferences be developed and categorized?’ To achieve this objective, the Derak district of Shiraz city was selected as a case study area using Photo grid method and then all high-rise buildings in this area were identified and analyzed. Aesthetic preferences data were evaluated by Q-SORT method with the psychophysical approach. Eventually, aesthetic factors have been presented in two main categories: 'primary and distinctive'. Findings lead to the development of APPD model which suggests that when the landscape design of a building moves toward distinctive factors, the degree of its aesthetic preferences increases.
In vitro dissolution/release methods for mucosal delivery systems
Authors: Jug Mario , Hafner Anita , Lovrić Jasmina , Lusina Kregar Maja , Pepić Ivan , Vanić Željka , Cetina-Čižmek Biserka , Filipović-Grčić Jelena
Published: September 2017

In vitro dissolution/release tests are an indispensable tool in the drug product development, its quality control and the regulatory approval process. Mucosal drug delivery systems are designed to provide both local and systemic drug action following ocular, nasal, oromucosal, vaginal or rectal administration. They exhibit significant differences in formulation design, physicochemical characteristics and drug release properties. Therefore it is not possible to devise a single method which would be suitable for release testing of such versatile and complex dosage forms. Different apparatuses and techniques for in vitro release testing for mucosal delivery systems considering the specific conditions at the administration site are described. In general, compendial apparatuses and methods should be used as a first approach in method development when applicable. However, to assure adequate simulation of conditions in vivo, novel biorelevant in vitro dissolution/release methods should be developed. Equipment set up, the selection of dissolution media and volume, membrane type, agitation speed, temperature, and assay analysis technique need to be carefully defined based on mucosal drug delivery system characteristics. All those parameters depend on the delivery system and physiological conditions at the site of application and may vary in a wide range, which will be discussed in details.
Presorting as a method of acceleration of algorithms in multi-objective optimization problems
Authors: Ameljańczyk Andrzej
Published: September 2017

The paper presents a method of algorithms acceleration for determining Pareto-optimal solutions (Pareto Front) multi-criteria optimization tasks, consisting of pre-ordering (presorting) set of feasible solutions. It is proposed to use the generalized Minkowski distance function as a presorting tool that allows build a very simple and fast algorithm Pareto Front for the task with a finite set of feasible solutions.
A brief overview of basic inference attacks and protection controls for statistical databases
Authors: Dzięgielewska Olga , Szafrański Bolesław
Published: September 2017

With cyber-attacks on the dramatic rise in the recent years, the number of entities which realize the necessity of protecting their IT assets increases. Individuals are more aware of the potential threats and demand high level of security from the business entities having access to their personal and private data. Such entities have legal obligations to satisfy the confidentiality when processing sensitive data, but many fails to do so. Keeping the statistical data private is a challenge as the approach to the security breaches slightly differs from the classical understanding of data disclosure attacks. The statistical disclosure can be achieved using inference attacks on the not-effectively protected assets. Such attacks do not target the database access itself, i.e. are performed from a perspective of an internal user, but the statistical interface used to retrieve the statistical data from the database records. This paper sums up basic types of inference attacks classifying them in the CVSS standard and provides a series of fundamental countermeasures which can be undertaken to mitigate the risk of performing successful attack.
Electronic services security management for the public administration
Authors: Szafrański Bolesław , Wilk Jarosław
Published: September 2017

The public administration in Poland is constantly extending and improving electronic services provided to citizens, business and itself (e.g. one ministry providing services to another public administration institution). New expectations like integration using the multilateral interoperability model, the service oriented approach, different security categories and groups within different institutions are creating the requirement for the appropriate security model. According to the authors current models do not meet the new requirements, but can be used as a base for the new approach. The lattice and its variations in different models (Denning, Sandhu, Szafrański) was selected by authors to create the new electronic services security management model for integration platforms which are supporting realization of public tasks. This publication focuses on practical aspect of the new model and presents the case study on a public administration e-services example. Detailed definition of the model itself can be found in previous authors’ articles.