bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development and Validation of the Celiac Disease-Children’s Activities Report (CD-Chart) for Promoting Self-Management among Children and Adolescents
Authors: Meyer Sonya , Rosenblum Sara
Published: October 2017

Adherence to a restrictive gluten-free diet is the only known treatment for celiac disease (CD). Children and adolescents with CD encounter challenges while managing the diet in daily activities. Understanding their participation characteristics is lacking. The aim was to describe the development and validation process of the Celiac Disease-Children’s Activities Report (CD-Chart). The final CD-Chart includes nine food-related activities that are measured by six core dimensions: frequency, preference, preparation, involvement, help, and self-determination. Participants were 126 children (8–11 years) and adolescents (12–18 years) with CD, and 30 healthy matched controls. Factor analysis was performed and psychometric properties were measured. Content and face validity was established and the CD-Chart showed adequate internal consistency as measured by the preference dimension (α = 0.81). Factor analysis revealed two distinct factors, social environment and close family environment. Construct validity demonstrated that the group with CD required significantly more pre-preparation for food-related activities than controls, (t(38) = 76.25, p < 0.001) and further differences as well as similarities were found between groups. Primary results indicate that the CD-Chart may serve as a practical tool for acquiring information about participation characteristics in food-related activities, strengths and challenges of children and adolescents with CD, to promote self-management, diet adherence, and well-being.
Milk Intake at Midlife and Cognitive Decline over 20 Years. The Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) Study
Authors: Petruski-Ivleva Natalia , Kucharska-Newton Anna , Palta Priya , Couper David , Meyer Katie , Graff Misa , Haring Bernhard , Sharrett Richey , Heiss Gerardo
Published: October 2017

Background: Faster rates of cognitive decline are likely to result in earlier onset of cognitive impairment and dementia. d-galactose, a derivative of lactose, is used in animal studies to induce neurodegeneration. Milk is the primary source of lactose in the human diet, and its effects on cognitive decline have not been fully evaluated. Objective: Assess the association of milk intake with change in cognitive function over 20 years. Methods: A total of 13,751 participants of the Atherosclerosis Risk in Communities (ARIC) cohort completed a food frequency questionnaire and three neurocognitive evaluations from 1990 through 2013. Two single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were used to determine lactase persistence (LCT-13910 C/T for Whites and LCT-14010 G/C for Blacks). Mixed-effects models were used to study the association of milk intake with cognitive change. Multiple imputations by chained equations were used to account for attrition. Results: Milk intake greater than 1 glass/day was associated with greater decline in the global z-score over a 20-year period. The difference in decline was 0.10 (95% CI: 0.16, 0.03) z-scores, or an additional 10% decline, relative to the group reporting “almost never” consuming milk. Conclusions: Replication of these results is warranted in diverse populations with greater milk intake and higher variability of lactase persistence genotype.
A Single-Site Iron(III)-Salan Catalyst for Converting COS to Sulfur-Containing Polymers
Authors: Gu Ge-Ge , Yue Tian-Jun , Wan Zhao-Qian , Zhang Rong , Lu Xiao-Bing , Ren Wei-Min
Published: October 2017

An iron(III) complex of tetradentate N,N′-disubstituted bis(aminophenoxide) (designated as salan, a saturated version of the corresponding salen ligand) with a sterically hindered organic base anchored on the ligand framework, can selectively mediate the conversion of carbonyl sulfide to sulfur-containing polymers by the copolymerization with epoxides. This single-site catalyst exhibits broad substrate scope, and the resultant copolymers have completely alternating structures. In addition, this catalyst is efficient in producing diblock copolymers, suggesting a living polymerization nature.
Medium Bandgap D-A Type Photovoltaic Polymers Based on an Asymmetric Dithienopyran Donor and a Benzotriazole Acceptor
Authors: Hu Junyi , Wang Xiaochen , Chen Fan , Xiao Bo , Tang Ailing , Zhou Erjun
Published: October 2017

Conjugated polymers based on the donor of an asymmetric 5H-dithieno[3,2-b:2′,3′-d]pyran (DTPa) and the acceptors of benzo[d][1,2,3]triazole (BTA) or di-fluorinated benzo[d][1,2,3]triazole (ffBTA) with thiophene as π-bridge were designed and synthesized. Two asymmetric-building-block-containing polymers (ABC-polymers) possess a strong and broad absorption in the range of 300–750 nm and medium optical bandgap of 1.73 and 1.77 eV for PDTPa-TBTA and PDTPa-TffBTA, respectively. Polymer solar cells using PDTPa-TBTA as donor and [6,6]-phenyl-C71-butyric acid methyl ester (PC71BM) as an acceptor exhibited power conversion efficiencies (PCE) of 2.22% with a Voc of 0.58 V, a Jsc of 6.04 mA/cm2, and an FF of 63.41%. The introduction of fluorine substituents on the BTA unit evidently influenced the optical and photovoltaic properties. Interestingly, although the HOMO energy level indeed decreased, PDTPa-TffBTA showed a decreased Voc of 0.52 V in solar cells. Combined with an obviously enhanced Jsc of 10.23 mA/cm2, and an outstanding FF of 0.64, the PCE of solar cells based on PDTPa-TffBTA was improved by nearly 55%, reached 3.43%. Our results indicate that the BTA unit can be used to construct ABC polymers with a medium bandgap, and the introduction of fluorine on the BTA unit is also effective in improving the photovoltaic performance.
Electrosynthesis of Copolymers Based on 1,3,5-Tris(N-Carbazolyl)Benzene and 2,2′-Bithiophene and Their Applications in Electrochromic Devices
Authors: Kuo Chung-Wen , Lee Po-Ying
Published: October 2017

Poly(1,3,5-tris(N-carbazolyl)benzene) (PtnCz) and three copolymers based on 1,3,5-tris(N-carbazolyl)benzene (tnCz) and 2,2′-bithiophene (bTp) were electrochemically synthesized. The anodic P(tnCz1-bTp2) film with a tnCz/bTp feed molar ratio of 1/2 showed four colors (light orange at 0.0 V, yellowish-orange at 0.7 V, yellowish-green at 0.8 V, and blue at 1.1 V) from the neutral state to oxidized states. The optical contrast (∆T%) and coloration efficiency (η) of the P(tnCz1-bTp2) film were measured as 48% and 112 cm2∙C−1, respectively, at 696 nm. Electrochromic devices (ECDs) based on PtnCz, P(tnCz1-bTp1), P(tnCz1-bTp2), P(tnCz1-bTp4), and PbTp films as anodic polymer layers and poly(3,4-dihydro-3,3-dimethyl-2H-thieno[3,4-b-1,4]dioxepin) (PProDOT-Me2) as cathodic polymer layers were assembled. P(tnCz1-bTp2)/PProDOT-Me2 ECD showed three various colors (saffron yellow, yellowish-blue, and dark blue) at potentials ranging from −0.3 to 1.5 V. In addition, P(tnCz1-bTp2)/PProDOT-Me2 ECD showed a high ∆T% value (40% at 630 nm) and a high coloration efficiency (519 cm2∙C−1 at 630 nm).
Goal-Oriented Ethics: Framing the Goal-Setting Concretely
Authors: Illathuparampil Mathew
Published: October 2017

Joseph Selling, professor emeritus from KU Leuven, Belgium, recently made a significant contribution towards ethical methodology. It is in fact a continuation of the in-house conversations that have been in vogue about methods in moral reasoning since Vatican II in the discipline called theological ethics. What is specific about Selling’s attempt is that he re-orients or reframes the evaluation of the moral event to consider human intentionality or motivation before considering human behavior or human acts. He convincingly establishes his method by a meticulous reading of Thomas Aquinas. This paper is a response to the goal-oriented ethics that he has posited. As illustrated below, this paper evaluates the goal-oriented approach as solid and sufficient. While fully endorsing this approach, this paper argues that the process of ethical goal-setting is to be framed concretely. In a concrete historical context, so that a goal-oriented approach fully serves its purpose, this paper proposes that it is to be reinforced by four supportive pillars, which are in fact assumed by Selling in his work. They are openness to human sciences, conversation among various narratives, positing a theological frame for ethical reasoning, and recourse to non-discursive reasoning.
A New Method to Map Groundwater Table in Peatlands Using Unmanned Aerial Vehicles
Authors: Rahman Mir Mustafizur , McDermid Gregory J. , Strack Maria , Lovitt Julie
Published: October 2017

Groundwater level (GWL) and depth to water (DTW) are related metrics aimed at characterizing groundwater-table positions in peatlands, and two of the most common variables collected by researchers working in these ecosystems. While well-established field techniques exist for measuring GWL and DTW, they are generally difficult to scale. In this study, we present a novel workflow for mapping groundwater using orthophotography and photogrammetric point clouds acquired from unmanned aerial vehicles. Our approach takes advantage of the fact that pockets of surface water are normally abundant in peatlands, which we assume to be reflective of GWL in these porous, gently sloping environments. By first classifying surface water and then extracting a sample of water elevations, we can generate continuous models of GWL through interpolation. Estimates of DTW can then be obtained through additional efforts to characterize terrain. We demonstrate our methodology across a complex, 61-ha treed bog in northern Alberta, Canada. An independent accuracy assessment using 31 temporally coincident water-well measurements revealed accuracies (root mean square error) in the 20-cm range, though errors were concentrated in small upland pockets in the study area, and areas of dense tree covers. Model estimates in the open peatland areas were considerably better.
Effects of Moisture and Particle Size on Quantitative Determination of Total Organic Carbon (TOC) in Soils Using Near-Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: Tamburini Elena , Vincenzi Fabio , Costa Stefania , Mantovi Paolo , Pedrini Paola , Castaldelli Giuseppe
Published: October 2017

Near-Infrared Spectroscopy is a cost-effective and environmentally friendly technique that could represent an alternative to conventional soil analysis methods, including total organic carbon (TOC). Soil fertility and quality are usually measured by traditional methods that involve the use of hazardous and strong chemicals. The effects of physical soil characteristics, such as moisture content and particle size, on spectral signals could be of great interest in order to understand and optimize prediction capability and set up a robust and reliable calibration model, with the future perspective of being applied in the field. Spectra of 46 soil samples were collected. Soil samples were divided into three data sets: unprocessed, only dried and dried, ground and sieved, in order to evaluate the effects of moisture and particle size on spectral signals. Both separate and combined normalization methods including standard normal variate (SNV), multiplicative scatter correction (MSC) and normalization by closure (NCL), as well as smoothing using first and second derivatives (DV1 and DV2), were applied to a total of seven cases. Pretreatments for model optimization were designed and compared for each data set. The best combination of pretreatments was achieved by applying SNV and DV2 on partial least squares (PLS) modelling. There were no significant differences between the predictions using the three different data sets (p < 0.05). Finally, a unique database including all three data sets was built to include all the sources of sample variability that were tested and used for final prediction. External validation of TOC was carried out on 16 unknown soil samples to evaluate the predictive ability of the final combined calibration model. Hence, we demonstrate that sample preprocessing has minor influence on the quality of near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) predictions, laying the ground for a direct and fast in situ application of the method. Data can be acquired outside the laboratory since the method is simple and does not need more than a simple band ratio of the spectra.
Comparing RIEGL RiCOPTER UAV LiDAR Derived Canopy Height and DBH with Terrestrial LiDAR
Authors: Brede Benjamin , Lau Alvaro , Bartholomeus Harm , Kooistra Lammert
Published: October 2017

In recent years, LIght Detection And Ranging (LiDAR) and especially Terrestrial Laser Scanning (TLS) systems have shown the potential to revolutionise forest structural characterisation by providing unprecedented 3D data. However, manned Airborne Laser Scanning (ALS) requires costly campaigns and produces relatively low point density, while TLS is labour intense and time demanding. Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV)-borne laser scanning can be the way in between. In this study, we present first results and experiences with the RIEGL RiCOPTER with VUX ® -1UAV ALS system and compare it with the well tested RIEGL VZ-400 TLS system. We scanned the same forest plots with both systems over the course of two days. We derived Digital Terrain Model (DTMs), Digital Surface Model (DSMs) and finally Canopy Height Model (CHMs) from the resulting point clouds. ALS CHMs were on average 11.5 c m higher in five plots with different canopy conditions. This showed that TLS could not always detect the top of canopy. Moreover, we extracted trunk segments of 58 trees for ALS and TLS simultaneously, of which 39 could be used to model Diameter at Breast Height (DBH). ALS DBH showed a high agreement with TLS DBH with a correlation coefficient of 0.98 and root mean square error of 4.24 c m . We conclude that RiCOPTER has the potential to perform comparable to TLS for estimating forest canopy height and DBH under the studied forest conditions. Further research should be directed to testing UAV-borne LiDAR for explicit 3D modelling of whole trees to estimate tree volume and subsequently Above-Ground Biomass (AGB).
MEMS Tunable Diffraction Grating for Spaceborne Imaging Spectroscopic Applications
Authors: Muttikulangara Sanathanan , Baranski Maciej , Rehman Shakil , Hu Liangxing , Miao Jianmin
Published: October 2017

Diffraction gratings are among the most commonly used optical elements in applications ranging from spectroscopy and metrology to lasers. Numerous methods have been adopted for the fabrication of gratings, including microelectromechanical system (MEMS) fabrication which is by now mature and presents opportunities for tunable gratings through inclusion of an actuation mechanism. We have designed, modeled, fabricated and tested a silicon based pitch tunable diffraction grating (PTG) with relatively large resolving power that could be deployed in a spaceborne imaging spectrometer, for example in a picosatellite. We have carried out a detailed analytical modeling of PTG, based on a mass spring system. The device has an effective fill factor of 52% and resolving power of 84. Tuning provided by electrostatic actuation results in a displacement of 2.7 μ m at 40 V . Further, we have carried out vibration testing of the fabricated structure to evaluate its feasibility for spaceborne instruments.
Data Access Based on a Guide Map of the Underwater Wireless Sensor Network
Authors: Wei Zhengxian , Song Min , Yin Guisheng , Song Houbing , Wang Hongbin , Ma Xuefei , Cheng Albert
Published: October 2017

Underwater wireless sensor networks (UWSNs) represent an area of increasing research interest, as data storage, discovery, and query of UWSNs are always challenging issues. In this paper, a data access based on a guide map (DAGM) method is proposed for UWSNs. In DAGM, the metadata describes the abstracts of data content and the storage location. The center ring is composed of nodes according to the shortest average data query path in the network in order to store the metadata, and the data guide map organizes, diffuses and synchronizes the metadata in the center ring, providing the most time-saving and energy-efficient data query service for the user. For this method, firstly the data is stored in the UWSN. The storage node is determined, the data is transmitted from the sensor node (data generation source) to the storage node, and the metadata is generated for it. Then, the metadata is sent to the center ring node that is the nearest to the storage node and the data guide map organizes the metadata, diffusing and synchronizing it to the other center ring nodes. Finally, when there is query data in any user node, the data guide map will select a center ring node nearest to the user to process the query sentence, and based on the shortest transmission delay and lowest energy consumption, data transmission routing is generated according to the storage location abstract in the metadata. Hence, specific application data transmission from the storage node to the user is completed. The simulation results demonstrate that DAGM has advantages with respect to data access time and network energy consumption.
Identifying Autism through Empathizing and Systemizing Abilities
Authors: Van der Zee Evi , Derksen Jan
Published: October 2017

Baron-Cohen’s Empathizing-Systemizing theory plays a central role in this study due to its success in interpreting the core impairments and strengths in autism. The theory states that low empathizing skills are responsible for the social difficulties in autism, and that high levels of systemizing are accountable for the restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior in autism. We therefore hypothesized that there is a significant discrepancy between a child’s empathizing and systemizing abilities when autism is present. We developed Dutch versions of the questionnaires that are associated with the theory: the Autism Quotient questionnaire, the Empathizing Quotient questionnaire and the Systemizing Quotient questionnaire. As hypothesized, the scores of children with autism on the Empathizing Quotient questionnaire and on the Systemizing Quotient questionnaire (EQ-SQ Child_NL) show a significant difference. Furthermore, the EQ-SQ Child_NL predicts the score of children in general on the Dutch version of the Autism Quotient questionnaire (AQ Child_NL).
Teaching a Foreign Language Using Videos
Authors: Pisarenko Veronika
Published: October 2017

Education technology represents a system of influences on the trainee in the training process. It involves the management of a didactic process with the inclusion of stages of the trainees’ activities, organization and control. The problem of educational technology efficiency is based on strategies of representation, acquisition, storing, reproducing, and actualization of various forms of educational information. This paper considers audiovisual technologies (AT) for foreign language training in high school. It reports on a number of audiovisual activities in foreign language training. The research provides some ideas of the students’ perception of video in the education process. The classification of video materials allows consideration of the different pedagogical and didactic conditions of AT realization. The functional features of a video film in the training process and four stages of audiovisual education technology based on a video film are described. To present the process of training, the pedagogical algorithms based on the structure of the knowledge acquisition process are developed according to the aims of viewing (illustrative viewing, fact-finding, studying, critical, and search viewing. The stages of AT realization (previewing, presentation, after-viewing, and actualization) are considered. An educational intervention using AT is developed and we investigate (1) the effectiveness of audiovisual technology as a teaching method; and (2) the degree of knowledge acquisition of the language content proposed to students. The aim of foreign language training is to form and to develop foreign language communicative competence that includes different skills, abilities and knowledge of grammar, pronunciation and vocabulary, skills in reading, writing, audition and speaking. To estimate the communicative competence level, we used the calculation of knowledge acquisition factor of training material. A significant improvement was observed in the acquired knowledge of a foreign language and AT were perceived to be effective in teaching foreign languages. AT were perceived to facilitate students’ knowledge acquisition and stimulate active learning. Foreign language training based on AT positively influences students’ performance and should play a leading role in the effective communicative competence formation and development.
Effect of Topping Trees on Biomass and Nitrogen Removal in the Thinning of Norway Spruce Stands
Authors: Huber Christoph , Kastner Maximilian , Hochbichler Eduard , Stampfer Karl
Published: October 2017

In Central Europe, full-tree (FT) harvesting is an increasingly common harvesting method in steep terrain harvesting due to the increased use of highly economical processor tower yarders. In conventional FT harvesting, nutrient removal from harvest sites is substantially higher than in cut-to-length (CTL) harvesting due to the extraction of nutrient-rich branches and foliage. One strategy to reduce the adverse impact of FT harvesting is to cut off the tops of felled trees prior to extraction (topping). The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of implementing topping treatments in FT harvesting on biomass and nutrient removal. The effect of conventional FT harvesting on the amount of logging residues left on the site was assessed in three different Norway spruce (Picea abies)-dominated stands following cable yarding operations by collecting logging residues from the forest floor. The additional effect of topping trees on the amount of logging residues was assessed by using biomass models. These models were created based on the data of 25 sample trees, which were felled and sampled destructively within the stands. The results show that conventional FT harvesting considerably increases nutrient removal in comparison to CTL, but still do not remove all nutrients from the sites. After conventional FT harvesting, 5–18% of the nutrients remained on the sites. Topping trees at a diameter of 8 cm substantially increased the amount of remaining nutrients to 30–34%.
Estimation of Ecological Compensation Standards for Fallow Heavy Metal-Polluted Farmland in China Based on Farmer Willingness to Accept
Authors: Xie Xue , Xie Hualin , Shu Cheng , Wu Qing , Lu Hua
Published: October 2017

In the context of China’s trial fallow policy; the heavy metal pollution of farmland is addressed via field surveys in Hunan Province, where the fallow policy has been implemented, and in Jiangxi Province, where it has not been implemented. We measured and analyzed willingness to accept (WTA) using the contingent valuation method (CVM). The conclusions of this study are as follows: (1) Farmer awareness of heavy metal pollution and pollution sources is higher in Jiangxi Province than in Hunan Province; (2) Ignoring the impact of other factors, the WTA of farmers is 902 (yuan /mu) in Jiangxi Province and 902.26 (yuan /mu) in Hunan Province. Considering the influence of the basic characteristics of the respondents using the parameter estimation method, the WTA of farmers is 839.34 (yuan/mu) in Jiangxi Province and 934.39 (yuan/mu) in Hunan Province. There is little difference in WTA between the two provinces, but both estimates are higher than the national compensation standards; (3) The factors that affect the WTA of farmers in Jiangxi Province are gender, education level, average annual income and per capita arable land. The factors that affect the WTA of farmers in Hunan Province are age, education level, family size, average annual income, per capita arable land area and farmer occupation; (4) At present, the means and methods of compensation for the implementation of the fallow policy are recognized by most farmers. The paper concludes with some policy suggestions based on above findings.
Impacts of Built-Up Area Expansion in 2D and 3D on Regional Surface Temperature
Authors: Cai Hongyan , Xu Xinliang
Published: October 2017

Many studies have reported the thermal effects of urban expansion from non-built-up land; however, how changes in building height in built-up land influence the regional thermal environment is still uncertain. Thus, taking the transitional region between the Chinese megacities of Beijing and Tianjin as the study area, this study investigated the impacts of built-up land expansion in 2D and 3D on regional land surface temperature (LST). The expansion in 2D refers to the conversion from non-built-up land to built-up land, whereas the expansion in 3D characterized the building height change in the built-up land, referring to the conversion from low- and moderate-rise building (LMRB) to high-rise building (HRB) lands. The land use change from 2010 to 2015 was manually interpreted from high spatial resolution SPOT5 and Gaofen2 images, and the LST information in the corresponding period was derived from Landsat5/8 thermal images using an image-based method. The results showed that between 2010 and 2015, approximately 87.25 km2 non-built-up land was transformed to built-up land, and 13.21 km2 LMRB land was built into HRB land. These two types of built-up land expansions have induced opposing thermal effects in regard to regional surface temperature. The built-up land expansions from cropland and urban green land have raised the regional LST. However, the built-up land expansion from LMRB to HRB lands has induced a cooling effect. Thus, this study suggested that for the cooling urban design, the building height should also be considered. Furthermore, for future studies on thermal impacts of urbanization, it should be cautioned that, besides the urban area expansion, the building height change should also be emphasized due to its potential cooling effects.
Can Precision Agriculture Increase the Profitability and Sustainability of the Production of Potatoes and Olives?
Authors: Van Evert Frits , Gaitán-Cremaschi Daniel , Fountas Spyros , Kempenaar Corné
Published: October 2017

For farmers, the application of Precision Agriculture (PA) technology is expected to lead to an increase in profitability. For society, PA is expected to lead to increased sustainability. The objective of this paper is to determine for a number of common PA practices how much they increase profitability and sustainability. For potato production in The Netherlands, we considered variable rate application (VRA) of soil herbicide, fungicide for late blight control, sidedress N, and haulm killing herbicide. For olive production in Greece, we considered spatially variable application of P and K fertilizer and lime. For each of the above scenarios, we quantified the value of outputs, the cost of inputs, and the environmental costs. This allowed us to calculate profit as well as social profit, where the latter is defined as revenues minus conventional costs minus the external costs of production. Social profit can be considered an overall measure of sustainability. Our calculations show that PA in potatoes increases profit by 21% (420 € ha−1) and social profit by 26%. In olives, VRA application of P, K, and lime leads to a strong reduction in nutrient use and although this leads to an increase in sustainability, it has only a small effect on profit and on social profit. In conclusion, PA increases sustainability in olives and both profitability and sustainability in potatoes.
How Leisure Venues Are and Why? A Geospatial Perspective in Wuhan, Central China
Authors: Liu Yaolin , Jing Ying , Cai Enxiang , Cui Jiaxing , Zhang Yang , Chen Yiyun
Published: October 2017

Urban leisure venues proffer spatial carriers for citizens’ leisure activities and their functions rely heavily on the spatial configuration, which have largely been ignored. The increasing needs for healthy leisure life and the availability of geospatial open data provide a rising opportunity to fill this gap. To examine the spatial distribution of leisure venues and explore its underlying dominating factors, we adopt geospatial analysis techniques—point pattern analysis and cluster analysis with multi-sources geospatial data in Wuhan, Central China. Results conclude interesting spatial discrepancy based on a three-level clustered pattern of 86520 leisure venues. We find that (1) most clusters are in urban center along the Yangtze River with all 1st-level clusters and plentiful 2nd-level and 3rd-level clusters; (2) There are just sporadic clusters in suburban areas—no 1st-level, merely one 2nd-level and some few 3rd-level ones. Moreover, we demonstrate three underlying dominating factors (i.e., the policy, population and economy) and identify that (1) No systematic (spatial-relevant) leisure policy framework is formed; (2) Population density and commercial centers have positive correlation with the distribution of leisure venues. This study contributes to spatial-relevant leisure policy-making for facilitating healthy leisure life, optimizing leisure space, guiding people-oriented urbanization transition and promoting urban competence.
Open Gromov-Witten Invariants from the Augmentation Polynomial
Authors: Mahowald Matthew
Published: October 2017

A conjecture of Aganagic and Vafa relates the open Gromov-Witten theory of X = O P 1 ( − 1 , − 1 ) to the augmentation polynomial of Legendrian contact homology. We describe how to use this conjecture to compute genus zero, one boundary component open Gromov-Witten invariants for Lagrangian submanifolds L K ⊂ X obtained from the conormal bundles of knots K ⊂ S 3 . This computation is then performed for two non-toric examples (the figure-eight and three-twist knots). For ( r , s ) torus knots, the open Gromov-Witten invariants can also be computed using Atiyah-Bott localization. Using this result for the unknot and the ( 3 , 2 ) torus knot, we show that the augmentation polynomial can be derived from these open Gromov-Witten invariants.
How to Obtain Common Criteria Certification of Smart TV for Home IoT Security and Reliability
Authors: Kang Sooyoung , Kim Seungjoo
Published: October 2017

In the new era of IoT (Internet of Things), numerous gadgets and services include innovative IoT technologies that provide customers with convenience and improve their quality of life. Smart TVs are typical IoT devices that offer broadcasting services. However, they are susceptible to security intrusions via e-mail, media players, cameras, and internet connectivity. The frequency of hacking through malicious applications installed in Smart TV has rapidly increased. Therefore, appropriate countermeasures should be developed immediately. In April 2017, we (with LG electronics) received the ‘world-first’ Common Criteria EAL2 (Evaluation Assurance Level 2) certification for Smart TVs. As far as we know, no Smart TV has received a Common Criteria EAL2 security certification until now. This article describes our experience with the certification process and examines several security and reliability aspects of Smart TVs.
Synthesis of 2-aminosuberic acid derivatives as components of some histone deacetylase inhibiting cyclic tetrapeptides
Authors: Chattopadhyay Shital Kumar , Sil Suman , Mukherjee Jyoti Prasad
Published: October 2017

A new synthesis of the important amino acid 2-aminosuberic acid from aspartic acid is reported. The methodology involves the alternate preparation of (S)-2-aminohept-6-enoate ester as a building block and its diversification through a cross-metathesis reaction to prepare the title compounds. The utility of the protocol is demonstrated through the preparation of three suberic acid derivatives of relevance to the design and the synthesis of peptides of biological relevance.
The 95Zr(n, γ)96Zr Cross Section from the Surrogate Ratio Method and Its Effect on s-process Nucleosynthesis
Authors: Yan 颜 S. Q. 胜权 , Li 李 Z. H. 志宏 , Wang 王 Y. B. 友宝 , Nishio K. , Lugaro M. , Karakas A. I. , Makii H. , Mohr P. , Su 俊 J. 苏 , Li 李 Y. J. 云居 , Nishinaka I. , Hirose K. , Han 韩 Y. L. 银录 , Orlandi R. , Shen 谌 Y. P. 阳平 , Guo 冰 B. 郭 , Zeng 晟 S. 曾 , Lian 钢 G. 连 , Chen 陈 Y. S. 永寿 , Liu 柳 W. P. 卫平
Published: October 2017

The 95Zr(n, γ)96Zr reaction cross section is crucial in the modeling of s-process nucleosynthesis in asymptotic giant branch stars because it controls the operation of the branching point at the unstable 95Zr and the subsequent production of 96Zr. We have carried out the measurement of the 94Zr(18O, 16O) and 90Zr(18O, 16O) reactions and obtained the γ-decay probability ratio of 96Zr* and 92Zr* to determine the 95Zr(n, γ)96Zr reaction cross sections with the surrogate ratio method. Our deduced Maxwellian-averaged cross section of 66 ± 16 mb at 30 keV is close to the value recommended by Bao et al., but 30% and more than a factor of two larger than the values proposed by Toukan & Käppeler and Lugaro et al., respectively, and routinely used in s-process models. We tested the new rate in stellar models with masses between 2 and 6 M
⊙ and metallicities of 0.014 and 0.03. The largest changes—up to 80% variations in 96Zr—are seen in models of mass 3–4 M
⊙, where the 22Ne neutron source is mildly activated. The new rate can still provide a match to data from meteoritic stardust silicon carbide grains, provided that the maximum mass of the parent stars is below 4 M
⊙, for a metallicity of 0.03.
Identification of Young Stellar Variables with KELT for K2. I. Taurus Dippers and Rotators
Authors: Rodriguez Joseph E. , Ansdell Megan , Oelkers Ryan J. , Cargile Phillip A. , Gaidos Eric , Cody Ann Marie , Stevens Daniel J. , Somers Garrett , James David , Beatty Thomas G. , Siverd Robert J. , Lund Michael B. , Kuhn Rudolf B. , Gaudi B. Scott , Pepper Joshua , Stassun Keivan G.
Published: October 2017

One of the most well-studied young stellar associations, Taurus–Auriga, was observed by the extended Kepler mission, K2, in the spring of 2017. K2 Campaign 13 (C13) is a unique opportunity to study many stars in this young association at high photometric precision and cadence. Using observations from the Kilodegree Extremely Little Telescope (KELT) survey, we identify “dippers,” aperiodic and periodic variables among K2 C13 target stars. This release of the KELT data (light curve data in e-tables) provides the community with long-time baseline observations to assist in the understanding of the more exotic variables in the association. Transient-like phenomena on timescales of months to years are known characteristics in the light curves of young stellar objects, making contextual pre- and post-K2 observations critical to understanding their underlying processes. We are providing a comprehensive set of the KELT light curves for known Taurus–Auriga stars in K2 C13. The combined data sets from K2 and KELT should permit a broad array of investigations related to star formation, stellar variability, and protoplanetary environments.
The Nature of Grand Minima and Maxima from Fully Nonlinear Flux Transport Dynamos
Authors: Inceoglu Fadil , Arlt Rainer , Rempel Matthias
Published: October 2017

We aim to investigate the nature and occurrence characteristics of grand solar minimum and maximum periods, which are observed in the solar proxy records such as 10Be and 14C, using a fully nonlinear Babcock–Leighton type flux transport dynamo including momentum and entropy equations. The differential rotation and meridional circulation are generated from the effect of turbulent Reynolds stress and are subjected to back-reaction from the magnetic field. To generate grand minimum- and maximum-like periods in our simulations, we used random fluctuations in the angular momentum transport process, namely the Λ-mechanism, and in the Babcock–Leighton mechanism. To characterize the nature and occurrences of the identified grand minima and maxima in our simulations, we used the waiting time distribution analyses, which reflect whether the underlying distribution arises from a random or a memory-bearing process. The results show that, in the majority of the cases, the distributions of grand minima and maxima reveal that the nature of these events originates from memoryless processes. We also found that in our simulations the meridional circulation speed tends to be smaller during grand maximum, while it is faster during grand minimum periods. The radial differential rotation tends to be larger during grand maxima, while it is smaller during grand minima. The latitudinal differential rotation, on the other hand, is found to be larger during grand minima.
Up and Down the Black Hole Radio/X-Ray Correlation: The 2017 Mini-outbursts from Swift J1753.5−0127
Authors: Plotkin R. M. , Bright J. , Miller-Jones J. C. A. , Shaw A. W. , Tomsick J. A. , Russell T. D. , Zhang G.-B. , Russell D. M. , Fender R. P. , Homan J. , Atri P. , Bernardini F. , Gelfand J. D. , Lewis F. , Cantwell T. M. , Carey S. H. , Grainge K. J. B. , Hickish J. , Perrott Y. C. , Razavi-Ghods N. , Scaife A. M. M. , Scott P. F. , Titterington D. J.
Published: October 2017

The candidate black hole X-ray binary Swift J1753.5−0127 faded to quiescence in 2016 November after a prolonged outburst that was discovered in 2005. Nearly three months later, the system displayed renewed activity that lasted through 2017 July. Here, we present radio and X-ray monitoring over

≈
3

months of the renewed activity to study the coupling between the jet and the inner regions of the disk/jet system. Our observations cover low X-ray luminosities that have not historically been well-sampled (

L

X

≈
2
×

10

33

–

10

36

erg

s

−
1

;

1–10 keV), including time periods when the system was both brightening and fading. At these low luminosities, Swift J1753.5−0127 occupies a parameter space in the radio/X-ray luminosity plane that is comparable to “canonical” systems (e.g., GX 339−4), regardless of whether the system was brightening or fading, even though during its ≳11 year outburst, Swift J1753.5−0127 emitted less radio emission from its jet than expected. We discuss implications for the existence of a single radio/X-ray luminosity correlation for black hole X-ray binaries at the lowest luminosities (

L

X

≲

10

35

erg

s

−
1

), and we compare to supermassive black holes. Our campaign includes the lowest luminosity quasi-simultaneous radio/X-ray detection to date for a black hole X-ray binary during its rise out of quiescence, thanks to early notification from optical monitoring combined with fast responses from sensitive multiwavelength facilities.
Demographic and Clinical Features of Thyroid Carcinomas in Republic of Macedonia (1999-2010)
Authors: Makazlieva Tanja , Vaskova Olivija , Majstorov Venjamin , Stojanoski Sinisha , Manevska Nevena , Jovanovic Rubens
Published: October 2017

BACKGROUND: Thyroid carcinomas (TC) are the most common endocrine malignancies. In some parts of the world, the incidence of TCs has increased over the past few decades, especially in females according to some studies.AIM: We have set as the objective for our study to analyse the demographic, ultrasound features, thyroid hormonal status and frequency of thyroid carcinomas in the Republic of Macedonia according to histopathological type.MATERIALS AND METHODS: Retrospective analysis of medical data from all diagnosed and treated patients with TC at the Institute of Pathophysiology and Nuclear Medicine for the period 1999-2010 was performed. Demographic characteristics: age at diagnosis, gender, histopathological type of TC and from clinical features: US findings and thyroid hormonal state at initial examination and their distribution in eight state regions were evaluated.RESULTS: Total number of 204 patients with TC in the Republic of Macedonia was registered. Papillary thyroid carcinoma (PTC) was the most frequent with 131 pts (64.21%), follicular (FTC) with 13 pts (6.37%) was second thyroid malignoma, followed by medullary (MTC) with 12 pts (5.88%), anaplastic (ATC) 11 pts (5.39%) and the rarest types were Hurtle cell carcinoma and intrathyroid sarcoma with only 1 diagnosed case. Age varied widely from 7 yrs to 88 yrs age (average 47.9 ± 16.6 yrs). PTC was more prevalent in younger age groups, while ATC was diagnosed in elderly patients. In all of the eight-country regions, the prevalence rate was higher for females than males (3:1) or 15.21/105 female to 5.03/105 male prevalence rate. According to US appearance mostly TC was unilateral in 42.65% and multifocal in 7.84% with dimensions from 15 to 50 mm.CONCLUSION: There is an increase in incidence and prevalence rate of TCs in our country, mostly PTC, while reduction exists in the number of diagnosed cases of ATC and FTC, comparing with previous studies before iodine prophylaxis program. Different from described in the literature is female: male (4:1) ratio for ATC. According to US features, we can conclude that introduction of more detailed reporting system may improve diagnostic accuracy.
Faut-il plus de capital en assurance ?
Authors: de Bandt Olivier , Hervo Frédéric
Published: October 2017

Dans le contexte des crises financières récentes, le capital en assurances s’est régulièrement accru et le secteur apparaît suffisamment capitalisé dans l’Union européenne. L’entrée en vigueur de Solvabilité II constitue une nouvelle étape, avec l’introduction d’une mesure du capital plus adaptée à la réalité économique et à la nature des risques. En utilisant une valorisation économique du bilan des organismes d’assurance, la nouvelle mesure du capital introduite par Solvabilité II représente une vision de la juste valeur, mais rend son contrôle plus délicat, car potentiellement plus complexe et plus volatil. En effet, les fonds propres prudentiels sont désormais le fruit de calculs sophistiqués, reposant sur de nombreuses hypothèses qui appellent l’organisme et le superviseur à une vigilance accrue et un regard plus critique. Enfin, le capital en assurance nécessite aussi une certaine flexibilité dans sa gestion. Particulièrement dans l’univers économique actuel, caractérisé par un niveau des taux durablement bas avec le risque d’une plus grande volatilité, la gestion du capital est primordiale, tant sur la politique de distribution que sur les moyens de financement. À ce titre, les organismes pourront affiner leur politique de gestion du capital en utilisant les nouveaux outils apportés par la réglementation, et notamment leur évaluation propre des risques (l’ORSA) et renforcer le dialogue entre leurs instances de direction et le superviseur. Classification JEL : G22, G28.
Radiative transitions for three lowest configurations of tungsten ions W38+–W43+
Authors: Karpuškienė Rasa , Bogdanovich Pavel , Kisielius Romualdas
Published: October 2017

The ab initio quasirelativistic approximation was used to derive transition data for the multicharged tungsten ions W38+–W43+ with an open 4p shell. The configuration interaction method with transformed radial orbitals was applied to include electron correlation effects. The relativistic effects were taken into account in the Breit–Pauli approximation for the quasirelativistic Hartree–Fock radial orbitals. The level energies E, radiative lifetimes τ, and Landé g-factors were calculated for the 4s24pN, 4s24pN–14d, and 4s4pN+1 configurations of six tungsten ions. The radiative transition wavelengths λ, spontaneous emission transition probabilities A and their uncertainties for the electric dipole, electric quadrupole, electric octupole, magnetic dipole and magnetic quadrupole transitions among the levels of these configurations are presented.
L’étiquette dans les palais du Premier Empire : enjeux mobiliers et représentation(s)
Authors: Caron Mathieu
Published: October 2017

La présente contribution entend préciser les relations entre l’élaboration de l’Étiquette du palais impérial, en 1805, et l’ameublement des résidences impériales. En somme : comment les usages liés à cet ameublement se conforment-ils à la nouvelle règle définie par l’étiquette ? Cette dernière est élaborée à partir de la tradition d’Ancien Régime et s’accompagne d’une restauration du Mobilier de la Couronne, destiné à fournir les ameublements officiels. Toute une hiérarchie de résidences, d’appartements, de fonctions, de meubles et de matériaux est alors instituée pour traduire physiquement les principes de représentation, d’apparat et de convenance qui régissent l’étiquette dans les palais impériaux. Sous la responsabilité du grand maréchal du Palais, de l’intendant général de la Maison de l’Empereur et de l’administrateur du Garde-Meuble, c’est l’histoire d’un remeublement exigé par l’élaboration d’un nouveau texte normatif que nous proposons ici.
Qualitative Examination on the Influences of the Internet on Racism and its Online Manifestation
Authors: Keum Brian TaeHyuk
Published: October 2017

Growing number of scholars have noted that racism may thrive and persevere in explicit, blatant forms in the online context. Little research exists on the nature of racism on the Internet. In contributing to this emerging yet understudied issue, the current study conducted an inductive thematic analysis to examine people's attitude toward (a) how the Internet has influenced racism, and (b) how people may experience racism on the Internet. The themes represented in this paper show that the increased anonymity and greater accessibility of the Internet gave platform and identity protection for expressions and aggregation of racist attitudes. Some of the themes explicated positive influences in which people were also able to express and form anti-racist online movements, and confront racist users by taking advantage of the increased anonymity. In terms of how racism was experienced on the Internet, the author identified the following themes: vicarious observation, racist humor, negative racial stereotyping, racist online media, and racist online hate groups. Implications for future research on racism on Internet is discussed.
Elderly's Uses and Gratifications of Social Media
Authors: Kong Jessica FY , Lee Gordon
Published: October 2017

This article attempts to build a bridge between the existing factor and impact research on senior citizens' use of social media. A random sample of 392 senior citizens was surveyed, and 109 of them were social media users. This article aimed to understand the reasons for and the potential effects of using social media on one's perceived affectionate support, social compensation and social pressure. The result demonstrated that social media could help senior citizens gain more social compensation and social pressure, while affectionate support could be acquired only via face to face communication.
Checking the Consistency of Solutions in Decision-Making Problems with Multiple Weighted Agents
Authors: Maisano Domenico , Mastrogiacomo Luca
Published: October 2017

A decision-making problem diffused in various practical contexts is that of aggregating multi-agent judgements into a consensus ordering, in the case the agents' importance is expressed through a set of weights. A crucial point in this aggregation is that the consensus ordering well reflects the input data, i.e., agents' judgements and importance. The scientific literature encompasses several aggregation techniques, even if it does not include a versatile tool for a quantitative assessment and comparison of their performance. The aim of this paper is introducing a new indicator (p), which allows to verify the degree of consistency between consensus ordering and input data. This indicator is simple, intuitive and independent from the aggregation technique in use; for this reason, it can be applied to a variety of practical contexts and used to compare the results obtained through different aggregation techniques, when applied to a specific problem. The description is supported by various application examples.