bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Alternative Dissertation Formats
Authors: Watson Doris L. , Nehls Kimberly
Published: June 2016

This chapter proposes that alternative dissertation formats be considered; namely a more creative, flexible model while still maintaining high intellectual standards for the academy. We specifically identify several options in this chapter: a three-paper dissertation with distinct yet cohesive manuscripts suitable for publication in scholarly journals, a lengthy one-paper manuscript, a novel, and a portfolio. The format must be suitable for both the discipline and the future faculty or administrative role.
Adapting and Advocating for an Online EdD Program in Changing Times and “Sacred” Cultures
Authors: Paulson Elan Nicole
Published: June 2016

The purpose of this chapter is to underscore the importance of recognizing how complex cultural and structural forces shape the design and delivery of a fully online professional doctorate (EdD) program. This chapter considers various challenges and opportunities of a new distance-delivery EdD program in Educational Leadership offered by a leading Canadian university in order to examine how the pressures of educational reform and academic cultural norms shape professional doctorate programs and their components. Ultimately, this chapter calls for promoting greater adaptability within EdD program designs and stronger championing of the program's value and distinctiveness, especially its capacity to be adaptable to the expectations of student stakeholders.
An Adaptive Model for a Rigorous Professional Practice Doctorate
Authors: Crow Robert , Lomotey Kofi , Topolka-Jorissen Kathleen
Published: June 2016

As part of the current re-envisioning movement in professional practice doctoral education, the culminating activity and subsequent product have received heightened scrutiny. This chapter responds to the mandate that, in order to differentiate herself from her sister, the research-based PhD dissertation, the EdD's capstone exercise and culminating product arise through a practice-based, pedagogically appropriate application reflecting the philosophy and principles established for a problem-based dissertation in practice. Inexorably bound to context, and therefore unique in purpose, practice-driven models reflect a range of purposes and formats. This chapter presents a model that engages improvement science methods, the four dimensions characterizing a problem-based thesis, and the lens of contemporary thinking on the professional practice degree. The disquisition is an alternative capstone framework that affords doctoral candidates the opportunity to develop the qualitatively distinct ‘empirically-grounded know-how' of practitioner-scholar thinking.
Addressing Critical Problems through Leadership Portfolios
Authors: Buttram Joan L. , Archbald Doug , Farley-Ripple Elizabeth Nash
Published: June 2016

This chapter reports on a content analysis of portfolios used as the capstone requirement in the University of Delaware's Educational Leadership EdD program. The portfolio is focused on the demonstration of leadership to address a significant problem of practice within the candidate's organization. The findings revealed that such portfolios are likely to be rooted in the accountability and policy mandates facing the districts and other education organizations in which candidates typically work; these are the challenges that define and shape their work. Similarly, these portfolios are more likely to be focused at the organizational level; this focus reflects where the majority are situated in their organizations, where they have the most control and influence, and where they will likely see the greatest return on their investment of resources and effort. This study also offers a framework to examine other non-traditional capstone projects.
Supporting Scholar-Practitioners toward Doctoral Degree Attainment
Authors: Marshall Sarah Marie , Klocko Barbara A.
Published: June 2016

This chapter examines the role of practitioner as scholar; overviews doctoral completion statistics and Time To Degree (TTD); reviews the literature on barriers and facilitating factors to dissertation completion with particular focus on part-time students who work full-time; and outlines ongoing departmental strategies for improving doctoral completion rates and reducing the time to degree. The aim of this chapter is to serve as a resource for doctoral students, faculty dissertation advisors, and program directors who wish to strengthen programs and practices to achieve the common goal of timely dissertation completion leading to the earned doctoral degree.
Trade and Economic Integration in BRICS
Authors: Prabhakar Akhilesh Chandra
Published: June 2016

This chapter examines the existing pattern in the area of trade and economic integration among the BRICS countries which was tended to be neglected and to which there have been few original or significant contributions until now. The research results indicate the presence of the long-run sustainable equilibrium relationship between Foreign Direct Investment (FDI), trade and economic growth. It is thus important that policymakers have to remove obstacles to FDI inflows and improve the respective absorptive capacity of national economies in order to maximize positive growth effects. This study also discusses how China performed well through attracting FDI inflows and maintained trade balance.
Implications of Globalization on Growing External Debt in Eight Transition Economies
Authors: Jeločnik Marko , Zubovic Jovan , Djukic Mihajlo
Published: June 2016

External debt accumulation is a common feature of transition economies during the process of economic transformation. Insufficient domestic resources and low savings as typical problems in these countries have to be fulfilled through some form of external capital. This chapter analyzes determinants and trends of external borrowing in eight transition European economies. It is shown that despite a positive correlation between external debt and economic growth in the initial phases of transition, its further accumulation is associated to higher risks in terms of macroeconomic stability. This has also been proved during the recent economic crisis when external debt in most of countries recorded sharp rise. If further trends of rising external debt accumulation continue, observed economies might face serious economic problems related to debt repayment and lower growth perspectives.
Trade Relations with and between Economies in Transition
Authors: Tsiupko Tetiana , Loseby Margaret
Published: June 2016

The chapter analyses the transition process from a centrally planned towards a free market economy, with particular reference to countries that constituted the Former Soviet Union. Noting that the varied strategies applied in individual countries have led to differing degrees of success, the chapter aims to identify the factors restraining economic growth in Ukraine. It describes the way in which the pattern of trade existing formerly with the USSR had shaped the structure of the Ukraine economy. At present, Ukraine's strategy for freer trade with the rest of the world and in particular, with the European Union is conditioned by this former situation. It has contributed strongly to Ukraine's current geo-political dilemma. The need for the country to find equilibrium in its trade strategies with countries of the Former Soviet Union, with Europe and the Rest of the World is emphasized, and the difficulties involved are explained.
Latest Developments on the Way to EU Accession
Authors: Sonmez Yontem
Published: June 2016

Among the EU candidate countries of Albania, Iceland, Montenegro, Serbia, Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, and Turkey, Turkey is the candidate country with the largest population and size as well as the one who has spent the longest time on the way to EU accession. It also has a closer economic relationship with the EU, as it has been participating in a Customs Union (CU) with the existing EU members since 1996. Turkey's potential EU candidacy has become a matter of controversy in recent years. The possibility of Turkish accession to the EU has reignited fears in the ‘old' EU. The aim of this chapter is to discuss the recent developments in Turkey-EU relations and to evaluate the recent performance of Turkey on the way to EU accession by focusing on economic and mainly trade implications of a Turkish EU accession.
Sustainable Rural Development in the Conditions of Trade Integration
Authors: Ivolga Anna
Published: June 2016

The chapter aims at overview of the main approaches to agricultural policies in developed and developing countries and investigation of perspective ways to ensure sustainable rural development in the conditions of liberalization of trade in agricultural commodities and food. The issues of sustainable rural development and main influences of trade liberalization are considered in the light of food security, alternative income opportunities in rural areas, and support of local identities. When analyzing the economic potential of rural areas, the following indicators are studied: natural conditions; assets; general characteristics of labor resources. Some of the indicators, used to be considered as secondary for economic results of agricultural activity, are also considered: living conditions in rural areas; demographic situation; rural social, cultural and leisure infrastructure; access of rural people to modern services of communication, transport, education, medicine, consumer services and other benefits, accustomed for urban citizens.
Government and Mobile
Authors: Lanza Beatriz Barreto Brasileiro , Cunha Maria Alexandra
Published: June 2016

This chapter aims to study a fifteen-year project of Mobile Government (mGov) in the state of Paraná, Brazil. The precocious experience in Brazil in mGov and the number of cell phones used in the country are not arguments for these to be used in providing mass public services. Mason's Historical Method was used to get to know the project, raising available information and retrieving happenings and results. To identify events, relevant actors, their roles, aspects in collaboration, setting and density of the relations among these actors, Social Network Analysis was used. We conclude it is important to formalize the project, but that will not guarantee its continuity in the long run. Characterizing phases minimizes the importance given to the change of governors after new elections in large corporative projects. The networks forming favors the dissemination of IT knowledge among actors. This research shows little evidence that SMS still have long life.
Left-Behind Children and Mobile
Authors: Xu Janice Hua
Published: June 2016

Through critical analysis of selected news stories from sina.com from 2010 to 2015 about “left-behind children” in China, the chapter examines media discourse on relationships between migrant families and communication technology. The author finds that the role of cell phones in their lives are portrayed in the following narratives: 1) Cell phones are highly valuable for connecting family members living apart; 2) Cell phones are used as a problem-solver in charity giving and rural development projects; 3) Cell phones can bring unexpected risks; 4) Cell phones could harbor or unleash evil—associated with increasing cases of crimes victimizing left-behind children and juvenile delinquency. The author discusses how institutional goals of social agencies, corporations, educators and law enforcement contribute to the polarity of cell-phone-related discourses, which reflect the societal anxieties over unsupervised access to technology by adolescents, as well as the cultural and political implications of empowering the “have-nots” of digital divide.
BioShock and the Ghost of Ayn Rand
Authors: Richardson Chris , Elrod Mike
Published: June 2016

This chapter examines the popular 2007 video game BioShock and its relation to the work of Objectivist author Ayn Rand. Using Jacques Rancière's model of emancipatory learning and Polanyi's concept of tacit knowledge, the authors explore how video games can instill transferable skills and knowledge by forming intertextual connections to other media. Including an interview with BioShock creator Ken Levine, the authors discuss how players may learn about works such as Rand's Atlas Shrugged, forming opinions, criticisms, and applications of her philosophy, without ever receiving explanations of it in the game. They conclude the chapter by demonstrating the potential for such forms of learning to become more prominent in video games, while also acknowledging the inherent limitations of the medium.
“You Can't Mess with the Program, Ralph”
Authors: Plothe Theo
Published: June 2016

This essay posits two crucial elements for the representation of digital games in film: intertextuality and player control. Cinematically, the notion of player-agency control is influenced greatly by this intertextuality, and player control has been represented in a number of films involving video games and digital worlds. This essay looks at the use and representation of player-agency control in films that focus on action within digital games. There are three elements that are essential to this representation: 1) there is a separation between the virtual and the real; 2) the virtual world is written in code, and this code is impossible for player-agents to change, though they can manipulate it; 3) the relative position of the player to the player-agent, is one of subservience or conflict. I argue that the notion of player-agency control is essential to the cinematic representation of video games' virtual worlds.
Artifacts of Empire
Authors: Bezio Kristin M. S.
Published: June 2016

This chapter examines Crystal Dynamics' 2013 Tomb Raider reboot, arguing that the game makes use of intertextual references to the original Core Design Tomb Raider (1996) and popular culture archaeology in an effort to revise the original franchise's exploitative depiction of both Lara Croft and archaeological practice. Framed by a theoretical understanding of Orientalism (Said, 1979) and the constraints of symbolic order (Kristeva, 1986a) and the recognition that video games in general and the Tomb Raider franchise in specific are “games of empire” (Dyer-Witheford & de Peuter, 2009), it becomes clear that the 2013 Tomb Raider ultimately fails to escape the constraints of imperial procedural semiotics.
Engineering of Isogenic Cells Deficient for MR1 with a CRISPR/Cas9 Lentiviral System: Tools To Study Microbial Antigen Processing and Presentation to Human MR1-Restricted T Cells
Authors: Laugel Bruno , Lloyd Angharad , Meermeier Erin W. , Crowther Michael D. , Connor Thomas R. , Dolton Garry , Miles John J. , Burrows Scott R. , Gold Marielle C. , Lewinsohn David M. , Sewell Andrew K.
Published: June 2016

The nonclassical HLA molecule MHC-related protein 1 (MR1) presents metabolites of the vitamin B synthesis pathways to mucosal-associated invariant T (MAIT) cells and other MR1-restricted T cells. This new class of Ags represents a variation on the classical paradigm of self/non-self discrimination because these T cells are activated through their TCR by small organic compounds generated during microbial vitamin B2 synthesis. Beyond the fundamental significance, the invariant nature of MR1 across the human population is a tantalizing feature for the potential development of universal immune therapeutic and diagnostic tools. However, many aspects of MR1 Ag presentation and MR1-restricted T cell biology remain unknown, and the ubiquitous expression of MR1 across tissues and cell lines can be a confounding factor for experimental purposes. In this study, we report the development of a novel CRISPR/Cas9 genome editing lentiviral system and its use to efficiently disrupt MR1 expression in A459, THP-1, and K562 cell lines. We generated isogenic MR1−/− clonal derivatives of the A549 lung carcinoma and THP-1 monocytic cell lines and used these to study T cell responses to intracellular pathogens. We confirmed that MAIT cell clones were unable to respond to MR1−/− clones infected with bacteria whereas Ag presentation by classical and other nonclassical HLAs was unaffected. This system represents a robust and efficient method to disrupt the expression of MR1 and should facilitate investigations into the processing and presentation of MR1 Ags as well as into the biology of MAIT cells.
Ribosome Inactivation Leads to Attenuation of Intestinal Polymeric Ig Receptor Expression via Differential Regulation of Human Antigen R
Authors: Do Kee Hun , Park Seong-Hwan , Kim Juil , Yu Mira , Moon Yuseok
Published: June 2016

The polymeric IgR (pIgR) is a central component in the transport of IgA across enterocytes and thereby plays a crucial role in the defense against enteropathogens and in the regulation of circulating IgA levels. The present study was performed to address the novel regulation of pIgR expression in intestinal epithelia undergoing ribosome inactivation. Insults to mucosa that led to ribosome inactivation attenuated pIgR expression in enterocytes. However, IFN regulatory factor-1 (IRF-1) as a central transcription factor of pIgR induction was superinduced by ribosome inactivation in the presence of IFN-γ as a result of mRNA stabilization by the RNA-binding protein HuR. Another important transcription factor for pIgR expression, NF-κB, was marginally involved in suppression of pIgR by ribosome inactivation. In contrast to a positive contribution of HuR in early induction of IRF-1 expression, extended exposure to ribosome inactivation caused nuclear entrapment of HuR, resulting in destabilization of late-phase–induced pIgR mRNA. These HuR-linked differential regulations of pIgR and of IRF-1 led to a reduced mucosal secretion of IgA and, paradoxically, an induction of IRF-1–activated target genes, including colitis-associated IL-7. Therefore, these events can account for ribosome inactivation–related mucosal disorders and provide new insight into interventions for HuR-linked pathogenesis in diverse mucosa-associated diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease and IgA nephritis.
Подход Швингера-Дайсона в теории поля Лиувилля
Authors: Dutta Parikshit
Published: June 2016

Обсуждается теория поля Лиувилля в рамках подхода Швингера-Дайсона и выводится функциональное уравнение для трехточечной структурной константы. Доказано существование второго уравнения Швингера-Дайсона на основе двойственности между операторами экранирующего заряда и получено второе функциональное уравнение для структурной константы. Система этих двух уравнений используется для однозначного определения значения структурной константы.
Сложение скоростей и замкнутый временной цикл в теориях с нарушенной лоренц-инвариантноcтью
Authors: Shabad Anatolii Efimovich
Published: June 2016

В теориях, лоренц-инвариантность которых нарушена присутствием внешнего тензора любого ранга, показано, что тем не менее скорость сигнала, понимаемая как групповая скорость волны, складывается со скоростью системы отсчета по обычному релятивистскому закону сложения скоростей. В случае, когда имеется сверхсветовой сигнал, это наблюдение дает возможность создать замкнутый временной цикл и тем самым прийти к выводу о нарушении причинности даже в отсутствие релятивистской инвариантности. Также выявляется оптическая анизотропия движущейся среды, изотропной в покое.
Organic composition and source apportionment of fine aerosol at Monterrey, Mexico, based on organic markers
Authors: Mancilla Y. , Mendoza A. , Fraser M. P. , Herckes P.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Primary emissions from anthropogenic and biogenic sources as well as secondary formation are responsible for the pollution levels of ambient air in major urban areas. These sources release fine particles into the air that negatively impact human health and the environment. Organic molecular markers, which are compounds that are unique to specific PM2.5 sources, can be utilized to identify the major emission sources in urban areas. In this study, 43 representative PM2.5 samples, for both daytime and nighttime periods, were built from individual samples collected in an urban site of the Monterrey metropolitan area (MMA) during the spring and fall of 2011 and 2012. The samples were analyzed for organic carbon, elemental carbon, and organic molecular markers. Several diagnostic tools were employed for the preliminary identification of emission sources. Organic compounds for eight compound classes were quantified. The n-alkanoic acids were the most abundant, followed by n-alkanes, wood smoke markers, and levoglucosan/alkenoic acids. Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and hopanes were less abundant. The carbon preference index (0.7–2.6) for n-alkanes indicates a major contribution of anthropogenic and mixed sources during the fall and the spring, respectively. Hopanes levels confirmed the contribution from gasoline and diesel engines. In addition, the contribution of gasoline and diesel vehicle exhaust was confirmed and identified by the PAH concentrations in PM2.5. Diagnostic ratios of PAHs showed emissions from burning coal, wood, biomass, and other fossil fuels. The total PAHs and elemental carbon were correlated (r2 =  0.39–0.70) across the monitoring periods, reinforcing that motor vehicles are the major contributors of PAHs. Cholesterol levels remained constant during the spring and fall, showing evidence of the contribution of meat-cooking operations, while the isolated concentrations of levoglucosan suggested occasional biomass burning events. Finally, source attribution results obtained using the CMB (chemical mass balance) model indicate that emissions from motor vehicle exhausts are the most important, accounting for the 64 % of the PM2.5, followed by meat-cooking operations with 31 % The vegetative detritus and biomass burning had the smallest contribution (2.2 % of the PM2.5). To our knowledge, this is only the second study to explore the organic composition and source apportionment of fine organic aerosol based on molecular markers in Mexico and the first for the MMA. Particularly molecular marker were quantified by solvent extraction with dichloromethane, derivatization, and gas chromatography with mass spectrometry (GC/MS).
Russia's black carbon emissions: focus on diesel sources
Authors: Kholod N. , Evans M. , Kuklinski T.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Black carbon (BC) is a significant climate forcer with a particularly pronounced forcing effect in polar regions, like the Russian Arctic. Diesel combustion is a major global source of BC emissions, accounting for 25–30 % of all BC emissions. The demand for diesel is growing in Russia, but Russian diesel emissions are poorly understood. This paper presents a detailed inventory of Russian BC emissions from diesel sources. Drawing on a complete Russian vehicle registry with detailed information about vehicle types and emission standards, this paper analyzes BC emissions from diesel on-road vehicles. We use the COPERT emission model with Russia-specific emission factors for all types of on-road vehicles. On-road diesel vehicles emitted 21 Gg of BC in 2014; heavy-duty trucks account for 70 % of the on-road BC emissions, while cars represent only 4 % (light commercial vehicles and buses account for the remainder). Using Russian activity data and fuel-based emission factors, the paper also presents BC emissions from diesel locomotives and ships, off-road engines in industry, construction and agriculture, and from diesel generators. The study also factors in the role of superemitters in BC emissions from diesel on-road vehicles and off-road sources. The total emissions from diesel sources in Russia are estimated to be 48 Gg of BC and 16 Gg of OC in 2014. Off-road diesel sources emitted 57 % of all diesel BC in Russia.
Agricultural uses reshape soil C, N, and P stoichiometry in subtropical ecosystems
Authors: Liu H. Y. , Zhou J. G. , Shen J. , Li Y. Y. , Li Y. , Ge T. D. , Guggenberger G. , Wu J.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Changes in elemental stoichiometry, in most cases, attributed to land use alterations may cause vital impacts on the nutrient status and environmental quality of ecosystems. Here, we studied the stoichiometry and spatial distribution patterns of soil organic carbon (SOC), total soil nitrogen (TN), and total soil phosphorus (TP) in topsoil (0–20 cm; 1207 samples) ecosystems in a representative catchment of subtropical hilly region of China. Its main land uses are woodland, paddy fields, and tea farmlands. Data obtained show that the medians of SOC, TN, and TP were 16.97, 1.83, and 0.52 g kg−1, and medians of C : N, C : P, and N : P molar ratios were 10.0, 78.6 and 7.9, respectively. The best-fitting model were exponential models for SOC, TN, TP, C : N, and N : P, while for C : P was Gaussian model. The nugget values for SOC, TN, TP, C : N, C : P, and N : P were 1.0, 0.06, 0.01, 6.0, 56.0, and 1.0, respectively. And their ranges were 750, 1290, 570, 2970, 810, and 720, respectively. The nugget-to-sill ratio (NSR) for SOC, TN, TP, C : P, and N : P were 2.7 %, 14.3 %, 20.0 %, 4.0 %, and 10.0 %, respectively, and showed strong spatial autocorrelation. While C:N molar ratios had a moderate spatial correlation, with NSR of 49.95 %. Spatial analyses showed that agriculture derived land use changes alter largely the spatial distribution and stoichiometry of C, N, and P elements in individual landscapes and entire catchment. For woodland ecosystems, topography factors (elevation and slope) determined the elemental spatial distributions and stoichiometry (C : N, C : P, and N : P molar ratios). However, this status had been merged in agricultural ecosystems, due to the relative similarity in cropping and managing (N and P inputs through fertilization). Agriculture significantly increases N, and P contents but narrows C : N, C : P, and N : P molar ratios. Thus, our findings demonstrate that agricultural activities can affect carbon and nutrient stoichiometry at the catchment scale.
Postglacial fire history and interactions with vegetation and climate in southwestern Yunnan Province of China based on charcoal and pollen records
Authors: Xiao Xiayun , Haberle Simon G. , Shen Ji , Xue Bin , Wang Sumin
Published: June 2016

Abstract. A high-resolution, continuous 18.5 ka-long (1 ka=1000 cal yr BP) macroscopic charcoal record from Qinghai Lake in southwestern Yunnan Province, China reveals the postglacial fire frequency and variability history. The results show that three periods with high fire frequency and intensity occurred during the periods 18.5–15.0 ka, 13.0–11.5 ka, and 4.3–~1.0 ka, respectively. This record was compared with the pollen record from the same core, and tentatively correlated with the regional climate proxy records with the aim to separate climate- from human-induced fire activity, and discuss vegetation-fire-climate interactions. The results suggest that fire was mainly controlled by climate before 4.3 ka and by combined action of climate and humans after 4.3 ka. Before 4.3 ka, high fire activity corresponded to cold and dry climatic conditions, while warm and humid climatic conditions brought infrequent and weak fires. Fire was an important disturbance factor and played an important role in forest dynamics around the study area. Vegetation responses to fire before 4.3 ka are not consistent with that after 4.3 ka, suggesting that human influence on vegetation and fire regimes may have become more prevalent after 4.3 ka. The correlations between fire activity and vegetation reveal that evergreen oaks and Alnus are flammable plants. Evergreen oaks are fire-tolerant taxa and Alnus is a fire-adapted taxon. The forests dominated by Lithocarpus/Castanopsis and/or tropical arbors are not easy to ignite, but Lithocarpus/Castanopsis and tropical arbors are fire-sensitive taxa in the study area.
Bridging glacier and river catchment scales: an efficient representation of glacier dynamics in a hydrological model
Authors: Wortmann Michel , Bolch Tobias , Krysanova Valentina , Buda Su
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Glacierised river catchments have been shown to be highly sensitive to climate change, while large populations depend on the water resources originating from them. Hydrological models are used to aid water resource management, yet their treatment of glacier processes is either rudimentary in large applications or linked to fully distributed glacier models that prevent larger model domains. Also, data scarcity in mountainous catchments has hampered the implementation of physically based approaches over entire river catchments. A fully integrated glacier dynamics module was developed for the eco-hydrological model SWIM (SWIM-G) that takes full account of the spatial heterogeneity of mountainous catchments but keeps in line with the semi-distributed disaggregation of the hydrological model. The glacierised part of the catchment is disaggregated into glaciological response units that are based on subbasin, elevation zone and aspect classes. They seamlessly integrate into the hydrological response units of the hydrological model SWIM. Robust and simple approaches to ice flow, avalanching, snow accumulation and metamorphism as well as glacier ablation under consideration of aspect, debris cover and sublimation are implemented in the model, balancing process complexity and data availability. The fully integrated is also capable of simulating a range of other hydrological processes that are common for larger mountainous catchments such as reservoirs, irrigation agriculture and runoff from a diverse soil and vegetation cover. SWIM-G is initialised and calibrated to initial glacier hypsometry, glacier mass balance and river discharge. While the model is intended to be used in medium to large river basins with data-scarce and glacierised headwaters, it is here validated in the data-abundant catchment of the Upper Rhone River, Switzerland and the data-scarce catchment of the Upper Aksu River, Kyrgyzstan/NW China.
DEVELOPMENT OF IMAGE SELECTION METHOD USING GRAPH CUTS
Authors: Fuse T. , Harada R.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. 3D models have been widely used by spread of many available free-software. Additionally, enormous images can be easily acquired, and images are utilized for creating the 3D models recently. The creation of 3D models by using huge amount of images, however, takes a lot of time and effort, and then efficiency for 3D measurement are required. In the efficient strategy, the accuracy of the measurement is also required. This paper develops an image selection method based on network design that means surveying network construction. The proposed method uses image connectivity graph. The image connectivity graph consists of nodes and edges. The nodes correspond to images to be used. The edges connected between nodes represent image relationships with costs as accuracies of orientation elements. For the efficiency, the image connectivity graph should be constructed with smaller number of edges. Once the image connectivity graph is built, the image selection problem is regarded as combinatorial optimization problem and the graph cuts technique can be applied. In the process of 3D reconstruction, low quality images and similar images are also extracted and removed. Through the experiments, the significance of the proposed method is confirmed. It implies potential to efficient and accurate 3D measurement.
INCORPORATION OF UNRELIABLE INFORMATION INTO PHOTOGRAMMETRIC RECONSTRUCTION FOR RECOVERY OF SCALE USING NON-PARAMETRIC BELIEF PROPAGATION
Authors: Hollick J. , Helmholz P. , Belton D.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. The creation of large photogrammetric models often encounter several difficulties in regards to geometric accuracy, scale and geolocation, especially when not using control points. Geometric accuracy can be a problem when encountering repetitive features, scale and geolocation can be challenging in GNSS denied or difficult to reach environments. Despite these challenges scale and location are often highly desirable even if only approximate, especially when the error bounds are known. Using non-parametric belief propagation we propose a method of fusing different sensor types to allow robust creation of scaled models without control points. Using this technique we scale models using only the sensor data sometimes to within 4% of their actual size even in the presence of poor GNSS coverage.
3D DIGITIZATION OF AN HERITAGE MASTERPIECE - A CRITICAL ANALYSIS ON QUALITY ASSESSMENT
Authors: Menna F. , Nocerino E. , Remondino F. , Dellepiane M. , Callieri M. , Scopigno R.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Despite being perceived as interchangeable when properly applied, close-range photogrammetry and range imaging have both their pros and limitations that can be overcome using suitable procedures. Even if the two techniques have been frequently cross-compared, critical analysis discussing all sub-phases of a complex digitization project are quite rare. Comparisons taking into account the digitization of a cultural masterpiece, such as the Etruscan Sarcophagus of the Spouses (Figure 1) discussed in this paper, are even less common. The final 3D model of the Sarcophagus shows impressive spatial and texture resolution, in the order of tenths of millimetre for both digitization techniques, making it a large 3D digital model even though the physical size of the artwork is quite limited. The paper presents the survey of the Sarcophagus, a late 6th century BC Etruscan anthropoid Sarcophagus. Photogrammetry and laser scanning were used for its 3D digitization in two different times only few days apart from each other. The very short time available for the digitization was a crucial constraint for the surveying operations (due to constraints imposed us by the museum curators). Despite very high-resolution and detailed 3D models have been produced, a metric comparison between the two models shows intrinsic limitations of each technique that should be overcome through suitable onsite metric verification procedures as well as a proper processing workflow.
DERIVING 3D POINT CLOUDS FROM TERRESTRIAL PHOTOGRAPHS - COMPARISON OF DIFFERENT SENSORS AND SOFTWARE
Authors: Niederheiser Robert , Mokroš Martin , Lange Julia , Petschko Helene , Prasicek Günther , Elberink Sander Oude
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Terrestrial photogrammetry nowadays offers a reasonably cheap, intuitive and effective approach to 3D-modelling. However, the important choice, which sensor and which software to use is not straight forward and needs consideration as the choice will have effects on the resulting 3D point cloud and its derivatives. We compare five different sensors as well as four different state-of-the-art software packages for a single application, the modelling of a vegetated rock face. The five sensors represent different resolutions, sensor sizes and price segments of the cameras. The software packages used are: (1) Agisoft PhotoScan Pro (1.16), (2) Pix4D (2.0.89), (3) a combination of Visual SFM (V0.5.22) and SURE (1.2.0.286), and (4) MicMac (1.0). We took photos of a vegetated rock face from identical positions with all sensors. Then we compared the results of the different software packages regarding the ease of the workflow, visual appeal, similarity and quality of the point cloud. While PhotoScan and Pix4D offer the user-friendliest workflows, they are also “black-box” programmes giving only little insight into their processing. Unsatisfying results may only be changed by modifying settings within a module. The combined workflow of Visual SFM, SURE and CloudCompare is just as simple but requires more user interaction. MicMac turned out to be the most challenging software as it is less user-friendly. However, MicMac offers the most possibilities to influence the processing workflow. The resulting point-clouds of PhotoScan and MicMac are the most appealing.
KINECT V2 AND RGB STEREO CAMERAS INTEGRATION FOR DEPTH MAP ENHANCEMENT
Authors: Ravanelli R. , Nascetti A. , Crespi M.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Today range cameras are widespread low-cost sensors based on two different principles of operation: we can distinguish between Structured Light (SL) range cameras (Kinect v1, Structure Sensor, ...) and Time Of Flight (ToF) range cameras (Kinect v2, ...). Both the types are easy to use 3D scanners, able to reconstruct dense point clouds at high frame rate. However the depth maps obtained are often noisy and not enough accurate, therefore it is generally essential to improve their quality. Standard RGB cameras can be a valuable solution to solve such issue. The aim of this paper is therefore to evaluate the integration feasibility of these two different 3D modelling techniques, characterized by complementary features and based on standard low-cost sensors. For this purpose, a 3D model of a DUPLOTM bricks construction was reconstructed both with the Kinect v2 range camera and by processing one stereo pair acquired with a Canon Eos 1200D DSLR camera. The scale of the photgrammetric model was retrieved from the coordinates measured by Kinect v2. The preliminary results are encouraging and show that the foreseen integration could lead to an higher metric accuracy and a major level of completeness with respect to that obtained by using only separated techniques.
SHARING HIGH-RESOLUTION MODELS AND INFORMATION ON WEB: THE WEB MODULE OF BIM3DSG SYSTEM
Authors: Rechichi F. , Mandelli A. , Achille C. , Fassi F.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. BIM3DSG system is described here. It is an ad hoc designed BIM system created for Cultural Heritage applications. It proposes some solutions to solve some issues related to the use of BIM in this field. First, it tries to resolve the problem of managing huge, complex, high resolution and heterogeneous 3D models, and then it offers a practical, easy and efficient solution for a wide sharing of data and information.
AN AUTOMATIC METHOD FOR GEOMETRIC SEGMENTATION OF MASONRY ARCH BRIDGES FOR STRUCTURAL ENGINEERING PURPOSES
Authors: Riveiro B. , DeJong M. , Conde B.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Despite the tremendous advantages of the laser scanning technology for the geometric characterization of built constructions, there are important limitations preventing more widespread implementation in the structural engineering domain. Even though the technology provides extensive and accurate information to perform structural assessment and health monitoring, many people are resistant to the technology due to the processing times involved. Thus, new methods that can automatically process LiDAR data and subsequently provide an automatic and organized interpretation are required. This paper presents a new method for fully automated point cloud segmentation of masonry arch bridges. The method efficiently creates segmented, spatially related and organized point clouds, which each contain the relevant geometric data for a particular component (pier, arch, spandrel wall, etc.) of the structure. The segmentation procedure comprises a heuristic approach for the separation of different vertical walls, and later image processing tools adapted to voxel structures allows the efficient segmentation of the main structural elements of the bridge. The proposed methodology provides the essential processed data required for structural assessment of masonry arch bridges based on geometric anomalies. The method is validated using a representative sample of masonry arch bridges in Spain.
Toward an Automatic Calibration of Dual Fluoroscopy Imaging Systems
Authors: Al-Durgham Kaleel , Lichti Derek , Kuntze Gregor , Sharma Gulshan , Ronsky Janet
Published: June 2016

Abstract. High-speed dual fluoroscopy (DF) imaging provides a novel, in-vivo solution to quantify the six-degree-of-freedom skeletal kinematics of humans and animals with sub-millimetre accuracy and high temporal resolution. A rigorous geometric calibration of DF system parameters is essential to ensure precise bony rotation and translation measurements. One way to achieve the system calibration is by performing a bundle adjustment with self-calibration. A first-time bundle adjustment-based system calibration was recently achieved. The system calibration through the bundle adjustment has been shown to be robust, precise, and straightforward. Nevertheless, due to the inherent absence of colour/semantic information in DF images, a significant amount of user input is needed to prepare the image observations for the bundle adjustment. This paper introduces a semi-automated methodology to minimise the amount of user input required to process calibration images and henceforth to facilitate the calibration task. The methodology is optimized for processing images acquired over a custom-made calibration frame with radio-opaque spherical targets. Canny edge detection is used to find distinct structural components of the calibration images. Edge-linking is applied to cluster the edge pixels into unique groups. Principal components analysis is utilized to automatically detect the calibration targets from the groups and to filter out possible outliers. Ellipse fitting is utilized to achieve the spatial measurements as well as to perform quality analysis over the detected targets. Single photo resection is used together with a template matching procedure to establish the image-to-object point correspondence and to simplify target identification. The proposed methodology provided 56,254 identified-targets from 411 images that were used to run a second-time bundle adjustment-based DF system calibration. Compared to a previous fully manual procedure, the proposed methodology has significantly reduced the amount of user input needed for processing the calibration images. In addition, the bundle adjustment calibration has reported a 50% improvement in terms of image observation residuals.
BRUTE FORCE MATCHING BETWEEN CAMERA SHOTS AND SYNTHETIC IMAGES FROM POINT CLOUDS
Authors: Boerner R. , Kröhnert M.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. 3D point clouds, acquired by state-of-the-art terrestrial laser scanning techniques (TLS), provide spatial information about accuracies up to several millimetres. Unfortunately, common TLS data has no spectral information about the covered scene. However, the matching of TLS data with images is important for monoplotting purposes and point cloud colouration. Well-established methods solve this issue by matching of close range images and point cloud data by fitting optical camera systems on top of laser scanners or rather using ground control points. The approach addressed in this paper aims for the matching of 2D image and 3D point cloud data from a freely moving camera within an environment covered by a large 3D point cloud, e.g. a 3D city model. The key advantage of the free movement affects augmented reality applications or real time measurements. Therefore, a so-called real image, captured by a smartphone camera, has to be matched with a so-called synthetic image which consists of reverse projected 3D point cloud data to a synthetic projection centre whose exterior orientation parameters match the parameters of the image, assuming an ideal distortion free camera.
AN AUTOMATIC ALGORITHM FOR MINIMIZING ANOMALIES AND DISCREPANCIES IN POINT CLOUDS ACQUIRED BY LASER SCANNING TECHNIQUE
Authors: Bordin Fabiane , Gonzaga Jr Luiz , Muller Fabricio Galhardo , Veronez Mauricio Roberto , Scaioni Marco
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Laser scanning technique from airborne and land platforms has been largely used for collecting 3D data in large volumes in the field of geosciences. Furthermore, the laser pulse intensity has been widely exploited to analyze and classify rocks and biomass, and for carbon storage estimation. In general, a laser beam is emitted, collides with targets and only a percentage of emitted beam returns according to intrinsic properties of each target. Also, due interferences and partial collisions, the laser return intensity can be incorrect, introducing serious errors in classification and/or estimation processes. To address this problem and avoid misclassification and estimation errors, we have proposed a new algorithm to correct return intensity for laser scanning sensors. Different case studies have been used to evaluate and validated proposed approach.
EVALUATING DENSE 3D RECONSTRUCTION SOFTWARE PACKAGES FOR OBLIQUE MONITORING OF CROP CANOPY SURFACE
Authors: Brocks S. , Bareth G.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Crop Surface Models (CSMs) are 2.5D raster surfaces representing absolute plant canopy height. Using multiple CMSs generated from data acquired at multiple time steps, a crop surface monitoring is enabled. This makes it possible to monitor crop growth over time and can be used for monitoring in-field crop growth variability which is useful in the context of high-throughput phenotyping. This study aims to evaluate several software packages for dense 3D reconstruction from multiple overlapping RGB images on field and plot-scale. A summer barley field experiment located at the Campus Klein-Altendorf of University of Bonn was observed by acquiring stereo images from an oblique angle using consumer-grade smart cameras. Two such cameras were mounted at an elevation of 10 m and acquired images for a period of two months during the growing period of 2014. The field experiment consisted of nine barley cultivars that were cultivated in multiple repetitions and nitrogen treatments. Manual plant height measurements were carried out at four dates during the observation period. The software packages Agisoft PhotoScan, VisualSfM with CMVS/PMVS2 and SURE are investigated. The point clouds are georeferenced through a set of ground control points. Where adequate results are reached, a statistical analysis is performed.
INTEGRATED PROCESSING OF HIGH RESOLUTION TOPOGRAPHIC DATA FOR SOIL EROSION ASSESSMENT CONSIDERING DATA ACQUISITION SCHEMES AND SURFACE PROPERTIES
Authors: Eltner A. , Schneider D. , Maas H.-G.
Published: June 2016

Abstract. Soil erosion is a decisive earth surface process strongly influencing the fertility of arable land. Several options exist to detect soil erosion at the scale of large field plots (here 600 m²), which comprise different advantages and disadvantages depending on the applied method. In this study, the benefits of unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) photogrammetry and terrestrial laser scanning (TLS) are exploited to quantify soil surface changes. Beforehand data combination, TLS data is co-registered to the DEMs generated with UAV photogrammetry. TLS data is used to detect global as well as local errors in the DEMs calculated from UAV images. Additionally, TLS data is considered for vegetation filtering. Complimentary, DEMs from UAV photogrammetry are utilised to detect systematic TLS errors and to further filter TLS point clouds in regard to unfavourable scan geometry (i.e. incidence angle and footprint) on gentle hillslopes. In addition, surface roughness is integrated as an important parameter to evaluate TLS point reliability because of the increasing footprints and thus area of signal reflection with increasing distance to the scanning device. The developed fusion tool allows for the estimation of reliable data points from each data source, considering the data acquisition geometry and surface properties, to finally merge both data sets into a single soil surface model. Data fusion is performed for three different field campaigns at a Mediterranean field plot. Successive DEM evaluation reveals continuous decrease of soil surface roughness, reappearance of former wheel tracks and local soil particle relocation patterns.