bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Deep Learning Applied to Scenario Classification for Lane-Keep-Assist Systems
Authors: Beglerovic Halil , Schloemicher Thomas , Metzner Steffen , Horn Martin
Published: December 2018

Test, verification, and development activities of vehicles with ADAS (Advanced Driver Assistance Systems) and ADF (Automated Driving Functions) generate large amounts of measurement data. To efficiently evaluate and use this data, a generic understanding and classification of the relevant driving scenarios is necessary. Currently, such understanding is obtained by using heuristic algorithms or even by manual inspection of sensor signals. In this paper, we apply deep learning on sensor time series data to automatically extract relevant features for classification of driving scenarios relevant for a Lane-Keep-Assist System. We compare the performance of convolutional and recurrent neural networks and propose two classification models. The first one is an online model for scenario classification during driving. The second one is an offline model for post-processing, providing higher accuracy.
Modeling of Positive Switching Impulse Discharge of UHV Transmission Line Air Gaps
Authors: Gao Jiachen , Wang Linong , Zhang Qiushi , Song Bin
Published: December 2018

Positive switching impulse discharge characteristics are an important basis for the external insulation design of transmission line towers. At present, the characteristics are obtained mainly by real tower discharge tests. Since the existing research on the discharge model is not perfect, test designs are not reasonable, which results in high costs. The influence of line height and tower width on the discharge characteristics of Ultra High Voltage (UHV) transmission lines air gaps is studied in this paper. The results show that the line height had little influence on the breakdown voltage of air gaps in UHV transmission lines. A tower-width discharge model was obtained by fitting the breakdown voltage of air gaps with different gap lengths and tower widths. By analyzing the gap characteristic factors of different transmission lines, a discharge model of different tower air gaps in UHV transmission lines was presented. The breakdown voltage calculated by the models was in good agreement with the test results, and the errors were not more than 5%.
The Effect of Cover Crops on Soil Water Balance in Rain-Fed Conditions
Authors: Krstić Đorđe , Vujić Svetlana , Jaćimović Goran , D’Ottavio Paride , Radanović Zoran , Erić Pero , Ćupina Branko
Published: December 2018

Soil and water conservation benefits of cover crops have been hypothesized as a way to mitigate and adapt to changing climatic conditions, but they can also have detrimental effects if rainfall is limited. Our objective was to quantify effects of winter cover crops on soil water storage and yield of silage maize under the agro-ecological conditions within Vojvodina Province in Serbia. The experiment was conducted under rain-fed conditions at three locations and included a control (bare fallow) plus three cover crop and two N rate treatments. The cover crop treatments were common vetch (Vicia sativa L.), triticale (x Triticosecale Wittm. ex A. Camus) and a mixture of the two species. All were managed as green manure and subsequently fertilized with either 120 or 160 kg N ha−1 before planting silage maize (Zea mays L.). Cover crop effects on soil water storage were calculated for two periods, March–May and May–September/October. A Standardized Precipitation Index (SPI) used to characterize drought severity for 2011/2012 and 2012/2013, showed values of 3 and 9, respectively, for the two periods. Soil water storage was reduced by all cover crop treatments, with the greatest deficiency occurring during the extremely dry year of 2012. Previous studies have shown cover crop growth reduced by soil water depletion during their growing season and negative effects on early-season growth and development of subsequent cash crops such as silage maize, but if rainfall is extremely low it can also reduce cash crop yield. This detrimental effect of cover crops on soil water balance was confirmed by correlations between soil water storage and maize silage yield.
Downscaling Atmosphere-Ocean Global Climate Model Precipitation Simulations over Africa Using Bias-Corrected Lateral and Lower Boundary Conditions
Authors: Druyan Leonard M. , Fulakeza Matthew
Published: December 2018

A prequel study showed that dynamic downscaling using a regional climate model (RCM) over Africa improved the Goddard Institute for Space Studies Atmosphere-Ocean Global Climate Model (GISS AOGCM: ModelE) simulation of June–September rainfall patterns over Africa. The current study applies bias corrections to the lateral and lower boundary data from the AOGCM driving the RCM, based on the comparison of a 30-year simulation to the actual climate. The analysis examines the horizontal pattern of June–September total accumulated precipitation, the time versus latitude evolution of zonal mean West Africa (WA) precipitation (showing monsoon onset timing), and the latitude versus altitude cross-section of zonal winds over WA (showing the African Easterly Jet and the Tropical Easterly Jet). The study shows that correcting for excessively warm AOGCM Atlantic sea-surface temperatures (SSTs) improves the simulation of key features, whereas applying 30-year mean bias corrections to atmospheric variables driving the RCM at the lateral boundaries does not improve the RCM simulations. We suggest that AOGCM climate projections for Africa should benefit from downscaling by nesting an RCM that has demonstrated skill in simulating African climate, driven with bias-corrected SST.
Anticancer Activity of Polysaccharides Produced from Glycerol and Crude Glycerol by an Endophytic Fungus Chaetomium globosum CGMCC 6882 on Human Lung Cancer A549 Cells
Authors: Wang Zichao , Chen Peizhang , Tao Ning , Zhang Huiru , Li Ruifang , Zhan Xiaobei , Wang Fuzhuan , Shen Yingben
Published: December 2018

Two polysaccharides were produced by Chaetomium globosum CGMCC 6882 from glycerol (GCP-1) and crude glycerol (GCP-2). Chemical characteristics results showed GCP-1 and GCP-2 were similar polysaccharides, but the molecular weights of GCP-1 and GCP-2 were 5.340 × 104 Da and 3.105 × 104 Da, respectively. Viabilities of A549 cells after treatment with GCP-1 and GCP-2 were 49% and 39% compared to the control group. Meanwhile, flow cytometry results indicated that GCP-1 and GCP-2 could induce 17.79% and 24.28% of A549 cells to apoptosis with 200 μg/mL concentration treated for 24 h. RT-PCR results suggested that GCP-1 and GCP-2 could be used as potential and effective apoptosis inducers on A549 cells by increasing BAX, CASPASE-3, CASPASE-9, TIMP-1, TIMP-2 expression and decreasing BCL-2 expression. This research provided an innovative approach to using a byproduct of biodiesel production (crude glycerol) to produce polysaccharides of potential medicinal benefit.
MRI Study of the Influence of Surface Coating Aging on the In Vivo Biodistribution of Iron Oxide Nanoparticles
Authors: Carregal-Romero Susana , Plaza-García Sandra , Piñol Rafael , Murillo José L. , Ruiz-Cabello Jesús , Padro Daniel , Millán Angel , Ramos-Cabrer Pedro
Published: December 2018

Medical imaging is an active field of research that fosters the necessity for novel multimodal imaging probes. In this line, nanoparticle-based contrast agents are of special interest, since those can host functional entities either within their interior, reducing potential toxic effects of the imaging tracers, or on their surface, providing high payloads of probes, due to their large surface-to-volume ratio. The long-term stability of the particles in solution is an aspect usually under-tackled during probe design in research laboratories, since their performance is generally tested briefly after synthesis. This may jeopardize a later translation into practical medical devices, due to stability reasons. To dig into the effects of nanoparticle aging in solution, with respect to their behavior in vivo, iron oxide stealth nanoparticles were used at two stages (3 weeks vs. 9 months in solution), analyzing their biodistribution in mice. Both sets of nanoprobes showed similar sizes, zeta potentials, and morphology, as observed by dynamic light scattering (DLS) and transmission electronic microscopy (TEM), but fresh nanoparticles accumulated in the kidneys after systemic administration, while aged ones accumulated in liver and spleen, confirming an enormous effect of particle aging on their in vivo behavior, despite barely noticeable changes perceived on a simple inspection of their structural integrity.
The Cultural Cognitive Development of Personal Beliefs and Classroom Behaviours of Adult Language Instructors: A Qualitative Inquiry
Authors: Dos Santos Luis Miguel
Published: December 2018

The researcher employed personal belief system (PBS) theory as the theoretical foundation for this study because it holds that teachers’ PBSs may influence their teaching behaviours, teaching styles, and pedagogies in classroom practice due to cultural influences. The purpose of this qualitative study was to explore how teachers’ personal beliefs influence how they teach and how their approach may align with or diverge from cultural expectations in a private adult learning facility for English learning in Macau Special Administrative Region, China. The participants in this study were classroom teachers in a learning community who believe in collaborating to create environments for best practices. Two main research questions guided this study: (1) What is the relationship between teachers’ personal belief systems and their classroom practice; and (2) How does a teacher’s educational experience as a K-12 student affect their pedagogy in an adult English language learning program? Three types of data collection methods were employed: interview, classroom observation, and field note taking. The findings showed that teachers utilize their personal belief systems to engage their students through interactive teaching strategies, which was counter-intuitive for both teachers and students who had been taught with Eastern teaching styles. This study contributed to personal belief system theory and broadens the understanding of the perspectives and concepts of English teaching and supervision. The beliefs of teachers influenced their understanding of teaching and their classroom practices.
A Critical Exploration of Child-Parent Attachment as a Contextual Construct
Authors: Lai Ya-Hsin , Carr Sam
Published: December 2018

Bowlby’s attachment theory has been employed as a broad and integrative framework to explore human wellness across a range of disciplines. Attachment theory has even been labelled one of the last surviving “grand theories” not to have been completely dismissed, replaced, or extensively reworked. However, despite the ubiquitous nature of some of the theory’s fundamental tenets, there are always possibilities for new conceptual development, extension, and revision. In this paper, we critically explore the idea of “context-specific” attachment within parent-child relationships. We briefly outline critical assumptions and key areas of attachment and articulate potential rationale, conceptualization, and relevance of contextual attachment.
Exergy Analysis of Energy Systems in Buildings
Authors: Evola Gianpiero , Costanzo Vincenzo , Marletta Luigi
Published: December 2018

The performance of space heating and cooling systems in buildings is usually measured by applying the first law of thermodynamics, which makes it possible to quantify the energy losses of the single components and to measure their energy conversion efficiency. However, this common approach does not properly consider that different forms of energy have different potentials to produce useful work, the latter being a function of the temperature at which energy is made available. As a result, it is not possible to properly address how the “quality” of energy is exploited or conserved in the different processes. On the contrary, the second law of thermodynamics is able to do that by introducing the concept of exergy: This is the maximum amount of work that can be produced through an ideal reversible process evolving until a full condition of equilibrium with the environment is attained. Exergy is; thus, a possible way to measure the “quality” of an energy flow or an energy source. This perspective is particularly relevant when dealing with buildings and their energy conversion systems, which usually deliver thermal energy at a temperature level that is close to the environmental temperature. This means that the users require “low-quality” energy; notwithstanding, this energy comes from the depletion of “high-quality” energy sources, such as fossil fuels and electricity. The exergy analysis helps with identifying such irrational use of the energy sources, which cannot come to light from the energy analysis. In this paper, a literature review identifies methods and metrics commonly used to carry out the exergy analysis of buildings and their energy technologies, while also underlining discrepancies and open methodological issues. Then, the review discusses the main lessons learned from selected works, providing significant advice about the rational use of energy in buildings as well as the most effective technological solutions.
Intracellular Iron Chelation by a Novel Compound, C7, Reactivates Epstein–Barr Virus (EBV) Lytic Cycle via the ERK-Autophagy Axis in EBV-Positive Epithelial Cancers
Authors: Yiu Stephanie Pei Tung , Hui Kwai Fung , Choi Chung King , Kao Richard Yi Tsun , Ma Chi Wang , Yang Dan , Chiang Alan Kwok Shing
Published: December 2018

Pharmaceutical reactivation of lytic cycle of Epstein–Barr virus (EBV) represents a potential therapeutic strategy against EBV-associated epithelial malignancies, e.g., gastric carcinoma (GC) and nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC). A novel lytic-inducing compound, C7, which exhibits structural similarity to Di-2-Pyridyl Ketone 4, 4-Dimethyl-3-Thiosemicarbazone (Dp44mT), a known chelator of intracellular iron, is found to reactivate EBV lytic cycle in GC and NPC. This study aims to investigate the role of intracellular iron chelation by C7 and other iron chelators in lytic reactivation of EBV in GC and NPC. Testing of six structural analogs of C7 revealed only those which have high affinity towards transition metals could induce EBV lytic cycle. Precomplexing C7 and iron chelators to iron prior to treatment of the cells abolished EBV lytic reactivation. Though hypoxia signaling pathway was activated, it was not the only pathway associated with EBV reactivation. Specifically, C7 and iron chelators initiated autophagy by activating extracellular signal-regulated kinase (ERK1/2) to reactivate EBV lytic cycle since autophagy and EBV lytic reactivation were abolished in cells treated with ERK1/2 blockers whilst inhibition of autophagy by 3-Methyladenine (3-MA) and atg5 knockdown significantly abolished EBV lytic reactivation. In summary, we discovered a novel mechanism of reactivation of the EBV lytic cycle through intracellular iron chelation and induction of ERK-autophagy axis in EBV-positive epithelial malignancies, raising the question whether clinically available iron chelators can be incorporated into existing therapeutic regimens to treat these cancers.
Targeting BRCA Deficiency in Breast Cancer: What are the Clinical Evidences and the Next Perspectives?
Authors: Nicolas Emanuel , Bertucci François , Sabatier Renaud , Gonçalves Anthony
Published: December 2018

Breast cancers (BC) associated with germline mutations of BRCA1/2 represent 3–5% of cases. BRCA1/2-associated BC have biological features leading to genomic instability and potential sensitivity to DNA damaging agents, including poly(ADP-ribose) polymerase (PARP) and platinum agents. In this review, we will summarize clinical trials of chemotherapy and PARP inhibitors (PARPi), alone or in combination, at the early or late stage of BRCA1/2-associated BC. We will also present the mechanisms of resistance to PARPi as well as the new therapeutic strategies of association with PARPi. Finally, we will discuss under which conditions the use of DNA damaging agents can be extended to the BRCA1/2-wild type population, the BRCAness concept.
Use of Germline Genetic Variability for Prediction of Chemoresistance and Prognosis of Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Hlavac Viktor , Kovacova Maria , Elsnerova Katerina , Brynychova Veronika , Kozevnikovova Renata , Raus Karel , Kopeckova Katerina , Mestakova Sona , Vrana David , Gatek Jiri , Ostasov Pavel , Vaclavikova Radka , Soucek Pavel
Published: December 2018

The aim of our study was to set up a panel for targeted sequencing of chemoresistance genes and the main transcription factors driving their expression and to evaluate their predictive and prognostic value in breast cancer patients. Coding and regulatory regions of 509 genes, selected from PharmGKB and Phenopedia, were sequenced using massive parallel sequencing in blood DNA from 105 breast cancer patients in the testing phase. In total, 18,245 variants were identified of which 2565 were novel variants (without rs number in dbSNP build 150) in the testing phase. Variants with major allele frequency over 0.05 were further prioritized for validation phase based on a newly developed decision tree. Using emerging in silico tools and pharmacogenomic databases for functional predictions and associations with response to cytotoxic therapy or disease-free survival of patients, 55 putative variants were identified and used for validation in 805 patients with clinical follow up using KASPTM technology. In conclusion, associations of rs2227291, rs2293194, and rs4376673 (located in ATP7A, KCNAB1, and DFFB genes, respectively) with response to neoadjuvant cytotoxic therapy and rs1801160 in DPYD with disease-free survival of patients treated with cytotoxic drugs were validated and should be further functionally characterized.
Liposomal Delivery of miR-34b-5p Induced Cancer Cell Death in Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Maroof Hamidreza , Islam Farhadul , Dong LanFeng , Ajjikuttira Prabha , Gopalan Vinod , McMillan Nigel A.J. , Lam Alfred K.
Published: December 2018

This study aims to determine the functional roles of microRNA-34b-5p (miR-34b) in the suppression of anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. We used hydration-of-freeze-dried-matrix (HFDM) formulated liposomes (liposome-loaded miR-34b) for effective delivery of miR-34b to anaplastic thyroid carcinoma in vitro and in vivo. Real time polymerase chain was used to determine the level of miR-34b. Immunocytochemistry, Western blot and ELISA were carried out to determine the effect of this manipulation on VEGF-A expression. In addition, an in vivo xenotransplantation mouse model was used to investigate the functional roles of overexpression of miR-34b in the carcinoma. In anaplastic thyroid carcinoma cells, miR-34b expression was low and significant overexpression (p < 0.05) was noted following transfection with liposome-loaded miR-34b. The miR-34b overexpressed thyroid carcinoma cell lines showed reduction in VEGF-A protein expression, decreased cell proliferation, decreased wound healing, reduced cell cycle progression and increased apoptosis (p < 0.05). In in vivo experiments, when compared to control groups, smaller tumours formed upon intravenous administration of liposome-loaded miR-34b. To conclude, the current study confirmed the tumour suppressor properties of miR-34b via VEGF-A regulation in anaplastic thyroid carcinoma. In addition, delivery of miR-34b using cationic liposome could be a useful therapeutic strategy for targeting therapy in the carcinoma.
Exploring the Roles of Aquaporins in Plant–Microbe Interactions
Authors: Wang Ruirui , Wang Min , Chen Kehao , Wang Shiyu , Mur Luis Alejandro Jose , Guo Shiwei
Published: December 2018

Aquaporins (AQPs) are membrane channel proteins regulating the flux of water and other various small solutes across membranes. Significant progress has been made in understanding the roles of AQPs in plants’ physiological processes, and now their activities in various plant–microbe interactions are receiving more attention. This review summarizes the various roles of different AQPs during interactions with microbes which have positive and negative consequences on the host plants. In positive plant–microbe interactions involving rhizobia, arbuscular mycorrhizae (AM), and plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR), AQPs play important roles in nitrogen fixation, nutrient transport, improving water status, and increasing abiotic stress tolerance. For negative interactions resulting in pathogenesis, AQPs help plants resist infections by preventing pathogen ingress by influencing stomata opening and influencing defensive signaling pathways, especially through regulating systemic acquired resistance. Interactions with bacterial or viral pathogens can be directly perturbed through direct interaction of AQPs with harpins or replicase. However, whilst these observations indicate the importance of AQPs, further work is needed to develop a fuller mechanistic understanding of their functions.
Epigenetic Regulation of Skin Cells in Natural Aging and Premature Aging Diseases
Authors: Orioli Donata , Dellambra Elena
Published: December 2018

Skin undergoes continuous renewal throughout an individual’s lifetime relying on stem cell functionality. However, a decline of the skin regenerative potential occurs with age. The accumulation of senescent cells over time probably reduces tissue regeneration and contributes to skin aging. Keratinocytes and dermal fibroblasts undergo senescence in response to several intrinsic or extrinsic stresses, including telomere shortening, overproduction of reactive oxygen species, diet, and sunlight exposure. Epigenetic mechanisms directly regulate skin homeostasis and regeneration, but they also mark cell senescence and the natural and pathological aging processes. Progeroid syndromes represent a group of clinical and genetically heterogeneous pathologies characterized by the accelerated aging of various tissues and organs, including skin. Skin cells from progeroid patients display molecular hallmarks that mimic those associated with naturally occurring aging. Thus, investigations on progeroid syndromes strongly contribute to disclose the causal mechanisms that underlie the aging process. In the present review, we discuss the role of epigenetic pathways in skin cell regulation during physiologic and premature aging.
Environmental Impact on Health across Generations: Policy Meets Biology. A Review of Animal and Human Models
Authors: Lønnebotn Marianne , El-Merhie Natalia , Holloway John W. , Horsnell William , Krauss-Etschmann Susanne , Gómez Real Francisco , Svanes Cecilie
Published: December 2018

Intrauterine and early life has been accepted as important susceptibility windows for environmental exposure and disease later in life. Emerging evidence suggests that exposure before conception may also influence health in future generations. There has been little research on human data to support this until now. This review gives evidence from epigenetic as well as immunologic research, and from animal as well as human models, supporting the hypothesis that there may be important susceptibility windows before conception in relation to exposure such as obesity, diet, smoking and infections. It is likely that we can identify vulnerability windows in men and women in which interventions may have an impact on several generations in addition to individual health. Establishing vulnerability windows affecting health over future generations, and not only in the now or the near future of the individual, may provide tremendous opportunities for health policy and practice.
Fractal Dimension Analysis of High-Resolution X-Ray Phase Contrast Micro-Tomography Images at Different Threshold Levels in a Mouse Spinal Cord
Authors: Maugeri Laura , DiNuzzo Mauro , Moraschi Marta , Nicaise Charles , Bukreeva Inna , Mangini Fabio , Giove Federico , Cedola Alessia , Fratini Michela
Published: December 2018

Fractal analysis is a powerful method for the morphological study of complex systems that is increasingly applied to biomedical images. Spatial resolution and image segmentation are crucial for the discrimination of tissue structures at the multiscale level. In this work, we have applied fractal analysis to high-resolution X-ray phase contrast micro-tomography (XrPCμT) images in both uninjured and injured tissue of a mouse spinal cord. We estimated the fractal dimension (FD) using the box-counting method on tomographic slices segmented at different threshold levels. We observed an increased FD in the ipsilateral injured hemicord compared with the contralateral uninjured tissue, which was almost independent of the chosen threshold. Moreover, we found that images exhibited the highest fractality close to the global histogram threshold level. Finally, we showed that the FD estimate largely depends on the image histogram regardless of tissue appearance. Our results demonstrate that the pre-processing of XrPCμT images is critical to fractal analysis and the estimation of FD.
Strategic Syntheses of Vine and Wine Resveratrol Derivatives to Explore Their Effects on Cell Functions and Dysfunctions
Authors: Latruffe Norbert , Vervandier-Fasseur Dominique
Published: December 2018

Trans-resveratrol, the most well-known polyphenolic stilbenoid, is found in grapes and accordingly in wine and it is considered to be beneficial for human health, especially towards the aging-linked cell alterations by providing numerous biological activities, such as anti-oxidant, antitumoral, antiviral, anti-inflammatory, neuroprotective, and platelet anti-aggregation properties. Although trans-resveratrol is a promising molecule, it cannot be considered as a drug, due to its weak bio-availability and fast metabolism. To overcome these weaknesses, several research teams have undertaken the synthesis of innovative trans-resveratrol derivatives, with the aim to increase its solubility in water and pharmacological activities towards cell targets. The aim of this review is to show the chronological evolution over the last 25 years of different strategies to develop more efficient trans-resveratrol derivatives towards organism physiology and, therefore, to enhance various pharmacological activities. While the literature on the development of new synthetic derivatives is impressive, this review will focus on selected strategies regarding the substitution of trans-resveratrol phenyl rings, first with hydroxy, methoxy, and halogen groups, and next with functionalized substituents. The effects on cell functions and dysfunctions of interesting resveratrol analogs will be addressed in this review.
A Novel Low-Activation VCrFeTaxWx (x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 1) High-Entropy Alloys with Excellent Heat-Softening Resistance
Authors: Zhang Weiran , Liaw Peter K. , Zhang Yong
Published: December 2018

The microstructure, Vickers hardness, and compressive properties of novel low-activation VCrFeTaxWx (x = 0.1, 0.2, 0.3, 0.4, and 1) high-entropy alloys (HEAs) were studied. The alloys were fabricated by vacuum-arc melting and the characteristics of these alloys were explored. The microstructures of all the alloys exhibited a typical morphology of dendritic and eutectic structures. The VCrFeTa0.1W0.1 and VCrFeTa0.2W0.2 alloys are essentially single phase, consisting of a disordered body-centered-cubic (BCC) phase, whereas the VCrFeTa0.2W0.2 alloy contains fine, nanoscale precipitates distributed in the BCC matrix. The lattice parameters and compositions of the identified phases were investigated. The alloys have Vickers hardness values ranging from 546 HV0.2 to 1135 HV0.2 with the x ranging from 0.1 to 1, respectively. The VCrFeTa0.1W0.1 and VCrFeTa0.2W0.2 alloys exhibit compressive yield strengths of 1341 MPa and 1742 MPa, with compressive plastic strains of 42.2% and 35.7%, respectively. VCrFeTa0.1W0.1 and VCrFeTa0.2W0.2 alloys have excellent hardness after annealing for 25 h at 600–1000 °C, and presented compressive yield strength exceeding 1000 MPa with excellent heat-softening resistance at 600–800 °C. By applying the HEA criteria, Ta and W additions into the VCrFeTaW are proposed as a family of candidate materials for fusion reactors and high-temperature structural applications.
Which Liquidity Proxy Measures Liquidity Best in Emerging Markets?
Authors: Ahn Hee-Joon , Cai Jun , Yang Cheol-Won
Published: December 2018

This study empirically investigates the low-frequency liquidity proxies that best measure liquidity in emerging markets. We carry out a comprehensive analysis using tick data that cover 1183 stocks from 21 emerging markets, while also comparing various low-frequency liquidity proxies with high-frequency spread measures and price impact measures. We find that the Lesmond, Ogden, and Trzcinka (LOT) measure is the most effective spread proxy in most emerging markets. Among the price impact proxies, the Amihud measure is the most effective.
Implementing High-Leverage Influences from the Visible Learning Synthesis: Six Supporting Conditions
Authors: Donohoo Jenni , Bryen Sue , Weishar Brian
Published: December 2018

Even though there is a plethora of research that can be used by educators to inform their practice, the deep implementation of evidence-based strategies remains unrealized in many schools and classrooms. The question we set out to answer was: What conditions help encourage educators to implement and adapt evidence from the Visible Learning synthesis when they encounter it? We examined two examples of the reception of the Visible Learning research in schools and identified the following six key conditions that helped foster the translation of the Visible Learning research into classroom practice in ways that demonstrated measurable impact on student learning: (1) The presence of a learning methodology; (2) clear examples of how to apply the strategies; (3) a ‘knowledgeable other’ to help assist educators in processing the research; (4) a supportive organizational environment; (5) the recognition of educators as agents of influence, and (6) the monitoring and adjustment of implementation strategies.
Charuco Board-Based Omnidirectional Camera Calibration Method
Authors: An Gwon Hwan , Lee Siyeong , Seo Min-Woo , Yun Kugjin , Cheong Won-Sik , Kang Suk-Ju
Published: December 2018

In this paper, we propose a Charuco board-based omnidirectional camera calibration method to solve the problem of conventional methods requiring overly complicated calibration procedures. Specifically, the proposed method can easily and precisely provide two-dimensional and three-dimensional coordinates of patterned feature points by arranging the omnidirectional camera in the Charuco board-based cube structure. Then, using the coordinate information of the feature points, an intrinsic calibration of each camera constituting the omnidirectional camera can be performed by estimating the perspective projection matrix. Furthermore, without an additional calibration structure, an extrinsic calibration of each camera can be performed, even though only part of the calibration structure is included in the captured image. Compared to conventional methods, the proposed method exhibits increased reliability, because it does not require additional adjustments to the mirror angle or the positions of several pattern boards. Moreover, the proposed method calibrates independently, regardless of the number of cameras comprising the omnidirectional camera or the camera rig structure. In the experimental results, for the intrinsic parameters, the proposed method yielded an average reprojection error of 0.37 pixels, which was better than that of conventional methods. For the extrinsic parameters, the proposed method had a mean absolute error of 0.90° for rotation displacement and a mean absolute error of 1.32 mm for translation displacement.
Towards a Fast and Accurate EIT Inverse Problem Solver: A Machine Learning Approach
Authors: Fernández-Fuentes Xosé , Mera David , Gómez Andrés , Vidal-Franco Ignacio
Published: December 2018

Different industrial and medical situations require the non-invasive extraction of information from the inside of bodies. This is usually done through tomographic methods that generate images based on internal body properties. However, the image reconstruction involves a mathematical inverse problem, for which accurate resolution demands large computation time and capacity. In this paper we explore the use of Machine Learning to develop an accurate solver for reconstructing Electrical Impedance Tomography images in real-time. We compare the results with the Iterative Gauss-Newton and the Primal Dual Interior Point Method, which are both largely used and well-validated solvers. The approaches were compared from the qualitative as well as the quantitative viewpoints. The former was focused on correctly detecting the internal body features. The latter was based on accurately predicting internal property distributions. Experiments revealed that our approach achieved better accuracy and Cohen’s kappa coefficient (97.57% and 94.60% respectively) from the qualitative viewpoint. Moreover, it also obtained better quantitative metrics with a Mean Absolute Percentage Error of 18.28%. Experiments confirmed that Neural Networks algorithms can reconstruct internal body properties with high accuracy, so they would be able to replace more complex and slower alternatives.
Game Theoretical Demand Response Management and Short-Term Load Forecasting by Knowledge Based Systems on the basis of Priority Index
Authors: Khan Mahnoor , Javaid Nadeem , Sajjad  , Abdullah  , Naseem Adnan , Ahmed Salman , Riaz Muhammad Sajid , Akbar Mariam , Ilahi Manzoor
Published: December 2018

Demand Response Management (DRM) is considered one of the crucial aspects of the smart grid as it helps to lessen the production cost of electricity and utility bills. DRM becomes a fascinating research area when numerous utility companies are involved and their announced prices reflect consumer’s behavior. This paper discusses a Stackelberg game plan between consumers and utility companies for efficient energy management. For this purpose, analytical consequences (unique solution) for the Stackelberg equilibrium are derived. Besides this, this paper presents a distributed algorithm which converges for consumers and utilities. Moreover, different power consumption activities on the basis of time series are becoming a basic need for load prediction in smart grid. Load forecasting is taken as the significant concerns in the power systems and energy management with growing technology. The better precision of load forecasting minimizes the operational costs and enhances the scheduling of the power system. The literature has discussed different techniques for demand load forecasting like neural networks, fuzzy methods, Naïve Bayes, and regression based techniques. This paper presents a novel knowledge based system for short-term load forecasting. The algorithms of Affinity Propagation and Binary Firefly Algorithm are integrated in knowledge based system. Besides, the proposed system has minimum operational time as compared to other techniques used in the paper. Moreover, the precision of the proposed model is improved by a different priority index to select similar days. The similarity in climate and date proximity are considered all together in this index. Furthermore, the whole system is distributed in sub-systems (regions) to measure the consequences of temperature. Additionally, the predicted load of the entire system is evaluated by the combination of all predicted outcomes from all regions. The paper employs the proposed knowledge based system on real time data. The proposed scheme is compared with Deep Belief Network and Fuzzy Local Linear Model Tree in terms of accuracy and operational cost. In addition, the presented system outperforms other techniques used in the paper and also decreases the Mean Absolute Percentage Error (MAPE) on a yearly basis. Furthermore, the novel knowledge based system gives more efficient outcomes for demand load forecasting.
Short Term Residential Load Forecasting: An Improved Optimal Nonlinear Auto Regressive (NARX) Method with Exponential Weight Decay Function
Authors: Abbas Farukh , Feng Donghan , Habib Salman , Rahman Usama , Rasool Aazim , Yan Zheng
Published: December 2018

The advancement in electrical load forecasting techniques with new algorithms offers reliable solutions to operators for operational cost reduction, optimum use of available resources, effective power management, and a reliable planning process. The focus is to develop a comprehensive understanding regarding the forecast accuracy generated by employing a state of the art optimal autoregressive neural network (NARX) for multiple, nonlinear, dynamic, and exogenous time varying input vectors. Other classical computational methods such as a bagged regression tree (BRT), an autoregressive and moving average with external inputs (ARMAX), and a conventional feedforward artificial neural network are implemented for comparative error assessment. The training of the applied method is realized in a closed loop by feeding back the predicted results obtained from the open loop model, which made the implemented model more robust when compared with conventional forecasting approaches. The recurrent nature of the applied model reduces its dependency on the external data and a produced mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) below 1%. Subsequently, more precision in handling daily grid operations with an average improvement of 16%–20% in comparison with existing computational techniques is achieved. The network is further improved by proposing a lightning search algorithm (LSA) for optimized NARX network parameters and an exponential weight decay (EWD) technique to control the input error weights.
Economic Multiple Model Predictive Control for HVAC Systems—A Case Study for a Food Manufacturer in Germany
Authors: Heidrich Tobias , Grobe Jonathan , Meschede Henning , Hesselbach Jens
Published: December 2018

The following paper describes an economical, multiple model predictive control (EMMPC) for an air conditioning system of a confectionery manufacturer in Germany. The application consists of a packaging hall for chocolate bars, in which a new local conveyor belt air conditioning system is used and thus the temperature and humidity limits in the hall can be significantly extended. The EMMPC calculates the optimum energy or cost humidity and temperature set points in the hall. For this purpose, time-discrete state space models and an economic objective function with which it is possible to react to flexible electricity prices in a cost-optimised manner are created. A possible future electricity price model for Germany with a flexible Renewable Energies levy (EEG levy) was used as a flexible electricity price. The flexibility potential is determined by variable temperature and humidity limits in the hall, which are oriented towards the comfort field for easily working persons, and the building mass. The building mass of the created room model is used as a thermal energy store. Considering the electricity price and weather forecasts as well as an internal, production plan-dependent load forecasts, the model predictive controller directly controls the heating and cooling register and the humidifier of the air conditioning system.
Laboratory Testing of the Innovative Low-Cost Mewar Angithi Insert for Improving Energy Efficiency of Cooking Tasks on Three-Stone Fires in Critical Contexts
Authors: Barbieri Jacopo , Parigi Fabio , Riva Fabio , Colombo Emanuela
Published: December 2018

Currently, about 2.7 billion people across the world still lack access to clean cooking means. Humanitarian emergencies and post-emergencies are among the most critical situations: the utilization of traditional devices such as three-stone fires have a huge negative impact not only on food security but also on the socio-economic status of people, their health and the surrounding environment. Advanced Cooking Stoves may constitute better systems compared to actual ones, however, financial, logistic and time constraints have strongly limited the interventions in critical contexts until now. The innovative, low-cost Mewar Angithi insert for improving energy efficiency of three-stone fires may play a role in the transition to better cooking systems in such contexts. In this paper, we rely on the Water Boiling Test 4.2.3 to assess the performances of the Mewar Angithi insert respect to a traditional three-stone fire and we analyse the results through a robust statistical procedure. The potentiality and suitability of this novel solution is discussed for its use in critical contexts.
An Accurate Method for Delay Margin Computation for Power System Stability
Authors: Khalil Ashraf , Swee Peng Ang
Published: December 2018

The application of the phasor measurement units and the wide expansion of the wide area measurement units make the time delay inevitable in power systems. The time delay could result in poor system performance or at worst lead to system instability. Therefore, it is important to determine the maximum time delay margin required for the system stability. In this paper, we present a new method for determining the delay margin in the power system. The method is based on the analysis in the s-domain. The transcendental time delay characteristics equation is transformed to a frequency dependent equation. The spectral radius is used to find the frequencies at which the roots cross the imaginary axis. The crossing frequencies are determined through the sweeping test and the binary iteration algorithm. A single machine infinite bus system equipped with automatic voltage regulator and power system stabilizer is chosen as a case study. The delay margin is calculated for different values of the power system stabilizer (PSS) gain, and it is found that increasing the PSS gain decreases the delay margin. The effectiveness of the proposed method has been proved through comparing it with the most recent published methods. The method shows its merit with less conservativeness and fewer computations.
Eddy Covariance vs. Biometric Based Estimates of Net Primary Productivity of Pedunculate Oak (Quercus robur L.) Forest in Croatia during Ten Years
Authors: Anić Mislav , Ostrogović Sever Maša Zorana , Alberti Giorgio , Balenović Ivan , Paladinić Elvis , Peressotti Alessandro , Tijan Goran , Večenaj Željko , Vuletić Dijana , Marjanović Hrvoje
Published: December 2018

We analysed 10 years (2008–2017) of continuous eddy covariance (EC) CO2 flux measurements of net ecosystem exchange (NEE) in a young pedunculate oak forest in Croatia. Measured NEE was gap-filled and partitioned into gross primary productivity (GPP) and ecosystem reparation (RECO) using the online tool by Max Planck Institute for Biogeochemistry in Jena, Germany. Annual NEE, GPP, and RECO were correlated with main environmental drivers. Net primary productivity was estimated from EC (NPPEC), as a sum of −NEE and Rh obtained using a constant Rh:RECO ratio, and from independent periodic biometric measurements (NPPBM). For comparing the NPP at the seasonal level, we propose a simple model that aimed at accounting for late-summer and autumn carbon storage in the non-structural carbohydrate pool. Over the study period, Jastrebarsko forest acted as a carbon sink, with an average (±std. dev.) annual NEE of −319 (±94) gC m−2 year−1, GPP of 1594 (±109) gC m−2 year−1, and RECO of 1275 (±94) gC m−2 year−1. Annual NEE showed high inter-annual variability and poor correlation with annual average global radiation, air temperature, and total precipitation, but significant (R2 = 0.501, p = 0.02) correlation with the change in soil water content between May and September. Comparison of annual NPPEC and NPPBM showed a good overall agreement (R2 = 0.463, p = 0.03), although in all years NPPBM was lower than NPPEC, with averages of 680 (±88) gC m−2 year−1 and 819 (±89) gC m−2 year−1, respectively. Lower values of NPPBM indicate that fine roots and grasses contributions to NPP, which were not measured in the study period, could have an important contribution to the overall ecosystem NPP. At a seasonal level, two NPP estimates showed differences in their dynamic, but the application of the proposed model greatly improved the agreement in the second part of the growing season. Further research is needed on the respiration partitioning and mechanisms of carbon allocation.
Litter Inhibitory Effects on Soil Microbial Biomass, Activity, and Catabolic Diversity in Two Paired Stands of Robinia pseudoacacia L. and Pinus nigra Arn.
Authors: De Marco Anna , Esposito Fabrizio , Berg Björn , Zarrelli Armando , Virzo De Santo Amalia
Published: December 2018

Research Highlights: Plant cover drives the activity of the microbial decomposer community and affects carbon (C) sequestration in the soil. Despite the relationship between microbial activity and C sequestration in the soil, potential inhibition of soil microbial activity by plant cover has received little attention to date. Background and Objectives: Differences in soil microbial activity between two paired stands on soil at a very early stage of formation and a common story until afforestation, can be traced back to the plant cover. We hypothesized that in a black locust (Robinia pseudoacacia L.) stand the high-quality leaf litter of the tree, and that of the blackberry (Rubus fruticosus L.) understory had an inhibitory effect on soil microbial community resulting in lower mineralization of soil organic matter compared to the paired black pine (Pinus nigra Arn.) stand. Materials and Methods: We estimated potential mineralization rates (MR), microbial (MB), and active fungal biomass (AFB) of newly-shed litter, forest floor, and mineral soil. We tested the effects of litters’ water extracts on soil MR, MB, AFB and its catabolic response profile (CRP). Results: Newly-shed litter of black locust had higher MR than that of blackberry and black pine; MR, MB, and AFB were higher in forest floor and in mineral soil under black pine than under black locust. Water extracts of black locust and blackberry litter had a negative effect on the amount, activity of microorganisms, and CRP. Conclusions: The results demonstrate the potential for black locust and blackberry litter to have a marked inhibitory effect on decomposer microorganisms that, in turn, reduce organic matter mineralization with possible consequences at the ecosystem level, by increasing C sequestration in mineral soil.
Impact of Commercial Oenotannin and Mannoprotein Products on the Chemical and Sensory Properties of Shiraz Wines Made from Sequentially Harvested Fruit
Authors: Li Sijing , Bindon Keren , Bastian Susan , Wilkinson Kerry
Published: December 2018

The tannin and polysaccharide profiles and therefore sensory properties of wine are influenced by fruit maturity at harvest, and practices employed during winemaking. This study investigated the extent to which commercial winemaking supplements (skin and seed tannins, and mannoprotein (MP)) can enhance the mouthfeel properties of red wine, in particular, wine made from grapes harvested before commercial ripeness (early-harvest). Supplements were added to wines made from Shiraz grapes harvested at 20.8 and 24.5 °Brix. The chemical composition and mouthfeel properties of wines were then determined by high performance liquid chromatography and descriptive analysis (DA), respectively. Wines made from riper grapes had higher levels of tannin than wines made from early-harvest grapes, but similar polysaccharide levels were observed. The addition of seed oenotannin yielded higher tannin levels than addition of skin oenotannin, particularly for wines made from early-harvest grapes. The DA panel perceived sensory differences between H1 and H2 wines, but could not perceive any effect of supplementation on wine mouthfeel properties, with the exception of a minor increase in sweetness, attributed to mannoprotein addition to H1 wines, even when MP was added to wines at 2.5 times the level recommended for use in Australia.