bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antioxidant Activity of 3-[N-(Acylhydrazono)ethyl]-4-hydroxy-coumarins
Authors: Kotali Antigoni , Nasiopoulou Despina , Tsoleridis Constantinos , Harris Philip , Kontogiorgis Christos , Hadjipavlou-Litina Dimitra
Published: January 2016

A series of 3-acylhydrazono-4-hydroxycoumarins were synthesized via condensation of 3-acetyl-4-hydroxycoumarin with appropriate hydrazides. The structures of the newly-synthesized compounds were characterized by spectral and elememental analysis or HRMS measurements. Their antioxidant properties were evaluated by using scavenging effects on 2,2-diphenyl-1-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH) radical as well as inhibition of lipid peroxidation. Moreover, their ability to inhibit in vitro soybean lipoxygenase has been investigated. They were found to be capable of rapid inactivation of alkylperoxy radicals.
Antibacterial and Synergistic Activity of Pentacyclic Triterpenoids Isolated from Alstonia scholaris
Authors: Wang Chao-Min , Chen Hsiao-Ting , Wu Zong-Yen , Jhan Yun-Lian , Shyu Ching-Lin , Chou Chang-Hung
Published: January 2016

(1) Background: Alstonia scholaris (Apocynaceae) is an important medicinal plant that has been historically used in “Dai” ethnopharmacy to treat infectious diseases in China. Although various pharmacological activities have been reported, the antimicrobial constitutes of A. scholaris have not yet been identified. The objective of this study is to evaluate the antibacterial constitutes from the leaf extract of A. scholaris and to assess the synergistic effects of isolated compounds with antibiotics against bacterial pathogens.; (2) Methods: The chemical constitutes isolated from the leaf extract of A. scholaris were structurally identified by NMR. The antibacterial and synergistic effect of compounds was assessed by calculating the minimal inhibitory concentration (MIC), checkerboard dilution test, and time-kill assay.; (3) Results: Six pentacyclic triterpenoids were structurally identified as (1) lupeol, (2) betulin, (3) 3-hydroxy-11-ursen-28,13-olide, (4) betulinic acid, (5) oleanolic acid and (6) ursolic acid. Both oleanolic and ursolic acid showed antibacterial activity but were limited to Gram-positive bacteria. Ursolic acid showed a synergistic effect with ampicillin and tetracycline against both Bacillus cereus and S. aureus.; (4) Conclusion: These findings reflect that pentacyclic triterpenoids are the antibacterial chemicals in A. scholaris. The ability of ursolic acid to enhance the activity of antibiotics can constitute a valuable group of therapeutic agents in the future.
Assessment of S-NPP VIIRS On-Orbit Radiometric Calibration and Performance
Authors: Xiong Xiaoxiong , Butler James , Chiang Kwofu , Efremova Boryana , Fulbright Jon , Lei Ning , McIntire Jeff , Oudrari Hassan , Wang Zhipeng , Wu Aisheng
Published: January 2016

The VIIRS instrument on board the S-NPP spacecraft has successfully operated for more than four years since its launch in October 2011. Many VIIRS environmental data records (EDR) have been continuously generated from its sensor data records (SDR) with improved quality, enabling a wide range of applications in support of users in both the operational and research communities. This paper provides a brief review of sensor on-orbit calibration methodologies for both the reflective solar bands (RSB) and the thermal emissive bands (TEB) and an overall assessment of their on-orbit radiometric performance using measurements from instrument on-board calibrators (OBC), as well as regularly scheduled lunar observations. It describes and illustrates changes made and to be made for calibration and data quality improvements. Throughout the mission, all of the OBC have continued to operate and function normally, allowing critical calibration parameters used in the data production systems to be derived and updated. The temperatures of the on-board blackbody (BB) and the cold focal plane assemblies are controlled with excellent stability. Despite large optical throughput degradation discovered shortly after launch in several near- and short-wave infrared spectral bands and strong wavelength-dependent solar diffuser degradation, the VIIRS overall performance has continued to meet its design requirements. Also discussed in this paper are challenging issues identified and efforts to be made to further enhance the sensor calibration and characterization, thereby maintaining or improving data quality.
Mapping Complex Urban Land Cover from Spaceborne Imagery: The Influence of Spatial Resolution, Spectral Band Set and Classification Approach
Authors: Momeni Rahman , Aplin Paul , Boyd Doreen
Published: January 2016

Detailed land cover information is valuable for mapping complex urban environments. Recent enhancements to satellite sensor technology promise fit-for-purpose data, particularly when processed using contemporary classification approaches. We evaluate this promise by comparing the influence of spatial resolution, spectral band set and classification approach for mapping detailed urban land cover in Nottingham, UK. A WorldView-2 image provides the basis for a set of 12 images with varying spatial and spectral characteristics, and these are classified using three different approaches (maximum likelihood (ML), support vector machine (SVM) and object-based image analysis (OBIA)) to yield 36 output land cover maps. Classification accuracy is evaluated independently and McNemar tests are conducted between all paired outputs (630 pairs in total) to determine which classifications are significantly different. Overall accuracy varied between 35% for ML classification of 30 m spatial resolution, 4-band imagery and 91% for OBIA classification of 2 m spatial resolution, 8-band imagery. The results demonstrate that spatial resolution is clearly the most influential factor when mapping complex urban environments, and modern “very high resolution” or VHR sensors offer great advantage here. However, the advanced spectral capabilities provided by some recent sensors, coupled with contemporary classification approaches (especially SVMs and OBIA), can also lead to significant gains in mapping accuracy. Ongoing development in instrumentation and methodology offer huge potential here and imply that urban mapping opportunities will continue to grow.
Multi-View Stereo Matching Based on Self-Adaptive Patch and Image Grouping for Multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicle Imagery
Authors: Xiao Xiongwu , Guo Bingxuan , Li Deren , Li Linhui , Yang Nan , Liu Jianchen , Zhang Peng , Peng Zhe
Published: January 2016

Robust and rapid image dense matching is the key to large-scale three-dimensional (3D) reconstruction for multiple Unmanned Aerial Vehicle (UAV) images. However, the following problems must be addressed: (1) the amount of UAV image data is very large, but ordinary computer memory is limited; (2) the patch-based multi-view stereo-matching algorithm (PMVS) does not work well for narrow-baseline cases, and its computing efficiency is relatively low, and thus, it is difficult to meet the UAV photogrammetry’s requirements of convenience and speed. This paper proposes an Image-grouping and Self-Adaptive Patch-based Multi-View Stereo-matching algorithm (IG-SAPMVS) for multiple UAV imagery. First, multiple UAV images were grouped reasonably by a certain grouping strategy. Second, image dense matching was performed in each group and included three processes. (1) Initial feature-matching consists of two steps: The first was feature point detection and matching, which made some improvements to PMVS, according to the characteristics of UAV imagery. The second was edge point detection and matching, which aimed to control matching propagation during the expansion process; (2) The second process was matching propagation based on the self-adaptive patch. Initial patches were built that were centered by the obtained 3D seed points, and these were repeatedly expanded. The patches were prevented from crossing the discontinuous terrain by using the edge constraint, and the extent size and shape of the patches could automatically adapt to the terrain relief; (3) The third process was filtering the erroneous matching points. Taken the overlap problem between each group of 3D dense point clouds into account, the matching results were merged into a whole. Experiments conducted on three sets of typical UAV images with different texture features demonstrate that the proposed algorithm can address a large amount of UAV image data almost without computer memory restrictions, and the processing efficiency is significantly better than that of the PMVS algorithm and the matching accuracy is equal to that of the state-of-the-art PMVS algorithm.
A Context-Aware Mobile User Behavior-Based Neighbor Finding Approach for Preference Profile Construction
Authors: Gao Qian , Fu Deqian , Dong Xiangjun
Published: January 2016

In this paper, a new approach is adopted to update the user preference profile by seeking users with similar interests based on the context obtainable for a mobile network instead of from desktop networks. The trust degree between mobile users is calculated by analyzing their behavior based on the context, and then the approximate neighbors are chosen by combining the similarity of the mobile user preference and the trust degree. The approach first considers the communication behaviors between mobile users, the mobile network services they use as well as the corresponding context information. Then a similarity degree of the preference between users is calculated with the evaluation score of a certain mobile web service provided by a mobile user. Finally, based on the time attenuation function, the users with similar preference are found, through which we can dynamically update the target user’s preference profile. Experiments are then conducted to test the effect of the context on the credibility among mobile users, the effect of time decay factors and trust degree thresholds. Simulation shows that the proposed approach outperforms two other methods in terms of Recall Ratio, Precision Ratio and Mean Absolute Error, because neither of them consider the context mobile information.
Real-time Imaging Orientation Determination System to Verify Imaging Polarization Navigation Algorithm
Authors: Lu Hao , Zhao Kaichun , Wang Xiaochu , You Zheng , Huang Kaoli
Published: January 2016

Bio-inspired imaging polarization navigation which can provide navigation information and is capable of sensing polarization information has advantages of high-precision and anti-interference over polarization navigation sensors that use photodiodes. Although all types of imaging polarimeters exist, they may not qualify for the research on the imaging polarization navigation algorithm. To verify the algorithm, a real-time imaging orientation determination system was designed and implemented. Essential calibration procedures for the type of system that contained camera parameter calibration and the inconsistency of complementary metal oxide semiconductor calibration were discussed, designed, and implemented. Calibration results were used to undistort and rectify the multi-camera system. An orientation determination experiment was conducted. The results indicated that the system could acquire and compute the polarized skylight images throughout the calibrations and resolve orientation by the algorithm to verify in real-time. An orientation determination algorithm based on image processing was tested on the system. The performance and properties of the algorithm were evaluated. The rate of the algorithm was over 1 Hz, the error was over 0.313°, and the population standard deviation was 0.148° without any data filter.
Sediment Deposition at the Caernarvon Crevasse during the Great Mississippi Flood of 1927: Implications for Coastal Restoration
Authors: Day John , Cable Jaye , Lane Robert , Kemp G.
Published: January 2016

During the 1927 Mississippi flood, the levee was dynamited downstream of New Orleans creating a 2 km wide crevasse that inundated the Breton Sound estuary and deposited a crevasse splay of about 130 km2. We measured sediment deposition in the splay that consisted of a silty-clay layer bounded by aged peat below and living roots above. Based on coring, we developed a map of the crevasse splay. The clay layer ranged from 2 to 42 cm thick and occurred 24 to 55 cm below the surface. Bulk density of the clay layer decreased and soil organic matter increased with distance from the river. 210Pbexcess and 137Cs dating an age of ~1926–1929 for the top of the layer. During the flood event, deposition was at least 22 mm·month−1—10 times the annual post-1927 deposition. The crevasse splay captured from 55% to 75% of suspended sediments that flowed in from the river. The 1927 crevasse deposition shows how pulsed flooding can enhance sediment capture efficiency and deposition and serves as an example for large planned diversions for Mississippi delta restoration.
Percutaneous transilial pinning for treatment of seventh lumbar vertebral body fracture
Authors: Di Dona Francesco , Della Valle Giovanni , Lamagna Barbara , Balestriere Caterina , Murino Carla , Santangelo Bruna , Lamagna Francesco , Fatone Gerardo
Published: January 2016

Objective: To evaluate outcomes after percutaneous application of transilial pinning in dogs with seventh lumbar vertebral body fracture with concurrent lumbosacral luxation.

Methods: We reviewed the medical records of dogs with seventh lumbar vertebral body fracture stabilized with percutaneous transilial pinning that were treated at our hospital between January 2000 and March 2014. Radiographic measurements were used for comparing craniocaudal and ventrodorsal displacement pre- and postoperatively.

Results: Seventeen dogs met the inclusion criteria. The neurological status of the majority of treated dogs improved quickly, with immediate pain reduction after surgery. Implants were well tolerated throughout the application period and were removed at a mean time of 54.4 ± 9.2 days. One dog experienced a major complication (implant failure) and required surgical revision a week after the initial procedure. Minor complications included pin-tract inflammation, signs of back pain lasting five weeks and acute lameness after implant removal. Postoperative radiographic measurements showed shortening of the vertebral body and residual dorsoventral dislocation. Otherwise, functional recovery was good (5 of 17 dogs) to excellent (10 of 17 dogs) in the majority of the patients.

Clinical relevance: The use of two percutaneous transilial pins can be considered as treatment for the management of seventh lumbar fracture-luxation in dogs. Our modified stabilization technique is relatively easy to perform; less invasive on the soft tissues; and uses implants that are versatile, modifiable, and easily removable.
PLANETARY CANDIDATES FROM THE FIRST YEAR OF THE K2 MISSION
Authors: Vanderburg Andrew , Latham David W. , Buchhave Lars A. , Bieryla Allyson , Berlind Perry , Calkins Michael L. , Esquerdo Gilbert A. , Welsh Sophie , Johnson John Asher
Published: January 2016

The Kepler Space Telescope is currently searching for planets transiting stars along the ecliptic plane as part of its extended K2 mission. We processed the publicly released data from the first year of K2 observations (Campaigns 0, 1, 2, and 3) and searched for periodic eclipse signals consistent with planetary transits. Out of the 59,174 targets that we searched, we detect 234 planetary candidates around 208 stars. These candidates range in size from gas giants to smaller than the Earth, and range in orbital periods from hours to over a month. We conducted initial reconnaissance spectroscopy of 68 of the brighter candidate host stars, and present high-resolution optical spectra for these stars. We make all of our data products, including light curves, spectra, and vetting diagnostics available to users online.
Susceptibility of Urinary Tract Bacteria to Newer Antimicrobial Drugs
Authors: Mehta Manjula , Sharma Jyoti , Bhardwaj Sonia
Published: January 2016

Urinary tract infections (UTIs) are among the commonest types of bacterial infections. The antibiotic treatment for UTIs is associated with important medical and economic implications. Many different microorganisms can cause UTIs though the most common pathogens are E. coli and members of family Enterobacteriaceae. The knowledge of etiology and antibiotic resistance pattern of the organisms causing urinary tract infection is essential. The present study was undertaken to evaluate trends of antibiotic susceptibility of commonly isolated uropathogens using newer antimicrobial agents, prulifloxacin, fosfomycin (FOM) and doripenem. We conclude that maintaining a record of culture results and the antibiogram may help clinicians to determine the empirical and/or specific treatment based on the antibiogram of the isolate for better therapeutic outcome.
Abyssal fauna of the UK-1 polymetallic nodule exploration claim, Clarion-Clipperton Zone, central Pacific Ocean: Echinodermata
Authors: Glover Adrian , Wiklund Helena , Rabone Muriel , Amon Diva , Smith Craig , O'Hara Tim , Mah Christopher , Dahlgren Thomas
Published: January 2016

We present data from a DNA taxonomy register of the abyssal benthic Echinodermata collected as part of the Abyssal Baseline (ABYSSLINE) environmental survey cruise ‘AB01’ to the UK Seabed Resources Ltd (UKSRL) polymetallic-nodule exploration claim ‘UK-1’ in the eastern Clarion-Clipperton Zone (CCZ), central Pacific Ocean abyssal plain. Morphological and genetic data are presented for 17 species (4 Asteroidea, 4 Crinoidea, 2 Holothuroidea and 7 Ophiuroidea) identified by a combination of morphological and genetic data. No taxa matched previously published genetic sequences, but 8 taxa could be assigned to previously-described species based on morphology, although here we have used a precautionary approach in taxon assignments to avoid over-estimating species ranges. The Clarion-Clipperton Zone is a region undergoing intense exploration for potential deep-sea mineral extraction. We present these data to facilitate future taxonomic and environmental impact study by making both data and voucher materials available through curated and accessible biological collections.
Reversible Fragile Watermarking for Locating Tampered Polylines/Polygons in 2D Vector Maps
Authors: Wang Nana
Published: January 2016

For 2D vector maps, obtaining high tamper localization accuracy without requiring extra space is a technically challenging problem. Using an adaptive group division approach and an improved reversible data hiding approach, the author proposes a reversible fragile watermarking method for locating tampered Polylines/Polygons in 2D vector maps. In particular, the author adaptively divide the features of the vector map into groups according to a predefined threshold, calculate an authentication watermark for each group, embed the watermark using the improved reversible data hiding approach, and hide the mark of each feature into the feature itself. Since the adaptive group division method and the improved reversible data hiding method are combined in an attempt to make full use of the watermark embedding space, superior tamper localization accuracy and original content recovery can be ensured. Besides, no extra space is required by hiding the mark of each feature. Experimental results have been provided to demonstrate the effectiveness of our method.
Recent Progress in Online Communication Tools for Urban Planning
Authors: Damurski Lukasz
Published: January 2016

This comparative analysis of Polish and German online communication tools for urban planning follows a similar study conducted in 2012. A comprehensive method for analysis of e-participation tools including three complimentary criteria: “transparency”, “spatiality” and “interactivity” is now enhanced with mobile applications for planning. Using the same research sample (the biggest regional capital cities) enables the comparison of the ICT tools in the years 2012-2015. The results show how public planning institutions improve and develop their online communication in urban planning processes in line with the contemporary trends and citizens' expectations. They also point to the emerging standards in e-participation in urban planning, evidently similar in Poland and Germany despite different historical background as well as socio-political and technological contexts.
Social Media for Online Collaboration in Firms and Organizations
Authors: Franchi Enrico , Poggi Agostino , Tomaiuolo Michele
Published: January 2016

Participation in social networks has long been studied as a social phenomenon according to different theories. In particular, the notion of social capital highlights a person's benefit due to his relations with other persons, including family, colleagues, friends and generic contacts. It may be important both for the individuals that are able to accumulate large amounts, and for organizations. Nowadays, social networking systems bring many acquaintances online, both in the private and working spheres. Some systems are used both at home, for leisure goals, and on the work place, professionally. In the vast majority of cases, social networking platforms are still used without corporate blessing. However, several traditional information systems, such as CRMs and ERPs, have also been modified in order to include social aspects. This article shows the role of social capital in the participation in online social networking activities, in the various cases of Virtual Organizations, Virtual Teams, and online Networks of Practice. It describes the present situation, which is characterized by great promises and mixed initial results, and some possible prospects.
Interpretive Strategies for Screen-Based Creative Technologies
Authors: Petty Sheila , Benedicenti Luigi
Published: January 2016

This paper brings together the disciplines of media and creative technologies studies and software systems engineering; it focuses on the challenge of finding methodologies to measure, test and decode meaning in digital cultural objects. Just as rough set theory is a mathematical tool to deal with vagueness and uncertainty in artificial intelligence, and approximation accuracy and knowledge granularity are approaches to uncertainty research, the authors argue that découpage analytique is a possible method for decoding screen-based information. They draw on a variety of examples: interactive online digital art projects; an interactive, immersive screen-based art installation; re-mediated digital art installation; expanded cinema; a videogame; and a medical interface example, in order to determine if it is possible to map interpretive strategies that include a blending of old and new criteria, but ultimately promoting an equal partnership between artist and audience, and thus, a community of co-creators. Additionally, the authors present experimental evidence on the difference introduced by the screen size to further qualify the effectiveness of découpage analytique in relation to the amount of screen real estate afforded.
Applicability Domain for QSAR Models
Authors: Gadaleta Domenico , Mangiatordi Giuseppe Felice , Catto Marco , Carotti Angelo , Nicolotti Orazio
Published: January 2016

Quantitative Structure-Activity Relationships are widely acknowledged predictive methods employed, for years, in organic and medicinal chemistry. More recently, they have assumed a central role also in the context of the explorative toxicology for the protection of environment and human health. However, their real-life application has not been always enthusiastically welcomed, being often retrospectively used and, thus, of limited importance for prospective goals. The need of making more trustable predictions has thus addressed studies on the so-called Applicability Domain, which represents the chemical space from which a model is derived and where a prediction is considered to be reliable. In the present study, the authors survey a number of approaches used to build the Applicability Domain. In particular, they will focus on strategies based on: a) physico-chemical, b) structural and c) response domains. Moreover, some examples integrating different strategies will be also discussed to meet the needs of both model developers and downstream users.
Ten Years of the MIA-QSAR Strategy
Authors: Barigye Stephen Jones , Puggina de Freitas Matheus
Published: January 2016

It has been a decade since the introduction of the MIA-QSAR (acronym of Multivariate Image Analysis applied to Quantitative Structure Activity Relationship) method. While many successes have been achieved over the years, the path for the progressive development of this method has been far from straight; several hurdles have been encountered and corresponding solutions devised, some immediately and others gradually. This report offers a comprehensive treatise of the most relevant stages in the historical development of the MIA-QSAR strategy. New challenges and future prospects are also discussed.
Hybrid Clustering using Elitist Teaching Learning-Based Optimization
Authors: Kanungo D.P. , Nayak Janmenjoy , Naik Bighnaraj , Behera H.S.
Published: January 2016

Data clustering is a key field of research in the pattern recognition arena. Although clustering is an unsupervised learning technique, numerous efforts have been made in both hard and soft clustering. In hard clustering, K-means is the most popular method and is being used in diversified application areas. In this paper, an effort has been made with a recently developed population based metaheuristic called Elitist based teaching learning based optimization (ETLBO) for data clustering. The ETLBO has been hybridized with K-means algorithm (ETLBO-K-means) to get the optimal cluster centers and effective fitness values. The performance of the proposed method has been compared with other techniques by considering standard benchmark real life datasets as well as some synthetic datasets. Simulation and comparison results demonstrate the effectiveness and efficiency of the proposed method.
A Rough Set Theory Approach for Rule Generation and Validation Using RSES
Authors: Rana Hemant , Lal Manohar
Published: January 2016

Despite significant progress in e-learning technology over previous years, in view of huge sizes of data and databases, efficient knowledge extraction techniques are still required to make e-learning effective tool for delivery of learning. Rough set theory approach provides an effective technique for extraction of knowledge out of massive data. In order to provide effective support to learners, it is essential to know individual style of learning for each learner. For determining learning style of each learner, one is required to extract essentials of style of learning from a large number of parameters including academic background, profession, time available etc. In such scenario, rough theory proves a useful tool. In this paper, a rough set theory approach is proposed for determining learning styles of learners efficiently, so that based on the style, a learner may be provided learning support on the basis of requirement of the learner. These is achieved by eliminating redundant and ambiguous data and by generating reduct set, core set and rules from the given data. The results of this study are validated through RSES software by using same rough set analysis.
Information Systems on Hesitant Fuzzy Sets
Authors: D. Deepak , John Sunil Jacob
Published: January 2016

Knowledge extraction from information systems is one of the most significant problems in artificial intelligence. This paper attempts to study information systems in the hesitant fuzzy domain. It studies information systems which has a set of possible membership values. Illustration of a case is provided where the hesitant membership values are arrived at from attribute values whose membership values are a family of sets. The membership value here would turn out to be a subset of the power set of membership values from the usual information system. Although it does not mean that it is arrived at from usual information systems. Reduct, core, relative reduct, relative core and the corresponding indiscernibility matrices are also studied. Apart from these, paper also discusses the homomorphisms between hesitant information systems. For two homomorphic information systems the reduct and core of one information system are the corresponding images of the reduct and core of the other information system under this homomorphism.
Evaluation of the Challenges of Developing Secure Software Using the Agile Approach
Authors: Oueslati Hela , Rahman Mohammad Masudur , ben Othmane Lotfi , Ghani Imran , Arbain Adila Firdaus Bt
Published: January 2016

A set of challenges of developing secure software using the agile development approach and methods are reported in the literature. This paper reports about a systematic literature review to identify these challenges and evaluate the causes of each of these challenges, with respect to the agile values, the agile principles, and the security assurance practices. The authors identified in this study 20 challenges, which are reported in 28 publications. They found that 14 of these challenges are valid and 6 are neither caused by agile values and principles, nor by the security assurance practices. The authors also found that 2 of the valid challenges are related to the software development life-cycle, 4 are related to incremental development, 4 are related to security assurance, 2 are related to awareness and collaboration, and 2 are related to security management. These results justify the need for research to make developing secure software smooth.
Corporate Ethics and Corporate Social Responsibility in Reinforcing Consumers Bonding
Authors: Setiyaningrum Ari , Aryanto Vincent Didiek Wiet
Published: January 2016

Corporate ethics (CE) and corporate social responsibility (CSR) have been considered as the main determinants of companies' success as well as sustainability for company's viability. Both of them potentially affects on consumer buying behavior. This study aims at exploring the basic issue on CE and CSR. In addition, this study examines whether good corporate ethics and CSR engagement of companies always lead to positive consumer response in the context of controversial tobacco's company. Data collected by distributing questionnaires to the 318 respondents. By means of structural equation modeling (SEM) to examine the proposed model, it indicated that the more well-defined of corporate ethics lead to the better evaluation of CSR activities, the more well-defined of corporate ethics and the better evaluation of CSR activities lead to the good corporate reputation. In addition, the good corporate reputation leads to the higher corporate trust, and the higher corporate trust lead to the stronger consumers bonding.
From High Frequency Trading to Self-Organizing Moral Machines
Authors: van Lier Ben
Published: January 2016

Technology is responsible for major systemic changes within the global financial sector in general and particularly in the trade in financial products. The global financial sector has already developed into a comprehensive network of mutually connected people and computers that are constantly evaluating and approving millions of transactions. Algorithms play a crucial role within this global financial network. An algorithm is in essence merely a set of instructions developed by one or more people with the intention of having these instructions performed by a machine such as a computer, a software robot or a physical robot in order to realize an ideal result. As part of a development in which we as human beings have ever higher expectations of algorithms and these algorithms become ever more autonomous in their actions, we cannot avoid including possibilities in these algorithms that enable ethical or more considerations. To develop this ethical or moral consideration, we need a kind of ethical framework which can be used for developing algorithms. With the development of such a framework we can start to think about what we as human beings consider to be moral action by machines within the financial sector based on such a framework.
On Measuring Cloud-Based Push Services
Authors: Chen Wei , Zhou Shiwen , Tang Yajuan , Yu Le
Published: January 2016

The push services provide an incredibly efficient and reliable way of sending information to mobile device users. However, very little is known about how push service providers implement their services. This understanding is valuable as a guideline for building well-performing mobile applications. In this paper, the authors propose a methodology to assess push services and conduct the first systematic study on evaluating and comparing 4 popular push services (i.e., GCM, Gexin, JPush, and ZYPush).They dissect the protocols used by these services and discuss the implications. Moreover, they measure and compare their performances, including server distribution, message delay, heartbeat frequency, data compression and traffic consumption. The experimental results show that GCM outperforms others and JPush is one of the best providers in China. The authors' methodology and results are useful as both benchmark and guideline for mobile applications development.
A Novel Freeway Traffic Speed Estimation Model with Massive Cellular Signaling Data
Authors: Zhu Tongyu , Song Zhixin , Wu Dongdong , Yu Jianjun
Published: January 2016

With the growing popularity of cell phones, using massive cellular signaling data as probe to track the vehicles movement trajectory and obtain the real-time traffic condition has become one of the most attractive candidate techniques. However, traditional approaches may offer a poor performance in removing noisy data and minimizing deviation of traffic speed in adjacent time intervals. In this paper, a novel approach is proposed to solve these two issues. The authors move noisy data by comparing the cellular signaling data with the trained data set, and adopt a modified Kalman filter algorithm to minimize the deviations. The experiment results show that the accuracy of the approach performs better in comparison to other two traffic speed estimation approaches.
Effects of CdS-TiO2 Working Electrode Layer on Dye Sensitized Solar Cell Investigated by Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Prachopchok Prathan , Potisart Janesuk , Photiphitak Chanu , Tippo Tossapol
Published: January 2016

The efficiency of dye-sensitized solar cell (DSSC) has been improved by various ways. In this work, The CdS nanoparticles were added in the TiO2 working electrode for improving the efficiency of DSSC. The DSSC structure comprises of TiO2 working electrode with and without CdS powder, Pt counter electrode, rutherium (II) (N719) dye and lithium iodide electrolyte. Normally, the TiO2 paste was screened for five layers. In this work, the TiO2 paste with CdS nanoparticles was screened for various numbers of layers on the layers of pure TiO2 to get the total of five layers. Then TiO2 mixed and unmixed CdS nanoparticles and Pt films were annealed at the temperature of 500°C for 50 min. Impedance spectroscopy (IS) was used to study charge transport in each interface of DSSC. For illumination condition, the measured IS can be divided into three regions that were charge transport at Pt layer, charge transport at working electrode/dye/electrolyte interface and ion contribution at electrolyte layer. The carrier transport parameters extracted from fitting IS spectra were chemical capacitance, charge transfer resistance and time constant.
Fabrication of Zinc Oxide Nanorods for Photoelectrochemical Water Splitting Application
Authors: Phetban Poosuda , Khemasiri Narathon , Kalasung Sukon , Jessadaluk Sukukittaya , Horprathum Mati , Eiamchai Pitak , Pornthreeraphat Supanit , Phromyothin Darinee
Published: January 2016

Abstract. Zinc oxide nanorods (ZnO-NRs) as a photoelectrochemical water splitting electrode have been fabricated by the seed-assisted hydrothermal process. Initially, ZnO-seed thin film was deposited on indium doped tin oxide (ITO) via DC magnetron sputtering system. Period to fabricate ZnO-NRs, the precursor concentration of zinc nitrate (Zn(NO3)2) and hexamethylenetetramine (HMTA) were precisely controlled during 10 – 50 mM, meanwhile the ratio was constantly kept at 1:1. The crystallography and surface morphology of the fabricated ZnO-NRs were investigated by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and field emission scanning electron microscope (FE-SEM). The XRD patterns perform wurtzite ZnO crystal structure of with the prefered orientation in (002) and (101) plane. According to FE-SEM photograph, growth rate, density and diameter of the fabricated ZnO-NRs electrode significantly increase, with the increasing of the precursor concentration. This precursor concentration provides a crucial role on the feature of ZnO-NRs for photoelectrochemical water splitting electrode. Finally, the photoelectrochemical water splitting performance was examined and provided that the precursor concentration became close to 30 mM in 1 M Na2SO4 exhibited the highest photocurrent.
Density Functional Theory (DFT) Study: Electronic Properties of Silicene under Uniaxial Strain as H2S Gas Sensor
Authors: Wella Sasfan Arman , Aditya Irfan Dwi , Wungu Triati Dewi Kencana , Suprijadi
Published: January 2016

First principle calculation is performed to investigate structural and electronic properties of strained silicene (silicon analogue of graphene) when absorbing the hydrogen sulfide molecule gas. Two configuration of silicene-H2S system, center and hollow configuration, is checked under 0% (pure), 5%, and 10% uniaxial engineering strain. We report that the silicene-H2S system in center configuration has larger binding energy compare to the silicene-H2S system in hollow configuration. The results show that H2S is physisorbed on silicene. In this work, we also find the change of band gap energy (~60 meV) is appearing when H2S interacted with silicene in center configuration, whereas the band gap energy of silicene has no change when interacted with H2S in hollow configuration.
Synthesis and Characterization of MgO by Microwave-Assisted Thermal Oxidation for Dye-Sensitized Solar Cells
Authors: Nilphai Sanpet , Thepnurat Meechai , Hongsith Niyom , Ruankham Pipat , Phadungdhitidhada Surachet , Gardchareon Atcharawan , Wongratanaphisan Duangmanee , Choopun Supab
Published: January 2016

Magnesium oxide (MgO) nanostructures were synthesized by microwave-assisted thermal oxidation at various amount of activated carbon additive. The MgO nanostructures were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffractrometry (XRD) and UV-Visible spectroscopy, respectivly. It was observed that, the obtained MgO have nanocube shape. The MgO nanostructures were applied as a blocking layer in ZnO dye-sensitized solar cells (DSSC). The photovoltage, photocurrent, and power conversion efficiency characteristics of DSSCs were measured under illumination of simulated sunlight obtained from a solar simulator with the radiant power of 100 mW/cm2. The DSSCs with MgO layer exhibited higher current density, open circuit voltage and photoconversion efficiency than those without MgO layer The optimum power conversion efficiency (PCE) was 2.49 % with short circuit current (Jsc) of 6.61 mA/cm2, the open circuit voltage (Voc) of 0.66 V and the fill factor (FF) of 0.59, respectively.
Characterization of Cellulose/Calcium Carbonate Biocomposite Film
Authors: Siriprom Wichian , Witit-Anun Nirun , Choeysuppaket Auttapol , Ratana T.
Published: January 2016

In this study were to explore the properties of interaction between cellulose and calcium carbonate particle (CaCO3) which derive from Papia Undulates Shell in procedure of biocomposite synthesis. The structural properties of cellulose powder Papia Undulates Shell and cellulose-calcium carbonate composite film were investigated by using X-ray Diffraction (XRD) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and the compositions of cellulose/CaCO3 biocomposite film were studied by Energy Dispersive X-ray Fluorescence (EDXRF). The experimental results demonstrated the morphology of Papia Undulates Shell were crystalline aragonite phase and the cellulose have structural as amorphous-crystalline but after film forming the composite film between cellulose and Papia Undulates Shell also have amorphous structural. The result of FTIR used to confirmed the formation of bonding between molecular, it indicated that the cellulose/CacO3 biocomposite film had good biocompatibility due to the biocomposite film have both characteristic feature of CO3-2 group (~874 cm-1 and ~713 cm-1) and the glucose of cellulose at ~1635, ~1064 and ~946 cm-1. Another that, the result from EDXRF shown the chemical composition of organic compound of cellulose/CaCO3 biocomposite film was highest with 99.437 while the Papia Undulates Shell have 0.341 Wt% with corresponding with the ratio of filler material which mixture as 1%. So that, the cellulose/calcium carbonate bicomposite film could be candidate for biocomposite film application.
Effect of Annealing Temperature on Electrochromic Properties of Tantalum Oxide Thin Films Deposited by DC Reactive Magnetron
Authors: Kongsriprapan Sopanat , Teanchai Kanyakorn , Horprathum Mati , Chananonnawathorn Chanunthorn , Eiamchai Pitak , Siriprom Wichian
Published: January 2016

The effect of annealing temperature on the electrochromic properties of the tantalum oxide (TaO) thin films deposited on silicon wafer (100) and indium tin oxide (ITO) substrates by dc reactive magnetron sputtering was investigated. The films were annealed at 300, 400 and 500 °C in vacuum for 2 hour. The crystalline structure, morphology, optical properties and electrochromic properties of as-deposited and annealed film were deduced by X-ray diffraction (XRD), field emission scanning electron microscopy (FESEM), spectroscopic ellipsometry and ultraviolet–visible (UV–vis) spectrophotometery, respectively. The reflective index of TaO thin films increased with increasing annealing temperature. The result indicated that the annealed TaO thin film showed better performance than the as-deposited film.
Effect of Annealing Temperature on Structural and Optical Properties of Cobalt Oxide Thin Films Prepared by Electrostatic Spray Deposition Technique
Authors: Chansaengsri Kasidid , Onlaor Korakot , Thiwawong Thutiyaporn , Tunhoo Benchapol
Published: January 2016

In this work, cobalt oxide thin films were prepared by electrostatic spray deposition (ESD) technique on glass substrate. The influence of the annealing temperature on properties of cobalt oxide film was investigated. The structural, optical and morphology of cobalt oxide thin films were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), Raman spectroscopy, UV-Visible spectrophotometer, scanning electron microscope, respectively. The crystalline parameters such as crystalline size of films can be obtained from XRD spectra. Phase transformation due to the different annealing temperature in cobalt oxide film has been observed. Moreover, at the higher annealing temperature, the optical band gap in cobalt oxide films were shifted to lower value due to the change in crystalline size and the defect sites in films.
Influence of Substrate Temperature on Deposition Rate and Optical Properties of Aluminum Oxide Thin Films Prepared by Reactive DC Sputtering Technique
Authors: Hom-On Chatpawee , Horprathum Mati , Eiamchai Pitak , Limwichean Sakson , Patthanasetakul Viyapol , Nuntawong Noppadon , Chananonnawathorn Chanunthorn , Triroj Napat , Jaroenapibal Papot
Published: January 2016

Aluminum oxide films were grown on (100) silicon wafers and glass substrates by pulsed dc reactive magnetron sputtering deposition. In this experiment, substrate temperatures were varied from room temperature to 500°C. Grazing-incidence X-ray diffraction (GIXRD) analysis revealed that the resulting films have amorphous structures. Field-emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM) was used to characterize the morphology of the films. The films’ optical properties were determined by UV-Vis spectroscopy. The results demonstrated that the deposition rate, the surface roughness and the transmittance spectra of the aluminum oxide films were strongly influenced by the substrate temperature. The deposition rate and the surface roughness of the films were higher at higher substrate temperatures. In the range between 100°C and 200°C, the transmittance spectra were found to be lower than those of the films deposited at other substrate temperatures. This was due to the sub-aluminum oxide condition in the films. The dependence of films’ optical properties on the substrate temperature might result from the change in chemical compositions during the sputtering process.
Investigated Microstructure of Al2O3/13wt%MgO Nanocomposite Coating Prepared by Plasma-Sprayed Technique
Authors: Dejang Nuchjira , Jiansirisomboon Sukanda
Published: January 2016

The MgO nanowire growth on Al2O3 lamellae has been placed on plasma-sprayed process. The chemical compositions of nanocomposite powders were appeared α-Al2O3 and cubic-MgO phases. After deposited by plasma sprayed coating, the chemical composition has presented major of γ-Al2O3, minor of α-Al2O3 and cubic-MgO phases. The microstructure of Al2O3/13wt%MgO coating was exhibited high density and good distribution of MgO lamellae with thickness in range 241 μm. The MgO nanowire had dispersion that width diameter in range of ~96.5 nm and average of length 884.9 nm, on the Al2O3 lamellae. The result of nanostructure MgO nanowire generation could be explained that the MgO clusters have been depressed on the Al2O3 lamella at the low temperature zone, then deposited and nucleated in during plasma-sprayed. It was found that the new phase of spinel Al2MgO4 form interaction between Al2O3 and MgO. The average porosity of ∼14% was observed in Al2O3/13wt%MgO nanocomposite coating.
The Comparative Study of Y123 and Y13-20-33 Superconductors Synthesized by Melt Process
Authors: Chantrapakajee Sutee , Chainok Piyamas , Sujinnapram Supphadate , Khuntak Thanarat , Nilkamjon Tunyanop , Ratreng Sermsuk , Udomsamuthirun Pongkaew
Published: January 2016

Abstract. In this research, we synthesized and investigate the physical properties of YBaCuO superconductor; Y123 and Y13-20-30. The melt process was used for heat treatment of our samples. We found that the critical temperature onset of Y13-20-33 and Y123 were at 90 K and 94 K, respectively. The morphology of Y123 superconductor has flat surface and more clear grain boundary than Y13-20-33 superconductor. However, more melted of grain boundary were found on Y13-20-33. Both samples were the orthorhombic crystal structure that c/a ratio of Y13-20-33 was higher than of Y123 superconductor.
Effect of CoO Addition on the Optical and Physical Properties of Silicoborate Glasses
Authors: Siriprom Wichian , Teanchai Kanyakorn , Srisittipokakun Nattapon , Kaewkhao Jakrapong
Published: January 2016

In this work, effects of CoO on silicoborate glasses have been investigated. Glasses were prepared in formula (53-x)B2O3:11SiO2:32SrO:1Bi2O3:1TiO2: xCoO (where x is 0.00, 0.01, 0.02, 0.03, 0.04 and 0.05 mol%). The results show that, the density and refractive index were increased with increasing of CoO concentration. The optical absorption spectra were measured by UV-Visible Spectrophotometer and show peaks correspond with Co2+ in glass matrices at a wavelength of around 511 584 and 649 nm for all glass samples.
Effect of Mixed Mn-Co Ions in Soda Lime Silicate Glasses
Authors: Srisittipokakun Nattapon , Kaewkhao Jakrapong
Published: January 2016

Physical and optical properties of mixed Mn-Co ions in soda lime silicate glasses were measured and calculated. The results show that, the densities increased with the increasing of CoO content. This indicates that increasing the molecular weight of oxide ions used in the glass was due to the replacing SiO2 by CoO. The refractive indices were increased with increasing of CoO concentration. The absorption peaks of CoO doped glasses occurred at the wavelength around 511, 584 and 649 nm which are assigned to 4A2(F) ® 2A1(G), 4A2(F) ® 4T1(P) and 4A2(F) ® 2E(G) transition, respectively.