bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Particle Filter Track-Before-Detect Algorithm Based on Hybrid Differential Evolution
Authors: Zhang Chaozhu , Li Lin , Wang Yu
Published: November 2015

In this paper, we address the problem of detecting and tracking targets with a low signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) by exploiting hybrid differential evolution (HDE) in the particle filter track-before-detect (PF-TBD) context. Firstly, we introduce the Bayesian PF-TBD method and its weaknesses. Secondly, the HDE algorithm is regarded as a novel particle updating strategy, which is proposed to optimize the performance of the PF-TBD algorithm. Thirdly, we combine the systematic resampling approach to enhance the performance of the proposed algorithm. Then, an improved PF-TBD algorithm based on the HDE method is proposed. Experiment results indicate that the proposed method has better performance in detecting and tracking than previous algorithms when the targets have a low SNR.
Some Matrix Iterations for Computing Generalized Inverses and Balancing Chemical Equations
Authors: Soleimani Farahnaz , Stanimirovi´c Predrag , Soleymani Fazlollah
Published: November 2015

An application of iterative methods for computing the Moore–Penrose inverse in balancing chemical equations is considered. With the aim to illustrate proposed algorithms, an improved high order hyper-power matrix iterative method for computing generalized inverses is introduced and applied. The improvements of the hyper-power iterative scheme are based on its proper factorization, as well as on the possibility to accelerate the iterations in the initial phase of the convergence. Although the effectiveness of our approach is confirmed on the basis of the theoretical point of view, some numerical comparisons in balancing chemical equations, as well as on randomly-generated matrices are furnished.
Effects of Biochar Blends on Microbial Community Composition in Two Coastal Plain Soils
Authors: Ducey Thomas , Novak Jeffrey , Johnson Mark
Published: November 2015

The amendment of soil with biochar has been demonstrated to have an effect not only on the soil physicochemical properties, but also on soil microbial community composition and activity. Previous reports have demonstrated significant impacts on soil microbial community structure. These impacts are modulated not only by the biochar composition, but also on the soil’s physicochemical characteristics. This indicates that soil characteristics must be considered prior to biochar amendment. A significant portion of the soils of the southeastern coastal plain are severely degraded and, therefore, candidates for biochar amendment to strengthen soil fertility. In this study we focused on two common soil series in the southeastern coastal plain, utilizing feedstocks endemic to the area. We chose feedstocks in four ratios (100% pine chip; 80:20 mixture of pine chip to poultry litter; 50:50 mixture of pine chip to poultry litter; 100% poultry litter) prior to pyrolysis and soil amendment as a biochar product. Soil was analyzed for bioavailable nutrients via Mehlich-1 extractions, as well as microbial community composition using phospholipid fatty acid analysis (PLFA). Our results demonstrated significant shifts in microbial community composition in response to biochar amendment, the effects of which were greatest with 100% poultry litter biochar. Strong relationships between PLFAs and several Mehlich-1 extractable nutrients (Al, Cu, Fe, and P) were observed.
Statistical Selection of the Optimum Models in the CMIP5 Dataset for Climate Change Projections of Indian Monsoon Rainfall
Authors: Jena Pravat , Azad Sarita , Rajeevan Madhavan
Published: November 2015

Monsoons are the life and soul of India’s financial aspects, especially that of agribusiness in deciding cropping patterns. Around 80% of the yearly precipitation occurs from June to September amid monsoon season across India. Thus, its seasonal mean precipitation is crucial for agriculture and the national water supply. From the start of the 19th century, several studies have been conducted on the possible increments in Indian summer monsoon precipitation in the future. Unfortunately, none of them has endeavoured to discover the models whose yield give the best fit to the observed data. Here some statistical tests are performed to quantify the models of Coupled Model Inter-comparison Project 5 (CMIP5). Then, after, the Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) method is used to select optimum models. It shows that four models, CCSM4, CESM1-CAM5, GFDL-CM3, and GFDL-ESM2G, best capture the pattern in Indian summer monsoon rainfall over the historical period (1871–2005). Further, Student’s t-test is utilized to estimate the significant changes in meteorological subdivisions of selected optimum models. Also, our results reveal the Indian meteorological subdivisions which are liable to encounter significant changes in mean at confidence levels that differ from 80% to 99%.
SSR Markers for Trichoderma virens: Their Evaluation and Application to Identify and Quantify Root-Endophytic Strains
Authors: Geistlinger Joerg , Zwanzig Jessica , Heckendorff Sophie , Schellenberg Ingo
Published: November 2015

Using biological fertilizers and pesticides based on beneficial soil microbes in order to reduce mineral fertilizers and chemical pesticides in conventional agriculture is still a matter of debate. In this regard, a European research project seeks to elucidate the role of root-endophytic fungi and to develop molecular tools to trace and quantify these fungi in the rhizosphere and root tissue. To do this, the draft genome sequence of the biocontrol fungus Trichoderma virens (T. virens) was screened for simple sequence repeats (SSRs) and primers were developed for 12 distinct loci. Primers were evaluated using a global collection of ten isolates where an average of 7.42 alleles per locus was detected. Nei’s standard genetic distance ranged from 0.18 to 0.27 among the isolates, and the grand mean of haploid diversity in AMOVA analysis was 0.693 ± 0.019. Roots of tomato plants were inoculated with different strains and harvested six weeks later. Subsequent PCR amplification identified root-endophytic strains and co-colonization of roots by different strains. Markers were applied to qPCR to quantify T. virens strains in root tissue and to determine their identity using allele-specific melting curve analysis. Thus, the root-endophytic lifestyle of T. virens was confirmed, strains in roots were quantified and simultaneous colonization of roots by different strains was observed.
Fuzzy Sliding Mode Observer with Grey Prediction for the Estimation of the State-of-Charge of a Lithium-Ion Battery
Authors: Kim Daehyun , Goh Taedong , Park Minjun , Kim Sang
Published: November 2015

We propose a state-of-charge (SOC) estimation method for Li-ion batteries that combines a fuzzy sliding mode observer (FSMO) with grey prediction. Unlike the existing methods based on a conventional first-order sliding mode observer (SMO) and an adaptive gain SMO, the proposed method eliminates chattering in SOC estimation. In this method, which uses a fuzzy inference system, the gains of the SMO are adjusted according to the predicted future error and present estimation error of the terminal voltage. To forecast the future error value, a one-step-ahead terminal voltage prediction is obtained using a grey predictor. The proposed estimation method is validated through two types of discharge tests (a pulse discharge test and a random discharge test). The SOC estimation results are compared to the results of the conventional first-order SMO-based and the adaptive gain SMO-based methods. The experimental results show that the proposed method not only reduces chattering, but also improves estimation accuracy.
A Smart Shirt Made with Conductive Ink and Conductive Foam for the Measurement of Electrocardiogram Signals with Unipolar Precordial Leads
Authors: Tada Yasunori , Amano Yusaku , Sato Tomonobu , Saito Shigeru , Inoue Masahiro
Published: November 2015

The Holter monitor is used to measure an electrocardiogram (ECG) signal while a subject moves. However, the Holter monitor is uncomfortable for the subject. Another method of measuring the ECG signal uses a smart shirt. We developed a smart shirt that has six electrodes on the chest and can measure a detailed ECG, obtained with unipolar precordial leads. The electrodes and wires of the shirt are made of conductive ink that is flexible and stretchable. The smart shirt is stretchable and fits the body well. However, because of the gap between the smart shirt and the body, electrodes V1 and V2 do not touch the body consistently. We developed a conductive foam block that fills this gap. We investigated the characteristics of the conductive foam block, and measured ECG signals using the smart shirt. The electrical resistance of the conductive foam block was reduced by pressure. This characteristic could be utilized to measure the ECG signal because the block was pressed by the body and smart shirt. We could measure the ECG signal using the smart shirt and blocks while the subject walked and could detect peaks of the ECG signal while the subject jogged slowly.
Health-Related Quality of Life of Former Lead Workers in Brazil
Authors: Teixeira Martha , Carvalho Fernando , Lins Liliane
Published: November 2015

Little is known about the health-related quality of life of former lead workers. Using the Short-Form 36 Questionnaire (SF-36), a cross-section design study evaluated the health-related quality of life of 186 former workers of a lead smelter that operated in Santo Amaro da Purificação, Brazil, from 1960 to 1993, when it closed down. The smelter had very poor occupational and environmental hygiene standards. The health-related quality of life of former lead workers was low, compared to population-based and other nosological groups from Brazil. Former lead workers who indicated metal poisoning, difficulty getting another job and who could not get another job after dismissal by the smelter presented poorer health-related quality of life. Former lead workers with poor health-related quality of life form part of the huge occupational liability left by the Santo Amaro lead smelter.
Trade-Off and Synergy among Ecosystem Services in the Guanzhong-Tianshui Economic Region of China
Authors: Qin Keyu , Li Jing , Yang Xiaonan
Published: November 2015

Natural ecosystems provide society with important goods and services. With rapidly increasing populations and excessive utilization of natural resources, humans have been enhancing the production of some services at the expense of others. Although the need for certain trade-offs between conservation and development is urgent, having only a small number of efficient methods to assess such trade-offs has impeded progress. This study focuses on the evaluation of ecosystem services under different land use schemes. It reveals the spatial and temporal distributions of and changes in ecosystem services. Based on a correlation rate model and distribution mapping, the trade-offs and synergies of these ecosystem services can be found. Here, we also describe a new simple approach to quantify the relationships of every trade-off and synergy. The results show that all ecosystem services possess trade-offs and synergies in the study area. The trend of improving carbon sequestration and water interception indicate that these key ecosystem services have the strongest synergy. And the decrease in regional agricultural production and other services, except water yield, may be considered as trade-offs. The synergy between water yield and agricultural production was the most significant, while the trade-off between water interception and carbon sequestration was the most apparent, according to our interaction quantification model. The results of this study have implications for planning and monitoring the future management of natural capital and ecosystem services, and can be integrated into land use decision-making.
Notch Cooperates with Survivin to Maintain Stemness and to Stimulate Proliferation in Human Keratinocytes during Ageing
Authors: Palazzo Elisabetta , Morandi Paolo , Lotti Roberta , Saltari Annalisa , Truzzi Francesca , Schnebert Sylvianne , Dumas Marc , Marconi Alessandra , Pincelli Carlo
Published: November 2015

The Notch signaling pathway orchestrates cell fate by either inducing cell differentiation or maintaining cells in an undifferentiated state. This study aims to evaluate Notch expression and function in normal human keratinocytes. Notch1 is expressed in all epidermal layers, though to a different degree of intensity, with a dramatic decrease during ageing. Notch1 intracellular domain (N1ICD) levels are decreased during transit from keratinocyte stem cells (KSC) to transit amplifying (TA) cells, mimicking survivin expression in samples from donors of all ages. Calcium markedly reduces N1ICD levels in keratinocytes. N1ICD overexpression induces the up-regulation of survivin and the down-regulation of keratin 10 and involucrin, while increasing the S phase of the cell cycle. On the other hand, Notch1 inhibition (DAPT) dose-dependently decreases survivin, stimulates differentiation, and reduces keratinocyte proliferation in samples from donors of all ages. Silencing Notch downgrades survivin and increases keratin 10. In addition, Notch1 inhibition decreases survivin levels and proliferation both in KSC and TA cells. Finally, while survivin overexpression decreases keratinocyte differentiation and increases N1ICD expression both in KSC and TA cells, silencing survivin results in N1ICD down-regulation and an increase in differentiation markers. These results suggest that the Notch1/survivin crosstalk contributes to the maintenance of stemness in human keratinocytes.
Construction of the High-Density Genetic Linkage Map and Chromosome Map of Large Yellow Croaker (Larimichthys crocea)
Authors: Ao Jingqun , Li Jia , You Xinxin , Mu Yinnan , Ding Yang , Mao Kaiqiong , Bian Chao , Mu Pengfei , Shi Qiong , Chen Xinhua
Published: November 2015

High-density genetic maps are essential for genome assembly, comparative genomic analysis and fine mapping of complex traits. In this study, 31,191 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) evenly distributed across the large yellow croaker (Larimichthys crocea) genome were identified using restriction-site associated DNA sequencing (RAD-seq). Among them, 10,150 high-confidence SNPs were assigned to 24 consensus linkage groups (LGs). The total length of the genetic linkage map was 5451.3 cM with an average distance of 0.54 cM between loci. This represents the densest genetic map currently reported for large yellow croaker. Using 2889 SNPs to target specific scaffolds, we assigned 533 scaffolds, comprising 421.44 Mb (62.04%) of the large yellow croaker assembled sequence, to the 24 linkage groups. The mapped assembly scaffolds in large yellow croaker were used for genome synteny analyses against the stickleback (Gasterosteus aculeatus) and medaka (Oryzias latipes). Greater synteny was observed between large yellow croaker and stickleback. This supports the hypothesis that large yellow croaker is more closely related to stickleback than to medaka. Moreover, 1274 immunity-related genes and 195 hypoxia-related genes were mapped to the 24 chromosomes of large yellow croaker. The integration of the high-resolution genetic map and the assembled sequence provides a valuable resource for fine mapping and positional cloning of quantitative trait loci associated with economically important traits in large yellow croaker.
Computational Prediction of RNA-Binding Proteins and Binding Sites
Authors: Si Jingna , Cui Jing , Cheng Jin , Wu Rongling
Published: November 2015

Proteins and RNA interaction have vital roles in many cellular processes such as protein synthesis, sequence encoding, RNA transfer, and gene regulation at the transcriptional and post-transcriptional levels. Approximately 6%–8% of all proteins are RNA-binding proteins (RBPs). Distinguishing these RBPs or their binding residues is a major aim of structural biology. Previously, a number of experimental methods were developed for the determination of protein–RNA interactions. However, these experimental methods are expensive, time-consuming, and labor-intensive. Alternatively, researchers have developed many computational approaches to predict RBPs and protein–RNA binding sites, by combining various machine learning methods and abundant sequence and/or structural features. There are three kinds of computational approaches, which are prediction from protein sequence, prediction from protein structure, and protein-RNA docking. In this paper, we review all existing studies of predictions of RNA-binding sites and RBPs and complexes, including data sets used in different approaches, sequence and structural features used in several predictors, prediction method classifications, performance comparisons, evaluation methods, and future directions.
Genotoxicity of Superparamagnetic Iron Oxide Nanoparticles in Granulosa Cells
Authors: Pöttler Marina , Staicu Andreas , Zaloga Jan , Unterweger Harald , Weigel Bianca , Schreiber Eveline , Hofmann Simone , Wiest Irmi , Jeschke Udo , Alexiou Christoph , Janko Christina
Published: November 2015

Nanoparticles that are aimed at targeting cancer cells, but sparing healthy tissue provide an attractive platform of implementation for hyperthermia or as carriers of chemotherapeutics. According to the literature, diverse effects of nanoparticles relating to mammalian reproductive tissue are described. To address the impact of nanoparticles on cyto- and genotoxicity concerning the reproductive system, we examined the effect of superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs) on granulosa cells, which are very important for ovarian function and female fertility. Human granulosa cells (HLG-5) were treated with SPIONs, either coated with lauric acid (SEONLA) only, or additionally with a protein corona of bovine serum albumin (BSA; SEONLA-BSA), or with dextran (SEONDEX). Both micronuclei testing and the detection of γH2A.X revealed no genotoxic effects of SEONLA-BSA, SEONDEX or SEONLA. Thus, it was demonstrated that different coatings of SPIONs improve biocompatibility, especially in terms of genotoxicity towards cells of the reproductive system.
Potassium Sodium Niobate-Based Lead-Free Piezoelectric Multilayer Ceramics Co-Fired with Nickel Electrodes
Authors: Kawada Shinichiro , Hayashi Hiroyuki , Ishii Hideki , Kimura Masahiko , Ando Akira , Omiya Suetake , Kubodera  Noriyuki
Published: November 2015

Although lead-free piezoelectric ceramics have been extensively studied, many problems must still be overcome before they are suitable for practical use. One of the main problems is fabricating a multilayer structure, and one solution attracting growing interest is the use of lead-free multilayer piezoelectric ceramics. The paper reviews work that has been done by the authors on lead-free alkali niobate-based multilayer piezoelectric ceramics co-fired with nickel inner electrodes. Nickel inner electrodes have many advantages, such as high electromigration resistance, high interfacial strength with ceramics, and greater cost effectiveness than silver palladium inner electrodes. However, widely used lead zirconate titanate-based ceramics cannot be co-fired with nickel inner electrodes, and silver palladium inner electrodes are usually used for lead zirconate titanate-based piezoelectric ceramics. A possible alternative is lead-free ceramics co-fired with nickel inner electrodes. We have thus been developing lead-free alkali niobate-based multilayer ceramics co-fired with nickel inner electrodes. The normalized electric-field-induced thickness strain (Smax/Emax) of a representative alkali niobate-based multilayer ceramic structure with nickel inner electrodes was 360 pm/V, where Smax denotes the maximum strain and Emax denotes the maximum electric field. This value is about half that for the lead zirconate titanate-based ceramics that are widely used. However, a comparable value can be obtained by stacking more ceramic layers with smaller thicknesses. In the paper, the compositional design and process used to co-fire lead-free ceramics with nickel inner electrodes are introduced, and their piezoelectric properties and reliabilities are shown. Recent advances are introduced, and future development is discussed.
Effects of Annealing Temperature on Properties of Ti-Ga–Doped ZnO Films Deposited on Flexible Substrates
Authors: Chen Tao-Hsing , Chen Ting-You
Published: November 2015

An investigation is performed into the optical, electrical, and microstructural properties of Ti-Ga–doped ZnO films deposited on polyimide (PI) flexible substrates and then annealed at temperatures of 300 °C, 400 °C, and 450 °C, respectively. The X-ray diffraction (XRD) analysis results show that all of the films have a strong (002) Ga doped ZnO (GZO) preferential orientation. As the annealing temperature is increased to 400 °C, the optical transmittance increases and the electrical resistivity decreases. However, as the temperature is further increased to 450 °C, the transmittance reduces and the resistivity increases due to a carbonization of the PI substrate. Finally, the crystallinity of the ZnO film improves with an increasing annealing temperature only up to 400 °C and is accompanied by a smaller crystallite size and a lower surface roughness.
Determination of the Mineral Composition and Toxic Element Contents of Propolis by Near Infrared Spectroscopy
Authors: González-Martín M. , Escuredo Olga , Revilla Isabel , Vivar-Quintana Ana , Coello M. , Riocerezo Carlos , Moncada Guillermo
Published: November 2015

The potential of near infrared spectroscopy (NIR) with remote reflectance fiber-optic probes for determining the mineral composition of propolis was evaluated. This technology allows direct measurements without prior sample treatment. Ninety one samples of propolis were collected in Chile (Bio-Bio region) and Spain (Castilla-León and Galicia regions). The minerals measured were aluminum, calcium, iron, potassium, magnesium, phosphorus, and some potentially toxic trace elements such as zinc, chromium, nickel, copper and lead. The modified partial least squares (MPLS) regression method was used to develop the NIR calibration model. The determination coefficient (R2) and root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) obtained for aluminum (0.79, 53), calcium (0.83, 94), iron (0.69, 134) potassium (0.95, 117), magnesium (0.70, 99), phosphorus (0.94, 24) zinc (0.87, 10) chromium (0.48, 0.6) nickel (0.52, 0.7) copper (0.64, 0.9) and lead (0.70, 2) in ppm. The results demonstrated that the capacity for prediction can be considered good for wide ranges of potassium, phosphorus and zinc concentrations, and acceptable for aluminum, calcium, magnesium, iron and lead. This indicated that the NIR method is comparable to chemical methods. The method is of interest in the rapid prediction of potentially toxic elements in propolis before consumption.
A Novel Characteristic Frequency Bands Extraction Method for Automatic Bearing Fault Diagnosis Based on Hilbert Huang Transform
Authors: Yu Xiao , Ding Enjie , Chen Chunxu , Liu Xiaoming , Li Li
Published: November 2015

Because roller element bearings (REBs) failures cause unexpected machinery breakdowns, their fault diagnosis has attracted considerable research attention. Established fault feature extraction methods focus on statistical characteristics of the vibration signal, which is an approach that loses sight of the continuous waveform features. Considering this weakness, this article proposes a novel feature extraction method for frequency bands, named Window Marginal Spectrum Clustering (WMSC) to select salient features from the marginal spectrum of vibration signals by Hilbert–Huang Transform (HHT). In WMSC, a sliding window is used to divide an entire HHT marginal spectrum (HMS) into window spectrums, following which Rand Index (RI) criterion of clustering method is used to evaluate each window. The windows returning higher RI values are selected to construct characteristic frequency bands (CFBs). Next, a hybrid REBs fault diagnosis is constructed, termed by its elements, HHT-WMSC-SVM (support vector machines). The effectiveness of HHT-WMSC-SVM is validated by running series of experiments on REBs defect datasets from the Bearing Data Center of Case Western Reserve University (CWRU). The said test results evidence three major advantages of the novel method. First, the fault classification accuracy of the HHT-WMSC-SVM model is higher than that of HHT-SVM and ST-SVM, which is a method that combines statistical characteristics with SVM. Second, with Gauss white noise added to the original REBs defect dataset, the HHT-WMSC-SVM model maintains high classification accuracy, while the classification accuracy of ST-SVM and HHT-SVM models are significantly reduced. Third, fault classification accuracy by HHT-WMSC-SVM can exceed 95% under a Pmin range of 500–800 and a m range of 50–300 for REBs defect dataset, adding Gauss white noise at Signal Noise Ratio (SNR) = 5. Experimental results indicate that the proposed WMSC method yields a high REBs fault classification accuracy and a good performance in Gauss white noise reduction.
High Resolution Viscosity Measurement by Thermal Noise Detection
Authors: Aguilar Sandoval Felipe , Sepúlveda Manuel , Bellon Ludovic , Melo Francisco
Published: November 2015

An interferometric method is implemented in order to accurately assess the thermal fluctuations of a micro-cantilever sensor in liquid environments. The power spectrum density (PSD) of thermal fluctuations together with Sader’s model of the cantilever allow for the indirect measurement of the liquid viscosity with good accuracy. The good quality of the deflection signal and the characteristic low noise of the instrument allow for the detection and corrections of drawbacks due to both the cantilever shape irregularities and the uncertainties on the position of the laser spot at the fluctuating end of the cantilever. Variation of viscosity below 0.03 mPa·s was detected with the alternative to achieve measurements with a volume as low as 50 µL.
A Study on Soil and Groundwater Pollution Remediation of the Surrounding Real Estate Prices and Tax Revenue Impact
Authors: Li Chia-Nung , Lo Chien-Wen , Su Wei-Chiang , Lai Tsung-Yu
Published: November 2015

To see whether the surrounding real estate price after soil and groundwater pollution remediation will revert to the level before the risk of implicit pollution, this paper uses research methods, such as the hedonic price method and contingent valuation method for analysis. The results of empirical analysis reveal that the hedonic price method will be restricted by trade cases around pollution sites. In view of this, it proposes using the contingent valuation method and consumers’ viewpoints for the analysis. Empirical results show that after pollution remediation the respondents are willing to pay an average of $1168 per square meter, which is slightly higher than the current price of $1059 per square meter with an increase of about 10%. Therefore, prices will recover after remediation at least to the level of the surrounding area.
Sustainability Indicators of Iran’s Developmental Plans: Application of the Sustainability Compass Theory
Authors: Mahdei Karim , Pouya Mehrdad , Taheri Fatemeh , Azadi Hossein , Van Passel Steven
Published: November 2015

The main purpose of this study was to analyze Iran’s developmental plans in order to examine and compare their direction and conformity with the sustainable development theory via the compass of sustainability. The approach involves a content analysis used in line with qualitative research methodologies. The results indicated that, in the first developmental plans, there was no direct reference to sustainable development. In the second to fifth plans, the main focus was on the social, environmental, and economic dimensions of development; which were common elements seen in the policies of all the plans. An analysis of the fourth plan revealed that expressions related to sustainable development appeared more frequently, indicating a stronger emphasis on sustainable development by decision-makers.
Costs and Benefits in the Recovery of Historic Buildings: The Application of an Economic Model
Authors: Nesticò Antonio , Macchiaroli Maria , Pipolo Ornella
Published: November 2015

Until now, the policies on sustainability relating to regeneration interventions on historic buildings have dealt with the casing of the buildings in order to regulate and control the flow of air, light and energy from outside to inside and vice versa. However, recent technological developments in home comfort and energy savings highlight the efficiency of the plants and the proper management of the building-plant system, while respecting the criteria of integrated conservation and the multiple constraints that characterize historic buildings. This study proposes a methodological process that identifies the optimal steps from a technical and economical point of view, by providing a combination of traditional architectural conservation interventions with innovative technology systems. The calculation algorithms are developed with a specific software based on UNI TS 11300 regulations, which allows for the thermodynamic modelling of the structure. The preparation of the feasibility plan allows testing the cost-effectiveness of the work proposed, considering the environmental benefits resulting from the reduced CO2 emissions. The impact of the financial results of the evaluation is also analyzed. This protocol provides industry operators a useful instrument for selecting the least expensive initiatives among those compatible with the multiple constraints that affect the design choices.
Planning, Development and Management of Sustainable Cities: A Commentary from the Guest Editors
Authors: Yigitcanlar Tan , Kamruzzaman Md.
Published: November 2015

Cities are the most dramatic manifestations of human activities on the surface of the earth. These human-dominated organisms—i.e., cities—degrade natural habitats, simplify species composition, disrupt hydrological systems, and modify energy flow and nutrient cycling. Today, these consequential impacts of human activities, originated from population increase, rapid urbanization, high private motor vehicle dependency, deregulated industrialization and mass livestock production, are increasing exponentially and causing great deal of environmental, social, and economic challenges both at global and local scales. In such a situation, establishment of sustainable cities, through sustainable urban development practices, is seen as a potential panacea to combat these challenges responsibly, effectively, and efficiently. This paper offers a critical review of the key literature on the issues relating to planning, development and management of sustainable cities, introduces the contributions from the Special Issue, and speculates on the prospective research directions to place necessary mechanisms to secure a sustainable urban future for all.
Supply Chain Finance in China: Business Innovation and Theory Development
Authors: Liu Xiaohong , Zhou Liguo , Wu Yen-Chun
Published: November 2015

Supply chain finance (SCF) is concerned with the capital flows within a supply chain, an area often neglected in past decades, while SCF does have an impact on a firm’s capability to adopt sustainable supply chain management (SCM) practices. The aim of this study is to explore new insight from a growing body of research which is investigating SCF issues in China, an evolving transition economy. A content analysis on a review of 151 Chinese-written SCF papers from 2004–2014, based on a sample of 45 leading Chinese journals (Chinese Social Science Citation Index, CSSCI) was conducted from three perspectives: topical coverage, theoretical application and methodological inquiry. The study reveals that the research stream of SCF in China has emerged and evolved to a considerable extent. However, the SCF phenomenon in China is not exactly the same as “SCF” as it is perceived in the mature economy, which is articulated in mainstream SCM English literature. The Chinese business context in which SCF has been implemented has played a dominant role in initiating, affecting and even shaping SCF. This study represents the first endeavor in the field of SCM. It diffuses the Chinese-written SCF research in mainstream SCM English literature.
Energy and Greenhouse Gas Emission Assessment of Conventional and Solar Assisted Air Conditioning Systems
Authors: Li Xiaofeng , Strezov Vladimir
Published: November 2015

Energy consumption in the buildings is responsible for 26% of Australia’s greenhouse gas emissions where cooling typically accounts for over 50% of the total building energy use. The aim of this study was to investigate the potential for reducing the cooling systems’ environmental footprint with applications of alternative renewable energy source. Three types of cooling systems, water cooled, air cooled and a hybrid solar-based air-conditioning system, with a total of six scenarios were designed in this work. The scenarios accounted for the types of power supply to the air-conditioning systems with electricity from the grid and with a solar power from highly integrated building photovoltaics (BIPV). Within and between these scenarios, systems’ energy performances were compared based on energy modelling while the harvesting potential of the renewable energy source was further predicted based on building’s detailed geometrical model. The results showed that renewable energy obtained via BIPV scenario could cover building’s annual electricity consumption for cooling and reduce 140 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions each year. The hybrid solar air-conditioning system has higher energy efficiency than the air cooled chiller system but lower than the water cooled system.
Remote Sensing Based Analysis of Recent Variations in Water Resources and Vegetation of a Semi-Arid Region
Authors: Ning Shaowei , Ishidaira Hiroshi , Udmale Parmeshwar , Ichikawa Yutaka
Published: November 2015

This study is designed to demonstrate use of free remote sensing data to analyze response of water resources and grassland vegetation to a climate change induced prolonged drought in a sparsely gauged semi-arid region. Water resource changes over Hulun Lake region derived from monthly Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) products were analyzed. The Empirical Orthogonal Functions (EOF) analysis results from both GRACE and TRMM showed decreasing trends in water storage changes and precipitation over 2002 to 2007 and increasing trends after 2007 to 2012. Water storage and precipitation changes on the spatial and temporal scale showed a very consistent pattern. Further analysis proved that water storage changes were mainly caused by precipitation and temperature changes in this region. It is found that a large proportion of grassland vegetation recovered to its normal state after above average rainfall in the following years (2008–2012) and only a small proportion of grassland vegetation (16.5% of the study area) is degraded and failed to recover. These degraded grassland vegetation areas are categorized as ecologically vulnerable to climate change and protective strategies should be designed to prevent its further degradation.
Appréhender la qualité de l’accueil « à hauteur d’enfants » à partir d’études de cas. L’importance des rapports sociaux d’âge
Authors: Zotian Elsa
Published: November 2015

Cet article rend compte d'une étude menée en 2013 sur des trajectoires d’accueil d’enfants âgés de 2 à 3 ans grandissant dans les quartiers populaires du Nord de la ville de Marseille. À partir d’études de cas, l’auteure propose une analyse empirique de ce qui, « à hauteur d’enfants » , fait la qualité de l’accueil, et met en exergue le fait que l’âge, comme catégorie classificatoire, constitue un élément déterminant de leur expérience. En effet, le plaisir ou le déplaisir à fréquenter tel ou tel lieu d’accueil dépend en partie du point de vue des enfants, de la place qu’ils occupent dans la hiérarchie sociale des âges et de la manière dont leur trajectoire d’accueil s’articule à leur avancement dans celle-ci. La présentation en miroir des cas de deux petites filles permet de présenter les expériences contraires types susceptibles d’être éprouvées par les jeunes enfants dans leur trajectoire : celle d’une distinction sociale fondée sur l’âge, d’un côté, celle d’une disqualification sociale d’âge, de l’autre.
Préscolaire et périscolaire : quels modèles en Europe ?
Authors: Collombet Catherine
Published: November 2015

fre: Modes d’accueil ,Petite enfance , Préscolaire ,Périscolaire, Europe
Predictors of Transfer to Home Hemodialysis after Peritoneal Dialysis Completion
Authors: Nadeau-Fredette Annie-Claire , Hawley Carmel , Pascoe Elaine , Chan Christopher T. , Leblanc Martine , Clayton Philip A. , Polkinghorne Kevan R. , Boudville Neil , Johnson David W.
Published: November 2015

Background

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the predictors of transfer to home hemodialysis (HHD) after peritoneal dialysis (PD) completion.

Methods

All Australian and New Zealand patients treated with PD on day 90 after initiation of renal replacement therapy between 2000 and 2012 were included. Completion of PD was defined by death, transplantation, or hemodialysis (HD) for 180 days or more. Patients were categorized as “transferred to HHD” if they initiated HHD fewer than 180 days after PD had ended. Multivariable logistic regression was used to evaluate predictors of transfer to HHD in a restricted cohort experiencing PD technique failure; a competing-risks analysis was used in the unrestricted cohort.

Results

Of 10 710 incident PD patients, 3752 died, 1549 underwent transplantation, and 2915 transferred to HD, among whom 156 (5.4%) started HHD. The positive predictors of transfer to HHD in the restricted cohort were male sex [odds ratio (OR): 2.81], obesity (OR: 2.20), and PD therapy duration (OR: 1.10 per year). Negative predictors included age (OR: 0.95 per year), infectious cause of technique failure (OR: 0.48), underweight (OR: 0.50), kidney disease resulting from hypertension (OR: 0.38) or diabetes (OR: 0.32), race being Maori (OR: 0.65) or Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (OR: 0.30). Comparable results were obtained with a competing-risks model.

Conclusions

Transfer to HHD after completion of PD is rare and predicted by patient characteristics at baseline and at the time of PD end. Transition to HHD should be considered more often in patients using PD, especially when they fulfill the identified characteristics.
CAN ORGANISATION CAPITAL IMPROVE CORPORATE PERFORMANCE THROUGH DIRECT PATH OR MEDIATING EFFECT SURVEILLANCE OF BOARD FUNCTION: EVIDENCE FROM TAIWAN?
Authors: WANG Mu-Shun , LU Shih-Tong
Published: November 2015

This paper examines whether board function is associated with improved corporate performance. Path analysis is used to investigate the direct and indirect links between four performance variables and organization capital. A hypothesis is developed based upon the incorporation of knowledge-based resources. The idea is that the board of directors has monitoring and consultation functions, propelling organizational development. We use panel data with random effects for 1,355 firms listed on the Taiwan Stock Exchange from 2001 to 2012. The two-stage leastsquares method is used to explore the mediating effect among board function, organization capital and corporate performance. Both an aggregated model and the EP model are investigated specifying both a direct link and a mediated link with organization capital. It is concluded that the governance effect has a direct influence in the relationship between board function and corporate governance, and that organization capital is significantly associated with the performance variables. In terms of the counselling function of the board, inside directors are significantly related to dynamic capacity, which improves corporate performance for the long run.
NEW GROUP DECISION MAKING METHOD IN INTUITIONISTIC FUZZY SETTING BASED ON TOPSIS
Authors: YANG Wei , CHEN Zhiping , ZHANG Fang
Published: November 2015

In multiple attribute group decision making, the weights of decision makers are very crucial to ranking results and have gained more and more attentions. A new approach to determining experts’ weights is proposed based on the TOPSIS (Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to an Ideal Solution) method in intuitionistic fuzzy setting. The weights determined by our method have two advantages: the evaluation value has a large weight if it is close to the positive ideal evaluation value and far from negative ideal evaluation values at the same time, otherwise it is assigned a small weight; experts have different weights for different attributes, which are more appropriate for real decision making problems since each expert has his/her own knowledge and expertise. The multiple attribute intuitionistic fuzzy group decision making algorithm has been proposed which is suitable for different situations about the attribute weight information, including the attribute weights are known exactly, partly known and unknown completely. A supplier selection problem and the evaluation of murals in a metro line are finally used to illustrate the feasibility, efficiency and practical advantages of the developed approaches.
CRITICAL SUCCESS FACTORS IN DIGITAL PUBLISHING TECHNOLOGY USING AN ANP APPROACH
Authors: SHIEH Lon-Fon , YEH Ching-Chiang , LAI Ming-Cheng
Published: November 2015

Digital publishing technology (DPT) has been recognized as one of the most important technologies for economic development. The purpose of the study is to develop an evaluation model based on analytic network process (ANP) approach to explore the critical success factors (CSFs) for the successful implementation of DPT. It can objectively identify related criteria of DPT, and then prioritize improvement criteria to the success of promoting DPT for government. To demonstrate the applicability of the proposed approach, the Taiwan’s DPT is conducted. The results of this study could serve as a new method and offer insights to policy makers to indentify and prioritize CSFs for DPT implementations systematically.
NEW MCEQLS FUZZY AHP METHODOLOGY FOR EVALUATING LEARNING REPOSITORIES: A TOOL FOR TECHNOLOGICAL DEVELOPMENT OF ECONOMY
Authors: KURILOVAS Eugenijus , VINOGRADOVA Irina , KUBILINSKIENE Svetlana
Published: November 2015

The paper aims to present a new methodology to evaluate the quality of features and functionality of learning object repositories (LORs). The quality of features and functionality of LORs is analysed in terms of engaging LOR users and content producers. Thus, it can be referred to as quality-in-use of LORs. This methodology consists of creation and consequent application of methods and the model for the quality-in-use of LORs. The model of the quality-in-use of LORs is presented in this paper. The methodology for evaluating the quality-in-use of LORs is based on the general MCEQLS (Multiple Criteria Evaluation of the Quality of Learning Software) approach to evaluate the quality of learning software. The essential part of the novel methodology is the application of improved Fuzzy AHP method to establish criteria weights of the quality-in-use of LORs. It is shown that the created methodology is suitable and stable for evaluating the quality of LOR features and its functionality. A more detail presentation is given on the results of the expert evaluation of the quality-in-use of three LORs that are most popular in Lithuania against the proposed methodology. The novelty of the presented research is achieved through the innovative instrument consisting of the model of the quality-in-use of LORs and the Fuzzy AHP method. The presented methodology could serve as a technological tool for decision making in education as well as in different areas of economy.
Japanese Missile Defence and its Implications
Authors: Strauch Adam
Published: November 2015

The main goal of the presented article is to evaluate the impact of Japanese missile defence development on the regional strategic stability in Northeast Asia. The goal is reached through an analysis of interaction between missile defence and roles of ballistic missiles in Chinese and North Korean strategies towards Japan, while also taking into account the alternative policies which Japan might have used in response to the ballistic missile threat. According to the analysis, the development of the Japanese missile defence does not degrade strategic stability in the discussed region.
Analytical and Conception Personnel of Defence Department in the Mirror of Research Project
Authors: Ochrana František
Published: November 2015

This article tries to analyse the employees of central state administration, who are involved in analytical, conception, planning and strategy activities. We organized a research at eleven ministries in 2013, to familiarize themselves with their roles. Only three ministries refused to take part in this research (home office, regional development ministry and agriculture ministry). The results reached describe how examined groups evaluated various factors influencing their analytic and conception performances. The identified state at the Defence Ministry is compared with overall situations at other ministries of the Czech Republic. At the end of this article the author expresses certain suggestions and recommendations how to improve current state of affairs.
Operational Concepts and Armed Forces Use in the Future Operations
Authors: Pikner Ivo , Dyčka Lukáš
Published: November 2015

The article explains the meaning of strategy documents covering forces' deployment in future operations, i.e. operational concepts and aspects of their development. The authors concentrate first on approaches to their optimal structures and use history examples taken from both Alliance and Czech environments. Secondly they discuss the latest initiatives of this kind in NATO, the formation of a document under the title "Framework for Future Alliance Operations (FFAO)". After its approval, this document is going to be a crucial groundwork for all defence planning, not only in the Alliance scope, but in every member state. The scientific attitudes and employed methods of introducing the FFAO are closely watched by the Czech security community, mainly by the specialists of defence department, with the aim to adjust them into the processing of individual national documents.
Output Specifics of Rapid Map Products within the Framework of Geospatial Support at a Strategic Level
Authors: Kovařík Vladimír , Marša Jan
Published: November 2015

This paper deals with a geospatial support at a strategic level, especially with the production of rapid map products, presenting at this level the most required product type. Backed by their own working experiences from both NATO and EU command structures, the authors describe requirements for geospatial products created at a strategy level, emphasizing the importance of respecting the general cartographic principles. The authors compare the general technology of thematic map production, making use of Geographic Information System, technology, with the technology specific to the strategic level. They also describe the specifics of production at that level, presenting examples both similarities and differences between geospatial support in NATO and the EU.
Selected Problems of Intelligence Analysis
Authors: Horák Oldřich
Published: November 2015

The ability to deliver information about an incident, long time before it has happened, puts intelligence analysts into the very first line of fight against the threat of terrorism, extremism, proliferation, or activities of alien services. The article deals with some aspects of intelligence research that often influence the value of final reports, presented to their consumers. It analyses intelligence database designated for its end users. It simultaneously reflects the question of indications and warnings against opponent's surprise attacks. Last but not least, the purpose of this article is both to attract the readers´ attention to this theme and also to start debate on the methods of predictions of future threats, drawn up by analysts´ teams, as their reports are not always suitably recognized by their end users.