bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vectors of Turkish foreign policy: What remains of the strategy for 2023?
Authors: Jankovic Slobodan
Published: May 2016

The article examines the probability of achieving the self-imposed criteria
for Turkey to become a macro-regional power by 2023. The author analyses
components of variables in Davuto?lu's equation of power and the results of
the ?zero problems with neighbours? policy as an essential prerequisite for
Turkey becoming one of the poles of power at the global level. Presenting the
state of progress in military industries, in the development of technological
infrastructure and in the economy, the author assesses the limited progress
and failure to materialise the country?s expected goals. After years of
progress in various fields, the leading AKP party is now troubled by
conflicts inside and outside the country. The author concludes that Turkey
will not be able to realise its 2023 strategy due to combination of failures
in internal, foreign and economic policies.
Valence XPS structure and chemical bond in Cs2UO2Cl4
Authors: Teterin Yury , Maslakov Konstantin , Ryzhkov Mikhail , Teterin Anton , Ivanov Kirill , Kalmykov Stepan , Petrov Vladimir , Suglobov Dmitry
Published: May 2016

Quantitative analysis was done of the valence electrons X-ray photoelectron
spectra structure in the binding energy (BE) range of 0 eV to ~35 eV for
crystalline dicaesium tetrachloro-dioxouranium (VI) (Cs2UO2Cl4). This
compound contains the uranyl group UO2. The BE and structure of the core
electronic shells (~35 eV-1250 eV), as well as the relativistic discrete
variation calculation results for the UO2Cl4(D4h) cluster reflecting U close
environment in Cs2UO2Cl4 were taken into account. The experimental data show
that many-body effects due to the presence of cesium and chlorine contribute
to the outer valence (0-~15 eV BE) spectral structure much less than to the
inner valence (~15 eV-~35 eV BE) one. The filled U5f electronic states were
theoretically calculated and experimentally confirmed to be present in the
valence band of Cs2UO2Cl4. It corroborates the suggestion on the direct
participation of the U5f electrons in the chemical bond. Electrons of the U6p
atomic orbitals participate in formation of both the inner (IVMO) and the
outer (OVMO) valence molecular orbitals (bands). The filled U6p and the O2s,
Cl3s electronic shells were found to make the largest contributions to the
IVMO formation. The molecular orbitals composition and the sequence order in
the binding energy range 0 eV-~35 eV in the UO2Cl4 cluster were established.
The experimental and theoretical data allowed a quantitative molecular
orbitals scheme for the UO2Cl4 cluster in the BE range 0-~35 eV, which is
fundamental for both understanding the chemical bond nature in Cs2UO2Cl4 and
the interpretation of other X-ray spectra of Cs2UO2Cl4. The contributions to
the chemical binding for the UO2Cl4 cluster were evaluated to be: the OVMO
contribution - 76%, and the IVMO contribution - 24 %.
Monte Carlo modeling of the Yttrium-90 nanospheres application in the liver radionuclide therapy and organs doses calculation
Authors: Ghavami Seyed , Ghiasi Hosein , Mesbahi Asghar
Published: May 2016

Using the nano-scaled radionuclides in the radionuclide therapy significantly
reduces the particles trapping in the organs vessels and avoids thrombosis
formations. Additionally, uniform distribution in the target organ may be
another benefit of the nanoradionuclides in the radionuclide therapy. Monte
Carlo simulation was conducted to model a mathematical humanoid phantom and
the liver cells of the simulated phantom were filled with the 90Y
nanospheres. Healthy organs doses, fatal and nonfatal risks of the
surrounding organs were estimated. The estimations and calculations were made
in four different distribution patterns of the radionuclide seeds. Maximum
doses and risks estimated for the surrounding organs were obtained in the
high edge concentrated distribution model of the liver including the
nanoradionuclides. For the dose equivalent, effective dose, fatal and
non-fatal risks, the values obtained as 7.51E-03 Sv/Bq, 3.01E-01 Sv/Bq, and
9.16E-01 cases/104 persons for the bladder, colon, and kidney of the modeled
phantom, respectively. The mentioned values were the maximum values among the
studied modeled distributions. Maximum values of Normal Tissue Complication
Probability for the healthy organs calculated as 5.9-8.9 %. Result of using
nanoparticles of the 90Y provides promising dosimetric properties in MC
simulation results considering non-toxicity reports for the radionuclide.
On the accuracy of measurement of turbulent velocity gradient statistics with hot-wire probes
Authors: Vukoslavcevic Petar , Wallace James
Published: May 2016

A very high resolution minimal channel flow direct numerical simulation was used to examine, virtually, the ability of various multi-sensor hot-wire probe configurations to measure the statistics of velocity gradient components. Various array and sensor configurations and the spatial resolution of probes with these configurations were studied, building on designs and investigations of various authors. In contrast to our previous studies, which focused on turbulent vorticity, vorticity-velocity correlations, dissipation and production rate, here the measurement accuracy of each component of the velocity vector gradient tensor is analyzed separately. The results of the study show that the virtual experiments compare well with a physical experiment, and that such virtual experiments are a powerful tool to examine the accuracy of velocity gradient measurements. The cross-stream gradients needed to determine the vorticity components can be measured with sufficient accuracy with most of the array and sensor configurations of vorticity probes used so far. A systematic error of some of the gradient measurements can appear due to the array or sensor configurations. None of the examined probe designs can measure, with sufficient accuracy, the streamwise velocity gradients, directly or indirectly, using the continuity equation.
Ventilation performance and pollutant flow in a unidirectional-traffic road tunnel
Authors: Sekularac Milan , Jankovic Novica , Vukoslavcevic Petar
Published: May 2016

To develop a reliable method for modeling fire case scenarios within the road tunnels and observing the effects of the skewed velocity, experimental and numerical approach is used. Experimental results obtained from a laboratory tunnel model installation, are used to define geometry and boundary conditions. The result for the overall ventilation performance is compared to the available cases, for empty tunnel and stationary bi-directional vehicle traffic. For a unidirectional traffic road tunnel, in traffic loaded conditions, with a ventilation system based on axial ducted fans, the numerical simulation is used to determine the flow and temperature fields, the ventilation efficiency (efficiency of momentum transfer), and to assess the shape of the velocity distribution. The effect that a skewed velocity distribution can have on the resulting thermal and pollutant fields (CO2), smoke backlayering and stratification, is evaluated using numerical simulations, for the model-scale tunnel fire conditions. The effect of two possible limiting shapes of the velocity distribution, dependent only on the location of the fire with respect to the nearest upstream operating fans, is analyzed. The numerical results for a fire are scenario are a starting point in assessing the feasibility of a laboratory model fire-scenario experiment, what is planned as the next step in this research.
Financial Reporting Fraud: Public and Private Companies
Authors: Fleming A. Scott , Hermanson Dana R. , Kranacher Mary-Jo , Riley Richard A.
Published: May 2016

This study uses survey data gathered by the Association of Certified Fraud Examiners (ACFE) and provided to the Institute for Fraud Prevention (IFP) to examine differences in the profile of financial reporting fraud (FRF) between private companies and public companies. Although private companies represent a significant portion of the economy, largely due to lack of data on these companies, most research on FRF examines only public companies. The primary objective of this study is to determine how private company FRF is different from FRF in public companies. Our multivariate tests reveal that public companies have stronger anti-fraud environments, are more likely to have frauds that involve timing differences, tend to experience larger frauds, have frauds that involve a larger number of perpetrators, and are less likely to have frauds that are discovered by accident. Overall, it appears that the stronger anti-fraud environment in public companies leads public company FRF perpetrators to use less obvious fraud methods (i.e., timing differences) and to involve larger fraud teams to circumvent the controls. These public company frauds are larger than in private companies, and their larger size may make them more likely to be detected through formal means, rather than by accident. Based on the results, we encourage auditors and others to be particularly attuned to the unique risks of the public versus private setting.
Screening questions to identify Canadian Veterans
Authors: VanTil Linda D. , Thompson James M. , MacLean Mary Beth , Pedlar David J.
Published: May 2016

Introduction: In Canada, there are an estimated 700,000 Veterans of the Canadian military. Veterans are disproportionately prevalent in sub-populations of males, persons with chronic physical conditions, chronic pain, mental health conditions, and those with disabling activity limitations. Veterans are a population of interest to Canadian researchers, but there is no publicly available comprehensive list of Veterans in Canada. This creates a need for a standard set of screening questions suitable for self-report surveys. This article proposes a series of screening questions to identify Canadian Veterans. Methods: The content of the questions were developed considering self-identity, past Canadian surveys, legislation, and relevant characteristics of Canadian military service. Results: The recommended Canadian Veteran identifier questions are: “Have you ever had any Canadian military service? Was this service with the Regular Force? Reserve Force? Navy? Army? Air Force? Are you currently in the Canadian Armed Forces? What year were you released from the Canadian Armed Forces? What year did you join the Canadian Armed Forces?” Discussion: The consistent use of these screening questions allows for comparisons with other studies and will contribute to a better understanding of Veterans in Canada and of the transition from military to civilian life.
Intradural chordoma without bone involvement
Authors: Steenberghs Joyce , Kiekens Carlotte , Menten Johan , Monstrey Jan
Published: May 2016

Chordomas are most commonly of extradural origin and associated with bone destruction. The authors describe a rare case of an intradural chordoma. To the best of their knowledge, this is the first case in which multiple lesions were found intradurally without bone involvement; the lesions were disseminated through the thoracolumbosacral spinal cord and extended into the paraspinal muscles, and metastatic lesions in the cervical cord were also present.
Corporate governance and information asymmetry between shareholders and lenders: an analysis of Italian listed companies
Authors: Pisano Sabrina , Lepore Luigi , Agrifoglio Rocco
Published: May 2016

This paper analyzes the information asymmetry between owner/manager and lenders. More specifically, the research investigates the role of corporate governance mechanisms in reducing the agency costs of debt. The findings show that lenders perceive higher agency costs of debt if the controlling shareholder owns a percentage of capital greater than 66%. Results also show that the presence of independent directors elected by minority shareholders on the board mitigates the agency conflicts between borrowers and lenders. In the same way, the audit committee independence reduces the agency costs of debt. Moreover, the study shows that when the audit committee chairman coincides with the board chairman banks perceive more risk and, therefore, a bigger asymmetry. This coincidence increases the concentration of power in the hands of just one person and this enhances the likelihood of opportunistic actions by the management that could damage lenders. This means that it is costly for companies to concede to just one person too much influence over the board activities, because it reduces the effectiveness of the monitoring role played by independent directors, increasing the information asymmetry between borrowers and lenders.
A Self-Paced P300 Healthcare Brain-Computer Interface System with SSVEP-Based Switching Control and Kernel FDA + SVM-Based Detector
Authors: Liu Yi-Hung , Wang Shih-Hao , Hu Ming-Ren
Published: May 2016

This paper presents a novel brain-computer interface (BCI)-based healthcare control system, which is based on steady-state visually evoked potential (SSVEP) and P300 of electroencephalography (EEG) signals. The proposed system is composed of two modes, a brain switching mode and a healthcare function selection mode. The switching mode can detect whether a user has the intent to activate the function selection mode by detecting SSVEP in an ongoing EEG. During the function selection mode, the user is able to select any functions that he/she wants to activate through a healthcare control panel, and the function selection is done by detecting P300 in the user’s EEG signals. The panel provides 25 functions representing 25 frequently performed activities of daily life. Therefore, users with severe motor disabilities can activate the system and any functions in a self-paced manner, achieving the goal of autonomous healthcare. To achieve high P300 detection accuracy, a novel P300 detector based on kernel Fisher’s discriminant analysis (kernel FDA) and support vector machine (SVM) is also proposed. Experimental results, carried out on five subjects, show that the proposed BCI system achieves high SSVEP detection (93%) and high P300 detection (95.5%) accuracies, meaning that the switching mode has a high sensitivity, and the function selection mode has the ability to accurately detect the functions that the users want to trigger. More important, only three electrodes (Oz, Cz, and Pz) are required to measure EEG signals, enabling the system to have good usability in practical use.
A Review of Physical and Perceptual Feature Extraction Techniques for Speech, Music and Environmental Sounds
Authors: Alías Francesc , Socoró Joan , Sevillano Xavier
Published: May 2016

Endowing machines with sensing capabilities similar to those of humans is a prevalent quest in engineering and computer science. In the pursuit of making computers sense their surroundings, a huge effort has been conducted to allow machines and computers to acquire, process, analyze and understand their environment in a human-like way. Focusing on the sense of hearing, the ability of computers to sense their acoustic environment as humans do goes by the name of machine hearing. To achieve this ambitious aim, the representation of the audio signal is of paramount importance. In this paper, we present an up-to-date review of the most relevant audio feature extraction techniques developed to analyze the most usual audio signals: speech, music and environmental sounds. Besides revisiting classic approaches for completeness, we include the latest advances in the field based on new domains of analysis together with novel bio-inspired proposals. These approaches are described following a taxonomy that organizes them according to their physical or perceptual basis, being subsequently divided depending on the domain of computation (time, frequency, wavelet, image-based, cepstral, or other domains). The description of the approaches is accompanied with recent examples of their application to machine hearing related problems.
Biodiesel Production by Aspergillus niger Lipase Immobilized on Barium Ferrite Magnetic Nanoparticles
Authors: El-Batal Ahmed , Farrag Ayman , Elsayed Mohamed , El-Khawaga Ahmed
Published: May 2016

In this study, Aspergillus niger ADM110 fungi was gamma irradiated to produce lipase enzyme and then immobilized onto magnetic barium ferrite nanoparticles (BFN) for biodiesel production. BFN were prepared by the citrate sol-gel auto-combustion method and characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and scanning electron microscopy with energy dispersive analysis of X-ray (SEM/EDAX) analysis. The activities of free and immobilized lipase were measured at various pH and temperature values. The results indicate that BFN–Lipase (5%) can be reused in biodiesel production without any treatment with 17% loss of activity after five cycles and 66% loss in activity in the sixth cycle. The optimum reaction conditions for biodiesel production from waste cooking oil (WCO) using lipase immobilized onto BFN as a catalyst were 45 °C, 4 h and 400 rpm. Acid values of WCO and fatty acid methyl esters (FAMEs) were 1.90 and 0.182 (mg KOH/g oil), respectively. The measured flash point, calorific value and cetane number were 188 °C, 43.1 MJ/Kg and 59.5, respectively. The cloud point (−3 °C), pour point (−9 °C), water content (0.091%) and sulfur content (0.050%), were estimated as well.
The Ubiquitination of NF-κB Subunits in the Control of Transcription
Authors: Collins Patricia , Mitxitorena Izaskun , Carmody Ruaidhrí
Published: May 2016

Nuclear factor (NF)-κB has evolved as a latent, inducible family of transcription factors fundamental in the control of the inflammatory response. The transcription of hundreds of genes involved in inflammation and immune homeostasis require NF-κB, necessitating the need for its strict control. The inducible ubiquitination and proteasomal degradation of the cytoplasmic inhibitor of κB (IκB) proteins promotes the nuclear translocation and transcriptional activity of NF-κB. More recently, an additional role for ubiquitination in the regulation of NF-κB activity has been identified. In this case, the ubiquitination and degradation of the NF-κB subunits themselves plays a critical role in the termination of NF-κB activity and the associated transcriptional response. While there is still much to discover, a number of NF-κB ubiquitin ligases and deubiquitinases have now been identified which coordinate to regulate the NF-κB transcriptional response. This review will focus the regulation of NF-κB subunits by ubiquitination, the key regulatory components and their impact on NF-κB directed transcription.
A Study on the Efficiency Improvement of Multi-Geothermal Heat Pump Systems in Korea Using Coefficient of Performance
Authors: Jung Young-Ju , Kim Hyo-Jun , Choi Bo-Eun , Jo Jae-Hun , Cho Young-Hum
Published: May 2016

The Korean government is fostering a renewable energy industry as a means of handling the energy crisis. Among the renewable energy systems available, geothermal energy has been highlighted as highly efficient, safely operable and relatively unaffected by outdoors air conditions. Despite the increasing use of renewable energy, the devices using renewables may not be operating appropriately. This study examined current problems in the operation of a geothermal heat pump (GHP) system. The efficiency of a geothermal heat pump system to studied to maximize the operation plan. Our study modelled the target building and analyzed the energy using TRNSYS, which is a dynamic energy simulation tool, to apply the coefficient of performance (COP) and evaluate the operation method. As a result, the GHP total energy consumption from the COP control method was reduced by 46% compared to the current operation. The proposed control method was evaluated after applying the system to a building. The results showed that efficient operation of a geothermal heat pump system is possible.
Effects of Fine Particulate Matter (PM2.5) on Systemic Oxidative Stress and Cardiac Function in ApoE−/− Mice
Authors: Pei Yiling , Jiang Rongfang , Zou Yunzeng , Wang Yu , Zhang Suhui , Wang Guanghe , Zhao Jinzhuo , Song Weimin
Published: May 2016

Aim: In this study, we aimed to explore the toxic mechanisms of cardiovascular injuries induced by ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) in atherosclerotic-susceptible ApoE−/− mice. An acute toxicological animal experiment was designed with PM2.5 exposure once a day, every other day, for three days. Methods: ApoE−/− and C57BL/6 mice were randomly categorized into four groups, respectively (n = 6): one control group, three groups exposed to PM2.5 alone at low-, mid-, and high-dose (3, 10, or 30 mg/kg b.w.). Heart rate (HR) and electrocardiogram (ECG) were monitored before instillation of PM2.5 and 24 h after the last instillation, respectively. Cardiac function was monitored by echocardiography (Echo) after the last instillation. Biomarkers of systemic oxidative injuries (MDA, SOD), heart oxidative stress (MDA, SOD), and NAD(P)H oxidase subunits (p22phox, p47phox) mRNA and protein expression were analyzed in mice. The results showed that PM2.5 exposure could trigger the significant increase of MDA, and induce the decrease of heart rate variability (HRV), a marker of cardiac autonomic nervous system (ANS) function with a dose–response manner. Meanwhile, abnormal ECG types were monitored in mice after exposure to PM2.5. The expression of cytokines related with oxidative injuries, and mRNA and protein expression of NADPH, increased significantly in ApoE−/− mice in the high-dose group when compared with the dose-matched C57BL6 mice, but no significant difference was observed at Echo. In conclusion, PM2.5 exposure could cause oxidative and ANS injuries, and ApoE−/− mice displayed more severe oxidative effects induced by PM2.5.
Case Characterization, Clinical Features and Risk Factors in Drug-Induced Liver Injury
Authors: Ortega-Alonso Aida , Stephens Camilla , Lucena M. , Andrade Raúl
Published: May 2016

Idiosyncratic drug-induced liver injury (DILI) caused by xenobiotics (drugs, herbals and dietary supplements) presents with a range of both phenotypes and severity, from acute hepatitis indistinguishable of viral hepatitis to autoimmune syndromes, steatosis or rare chronic vascular syndromes, and from asymptomatic liver test abnormalities to acute liver failure. DILI pathogenesis is complex, depending on the interaction of drug physicochemical properties and host factors. The awareness of risk factors for DILI is arising from the analysis of large databases of DILI cases included in Registries and Consortia networks around the world. These networks are also enabling in-depth phenotyping with the identification of predictors for severe outcome, including acute liver failure and mortality/liver transplantation. Genome wide association studies taking advantage of these large cohorts have identified several alleles from the major histocompatibility complex system indicating a fundamental role of the adaptive immune system in DILI pathogenesis. Correct case definition and characterization is crucial for appropriate phenotyping, which in turn will strengthen sample collection for genotypic and future biomarkers studies.
Melt Processing and Characterization of Al-SiC Nanocomposite, Al, and Mg Foam Materials
Authors: Nabawy Ahmed , Khalil Khalil , Al-Ahmari Abdulrahman , Sherif El-Sayed
Published: May 2016

In the present work, metallic foams of Al, Mg and an Al-SiC nanocomposite (MMNC) have been fabricated using a new manufacturing technique by employing melt infiltration assisted with an electromagnetic force. The aim of this investigation was to study and to develop a reliable manufacturing technique consisting of different types of metallic foams. In this technique, an electromagnetic force was used to assist the infiltration of Al-SiC slurry and of pure liquid metal into a leachable pattern of NaCl, thus providing perfect cellular structures with micro-sized porosities. A high frequency induction coil unit equipped with a vacuum chamber and a hydraulic press was used to manufacture the foam materials. Microstructures of the produced foam materials were explored by using Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy (FESEM). The mechanical behavior of the manufactured foams was investigated by applying compression testing. The results indicate a high applicability of the new technique in producing metallic foams of pure metals and of a metal matrix nanocomposite . The produced foam materials displayed isotropic cellular structures with excellent compressive behaviors. Microstructure measurements indicate that the average pore size and strut thickness that can be achieved are in the ranges of 100–500 μm and 50–100 μm, respectively. The produced foam of the Al-SiC nanocomposite material provided the highest strength of 50 MPa prior to the densification stage, which equates to 25 times, and 10 times higher than the strength levels that were obtained by Al, and Mg foams, respectively.
Modification of the Interfacial Interaction between Carbon Fiber and Epoxy with Carbon Hybrid Materials
Authors: Yu Kejing , Wang Menglei , Wu Junqing , Qian Kun , Sun Jie , Lu Xuefeng
Published: May 2016

The mechanical properties of the hybrid materials and epoxy and carbon fiber (CF) composites were improved significantly as compared to the CF composites made from unmodified epoxy. The reasons could be attributed to the strong interfacial interaction between the CF and the epoxy composites for the existence of carbon nanomaterials. The microstructure and dispersion of carbon nanomaterials were characterized by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and optical microscopy (OM). The results showed that the dispersion of the hybrid materials in the polymer was superior to other carbon nanomaterials. The high viscosity and shear stress characterized by a rheometer and the high interfacial friction and damping behavior characterized by dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) indicated that the strong interfacial interaction was greatly improved between fibers and epoxy composites. Remarkably, the tensile tests presented that the CF composites with hybrid materials and epoxy composites have a better reinforcing and toughening effect on CF, which further verified the strong interfacial interaction between epoxy and CF for special structural hybrid materials.
Effects of Low-Fat Diets Differing in Protein and Carbohydrate Content on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors during Weight Loss and Weight Maintenance in Obese Adults with Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Watson Nerylee , Dyer Kathryn , Buckley Jonathan , Brinkworth Grant , Coates Alison , Parfitt Gaynor , Howe Peter , Noakes Manny , Murphy Karen
Published: May 2016

Despite evidence for the benefits of higher-protein (HP) diets in weight loss, their role in type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) management and weight maintenance is not clear. This randomised study compared the effects of a HP diet (mean across both phases: 29% protein, 34% carbohydrate, 31% fat) to an isocaloric higher-carbohydrate diet (HC: 21%:48%:24%) on cardiometabolic risk factors for 12 weeks in energy restriction (~30% reduction) followed by 12 weeks of energy balance whilst performing regular exercise. Outcomes were measured at baseline and the end of each phase. Sixty-one overweight/obese adults (BMI (body mass index) 34.3 ± 5.1 kg/m2, aged 55 ± 8 years) with T2DM who commenced the study were included in the intention-to-treat analysis including the 17 participants (HP n = 9, HC n = 8) who withdrew. Following weight loss (M ± SEM: −7.8 ± 0.6 kg), there were significant reductions in HbA1c (−1.4% ± 0.1%, p < 0.001) and several cardiometabolic health risk factors. Improvements were sustained for 12 weeks when weight was stabilised and weight loss maintained. Both the HP and HC dietary patterns with concurrent exercise may be effective strategies for weight loss and weight maintenance in T2DM although further studies are needed to determine the longer term effects of weight maintenance.
Synthesis and Characterization of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) with Hydrophobic Properties and Excellent Thermal Stability
Authors: Cho Wonseok , Im Soeun , Kim Seyul , Kim Soyeon , Kim Jung
Published: May 2016

Hydrophobic and comparatively thermally-stable poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene), i.e., poly(styrene sulfonate-co-vinyltrimethoxysilane) (PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS)) copolymer was successfully synthesized via the introduction of silane coupling agent into the PSS main chain to form P(SS-co-VTMS) copolymers. PSS and P(SS-co-VMTS) copolymers were successfully synthesized via radical solution polymerization, and PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was synthesized via Fe+-catalyzed oxidative polymerization. The characterization of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was performed through an analysis of Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) results, water contact angle and optical images. The electrical properties of conductive PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) thin films were evaluated by studying the influence of the VTMS content on the electrical and physical properties. The conductivity of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) decreased with an increase in the VTMS content, but was close to that of the PEDOT:PSS, 235.9 S·cm−1. The introduction of VTMS into the PSS copolymer improved the mechanical properties and thermal stability and increased the hydrophobicity. The thermal stability test at a temperature over 240 °C indicated that the sheet resistance of PEDOT:PSS increased by 3,012%. The sheet resistance of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS), on the other hand, only increased by 480%. The stability of PEDOT:P(SS-co-VTMS) was six-times higher than that of the reference PEDOT:PSS.
Coupled Integration of CSAC, MIMU, and GNSS for Improved PNT Performance
Authors: Ma Lin , You Zheng , Liu Tianyi , Shi Shuai
Published: May 2016

Positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) is a strategic key technology widely used in military and civilian applications. Global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) are the most important PNT techniques. However, the vulnerability of GNSS threatens PNT service quality, and integrations with other information are necessary. A chip scale atomic clock (CSAC) provides high-precision frequency and high-accuracy time information in a short time. A micro inertial measurement unit (MIMU) provides a strap-down inertial navigation system (SINS) with rich navigation information, better real-time feed, anti-jamming, and error accumulation. This study explores the coupled integration of CSAC, MIMU, and GNSS to enhance PNT performance. The architecture of coupled integration is designed and degraded when any subsystem fails. A mathematical model for a precise time aiding navigation filter is derived rigorously. The CSAC aids positioning by weighted linear optimization when the visible satellite number is four or larger. By contrast, CSAC converts the GNSS observations to range measurements by “clock coasting” when the visible satellite number is less than four, thereby constraining the error divergence of micro inertial navigation and improving the availability of GNSS signals and the positioning accuracy of the integration. Field vehicle experiments, both in open-sky area and in a harsh environment, show that the integration can improve the positioning probability and accuracy.
Particle and Photon Detection: Counting and Energy Measurement
Authors: Janesick James , Tower John
Published: May 2016

Fundamental limits for photon counting and photon energy measurement are reviewed for CCD and CMOS imagers. The challenges to extend photon counting into the visible/nIR wavelengths and achieve energy measurement in the UV with specific read noise requirements are discussed. Pixel flicker and random telegraph noise sources are highlighted along with various methods used in reducing their contribution on the sensor’s read noise floor. Practical requirements for quantum efficiency, charge collection efficiency, and charge transfer efficiency that interfere with photon counting performance are discussed. Lastly we will review current efforts in reducing flicker noise head-on, in hopes to drive read noise substantially below 1 carrier rms.
Effect of the ICT Ecosystem Structure on the Sustainable Growth of ICT Firms: A Metafrontier Analysis on China, South Korea, the United States, and Japan
Authors: Lee Kyoungsun , Park Yuri , Lee Daeho
Published: May 2016

We study how the information and communications technology (ICT) ecosystem affects the sustainable growth of ICT firms. For our study, we analyze the efficiencies of ICT firms in China, South Korea, the United States, and Japan, which are the current leaders in the global ICT industry, each with different ICT ecosystem structures. We use metafrontier analysis (MFA) to compare the efficiencies among countries with different structures, and then use Tobit regression to identify the causes of the efficiency gaps. Our results reveal that the US has the highest efficiency, followed by Japan, South Korea, and China, in that order, and the countries with more balanced ICT ecosystems across sub-industries—manufacturing, software and IT services, content, and telecommunications—have more efficient ICT industries. This suggests that a more balanced industrial development is important to enhancing the overall competitiveness of the ICT industry.
Protein 2B of Coxsackievirus B3 Induces Autophagy Relying on Its Transmembrane Hydrophobic Sequences
Authors: Wu Heng , Zhai Xia , Chen Yang , Wang Ruixue , Lin Lexun , Chen Sijia , Wang Tianying , Zhong Xiaoyan , Wu Xiaoyu , Wang Yan , Zhang Fengmin , Zhao Wenran , Zhong Zhaohua
Published: May 2016

Coxsackievirus B (CVB) belongs to Enterovirus genus within the Picornaviridae family, and it is one of the most common causative pathogens of viral myocarditis in young adults. The pathogenesis of myocarditis caused by CVB has not been completely elucidated. In CVB infection, autophagy is manipulated to facilitate viral replication. Here we report that protein 2B, one of the non-structural proteins of CVB3, possesses autophagy-inducing capability. The autophagy-inducing motif of protein 2B was identified by the generation of truncated 2B and site-directed mutagenesis. The expression of 2B alone was sufficient to induce the formation of autophagosomes in HeLa cells, while truncated 2B containing the two hydrophobic regions of the protein also induced autophagy. In addition, we demonstrated that a single amino acid substitution (56V→A) in the stem loop in between the two hydrophobic regions of protein 2B abolished the formation of autophagosomes. Moreover, we found that 2B and truncated 2B with autophagy-inducting capability were co-localized with LC3-II. This study indicates that protein 2B relies on its transmembrane hydrophobic regions to induce the formation of autophagosomes, while 56 valine residue in the stem loop of protein 2B might exert critical structural influence on its two hydrophobic regions. These results may provide new insight for understanding the molecular mechanism of autophagy triggered by CVB infection.
Regional Quasi-Three-Dimensional Unsaturated-Saturated Water Flow Model Based on a Vertical-Horizontal Splitting Concept
Authors: Zhu Yan , Shi Liangsheng , Wu Jingwei , Ye Ming , Cui Lihong , Yang Jinzhong
Published: May 2016

Due to the high nonlinearity of the three-dimensional (3-D) unsaturated-saturated water flow equation, using a fully 3-D numerical model is computationally expensive for large scale applications. A new unsaturated-saturated water flow model is developed in this paper based on the vertical/horizontal splitting (VHS) concept to split the 3-D unsaturated-saturated Richards’ equation into a two-dimensional (2-D) horizontal equation and a one-dimensional (1-D) vertical equation. The horizontal plane of average head gradient in the triangular prism element is derived to split the 3-D equation into the 2-D equation. The lateral flow in the horizontal plane of average head gradient represented by the 2-D equation is then calculated by the water balance method. The 1-D vertical equation is discretized by the finite difference method. The two equations are solved simultaneously by coupling them into a unified nonlinear system with a single matrix. Three synthetic cases are used to evaluate the developed model code by comparing the modeling results with those of Hydrus1D, SWMS2D and FEFLOW. We further apply the model to regional-scale modeling to simulate groundwater table fluctuations for assessing the model applicability in complex conditions. The proposed modeling method is found to be accurate with respect to measurements.
Phytoliths and Basketry Materials at Çatalhöyük (Turkey): Timelines of growth, harvest and objects life histories
Authors: Wendrich Willeke , Ryan Philippa
Published: May 2016

Des empreintes sur argile et des phytolithes attestent sans ambiguïté l’existence de la vannerie à Çatalhöyük. On détaille ici les informations complémentaires offertes par une analyse conjointe de la technologie, des usages et des formes de ces vanneries avec l’identification et l’étude de la répartition des végétaux utilisés dans cet artisanat.
Spinning in the 5th millennium in the Southern Levant: Aspects of the Textile Economy
Authors: Levy Janet , Gilead Isaac
Published: May 2016

Artifacts and products related to spinning became relatively abundant in the southern Levant during the latter half of the 5th millennium BCE. Contrary to widespread scholarly opinions wool was not used for yarn production. Flax was the only fibre used. All the sites with remains of textiles or evidence for intensification of spinning are currently within the semi-arid zone, lacking the conditions favoured for flax cultivation or excess water for processing. A dramatic increase in spinning is attested by a profusion of lightweight, sherd spindle whorls used in the drop spinning technique at some of the semi-arid zone sites. In tandem with the pronounced rise in the frequency of whorls is the earliest known appearance of spinning bowls.
Fire Installations in Household Activities. Archaeological and ethnoarchaeological study from Tell Arbid (North-East Syria)
Authors: Smogorzewska Anna
Published: May 2016

The article discusses different types of fi re installations from Tell Arbid (a site in NE Syria) in the context of household activities. Ovens, hearths, heating pits and andirons are the basic types of fi re installations attested throughout several periods of settlement at the site. Most of them come from a Late Ninevite 5 dwelling quarter (Area D). Construction methods, materials and location of the various installations are discussed. An attempt has been made on tracing the functions of installations in different stages of food preparation (cooking, roasting and baking) and in the processing of cereals. The interpretations of the fi re installations function take into account artifacts found in the installations contexts (e. g. cooking pots), as well as archaeobotanical and archaeozoological remains accompanying them. Ethnoarchaeological observations from modern Tell Arbid village and other places in the Near East have also been considered.
Le monastère de Séridos sous Barsanuphe et Jean de Gaza: un monastère conforme à la législation impériale et ecclésiastique?
Authors: Lesieur Bénédicte
Published: May 2016

La volumineuse correspondance de Barsanuphe et Jean de Gaza, deux moines reclus près de Gaza dans les années 520-540, permet d’examiner si le koinobion de Séridos, dans lequel ils se sont retirés, est conforme aux normes et exigences de la législation impériale et ecclésiastique de la première moitié du 6e siècle, notamment aux novelles de Justinien. Au premier abord, ce monastère semble bien entrer dans le «moule » que tentent d’imposer les pouvoirs à l’ensemble du mouvement monastique : les moines, ermites comme cénobites, y sont soumis à l’autorité absolue de l’higoumène, luimême responsable devant l’évêque, leurs déplacements et leurs rapports avec le monde sont strictement contrôlés… Toutefois, la soumission de ces moines au modèle impérial n’est pas sans limites : au-delà des entorses mineures à la législation, elle demeure finalement plus formelle que réelle.
Hymnography in a form of rhetoric: an interesting “marriage” of genres in a late Byzantine hymnographic ethopoiia
Authors: Zervoudaki Alexandra
Published: May 2016

In codex Scorialensis graecus [ 403] X IV 8 was discovered a kanon, perhaps of Meletios Galesiotes, dedicated to the Adoration of the Magi, where the hymnographer employs the form of an ethopoiia. Consequently arises the question whether the text was a hymnographic ethopoiia or a kanon chanted in church. We can assume that it was a liturgical text, to which the author tried to add a dramatic character, providing signs of his educational background. The use of the dialogues by the hymnographer elaborates the narration of the Gospel. The kanon creates an imaginary story of the journey of the Magi, using psychological parameters and trying to sketch out their personality and emotions or even creating characters. The form of an ethopoiia describes better the motives, the actions, the character and the feelings of the holy figures and expresses a desire to add a “ dramatic” dimension in the kanon.
The abbots of Evergetis as opponents of “monastic reform”: a re-appraisal of the monastic discourse in 11th and 12th-century Constantinople
Authors: Krausmüller Dirk
Published: May 2016

This article challenges J. Thomas’ claim that the Evergetis monastery produced the first strictly coenobitic rule and disseminated it throughout the Byzantine world, thus giving rise to an ‘Evergetine reform movement’. It draws attention to a lost Studite rule, which can be reconstructed from later adaptations. This text not only predates the Evergetis Typikon by several decades but also exerted considerable influence on 12th century typika. Comparison shows that while sections about institutional and legal features are indeed innovative elements in the Evergetis Typikon, this is not the case with stipulations about the coenobitic life-style. Here the reform agenda is already fully developed in the Studite rule. Indeed, one cannot even claim that the Evergetis Typikon adopted this agenda and transmitted it to later generations. Study of typika and lives reveals that from c. 1000 onwards there was a marked trend towards confor mity, which found its expression in the requirement that monks attend all meals and eat from all dishes. This trend is not reflected in the Evergetis Typikon, which maintains an earlier practice that permitted monks to fast in their cells.
Alfabeti dal Sinai e dintorni. Tradizione monastica e parenesi attraverso gli alfabeti (4o-12o secolo)
Authors: Parrinello Rosa maria
Published: May 2016

=L’articolo, dopo aver brevemente esplorato la tradizione degli alfabeti spirituali nel mondo greco, esamina tre esempi di alfabeti monastici più propriamente parenetici e che provengono – o sono ritenuti essere provenienti – dal Sinai : i Capita paraenetica di Nilo Sinaita (in realtà evagriani), i due alfabeti inseriti nel ventiseiesimo gradino della Scala Paradisi di Giovanni Climaco e le Centurie sulla vigilanza e la virtù di Esichio di Batos. Il primo è un alfabeto gnomico che si risolve in una raccolta di sentenze pitagoriche e neopitagoriche inserite in una cornice monastica e che sembra andare in direzione della cristianizzazione di opere filosofiche (si veda ad esempio l’Enchiridion di Epitteto). I due alfabeti climachei sono funzionali al primo e al terzo stadio della vita monastica, cioè ai principianti e ai perfetti. Infine, i capitoli alfabetici di Esichio sono un testo di meditazione, probabilmente destinato alle cerchie più interne della comunità monastica di riferimento.
Baptême et communion des jeunes enfants : la Lettre de Jean d’Antioche à Théodore d’Éphèse (998/999)
Authors: Kontouma Vassa
Published: May 2016

Première édition et traduction française de la Lettre de Jean d’Antioche à Théodore d’Éphèse sur le baptême et la communion des jeunes enfants, conservée dans le Parisinus gr. 1304 (vers 1280). Cette Lettre appartient au genre des responsa canoniques. Elle a été composée à Constantinople, en 998/ 999, par Jean III Politès et elle est adressée à Théodore II d’Éphèse. Elle porte sur la question de savoir si les jeunes enfants peuvent accéder aux sacrements et elle révèle un conflit qui avait surgi à la fin du 10e siècle au sein de la métropole d’Éphèse. Conservée à Constantinople jusqu’au début du 13e siècle, la Lettre est réapparue dans la région d’Otrante en 1235/ 1236, grâce à l’action conjointe de Nicolas-Nectaire de Casole et Georges Bardanès.
Les sources de Nicéphore Grègoras pour le règne des premiers Palaiologoi
Authors: Failler Albert
Published: May 2016

L’Histoire de Nicéphore Grègoras est souvent invoquée comme un second témoin pour les événements du règne de Michel VIII Palaiologos et de son fils Andronic II. Il est clair cependant qu’il s’est inspiré pour l’essentiel de l’Histoire de son prédécesseur Georges Pachymérès, qu’à l’occasion il a mal interprété. Il importe dès lors de relativiser la valeur de ses informations et d’examiner au fond les renseignements supplémentaires qu’il semble procurer, sans d’ailleurs, à l’inverse, les rejeter tous a priori. À l’appui de la dépendance directe de Grègoras par rapport à Pachymérès, l’article présente trois sections narratives qui révèlent un parallélisme étroit et où les erreurs évidentes de Grègoras ne se justifient que par la complexité de son modèle et les erreurs d’interprétation qui peuvent en découler. Trois événements sont pris en considération et choisis intentionnellement pour leur éloignement dans le temps : la victoire de Pélagonia (1259), le second mariage d’Andronic II (1272), la visite d’Andronic II à l’exilé Jean IV Laskaris (1290).
Il monastero costantinopolitano della Theotokos Peribleptos fra 11o e 12o secolo
Authors: Osti Francesco
Published: May 2016

Nei due secoli successivi alla sua fondazione, voluta da Romano III Argiro nel 1031, il complesso religioso della Theotokos Peribleptos fu tra i più prestigiosi e influenti monasteri di Costantinopoli. Ciò sembra trovare conferma sia nelle attestazioni delle fonti storico-letterarie coeve (Psello e Scilitze in primis), sia in alcuni riscontri più concreti, forniti ora da occasionali visitatori di epoca più tarda, come l’ambasciatore spagnolo Ruy Gonzales de Clavijo, ora dall’esame delle numerose testimonianze artistiche (sigilli, reliquie, icone) e manoscritte (codici di proprietà del monastero o redatti all’interno del suo scriptorium) oggi reperibili. Alcune personalità piuttosto conosciute, inoltre, hanno legato il proprio nome al complesso della Peribleptos nel periodo preso in esame : fra queste, il monaco Eutimio, eresiologo originario dell’Akmonia, e, sul fronte opposto, lo ieromonaco Nifone, condannato dal sinodo per bogomilismo e confinato proprio nel monastero fondato da Romano III.
A new source of the Synopsis of Joseph Rhakendytès
Authors: Gielen Erika
Published: May 2016

The Synopsis Variarum Disciplinarum of Joseph Rhakendytès (ca. 1260-1330) remains for the most part unpublished. Nonetheless, several scholars have attempted to detect the original works and authors behind Joseph’s composition. In this article, the author puts new life into this study of the sources, by indicating and discussing briefly the correct source of yet another, ‘virgin’ section of the Synopsis, i. e. Joseph’s Περὶ ἀρετῆς.
One-pot synthesis of enantiomerically pure N-protected allylic amines from N-protected α-amino esters
Authors: Silveira-Dorta Gastón , Álvarez-Méndez Sergio J , Martín Víctor S , Padrón José M
Published: May 2016

An improved protocol for the synthesis of enantiomerically pure allylic amines is reported. N-Protected α-amino esters derived from natural amino acids were submitted to a one-pot tandem reduction–olefination process. The sequential reduction with DIBAL-H at −78 °C and subsequent in situ addition of organophosphorus reagents yielded the corresponding allylic amines without the need to isolate the intermediate aldehyde. This circumvents the problem of instability of the aldehydes. The method tolerates well both Wittig and Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons organophosphorus reagents. A better Z-(dia)stereoselectivity was observed when compared to the previous one-pot method. The (dia)stereoselectivity of the process was affected neither by the reaction solvent nor by the amount of DIBAL-H employed. The method is compatible with the presence of free hydroxy groups as shown with serine and threonine derivatives.