bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Beyond Fires and Deforestation: Tackling Land Subsidence in Peatland Areas, a Case Study from Riau, Indonesia
Authors: Saputra Erlis
Published: April 2019

Peatland plays an important ecological and economic role in many countries all over the world. At the same time, due to various human and non-human interventions, peatland is also a fragile ecosystem, which is currently facing severe problems, such as deforestation, fires, and peat subsidence. Peat subsidence is currently one of the most severe but least recognized issues. Because of its interconnectedness with other peatland problems, peat subsidence intensifies when there is a lack of proper interventions. In this paper, types of problems that arise along with and from peat subsidence and how various actors deal with it are going to be analysed. This paper illustrates an example from peatland areas in Indonesia and addresses two questions: (1) what kinds of problems are related to peat subsidence? In addition, (2) how do various actors deal with peat subsidence and what are the consequences of their interventions? Based on in-depth interviews with key persons from government institutions and NGOs, followed by focus group discussions with communities, analyses of policies, and desk study, this research discovered that peat subsidence is a hidden problem that is highly interconnected with other peatland problems that have caused severe physical-environment and socioeconomic impacts. While various actors have taken numerous interventions to deal with deforestation and fires, those concerning peat subsidence are still limited. Since dealing with peatland problems as a whole requires an ecosystem-based intervention, a more comprehensive approach is needed to manage peat subsidence.
In Vitro Effect of Modified Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) Implant Abutments on Human Gingival Epithelial Keratinocytes Migration and Proliferation
Authors: Ramenzoni Liza L. , Attin Thomas , Schmidlin Patrick R.
Published: April 2019

Improving soft tissue attachment to implant abutments is a crucial factor for enduring health and maintenance of soft peri-implant tissue health. In this in vitro study we aimed to compare the biocompatibility of three different abutment surfaces: titanium, zirconia and modified polyetheretherketone (PEEK). Surface topography, roughness and wettability were investigated with scanning electron microscopy, profilometer and contact angle meter, respectively. Human gingival epithelial keratinocytes were examined for viability, morphology, proliferation and migration by using tetrazolium salt colorimetric assay, scanning electron microscopy imaging, immunofluorescence bromodeoxyuridine analysis and scratch wound healing assays. Roughness measurements revealed differences between the investigated surfaces. Keratinocytes cultured on all examined surfaces indicated adhesion and attachment by means of scanning electron microscopy imaging. Cell viability assays showed no significant differences between the groups (p > 0.05). The modified PEEK surface similarly improved surface roughness in comparison to titanium and zirconia, which resulted in greater and equivalent cell proliferation and migration. The study methodology showed here may emphasize the importance of cell interactions with different abutment materials, which in part increases the changes of implant success. PEEK, titanium and zirconia surface types used in this study showed mostly similar epithelial biological responses.
Surface Characteristics of Esthetic Nickel–Titanium and Beta-Titanium Orthodontic Archwires Produced by Plasma Electrolytic Oxidation (PEO)—Primary Results
Authors: Jung Ole , Becker Jean-Philippe , Smeets Ralf , Gosau Martin , Becker Germain , Kahl-Nieke Bärbel , Jung Anne-Kathrin , Heiland Max , Kopp Alexander , Barbeck Mike , Koehne Till
Published: April 2019

Background/Aim: There is continuing interest in engineering esthetic labial archwires. The aim of this study was to coat nickel–titanium (NiTi) and beta-titanium (β-Ti), also known as titanium molybdenum (TMA), archwires by plasma electrolytic oxidation (PEO) and to analyze the characteristics of the PEO-surfaces. Materials and Methods: PEO-coatings were generated on 0.014-inch NiTi and 0.19 × 0.25-inch β-Ti archwires. The surfaces were analyzed by scanning electron microscopy and stereomicroscopy. Cytocompatibility testing was performed with ceramized and untreated samples according to EN ISO 10993-5 in XTT-, BrdU- and LDH-assays. The direct cell impact was analyzed using LIVE-/DEAD-staining. In addition, the archwires were inserted in an orthodontic model and photographs were taken before and after insertion. Results: The PEO coatings were 15 to 20 µm thick with a whitish appearance. The cytocompatibility analysis revealed good cytocompatibility results for both ceramized NiTi and β-Ti archwires. In the direct cell tests, the ceramized samples showed improved compatibility as compared to those of uncoated samples. However, bending of the archwires resulted in loss of the PEO-surfaces. Nevertheless, it was possible to insert the β-Ti PEO-coated archwire in an orthodontic model without loss of the PEO-ceramic. Conclusion: PEO is a promising technique for the generation of esthetic orthodontic archwires. Since the PEO-coating does not resist bending, its clinical use seems to be limited so far to orthodontic techniques using straight or pre-bent archwires.
Micron-Size White Bamboo Fibril-Based Silane Cellulose Aerogel: Fabrication and Oil Absorbent Characteristics
Authors: Nguyen Dinh , Vu Cuong , Vu Huong , Choi Hyoung
Published: April 2019

Micron-size white bamboo fibrils were fabricated from white bamboo and used as a source for the production of highly porous and very lightweight cellulose aerogels for use as a potential oil absorbent. The aerogels were fabricated through gelation from an aqueous alkali hydroxide/urea solution, followed by a conventional freeze-drying process. The morphology and physical properties of the aerogels were characterized by field emission scanning electron microscopy and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller surface area analysis, respectively. Successful silanization of the cellulose aerogel was confirmed by energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, and water contact angle measurements. The fabricated silane cellulose aerogel exhibited excellent absorption performance for various oil and organic solvents with typical weight gains ranging from 400% to 1200% of their own dry weight, making them promising versatile absorbents for a range of applications, including water purification.
Plasmonics for Biosensing
Authors: Han Xue , Liu Kun , Sun Changsen
Published: April 2019

Techniques based on plasmonic resonance can provide label-free, signal enhanced, and real-time sensing means for bioparticles and bioprocesses at the molecular level. With the development in nanofabrication and material science, plasmonics based on synthesized nanoparticles and manufactured nano-patterns in thin films have been prosperously explored. In this short review, resonance modes, materials, and hybrid functions by simultaneously using electrical conductivity for plasmonic biosensing techniques are exclusively reviewed for designs containing nanovoids in thin films. This type of plasmonic biosensors provide prominent potential to achieve integrated lab-on-a-chip which is capable of transporting and detecting minute of multiple bio-analytes with extremely high sensitivity, selectivity, multi-channel and dynamic monitoring for the next generation of point-of-care devices.
Spectrum of Elementary Cellular Automata and Closed Chains of Contours †
Authors: Tatashev Alexander , Yashina Marina
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we study the properties of some elementary automata. We have obtained the characteristics of these cellular automata. The concept of the spectrum for a more general class than the class of elementary automata is introduced. We introduce and study discrete dynamical systems which represents the transport of mass on closed chains of contours. Particles on contours move in accordance with given rules. These dynamical systems can be interpreted as cellular automata. Contributions towards this study are as follows. The characteristics of some elementary cellular automata have been obtained. A theorem about the velocity of particles’ movement on the closed chain has been proved. It has been proved that, for any ε > 0 , there exists a chain with flow density ρ < ε such that the average flow particle velocity is less than the velocity of free movement. An interpretation of this system as a transport model is given. The spectrum of a binary closed chain with some conflict resolution rule is studied.
ABC Transporters in Prorocentrum lima and Their Expression Under Different Environmental Conditions Including Okadaic Acid Production
Authors: Gu Song , Xiao Shao-Wen , Zheng Jian-Wei , Li Hong-Ye , Liu Jie-Sheng , Yang Wei-Dong
Published: April 2019

Prorocentrum lima is a typical benthic toxic dinoflagellate, which can produce phycotoxins such as okadaic acid (OA). In this study, we identified three ABC transporter genes (ABCB1, ABCC1 and ABCG2) and characterized their expression patterns, as well as OA production under different environmental conditions in P. lima. We found that the three ABC transporters all showed high identity with related ABC proteins from other species, and contained classical features of ABC transport proteins. Among them, ABCG2 was a half size transporter. The three ABC transporter genes displayed various expression profiles under different conditions. The high concentration of Cu2+ could up-regulate ABCB1, ABCC1 and ABCG2 transcripts in P. lima, suggesting the potential defensive role of ABC transporters against metal ions in surrounding waters. Cu2+, in some concentration, could induce OA production; meanwhile, tributyltin inhibited OA accumulation. The grazer Artemia salina could induce OA production, and P. lima displayed some toxicity to the grazer, indicating the possibility of OA as an anti-grazing chemical. Collectively, our results revealed intriguing data about OA production and the expression patterns of three ABC transporter genes. However, we could not find any significant correlation between OA production and expression pattern of the three ABC transporters in P. lima. Our results might provide new molecular insights on the defensive responses of P. lima to the surrounding environment.
The Beneficial Effects of Traditional Chinese Exercises for Adults with Low Back Pain: A Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Zhang Yanjie , Loprinzi Paul D. , Yang Lin , Liu Jing , Liu Shijie , Zou Liye
Published: April 2019

Objective: The aim of this meta-analytic review was to quantitatively examine the effects of traditional Chinese exercises (TCE) on pain intensity and back disability in individuals with low back pain (LBP). Methods: Potential articles were retrieved using seven electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Cinahl, Web of Science, Cochrane library, China National Knowledge Infrastructure, and Wanfang). The searched period was from inception to 1 March 2019. Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) assessing the effect of TCE on pain intensity and back disability in LBP patients were included. Pooled effect sizes were calculated using the random-effects models and 95% confidence interval (95% CI). Results: Data from eleven RCTs (886 individuals with LBP) meeting the inclusion criteria were extracted for meta-analysis. Compared with the control intervention, TCE induced significant improvements in the visual analogue scale (VAS) (Hedge’s g = −0.64, 95% CI −0.90 to −0.37, p < 0.001), Roland–Morris Disability Questionnaire (RMDQ) (Hedge’s g = −0.41, 95% CI −0.79 to −0.03, p = 0.03), Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) (Hedge’s g = −0.96, 95% CI −1.42 to −0.50, p < 0.001), and cognitive function (Hedge’s g = −0.62, 95% CI −0.85 to −0.39, p < 0.001). In a meta-regression analysis, age (β = 0.01, p = 0.02) and total exercise time (β = −0.0002, p = 0.01) were associated with changes in the VAS scores, respectively. Moderator analyses demonstrated that Tai Chi practice (Hedge’s g = −0.87, 95% CI −1.38 to −0.36, p < 0.001) and Qigong (Hedge’s g = −0.54, 95% CI −0.86 to −0.23, p < 0.001) reduced VAS scores. Interventions with a frequency of 1–2 times/week (Hedge’s g = −0.53, 95% CI −0.98 to −0.07, p = 0.02) and 3–4 times/week (Hedge’s g = −0.78, 95% CI −1.15 to −0.42, p < 0.001) were associated with reduced VAS scores, but this significant reduction on this outcome was not observed in the weekly training frequency of ≥5 times (Hedge’s g = −0.54, 95% CI −1.16 to 0.08, p = 0.09). Conclusions: TCE may have beneficial effects for reducing pain intensity for individuals with LBP, regardless of their pain status.
Miniaturization of CMOS
Authors: Radamson Henry H. , He Xiaobin , Zhang Qingzhu , Liu Jinbiao , Cui Hushan , Xiang Jinjuan , Kong Zhenzhen , Xiong Wenjuan , Li Junjie , Gao Jianfeng , Yang Hong , Gu Shihai , Zhao Xuewei , Du Yong , Yu Jiahan , Wang Guilei
Published: April 2019

When the international technology roadmap of semiconductors (ITRS) started almost five decades ago, the metal oxide effect transistor (MOSFET) as units in integrated circuits (IC) continuously miniaturized. The transistor structure has radically changed from its original planar 2D architecture to today’s 3D Fin field-effect transistors (FinFETs) along with new designs for gate and source/drain regions and applying strain engineering. This article presents how the MOSFET structure and process have been changed (or modified) to follow the More Moore strategy. A focus has been on methodologies, challenges, and difficulties when ITRS approaches the end. The discussions extend to new channel materials beyond the Moore era.
Cost-Effective Seismic Exploration: 2D Reflection Imaging at the Kylylahti Massive Sulfide Deposit, Finland
Authors: Heinonen Suvi , Malinowski Michal , Hloušek Felix , Gislason Gardar , Buske Stefan , Koivisto Emilia , Wojdyla Marek
Published: April 2019

We show that by using an advanced pre-stack depth imaging algorithm it is possible to retrieve meaningful and robust seismic images with sparse shot points, using only 3–4 source points per kilometer along a seismic profile. Our results encourage the use of 2D seismic reflection profiling as a reconnaissance tool for mineral exploration in areas with limited access for active seismic surveys. We used the seismic data acquired within the COGITO-MIN project comprising two approximately 6 km long seismic reflection profiles at the polymetallic Kylylahti massive sulfide mine site in eastern Finland. The 2D seismic data acquisition utilized both Vibroseis and dynamite sources with 20 m spacing and wireless receivers spaced every 10 m. For both source types, the recorded data show clear first breaks over all offsets and reflectors in the raw shot gathers. The Kylylahti area is characterized by folded and faulted, steeply dipping geological contacts and structures. We discuss post-stack and pre-stack data processing and compare time and depth imaging techniques in this geologically complex Precambrian hardrock area. The seismic reflection profiles show prominent reflectors at 4.5–8 km depth utilizing different migration routines. In the shallow subsurface, steep reflectors are imaged, and within and underneath the known Kylylahti ultramafic body reflectivity is prominent but discontinuous.
Influencing Factors and Mathematical Prediction of Shale Adsorbed Gas Content in the Upper Triassic Yanchang Formation in the Ordos Basin, China
Authors: Tang Ling , Song Yan , Jiang Zhenxue , Pang Xiongqi , Li Zhuo , Li Qianwen , Li Wei , Tang Xianglu , Pan Anliu
Published: April 2019

Evaluating absorbed gas content (AGC) in shales is crucial for accurately characterizing shale gas reservoirs and calculating resource potential. To investigate geological factors influencing AGC, 15 shale samples collected from the Yanchang Formation underwent related experiments. Then geochemistry features, mineral compositions, pore structure parameters and external factors were analyzed. The actual AGC was calculated using the Langmuir equation. Single geological factors acting on the AGC were discussed by the single-factor correlation analysis. Finally, four main influence factors (total organic carbon, S1, quartz content and formation temperature) were selected out from the 12 influence factors to establish the mathematical prediction model through the multi-factor regression statistical analysis method using SPSS software. The model was verified as being reliable with R2 as high as 0.8046 and relative error less than ±20%. Comparisons show that both the CH4 isothermal adsorption experimental method and the multi-factor regression analysis method have their own applicability and disadvantages, and they can complement each other in evaluating AGC in shales. Synthetic evaluation of AGC indicates that the Yanchang shale has an overall moderate AGC occupying about 58% of the total, which is helpful to extend shale gas production time of the Yanchang reservoir. Though under the present conditions, economic benefits of the continental shale gas are not obvious, the shale resource potential of Yanchang formation can’t be ignored.
Poly (Octadecyl Methacrylate-Co-Trimethylolpropane Trimethacrylate) Monolithic Column for Hydrophobic in-Tube Solid-Phase Microextraction of Chlorophenoxy Acid Herbicides
Authors: Li Wenbang , Wu Fangling , Dai Yongwei , Zhang Jing , Ni Bichen , Wang Jiabin
Published: April 2019

Chlorophenoxy acid herbicides (CAHs), which are widely used on cereal crops, have become an important pollution source in grains. In this work, a highly hydrophobic poly (octadecyl methacrylate-co-trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate) [poly (OMA-co-TRIM)] monolithic column has been specially prepared for hydrophobic in-tube solid-phase microextraction (SPME) of CAHs in rice grains. Due to the hydrophobicity of CAHs in acid conditions, trace CAHs could be efficiently extracted by the prepared monolith with strong hydrophobic interaction. Several factors for online hydrophobic in-tube SPME, including the length of the monolithic column, ACN and trifluoroacetic acid percentage in the sampling solution, elution volume, and elution flow rate, were investigated with respect to the extraction efficiencies of CAHs. Under the optimized conditions, the limits of detection of the four CAHs fell in the range of 0.9–2.1 μg/kg. The calibration curves provided a wide linear range of 5–600 μg/kg and showed good linearity. The recoveries of this method ranged from 87.3% to 111.6%, with relative standard deviations less than 7.3%. Using this novel, highly hydrophobic poly (OMA-co-TRIM) monolith as sorbent, a simple and sensitive online in-tube SPME-HPLC method was proposed for analysis of CAHs residue in practical samples of rice grains.
Extraction of Proanthocyanidins from Chinese Wild Rice (Zizania latifolia) and Analyses of Structural Composition and Potential Bioactivities of Different Fractions
Authors: Chu Mei-Jun , Du Yong-Mei , Liu Xin-Min , Yan Ning , Wang Feng-Zhong , Zhang Zhong-Feng
Published: April 2019

Due to the importance of proanthocyanidin bioactivity and its relationship with chemical structure, ultrasound-assisted extraction and purification schemes were proposed to evaluate the proanthocyanidin content and analyze the structural composition and potential bioactivities of different proanthocyanidin fractions from Chinese wild rice (Zizania latifolia). Following an optimized extraction procedure, the crude wild rice proanthocyanidins (WRPs) were purified using n-butanol extraction, chromatography on macroporous resins, and further fractionation on Sephadex LH-20 to yield six specific fractions (WRPs-1–WRPs-6) containing proanthocyanidin levels exceeding 524.19 ± 3.56 mg/g extract. Structurally, (+)-catechin, (−)-epicatechin, and (−)-epigallocatechin were present as both terminal and extension units, and (−)-epicatechin was the major extension unit, in each fraction. This is the first preparation of WRP fractions with a different mean degree of polymerization (mDP), ranging from 2.66 ± 0.04 to 10.30 ± 0.46. A comparison of the bioactivities of these fractions revealed that fractions WRPs-1−WRPs-5 had significant DPPH radical scavenging activities, whereas fraction WRPs-6 with a high mDP showed better α-glucosidase and pancreatic lipase inhibitory effects. These findings should help define possible applications of WRPs to functional foods or nutraceuticals.
Hepatotoxicity of a Cannabidiol-Rich Cannabis Extract in the Mouse Model
Authors: Ewing Laura E. , Skinner Charles M. , Quick Charles M. , Kennon-McGill Stefanie , McGill Mitchell R. , Walker Larry A. , ElSohly Mahmoud A. , Gurley Bill J. , Koturbash Igor
Published: April 2019

The goal of this study was to investigate Cannabidiol (CBD) hepatotoxicity in 8-week-old male B6C3F1 mice. Animals were gavaged with either 0, 246, 738, or 2460 mg/kg of CBD (acute toxicity, 24 h) or with daily doses of 0, 61.5, 184.5, or 615 mg/kg for 10 days (sub-acute toxicity). These doses were the allometrically scaled mouse equivalent doses (MED) of the maximum recommended human maintenance dose of CBD in EPIDIOLEX® (20 mg/kg). In the acute study, significant increases in liver-to-body weight (LBW) ratios, plasma ALT, AST, and total bilirubin were observed for the 2460 mg/kg dose. In the sub-acute study, 75% of mice gavaged with 615 mg/kg developed a moribund condition between days three and four. As in the acute phase, 615 mg/kg CBD increased LBW ratios, ALT, AST, and total bilirubin. Hepatotoxicity gene expression arrays revealed that CBD differentially regulated more than 50 genes, many of which were linked to oxidative stress responses, lipid metabolism pathways and drug metabolizing enzymes. In conclusion, CBD exhibited clear signs of hepatotoxicity, possibly of a cholestatic nature. The involvement of numerous pathways associated with lipid and xenobiotic metabolism raises serious concerns about potential drug interactions as well as the safety of CBD.
Rapid Preparation of Spherical Granules via the Melt Centrifugal Atomization Technique
Authors: Yang Yan , Zheng Nan , Wang Xiaoyue , Ivone Ryan , Shan Weiguang , Shen Jie
Published: April 2019

Granules with superior fluidity and low moisture absorption are ideal for tableting and capsule filling. Melt granulation as a solvent-free technology has attracted increasing interest for the granulation of moisture-sensitive drugs. The objective of the present study was to develop a solvent-less and high throughput melt granulation method via the melt centrifugal atomization (MCA) technique. The granule formability of various drugs and excipients via MCA and their dissolution properties were studied. It was found that the yield, fluidity, and moisture resistance of the granules were affected by the drug and excipient types, operation temperature, and collector diameter. The drugs were in an amorphous state in pure drug granules, or were highly dispersed in excipients as solid dispersions. The granules produced via MCA showed an improved drug dissolution. The present study demonstrated that the solvent-free, one-step, and high-throughput MCA approach can be used to produce spherical granules with superior fluidity and immediate drug release characteristics for poorly water-soluble and moisture-sensitive therapeutics.
Enhanced Interfacial Adhesion of Polylactide/Poly(ε-caprolactone)/Walnut Shell Flour Composites by Reactive Extrusion with Maleinized Linseed Oil
Authors: Montava-Jordà Sergi , Quiles-Carrillo Luis , Richart Nuria , Torres-Giner Sergio , Montanes Nestor
Published: April 2019

Novel green composites were prepared by melt compounding a binary blend of polylactide (PLA) and poly(ε-caprolactone) (PCL) at 4/1 (wt/wt) with particles of walnut shell flour (WSF) in the 10–40 wt % range, which were obtained as a waste from the agro-food industry. Maleinized linseed oil (MLO) was added at 5 parts per hundred resin (phr) of composite to counteract the intrinsically low compatibility between the biopolymer blend matrix and the lignocellulosic fillers. Although the incorporation of WSF tended to reduce the mechanical strength and thermal stability of PLA/PCL, the MLO-containing composites filled with up to 20 wt % WSF showed superior ductility and a more balanced thermomechanical response. The morphological analysis revealed that the performance improvement attained was related to a plasticization phenomenon of the biopolymer blend and, more interestingly, to an enhancement of the interfacial adhesion of the green composites achieved by extrusion with the multi-functionalized vegetable oil.
Alternate Mapping Correlated k-Distribution Method for Infrared Radiative Transfer Forward Simulation
Authors: Zhang Feng , Zhu Mingwei , Li Jiangnan , Li Wenwen , Di Di , Shi Yi-Ning , Wu Kun
Published: April 2019

The alternate mapping correlated k-distribution (AMCKD) method is studied and applied to satellite simulations. To evaluate the accuracy of AMCKD, the simulated brightness temperatures at the top of the atmosphere are compared with line-by-line radiative transfer model (LBLRTM) or the observed data which are from Advanced Himawari Imager (AHI) on board the Himawari-8, as well as Medium Resolution Spectral Imager (MERSI) on board the Fengyun-3D. The result of AMCKD is also compared with the algorithm of Radiative Transfer for the Television Observation Satellite Operational Vertical Sounder (RTTOV). Under the standard atmospheric profiles, the absolute errors of AMCKD in all longwave channels of AHI and MERSI are bounded by 0.44K compared to the benchmark results of LBLRTM, which are more accurate than those of RTTOV. In the most cases, the error of AMCKD is smaller than the NEDT at ST, while the error of RTTOV is larger than the instrument noise equivalent temperature (NEDT) at scene temperature (ST). Under real atmospheric profile conditions, the errors of AMCKD increase, because the input data from ERA-Interim reanalysis dataause bias in the satellite remote sensing results. In the most considered cases, the accuracy of AMCKD is higher than RTTOV, while the efficiency of AMCKD is slightly slower than RTTOV.
A Real-Time Tree Crown Detection Approach for Large-Scale Remote Sensing Images on FPGAs
Authors: Li Weijia , He Conghui , Fu Haohuan , Zheng Juepeng , Dong Runmin , Xia Maocai , Yu Le , Luk Wayne
Published: April 2019

The on-board real-time tree crown detection from high-resolution remote sensing images is beneficial for avoiding the delay between data acquisition and processing, reducing the quantity of data transmission from the satellite to the ground, monitoring the growing condition of individual trees, and discovering the damage of trees as early as possible, etc. Existing high performance platform based tree crown detection studies either focus on processing images in a small size or suffer from high power consumption or slow processing speed. In this paper, we propose the first FPGA-based real-time tree crown detection approach for large-scale satellite images. A pipelined-friendly and resource-economic tree crown detection algorithm (PF-TCD) is designed through reconstructing and modifying the workflow of the original algorithm into three computational kernels on FPGAs. Compared with the well-optimized software implementation of the original algorithm on an Intel 12-core CPU, our proposed PF-TCD obtains the speedup of 18.75 times for a satellite image with a size of 12,188 × 12,576 pixels without reducing the detection accuracy. The image processing time for the large-scale remote sensing image is only 0.33 s, which satisfies the requirements of the on-board real-time data processing on satellites.
Label-Free Fried Starchy Matrix: Investigation by Harmonic Generation Microscopy
Authors: Chouët Agathe , Chevallier Sylvie , Fleurisson Romain , Loisel Catherine , Dubreil Laurence
Published: April 2019

An innovative methodology based on non-destructive observation by using harmonic generation microscopy is proposed for detection and location of starch granules and oil in a fried starchy matrix and topography analysis of food products. Specific fluorescent probes were used to label the main biochemical components of the starchy fried matrix, namely starch and oil. Fluorescence of starch and oil respectively stained with Safranin O and Nile red was observed from non-linear microscopy. By using sequential scanning and specific emission filters, it was possible to merge fluorescence and harmonic generation signals. Second harmonic generation (SHG) generated by starch granules was superposed with safranin fluorescence, whereas third harmonic generation (THG), not restricted to the superposition with Nile red fluorescent signal, was used to investigate the topography of the fried product. By these experiments, starch granule mapping and topography of the starchy fried product were obtained without any destructive preparation of the sample. This label-free approach using harmonic generation microscopy is a very promising methodology for microstructure investigation of a large panel of starchy food products.
Dependable Fire Detection System with Multifunctional Artificial Intelligence Framework
Authors: Park Jun Hong , Lee Seunggi , Yun Seongjin , Kim Hanjin , Kim Won-Tae
Published: April 2019

A fire detection system requires accurate and fast mechanisms to make the right decision in a fire situation. Since most commercial fire detection systems use a simple sensor, their fire recognition accuracy is deficient because of the limitations of the detection capability of the sensor. Existing proposals, which use rule-based algorithms or image-based machine learning can hardly adapt to the changes in the environment because of their static features. Since the legacy fire detection systems and network services do not guarantee data transfer latency, the required need for promptness is unmet. In this paper, we propose a new fire detection system with a multifunctional artificial intelligence framework and a data transfer delay minimization mechanism for the safety of smart cities. The framework includes a set of multiple machine learning algorithms and an adaptive fuzzy algorithm. In addition, Direct-MQTT based on SDN is introduced to solve the traffic concentration problems of the traditional MQTT. We verify the performance of the proposed system in terms of accuracy and delay time and found a fire detection accuracy of over 95%. The end-to-end delay, which comprises the transfer and decision delays, is reduced by an average of 72%.
Evaluating Social Housing Retrofit Options to Support Clients’ Decision Making—SIMPLER BIM Protocol
Authors: Tzortzopoulos Patricia , Ma Ling , Soliman Junior João , Koskela Lauri
Published: April 2019

The UK government made significant commitments to upgrading the energy efficiency of seven million British homes by 2020, aiming at reducing carbon emissions and addressing fuel poverty. One alternative to achieve better energy performance in existing houses is retrofit. However, there are difficulties associated with retrofitting social housing. It is currently challenging to compare scenarios (retrofit options) considering costs, potential energy efficiency gains, and at the same time minimising disruption to users. This paper presents a Building Information Modelling (BIM) protocol aimed to support decision making by social housing owners. It adopts BIM to simulate alternative retrofit options, considering: (a) potential reductions in energy consumption, (b) 4D BIM for retrofit planning and reduction of users’ disruption and (c) simulation of costs. A what-if scenario matrix is proposed to support decision making in the selection of social housing retrofit solutions, according to client and users’ needs. A case study of the retrofit of a mid-terrace house is presented to demonstrate the workflow. The main output of the work is the BIM protocol, which can support client decision making in diverse social housing retrofit projects, considering all three elements (energy simulation, planning for reduced disruption and cost estimation) in an integrated fashion. Such an integrated approach enables clients to make better informed decisions considering diverse social housing retrofit options through a simple process using readily available BIM technology.
Is There a Place for Women in the Polish Mines?—Selected Issues in the Context of Sustainable Development
Authors: Pactwa Katarzyna
Published: April 2019

This article demonstrates the situation of women in the Polish mining industry through the prism of the implementation of sustainable development goals. The conducted analysis allowed us to verify the thesis that the actions that have been taken with the aim of gender equality are not enough, and mining is therefore not sustainable. Despite the fact that regulations have changed over the years, and women are now allowed to undertake jobs in mining plants, the sector is still highly masculinized. This phenomenon was found to be particularly disadvantageous after conducting an analysis of data referring to the number of female students graduating each year in mining and geology majors. It can be concluded, based on information concerning the share of women employed in the mining industry in general, as well as information on several other factors, that the majority of women who have pursued higher education in the field of mining will not find a job in this profession. This phenomenon clearly indicates the necessity of changes in the scope of education, and the need for companies to broaden internship and apprenticeship offers.
Decent Work as Determinant of Work Engagement on Dependent Self-Employed
Authors: Navajas-Romero Virginia , Díaz-Carrión Rosalía , Ariza-Montes Antonio
Published: April 2019

This article analyzes with a holistic and systematic approach the state of working conditions in self-dependent workers, as well as their effects on workers’ work engagement. For this, a distinction was made between the self-employed, non-dependent self-employed, and wage earners. The sample integrated 42,963 workers who were surveyed, of which 0.03% were dependent self-employed, 13.73% were non-dependent self-employed, and 82.32% were wage earners. The results have broadly confirmed the research purposes and they established that ensuring work engagement is the key to sustainability, growth, and success for workers.
Determinants of Intensity of Biomass Utilization: Evidence from Cassava Smallholders in Nigeria
Authors: Adeyemo Temitayo , Amaza Paul , Okoruwa Victor , Akinyosoye Vincent , Salman Kabir , Abass Adebayo
Published: April 2019

The paradigm shift from value chains to value webs in the emerging bioeconomy has necessitated a review on how agricultural systems transit to value web production systems. This study examines how smallholders in the cassava system in Nigeria have been able to increase utilization of biomass in their production systems. Using a sample of 541 households, the study employed cluster analysis and ordered probit regression to examine the intensity of cassava utilization and the determinants of the intensity of utilization. The study found that over 50% of the respondents were classified as low-intensity utilization households, while ~13% were high-intensity utilization households. Land, social capital, farming experience, and asset ownership increased the probability of intensifying cassava utilization among smallholders. The study recommends strengthening assets acquisition, improving land quality and encouraging social capital development among smallholders.
Dissecting Toxicity: The Venom Gland Transcriptome and the Venom Proteome of the Highly Venomous Scorpion Centruroides limpidus (Karsch, 1879)
Authors: Cid-Uribe Jimena I. , Meneses Erika P. , Batista Cesar V. F. , Ortiz Ernesto , Possani Lourival D.
Published: April 2019

Venom glands and soluble venom from the Mexican scorpion Centruroides limpidus (Karsch, 1879) were used for transcriptomic and proteomic analyses, respectively. An RNA-seq was performed by high-throughput sequencing with the Illumina platform. Approximately 80 million reads were obtained and assembled into 198,662 putative transcripts, of which 11,058 were annotated by similarity to sequences from available databases. A total of 192 venom-related sequences were identified, including Na+ and K+ channel-acting toxins, enzymes, host defense peptides, and other venom components. The most diverse transcripts were those potentially coding for ion channel-acting toxins, mainly those active on Na+ channels (NaScTx). Sequences corresponding to β- scorpion toxins active of K+ channels (KScTx) and λ-KScTx are here reported for the first time for a scorpion of the genus Centruroides. Mass fingerprint corroborated that NaScTx are the most abundant components in this venom. Liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectometry (LC-MS/MS) allowed the identification of 46 peptides matching sequences encoded in the transcriptome, confirming their expression in the venom. This study corroborates that, in the venom of toxic buthid scorpions, the more abundant and diverse components are ion channel-acting toxins, mainly NaScTx, while they lack the HDP diversity previously demonstrated for the non-buthid scorpions. The highly abundant and diverse antareases explain the pancreatitis observed after envenomation by this species.
Approaching the Black Hole by Numerical Simulations
Authors: Fendt Christian
Published: April 2019

Black holes represent extreme conditions of physical laws. Predicted about a century ago, they are now accepted as astrophysical reality by most of the scientific community. Only recently has more direct evidence of their existence been found—the detection of gravitational waves from black hole mergers and of the shadow of a supermassive black hole in the center of a galaxy. Astrophysical black holes are typically embedded in an active environment which is affected by the strong gravity. When the environmental material emits radiation, this radiation may carry imprints of the black hole that is hosting the radiation source. In order to understand the physical processes that take place in the close neighborhood of astrophysical black holes, numerical methods and simulations play an essential role. This is simply because the dynamical evolution and the radiative interaction are far too complex in order to allow for an analytic solution of the physical equations. A huge progress has been made over the last decade(s) in the numerical code development, as well as in the computer power that is needed to run these codes. This review tries to summarize the basic questions and methods that are involved in the undertaking of investigating the astrophysics of black holes by numerical means. It is intended for a non-expert audience interested in an overview over this broad field. The review comes along without equations and thus without a detailed expert discussion of the underlying physical processes or numerical specifics. Instead, it intends to illustrate the richness of the field and to motivate further reading. The review puts some emphasis on magneto-hydrodynamic simulations but also touches radiation transfer and merger simulations, in particular pointing out differences in these approaches.
Giant Viruses—Big Surprises
Authors: Brandes Nadav , Linial Michal
Published: April 2019

Viruses are the most prevalent infectious agents, populating almost every ecosystem on earth. Most viruses carry only a handful of genes supporting their replication and the production of capsids. It came as a great surprise in 2003 when the first giant virus was discovered and found to have a >1 Mbp genome encoding almost a thousand proteins. Following this first discovery, dozens of giant virus strains across several viral families have been reported. Here, we provide an updated quantitative and qualitative view on giant viruses and elaborate on their shared and variable features. We review the complexity of giant viral proteomes, which include functions traditionally associated only with cellular organisms. These unprecedented functions include components of the translation machinery, DNA maintenance, and metabolic enzymes. We discuss the possible underlying evolutionary processes and mechanisms that might have shaped the diversity of giant viruses and their genomes, highlighting their remarkable capacity to hijack genes and genomic sequences from their hosts and environments. This leads us to examine prominent theories regarding the origin of giant viruses. Finally, we present the emerging ecological view of giant viruses, found across widespread habitats and ecological systems, with respect to the environment and human health.
Voluntades Anticipadas para personas adultas con enfermedades en condiciones paliativas en Costa Rica: propuesta de documento
Authors: Alvarez Chavarría Dagelle , Arce Ortega Jesús Gilberto
Published: April 2019

Las Voluntades Anticipadas (VA) o testamentos de vida son declaraciones orales o escritas, dirigidas al personal de salud y realizadas por una persona capacitada para tomar decisiones sobre los cuidados que se deseen respecto a la condición de enfermedad con la intención de que entren en vigor cuando el individuo pierda la capacidad de decisión. En Costa Rica no existe una regulación nacional sobre las VA, y menos aún un documento aplicable a las personas con enfermedades en estado terminal,  por lo tanto con esta investigación se pretende analizar los diferentes componentes del documento de voluntades anticipadas, su gestión administrativa, ámbito de aplicación y aspectos legales, todo con el fin de que la propuesta sea factible en un documento oficial y aplicable en nuestro país.
Terapia Respiratoria en Costa Rica: historia y evolución
Authors: Vado Chacón Mitzy , Chanto Corrales Pilar
Published: April 2019

La Terapia Respiratoria a través del tiempo ha logrado un rol muy importante en el concepto de salud y se ha expandido en múltiples áreas del cuidado cardiorrespiratorio de la población. Este artículo describe la historia y la evolución del cuidado respiratorio, aportes científicos que permitieron el desarrollo de esta disciplina, y su evolución en Costa Rica, así como las bases que fundamentan el quehacer y los alcances de esta profesión en la actualidad.
Necesidades y Calidad de vida de familias de personas en edades tempranas con discapacidad en Costa Rica; adaptación y validación de una Escala
Authors: Cordero Beatriz , Giné Climent , Balcells-Balcells Anna
Published: April 2019

Introducción: Determinar las necesidades de apoyo de las familias de personas en edades tempranas con discapacidad intelectual y del desarrollo (DID), en cuanto a calidad de vida, es fundamental para los programas de atención temprana (AT). Costa Rica no cuenta con investigaciones, ni con escalas adaptadas, para ello. En consecuencia, el objetivo de este estudio es validar la Escala Evaluación de Necesidades Familiares (ENF), para la población costarricense.

Metodología: Estudio observacional, cuantitativo de tipo psicométrico, que se llevó a cabo en una muestra de familias de personas con DID menores de 18 años, utilizando como marco poblacional el Padrón de Matrícula (2017) de los Centros de Educación Especial de Costa Rica, proporcionando por el Ministerio de Educación Pública.   Se realizaron tres etapas: primero el Juicio de Expertos para revisión de los ítems, utilizando el indicador Kappa de Cohen con el fin de determinar el nivel concordancia de los mismos; en segundo lugar, una prueba piloto con 12 familias. Como resultado de ambas fases, se obtiene la primera versión de la ENF-CR, con un total de 68 ítems validados culturalmente. En la tercera fase se aplicó la ENF-CR, como la escala de Calidad de Vida Familiar Costa Rica (CdVF-CR), a la muestra seleccionada.

Resultados: Los resultados evidencian que las propiedades psicométricas de la Escala de Necesidades Familiares en Costa Rica (ENF-CR) son buenas. El análisis factorial exploratorio da razón de la validez de constructo que se concreta en una solución de 61 ítems distribuidos en siete factores; así mismo, la estimación del coeficiente de fiabilidad evidencia una excelente consistencia interna, con un Alfa de Cronbach de 97,78%. Mientras que, en cuanto a la validez del criterio, la evidencia muestra que no existe correlación lineal significativa entre las puntuaciones medias de las escalas de CdVF-CR y ENF-CR.

Conclusiones: la ENF-CR, tiene propiedades psicométricas contrastadas para considerarse una herramienta con muy buena fiabilidad y validez, para ser utilizada en el contexto costarricense.

Palabras Clave: Evaluación de necesidades familiares, discapacidad intelectual, calidad de vida familiar, validación, Costa Rica.
Estudio de prevalencia de demencias en adultos mayores de la comunidad de Santo Domingo de Heredia, Costa Rica.
Authors: Román-Garita Norbel , Boza-Calvo Carolina
Published: April 2019

Antecedentes: Los países de bajos y medianos ingresos están experimentando tasas de crecimiento de envejecimiento de la población, así como de la incidencia de personas con deterioro cognitivo. Este estudio tuvo como objetivo estimar la prevalencia de deterioro cognitivo o demencia, y frecuencia de factores asociados en personas adultas mayores del cantón de Santo Domingo de Heredia, Costa Rica. Metodología: Se realizó un estudio descriptivo de prevalencias en adultos mayores de 65 años en la comunidad mencionada. Se seleccionó una muestra de 101 adultos mayores identificados mediante la estrategia “tocando puertas” (casa por casa detectando aquellas donde residía al menos un adulto mayor). Se utilizó el protocolo desarrollado por el Grupo 10/66 Dementia Research Group de la Asociación Internacional de Alzheimer, el cual cuenta con seis de cuestionarios a saber: 1. Entrevista sobre el hogar, 2. Entrevista sociodemográfica y de factores de riesgo, 3. Entrevista clínica, 4. Batería de prueba cognitiva, 5. Examen físico y neurológico y 6. Entrevista al informante (en los casos que se contara con acompañante). Se calcularon prevalencias de deterioro cognitivo y frecuencia de algunos factores asociados al riesgo de demencia. Resultados: El desempeño promedio en las pruebas fue de 32,62 puntos (DS: 5,99; rango: 10-43). El 60,4% de los participantes se ubicaron por debajo de este percentil 50 (34 puntos), punto de corte que determina algún grado de deterioro cognitivo. Se encontraron cifras significativas de hábito de fumado en algún momento de la vida y consumo de alcohol; la presencia de condicionantes de riesgo como hipertensión, diabetes mellitus y evidencia de daño como cardiopatía en 20% de los casos; de igual manera 20% de los casos reportaron historia de enfermedad demencial en familiares y problemas que afectan su vida diaria. Finalmente se pudo establecer en pruebas de fluidez verbal cambios significativos en capacidad cognitiva y percepción de problemas de memoria en cerca de un 45% de los habitantes. Conclusiones: El estudio arrojó cifras de prevalencia de demencia similares a las reportadas por otros estudios a nivel mundial. Esto refleja la necesidad de avocarse a las estrategias en salud pública de reducción de riesgo así como la urgencia de activar acciones del Plan Alzheimer de Costa Rica.
Ortolansparvens Emberiza hortulana förekomst och habitatval i Sverige
Authors: Ottvall Richard , Green Martin , Lindström Åke , Svensson Sören , Esseen Per-Anders , Marklund Liselott
Published: April 2019

The Swedish population of the Ortolan Bunting Emberiza hortulana has decreased with about 80% since 1975. The breeding habitat has traditionally been linked to farmland, but Ortolan Buntings are also found on clear cuts. Combining data from the Swedish Bird Survey (1996–2006) with landscape data (Swedish CORINE), we investigated the relationship between occurrence of Ortolan Buntings and different land cover variables. At a landscape scale of 5×5 km2, occurrence was positively correlated to the proportion of open cast mines, farmland, young forest, inland marshes and clear cuts south of 61°N. North of 61°N, the present population stronghold (~90%), occurrence was positively correlated to the proportion of farmland, clear cuts, coniferous forest, young forest, mixed forest and inland marshes. At a local scale (within 400 m), abundance was highest where clear cut was the main habitat, but abundance was not higher on clear cuts close to than far away from farmland. We estimate the total population at 6300 (4000–8600) pairs with around 50–85% occurring on clear cuts.