bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessing the Effects of Ginger Extract on Polyphenol Profiles and the Subsequent Impact on the Fecal Microbiota by Simulating Digestion and Fermentation In Vitro
Authors: Wang Jing , Chen Yong , Hu Xiaosong , Feng Fengqin , Cai Luyun , Chen Fang
Published: October 2020

The beneficial effects of ginger polyphenols have been extensively reported. However, their metabolic characteristics and health effects on gut microbiota are poor understood. The purpose of this study was to investigate the digestion stability of ginger polyphenols and their prebiotic effects on gut microbiota by simulating digestion and fermentation in vitro. Following simulated digestion in vitro, 85% of the polyphenols were still detectable, and the main polyphenol constituents identified in ginger extract are 6-, 8-, and 10-gingerols and 6-shogaol in the digestive fluids. After batch fermentation, the changes in microbial populations were measured by 16S rRNA gene Illumina MiSeq sequencing. In mixed-culture fermentation with fecal inoculate, digested ginger extract (GE) significantly modulated the fecal microbiota structure and promoted the growth of some beneficial bacterial populations, such as Bifidobacterium and Enterococcus. Furthermore, incubation with GE could elevate the levels of short-chain fatty acids (SCFAs) accompanied by a decrease in the pH value. Additionally, the quantitative PCR results showed that 6-gingerol (6G), as the main polyphenol in GE, increased the abundance of Bifidobacterium significantly. Therefore, 6G is expected to be a potential prebiotic that improves human health by promoting gut health.
Effect of Vitamin D Status during Pregnancy on Infant Neurodevelopment: The ECLIPSES Study
Authors: Voltas Núria , Canals Josefa , Hernández-Martínez Carmen , Serrat Núria , Basora Josep , Arija Victoria
Published: October 2020

Vitamin D status during pregnancy is involved in numerous physiological processes, including brain development. In this study, we assess the association between vitamin D status during pregnancy and infant neurodevelopment (cognitive, language, and motor skills). From an initial sample of 793 women (mean age 30.6) recruited before the 12th week of pregnancy, 422 mother–infant pairs were followed up to a postpartum visit. Vitamin D levels were assessed in the first and third trimesters of pregnancy, and socio-demographic, nutritional, and psychological variables were collected. At 40 days postpartum, the Bayley Scales of Infant Development-III were administered to the infants and several obstetrical data were recorded. Independently from several confounding factors, deficient vitamin D levels in the first trimester of pregnancy (<30 nmol/L) predicted a worse performance in cognitive and language skills. Language performance worsened with lower vitamin D levels (<20 nmol/L). In the third trimester, this highly deficient level was also associated with lower motor skills. Vitamin D deficiency was therefore associated with worse neurodevelopmental outcomes. More studies are needed to determine specific recommendations with regard to vitamin D supplementation during pregnancy in order to promote an optimal course for pregnancy and optimal infant neurodevelopment.
Exosomes in Gliomas: Biogenesis, Isolation, and Preliminary Applications in Nanomedicine
Authors: Romano Eugenia , Netti Paolo Antonio , Torino Enza
Published: October 2020

Exosomes are phospholipid-based particles endogenously produced by both normal and tumor cells. Initially identified as a pathway for shuttling cellular waste, for a long time they were thought to act as “garbage bags”, and only in the past few years have they emerged as a promising drug delivery system. In this review, we provide an overview of the knowledge about exosome architecture and biogenesis and the recent progress in isolation methods. Furthermore, we describe the mechanisms involved in both extra- and intracellular communication with a focus on glioma brain tumors. Glioma is considered a rare disease and is the most prominent aggressive brain malignancy. How exosomes target glial tumoral cells in vivo remains largely unknown. However, they are able to influence numerous physio-pathological aspects. Here, we discuss the role they play in this heterogeneous and complex microenvironment and their potential applications.
Biomimetic Artificial Membrane Permeability Assay over Franz Cell Apparatus Using BCS Model Drugs
Authors: de Souza Teixeira Leonardo , Vila Chagas Tatiana , Alonso Antonio , Gonzalez-Alvarez Isabel , Bermejo Marival , Polli James , Rezende Kênnia Rocha
Published: October 2020

A major parameter controlling the extent and rate of oral drug absorption is permeability through the lipid bilayer of intestinal epithelial cells. Here, a biomimetic artificial membrane permeability assay (Franz–PAMPA Pampa) was validated using a Franz cells apparatus. Both high and low permeability drugs (metoprolol and mannitol, respectively) were used as external standards. Biomimetic properties of Franz–PAMPA were also characterized by electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR). Moreover, the permeation profile for eight Biopharmaceutic Classification System (BCS) model drugs cited in the FDA guidance and another six drugs (acyclovir, cimetidine, diclofenac, ibuprofen, piroxicam, and trimethoprim) were measured across Franz–PAMPA. Apparent permeability (Papp) Franz–PAMPA values were correlated with fraction of dose absorbed in humans (Fa%) from the literature. Papp in Caco-2 cells and Corti artificial membrane were likewise compared to Fa% to assess Franz–PAMPA performance. Mannitol and metoprolol Papp values across Franz–PAMPA were lower (3.20 × 10−7 and 1.61 × 10−5 cm/s, respectively) than those obtained across non-impregnated membrane (2.27 × 10−5 and 2.55 × 10−5 cm/s, respectively), confirming lipidic barrier resistivity. Performance of the Franz cell permeation apparatus using an artificial membrane showed acceptable log-linear correlation (R2 = 0.664) with Fa%, as seen for Papp in Caco-2 cells (R2 = 0.805). Data support the validation of the Franz–PAMPA method for use during the drug discovery process.
1,3-Dioxolan-4-Ones as Promising Monomers for Aliphatic Polyesters: Metal-Free, in Bulk Preparation of PLA
Authors: Gazzotti Stefano , Ortenzi Marco Aldo , Farina Hermes , Silvani Alessandra
Published: October 2020

The first example of solvent-free, organocatalyzed, polymerization of 1,3-dioxolan-4-ones, used as easily accessible monomers for the synthesis of polylactic acid (PLA), is described here. An optimization of reaction conditions was carried out, with p-toluensulfonic acid emerging as the most efficient Brønsted acid catalyst. The reactivity of the monomers in the tested conditions was studied following the monomer conversion by 1H NMR and the molecular weight growth by SEC analysis. A double activation polymerization mechanism was proposed, pointing out the key role of the acid catalyst. The formation of acetal bridges was demonstrated, to different extents depending on the nature of the aldehyde or ketone employed for lactic acid protection. The polymer shows complete retention of stereochemistry, as well as good thermal properties and good polydispersity, albeit modest molecular weight.
Music and Spirituality: A Journey into Porosity
Authors: Foley Edward
Published: October 2020

Serving as an introduction to this special issue of Religion entitled “Music and Spirituality: A Journey into Porosity,” this introduction frames the following eight essays by considering the ambiguity not only of the meaning of music itself, but also of spirituality, liturgical-sacred music and other frames that attempt to examine and sometimes delimit the power of music. While taxonomies and theoretical boundaries are still useful, they need to be employed with some caution in view of the musical and spiritual realities they are attempting to describe or analyze.
Special Issue “Remote Sensing in Applied Geophysics”
Authors: Colombero Chiara , Comina Cesare , Godio Alberto
Published: October 2020

The Special Issue “Remote Sensing in Applied Geophysics” is focused on recent and upcoming advances in the combined application of remote sensing and applied geophysics techniques, sharing the advantages of being non-invasive research methods, suitable for surface and near-surface high-resolution investigations of even wide and remote areas [...]
Advances in Remote Sensing Technology, Machine Learning and Deep Learning for Marine Oil Spill Detection, Prediction and Vulnerability Assessment
Authors: Temitope Yekeen Shamsudeen , Balogun Abdul-Lateef
Published: October 2020

Although advancements in remote sensing technology have facilitated quick capture and identification of the source and location of oil spills in water bodies, the presence of other biogenic elements (lookalikes) with similar visual attributes hinder rapid detection and prompt decision making for emergency response. To date, different methods have been applied to distinguish oil spills from lookalikes with limited success. In addition, accurately modeling the trajectory of oil spills remains a challenge. Thus, we aim to provide further insights on the multi-faceted problem by undertaking a holistic review of past and current approaches to marine oil spill disaster reduction as well as explore the potentials of emerging digital trends in minimizing oil spill hazards. The scope of previous reviews is extended by covering the inter-related dimensions of detection, discrimination, and trajectory prediction of oil spills for vulnerability assessment. Findings show that both optical and microwave airborne and satellite remote sensors are used for oil spill monitoring with microwave sensors being more widely used due to their ability to operate under any weather condition. However, the accuracy of both sensors is affected by the presence of biogenic elements, leading to false positive depiction of oil spills. Statistical image segmentation has been widely used to discriminate lookalikes from oil spills with varying levels of accuracy but the emergence of digitalization technologies in the fourth industrial revolution (IR 4.0) is enabling the use of Machine learning (ML) and deep learning (DL) models, which are more promising than the statistical methods. The Support Vector Machine (SVM) and Artificial Neural Network (ANN) are the most used machine learning algorithms for oil spill detection, although the restriction of ML models to feed forward image classification without support for the end-to-end trainable framework limits its accuracy. On the other hand, deep learning models’ strong feature extraction and autonomous learning capability enhance their detection accuracy. Also, mathematical models based on lagrangian method have improved oil spill trajectory prediction with higher real time accuracy than the conventional worst case, average and survey-based approaches. However, these newer models are unable to quantify oil droplets and uncertainty in vulnerability prediction. Considering that there is yet no single best remote sensing technique for unambiguous detection and discrimination of oil spills and lookalikes, it is imperative to advance research in the field in order to improve existing technology and develop specialized sensors for accurate oil spill detection and enhanced classification, leveraging emerging geospatial computer vision initiatives.
Modeling Spatial Flood using Novel Ensemble Artificial Intelligence Approaches in Northern Iran
Authors: Arabameri Alireza , Saha Sunil , Mukherjee Kaustuv , Blaschke Thomas , Chen Wei , Ngo Phuong Thao Thi , Band Shahab S.
Published: October 2020

The uncertainty of flash flood makes them highly difficult to predict through conventional models. The physical hydrologic models of flash flood prediction of any large area is very difficult to compute as it requires lot of data and time. Therefore remote sensing data based models (from statistical to machine learning) have become highly popular due to open data access and lesser prediction times. There is a continuous effort to improve the prediction accuracy of these models through introducing new methods. This study is focused on flash flood modeling through novel hybrid machine learning models, which can improve the prediction accuracy. The hybrid machine learning ensemble approaches that combine the three meta-classifiers (Real AdaBoost, Random Subspace, and MultiBoosting) with J48 (a tree-based algorithm that can be used to evaluate the behavior of the attribute vector for any defined number of instances) were used in the Gorganroud River Basin of Iran to assess flood susceptibility (FS). A total of 426 flood positions as dependent variables and a total of 14 flood conditioning factors (FCFs) as independent variables were used to model the FS. Several threshold-dependent and independent statistical tests were applied to verify the performance and predictive capability of these machine learning models, such as the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve of the success rate curve (SRC) and prediction rate curve (PRC), efficiency (E), root-mean square-error (RMSE), and true skill statistics (TSS). The valuation of the FCFs was done using AdaBoost, frequency ratio (FR), and Boosted Regression Tree (BRT) models. In the flooding of the study area, altitude, land use/land cover (LU/LC), distance to stream, normalized differential vegetation index (NDVI), and rainfall played important roles. The Random Subspace J48 (RSJ48) ensemble method with an area under the curve (AUC) of 0.931 (SRC), 0.951 (PRC), E of 0.89, sensitivity of 0.87, and TSS of 0.78, has become the most effective ensemble in predicting the FS. The FR technique also showed good performance and reliability for all models. Map removal sensitivity analysis (MRSA) revealed that the FS maps have the highest sensitivity to elevation. Based on the findings of the validation methods, the FS maps prepared using the machine learning ensemble techniques have high robustness and can be used to advise flood management initiatives in flood-prone areas.
Spatio-Temporal Characteristics of PM2.5, PM10, and AOD over Canal Head Taocha Station, Henan Province
Authors: Zhang Miao , Wu Dongyu , Su Bo , Bilal Muhammad , Li Yuying , Li B. Larry
Published: October 2020

In this study, spatio-temporal characteristics of particulate matter (PMx; x = 2.5 and 10) mass concentrations and aerosol optical properties were analyzed over the water source area of the South–North Water Diversion Central Line. For this purpose, PM2.5 and PM10 mass concentrations were collected at the Taocha(TC)station from October 2018 to September 2019, and aerosol optical depth (AOD) was obtained from the Cloud-Aerosol LiDAR and Infrared Pathfinder Satellite Observation (CALIPSO) satellite from 2007 to 2019. The monthly, seasonal, and daily statistical analyses and related comparisons were conducted in the present study. The results showed that the PM10 concentrations meet China’s ambient air secondary quality standard (100 μg/m3 annual mean), whereas PM2.5 did not meet China’s ambient air secondary quality standard (35 μg/m3 annual mean) at the TC station, no obvious seasonal and diurnal variations are observed, and these particulates are caused by local emissions and outside sources. A significant positive correlation of PM2.5 and PM10 was observed with relative humidity and temperature, whereas no relationship was found with wind direction. The results also showed low (~0.1) AOD in spring, autumn, and winter, whereas slightly higher AOD (~0.3) was observed in summer. This may be caused by straw burning from long-distance transportation. This study may provide new data support for comprehensive ecological measures such as strengthening the ecological environment and water quality protection in the Middle Route Project of the South–North Water Diversion.
Structural Equation Modeling for Mobile Learning Acceptance by University Students: An Empirical Study
Authors: Naveed Quadri Noorulhasan , Alam Mohammad Mahtab , Tairan Nasser
Published: October 2020

Advanced mobile devices and global internet services have enhanced the usage of smartphones in the education sector and their potential for fulfilling teaching and learning objectives. The current study is an attempt to assess the factors affecting mobile learning acceptance by Saudi university students. A theoretical model of mobile learning acceptance was developed based on the technology acceptance model (TAM) and the unified theory of acceptance and use of technology (UTAUT) model. Theoretically, five independent constructs were identified as most contributory towards the use of mobile learning and tested empirically. Data were collected through an online survey and analyzed using SmartPLS. The results of the study indicate that four constructs were significantly associated with mobile learning acceptance: perceived usefulness (β = 0.085, t = 2.201, and p = 0.028), perceived ease of use (β = 0.031, t = 1.688, and p = 0.013), attitude (β = 0.100, t = 3.771, and p = 0.037), and facilitating conditions (β = 0.765, t = 4.319, and p = 0.001). On the other hand, social influence was insignificant (β = −0.061, t = 0.136, and p = 0.256) for mobile learning acceptance. The contribution of social influence towards the use of mobile learning was negative and insignificant; hence, it was neglected. Thus, finally, four constructs (perceived usefulness, perceived ease of use, attitude, and facilitating conditions) were considered as important determinants of mobile learning acceptance by university students.
Stakeholder Mapping to Co-Create Nature-Based Solutions: Who Is on Board?
Authors: Zingraff-Hamed Aude , Hüesker Frank , Lupp Gerd , Begg Chloe , Huang Josh , Oen Amy , Vojinovic Zoran , Kuhlicke Christian , Pauleit Stephan
Published: October 2020

Nature-based solutions (NBS) are inspired and supported by nature but designed by humans. Historically, governmental stakeholders have aimed to control nature using a top-down approach; more recently, environmental governance has shifted to collaborative planning. Polycentric governance and co-creation procedures, which include a large spectrum of stakeholders, are assumed to be more effective in the management of public goods than traditional approaches. In this context, NBS projects should benefit from strong collaborative governance models, and the European Union is facilitating and encouraging such models. While some theoretical approaches exist, setting-up the NBS co-creation process (namely co-design and co-implementation) currently relies mostly on self-organized stakeholders rather than on strategic decisions. As such, systematic methods to identify relevant stakeholders seem to be crucial to enable higher planning efficiency, reduce bottlenecks and time needed for planning, designing, and implementing NBS. In this context, this contribution is based on the analysis of 16 NBS and 359 stakeholders. Real-life constellations are compared to theoretical typologies, and a systematic stakeholder mapping method to support co-creation is presented. Rather than making one-fit-all statements about the “right” stakeholders, the contribution provides insights for those “in charge” to strategically consider who might be involved at each stage of the NBS project.
Design a Semantic Scale for Passenger Perceived Quality Surveys of Urban Rail Transit: Within Attribute’s Service Condition and Rider’s Experience
Authors: Chen Weiya , Kang Zixuan , Fang Xiaoping , Li Jiajia
Published: October 2020

A better understanding of passenger perceived quality helps urban rail transit managers adopt better strategies to improve the service quality of urban rail transit, which is beneficial to the sustainable development of an urban rail transit system itself and cities. This paper designs a semantic scale to survey passenger perceived quality of urban rail transit. The methodology is selecting specific features of an attribute and then describing the features to present the attribute’s service condition and the rider’s experience. The scale’s options can reduce cognitive steps and hesitation for riders to answer the survey questionnaire. Furthermore, it enables urban rail transit managers to understand passenger perceived quality more visually. After verifying the reliability and validity of the semantic scale, an empirical study was conducted to compare the evaluation results of the proposed semantic scale, Likert, and numeric scales. Compared to the Likert and numeric scales, the evaluation result of the semantic scale is fairer for attributes with homogeneous service conditions over operation periods from the transit agency perspective. Meanwhile, it is more homogeneous for attributes with homogeneous service conditions and is more heterogeneous for attributes with heterogeneous service conditions.
Young People’s Perceptions of World Cultural Heritage: Suggestions for a Critical and Reflexive World Heritage Education
Authors: Röll Verena , Meyer Christiane
Published: October 2020

The paper analyses and discusses the perspectives of young people on World Cultural Heritage (WCH), focusing on their presumed reasons of its imbalanced global distribution. The qualitative study is based upon focus groups conducted with 43 secondary school students aged 14–17 years from Lower Saxony, Germany. The findings reveal Eurocentric thinking patterns. Furthermore, a site visit took place after the focus groups exploring the universal and personal values the participants attach to the WCH using hermeneutic photography. Due to these results and building upon an education for sustainable development that empowers learners to become sustainability citizens, the authors provide suggestions for a critical and reflexive World (Cultural) Heritage education.
The Relationships among Experience, Delight, and Recollection for Revisit Intention in Chocolate Exposition
Authors: Jeon Hyeon Mo , Yoo Se Ran , Kim Seon Hee
Published: October 2020

This study examined the relationship among holistic experience and delight, recollection, and revisit intention, in visitors to a chocolate exposition, to confirm the factors influencing their revisit intention. To accomplish this objective, a sample of 280 visitors to the Salon du Chocolat was utilized. The findings revealed that the visitors’ memorable on-site experiences had a positive impact on their sense of delight and recollection. These emotions were shown to positively influence their intention to revisit the exposition. In conclusion, the on-site experiences of sense, feel, think, act, and relate, were the most important determinants of revisit intention among visitors. The findings of this study meaningfully contribute to theory by applying the concepts of experiential marketing to food expositions. Our study also proposes practical suggestions for hosting food expositions in a post-COVID world. The theoretical framework proposed and tested for model validation lay the foundation for future research on experiential marketing of food expositions.
Determinant Factors of Pedestrian Volume in Different Land-Use Zones: Combining Space Syntax Metrics with GIS-Based Built-Environment Measures
Authors: Lee Sugie , Yoo Chisun , Seo Kyung Wook
Published: October 2020

This study combined space syntax metrics and geographic information systems (GIS)-based built-environment measures to analyze pedestrian volume in different land-use zones, as recorded in unique public data from a pedestrian volume survey of 10,000 locations in Seoul, Korea. The results indicate that most of the built-environment variables, such as density, land use, accessibility, and street design measures, showed statistically significant associations with pedestrian volume. Among the syntactic variables, global integration showed a statistically significant association with the average pedestrian volume in residential and commercial zones. In contrast, local integration turned out to be an important factor in the commercial zone. Therefore, this study concludes that the syntactic variables of global and local integration, as well as some built-environment variables, should be considered as determinant factors of pedestrian volume, though the effects of those variables varied by land-use zone. Therefore, planning and public policies should use tailored approaches to promote urban vitality through pedestrian volume in accordance with each land-use zone’s characteristics.
How Does Improve Farmers’ Attitudes toward Ecosystem Services to Support Sustainable Development of Agriculture? Based on Environmental Kuznets Curve Theory
Authors: Yang Yaofeng , Chen Yajuan , Yu Zhenrong , Li Pengyao , Li Xuedong
Published: October 2020

Agroecosystems are complex socio-ecological systems that are managed by farmers to achieve desired outcomes, including economic income and environmental benefits contributed by ecosystem services (ES). Therefore, understanding farmers’ attitudes for ES will provide references for targeted agricultural environment management, which is critical to achieving the sustainable development of agriculture. The aim of this study is to identify the attitudes of farmers regarding ES, and to test whether and how annual household income and social demographic characteristics affect farmers’ attitudes toward ES. Using face-to-face interviews to collect data and the hypothesis of environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) to provide an analytical framework, the results reveal that, in general, the perceptions of farmers’ attitudes on ES are highly complex, caused by characteristics of the farmers. Furthermore, the inflection points of the U-shaped curves, where priorities change from increasing income to paying more attention to waste assimilation and biological pest control, are identified at 17,091 and 25,071RMB, respectively. Initiatives that aim to achieve sustainable agricultural development by strengthening ES provisions should be sensitive to farmers’perceptions. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen farmers’ educational attainment, concentrate fragmented cultivation area and create reasonable incentives for preserving and restoring of ES and increasing farmers’ income together, which then can enhance the positive outcomes from income growth.
Strengthening Urban-Rural Resource Flow through Regional Circular and Ecological Sphere (R-CES) Approach in Nagpur, India
Authors: Thapa Kamakshi , Sukhwani Vibhas , Deshkar Sameer , Shaw Rajib , Mitra Bijon Kumer
Published: October 2020

Urban and rural areas within a regional space are closely linked through a variety of linkages including the flow of people. The increasing pace of development transformations with discrete planning of urban and rural areas has raised serious concerns for achieving coordinated development at the regional level. In that regard, the concept of Regional Circular and Ecological Sphere (R-CES) has recently been introduced by the Government of Japan to localize the flow of resources between urban and rural areas. To understand the applicability of the R-CES approach, this study aims to visualize the flow of people within a defined cluster of Nagpur Metropolitan Area (NMA) in India. A “home interview method” Origin-Destination survey was adopted to analyze the flow patterns of people and their key purposes. Based on the collected information, flows of people were represented using a desire line diagram in ArcGIS 10.4.1. The study results revealed that the maximum flow of the rural and forest population is directed towards nearby or distant urban settlements to avail the higher-order urban services. Based on the key R-CES principles of a low-carbon society, circular economy, and harmony with nature, the authors suggest feasible directions for localizing the urban–rural flow of people in NMA.
Indoor Acoustic Comfort Provided by an Innovative Preconstructed Wall Module: Sound Insulation Performance Analysis
Authors: Tsirigoti Dimitra , Giarma Christina , Tsikaloudaki Katerina
Published: October 2020

The complicated nature of indoor environmental quality (IEQ) (thermal, visual, acoustic comfort, etc.) dictates a multi-fold approach for desirable IEQ levels to be achieved. The improvement of building shells’ thermal performance, imposed by the constantly revised buildings’ energy performance regulations, does not necessarily guarantee the upgrade of all IEQ-related aspects, such as the construction’s acoustic quality, as most of the commonly used insulation materials are characterized by their low acoustic performance properties. From this perspective the SUstainable PReconstructed Innovative Module (SU.PR.I.M.) research project investigates a new, innovative preconstructed building module with advanced characteristics, which can, among other features, provide a high quality of acoustic performance in the indoor space. The module consists of two reinforced concrete vertical panels, between which the load bearing steel profiles are positioned. In the cavity and at the exterior surface of the panel there is a layer of thermal insulation. For the scope of the analysis, different external finishing surfaces are considered, including cladding with slate and brick, and different cavity insulation materials are examined. The addition of Phase Change Materials (PCM) in different mix proportions in the interior concrete panel is also examined. For the calculation of the sound insulation performance of the building module the INSUL 9.0 software is used. The results were validated through an experimental measurement in the laboratory in order to test the consistency of the values obtained. The results indicate that the examined preconstructed module can cover the sound insulation national regulation’s performance limits, but the implementation of such panels in building constructions should be carefully considered in case of lower frequency noise environments.
Preventing Patent Risks in Artificial Intelligence Industry for Sustainable Development: A Multi-Level Network Analysis
Authors: Yang Xi , Yu Xiang
Published: October 2020

In recent years, assessing patent risks has attracted fast-growing attention from both researchers and practitioners in studies of technological innovation. Following the existing literature on risks and intellectual property (IP) risks, we define patent risks as the lack of understanding of the distribution of patents that lead to losing a key patent, increased research and development costs, and, potentially, infringement litigation. This paper aims to propose an explorative approach to investigating patent risks in the target technology field by integrating social network analysis and patent analysis. Compared to previous research, this study makes an important contribution toward identifying patent risks in the overall technological field by employing a patent-based multi-level network model that has not appeared in existing methodologies of patent risks. In order to verify the effectiveness of this approach, we take artificial intelligence (AI) as an example. Data collected from the Derwent Innovation Index (DII) database were used to build the patent-based multi-level network on patent risks from market, technology, and assignee perspectives. The results indicate that the lack of international collaborations among assignees and industry–university–research collaboration may lead to patent collaboration risks. Regarding patent market risks, the lack of overseas patent applications, especially the lack of distribution in the main competitive markets, is a key factor. As for patent technology risks, most of the leading assignees lack awareness of the distribution in the following technological fields: industrial electric equipment, engineering instrumentation, and automotive electrics. In summary, assignees from the U.S. with first mover advantages are still powerful leaders in the AI technology field. Although China is catching up very rapidly in the total number of AI patents, the apparent patent risks under the perspectives of collaboration, market, and technology will obviously hamper the catch-up efforts of China’s AI industry. We conclude that, in practice, the proposed patent-based multi-level network model not only plays an important role in helping stakeholders in the AI technological field to prevent patent risks, find new technology opportunities, and obtain sustainable development, but also has significance for guiding the industrial development of various emerging technology fields.
More on Hölder’s Inequality and It’s Reverse via the Diamond-Alpha Integral
Authors: Zakarya M. , Abd El-Hamid H. A. , AlNemer Ghada , Rezk H. M.
Published: October 2020

In this paper, we investigate some new generalizations and refinements for Hölder’s inequality and it’s reverse on time scales through the diamond-α dynamic integral, which is defined as a linear combination of the delta and nabla integrals, which are used in various problems involving symmetry. We develop a number of those symmetric inequalities to a general time scale. Our results as special cases extend some integral dynamic inequalities and Qi’s inequalities achieved on time scales and also include some integral disparities as particular cases when T=R.
A efetividade das medidas protetivas de urgência a partir do projeto da Polícia Militar “Rede Catarina” no município de São Miguel do Oeste
Authors: Gava Letícia Vincenzi , Wendramin Cassiane
Published: October 2020

O presente artigo analisa a busca no combate à violência doméstica contra a mulher a partir de um novo marco, estudo do programa “Rede Catarina” implementado no município catarinense de São Miguel do Oeste. É fato que esta situação foi, por muito tempo, invisível aos olhos do Estado. Por isso, inicia-se com a abordagem relativa aos direitos fundamentais das mulheres, que por serem mais suscetíveis às discriminações por conta do gênero, fazem parte do grupo das minorias vulneráveis, dando sequência a análise cronológica dos fatos que abriram caminho à promulgação da Lei Maria da Penha, a qual inovou no tocante aos mecanismos de prevenção à violência doméstica, em especial os nominados nos artigos 22, 23 e 24, que tratam das medidas protetivas de urgência. Notou-se, todavia, a necessidade de complementar esses mecanismos, visto que faltava acompanhamento direto e regular a essas vítimas. Assim, a Polícia Militar de Santa Catarina criou um programa institucional nominado “Rede Catarina” pautado no contato próximo com a vítima. Desse modo, enfatizou-se a atuação desse programa no município catarinense de São Miguel do Oeste e inferiu-se que esse novo modelo de aproximação do estado com a vítima pode auxiliar na efetividade das medidas protetivas de urgência, visto que acaba por proteger e orientar os envolvidos.
A teoria do produto bruto mitigado como alternativa para o ressarcimento de danos ao erário nas fraudes em contratações públicas
Authors: Weiblen Fabrício Pinto , Di Sena Júnior Roberto , Pargendler Vitor Silveira
Published: October 2020

Apesar de encontrar amparo expresso na Lei Geral de Licitações (Lei n. 8.666/93), o ressarcimento da íntegra do contrato nos casos de ilícitos e fraudes em contratações públicas ainda é medida excepcional, lastreada na interpretação dos tribunais pátrios de que tal medida acarreta enriquecimento sem causa da Administração Pública. A fim de contornar esse entendimento e, ao mesmo tempo, garantir que as sanções aplicadas tenham força dissuasória de novos ilícitos, as Cortes de Contas desenvolveram a teoria do produto bruto mitigado, que pressupõe a restituição tanto de eventual sobrepreço praticado pelo contratado de má-fé, quanto do lucro sobre a parte que ele efetivamente executou. Embora as decisões judiciais não façam menção nominal à teoria, seus fundamentos têm ganhado cada vez mais espaço na jurisprudência e representa uma alternativa viável e juridicamente robusta à medida mais gravosa representada pela devolução da íntegra do contrato.
From conscious to unconscious and back. Remarks on Melanie Klein’s interpretation of Magic Word
Authors: Iwaszuk Marta
Published: October 2020

The paper examines fluctuations between conscious and unconscious modes of mind functioning as outlined in Melanie Klein’s interpretation of Magic Word (Klein, 1929/1948), using the double lens of psychoanalytic and semiotic concepts of symbol. The study aims to explore the process of transformation that takes place in conscious and unconscious parts of the mind, when the mind overcomes maniac defences and is confronted with core depressive recognition: a truth about separateness of individual, and all anxieties it arouses. The examination of conscious aspects of depressive position will be performed through the prism of Charles Peirce (1998) semiotic, while unconscious content will be explored according to Melanie Klein psychoanalysis. The results of the study reveal, that employment of psychoanalytic and semiotic perspective simultaneously, when examining dynamics of psychic position, allows to break down the process to smaller, but still explorable sequences. Such approach allows not only to study most distinctive elements of the position but also to track dependencies that occur between them in time on both conscious and unconscious level. Moreover breaking down depressive dynamic to the smaller sequences facilitates more careful monitoring of the disturbing influence of unconscious to consciousness when psychotic response picks up. Similarly, sequential view enables more precise identification of the point when triangle space returns, and so facilitates analysis of conditions associated with that important change.
BÖLGE ADLİYE MAHKEMESİ CUMHURİYET BAŞSAVCILIĞININ İTİRAZ YETKİSİ
Authors: GÜNDÜZ Hakan
Published: October 2020

Ceza yargılamasının amacı; en geniş anlamı ile insan hakları ihlâllerine yol açmadan maddi gerçeğe erişmektir. Yargı mercilerinin kararlarında hukuka aykırılıklar bulunabileceği gerçeğinden hareketle, maddi gerçeğe erişme amacına hizmet etmek üzere, bu hukuka aykırılıkların giderilmesi için kanun yolları öngörülmüştür. Ancak, bir davanın sonsuza kadar sürmeyip bir hükümle neticelenmesi ve bu hükme karşı kanun yollarının tüketilmesiyle mahkeme kararlarının kesinleşmesi, toplumda hukuksal barışın kurulması ve korunması için zaruri bir ihtiyaçtır. Bununla birlikte, hüküm ve kararlar tüm kanun yolları tüketilerek kesin hüküm kuvvetine erişse dahi, bir süre sonra, maddi gerçeğe uymadıkları, dava konusu olayın mahiyetine aykırı olarak, hüküm veya kararın sanık lehine veya aleyhine sonuç doğurduğu, başka bir deyişle hükmün adli hata ile lekelendiği ortaya çıkabilir. İstinaf kanun yolunun hayata geçtiği 20.7.2016 tarihinde yürürlükte olan hükümlere göre, bölge adliye mahkemesi ceza dairelerinin kesin nitelikteki kararlarına karşı başvurulacak bir olağanüstü kanun yolu öngörülmemişti. Ancak, istinaf mahkemesinin kesin nitelikteki hatalı kararlarının düzeltilmesi ihtiyacına binaen, “Bölge adliye mahkemesi Cumhuriyet başsavcılığının itiraz yetkisi”, 20.7.2017 tarihli ve 7035 sayılı Kanun ile CMK’ya eklenen 308/A maddesinde düzenlenmiştir. Yapılan düzenleme ile; bölge adliye mahkemesi Cumhuriyet başsavcılığının itirazı üzerine, dairenin itirazı yerinde görürse kararını düzeltmesi, yerinde görmezse dosyayı itirazı incelemek üzere bölge adliye mahkemesi ceza daireleri başkanlar kuruluna göndermesi sağlanmaktadır.
Effects of Kumo Teaching Strategy on Students’ Achievement in Electrical/Electronics in Technical Colleges in Niger State
Authors: G.A. Usman , Hassan Abdullahi Muhammad , M.M Bala
Published: October 2020

The study investigated the effects of kumon teaching strategy methods on students’ achievement in electrical/electronic in technical colleges in Niger State. The study adopted a pretest-posttest quasi-experimental design with non-equivalent control group. The sample for the study consisted of 122 technical college III electrical/electronic students. Purposive sampling was used to select four schools in Minna education zone. The instrument used for the study is the Electrical/Electronic Achievement Test (EAT) designed by the researcher. Section A of the instrument contained 20 multiple-choice items, section B contained 2 essay questions all for the measurement of students’ achievement in electrical/electronic. Four research questions and four hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The hypotheses were tested at 0.05 level of significance. The data collected were analyzed using mean and standard deviation and ANCOVA statistical tools. The results showed that ability level of students significantly influence achievement in electrical/electronic. The high ability students outperformed their medium and low ability students. Gender was not a significant factor. The interaction effect of gender and method was not statistically significant. There was a significant difference in the mean achievement scores of students taught electrical/electronic using problem-solving and those taught using discussion teaching methods. Finally it was recommended that teachers of electrical/electronic should adopt the use of kumon teaching strategy. This will go a long way in improving problem-solving skills of students no matter their ability level.
Síntesis y caracterización de catalizadores conteniendo heteropolioxometalatos incluidos en una matriz de sílice y alúmina
Authors:   , Colombo Migliorero María Belén
Published: October 2020

En nuestra sociedad actual la industria química es indispensable, y también lo es el uso responsable de los recursos. Es crucial que todas las industrias tengan la mirada puesta en un futuro sustentable, por lo que los procesos químicos deben ser adaptados según los principios de la Química Verde y considerando una economía circular, es decir, el proceso debe formularse de manera tal de eliminar los residuos, reciclar los productos, y proteger el ambiente y sus recursos. En este sentido, el desarrollo de procesos químicos aplicando tecnologías limpias busca, por ejemplo, reemplazar la catálisis en fase homogénea por procesos heterogéneos con catalizadores inmovilizados en diversas matrices que permitan realizar de forma simple el aislamiento y posterior reúso del catalizador empleado. El método Sol-Gel es muy empleado en la síntesis de soportes para diversos sistemas catalíticos ya que permite de manera sencilla y a bajas temperaturas obtener una gran variedad de materiales de propiedades definidas. En el contexto de este trabajo de Tesis Doctoral se desarrollan materiales cuya fase activa (un heteropoliácido) está incluida en una matriz de sílice, de alúmina o mixta de sílice y alúmina. Por otro lado, los heteropoliácidos usados en las síntesis Sol-Gel de los óxidos antes mencionados tienen el potencial de ser sintetizados en agua y la capacidad de experimentar reacciones redox manteniendo estable su estructura, por lo cual los sólidos obtenidos pueden emplearse como catalizadores heterogéneos en reacciones de oxidación de compuestos orgánicos en fase líquida. De acuerdo a lo expuesto, el objetivo general de este trabajo de Tesis es explorar la incorporación de los heteropoliácidos sintetizados, tal como el ácido fosfomolíbdico dopado con Nb, en diferentes soportes para su uso como catalizadores en fase heterogénea en la oxidación selectiva de sulfuros con potencial actividad biológica. Se llevarán a cabo las reacciones de síntesis orgánica mediante una metodología que involucre el menor impacto ambiental posible, a través del uso de catálisis heterogénea y de reactivos que sean amigables con el medioambiente, tal como el peróxido de hidrógeno acuoso y solventes eco compatibles como el etanol. En forma general, se propone el estudio de la oxidación selectiva de sulfuros a sulfóxidos y/o sulfonas.Se estudiará, entre otros, la oxidación selectiva de tioxanten-9-ona cuyos productos de oxidación presentan actividad leishmanicida (la leishmanosis es una enfermedad cutánea, transmitida por insectos, ampliamente distribuida en Latinoamérica), y fenil 2-nitrofenil sulfuro.
Konsep RASPRO: Upaya Melaksanakan Amanah Permenkes 8/2015 untuk Menurunkan Kuantitas Penggunaan Antibiotik
Authors: Natadidjaja Ronald Irwanto
Published: October 2020

Masalah Mutu: Extended Spectrum Beta-Lactamase (ESBL) muncul sebagai masalah global akibat penggunaan betalaktam yang berlebihan. Tahun 2015, Kementerian Kesehatan Republik Indonesia mengeluarkan Peraturan Menteri Kesehatan No. 8/2015 agar rumah sakit dapat mengatur penggunaan antibiotik secara bijak. Standar Nasional Akreditasi Rumah Sakit (SNARS) 2018 juga mengkaji berbagai indikator mutu dalam penggunaan antibiotik di rumah sakit, termasuk Define Daily Dose (DDD) dan unit penjualan antibiotik. Oleh karena itu, dibutuhkan sebuah tools yang dapat mengatur klinisi agar penggunaan antibiotik menjadi lebih efisien.

Pilihan Solusi: Regulasi Antimikroba Sistem Prospektif (RASPRO) merupakan sebuah konsep tools berupa tabel untuk pengaturan penggunaan antibiotik empirik dan definitif prospektif di rumah sakit yang bertujuan untuk mengoperasionalkan Peraturan di atas. Indikator perbaikan penggunaan antibiotik yang digunakan adalah penurunan DDD dan unit penjualan antibiotik sesuai SNARS.

Implementasi: RASPRO membentuk Panduan Penggunaan Antibiotik (PPAB) dengan pertimbangan pola kuman lokal, dan membaginya ke dalam stratifikasi I-III sesuai dengan risiko infeksi dan tingkat keparahan penyakit pasien. Aplikasi RASPRO dilakukan dengan menggunakan tabel yang wajib diisi klinisi pada peresepan antibiotik. Tabel tersebut mengarahkan klinisi mengenai jenis antibiotik yang harus digunakan sesuai PPAB berdasarkan kondisi pasien dan tingkat keparahan penyakit, sesuai gambar dalam stratifikasi. Antibiotik direserve dan direstriksi melalui sistem tabel RASPRO, apabila peresepan tidak sesuai stratifikasi.

Evaluasi dan Pembelajaran: Tampak penurunan signifikan DDD ceftriaxone dan meropenem di RS A sebelum dan sesudah sosialisasi PPAB-RASPRO dengan model stratifikasi pada fokus-fokus infeksi besar (pneumonia, infeksi saluran kemih (ISK), infeksi intra abdomen). Penjualan unit antibiotik carbapenem dan ceftazidime (cephalosporin anti-pseudomonas) dalam tiga bulan di RS Y, yang telah menerapkan tabel aplikasi RASPRO, dijumpai jauh lebih rendah dibandingkan RS X yang belum menerapkan program RASPRO. Dijumpai penurunan total peresepan betalaktam dan meropenem pada RS X dalam 3 bulan setelah konsep RASPRO diterapkan sebagai projek ujicoba di beberapa bangsal.
Peningkatan Pendidikan Pasien dan Keluarga dengan Penguatan Peran Interpersonal Champion Promosi Kesehatan dengan Pendekatan Peplau
Authors: Sukarip Suhariyanto , Haryati Tutik Sri , Lestari Astuti , Purnamaria Mis , Dja'afara Carlos , Nonaria Lulu , Mulyadi Mulyadi , Gautami Enda
Published: October 2020

Latar Belakang: Pendampingan dan supervisi yang kurang dari champion promosi kesehatan dapat mempengaruhi kepatuhan pemberian pendidikan pasien dan keluarga serta pencatatan edukasi interkolaborasi. Upaya untuk meningkatkan kepatuhan tersebut dapat dilakukan melalui penguatan peran interpersonal champion promosi kesehatan dengan pendekatan Teori Peplau.

Tujuan: Mengidentifikasi pengaruh penguatan peran champion promosi kesehatan dengan pendekatan Teori Peplau yaitu pendekatan interpersonal terhadap penerapan pendidikan pasien dan keluarga.

Metode: Penelitian ni menggunakan metode pre-eksperimental design, one group pre and post test without control. Sampel penelitian sebanyak 38 dokumentasi pendidikan pasien dan keluarga interkolaborasi yang dipilih secara incidental sampling dan dilakukan analisis paired t-test.

Hasil: Terdapat peningkatan yang bermakna pada rerata nilai pengetahuan champion promosi kesehatan, pelaksanaan peran terutama pada peran pengajaran dan narasumber, kepemimpinan dan wali, serta dalam penerapan pendidikan pasien dan keluarga pada sebelum dan setelah intervensi penguatan hubungan interpersonal pada para champion promosi kesehatan dengan teori Peplau (p 0,001).

Kesimpulan: Penelitian ini dapat meningkatkan pengetahuan pasien dan keluarga terkait edukasi yang diberikan sebagai upaya keselamatan pasien selama di rumah sakit. Diperlukan kebijakan, dan pendampingan dari pimpinan rumah sakit untuk mengawal penerapan pendidikan pasien dan keluarga, serta pengembangan materi penguatan melalui lokakarya sebagai salah satu kompetensi pemimpin di bagian promosi kesehatan maupun petugas kesehatan lainnya.