bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Integration of Web APIs and Linked Data Using SPARQL Micro-Services—Application to Biodiversity Use Cases
Authors: Michel Franck , Faron Zucker Catherine , Gargominy Olivier , Gandon Fabien
Published: December 2018

In recent years, Web APIs have become a de facto standard for exchanging machine-readable data on the Web. Despite this success, however, they often fail in making resource descriptions interoperable due to the fact that they rely on proprietary vocabularies that lack formal semantics. The Linked Data principles similarly seek the massive publication of data on the Web, yet with the specific goal of ensuring semantic interoperability. Given their complementary goals, it is commonly admitted that cross-fertilization could stem from the automatic combination of Linked Data and Web APIs. Towards this goal, in this paper we leverage the micro-service architectural principles to define a SPARQL Micro-Service architecture, aimed at querying Web APIs using SPARQL. A SPARQL micro-service is a lightweight SPARQL endpoint that provides access to a small, resource-centric, virtual graph. In this context, we argue that full SPARQL Query expressiveness can be supported efficiently without jeopardizing servers availability. Furthermore, we demonstrate how this architecture can be used to dynamically assign dereferenceable URIs to Web API resources that do not have URIs beforehand, thus literally “bringing” Web APIs into the Web of Data. We believe that the emergence of an ecosystem of SPARQL micro-services published by independent providers would enable Linked Data-based applications to easily glean pieces of data from a wealth of distributed, scalable, and reliable services. We describe a working prototype implementation and we finally illustrate the use of SPARQL micro-services in the context of two real-life use cases related to the biodiversity domain, developed in collaboration with the French National Museum of Natural History.
Seasonality of the Cardiac Biomarker Troponin in the Eastern Croatian Population
Authors: Mikić Mišel , Šestak Anamarija , Volarić Mile , Rudan Stjepan , Trtica Majnarić Ljiljana
Published: December 2018

Background: The seasonality of acute myocardial infarction and progressive heart failure has been well established so far. Cardiac troponins (cTns) are organ-specific, not disease-specific, biomarkers. The seasonality of cTns has not been reported before. Methods: Data were collected from the emergency admission unit of a community hospital in eastern Croatia for each month of the year 2014 covering the number of patients whose doctors requested high-sensitivity cTn I (hs-cTn I) testing, the number of positive test results and hospital admissions. Results: The proportion of patients with positive test results was 15.75% (350 patients out of 2221 patients referred to testing), with the males being outnumbered by the females (F: 57.15%, M: 42.85%) (p = 0.069). The month with the highest number of patients with positive test results was December, whereas the month with the lowest number of those patients was January (p < 0.001). The highest numbers of patients referred to testing (30.9%) and of those with positive test results (50.8%) were found in the oldest age group (76+). Conclusion: Tracking the results of cTns testing during patient admissions to emergency departments would be a more effective approach from a public health perspective than tracking the number of patients diagnosed with a particular cardiovascular (CV) disease and could be used as a research approach to guide a search for precipitating factors for CV disease specific to a local community.
Emotional Exhaustion and Health Complaints as Indicators of Occupational Diseases Among Civil Servants in Spain
Authors: Topa Gabriela , Jurado-Del Pozo José F.
Published: December 2018

Occupations focused on helping others, guaranteeing people’s security, and defending societal values can be stressful and risky for the workers involved. Emotional exhaustion and health complaints usually emerge as indicators of the stress suffered by these workers in undertaking their roles. This research aims to explore the effects of psychological contract breach on both emotional exhaustion and health complaints among three kinds of Spanish workers, namely firefighters (n = 80), professional soldiers (n = 77), and prison officers (n = 107). The predictor variables include job tenure and psychological contract breach. Criterion variables are employees’ emotional exhaustion and health complaints. Our findings showed that job tenure and contract breaches significantly explain both emotional exhaustion and health complaints. Despite these general findings, some differences emerge as a function of the organizations. Significance levels were higher for prison officers than for firemen and Spanish soldiers. Results are discussed, suggesting conceptual integration and direction for future risk prevention in this kind of public organization.
In Vitro Comparison of the Efficacy of Peri-Implantitis Treatments on the Removal and Recolonization of Streptococcus gordonii Biofilm on Titanium Disks
Authors: Toma Selena , Behets Catherine , Brecx Michel C. , Lasserre Jerome F.
Published: December 2018

Objective: To compare the efficacy of four commonly used clinical procedures in removing Streptococcus gordonii biofilms from titanium disks, and the recolonization of the treated surfaces. Background: Successful peri-implantitis treatment depends on the removal of the dental biofilm. Biofilm that forms after implant debridement may threaten the success of the treatment and the long-term stability of the implants. Methods: S. gordonii biofilms were grown on titanium disks for 48 h and removed using a plastic curette, air-abrasive device (Perio-Flow®), titanium brush (TiBrush®), or implantoplasty. The remaining biofilm and the recolonization of the treated disks were observed using scanning electron microscopy and quantified after staining with crystal violet. Surface roughness (Ra and Rz) was measured using a profilometer. Results: S. gordonii biofilm biomass was reduced after treatment with Perio-Flow®, TiBrush®, and implantoplasty (all p < 0.05), but not plastic curette (p > 0.05), compared to the control group. Recolonization of S. gordonii after treatment was lowest after Perio-Flow®, TiBrush®, and implantoplasty (all p < 0.05 vs. control), but there was no difference between the plastic curette and the control group (p > 0.05). Ra and Rz values ranged from 1–6 µm to 1–2 µm and did not differ statistically between the control, plastic curette, Perio-Flow, and TiBrush groups. However, the implantoplasty group showed a Ra value below 1 µm (p < 0.01, ANOVA, Tukey). Conclusions: Perio-Flow®, TiBrush®, and implantoplasty were more effective than the plastic curette at removing the S. gordonii biofilm and preventing recolonization. These results should influence the surgical management of peri-implantitis.
Analysis of the Transcriptome of the Red Seaweed Grateloupia imbricata with Emphasis on Reproductive Potential
Authors: Garcia-Jimenez Pilar , Llorens Carlos , Roig Francisco J. , Robaina Rafael R.
Published: December 2018

Grateloupia imbricata is an intertidal marine seaweed and candidate model organism for both industry and academic research, owing to its ability to produce raw materials such as carrageenan. Here we report on the transcriptome of G. imbricata with the aim of providing new insights into the metabolic pathways and other functional pathways related to the reproduction of Grateloupia species. Next-generation sequencing was carried out with subsequent de novo assembly and annotation using state-of-the-art bioinformatic protocols. The results show the presence of transcripts required for the uptake of glycerol, which is a specific carbon source for in vitro culture of G. imbricata and nucleotide sequences that are involved in polyamine-based biosynthesis, polyamine degradation, and metabolism of jasmonates and ethylene. Polyamines, ethylene and methyl jasmonate are plant growth regulators that elicit the development and maturation of cystocarps and the release of spores from seaweeds. Our results will inform studies of the mechanisms that control polysaccharide accumulation, cystocarp formation and spore release. Moreover, our transcriptome information clarifies aspects of red seaweed carposporogenesis with potential benefits for enhancing reproduction.
Non-Destructive Evaluation of Steel Surfaces after Severe Plastic Deformation via the Barkhausen Noise Technique
Authors: Neslušan Miroslav , Trško Libor , Minárik Peter , Čapek Jiří , Bronček Jozef , Pastorek Filip , Čížek Jakub , Moravec Ján
Published: December 2018

This paper reports about the non-destructive evaluation of surfaces after severe shot peening via the Barkhausen noise technique. Residuals stresses and the corresponding Almen intensity, as well as microstructure alterations, are correlated with the Barkhausen noise signal and its extracted features. It was found that residual stresses as well as the Barkhausen noise exhibit a valuable anisotropy. For this reason, the relationship between the Barkhausen noise and stress state is more complicated. On the other hand, the near-the-surface layer exhibits a remarkable deformation induced softening, expressed in terms of the microhardness and the corresponding crystalline size. Such an effect explains the progressive increase of the Barkhausen noise emission along with the shot-peening time. Therefore, the Barkhausen noise can be considered as a promising technique capable of distinguishing between the variable regimes of severe shoot peening.
Fatigue Properties of Ultra-Fine Grained Al-Mg-Si Wires with Enhanced Mechanical Strength and Electrical Conductivity
Authors: Medvedev Andrey , Arutyunyan Alexander , Lomakin Ivan , Bondarenko Anton , Kazykhanov Vil , Enikeev Nariman , Raab Georgy , Murashkin Maxim
Published: December 2018

This paper focuses on the mechanical properties, electrical conductivity and fatigue performance of ultra-fine-grained (UFG) Al-Mg-Si wires processed by a complex severe plastic deformation route. It is shown that the nanostructural design via equal channel angular pressing (ECAP) Conform followed by heat treatment and cold drawing leads to the combination of enhanced tensile strength, sufficient ductility, enhanced electrical conductivity, and improved fatigue strength compared to the wires after traditional T81 thermo-mechanical treatment used in wire manufacturing. The Processing-microstructure-properties relationship in the studied material is discussed.
Effects of Early Intervention with Maternal Fecal Microbiota and Antibiotics on the Gut Microbiota and Metabolite Profiles of Piglets
Authors: Lin Chunhui , Wan Jiajia , Su Yong , Zhu Weiyun
Published: December 2018

We investigated the effects of early intervention with maternal fecal microbiota and antibiotics on gut microbiota and the metabolites. Five litters of healthy neonatal piglets (Duroc × Landrace × Yorkshire, nine piglets in each litter) were used. Piglets in each litter were orally treated with saline (CO), amoxicillin treatment (AM), or maternal fecal microbiota transplantation (MFMT) on days 1–6, with three piglets in each treatment. Results were compared to the CO group. MFMT decreased the relative abundances of Clostridium sensu stricto and Parabacteroides in the colon on day 7, whereas the abundance of Blautia increased, and the abundance of Corynebacterium in the stomach reduced on day 21. AM reduced the abundance of Arcanobacterium in the stomach on day 7 and reduced the abundances of Streptococcus and Lachnoclostridium in the ileum and colon on day 21, respectively. The metabolite profile indicated that MFMT markedly influenced carbohydrate metabolism and amino acid (AA) metabolism on day 7. On day 21, carbohydrate metabolism and AA metabolism were affected by AM. The results suggest that MFMT and AM discriminatively modulate gastrointestinal microflora and alter the colonic metabolic profiles of piglets and show different effects in the long-term. MFMT showed a location-specific influence on the gastrointestinal microbiota.
Phytochemical and Biological Characteristics of Mexican Chia Seed Oil
Authors: Shen Yingbin , Zheng Liyou , Jin Jun , Li Xiaojing , Fu Junning , Wang Mingzhong , Guan Yifu , Song Xun
Published: December 2018

The purpose of this research was to investigate the chemical profile, nutritional quality, antioxidant and hypolipidemic effects of Mexican chia seed oil (CSO) in vitro. Chemical characterization of CSO indicated the content of α-linolenic acid (63.64% of total fatty acids) to be the highest, followed by linoleic acid (19.84%), and saturated fatty acid (less than 11%). Trilinolenin content (53.44% of total triacylglycerols (TAGs)) was found to be the highest among seven TAGs in CSO. The antioxidant capacity of CSO, evaluated with ABTS•+ and DPPH• methods, showed mild antioxidant capacity when compared with Tocopherol and Catechin. In addition, CSO was found to lower triglyceride (TG) and low-density lipoprotein-cholesterol (LDL-C) levels by 25.8% and 72.9%respectively in a HepG2 lipid accumulation model. As CSO exhibits these chemical and biological characteristics, it is a potential resource of essential fatty acids for human use.
(−)-Epigallocatechin-3-Gallate (EGCG) Enhances Osteogenic Differentiation of Human Bone Marrow Mesenchymal Stem Cells
Authors: Lin Sung-Yen , Kang Lin , Wang Chau-Zen , Huang Han Hsiang , Cheng Tsung-Lin , Huang Hsuan-Ti , Lee Mon-Juan , Lin Yi-Shan , Ho Mei-Ling , Wang Gwo-Jaw , Chen Chung-Hwan
Published: December 2018

Osteoporosis is the second most-prevalent epidemiologic disease in the aging population worldwide. Cross-sectional and retrospective evidence indicates that tea consumption can mitigate bone loss and reduce risk of osteoporotic fractures. Tea polyphenols enhance osteoblastogenesis and suppress osteoclastogenesis in vitro. Previously, we showed that (−)-epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), one of the green tea polyphenols, increased osteogenic differentiation of murine bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) by increasing the mRNA expression of osteogenesis-related genes, alkaline phosphatase activity and, eventually, mineralization. We also found that EGCG could mitigate bone loss and improve bone microarchitecture in ovariectomy-induced osteopenic rats, as well as enhancing bone defect healing partially via bone morphogenetic protein 2 (BMP2). The present study investigated the effects of EGCG in human BMSCs. We found that EGCG, at concentrations of both 1 and 10 µmol/L, can increase mRNA expression of BMP2, Runx2, alkaline phosphatase (ALP), osteonectin and osteocalcin 48 h after treatment. EGCG increased ALP activity both 7 and 14 days after treatment. Furthermore, EGCG can also enhance mineralization two weeks after treatment. EGCG without antioxidants also can enhance mineralization. In conclusion, EGCG can increase mRNA expression of BMP2 and subsequent osteogenic-related genes including Runx2, ALP, osteonectin and osteocalcin. EGCG further increased ALP activity and mineralization. Loss of antioxidant activity can still enhance mineralization of human BMSCs (hBMSCs).
Rapid Characterization and Identification of Chemical Constituents in Gentiana radix before and after Wine-Processed by UHPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap MSn
Authors: Lv Xin , Sun Jian-Zhi , Xu Shi-Zhao , Cai Qian , Liu Yu-Qiang
Published: December 2018

Gentiana radix is used in traditional Chinese medicine and has functions of clearing heat and drying dampness, as well as purging liver and gallbladder fire. A highly sensitive and effective strategy for rapid screening and identification of target constituents has been developed by using ultra high-performance liquid chromatography coupled with linear ion trap-Orbitrap mass spectrometry (UHPLC-LTQ-Orbitrap) in crude and wine-processed Gentiana radix. Based on the accurate mass measurement (<5 ppm), retention times, and MS fragmentation ions, 52 constituents were unambiguously or tentatively characterized from Gentiana radix, including 21 iridoids, 11 flavonoids, 19 xanthones, and a triterpenoid. This study demonstrated that the established method could be a rapid, effective analytical tool for screening and characterization of compounds in the complex systems of Gentiana radix. By comparing the structure and peak areas of chemical constituents in crude and wine-processed Gentiana radix, we found that some compounds in crude and wine-processed Gentiana radix were significantly different.
Dual Effect of Glucuronidation of a Pyrogallol-Type Phytophenol Antioxidant: A Comparison between Scutellarein and Scutellarin
Authors: Liu Qianru , Li Xican , Ouyang Xiaojian , Chen Dongfeng
Published: December 2018

To explore whether and how glucuronidation affects pyrogallol-type phytophenols, scutellarein and scutellarin (scutellarein-7-O-glucuronide) were comparatively investigated using a set of antioxidant analyses, including spectrophotometric analysis, UV-vis spectra analysis, and ultra-performance liquid chromatography coupled with electrospray ionization-quadrupole time-of-flight tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS) analysis. In spectrophotometric analyses of the scavenging of 1,1-diphenyl-2-picrylhydrazyl (DPPH•), 2,2′-azino-bis (3-ethylbenzothiazoline-6-sulfonic acid) (ABTS+•), and 2-phenyl-4,4,5,5-tetramethylimidazoline-1-oxyl 3-oxide radicals (PTIO•) and the reduction of Cu2+ ions, scutellarein showed lower IC50 values than scutellarin. However, in •O2−-scavenging spectrophotometric analysis, scutellarein showed higher IC50 value than scutellarin. The analysis of UV-Vis spectra obtained after the Fe2+-chelating reaction of scutellarin showed a typical UV-Vis peak (λmax = 611 nm), while scutellarein showed no typical peak. In UPLC-ESI-Q-TOF-MS/MS analysis, mixing of scutellarein with DPPH• yielded MS peaks (m/z 678, 632, 615, 450, 420, 381, 329, 300, 288, 227, 196, 182, 161, and 117) corresponding to the scutellarein-DPPH adduct and an MS peak (m/z 570) corresponding to the scutellarein-scutellarein dimer. Scutellarin, however, generated no MS peak. On the basis of these findings, it can be concluded that glucuronidation of pyrogallol-type phytophenol antioxidants has a dual effect. On the one hand, glucuronidation can decrease the antioxidant potentials (except for •O2− scavenging) and further lower the possibility of radical adduct formation (RAF), while on the other hand, it can enhance the •O2−-scavenging and Fe2+-chelating potentials.
Design and Properties of Ligand-Conjugated Guanine Oligonucleotides for Recovery of Mutated G-Quadruplexes
Authors: Takahashi Shuntaro , Chelobanov Boris , Kim Ki Tae , Kim Byeang Hyean , Stetsenko Dmitry , Sugimoto Naoki
Published: December 2018

The formation of a guanine quadruplex DNA structure (G4) is known to repress the expression of certain cancer-related genes. Consequently, a mutated G4 sequence can affect quadruplex formation and induce cancer progression. In this study, we developed an oligonucleotide derivative consisting of a ligand-containing guanine tract that replaces the mutated G4 guanine tract at the promoter of the vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) gene. A ligand moiety consisting of three types of polyaromatic hydrocarbons, pyrene, anthracene, and perylene, was attached to either the 3′ or 5′ end of the guanine tract. Each of the ligand-conjugated guanine tracts, with the exception of anthracene derivatives, combined with other intact guanine tracts to form an intermolecular G4 on the mutated VEGF promoter. This intermolecular G4, exhibiting parallel topology and high thermal stability, enabled VEGF G4 formation to be recovered from the mutated sequence. Stability of the intramolecular G4 increased with the size of the conjugated ligand. However, suppression of intermolecular G4 replication was uniquely dependent on whether the ligand was attached to the 3′ or 5′ end of the guanine tract. These results indicate that binding to either the top or bottom guanine quartet affects unfolding kinetics due to polarization in DNA polymerase processivity. Our findings provide a novel strategy for recovering G4 formation in case of damage, and fine-tuning processes such as replication and transcription.
Graphene Based Poly(Vinyl Alcohol) Nanocomposites Prepared by In Situ Green Reduction of Graphene Oxide by Ascorbic Acid: Influence of Graphene Content and Glycerol Plasticizer on Properties
Authors: Cobos Mónica , Fernández M. Jesús , Fernández M. Dolores
Published: December 2018

The enhanced properties of polymer nanocomposites as compared with pure polymers are only achieved in the presence of well-dispersed nanofillers and strong interfacial adhesion. In this study, we report the preparation of nanocomposite films based on poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) filled with well dispersed graphene sheets (GS) by in situ reduction of graphene oxide (GO) dispersed in PVA solution using ascorbic acid (L-AA) as environmentally friendly reductant. The combined effect of GS content and glycerol as plasticizer on the structure, thermal, mechanical, water absorption, and water barrier properties of PVA/GS nanocomposite films is studied for the first time. Higher glass transition temperature, lower crystallinity, melting, and crystallization temperature, higher mechanical properties, and remarkable improvement in the thermal stability compared to neat PVA are obtained as a result of strong interfacial interactions between GS and PVA by hydrogen bonding. PVA/GS composite film prepared by ex situ process is more brittle than its in situ prepared counterpart. The presence of GS improves the water barrier and water resistance properties of nanocomposite films by decreasing water vapor permeability and water absorption of PVA. This work demonstrates that the tailoring of PVA/GS nanocomposite properties is enabled by controlling GS and glycerol content. The new developed materials, particularly those containing plasticizer, could be potential carriers for transdermal drug delivery.
Formulation of Bioerodible Ketamine Microparticles as an Analgesic Adjuvant Treatment Produced by Supercritical Fluid Polymer Encapsulation
Authors: Han Felicity Y. , Whittaker Andrew K. , Howdle Steven M. , Naylor Andrew , Shabir-Ahmed Anjumn , Zhang Cheng , Smith Maree T.
Published: December 2018

Pain is inadequately relieved by escalating doses of a strong opioid analgesic such as morphine in up to 25% of patients with cancer-related severe pain complicated by a neuropathic (nerve damage) component. Hence, there is an unmet medical need for research on novel painkiller strategies. In the present work, we used supercritical fluid polymer encapsulation to develop sustained-release poly(lactic-co-glycolic acid) (PLGA) biodegradable microparticles containing the analgesic adjuvant drug ketamine, for injection by the intrathecal route. Using this approach with a range of PLGA co-polymers, drug loading was in the range 10–60%, with encapsulation efficiency (EE) of 60–100%. Particles were mainly in the size range 20–45 µm and were produced in the absence of organic solvents and surfactants/emulsifiers. Investigation of the ketamine release profiles from these PLGA-based microparticles in vitro showed that release took place over varying periods in the range 0.5–4.0 weeks. Of the polymers assessed, the ester end-capped PLGA5050DLG-1.5E gave the best-controlled release profile with drug loading at 10%.
Structure Mediation and Properties of Poly(l-lactide)/Poly(d-lactide) Blend Fibers
Authors: Yang Bo , Wang Rui , Ma Hui-Ling , Li Xiaolu , Brünig Harald , Dong Zhenfeng , Qi Yue , Zhang Xiuqin
Published: December 2018

Poly(l-lactic acid) (PLLA) and poly(d-lactic acid) (PDLA) blend as-spun fibers (50/50, wt.%) were prepared by melt spinning. Structure mediation under temperature and stress and properties of poly(l-lactic acid)/poly(d-lactic acid)(PLLA/PDLA) as-spun fibers were investigated by wide-angle X-ray scattering (WAXS) and differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The results show that highly oriented stereocomplex (SC) crystals can be formed in PLLA/PDLA blend fibers drawn at 60 °C and annealed at 200 °C. However, at drawn temperature of 80 °C, only lower oriented SC crystals can be formed. For PLLA/PDLA blend fibers drawn twice at 60 °C (PLLA/PDLA-60-2), the crystallinity of SC crystals increases with annealing temperature in the range of 200 to 215 °C, while the degree of orientation decreases slightly. When the annealing temperature is 210 °C, the crystallinity and orientation of SC crystals in PLLA/PDLA-60-2 fibers reach 51% and −0.39, respectively. Moreover, PLLA/PDLA-60-2-210 fibers exhibit excellent heat-resistant property even at 200 °C. The results indicate that the oriented PLLA/PDLA blend fibers with high SC crystals content can be regulated in a short time.
A Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) Approach Using Hybrid SCOR Metrics, AHP, and TOPSIS for Supplier Evaluation and Selection in the Gas and Oil Industry
Authors: Wang Chia-Nan , Huang Ying-Fang , Cheng I-Fang , Nguyen Van Thanh
Published: December 2018

Suppliers are extremely important in business operations. The supplier ensures the supply of materials, raw materials, commodities, etc. in sufficient quantity, quality, stability, and accuracy to meet the requirements of production and business with low costs and on-time deliveries. Therefore, selecting and managing good suppliers is a prerequisite for organizing the production of quality products as desired, according to the schedule, and with reasonable prices and competitiveness in the market. It is also important to gain the support of suppliers in order to continue to improve and achieve more as a business. The evaluation and selection of a supplier is a Multi-Criteria Decision-Making (MCDM) issue, in which the decision-maker is faced with both qualitative and quantitative factors. In this research, the authors propose an MCDM model using a hybrid of Supply Chain Operations Reference metrics (SCOR metrics), the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) model, and the Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) approach for supplier evaluation and selection in the gas and oil industry. Using literature reviews on SCOR metrics, all criteria that impact supplier selection are defined in the first stage, the AHP model is applied to determine the weight of each factor in the second stage, and the optimal supplier is presented in final stage using the TOPSIS model. As a result, Decision-Making Unit 5 (DMU-05) is found to be the best supplier for the gas and oil industry in this research. The contribution of this work is to propose a new hybrid MCDM model for supplier selection in the gas and oil industry. This research also introduces a useful tool for supplier selection in other industries.
Information Extraction from Retinal Images with Agent-Based Technology
Authors: Chamoso Pablo , Rodríguez Sara , García-Ortiz Luis , Corchado Juan Manuel
Published: December 2018

The study of retinal vessels can provide information on a wide range of illnesses in the human body. Numerous works have already focused on this new field of research and several medical software programs have been proposed to facilitate the close examination of retinal vessels. Some allow for the automatic extraction of information and can be combined with other clinical tools for effective diagnosis and further medical studies. This article proposes an Agent-based Virtual Organizations (VO) System which applies a novel methodology for taking measurements from fundus images and extracting information on the retinal vessel caliber. A case study was conducted to evaluate the performance of the developed system, and the fundus images of different patients were used to extract information. Its performance was compared with that of similar tools.
Ground Moving Target Imaging and Analysis for Near-Space Hypersonic Vehicle-Borne Synthetic Aperture Radar System with Squint Angle
Authors: Chen Zhanye , Zhou Yu , Zhang Linrang , Lin Chunhui , Huang Yan , Tang Shiyang
Published: December 2018

Near space is the key to integrating “sky” and “space” into the future. A synthetic aperture radar (SAR) that works in this area would initiate a technological revolution for remote sensing applications. This study mainly focused on ground moving target imaging (GMTIm) for a near-space hypersonic vehicle-borne SAR (NS-HSV-SAR) with squint angle. The range history, parameter coupling, and Doppler ambiguity of the squint-looking NS-HSV-SAR are more complicated than traditional side-looking airborne or space-borne SARs. Thus, a precise range model is presented on the basis of phase error analyses. Then, all potential distributions of echo’s azimuth spectrum are derived, and a GMTIm method is proposed on the basis of a detailed analysis of the echo characteristics. The proposed method consists of three steps. Firstly, a prior information-based pre-processing function was created to decrease the Doppler ambiguity and range migration effects. Secondly, a blur matched keystone transform was developed to correct the residual range walk migration. Thirdly, a time-saving chirp Fourier transform was investigated for azimuth focusing. Implementation considerations, including the curvilinear trajectory of the NS-HSV-SAR, multiple moving target imaging, and applicability and limitation of the method, are discussed. Finally, simulation results are presented to validate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Introduction to the Special Issue “Uncertainty in Remote Sensing Image Analysis”
Authors: Stein Alfred , Ge Yong , Fabris-Rotelli Inger
Published: December 2018

Images obtained from satellites are of an increasing resolution. [...]
The Application of ATR-FTIR Spectroscopy and the Reversible DNA Conformation as a Sensor to Test the Effectiveness of Platinum(II) Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Al-Jorani Khansa , Rüther Anja , Martin Miguela , Haputhanthri Rukshani , Deacon Glen B. , Li Hsiu Lin , Wood Bayden R.
Published: December 2018

Platinum(II) complexes have been found to be effective against cancer cells. Cisplatin curbs cell replication by interacting with the deoxyribonucleic acid (DNA), reducing cell proliferation and eventually leading to cell death. In order to investigate the ability of platinum complexes to affect cancer cells, two examples from the class of polyfluorophenylorganoamidoplatinum(II) complexes were synthesised and tested on isolated DNA. The two compounds trans-[N,N′-bis(2,3,5,6-tetrafluorophenyl)ethane-1,2-diaminato(1-)](2,3,4,5,6-pentafluorobenzoato)(pyridine)platinum(II) (PFB) and trans-[N,N′-bis(2,3,5,6-tetrafluorophenyl)ethane-1,2-diaminato(1-)](2,4,6-trimethylbenzoato)(pyridine)platinum(II) (TMB) were compared with cisplatin through their reaction with DNA. Attenuated Total Reflection Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR) spectroscopy was applied to analyse the interaction of the Pt(II) complexes with DNA in the hydrated, dehydrated and rehydrated states. These were compared with control DNA in acetone/water (PFB, TMB) and isotonic saline (cisplatin) under the same conditions. Principle Component Analysis (PCA) was applied to compare the ATR-FTIR spectra of the untreated control DNA with spectra of PFB and TMB treated DNA samples. Disruptions in the conformation of DNA treated with the Pt(II) complexes upon rehydration were mainly observed by monitoring the position of the IR-band around 1711 cm−1 assigned to the DNA base-stacking vibration. Furthermore, other intensity changes in the phosphodiester bands of DNA at ~1234 cm−1 and 1225 cm−1 and shifts in the dianionic phosphodiester vibration at 966 cm−1 were observed. The isolated double stranded DNA (dsDNA) or single stranded DNA (ssDNA) showed different structural changes when incubated with the studied compounds. PCA confirmed PFB had the most dramatic effect by denaturing both dsDNA and ssDNA. Both compounds, along with cisplatin, induced changes in DNA bands at 1711, 1088, 1051 and 966 cm−1 indicative of DNA conformation changes. The ability to monitor conformational change with infrared spectroscopy paves the way for a sensor to screen for new anticancer therapeutic agents.
An Edge Computing Based Smart Healthcare Framework for Resource Management
Authors: Oueida Soraia , Kotb Yehia , Aloqaily Moayad , Jararweh Yaser , Baker Thar
Published: December 2018

The revolution in information technologies, and the spread of the Internet of Things (IoT) and smart city industrial systems, have fostered widespread use of smart systems. As a complex, 24/7 service, healthcare requires efficient and reliable follow-up on daily operations, service and resources. Cloud and edge computing are essential for smart and efficient healthcare systems in smart cities. Emergency departments (ED) are real-time systems with complex dynamic behavior, and they require tailored techniques to model, simulate and optimize system resources and service flow. ED issues are mainly due to resource shortage and resource assignment efficiency. In this paper, we propose a resource preservation net (RPN) framework using Petri net, integrated with custom cloud and edge computing suitable for ED systems. The proposed framework is designed to model non-consumable resources and is theoretically described and validated. RPN is applicable to a real-life scenario where key performance indicators such as patient length of stay (LoS), resource utilization rate and average patient waiting time are modeled and optimized. As the system must be reliable, efficient and secure, the use of cloud and edge computing is critical. The proposed framework is simulated, which highlights significant improvements in LoS, resource utilization and patient waiting time.
Parenting under Adversity: Birth Parents’ Accounts of Inequality and Adoption
Authors: Lewis Shirley , Brady Geraldine
Published: December 2018

This paper aims to highlight inequality in current adoption processes and procedures in England and Wales. Whilst inequality has been recognised in adoption research, the role of social structures is often neglected. Inequality within social structures plays a role in the process of the permanent removal of children to be adopted and is worthy of further attention. Birth parent voices can contribute to a wider understanding of adoption, but often remain hidden. Empirical research findings highlight how birth parents may find that their adverse experiences are exacerbated by the adoption process, the emotional impact causing existing problems to increase, and through the impact of the adoption process on birth parent’s socio-economic status. Findings also illustrate how birth parents’ experiences were influenced by ideals of motherhood and ideas about ‘risk’ to children. The paper contributes to the growing area of research which illuminates the intersection of poverty, deprivation and child protection services and the wider contemporaneous debate concerning adoption in England and Wales.
Sustainable Potentials and Risks Assess in Automation and Robotization Using the Life Cycle Management Index Tool—LY-MIT
Authors: Niemann Jörg , Pisla Adrian
Published: December 2018

In product generation management, the assessment for sustainability, together with risks potential, requires a holistic life cycle management approach, especially when it comes to the question of obsolete management of components. But, so far, the economic impact or benefit of such life cycle related activities is not always obvious. This paper presents a complex approach to identify company unexploited resources by offering the performance exploration of a novel capability and innovative tool named the LifecYcle-Managerial Index Tool (LY-MIT), in order to allow detailed visualization for a company, using seven clustered capabilities in respect to key areas. The assisted analysis of the strength and weakness enables manufacturers, as well as industrial end-users, to sustainably assess and evaluate the productivity potentials and risks of possible life cycle related improvements to their installed base. The research team used the tool on almost 300 sample companies group to identify the robustness of the tool in implementing sustainable change required measurements, mostly based on a self-assessment questionnaire about their capabilities. Only the approach and the results of this instrument usage are presented in this paper.
The Effectiveness of a Foot and Mouth Disease Outbreak Control Programme in Thailand 2008–2015: Case Studies and Lessons Learned
Authors: Yano Terdsak , Premashthira Sith , Dejyong Tosapol , Tangtrongsup Sahatchai , Salman Mo D.
Published: December 2018

Three Foot and Mouth Disease (FMD) outbreaks in northern Thailand that occurred during the implementation of the national FMD strategic plan in 2008–2015 are described to illustrate the lessons learned and to improve the prevention and control of future outbreaks. In 2008, during a FMD outbreak on a dairy farm, milk delivery was banned for 30 days. This was a part of movement management, a key strategy for FMD control in dairy farms in the area. In 2009, more than half the animals on a pig farm were affected by FMD. Animal quarantine and restricted animal movement played a key role in preventing the spread of FMD. In 2010, FMD infection was reported in a captive elephant. The suspected source of virus was a FMD-infected cow on the same premises. The infected elephant was moved to an elephant hospital that was located in a different province before the diagnosis was confirmed. FMD education was given to elephant veterinarians to promote FMD prevention and control strategies in this unique species. These three cases illustrate how differences in outbreak circumstances and species require the implementation of a variety of different FMD control and prevention measures. Control measures and responses should be customized in different outbreak situations.
Treatment of Eutrophic Water and Wastewater from Valsequillo Reservoir, Puebla, Mexico by Means of Ozonation: A Multiparameter Approach
Authors: Tabla-Hernández J. , Rodríguez-Espinosa P. F. , Hernandez-Ramirez A. G. , Mendoza-Pérez Jorge A. , Cano-Aznar E. R. , Martínez-Tavera E.
Published: December 2018

The present work aims to elucidate the possibility of injecting ozone into surface waters combined with urban wastewaters in order to improve the water quality of the High Atoyac Sub-basin (HAS) in Central Mexico. For this purpose, twenty physicochemical parameters, eight heavy metals, seven organic compounds, and one biological indicator were assessed in water from different sites of the studied area (the Alseseca River, the Atoyac River and the Valsequillo Reservoir). Results demonstrated that O3 injection led to the decrease of the aromatic fraction of organic molecules since the Spectral Absorption Coefficient at 254 nanometers (SAC254) reduction was found to be 31.7% in the Valsequillo Reservoir water samples. Maximum Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) removal was observed to be 60.2% from the Alseseca River with a 0.26 mg O3/mg initial COD dose. Among all the phthalates studied in the present work, Di(2-ethylhexyl) phthalate (DEHP) exhibited the highest concentration (5.8 μg/L in the Atoyac River). Treatment with O3 was not effective in eliminating fecal coliforms (FC) in waters that host high organic matter (OM) loads as opposed to waters with low OM. After the injection of 4.7 mg O3/mg COD in the VO3-AT water sample, a 90% removal of Iron (Fe) and Aluminum (Al) was registered; while Manganese (Mn), Nickel (Ni), Zinc (Zn), and Cooper (Cu) showed a 73%, 67%, 81%, and 80% removal, respectively; Chromium (Cr) registered the highest removal (~100%). The present work demonstrated that while finding a suitable O3 dose to improve the quality of water in the HAS, the 5-days Biochemical Oxygen Demand (BOD5)/COD ratio (i.e., biodegradability) is more important than the overall OM removal percentage proving that O3 injection is a feasible process for the treatment of eutrophic waters from HAS.
Commentary on Operationalizing Partnership Between a Traditional Research Institution and a Massage School
Authors: Larson, LMT, MSBIOE, BSME Erika
Published: December 2018

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Striving to Make Massage Therapy Accessible to Older Adults: an Interview with Niki Munk, PhD, LMT
Authors: Kennedy, LMT, BCTMB, DrPH, Executive Editor, IJTMB Ann Blair
Published: December 2018

First she became a licensed massage therapist in Kentucky. Then, in a quest to improve the care she provided to her elderly clinical population, Niki Munk continued her journey by furthering her education and receiving her doctorate in ger-ontology. Dr. Munk, a massage therapy researcher at Indiana University’s IUPUI campus, shares in this interview her optimism on the future of the massage therapy profession and massage therapy research. Dr. Munk also provides insight into the way she makes decisions, and from whom she would like to receive advice.
KIETOJO ATGAUTOJO KURO GRANULIŲ SAVYBIŲ TYRIMAI
Authors: RAMELYTĖ Aistė , VASAREVIČIUS Saulius
Published: December 2018

Nuolat ieškoma būdų, kaip sumažinti sunaudojamo iškastinio kuro kiekius. Šiam tikslui įgyvendinti vis dažniau naudojamas kietasis atgautasis kuras. Tačiau naudojant šį produktą, būtina įvertinti jo charakteristikas – šilumingumą, peleningumą, drėgnumą ir cheminę sudėtį. Straipsnyje pateikiama informacija apie dviejų rūšių kuro – 2D ir popieriaus-kartono granulių kuro tyrimo rezultatus. Tyrimai atlikti Lietuvos energetikos institute Kaune ir Gyvybės mokslų centre Vilniuje. Tyrimo metu nustatyta, kad 2D granulės pasižymi didesniu peleningumu nei popieriaus-kartono granulės (atitinkamai 18,47 % ir 9,67 %), o drėgmės kiekis 2D granulėse siekė 4,12 % ir 2,62 % popieriaus-kartono granulėse. Šilumingumo tyrimas parodė, kad abiejų rūšių kuro granulės pagal CEN TS 15359 standartą gali būti priskiriamos 4 klasei (2D granulių apatinė šilumingumo vertė siekė 13,5 MJ/kg, popieriaus-kartono granulių – 14,4 MJ/kg). Vertinant gyvsidabrio kiekį mėginiuose nustatyta, kad šio elemento kiekis abiejų rūšių granulėse buvo mažesnis nei 10 ppm (mažiau nei 0,001 % mėginio masės dalies), todėl, taikant CEN TS 15359 standarto klasifikaciją, kuras priskiriamas 1 klasei. Spektroskopinės analizės metu nustatyta, kad abiejų rūšių kuro granulėse vyraujančios cheminių junginių grupės yra eteriai, alkilai ir karboksirūgštys, o didžiausias pikų kiekis aptinkamas 1500–800 cm–1 bangos ilgio intervale.
DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MOTIVATIONAL GOAL FRAMING EFFECTS ON CREATIVE AND PERCEPTUAL TASK PERFORMANCE
Authors: Kaspi-Baruch Oshrit
Published: December 2018

This study examined the effects of motivational goal framing on creative and perceptual performance. Goal orientation was manipulated via task instructions. In order to examine whether goal framing (learning or performance) are influential only in creative performance, two experiments were conducted, one with creative task, the other with perceptual task. In the first experiment, 162 students engaged in full-time employment completed a creative task. In the second experiment, 268 students engaged in full-time employment completed a perceptual task. The first experiment showed that individuals instructed to be learning oriented were more creative relative to those instructed to be performance oriented. This occurred only in the creative task, as performance did not differ according to goal orientation framing in the second experiment. The results are discussed in terms of anxiety and cognitive performance theory and the stage model of creativity. Santrauka Šiame tyrime nagrinėjama skirtinga motyvuojančio tikslo įtaka kūrybinei ir suvokimo veiklai. Orientavimasis į tikslus buvo valdomas užduočių instrukcijomis. Siekiant išanalizuoti, ar tikslo formulavimas (mokymasis ar veikla) turi įtakos tik kūrybinei veiklai, buvo atlikti du eksperimentai: vienas – pasitelkiant kūrybinę užduotį, kitas – suvokimo užduotį. Pirmajame eksperimente 162 studentai visą eksperimento laiką atliko kūrybinę užduotį, antrajame eksperimente 268 studentai visą eksperimento laiką atliko suvokimo užduotį. Pirmuoju eksperimentu buvo atskleista, kad asmenys, kuriems buvo nurodyta orientuotis į mokymąsi, buvo kūrybiškesni, palyginti su tais, kurie turėjo orientuotis į veiklą. Taip įvyko tik duodant kūrybinę užduotį, nes antrojo eksperimento metu nebuvo jokių veiklos skirtumų tikslo atžvilgiu. Rezultatai aptariami remiantis nerimo ir kognityvinės veiklos teorijos bei kūrybiškumo pakopų modelio požiūriais.
POLYCENTRIC CREATIVE COMMUNICATION: THE DISPOSITIVE
Authors: Mickūnas Algis
Published: December 2018

The essay explicates the polycentric awareness as a ground of communication with anyone, anytime, to the extent that all communication is a sense making process about something. This makes accessible “Others” from other times, present in texts which open communication through linguistic and cultural media. We read Plato and argue with him about justice, or debate the issue of beginning of the universe with astronomers. These two levels, polycentric and dialogical, is supplemented by a concrete analyses of body as an active and interactive dimension with many contemporary technical media, from film, television, Internet, and smart phones.

Santrauka

Straipsnyje gvildenamas policentrinis potyris kaip komunikacijos pagrindas su bet kuo, bet kada ir tuo lygmeniu, kuriuo bet kokia komunikacija suprantama kaip prasmė, kurianti kokį nors procesą. Dėl to tampa pasiekiami „Kiti“ iš kitų laikų, aprašomų tekstuose, atveriančiuose komunikaciją per lingvistines ir kultūrines medijas. Skaitome Platono tekstus ir ginčijamės su juo teisingumo klausimu arba diskutuojame apie visatos pradžią su astronomais. Šie du lygmenys – policentrinis ir dialoginis – papildomi konkrečiais tyrinėjimais, skirtais kūnui kaip aktyviai ir interaktyviai dimensijai, susietai su daugybe šiuolaikinių techninių medijų – pradedant filmais, televizija, internetu ir baigiant išmaniaisiais telefonais.
The IUCN-SSC Cave Invertebrate Specialist Group
Authors: Deharveng Louis , Whitten Tony , Wynne Judson , Komericki Ana , Khela Sonia
Published: December 2018

The Cave Invertebrate Specialist Group, an IUCN Species Survival Commission, is a group of 80 taxonomists, biospeleologists, ecologists, and conservation biologists. Since 2014, our objectives have been to: (1) conserve subterranean habitats, and address one of the largest lacunas in conservation biology – the protection of sensitive cave and subterranean invertebrate populations; (2) conduct IUCN Red List evaluations for imperiled and/or narrow range endemic species; (3) encourage comprehensive baseline biodiversity surveys, in particular to determine the proportion of unknown biodiversity yet to be discovered; and, (4) provide collaborative opportunities with the business sector for conducting Environmental and Social Impact Assessments, Biodiversity Action Plans, and site and species management plans. We will our accomplishments over the past four years including growth of membership, the number of Red List evaluations conducted and the total number of species recognized as a conservation priority.
La Victoire de Samothrace, défaite de Philippe V
Authors: Badoud Nathan
Published: December 2018

Depuis sa découverte en 1863, la Victoire de Samothrace a vu sa chronologie osciller entre 323 et 31 av. J.-C., tandis que l’identité de son commanditaire était elle aussi débattue. L’analyse des données archéologiques et épigraphiques démontre qu’il s’agit d’une dédicace rhodienne, sans doute œuvre du sculpteur Pythokritos, actif entre ca 210 et ca 165 av. J.-C. La prise en compte du contexte historique et topographique conduit à penser que le monument a été élevé en 197 av. J.-C., au terme de la deuxième guerre de Macédoine, pour commémorer la défaite de Philippe V à la bataille de Chios, quatre ans plus tôt. La statue n’entretient pas de rapport étroit avec la frise extérieure du Grand Autel de Pergame. Le navire qui en forme le piédestal n’est ni une trihémiolie ni une tétrère, mais une pentère ; la déesse ne s’y pose pas, mais en décolle après son épiphanie.