bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Impacts of Cellular Senescence in Elderly Pneumonia and in Age-Related Lung Diseases That Increase the Risk of Respiratory Infections
Authors: Yanagi Shigehisa , Tsubouchi Hironobu , Miura Ayako , Matsuo Ayako , Matsumoto Nobuhiro , Nakazato Masamitsu
Published: February 2017

Pneumonia generates considerable negative impacts on the elderly. Despite the widespread uses of vaccines and appropriate antibiotics, the morbidity and mortality of elderly pneumonia are significantly higher compared to the counterparts of young populations. The definitive mechanisms of high vulnerability in the elderly against pathogen threats are unclear. Age-associated, chronic low-grade inflammation augments the susceptibility and severity of pneumonia in the elderly. Cellular senescence, one of the hallmarks of aging, has its own characteristics, cell growth arrest and senescence-associated secretory phenotype (SASP). These properties are beneficial if the sequence of senescence–clearance–regeneration is transient in manner. However, persisting senescent cell accumulation and excessive SASP might induce sustained low-grade inflammation and disruption of normal tissue microenvironments in aged tissue. Emerging evidence indicates that cellular senescence is a key component in the pathogenesis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), which are known to be age-related and increase the risk of pneumonia. In addition to their structural collapses, COPD and IPF might increase the vulnerability to pathogen insults through SASP. Here, we discuss the current advances in understanding of the impacts of cellular senescence in elderly pneumonia and in these chronic lung disorders that heighten the risk of respiratory infections.
Role of Nerve Growth Factor (NGF) and miRNAs in Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Retamales-Ortega Rocío , Oróstica Lorena , Vera Carolina , Cuevas Paula , Hernández Andrea , Hurtado Iván , Vega Margarita , Romero Carmen
Published: February 2017

Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer in women worldwide, and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) represents 90% of cases. Nerve growth factor (NGF) and its high affinity receptor tyrosine kinase A receptor (TRKA) have been associated with the development of several types of cancer, including EOC; both NGF and TRKA levels are elevated in this pathology. EOC presents high angiogenesis and several molecules have been reported to induce this process. NGF increases angiogenesis through its TRKA receptor on endothelial cells, and by indirectly inducing vascular endothelial growth factor expression. Other molecules controlled by NGF include ciclooxigenase-2, disintegrin and metalloproteinase domain-containing protein 17 (ADAM17) and calreticulin (CRT), proteins involved in crucial processes needed for EOC progression. These molecules could be modified through microRNA regulation, which could be regulated by NGF. MicroRNAs are the widest family of non-coding RNAs; they bind to 3′-UTR of mRNAs to inhibit their translation, to deadenilate or to degraded them. In EOC, a deregulation in microRNA expression has been described, including alterations of miR-200 family, cluster-17-92, and miR-23b, among others. Since the NGF-microRNA relationship in pathologies has not been studied, this review proposes that some microRNAs could be associated with NGF/TRKA activation, modifying protein levels needed for EOC progression.
Paraspinal Muscle Activity during Unstable Superman and Bodyweight Squat Exercises
Authors: Carvalheiro Reiser Fernando , Gonçalves Durante Bruno , Cordeiro de Souza William , Paulo Gomes Mascarenhas Luis , Márcio Gatinho Bonuzzi Giordano
Published: February 2017

The purpose of this study was to investigate the recruitment of the paraspinal muscles longissimus and iliocostalis during dynamic contractions of superman exercises on stable and unstable surfaces, and during unloaded bodyweight squats. Surface electromyography (EMG) was measured from these two muscles bilaterally while participants performed the exercises. Participants (n = 17, age 24 ± 3.1 years, body mass 78.5 ± 8.2 kg, height 1.81 ± 7.4 m) performed two sets of 10 repetitions for each exercise in a random order. Correlation analysis demonstrated a strong positive relation between both sides of the participants (longissimus pairs: r = 0.945; and iliocostalis pairs: r = 0.855), demonstrating a symmetric muscle recruitment in all exercises. However, there were no significant differences between the exercises for both muscles in a multiple comparison analysis (longissimus pairs: p = 0.496; and iliocostalis pairs: p = 0.296). The bodyweight squat produces similar muscle activity of the longissimus and iliocostalis compared with superman exercises on stable and unstable surfaces. Considering the dynamic nature of the bodyweight squat, and its implications on functional daily living activities and sports conditions, it seems a more reasonable choice for targeting paraspinal muscles if compared to superman exercises or unstable superman exercises.
Dense Descriptors for Optical Flow Estimation: A Comparative Study
Authors: Baghaie Ahmadreza , D’Souza Roshan , Yu Zeyun
Published: February 2017

Estimating the displacements of intensity patterns between sequential frames is a very well-studied problem, which is usually referred to as optical flow estimation. The first assumption among many of the methods in the field is the brightness constancy during movements of pixels between frames. This assumption is proven to be not true in general, and therefore, the use of photometric invariant constraints has been studied in the past. One other solution can be sought by use of structural descriptors rather than pixels for estimating the optical flow. Unlike sparse feature detection/description techniques and since the problem of optical flow estimation tries to find a dense flow field, a dense structural representation of individual pixels and their neighbors is computed and then used for matching and optical flow estimation. Here, a comparative study is carried out by extending the framework of SIFT-flow to include more dense descriptors, and comprehensive comparisons are given. Overall, the work can be considered as a baseline for stimulating more interest in the use of dense descriptors for optical flow estimation.
Resistance and Contingent Contestations to Large-Scale Land Concessions in Southern Laos and Northeastern Cambodia
Authors: Baird Ian
Published: February 2017

Over the last decade, there have been considerable concerns raised regarding the social and environmental impacts of large-scale land concessions for plantation development in various parts of the world, especially in the tropics, including in Laos and Cambodia. However, there is still much to learn about the various connections and interactions associated with reactions to what are often referred to as “land grabs”, and the ways they are associated or not associated with broader social movements and networks opposed to land grabbing. There is also the need to develop language for discussing these circumstances, something I aim to contribute to in this article. Here, I present four different cases of types of resistance, or what I refer to as contingent contestations, to land concessions in southern Laos and northeastern Cambodia (two from each country), focusing on the perspectives and associated strategies of smallholder farmers, but without ignoring broader issues. I consider the roles of locals in these contestations, through emphasizing the importance of histories, identities/ethnicities, politics, and geography in determining the types of responses to these land deals that emerge, and the strategies that are adopted for contesting these developments.
In Vitro Evaluation of Dentin Tubule Occlusion for Novel Calcium Lactate Phosphate (CLP) Paste
Authors: Yang Jen-Chang , Hu Hsin-Tai , Lee Sheng-Yang , Hsieh Sung-Chih , Huang Pei-Chi , Ma Chen-Feng , Ji Dian-Yu , Chang Liang-Yu , Teng Nai-Chia
Published: February 2017

Introduction: The objective of this in vitro study is to evaluate the effective and long-term occlusion of dentinal tubules using a novel calcium lactate phosphate (CLP) based desensitizing agent. Methods: Dentin disks (n = 9) were pre-etched using 1 M lactic acid for 30 s and individually treated with Colgate® Pro-Relief™ paste, CLP paste, and double distilled water (ddH2O) by a rubber-cupped handpiece. Dentin disks were analyzed under optical micrographs for pre-treatment, directly after treatment, and 14 days post-treatment. One-way ANOVA and post-hoc Tukey’s test were used to determine whether there were any statistically significant differences in dentinal tubule diameter. Results: A significant decrease occurred in the mean tubule diameter for dentin disks treated with CLP paste. A decrease was observed from 3.52 ± 0.83 µm to 2.62 ± 0.42 µm right after treatment, further decreasing to 1.71 ± 0.45 µm after immersion in artificial saliva for 14 days (p < 0.05). Conclusions: The results suggest that the CLP based desensitizing paste has remineralization properties and provides instant and lasting effectiveness in dentinal tubule occlusion.
Advances in the Fabrication of Antimicrobial Hydrogels for Biomedical Applications
Authors: González-Henríquez Carmen , Sarabia-Vallejos Mauricio , Rodriguez-Hernandez Juan
Published: February 2017

This review describes, in an organized manner, the recent developments in the elaboration of hydrogels that possess antimicrobial activity. The fabrication of antibacterial hydrogels for biomedical applications that permits cell adhesion and proliferation still remains as an interesting challenge, in particular for tissue engineering applications. In this context, a large number of studies has been carried out in the design of hydrogels that serve as support for antimicrobial agents (nanoparticles, antibiotics, etc.). Another interesting approach is to use polymers with inherent antimicrobial activity provided by functional groups contained in their structures, such as quaternary ammonium salt or hydrogels fabricated from antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) or natural polymers, such as chitosan. A summary of the different alternatives employed for this purpose is described in this review, considering their advantages and disadvantages. Finally, more recent methodologies that lead to more sophisticated hydrogels that are able to react to external stimuli are equally depicted in this review.
New Dmit-Based Organic Magnetic Conductors (PO-CONH-C2H4N(CH3)3)[M(dmit)2]2 (M = Ni, Pd) Including an Organic Cation Derived from a 2,2,5,5-Tetramethyl-3-pyrrolin-1-oxyl (PO) Radical
Authors: Akutsu Hiroki , Turner Scott , Nakazawa Yasuhiro
Published: February 2017

We have prepared two dmit-based salts with a stable organic radical-substituted ammonium cation, (PO-CONH-C2H4N(CH3)3)[Ni(dmit)2]2·CH3CN and (PO-CONH-C2H4N(CH3)3)[Pd(dmit)2]2 where PO is 2,2,5,5-Tetramethyl-3-pyrrolin-1-oxyl and dmit is 2-Thioxo-1,3-dithiol-4,5-dithiolate. The salts are not isostructural but have similar structural features in the anion and cation packing arrangements. The acceptor layers of both salts consist of tetramers, which gather to form 2D conducting layers. Magnetic susceptibility measurements indicate that the Ni salt is a Mott insulator and the Pd salt is a band insulator, which has been confirmed by band structure calculations. The cationic layers of both salts have a previously unreported polar structure, in which the cation dipoles order as ➚➘➚➘ along the acceptors stacking direction to provide dipole moments. The dipole moments of nearest neighbor cation layers are inverted in both salts, indicating no net dipole moments for the whole crystals. The magnetic network of the [Ni(dmit)2] layer of the Ni salt is two-dimensional so that the magnetic susceptibility would be expected to obey the 1D or 2D Heisenberg model that has a broad maximum around T ≈ θ. However, the magnetic susceptibility after subtraction of the contribution from the PO radical has no broad maximum. Instead, it shows Curie–Weiss behavior with C = 0.378 emu·K/mol and θ = −35.8 K. The magnetic susceptibility of the Pd salt obeys a Curie–Weiss model with C = 0.329 emu·K·mol−1 and θ = −0.88 K.
Tuberatolide B Suppresses Cancer Progression by Promoting ROS-Mediated Inhibition of STAT3 Signaling
Authors: Choi Youn , Kim Junseong , Lee Kang , Choi Yu-Jeong , Ye Bo-Ram , Kim Min-Sun , Ko Seong-Gyu , Lee Seung-Hong , Kang Do-Hyung , Heo Soo-Jin
Published: February 2017

Tuberatolide B (TTB, C27H34O4) is a diastereomeric meroterpenoid isolated from the Korean marine algae Sargassum macrocarpum. However, the anticancer effects of TTB remain unknown. In this study, we demonstrate that TTB inhibits tumor growth in breast, lung, colon, prostate, and cervical cancer cells. To examine the mechanism by which TTB suppresses cell growth, we determined the effect of TTB on apoptosis, ROS generation, DNA damage, and signal transduction. TTB induced ROS production in MDA-MB-231, A549, and HCT116 cells. Moreover, TTB enhanced DNA damage by inducing γH2AX foci formation and the phosphorylation of DNA damage-related proteins such as Chk2 and H2AX. Furthermore, TTB selectively inhibited STAT3 activation, which resulted in a reduction in cyclin D1, MMP-9, survivin, VEGF, and IL-6. In addition, TTB-induced ROS generation caused STAT3 inhibition, DNA damage, and apoptotic cell death. Therefore, TTB suppresses cancer progression by promoting ROS-mediated inhibition of STAT3 signaling, suggesting that TTB is useful for the treatment of cancer.
Seasonal Changes in the Tetrodotoxin Content of the Flatworm Planocera multitentaculata
Authors: Yamada Riko , Tsunashima Tadasuke , Takei Mitsuki , Sato Tatsunori , Wajima Yoshiki , Kawase Makoto , Oshikiri Shotaro , Kajitani Yusuke , Kosoba Keita , Ueda Hiroyuki , Abe Koko , Itoi Shiro , Sugita Haruo
Published: February 2017

Tetrodotoxin (TTX) is a potent neurotoxin that acts specifically on voltage-gated sodium channels on excitable membranes of muscle and nerve tissues. The biosynthetic process for TTX is unclear, although marine bacteria are generally thought to be the primary producers. The marine flatworm Planocera multitentaculata is a known TTX-bearing organism, and is suspected to be a TTX supplier to pufferfish. In this study, flatworm specimens were collected from an intertidal zone in Hayama, Kanagawa, Japan, the TTX content of the flatworm was measured using liquid chromatography with tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), and seasonal changes in TTX content were investigated. No significant difference in TTX concentration of the flatworm body was found between the spawning period and other periods. However, the TTX content in individual flatworms was significantly higher in the spawning period than at other times. The TTX content rose in association with an increase in the body weight of the flatworm.
The Effect of Varying Mixing Temperatures and Baking Level on the Quality of Pilot Scale Anodes—A Factorial Design Analysis
Authors: Sommerseth Camilla , Thorne Rebecca , Ratvik Arne , Sandnes Espen , Linga Hogne , Lossius Lorentz , Svensson Ann
Published: February 2017

Identifying optimum anode baking level and mixing temperature are important when producing high quality anodes. The effect of varying mixing temperature and baking level were investigated in terms of the resulting apparent anode density, specific electrical resistivity (SER), air permeability, coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE), air reactivity, and CO2 reactivity. Six pilot-scale anodes were prepared at Hydro Aluminium using a single source petroleum coke and <2 mm coke fractions. A coal tar pitch was used with Mettler softening point of 119.1 °C. The aggregate was mixed at 150 °C or 210 °C and baked to a low, medium, or high baking level. A 22 full-factorial design analysis was performed to determine the response of the analyzed properties to the applied mixing and baking temperature. Apparent density, SER, and air permeability were found to be highly dependent on mixing temperature. Apparent density and SER were also slightly affected by baking level. CTE was found to be independent of both baking level and mixing temperature. Air reactivity was found to be mainly dependent on baking level, while CO2 reactivity was dependent on both mixing temperature and baking level.
Essential Oil of Aristolochia trilobata: Synthesis, Routes of Exposure, Acute Toxicity, Binary Mixtures and Behavioral Effects on Leaf-Cutting Ants
Authors: De Oliveira Bruna , Melo Carlisson , Alves Péricles , Santos Abraão , Santos Ane , Santana Alisson , Araújo Ana , Nascimento Pedro , Blank Arie , Bacci Leandro
Published: February 2017

Plants of the genus Aristolochia have been frequently reported as important medicinal plants. Despite their high bioactive potential, to date, there are no reports of their effects on leaf-cutting ants. Therefore, the present study aimed to evaluate the insecticidal activity of the essential oil of Aristolochia trilobata and its major components on Atta sexdens and Acromyrmex balzani, two species of leaf-cutting ants. The bioassays were performed regarding routes of exposure, acute toxicity, binary mixtures of the major components and behavioral effects. Twenty-five components were identified in the essential oil of A. trilobata using a gas chromatographic system equipped with a mass spectrometer and a flame ionization detector. The components found in higher proportions were sulcatyl acetate, limonene, p-cymene and linalool. The essential oil of A. trilobata and its individual major components were efficient against A. balzani and A. sexdens workers when applied by fumigation. These components showed fast and efficient insecticidal activity on ants. The components acted synergistically and additively on A. balzani and A. sexdens, respectively, and caused a strong repellency/irritability in the ants. Thus, our results demonstrate the great potential of the essential oil of A. trilobata and its major components for the development of new insecticides.
Synergy Effects in the Chemical Synthesis and Extensions of Multicomponent Reactions (MCRs)—The Low Energy Way to Ultra-Short Syntheses of Tailor-Made Molecules
Authors: Eckert Heiner
Published: February 2017

Several novel methods, catalysts and reagents have been developed to improve organic synthesis. Synergistic effects between reactions, reagents and catalysts can lead to minor heats of reaction and occur as an inherent result of multicomponent reactions (MCRs) and their extensions. They enable syntheses to be performed at a low energy level and the number of synthesis steps to be drastically reduced in comparison with ‘classical’ two-component reactions, fulfilling the rules of Green Chemistry. The very high potential for variability, diversity and complexity of MCRs additionally generates an extremely diverse range of products, thus bringing us closer to the aim of being able to produce tailor-made and extremely low-cost materials, drugs and compound libraries.
Pt-Au/MOx-CeO2 (M = Mn, Fe, Ti) Catalysts for the Co-Oxidation of CO and H2 at Room Temperature
Authors: Hong Xiaowei , Sun Ye , Zhu Tianle , Liu Zhiming
Published: February 2017

A series of nanostructured Pt-Au/MOx-CeO2 (M = Mn, Fe, Ti) catalysts were prepared and their catalytic performance for the co-oxidation of carbon monoxide (CO) and hydrogen (H2) were evaluated at room temperature. The results showed that MOx promoted the CO oxidation of Pt-Au/CeO2, but only the TiO2 could enhance co-oxidation of CO and H2 over Pt-Au/CeO2. Related characterizations were conducted to clarify the promoting effect of MOx. Temperature-programmed reduction of hydrogen (H2-TPR) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) results suggested that MOx could improve the charge transfer from Au sites to CeO2, resulting in a high concentration of Ce3+ and cationic Au species which benefits for the CO oxidation. In-situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy (In-situ DRIFTS) results indicated that TiO2 could facilitate the oxidation of H2 over the Pt-Au/TiO2-CeO2 catalyst.
A UPLC-MS/MS Method for Simultaneous Determination of Free and Total Forms of a Phenolic Acid and Two Flavonoids in Rat Plasma and Its Application to Comparative Pharmacokinetic Studies of Polygonum capitatum Extract in Rats
Authors: Huang Yong , Sun Hui-Yuan , Qin Xiao-Li , Li Yong-Jun , Liao Shang-Gao , Gong Zi-Peng , Lu Yuan , Wang Yong-Lin , Wang Ai-Min , Lan Yan-Yu , Zheng Lin
Published: February 2017

The principal active constituents of Polygonum capitatum are phenolic acids and flavonoids, such as gallic acid, quercitrin, and quercetin. The aim of this study was to develop and validate a method to determine the three constituents and the corresponding conjugated metabolites of Polygonum capitatum in vivo and to conduct pharmacokinetic studies on the herb, a well-known Miao medicinal plant in China. Gallic acid, quercitrin, and quercetin were analysed by ultra-performance liquid chromatography-electrospray ionization-tandem mass spectrometry (UPLC-ESI-MS/MS). Protein precipitation in plasma samples was performed using methanol. For the determination of total forms of analytes, an additional process of hydrolysis was conducted using β-glucuronidase and sulphatase. The analytes were separated on a BEH C18 column (50 mm × 2.1 mm; i.d., 1.7 μm) and quantified by multiple reaction monitoring (MRM) mode. The linear regression showed high linearity over a 729-fold dynamic range for the three analytes. The relative standard deviations of intra- and inter-day measurements were less than 9.5%, and the method was accurate to within −11.1% to 12.5%. The extraction recoveries for gallic acid, quercitrin, and quercetin were 94.3%–98.8%, 88.9%–98.8%, and 95.7%–98.5%, respectively. All samples were stable under short- and long-term storage conditions. The validated method was successfully applied to a comparative pharmacokinetic study of gallic acid, quercitrin, and quercetin in their free and total forms in rat plasma. The study revealed significantly higher exposure of the constituents in total forms for gallic acid and quercetin, while quercitrin was detected mainly in its corresponding free form in vivo. The established method was rapid and sensitive for the simultaneous quantification of free and total forms of multiple constituents of Polygonum capitatum extract in plasma.
Bifidobacterium bifidum OLB6378 Simultaneously Enhances Systemic and Mucosal Humoral Immunity in Low Birth Weight Infants: A Non-Randomized Study
Authors: Tanaka Katsunori , Tsukahara Takamitsu , Yanagi Takahide , Nakahara Sayuri , Furukawa Ouki , Tsutsui Hidemi , Koshida Shigeki
Published: February 2017

Probiotic supplementation has been part of the discussion on methods to enhance humoral immunity. Administration of Bifidobacterium bifidum OLB6378 (OLB6378) reduced the incidence of late-onset sepsis in infants. In this non-randomized study, we aimed to determine the effect of administration of live OLB6378 on infants’ humoral immunity. Secondly, we tried to elucidate whether similar effects would be observed with administration of non-live OLB6378. Low birth weight (LBW) infants weighing 1500–2500 g were divided into three groups: Group N (no intervention), Group L (administered live OLB6378 concentrate), and Group H (administered non-live OLB6378 concentrate). The interventions were started within 48 h after birth and continued until six months of age. Serum immunoglobulin G (IgG) levels (IgG at one month/IgG at birth) were significantly higher in Group L than in Group N (p < 0.01). Group H exhibited significantly higher serum IgG levels (p < 0.01) at one month of age and significantly higher intestinal secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) levels (p < 0.05) at one and two months of age than Group N. No difference was observed in the mortality or morbidity between groups. Thus, OLB6378 administration in LBW infants enhanced humoral immunity, and non-live OLB6378, which is more useful as a food ingredient, showed a more marked effect than the viable bacteria.
The Combination of Blueberry Juice and Probiotics Ameliorate Non-Alcoholic Steatohepatitis (NASH) by Affecting SREBP-1c/PNPLA-3 Pathway via PPAR-α
Authors: Ren Tingting , Zhu Juanjuan , Zhu Lili , Cheng Mingliang
Published: February 2017

Nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH) is liver inflammation and a major threat to public health. Several pharmaceutical agents have been used for NASH therapy but their high-rate side effects limit the use. Blueberry juice and probiotics (BP) have anti-inflammation and antibacterial properties, and may be potential candidates for NASH therapy. To understand the molecular mechanism, Sprague Dawley rats were used to create NASH models and received different treatments. Liver tissues were examined using HE (hematoxylin and eosin) and ORO (Oil Red O) stain, and serum biochemical indices were measured. The levels of peroxisome proliferators-activated receptor (PPAR)-α, sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c (SREBP-1c), Patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3 (PNPLA-3), inflammatory cytokines and apoptosis biomarkers in liver tissues were measured by qRT-PCR and Western blot. HE and ORO analysis indicated that the hepatocytes were seriously damaged with more and larger lipid droplets in NASH models while BP reduced the number and size of lipid droplets (p < 0.05). Meanwhile, BP increased the levels of SOD (superoxide dismutase), GSH (reduced glutathione) and HDL-C (high-density lipoprotein cholesterol), and reduced the levels of AST (aspartate aminotransferase), ALT (alanine aminotransferase), TG (triglycerides), LDL-C (low-density lipoprotein cholesterol) and MDA (malondialdehyde) in NASH models (p < 0.05). BP increased the level of PPAR-α (Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor α), and reduced the levels of SREBP-1c (sterol regulatory element binding protein-1c) and PNPLA-3 (Patatin-like phospholipase domain-containing protein 3) (p < 0.05). BP reduced hepatic inflammation and apoptosis by affecting IL-6 (interleukin 6), TNF-α (Tumor necrosis factor α), caspase-3 and Bcl-2 in NASH models. Furthermore, PPAR-α inhibitor increased the level of SREBP-1c and PNPLA-3. Therefore, BP prevents NASH progression by affecting SREBP-1c/PNPLA-3 pathway via PPAR-α.
CPD Aligned to Competency Standards to Support Quality Practice
Authors: Nash Rose , Thompson Wendy , Stupans Ieva , Lau Esther , Santos Jose , Brown Natalie , Nissen Lisa , Chalmers Leanne
Published: February 2017

As medication experts, pharmacists are key members of the patient’s healthcare team. Pharmacists must maintain their competence to practice to remain responsive to the increasingly complex healthcare sector. This paper seeks to determine how competence training for pharmacists may enhance quality in their professional development. Results of two separately administered surveys (2012 and 2013) were compared to examine the reported continued professional development (CPD) practices of Australian pharmacists. Examination of results from both studies enabled a focus on how the competency standards inform CPD practice.In the survey administered in 2012, 91% (n = 253/278) pharmacists reported that they knew their current registration requirements. However, in the survey administered in 2013, only 43% (n = 46/107) reported utilization of the National Competency Standards Framework for Pharmacists in Australia (NCS) to self-asses their practice as part of their annual re-registration requirements. Fewer, 23% (n = 25/107), used the NCS to plan their CPD. This may be symptomatic of poor familiarity with the NCS, uncertainty around undertaking self-directed learning as part of a structured learning plan and/or misunderstandings around what CPD should include. This is supported by thematic analysis of pharmacists’ social media comments. Initial and ongoing competence training to support meaningful CPD requires urgent attention in Australia. The competence (knowledge, skills and attributes) required to engage in meaningful CPD practice should be introduced and developed prior to entry into practice; other countries may find they are in a similar position.
The Use of Surveillance Cameras for the Rapid Mapping of Lava Flows: An Application to Mount Etna Volcano
Authors: Coltelli Mauro , D’Aranno Peppe , De Bonis Roberto , Guerrero Tello Josè , Marsella Maria , Nardinocchi Carla , Pecora Emilio , Proietti Cristina , Scifoni Silvia , Scutti Marianna , Wahbeh Wissam
Published: February 2017

In order to improve the observation capability in one of the most active volcanic areas in the world, Mt. Etna, we developed a processing method to use the surveillance cameras for a quasi real-time mapping of syn-eruptive processes. Following an evaluation of the current performance of the Etna permanent ground NEtwork of Thermal and Visible Sensors (Etna_NETVIS), its possible implementation and optimization was investigated to determine the locations of additional observation sites to be rapidly set up during emergencies. A tool was then devised to process time series of ground-acquired images and extract a coherent multi-temporal dataset of georeferenced map. The processed datasets can be used to extract 2D features such as evolution maps of active lava flows. The tool was validated on ad-hoc test fields and then adopted to map the evolution of two recent lava flows. The achievable accuracy (about three times the original pixel size) and the short processing time makes the tool suitable for rapidly assessing lava flow evolutions, especially in the case of recurrent eruptions, such as those of the 2011–2015 Etna activity. The tool can be used both in standard monitoring activities and during emergency phases (eventually improving the present network with additional mobile stations) when it is mandatory to carry out a quasi-real-time mapping to support civil protection actions. The developed tool could be integrated in the control room of the Osservatorio Etneo, thus enabling the Etna_NETVIS for mapping purposes and not only for video surveillance.
A Wireless Sensor System for Real-Time Monitoring and Fault Detection of Motor Arrays
Authors: Medina-García Jonathan , Sánchez-Rodríguez Trinidad , Galán Juan , Delgado Aránzazu , Gómez-Bravo Fernando , Jiménez Raúl
Published: February 2017

This paper presents a wireless fault detection system for industrial motors that combines vibration, motor current and temperature analysis, thus improving the detection of mechanical faults. The design also considers the time of detection and further possible actions, which are also important for the early detection of possible malfunctions, and thus for avoiding irreversible damage to the motor. The remote motor condition monitoring is implemented through a wireless sensor network (WSN) based on the IEEE 802.15.4 standard. The deployed network uses the beacon-enabled mode to synchronize several sensor nodes with the coordinator node, and the guaranteed time slot mechanism provides data monitoring with a predetermined latency. A graphic user interface offers remote access to motor conditions and real-time monitoring of several parameters. The developed wireless sensor node exhibits very low power consumption since it has been optimized both in terms of hardware and software. The result is a low cost, highly reliable and compact design, achieving a high degree of autonomy of more than two years with just one 3.3 V/2600 mAh battery. Laboratory and field tests confirm the feasibility of the wireless system.
Coordinated Target Tracking via a Hybrid Optimization Approach
Authors: Wang Yin , Cao Yan
Published: February 2017

Recent advances in computer science and electronics have greatly expanded the capabilities of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV) in both defense and civil applications, such as moving ground object tracking. Due to the uncertainties of the application environments and objects’ motion, it is difficult to maintain the tracked object always within the sensor coverage area by using a single UAV. Hence, it is necessary to deploy a group of UAVs to improve the robustness of the tracking. This paper investigates the problem of tracking ground moving objects with a group of UAVs using gimbaled sensors under flight dynamic and collision-free constraints. The optimal cooperative tracking path planning problem is solved using an evolutionary optimization technique based on the framework of chemical reaction optimization (CRO). The efficiency of the proposed method was demonstrated through a series of comparative simulations. The results show that the cooperative tracking paths determined by the newly developed method allows for longer sensor coverage time under flight dynamic restrictions and safety conditions.
Gamma-Ray Blazars within the First 2 Billion Years
Authors: Ackermann M. , Ajello M. , Baldini L. , Ballet J. , Barbiellini G. , Bastieri D. , Gonzalez J. Becerra , Bellazzini R. , Bissaldi E. , Blandford R. D. , Bloom E. D. , Bonino R. , Bottacini E. , Bregeon J. , Bruel P. , Buehler R. , Buson S. , Cameron R. A. , Caragiulo M. , Caraveo P. A. , Cavazzuti E. , Cecchi C. , Cheung C. C. , Chiang J. , Chiaro G. , Ciprini S. , Conrad J. , Costantin D. , Costanza F. , Cutini S. , D’Ammando F. , Palma F. de , Desiante R. , Digel S. W. , Lalla N. Di , Mauro M. Di , Venere L. Di , Domínguez A. , Drell P. S. , Favuzzi C. , Fegan S. J. , Ferrara E. C. , Finke J. , Focke W. B. , Fukazawa Y. , Funk S. , Fusco P. , Gargano F. , Gasparrini D. , Giglietto N. , Giordano F. , Giroletti M. , Green D. , Grenier I. A. , Guillemot L. , Guiriec S. , Hartmann D. H. , Hays E. , Horan D. , Jogler T. , Jóhannesson G. , Johnson A. S. , Kuss M. , Mura G. La , Larsson S. , Latronico L. , Li J. , Longo F. , Loparco F. , Lovellette M. N. , Lubrano P. , Magill J. D. , Maldera S. , Manfreda A. , Marcotulli L. , Mazziotta M. N. , Michelson P. F. , Mirabal N. , Mitthumsiri W. , Mizuno T. , Monzani M. E. , Morselli A. , Moskalenko I. V. , Negro M. , Nuss E. , Ohsugi T. , Ojha R. , Omodei N. , Orienti M. , Orlando E. , Ormes J. F. , Paliya V. S. , Paneque D. , Perkins J. S. , Persic M. , Pesce-Rollins M. , Piron F. , Porter T. A. , Principe G. , Rainò S. , Rando R. , Rani B. , Razzano M. , Razzaque S. , Reimer A. , Reimer O. , Romani R. W. , Sgrò C. , Simone D. , Siskind E. J. , Spada F. , Spandre G. , Spinelli P. , Stalin C. S. , Stawarz L. , Suson D. J. , Takahashi M. , Tanaka K. , Thayer J. B. , Thompson D. J. , Torres D. F. , Torresi E. , Tosti G. , Troja E. , Vianello G. , Wood K. S.
Published: February 2017

The detection of high-redshift (

) blazars enables the study of the evolution of the most luminous relativistic jets over cosmic time. More importantly, high-redshift blazars tend to host massive black holes and can be used to constrain the space density of heavy black holes in the early universe. Here, we report the first detection with the Fermi-Large Area Telescope of five γ-ray-emitting blazars beyond z = 3.1, more distant than any blazars previously detected in γ-rays. Among these five objects, NVSS J151002+570243 is now the most distant known γ-ray-emitting blazar at z = 4.31. These objects have steeply falling γ-ray spectral energy distributions (SEDs), and  those that have been observed in X-rays have a very hard X-ray spectrum, both typical of powerful blazars. Their Compton dominance (ratio of the inverse Compton to synchrotron peak luminosities) is also very large (

). All of these properties place these objects among the most extreme members of the blazar population. Their optical spectra and the modeling of their optical-UV SEDs confirm that these objects harbor massive black holes (

). We find that, at

, the space density of

black holes hosted in radio-loud and radio-quiet active galactic nuclei are similar, implying that radio-loudness may play a key role in rapid black hole growth in the early universe.
Using Accelerometer-Based Portable Navigation to Perform Accurate Total Knee Arthroplasty Bone Resection in Asian Patients
Authors: Ueyama Hideki , Matsui Yoshio , Minoda Yukihide , Matsuura Masanori , Nakamura Hiroaki
Published: February 2017

Implant alignment is an important factor affecting clinical results associated with total knee arthroplasty (TKA). No report exists showing the utility of an accelerometer-based portable navigation system among patients with marked femoral bowing. The aim of this study was to evaluate the accuracy of a portable navigation system for implant alignment in Asian patients with marked femoral bowing. The authors evaluated 142 consecutive TKAs performed for primary osteoarthritis since July 2013. A portable navigation system was used in 67 knees, and a conventional jig was used in 75 knees. The authors measured the mechanical axis and femoral/tibial component alignments on long-leg radiographs obtained 2 weeks after TKA. In addition, coronal bowing of the lower limb was evaluated. The results were analyzed in the general and marked femoral bowing subgroups. There were no significant differences between the 2 groups for demographic data. The rates of femoral component outliers in the coronal plane for the navigation system and conventional technique were 1.5% and 13.3% (
P
=.01), respectively. Marked femoral bowing was observed in 73 knees. In the subgroup of patients with marked femoral bowing, femoral coronal alignment and its outliers were more accurate in the navigation group (0%) than in the conventional group (16.2%) (
P
=.025). This is the first report to show the utility of an accelerometer-based portable navigation system for accurate prosthetic alignment among Asian patients with marked femoral bowing. The navigation system decreased outliers in coronal alignment of the femur, even in cases of marked femoral bowing, but did not increase complications. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(3):e465–e472.]
The Anatomy of the Medial Patellofemoral Ligament
Authors: Trinh Thai Q. , Ferrel Jason R. , Bentley Jared C. , Steensen Robert N.
Published: February 2017

Recurrent patellar dislocation is observed in many patients treated nonoperatively following primary dislocation. Injury to the medial patellofemoral ligament (MPFL) is reported in the majority of patients following dislocation. There is an increased interest in repair or reconstruction of the MPFL for patients experiencing recurrent instability. The femoral attachment of the MPFL is critical in determining graft behavior following reconstruction. The femoral attachment can be determined by referencing local anatomy, fluoroscopic imaging or on the basis of desired graft-length changes. This article reviews the anatomy of the MPFL, with a focus on its femoral insertion site as it pertains to anatomic, isometric, and anisometric reconstruction. [
Orthopedics.
2017; 40(4):e583–e588.]
An Improved Three-dimensional DV-Hop Localization Algorithm Optimized by Adaptive Cuckoo Search Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Lieping , Peng Fei , Cao Peng , Ji Wenjun
Published: February 2017

Aiming at the low accuracy of DV-Hop localization algorithm in three-dimensional localization of wireless sensor network, a DV-Hop localization algorithm optimized by adaptive cuckoo search algorithm was proposed in this paper. Firstly, an improved DV-Hop algorithm was proposed, which can reduce the localization error of DV-Hop algorithm by controlling the network topology and improving the method for calculating average hop distance. Meanwhile, aiming at the slow convergence in traditional cuckoo search algorithm, the adaptive strategy was improved for the step search strategy and the bird's nest recycling strategy. And the adaptive cuckoo search algorithm was introduced to the process of node localization to optimize the unknown node position estimation. The experiment results show that compared with the improved DV-Hop algorithm and the traditional DV-Hop algorithm, the DV-Hop algorithm optimized by adaptive cuckoo search algorithm improved the localization accuracy and reduced the localization errors.
An Update to the iLab Shared Architecture for Mobile Device Support
Authors: Akinwale Olawale Babatunde , Kehinde Lawrence Olakunle
Published: February 2017

A number of remote laboratories and virtual laboratories have been created which support the mobile devices factor. The focus of a number of researchers at present is on the platforms which supports these online laboratories. This paper presents the solution we developed. The platform we developed is a modification of the iLab Shared Architecture (ISA) which was originally created by the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. It was expanded to include SMS services and WebSocket services. The goal was to ensure that it is able to support all mobile phones and tablets. Feature phones can perform experiments via SMS and tablets can use HTML5 based applications while personal computers can use the original ISA services.
Managing Software Architecture in Domains of Security-Critical Systems
Authors: Cano Jesus , Hernández Roberto
Published: February 2017

This chapter describes the management and technological considerations on software architecture and the executive approach to projects that need security-critical and multifaceted requirements. This results in several agreements, one of which is to promote measures regarding the exchange of information from the private sector through public networks. The authors put forward ways to approach these issues and their difficulties from the perspective that there are technical-administrative e-Government models that can be applied to developing countries and encourage a global alliance - in line with the United Nations Millennium Goals (MDG) - for development that will help attain the remaining goals in the immediate future.
Big Data on E-Government
Authors: Husain Mohd. Shahid , Khan Neha
Published: February 2017

All aspects of big data need to be thoroughly investigated, with emphasis on e-governance, needs, challenges and its framework. This chapters recognizes that e-governance needs big data to be reliable, fast and efficient. Another principle is that the trust of a citizen is the main concern. The extraction of meaningful data from large variety of data is a critical issue in big data hence new approaches must be developed. This chapter basically discusses the key concepts of veracity in big data on e-governance. Its main aim is to provide the comprehensive overview big data in e-governance. E-government is still struggling to move advanced level of development. Current e-government applications handle only structured data and sharing between the applications is also difficult.
A Smart Government Framework for Mobile Application Services in Mongolia
Authors: Erdenebold Tumennast
Published: February 2017

The Smart Government is the advanced e-Government which has been indicated as an emerging global trend in public service delivery. The utilization of Smart Government mobile service is having various numbers of challenges including complexity of different technologies, and reducing duplication among existing and new systems in the application field. In order to get over these challenges, an integrated, an innovative and common system architecture is required to design for the mobile services of Smart Government. Hence, this study designed and proposed “A Smart Government framework for mobile application services” to integrate common parts of the application service. The research covered mobile application service components, and centered on mobile G2C and C2G interactions in the front-office application domain. In addition, the Federal Enterprise Architecture Framework is used, and designed architecture followed up recommendations are proposed for decision makers, government officials, researchers who related to ICT and e-Government.
Knowledge Sharing for Healthcare and Medicine in Developing Countries
Authors: Moahi Kgomotso Hildegard , Bwalya Kelvin J.
Published: February 2017

Knowledge sharing has always been used as a platform for cross-pollination of ideas and innovations in a bid to improve and enhance performance thereby increasing competitiveness and responsiveness both in organizations and individual levels. Healthcare systems are not an exception. However, for knowledge sharing to take place there is need for certain factors to be noted and addressed such as the individual, organizational and technological. Further, knowledge sharing goes hand in hand with knowledge management and must become part of the strategic fabric of organizations. This chapter focuses on knowledge sharing by health professionals in healthcare and medicine in developing countries. The chapter covers knowledge management and its link with knowledge sharing; the various methods of knowledge sharing in healthcare; factors that make knowledge sharing an important strategic move for healthcare organizations; and factors and issues that affect or determine knowledge sharing behavior. Finally, a literature search for examples of knowledge sharing in developing or low and middle-income countries was conducted and the results are presented. The chapter shows that developing countries have recognized the value of knowledge sharing in healthcare systems and there are tangible signs that this is going to shape cross-pollination of ideas and innovations in the health systems in the foreseeable future.
Use of Information and Communication Technology by Health Care Providers for Continuing Professional Development in Botswana
Authors: Tshiamo Wananani. B. , Kgositau Mabedi , Magowe Mabel
Published: February 2017

The impact of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) in the social and economic lives of people including the area of education cannot be overemphasized. Continuing education is an important vehicle for maintaining and improving professional standards and keeping in synch with the latest trends in the profession, especially for health care providers. Hinged on literature review, document review and case study, this chapter aims to elaborate on the importance of continuing professional development (CPD) to health and medical care, and how ICTs can be used as a platform for CPD. Focusing on Botswana as a case study, the chapter explores challenges and issues faced by health care providers in using ICTs to access CPD and includes solutions and recommendations. Challenges identified included underdeveloped ICT infrastructure and limited use of available ICT resources by health care providers.
Case Study
Authors: Darcy Niamh , Perera Sriyanjit , Stanley Grades , Rumisha Susan , Assenga Kelvin , Polycarp Faustin , Sijaona Angelina , Msechu Esther , Mzeru Marcos , Kumalija Claud , Kambenga Michael , Mayala Benjamin , Elias Mturi , Biondich Paul , Kalungwa Zaharani , Mwamafupa Japhal , Kipilyango Nseya , Teesdale Scott
Published: February 2017

In 2009, the Tanzanian Ministry of Health, Community Development, Gender, Elderly and Children (MoHCDGEC) counted over 10 different health facility lists managed by donors, government ministries, agencies and implementing partners. These function-specific lists were not integrated or linked. The ministry's Health Sector Strategic Plan included the development of an authoritative source for all health facility information, called the Master Facility List (MFL). During development, the ministry adopted the term Health Facility Registry (HFR), an online tool providing public access to a database about all officially recognized health facilities (public and private). The MFL, which includes the health facility list at any specific point in time can be exported from the HFR. This chapter presents the Tanzanian case study describing the work and lessons learned in building the HFR—focusing on software development, introducing geographic positioning systems and harmonizing MFL data. MoHCDGEC launched the HFR public portal in September 2015.