bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aplikasi E-Futsal dengan Metode Mobile-GIS dan GPS Berbasis Android
Authors: Agustian Aji , Rahayu Samirah , Nurlani Lani
Published: June 2018

Futsal menjadi salah satu cabang olahraga yang banyak diminati oleh berbagai kalangan usia di hampir seluruh wilayah di Indonesia, salah satunya di Kota Sukabumi. Dengan banyaknya peminat jenis olahraga ini, maka usaha penyewaan lapangan futsal menjadi suatu bisnis yang menjanjikan. Akan tetapi, kurangnya sistem informasi mengenai tempat penyewaan dan pemesanan lapangan futsal menjadi salah satu permasalahan yang mungkin perlu diatasi. Pada penelitian ini, akan dirancang sebuah aplikasi E-Futsal berbasis sistem operasi Android dengan memanfaatkan teknologi mobile Geographical Information System (GIS). Aplikasi ini dirancang menggunakan CodeIgniter 3.1.3 dengan format data JSON yang support dengan sistem operasi Android. Selain itu, aplikasi ini juga dilengkapi teknologi Global Position System (GPS) untuk mempermudah pengguna dalam pencarian tempat penyewaan lapangan futsal. Hasil dari penelitian ini berupa platform aplikasi yang dapat diakses melalui website dan smartphone Android. Dengan adanya aplikasi ini diharapkan dapat membantu para pelaku usaha penyewaan lapangan futsal dan para pengguna olahraga futsal khususnya di wilayah Kota Sukabumi.Kata kunci: aplikasi, futsal, Android, GIS, GPS Futsal became one of the sports that many interested by various age groups in almost all regions in Indonesia, one of them in Sukabumi. With so many enthusiasts of this type of sport, futsal field leasing business becomes a promising business. However, the lack of information systems on leasing and futsal field booking becomes one of the issues that may need to be addressed. In this research, we will design an E-Futsal application based on Android operating system by utilizing Mobile Geographical Information System (GIS) technology. This application is designed using CodeIgniter 3.1.3 with JSON data format that support with Android operating system. In addition, this application is also equipped with technology Global Position System (GPS) to facilitate the user in searching for futsal field lease. The result of this study is the application platform that can be accessed through websites and Android smartphones. With this application is expected to help the business players futsal field lease and the futsal sports users, especially in Sukabumi area.Keywords: application, futsal, Android, GIS, GPS
Sistem Monitoring Suhu dan Kelembapan Secara Nirkabel pada Budidaya Tanaman Hidroponik
Authors: Haryanto Budi , Ismail Nanang , Pristianto Eko Joni
Published: June 2018

Penelitian ini membahas sistem monitoring suhu dan kelembapan secara nirkabel dengan Xbee berbasis mikrokontroler yang dilakukan di tempat budidaya tanaman hidroponik. Mikrokontroler berfungsi sebagai pengontrol rangkaian elektronik yang dapat menyimpan program. Xbee berfungsi sebagai alat komunikasi nirkabel yang beroperasi pada frekuensi 2,4 Ghz dengan jarak jangkau mencapai 1.500 meter. Pada perancangan ini terdapat dua node, yaitu node pengirim dan node penerima. Node pengirim terdiri dari modul Arduino sebagai pengendali yang dihubungkan dengan sensor DHT11 sebagai masukan dan Xbee sebagai pengirim. Node penerima terdiri dari Xbee penerima yang dihubungkan pada modul Arduino sebagai pengolah data dan LCD untuk menampilkan data. Pada penelitian ini didapat hasil perbandingan sensor DHT11 dengan alat ukur Thermo-Hygro yaitu rata-rata error suhu 0,75℃ dan kelembapan 3%. Hasil pengujian empat unit sensor DHT11 di luar ruangan didapat nilai rata-rata suhu sebesar 28,94℃ dan kelembapan sebesar 59,6% dengan jarak jangkau Xbee mencapai 240 meter, sedangkan nilai rata-rata suhu dan kelembapan hasil pengujian di dalam ruangan yaitu 29,14℃ dan 58,86% dengan jarak jangkau Xbee mencapai 70 meter.Kata Kunci: sistem monitoring, suhu dan kelembaban, mikrokontroler, sensor, wirelessThis research discusses the temperature and humidity monitoring system wirelessly with Xbee based on microcontroller. Microcontroller is a chip that serves as a controller of an electronic circuit that can store the programs in it. XBee is a wireless communication device Zigbee part of the protocol that operates at a frequency of 2.4 GHz with a range of 1,500 meters. In this design, there are two nodes, namely the transmitter node and the receiver node. The transmitter node consists of Arduino module as a controller, which is connected with DHT 11 sensor as input, and Xbee as transmitter. Receiver node consists of a Xbee receiver connected to the Arduino as a data processor and LCD for displaying data. From the research results obtained DHT11 ratio sensor with the Thermo-Hygro which is the average error 0.75℃ temperature and humidity of 3%. For the test results of four sensors outdoor DHT11 obtained average value 28,94℃ temperature and humidity of 59.6% with a range Xbee reach 240 meters, while the average value of the temperature and humidity in the room test results are 29,14℃ and 58.86% with a range Xbee reach 70 meters. Keywords: monitoring system, temperature and humidity, microcontrollers, sensors, wireless
Energy Saving Measures and Simulation in the Library Building of University of Surabaya
Authors: Tarigan Elieser
Published: June 2018

The rapid rate use of fossil fuels globally results in many environmental problems. The adoption of energy efficient technology has the potential to substantially reduce the amount of energy used in buildings. This paper discuses the energy saving measures and simulation for a six-floor library building, University of Surabaya, Indonesia. Simulation was carried out using the Excellence in Design for Greater Efficiency (EDGE) simulation software. The results of simulation showed that 53% of energy efficiency can be reached, without lowering of the building comfort, by applying of four measures at the same time are daylight photoelectric sensors for internal spaces (OFE29), radiant cooling and heating system (OFE16), higher thermal performance glass (OFE8), and external shading devices (OFE4). The implementation of the four measures would result in reduction of 758 ton of CO2/year with a payback period of 2.2 years.Keywords: Energy efficiency, energy building, energy saving, library building, energy simulation Pemanfaatan energy fosil dalam jumlah yang besar secara global menimbulkan permasalahan berkaitan dengan lingkungan. Usaha untuk mengimplementasikan teknologi dalam penghematan energi sangat signifikan dalam penerapannya pada bangunan. Tulisan ini mendiskusikan parameter-parameter penghematan energi serta mensimulasikannya pada sebuah bangunan perpustakaan Universitas Surabaya yang terdiri dari 6 lantai. Simulasi dilakukan menggunakan sofware EDGE. Hasil simulasi menunjukkan bahwa kombinasi 4 parameter penghematan energi dapat memberikan penghematan energi hingga 53%. Parameter tersebut adalah daylight photoelectric sensors for internal spaces (OFE29), radiant cooling and heating system (OFE16), higher thermal performance glass (OFE8), dan external shading devices (OFE4). Implementasi keempat parameter tersebut akan mengurangi emisi karbodiokasida 758 ton per tahun dengan payback period sekitar 2,2 tahun.Kata kunci: Efisiensi energi, energi pada bangunan, hemat energi, bangunan perpustakaan, simulasi energi
Comparison of Glasgow Outcome Scale (GOS) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) between Surgical and Conservative Management of Spontaneous Supratentorial Intracerebral Hemorrhage Patients: A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Islam Mohammad Rafiqul , Khan Md Shafiqul Kabir , Rahman Md Mahfuzur , Talukder Moajjam Hossain , Karim Md Rezaul , Salam Abdus
Published: June 2018

Background: Glasgow outcome scale (GOS) and Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) were the important parameter for the proper management of spontaneous supratentorialintracerebral hemorrhage patients.Objective: The purpose of the present study was to compare the GOS and GCS between surgical and conservative management of spontaneous supratentorialintracerebral hemorrhage patients.Methodology: This randomized control trial was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery at Dhaka Medical College and Hospital from January 2010 to October 2011 for a period of one year and ten months. All hypertensive patients with spontaneous supratentorial intracerebral hemorrhage who were admitted within 48 hours of stroke in Neurosurgery Department during the study period were considered as a study population. Patients underwent surgery was considered as group I and patients those who did not give the consent for operation were treated conservatively was considered as group II.Result: A total of 31 patients were enrolled in this study of which 14 patients underwent surgical evacuation and 17 patients were selected for conservative therapy. Significant positive correlation was found between the GCS score on admission and GOS at 30 days follow-up in surgery group (r=0.649; p<0.05). But a positive significant correlation (r=0.613; P=0.020) was between GCS follow up with GCS on admission in surgery patients and (r=0.575; P=0.016) in conservative group.Conclusion: In conclusion both GOS and GCS are essential during the management of surgical and conservative spontaneous supratentorialintracerebral hemorrhage patients.Journal of Current and Advance Medical Research 2018;5(2):49-54
Performance Trends During Sleep Deprivation on a Tilt-Based Control Task
Authors: Bolkhovsky Jeffrey B. , Ritter Frank E. , Chon Ki H. , Qin Michael
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND: Understanding human behavior under the effects of sleep deprivation allows for the mitigation of risk due to reduced performance. To further this goal, this study investigated the effects of short-term sleep deprivation using a tilt-based control device and examined
whether existing user models accurately predict targeting performance.METHODS: A task in which the user tilts a surface to roll a ball into a target was developed to examine motor performance. A model was built to predict human performance for this task under various levels of sleep
deprivation. Every 2 h, 10 subjects completed the task until they reached 24 h of wakefulness. Performance measurements of this task, which were based on Fitts’ law, included movement time, task throughput, and time intercept.RESULTS: The model predicted significant performance
decrements over the 24-h period with an increase in movement time (R2 = 0.61), a decrease in throughput (R2 = 0.57), and an increase in time intercept (R2 = 0.60). However, it was found that in experimental trials there was no significant change in movement
time (R2 = 0.11), throughput (R2 = 0.15), or time intercept (R2 = 0.27).DISCUSSION: The results found were unexpected as performance decrement is frequently reported during sleep deprivation. These findings suggest a reexamination of the initial
thought of sleep loss leading to a decrement in all aspects of performance.Bolkovsky JB, Ritter FE, Chon KH, Qin M. Performance trends during sleep deprivation on a tilt-based control task. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(7):626–633.
Resting State Brain Activity During Long-Term Dry Immersion
Authors: Lazarev Ivan E. , Tomilovskaya Elena S. , Kozlovskaya Inesa B.
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this work was to investigate the brain’s rhythmic activity during a simulated microgravity condition (namely dry immersion).METHODS: During dry immersion, which lasted for 5 d, nine subjects (healthy men, 20 to 29 yr of age) were individually
placed in a tub (2.2 × 1.1 × 0.85 m) filled with water (temperature was kept constant at about 33°C). Subject floated in the tub without bodily support in the supine horizontal position, but isolated from the water by waterproof material. Resting state EEGs were registered
at the fourth or fifth day of dry immersion. Under the control conditions, resting state EEGs were registered while subjects laid in a supine position on a couch.RESULTS: Compared to the control condition, EEG power in the alpha range (8–13 Hz) was greater in dry immersion;
this effect was distributed across the whole scalp. No effects of dry immersion were found for the beta, delta, or theta frequency bands.CONCLUSION: The results of the study, similar to those obtained in a real spaceflight, indicate that support withdrawal is an important contributor
to brain activity alterations in weightlessness.Lazarev IE, Tomilovskaya ES, Kozlovskaya IB. Resting state brain activity during long-term dry immersion. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(7):642–647.
Postural Instability and Simulator Seasickness
Authors: Pettijohn Kyle A. , Geyer Daniel , Gomez Jacqueline , Becker William J. , Biggs Adam T.
Published: June 2018

BACKGROUND: Motion sickness is a serious issue for many individuals, but the problem is particularly important among military personnel who may regularly experience unusual or extreme motion profiles as a part of their duties. As such, it is important to understand the underlying
mechanisms that contribute to motion sickness, which in turn can lead to new and more effective countermeasures. The current study investigated causal etiology by examining the predictions of postural instability theory. Subjects experienced multiple motion profiles while reporting their sickness
symptoms.METHODS: Postural instability was directly manipulated by including both an active and passive condition. In the active condition, subjects could actively adapt their posture to the motion profile. In the passive condition, subjects had their feet affixed in place and could
not effectively adapt their posture to the motion profiles. Subjects completed both conditions to control for individual differences in motion sickness susceptibility.RESULTS: Active condition subjects had greater postural stability as measured by sample entropy (M = 0.179
Active, M = 0.136 Passive), and sickness symptoms increased with time. Both results provide a methodological check against our manipulation. However, there were no differences in symptoms between active or passive conditions as measured by the simulator sickness questionnaire (M
= 16.56 and M = 18.25, respectively), and no relationship between our measure of postural instability and symptomology.DISCUSSION: These results do not support postural instability as the primary causal factor in motion sickness; however, more research is needed to elucidate
the mechanisms of motion sickness etiology.Pettijohn KA, Geyer D, Gomez J, Becker WJ, Biggs AT. Postural instability and simulator seasickness. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(7):634–641.
Extended High-Frequency Audiometry (9–20 kHz) in Civilian Pilots
Authors: Ma Fengjie , Gong Shusheng , Liu Sha , Hu Mosheng , Qin Caihong , Bai Yin
Published: June 2018

INTRODUCTION: The greater sensitivity of extended high-frequency audiometry (EHFA) than conventional audiometry (CA) for identifying early changes in hearing has been well documented in previous literature. However, no studies about EHFA were conducted on civilian pilots. The
aim of this study was to investigate the usefulness of EHFA as an assay to evaluate civilian pilots’ hearing status.METHODS: An observational cross-sectional study was conducted on 134 civilian pilots (case group) and 101 subjects without noise exposure (control group). All
of the subjects underwent CA (0.25–8 kHz) and EHFA (9–20 kHz). The potential of EHFA for identifying early changes in hearing was assessed.RESULTS: The two audiometric tools both showed significantly higher hearing thresholds in the case group for most of the frequencies
tested, but the differences were more obvious for EHFA. Compared with the control group, the average thresholds in the case group increased 3.15 dB at CA and 7.83 dB at EHFA for age 20–29. The number was 2.37 dB and 9.90 dB for age 30–39; 3.80 dB and 8.19 dB for age 40–49;
and 10.84 dB and 16.86 dB for age 50–59. There were 74.6% of pilots who had hearing loss in at least in one ear and at one frequency in CA and 94.8% at EHFA. Significant differences in EHFA were observed also between pilots and their controls with normal hearing thresholds at CA.CONCLUSIONS:
EHFA is more sensitive than CA and could be useful in detecting subclinical changes of hearing in civilian pilots.Ma F, Gong S, Liu S, Hu M, Qin C, Bai Y. Extended high-frequency audiometry (9–20 kHz) in civilian pilots. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(7):593–600.
A Pilot Study Exploring the Effects of Sleep Deprivation on Analogue Measures of Pilot Competencies
Authors: O’Hagan Anna Donnla , Issartel Johann , McGinley Eoghan , Warrington Giles
Published: June 2018

INTRODUCTION: Sleep loss can result in cognitive, motor, and neurobehavioral impairments. In an aviation context, this can cause a serious threat to flight safety. Therefore, the study aimed to investigate the effects of 24-h sleep deprivation on mood, fatigue, and airline pilot
competencies.METHODS: Seven subjects attended two 24-h testing periods, one with an 8-h sleep opportunity, and the other with no sleep opportunity (i.e., sleep deprivation). Subjects were required to complete a battery of mood, fatigue, and analogue measures of pilot competency
tasks every 8 h (0 h, 8 h, 16 h, 24 h) throughout each testing period.RESULTS: While total mood disturbance was found to significantly increase (83.42, SD = 25.7), both objective (352.71, SD = 42.00) and subjective (34.85, SD = 8.82) fatigue were found to significantly decrease
following 24-h sleep deprivation. Cognitive flexibility (757.45, SD = 58.48) and hand-eye coordination (dominant hand only) (60.28, SD = 3.86) were also negatively impacted following 24-h sleep deprivation. However, working memory and situation awareness were not significantly negatively impacted
by the bout of sleep deprivation.DISCUSSION: Some pilot-specific task-related factors such as subjective fatigue, cognitive flexibility, and working memory were found to be particularly susceptible to sleep loss, with significant declines in performance observed following 16-h continuous
wakefulness, suggesting reductions in optimal functioning following this period of wakefulness. Further investigation using more regular testing time points, employing additional pilot competencies, and using more aviation-specific tasks is warranted.O’Hagan AD, Issartel J, McGinley
E, Warrington G. A pilot study exploring the effects of sleep deprivation on analogue measures of pilot competencies. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(7):609–615.
Platforms, Arenas and Players: The Media in the 2017 French Presidential Election
Authors: Kuhn Raymond
Published: June 2018

This article examines selected different roles that the French media performed in the 2017 presidential campaign. Three in particular are highlighted: the media as platforms, as arenas and as players. Each component of this conceptual triad represents a distinctive status in terms of the degree of control exercised by candidates and media in terms of agenda construction and issue framing: candidate-centred communication (platform), mutual interdependence (arena) and relative media autonomy (player). In the concluding section the article evaluates the impact of the media on voters.
Mastitis on Rabbit Farms: Prevalence and Risk Factors
Authors: Rosell Joan , De la Fuente L.
Published: June 2018

In this cross-sectional study, prevalence of clinical mastitis (PCM) and farm-specific risk factors were determined on 531 doe rabbit farms in Spain and Portugal, from January 2001 through March 2017. The information was obtained by carrying out 2367 visits and doing physical examinations of 144,455 lactating does, sorted in 2635 cohorts. Overall mean PCM was 4.05% (CI95% [3.87–4.22]), (minimum to maximum: 0–36.00% PCM). This study suggests that PCM was influenced by the variable number of batches (a batch was a group of does served the same day), per maternity barn (p < 0.0001). The duo system (does being moved to clean disinfected barns for parturition), was also an enabling risk factor for CM. The day of service or lactation stage also affected PCM. Lastly, there was an effect of the breeds or lines (p < 0.0001); mean PCM ranged between 1.29% and 7.09%. A subset of data obtained from 200 farms visited during January 2012–March 2017, was recorded to describe the use of antimicrobials against mastitis. Changes in host, husbandry, environment, and biosecurity practices, are highlighted to provide health and welfare benefits for breeding rabbits.
Mathematical Modeling of Rogue Waves: A Survey of Recent and Emerging Mathematical Methods and Solutions
Authors: Manzetti Sergio
Published: June 2018

Anomalous waves and rogue events are closely associated with irregularities and unexpected events occurring at various levels of physics, such as in optics, in oceans and in the atmosphere. Mathematical modeling of rogue waves is a highly active field of research, which has evolved over the last few decades into a specialized part of mathematical physics. The applications of the mathematical models for rogue events is directly relevant to technology development for the prediction of rogue ocean waves and for signal processing in quantum units. In this survey, a comprehensive perspective of the most recent developments of methods for representing rogue waves is given, along with discussion of the devised forms and solutions. The standard nonlinear Schrödinger equation, the Hirota equation, the MMT equation and other models are discussed and their properties highlighted. This survey shows that the most recent advancement in modeling rogue waves give models that can be used to establish methods for the prediction of rogue waves in open seas, which is important for the safety and activity of marine vessels and installations. The study further puts emphasis on the difference between the methods and how the resulting models form the basis for representing rogue waves in various forms, solitary or with a wave background. This review has also a pedagogic component directed towards students and interested non-experts and forms a complete survey of the most conventional and emerging methods published until recently.
Known and Emerging Mycotoxins in Small- and Large-Scale Brewed Beer
Authors: Bertuzzi Terenzio , Rastelli Silvia , Mulazzi Annalisa , Donadini Gianluca , Pietri Amedeo
Published: June 2018

The occurrence of ochratoxin A (OTA), deoxynivalenol (DON), sterigmatocystin (STC), and citrinin (CIT) was evaluated in samples of small- (SS) and large-scale (LS) brewed beer. The analyses were conducted using HPLC-FLD for OTA, GC-MS for DON, and LC-MS/MS for STC and CIT. During 2017, a total of 83 samples of SS and LS brewed beer (42 and 41, respectively) were sampled; for both types of beer, the most sold beers in Italy were collected. CIT was never detected in any sample, whereas OTA, DON, and STC prevalence was 45.8%, 25.3%, and 27.7%, respectively. The mean and maximum values for OTA, DON, and STC were 0.007 and 0.070; 8.6 and 99; 0.001 and 0.018 µg/kg, respectively. No significant difference was observed between the SS and LS beers. The results of this survey showed a low contamination; the levels found should not represent a serious risk for consumers’ health.
Interdiffusion at Room Temperature in Cu-Ni(Fe) Nanolaminates
Authors: Jankowski Alan F.
Published: June 2018

The decomposition of a one-dimensional composition wave in Cu-Ni(Fe) nanolaminate structures is quantified using X-ray diffraction to assess kinetics of the interdiffusion process for samples aged at room temperature for 30 years. Definitive evidence for growth to the composition modulation within the chemical spinodal is found through measurement of a negative interdiffusivity for each of sixteen different nanolaminate samples over a composition wavelength range of 2.1–10.6 nm. A diffusivity value Ď of 1.77 × 10−24 cm2·s−1 is determined for the Cu-Ni(Fe) alloy system, perhaps the first such measurement at a ratio of melt temperature to test temperature that is greater than 5. The anomalously high diffusivity value with respect to bulk diffusion is attributed to the nanolaminate structure that features paths for short-circuit diffusion through interlayer grain boundaries.
Lifting the Lid on Financial Inclusion: Evidence from Emerging Economies
Authors: Nawaz Tasawar
Published: June 2018

Financial inclusion has become a subject of growing interest for academics, professionals, and policy-makers in recent times. Researchers stress the importance of financial inclusion and highlight the significant role of financial institutions, such as banks, in promoting financial inclusion. Therefore, it is imperative to analyse the role and commitment of banks in promoting financial inclusion, especially those financial institutions (i.e., Islamic banks) which came into existence to promote socio-economic justice through redistribution of wealth in society. The study is built on the argument that Islamic banking business model is based on intangible sources i.e., Shari’ah law and such sources are exploited to create value i.e., stability, profitability and financial inclusion. The empirical analysis support the hypothesis that Islamic banks utilize various tangible and non-tangible resources to promote financial inclusion. Hence, Islamic banks are serving as the ultimate source of financial inclusion in the society.
Automated Orthorectification of VHR Satellite Images by SIFT-Based RPC Refinement
Authors: Kartal Hakan , Alganci Ugur , Sertel Elif
Published: June 2018

Raw remotely sensed images contain geometric distortions and cannot be used directly for map-based applications, accurate locational information extraction or geospatial data integration. A geometric correction process must be conducted to minimize the errors related to distortions and achieve the desired location accuracy before further analysis. A considerable number of images might be needed when working over large areas or in temporal domains in which manual geometric correction requires more labor and time. To overcome these problems, new algorithms have been developed to make the geometric correction process autonomous. The Scale Invariant Feature Transform (SIFT) algorithm is an image matching algorithm used in remote sensing applications that has received attention in recent years. In this study, the effects of the incidence angle, surface topography and land cover (LC) characteristics on SIFT-based automated orthorectification were investigated at three different study sites with different topographic conditions and LC characteristics using Pleiades very high resolution (VHR) images acquired at different incidence angles. The results showed that the location accuracy of the orthorectified images increased with lower incidence angle images. More importantly, the topographic characteristics had no observable impacts on the location accuracy of SIFT-based automated orthorectification, and the results showed that Ground Control Points (GCPs) are mainly concentrated in the “Forest” and “Semi Natural Area” LC classes. A multi-thread code was designed to reduce the automated processing time, and the results showed that the process performed 7 to 16 times faster using an automated approach. Analyses performed on various spectral modes of multispectral data showed that the arithmetic data derived from pan-sharpened multispectral images can be used in automated SIFT-based RPC orthorectification.
Spatial Variability of Local Rural Landscape Change under Rapid Urbanization in Eastern China
Authors: Xiao He , Liu Yunhui , Li Liangtao , Yu Zhenrong , Zhang Xiaotong
Published: June 2018

Understanding the characteristics of rural landscape change during the urbanization process is crucial to developing more elaborate rural landscape management plans for sustainable development. However, there is little information revealing how rural landscapes change at a local scale and limited evidence addressing how to improve the practicability of these management approaches. This paper aims to investigate local rural landscape compositions and patterns and to identify the spatial variability of local rural landscape change under rapid urbanization in eastern China to provide detail approaches to practicable and efficient local landscape management. The land use composition and landscape pattern from 2009 to 2012 were analyzed in three rural areas, namely, Daxing (DX) in Beijing, Quzhou (QZ) in Hebei Province and Changshu (CS) in Jiangsu Province. The results showed that the three rural areas varied in landscape pattern and land use composition change, even in the short term. Local farmland decreased slightly, demonstrating the effectiveness of the national farmland protection policy. Compared to the other two rural areas, CS was more diverse, fragmented and complex, and it had the greatest change rate between 2009 and 2012. In this rural area, semi-natural land dramatically increased, from 9.15% to 39.85%, and settlement construction unexpectedly decreased. QZ was characterized by a highly homogenous landscape dominated by farmland, which accounted for more than 80% of the total area, and it showed a slow decrease in farmland with weak increases in semi-natural land and construction. DX was characterized by a simple and homogenous landscape and had a median change rate of 9.32%, presenting a common land use change trend of a fast expansion in construction but decreases in farmland and semi-natural land. During decreases in highly valuable natural land, semi-natural land was important for nature conservation in rural areas at a local scale, but that process needs further improvement, especially in DX and QZ. Generally, local rural landscapes became more disaggregated and diverse during landscape change. Land use switches among farmland, orchards, nurseries, and other production lands were the major driving force for local change. Considering differential characteristics of landscape change among rural areas, we suggest that efficient landscape management requires the development of strategies that account for the spatial variability of urbanization effects. Subsidies for the management of semi-natural land with high natural value are meaningful for local natural conservation.
Fiber Bragg Grating Sensors in Three Asphalt Pavement Layers
Authors: Kara De Maeijer Patricia , Van den bergh Wim , Vuye Cedric
Published: June 2018

In the present study, a new approach to the installation of fiber Bragg grating (FBG) sensors in three asphalt pavement layers (the surface layer and both base layers) was implemented for the first time in Belgium. Fiber Bragg grating sensors (FBGs) are diagnostic tools that accurately and efficiently monitor in situ structural behavior. However, nowadays, this technology is not commonly used in asphalt due to its application restrictions under installation and service conditions. FBGs are fragile and break easily under loading. Therefore, there is a need for suitable protection of FBG sensors if they are to be installed during the rough construction process and exposed to heavy-duty loading afterwards. The main objective of the present study is to show the FBG results only for the initial construction process, and, if successful, to continue studying this FBG monitoring system and to plan the next research step by adjusting the system for its application in heavy-duty pavements. Two approaches to FBG installation in three asphalt layers (placed at the bottom of each layer) were tested in the present study: (1) installation of FBGs in prefabricated asphalt specimens in the base layer, directly on the base, and (2) installation of FBGs on the surface of the previously constructed asphalt layer. Both innovative approaches allow the implementation of FBGs without sawing the whole layer into two parts. The obtained results proved a survival rate of 100% for the FBGs. It can be concluded that these new described methods of FBG installation—using a cross-section configuration to carry out strain measurements in two directions (transverse and longitudinal)—can be applied for the monitoring of heavy-duty pavements, while providing the possibility to further re-evaluate current pavement design methods used in Flanders (Belgium).
Chemomimesis and Molecular Darwinism in Action: From Abiotic Generation of Nucleobases to Nucleosides and RNA
Authors: Saladino Raffaele , Šponer Judit E. , Šponer Jiří , Costanzo Giovanna , Pino Samanta , Di Mauro Ernesto
Published: June 2018

Molecular Darwinian evolution is an intrinsic property of reacting pools of molecules resulting in the adaptation of the system to changing conditions. It has no a priori aim. From the point of view of the origin of life, Darwinian selection behavior, when spontaneously emerging in the ensembles of molecules composing prebiotic pools, initiates subsequent evolution of increasingly complex and innovative chemical information. On the conservation side, it is a posteriori observed that numerous biological processes are based on prebiotically promptly made compounds, as proposed by the concept of Chemomimesis. Molecular Darwinian evolution and Chemomimesis are principles acting in balanced cooperation in the frame of Systems Chemistry. The one-pot synthesis of nucleosides in radical chemistry conditions is possibly a telling example of the operation of these principles. Other indications of similar cases of molecular evolution can be found among biogenic processes.
Wear Resistance of 3D Printing Resin Material Opposing Zirconia and Metal Antagonists
Authors: Park Ji-Man , Ahn Jin-Soo , Cha Hyun-Suk , Lee Joo-Hee
Published: June 2018

3D printing offers many advantages in dental prosthesis manufacturing. This study evaluated the wear resistance of 3D printing resin material compared with milling and conventional resin materials. Sixty substrate specimens were prepared with three types of resin materials: 3D printed resin, milled resin, and self-cured resin. The 3D printed specimens were printed at a build angle of 0° and 100 μm layer thickness by digital light processing 3D printing. Two kinds of abraders were made of zirconia and CoCr alloy. The specimens were loaded at 5 kg for 30,000 chewing cycles with vertical and horizontal movements under thermocycling condition. The 3D printed resin did not show significant difference in the maximal depth loss or the volume loss of wear compared to the milled and the self-cured resins. No significant difference was revealed depending on the abraders in the maximal depth loss or the volume loss of wear. In SEM views, the 3D printed resin showed cracks and separation of inter-layer bonds when opposing the metal abrader. The results suggest that the 3D printing using resin materials provides adequate wear resistance for dental use.
A Novel Multiscale Mathematical Model for Building Bone Substitute Materials for Children
Authors: Chekroun Abdennasser , Pujo-Menjouet Laurent , Berteau Jean-Philippe
Published: June 2018

Bone is an engineering marvel that achieves a unique combination of stiffness and toughness exceeding that of synthesized materials. In orthopedics, we are currently challenged for the child population that needs a less stiff but a tougher bone substitute than adults. Recent evidence suggests that the relationship between inter-molecular connections that involve the two main bone building blocks, TropoCollagen molecules (TC) and carbonated Hydroxyapatite (cAp), and bone macroscopic mechanical properties, stiffness and toughness, are key to building bone substitute materials for children. The goal of our study is to establish how inter-molecular connections that occur during bone mineralization are related to macroscopic mechanical properties in child bones. Our aim is to link the biological alterations of the TC-cAp self assembly process happening during bone mineralization to the bone macroscopic mechanical properties’ alterations during aging. To do so, we have developed a multiscale mathematical model that includes collagen cross links (TC–TC interface) from experimental studies of bone samples to forecast bone macroscopic mechanical properties. Our results support that the Young’s modulus cannot be a linear parameter if we want to solve our system. In relation to bone substitute material with innovative properties for children, our results propose values of several biological parameters, such as the number of crystals and their size, and collagen crosslink maturity for the desired bone mechanical competence. Our novel mathematical model combines mineralization and macroscopic mechanical behavior of bone and is a step forward in building mechanically customized biomimetic bone grafts that would fit children’s orthopedic needs.
Percent Reduction in Transverse Rupture Strength of Metal Matrix Diamond Segments Analysed via Discrete-Element Simulations
Authors: Chen Xiuyu , Huang Guoqin , Tan Yuanqiang , Yu Yiqing , Guo Hua , Xu Xipeng
Published: June 2018

The percent TRS reduction, DTRS, which is the percent reduction of the transverse rupture strength of metal matrix diamond segments with or without diamonds, is a key metric for evaluating the bonding condition of diamonds in a matrix. In this work, we build, calibrate, and verify a discrete-element simulation of a metal matrix diamond segment to obtain DTRS for diamond segments with various diamond-grain sizes, concentrations, and distributions. The results indicate that DTRS increases with increasing diamond-grain concentration and decreases with increasing diamond-grain size. Both factors can be explained by the total diamond contact length, the increase of which causes the increase in DTRS. The distribution of diamond grains in segments also strongly influences the increase of DTRS. The use of DTRS as a metric to assess the bonding condition of diamonds in matrixes is not valid unless the diamond-grain size, concentration, and distribution and total diamond contact length are the same for all diamond segments under consideration.
Cross-cultural adaptation and validation of Lithuanian questionnaires for the spondyloarthropathies
Authors: Vencevičienė Lina , Rugienė Rita , Venalis Algirdas , Butrimienė Irena
Published: June 2018

Original English questionnaires – Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Patient Global Score, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index – are designed to evaluate health, physical and psychical state of patients with spondyloarthropathies and to assess efficiency of the treatment. Objective. The objective of the study was to adapt Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Patient Global Score, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index questionnaires to the Lithuanian context and examine their psychometric aspects: reliability and validity. Patients and methods. Validation and linguistic and cultural adaptation of Lithuanian questionnaires were performed according to the requirements for adaptation of the international questionnaires. Psychometric features of Lithuanian questionnaires were examined in 139 patients with spondyloarthropathies. The validity of questionnaires was tested by comparing these questionnaires with Health Assessment Questionnaire Modified for Spondyloarthropathies, metrology indices (tragus-to-wall distance, lateral flexion, modified Schober’s distance, intermalleolar distance), pain intensity, patient’s well-being, physician’s assessment of the disease activity, and total enthesis count. The reliability of questionnaires was assessed by determining internal consistency of scales and scale stability and by calculating the intraclass correlation coefficient. Results. The linguistic and cultural adaptation of these questionnaires was made during the study. Internal consistency was high for functional and disease activity index (Cronbach a³0.80) and moderate for the Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Patient Global Score (Cronbach a=0.58). High stability in regard to time was characteristic of all three questionnaires (intraclass correlation coefficient >0.95). A significant association between the separate questions of examined instruments, their joint results and other factors reflecting patient’s health was established. Conclusions. Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Functional Index, Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Patient Global Score, and Bath Ankylosing Spondylitis Disease Activity Index questionnaires in Lithuanian fully correspond to psychometric requirements. They are appropriate and relevant in assessing the influence of spondyloarthropathies on a patient’s health.
Cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging for detection of myocardial viability in chronic ischemic left ventricular dysfunction
Authors: Glaveckaitė Sigita , Valevičienė Nomeda , Laucevičius Aleksandras , Čelutkienė Jelena , Rudys Alfredas , Tamošiūnas Algirdas
Published: June 2018

Chronic ischemic left ventricular dysfunction is present in number of clinical syndromes in which myocardial revascularization results in an improvement of left ventricular function, patients’ functional class, and their survival. Coronary arteriography is of limited value in diagnosis of viability. Noninvasive testing, traditionally nuclear imaging, stress echocardiography and (stress) electrocardiography have been the clinical mainstays for assessing myocardial viability as well as to detect myocardial ischemia. However, cardiovascular magnetic resonance is a rapidly emerging noninvasive imaging technique, providing high-resolution images of the heart in any desired plane and without radiation. Rather than a single technique, cardiovascular magnetic resonance consists of several techniques that can be performed separately or in various combinations during a patient examination. Whereas, no single cardiovascular magnetic resonance technique has a perfect, or near perfect, sensitivity and specificity, therefore, a combination of various cardiovascular magnetic resonance techniques are needed for the assessment of myocardial viability. The aim of this review article is to summarize our current understanding of the concept of myocardial viability, to discuss the clinical value of cardiovascular magnetic resonance (in particular the different cardiovascular magnetic resonance techniques to assess viability) for the evaluation of patients with coronary artery disease and chronic left ventricular dysfunction and to present the current place of cardiovascular magnetic resonance among other techniques for the assessment of viable myocardium.
Changes in electrophysiologic properties of the conductive system of the heart in children with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia after 2–8 years following radiofrequency catheter ablation of the slow pathway
Authors: Šileikienė Rima , Bakšienė Dalia , Šileikis Vytautas , Kazakavičius Tomas , Vaškelytė Jolanta , Kėvalas Rimantas
Published: June 2018

Radiofrequency ablation of the slow pathway is an effective method of treatment in children with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia. The aim of our study was to evaluate anterograde conduction properties in children before and after radiofrequency ablation of the slow pathway and to determine the efficacy and safety of this method. Material and methods. Noninvasive transesophageal electrophysiological examination was performed in 30 patients at the follow-up period (mean duration, 3.24 years) after radiofrequency ablation of the slow pathway. Results. The slow pathway function was observed in 13 patients one day after ablation, in 26 patients during the follow-up period, and in 28 patients after administration of atropine sulfate. Atrioventricular node conduction was significantly decreased the following day after ablation and at the follow-up versus the preablation (165.2 [30.2] bmp and 146.3 [28.5] bpm versus 190.9 [31.4] bpm; P<0.001). The atrioventricular node effective refractory period prolonged significantly the following day after ablation and at the follow-up versus the preablation (319.3 [55.3] ms and 351.0 [82.1] ms versus 248.3 [36.6] ms; P<0.001). Effective refractory period of the fast pathway prolonged significantly as compared with the preablation (from 408.0 [60.4] ms to 481.2 [132.9] ms; P=0.005). The prolongation of effective refractory period of the slow pathway was more significant than effective refractory period of the fast pathway at the follow-up (P<0.001). Two late recurrences occurred; one patient had atrial tachycardia. Conclusion. Children with atrioventricular nodal reentrant tachycardia can be effectively and safety cured by ablative therapy. The end-point during slow pathway ablation should be the abolition of tachycardia with preservation of dual atrioventricular nodal physiology.
Tension-free vaginal tape versus tension-free vaginal tape obturator (inside-outside) in the surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence
Authors: Aniulienė Rosita
Published: June 2018

The objective of this study was to compare TVT (tension-free vaginal tape) and TVT-O (tension-free vaginal tape obturator from inside to outside) procedures for the female surgical treatment of stress urinary incontinence: results, complications, and effectiveness after 1 year. Material and methods. A prospective randomized study was carried out. The patients were followed up for 12 months. A total of 114 patients were operated on using TVT procedure and 150 patients – TVT-O procedure. There was no significant difference in age, body mass index, parity, menopausal status, and prolapse (no patients had cystocele greater than stage II) comparing both groups. Results. The mean time in surgery was significantly shorter in the TVT-O group (19±5.6 min) as compared with the TVT group (27±7.1 min). No differences in the effectiveness of both procedures were found: TVT – 94.6% and TVT-O – 94.6% after one year, respectively. Hospital stay was significantly shorter in the TVT-O group (1.5±0.5 days) than in the TVT group (4.0±1.6 days). Significantly fewer complications were observed in the TVT-O group. Conclusion. TVT and TVT-O operations are equally effective for the surgical treatment of female stress urinary incontinence. TVT-O group had shorter time in surgery and showed a lower rate of complications.
Review on the effectiveness of prostate cancer brachytherapy
Authors: Inčiūra Arturas , Jaruševičus Laimonas , Vaičiūnas Kęstutis , Juozaitytė Elona
Published: June 2018

Ultrasound-guided transperineal prostate brachytherapy is now widely used modality in the treatment of prostate cancer. The overall prostate-specific antigen (PSA) progression-free survival at 10 years is 80–90% for low-risk patients. The results of long-term follow-up have showed better biochemical diseasefree survival after I-125 and Pd-103 brachytherapy than after conventional external-beam radiotherapy and similar survival after radical prostatectomy. The most commonly reported dosimetric quantifiers include D90 (the dose that covers 90% of the prostate volume outlined on postimplant computed tomography images) and V100 (the fractional volume of the prostate that receives 100% of prescription dose). The biochemical diseasefree survival correlates with the dose. In low-risk patients, achieving a D90 dose of 140–160 Gy might be adequate for prostate-specific antigen control. However, high-risk disease might require a D90 dose higher than 200 Gy. In the immediate posttreatment period, the most common complication is acute urinary retention. Urinary symptoms such as frequency, nocturia, and dysuria occur commonly and are documented in about 80% of patients complaining of symptoms 2–3 months after treatment. Late urinary complications of brachytherapy include urethral stricture and incontinence. Incontinence is rare and mainly occurs in patients who had transurethral resection of the prostate either prior or after brachytherapy. Rectal complications (proctitis, rectal bleeding) are rare after prostate brachytherapy. Brachytherapy like external-beam radiotherapy but 50–85%, and most patients’ sexual quality and function are preserved. Since July 2007, the real-time I-125 prostate brachytherapy has been started in Lithuania and Baltic countries at the Hospital of Kaunas University of Medicine. A total of 150 low-risk patients (≤T2a, Gleason ≤6, PSA ≤10) were treated by this method. Permanent prostate brachytherapy is an appropriate method for standard treatment of localized prostate cancer.