bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel Scalable Deep Learning Approaches for Big Data Analytics Applied to ECG Processing
Authors: Mennour Rostom , Batouche Mohamed
Published: July 2018

Big data analytics and deep learning are nowadays two of the most active research areas in computer science. As the data is becoming bigger and bigger, deep learning has a very important role to play in data analytics, and big data technologies will give it huge opportunities for different sectors. Deep learning brings new challenges especially when it comes to large amounts of data, the volume of datasets has to be processed and managed, also data in various applications come in a streaming way and deep learning approaches have to deal with this kind of applications. In this paper, the authors propose two novel approaches for discriminative deep learning, namely LS-DSN, and StreamDSN that are inspired from the deep stacking network algorithm. Two versions of the gradient descent algorithm were used to train the proposed algorithms. The experiment results have shown that the algorithms gave satisfying accuracy results and scale well when the size of data increases. In addition, StreamDSN algorithm have been applied to classify beats of ECG signals and provided good promising results.
An APPsolute Beginner's Guide for Action Research
Authors: Bauer Reinhard , Sankofi Martin , Szucsich Petra , Himpsl-Gutermann Klaus
Published: July 2018

Without any doubt, rapid digital technology advancement has a significant impact on the work of researchers in all scientific disciplines. Against this background, the major objective of this article is to give a brief overview of mobile device applications that enable continuous and seamless learning and work in all research phases. It is the intention of the authors to equip teacher-researchers with a practical user guide that encourages them to try out various applications for searching, collecting, annotating, analyzing, visualizing, interpreting as well as publishing information. Especially in the context of education, these complex processes may well be linked to Bloom's Digital Taxonomy, focusing on the actions and learning behavior of the 21st century. Owing to the dynamic nature of the issue under review, this contribution will undoubtedly only offer a snapshot.
Jus in Bello and the Acts of Terrorism
Authors: Islam Mohammad Saidul
Published: July 2018

Terrorism is a big threat to international peace and security. The rapid and substantial development of terrorist groups across the globe has highly complicated the application and implementation of the international humanitarian law. People have been facing this heinous violent act from time immemorial, but recently it has increased enormously. This study presents the legal and conceptual reasoning and justifications of the act of terrorism as an armed conflict. It also examines whether it is an international armed conflict or non-international armed conflict where the international humanitarian law can be applied.
Formal Specification of Adaptable Semantic Web Services Composition
Authors: Ben Lamine Rihab , Ben Jemaa Raoudha , Ben Amor Ikram Amous
Published: July 2018

This article proposes a formal specification method for Web services composition based on context-aware semantic planning graph technique. The authors first use a graph planning technique to conceive an adaptable semantic Web services composition. They use an ontology based context model for extending Web services descriptions with information about the most suitable context for its use. Then, the composition problem is transformed into a semantic context aware graph planning problem to build a set of best-composed Web services based on the user's context. Because of the error-prone nature of the Web services composition process, and with the integration of context information in this process, the complexity of Web services-based systems is increasing, hence the need for formal specification and verification approaches of such systems. The authors seek to use CCA calculus, to formalize Web services composition expressed in terms of adaptable OWL-S, and transform the description of workflow patterns into the description patterns in terms of CCA, a calculus for context-aware ambients.
Experimental Study on Surface Integrity, Dimensional Accuracy, and Micro-Hardness in Thin-Wall Machining of Aluminum Alloy
Authors: Bolar Gururaj , Joshi Shrikrishna N.
Published: July 2018

This article presents an experimental investigation into the influence of process parameters viz. feed per tooth, axial depth of cut on milling force, surface finish, wall deflection and micro-hardness during thin-wall machining of an aerospace grade aluminum alloy 2024-T351. Results revealed that the process parameters significantly influence the surface finish and dimensional accuracy of machined thin-walls. High feed rate promoted the formation of built-up-edge (BUE). Combination of high feed and axial depth of cut aided in catastrophic failure of tools. Surface damages such as material plucking, material shearing, material adhesion and deformed feed mark layer formation were observed. Axial depth of cut negatively influenced the wall deflection leading to loss of dimensional accuracy. Interestingly, the micro-hardness at the machined surface was found to be lower than that of the bulk material hardness. These results will be useful in selection of suitable process parameters for quality and precise machining of thin-wall parts.
The Influence of Recruitment Websites on Job-Seeker Perceptions of Organization and Job Fit
Authors: Eveleth Daniel , Stone Robert , Baker-Eveleth Lori
Published: July 2018

This article describes how the uses of websites to recruit and communicate with job-seekers is a well-established practice that has been increasing in frequency. How the website functions can influence job-seekers' perceptions of how well they will fit into the organization as well as match the requirements of a specific open position. The primary research question in this article is how job-seekers' fit perceptions obtained from using the recruitment website, influence their website satisfaction and intentions with respect to the organization. To explore this question and others, a theoretical model with corresponding hypotheses was developed. The empirical analysis of the theoretical model used 199 questionnaire responses and structural equation modeling. The findings offer support for the view that the website's content, job-seeker knowledge of the organization, and the job-seeker's social network influence positively perceptions of fit to the organization and the job in meaningful ways.
Tensile and Impact Properties of Recycled Poly(Ethylene Terephthalate) and Polycarbonate Composites Reinforced with Silane Treated Hollow Glass Microspheres
Authors: Hongsriphan Nattakarn , Patanathabutr Pajaera , Lappokachai Kanyakarn
Published: July 2018

Recycled poly (ethylene terephthalate) or R-PET is conventionally melt blended with polycarbonate with the presence of chain extender in order to produce polymer blend that provides good mechanical properties and cost effectiveness. This research was carried out to improve properties of such a blend by compounding them with silane treated hollow glass microspheres (HGMs), which mixing procedure was emphasized how it could affect mechanical properties. R-PET/PC/HGM composites of a fixed composition were melt compounded with three different mixing procedures. It was found that the compounding HGMs with PC and then R-PET obtained the most rigidity specimens than the all-in-one compounding or the compounding HGMs with R-PET and then PC. Silane treated HGMs were well distributed in the polymer matrix presenting good interfacial adhesion. However, the notched impact strength of all composites were inspected to be in the same range.
Vibration-Damping Factor of Glass/Kenaf/Polyester Hybrid Composite
Authors: Diharjo Kuncoro , Susilo Didik Djoko , Sudargo Petrus Heru , Kaleg Sunarto
Published: July 2018

The study of vibration-damping factor on unsaturated polyester resin reinforced glass and kenaf fiber has been performed. Two variations of glass and kenaf fibers were made based on fiber volume fraction (Vf) and ratio of glass to kenaf fiber at Vf of 25 %. The measurement of the samples was to obtain the value of the vibration-damping factor and the elastic modulus. The result shows that the vibration-damping factor decreases proportionally to the addition of fiber. Increased stiffness is evidenced by an increase in elastic modulus along with an increase in fiber content. According ratio of glass to kenaf fiber, the vibration-damping factor decreases proportionally with the increasing of glass fiber content. Increased kenaf fiber content causes an increase in vibration-damping factor, a decrease in elastic modulus, and lead to decreased in stiffness of the hybrid composite.
Shaving Is an Epiphenomenon of Type I and II Anti-CD20–Mediated Phagocytosis, whereas Antigenic Modulation Limits Type I Monoclonal Antibody Efficacy
Authors: Dahal Lekh N. , Huang Chie-Yin , Stopforth Richard J. , Mead Abbie , Chan Keith , Bowater Juliet X. , Taylor Martin C. , Narang Priyanka , Chan H. T. Claude , Kim Jinny H. , Vaughan Andrew T. , Forconi Francesco , Beers Stephen A.
Published: July 2018

Rituximab is an anti-CD20 mAb used in the treatment of B cell malignancies. Loss of surface CD20 Ag from the surface of target cells is thought to be one mechanism governing resistance to rituximab, but how this occurs is not completely understood. Two explanations for this have been proposed: antigenic modulation whereby mAb:CD20 complexes are internalized in a B cell intrinsic process and shaving, in which mAb:CD20 complexes undergo trogocytic removal by effector cells, such as macrophages. However, there is conflicting evidence as to which predominates in clinical scenarios and hence the best strategies to overcome resistance. In this study, we investigated the relative importance of modulation and shaving in the downregulation of surface mAb:CD20. We used both murine and human systems and treated ex vivo macrophages with varying concentrations of non–FcγR-interacting beads to achieve differential macrophage saturation states, hence controllably suppressing further phagocytosis of target cells. We then monitored the level and localization of mAb:CD20 using a quenching assay. Suppression of phagocytosis with bead treatment decreased shaving and increased modulation, suggesting that the two compete for surface rituximab:CD20. Under all conditions tested, modulation predominated in rituximab loss, whereas shaving represented an epiphenomenon to phagocytosis. We also demonstrate that the nonmodulating, glycoengineered, type II mAb obinutuzumab caused a modest but significant increase in shaving compared with type II BHH2 human IgG1 wild-type mAb. Therefore, shaving may represent an important mechanism of resistance when modulation is curtailed, and glycoengineering mAb to increase affinity for FcγR may enhance resistance because of shaving.
Cases of thallium intoxication in Syria: A diagnostic and a therapeutic challenge
Authors: Almassri Ibrahim , Sekkarie Mohamed
Published: July 2018

In mid-March 2015, a mother and her teenage daughter and son from Syria presented to a Syrian American Medical Society (SAMS) refugee clinic in the Beqaa Valley in Lebanon with the chief complaints of hair loss together with weakness and numbness of their lower extremities. They reported that on March 1, a military foe of their relative had given him several boxes of Middle Eastern cookies which were consumed by over 20 members of their families and neighbors. Soon after the consumption, most members of the households developed symptoms including abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting, and constipation. Later, many of the affected individuals, including the three who presented to the clinic, had pain and weakness in the extremities, skin lesions, and hair loss. Two subjects died inside Syria of kidney failure. In this report, we describe the diagnostic challenges faced until the arrival to the diagnosis of thallium intoxication and the therapeutic obstacles to getting adequate therapy. We also report the results of a survey sent to all subjects in the affected households and discuss the context of lawlessness that led to this intoxication and perhaps other cases.
Knowledge, attitude, and practices associated with the diagnosis and management of skin and soft-tissue infections among medical students, residents, and attending physicians
Authors: Beatty Norman , August Jessica Anthony , Saenz Joe , Nix David E , Matthias Kathryn R , Mohajer Mayar Al
Published: July 2018

Skin and soft-tissue infections (SSTIs) are commonly encountered by medical students, residents, and trainees. The Infectious Diseases Society of America (IDSA) has updated its recommendations regarding SSTI diagnosis and management in June 2014. We assessed knowledge, attitude, and practices toward diagnosis and management of SSTIs using an online survey. We disseminated the survey to medical students, residents, and attending physicians practicing in family and internal medicine department at a university-based hospital. A total of 103 surveys were completed out of 121 sent (85.1%) between July 2015 and March 2016. There were nine medical questions in the survey. The mean of correct answers was 4.5/9 ± 2.0. Medical knowledge correlated with the level of education (P < 0.001) but not with subspecialty (P = 0.97). Around 35% were familiar with the updated IDSA guidelines pertaining to SSTIs. The majority (85%) responded that the hospital staff would benefit from additional training and 75% agreed that more antibiotic stewardship education is needed. Our study shows that there are significant opportunities for development among students and physicians who encounter SSTIs.
Delayed bilateral obturator nerve injury due to compressing bilateral pelvic lymphoceles after robot-assisted laparoscopic radical prostatectomy and bilateral lymphadenectomy for prostatic carcinoma
Authors: Aljomaa Ayman
Published: July 2018

A clinically significant obturator nerve injury is uncommon after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and lymphadenectomy. If the injury is due to a direct intraoperative event such as transection or stretching of the nerve, the patients present typically in the immediate postoperative period. On the other hand, an indirect injury through compression of the nerve through a pelvic fluid collection (hematoma or lymphocele) progresses insidiously and delays the presentation of these patients making a dilemma in recognizing these patients and differentiating them from those with other causes of neurological deficits. A delay in the correct management of the compressing collections may negatively affect the neurological function of the patient. We demonstrate a 61-year-old male who presented with pain and motor weakness of obturator origin 1 week after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and lymphadenectomy for prostatic cancer. The computed tomography scan showed bilateral pelvic lymphoceles possibly compressing the obturator nerves. The neurological function has improved after evacuation of these collections. This case emphasizes the importance of considering delayed postsurgical compression of the obturator nerve in our differential diagnosis when patients present with typical signs and symptoms of obturator nerve injury after robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and lymphadenectomy. Early diagnosis and evacuation of these collections would improve the neurological outcome.
Prophylactic mastectomy for the prevention of breast cancer: Review of the literature
Authors: Alaofi Rawan K. , Nassif Mohammed O. , Al-Hajeili Marwan R.
Published: July 2018

The high incidence and recurrence rate of breast cancer has influenced multiple strategies such as early detection with imaging, chemoprevention and surgical interventions that serve as preventive measures for women at high risk. Prophylactic mastectomy is one of the growing strategies of breast cancer risk reduction that is of a special importance for breast cancer gene mutation carriers. Women with personal history of cancerous breast lesions may consider ipsilateral or contralateral mastectomy as well. Existing data showed that mastectomy effectively reduces breast cancer risk. However, careful risk estimation is necessary to wisely select individuals who will benefit from preventing breast cancer.
Rezensionen
Authors: Hohler Peter
Published: July 2018

Rezension zu:
Halbeisen, Hungerbühler, Läuchli:
Mit harmonischen Verhältnissen zu Kegelschnitten – Perlen der klassischen Geometrie
, 215 Seiten mit 270 Abbildungen, davon 143 in Farbe, Softcover, CHF 21.00, Springer 2016, ISBN 978-3-662-53033-7.
Strong downdrafts preceding rapid tropopause ascent and their potential to identify cross-tropopause stratospheric intrusions
Authors: Chen Feilong , Chen Gang , Shi Chunhua , Tian Yufang , Zhang Shaodong , Huang Kaiming
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The capability of measuring 3-dimensional wind and tropopause structure with relatively high time and vertical resolution makes VHF radar a potentially significant tool for studying various processes of the atmosphere. Here the potential detection of possible stratospheric intrusion events is discussed using the Beijing MST radar located at Xianghe (39.75° N, 116.96° E). During the passage of a cut-off low in late November 2014, a deep V-shaped tropopause structure, and strong downdrafts (> 0.8 m/s) immediately preceding the rapid tropopause ascent (> 0.2 km/h) were observed. Within the height region of the downdrafts, the normal radar-tropopause layer seems to be destroyed (weakened) with the decreased echo intensity. Analysis results from global reanalysis and the satellite data, as well as the trajectory model have shown the clear evidence of the downward stratospheric intrusions (dry ozone-rich and depleted methane air) associated with the strong downdrafts. According to the previous studies and the present case observation, the strong downdrafts preceding rapid tropopause ascent are considered as a significant signature of stratospheric intrusions. Twenty typical cases of such strong downdrafts, occurring during various synoptic processes in different seasons, have been presented and 16 of them are exactly associated with some form of stratospheric intrusions. Four years (2012–2015) of such downdrafts are further discussed. The observations reveal that the strong downdrafts preceding the rapid tropopause ascent can be a valuable diagnostic for monitoring intrusion events, which will gain a better understanding of stratospheric intrusions in VHF radar observations.
The strategies of water–carbon regulation of plants in a subtropical primary forest on karst soils in China
Authors: Wang Jing , Wen Xuefa , Zhang Xinyu , Li Shenggong
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Coexisting plant species in a karst ecosystem may use diverse strategies of
trade off between carbon gain and water loss to adopt to the low soil
nutrient and low water availability conditions. An understanding of the impact of
CO2 diffusion and maximum carboxylase activity of Rubisco
(Vcmax) on the light-saturated net photosynthesis (A) and
intrinsic water use efficiency (iWUE) can provide insight into physiological
strategies of the water–carbon regulation of coexisting plant species used in
adaptation to karst environments at the leaf scale. We selected 63 dominant
species (across 6 life forms) in a subtropical karst primary forest in
southwestern China, measured their CO2 response curves, and calculated
the corresponding stomatal conductance to CO2 (gs), mesophyll
conductance to CO2 (gm), and Vcmax. The results showed that
gs and gm varied about 7.6- and 34.5-fold, respectively,
and that gs was positively related to gm. The contribution of gm
to the leaf CO2 gradient was similar to that of gs. gs ∕ A,
gm ∕ A and gt ∕ A was negatively related to Vcmax ∕ A. The
relative limitations of gs (ls), gm (lm), and Vcmax
(lb) to A for the whole group (combined six life forms) were
significantly different from each other (P < 0.05). lm was the
largest (0.38 ± 0.12), followed by lb (0.34 ± 0.14), and
ls (0.28 ± 0.07). No significant difference was found between ls, lm, and lb for trees
and tree/shrubs, while lm was the largest, followed by lb and ls for shrubs, grasses, vines and ferns
(P < 0.05). iWUE varied about 3-fold (from 29.52 to 88.92 µmol CO2 mol−1 H2O) across all species, and was significantly
correlated with gs, Vcmax, gm ∕ gs, and Vcmax ∕ gs.
These results indicated that karst plants maintained relatively high A and
low iWUE through the covariation of gs, gm, and Vcmax
as an adaptation to a karst environment.
Dynamics of sediment flux to a bathyal continental margin section through the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum
Authors: Dunkley Jones Tom , Manners Hayley R. , Hoggett Murray , Kirtland Turner Sandra , Westerhold Thomas , Leng Melanie J. , Pancost Richard D. , Ridgwell Andy , Alegret Laia , Duller Rob , Grimes Stephen T.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The response of the Earth system to greenhouse-gas-driven warming is of
critical importance for the future trajectory of our planetary environment.
Hyperthermal events – past climate transients with global-scale warming
significantly above background climate variability – can provide insights
into the nature and magnitude of these responses. The largest hyperthermal of
the Cenozoic was the Paleocene–Eocene Thermal Maximum (PETM ∼ 56 Ma).
Here we present new high-resolution bulk sediment stable isotope and major
element data for the classic PETM section at Zumaia, Spain. With these data we
provide a new detailed stratigraphic correlation to other key deep-ocean and
terrestrial PETM reference sections. With this new correlation and age model
we are able to demonstrate that detrital sediment accumulation rates within
the Zumaia continental margin section increased more than 4-fold during
the PETM, representing a radical change in regional hydrology that drove
dramatic increases in terrestrial-to-marine sediment flux. Most remarkable is
that detrital accumulation rates remain high throughout the body of the PETM,
and even reach peak values during the recovery phase of the characteristic
PETM carbon isotope excursion (CIE). Using a series of Earth system model
inversions, driven by the new Zumaia carbon isotope record, we demonstrate
that the silicate weathering feedback alone is insufficient to recover the
PETM CIE, and that active organic carbon burial is required to match the
observed dynamics of the CIE. Further, we demonstrate that the period of maximum organic
carbon sequestration coincides with the peak in detrital accumulation rates
observed at Zumaia. Based on these results, we hypothesise that orbital-scale
variations in subtropical hydro-climates, and their subsequent impact on
sediment dynamics, may contribute to the rapid climate and CIE recovery from
peak-PETM conditions.
Turbulent mixing and heat fluxes under lake ice: the role of seiche oscillations
Authors: Kirillin Georgiy , Aslamov Ilya , Leppäranta Matti , Lindgren Elisa
Published: July 2018

Abstract. We performed a field study on mixing and vertical heat transport under ice cover of an Arctic lake. Mixing intensities were estimated from small-scale oscillations of water temperature and turbulent kinetic energy dissipation rates derived from current velocity fluctuations. Well-developed turbulent conditions prevailed in the stably stratified interfacial layer separating the ice base from the warmer deep waters. The source of turbulent mixing was identified as whole-lake (barotropic) oscillations of the water body driven by strong wind events over the ice surface. We derive a scaling of ice-water heat flux based on dissipative Kolmogorov scales and successfully tested against measured dissipation rates and under-ice temperature gradients. The results discard the conventional assumption of nearly conductive heat transport within the stratified under-ice layer and suggest contribution of the basal heat flux into the melt of ice cover is higher than commonly assumed. Decline of the seasonal ice cover in the Arctic is currently gaining recognition as a major indicator of climate change. The heat transfer at the ice-water interface remains the least studied among the mechanisms governing the growth and melting of seasonal ice. The outcomes of the study find application in heat budget of seasonal ice on inland and coastal waters.
ADDING 3D GIS VISUALIZATION AND NAVIGATION TO THE SPARQL QUERY LOOP
Authors: Beek W. , Folmer E. , Rietveld L. , Baving T. , van Altena V.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. 3D environments allow advanced spatial navigation and visualization, but have traditionally provided limited support for performing non-spatial data analysis operations like filtering, joining, and integrating data on-the-fly. Linked Open Data provides advanced support for performing filters and joins over datasets that can be dynamically combined through SPARQL federation. Unfortunately, Linked Data results often lack intuitive visualization capabilities, making it relatively difficult to interpret the data for a data analyst. In this paper we present our integration of 3D visualization into the read-evaluate-print-loop of SPARQL query execution. We show how the inclusion of 3D visualization has concrete benefits for the SPARQL query writing process, and how our integrated solution is used to answer specific use cases that could not be answered before.
GEOCONTEXT AND CHCONTEXT GEOGRAPHIC INFORMATION IN CULTURAL HERITAGE
Authors: Marsicano L. , Montanari M.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Internet presence and applications are central for modern museums and cultural institutions. Even more it is important to facilitate and standardize the user experience in order to create a standard quality level and, for the institutions, it is important to simplify configuration operations bound to the creation of the visualized elements and the explorations of the spaces. This demo covers both the technologies underneath the GeoContext tool and the CHContext visualization generator as well as the possible targets and applications. The final elements will cover possible enhancements already in the works.
MAPPING SPATIOTEMPORAL DISTRIBUTION OF MANGROVES IN MAFIA ISLAND IN TANZANIA USING LANDSAT IMAGERY
Authors: Mayunga J. S. , Uhinga G. A.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Mangroves are important for survival of coastal communities as they provide ecosystem services that support coastal population and their livelihoods. Most coastal communities largely depend on ecosystem services provided by mangroves such as fuel wood, building poles, charcoal, and also mangroves provide spawning ground for coastal fishes. Most importantly mangroves act as a buffer that protects coastal communities from natural hazards such as tropical storms, strong winds, beach erosion, and even tsunami. Despite the important role that mangroves play, yet mangroves are under serious threat to extinction worldwide. Many mangrove-rich developing countries, including Tanzania, are facing challenges in establishing effective management plans to protect increasingly threatened mangrove ecosystems. Most of these challenges are associated with inadequate or nonexistent of up-to-date and accurate geospatial information. Knowledge on extent and spatial distribution of mangroves is critical in planning and effective management of mangroves. The aim of this study was to assess the spatial and temporal distribution of mangroves in Mafia Island using remotely sensed data for three decades (1985–2013). Results revealed a decrease of mangroves from 3,708.36 ha in 1985 to 3,187.25 ha in 2013. From the spatiotemporal dimension point of view, the results show that overall mangroves in Mafia Island have been gradually decreasing over time. This trend suggests a decline rate of about 14 % for the period of 28 years, which is an average rate of 0.5 % per year. This rate of mangrove loss should not be underestimated; effective protection measures and sustainable utilization of mangrove resources are needed.
AN OPEN SOURCE APPROACH FOR THE INTRINSIC ASSESSMENT OF THE TEMPORAL ACCURACY, UP-TO-DATENESS AND LINEAGE OF OPENSTREETMAP
Authors: Minghini M. , Brovelli M. A. , Frassinelli F.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. OpenStreetMap (OSM) is the most popular crowdsourced geographic information project. The main factor that still limits the practical use of OSM is the lack of quality assurance. OSM quality assessment is thus a well-studied topic in literature, with most of the studies evaluating the quality by comparison against reference datasets. In contrast to these extrinsic approaches, OSM intrinsic assessment evaluates the quality by only analysing OSM itself. This study contributes to OSM intrinsic assessment by introducing an open source procedure to evaluate the temporal accuracy, up-to-dateness and lineage of OSM. Two workflows are presented: the first allows accessing the historical evolution of single OSM objects through an interactive web application, while the second aggregates and stores results on a user-defined grid to enable further GIS processing. The methodology is applied on the OSM nodes in the city of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, by computing the following measures on the cells of an hexagonal grid: total number of nodes, average date of creation and last edit of nodes, average update frequency of nodes, average number of versions of nodes, average and total number of different contributors on nodes. Results highlight the mapping dynamics driven by the Dar Ramani Huria project, focused on increasing flood preparedness and resilience. When moving from the peripheral areas to the city centre, OSM is characterized by a progressively higher density of nodes, created earlier in time and updated by a higher number of contributors, which are all indexes of a general higher data quality.
CAPACITY BUILDING FOR HIGH-RESOLUTION LAND COVER INTERCOMPARISON AND VALIDATION: WHAT IS AVAILABLE AND WHAT IS NEEDED
Authors: Brovelli M. A. , Minghini M. , Molinari M. E. , Wu H. , Zheng X. , Chen J.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Land Cover (LC) maps are fundamental products for a wide variety of applications. The workflow for their production is composed of classification of satellite imagery and validation against a reference dataset. Different LC maps as well as multiple versions in time of the same LC map can be also compared with one another to assess LC changes. Since the current richness of both space and in-situ observations makes it quite easy to produce LC maps, it is fundamental to assess their accuracy before using them for real applications. This paper focuses on education and capacity building on the intercomparison and validation of global (i.e. covering the whole world) and high-resolution (i.e. with a spatial resolution of at least 30 m) LC maps. The availability of Free and Open Source for Geospatial (FOSS4G) technology capable to process LC maps, as well as the existence of ad hoc educational material, is carefully assessed. In parallel, an ad hoc survey has showed that users, especially in developing countries, often lack awareness about the need to validate them and are not aware about the existence of training material. With this premise, a new project presented in the paper aims to produce new, openly licensed and FOSS4G-based training material on the intercomparison and validation of global high-resolution LC maps.
LINKDALE: A LIGHTWEIGHT LEARNING ENVIRONMENT FOR (GEOSPATIAL) LINKED DATA
Authors: Ronzhin S. , Bosch G. , Folmer E. , Lemmens R.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Modern software tools for managing Linked Data are often designed for skilled users. Therefore, they cannot be used for education purposes because they require substantial a priori knowledge about the Resource Description Framework and the SPARQL query language. LinkDaLe is a single page application designed to teach students the concept of Linked Data and work with linked data at the same time. In the paper we showcase the interface and functionality of LinkDaLe by triplifying data on Geo4All member organizations. The application was built and evaluated within The Business Process Integration Lab, a master programme course in 2016 and 2017 years. Positive feedback from both students and teachers proved the relevance of the proposed design consideration. LinkDaLe showed usability working with domain specific data e.g. geospatial and logistic data.
COASTAL MAPPING AND KITESURFING
Authors: Barde J. , Bonhommeau S. , Chassot E. , Motah B.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. Collecting data on aquatic biodiversity is very challenging because of the difficulty to access underwater ecosystems. Over the years, field surveys have become easier and cheaper with the development of low cost electronics. Commercial and recreational vessels, including sailboats, can now substantially complement expensive scientific surveys and arrays of observation buoys deployed across the world oceans (Pesant et al., 2015, Karsenti et al., 2011). Meanwhile, a large variety of marine animals such as birds, mammals, and fish have become data collection platforms for both biological and environmental parameters through the advent of archival tags. It becomes obvious that data collection in coastal and high seas will become more popular and that citizen will play a growing role in acquiring information on ocean dynamics (physical, chemical and biological parameters). However, currently, very few attempts have been made to use Human beings as observation platforms. In this paper we describe large datasets (more than 200,000 pictures) that have been recently collected along the coast of Mauritius by using popular and cheap platforms such as kite surf and Stand Up Paddle. We describe the characteristics of the data collected and showcase how they can be geolocated and used to complement remote sensing and mapping in order to drastically extend the current scope of “old school” fieldwork. We point out some of the main limitations encountered which need to be addressed to foster this citizen science approach such as data storage and transmission, deep learning to automate image recognition. The methods are all based on open source softwares.
TOWARDS UNDERSTANDING THE IMPACT OF MAPATHONS – REFLECTING ON YOUTHMAPPERS EXPERIENCES
Authors: Coetzee S. , Minghini M. , Solis P. , Rautenbach V. , Green C.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. YouthMappers is a global network of student chapters actively engaged in collaborative mapping efforts, such as OpenStreetMap mapathons. Many questions have been raised about the impact of mapathons on open map data and on the participating mappers. For example, how can the social gathering and event format encourage productivity and quality, while also contributing to community building? Because YouthMappers chapters regularly host mapathons, there are frequent opportunities to investigate the impact of mapathons. In this paper, three universities involved in the YouthMappers network, located in Europe, North America and Africa, describe how mapathons are conducted at their respective universities. Incorporating mapathons into the curriculum encourages students to contribute much-needed open geospatial data for humanitarian projects. At the same time, students get practical experience in data capturing with open source tools and awareness is raised of humanitarian challenges in other parts of the world, thus nurturing socially engaged citizens for the future. The experiences at the three universities are diverse and richly contextual to the specific character of the campus and its students. These differences underscore the challenge of a common means to formally assess the impact of such events in general. Based on this exploratory research, three themes for assessing the impact of mapathons are proposed: the volume and quality of open geographic data produced during mapathons; the social and personal growth of the students attending the mapathons; and the changes in university programs and curricula introduced as a result of the mapathons.
LINKED DATA VIEWING AS PART OF THE SPATIAL DATA PLATFORM OF THE FUTURE
Authors: Folmer E. , Beek W. , Rietveld L.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The Land Registry and Mapping Agency of the Netherlands (‘Kadaster’ in Dutch) is developing an online publication platform for sharing its geospatial data assets called KDP (`Kadaster Data Platform’ in Dutch). One of the main goals of this platform is to better share geospatial data with the wider, web-oriented world, including its developers, approaches, and standards. Linked Open Data (W3C), GeoSPARQL (OGC), and Open APIs (OpenAPI Specification) are the predominant standardized approaches for this purpose. As a result, the most important spatial datasets of the Netherlands – including several key registries – are now being published as Linked Open Data that can be accessed through a SPARQL endpoint and a collection of REST APIs. In addition to providing raw access to the data, Kadaster Data Platform also offers developers functionalities that allow them to gain a better understanding about the contents of its datasets. These functionalities include various ways for viewing Linked Data . This paper focuses on two of the main components the Kadaster Data Platform is using for this purpose: FacetCheck and Data Stories.
ORTHORECTIFICATION OF A LARGE DATASET OF HISTORICAL AERIAL IMAGES: PROCEDURE AND PRECISION ASSESSMENT IN AN OPEN SOURCE ENVIRONMENT
Authors: Gobbi S. , Maimeri G. , Tattoni C. , Cantiani M. G. , Rocchini D. , La Porta N. , Ciolli M. , Zatelli P.
Published: July 2018

Abstract. The availability of data time series spanning a long period is crucial for landscape change analysis. A suitable dataset, both in terms of time span and information content, must be available for the use with a GIS.In Italy, one of the most important historical source of land cover analysis is the GAI (Gruppo Aereo Italiano) photogrammetric survey (“Volo GAI”) commissioned in 1954 by the Italian national mapping agency, Istituto Geografico Militare Italiano (IGMI).The survey covers the whole Italy, but so far only some Regions, namely Lombardia and Veneto, have carried out the image rectification and the successive analyses to map land cover and use.This work describes the process of image orthorectification of the Volo GAI images for the Province of Trento (Provincia Autonoma di Trento).Image orthorectification must be performed to transform the images in maps available for analysis. This procedure corrects the geometry according to the terrain surface described by a Digital Terrain Model (DTM) to create an image compatible with the cartographic projection in use.To this end, the orthorectification modules available in GRASS GIS have been used, with the advantage of using the same GIS environment which will be used for the landscape analysis. The dataset covering the whole Province contains almost 100 images, this paper presents the preliminary results of the orthorectification of a quarter of the images. A reduced dataset has been used to test the results obtained using different settings with respect to: digital image resolution, DTM resolution and number of Ground Control Points (GCPs) used for the external orientation.These preliminary tests show that for the average quality of the Volo GAI images scan resolution beyond 600 DPI and DTM resolution above 10 m do not provide significant improvements for orthorectification images. The minimum number of GCPs to guarantee the requested accuracy can vary from image to image, depending on the image quality and recognizable features position, but it is usually in the 15–20 points range.
Tell el-Murra (Northeastern Nile Delta Survey): preliminary excavation report for the 2014 and 2015 seasons
Authors: Jucha Mariusz A. , Bąk-Pryc Grzegorz , Małecka-Drozd Natalia , Kazimierczak Magdalena
Published: July 2018

The paper deals with the results of excavation in 2014 and 2015 at the Tell el-Murra site in the northeastern part of the Nile Delta. The investigations covered a settlement mostly from the Old Kingdom period found in trench T5; more specifically, the investigated features seem primarily connected with food production. Settlement remains from the Naqada III–possibly Early Dynastic and Protodynastic(?) periods were also explored in trench S3B. Continued research on the Early Dynastic cemetery in trench S3 yielded 16 more graves, including simple pit burials and chamber graves. In several cases bodies had been placed in pottery coffins. The presence of several mud-brick walls, possibly associated with older settlement structures, was also confirmed within the lattermost trench. Altogether the research provided new data on the settlement architecture, site development processes and burial customs invoked in the beginnings of the Egyptian state.
A circular pool in the main courtyard (1) of the „Hellenistic” House in Nea Paphos: preliminary remarks
Authors: Romaniuk Marcin M.
Published: July 2018

Excavations in the main courtyard of the “Hellenistic” House in Nea Paphos in 2016, Polish excavations, revealed a small circular pool with immured tops of Dressel 6A amphorae in the wall surrounding it and a circular imprint in the middle of the floor. The paper undertakes a discussion of possible form and function, putting forward a tentative interpretation based on a study of parallels that we are dealing with an ornamental pool, a popular furnishing of wealthy Roman house gardens, functioning perhaps as a fishpond (piscina) or a tank with water constantly running in and out, with a labrum or columnar pedestal standing in the middle.
Mammals in the economy of ancient Porphyreon (Lebanon)
Authors: Piątkowska-Małecka Joanna
Published: July 2018

An archaeozoological analysis of mammal remains recovered from the dwelling units and streets of ancient Porphyreon excavated in 2009, 2010 and 2012, gives insight into the importance of mammals for the residents of this quarter in succeeding periods: from the Iron Age through the Persian and Hellenistic periods to Byzantine times. Husbandry lay at the base of the animal economy and was supplemented with hunting various species of gazelle. Cattle, sheep and goat were the most numerous livestock species represented in the archaeological record. The high percentage of cattle observed in Iron Age deposits could have resulted from the agricultural lifestyle of the population. Starting from the Persian period, sheep and goat played the most prominent role in the animal economy, implying a pastoral model of husbandry. Raising goats for meat was more significant initially; from the Hellenistic period onwards, the number of sheep reared for milk and wool increased. Pigs constituted a minor percentage of the livestock. The presence of equid remains, including horse and donkey, was confirmed for the Persian period, when these animals were used for transportation.
Failaka Archaeological Research Project. Preliminary results after the second and third season of excavation at Kharaib el-Desht in 2015–2016
Authors: Pieńkowska Agnieszka
Published: July 2018

Excavation at the site of Kharaib el-Desht on Failaka Island, Kuwait, began in 2013 and continued in 2015 and 2016. The second season focused on the northwestern part of the site, namely Areas 1 and 4. In the third season, work also encompassed the southeastern part of the site, Area 3, where the exploration of a stone structure was resumed. A fragment of a residential complex was also unearthed in this area. Test trenches, opened inside the stone structure and below the foundation level of the residential remains, confirmed the existence of an earlier phase, predating the Desht settlement.
Guidelines for Gait Assessments in the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA)
Authors: Cullen Stephanie , Montero-Odasso Manuel , Bherer Louis , Almeida Quincy , Fraser Sarah , Muir-Hunter Susan , Li Karen , Liu-Ambrose Teresa , McGibbon Chris A. , McIlroy William , Middleton Laura , Sarquis-Adamson Yanina , Beauchet Olivier , McFadyen Bradford J. , Morais José A. , Camicioli Richard , Cognition Network The Canadian Gait and
Published: July 2018

BackgroundMotor and cognitive impairments are common among older adults and often co-exist, increasing their risk of dementia, falls, and fractures. Gait performance is an accepted indicator of global health and it has been proposed as a valid motor marker to detect older adults at risk of developing mobility and cognitive declines including future falls and incident dementia. Our goal was to provide a gait assessment protocol to be used for clinical and research purposes.MethodsBased on a consensus that identified common evaluations to assess motor–cognitive interactions in community-dwelling older individuals, a protocol on how to evaluate gait in older adults for the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA) was developed.ResultsThe CCNA gait assessment includes preferred and fast pace gait, and dual-task gait that comprises walking while performing three cognitively demanding tasks: counting backwards by ones, countingbackwards by sevens, and naming animals. This gait protocol can be implemented using an electronic-walkway, as well as by using a regular stopwatch. The latter approach provides a simple manner to evaluate quantitative gait performance in clinics.ConclusionsEstablishing a standardized gait assessment protocol will help to assess motor–cognitive interactions in aging and neurodegeneration, to compare results across studies, and to feasibly implement and translate gait testing in clinics for detecting impending cognitive and mobility decline.
EU-CIRCLE methodological approach for assessing the resilience of the interconnected critical infrastructures of the virtual city scenario to climate change
Authors: Katopodis Theodoros , Sfetsos Athanasios , Varela Vasiliki , Karozis Stelios , Karavokyros Georgios , Eftychidis Georgios , Gkotsis Ilias , Leventakis Georgios , Hedel Ralf , Koutiva Ifigenia , Makropoulos Christos
Published: July 2018

This paper introduces a methodological approach for identifying the resilience of interconnected EU critical infrastructures to climate change. The proposed approach tries to establish a consequence-based modelling framework for assessing climate-dependent causal relationships between CI operation and response to climate impacts with an aim to minimise disruptions to service flows under diverse conditions. The proposed study provides a description of the virtual city’s forest fire and smoke reference scenario with their optional damages to the electricity transmission and distribution network.