bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimized Video Tracking for Automated Vehicle Turning Movement Counts
Authors: Bélisle François , Saunier Nicolas , Bilodeau Guillaume-Alexandre , le Digabel Sebastien
Published: December 2017

This paper proposes a new method for automatically counting vehicle turning movements based on video tracking, expanding on previous work on optimization of parameters for road user trajectory extraction and on automated trajectory clustering. The counting method is composed of three main steps: an automated tracker that extracts vehicle trajectories from video data, an automated trajectory clustering algorithm, and an optimization algorithm. The proposed method was applied to obtain turning movement counts in three typical traffic engineering case studies in Canada representing industry-type conditions. These exhibited varying levels of tracking difficulty, ranging from a single-lane off-ramp to a six-movement intersection with a stop and a right-turn channel. Because of a limitation of the data set, giving flows per movement and not per lane, all sites were chosen with a single lane per movement. The 3-h morning peak period was used in the case studies. The results show an average weighted generalization error of 12% for more than 3,700 vehicles automatically analyzed for more than 8 h of video, ranging from 9.5% to 19.5%. The generalization error is on average 8.6% (and as low as 6.0% per movement) for the 3,084 uninterrupted vehicles that are in plain view of the camera. This paper describes in detail the methodology used and discusses the factors that affect counting performance and how to improve counting accuracy in further research.
Vehicle Trajectory Analysis System via Mutual Information and Sparse Reconstruction
Authors: Zhang Yishi , Chen Zhijun , Wu Chaozhong , Jiang Junfeng , Ran Bin
Published: December 2017

In past years, the task of automatic vehicle trajectory analysis in video surveillance systems has gained increasing attention in the research community. Vehicle trajectory analysis can identify normal and abnormal vehicle motion patterns and is useful for traffic management. Although some analysis methods of vehicle trajectory have been developed, the application of these methods is still limited in practice. In this study, a novel adaptive vehicle trajectory classification method via sparse reconstruction and mutual information analysis based on video surveillance systems was proposed. The l0-norm minimization of sparse reconstruction in the method was relaxed to the lp-norm minimization (0 < p < 1). In addition, to consider the nonlinear correlation between the test trajectory and the dictionary, mutual information between the test trajectory and the reconstructed one was taken into account. A hybrid orthogonal matching pursuit–Newton method (HON) was developed to effectively find the sparse solutions for trajectory classification. Two real-world data sets (including the stop sign data set and straight data set) were used in the experiments to validate the performance and effectiveness of the proposed method. Experimental results show that the trajectory classification accuracy is significantly improved by the proposed method compared with most well-known classifiers, namely, NB, k–nearest neighbor, support vector machine, and typical extant sparse reconstruction methods.
Awake perimetry testing for occipital epilepsy surgery
Authors: Joswig Holger , Girvin John P. , Blume Warren T. , Burneo Jorge G. , Steven David A.
Published: December 2017

In the literature, there are few reports that provide a detailed account on the technique of visual electrocortical stimulation in the setting of resective surgery for occipital epilepsy. In this technical note, the authors describe how a 26-year-old male with long-standing occipital epilepsy underwent resective surgery under awake conditions, using electrocortical stimulation of the occipital lobe, with the aid of a laser pointer and a perimetry chart on a stand within his visual field. The eloquent primary visual cortex was found to overlap with the seizure onset zone that was previously determined with subdural electrodes. A maximum functionally safe resection was performed, rendering the patient seizure free as of his last follow-up at 20 months, with no visual field impairment.
Modeling Prion-Like Processing of Tau Protein in Alzheimer’s Disease for Pharmaceutical Development
Authors: Wischik Claude M. , Schelter Björn O. , Wischik Damon J. , Storey John M. D. , Harrington Charles R.
Published: December 2017

Following our discovery of a fragment from the repeat domain of tau protein as a structural constituent of the PHF-core in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), we developed an assay that captured several key features of the aggregation process. Tau-tau binding through the core tau fragment could be blocked by the same diaminophenothiazines found to dissolve proteolytically stable PHFs isolated from AD brain. We found that the PHF-core tau fragment is inherently capable of auto-catalytic self-propagation in vitro, or “prion-like processing”, that has now been demonstrated for several neurodegenerative disorders. Here we review the findings that led to the first clinical trials to test tau aggregation inhibitor therapy in AD as a way to block this cascade. Although further trials are still needed, the results to date suggest that a treatment targeting the prion-like processing of tau protein may have a role in both prevention and treatment of AD.
Harmonic Analyzing of the Double PWM Converter in DFIG Based on Mathematical Model
Authors: Liu Jing , Liu Zhigang
Published: December 2017

Harmonic pollution of double fed induction generators (DFIGs) has become a vital concern for its undesirable effects on power quality issues of wind generation systems and grid-connected system, and the double pulse width modulation (PWM)converter is one of the main harmonic sources in DFIGs. Thus the harmonic analysis of the converter in DFIGs is a necessary step to evaluate their harmonic pollution of DFIGs. This paper proposes a detailed harmonic modeling method to discuss the main harmonic components in a converter. In general the harmonic modeling could be divided into the low-order harmonic part (up to 30th order) and the high-order harmonic part (greater than order 30) parts in general. The low-order harmonics are produced by the circuit topology and control algorithm, and the harmonic component will be different if the control strategy changes. The high-order harmonics are produced by the modulation of the switching function to the dc variable. In this paper, the low-order harmonic modeling is established according to the directions of power flow under the vector control (VC), and the high-order harmonic modeling is established by the switching function of space vector PWM and dc currents. Meanwhile, the simulations of harmonic a components in a converter are accomplished in a real time digital simulation system. The results indicate that the proposed modeling could effectively show the harmonics distribution of the converter in DFIGs.
Mesenchymal Stem Cell-Conditioned Medium Modulates Apoptotic and Stress-Related Gene Expression, Ameliorates Maturation and Allows for the Development of Immature Human Oocytes after Artificial Activation
Authors: Akbari Hakimeh , Eftekhar Vaghefi Seyed , Shahedi Abbas , Habibzadeh Victoria , Mirshekari Tooraj , Ganjizadegan Aboozar , Mollaei Hamidreza , Ahmadi Meysam , Nematollahi-Mahani Seyed
Published: December 2017

The aim of the present study was to determine whether mesenchymal stem cell-conditioned medium (MSC-CM) modulates apoptotic and stress-related gene expression, and ameliorates maturation and developmental potential of immature human oocytes after artificial activation. A total of 247 surplus immature germinal vesicle (GV) oocytes obtained from infertile women were allocated into two in vitro maturation (IVM) groups: 1: GV oocytes (n = 116) matured in vitro (fIVM), and 2: GV oocytes (n = 131) that were vitrified, then in vitro matured (vIVM). Also, two maturation media were used: Alpha-minimum essential medium (α-MEM) and human umbilical cord-derived MSCs (hUCM). After 36 h of incubation, the IVM oocytes were examined for nuclear maturation. In IVM-matured oocytes, cytoplasmic maturation was evaluated after artificial activation through Ionomycin. Moreover, the quantitative expressions of B-cell CLL/lymphoma 2 (BCL2), BCL2-associated X protein (BAX), superoxide dismutase (SOD), and Heat shock proteins (HSP70) in matured oocytes were assessed by quantitative Real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR) and compared with fresh and vitrified in vivo matured oocytes, which were used as fIVM and vIVM controls, respectively. The highest maturation rate was found in hUCM in fIVM, and the lowest maturation rate was found using α-MEM in vIVM (85.18% and 71.42%, respectively). The cleavage rate in fIVM was higher than that in vIVM (83.4% vs. 72.0%). In addition, the cleavage rate in α-MEM was lower than that in the hUCM (66.0% vs. 89.4%). Furthermore, the difference between parthenote embryo arrested in 4–8 cells (p < 0.04) and the quality of embryo arrested in 8-cell (p < 0.007) were significant. The developmental stages of parthenote embryos in hUCM versus α-MEM were as follows: 2–4 cell (89.45% vs. 66.00%, respectively), 4–8 cell (44.31% vs. 29.11%, respectively), morula (12.27% vs. 2.63%, respectively), and blastocysts (2.5% vs. 0%, respectively). The messenger RNA (mRNA) expression levels of BCL2, BAX and SOD were significantly different (p < 0.05) between the matured IVM oocytes. Overall, hUCM showed potential efficacy in terms of ameliorating oocyte maturation and in promoting the development and mRNA expression of BAX, BCL2, and SOD.
A Qualitative Study of Secondary School Teachers’ Perception of Social Network Analysis Metrics in the Context of Alcohol Consumption among Adolescents
Authors: Quiroga Enedina , García Isaías , Benítez-Andrades José , Benavides Carmen , Martín Vicente , Marqués-Sánchez Pilar
Published: December 2017

Adolescence is a transitional period during which a number of changes occur. Social relationships established during this period influence adolescent behaviour and affect academic performance or alcohol consumption habits, among other issues. Teachers are very important actors in observing and guiding the evolution of their students, and should therefore have the appropriate knowledge and tools to gain insight into the complex social relationships that exist in their classes. The use of social network analysis (SNA) techniques may be helpful in order to study and monitor the evolution of these social networks. This study tries to understand how teachers perceive SNA metrics from an intuitive point of view. Using this information, useful tools could be created that allow teachers to use SNA techniques to improve their understanding of student relationships. A number of interviews with different teachers were held in secondary schools in Spain, allowing SNA concepts to be related to the everyday terms used by the teachers to characterize their students. Results from the study have an impact on questionnaire design for gathering data from students in order to perform an SNA analysis and on the design of software applications that can help teachers to understand the results of this analysis.
Cumulative IT Use Is Associated with Psychosocial Stress Factors and Musculoskeletal Symptoms
Authors: So Billy C. L. , Cheng Andy S. K. , Szeto Grace P. Y.
Published: December 2017

This study aimed to examine the relationship between cumulative use of electronic devices and musculoskeletal symptoms. Smartphones and tablet computers are very popular and people may own or operate several devices at the same time. High prevalence rates of musculoskeletal symptoms associated with intensive computer use have been reported. However, research focusing on mobile devices is only just emerging in recent years. In this study, 285 persons participated including 140 males and 145 females (age range 18–50). The survey consisted of self-reported estimation of daily information technology (IT) exposure hours, tasks performed, psychosocial stress factors and relationship to musculoskeletal discomfort in the past 12 months. Total IT exposure time was an average of 7.38 h (±5.2) per day. The psychosocial factor of “working through pain” showed the most significant association with odds ratio (OR) ranging from 1.078 (95% CI = 1.021–1.138) for elbow discomfort, to 1.111 (95% CI = 1.046–1.180) for shoulder discomfort. Desktop time was also significantly associated with wrist/hand discomfort (OR = 1.103). These findings indicate only a modest relationship but one that is statistically significant with accounting for confounders. It is anticipated that prevalence rates of musculoskeletal disorders would rise in the future with increasing contribution due to psychosocial stress factors.
In Vitro Effect of 3D Plates Used for Surgical Treatment of Condylar Fractures on Prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and Thromboxane B2 (TXB2) Concentration in THP-1 Macrophages
Authors: Sikora Maciej , Goschorska Marta , Baranowska-Bosiacka Irena , Chlubek Dariusz
Published: December 2017

Recent studies have shown promising results concerning the effectiveness of 3D plates in terms of stabilization of condylar fractures. Despite the use of new techniques and new materials, we can still observe certain side effects, including the immune reaction of the body, which may lead to the excessive inflammation. The aim of this paper was to determine how the production of prostaglandin E2 (PGE2) and thromboxane B2 (TXB2) in THP-1 monocytes/macrophages is influenced by the titanium 3D plates and dedicated screws. The experiments were conducted on THP-1 monocytic cell line and macrophages derived from a THP-1cells. The concentrations of PGE2 and TXB2 released were measured by using immunoassay kit. Verification of plate-induced activation of THP-1 monocytes and macrophages and initiation of inflammatory reaction was conducted by flow cytometry. Despite some differences in the content of the implant devices our results showed that these plates did not statistically significantly increase the production of these prostanoids. Osteosynthesis of condylar fractures using 3D titanium mini-plates seems to be a good alternative to traditional plates due to their lack of stimulating the cyclooxygenase-dependent production of prostanoids; limiting the development of inflammatory reactions.
Could Oxidative Stress Regulate the Expression of MicroRNA-146a and MicroRNA-34a in Human Osteoarthritic Chondrocyte Cultures?
Authors: Cheleschi Sara , De Palma Anna , Pascarelli Nicola , Giordano Nicola , Galeazzi Mauro , Tenti Sara , Fioravanti Antonella
Published: December 2017

Oxidative stress and the overproduction of reactive oxygen species (ROS) play an important role in the pathogenesis of osteoarthritis (OA). Accumulating evidence has demonstrated the involvement of microRNAs (miRNAs) dysregulation in disease development and progression. In this study, we evaluated the effect of oxidative stress on miR-146a and miR-34a expression levels in human OA chondrocytes cultures stimulated by H2O2. Mitochondrial ROS production and cell apoptosis were detected by flow cytometry. The antioxidant enzymes SOD-2, CAT, GPx, the transcriptional factor NRF2 and the selected miRNAs were analyzed by qRT-PCR. The H2O2-induced oxidative stress was confirmed by a significant increase in superoxide anion production and of the apoptotic ratio. Furthermore, H2O2 significantly up-regulated the expression levels of SOD-2, CAT, GPx and NRF2, and modulated miR-146a and miR-34a gene expression. The same analyses were carried out after pre-treatment with taurine, a known antioxidant substance, which, in our experience, counteracted the H2O2-induced effect. In conclusion, the induction of oxidative stress affected cell apoptosis and the expression of the enzymes involved in the oxidant/antioxidant balance. Moreover, we demonstrated for the first time the modification of miR-146a and miR-34a in OA chondrocytes subjected to H2O2 stimulus and we confirmed the antioxidant effect of taurine.
Arachidonic Acid Metabolite as a Novel Therapeutic Target in Breast Cancer Metastasis
Authors: Borin Thaiz , Angara Kartik , Rashid Mohammad , Achyut Bhagelu , Arbab Ali
Published: December 2017

Metastatic breast cancer (BC) (also referred to as stage IV) spreads beyond the breast to the bones, lungs, liver, or brain and is a major contributor to the deaths of cancer patients. Interestingly, metastasis is a result of stroma-coordinated hallmarks such as invasion and migration of the tumor cells from the primary niche, regrowth of the invading tumor cells in the distant organs, proliferation, vascularization, and immune suppression. Targeted therapies, when used as monotherapies or combination therapies, have shown limited success in decreasing the established metastatic growth and improving survival. Thus, novel therapeutic targets are warranted to improve the metastasis outcomes. We have been actively investigating the cytochrome P450 4 (CYP4) family of enzymes that can biosynthesize 20-hydroxyeicosatetraenoic acid (20-HETE), an important signaling eicosanoid involved in the regulation of vascular tone and angiogenesis. We have shown that 20-HETE can activate several intracellular protein kinases, pro-inflammatory mediators, and chemokines in cancer. This review article is focused on understanding the role of the arachidonic acid metabolic pathway in BC metastasis with an emphasis on 20-HETE as a novel therapeutic target to decrease BC metastasis. We have discussed all the significant investigational mechanisms and put forward studies showing how 20-HETE can promote angiogenesis and metastasis, and how its inhibition could affect the metastatic niches. Potential adjuvant therapies targeting the tumor microenvironment showing anti-tumor properties against BC and its lung metastasis are discussed at the end. This review will highlight the importance of exploring tumor-inherent and stromal-inherent metabolic pathways in the development of novel therapeutics for treating BC metastasis.
On Some New Properties of the Fundamental Solution to the Multi-Dimensional Space- and Time-Fractional Diffusion-Wave Equation
Authors: Luchko Yuri
Published: December 2017

In this paper, some new properties of the fundamental solution to the multi-dimensional space- and time-fractional diffusion-wave equation are deduced. We start with the Mellin-Barnes representation of the fundamental solution that was derived in the previous publications of the author. The Mellin-Barnes integral is used to obtain two new representations of the fundamental solution in the form of the Mellin convolution of the special functions of the Wright type. Moreover, some new closed-form formulas for particular cases of the fundamental solution are derived. In particular, we solve the open problem of the representation of the fundamental solution to the two-dimensional neutral-fractional diffusion-wave equation in terms of the known special functions.
A Seed Expansion Graph Clustering Method for Protein Complexes Detection in Protein Interaction Networks
Authors: Wang Jie , Zheng Wenping , Qian Yuhua , Liang Jiye
Published: December 2017

Most proteins perform their biological functions while interacting as complexes. The detection of protein complexes is an important task not only for understanding the relationship between functions and structures of biological network, but also for predicting the function of unknown proteins. We present a new nodal metric by integrating its local topological information. The metric reflects its representability in a larger local neighborhood to a cluster of a protein interaction (PPI) network. Based on the metric, we propose a seed-expansion graph clustering algorithm (SEGC) for protein complexes detection in PPI networks. A roulette wheel strategy is used in the selection of the seed to enhance the diversity of clustering. For a candidate node u, we define its closeness to a cluster C, denoted as NC(u, C), by combing the density of a cluster C and the connection between a node u and C. In SEGC, a cluster which initially consists of only a seed node, is extended by adding nodes recursively from its neighbors according to the closeness, until all neighbors fail the process of expansion. We compare the F-measure and accuracy of the proposed SEGC algorithm with other algorithms on Saccharomyces cerevisiae protein interaction networks. The experimental results show that SEGC outperforms other algorithms under full coverage.
Studies on the Inclusion Complexes of Daidzein with β-Cyclodextrin and Derivatives
Authors: Li Shujing , Yuan Li , Chen Yong , Zhou Wei , Wang Xinrui
Published: December 2017

The inclusion complexes between daidzein and three cyclodextrins (CDs), namely β-cyclodextrin (β-CD), methyl-β-cyclodextrin (Me-β-CD, DS = 12.5) and (2-hydroxy)propyl-β-cyclodextrin (HP-β-CD, DS = 4.2) were prepared. The effects of the inclusion behavior of daidzein with three kinds of cyclodextrins were investigated in both solution and solid state by methods of phase-solubility, XRD, DSC, SEM, 1H-NMR and 2D ROESY methods. Furthermore, the antioxidant activities of daidzein and daidzein-CDs inclusion complexes were determined by the 1,1-diphenyl-2-picryl-hydrazyl (DPPH) method. The results showed that daidzein formed a 1:1 stoichiometric inclusion complex with β-CD, Me-β-CD and HP-β-CD. The results also showed that the solubility of daidzein was improved after encapsulating by CDs. 1H-NMR and 2D ROESY analyses show that the B ring of daidzein was the part of the molecule that was most likely inserted into the cavity of CDs, thus forming an inclusion complex. Antioxidant activity studies showed that the antioxidant performance of the inclusion complexes was enhanced in comparison to the native daidzein. It could be a potentially promising way to develop a new formulation of daidzein for herbal medicine or healthcare products.
Zinc-Modified Nanotransporter of Doxorubicin for Targeted Prostate Cancer Delivery
Authors: Skalickova Sylvie , Loffelmann Martin , Gargulak Michael , Kepinska Marta , Docekalova Michaela , Uhlirova Dagmar , Stankova Martina , Fernandez Carlos , Milnerowicz Halina , Ruttkay-Nedecky Branislav , Kizek Rene
Published: December 2017

This work investigated the preparation of chitosan nanoparticles used as carriers for doxorubicin for targeted cancer delivery. Prepared nanocarriers were stabilized and functionalized via zinc ions incorporated into the chitosan nanoparticle backbone. We took the advantage of high expression of sarcosine in the prostate cancer cells. The prostate cancer targeting was mediated by the AntiSar antibodies decorated surface of the nanocage. Formation of the chitosan nanoparticles was determined using a ninhydrin assay and differential pulse voltammetry. Obtained results showed the strong effect of tripolyphosphine on the nanoparticle formation. The zinc ions affected strong chitosan backbone coiling both in inner and outer chitosan nanoparticle structure. Zinc electrochemical signal depended on the level of the complex formation and the potential shift from −960 to −950 mV. Formed complex is suitable for doxorubicin delivery. It was observed the 20% entrapment efficiency of doxorubicin and strong dependence of drug release after 120 min in the blood environment. The functionality of the designed nanotransporter was proven. The purposed determination showed linear dependence in the concentration range of Anti-sarcosine IgG labeled gold nanoparticles from 0 to 1000 µg/mL and the regression equation was found to be y = 3.8x − 66.7 and R2 = 0.99. Performed ELISA confirmed the ability of Anti-sarcosine IgG labeled chitosan nanoparticles with loaded doxorubicin to bind to the sarcosine molecule. Observed hemolytic activity of the nanotransporter was 40%. Inhibition activity of our proposed nanotransporter was evaluated to be 0% on the experimental model of S. cerevisiae. Anti-sarcosine IgG labeled chitosan nanoparticles, with loaded doxorubicin stabilized by Zn ions, are a perspective type of nanocarrier for targeted drug therapy managed by specific interaction with sarcosine and metallothionein for prostate cancer.
A Study on the Relationship between the Intelligibility and Quality of Algorithmically-Modified Speech for Normal Hearing Listeners
Authors: Tang Yan , Arnold Christopher , Cox Trevor J.
Published: December 2017

This study investigates the relationship between the intelligibility and quality of modified speech in noise and in quiet. Speech signals were processed by seven algorithms designed to increase speech intelligibility in noise without altering speech intensity. In three noise maskers, including both stationary and fluctuating noise at two signal-to-noise ratios (SNR), listeners identified keywords from unmodified or modified sentences. The intelligibility performance of each type of speech was measured as the listeners’ word recognition rate in each condition, while the quality was rated as a mean opinion score. In quiet, only the perceptual quality of each type of speech was assessed. The results suggest that when listening in noise, modification performance on improving intelligibility is more important than its potential negative impact on speech quality. However, when listening in quiet or at SNRs in which intelligibility is no longer an issue to listeners, the impact to speech quality due to modification becomes a concern.
Identifying Ingrained Historical Cognitive Biases Influencing Contemporary Pastoral Responses Depriving Suicide-Bereaved People of Essential Protective Factors
Authors: Staley Astrid
Published: December 2017

(1) Background: Historically and collectively, the Church has not responded to suicide-bereaved people with compassion, denying pastoral care in the form of spiritual, emotional, and practical support, considered key protective factors along with community support in facilitating funeral rite for their loved one in their deepest, darkest, hour of need, thereby placing them at risk to disenfranchised grief. (2) Aims: The study explores the presence of historical ingrained cognitive biases in contemporary pastoral responses from caregivers within Evangelical and Pentecostal streams. (3) Methods: Caregivers were provided with training offering greater understanding of the multifarious issues involved in the life of a person who has died by suicide and challenges faced by the bereaved. Responses to pre-workshop self-contemplating surveys based on workshop objectives were then compared to post-workshop survey responses of participant’s subjective evaluation of knowledge and skills gained through information presented. (4) Results: Post-workshop survey data revealed healthy shifts in historically ingrained cognitive biases; (5) Conclusions: These shifts provide the foundation for future pastoral encounters to offer spiritual, emotional, and practical support, considered key protective factors for those bereaved by suicide.
High-Speed Focus Inspection System Using a Position-Sensitive Detector
Authors: Cao Binh , Hoang Phuong , Ahn Sanghoon , Kang Heeshin , Kim Jengo , Noh Jiwhan
Published: December 2017

Precise and rapid focus detection is an essential operation in several manufacturing processes employing high-intensity lasers. However, the detection resolution of existing methods is notably low. This paper proposes a technique that provides a rapid-response, high-precision, and high-resolution focus inspection system on the basis of geometrical optics and advanced optical instruments. An ultrafast interface position detector and a single-slit mask are used in the system to precisely signal the focus position with high resolution. The reflected images on the image sensor are of a high quality, and this quality is maintained persistently when the target surface is shifted along the optical axis. The proposed system developed for focus inspection is simple and inexpensive, and is appropriate for practical use in the industrial production of sophisticated structures such as microcircuits and microchips.
Novel Noninvasive Brain Disease Detection System Using a Facial Image Sensor
Authors: Shu Ting , Zhang Bob , Tang Yuan
Published: December 2017

Brain disease including any conditions or disabilities that affect the brain is fast becoming a leading cause of death. The traditional diagnostic methods of brain disease are time-consuming, inconvenient and non-patient friendly. As more and more individuals undergo examinations to determine if they suffer from any form of brain disease, developing noninvasive, efficient, and patient friendly detection systems will be beneficial. Therefore, in this paper, we propose a novel noninvasive brain disease detection system based on the analysis of facial colors. The system consists of four components. A facial image is first captured through a specialized sensor, where four facial key blocks are next located automatically from the various facial regions. Color features are extracted from each block to form a feature vector for classification via the Probabilistic Collaborative based Classifier. To thoroughly test the system and its performance, seven facial key block combinations were experimented. The best result was achieved using the second facial key block, where it showed that the Probabilistic Collaborative based Classifier is the most suitable. The overall performance of the proposed system achieves an accuracy −95%, a sensitivity −94.33%, a specificity −95.67%, and an average processing time (for one sample) of <1 min at brain disease detection.
A Wavefront Division Polarimeter for the Measurements of Solute Concentrations in Solutions
Authors: Calixto Sergio , Martinez-Ponce Geminiano , Garnica Guillermo , Figueroa-Gerstenmaier Susana
Published: December 2017

Polarimeters are useful instruments that measure concentrations of optically active substances in a given solution. The conventional polarimetric principle consists of measuring the rotation angle of linearly polarized light. Here, we present a novel polarimeter based on the study of interference patterns. A Mach–Zehnder interferometer with linearly polarized light at the input is used. One beam passes through the liquid sample and the other is a reference beam. As the linearly polarized sample beam propagates through the optically active solution the vibration plane of the electric field will rotate. As a result, the visibility of the interference pattern at the interferometer output will decrease. Fringe contrast will be maximum when both beams present a polarization perpendicular to the plane of incidence. However, minimum visibility is obtained when, after propagation through the sample the polarization of the sample beam is oriented parallel to the plane of incidence. By using different solute concentrations, a calibration plot is obtained showing the behavior of visibility.
Chemical Selectivity and Sensitivity of a 16-Channel Electronic Nose for Trace Vapour Detection
Authors: Strle Drago , Štefane Bogdan , Trifkovič Mario , Van Miden Marion , Kvasić Ivan , Zupanič Erik , Muševič Igor
Published: December 2017

Good chemical selectivity of sensors for detecting vapour traces of targeted molecules is vital to reliable detection systems for explosives and other harmful materials. We present the design, construction and measurements of the electronic response of a 16 channel electronic nose based on 16 differential microcapacitors, which were surface-functionalized by different silanes. The e-nose detects less than 1 molecule of TNT out of 10+12 N2 molecules in a carrier gas in 1 s. Differently silanized sensors give different responses to different molecules. Electronic responses are presented for TNT, RDX, DNT, H2S, HCN, FeS, NH3, propane, methanol, acetone, ethanol, methane, toluene and water. We consider the number density of these molecules and find that silane surfaces show extreme affinity for attracting molecules of TNT, DNT and RDX. The probability to bind these molecules and form a surface-adsorbate is typically 10+7 times larger than the probability to bind water molecules, for example. We present a matrix of responses of differently functionalized microcapacitors and we propose that chemical selectivity of multichannel e-nose could be enhanced by using artificial intelligence deep learning methods.
Open IoT Ecosystem for Enhanced Interoperability in Smart Cities—Example of Métropole De Lyon
Authors: Robert Jérémy , Kubler Sylvain , Kolbe Niklas , Cerioni Alessandro , Gastaud Emmanuel , Främling Kary
Published: December 2017

The Internet of Things (IoT) has promised a future where everything gets connected. Unfortunately, building a single global ecosystem of Things that communicate with each other seamlessly is virtually impossible today. The reason is that the IoT is essentially a collection of isolated “Intranets of Things”, also referred to as “vertical silos”, which cannot easily and efficiently interact with each other. Smart cities are perhaps the most striking examples of this problem since they comprise a wide range of stakeholders and service providers who must work together, including urban planners, financial organisations, public and private service providers, telecommunication providers, industries, citizens, and so forth. Within this context, the contribution of this paper is threefold: (i) discuss business and technological implications as well as challenges of creating successful open innovation ecosystems, (ii) present the technological building blocks underlying an IoT ecosystem developed in the framework of the EU Horizon 2020 programme, (iii) present a smart city pilot (Heat Wave Mitigation in Métropole de Lyon) for which the proposed ecosystem significantly contributes to improving interoperability between a number of system components, and reducing regulatory barriers for joint service co-creation practices.
A Middleware with Comprehensive Quality of Context Support for the Internet of Things Applications
Authors: Gomes Berto de Tácio Pereira , Muniz Luiz Carlos Melo , Da Silva e Silva Francisco José , Dos Santos Davi Viana , Lopes Rafael Fernandes , Coutinho Luciano Reis , Carvalho Felipe Oliveira , Endler Markus
Published: December 2017

Context aware systems are able to adapt their behavior according to the environment in which the user is. They can be integrated into an Internet of Things (IoT) infrastructure, allowing a better perception of the user’s physical environment by collecting context data from sensors embedded in devices known as smart objects. An IoT extension called the Internet of Mobile Things (IoMT) suggests new scenarios in which smart objects and IoT gateways can move autonomously or be moved easily. In a comprehensive view, Quality of Context (QoC) is a term that can express quality requirements of context aware applications. These requirements can be those related to the quality of information provided by the sensors (e.g., accuracy, resolution, age, validity time) or those referring to the quality of the data distribution service (e.g, reliability, delay, delivery time). Some functionalities of context aware applications and/or decision-making processes of these applications and their users depend on the level of quality of context available, which tend to vary over time for various reasons. Reviewing the literature, it is possible to verify that the quality of context support provided by IoT-oriented middleware systems still has limitations in relation to at least four relevant aspects: (i) quality of context provisioning; (ii) quality of context monitoring; (iii) support for heterogeneous device and technology management; (iv) support for reliable data delivery in mobility scenarios. This paper presents two main contributions: (i) a state-of-the-art survey specifically aimed at analyzing the middleware with quality of context support and; (ii) a new middleware with comprehensive quality of context support for Internet of Things Applications. The proposed middleware was evaluated and the results are presented and discussed in this article, which also shows a case study involving the development of a mobile remote patient monitoring application that was developed using the proposed middleware. This case study highlights how middleware components were used to meet the quality of context requirements of the application. In addition, the proposed middleware was compared to other solutions in the literature.
Slum Regeneration and Sustainability: Applying the Extended Metabolism Model and the SDGs
Authors: Teferi Zafu , Newman Peter
Published: December 2017

This paper examines the extent to which slum redevelopments have been successful in improving the sustainability of human settlements. Sustainability is measured in two ways: through the Extended Metabolism Model that looks at resource consumption, wastes, and liveability outcomes; and, through the framework of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). The study compares the sustainability of informal slum settlements in Addis Ababa with high-rise slum clearance apartments; such clearance is the model mostly used for the world’s informal settlements. The results show very little difference in resource consumption and waste produced but show liveability outcomes are mixed: Economic benefit is substantially improved in the high-rise areas due to becoming part of the formal economy, but community networks and trust are substantially lost when people transfer from the slums. This paper suggests that slum policy could be shifted from the Modernist high-rise slum clearance approach to a more organic, community-based renewal of the slums themselves in which infrastructure for energy, water, and waste can be brought in. New technology that fits into community-based governance structures allows such infrastructure to be a viable option, as well as enabling formal economic benefits. Some hybrid approaches may be needed in many slum improvement programs.
Responsibility versus Profit: The Motives of Food Firms for Healthy Product Innovation
Authors: Garst Jilde , Blok Vincent , Jansen Léon , Omta Onno S. W. F.
Published: December 2017

Background: In responsible research and innovation (RRI), innovation is seen as a way in which humankind finds solutions for societal issues. However, studies on commercial innovation show that firms respond in a different manner and at a different speed to the same societal issue. This study investigates what role organizational motives play in the product innovation processes of firms when aiming for socially responsible outcomes. Methods: This multiple-case study investigates the motives of food firms for healthier product innovation by interviewing firms about the organizational motives behind product reformulation and innovation. Results: This study highlights the importance of having both instrumental and moral motives in the innovation process when aiming for socially responsible outcomes, and how both these motives interact and contribute to responsible innovation in industry. Furthermore, the study results question the nature of relational motives as a separate category from the other two categories of motives, as suggested by corporate social responsibility (CSR) scholars. Conclusions: If commercial innovation needs to contribute to solutions for societal issues, the importance of moral motives has to be stressed without annihilating the instrumental objectives of firms. Both motives contribute to the success factors of responsible product innovation in industry.
Application of PCR-Based Tools to Explore Strongyloides Infection in People in Parts of Northern Australia
Authors: Robertson Gemma , Koehler Anson , Gasser Robin , Watts Matthew , Norton Robert , Bradbury Richard
Published: December 2017

Strongyloidiasis, which is caused by infection with the nematode Strongyloides stercoralis, is endemic to areas of northern Australia. Diagnosis in this region remains difficult due to the distances between endemic communities and diagnostic laboratories, leading to lengthy delays in stool processing for microscopy and culture. PCR represents a viable solution to this difficulty, having potential for high sensitivity detection of S. stercoralis, even in older, unpreserved faecal samples. We prospectively collected 695 faecal specimens that were submitted to The Townsville Hospital Microbiology Laboratory from the North Queensland region for routine parasitological examination, and subjected them to a Strongyloides sp. real-time (q)PCR. Results were confirmed with a novel nested conventional PCR assay targeting the 18S rRNA gene, followed by single-strand conformation polymorphism analysis (SSCP). Of the 695 specimens tested, S. stercoralis was detected in three specimens (0.4%) by classical parasitological methods (direct microscopy and formyl-ether acetate concentration), whereas 42 positives were detected by qPCR (6.0%). Conventional PCR confirmed the real-time PCR results in 24 of the samples (3.5%). Several apparent false-positive results occurred at higher cycle times (Ct) in the qPCR. Use of real-time PCR in these populations is promising for the enhanced detection of disease and to support eradication efforts.
A Ulysses Detection of Secondary Helium Neutrals
Authors: Wood Brian E. , Müller Hans-Reinhard , Witte Manfred
Published: December 2017

The Interstellar Boundary EXplorer (IBEX) mission has recently studied the flow of interstellar neutral He atoms through the solar system and discovered the existence of a secondary He flow that likely originates in the outer heliosheath. We find evidence for this secondary component in Ulysses data. By coadding hundreds of Ulysses He beam maps together to maximize signal-to-noise ratio, we identify a weak signal that is credibly associated with the secondary component. Assuming a laminar flow from infinity, we infer the following He flow parameters:

km s−1,

,

, and

K; where λ and β are the ecliptic longitude and latitude direction in J2000 coordinates. The secondary component has a density that is 4.9 ± 0.9% that of the primary component. These measurements are reasonably consistent with measurements from IBEX, with the exception of temperature, where our temperature is much lower than IBEX’s T = 9500 K. Even the higher IBEX temperature is suspiciously low compared to expectactions for the outer heliosheath source region. The implausibly low temperatures are due to the incorrect assumption of a laminar flow instead of a diverging one, given that the flow in the outer heliosheath source region will be deflecting around the heliopause. As for why the IBEX and Ulysses T values are different, difficulties with background subtraction in the Ulysses data are a potential source of concern, but the discrepancy may also be another effect of the improper laminar flow assumption, which could affect the IBEX and Ulysses analyses differently.
The First APOKASC Catalog of Kepler Dwarf and Subgiant Stars
Authors: Serenelli Aldo , Johnson Jennifer , Huber Daniel , Pinsonneault Marc , Ball Warrick H. , Tayar Jamie , Aguirre Victor Silva , Basu Sarbani , Troup Nicholas , Hekker Saskia , Kallinger Thomas , Stello Dennis , Davies Guy R. , Lund Mikkel N. , Mathur Savita , Mosser Benoit , Stassun Keivan G. , Chaplin William J. , Elsworth Yvonne , García Rafael A. , Handberg Rasmus , Holtzman Jon , Hearty Fred , García-Hernández D. A. , Gaulme Patrick , Zamora Olga
Published: December 2017

We present the first APOKASC catalog of spectroscopic and asteroseismic data for dwarfs and subgiants. Asteroseismic data for our sample of 415 objects have been obtained by the Kepler mission in short (58.5 s) cadence, and light curves span from 30 up to more than 1000 days. The spectroscopic parameters are based on spectra taken as part of the Apache Point Observatory Galactic Evolution Experiment and correspond to Data Release 13 of the Sloan Digital Sky Survey. We analyze our data using two independent

scales, the spectroscopic values from DR13 and those derived from SDSS griz photometry. We use the differences in our results arising from these choices as a test of systematic temperature uncertainties and find that they can lead to significant differences in the derived stellar properties. Determinations of surface gravity (

), mean density (

), radius (R), mass (M), and age (τ) for the whole sample have been carried out by means of (stellar) grid-based modeling. We have thoroughly assessed random and systematic error sources in the spectroscopic and asteroseismic data, as well as in the grid-based modeling determination of the stellar quantities provided in the catalog. We provide stellar properties determined for each of the two

scales. The median combined (random and systematic) uncertainties are 2% (0.01 dex;

), 3.4% (

), 2.6% (R), 5.1% (M), and 19% (τ) for the photometric

scale and 2% (

), 3.5% (

), 2.7% (R), 6.3% (M), and 23% (τ) for the spectroscopic scale. We present comparisons with stellar quantities in the asteroseismic catalog by Chaplin et al. that highlight the importance of having metallicity measurements for determining stellar parameters accurately. Finally, we compare our results with those coming from a variety of sources, including stellar radii determined from TGAS parallaxes and asteroseismic analyses based on individual frequencies. We find a very good agreement for all inferred quantities. The latter comparison, in particular, gives strong support to the determination of stellar quantities based on global seismology, a relevant result for future missions such as TESS and PLATO.
Concilier ressources in situ et grands réseaux : une lecture des proximités par la notion de nœud socio-énergétique
Authors: Tabourdeau Antoine , Debizet Gilles
Published: December 2017

L’imbrication entre villes et réseaux prend des contours substantiellement nouveaux avec le développement des énergies renouvelables et conduit à de nouveaux agencements. Avec l’essor de l’autoproduction, les relations entre les réseaux d’énergie et les lieux s’organisent dorénavant à différentes échelles dans les espaces urbanisés. Il émerge des organisations intermédiaires hybridant les flux issus de réseaux publics avec ceux des énergies renouvelables capturées in situ . Considérant le système énergétique urbain comme un assemblage de NSE – nœuds socio-énergétiques –, cet article recense quatre NSE-types que les organisations intermédiaires sont susceptibles de connecter. Chacun combine plus ou moins, et de façon spécifique, proximité spatiale et organisée.
Refaire la rue pour recomposer la ville ? Mise en regard de deux projets de réaménagement de rues artérielles à Londres et Lyon
Authors: Romeyer Benoit
Published: December 2017

Cet article contribue à interroger le renouvellement des rôles et statuts associés aux grands axes de circulation en milieu urbain à partir des démarches de projets participant de leurs transformations effectives. Dans un contexte prônant le « refaire la ville sur la ville », ces « rues artérielles », comme nous proposons de les nommer, apparaissent en effet aujourd’hui associées à de nouveaux enjeux de rééquilibrage entre les différentes fonctions urbaines. Une telle reconsidération amène dès lors à plus largement s’interroger sur l’étendue des potentialités programmatiques et projectuelles ainsi induites. Celles-ci ont été abordées par le biais d’une investigation empirique par mise en regard des projets d’ High Street 2012 à Londres et de la rue Garibaldi à Lyon. La grille de lecture par « liens urbains » mobilisée a permis de faire émerger le constat d’une grande diversité des objectifs et des formes données aux projets actuellement développés sur ces axes, en même temps qu’une diversification des ambitions qui leur sont associées.