bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
One stage transanal full thickness pull-through operation for rectosigmoid Hirschsprung's disease
Authors: Hossain A. K. M. Zahid , Hasan Gazi Zahirul , Mandal Susankar Kumar , Nooruzzaman Md. , Shahinoor A. , Koirala Dinesh Prasad
Published: October 2016

The surgical management of Hirschsprung's disease (HD) has changed from the original staged operations to the latest introduced minimally invasive one stage techniques. One stage transanal full thickness Swenson-like procedure is a new concept of single stage procedure for HD. We reviewed the early outcome of one stage transanal Swenson-like pull-through operation for rectosigmoid HD. By using the transanal concept we choose to apply Swenson's principle in transanal dissection for the primary treatment of HD and describe technical aspects and impact on fecal and urinary function. We reviewed our series of HD patient who underwent one-stage transanal full thickness, Swenson-like rectosigmoid dissection, assessing for postoperative stricture or stenosis, anastomotic leak, enterocolitis, obstruction and long-term results for bowel and urinary function. Of 15 patients all had the transanal resection, the age of the patients ranged from 6 months to 5 years. The average length of resection was 20 ± 5 cm. Mean follow-up was 24 months. 10 patients were at least three years old at follow-up and were assessed for urinary and fecal continence. All had the voluntary bowel movement and urinary continence. Three patients had episodes of postoperative enterocolitis and two patients developed stenosis at the anastomotic site. Postoperative frequent bowel movement was present in all patients and continued for 2-8 weeks. In conclusion, our data support the fact that a modification of Swenson's original transabdominal dissection concept using the recently describe transanal approach is an excellent technique for HD and produces excellent long-term outcome for fecal and urinary function.
Association between clinically diagnosed lumbar intervertebral disc prolapse and magnetic resonance image findings
Authors: Rahman Md. Habibur , Islam K.M. Tarikul , Islam Md. Rokibul , Haque Moududul , Devnath Haradhon , Hossain Mohammad Afzal , Barua Kanak Kanti
Published: October 2016

There are contradictory reports on the findings of magnetic resonance image (MRI) in lumbar intervertebral disc prolapse. A study was conducted on 54 patients using 3 of 4 clinical criteria (low back pain with radiation down to the lower limbs, radicular pain along specific dermatomes, positive straight leg raising test, presence of neurological symptoms and signs e.g. motor or sensory deficit and MRI of lumbosacral spine of the respondent). Evaluation of MRI of lumbosacral spine was done based on extent of disc prolapse, disc degeneration, nerve root compression neural foramen compromise. The logistic regression analysis between the findings of MRI and the clinical features show that there was a significant association in the neural foramen or lateral recess (Odd's ratio 7.106, p<0.05), the root compression (p<0.01) as well as the disc extrusion (p<0.05). There was no statistical association between clinical levels and other MRI findings like disc protrusion and disc bulge (p value 0.21 and 0.14, respectively). The strength of agreement between clinical and MRI diagnosis level of disc prolapse was calculated using kappa statistics (k-value). The test revealed a very good agreement for L3/4 (k-value = 0.812) and good agreement for L4/5 and L5/SI  level (k-value 0.75 and 0.75 respectively) between these two procedures, suggesting that level of disc prolapse could be correctly  diagnosed without MRI findings.  In conclusion, clinically diagnosed levels associate well with MRI levels, but all MRI abnormalities do not have any clinical significance.
Assessment of urinary tract infection and their resistance to antibiotics in diabetic and non-diabetic patients
Authors: Zahra Nureen , Rehman Kanwal , Aqeel Rana , Parveen Asia , Akash Muhammad Sajid Hamid
Published: October 2016

Diabetic patients are more susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs) than non-diabetic patients and due to the development of multidrug resistant uropathogenic strains, the choice of antibacterial agents is being limited. The study was undertaken to determine the influence of diabetes mellitus on the uropathogens and antibiotic sensitivity pattern among patients with UTIs. A cross-sectional study was conducted in which total of 400 patients were studied out of which 150 were diabetics and 250 were non-diabetics. Patients with negative urine culture (n = 240) were excluded from the study and 160 patients with positive culture of UTIs of which 80 were diabetics and 80 were non-diabetics, included in this study. Clinical data were obtained from individual study participant with informed written consent using pre-tested questionnaire. According to the clean-catch procedure, midstream urine samples were collected and cultured for the diagnosis and susceptibility of bacteriuria. Out of 160 uropathogenic isolates, E. coli was found as a leading pathogen i.e. 46.25% followed by Candida spp. 30.62%, S. Faecalis 15.62%, P. aeruginosa 3.13%, Pneumococcus. 1.25%, MSSA 1.25%, MRSA 0.63%, Proteus spp. 0.63% and Vancomycin resistant enterococcus spp. 0.63%. The results indicated that prevalence of UTIs was significantly higher in diabetic patients than in non-diabetic subjects. E. coli was found to be the most common isolate. It was observed that UTIs in diabetic patients was more in female diabetic patients than in male patients. Investigation of bacteriuria in diabetic patients for UTIs is an important tool for the treatment and prevention of renal complications.
Comparison between anterior cervical discectomy with fusion by polyetheretherketone cages and tricortical iliac-crest graft for the treatment of cervical prolapsed intervertebral disc
Authors: Islam Md. Anowarul , Rana Md. Masud , Goni Md. Fahad , Rahman Md. Naimur
Published: October 2016

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is effective surgical modality in the treatment of cervical prolapsed intervertebral disc, radiculopathy and myelopathy. Aims of our study is to evaluate fusion of cervical spine  by ICG with plating and PEEK cage with bone graft, also assess the donor site morbidity. Thirty patients (male 16; female 14) with mean age 46 ± 9.2 years and were distributed  into two treatment groups (PEEK cage group and ICG group). We assess the patients clinically for myelopathy and functional outcome by Nurick scale and Odom's criteria respectively and  neck and arm pain by Visual Analogue Scale (VAS). Eighteen patients were operated for single level discectomy and fusion by either ICG or PEEK cages and twelve patients for two levels. After surgery follow up was 2 years and better  postoperative score which was assessed by Nurick scale, Odoms criteria and VAS score. Total patients 14(93%)were graded excellent in the PEEK cage group compared to 13 patients (86%) in the ICG group.  Statistically it was not significant between two groups and p value was <0.35. Difference was significant in VAS score  after 24 months with more reduction of pain in PEEK cage group. Fusion occurred in 13 patients (86%) of the PEEK cage group and 14 patient (93%) of the ICG group. Result showed more fusion rate in ICG group and less donor site morbidity in PEEK group.
A vile passion for altering names: the contributions of Charles Thorold Wood jun. and Neville Wood to ornithology in the 1830s
Authors: Birkhead T. R. , Montgomerie R.
Published: October 2016

During the 1830s, Charles Thorold Wood jun. and his younger brother Neville Wood, published, separately, three books and a series of articles dealing with two ornithological subjects: the common and scientific names of birds, and the cataloguing of publications. Probably following William Swainson's lead, the Woods were enthusiastic about standardizing the common (English) bird names and making them logical and meaningful. They also each published an annotated bibliography of ornithological publications, notable for being among the first of such compilations, but also for the vitriol with which they criticized those – James Rennie and Hugh Strickland, in particular – whose work they did not like. In contrast, the praise they heaped on those they did approve of – William Swainson, John Latham, Robert Mudie, Prideaux John Selby, Francis Willughby and each other – was excessive. Possibly because of the tenor of their comments about other ornithologists, and the strangeness of their proposed English bird names, the Woods’ work has rarely been cited, and their new names for birds were virtually ignored from the start.
No. 3 Highbury Grove, Islington: the private geological museum of James Scott Bowerbank (1797–1877)
Authors: Williams R. B. , Torrens Hugh S.
Published: October 2016

James Scott Bowerbank (1797–1877), author of A history of the fossil fruits and seeds of the London Clay (1840) and A monograph of the British Spongiadae (1864–1882) was an immensely energetic self-taught naturalist, and the founder or co-founder of several famous scientific societies. In 1847, at the age of 50 years, he retired from business as the wealthy joint head of his family's distillery company to devote himself to scientific research. In 1846, such was the extent of his collections of fossils and other specimens already amassed before his retirement, he had been obliged to build a private museum as an extension of his residence at no. 3 Highbury Grove, Islington, London. The fame of this museum, where on Monday evenings in the summer Bowerbank held informal scientific soirées, spread rapidly and attracted many eminent scientists from Great Britain and abroad. Almost as soon as it was built, the museum was immortalized in a curious lithographic cartoon, which jokingly represented it as a typical Victorian London chop-house with various fossils on the menu, making gentle fun of Bowerbank's perceived eccentric obsession with palaeontology. The identities of neither artist nor printer of the cartoon are known for certain, but Edward Forbes is suggested herein as a strong candidate for the possible artist. Nine copies have been traced in London, though none elsewhere in the United Kingdom. Probably it was intended for private circulation among Bowerbank's friends and colleagues. The present paper provides a brief account of the Highbury Grove museum and a description of the remarkable 1846 lithograph.
Seasonality of Precipitation over Himalayan Watersheds in CORDEX South Asia and their Driving CMIP5 Experiments
Authors: Hasson Shabeh
Published: October 2016

Since the Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 5 (CMIP5) experiments exhibit limited skill in reproducing the statistical properties of prevailing precipitation regimes over the major Himalayan watersheds (Indus, Ganges, Brahmaputra and Mekong), this study evaluates the anticipated added skill of their dynamically refined simulations performed under the framework of Coordinated Regional Climate Downscaling Experiments for South Asia (CX-SA). For this, the fidelity of eight CX-SA experiments against their six driving CMIP5 experiments is assessed for the historical period (1971–2005) in terms of time-dependent statistical properties (onset/retreat timings and rapid fractional accumulation—RFA) of the dominant summer monsoonal precipitation regime (MPR). Further, a self-defining seasonality index (SI), which is a product of precipitation and the distance of its actual distribution relative to its uniform distribution (relative entropy—RE), has been computed for MPR, westerly precipitation regime (WPR) and annual precipitation. The time evolution of precipitation, RE and SI has also been analyzed. Results suggest that CX-SA experiments simulate even higher wet biases than their driving CMIP5 experiments over all study basins, mainly due to higher wet biases simulated over the Himalayas and Tibetan Plateau. Most of the CX-SA experiments suggest unrealistic timings of the monsoon onset that are far earlier than their driving CMIP5 experiments for all basins. Generally, CX-SA experiments feature higher underestimation of RFA slope, RE and SI, distancing their driving CMIP5 experiments farther from observations. Interestingly, regardless of the diverse skill of CMIP5 experiments, their fine scale CX-SA experiments exhibit quite a similar skill when downscaled by the same regional climate model (RCM), indicating RCM’s ability to considerably alter the driving datasets. These findings emphasize on improving the fidelity of simulated precipitation regimes over the Himalayan watersheds by exploiting the potential of RCMs in term of microphysics, resolutions and convective closures, and preferably, on resolving the crucial fine scale processes further down to their representative (meso-to-local) scales.
Analysis of Air Pressure Fluctuations and Topsoil Gas Concentrations within a Scots Pine Forest
Authors: Mohr Manuel , Laemmel Thomas , Maier Martin , Schindler Dirk
Published: October 2016

High-precision differential air pressure measurements were conducted in the below-canopy space of a Scots pine forest and in the forest soil to investigate small air pressure fluctuations and their effect on soil gas flux. In addition to air pressure measurements, tracer gas concentration in the soil and airflow characteristics above and below the canopy were measured. Results suggest that air pressure fluctuations in the frequency range of 0.01 Hz–0.1 Hz are strongly dependent on above-canopy wind speed. While amplitudes of the observed air pressure fluctuations (<10 Pa) increase significantly with increasing above-canopy wind speed, the periods decrease significantly with increasing above-canopy wind speed. These air pressure fluctuations are associated with the pressure-pumping effect in the soil. A pressure-pumping coefficient was defined, which describes the strength of the pressure-pumping effect. During the measurement period, pressure-pumping coefficients up to 0.44 Pa·s−1 were found. The dependence of the pressure-pumping coefficient on mean above-canopy wind speed can be described well with a polynomial fit of second degree. The knowledge of this relation simplifies the quantification of the pressure-pumping effect in a Scots pine forest considerably, since only the mean above-canopy wind speed has to be measured. In addition, empirical modeling revealed that the pressure-pumping coefficient explains the largest fraction of the variance of tracer gas concentration in the topsoil.
Hardness, Cohesiveness, and Adhesiveness of Oral Moisturizers and Denture Adhesives: Selection Criteria for Denture Wearers
Authors: Fujimoto Keiko , Minami Norikazu , Goto Takaharu , Ishida Yuichi , Watanabe Megumi , Nagao Kan , Ichikawa Tetsuo
Published: October 2016

The mechanical properties of seven denture adhesives and eight oral moisturizers, all of which are commercially available, were evaluated using a texture proﬁle analysis. A new assessment chart is proposed for the selection criteria of denture adhesive and oral moisturizers using a radar chart with three axes: hardness, cohesiveness, and adhesiveness.
Technical Efficiency and Its Determinants of Rice Production in Cambodia
Authors: Kea Sokvibol , Li Hua , Pich Linvolak
Published: October 2016

The present study aims to measure the technical efficiency and establish core factors affecting rice production in Cambodia. A four‐year dataset generated from the central government document “Profile on Economics and Social” of 25 entire provinces between 2012 and 2015 and the stochastic production frontier model (SFA) was applied. The results indicated that the level of output (quantity) of Cambodian rice production varied according to the different level of capital investment in agricultural machineries, total rice actual harvested area, and technical fertilizer application within provinces. Furthermore, evidence revealed that the overall mean efficiency of rice production is 78.4%, which implies that there is still room to further improve technical efficiency given the same level of inputs and technology. More importantly, the findings revealed that irrigation, production techniques and amount of agricultural supporting staff are the most important influencing factors of rice production’s technical efficiency in Cambodia. In conclusion, the present study strongly recommends the development of irrigation systems and good water management practices to be considered and bring about more effective actions by the central government as well as related agencies for improving rice production in Cambodia in addition to capital investment and improving technical skills of supporting staff and rural farmers.
A New Approach to Obtain Synthetic Wind Power Forecasts for Integration Studies
Authors: Olauson Jon , Bladh Johan , Lönnberg Joakim , Bergkvist Mikael
Published: October 2016

When performing wind integration studies, synthetic wind power forecasts are key elements. Historically, data from operational forecasting systems have been used sparsely, likely due to the high costs involved. Purely statistical methods for simulating wind power forecasts are more common,but have problems mimicking all relevant aspects of actual forecasts. Consequently, a new approach to obtain wind power forecasts for integration studies is proposed, relying on long time series of freely and globally available reforecasts. In order to produce synthetic forecasts with similar properties as operational ditto, some processing (noise addition and error reduction) is necessary. Validations with measurements from Belgium and Sweden show that the method is adequate; and distributions, correlations, autocorrelations and power spectral densities of forecast errors correspond well. Furthermore, abrupt changes when forecasts are updated and the existence of level and phase errors are reproduced. The inﬂuence from terrain complexity on error magnitude is promising, but more data is necessary for a proper validation.
Smooth Switching Technique for Voltage Balance Management Based on Three-Level Neutral Point Clamped Cascaded Rectiﬁer
Authors: Peng Xu , He Xiaoqiong , Han Pengcheng , Guo Aiping , Shu Zeliang , Gao Shibin
Published: October 2016

This paper discussed the topology of in the three-level neutral point clamped cascaded rectiﬁer (3LNPC-CR) for designing the Chinese Power Electronic Traction Transformer (PETT). To balance the DC-link voltage (Vdc) in 3LNPC-CR, a smooth switching technique is proposed in this paper. The controlling processes of each module are relatively independent when the proposed technique is applied in 3LNPC-CR. The proposed technique can keep the switching frequency constant and change the switch state smoothly while balancing Vdc. The Vdc balance ability is analyzed by calculating the unbalance degree of the loads. Simulation and experiment of three-module 3LNPC-CR are built, and then the effectiveness of the proposed technique is veriﬁed.
Fire Regimes of Remnant Pitch Pine Communities in the Ridge and Valley Region of Central Pennsylvania, USA
Authors: Marschall Joseph , Stambaugh Michael , Jones Benjamin , Guyette Richard , Brose Patrick , Dey Daniel
Published: October 2016

Many fire-adapted ecosystems in the northeastern U.S. are converting to fire-intolerant vegetation communities due to fire suppression in the 20th century. Prescribed fire and other vegetation management activities that increase resilience and resistance to global changes are increasingly being implemented, particularly on public lands. For many fire-dependent communities, there is little quantitative data describing historical fire regime attributes such as frequency, severity, and seasonality, or how these varied through time. Where available, fire-scarred live and remnant trees, including stumps and snags, offer valuable insights into historical fire regimes through tree-ring and fire-scar analyses. In this study, we dated fire scars from 66 trees at two sites in the Ridge and Valley Province of the Appalachian Mountains in central Pennsylvania, and described fire frequency, severity, and seasonality from the mid-17th century to 2013. Fires were historically frequent, of low to moderate severity, occurred mostly during the dormant season, and were influenced by aspect and topography. The current extended fire-free interval is unprecedented in the previous 250–300 years at both sites.
Overstory Tree Mortality in Ponderosa Pine and Spruce-Fir Ecosystems Following a Drought in Northern New Mexico
Authors: Oswald Brian , Dugan Sean , Balice Randy , Unger Daniel
Published: October 2016

Drought-caused tree dieback is an issue around the world as climates change and many areas become dryer and hotter. A drought from 1998–2004 resulted in a significant tree dieback event in many of the wooded areas in portions of the Jemez Mountains and the adjacent Pajarito Plateau in northern New Mexico. The objectives of this study were to evaluate and quantify the differences in tree mortality before and after a recent drought in ponderosa pine and spruce-fir ecosystems, and to assess the effect of mechanical thinning on ponderosa pine mortality. Significant increases in mortality were observed in the unthinned ponderosa pine ecosystem. Mortality varied significantly between species and within size classes. Mechanical thinning of ponderosa pines reduced overstory mortality to non-significant levels. A lack of rainfall, snowfall, and increases in daily minimum temperature contributed most to the mortality. Adaptive management, including the use of thinning activities, appear to moderate the impact of climate change on ponderosa pine forests in this region, increasing the long-term health of the ecosystem. The impact of climate change on the spruce-fir ecosystems may accelerate successional changes.
A Continuous Extraction and Pumpless Supercritical CO2 Drying System for Laboratory-Scale Aerogel Production
Authors: Lázár István , Fábián István
Published: October 2016

Production of aerogels starts with solution chemistry and may end with supercritical carbon dioxide drying, which both require a specialized system. Here we present a complete aerogel production system that was developed and used in our laboratory over the last nine years. Our aim was to develop a supercritical dryer and a protocol, whereby the CO2 pump can be left out, and the entire flow system is operated by the pressure of the CO2 cylinder. Drying pressure and temperature are controlled by the combination of the filling and heating temperatures. A continuous-mode solvent exchange system has also been developed, in which the solvent consumption during the process can be reduced to one-third of the batch method. In the new medium temperature 1.5 L volume supercritical dryer, the temperature is set to a constant 80–82 °C, and the pressure can be in the 90–200 bar range, depending on the conditions. We have performed approximately 200 dryings thus far, and prepared a wide range of monolithic aerogels, from pristine silica aerogels to polysaccharides and collagen. In this paper, we have summarized not only the technical details, but also the work experiences, as well as advantages and disadvantages of the systems.
Smartphone-Based Pedestrian’s Avoidance Behavior Recognition towards Opportunistic Road Anomaly Detection
Authors: Ishikawa Tsuyoshi , Fujinami Kaori
Published: October 2016

Road anomalies, such as cracks, pits and puddles, have generally been identiﬁed by citizen reports made by e-mail or telephone; however, it is difﬁcult for administrative entities to locate the anomaly for repair. An advanced smartphone-based solution that sends text and/or image reports with location information is not a long-lasting solution, because it depends on people’s active reporting. In this article, we show an opportunistic sensing-based system that uses a smartphone for road anomaly detection without any active user involvement. To detect road anomalies, we focus on pedestrians’ avoidance behaviors, which are characterized by changing azimuth patterns. Three typical avoidance behaviors are deﬁned, and random forest is chosen as the classiﬁer. Twenty-nine features are deﬁned, in which features calculated by splitting a segment into the ﬁrst half and the second half and considering the monotonicity of change were proven to be effective in recognition. Experiments were carried out under an ideal and controlled environment. Ten-fold cross-validation shows an average classiﬁcation performance with an F-measure of 0.89 for six activities. The proposed recognition method was proven to be robust against the size of obstacles, and the dependency on the storing position of a smartphone can be handled by an appropriate classiﬁer per storing position. Furthermore, an analysis implies that the classiﬁcation of data from an “unknown” person can be improved by taking into account the compatibility of a classiﬁer.
Golgi-Related Proteins GOLPH2 (GP73/GOLM1) and GOLPH3 (GOPP1/MIDAS) in Cutaneous Melanoma: Patterns of Expression and Prognostic Significance
Authors: Donizy Piotr , Kaczorowski Maciej , Biecek Przemyslaw , Halon Agnieszka , Szkudlarek Teresa , Matkowski Rafal
Published: October 2016

GOLPH2 and GOLPH3 are Golgi-related proteins associated with aggressiveness and progression of a number of cancers. Their prognostic significance in melanoma has not yet been analyzed. We performed immunohistochemical analysis for GOLPH2 and GOLPH3 in 20 normal skin, 30 benign nevi and 100 primary melanoma tissue samples and evaluated their expression in three compartments: cancer cells, tumor-associated macrophages (TAMs) and cancer-associated fibroblasts (CAFs). High levels of both proteins in melanoma cells were associated with characteristics of aggressive disease, and shorter disease-free survival (DFS) and cancer-specific overall survival (CSOS). On the contrary, increased numbers of GOLPH2-positive and GOLPH3-positive TAMs were observed in thinner, non-ulcerated tumors, with brisk lymphocytic reaction and absent lymphangioinvasion. Distant metastases were not observed among patients with high numbers of GOLPH2-positive TAMs. Increased expression of either protein in TAMs was related to prolonged CSOS and DFS. Similarly, GOLPH3-expressing CAFs were more frequent in thin melanomas with low mitotic rate, without ulceration and lymphangioinvasion. Moreover, increased GOLPH3-positive CAFs correlated with the absence of regional or distant metastases, and with longer CSOS and DFS. GOLPH2 expression was not observed in CAFs. Our results suggest that GOLPH2 and GOLPH3 play a role in melanoma progression and are potential targets for molecular-based therapies.
Direct Visual Editing of Node Attributes in Graphs
Authors: Eichner Christian , Gladisch Stefan , Schumann Heidrun , Tominski Christian
Published: October 2016

There are many expressive visualization techniques for analyzing graphs. Yet, there is only little research on how existing visual representations can be employed to support data editing. An increasingly relevant task when working with graphs is the editing of node attributes. We propose an integrated visualize-and-edit approach to editing attribute values via direct interaction with the visual representation. The visualize part is based on node-link diagrams paired with attribute-dependent layouts. The edit part is as easy as moving nodes via drag-and-drop gestures. We present dedicated interaction techniques for editing quantitative as well as qualitative attribute data values. The benefit of our novel integrated approach is that one can directly edit the data while the visualization constantly provides feedback on the implications of the data modifications. Preliminary user feedback indicates that our integrated approach can be a useful complement to standard non-visual editing via external tools.
Biological Control of Mosquito Vectors: Past, Present, and Future
Authors: Benelli Giovanni , Jeffries Claire , Walker Thomas
Published: October 2016

Mosquitoes represent the major arthropod vectors of human disease worldwide transmitting malaria, lymphatic filariasis, and arboviruses such as dengue virus and Zika virus. Unfortunately, no treatment (in the form of vaccines or drugs) is available for most of these diseases and vector control is still the main form of prevention. The limitations of traditional insecticide-based strategies, particularly the development of insecticide resistance, have resulted in significant efforts to develop alternative eco-friendly methods. Biocontrol strategies aim to be sustainable and target a range of different mosquito species to reduce the current reliance on insecticide-based mosquito control. In this review, we outline non-insecticide based strategies that have been implemented or are currently being tested. We also highlight the use of mosquito behavioural knowledge that can be exploited for control strategies.
An Experimental and Theoretical Investigation of the Electronic Structures and Photoelectrical Properties of Ethyl Red and Carminic Acid for DSSC Application
Authors: Sun Chaofan , Li Yuanzuo , Song Peng , Ma Fengcai
Published: October 2016

The photoelectrical properties of two dyes—ethyl red and carminic acid—as sensitizers of dye-sensitized solar cells were investigated in experiments herein described. In order to reveal the reason for the difference between the photoelectrical properties of the two dyes, the ground state and excited state properties of the dyes before and after adsorbed on TiO2 were calculated via density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent DFT (TDDFT). The key parameters including the light harvesting efficiency (LHE), the driving force of electron injection ( Δ G inject ) and dye regeneration ( Δ G regen ), the total dipole moment ( μ normal ), the conduction band of edge of the semiconductor ( Δ E CB ), and the excited state lifetime (τ) were investigated, which are closely related to the short-circuit current density ( J sc ) and open circuit voltage ( V oc ). It was found that the experimental carminic acid has a larger J sc and V oc , which are interpreted by a larger amount of dye adsorbed on a TiO2 photoanode and a larger Δ G regen , excited state lifetime (τ), μ normal , and Δ E CB . At the same time, chemical reactivity parameters illustrate that the lower chemical hardness (h) and higher electron accepting power (ω+) of carminic acid have an influence on the short-circuit current density. Therefore, carminic acid shows excellent photoelectric conversion efficiency in comparison with ethyl red.
Influence of Hardness, Matrix and Carbides in Combination with Nitridation on Abrasive Wear Resistance of X210Cr12 Tool Steel
Authors: Orečný Martin , Buršák Marián , Šebek Martin , Falat Ladislav
Published: October 2016

Materials used in abrasive wear conditions are usually selected according to their microstructure and hardness, however, other factors such as grain size, matrix saturation, carbides size and morphology are rarely considered. Therefore, the present study deals with the influence of different heat and chemical-heat treatments including their combination on abrasive wear resistance of X210Cr12 tool steel. The effects of material hardness, carbide morphology and microstructure on wear resistance after quenching and nitriding were also investigated. One sample series was quenched after austenitization at 960 °C for 20 min and tempered at 180 °C for 2 h. The second sample series was quenched from 1060 °C austenitization for 20 min and afterwards twice tempered at 530 °C for 1 h. From both the quenched and tempered states, one half of the samples was gas nitrided in NH3 atmosphere for 3 h and then diffusion annealed in N2 atmosphere for 4 h. Abrasion wear tests were performed by sliding the samples on Al2O3 paper. The samples weight loss was considered the main criterion for the wear resistance evaluation. The microstructures, nitrided layers and worn surfaces were observed using SEM microscopy. The highest abrasion wear resistance was obtained for the nitrided samples that were previously quenched from 1060 °C and tempered at 530 °C.
Multiscale and Multimaterial Fabrication: The Challenge Ahead
Authors: Nguyen Nam-Trung
Published: October 2016

In the editorial published in March 2016, I mentioned that one of the aims of Micromachines is to cover topics and technologies beyond silicon-based microsystems and microdevices [1].[...]
2-(2-Phenylethyl)chromone Derivatives of Agarwood Originating from Gyrinops salicifolia
Authors: Shao Hang , Mei Wen-Li , Dong Wen-Hua , Gai Cui-Juan , Li Wei , Zhu Guo-Peng , Dai Hao-Fu
Published: October 2016

Three new2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone derivatives (1–3) and a new2-(2-phenylethenyl)chromone derivative (4), together with two known 2-(2-phenylethyl)chromone derivatives (5–6), were isolated from agarwood originating from Gyrinops salicifolia Ridl. The structures of compounds 1–4 were elucidated by comprehensive spectroscopic techniques (UV, IR, 1D and 2D-NMR) and MS analysis, as well as by comparison with the literature. Compounds 1, 2, and 5 showed moderate cytotoxicity against human tumor K562, BEL-7402, and SGC-7901 cell lines with IC50 values of 5.76 to 20.1 µM.
Anti-Inflammatory Activity of Natural Products
Authors: Azab Abdullatif , Nassar Ahmad , Azab Abed
Published: October 2016

This article presents highlights of the published literature regarding the anti-inflammatory activities of natural products. Many review articles were published in this regard, however, most of them have presented this important issue from a regional, limited perspective. This paper summarizes the vast range of review and research articles that have reported on the anti-inflammatory effects of extracts and/or pure compounds derived from natural products. Moreover, this review pinpoints some interesting traditionally used medicinal plants that were not investigated yet.
Natural and Synthetic Coumarins with Effects on Inflammation
Authors: Kirsch Gilbert , Abdelwahab Ahmed , Chaimbault Patrick
Published: October 2016

In this review, we will present the different aspects of coumarins and derivatives, from natural origins or synthetically prepared, and their action on inflammation. Coumarins and also furo- and pyranocoumarins are found in many different plants. These compounds are very often investigated for antioxidant properties. Other biological properties are also possible and anti-inflammation activity is one of these. As coumarins are also available quite easily via synthesis, natural ones can be prepared this way but derivatives with special substituents are also feasible. A review on the same topic appeared in 2004 and our contribution will take into account everything published since then.
Personalized Proteomics: The Future of Precision Medicine
Authors: Duarte Trevor , Spencer Charles
Published: October 2016

Medical diagnostics and treatment has advanced from a one size fits all science to treatment of the patient as a unique individual. Currently, this is limited solely to genetic analysis. However, epigenetic, transcriptional, proteomic, posttranslational modifications, metabolic, and environmental factors influence a patient’s response to disease and treatment. As more analytical and diagnostic techniques are incorporated into medical practice, the personalized medicine initiative transitions to precision medicine giving a holistic view of the patient’s condition. The high accuracy and sensitivity of mass spectrometric analysis of proteomes is well suited for the incorporation of proteomics into precision medicine. This review begins with an overview of the advance to precision medicine and the current state of the art in technology and instrumentation for mass spectrometry analysis. Thereafter, it focuses on the benefits and potential uses for personalized proteomic analysis in the diagnostic and treatment of individual patients. In conclusion, it calls for a synthesis between basic science and clinical researchers with practicing clinicians to design proteomic studies to generate meaningful and applicable translational medicine. As clinical proteomics is just beginning to come out of its infancy, this overview is provided for the new initiate.
An Approach to Extended Fresnel Scattering for Modeling of Depolarizing Soil-Trunk Double-Bounce Scattering
Authors: Jagdhuber Thomas
Published: October 2016

Focusing on scattering from natural media, dihedral (double bounce) scattering is often characterized as a soil-trunk double Fresnel reflection, like for instance, in most model-based decompositions. As soils are predominantly rough in agriculture, the classical Rank 1 dihedral scattering component has to be extended to account for soil roughness-induced depolarization. Therefore, an azimuthal Line of Sight (LoS) rotation is applied solely on the soil plane of the double-bounce reflection to generate a depolarized dihedral scattering signal in agriculture. The results of the sensitivity analysis are shown for a distributed target in coherency matrix representation. It reveals that the combination of coherency matrix elements T22XD + T33XD is quasi-independent of the roughness-induced depolarization, while (T22XD − T33XD)/(T22XD + T33XD) is quasi-independent of the dielectric properties of the reflecting media. Therefore, a depolarization-independent retrieval of soil moisture or a direct roughness retrieval from the extended dihedral scattering component might be possible in stalk-dominated agriculture under certain conditions (e.g., the influence of a differential phase stays at a low level: ϕ < 15°). The first analyses with L-band airborne-SAR data of DLR’s E-SAR and F-SAR systems in agricultural regions during the AgriSAR, OPAQUE, SARTEO and TERENO project campaigns state the existence and potential of the extended Fresnel scattering mechanism to represent dihedral scattering between a rough (tilled) soil and the stalks of the agricultural plants.
A Power-Optimized Cooperative MAC Protocol for Lifetime Extension in Wireless Sensor Networks
Authors: Liu Kai , Wu Shan , Huang Bo , Liu Feng , Xu Zhen
Published: October 2016

In wireless sensor networks, in order to satisfy the requirement of long working time of energy-limited nodes, we need to design an energy-efficient and lifetime-extended medium access control (MAC) protocol. In this paper, a node cooperation mechanism that one or multiple nodes with higher channel gain and sufficient residual energy help a sender relay its data packets to its recipient is employed to achieve this objective. We first propose a transmission power optimization algorithm to prolong network lifetime by optimizing the transmission powers of the sender and its cooperative nodes to maximize their minimum residual energy after their data packet transmissions. Based on it, we propose a corresponding power-optimized cooperative MAC protocol. A cooperative node contention mechanism is designed to ensure that the sender can effectively select a group of cooperative nodes with the lowest energy consumption and the best channel quality for cooperative transmissions, thus further improving the energy efficiency. Simulation results show that compared to typical MAC protocol with direct transmissions and energy-efficient cooperative MAC protocol, the proposed cooperative MAC protocol can efficiently improve the energy efficiency and extend the network lifetime.
Assessing Walking Strategies Using Insole Pressure Sensors for Stroke Survivors
Authors: Munoz-Organero Mario , Parker Jack , Powell Lauren , Mawson Susan
Published: October 2016

Insole pressure sensors capture the different forces exercised over the different parts of the sole when performing tasks standing up such as walking. Using data analysis and machine learning techniques, common patterns and strategies from different users to achieve different tasks can be automatically extracted. In this paper, we present the results obtained for the automatic detection of different strategies used by stroke survivors when walking as integrated into an Information Communication Technology (ICT) enhanced Personalised Self-Management Rehabilitation System (PSMrS) for stroke rehabilitation. Fourteen stroke survivors and 10 healthy controls have participated in the experiment by walking six times a distance from chair to chair of approximately 10 m long. The Rivermead Mobility Index was used to assess the functional ability of each individual in the stroke survivor group. Several walking strategies are studied based on data gathered from insole pressure sensors and patterns found in stroke survivor patients are compared with average patterns found in healthy control users. A mechanism to automatically estimate a mobility index based on the similarity of the pressure patterns to a stereotyped stride is also used. Both data gathered from stroke survivors and healthy controls are used to evaluate the proposed mechanisms. The output of trained algorithms is applied to the PSMrS system to provide feedback on gait quality enabling stroke survivors to self-manage their rehabilitation.
Towards Real-Time Detection of Gait Events on Different Terrains Using Time-Frequency Analysis and Peak Heuristics Algorithm
Authors: Zhou Hui , Ji Ning , Samuel Oluwarotimi , Cao Yafei , Zhao Zheyi , Chen Shixiong , Li Guanglin
Published: October 2016

Real-time detection of gait events can be applied as a reliable input to control drop foot correction devices and lower-limb prostheses. Among the different sensors used to acquire the signals associated with walking for gait event detection, the accelerometer is considered as a preferable sensor due to its convenience of use, small size, low cost, reliability, and low power consumption. Based on the acceleration signals, different algorithms have been proposed to detect toe off (TO) and heel strike (HS) gait events in previous studies. While these algorithms could achieve a relatively reasonable performance in gait event detection, they suffer from limitations such as poor real-time performance and are less reliable in the cases of up stair and down stair terrains. In this study, a new algorithm is proposed to detect the gait events on three walking terrains in real-time based on the analysis of acceleration jerk signals with a time-frequency method to obtain gait parameters, and then the determination of the peaks of jerk signals using peak heuristics. The performance of the newly proposed algorithm was evaluated with eight healthy subjects when they were walking on level ground, up stairs, and down stairs. Our experimental results showed that the mean F1 scores of the proposed algorithm were above 0.98 for HS event detection and 0.95 for TO event detection on the three terrains. This indicates that the current algorithm would be robust and accurate for gait event detection on different terrains. Findings from the current study suggest that the proposed method may be a preferable option in some applications such as drop foot correction devices and leg prostheses.
Methodological Comparison between a Novel Automatic Sampling System for Gas Chromatography versus Photoacoustic Spectroscopy for Measuring Greenhouse Gas Emissions under Field Conditions
Authors: Schmithausen Alexander , Trimborn Manfred , Büscher Wolfgang
Published: October 2016

Trace gases such as nitrous oxide (N2O), methane (CH4), and carbon dioxide (CO2) are climate-related gases, and their emissions from agricultural livestock barns are not negligible. Conventional measurement systems in the field (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR); photoacoustic system (PAS)) are not sufficiently sensitive to N2O. Laser-based measurement systems are highly accurate, but they are very expensive to purchase and maintain. One cost-effective alternative is gas chromatography (GC) with electron capture detection (ECD), but this is not suitable for field applications due to radiation. Measuring samples collected automatically under field conditions in the laboratory at a subsequent time presents many challenges. This study presents a sampling designed to promote laboratory analysis of N2O concentrations sampled under field conditions. Analyses were carried out using PAS in the field (online system) and GC in the laboratory (offline system). Both measurement systems showed a good correlation for CH4 and CO2 concentrations. Measured N2O concentrations were near the detection limit for PAS. GC achieved more reliable results for N2O in very low concentration ranges.
Toward Sustainable Brownfield Redevelopment Using Life-Cycle Thinking
Authors: Chen I-Chun , Tsai Yeng-Chieh , Ma Hwong-Wen
Published: October 2016

The redevelopment of brownfields has become an important issue, as the number of contaminated sites has been increasing. However, a comprehensive regulatory framework is lacking that includes urban planning and a sustainability plan at the national level to support brownfield redevelopment in Taiwan. Few studies have explored sustainable management objectives to reduce the environmental impact of increasing economic value of the proliferating redeveloped brownfields. This study proposes a feasible definition for “brownfield” in Taiwan and analyzes the remediation goals to enable their inclusion in future land-use categories for urban planning. In order to rank the various options for brownfield development by sustainability, this study evaluates the external costs and benefits based on the environmental impact. Finally, the brownfield sustainability index (BSI) was developed to determine the feasibility of sustainable redevelopment relevant to the different land reuse scenarios. For the selected study site, the option of green land with solar energy (ground P-Si panels) was determined to be the best choice compared with the commercial, residential, and industrial scenarios. This study provides a framework for planning brownfield assessment strategies to address the current soil and groundwater remediation and land use policy issues in Taiwan.
Sustainability, TQM and Value Co-Creation Processes: The Role of Critical Success Factors
Authors: Aquilani Barbara , Silvestri Cecilia , Ruggieri Alessandro
Published: October 2016

Sustainability views firm success and the welfare-wellbeing of societies in which they develop as closely inter-related. Value co-creation assumes that firms create value not only for themselves, but also for all actors willing to participate in co-creation processes, as well as for the whole ecosystem in which they operate. Thus, co-creation can sustain social development and sustainability. However, to ensure sustainability through value co-creation processes, TQM principles must be followed and Critical Success Factors (CSFs) reinterpreted following this perspective. In this important, but understudied context, the aim of the paper is to focus on value co-creation processes fostering sustainability, identifying which CSFs are most suitable to best support each phase of these processes. The paper is based on a review of the literature and bridges sustainability, value co-creation, TQM, EM and IMS literature for the first time, proposing a new model of value co-creation processes, which considers it a never ending cycle. The proposed model presents and discusses, for the first time, the most important CSFs to foster sustainability and opens the discussion on how to re-interpret quality principles, which must also be followed in value co-creation processes.
Zoonotic Hepatitis E Virus: Classiﬁcation, Animal Reservoirs and Transmission Routes
Authors: Doceul Virginie , Bagdassarian Eugénie , Demange Antonin , Pavio Nicole
Published: October 2016

During the past ten years, several new hepatitis E viruses (HEVs) have been identiﬁed in various animal species. In parallel, the number of reports of autochthonous hepatitis E in Western countries has increased as well, raising the question of what role these possible animal reservoirs play in human infections. The aim of this review is to present the recent discoveries of animal HEVs and their classiﬁcation within the Hepeviridae family, their zoonotic and species barrier crossing potential, and possible use as models to study hepatitis E pathogenesis. Lastly, this review describes the transmission pathways identiﬁed from animal sources.