bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fabrication of Highly Conductive Porous Cellulose/PEDOT:PSS Nanocomposite Paper via Post-Treatment
Authors: Ko Youngsang , Kim Jeonghun , Kim Dabum , Kwon Goomin , Yamauchi Yusuke , You Jungmok
Published: April 2019

In this paper, we report the fabrication of highly conductive poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene)-poly(styrenesulfonate) (PEDOT:PSS)/cellulose nanofiber (CNF) nanocomposite paper with excellent flexibility through post-treatment with an organic solvent. The post-treated PEDOT:PSS/CNF porous nanocomposite papers showed a lower sulfur content, indicating the removal of residual PSS. The electrical conductivity of PEDOT:PSS/CNF porous nanocomposite paper was increased from 1.05 S/cm to 123.37 S/cm and 106.6 S/cm by post-treatment with dimethyl sulfoxide (DMSO) and ethylene glycol (EG), respectively. These values are outstanding in the development of electrically conductive CNF composites. Additionally, the highly conductive nanocomposite papers showed excellent bending stability during bending tests. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) showed a Faradaic redox reaction and non-Faradaic capacitance due to the redox activity of PEDOT:PSS and large surface area, respectively. Electrochemical energy storage ability was evaluated and results showed that capacitance improved after post-treatment. We believe that the highly conductive PEDOT:PSS/CNF porous nanocomposite papers with excellent flexibility described here are potential candidates for application in porous paper electrodes, flexible energy storage devices, and bioengineering sensors.
A Suite of Therapeutically-Inspired Nucleic Acid Logic Systems for Conditional Generation of Single-Stranded and Double-Stranded Oligonucleotides
Authors: Zakrevsky Paul , Bindewald Eckart , Humbertson Hadley , Viard Mathias , Dorjsuren Nomongo , Shapiro Bruce A.
Published: April 2019

Several varieties of small nucleic acid constructs are able to modulate gene expression via one of a number of different pathways and mechanisms. These constructs can be synthesized, assembled and delivered to cells where they are able to impart regulatory functions, presenting a potential avenue for the development of nucleic acid-based therapeutics. However, distinguishing aberrant cells in need of therapeutic treatment and limiting the activity of deliverable nucleic acid constructs to these specific cells remains a challenge. Here, we designed and characterized a collection of nucleic acids systems able to generate and/or release sequence-specific oligonucleotide constructs in a conditional manner based on the presence or absence of specific RNA trigger molecules. The conditional function of these systems utilizes the implementation of AND and NOT Boolean logic elements, which could ultimately be used to restrict the release of functionally relevant nucleic acid constructs to specific cellular environments defined by the high or low expression of particular RNA biomarkers. Each system is generalizable and designed with future therapeutic development in mind. Every construct assembles through nuclease-resistant RNA/DNA hybrid duplex formation, removing the need for additional 2′-modifications, while none contain any sequence restrictions on what can define the diagnostic trigger sequence or the functional oligonucleotide output.
The Impact of Maternal Eating Disorders on Dietary Intake and Eating Patterns during Pregnancy: A Systematic Review
Authors: Dörsam Annica F. , Preißl Hubert , Micali Nadia , Lörcher Sophia B. , Zipfel Stephan , Giel Katrin E.
Published: April 2019

Maternal nutrition in pregnancy has a key influence on optimum fetal health. Eating disorders (EDs) during pregnancy may have detrimental effects on fetal growth and the child’s early development. There is limited knowledge concerning the eating behavior, dietary intake and derived nutritional biomarkers as well as the nutrient supplementation in women with EDs during pregnancy. We performed a systematic review according to the PRISMA statement to synthesize current evidence in this field. Of N = 1203 hits, 13 full-texts were included in the qualitative synthesis. While women with current Binge Eating Disorder (BED) showed higher energy and fat intakes during pregnancy, women with a lifetime Anorexia Nervosa (AN), Bulimia Nervosa (BN) or both (AN + BN) had similar patterns of nutrient intake and dietary supplement use as healthy women. There is evidence, that women with a history of EDs have a sufficient diet quality and are more likely to be vegetarian. Dieting and bingeing improved substantially with pregnancy. The highlighted differences in the consumption of coffee/caffeine and artificially sweetened beverages as well as the elevated prevalence of iron deficiency anemia in women with a past or active ED during pregnancy might have an important impact on fetal development.
Dietary Patterns in Relation to Components of Dyslipidemia and Fasting Plasma Glucose in Adults with Dyslipidemia and Elevated Fasting Plasma Glucose in Taiwan
Authors: Lin Li-Yin , Hsu Chien-Yeh , Lee Hsiu-An , Wang Wan-Hsiang , Kurniawan Adi Lukas , Chao Jane C.-J.
Published: April 2019

Dietary patterns have been proposed to be related to dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia. This study investigated the correlation of dietary patterns with components of dyslipidemia and fasting plasma glucose (FPG) among young and middle-aged adults (aged between 20 and 50 years) with dyslipidemia and abnormal FPG in Taiwan. This cross-sectional study used the database compiled in Taiwan between 2001 to 2010. A total of 13,609 subjects aged between 20 and 50 years were selected. Dyslipidemia was defined primarily according to the National Cholesterol Education Program Adult Treatment Panel III guidelines with minor modification. Elevated FPG level was defined according to the American Diabetes Association. The factor analysis was conducted to identify three dietary patterns. Higher scores of the meat–convenience dietary pattern (high intake of deep-fried and processed food, sauces, sugar-added beverages, meat and organ meats, instant noodles, rice or flour cooked in oil, and eggs) had no association with components of dyslipidemia and abnormal FPG. Higher scores of the vegetables–fruits–seafood dietary pattern (high intake of vegetables, vegetables with oil or dressing, fruits, seafood, legumes, soy products, and rice or flour products) was inversely associated with hypercholesterolemia and positively associated with hyperglycemia. Higher scores of the dairy–complex carbohydrate dietary pattern (high intake of dairy products, milk, root crops, jam or honey, and whole grains) was inversely correlated with hypertriglycemia and low high-density lipoprotein cholesterol level. Our results support that the dietary pattern may have a role in the prevention and management of dyslipidemia and abnormal fasting plasma glucose.
Association between Dietary Cholesterol and Their Food Sources and Risk for Hypercholesterolemia: The 2012–2016 Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey
Authors: Cha Dongjoo , Park Yongsoon
Published: April 2019

It remains unclear whether cholesterol intake can increase serum cholesterol. Therefore, the present study aimed to investigate the hypothesis that the risk for hypercholesterolemia was not associated with intake of dietary cholesterol after adjusting for saturated fatty acid (SFA). Based on the data from the 2012–2016 KNHANES, dietary cholesterol was positively associated with the risk for abnormalities in total cholesterol (TC) (odds ratio (OR): 1.153, 95% confidence interval (CI): 0.995–1.337; p = 0.028) and low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) (OR: 1.186, 95% CI: 1.019–1.382; p = 0.018) levels before adjusting for SFA; after adjusting for SFA, no significant associations were found between these variables. The mediation analysis showed that dietary cholesterol had no direct effects on the serum levels of TC and LDL-C; in contrast, SFA had significant indirect effects on the association between dietary cholesterol and serum levels of TC and LDL-C. Furthermore, processed meats, but not eggs and other meats, were positively associated with the risk for abnormalities in both TC (OR: 1.220, 95% CI: 1.083–1.374; p = 0.001) and LDL-C (OR: 1.193, 95% CI: 1.052–1.354; p = 0.004) levels. The present study suggested that higher intake of processed meats with high SFA, but not dietary cholesterol was associated with higher risk for abnormalities in TC and LDL-C levels.
Low Zinc, Copper, and Manganese Intake is Associated with Depression and Anxiety Symptoms in the Japanese Working Population: Findings from the Eating Habit and Well-Being Study
Authors: Nakamura Mieko , Miura Ayako , Nagahata Tomomi , Shibata Yosuke , Okada Eisaku , Ojima Toshiyuki
Published: April 2019

Epidemiological studies have suggested that there is an association between diet and mental health. The aim of this study was to investigate the association between the intake of six minerals and mental disorders in a cross-sectional study. We used data from the Eating Habit and Well-being study in Japanese workers. Kessler’s six-item psychological distress scale was used to detect mental disorders, with a cut-off score of 12/13, and a validated food frequency questionnaire was used to estimate dietary mineral intake. A total of 2089 participants with no history of depression were included. The prevalence of mental disorders was 6.9%. The lowest quartiles of zinc, copper, and manganese intakes were associated with mental disorders, whereas the lowest quartiles of calcium, magnesium, and iron intake were not associated with mental disorders. Combination analysis of high (≥median) or low (<median) intake of zinc, copper, and manganese showed that low zinc and low copper intake, even with low or high manganese intake (odds ratio (OR), 2.71, 95% confidence interval (CI), 1.29–5.73, and OR, 3.06, 95% CI, 1.41–6.61, respectively) showed a higher OR than that of high zinc, high copper, and high manganese intake. Further studies are required to investigate the impact of dietary mineral intake on mental health.
Protective Effects of Moderate Ca Supplementation against Cd-Induced Bone Damage under Different Population-Relevant Doses in Young Female Rats
Authors: Huang Xiao , Liu Teng , Zhao Meng , Fu Haowei , Wang Jinming , Xu Qian
Published: April 2019

Estimation of the skeleton-protective effects of Ca in Cd-induced bone damage is helpful in the assessment of Cd health risk. The aim of this study was to identify whether Ca supplementation during exposure to different population-relevant doses of Cd can prevent Cd-induced bone damage under the tolerable upper intake level of Ca supplementation. Young female Sprague-Dawley rats were given different population-relevant doses of Cd (1, 5, and 50 mg Cd/kg diet) and Ca supplementation (0.4% Ca supplementation) intervention. Ca supplementation significantly decreased Cd-induced bone microstructure damage, increased bone biomechanics (p < 0.05), serum bone formation marker level (p < 0.05) and expression of osteogenic gene markers exposure to the 5 and 50 mg Cd/kg diets. However, it had no impact on these indicators under the 1 mg Cd/kg diets, with the exception of expression of osteogenic marker genes. Ca supplementation significantly decreased serum Klotho level (p < 0.05), and fibroblast growth factor 23/Klotho-associated gene expression in the kidney and bone showed significant changes. In conclusion, Ca supplementation has a positive effect on bone formation and bone quality against the damaging impact of Cd, especially with exposure to the 5 mg and 50 mg Cd/kg diet, which may be related to its impact on the fibroblast growth factor 23/Klotho axis.
Electrospun Nanofibers for Tissue Engineering with Drug Loading and Release
Authors: Ye Kaiqiang , Kuang Haizhu , You Zhengwei , Morsi Yosry , Mo Xiumei
Published: April 2019

Electrospinning technologies have been applied in the field of tissue engineering as materials, with nanoscale-structures and high porosity, can be easily prepared via this method to bio-mimic the natural extracellular matrix (ECM). Tissue engineering aims to fabricate functional biomaterials for the repairment and regeneration of defective tissue. In addition to the structural simulation for accelerating the repair process and achieving a high-quality regeneration, the combination of biomaterials and bioactive molecules is required for an ideal tissue-engineering scaffold. Due to the diversity in materials and method selection for electrospinning, a great flexibility in drug delivery systems can be achieved. Various drugs including antibiotic agents, vitamins, peptides, and proteins can be incorporated into electrospun scaffolds using different electrospinning techniques and drug-loading methods. This is a review of recent research on electrospun nanofibrous scaffolds for tissue-engineering applications, the development of preparation methods, and the delivery of various bioactive molecules. These studies are based on the fabrication of electrospun biomaterials for the repair of blood vessels, nerve tissues, cartilage, bone defects, and the treatment of aneurysms and skin wounds, as well as their applications related to oral mucosa and dental fields. In these studies, due to the optimal selection of drugs and loading methods based on electrospinning, in vitro and in vivo experiments demonstrated that these scaffolds exhibited desirable effects for the repair and treatment of damaged tissue and, thus, have excellent potential for clinical application.
Preparation and Evaluation of Topically Applied Azithromycin Based on Sodium Hyaluronate in Treatment of Conjunctivitis
Authors: Chen Qian , Yin Chun , Ma Jiang , Tu Jiasheng , Shen Yan
Published: April 2019

Azithromycin (AZI) eye drops containing sodium hyaluronate (SH) were developed to improve the bioavailability of AZI. Interaction between AZI and SH in the AZI-SH formulation was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry, X-ray diffraction, and 1H-nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy analyses. Moreover, advantages of using SH as an excipient were investigated by comparing physiological properties and pharmacokinetic behaviors of SH-containing AZI eye drops with that of hydroxypropyl methylcellulose (HPMC)-containing formulation. In addition, safety of the developed AZI-SH eye drops was evaluated by in vitro 3-(4,5-dimethyl-2-Thiazyl)-2, 5-diphenyl-2H-tetrazolium bromide assay (MTT assay) and neutral red uptake assay as well as in vivo eye irritation test and acute toxicity test. The results indicated that AZI formed a complex with SH under a slightly acidic condition. The area under the curve (AUC) of AZI in SH-containing formulation was 1.58-fold higher (P < 0.01) than that in HPMC-containing formulation due to the interaction between the amine group of AZI and the carboxyl group of SH, despite of the higher viscosity of HPMC-containing formulation. Safety evaluation showed that AZI-SH eye drops caused no obvious eye irritation and acute toxicity. In conclusion, the developed SH-containing AZI formulation possessing advantages of longer retention time and higher drug availability was a promising drug formulation for topical ocular therapy.
Effect of Sulfonation Degree and PVDF Content on the Structure and Transport Properties of SPEEK/PVDF Blend Membranes
Authors: He Shaojian , Zhai Shaoxiong , Zhang Chong , Xue Yang , Yang Wei , Lin Jun
Published: April 2019

Sulfonated poly (ether ether ketone) (SPEEK) with four different sulfonation degrees (SDs) were prepared, and mixed with polyvinylidene fluoride (PVDF) to prepare four series of SPEEK/PVDF blend membranes. The miscibility between SPEEK and PVDF was investigated by observing the micro-morphologies. The miscible blend membranes were found in the SPEEK/PVDF blend membranes in which either SPEEK had relatively low SD or consisted of low content of one component (either SPEEK or PVDF). The PVDF crystallinity was found to decrease in the SPEEK/PVDF membranes that had better blend miscibility. With the increase of PVDF content, all the blend membranes exhibited the decreased proton conductivity and methanol permeability, and the miscible blend membranes decreased more slowly than the immiscible ones.
Studies on Curing Kinetics and Tensile Properties of Silica-Filled Phenolic Amine/Epoxy Resin Nanocomposite
Authors: Zheng Ting , Wang Xiaodong , Lu Chunrui , Zhang Xiaohong , Ji Yi , Bai Chengying , Chen Yiwen , Qiao Yingjie
Published: April 2019

In this study, the curing kinetics of the phenolic amine/epoxy resin system were investigated by nonisothermal differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). The model-free isoconversional method of Ozawa–Flynn–Wall reveals a dependence of Eα (activation energy) on conversion (α), which interprets the autocatalytic curing reaction mechanism of the phenolic amine/epoxy resin system. Studies on the effects of nano-SiO2 particles on the tensile properties and tensile fracture face morphology of nanocomposites show that the uniform dispersion of SiO2 nanoparticles plays an important role in promoting the tensile performance of nanocomposites. Additionally, increases of 184.1% and 217.2% were achieved by adding 1.5% weight parts of nano-SiO2 in composites for the tensile strength and tensile modulus, respectively.
Antifungal and Antibacterial Activities of Musa paradisiaca L. Peel Extract: HPLC Analysis of Phenolic and Flavonoid Contents
Authors: Behiry Said , Okla Mohmmad , Alamri Saud , EL-Hefny Mervat , Salem Mohamed , Alaraidh Ibrahim , Ali Hayssam , Al-Ghtani Salem , Monroy José , Salem Abdelfattah
Published: April 2019

In the present study, Melia azedarach wood samples that were treated with the methanolic extract of Musa paradisiaca L. peels were evaluated for their antibacterial and antifungal activities against Agrobacterium tumefaciens, Dickeya solani, Erwinia amylovora, Pseudomonas cichorii, Serratia pylmuthica, Fusarium culmorum, and Rhizoctonia solani. The strongest antibacterial activity was only found against A. tumefaciens (inhibition zone 90 mm), while the other bacterial strains showed resistance to wood that was treated with the extract. Potential antifungal activity against F. culmorum and R. solani was observed; the mycelial growth inhibition percentages reached 68.88% and 94.07%, respectively, in wood samples that were treated with the 3% methanolic extract of M. paradisiaca peel. HPLC analysis demonstrated the presence of seven phenolic compounds and three flavonoid compounds, as their peaks were matched with the standard compounds in a HPLC analysis. The major constituents of phenolic and flavonoid compounds in mg/100 g dry extract (DE) were ellagic acid (16.19), gallic acid (7.73), rutin (973.08), myricetin (11.52), and naringenin (8.47). The results demonstrated the potential effects of banana peel extract as a natural compound that can protect wood from molds while in use.
An Understanding of Religious Doing: A Photovoice Study
Authors: Eyres Patricia , Bannigan Katrina , Letherby Gayle
Published: April 2019

The ability to participate in everyday activities that hold meaning and value is a determinant of health and wellbeing. Occupational therapists work with people when health and social barriers limit this valued participation. However a challenge persists in including religious practice or ‘doing’ within therapy, with many occupational therapists feeling ill-equipped and reluctant to address religious doing. The study reported here examines religious doing within the lives of participants from a number of faith traditions. A photovoice method is used, with participants discussing photographs that they have taken to describe their religious doing. Data are analyzed using a phenomenological reflective lifeworld approach. Findings are grouped into six themes and are explored using both verbatim quotes from transcripts and some of the photographs taken by participants. A reflective description of the core aspects of participants’ practical religious doing is constructed from the data, with the intention of providing occupational therapists with a basis from which to begin to consider practical religious doing within the lives of their clients. It is proposed that occupational therapists do not need an in-depth knowledge of theology and doctrine but rather an understanding of key and familiar occupational principles such as person-centred habits and routines, and community connectedness.
Evaluation and Validation of CryoSat-2-Derived Water Levels Using In Situ Lake Data from China
Authors: Liu Zhaofei , Yao Zhijun , Wang Rui
Published: April 2019

CryoSat-2 altimetry has become a valuable tool for monitoring the water level of lakes. In this study, a concentrated probability density function (PDF) method was proposed for preprocessing CryoSat-2 Geophysical Data Record (GDR) data. CryoSat-2 altimetry water levels were preprocessed and evaluated by in situ gauge data from 12 lakes in China. Results showed that the accuracy of the raw GDR data was limited due to outliers in most of the along-track segments. The outliers were generally significantly lower than the in situ values by several meters, and some by more than 30 m. Outlier detection, therefore, improves upon the accuracy of CryoSat-2 measurements. The concentrated PDF method was able to greatly improve the accuracy of CryoSat-2 measurements. The preprocessed CryoSat-2 measurements were able to observe lake levels with a high accuracy at nine of the twelve lakes, with an absolute mean difference of 0.09 m, an absolute standard deviation difference of 0.04 m, a mean root mean square error of 0.27 m, and a mean correlation coefficient of 0.84. Overall, the accuracy of CryoSat-2-derived lake levels was validated in China. In addition, the accuracy of Database for Hydrological Time Series of Inland Waters (DAHITI) and HYDROWEB water level products was also validated by in situ gauge data.
An Analysis of Land Surface Temperature Trends in the Central Himalayan Region Based on MODIS Products
Authors: Zhao Wei , He Juelin , Wu Yanhong , Xiong Donghong , Wen Fengping , Li Ainong
Published: April 2019

The scientific community has widely reported the impacts of climate change on the Central Himalaya. To qualify and quantify these effects, long-term land surface temperature observations in both the daytime and nighttime, acquired by the Moderate Resolution Imaging Spectroradiometer from 2000 to 2017, were used in this study to investigate the spatiotemporal variations and their changing mechanism. Two periodic parameters, the mean annual surface temperature (MAST) and the annual maximum temperature (MAXT), were derived based on an annual temperature cycle model to reduce the influences from the cloud cover and were used to analyze their trend during the period. The general thermal environment represented by the average MAST indicated a significant spatial distribution pattern along with the elevation gradient. Behind the clear differences in the daytime and nighttime temperatures at different physiographical regions, the trend test conducted with the Mann-Kendall (MK) method showed that most of the areas with significant changes showed an increasing trend, and the nighttime temperatures exhibited a more significant increasing trend than the daytime temperatures, for both the MAST and MAXT, according to the changing areas. The nighttime changing areas were more widely distributed (more than 28%) than the daytime changing areas (around 10%). The average change rates of the MAST and MAXT in the daytime are 0.102 °C/yr and 0.190 °C/yr, and they are generally faster than those in the nighttime (0.048 °C/yr and 0.091 °C/yr, respectively). The driving force analysis suggested that urban expansion, shifts in the courses of lowland rivers, and the retreat of both the snow and glacier cover presented strong effects on the local thermal environment, in addition to the climatic warming effect. Moreover, the strong topographic gradient greatly influenced the change rate and evidenced a significant elevation-dependent warming effect, especially for the nighttime LST. Generally, this study suggested that the nighttime temperature was more sensitive to climate change than the daytime temperature, and this general warming trend clearly observed in the central Himalayan region could have important influences on local geophysical, hydrological, and ecological processes.
D-ATR for SAR Images Based on Deep Neural Networks
Authors: Cui Zongyong , Tang Cui , Cao Zongjie , Liu Nengyuan
Published: April 2019

Automatic target recognition (ATR) can obtain important information for target surveillance from Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) images. Thus, a direct automatic target recognition (D-ATR) method, based on a deep neural network (DNN), is proposed in this paper. To recognize targets in large-scene SAR images, the traditional methods of SAR ATR are comprised of four major steps: detection, discrimination, feature extraction, and classification. However, the recognition performance is sensitive to each step, as the processing result from each step will affect the following step. Meanwhile, these processes are independent, which means that there is still room for processing speed improvement. The proposed D-ATR method can integrate these steps as a whole system and directly recognize targets in large-scene SAR images, by encapsulating all of the computation in a single deep convolutional neural network (DCNN). Before the DCNN, a fast sliding method is proposed to partition the large image into sub-images, to avoid information loss when resizing the input images, and to avoid the target being divided into several parts. After the DCNN, non-maximum suppression between sub-images (NMSS) is performed on the results of the sub-images, to obtain an accurate result of the large-scene SAR image. Experiments on the MSTAR dataset and large-scene SAR images (with resolution 1478 × 1784) show that the proposed method can obtain a high accuracy and fast processing speed, and out-performs other methods, such as CFAR+SVM, Region-based CNN, and YOLOv2.
The Rapid and Steady Mass Loss of the Patagonian Icefields throughout the GRACE Era: 2002–2017
Authors: Richter Andreas , Groh Andreas , Horwath Martin , Ivins Erik , Marderwald Eric , Hormaechea José Luis , Perdomo Raúl , Dietrich Reinhard
Published: April 2019

We use the complete gravity recovery and climate experiment (GRACE) Level-2 monthly time series to derive the ice mass changes of the Patagonian Icefields (Southern Andes). The glacial isostatic adjustment is accounted for by a regional model that is constrained by global navigation satellite systems (GNSS) uplift observations. Further corrections are applied concerning the effect of mass variations in the ocean, in the continental water storage, and of the Antarctic ice sheet. The 161 monthly GRACE gravity field solutions are inverted in the spatial domain through the adjustment of scaling factors applied to a-priori ice mass change patterns based on published remote sensing results for the Southern and Northern Patagonian Icefields, respectively. We infer an ice mass change rate of −24.4 ± 4.7 Gt/a for the Patagonian Icefields between April 2002 and June 2017, which corresponds to a contribution to the eustatic sea level rise of 0.067 ± 0.013 mm/a. Our time series of monthly ice mass changes reveals no indication for an acceleration in ice mass loss. We find indications that the Northern Patagonian Icefield contributes more to the integral ice loss than previously assumed.
Multispectral Contrast of Archaeological Features: A Quantitative Evaluation
Authors: Kalayci Tuna , Lasaponara Rosa , Wainwright John , Masini Nicola
Published: April 2019

This study provides an evaluation of spectral responses of hollow ways in Upper Mesopotamia. Hollow ways were used for the transportation of animals, carts, and other moving agents for centuries. The aim is to show how the success of spectral indices varies in describing topologically simple features even in a seemingly homogeneous geographic unit. The variation is further highlighted under the changing precipitation regime. The methodology begins with an exploration of the relationship between the date of a multispectral scene and the visibility of hollow ways. The next step is to evaluate the impact of rainfall levels on numerous indices and to quantify spectral contrast. The contrast between a hollow way and its background is evaluated with Welch’s t-test and the association between precipitation regime and spectral responses of hollow ways are investigated with Correspondence Analysis and Fisher’s test. Results highlight an intrinsic relationship between the precipitation regime and the ways in which archaeological features reflects and/or emits electromagnetic energy. Next, the categorization of spectral indices based on different rainfall levels can be used as a guidance in future studies. Finally, the study suggests contrast becomes an even more fruitful concept as one moves from the spatial domain to the spectral domain.
New Approach to Analysis of Selected Measurement and Monitoring Systems Solutions in Ship Technology
Authors: Dudojc Boleslaw , Mindykowski Janusz
Published: April 2019

This paper is dedicated to certain types of measurement in ship systems, analyzed based on selected case studies. In the introductory part, a simplified structure of a modern cargo ship as an object of measurement and control is presented. Next, the role of measurement in the ship’s operation process is described and commented on, with focus on specifics of local and remote control, both manual and automatic. The key part of the paper is dedicated to a short overview of selected examples of measuring and monitoring systems. The basic criteria for the aforementioned selection are the vital role of the considered systems for safe and effective ship operation as well as documented innovative contribution of Gdynia Maritime University (GMU) in development of the state-of-the-art in the analysed area of measurement. Based on these criteria, the monitoring of operational parameters of main engine and temperature measurement in the ships hazardous areas have been chosen. The aforementioned measurement and monitoring systems are analysed, taking into account both innovation of technical solutions together with their ship technology environment conditions and related legal requirements. Finally, some concluding remarks are formulated.
Frequency-Dependent Streaming Potential in a Porous Transducer-Based Angular Accelerometer
Authors: Ming Li , Wang Meiling , Ning Ke
Published: April 2019

This paper presents a transient model of streaming potential generated when fluid flows through a porous transducer, which is sintered by glass microspheres and embedded in the circular tube of a liquid circular angular accelerometer (LCAA). The streaming potential coupling coefficient (SPC) is used to characterize this proposed transient model by combining a capillary bundle model of a porous transducer with a modified Packard’s model. The modified Packard’s model is developed with the consideration of surface conductance. The frequency-dependent streaming potential is investigated to analyze the effect of structure parameters of porous media and the properties of the fluid, including particle size distribution, zeta potential, surface conductance, pH, and solution conductivity. The results show that the diameter of microspheres not only affects bandwidth and transient response, but also influences the low-frequency gain. In addition, the properties of the fluid can influence the low-frequency gain. Experiments are actualized to measure the steady-state value of permeability and SPC for seven types of porous transducers. Experimental results possess high consistency, which verify that the proposed model can be utilized to optimize the transient and steady-state performance of the system effectively.
Internet of Things (IoT) Operating Systems Management: Opportunities, Challenges, and Solution
Authors: Zikria Yousaf Bin , Kim Sung Won , Hahm Oliver , Afzal Muhammad Khalil , Aalsalem Mohammed Y.
Published: April 2019

Internet of Things (IoT) is rapidly growing and contributing drastically to improve the quality of life. Immense technological innovations and growth is a key factor in IoT advancements. Readily available low cost IoT hardware is essential for continuous adaptation of IoT. Advancements in IoT Operating System (OS) to support these newly developed IoT hardware along with the recent standards and techniques for all the communication layers are the way forward. The variety of IoT OS availability demands to support interoperability that requires to follow standard set of rules for development and protocol functionalities to support heterogeneous deployment scenarios. IoT requires to be intelligent to self-adapt according to the network conditions. In this paper, we present brief overview of different IoT OSs, supported hardware, and future research directions. Therein, we provide overview of the accepted papers in our Special Issue on IoT OS management: opportunities, challenges, and solution. Finally, we conclude the manuscript.
How Much Practice Is Required to Reduce Performance Variability in a Virtual Reality Mining Simulator?
Authors: Nickel Courtney , Knight Carolyn , Langille Aaron , Godwin Alison
Published: April 2019

Virtual reality allows researchers to explore training scenarios that are not feasible or are potentially risky to recreate in the real world. The aim of this research was to examine whether using a tutorial session prior to using the mining simulator could adequately reduce the performance variability and increase the consistency of participant performance metrics. Eighteen participants were randomly assigned to a tutorial or a non-tutorial group. The tutorial group completed a five-minute tutorial that introduced them to the basics of the machine and virtual reality environment. All participants then completed five sessions in the simulator lasting five minutes each. Personality scores were recorded and participants answered questions to test their situational awareness after each session. Performance metrics such as number of collisions and perception response time were recorded by the simulator. A Wilcoxon signed rank test was used to determine at what point a significant difference in performance metrics was apparent across the five sessions. A mixed effects multilevel regression was done to evaluate the change in variability across time. There were no significant correlations between the personality questionnaire scores and the number of collisions or the perception response time. Both groups demonstrated high standard deviation scores for collisions and perception response time, but the tutorial group had decreasing variability across time. Both groups began to exhibit more consistent scores in the simulator after 10 min of use. Situational awareness questions require some refinement prior to further testing.
The Relationship of Age and BMI with Physical Fitness in Futsal Players
Authors: Nikolaidis Pantelis T. , Chtourou Hamdi , Torres-Luque Gema , Rosemann Thomas , Knechtle Beat
Published: April 2019

The aim of this study was to examine the relationship of age and body mass status with field and laboratory measures of physical fitness in futsal players. Futsal players (n = 65, age 12.9 ± 2.8 years), who were classified into U11 (n = 28, 9–11 years), U13 (n = 21, 11–13 years), and adults (n = 16, >18 years), performed a physical fitness battery consisting of both laboratory and field tests. A similar prevalence of overweight (25%) was observed in all age groups (χ2 = 1.94, p = 0.380, φ = 0.17). Age groups differed for all parameters, except body fat percentage, with adult players showing higher values than the younger groups (p < 0.05). U13 was heavier, taller, and had larger fat-free mass than U11 (p < 0.05). Adult players had superior values than their younger counterparts for all physical fitness parameters (p < 0.05). Body mass index (BMI) correlated inversely with aerobic capacity (U13), jumping ability, relative isometric muscle strength, and relative mean power in the Wingate anaerobic test (WAnT) (U11) (p < 0.05). Also, it correlated directly with absolute isometric muscle strength (U11) and peak power, mean power (all groups), and fatigue index (U11, U13) in WAnT (p < 0.05). Considering the results of this study, it was concluded that the prevalence of overweight in futsal players should be an important concern for practitioners working in this team sport. Optimizing BMI should be considered as a training and nutrition goal in order to improve sport performance.
Engineering eHeritage—A New Approach for Study of Intangible Cultural Heritage. Case Study: The Analysis of the Noise Produced by the Dacian Dracon
Authors: Butnariu Silviu
Published: April 2019

Preserving the past is an important task of the current generation because of the rapid changes that influence our society. There are certain objects or traditions that make us feel as though we are part of something and—a country, a way of life. The term ‘cultural heritage’ has seen many changes over the last decades and can be evaluated from a tangible or intangible point of view. Since the beginning of the 21st century, the recognition and protection of intangible cultural heritage (ICH) has seen an increased importance. ICH includes goods that can express the idiosyncrasy of certain groups, represent a specific skill, or tradition. This paper presents a working methodology on a structured approach to ICH elements, as well as a case study of such an object. At the same time, this paper proposes a new method of artifacts research, an approach that brings, in addition to engineering, expertise from several fields: Mechanics, construction, material resistance, flow of fluids, heat transfer, ICT, and virtual reality.
Sustainability within Fashion Business Models: A Systematic Literature Review
Authors: Thorisdottir Thorey S. , Johannsdottir Lara
Published: April 2019

Production, marketing, and consumption of fashion products result in negative environmental impacts due to the massive production volume of fashion items. However, there is limited literature on how the fashion industry integrates sustainability-related practices into business models, how sustainability is measured within the business models, or what drives the sustainability-emphasis of the fashion industry. Therefore, it is consequential to conduct a systematic review of the existing literature concerning how the fashion industry integrates sustainability into business models, if and how sustainability-related practices are measured to ensure transparency and lead to improvements, and to recognize what drives sustainability in fashion business models. The key aspects regarding sustainability integration into business models include organization values, entrepreneurship, innovation, and internationalization processes. With regards to measurement of impacts and reporting, it is evident that Corporate Social Responsibility, the Global Reporting Initiative, and the Apparel and Footwear Sector Supplement are of relevance for the industry, mainly with regards to the supply chain. The drivers influencing sustainability practices are government and regulatory pressure, market pressure, closed-loop pressure, value creation, innovation, equity, authenticity, functionality, localism, and exclusivity. The findings are of relevance both for academia and the fashion industry, as the paper provides evidence on what has already been studied by academia, but also highlights a need for further studies on the fashion industry with regards to sustainability practices. This paper; therefore, opens a path for academics to consider empirical studies on how to investigate the sustainability strategies of fashion businesses, elements of fashion business models, driving forces influencing actions, measurements, key performance indicators, transparency, and disclosure, just to name a few examples.
Long-Term Effects of Anthropogenic Factors on Nonpoint Source Pollution in the Upper Reaches of the Yangtze River
Authors: Ding Xiaowen , Liu Lin
Published: April 2019

With the continuous enhancement of point source pollution control, non-point source (NPS) pollution has become an important factor in the deterioration of surface water quality. Meanwhile, due to the soaring global population, long-term effects of anthropogenic factors on non-point source pollution in large river basins have increasingly attracted worldwide attention. The Yangtze river is the largest river basin of China, and protecting its ecological environment has great significance on protecting the lifeline of the entire Yangtze river. In this study, the improved output coefficient and nutrient losses empirical model were used to conduct space–time simulations of non-point source pollution in the upper reaches of the Yangtze river (URYR) based on GIS during 1960–2003. This method reveals the anthropogenic effects of non-point source pollution in the upper reaches of the Yangtze river. The results indicate that the impacts of anthropogenic factors on dissolved pollutants increased significantly, while those on sediment and adsorbed pollutants increased first and then decreased during the simulation year. Agricultural land use and atmospheric deposition, as well as rural life, were the main sources of dissolved pollutants. In addition, dry land and paddy fields were the major sources of sediment and adsorbed pollutants. For the load intensities, the long-term effects of anthropogenic factors on dissolved pollutants increased rapidly, and those on the load intensity of sediment and adsorbed pollutants increased first and then decreased. Therefore, the study would propose some corresponding environmental management measures to strengthen environmental protection and non-point source pollution control in the upper reaches of the Yangtze river.
Patterns of Urban Spatial Expansion in European Cities
Authors: Guastella Gianni , Oueslati Walid , Pareglio Stefano
Published: April 2019

In representing urban sprawl, the decline in population and employment density from the city centre to the periphery has been identified as the main character associated with the spatial expansion of built-up areas. Urban spatial discontinuity, which occurs when the urban fabric includes built-up or green areas and a relevant share of vacant spaces, has gained recent attention. In this paper, we use Global Human Settlement Layer data to track urbanisation dynamics in European Functional Urban Areas (FUAs) from 1990 to 2014. We represent urban sprawl as the spatial expansion of FUAs associated with either or both declining population density and increasing built-up area discontinuity. We also consider the association with the demographic trends that have been described as the primary driver of urban spatial expansion. We use configural frequency analysis to explore the local association between the different characters of sprawl. We found evidence that urban sprawl effectively took differentiated forms across European FUAs. Even though FUAs have generally become less dense and more disperse, our results show that the extent of these phenomena appears to be more contained in recent years than in previous decades. Both elements of sprawl characterise FUAs with a shrinking population, confirming the decoupling of urban development policies and demographic trends in cities. The results call for better controlled urban development, favouring compact cities and subjecting land-use changes to a perspective of urban population growth.
A Normal Cloud Model-Based Method for Water Quality Assessment of Springs and Its Application in Jinan
Authors: Wang Xintong , Yang Weimin , Xu Zhenhao , Hu Jie , Xue Yiguo , Lin Peng
Published: April 2019

Springs are a source of drinking water and a famous tourist attraction in Jinan, China. In this paper, a multi-index evaluation method was proposed based on a normal cloud model. This model is new graphic model, which could synthetically picture the randomness and fuzziness of concepts. Ten parameters were selected, and water quality was classified into five levels. Three numerical characteristics were calculated, and the weights were assigned by an integrated weighting algorithm. The uncertainty of each spring was calculated by a cloud generator and the integrated certainty grades of water quality were determined. To ensure the accuracy of the normal cloud model, the proposed method was used to assess the water quality of springs in Jinan, China. The results obtained by the proposed method were compared with that of the other four methods. The results obtained by different methods are highly consistent. The proposed cloud model-based method can reflect the water quality level and provides a practical guide for water quality evaluation, as demonstrated in Jinan springs.
Operating Characteristics of Dockless Bike-Sharing Systems near Metro Stations: Case Study in Nanjing City, China
Authors: Li Yuan , Zhu Zhenjun , Guo Xiucheng
Published: April 2019

With the growth of dockless bike-sharing (DLBS) systems, the first-and-last mile connection to public transport, such as metro and light railway stations, could be improved. DLBS systems complete the trip chain by connecting metro stations with points of interest and enhance the sustainability of urban transportation. Therefore, it is necessary to understand the trans-shipment characteristics of DLBS systems for metro stations. In this study, we collected data from the Mobike DLBS system in Nanjing City, China and applied K-means clustering to analyse the activity patterns of DLBS systems near local metro stations. Metro stations were categorised into five types on workdays and three types on weekends. An analysis of the relationships between activity patterns and spatial distribution characteristics demonstrated that the distribution of clusters possesses a strong connection with the surrounding environment. Low land development rates and a sparse distribution of metro stations cause a large range of influences. This research has direct implications for understanding the operating state of DLBS systems near metro stations and promoting the proper management of DLBS systems.
Spatial Monitoring of Urban Expansion Using Satellite Remote Sensing Images: A Case Study of Amman City, Jordan
Authors: Al-Bilbisi Hussam
Published: April 2019

Amman, the capital city of Jordan, faces urbanization challenges and lacks reliable data for urban planning. This study is aimed at assessing, monitoring, and mapping urban land cover using multitemporal Landsat satellite images. Four different land use/cover maps were produced; periods of over ten years between 1987 and 2017 (i.e., in 1987, 1997, 2007, and 2017) were used to evaluate and analyze urban expansion visually and quantitatively. Supervised classification technique followed by the post classification comparison change detection approach was used to analyze images. Over the past three decades, the urban area has increased rapidly in Amman. It increased by 90.78 km2, from 149.08 km2 in 1987 to 237.86 km2 in 2017, with an average annual rate of increase of 2.03%. Urban area increases were significantly higher in the first 10 years of the study period (i.e., from 1987 to 1997), during which the average annual rate of increase reached 3.33%, while it was 2.04% for the last two decades of the study period (i.e., from 1997 to 2017). Urban growth in Amman generally occurred along transport routes away from the core of Amman, and as a result, this growth led to the expansion of urban areas into other types of land use/cover classes, particularly vegetation areas. The spatial analysis of urban expansion and trends of urban growth in Amman could provide the required input data for the urban modeling of the city.