bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Guide to Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease in Childhood and Adolescence
Authors: Temple Jonathan , Cordero Paul , Li Jiawei , Nguyen Vi , Oben Jude
Published: June 2016

Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease (NAFLD) is now the most prevalent form of chronic liver disease, affecting 10%–20% of the general paediatric population. Within the next 10 years it is expected to become the leading cause of liver pathology, liver failure and indication for liver transplantation in childhood and adolescence in the Western world. While our understanding of the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying this disease remains limited, it is thought to be the hepatic manifestation of more widespread metabolic dysfunction and is strongly associated with a number of metabolic risk factors, including insulin resistance, dyslipidaemia, cardiovascular disease and, most significantly, obesity. Despite this, ”paediatric” NAFLD remains under-studied, under-recognised and, potentially, undermanaged. This article will explore and evaluate our current understanding of NAFLD in childhood and adolescence and how it differs from adult NAFLD, in terms of its epidemiology, pathophysiology, natural history, diagnosis and clinical management. Given the current absence of definitive radiological and histopathological diagnostic tests, maintenance of a high clinical suspicion by all members of the multidisciplinary team in primary and specialist care settings remains the most potent of diagnostic tools, enabling early diagnosis and appropriate therapeutic intervention.
The Effect of MCP-1/CCR2 on the Proliferation and Senescence of Epidermal Constituent Cells in Solar Lentigo
Authors: Lee Woo , Jo Soo , Lee Mi , Won Chong , Lee Mi , Choi Jee , Chang Sung
Published: June 2016

Solar lentigo (SL) is a representative photoaging skin disorder. Alteration of the main epidermal constituent cells—keratinocytes and melanocytes—in relation to the photoaged dermal environment or chemokine/cytokine network is suggested as its pathogenesis. Among these, we focused on monocyte chemoattractant protein-1 (MCP-1), as it is known to be associated with tissue aging. For the first time, we report that the MCP-1 receptor, CCR2, is expressed in normal human melanocytes. In SL tissue, there was an increase of CCR2+Melan A+ melanocytes with positivity to Rb protein compared to peri-lesional normal skin. MCP-1 induced the proliferation of normal human melanocytes without a significant change in the melanin content. MCP-1 treatment in normal human keratinocytes showed an increase in senescence-associated β-galactosidase staining and p53 and p21 protein expressions. In summary, MCP-1 may participate in the development of SL by affecting epidermal constituent cells, for example, by inducing melanocyte proliferation and keratinocyte senescence.
Roles of PTEN with DNA Repair in Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Ogino Mako , Ichimura Mayuko , Nakano Noriko , Minami Akari , Kitagishi Yasuko , Matsuda Satoru
Published: June 2016

Oxidative stress is considered to play key roles in aging and pathogenesis of many neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease, which could bring DNA damage by cells. The DNA damage may lead to the cell apoptosis, which could contribute to the degeneration of neuronal tissues. Recent evidence suggests that PTEN (phosphatase and tensin homolog on chromosome 10) may be involved in the pathophysiology of the neurodegenerative disorders. Since PTEN expression appears to be one dominant determinant of the neuronal cell death, PTEN should be a potential molecular target of novel therapeutic strategies against Parkinson’s disease. In addition, defects in DNA damage response and DNA repair are often associated with modulation of hormone signaling pathways. Especially, many observations imply a role for estrogen in a regulation of the DNA repair action. In the present review, we have attempted to summarize the function of DNA repair molecules at a viewpoint of the PTEN signaling pathway and the hormone related functional modulation of cells, providing a broad interpretation on the molecular mechanisms for treatment of Parkinson’s disease. Particular attention will be paid to the mechanisms proposed to explain the health effects of food ingredients against Parkinson’s disease related to reduce oxidative stress for an efficient therapeutic intervention.
Implementation Support of Security Design Patterns Using Test Templates
Authors: Yoshizawa Masatoshi , Washizaki Hironori , Fukazawa Yoshiaki , Okubo Takao , Kaiya Haruhiko , Yoshioka Nobukazu
Published: June 2016

Security patterns are intended to support software developers as the patterns encapsulate security expert knowledge. However, these patterns may be inappropriately applied because most developers are not security experts, leading to threats and vulnerabilities. Here we propose a support method for security design patterns in the implementation phase of software development. Our method creates a test template from a security design pattern, consisting of an “aspect test template” to observe the internal processing and a “test case template”. Providing design information creates a test from the test template with a tool. Because our test template is reusable, it can easily perform a test to validate a security design pattern. In an experiment involving four students majoring in information sciences, we confirm that our method can realize an effective test, verify pattern applications, and support pattern implementation.
Fibrochondrocyte Growth and Functionality on TiO2 Nanothin Films
Authors: Ronald Sharon , Mills David
Published: June 2016

Disorders affecting the temporomandibular joint (TMJ) are a long-standing health concern. TMJ disorders (TMJD) are often associated with an internal disc derangement accompanied by a suite of symptoms including joint noises, jaw dysfunction, and severe pain. The severity of patient symptoms and their reoccurrence can be alleviated to some extent with conservative therapy; however, refractory cases often require surgery that has shown only limited success. Bioengineered scaffolds with cell supportive surfaces an d nanoarchitectures that mimic TMJ tissue structure may offer an alternative treatment modality. In this study, titanium dioxide (TiO2) nanothin films, fabricated by layer-by-layer assembly, were examined as means for creating such a scaffold. The viability and growth of TMJ discal fibrochondrocytes (FCs) were assessed through MTT and DNA assays and total protein content over a 14-day experimental period. ELISA was also used to measure expression of types I and II collagen, decorin and aggrecan. Quantitative analyses demonstrated that FCs synthesized characteristic discal matrix proteins, with an increased production of type I collagen and decorin as opposed to collagen type II and aggrecan. A stimulatory effect on discal FC proliferation and extracellular matrix (ECM) expression with thicker nanofilms was also observed. The cumulative results suggest that TiO2 nanofilms may have potential as a TMJ scaffolding material.
Morphological and Structural Study of a Novel Porous Nurse’s A Ceramic with Osteoconductive Properties for Tissue Engineering
Authors: Rabadan-Ros Ruben , Velásquez Pablo , Meseguer-Olmo Luis , De Aza Piedad
Published: June 2016

The characterization process of a new porous Nurse’s A ceramic and the physico chemical nature of the remodeled interface between the implant and the surrounding bone were studied after in vivo implantation. Scaffolds were prepared by a solid-state reaction and implanted in New Zealand rabbits. Animals were sacrificed on days 15, 30, and 60. The porous biomaterial displayed biocompatible, bioresorbable, and osteoconductive capacity. The degradation processes of implants also encouraged osseous tissue ingrowths into the material’s pores, and drastically changed the macro- and microstructure of the implants. After 60 healing days, the resorption rates were 52.62% ± 1.12% for the ceramic and 47.38% ± 1.24% for the residual biomaterial. The elemental analysis showed a gradual diffusion of the Ca and Si ions from the materials into the newly forming bone during the biomaterial’s resorption process. The energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS) analysis of the residual ceramic revealed some particle categories with different mean Ca/P ratios according to size, and indicated various resorption process stages. Since osteoconductive capacity was indicated for this material and bone ingrowth was possible, it could be applied to progressively substitute an implant.
Influence of Chlorination and Choice of Materials on Fouling in Cooling Water System under Brackish Seawater Conditions
Authors: Rajala Pauliina , Bomberg Malin , Huttunen-Saarivirta Elina , Priha Outi , Tausa Mikko , Carpén Leena
Published: June 2016

Cooling systems remove heat from components and industrial equipment. Water cooling, employing natural waters, is typically used for cooling large industrial facilities, such as power plants, factories or refineries. Due to moderate temperatures, cooling water cycles are susceptible to biofouling, inorganic fouling and scaling, which may reduce heat transfer and enhance corrosion. Hypochlorite treatment or antifouling coatings are used to prevent biological fouling in these systems. In this research, we examine biofouling and materials’ degradation in a brackish seawater environment using a range of test materials, both uncoated and coated. The fouling and corrosion resistance of titanium alloy (Ti-6Al-4V), super austenitic stainless steel (254SMO) and epoxy-coated carbon steel (Intershield Inerta160) were studied in the absence and presence of hypochlorite. Our results demonstrate that biological fouling is intensive in cooling systems using brackish seawater in sub-arctic areas. The microfouling comprised a vast diversity of bacteria, archaea, fungi, algae and protozoa. Chlorination was effective against biological fouling: up to a 10–1000-fold decrease in bacterial and archaeal numbers was detected. Chlorination also changed the diversity of the biofilm-forming community. Nevertheless, our results also suggest that chlorination enhances cracking of the epoxy coating.
Reversible pH Stimulus-Response Material Based on Amphiphilic Block Polymer Self-Assembly and Its Electrochemical Application
Authors: Wang Tianyi , Zhu Hongmei , Xue Huaiguo
Published: June 2016

Stimulus-responsive microporous solid thin films were successfully fabricated by simple molecular self-assembly via an amphiphilic block polymer, polystryene–b–polyacrylic acid (PS–b–PAA). The solid thin films exhibit different surface morphologies in response to external stimuli, such as environments with different pH values in aqueous solutions. The experiments have successfully applied atomic force microscope (AFM) technology to observe in-situ surface morphological changes. There is a reversible evolution of the microstructures in buffer solutions over a pH range of 2.4–9.2. These observations have been explained by positing that there is no conventional PAA swelling but that the PAA chains in the micropores stretch and contract with changes in the pH of the solution environment. The hydrophobicity of the solid thin film surface was transformed into super-hydrophilicity, as captured by optical contact angle measurements. The stimulus-responsive dynamics of pore sizes was described by a two-stage mechanism. A promising electrochemical application of this film is suggested via combination with an electrochemical impedance technique. This study is aimed at strategies for the functionalization of stimulus-responsive microporous solid thin films with reversible tunable surface morphologies, and exploring new smart materials with switch-on/switch-off behavior.
Raman Investigations to Identify Corallium rubrum in Iron Age Jewelry and Ornaments
Authors: Fürst Sebastian , Müller Katharina , Gianni Liliana , Paris Céline , Bellot-Gurlet Ludovic , Pare Christopher , Reiche Ina
Published: June 2016

During the Central European Iron Age, more specifically between 600 and 100 BC, red precious corals (Corallium rubrum) became very popular in many regions, often associated with the so-called (early) Celts. Red corals are ideally suited to investigate several key questions of Iron Age research, like trade patterns or social and economic structures. While it is fairly easy to distinguish modern C. rubrum from bone, ivory or shells, archaeologists are confronted with ancient, hence altered, artifacts. Due to ageing processes, archaeological corals lose their intensive red color and shiny surface and can easily be confused with these other light colored materials. We propose a non-destructive multi-stage approach to identify archaeological corals amongst other biominerals used as ornament during the central European Iron Age with emphasis on optical examination and mobile Raman spectroscopy. Our investigations suggest that the noticeably high amount of misidentifications or at least uncertain material declarations existing in museums or even in the literature (around 15%) could be overcome by the proposed approach. Furthermore, the range of different materials is higher than previously expected in archaeological research. This finding has implications for contemporary concepts of social structures and distribution networks during the Iron Age.
Photocatalytic Activities of Copper Doped Cadmium Sulfide Microspheres Prepared by a Facile Ultrasonic Spray-Pyrolysis Method
Authors: Su Jinzhan , Zhang Tao , Li Yufeng , Chen Yubin , Liu Maochang
Published: June 2016

Ultrasonic spray pyrolysis is a superior method for preparing and synthesizing spherical particles of metal oxide or sulfide semiconductors. Cadmium sulfide (CdS) photocatalysts with different sizes and doped-CdS with different dopants and doping levels have been synthesized to study their properties of photocatalytic hydrogen production from water. The CdS photocatalysts were characterized with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), X-ray fluorescence-spectrometry (XRF), UV-Vis absorption spectra and X-ray diffraction (XRD) to study their morphological and optical properties. The sizes of the prepared CdS particles were found to be proportional to the concentration of the metal nitrates in the solution. The CdS photocatalyst with smaller size showed a better photocatalytic activity. In addition, Cu doped CdS were also deposited and their photocatalytic activities were also investigated. Decreased bandgaps of CdS synthesized with this method were found and could be due to high density surface defects originated from Cd vacancies. Incorporating the Cu elements increased the bandgap by taking the position of Cd vacancies and reducing the surface defect states. The optimal Cu-doped level was found to be 0.5 mol % toward hydrogen evolution from aqueous media in the presence of sacrificial electron donors (Na2S and Na2SO3) at a pH of 13.2. This study demonstrated that ultrasonic spray pyrolysis is a feasible approach for large-scale photocatalyst synthesis and corresponding doping modification.
Comparison of Chip Inlet Geometry in Microfluidic Devices for Cell Studies
Authors: Sun Yung-Shin
Published: June 2016

Micro-fabricated devices integrated with fluidic components provide an in vitro platform for cell studies best mimicking the in vivo micro-environment. These devices are capable of creating precise and controllable surroundings of pH value, temperature, salt concentration, and other physical or chemical stimuli. Various cell studies such as chemotaxis and electrotaxis can be performed by using such devices. Moreover, microfluidic chips are designed and fabricated for applications in cell separations such as circulating tumor cell (CTC) chips. Usually, there are two most commonly used inlets in connecting the microfluidic chip to sample/reagent loading tubes: the vertical (top-loading) inlet and the parallel (in-line) inlet. Designing this macro-to-micro interface is believed to play an important role in device performance. In this study, by using the commercial COMSOL Multiphysics software, we compared the cell capture behavior in microfluidic devices with different inlet types and sample flow velocities. Three different inlets were constructed: the vertical inlet, the parallel inlet, and the vertically parallel inlet. We investigated the velocity field, the flow streamline, the cell capture rate, and the laminar shear stress in these inlets. It was concluded that the inlet should be designed depending on the experimental purpose, i.e., one wants to maximize or minimize cell capture. Also, although increasing the flow velocity could reduce cell sedimentation, too high shear stresses are thought harmful to cells. Our findings indicate that the inlet design and flow velocity are crucial and should be well considered in fabricating microfluidic devices for cell studies.
Dietary Pattern Trajectories from 6 to 12 Months of Age in a Multi-Ethnic Asian Cohort
Authors: Lim Geraldine , Toh Jia , Aris Izzuddin , Chia Ai-Ru , Han Wee , Saw Seang , Godfrey Keith , Gluckman Peter , Chong Yap-Seng , Yap Fabian , Lee Yung , Kramer Michael , Chong Mary
Published: June 2016

Little is known about the dietary patterns of Asian infants in the first year of life, nor of their associations with maternal socio-demographic factors. Based on the Growing Up in Singapore towards healthy Outcomes (GUSTO) mother-offspring cohort, cross-sectional dietary patterns were derived by factor analysis using 24-h recalls and food diaries of infants at 6-, 9- and 12-months of age. Dietary pattern trajectories were modeled by mapping similar dietary patterns across each age using multilevel mixed models. Associations with maternal socio-demographic variables, collected through questionnaires during pregnancy, were assessed using general linear models. In n = 486 infants, four dietary pattern trajectories were established from 6- to 12-months. Predominantly breastmilk: mainly breastmilk and less formula milk, Guidelines: rice porridge, vegetables, fruits and low-fat fish and meat, Easy-to-prepare foods: infant cereals, juices, cakes and biscuits and Noodles (in soup) and seafood: noodle and common accompaniments. In adjusted models, higher maternal education attainment was correlated with higher start scores on Predominantly breastmilk, but lowest education attainment increased its adherence over time. Older mothers had higher start scores on Easy-to-prepare foods, but younger mothers had increased adherence over time. Chinese mothers had higher start scores on Predominantly breastmilk but greater adherence to Guidelines over time, while Indian mothers had higher start scores on Easy-to-prepare foods but greater adherence to Predominantly breastmilk with time (p < 0.05 for all). Changes in trajectories over time were small. Hence, dietary patterns established during weaning are strongly influenced by maternal socio-demographic factors and remain stable over the first year of life.
Influence of Maternal Obesity and Gestational Weight Gain on Maternal and Foetal Lipid Profile
Authors: Cinelli Giulia , Fabrizi Marta , Ravà Lucilla , Ciofi degli Atti Marta , Vernocchi Pamela , Vallone Cristina , Pietrantoni Emanuela , Lanciotti Rosalba , Signore Fabrizio , Manco Melania
Published: June 2016

Fatty acids (FAs) are fundamental for a foetus’s growth, serving as an energy source, structural constituents of cellular membranes and precursors of bioactive molecules, as well as being essential for cell signalling. Long-chain polyunsaturated FAs (LC-PUFAs) are pivotal in brain and visual development. It is of interest to investigate whether and how specific pregnancy conditions, which alter fatty acid metabolism (excessive pre-pregnancy body mass index (BMI) or gestational weight gain (GWG)), affect lipid supply to the foetus. For this purpose, we evaluated the erythrocyte FAs of mothers and offspring (cord-blood) at birth, in relation to pre-pregnancy BMI and GWG. A total of 435 mothers and their offspring (237 males, 51%) were included in the study. Distribution of linoleic acid (LA) and α-linolenic acid (ALA), and their metabolites, arachidonic acid, dihomogamma linoleic (DGLA) and ecosapentanoic acid, was significantly different in maternal and foetal erythrocytes. Pre-pregnancy BMI was significantly associated with maternal percentage of MUFAs (Coeff: −0.112; p = 0.021), LA (Coeff: −0.033; p = 0.044) and DHA (Coeff. = 0.055; p = 0.0016); inadequate GWG with DPA (Coeff: 0.637; p = 0.001); excessive GWG with docosaexahenoic acid (DHA) (Coeff. = −0.714; p = 0.004). Moreover, pre-pregnancy BMI was associated with foetus percentage of PUFAs (Coeff: −0.172; p = 0.009), omega 6 (Coeff: −0.098; p = 0.015) and DHA (Coeff: −0.0285; p = 0.036), even after adjusting for maternal lipids. Our findings show that maternal GWG affects maternal but not foetal lipid profile, differently from pre-pregnancy BMI, which influences both.
Caloric Restriction as a Strategy to Improve Vascular Dysfunction in Metabolic Disorders
Authors: García-Prieto Concha , Fernández-Alfonso María
Published: June 2016

Caloric restriction (CR) has proved to be the most effective and reproducible dietary intervention to increase healthy lifespan and aging. A reduction in cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk in obese subjects can be already achieved by a moderate and sustainable weight loss. Since pharmacological approaches for body weight reduction have, at present, a poor long-term efficacy, CR is of great interest in the prevention and/or reduction of CVD associated with obesity. Other dietary strategies changing specific macronutrients, such as altering carbohydrates, protein content or diet glycemic index have been also shown to decrease the progression of CVD in obese patients. In this review, we will focus on the positive effects and possible mechanisms of action of these strategies on vascular dysfunction.
Crystallization of Poly(3-hexylthiophene) Nanofiber in a Narrow Groove
Authors: Kushi Satoshi , Tsukada Ryota , Noguchi Keiichi , Shimomura Takeshi
Published: June 2016

Whisker-type poly(3-hexylthiophene-2,5-diyl) (P3HT) nanofibers were aligned by restricting their growth direction using an approximately 100–1000 nm wide narrow groove fabricated by thermal nanoimprinting. In grooves made of an amorphous fluoropolymer (CYTOP™) with widths of less than 1500 nm, the nanofibers oriented uniaxially perpendicular to the groove and their length was limited to the width of the groove. This result indicates that the nucleation of nanofibers tends to be selectively promoted near the interface of CYTOP™ with fluoro-groups, and nanofiber growth perpendicular to the wall is promoted because P3HT molecules are supplied more frequently from the center of the groove. Furthermore, the orientation induced anisotropic conductivity, and the conductivity parallel to the oriented nanofibers was more than an order of magnitude higher than that perpendicular to the oriented nanofibers.
The Influence of Lyophilized EmuGel Silica Microspheres on the Physicomechanical Properties, In Vitro Bioactivity and Biodegradation of a Novel Ciprofloxacin-Loaded PCL/PAA Scaffold
Authors: Mabrouk Mostafa , Choonara Yahya , Kumar Pradeep , Du Toit Lisa , Pillay Viness
Published: June 2016

A new composite poly(caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(acrylic acid) (PAA) (PCL:PAA 1:5) scaffold was synthesized via dispersion of PCL particles into a PAA network. Silica microspheres (Si) (2–12 μm) were then prepared by a lyophilized micro-emulsion/sol-gel (Emugel) system using varying weight ratios. The model drug ciprofloxacin (CFX) was used for in situ incorporation into the scaffold. The physicochemical and thermal integrity, morphology and porosity of the system was analyzed by X-Ray Diffraction (XRD), Attenuated Total Refelctance Fourier Transform Infrared (ATR-FTIR), Differential Scanning Calorimetry (DSC), SEM, surface area analysis and liquid displacement, respectively. The mechanical properties of the scaffold were measured by textural analysis and in vitro bioactivity, biodegradation and pH variations were evaluated by XRD, FTIR and SEM after immersion in Simulated Body Fluid (SBF). The in vitro and in vivo studies of the prepared scaffold were considered as future aspects for this study. CFX release was determined in phosphate buffer saline (PBS) (pH 7.4; 37 °C). The incorporation of the Si microspheres and CFX into the scaffold was confirmed by XRD, FTIR, DSC and SEM, and the scaffold microstructure was dependent on the concentration of Si microspheres and the presence of CFX. The system displayed enhanced mechanical properties (4.5–14.73 MPa), in vitro bioactivity, biodegradation and controlled CFX release. Therefore, the PCL/PAA scaffolds loaded with Si microspheres and CFX with a porosity of up to 87% may be promising for bone tissue engineering.
Ruin Probabilities with Dependence on the Number of Claims within a Fixed Time Window
Authors: Constantinescu Corina , Dai Suhang , Ni Weihong , Palmowski Zbigniew
Published: June 2016

We analyse the ruin probabilities for a renewal insurance risk process with inter-arrival times depending on the claims that arrive within a fixed (past) time window. This dependence could be explained through a regenerative structure. The main inspiration of the model comes from the bonus-malus (BM) feature of pricing car insurance. We discuss first the asymptotic results of ruin probabilities for different regimes of claim distributions. For numerical results, we recognise an embedded Markov additive process, and via an appropriate change of measure, ruin probabilities could be computed to a closed-form formulae. Additionally, we employ the importance sampling simulations to derive ruin probabilities, which further permit an in-depth analysis of a few concrete cases.
An Easy-to-Use Airborne LiDAR Data Filtering Method Based on Cloth Simulation
Authors: Zhang Wuming , Qi Jianbo , Wan Peng , Wang Hongtao , Xie Donghui , Wang Xiaoyan , Yan Guangjian
Published: June 2016

Separating point clouds into ground and non-ground measurements is an essential step to generate digital terrain models (DTMs) from airborne LiDAR (light detection and ranging) data. However, most filtering algorithms need to carefully set up a number of complicated parameters to achieve high accuracy. In this paper, we present a new filtering method which only needs a few easy-to-set integer and Boolean parameters. Within the proposed approach, a LiDAR point cloud is inverted, and then a rigid cloth is used to cover the inverted surface. By analyzing the interactions between the cloth nodes and the corresponding LiDAR points, the locations of the cloth nodes can be determined to generate an approximation of the ground surface. Finally, the ground points can be extracted from the LiDAR point cloud by comparing the original LiDAR points and the generated surface. Benchmark datasets provided by ISPRS (International Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing) working Group III/3 are used to validate the proposed filtering method, and the experimental results yield an average total error of 4.58%, which is comparable with most of the state-of-the-art filtering algorithms. The proposed easy-to-use filtering method may help the users without much experience to use LiDAR data and related technology in their own applications more easily.
Distance-Based Opportunistic Mobile Data Offloading
Authors: Lu Xiaofeng , Lio Pietro , Hui Pan
Published: June 2016

Cellular network data traffic can be offload onto opportunistic networks. This paper proposes a Distance-based Opportunistic Publish/Subscribe (DOPS) content dissemination model, which is composed of three layers: application layer, decision-making layer and network layer. When a user wants new content, he/she subscribes on a subscribing server. Users having the contents decide whether to deliver the contents to the subscriber based on the distance information. If in the meantime a content owner has traveled further in the immediate past time than the distance between the owner and the subscriber, the content owner will send the content to the subscriber through opportunistic routing. Simulations provide an evaluation of the data traffic offloading efficiency of DOPS.
Design, Fabrication, Simulation and Characterization of a Novel Dual-Sided Microelectrode Array for Deep Brain Recording and Stimulation
Authors: Zhao Zongya , Gong Ruxue , Huang Hongen , Wang Jue
Published: June 2016

In this paper, a novel dual-sided microelectrode array is specially designed and fabricated for a rat Parkinson’s disease (PD) model to study the mechanisms of deep brain stimulation (DBS). The fabricated microelectrode array can stimulate the subthalamic nucleus and simultaneously record electrophysiological information from multiple nuclei of the basal ganglia system. The fabricated microelectrode array has a long shaft of 9 mm and each planar surface is equipped with three stimulating sites (diameter of 100 μm), seven electrophysiological recording sites (diameter of 20 μm) and four sites with diameter of 50 μm used for neurotransmitter measurements in future work. The performances of the fabricated microelectrode array were characterized by scanning electron microscopy (SEM), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry. In addition, the stimulating effects of the fabricated microelectrode were evaluated by finite element modeling (FEM). Preliminary animal experiments demonstrated that the designed microelectrode arrays can record spontaneous discharge signals from the striatum, the subthalamic nucleus and the globus pallidus interna. The designed and fabricated microelectrode arrays provide a powerful research tool for studying the mechanisms of DBS in rat PD models.
Mechatronic Prototype of Parabolic Solar Tracker
Authors: Morón Carlos , Díaz Jorge , Ferrández Daniel , Ramos Mari
Published: June 2016

In the last 30 years numerous attempts have been made to improve the efficiency of the parabolic collectors in the electric power production, although most of the studies have focused on the industrial production of thermoelectric power. This research focuses on the application of this concentrating solar thermal power in the unexplored field of building construction. To that end, a mechatronic prototype of a hybrid paraboloidal and cylindrical-parabolic tracker based on the Arduido technology has been designed. The prototype is able to measure meteorological data autonomously in order to quantify the energy potential of any location. In this way, it is possible to reliably model real commercial equipment behavior before its deployment in buildings and single family houses.
Evaluation of Bias Correction Method for Satellite-Based Rainfall Data
Authors: Bhatti Haris , Rientjes Tom , Haile Alemseged , Habib Emad , Verhoef Wouter
Published: June 2016

With the advances in remote sensing technology, satellite-based rainfall estimates are gaining attraction in the field of hydrology, particularly in rainfall-runoff modeling. Since estimates are affected by errors correction is required. In this study, we tested the high resolution National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration’s (NOAA) Climate Prediction Centre (CPC) morphing technique (CMORPH) satellite rainfall product (CMORPH) in the Gilgel Abbey catchment, Ethiopia. CMORPH data at 8 km-30 min resolution is aggregated to daily to match in-situ observations for the period 2003–2010. Study objectives are to assess bias of the satellite estimates, to identify optimum window size for application of bias correction and to test effectiveness of bias correction. Bias correction factors are calculated for moving window (MW) sizes and for sequential windows (SW’s) of 3, 5, 7, 9, …, 31 days with the aim to assess error distribution between the in-situ observations and CMORPH estimates. We tested forward, central and backward window (FW, CW and BW) schemes to assess the effect of time integration on accumulated rainfall. Accuracy of cumulative rainfall depth is assessed by Root Mean Squared Error (RMSE). To systematically correct all CMORPH estimates, station based bias factors are spatially interpolated to yield a bias factor map. Reliability of interpolation is assessed by cross validation. The uncorrected CMORPH rainfall images are multiplied by the interpolated bias map to result in bias corrected CMORPH estimates. Findings are evaluated by RMSE, correlation coefficient (r) and standard deviation (SD). Results showed existence of bias in the CMORPH rainfall. It is found that the 7 days SW approach performs best for bias correction of CMORPH rainfall. The outcome of this study showed the efficiency of our bias correction approach.
Detection and Classification of Finer-Grained Human Activities Based on Stepped-Frequency Continuous-Wave Through-Wall Radar
Authors: Qi Fugui , Liang Fulai , Lv Hao , Li Chuantao , Chen Fuming , Wang Jianqi
Published: June 2016

The through-wall detection and classification of human activities are critical for anti-terrorism, security, and disaster rescue operations. An effective through-wall detection and classification technology is proposed for finer-grained human activities such as piaffe, picking up an object, waving, jumping, standing with random micro-shakes, and breathing while sitting. A stepped-frequency continuous wave (SFCW) bio-radar sensor is first used to conduct through-wall detection of finer-grained human activities; Then, a comprehensive range accumulation time-frequency transform (CRATFR) based on inverse weight coefficients is proposed, which aims to strengthen the micro-Doppler features of finer activity signals. Finally, in combination with the effective eigenvalues extracted from the CRATFR spectrum, an optimal self-adaption support vector machine (OS-SVM) based on prior human position information is introduced to classify different finer-grained activities. At a fixed position (3 m) behind a wall, the classification accuracies of six activities performed by eight individuals were 98.78% and 93.23%, respectively, for the two scenarios defined in this paper. In the position-changing experiment, an average classification accuracy of 86.67% was obtained for five finer-grained activities (excluding breathing) of eight individuals within 6 m behind the wall for the most practical scenario, a significant improvement over the 79% accuracy of the current method.
Validity and Reliability of the Problem Solving Inventory (PSI) in a Nationwide Sample of Greek Educators
Authors: Kourmousi Ntina , Xythali Vasiliki , Theologitou Maria , Koutras Vasilios
Published: June 2016

The Problem Solving Inventory (PSI) is designed to measure adults’ perceptions of problem-solving ability. The presented study aimed to translate it and assess its reliability and validity in a nationwide sample of 3668 Greek educators. In order to evaluate internal consistency reliability, Cronbach’s alpha coefficient was used. The scale’s construct validity was examined by a confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) and by investigating its correlation with the Internality, Powerful others and Chance Multidimensional Locus of Control Scale (IPC LOC Scale), the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) and demographic information. Internal consistency reliability was satisfactory with Cronbach’s alphas ranging from 0.79 to 0.91 for all PSI scales. CFA confirmed that the bi-level model fitted the data well. The root mean square error of approximation (RMSEA), the comparative fit index (CFI) and the goodness of fit index (GFI) values were 0.030, 0.97 and 0.96, respectively, further confirming the bi-level model and the three-factors construct of the PSI. Intercorrelations and correlation coefficients between the PSI, the IPC LOC Scale and the RSES were significant. Age, sex, and working experience differences were found. In conclusion, the Greek version of the PSI was found to have satisfactory psychometric properties and therefore, it can be used to evaluate Greek teachers’ perceptions of their problem-solving skills.
City Green Economy Evaluation: Empirical Evidence from 15 Sub-Provincial Cities in China
Authors: Shi Baofeng , Yang Hufeng , Wang Jing , Zhao Jingxu
Published: June 2016

City green economy plays an important role in the development of low-carbon economy and the achievement of sustainable development of economy, society and ecological environment. From the perspective of economy, society, environment and resources, the evaluation of the green economy in urban areas tends to offer us a new insight into the green economy of cities. This paper is about the creation of a novel urban green economy evaluation model and its application. First of all, we established a city green economy evaluation index system based on R cluster analysis and coefficient of variation. Secondly, based on the nonlinear weighted utilizing entropy weight method, a city green economy evaluation model is established based on inferior constraints. Thirdly, by comparing the differences between evaluation rankings under inferior constraints and non-inferior constraints, the advantageous factors and the disadvantageous ones in urban green economy development are obtained. The proposed model has been verified with the data on 15 sub-provincial cities in China. Empirical analysis results show that: (1) The proposed approach can accurately find out the advantageous and disadvantageous factors for each sub-provincial city; (2) In the evaluation of green economy development, the order of importance of the three criterion layers is X1 Economy development > X2 Social livelihood of the people > X3 Resources and environment; (3) Local governments should implement differential, reasonable policies in order to improve their green economy development. Moreover, our research is not only significant for developing green economy in China’s sub-provincial cities, but also serves as a reference for the development of green economy in other cities in the world.
Optimal Face-Iris Multimodal Fusion Scheme
Authors: Sharifi Omid , Eskandari Maryam
Published: June 2016

Multimodal biometric systems are considered a way to minimize the limitations raised by single traits. This paper proposes new schemes based on score level, feature level and decision level fusion to efficiently fuse face and iris modalities. Log-Gabor transformation is applied as the feature extraction method on face and iris modalities. At each level of fusion, different schemes are proposed to improve the recognition performance and, finally, a combination of schemes at different fusion levels constructs an optimized and robust scheme. In this study, CASIA Iris Distance database is used to examine the robustness of all unimodal and multimodal schemes. In addition, Backtracking Search Algorithm (BSA), a novel population-based iterative evolutionary algorithm, is applied to improve the recognition accuracy of schemes by reducing the number of features and selecting the optimized weights for feature level and score level fusion, respectively. Experimental results on verification rates demonstrate a significant improvement of proposed fusion schemes over unimodal and multimodal fusion methods.
Neutrino Signals in Electron-Capture Storage-Ring Experiments
Authors: Gal Avraham
Published: June 2016

Neutrino signals in electron-capture decays of hydrogen-like parent ions P in storage-ring experiments at GSI are reconsidered, with special emphasis placed on the storage-ring quasi-circular motion of the daughter ions D in two-body decays P → D + ν e . It is argued that, to the extent that daughter ions are detected, these detection rates might exhibit modulations with periods of order seconds, similar to those reported in the GSI storage-ring experiments for two-body decay rates. New dedicated experiments in storage rings, or using traps, could explore these modulations.
Automated Analysis of Microscopic Images of Isolated Pancreatic Islets
Authors: Habart David , Švihlík Jan , Schier Jan , Cahová Monika , Girman Peter , Zacharovová Klára , Berkov Zuzana , Kříž Jan , Fabryová Eva , Kosinová Lucie , Papáčková Zuzana , Kybic Jan , Saudek František
Published: June 2016

Clinical islet transplantation programs rely on the capacities of individual centers to quantify isolated islets. Current computer-assisted methods require input from human operators. Here we describe two machine learning algorithms for islet quantification: the trainable islet algorithm (TIA) and the nontrainable purity algorithm (NPA). These algorithms automatically segment pancreatic islets and exocrine tissue on microscopic images in order to count individual islets and calculate islet volume and purity. References for islet counts and volumes were generated by the fully manual segmentation (FMS) method, which was validated against the internal DNA standard. References for islet purity were generated via the expert visual assessment (EVA) method, which was validated against the FMS method. The TIA is intended to automatically evaluate micrographs of isolated islets from future donors after being trained on micrographs from a limited number of past donors. Its training ability was first evaluated on 46 images from four donors. The pixel-to-pixel comparison, binary statistics, and islet DNA concentration indicated that the TIA was successfully trained, regardless of the color differences of the original images. Next, the TIA trained on the four donors was validated on an additional 36 images from nine independent donors. The TIA was fast (67 s/image), correlated very well with the FMS method ( R 2 = 1.00 and 0.92 for islet volume and islet count, respectively), and had small REs (0.06 and 0.07 for islet volume and islet count, respectively). Validation of the NPA against the EVA method using 70 images from 12 donors revealed that the NPA had a reasonable speed (69 s/image), had an acceptable RE (0.14), and correlated well with the EVA method ( R 2 = 0.88). Our results demonstrate that a fully automated analysis of clinical-grade micrographs of isolated pancreatic islets is feasible. The algorithms described herein will be freely available as a Fiji platform plugin.
Segmenting Chinese Tourists with Perceived Constraints
Authors: Zou Suiwen (Sharon) , Petrick James F.
Published: June 2016

The global cruise industry has witnessed a dramatic boom in China, yet little is known about potential Chinese cruisers. For international cruise lines that are targeting Chinese markets, understanding what and how constraints keep Chinese tourists from purchasing a cruise vacation
is likely important for gaining market share. Thus, the purposes of this study were threefold: 1) documenting Chinese tourists' constraints towards cruising; 2) segmenting Chinese tourists based on their perceived constraints; and 3) examining their differences in cruising images and intentions.
Both qualitative and quantitative methodologies were utilized. Results revealed three clusters, termed: low, moderate, and high constraints. Each of the segments was found to be different in their cruising images and travel behavior. The characteristics of each segment and practical implications
of the findings are discussed.
It Was the Best of Times, It Was the Worst of Times: The Effects of Critical Incidents on Cruise Passengers' Experiences
Authors: Migacz Steven , Durko Angela , Petrick James
Published: June 2016

As competition in the travel industry continues to expand, it is important to focus efforts on understanding what leads to customer satisfaction, repurchase intentions, and positive word of mouth (WOM) with the purpose of gaining customer loyalty. Previous research has revealed that travel experiences can be influenced, for better or worse, by one single incident. These critical incidents have been coined "moments of truth." Findings revealed that, although respondents provided both positive and negative critical cruise experiences, only negative incidents were found to have a substantial effect on cruise passengers' perceived value, satisfaction, WOM, and repurchase intentions. In addition, the findings align with the premise of prospect theory, which suggests negative critical incidents (losses) are the most impactful incidents on visitor retention. Managerial implications are offered as suggestions for curtailing the effects of negative incidents and enhancing the effects of positive experiences.
Keeping the Customers Happy: The Importance of Morale on Cruise Ships
Authors: Gibson Philip , Lim Wai Mun , Holmes Megan
Published: June 2016

Cruise businesses face unique challenges in providing vacations at sea. For a start, the business model is predicated upon the establishment and operation of a floating resort with guests enjoying high levels of service against an ever-changing backdrop. This article considers how perceptions
of crew morale impact guest satisfaction with their cruise vacation. The research project reflected on theories concerning perceptions of service quality, the notions concerning service experience as theater, performativity and emotional labor, and the rather underresearched focus on the meaning
and implication of morale. An online survey, completed by over 800 respondents, confirmed the importance that guests capture an impression that crew are happy in their workplace. There is a connection between an impression of high morale with guest satisfaction, both in terms of service quality
and the overall cruise experience. This research draws attention to the challenge of maintaining high levels of performance for lengthy contracts. It also demonstrates that most cruise passengers are aware of, and sensitive to, crew morale.
Action Research for Sustainable Cruise Tourism Development: the Black Sea Region Case Study
Authors: Papathanassis Alexis , Bundă Nicoleta Ramona
Published: June 2016

Tourism in general, and cruise tourism in particular, constitute an attractive developmental option for emerging, postcommunist, and/or postindustrial economies. Yet existing tourism-related literature on destination development focuses on rather generic theoretical concepts (e.g.,
Butler's Tourism Area Life Cycle, 6As, and Cluster Theory) coupled by an array of explorative case studies. From a policy-making perspective, bridging the gap between operationalizing generic theoretical/analytical frameworks while generalizing from a fragmented case study body of knowledge
to plan meaningful action, represents a challenge. Within the context of an EU-funded cruise tourism development project for the Black Sea region, this article utilizes action research to meet this challenge and subsequently proposes complementary (to the analytical existing frameworks) organizational
concepts and implementation guidelines. The aim here is to provide a more complete, applicable set of tools for destination development practitioners. Moreover, in terms of facilitating destination development, our research proposes a modified role for higher education institutions, which
extends beyond merely that of a "labor supplier" to that of a driver for the "learning destination."
Australia's Cruising Phenomenon
Authors: Dowling Ross
Published: June 2016

The cruise industry in Australia is in a period of unprecedented boom. Australia is now the world's fastest-growing source of cruise passengers, with numbers increasing 20.4% in 2014 to reach 1,003,256 cruisers. This achievement has been driven by a 20% annual average growth for the
past 12 years. The country has also retained its position as the world leader for market penetration, with an equivalent of 4.25% of Australians taking a cruise last year, significantly ahead of the well-established North American market, which ranked second with a market penetration rate
of 3.4%. Australia is now the fourth largest source market for cruise passengers, accounting for 4.5% of global cruisers, behind North America (54.2%), Germany (8%), and UK/Ireland (7.4%).