bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Protein Hydrolysates from Anchovy (Engraulis encrasicolus) Waste: In Vitro and In Vivo Biological Activities
Authors: Giannetto Alessia , Esposito Emanuela , Lanza Marika , Oliva Sabrina , Riolo Kristian , Di Pietro Simona , Abbate Jessica Maria , Briguglio Giovanni , Cassata Giovanni , Cicero Luca , Macrì Francesco
Published: January 2020

Fish waste utilization to obtain protein hydrolysates has been demonstrated to be a useful strategy to face both environmental and economic impacts while obtaining high-value products with remarkable biological and nutritional properties. In the present study, protein hydrolysates obtained from anchovy Engraulis encrasicolus (APH) by-products were assessed for their potential biological activities in both in vitro and in vivo models. The treatment with APH exerted a significant protection against LPS-induced inflammation in RAW 264.7 cells, decreasing the protein expression of pro-inflammatory mediators (i.e., COX-2) and inhibiting the nuclear translocation of NF-κB through IκB-α. Moreover, APH modulated the expression of iNOS, MnSOD and HO-1, thus decreasing the severity of oxidative stress. The supplementation of APH in the diet of ApoE knockout mice down-regulated the proinflammatory cytokines (i.e., TNF-α, IL-1α, IL-1β, IL-6) in both aorta and heart tissues, and modulated the expression of oxidative stress-related genes (Cu/ZnSod, MnSod, Cat, Gpx and Ho), indicating that APH can exert a beneficial role, having anti-inflammatory and antioxidant activities. The nutritional properties of APH, together with their biological activities herein reported, highlight the possibility of obtaining bioactive molecules from fish waste and encourage their use as potential nutraceuticals in food and pharmaceutical industries in the next future.
Laser Polishing of Ti6Al4V Fabricated by Selective Laser Melting
Authors: Liang Chunyong , Hu Yazhou , Liu Ning , Zou Xianrui , Wang Hongshui , Zhang Xinping , Fu Yulan , Hu Jingyun
Published: January 2020

Selective laser melting (SLM) is emerging as a promising 3D printing method for orthopedic and dental applications. However, SLM-based Ti6Al4V components frequently exhibit high roughness values and partial surface defects. Laser polishing (LP) is a newly developed technology to improve the surface quality of metals. In this research, LP is applied to improve the surface finish of components. The results show that the laser beam can neatly ablate the aggregates of metallic globules and repair cracks and pores on the surface, resulting in a smooth surface with nanocomposites. Overall, the results indicate that using LP optimizes surface morphology to favor fatigue behavior and osteoblastic differentiation. These findings provide foundational data to improve the surface roughness of a laser-polished implant and pave the way for optimized mechanical behavior and biocompatibility via the laser process.
A Data Mining Metabolomics Exploration of Glaucoma
Authors: Kouassi Nzoughet Judith , Guehlouz Khadidja , Leruez Stéphanie , Gohier Philippe , Bocca Cinzia , Muller Jeanne , Blanchet Odile , Bonneau Dominique , Simard Gilles , Milea Dan , Procaccio Vincent , Lenaers Guy , Chao de la Barca Juan M. , Reynier Pascal
Published: January 2020

Glaucoma is an age related disease characterized by the progressive loss of retinal ganglion cells, which are the neurons that transduce the visual information from the retina to the brain. It is the leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide. To gain further insights into primary open-angle glaucoma (POAG) pathophysiology, we performed a non-targeted metabolomics analysis on the plasma from POAG patients (n = 34) and age- and sex-matched controls (n = 30). We investigated the differential signature of POAG plasma compared to controls, using liquid chromatography coupled to high resolution mass spectrometry (LC-HRMS). A data mining strategy, combining a filtering method with threshold criterion, a wrapper method with iterative selection, and an embedded method with penalization constraint, was used. These strategies are most often used separately in metabolomics studies, with each of them having their own limitations. We opted for a synergistic approach as a mean to unravel the most relevant metabolomics signature. We identified a set of nine metabolites, namely: nicotinamide, hypoxanthine, xanthine, and 1-methyl-6,7-dihydroxy-1,2,3,4-tetrahydroisoquinoline with decreased concentrations and N-acetyl-L-Leucine, arginine, RAC-glycerol 1-myristate, 1-oleoyl-RAC-glycerol, cystathionine with increased concentrations in POAG; the modification of nicotinamide, N-acetyl-L-Leucine, and arginine concentrations being the most discriminant. Our findings open up therapeutic perspectives for the diagnosis and treatment of POAG.
Metabolomic and Lipidomic Biomarkers for Premalignant Liver Disease Diagnosis and Therapy
Authors: Beyoğlu Diren , Idle Jeffrey R.
Published: January 2020

In recent years, there has been a plethora of attempts to discover biomarkers that are more reliable than α-fetoprotein for the early prediction and prognosis of hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC). Efforts have involved such fields as genomics, transcriptomics, epigenetics, microRNA, exosomes, proteomics, glycoproteomics, and metabolomics. HCC arises against a background of inflammation, steatosis, and cirrhosis, due mainly to hepatic insults caused by alcohol abuse, hepatitis B and C virus infection, adiposity, and diabetes. Metabolomics offers an opportunity, without recourse to liver biopsy, to discover biomarkers for premalignant liver disease, thereby alerting the potential of impending HCC. We have reviewed metabolomic studies in alcoholic liver disease (ALD), cholestasis, fibrosis, cirrhosis, nonalcoholic fatty liver (NAFL), and nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH). Specificity was our major criterion in proposing clinical evaluation of indole-3-lactic acid, phenyllactic acid, N-lauroylglycine, decatrienoate, N-acetyltaurine for ALD, urinary sulfated bile acids for cholestasis, cervonoyl ethanolamide for fibrosis, 16α-hydroxyestrone for cirrhosis, and the pattern of acyl carnitines for NAFL and NASH. These examples derive from a large body of published metabolomic observations in various liver diseases in adults, adolescents, and children, together with animal models. Many other options have been tabulated. Metabolomic biomarkers for premalignant liver disease may help reduce the incidence of HCC.
Combinatorial Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Enabled by Non-Contact Printing
Authors: Opalski Adam S. , Ruszczak Artur , Promovych Yurii , Horka Michał , Derzsi Ladislav , Garstecki Piotr
Published: January 2020

We demonstrate the utility of non-contact printing to fabricate the mAST—an easy-to-operate, microwell-based microfluidic device for combinatorial antibiotic susceptibility testing (AST) in a point-of-care format. The wells are prefilled with antibiotics in any desired concentration and combination by non-contact printing (spotting). For the execution of the AST, the only requirements are the mAST device, the sample, and the incubation chamber. Bacteria proliferation can be continuously monitored by using an absorbance reader. We investigate the profile of resistance of two reference Escherichia coli strains, report the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) for single antibiotics, and assess drug–drug interactions in cocktails by using the Bliss independence model.
Simple and Efficient AlN-Based Piezoelectric Energy Harvesters
Authors: Gablech Imrich , Klempa Jaroslav , Pekárek Jan , Vyroubal Petr , Hrabina Jan , Holá Miroslava , Kunz Jan , Brodský Jan , Neužil Pavel
Published: January 2020

In this work, we demonstrate the simple fabrication process of AlN-based piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEH), which are made of cantilevers consisting of a multilayer ion beam-assisted deposition. The preferentially (001) orientated AlN thin films possess exceptionally high piezoelectric coefficients d33 of (7.33 ± 0.08) pC∙N−1. The fabrication of PEH was completed using just three lithography steps, conventional silicon substrate with full control of the cantilever thickness, in addition to the thickness of the proof mass. As the AlN deposition was conducted at a temperature of ≈330 °C, the process can be implemented into standard complementary metal oxide semiconductor (CMOS) technology, as well as the CMOS wafer post-processing. The PEH cantilever deflection and efficiency were characterized using both laser interferometry, and a vibration shaker, respectively. This technology could become a core feature for future CMOS-based energy harvesters.
Driving Waveform Design with Rising Gradient and Sawtooth Wave of Electrowetting Displays for Ultra-Low Power Consumption
Authors: Li Wei , Wang Li , Zhang Taiyuan , Lai Shufa , Liu Linwei , He Wenyao , Zhou Guofu , Yi Zichuan
Published: January 2020

As a kind of paper-like display technology, power consumption is a very important index for electrowetting displays (EWDs). In this paper, the influence of driving waveforms on power consumption of the EWDs is analyzed, and a driving waveform with rising gradient and sawtooth wave is designed to reduce the power consumption. There are three stages in the proposed driving waveform. In the initial stage, the driving voltage is raised linearly from the threshold to the maximum value to reduce the invalid power consumption. At the same time, the oil breakup can be prohibited. And then, a section of sawtooth wave is added for suppressing oil backflow. Finally, there is a section of resetting wave to eliminate the influence of charge leakage. Experimental results show that the power consumption of the ultra-low power driving waveform is 1.85 mW, which is about 38.13% lower than that of the conventional used square wave (2.99 mW), when the aperture ratio is 65%.
Benzalkonium Chloride Induces a VBNC State in Listeria monocytogenes
Authors: Noll Matthias , Trunzer Katharina , Vondran Antje , Vincze Szilvia , Dieckmann Ralf , Al Dahouk Sascha , Gold Carolin
Published: January 2020

The objective of our study was to investigate the effects of benzalkonium chloride (BC) adaptation of L. monocytogenes on the susceptibility to antimicrobial agents and on the viable but non culturable (VBNC) state of the bacterial cells. We adapted L. monocytogenes SLCC2540 to BC by applying BC below minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) to above minimum bactericidal concentration (MBC). The culturable fractions and the susceptibility of adapted and parental cells to BC were assessed. In addition, cell membrane permeability and glucose uptake were analyzed by multi parametric flow cytometry using the fluorescent agents SYTO9, propidium iodide, and 2-deoxy-2-[(7-nitro-2,1,3-benzoxadiazol-4-yl)amino]-D-glucose (2-NBDG). Adapted cells displayed a two-fold MIC increase of BC and reduced antibiotic susceptibility. At high BC concentrations, the decrease in the number of colony forming units was significantly lower in the population of adapted cells compared to parental cells. At the same time, the number of metabolically active cells with intact membranes was significantly higher than the number of culturable cells. Growth-independent viability assays revealed an adapted subpopulation after BC application that was not culturable, indicating increased abundance of viable but nonculturable (VBNC) cells. Moreover, adapted cells can outcompete non-adapted cells under sublethal concentrations of disinfectants, which may lead to novel public health risks.
Silver-Rich Chalcopyrite from the Active Cerro Pabellón Geothermal System, Northern Chile
Authors: Reich Martin , Román Nelson , Barra Fernando , Morata Diego
Published: January 2020

Active subaerial geothermal systems are regarded as modern analogues of low- to intermediate-sulfidation epithermal Au–Ag deposits, where minor amounts of Cu are mostly present as chalcopyrite. Although trace element data concerning sulfides are scarce in active geothermal systems at convergent settings, studies in several other environments have demonstrated that chalcopyrite is a relevant host of Ag and other trace elements. Here, we focus on the active Cerro Pabellón geothermal system in the Altiplano of northern Chile, where chalcopyrite-bearing samples were retrieved from a 561 m drill core that crosscuts the high-enthalpy geothermal reservoir at depth. A combination of EMPA and LA-ICP-MS data shows that chalcopyrite from Cerro Pabellón is silver-rich (Ag > 1000 ppm) and hosts a wide range of trace elements, most notably Se, Te, Zn, Sb, As, and Ni, which can reach 100 s of ppm. Other elements detected include Co, Pb, Cr, Ga, Ge, Sn, Cd, and Hg but are often present in low concentrations (<100 ppm), whereas Au, Bi, Tl, and In are generally below 1 ppm. Chalcopyrite shows a distinct geochemical signature with depth, with significantly higher Ag concentrations in the shallow sample (494 m) and increasing Cd and In contents towards the bottom of the studied drill core (549 m). These differences in the trace element contents of chalcopyrite are interpreted as related to temperature gradients during the waning stages of boiling at Cerro Pabellón, although further studies are still needed to assess the precise partitioning controls. Our data provide evidence that chalcopyrite may play a relevant role as a scavenger of certain metals and a monitor of fluid changes in hydrothermal systems.
Bioassay-Guided Isolation and HPLC Quantification of Antiproliferative Metabolites from Stahlianthus thorelii
Authors: Nguyen Nham-Linh , Vo Thanh-Hoa , Lin Yu-Chi , Liaw Chia-Ching , Lin Zhi-Hu , Chen Mei-Chuan , Kuo Yao-Haur
Published: January 2020

In folk medicine, Stahlianthus thorelii Gagnep. has been used to treat diseases related to inflammation, ulcers, and cancer. There are no reports concerning the chemical components and bioactivities of S. thorelii; thus, this study aims to explore the phytochemicals, quantify the main compounds, and test the anticancer activity of isolates from S. thorelii. Dried rhizomes were extracted with 95% ethanol and, then, partitioned, fractionated, and isolated. On the basis of the result of the antiproliferative activity of the fractions, seven isolates were yielded and were identified by spectroscopic analyses. The inhibition of cancer proliferation was determined by an MTT assay and the deployed IC50 to value their efficacy. Seven compounds containing one new C-benzylated dihydrochalcone derivative, thorechalcone A (1) and 2–7 were isolated from S. thorelii. In terms of the bioactivity, compounds 1 and 3 displayed promising antiproliferative activity (WiDr, A549, and HepG2), with IC50 values <40 µM. The HPLC-UV method of quantification of two major compounds (3 and 4) was also validated. This study presented the isolations of antiproliferative potentials of new chalcone and known flavonoid derivatives from S. thorelii. The validated simple, accurate, and rapid HPLC method could be deployed for the quality control of herbal drugs.
Characterization, in Vitro and in Vivo Evaluation of Naringenin-Hydroxypropyl-β-Cyclodextrin Inclusion for Pulmonary Delivery
Authors: Guan Minyi , Shi Rui , Zheng Yuying , Zeng Xuan , Fan Weiyang , Wang Yonggang , Su Weiwei
Published: January 2020

Naringenin, a flavonoid compound which exists abundantly in Citrus fruits, is proven to possess excellent antitussive and expectorant effects. However, the clinical applications of naringenin are restricted by its poor solubility and low local concentration by oral administration. The aim of the present study is to prepare a naringenin-hydroxypropyl-β-cyclodextrin (naringenin-HPβCD) inclusion as an inhalation solution for pulmonary delivery. The naringenin-HPβCD inclusion was characterized by phase solubility study, XRD, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), proton nuclear magnetic resonance (1HNMR), and two-dimensional rotating frame Overhauser effect spectroscopy (2D ROESY). The in vitro permeability of the inclusion was evaluated on Calu-3 cells and the pharmacokinetic profile of pulmonary delivery was investigated in Sprague-Dawley (SD) rats. Based on the linear model of phase solubility study, the relationship between naringenin and HPβCD was identified as AL type with a 1:1 stoichiometry. XRD, DSC, and NMR studies indicated that the entire naringenin molecule is encapsulated into the cavity of HPβCD. HPβCD could increase the concentration of naringenin in the epithelium-lining fluid (ELF) of Calu-3 cells and act as a sustained release system for naringenin. The pharmacokinetic profile of naringenin-HPβCD inclusion showed rapid response and higher local concentration by pulmonary delivery. In conclusion, pulmonary delivery of naringenin-HPβCD inclusion is a promising formulation strategy, which could provide a new possibility for the clinical application of naringenin.
Molecular Spectroscopic Markers of DNA Damage
Authors: Sofińska Kamila , Wilkosz Natalia , Szymoński Marek , Lipiec Ewelina
Published: January 2020

Every cell in a living organism is constantly exposed to physical and chemical factors which damage the molecular structure of proteins, lipids, and nucleic acids. Cellular DNA lesions are the most dangerous because the genetic information, critical for the identity and function of each eukaryotic cell, is stored in the DNA. In this review, we describe spectroscopic markers of DNA damage, which can be detected by infrared, Raman, surface-enhanced Raman, and tip-enhanced Raman spectroscopies, using data acquired from DNA solutions and mammalian cells. Various physical and chemical DNA damaging factors are taken into consideration, including ionizing and non-ionizing radiation, chemicals, and chemotherapeutic compounds. All major spectral markers of DNA damage are presented in several tables, to give the reader a possibility of fast identification of the spectral signature related to a particular type of DNA damage.
Utilization of Nutmeg (Myristica fragrans Houtt.) Seed Hydrodistillation Time to Produce Essential Oil Fractions with Varied Compositions and Pharmacological Effects
Authors: Ibrahim Mohamed A. , Cantrell Charles L. , Jeliazkova Ekaterina A. , Astatkie Tess , Zheljazkov Valtcho D.
Published: January 2020

The intent of this study was to utilize distillation timeframes (DT) of nutmeg (Myristica fragrans) essential oil (EO) to generate fractions with differential chemical compositions and bioactivity. Ten fractions were captured at the following distillation timeframes: 0.0–0.5, 0.5–1.0, 1.0–2.5, 2.5–5.0, 5.0–10, 10–30, 30–60, 60–90, 90–120, and 120–240 min. In addition, a control EO was collected from a straight 0–240 min non-stop distillation. ANOVA and advanced regression modeling revealed that the produced EO fractions possess substantial variation in the concentration of potentially desired compounds. The concentrations (%) of α-phellandrene, 3-carene, p-cymene, limonene, α-thujene, α-pinene, camphene, sabinene, β-pinene, and myrcene decreased, while the concentrations (%) of α-terpinene, γ-terpinene, terpinolene, and myristicin increased in later DT fractions. Nutmeg EO showed some antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum D6, but did not exhibit significant antifungal activity. In general, nutmeg seed oil yields increased with an increase of DT. These results may be utilized by industries using nutmeg EO.
Porous Si-SiO2 UV Microcavities to Modulate the Responsivity of a Broadband Photodetector
Authors: Jimenéz-Vivanco María R. , García Godofredo , Carrillo Jesús , Morales-Morales Francisco , Coyopol Antonio , Gracia Miguel , Doti Rafael , Faubert Jocelyn , Lugo J. Eduardo
Published: January 2020

Porous Si-SiO2 UV microcavities are used to modulate a broad responsivity photodetector (GVGR-T10GD) with a detection range from 300 to 510 nm. The UV microcavity filters modified the responsivity at short wavelengths, while in the visible range the filters only attenuated the responsivity. All microcavities had a localized mode close to 360 nm in the UV-A range, and this meant that porous Si-SiO2 filters cut off the photodetection range of the photodetector from 300 to 350 nm, where microcavities showed low transmission. In the short-wavelength range, the photons were absorbed and did not contribute to the photocurrent. Therefore, the density of recombination centers was very high, and the photodetector sensitivity with a filter was lower than the photodetector without a filter. The maximum transmission measured at the localized mode (between 356 and 364 nm) was dominant in the UV-A range and enabled the flow of high energy photons. Moreover, the filters favored light transmission with a wavelength from 390 nm to 510 nm, where photons contributed to the photocurrent. Our filters made the photodetector more selective inside the specific UV range of wavelengths. This was a novel result to the best of our knowledge.
Films Based on a Blend of PVC with Copolymer of 3-Hydroxybutyrate with 3-Hydroxyhexanoate
Authors: Belukhichev Evgeniy V. , Sitnikova Vera E. , Samuylova Evgenia O. , Uspenskaya Mayya V. , Martynova Daria M.
Published: January 2020

Polymeric packaging materials are one of the factors of environmental pollution. Reducing the environmental burden is possible by increasing the environmental friendliness of packaging materials. In this work, we study polymer films based on polyvinyl chloride (PVC) with a copolymer of 3-hydroxybutyrate with 3-hydroxyhexanoate P (3-GB) (3-GG) with different component ratios. The process of processing blends in the process of obtaining a packaging film is considered. The optical characteristics of the obtained films are determined. Thermal analysis of the obtained films was carried out using the differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), TGA, and thermomechanical analysis (TMA) methods. The degree of gelling of the resulting mixture was determined. It is shown that PHB has miscibility with PVC.
The MODIS Global Vegetation Fractional Cover Product 2001–2018: Characteristics of Vegetation Fractional Cover in Grasslands and Savanna Woodlands
Authors: Hill Michael J. , Guerschman Juan P.
Published: January 2020

Vegetation Fractional Cover (VFC) is an important global indicator of land cover change, land use practice and landscape, and ecosystem function. In this study, we present the Global Vegetation Fractional Cover Product (GVFCP) and explore the levels and trends in VFC across World Grassland Type (WGT) Ecoregions considering variation associated with Global Livestock Production Systems (GLPS). Long-term average levels and trends in fractional cover of photosynthetic vegetation (FPV), non-photosynthetic vegetation (FNPV), and bare soil (FBS) are mapped, and variation among GLPS types within WGT Divisions and Ecoregions is explored. Analysis also focused on the savanna-woodland WGT Formations. Many WGT Divisions showed wide variation in long-term average VFC and trends in VFC across GLPS types. Results showed large areas of many ecoregions experiencing significant positive and negative trends in VFC. East Africa, Patagonia, and the Mitchell Grasslands of Australia exhibited large areas of negative trends in FNPV and positive trends FBS. These trends may reflect interactions between extended drought, heavy livestock utilization, expanded agriculture, and other land use changes. Compared to previous studies, explicit measurement of FNPV revealed interesting additional information about vegetation cover and trends in many ecoregions. The Australian and Global products are available via the GEOGLAM RAPP (Group on Earth Observations Global Agricultural Monitoring Rangeland and Pasture Productivity) website, and the scientific community is encouraged to utilize the data and contribute to improved validation.
Assessment of a Proximal Sensing-integrated Crop Model for Simulation of Soybean Growth and Yield
Authors: Shawon Ashifur Rahman , Ko Jonghan , Ha Bokeun , Jeong Seungtaek , Kim Dong Kwan , Kim Han-Yong
Published: January 2020

A remote sensing-integrated crop model (RSCM) able to simulate crop growth processes using proximal or remote sensing data was formulated for simulation of soybean through estimating parameters required for modelling. The RSCM-soybean was then evaluated for its capability of simulating leaf area index (LAI), above-ground dry mass (AGDM), and yield, utilising the proximally sensed data integration into the modelling procedure. Field experiments were performed at two sites, one in 2017 and 2018 at Chonnam National University, Gwangju, and the other in 2017 at Jonnam Agricultural Research and Extension Services in Naju, Chonnam province, South Korea. The estimated parameters of radiation use efficiency, light extinction coefficient, and specific leaf area were 1.65 g MJ−1, 0.71, and 0.017 m2 g−1, respectively. Simulated LAI and AGDM values agreed with the measured values with significant model efficiencies in both calibration and validation, meaning that the proximal sensing data were effectively integrated into the crop model. The RSCM reproduced soybean yields in significant agreement with the measured yields in the model assessment. The study results demonstrate that the well-calibrated RSCM-soybean scheme can reproduce soybean growth and yield using simple input requirement and proximal sensing data. RSCM-soybean is easy to use and applicable to various soybean monitoring projects.
Recent Progress in 3D Printed Mold-Based Sensors
Authors: He Shan , Feng Shilun , Nag Anindya , Afsarimanesh Nasrin , Han Tao , Mukhopadhyay Subhas Chandra
Published: January 2020

The paper presents a review of some of the significant research done on 3D printed mold-based sensors performed in recent times. The utilization of the master molds to fabricate the different parts of the sensing prototypes have been followed for quite some time due to certain distinct advantages. Some of them are easy template preparation, easy customization of the developed products, quick fabrication, and minimized electronic waste. The paper explains the different kinds of sensors and actuators that have been developed using this technique, based on their varied structural dimensions, processed raw materials, designing, and product testing. These differences in the attributes were based on their individualistic application. Furthermore, some of the challenges related to the existing sensors and their possible respective solutions have also been mentioned in the paper. Finally, a market survey has been provided, stating the estimated increase in the annual growth of 3D printed sensors. It also states the type of 3D printing that has been preferred over the years, along with the range of sensors, and their related applications.
Bifocal Ultrasound Focusing Using Bi-Fresnel Zone Plate Lenses
Authors: Pérez-López Sergio , Fuster José Miguel , Candelas Pilar , Tarrazó-Serrano Daniel , Castiñeira-Ibáñez Sergio , Rubio Constanza
Published: January 2020

In this work, we present a bifocal Fresnel zone plate (BiFZP) capable of generating focusing profiles with two different foci. The performance of the BiFZP is demonstrated in the ultrasound domain, with a very good agreement between the experimental measurements and the finite element method (FEM) simulations. This lens becomes an appealing alternative to other dual-focusing lenses, in which the foci location can only be set at a limited range of positions, such as M-bonacci zone plates. Moreover, the variation of the operating frequency has also been analyzed, providing an additional dynamic control parameter in this type of lenses.
Evaluation of Silica Nanofluids in Static and Dynamic Conditions by an Optical Fiber Sensor
Authors: César Prado Soares Marco , Santos Rodrigues Matheus , Alexandre Schenkel Egont , Perli Gabriel , Hideak Arita Silva Willian , Kauê Gomes Matheus , Fujiwara Eric , Kenichi Suzuki Carlos
Published: January 2020

This work presents an optical fiber dynamic light scattering sensor capable of simultaneously assessing concentration and flow speed of nanofluids. Silica nanoparticles (189 nm) in water were tested, yielding a sensitivity of 0.78288 × 10³ s−1 for static conditions. Then, the sensor was submitted to situations that simulate spatial concentration changes, offering better results than those obtained by traditional mathematical models. Finally, in flow tests, the light backscattered by the nanoparticles were collected by a fiber probe placed parallel to the streamline, whereas intensity values were processed by artificial neural networks. The sensor provides average errors of 0.09 wt% and 0.26 cm/s for concentration and speed measurements, respectively, and can be further applied to assess different types of nanofluids and inline processes.
Multi-Parameter Sensing in a Multimode Self-Interference Micro-Ring Resonator by Machine Learning
Authors: Hu Dong , Zou Chang-ling , Ren Hongliang , Lu Jin , Le Zichun , Qin Yali , Guo Shunqin , Dong Chunhua , Hu Weisheng
Published: January 2020

A universal multi-parameter sensing scheme based on a self-interference micro-ring resonator (SIMRR) is proposed. Benefit from the special intensity sensing mechanism, the SIMRR allows multimode sensing in a wide range of wavelengths but immune from frequency noise. To process the multiple mode spectra that are dependent on multiple parameters, we adopt the machine learning algorithm instead of massive asymptotic solutions of resonators. Employing the proposed multi-mode sensing approach, a two-parameter SIMRR sensor is designed. Assuming that two gases have different wavelength dependence of refractive indices, the feasibility and effectiveness of the two-parameter sensing strategy are verified numerically. Moreover, the dependence of parameter estimation accuracy on the laser intensity noises is also investigated. The numerical results indicate that our scheme of multi-parameter sensing in a multimode SIMRR holds great potential for practical high-sensitive sensing platforms compared with the single-mode sensing based on whispering gallery mode (WGM) resonators.
Lower Limb Kinematics Using Inertial Sensors during Locomotion: Accuracy and Reproducibility of Joint Angle Calculations with Different Sensor-to-Segment Calibrations
Authors: Lebleu Julien , Gosseye Thierry , Detrembleur Christine , Mahaudens Philippe , Cartiaux Olivier , Penta Massimo
Published: January 2020

Inertial measurement unit (IMU) records of human movement can be converted into joint angles using a sensor-to-segment calibration, also called functional calibration. This study aims to compare the accuracy and reproducibility of four functional calibration procedures for the 3D tracking of the lower limb joint angles of young healthy individuals in gait. Three methods based on segment rotations and one on segment accelerations were used to compare IMU records with an optical system for their accuracy and reproducibility. The squat functional calibration movement, offering a low range of motion of the shank, provided the least accurate measurements. A comparable accuracy was obtained in other methods with a root mean square error below 3.6° and an absolute difference in amplitude below 3.4°. The reproducibility was excellent in the sagittal plane (intra-class correlation coefficient (ICC) > 0.91, standard error of measurement (SEM) < 1.1°), good to excellent in the transverse plane (ICC > 0.87, SEM < 1.1°), and good in the frontal plane (ICC > 0.63, SEM < 1.2°). The better accuracy for proximal joints in calibration movements using segment rotations was traded to distal joints in calibration movements using segment accelerations. These results encourage further applications of IMU systems in unconstrained rehabilitative contexts.
Automatic Tunnel Crack Detection Based on U-Net and a Convolutional Neural Network with Alternately Updated Clique
Authors: Li Gang , Ma Biao , He Shuanhai , Ren Xueli , Liu Qiangwei
Published: January 2020

Regular crack inspection of tunnels is essential to guarantee their safe operation. At present, the manual detection method is time-consuming, subjective and even dangerous, while the automatic detection method is relatively inaccurate. Detecting tunnel cracks is a challenging task since cracks are tiny, and there are many noise patterns in the tunnel images. This study proposes a deep learning algorithm based on U-Net and a convolutional neural network with alternately updated clique (CliqueNet), called U-CliqueNet, to separate cracks from background in the tunnel images. A consumer-grade DSC-WX700 camera (SONY, Wuxi, China) was used to collect 200 original images, then cracks are manually marked and divided into sub-images with a resolution of 496   ×   496 pixels. A total of 60,000 sub-images were obtained in the dataset of tunnel cracks, among which 50,000 were used for training and 10,000 were used for testing. The proposed framework conducted training and testing on this dataset, the mean pixel accuracy (MPA), mean intersection over union (MIoU), precision and F1-score are 92.25%, 86.96%, 86.32% and 83.40%, respectively. We compared the U-CliqueNet with fully convolutional networks (FCN), U-net, Encoder–decoder network (SegNet) and the multi-scale fusion crack detection (MFCD) algorithm using hypothesis testing, and it’s proved that the MIoU predicted by U-CliqueNet was significantly higher than that of the other four algorithms. The area, length and mean width of cracks can be calculated, and the relative error between the detected mean crack width and the actual mean crack width ranges from −11.20% to 18.57%. The results show that this framework can be used for fast and accurate crack semantic segmentation of tunnel images.
Deep Learning with Dynamically Weighted Loss Function for Sensor-Based Prognostics and Health Management
Authors: Rengasamy Divish , Jafari Mina , Rothwell Benjamin , Chen Xin , Figueredo Grazziela P.
Published: January 2020

Deep learning has been employed to prognostic and health management of automotive and aerospace with promising results. Literature in this area has revealed that most contributions regarding deep learning is largely focused on the model’s architecture. However, contributions regarding improvement of different aspects in deep learning, such as custom loss function for prognostic and health management are scarce. There is therefore an opportunity to improve upon the effectiveness of deep learning for the system’s prognostics and diagnostics without modifying the models’ architecture. To address this gap, the use of two different dynamically weighted loss functions, a newly proposed weighting mechanism and a focal loss function for prognostics and diagnostics task are investigated. A dynamically weighted loss function is expected to modify the learning process by augmenting the loss function with a weight value corresponding to the learning error of each data instance. The objective is to force deep learning models to focus on those instances where larger learning errors occur in order to improve their performance. The two loss functions used are evaluated using four popular deep learning architectures, namely, deep feedforward neural network, one-dimensional convolutional neural network, bidirectional gated recurrent unit and bidirectional long short-term memory on the commercial modular aero-propulsion system simulation data from NASA and air pressure system failure data for Scania trucks. Experimental results show that dynamically-weighted loss functions helps us achieve significant improvement for remaining useful life prediction and fault detection rate over non-weighted loss function predictions.
An End-to-End Oil-Spill Monitoring Method for Multisensory Satellite Images Based on Deep Semantic Segmentation
Authors: Chen Yantong , Li Yuyang , Wang Junsheng
Published: January 2020

In remote-sensing images, a detected oil-spill area is usually affected by spot noise and uneven intensity, which leads to poor segmentation of the oil-spill area. This paper introduced a deep semantic segmentation method that combined a deep-convolution neural network with the fully connected conditional random field to form an end-to-end connection. On the basis of Resnet, it first roughly segmented a multisource remote-sensing image as input by the deep convolutional neural network. Then, we used the Gaussian pairwise method and mean-field approximation. The conditional random field was established as the output of the recurrent neural network. The oil-spill area on the sea surface was monitored by the multisource remote-sensing image and was estimated by optical image. We experimentally compared the proposed method with other models on the dataset established by the multisensory satellite image. Results showed that the method improved classification accuracy and captured fine details of the oil-spill area. The mean intersection over the union was 82.1%, and the monitoring effect was obviously improved.
Fully Depleted, Trench-Pinned Photo Gate for CMOS Image Sensor Applications
Authors: Roy Francois , Suler Andrej , Dalleau Thomas , Duru Romain , Benoit Daniel , Arnaud Jihane , Cazaux Yvon , Chaton Catherine , Montes Laurent , Morfouli Panagiota , Lu Guo-Neng
Published: January 2020

Tackling issues of implantation-caused defects and contamination, this paper presents a new complementary metal–oxide–semiconductor (CMOS) image sensor (CIS) pixel design concept based on a native epitaxial layer for photon detection, charge storage, and charge transfer to the sensing node. To prove this concept, a backside illumination (BSI), p-type, 2-µm-pitch pixel was designed. It integrates a vertical pinned photo gate (PPG), a buried vertical transfer gate (TG), sidewall capacitive deep trench isolation (CDTI), and backside oxide–nitride–oxide (ONO) stack. The designed pixel was fabricated with variations of key parameters for optimization. Testing results showed the following achievements: 13,000 h+ full-well capacity with no lag for charge transfer, 80% quantum efficiency (QE) at 550-nm wavelength, 5 h+/s dark current at 60 °C, 2 h+ temporal noise floor, and 75 dB dynamic range. In comparison with conventional pixel design, the proposed concept could improve CIS performance.
The End-Purpose of Teaching History and the Curricular Inclusion of Social Problems from the Perspective of Primary Education Trainee Teachers
Authors: Ortega-Sánchez Delfín , Pagès Blanch Joan
Published: January 2020

The principal objective of the present study is to analyze the representations of Primary Education trainee teachers (n = 232) involving the end-purposes of teaching History and, in particular, their views on the didactic treatment and curricular inclusion of social problems at this educational stage. A mixed investigation method is applied, which combines both qualitative and quantitative approaches. The results pointed to a predictive influence of the degree of importance attached to the didactic treatment of social problems and the frequency with which they were covered on the Degree Course, for the assessment of their explicit inclusion in the Social Sciences curriculum. Likewise, the educational potential of the social problems appeared to be unconnected to the most highly assessed end-purposes, which are related to the development of social, critical, and creative thought for participation and social intervention.
Absolute and Relative Strength, Power and Physiological Characteristics of Indian Junior National-Level Judokas
Authors: Harris Dale M. , Kendall Kristina , Haff G. Gregory , Latella Christopher
Published: January 2020

The physical qualities that underpin successful junior judokas requires continuing investigation. We investigated the physical and physiological characteristics of junior national level judokas. We tested 25 (15 male, 10 female) Indian judokas for absolute and relative strength (back-squat and bench-press one-repetition maximum (1RM) as well as isometric handgrip), aerobic (RAMP test) and lower-body anaerobic power (Wingate 6-s sprint and countermovement jump), change-of-direction (5-0-5 test) and speed (30 m sprint). Athletes were grouped according to national-level competition placing (gold-medal winners (GM; n = 8), all medal winners (MW; n = 13), non-medallists (NM; n = 12), and NM plus silver and bronze; all others (AO; n = 17)). Stepwise discriminant function analysis determined characteristics likely to predict successful performance. Independent t-tests and effect size (Hedge’s g) analyses were performed between groups. GM demonstrated greater lower-body absolute (20.0%; g = 0.87, p = 0.046) and relative 1RM strength (21.0%; g = 0.87, p = 0.047), and greater lower-body absolute (25.4%; g=1.32, p=0.004) and relative (27.3%; g = 1.27, p = 0.005) anaerobic power compared to AO. Furthermore, anaerobic power can correctly predict 76.5% and 62.5% of AO and GM athletes, respectively. No differences were observed between MW and NM groups. The results suggest the importance of lower-body strength and power for junior national-level judokas and provides information for professionals working with these athletes.
Spatiotemporal Evolution of Landscape Ecological Risk Based on Geomorphological Regionalization during 1980–2017: A Case Study of Shaanxi Province, China
Authors: Liu Di , Chen Hai , Zhang Hang , Geng Tianwei , Shi Qinqin
Published: January 2020

Land surface elements, such as land use, are in constant change and dynamically balanced, driving changes in global ecological processes and forming the regional differentiation of surface landscapes, which causes many ecological risks under multiple sources of stress. The landscape pattern index can quickly identify the disturbance caused by the vulnerability of the ecosystem itself, thus providing an effective method to support the spatial heterogeneity of landscape ecological risk. A landscape ecological risk model based on the degree of interference and fragility was constructed and spatiotemporal differentiation of risk between 1980 and 2017 in Shaanxi Province was analyzed. The spatiotemporal migration of risk was demonstrated from the perspective of geomorphological regionalization and risk gravity. Several conclusions were drawn: The risk of Shaanxi Province first increased and then decreased, at the same time, the spatial differentiation of landscape ecological risk was very significant. The ecological risk presented a significant positive correlation but the degree of autocorrelation decreased. The risk of the Qinba Mountains was low and the risk of the Guanzhong Plain and Han River basin was high. The risk of Loess Plateau and sandstorm transition zone decreased greatly and their risk gravities shifted to the southwest. The gravity of the Guanzhong Plain and Qinling Mountains had a northward trend, while the gravity of the Han River basin and Daba Mountains shifted to the southeast. In the analysis of typical regions, there were different relationships between morphological indicators and risk indexes under different geomorphological features. The appropriate engineering measures and landscape management for different geomorphological regionalization were suggested for effective reduction of ecological risks.
Assessment of the Knowledge, Perceptions, and Reactions towards the African Apefly (Spalgis lemolea lemolea) in Tanzania
Authors: Nasari Sayuni P. , Ndakidemi Patrick A. , Mbega Ernest R.
Published: January 2020

This paper reports on farmers’ knowledge, perceptions, and reactions towards the African apefly (Spalgis lemolea lemolea), which appeared to be associated with some vegetables in some locations in Tanzania. Information was obtained from a sample of 100 key respondents using a semi-structured questionnaire and from focus groups selected from key locations in five districts in the country with histories with the African apefly. Acute and sub-acute toxicity tests of the African apefly were performed on female Swiss hybrid mice (Mus musculus) to assess whether or not the African apefly was toxic to mammals. The mice were exposed to increasing apefly meal concentrations in acute and sub-acute tests, and signs of toxicity were observed for 14 and 28 days, respectively. Blood samples were collected by cardiac puncture for hematological and biochemical analysis. Gross and microscopic examinations of the internal organs were done. The survey results showed that 92.1% of the respondents perceived the African apefly as poisonous and had stopped consuming the vegetables associated with it. In the toxicity tests, however, no death or toxic signs were displayed, and there was no significant difference between the control and treated mice in weight, hematological parameters, and histo-pathological examination results. These findings strongly indicate that, despite the negative perception by farmers regarding the African apefly, it is not poisonous. However, further studies on how farmers can be trained to have a positive perception of the African apefly and how the insect can be conserved for further research regarding its role in Tanzania are recommended.
How Knowledge Acquisition Diversity Affects Innovation Performance during the Technological Catch-Up in Emerging Economies: A Moderated Inverse U-Shape Relationship
Authors: Li Qiang , Guo Jing-Jing , Liu Wei , Yue Xiao-Guang , Duarte Nelson , Pereira Carla
Published: January 2020

Many domestic enterprises in emerging economies are concerned with the question of how to better utilize the portfolio of technology sourcing channels to achieve rapid economic growth by technological innovation. This paper looks at this issue by exploring the impacts of knowledge acquisition diversity (KAD) on innovation performance of domestic enterprises in China and the technological contexts (in terms of technology gap and technology development speed) under which KAD is most likely to contribute. Using panel data of the manufacturing industry in China over the 2001–2009 period, the results show that KAD has an inverse U-shaped relationship with innovation performance in terms of both product-related innovation performance (NPS) and knowledge-related innovation performance (PAT). Specifically, it reveals that the capability to generate technological innovation over time is dependent on how domestic enterprises manage their portfolio of knowledge sourcing channels to learn from foreign enterprises. Moreover, it is shown that the technology gap significantly moderates the inverted U-shaped relationship between KAD and both NPS and PAT. Technology development speed has a moderating effect on the inverted U-shaped relationship between KAD and innovation only in terms of NPS. The results of this study can help us to understand the relationships among technological contexts, KAD and innovation performance of domestic enterprises in emerging countries.
Spatial Planning Policy for Sustainability: Analysis Connecting Land Use and GHG Emission in Rural Areas
Authors: Pezzagno Michele , Richiedei Anna , Tira Maurizio
Published: January 2020

Anthropogenic greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions are the highest they have ever been and the climate change they have triggered is having consequences on both human and natural systems. The aim of the paper is to demonstrate that an integrated reading of urban and rural land uses in relation to GHG emissions is feasible and useful at the regional level in order to reach emissions reduction. The Po Valley in Italy is an emblematic case study because its features are unique in Europe for high population density, urban sprawl, intensive agriculture, livestock management and consequently high emission levels. The methodology examines the total GHG emissions in relation to urban and rural areas. Between 2000 and 2010, the trend of CO2-equivalent emissions for the macro-regions of Italy shows a national decrease in contrast to the area of our case study which has seen a steady increase and growth trend over time. The paper analyzes some possible reasons linked to this anomaly, and it presents an estimation of the CO2-equivalent emissions related to the use of agricultural land. The main output of the paper is a new overview for research that aims to propose integrated solutions and policies at the local level with a wider vision focused on GHG emission knowledge, supported by Strategic Environmental Assessment.