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22 pages, 3632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of Soil Compaction Analysis Software (SCAN) Integrating a Low Cost GPS Receiver and Compactometer

by Jinsang Hwang¹, Hongsik Yun¹, Juhyong Kim², Yongcheol Suh³, Sungnam Hong^1,* and Dongha Lee^1,*

¹ Department of Civil, Architectural & Environmental Engineering, Sungkyunkwan University, Suwon 440-746, Korea

² Geotechnical Engineering Research Division, SOC Research Institute, Korea Institute of Construction Technology, Goyang 411-712, Korea

³ Department of Spatial Information Engineering, Pukyong National University, Busan 608-737, Korea

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2351-2372; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302351 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 7602

Abstract

A software for soil compaction analysis (SCAN) has been developed for evaluating the compaction states using the data from the GPS as well as a compactometer attached on the roller. The SCAN is distinguished from other previous software for intelligent compaction (IC) in [...] Read more.

A software for soil compaction analysis (SCAN) has been developed for evaluating the compaction states using the data from the GPS as well as a compactometer attached on the roller. The SCAN is distinguished from other previous software for intelligent compaction (IC) in that it can use the results from various types of GPS positioning methods, and it also has an optimal structure for remotely managing the large amounts of data gathered from numerous rollers. For this, several methods were developed: (1) improving the accuracy of low cost GPS receiver’s positioning results; (2) modeling the trajectory of a moving roller using a GPS receiver’s results and linking it with the data from the compactometer; and (3) extracting the information regarding the compaction states of the ground from the modeled trajectory, using spatial analysis methods. The SCAN was verified throughout various field compaction tests, and it has been confirmed that it can be a very effective tool in evaluating field compaction states. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)

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27 pages, 839 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Vision-Based Driver Nighttime Assistance and Surveillance System Based on Intelligent Image Sensing Techniques and a Heterogamous Dual-Core Embedded System Architecture

by Yen-Lin Chen¹

, Hsin-Han Chiang², Chuan-Yen Chiang³, Chuan-Ming Liu¹

, Shyan-Ming Yuan³ and Jenq-Haur Wang^1,*

¹ Department of Computer Science and Information Engineering, National Taipei University of Technology, 1, Sec. 3, Chung-hsiao E. Rd., Taipei 10608, Taiwan

² Department of Electrical Engineering, Fu Jen Catholic University, New Taipei City 24205, Taiwan

³ Department of Computer Science, National Chiao Tung University, 1001 University Road, Hsinchu 30050, Taiwan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2373-2399; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302373 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 9872

Abstract

This study proposes a vision-based intelligent nighttime driver assistance and surveillance system (VIDASS system) implemented by a set of embedded software components and modules, and integrates these modules to accomplish a component-based system framework on an embedded heterogamous dual-core platform. Therefore, this study [...] Read more.

This study proposes a vision-based intelligent nighttime driver assistance and surveillance system (VIDASS system) implemented by a set of embedded software components and modules, and integrates these modules to accomplish a component-based system framework on an embedded heterogamous dual-core platform. Therefore, this study develops and implements computer vision and sensing techniques of nighttime vehicle detection, collision warning determination, and traffic event recording. The proposed system processes the road-scene frames in front of the host car captured from CCD sensors mounted on the host vehicle. These vision-based sensing and processing technologies are integrated and implemented on an ARM-DSP heterogamous dual-core embedded platform. Peripheral devices, including image grabbing devices, communication modules, and other in-vehicle control devices, are also integrated to form an in-vehicle-embedded vision-based nighttime driver assistance and surveillance system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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14 pages, 2281 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Development of an Integrated Chip for Automatic Tracking and Positioning Manipulation for Single Cell Lysis

by Chao-Wang Young, Jia-Ling Hsieh and Chyung Ay^*

Department of Biomechatronic Engineering, National Chiayi University, No. 300, University Rd., East Dist., Chiayi 600, Taiwan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2400-2413; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302400 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 5806

Abstract

This study adopted a microelectromechanical fabrication process to design a chip integrated with electroosmotic flow and dielectrophoresis force for single cell lysis. Human histiocytic lymphoma U937 cells were driven rapidly by electroosmotic flow and precisely moved to a specific area for cell lysis. [...] Read more.

This study adopted a microelectromechanical fabrication process to design a chip integrated with electroosmotic flow and dielectrophoresis force for single cell lysis. Human histiocytic lymphoma U937 cells were driven rapidly by electroosmotic flow and precisely moved to a specific area for cell lysis. By varying the frequency of AC power, 15 V AC at 1 MHz of frequency configuration achieved 100% cell lysing at the specific area. The integrated chip could successfully manipulate single cells to a specific position and lysis. The overall successful rate of cell tracking, positioning, and cell lysis is 80%. The average speed of cell driving was 17.74 μm/s. This technique will be developed for DNA extraction in biomolecular detection. It can simplify pre-treatment procedures for biotechnological analysis of samples. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)

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20 pages, 965 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Optimizing SOI Slot Waveguide Fabrication Tolerances and Strip-Slot Coupling for Very Efficient Optical Sensing

by Vittorio M. N. Passaro^* and Mario La Notte

Photonics Research Group, Dipartimento di Elettrotecnica ed Elettronica, Politecnico di Bari, Via Edoardo Orabona 4, 70125 Bari, Italy

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2436-2455; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302436 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 12709

Abstract

Slot waveguides are becoming more and more attractive optical components, especially for chemical and bio-chemical sensing. In this paper an accurate analysis of slot waveguide fabrication tolerances is carried out, in order to find optimum design criteria for either homogeneous or absorption sensing [...] Read more.

Slot waveguides are becoming more and more attractive optical components, especially for chemical and bio-chemical sensing. In this paper an accurate analysis of slot waveguide fabrication tolerances is carried out, in order to find optimum design criteria for either homogeneous or absorption sensing mechanisms, in cases of low and high aspect ratio slot waveguides. In particular, we have focused on Silicon On Insulator (SOI) technology, representing the most popular technology for this kind of devices, simultaneously achieving high integration capabilities, small dimensions and low cost. An accurate analysis of single mode behavior for high aspect ratio slot waveguide has been also performed, in order to provide geometric limits for waveguide design purposes. Finally, the problem of coupling into a slot waveguide is addressed and a very compact and efficient slot coupler is proposed, whose geometry has been optimized to give a strip-slot-strip coupling efficiency close to 100%. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing at the Nano-Scale: Chemical and Bio-Sensing)

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11 pages, 552 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrochemical L-Lactic Acid Sensor Based on Immobilized ZnO Nanorods with Lactate Oxidase

by Zafar Hussain Ibupoto^*, Syed Muhammad Usman Ali Shah, Kimleang Khun and Magnus Willander

Department of Science and Technology, Campus Norrköping, Linköping University, SE-60174, Norrköping, Sweden

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2456-2466; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302456 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 91 | Viewed by 13428

Abstract

In this work, fabrication of gold coated glass substrate, growth of ZnO nanorods and potentiometric response of lactic acid are explained. The biosensor was developed by immobilizing the lactate oxidase on the ZnO nanorods in combination with glutaraldehyde as a cross linker for [...] Read more.

In this work, fabrication of gold coated glass substrate, growth of ZnO nanorods and potentiometric response of lactic acid are explained. The biosensor was developed by immobilizing the lactate oxidase on the ZnO nanorods in combination with glutaraldehyde as a cross linker for lactate oxidase enzyme. The potentiometric technique was applied for the measuring the output (EMF) response of L-lactic acid biosensor. We noticed that the present biosensor has wide linear detection range of concentration from 1 × 10⁻⁴–1 × 10⁰ mM with acceptable sensitivity about 41.33 ± 1.58 mV/decade. In addition, the proposed biosensor showed fast response time less than 10 s, a good selectivity towards L-lactic acid in presence of common interfering substances such as ascorbic acid, urea, glucose, galactose, magnesium ions and calcium ions. The present biosensor based on immobilized ZnO nanorods with lactate oxidase sustained its stability for more than three weeks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)

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32 pages, 7310 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Localization of Non-Linearly Modeled Autonomous Mobile Robots Using Out-of-Sequence Measurements

by Eva Besada-Portas^*, Jose A. Lopez-Orozco, Pablo Lanillos and Jesus M. De la Cruz

Dpto Arquitectura de Computadores y Automatica, Universidad Complutense de Madrid, Av. Complutense s/n, 28040 Madrid, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2487-2518; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302487 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 7101

Abstract

This paper presents a state of the art of the estimation algorithms dealing with Out-of-Sequence (OOS) measurements for non-linearly modeled systems. The state of the art includes a critical analysis of the algorithm properties that takes into account the applicability of these techniques [...] Read more.

This paper presents a state of the art of the estimation algorithms dealing with Out-of-Sequence (OOS) measurements for non-linearly modeled systems. The state of the art includes a critical analysis of the algorithm properties that takes into account the applicability of these techniques to autonomous mobile robot navigation based on the fusion of the measurements provided, delayed and OOS, by multiple sensors. Besides, it shows a representative example of the use of one of the most computationally efficient approaches in the localization module of the control software of a real robot (which has non-linear dynamics, and linear and non-linear sensors) and compares its performance against other approaches. The simulated results obtained with the selected OOS algorithm shows the computational requirements that each sensor of the robot imposes to it. The real experiments show how the inclusion of the selected OOS algorithm in the control software lets the robot successfully navigate in spite of receiving many OOS measurements. Finally, the comparison highlights that not only is the selected OOS algorithm among the best performing ones of the comparison, but it also has the lowest computational and memory cost. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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22 pages, 2195 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dual Super-Systolic Core for Real-Time Reconstructive Algorithms of High-Resolution Radar/SAR Imaging Systems

by Alejandro Castillo Atoche^1,*

and Javier Vázquez Castillo²

¹ Department of Mechatronics, Autonomous University of Yucatan, Av. Industrias No Contaminantes s/n, Cordemex, 97203, Merida, Yuc., Mexico

² Science and Engineering Division, University of Quintana Roo, Boulevard Bahia s/n, Chetumal, QRoo 77010, Mexico

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2539-2560; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302539 - 24 Feb 2012

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 7244

Abstract

A high-speed dual super-systolic core for reconstructive signal processing (SP) operations consists of a double parallel systolic array (SA) machine in which each processing element of the array is also conceptualized as another SA in a bit-level fashion. In this study, we addressed [...] Read more.

A high-speed dual super-systolic core for reconstructive signal processing (SP) operations consists of a double parallel systolic array (SA) machine in which each processing element of the array is also conceptualized as another SA in a bit-level fashion. In this study, we addressed the design of a high-speed dual super-systolic array (SSA) core for the enhancement/reconstruction of remote sensing (RS) imaging of radar/synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensor systems. The selected reconstructive SP algorithms are efficiently transformed in their parallel representation and then, they are mapped into an efficient high performance embedded computing (HPEC) architecture in reconfigurable Xilinx field programmable gate array (FPGA) platforms. As an implementation test case, the proposed approach was aggregated in a HW/SW co-design scheme in order to solve the nonlinear ill-posed inverse problem of nonparametric estimation of the power spatial spectrum pattern (SSP) from a remotely sensed scene. We show how such dual SSA core, drastically reduces the computational load of complex RS regularization techniques achieving the required real-time operational mode. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microprocessors and System-on-Chip)

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21 pages, 810 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Error Estimation for the Linearized Auto-Localization Algorithm

by Jorge Guevara^*, Antonio R. Jiménez

, Jose Carlos Prieto and Fernando Seco

Centro de Automática y Robótica (CAR), Consejo Superior de Investigaciones Científicas (CSIC)-UPM, Ctra. Campo Real km 0.2, La Poveda-Arganda del Rey, 28500, Madrid, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2561-2581; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302561 - 24 Feb 2012

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 7149

Abstract

The Linearized Auto-Localization (LAL) algorithm estimates the position of beacon nodes in Local Positioning Systems (LPSs), using only the distance measurements to a mobile node whose position is also unknown. The LAL algorithm calculates the inter-beacon distances, used for the estimation of the [...] Read more.

The Linearized Auto-Localization (LAL) algorithm estimates the position of beacon nodes in Local Positioning Systems (LPSs), using only the distance measurements to a mobile node whose position is also unknown. The LAL algorithm calculates the inter-beacon distances, used for the estimation of the beacons’ positions, from the linearized trilateration equations. In this paper we propose a method to estimate the propagation of the errors of the inter-beacon distances obtained with the LAL algorithm, based on a first order Taylor approximation of the equations. Since the method depends on such approximation, a confidence parameter τ is defined to measure the reliability of the estimated error. Field evaluations showed that by applying this information to an improved weighted-based auto-localization algorithm (WLAL), the standard deviation of the inter-beacon distances can be improved by more than 30% on average with respect to the original LAL method. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensorial Systems Applied to Intelligent Spaces)

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16 pages, 958 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Integrating Metal-Oxide-Decorated CNT Networks with a CMOS Readout in a Gas Sensor

by Hyunjoong Lee¹, Sanghoon Lee¹, Dai-Hong Kim², David Perello³, Young June Park¹, Seong-Hyeon Hong², Minhee Yun³ and Suhwan Kim^1,*

¹ Department of Electrical Engineering, Seoul National University, Seoul, 151-744, Korea

² Department of Materials Science and Engineering and Research Institute of Advanced Materials, Seoul National University, Seoul, 151-744, Korea

³ Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Swanson School of Engineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA 15261, USA

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2582-2597; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302582 - 27 Feb 2012

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 8089

Abstract

We have implemented a tin-oxide-decorated carbon nanotube (CNT) network gas sensor system on a single die. We have also demonstrated the deposition of metallic tin on the CNT network, its subsequent oxidation in air, and the improvement of the lifetime of the sensors. [...] Read more.

We have implemented a tin-oxide-decorated carbon nanotube (CNT) network gas sensor system on a single die. We have also demonstrated the deposition of metallic tin on the CNT network, its subsequent oxidation in air, and the improvement of the lifetime of the sensors. The fabricated array of CNT sensors contains 128 sensor cells for added redundancy and increased accuracy. The read-out integrated circuit (ROIC) was combined with coarse and fine time-to-digital converters to extend its resolution in a power-efficient way. The ROIC is fabricated using a 0.35 µm CMOS process, and the whole sensor system consumes 30 mA at 5 V. The sensor system was successfully tested in the detection of ammonia gas at elevated temperatures. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing at the Nano-Scale: Chemical and Bio-Sensing)

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12 pages, 455 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Investigation of the Carbon Monoxide Gas Sensing Characteristics of Tin Oxide Mixed Cerium Oxide Thin Films

by Sardar M. A. Durrani^*, Mohammad F. Al-Kuhaili, Imran A. Bakhtiari and Muhammad B. Haider

Physics Department, King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals, Dhahran 31261, Saudi Arabia

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2598-2609; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302598 - 27 Feb 2012

Cited by 56 | Viewed by 9143

Abstract

Thin films of tin oxide mixed cerium oxide were grown on unheated substrates by physical vapor deposition. The films were annealed in air at 500 °C for two hours, and were characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and optical spectrophotometry. X-ray [...] Read more.

Thin films of tin oxide mixed cerium oxide were grown on unheated substrates by physical vapor deposition. The films were annealed in air at 500 °C for two hours, and were characterized using X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy and optical spectrophotometry. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy and atomic force microscopy results reveal that the films were highly porous and porosity of our films was found to be in the range of 11.6–21.7%. The films were investigated for the detection of carbon monoxide, and were found to be highly sensitive. We found that 430 °C was the optimum operating temperature for sensing CO gas at concentrations as low as 5 ppm. Our sensors exhibited fast response and recovery times of 26 s and 30 s, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing at the Nano-Scale: Chemical and Bio-Sensing)

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22 pages, 794 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Intelligent Control of a Sensor-Actuator System via Kernelized Least-Squares Policy Iteration

by Bo Liu^1,2,†, Sanfeng Chen^1,*,†, Shuai Li³ and Yongsheng Liang¹

¹ Key Lab of Visual Media Processing and Transmission, Shenzhen Institute of Information Technology, Shenzhen, Guangdong 518029, China

² Department of Computer Science, University of Massachusetts, Amherst, MA 01003, USA

³ Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken, NJ 07030, USA

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2632-2653; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302632 - 28 Feb 2012

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 6742

Abstract

In this paper a new framework, called Compressive Kernelized Reinforcement Learning (CKRL), for computing near-optimal policies in sequential decision making with uncertainty is proposed via incorporating the non-adaptive data-independent Random Projections and nonparametric Kernelized Least-squares Policy Iteration (KLSPI). Random Projections are a fast, [...] Read more.

In this paper a new framework, called Compressive Kernelized Reinforcement Learning (CKRL), for computing near-optimal policies in sequential decision making with uncertainty is proposed via incorporating the non-adaptive data-independent Random Projections and nonparametric Kernelized Least-squares Policy Iteration (KLSPI). Random Projections are a fast, non-adaptive dimensionality reduction framework in which high-dimensionality data is projected onto a random lower-dimension subspace via spherically random rotation and coordination sampling. KLSPI introduce kernel trick into the LSPI framework for Reinforcement Learning, often achieving faster convergence and providing automatic feature selection via various kernel sparsification approaches. In this approach, policies are computed in a low-dimensional subspace generated by projecting the high-dimensional features onto a set of random basis. We first show how Random Projections constitute an efficient sparsification technique and how our method often converges faster than regular LSPI, while at lower computational costs. Theoretical foundation underlying this approach is a fast approximation of Singular Value Decomposition (SVD). Finally, simulation results are exhibited on benchmark MDP domains, which confirm gains both in computation time and in performance in large feature spaces. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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13 pages, 473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

LOLS Research in Technology for the Development and Application of New Fiber-Based Sensors

by João Coelho^*, Marta Nespereira, Catarina Silva and José Rebordão

Laboratory of Optics, Lasers and Systems, Department of Physics, Faculty of Sciences, University of Lisbon, Polo do Lumiar, Estrada do Paço do Lumiar, 22, Building D, 1649-038 Lisboa, Portugal

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2654-2666; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302654 - 28 Feb 2012

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 7486

Abstract

This paper presents the research made at the Laboratory of Optics, Lasers and Systems (LOLS) of the Faculty of Sciences of University of Lisbon, Portugal, in the field of fiber-based sensors. Three areas are considered: sensor encapsulation for natural aqueous environments, refractive index [...] Read more.

This paper presents the research made at the Laboratory of Optics, Lasers and Systems (LOLS) of the Faculty of Sciences of University of Lisbon, Portugal, in the field of fiber-based sensors. Three areas are considered: sensor encapsulation for natural aqueous environments, refractive index modulation and laser micropatterning. We present the main conclusions on the issues and parameters to take in consideration for the encapsulation process and results of its design and application. Mid-infrared laser radiation was applied to produce long period fiber gratings and nanosecond pulses of near-infrared Q-switch laser were used for micropatterning. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Sensors Technology in Portugal)

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26 pages, 720 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Using SRAM Based FPGAs for Power-Aware High Performance Wireless Sensor Networks

by Juan Valverde^*, Andres Otero, Miguel Lopez, Jorge Portilla

, Eduardo De la Torre and Teresa Riesgo

Centro de Electronica Industrial, Universidad Politecnica de Madrid, Jose Gutierrez Abascal 2, Madrid 28006, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2667-2692; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302667 - 28 Feb 2012

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 10034

Abstract

While for years traditional wireless sensor nodes have been based on ultra-low power microcontrollers with sufficient but limited computing power, the complexity and number of tasks of today’s applications are constantly increasing. Increasing the node duty cycle is not feasible in all cases, [...] Read more.

While for years traditional wireless sensor nodes have been based on ultra-low power microcontrollers with sufficient but limited computing power, the complexity and number of tasks of today’s applications are constantly increasing. Increasing the node duty cycle is not feasible in all cases, so in many cases more computing power is required. This extra computing power may be achieved by either more powerful microcontrollers, though more power consumption or, in general, any solution capable of accelerating task execution. At this point, the use of hardware based, and in particular FPGA solutions, might appear as a candidate technology, since though power use is higher compared with lower power devices, execution time is reduced, so energy could be reduced overall. In order to demonstrate this, an innovative WSN node architecture is proposed. This architecture is based on a high performance high capacity state-of-the-art FPGA, which combines the advantages of the intrinsic acceleration provided by the parallelism of hardware devices, the use of partial reconfiguration capabilities, as well as a careful power-aware management system, to show that energy savings for certain higher-end applications can be achieved. Finally, comprehensive tests have been done to validate the platform in terms of performance and power consumption, to proof that better energy efficiency compared to processor based solutions can be achieved, for instance, when encryption is imposed by the application requirements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microprocessors and System-on-Chip)

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17 pages, 1090 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Distributed Coding/Decoding Complexity in Video Sensor Networks

by Paulo J. Cordeiro^1,2,* and Pedro Assunção^1,2

¹ Instituto Politécnico de Leiria/ESTG, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto Vieiro, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal

² Instituto de Telecomunicações, Delegação de Leiria, Campus 2, Morro do Lena, Alto Vieiro, 2411-901 Leiria, Portugal

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2693-2709; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302693 - 29 Feb 2012

Cited by 5 | Viewed by 7305

Abstract

Video Sensor Networks (VSNs) are recent communication infrastructures used to capture and transmit dense visual information from an application context. In such large scale environments which include video coding, transmission and display/storage, there are several open problems to overcome in practical implementations. This [...] Read more.

Video Sensor Networks (VSNs) are recent communication infrastructures used to capture and transmit dense visual information from an application context. In such large scale environments which include video coding, transmission and display/storage, there are several open problems to overcome in practical implementations. This paper addresses the most relevant challenges posed by VSNs, namely stringent bandwidth usage and processing time/power constraints. In particular, the paper proposes a novel VSN architecture where large sets of visual sensors with embedded processors are used for compression and transmission of coded streams to gateways, which in turn transrate the incoming streams and adapt them to the variable complexity requirements of both the sensor encoders and end-user decoder terminals. Such gateways provide real-time transcoding functionalities for bandwidth adaptation and coding/decoding complexity distribution by transferring the most complex video encoding/decoding tasks to the transcoding gateway at the expense of a limited increase in bit rate. Then, a method to reduce the decoding complexity, suitable for system-on-chip implementation, is proposed to operate at the transcoding gateway whenever decoders with constrained resources are targeted. The results show that the proposed method achieves good performance and its inclusion into the VSN infrastructure provides an additional level of complexity control functionality. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microprocessors and System-on-Chip)

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19 pages, 427 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simultaneous Detection of Multiple Fish Pathogens Using a Naked-Eye Readable DNA Microarray

by Chin-I Chang^1,*,†, Pei-Hsin Hung^2,†, Chia-Che Wu¹, Ta Chih Cheng³, Jyh-Ming Tsai⁴, King-Jung Lin¹ and Chung-Yen Lin^5,6,7

¹ Aquaculture Division, Fisheries Research Institute, Ministry of Agriculture, 199 Hou-Ih Road, Keelung 20246, Taiwan

² Department of Aquaculture, College of Life Sciences, National Taiwan Ocean University, Pei-Ning Road, Keelung 20224, Taiwan

³ Department of Tropical Agriculture and International Cooperation, National Pingtung University of Science and Technology, 1 Hseuh-Fu Rd., Nei-Pu Hsiang, Pingtung 91201, Taiwan

⁴ Department of Marine Biotechnology, National Kaohsiung Marine University, 142 Hai-Chuan Road, Kaohsiung 81157, Taiwan

⁵ Institute of Information Science, Academia Sinica, No. 128 Academia Rd., Sec. 2, Taipei 115, Taiwan

⁶ Institute of Fisheries Science, College of Life Science, National Taiwan University, No. 1, Roosevelt Rd., Sec 4, Taipei 10617, Taiwan

⁷ Division of Biostatistics and Bioinformatics, Institute of Population Health Sciences, National Health Research Institutes, No. 35, Keyan Rd., Zhunan 350, Taiwan

^† These authors contributed equally to this work.

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2710-2728; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302710 - 29 Feb 2012

Cited by 27 | Viewed by 10204

Abstract

We coupled 16S rDNA PCR and DNA hybridization technology to construct a microarray for simultaneous detection and discrimination of eight fish pathogens (Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda, Flavobacterium columnare, Lactococcus garvieae, Photobacterium damselae, [...] Read more.

We coupled 16S rDNA PCR and DNA hybridization technology to construct a microarray for simultaneous detection and discrimination of eight fish pathogens (Aeromonas hydrophila, Edwardsiella tarda, Flavobacterium columnare, Lactococcus garvieae, Photobacterium damselae, Pseudomonas anguilliseptica, Streptococcus iniae and Vibrio anguillarum) commonly encountered in aquaculture. The array comprised short oligonucleotide probes (30 mer) complementary to the polymorphic regions of 16S rRNA genes for the target pathogens. Targets annealed to the microarray probes were reacted with streptavidin-conjugated alkaline phosphatase and nitro blue tetrazolium/5-bromo-4-chloro-3′-indolylphosphate, p-toluidine salt (NBT/BCIP), resulting in blue spots that are easily visualized by the naked eye. Testing was performed against a total of 168 bacterial strains, i.e., 26 representative collection strains, 81 isolates of target fish pathogens, and 61 ecologically or phylogenetically related strains. The results showed that each probe consistently identified its corresponding target strain with 100% specificity. The detection limit of the microarray was estimated to be in the range of 1 pg for genomic DNA and 10³ CFU/mL for pure pathogen cultures. These high specificity and sensitivity results demonstrate the feasibility of using DNA microarrays in the diagnostic detection of fish pathogens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biochips)

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13 pages, 600 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Fiber Surface Modification Technology for Fiber-Optic Localized Surface Plasmon Resonance Biosensors

by Qiang Zhang¹, Chenyang Xue¹, Yanling Yuan¹, Junyang Lee¹, Dong Sun^1,2,* and Jijun Xiong^1,*

¹ National Key Laboratory for Electronic Measurement Technology, North University of China, No.3 Xueyuan Road, Taiyuan 030051, Shanxi, China

² Department of Mechanical and Biomedical Engineering, City University of Hong Kong, 83 Tat Chee Avenue Kowloon, Hong Kong, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2729-2741; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302729 - 29 Feb 2012

Cited by 39 | Viewed by 11842

Abstract

Considerable studies have been performed on the development of optical fiber sensors modified by gold nanoparticles based on the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) technique. The current paper presents a new approach in fiber surface modification technology for biosensors. Star-shaped gold nanoparticles obtained [...] Read more.

Considerable studies have been performed on the development of optical fiber sensors modified by gold nanoparticles based on the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) technique. The current paper presents a new approach in fiber surface modification technology for biosensors. Star-shaped gold nanoparticles obtained through the seed-mediated solution growth method were found to self-assemble on the surface of tapered optical fibers via amino- and mercapto-silane coupling agents. Transmitted power spectra of 3-aminopropyltrimethoxy silane (APTMS)-modified fiber were obtained, which can verify that the silane coupling agent surface modification method is successful. Transmission spectra are characterized in different concentrations of ethanol and gentian violet solutions to validate the sensitivity of the modified fiber. Assembly using star-shaped gold nanoparticles and amino/mercapto silane coupling agent are analyzed and compared. The transmission spectra of the gold nanoparticles show that the nanoparticles are sensitive to the dielectric properties of the surrounding medium. After the fibers are treated in t-dodecylmercaptan to obtain their transmission spectra, APTMS-modified fiber becomes less sensitive to different media, except that modified by 3-mercaptopropyltrimethoxy silane (MPTMS). Experimental results of the transmission spectra show that the surface modified by the gold nanoparticles using MPTMS is firmer compared to that obtained using APTMS. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control Systems and Robotics in Bioengineering)

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21 pages, 850 KiB

Open AccessArticle

The Performance Analysis Based on SAR Sample Covariance Matrix

by Esra Erten

Institute of Environmental Engineering, ETH Zurich, Schafmattstr. 6, CH-8093 Zurich, Switzerland

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2766-2786; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302766 - 1 Mar 2012

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 7494

Abstract

Multi-channel systems appear in several fields of application in science. In the Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) context, multi-channel systems may refer to different domains, as multi-polarization, multi-interferometric or multi-temporal data, or even a combination of them. Due to the inherent speckle phenomenon present [...] Read more.

Multi-channel systems appear in several fields of application in science. In the Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) context, multi-channel systems may refer to different domains, as multi-polarization, multi-interferometric or multi-temporal data, or even a combination of them. Due to the inherent speckle phenomenon present in SAR images, the statistical description of the data is almost mandatory for its utilization. The complex images acquired over natural media present in general zero-mean circular Gaussian characteristics. In this case, second order statistics as the multi-channel covariance matrix fully describe the data. For practical situations however, the covariance matrix has to be estimated using a limited number of samples, and this sample covariance matrix follow the complex Wishart distribution. In this context, the eigendecomposition of the multi-channel covariance matrix has been shown in different areas of high relevance regarding the physical properties of the imaged scene. Specifically, the maximum eigenvalue of the covariance matrix has been frequently used in different applications as target or change detection, estimation of the dominant scattering mechanism in polarimetric data, moving target indication, etc. In this paper, the statistical behavior of the maximum eigenvalue derived from the eigendecomposition of the sample multi-channel covariance matrix in terms of multi-channel SAR images is simplified for SAR community. Validation is performed against simulated data and examples of estimation and detection problems using the analytical expressions are as well given. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)

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11 pages, 1330 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Potentiometric Indirect Uric Acid Sensor Based on ZnO Nanoflakes and Immobilized Uricase

by Syed M. Usman Ali^1,2,*, Zafar Hussain Ibupoto¹, Muhammad Kashif³, Uda Hashim³ and Magnus Willander¹

¹ Department of Science and Technology, Linköping University, Campus Norrköping, Norrkoping SE-60174, Sweden

² Department of Electronic Engineering, NED University of Engineering and Technology, Karachi 75270, Pakistan

³ Nano Biochip Research Group, Institute of Nano Electronic Engineering (INEE), University Malaysia Perlis, Kangar, Perlis 01000, Malaysia

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2787-2797; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302787 - 1 Mar 2012

Cited by 80 | Viewed by 12483

Abstract

In the present work zinc oxide nanoflakes (ZnO-NF) structures with a wall thickness around 50 to 100 nm were synthesized on a gold coated glass substrate using a low temperature hydrothermal method. The enzyme uricase was electrostatically immobilized in conjunction with Nafion membrane [...] Read more.

In the present work zinc oxide nanoflakes (ZnO-NF) structures with a wall thickness around 50 to 100 nm were synthesized on a gold coated glass substrate using a low temperature hydrothermal method. The enzyme uricase was electrostatically immobilized in conjunction with Nafion membrane on the surface of well oriented ZnO-NFs, resulting in a sensitive, selective, stable and reproducible uric acid sensor. The electrochemical response of the ZnO-NF-based sensor vs. a Ag/AgCl reference electrode was found to be linear over a relatively wide logarithmic concentration range (500 nM to 1.5 mM). In addition, the ZnO-NF structures demonstrate vast surface area that allow high enzyme loading which results provided a higher sensitivity. The proposed ZnO-NF array-based sensor exhibited a high sensitivity of ~66 mV/ decade in test electrolyte solutions of uric acid, with fast response time. The sensor response was unaffected by normal concentrations of common interferents such as ascorbic acid, glucose, and urea. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)

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20 pages, 477 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Artificial Neural Network for Location Estimation in Wireless Communication Systems

by Chien-Sheng Chen

Department of Information Management, Tainan University of Technology, No. 529, Jhongjheng Rd., Yongkang Dist., Tainan 71002, Taiwan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2798-2817; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302798 - 1 Mar 2012

Cited by 36 | Viewed by 8277

Abstract

In a wireless communication system, wireless location is the technique used to estimate the location of a mobile station (MS). To enhance the accuracy of MS location prediction, we propose a novel algorithm that utilizes time of arrival (TOA) measurements and the angle [...] Read more.

In a wireless communication system, wireless location is the technique used to estimate the location of a mobile station (MS). To enhance the accuracy of MS location prediction, we propose a novel algorithm that utilizes time of arrival (TOA) measurements and the angle of arrival (AOA) information to locate MS when three base stations (BSs) are available. Artificial neural networks (ANN) are widely used techniques in various areas to overcome the problem of exclusive and nonlinear relationships. When the MS is heard by only three BSs, the proposed algorithm utilizes the intersections of three TOA circles (and the AOA line), based on various neural networks, to estimate the MS location in non-line-of-sight (NLOS) environments. Simulations were conducted to evaluate the performance of the algorithm for different NLOS error distributions. The numerical analysis and simulation results show that the proposed algorithms can obtain more precise location estimation under different NLOS environments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collaborative Sensors)

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13 pages, 632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Pattern Classification Using an Olfactory Model with PCA Feature Selection in Electronic Noses: Study and Application

by Jun Fu¹, Canqin Huang¹, Jianguo Xing^1,* and Junbao Zheng²

¹ College of Computer Science & Information Engineering, Zhejiang Gongshang University, Hangzhou 310018, China

² College of Informatics and Electronics, Zhejiang University of Science and Technology, Hangzhou 310018, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2818-2830; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302818 - 1 Mar 2012

Cited by 32 | Viewed by 7977

Abstract

Biologically-inspired models and algorithms are considered as promising sensor array signal processing methods for electronic noses. Feature selection is one of the most important issues for developing robust pattern recognition models in machine learning. This paper describes an investigation into the classification performance [...] Read more.

Biologically-inspired models and algorithms are considered as promising sensor array signal processing methods for electronic noses. Feature selection is one of the most important issues for developing robust pattern recognition models in machine learning. This paper describes an investigation into the classification performance of a bionic olfactory model with the increase of the dimensions of input feature vector (outer factor) as well as its parallel channels (inner factor). The principal component analysis technique was applied for feature selection and dimension reduction. Two data sets of three classes of wine derived from different cultivars and five classes of green tea derived from five different provinces of China were used for experiments. In the former case the results showed that the average correct classification rate increased as more principal components were put in to feature vector. In the latter case the results showed that sufficient parallel channels should be reserved in the model to avoid pattern space crowding. We concluded that 6~8 channels of the model with principal component feature vector values of at least 90% cumulative variance is adequate for a classification task of 3~5 pattern classes considering the trade-off between time consumption and classification rate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)

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20 pages, 548 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dual Mode NO_x Sensor: Measuring Both the Accumulated Amount and Instantaneous Level at Low Concentrations

by Andrea Groß^1,†, Gregor Beulertz¹, Isabella Marr¹, David J. Kubinski², Jaco H. Visser² and Ralf Moos^1,*

¹ Department of Functional Materials, Bayreuth Engine Research Center (BERC), University of Bayreuth, 95440 Bayreuth, Germany

² Ford Research and Advanced Engineering, Dearborn, MI 48124, USA

^† Andrea Groß formerly Andrea Geupel.

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2831-2850; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302831 - 1 Mar 2012

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 11015

Abstract

The accumulating-type (or integrating-type) NO_x sensor principle offers two operation modes to measure low levels of NO_x: The direct signal gives the total amount dosed over a time interval and its derivative the instantaneous concentration. With a linear sensor response, [...] Read more.

The accumulating-type (or integrating-type) NO_x sensor principle offers two operation modes to measure low levels of NO_x: The direct signal gives the total amount dosed over a time interval and its derivative the instantaneous concentration. With a linear sensor response, no baseline drift, and both response times and recovery times in the range of the gas exchange time of the test bench (5 to 7 s), the integrating sensor is well suited to reliably detect low levels of NO_x. Experimental results are presented demonstrating the sensor’s integrating properties for the total amount detection and its sensitivity to both NO and to NO₂. We also show the correlation between the derivative of the sensor signal and the known gas concentration. The long-term detection of NO_x in the sub-ppm range (e.g., for air quality measurements) is discussed. Additionally, a self-adaption of the measurement range taking advantage of the temperature dependency of the sensitivity is addressed. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)

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23 pages, 1205 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Detection, Characterization, and Biological Effect of Quorum-Sensing Signaling Molecules in Peanut-Nodulating Bradyrhizobia

by Fiorela Nievas, Pablo Bogino, Fernando Sorroche and Walter Giordano^*

Departamento de Biología Molecular, Facultad de Ciencias Exactas, Físico-Químicas y Naturales, Universidad Nacional de Río Cuarto, Río Cuarto, Córdoba, X5804BYA, Argentina

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2851-2873; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302851 - 1 Mar 2012

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 9979

Abstract

Bacteria of the genus Bradyrhizobium are able to establish a symbiotic relationship with peanut (Arachis hypogaea) root cells and to fix atmospheric nitrogen by converting it to nitrogenous compounds. Quorum sensing (QS) is a cell-cell communication mechanism employed by a variety [...] Read more.

Bacteria of the genus Bradyrhizobium are able to establish a symbiotic relationship with peanut (Arachis hypogaea) root cells and to fix atmospheric nitrogen by converting it to nitrogenous compounds. Quorum sensing (QS) is a cell-cell communication mechanism employed by a variety of bacterial species to coordinate behavior at a community level through regulation of gene expression. The QS process depends on bacterial production of various signaling molecules, among which the N-acylhomoserine lactones (AHLs) are most commonly used by Gram-negative bacteria. Some previous reports have shown the production of QS signaling molecules by various rhizobia, but little is known regarding mechanisms of communication among peanut-nodulating strains. The aims of this study were to identify and characterize QS signals produced by peanut-nodulating bradyrhizobial strains and to evaluate their effects on processes related to cell interaction. Detection of AHLs in 53 rhizobial strains was performed using the biosensor strains Agrobacterium tumefaciens NTL4 (pZLR4) and Chromobacterium violaceum CV026 for AHLs with long and short acyl chains, respectively. None of the strains screened were found to produce AHLs with short acyl chains, but 14 strains produced AHLs with long acyl chains. These 14 AHL-producing strains were further studied by quantification of β-galactosidase activity levels (AHL-like inducer activity) in NTL4 (pZLR4). Strains displaying moderate to high levels of AHL-like inducer activity were subjected to chemical identification of signaling molecules by high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). For each AHL-producing strain, we found at least four different AHLs, corresponding to N-hexanoyl-DL-homoserine lactone (C₆), N-(3-oxodecanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone (3OC₁₀), N-(3-oxododecanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone (3OC₁₂), and N-(3-oxotetradecanoyl)-L-homoserine lactone (3OC₁₄). Biological roles of 3OC10, 3OC12, and 3OC14 AHLs were evaluated in both AHL-producing and -non-producing peanut-nodulating strains. Bacterial processes related to survival and nodulation, including motility, biofilm formation, and cell aggregation, were affected or modified by the exogenous addition of increasing concentrations of synthetic AHLs. Our results clearly demonstrate the existence of cell communication mechanisms among bradyrhizobial strains symbiotic of peanut. AHLs with long acyl chains appear to be signaling molecules regulating important QS physiological processes in these bacteria. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Quorum Sensing: Linking the Outside World to Microbial Behaviour)

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25 pages, 1976 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Relocatable, Automated Cost-Benefit Analysis for Marine Sensor Network Design

by Claire D’Este^1,*, Paulo de Souza¹

, Chris Sharman¹ and Simon Allen²

¹ Tasmanian ICT Centre, CSIRO, Castray Esplanade, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia

² CSIRO Marine and Atmospheric Research, Castray Esplanade, Hobart, TAS 7000, Australia

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2874-2898; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302874 - 2 Mar 2012

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 6512

Abstract

When designing sensor networks, we need to ensure they produce representative and relevant data, but this must be offset by the financial cost of placing sensors. We describe a novel automated method for generating and combining cost and benefit values to decide on [...] Read more.

When designing sensor networks, we need to ensure they produce representative and relevant data, but this must be offset by the financial cost of placing sensors. We describe a novel automated method for generating and combining cost and benefit values to decide on the best sensor locations using information about the specific constraints available in most coastal locations. Costs in maintenance, negotiation, equipment, exposure and communication are estimated using hydrodynamic models and Electronic Navigation Charts. Benefits in maximum coverage and reducing overall error are also determined using model output. This method demonstrates equivalent accuracy at predicting the whole system to expert-chosen locations, whilst significantly reducing the estimated costs. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensor Networks)

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15 pages, 718 KiB

Open AccessArticle

FISST Based Method for Multi-Target Tracking in the Image Plane of Optical Sensors

by Yang Xu^*, Hui Xu, Wei An and Dan Xu

School of Electronic Science and Engineering, National University of Defense Technology, Changsha 410073, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2920-2934; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302920 - 2 Mar 2012

Cited by 7 | Viewed by 6573

Abstract

A finite set statistics (FISST)-based method is proposed for multi-target tracking in the image plane of optical sensors. The method involves using signal amplitude information in probability hypothesis density (PHD) filter which is derived from FISST to improve multi-target tracking performance. The amplitude [...] Read more.

A finite set statistics (FISST)-based method is proposed for multi-target tracking in the image plane of optical sensors. The method involves using signal amplitude information in probability hypothesis density (PHD) filter which is derived from FISST to improve multi-target tracking performance. The amplitude of signals generated by the optical sensor is modeled first, from which the amplitude likelihood ratio between target and clutter is derived. An alternative approach is adopted for the situations where the signal noise ratio (SNR) of target is unknown. Then the PHD recursion equations incorporated with signal information are derived and the Gaussian mixture (GM) implementation of this filter is given. Simulation results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves significantly better performance than the generic PHD filter. Moreover, our method has much lower computational complexity in the scenario with high SNR and dense clutter. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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19 pages, 812 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Sensor Integration in a Low Cost Land Mobile Mapping System

by Sergio Madeira^1,2,*, José A. Gonçalves^2,3

and Luísa Bastos^2,3

¹ Universidade de Tras-Os-Montes e Alto Douro, Apartado 1013, 5000-801 Vila Real, Portugal

² CIMAR/CIIMAR, Centro Interdisciplinar de Investigação Marinha e Ambiental, Universidade do Porto, Rua dos Bragas, 289, 4050-123 Porto, Portugal

³ Departamento de Geociências, Ambiente e Ordenamento do Território, Faculdade de Ciências da, Universidade do Porto, Rua Campo Alegre 687, 4169-007 Porto, Portugal

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2935-2953; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302935 - 2 Mar 2012

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 9403

Abstract

Mobile mapping is a multidisciplinary technique which requires several dedicated equipment, calibration procedures that must be as rigorous as possible, time synchronization of all acquired data and software for data processing and extraction of additional information. To decrease the cost and complexity of [...] Read more.

Mobile mapping is a multidisciplinary technique which requires several dedicated equipment, calibration procedures that must be as rigorous as possible, time synchronization of all acquired data and software for data processing and extraction of additional information. To decrease the cost and complexity of Mobile Mapping Systems (MMS), the use of less expensive sensors and the simplification of procedures for calibration and data acquisition are mandatory features. This article refers to the use of MMS technology, focusing on the main aspects that need to be addressed to guarantee proper data acquisition and describing the way those aspects were handled in a terrestrial MMS developed at the University of Porto. In this case the main aim was to implement a low cost system while maintaining good quality standards of the acquired georeferenced information. The results discussed here show that this goal has been achieved. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue State-of-the-Art Sensors Technology in Portugal)

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15 pages, 705 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Wireless Sensor Node for Surface Seawater Density Measurements

by Federico Baronti

, Gabriele Fantechi, Roberto Roncella

and Roberto Saletti^*

Dipartimento di Ingegneria dell’Informazione: Elettronica, Informatica, Telecomunicazioni, University of Pisa, Via Caruso 16, Pisa 56122, Italy

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2954-2968; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302954 - 2 Mar 2012

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 10666

Abstract

An electronic meter to measure surface seawater density is presented. It is based on the measurement of the difference in displacements of a surface level probe and a weighted float, which according to Archimedes’ law depends on the density of the water. The [...] Read more.

An electronic meter to measure surface seawater density is presented. It is based on the measurement of the difference in displacements of a surface level probe and a weighted float, which according to Archimedes’ law depends on the density of the water. The displacements are simultaneously measured using a high-accuracy magnetostrictive sensor, to which a custom electronic board provides a wireless connection and power supply so that it can become part of a wireless sensor network. The electronics are designed so that different kinds of wireless networks can be used, by simply changing the wireless module and the relevant firmware of the microcontroller. Lastly, laboratory and at-sea tests are presented and discussed in order to highlight the functionality and the performance of a prototype of the wireless density meter node in a Bluetooth radio network. The experimental results show a good agreement of the values of the calculated density compared to reference hydrometer readings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Underwater Sensor Nodes and Underwater Sensor Networks)

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Graphical abstract

14 pages, 586 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Organic/Inorganic Hybrid Membrane as a Solid “Turn-On” Fluorescent Chemosensor for Coenzyme A (CoA), Cysteine (Cys), and Glutathione (GSH) in Aqueous Media

by Saúl Vallejos, Pedro Estévez, Saturnino Ibeas, Félix C. García, Felipe Serna and José M. García^*

Departamento de Química, Facultad de Ciencias, Universidad de Burgos, Plaza de Misael Bañuelos s/n, E-09001 Burgos, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2969-2982; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302969 - 2 Mar 2012

Cited by 14 | Viewed by 8931

Abstract

The preparation of a fluorogenic sensory material for the detection of biomolecules is described. Strategic functionalisation and copolymerisation of a water insoluble organic sensory molecule with hydrophilic comonomers yielded a crosslinked, water-swellable, easy-to-manipulate solid system for water ‘‘dip-in’’ fluorogenic coenzyme A, cysteine, and [...] Read more.

The preparation of a fluorogenic sensory material for the detection of biomolecules is described. Strategic functionalisation and copolymerisation of a water insoluble organic sensory molecule with hydrophilic comonomers yielded a crosslinked, water-swellable, easy-to-manipulate solid system for water ‘‘dip-in’’ fluorogenic coenzyme A, cysteine, and glutathione detection by means of host-guest interactions. The sensory material was a membrane with gel-like behaviour, which exhibits a change in fluorescence behaviour upon swelling with a water solution of the target molecules. The membrane follows a “turn-on” pattern, which permits the titration of the abovementioned biomolecules. In this way, the water insoluble sensing motif can be exploited in aqueous media. The sensory motif within the membrane is a chemically anchored piperazinedione-derivative with a weakly bound Hg(II). The response is caused by the displacement of the cation from the membrane due to a stronger complexation with the biomolecules, thus releasing the fluorescent sensory moieties within the membrane. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Synthetic Fluorescent Indicators for Low Molecular Weight Organic Metabolites)

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13 pages, 598 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Photonic Crystal Fiber Mach-Zehnder Interferometer for Refractive Index Sensing

by Jian-Neng Wang^1,* and Jaw-Luen Tang²

¹ Department of Construction Engineering, National Yunlin University of Science and Technology, Douliou 64002, Taiwan

² Department of Physics, National Chung Cheng University, Chia-Yi 62102, Taiwan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2983-2995; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302983 - 2 Mar 2012

Cited by 71 | Viewed by 10788

Abstract

We report on a refractive index sensor using a photonic crystal fiber (PCF) interferometer which was realized by fusion splicing a short section of PCF (Blaze Photonics, LMA-10) between two standard single mode fibers. The fully collapsed air holes of the PCF at [...] Read more.

We report on a refractive index sensor using a photonic crystal fiber (PCF) interferometer which was realized by fusion splicing a short section of PCF (Blaze Photonics, LMA-10) between two standard single mode fibers. The fully collapsed air holes of the PCF at the spice regions allow the coupling of PCF core and cladding modes that makes a Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The transmission spectrum exhibits sinusoidal interference pattern which shifts differently when the cladding/core surface of the PCF is immersed with different RI of the surrounding medium. Experimental results using wavelength-shift interrogation for sensing different concentrations of sucrose solution show that a resolution of 1.62 × 10⁻⁴–8.88 × 10⁻⁴ RIU or 1.02 × 10⁻⁴–9.04 × 10⁻⁴ RIU (sensing length for 3.50 or 5.00 cm, respectively) was achieved for refractive indices in the range of 1.333 to 1.422, suggesting that the PCF interferometer are attractive for chemical, biological, biochemical sensing with aqueous solutions, as well as for civil engineering and environmental monitoring applications. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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22 pages, 3577 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ranging in an Underwater Medium with Multiple Isogradient Sound Speed Profile Layers

by Hamid Ramezani^* and Geert Leus

Faculty of Electrical Engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, Delft University of Technology, 2826 CD Delft, The Netherlands

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2996-3017; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302996 - 2 Mar 2012

Cited by 35 | Viewed by 9049

Abstract

In this paper, we analyze the problem of acoustic ranging between sensor nodes in an underwater environment. The underwater medium is assumed to be composed of multiple isogradient sound speed profile (SSP) layers where in each layer the sound speed is linearly related [...] Read more.

In this paper, we analyze the problem of acoustic ranging between sensor nodes in an underwater environment. The underwater medium is assumed to be composed of multiple isogradient sound speed profile (SSP) layers where in each layer the sound speed is linearly related to the depth. Furthermore, each sensor node is able to measure its depth and can exchange this information with other nodes. Under these assumptions, we first show how the problem of underwater localization can be converted to the traditional range-based terrestrial localization problem when the depth information of the nodes is known a priori. Second, we relate the pair-wise time of flight (ToF) measurements between the nodes to their positions. Next, based on this relation, we propose a novel ranging algorithm for an underwater medium. The proposed ranging algorithm considers reflections from the seabed and sea surface. We will show that even without any reflections, the transmitted signal may travel through more than one path between two given nodes. The proposed algorithm analyzes them and selects the fastest one (first arrival path) based on the measured ToF and the nodes’ depth measurements. Finally, in order to evaluate the performance of the proposed algorithm we run several simulations and compare the results with other existing algorithms. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Underwater Sensor Nodes and Underwater Sensor Networks)

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12 pages, 412 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Reusable Impedimetric Aptasensor for Detection of Thrombin Employing a Graphite-Epoxy Composite Electrode

by Cristina Ocaña, Mercè Pacios and Manel Del Valle^*

Sensors and Biosensors Group, Department of Chemistry, Universitat Autònoma de Barcelona, Bellaterra 08193, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3037-3048; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303037 - 6 Mar 2012

Cited by 33 | Viewed by 7837

Abstract

Here, we report the application of a label-free electrochemical aptasensor based on a graphite-epoxy composite electrode for the detection of thrombin; in this work, aptamers were immobilized onto the electrodes surface using wet physical adsorption. The detection principle is based on the changes [...] Read more.

Here, we report the application of a label-free electrochemical aptasensor based on a graphite-epoxy composite electrode for the detection of thrombin; in this work, aptamers were immobilized onto the electrodes surface using wet physical adsorption. The detection principle is based on the changes of the interfacial properties of the electrode; these were probed in the presence of the reversible redox couple [Fe(CN)₆]³⁻/[Fe(CN)₆]⁴⁻ using impedance measurements. The electrode surface was partially blocked due to formation of aptamer-thrombin complex, resulting in an increase of the interfacial electron-transfer resistance detected by Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy (EIS). The aptasensor showed a linear response for thrombin in the range of 7.5 pM to 75 pM and a detection limit of 4.5 pM. The aptasensor was regenerated by breaking the complex formed between the aptamer and thrombin using 2.0 M NaCl solution at 42 °C, showing its operation for different cycles. The interference response caused by main proteins in serum has been characterized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensors and Biosensors Using Label Free Chemistries)

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Graphical abstract

19 pages, 787 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Robust Kalman Algorithm to Facilitate Human-Computer Interaction for People with Cerebral Palsy, Using a New Interface Based on Inertial Sensors

by Rafael Raya^*, Eduardo Rocon

, Juan A. Gallego, Ramón Ceres and Jose L. Pons

Bioengineering Group, CSIC, Crta. Campo Real Km 0.2 La Poveda, Arganda del Rey, Madrid 28500, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3049-3067; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303049 - 6 Mar 2012

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 9856

Abstract

This work aims to create an advanced human-computer interface called ENLAZA for people with cerebral palsy (CP). Although there are computer-access solutions for disabled people in general, there are few evidences from motor disabled community (e.g., CP) using these alternative interfaces. The proposed [...] Read more.

This work aims to create an advanced human-computer interface called ENLAZA for people with cerebral palsy (CP). Although there are computer-access solutions for disabled people in general, there are few evidences from motor disabled community (e.g., CP) using these alternative interfaces. The proposed interface is based on inertial sensors in order to characterize involuntary motion in terms of time, frequency and range of motion. This characterization is used to design a filtering technique that reduces the effect of involuntary motion on person-computer interaction. This paper presents a robust Kalman filter (RKF) design to facilitate fine motor control based on the previous characterization. The filter increases mouse pointer directivity and the target acquisition time is reduced by a factor of ten. The interface is validated with CP users who were unable to control the computer using other interfaces. The interface ENLAZA and the RKF enabled them to use the computer. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Control Systems and Robotics in Bioengineering)

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14 pages, 1000 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Perch and Its Parasites as Heavy Metal Biomonitors in a Freshwater Environment: The Case Study of the Ružín Water Reservoir, Slovakia

by Tímea Brázová^1,*, Jordi Torres², Catarina Eira³, Vladimíra Hanzelová¹, Dana Miklisová¹ and Peter Šalamún¹

¹ Institute of Parasitology, Slovak Academy of Sciences, Hlinkova 3, 04001 Košice, Slovakia

² Laboratory of Parasitology, Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Barcelona, Av. Joan XXIII, s/n, 08028 Barcelona, Spain

³ CESAM & Departamento de Biologia, Universidade de Aveiro 3810-193 Aveiro, Portugal

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3068-3081; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303068 - 6 Mar 2012

Cited by 52 | Viewed by 8998

Abstract

Heavy metal concentrations were determined in 43 perches (Perca fluviatilis) and in two of its most common parasites, the acanthocephalan Acanthocephalus lucii and the cestode Proteocephalus percae, collected in the period 2009–2010 from Ružín, a seriously polluted water reservoir in [...] Read more.

Heavy metal concentrations were determined in 43 perches (Perca fluviatilis) and in two of its most common parasites, the acanthocephalan Acanthocephalus lucii and the cestode Proteocephalus percae, collected in the period 2009–2010 from Ružín, a seriously polluted water reservoir in Slovakia. Samples of muscle, liver, kidney, brain, male and female reproductive organs and adipose tissue of fish and both parasites were analyzed for As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, Ni, Pb and Zn, by ICP-MS. Mean concentrations of individual heavy metals in all fish samples decreased in the order zinc > copper > manganese > mercury > arsenic > chromium > cadmium > nickel > lead. Zinc was found to be the dominant element and its antagonistic interaction with copper was confirmed. The kidney was a key target organ receiving the highest mean concentrations of all analyzed metals, but some metals showed specific affinity for particular tissues. In terms of human health, concentration of Hg in fish muscle, which exceeded more than two-times its maximum level admitted in foodstuffs in European countries, is of great importance and should be taken into account. Bioaccumulation factors (C_[parasite]/C_{[fish tissue]}) calculated for all elements indicated much higher detection skills of A. lucii and P. percae parasites than fish organs and hence, present results allow proposing both parasite models as useful tools to monitor aquatic environmental quality. Acanthocephalans, however, seem to be superior for heavy metal monitoring, also demonstrated under experimental conditions. Present results also indicate the decreasing heavy metal burden of the reservoir and its gradual recovery in the course of time. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)

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13 pages, 872 KiB

Open AccessArticle

New Quartz Oscillator Switching Method for Nano-Henry Range Inductance Measurements

by Vojko Matko^* and Karel Jezernik

Faculty of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, University of Maribor, Smetanova 17, 2000 Maribor, Slovenia

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3105-3117; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303105 - 6 Mar 2012

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 7836

Abstract

This article introduces a new method for nano-Henry inductance measurements at the frequency of 4.999 MHz with a single quartz crystal oscillating in the switching oscillating circuit. The real novelty of this method, however, lies in a considerable reduction of the temperature influence [...] Read more.

This article introduces a new method for nano-Henry inductance measurements at the frequency of 4.999 MHz with a single quartz crystal oscillating in the switching oscillating circuit. The real novelty of this method, however, lies in a considerable reduction of the temperature influence of AT-cut crystal frequency change in the temperature range between 0 °C and 50 °C through a switching method which compensates for the crystal’s natural temperature characteristics. This allows for the compensation of any influences on the crystal such as the compensation of the non-linear temperature characteristics and the ageing of both the crystal and other oscillating circuit elements, as well as the reduction of the output frequency measurement errors with the help of an additional reference frequency. The experimental results show that the switching method greatly improves the measurement of small inductance changes in the range between μH and nH, allowing as a result high-precision measurements (~0.35 fH) in this range. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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13 pages, 338 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Feasibility Study on a Portable Field Pest Classification System Design Based on DSP and 3G Wireless Communication Technology

by Ruizhen Han^1,2, Yong He^1,*

and Fei Liu¹

¹ College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China

² College of Electronic Information, Zhejiang University of Media and Communications, Hangzhou 310018, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3118-3130; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303118 - 6 Mar 2012

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 8352

Abstract

This paper presents a feasibility study on a real-time in field pest classification system design based on Blackfin DSP and 3G wireless communication technology. This prototype system is composed of remote on-line classification platform (ROCP), which uses a digital signal processor (DSP) as [...] Read more.

This paper presents a feasibility study on a real-time in field pest classification system design based on Blackfin DSP and 3G wireless communication technology. This prototype system is composed of remote on-line classification platform (ROCP), which uses a digital signal processor (DSP) as a core CPU, and a host control platform (HCP). The ROCP is in charge of acquiring the pest image, extracting image features and detecting the class of pest using an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) classifier. It sends the image data, which is encoded using JPEG 2000 in DSP, to the HCP through the 3G network at the same time for further identification. The image transmission and communication are accomplished using 3G technology. Our system transmits the data via a commercial base station. The system can work properly based on the effective coverage of base stations, no matter the distance from the ROCP to the HCP. In the HCP, the image data is decoded and the pest image displayed in real-time for further identification. Authentication and performance tests of the prototype system were conducted. The authentication test showed that the image data were transmitted correctly. Based on the performance test results on six classes of pests, the average accuracy is 82%. Considering the different live pests’ pose and different field lighting conditions, the result is satisfactory. The proposed technique is well suited for implementation in field pest classification on-line for precision agriculture. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ubiquitous Sensing)

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14 pages, 931 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Novel In Vitro Sensing Configuration for Retinal Physiology Analysis of a Sub-Retinal Prosthesis

by Kyo-in Koo¹, Sangmin Lee¹, Jang Hee Yee², Sang Baek Ryu³, Kyung Hwan Kim³, Yong Sook Goo^2,* and Dong-il Dan Cho^1,*

¹ Inter-university Semiconductor Research Center, Automation System Research Institute, School of Electrical Engineering and Computer Science, Seoul National University, Seoul 151-744, Korea

² Department of Physiology, Chungbuk National University, Cheongju 361-763, Korea

³ Department of Biomedical Engineering, Yonsei University, Wonju 220-710, Korea

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3131-3144; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303131 - 6 Mar 2012

Cited by 8 | Viewed by 7727

Abstract

This paper presents a novel sensing configuration for retinal physiology analysis, using two microelectrode arrays (MEAs). In order to investigate an optimized stimulation protocol for a sub-retinal prosthesis, retinal photoreceptor cells are stimulated, and the response of retinal ganglion cells is recorded in [...] Read more.

This paper presents a novel sensing configuration for retinal physiology analysis, using two microelectrode arrays (MEAs). In order to investigate an optimized stimulation protocol for a sub-retinal prosthesis, retinal photoreceptor cells are stimulated, and the response of retinal ganglion cells is recorded in an in vitro environment. For photoreceptor cell stimulation, a polyimide-substrate MEA is developed, using the microelectromechanical systems (MEMS) technology. For ganglion cell response recording, a conventional glass-substrate MEA is utilized. This new sensing configuration is used to record the response of retinal ganglion cells with respect to three different stimulation methods (monopolar, bipolar, and dual-monopolar stimulation methods). Results show that the geometrical relation between the stimulation microelectrode locations and the response locations seems very low. The threshold charges of the bipolar stimulation and the monopolar stimulation are in the range of 10~20 nC. The threshold charge of the dual-monopolar stimulation is not obvious. These results provide useful guidelines for developing a sub-retinal prosthesis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)

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17 pages, 1837 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Uranus: A Middleware Architecture for Dependable AAL and Vital Signs Monitoring Applications

by Antonio Coronato

ICAR-CNR, Via P. Castellino 111, 80131 Naples, Italy

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3145-3161; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303145 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 26 | Viewed by 8365

Abstract

The design and realization of health monitoring applications has attracted the interest of large communities both from industry and academia. Several research challenges have been faced and issues tackled in order to realize effective applications for the management and monitoring of people with [...] Read more.

The design and realization of health monitoring applications has attracted the interest of large communities both from industry and academia. Several research challenges have been faced and issues tackled in order to realize effective applications for the management and monitoring of people with chronic diseases, people with disabilities, elderly people. However, there is a lack of efficient tools that enable rapid and possibly cheap realization of reliable health monitoring applications. The paper presents Uranus, a service oriented middleware architecture, which provides basic functions for the integration of different kinds of biomedical sensors. Uranus has also distinguishing characteristics like services for the run-time verification of the correctness of running applications and mechanisms for the recovery from failures. The paper concludes with two case studies as proof of concept. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Select papers from UCAmI 2011 - the 5th International Symposium on Ubiquitous Computing and Ambient Intelligence (UCAmI'11))

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24 pages, 948 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Monocular Camera/IMU/GNSS Integration for Ground Vehicle Navigation in Challenging GNSS Environments

by Tianxing Chu^1,*, Ningyan Guo², Staffan Backén³ and Dennis Akos³

¹ School of Earth and Space Sciences, Peking University, No. 5 Yiheyuan Road, Haidian District, Beijing 100871, China

² School of Instrumentation Science and Optoelectronics Engineering, Beihang University, Xueyuan Road No.37, Haidian District, Beijing 100191, China

³ Department of Aerospace Engineering Sciences, University of Colorado at Boulder, Boulder, CO 80309, USA

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3162-3185; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303162 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 13668

Abstract

Low-cost MEMS-based IMUs, video cameras and portable GNSS devices are commercially available for automotive applications and some manufacturers have already integrated such facilities into their vehicle systems. GNSS provides positioning, navigation and timing solutions to users worldwide. However, signal attenuation, reflections or blockages [...] Read more.

Low-cost MEMS-based IMUs, video cameras and portable GNSS devices are commercially available for automotive applications and some manufacturers have already integrated such facilities into their vehicle systems. GNSS provides positioning, navigation and timing solutions to users worldwide. However, signal attenuation, reflections or blockages may give rise to positioning difficulties. As opposed to GNSS, a generic IMU, which is independent of electromagnetic wave reception, can calculate a high-bandwidth navigation solution, however the output from a self-contained IMU accumulates errors over time. In addition, video cameras also possess great potential as alternate sensors in the navigation community, particularly in challenging GNSS environments and are becoming more common as options in vehicles. Aiming at taking advantage of these existing onboard technologies for ground vehicle navigation in challenging environments, this paper develops an integrated camera/IMU/GNSS system based on the extended Kalman filter (EKF). Our proposed integration architecture is examined using a live dataset collected in an operational traffic environment. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed integrated system provides accurate estimations and potentially outperforms the tightly coupled GNSS/IMU integration in challenging environments with sparse GNSS observations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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14 pages, 612 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Two-Level Evaluation on Sensor Interoperability of Features in Fingerprint Image Segmentation

by Gongping Yang, Ying Li, Yilong Yin^* and Ya-Shuo Li

School of Computer Science and Technology, Shandong University, Jinan 250101, Shandong, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3186-3199; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303186 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 6 | Viewed by 7505

Abstract

Features used in fingerprint segmentation significantly affect the segmentation performance. Various features exhibit different discriminating abilities on fingerprint images derived from different sensors. One feature which has better discriminating ability on images derived from a certain sensor may not adapt to segment images [...] Read more.

Features used in fingerprint segmentation significantly affect the segmentation performance. Various features exhibit different discriminating abilities on fingerprint images derived from different sensors. One feature which has better discriminating ability on images derived from a certain sensor may not adapt to segment images derived from other sensors. This degrades the segmentation performance. This paper empirically analyzes the sensor interoperability problem of segmentation feature, which refers to the feature’s ability to adapt to the raw fingerprints captured by different sensors. To address this issue, this paper presents a two-level feature evaluation method, including the first level feature evaluation based on segmentation error rate and the second level feature evaluation based on decision tree. The proposed method is performed on a number of fingerprint databases which are obtained from various sensors. Experimental results show that the proposed method can effectively evaluate the sensor interoperability of features, and the features with good evaluation results acquire better segmentation accuracies of images originating from different sensors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hand-Based Biometrics Sensors and Systems)

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Graphical abstract

4 pages, 225 KiB

Open AccessCommunication

Direct Measurement of Lateral Force Using Dual Cantilevers

by Makoto Ishikawa^*, Masaya Ichikawa and Kouji Miura

Department of Physics, Aichi University of Education, Hirosawa 1, Igaya-cho, Kariya 448-8542, Japan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3200-3203; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303200 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 4 | Viewed by 6211

Abstract

We have constructed an experimental system to measure a piconewton lateral force using dual cantilevers which cross with each other. The resolution of the lateral force is estimated to be 3.3 p ± 0.2 pN, which is comparable to forces due to thermal [...] Read more.

We have constructed an experimental system to measure a piconewton lateral force using dual cantilevers which cross with each other. The resolution of the lateral force is estimated to be 3.3 p ± 0.2 pN, which is comparable to forces due to thermal fluctuation. This experimental apparatus works so easily that it will enable us to determine forces during nano-manipulation and nano-tribological measurements. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Ultra-Small Sensor Systems and Components)

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11 pages, 516 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Temperature-Frequency Converter Using a Liquid Crystal Cell as a Sensing Element

by Carlos Marcos^*, José M. Sánchez Pena

, Juan C. Torres and José Isidro Santos

Grupo de Displays y Aplicaciones Fotónicas, Departamento de Tecnología Electrónica, Universidad Carlos III de Madrid, Avda. de la Universidad s/n, E28911, Leganés, Madrid, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3204-3214; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303204 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 10263

Abstract

A new temperature-frequency converter based on the variation of the dielectric permittivity of the Liquid Crystal (LC) material with temperature has been demonstrated. Unlike other temperature sensors based on liquid crystal processing optical signals for determining the temperature, this work presents a system [...] Read more.

A new temperature-frequency converter based on the variation of the dielectric permittivity of the Liquid Crystal (LC) material with temperature has been demonstrated. Unlike other temperature sensors based on liquid crystal processing optical signals for determining the temperature, this work presents a system that is able to sense temperature by using only electrical signals. The variation of the dielectric permittivity with temperature is used to modify the capacitance of a plain capacitor using a LC material as non-ideal dielectric. An electric oscillator with an output frequency depending on variable capacitance made of a twisted-nematic (TN) liquid crystal (LC) cell has been built. The output frequency is related to the temperature of LC cell through the equations associated to the oscillator circuit. The experimental results show excellent temperature sensitivity, with a variation of 0.40% of the initial frequency per degree Celsius in the temperature range from −6 °C to 110 °C. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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13 pages, 389 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Application of the Biospeckle Method for Monitoring Bull’s Eye Rot Development and Quality Changes of Apples Subjected to Various Storage Methods—Preliminary Studies

by Anna Adamiak^1,*, Artur Zdunek¹, Andrzej Kurenda¹ and Krzysztof Rutkowski²

¹ Institute of Agrophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Doswiadczalna 4, 20-290 Lublin 27, Poland

² Fruit Storage and Processing Department, Division of Pomology, Research Institute of Horticulture, Pomologiczna 18, 96-100 Skierniewice, Poland

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3215-3227; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303215 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 43 | Viewed by 9152

Abstract

In this study, the biospeckle technique was evaluated for monitoring of apple bull’s eye rot development and product quality in general, during storage under various conditions and during subsequent shelf life. This non-destructive optical method is based on the analysis of laser light [...] Read more.

In this study, the biospeckle technique was evaluated for monitoring of apple bull’s eye rot development and product quality in general, during storage under various conditions and during subsequent shelf life. This non-destructive optical method is based on the analysis of laser light variations scattered from the sample. Apples of the cultivars ‘Pinova’ and ‘Topaz’, susceptible to bull’s eye rot, were used in two independent experiments. In the first, apples were non-destructively monitored for five months during cold storage. After that time, 34% of ‘Pinova’ and 21% of ‘Topaz’ apples displayed visible surface lesions. The increase of biospeckle activity was observed during the development of fungal disease. In the second experiment various storage conditions were used and apples were tested during their shelf life by non-destructive and destructive methods. This study showed that biospeckle activity decreased during shelf life, irrespective of storage conditions. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)

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15 pages, 534 KiB

Open AccessArticle

DOA Estimation for Local Scattered CDMA Signals by Particle Swarm Optimization

by Jhih-Chung Chang

Department of Information Technology, Ling Tung University, Taichung 408, Taiwan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3228-3242; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303228 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 11 | Viewed by 5804

Abstract

This paper deals with the direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation of local scattered code-division multiple access (CDMA) signals based on a particle swarm optimization (PSO) search. For conventional spectral searching estimators with local scattering, the searching complexity and estimating accuracy strictly depend on the number [...] Read more.

This paper deals with the direction-of-arrival (DOA) estimation of local scattered code-division multiple access (CDMA) signals based on a particle swarm optimization (PSO) search. For conventional spectral searching estimators with local scattering, the searching complexity and estimating accuracy strictly depend on the number of search grids used during the search. In order to obtain high-resolution and accurate DOA estimation, a smaller grid size is needed. This is time consuming and it is unclear how to determine the required number of search grids. In this paper, a modified PSO is presented to reduce the required search grids for the conventional spectral searching estimator with the effects of local scattering. Finally, several computer simulations are provided for illustration and comparison. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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10 pages, 327 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparative Assessment of the Effect of Synthetic and Natural Fungicides on Soil Respiration

by Angelo Stefani, Jr¹, Joanna D’Arc Felício² and Mara M. de Andréa^1,*

¹ Lab. de Ecologia de Agroquímicos, Instituto Biológico, Av. Conselheiro Rodrigues Alves 1252, São Paulo, SP CEP 04014-002, Brazil

² Lab. de Química e Farmacologia de Produtos Naturais, Instituto Biológico, Av. Conselheiro Rodrigues Alves 1252, São Paulo, SP CEP 04014-002, Brazil

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3243-3252; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303243 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 16 | Viewed by 7166

Abstract

As toxic pesticide residues may persist in agricultural soils and cause environmental pollution, research on natural fungicides to replace the synthetic compounds is currently increasing. The effect of the synthetic fungicide chlorothalonil and a natural potential fungicide on the soil microbial activity was [...] Read more.

As toxic pesticide residues may persist in agricultural soils and cause environmental pollution, research on natural fungicides to replace the synthetic compounds is currently increasing. The effect of the synthetic fungicide chlorothalonil and a natural potential fungicide on the soil microbial activity was evaluated here by the substrate-induced respiration by addition of glucose (SIR), as bioindicator in two soils (Eutrophic Humic Gley—GHE and Typic Eutroferric Chernosol—AVEC). The induced soil respiration parameter was followed during 28 days after soil treatment either with chlorathalonil (11 µg·g⁻¹), or the methanolic fraction from Polymnia sonchifolia extraction (300 µg·g⁻¹), and ¹⁴C-glucose (4.0 mg and 5.18 Bq of ¹⁴C-glucose g⁻¹). The ¹⁴C-CO₂ produced by the microbial respiration was trapped in NaOH (0.1 M) which was changed each two hours during the first 10 h, and 1, 3, 5, 7, 14 and 28 days after the treatments. The methanolic fraction of the plant extract inhibited (2.2%) and stimulated (1.8%) the respiration of GHE and AVEC, respectively, but the synthetic chlorothalonil caused 16.4% and 2.6% inhibition of the respiration, respectively of the GHE and AVEC soils. As the effects of the natural product were statistically small, this bioindicator indicates that the methanolic fraction of the Polymnia sonchifolia extract, which has fungicide properties, has no environmental effects. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing of Organic Pollution in Soil, Air, Water and Food)

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16 pages, 701 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Community Level Physiological Profiles (CLPP), Characterization and Microbial Activity of Soil Amended with Dairy Sewage Sludge

by Magdalena Frąc^*, Karolina Oszust

and Jerzy Lipiec

Institute of Agrophysics, Polish Academy of Sciences, Doświadczalna 4, 20-290 Lublin 27, Poland

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3253-3268; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303253 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 172 | Viewed by 12982

Abstract

The aim of the present work was to assess the influence of organic amendment applications compared to mineral fertilization on soil microbial activity and functional diversity. The field experiment was set up on a soil classified as an Eutric Cambisol developed from loess [...] Read more.

The aim of the present work was to assess the influence of organic amendment applications compared to mineral fertilization on soil microbial activity and functional diversity. The field experiment was set up on a soil classified as an Eutric Cambisol developed from loess (South-East Poland). Two doses of both dairy sewage sludge (20 Mg·ha⁻¹ and 26 Mg·ha⁻¹) and of mineral fertilizers containing the same amount of nutrients were applied. The same soil without any amendment was used as a control. The soil under undisturbed native vegetation was also included in the study as a representative background sample. The functional diversity (catabolic potential) was assessed using such indices as Average Well Color Development (AWCD), Richness (R) and Shannon–Weaver index (H). These indices were calculated, following the community level physiological profiling (CLPP) using Biolog Eco Plates. Soil dehydrogenase and respiratory activity were also evaluated. The indices were sensitive enough to reveal changes in community level physiological profiles due to treatment effects. It was shown that dairy sewage amended soil was characterized by greater AWCD, R, H and dehydrogenase and respiratory activity as compared to control or mineral fertilized soil. Analysis of variance (ANOVA) and principal component analysis (PCA) were used to depict the differences of the soil bacterial functional diversity between the treatments. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)

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12 pages, 969 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Fabrication of Single-Walled Carbon Nanonet Flexible Strain Sensors

by Ya-Ting Huang¹, Shyh-Chour Huang^1,*, Chih-Chao Hsu², Ru-Min Chao² and Trung Kien Vu¹

¹ Department of Mechanical Engineering, National Kaohsiung University of Applied Sciences, Kaohsiung 80778, Taiwan

² Systems and Naval Mechatronics Engineering, National Cheng-Kung University, Tainan 701, Taiwan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3269-3280; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303269 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 8102

Abstract

This study presents a novel flexible strain sensor for real-time strain sensing. The material for strain sensing is single-walled carbon nanonets, grown using the alcohol catalytic chemical vapor deposition method, that were encapsulated between two layers of Parylene-C, with a polyimide layer as [...] Read more.

This study presents a novel flexible strain sensor for real-time strain sensing. The material for strain sensing is single-walled carbon nanonets, grown using the alcohol catalytic chemical vapor deposition method, that were encapsulated between two layers of Parylene-C, with a polyimide layer as the sensing surface. All of the micro-fabrication was compatible with the standard IC process. Experimental results indicated that the gauge factor of the proposed strain sensor was larger than 4.5, approximately 2.0 times greater than those of commercial gauges. The results also demonstrated that the gauge factor is small when the growth time of SWCNNs is lengthier, and the gauge factor is large when the line width of the serpentine pattern of SWCNNs is small. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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21 pages, 473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Consolidation of a WSN and Minimax Method to Rapidly Neutralise Intruders in Strategic Installations

by Jesus Conesa-Muñoz and Angela Ribeiro^*

Center for Automation and Robotics, CSIC-UPM, Arganda del Rey, 28500 Madrid, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3281-3301; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303281 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 7394

Abstract

Due to the sensitive international situation caused by still-recent terrorist attacks, there is a common need to protect the safety of large spaces such as government buildings, airports and power stations. To address this problem, developments in several research fields, such as video [...] Read more.

Due to the sensitive international situation caused by still-recent terrorist attacks, there is a common need to protect the safety of large spaces such as government buildings, airports and power stations. To address this problem, developments in several research fields, such as video and cognitive audio, decision support systems, human interface, computer architecture, communications networks and communications security, should be integrated with the goal of achieving advanced security systems capable of checking all of the specified requirements and spanning the gap that presently exists in the current market. This paper describes the implementation of a decision system for crisis management in infrastructural building security. Specifically, it describes the implementation of a decision system in the management of building intrusions. The positions of the unidentified persons are reported with the help of a Wireless Sensor Network (WSN). The goal is to achieve an intelligent system capable of making the best decision in real time in order to quickly neutralise one or more intruders who threaten strategic installations. It is assumed that the intruders’ behaviour is inferred through sequences of sensors’ activations and their fusion. This article presents a general approach to selecting the optimum operation from the available neutralisation strategies based on a Minimax algorithm. The distances among different scenario elements will be used to measure the risk of the scene, so a path planning technique will be integrated in order to attain a good performance. Different actions to be executed over the elements of the scene such as moving a guard, blocking a door or turning on an alarm will be used to neutralise the crisis. This set of actions executed to stop the crisis is known as the neutralisation strategy. Finally, the system has been tested in simulations of real situations, and the results have been evaluated according to the final state of the intruders. In 86.5% of the cases, the system achieved the capture of the intruders, and in 59.25% of the cases, they were intercepted before they reached their objective. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Collaborative Sensors)

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12 pages, 384 KiB

Open AccessArticle

TiO₂ Nanotube Array Sensor for Detecting the SF₆ Decomposition Product SO₂

by Xiaoxing Zhang^1,*, Jinbin Zhang¹, Yichao Jia², Peng Xiao² and Ju Tang¹

¹ State Key Laboratory of Power Transmission Equipment & System Security and New Technology, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China

² College of Mathematics and Physics, Chongqing University, Chongqing 400044, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3302-3313; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303302 - 7 Mar 2012

Cited by 117 | Viewed by 10027

Abstract

The detection of partial discharge through analysis of SF₆ gas components in gas-insulated switchgear, is significant for the diagnosis and assessment of the operating state of power equipment. The present study proposes the use of a TiO₂ nanotube array sensor for [...] Read more.

The detection of partial discharge through analysis of SF₆ gas components in gas-insulated switchgear, is significant for the diagnosis and assessment of the operating state of power equipment. The present study proposes the use of a TiO₂ nanotube array sensor for detecting the SF₆ decomposition product SO₂, and the application of the anodic oxidation method for the directional growth of highly ordered TiO₂ nanotube arrays. The sensor response of 10–50 ppm SO₂ gas is tested, and the sensitive response mechanism is discussed. The test results show that the TiO₂ nanotube sensor array has good response to SO₂ gas, and by ultraviolet radiation, the sensor can remove attached components very efficiently, shorten recovery time, reduce chemical poisoning, and prolong the life of the components. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing at the Nano-Scale: Chemical and Bio-Sensing)

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13 pages, 1015 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Dynamic Strain Measured by Mach-Zehnder Interferometric Optical Fiber Sensors

by Shiuh-Chuan Her^* and Chih-Min Yang

Department of Mechanical Engineering, Yuan Ze University, 135 Yuan-Tung Road, Chung-Li 320, Taiwan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3314-3326; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303314 - 8 Mar 2012

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 10030

Abstract

Optical fibers possess many advantages such as small size, light weight and immunity to electro-magnetic interference that meet the sensing requirements to a large extent. In this investigation, a Mach-Zehnder interferometric optical fiber sensor is used to measure the dynamic strain of a [...] Read more.

Optical fibers possess many advantages such as small size, light weight and immunity to electro-magnetic interference that meet the sensing requirements to a large extent. In this investigation, a Mach-Zehnder interferometric optical fiber sensor is used to measure the dynamic strain of a vibrating cantilever beam. A 3 × 3 coupler is employed to demodulate the phase shift of the Mach-Zehnder interferometer. The dynamic strain of a cantilever beam subjected to base excitation is determined by the optical fiber sensor. The experimental results are validated with the strain gauge. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical Fiber Sensors 2012)

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9 pages, 462 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Novel Principle of Contactless Gauge Block Calibration

by Zdeněk Buchta^*, Šimon Řeřucha, Břetislav Mikel, Martin Čížek, Josef Lazar and Ondřej Číp

Institute of Scientific Instruments, Academy of Sciences of the Czech Republic, Královopolská 147, 612 64 Brno, Czech Republic

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3350-3358; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303350 - 8 Mar 2012

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 8689

Abstract

In this paper, a novel principle of contactless gauge block calibration is presented. The principle of contactless gauge block calibration combines low-coherence interferometry and laser interferometry. An experimental setup combines Dowell interferometer and Michelson interferometer to ensure a gauge block length determination with [...] Read more.

In this paper, a novel principle of contactless gauge block calibration is presented. The principle of contactless gauge block calibration combines low-coherence interferometry and laser interferometry. An experimental setup combines Dowell interferometer and Michelson interferometer to ensure a gauge block length determination with direct traceability to the primary length standard. By monitoring both gauge block sides with a digital camera gauge block 3D surface measurements are possible too. The principle presented is protected by the Czech national patent No. 302948. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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24 pages, 5449 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Cell-Based Sensor System Using L6 Cells for Broad Band Continuous Pollutant Monitoring in Aquatic Environments

by Rebekka Kubisch¹, Ulrich Bohrn², Maximilian Fleischer² and Evamaria Stütz^2,*

¹ Pharmaceutical Biology-Biotechnology, Department of Pharmacy, Center for Drug Research, Ludwig-Maximilian-University Munich, Butenandstraße 5-13, Building D, 81377 Munich, Germany

² Corporate Research & Technologies, Siemens AG, Otto-Hahn-Ring 6, 81739 Munich, Germany

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3370-3393; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303370 - 8 Mar 2012

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 10318

Abstract

Pollution of drinking water sources represents a continuously emerging problem in global environmental protection. Novel techniques for real-time monitoring of water quality, capable of the detection of unanticipated toxic and bioactive substances, are urgently needed. In this study, the applicability of a cell-based [...] Read more.

Pollution of drinking water sources represents a continuously emerging problem in global environmental protection. Novel techniques for real-time monitoring of water quality, capable of the detection of unanticipated toxic and bioactive substances, are urgently needed. In this study, the applicability of a cell-based sensor system using selected eukaryotic cell lines for the detection of aquatic pollutants is shown. Readout parameters of the cells were the acidification (metabolism), oxygen consumption (respiration) and impedance (morphology) of the cells. A variety of potential cytotoxic classes of substances (heavy metals, pharmaceuticals, neurotoxins, waste water) was tested with monolayers of L6 cells (rat myoblasts). The cytotoxicity or cellular effects induced by inorganic ions (Ni²⁺ and Cu²⁺) can be detected with the metabolic parameters acidification and respiration down to 0.5 mg/L, whereas the detection limit for other substances like nicotine and acetaminophen are rather high, in the range of 0.1 mg/L and 100 mg/L. In a close to application model a real waste water sample shows detectable signals, indicating the existence of cytotoxic substances. The results support the paradigm change from single substance detection to the monitoring of overall toxicity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Live Cell-Based Sensors)

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24 pages, 467 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Simultaneous Source Localization and Polarization Estimation via Non-Orthogonal Joint Diagonalization with Vector-Sensors

by Xiao-Feng Gong^1,*, Ke Wang¹, Qiu-Hua Lin¹

, Zhi-Wen Liu² and You-Gen Xu²

¹ School of Information and Communication Engineering, Dalian University of Technology, No. 2 Linggong Road, Dalian 116024, China

² School of Information and Electronics, Beijing Institute of Technology, 5 South Zhongguancun Street, Beijing 100081, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3394-3417; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303394 - 8 Mar 2012

Cited by 10 | Viewed by 7563

Abstract

Joint estimation of direction-of-arrival (DOA) and polarization with electromagnetic vector-sensors (EMVS) is considered in the framework of complex-valued non-orthogonal joint diagonalization (CNJD). Two new CNJD algorithms are presented, which propose to tackle the high dimensional optimization problem in CNJD via a sequence of [...] Read more.

Joint estimation of direction-of-arrival (DOA) and polarization with electromagnetic vector-sensors (EMVS) is considered in the framework of complex-valued non-orthogonal joint diagonalization (CNJD). Two new CNJD algorithms are presented, which propose to tackle the high dimensional optimization problem in CNJD via a sequence of simple sub-optimization problems, by using LU or LQ decompositions of the target matrices as well as the Jacobi-type scheme. Furthermore, based on the above CNJD algorithms we present a novel strategy to exploit the multi-dimensional structure present in the second-order statistics of EMVS outputs for simultaneous DOA and polarization estimation. Simulations are provided to compare the proposed strategy with existing tensorial or joint diagonalization based methods. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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20 pages, 878 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Improving Fingerprint Verification Using Minutiae Triplets

by Miguel Angel Medina-Pérez^1,2,*, Milton García-Borroto¹, Andres Eduardo Gutierrez-Rodríguez¹ and Leopoldo Altamirano-Robles²

¹ Centro de Bioplantas, Universidad de Ciego de Ávila, Carretera a Morón km 9, Ciego de Ávila, C.P. 69450, Cuba

² Instituto Nacional de Astrofísica, Óptica y Electrónica. Luis Enrique Erro No. 1, Sta. María Tonanzintla, Puebla, C.P. 72840, México

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3418-3437; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303418 - 8 Mar 2012

Cited by 62 | Viewed by 12780

Abstract

Improving fingerprint matching algorithms is an active and important research area in fingerprint recognition. Algorithms based on minutia triplets, an important matcher family, present some drawbacks that impact their accuracy, such as dependency to the order of minutiae in the feature, insensitivity to [...] Read more.

Improving fingerprint matching algorithms is an active and important research area in fingerprint recognition. Algorithms based on minutia triplets, an important matcher family, present some drawbacks that impact their accuracy, such as dependency to the order of minutiae in the feature, insensitivity to the reflection of minutiae triplets, and insensitivity to the directions of the minutiae relative to the sides of the triangle. To alleviate these drawbacks, we introduce in this paper a novel fingerprint matching algorithm, named M3gl. This algorithm contains three components: a new feature representation containing clockwise-arranged minutiae without a central minutia, a new similarity measure that shifts the triplets to find the best minutiae correspondence, and a global matching procedure that selects the alignment by maximizing the amount of global matching minutiae. To make M3gl faster, it includes some optimizations to discard non-matching minutia triplets without comparing the whole representation. In comparison with six verification algorithms, M3gl achieves the highest accuracy in the lowest matching time, using FVC2002 and FVC2004 databases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hand-Based Biometrics Sensors and Systems)

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11 pages, 324 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Amplified OTDR Systems for Multipoint Corrosion Monitoring

by Jehan F. Nascimento^1,2, Marcionilo J. Silva², Isnaldo J. S. Coêlho³, Eliel Cipriano¹ and Joaquim F. Martins-Filho^2,*

¹ Polytechnic School of Pernambuco, University of Pernambuco (UPE), 52720-001, Recife, PE, Brazil

² Department of Electronics and Systems, Federal University of Pernambuco (UFPE), 50740-550, Recife, PE, Brazil

³ Department of Electrical Engineering, Federal University of São Francisco Valley (UNIVASF), 56305-971, Petrolina, PE, Brazil

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3438-3448; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303438 - 12 Mar 2012

Cited by 13 | Viewed by 7212

Abstract

We present two configurations of an amplified fiber-optic-based corrosion sensor using the optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR) technique as the interrogation method. The sensor system is multipoint, self-referenced, has no moving parts and can measure the corrosion rate several kilometers away from the [...] Read more.

We present two configurations of an amplified fiber-optic-based corrosion sensor using the optical time domain reflectometry (OTDR) technique as the interrogation method. The sensor system is multipoint, self-referenced, has no moving parts and can measure the corrosion rate several kilometers away from the OTDR equipment. The first OTDR monitoring system employs a remotely pumped in-line EDFA and it is used to evaluate the increase in system reach compared to a non-amplified configuration. The other amplified monitoring system uses an EDFA in booster configuration and we perform corrosion measurements and evaluations of system sensitivity to amplifier gain variations. Our experimental results obtained under controlled laboratory conditions show the advantages of the amplified system in terms of longer system reach with better spatial resolution, and also that the corrosion measurements obtained from our system are not sensitive to 3 dB gain variations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical Fiber Sensors 2012)

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12 pages, 538 KiB

Open AccessArticle

N-Acyl Homoserine Lactone Production by Klebsiella pneumoniae Isolated from Human Tongue Surface

by Wai-Fong Yin¹, Kathiravan Purmal², Shenyang Chin¹, Xin-Yue Chan¹, Chong-Lek Koh³, Choon-Kook Sam³ and Kok-Gan Chan^1,*

¹ Division of Genetics and Molecular Biology, Institute of Biological Sciences, Faculty of Science, University of Malaya, 50603 Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

² School of Dental Sciences, Universiti Sains Malaysia, 16150 Kubang Kerian, Kelantan, Malaysia

³ Natural Sciences and Science Education AG, National Institute of Education, Nanyang Technological University, 1 Nanyang Walk, 637616, Singapore

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3472-3483; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303472 - 12 Mar 2012

Cited by 53 | Viewed by 12334

Abstract

Bacteria communicate by producing quorum sensing molecules called autoinducers, which include autoinducer-1, an N-hexanoyl homoserine lactone (AHL), and autoinducer-2. Bacteria present in the human oral cavity have been shown to produce autoinducer-2, but not AHL. Here, we report the isolation of two [...] Read more.

Bacteria communicate by producing quorum sensing molecules called autoinducers, which include autoinducer-1, an N-hexanoyl homoserine lactone (AHL), and autoinducer-2. Bacteria present in the human oral cavity have been shown to produce autoinducer-2, but not AHL. Here, we report the isolation of two AHL-producing Klebsiella pneumoniae strains from the posterior dorsal surface of the tongue of a healthy individual. Spent culture supernatant extracts from K. pneumoniae activated the biosensors Agrobacterium tumefaciens NTL4(pZLR4) and Escherichia coli [pSB401], suggesting the presence of both long and short chain AHLs. High resolution mass spectrometry analyses of these extracts confirmed that both K. pneumoniae isolates produced N-octanoylhomoserine lactone and N-3-dodecanoyl-L-homoserine lactone. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first report of the isolation of K. pneumoniae from the posterior dorsal surface of the human tongue and the production of these AHLs by this bacterium. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Biosensors)

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14 pages, 473 KiB

Open AccessArticle

N-Acyl Homoserine Lactones in Diverse Pectobacterium and Dickeya Plant Pathogens: Diversity, Abundance, and Involvement in Virulence

by Alexandre Crépin^1,2, Amélie Beury-Cirou^2,3, Corinne Barbey¹, Christine Farmer¹, Valérie Hélias^4,5, Jean-François Burini¹, Denis Faure³ and Xavier Latour^1,*

¹ Laboratoire de Microbiologie Signaux et Microenvironnement, Normandie Université, Université de Rouen EA 4312, IUT Evreux, 55 rue Saint-Germain, Evreux F-27000, France

² SIPRE—Comité Nord, Station de recherche et de création variétale, Bretteville du Grand Caux F-76110, France

³ Institut des Sciences du Végétal, CNRS UPR2355, Avenue de la Terrasse, Gif-sur-Yvette 91198, France

⁴ FN3PT, Fédération Nationale des Producteurs de Plants de Pomme de Terre, 43-45 rue de Naples, Paris F-75008, France

⁵ INRA, UMR 1349 IGEPP, Le Rheu Cedex F-35653, France

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3484-3497; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303484 - 12 Mar 2012

Cited by 44 | Viewed by 15302

Abstract

Soft-rot bacteria Pectobacterium and Dickeya use N-acyl homoserine lactones (NAHSLs) as diffusible signals for coordinating quorum sensing communication. The production of NAHSLs was investigated in a set of reference strains and recently-collected isolates, which belong to six species and share the ability [...] Read more.

Soft-rot bacteria Pectobacterium and Dickeya use N-acyl homoserine lactones (NAHSLs) as diffusible signals for coordinating quorum sensing communication. The production of NAHSLs was investigated in a set of reference strains and recently-collected isolates, which belong to six species and share the ability to infect the potato host plant. All the pathogens produced different NAHSLs, among which the 3-oxo-hexanoyl- and the 3-oxo-octanoyl-L-homoserine lactones represent at least 90% of total produced NAHSL-amounts. The level of NAHSLs varied from 0.6 to 2 pg/cfu. The involvement of NAHSLs in tuber maceration was investigated by electroporating a quorum quenching vector in each of the bacterial pathogen strains. All the NAHSL-lactonase expressing strains produced a lower amount of NAHSLs as compared to those harboring the empty vector. Moreover, all except Dickeya dadantii 3937 induced a lower level of symptoms in potato tuber assay. Noticeably, aggressiveness appeared to be independent of both nature and amount of produced signals. This work highlights that quorum sensing similarly contributed to virulence in most of the tested Pectobacterium and Dickeya, even the strains had been isolated recently or during the past decades. Thus, these key regulatory-molecules appear as credible targets for developing anti-virulence strategies against these plant pathogens. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Quorum Sensing: Linking the Outside World to Microbial Behaviour)

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Graphical abstract

14 pages, 748 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Non-Destructive Distinctive Method for Discrimination of Automobile Lubricant Variety by Visible and Short-Wave Infrared Spectroscopy

by Lulu Jiang¹, Fei Liu^2,*

and Yong He^2,*

¹ Zhejiang Technology Institute of Economy, Hangzhou 310018, China

² College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3498-3511; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303498 - 12 Mar 2012

Cited by 15 | Viewed by 7088

Abstract

A novel method which is a combination of wavelet packet transform (WPT), uninformative variable elimination by partial least squares (UVE-PLS) and simulated annealing (SA) to extract best variance information among different varieties of lubricants is presented. A total of 180 samples (60 for [...] Read more.

A novel method which is a combination of wavelet packet transform (WPT), uninformative variable elimination by partial least squares (UVE-PLS) and simulated annealing (SA) to extract best variance information among different varieties of lubricants is presented. A total of 180 samples (60 for each variety) were characterized on the basis of visible and short-wave infrared spectroscopy (VIS-SWNIR), and 90 samples (30 for each variety) were randomly selected for the calibration set, whereas, the remaining 90 samples (30 for each variety) were used for the validation set. The spectral data was split into different frequency bands by WPT, and different frequency bands were obtained. SA was employed to look for the best variance band (BVB) among different varieties of lubricants. In order to improve prediction precision further, BVB was processed by UVE-PLS and the optimal cutoff threshold of UVE was found by SA. Finally, five variables were mined, and were set as inputs for a least square-support vector machine (LS-SVM) to build the recognition model. An optimal model with a correlation coefficient (R) of 0.9850 and root mean square error of prediction (RMSEP) of 0.0827 was obtained. The overall results indicated that the method of combining WPT, UVE-PLS and SA was a powerful way to select diagnostic information for discrimination among different varieties of lubricating oil, furthermore, a more parsimonious and efficient LS-SVM model could be obtained. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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16 pages, 722 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Inertial Sensing to Determine Movement Disorder Motion Present before and after Treatment

by Wesley J. E. Teskey^1,*, Mohamed Elhabiby^1,2 and Naser El-Sheimy¹

¹ Department of Geomatics Engineering, 2500 University Drive NW, University of Calgary, Calgary, Alberta T2N 1N4, Canada

² Public Works Department, Faculty of Engineering, Ain Shams University, Khalifa El-Maamon st, Abbasiya sq, Cairo 11566, Egypt

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3512-3527; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303512 - 12 Mar 2012

Cited by 23 | Viewed by 7364

Abstract

There has been a lot of interest in recent years in using inertial sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) to monitor movement disorder motion and monitor the efficacy of treatment options. Two of the most prominent movement disorders, which are under evaluation in this research [...] Read more.

There has been a lot of interest in recent years in using inertial sensors (accelerometers and gyroscopes) to monitor movement disorder motion and monitor the efficacy of treatment options. Two of the most prominent movement disorders, which are under evaluation in this research paper, are essential tremor (ET) and Parkinson’s disease (PD). These movement disorders are first evaluated to show that ET and PD motion often depict more (tremor) motion content in the 3–12 Hz frequency band of interest than control data and that such tremor motion can be characterized using inertial sensors. As well, coherence analysis is used to compare between pairs of many of the six degrees-of-freedom of motions under evaluation, to determine the similarity in tremor motion for the various degrees-of-freedom at different frequency bands of interest. It was quite surprising that this coherence analysis depicts that there is a statistically significant relationship using coherence analysis when differentiating between control and effectively medicated PD motion. The statistical analysis uncovers the novel finding that PD medication induced dyskinesia is depicted within coherence data from inertial signals. Dyskinesia is involuntary motion or the absence of intended motion, and it is a common side effect among medicated PD patients. The results show that inertial sensors can be used to differentiate between effectively medicated PD motion and control motion; such a differentiation can often be difficult to perform with the human eye because effectively medicated PD patients tend to not produce much tremor. As well, the finding that PD motion, when well medicated, does still differ significantly from control motion allows for researchers to quantify potential deficiencies in the use of medication. By using inertial sensors to spot such deficiencies, as outlined in this research paper, it is hoped that medications with even a larger degree of efficacy can be created in the future. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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34 pages, 2091 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Evaluation of a Change Detection Methodology by Means of Binary Thresholding Algorithms and Informational Fusion Processes

by Iñigo Molina^1,*

, Estibaliz Martinez²

, Agueda Arquero², Gonzalo Pajares³ and Javier Sanchez²

¹ ETSITGC, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Campus SUR, Ctra. de Valencia, km.7, 28031 Madrid, Spain

² Faculty of Computer Sciences, Universidad Politécnica de Madrid, Campus de Montegancedo, 28660 Boadilla del Monte Madrid, Spain

³ Faculty of Computer Sciences, Universidad Complutense Madrid, 28040 Madrid, Spain

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3528-3561; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303528 - 13 Mar 2012

Cited by 19 | Viewed by 9071

Abstract

Landcover is subject to continuous changes on a wide variety of temporal and spatial scales. Those changes produce significant effects in human and natural activities. Maintaining an updated spatial database with the occurred changes allows a better monitoring of the Earth’s resources and [...] Read more.

Landcover is subject to continuous changes on a wide variety of temporal and spatial scales. Those changes produce significant effects in human and natural activities. Maintaining an updated spatial database with the occurred changes allows a better monitoring of the Earth’s resources and management of the environment. Change detection (CD) techniques using images from different sensors, such as satellite imagery, aerial photographs, etc., have proven to be suitable and secure data sources from which updated information can be extracted efficiently, so that changes can also be inventoried and monitored. In this paper, a multisource CD methodology for multiresolution datasets is applied. First, different change indices are processed, then different thresholding algorithms for change/no_change are applied to these indices in order to better estimate the statistical parameters of these categories, finally the indices are integrated into a change detection multisource fusion process, which allows generating a single CD result from several combination of indices. This methodology has been applied to datasets with different spectral and spatial resolution properties. Then, the obtained results are evaluated by means of a quality control analysis, as well as with complementary graphical representations. The suggested methodology has also been proved efficiently for identifying the change detection index with the higher contribution. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Remote Sensors)

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16 pages, 1901 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrochemical Oxidation of Cysteine at a Film Gold Modified Carbon Fiber Microelectrode Its Application in a Flow—Through Voltammetric Sensor

by Lai-Hao Wang^* and Wen-Shiuan Huang

Department of Medical Chemistry, Chia Nan University of Pharmacy and Science, 60 Erh-Jen Road, Section 1, Jen Te, Tainan 71743, Taiwan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3562-3577; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303562 - 14 Mar 2012

Cited by 31 | Viewed by 8675

Abstract

A flow-electrolytical cell containing a strand of micro Au modified carbon fiber electrodes (CFE) has been designedand characterized for use in a voltammatric detector for detecting cysteine using high-performance liquid chromatography. Cysteine is more efficiently electrochemical oxidized on a Au /CFE than a [...] Read more.

A flow-electrolytical cell containing a strand of micro Au modified carbon fiber electrodes (CFE) has been designedand characterized for use in a voltammatric detector for detecting cysteine using high-performance liquid chromatography. Cysteine is more efficiently electrochemical oxidized on a Au /CFE than a bare gold and carbon fiber electrode. The possible reaction mechanism of the oxidation process is described from the relations to scan rate, peak potentials and currents. For the pulse mode, and measurements with suitable experimental parameters, a linear concentration from 0.5 to 5.0 mg·L⁻¹ was found. The limit of quantification for cysteine was below 60 ng·mL⁻¹. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)

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9 pages, 383 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Electrical Characterization of Gold-DNA-Gold Structures in Presence of an External Magnetic Field by Means of I-V Curve Analysis

by Nadia Mahmoudi Khatir^*, Seyedeh Maryam Banihashemian^*, Vengadesh Periasamy, Richard Ritikos, Wan Haliza Abd Majid and Saadah Abdul Rahman

Low Dimensional Materials Research Centre, Department of Physics, University of Malaya, 50603, Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3578-3586; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303578 - 14 Mar 2012

Cited by 18 | Viewed by 8432

Abstract

This work presents an experimental study of gold-DNA-gold structures in the presence and absence of external magnetic fields with strengths less than 1,200.00 mT. The DNA strands, extracted by standard method were used to fabricate a Metal-DNA-Metal (MDM) structure. Its electric behavior when [...] Read more.

This work presents an experimental study of gold-DNA-gold structures in the presence and absence of external magnetic fields with strengths less than 1,200.00 mT. The DNA strands, extracted by standard method were used to fabricate a Metal-DNA-Metal (MDM) structure. Its electric behavior when subjected to a magnetic field was studied through its current-voltage (I-V) curve. Acquisition of the I-V curve demonstrated that DNA as a semiconductor exhibits diode behavior in the MDM structure. The current versus magnetic field strength followed a decreasing trend because of a diminished mobility in the presence of a low magnetic field. This made clear that an externally imposed magnetic field would boost resistance of the MDM structure up to 1,000.00 mT and for higher magnetic field strengths we can observe an increase in potential barrier in MDM junction. The magnetic sensitivity indicates the promise of using MDM structures as potential magnetic sensors. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Nano-Biosensors)

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18 pages, 855 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Voltage Mode Memristor Bridge Synaptic Circuit with Memristor Emulators

by Maheshwar Pd. Sah¹, Changju Yang¹, Hyongsuk Kim^1,*

and Leon Chua²

¹ Division of Electronics and Information Engineering, Chonbuk National University, Jeonju 561-756, Korea

² Department of Electrical Engineering and Computer Sciences, University of California, Berkeley, CA 94720, USA

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3587-3604; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303587 - 14 Mar 2012

Cited by 71 | Viewed by 15934

Abstract

A memristor bridge neural circuit which is able to perform signed synaptic weighting was proposed in our previous study, where the synaptic operation was verified via software simulation of the mathematical model of the HP memristor. This study is an extension of the [...] Read more.

A memristor bridge neural circuit which is able to perform signed synaptic weighting was proposed in our previous study, where the synaptic operation was verified via software simulation of the mathematical model of the HP memristor. This study is an extension of the previous work advancing toward the circuit implementation where the architecture of the memristor bridge synapse is built with memristor emulator circuits. In addition, a simple neural network which performs both synaptic weighting and summation is built by combining memristor emulators-based synapses and differential amplifier circuits. The feasibility of the memristor bridge neural circuit is verified via SPICE simulations. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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22 pages, 653 KiB

Open AccessArticle

On the Statistical Errors of RADAR Location Sensor Networks with Built-In Wi-Fi Gaussian Linear Fingerprints

by Mu Zhou^*, Yu Bin Xu, Lin Ma and Shuo Tian

Communication Research Center, School of Electronics and Information Engineering, Harbin Institute of Technology, 2 Yikuang Street, Nangang District, Harbin, Heilongjiang 150080, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3605-3626; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303605 - 15 Mar 2012

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 7495

Abstract

The expected errors of RADAR sensor networks with linear probabilistic location fingerprints inside buildings with varying Wi-Fi Gaussian strength are discussed. As far as we know, the statistical errors of equal and unequal-weighted RADAR networks have been suggested as a better way to [...] Read more.

The expected errors of RADAR sensor networks with linear probabilistic location fingerprints inside buildings with varying Wi-Fi Gaussian strength are discussed. As far as we know, the statistical errors of equal and unequal-weighted RADAR networks have been suggested as a better way to evaluate the behavior of different system parameters and the deployment of reference points (RPs). However, up to now, there is still not enough related work on the relations between the statistical errors, system parameters, number and interval of the RPs, let alone calculating the correlated analytical expressions of concern. Therefore, in response to this compelling problem, under a simple linear distribution model, much attention will be paid to the mathematical relations of the linear expected errors, number of neighbors, number and interval of RPs, parameters in logarithmic attenuation model and variations of radio signal strength (RSS) at the test point (TP) with the purpose of constructing more practical and reliable RADAR location sensor networks (RLSNs) and also guaranteeing the accuracy requirements for the location based services in future ubiquitous context-awareness environments. Moreover, the numerical results and some real experimental evaluations of the error theories addressed in this paper will also be presented for our future extended analysis. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Sensor Networks)

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14 pages, 2277 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Scattering Removal for Finger-Vein Image Restoration

by Jinfeng Yang^*, Ben Zhang and Yihua Shi

Tianjin Key Lab for Advanced Signal Processing, Civil Aviation University of China, P.O. Box 9, Tianjin 300300, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3627-3640; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303627 - 15 Mar 2012

Cited by 55 | Viewed by 10573

Abstract

Finger-vein recognition has received increased attention recently. However, the finger-vein images are always captured in poor quality. This certainly makes finger-vein feature representation unreliable, and further impairs the accuracy of finger-vein recognition. In this paper, we first give an analysis of the intrinsic [...] Read more.

Finger-vein recognition has received increased attention recently. However, the finger-vein images are always captured in poor quality. This certainly makes finger-vein feature representation unreliable, and further impairs the accuracy of finger-vein recognition. In this paper, we first give an analysis of the intrinsic factors causing finger-vein image degradation, and then propose a simple but effective image restoration method based on scattering removal. To give a proper description of finger-vein image degradation, a biological optical model (BOM) specific to finger-vein imaging is proposed according to the principle of light propagation in biological tissues. Based on BOM, the light scattering component is sensibly estimated and properly removed for finger-vein image restoration. Finally, experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method is powerful in enhancing the finger-vein image contrast and in improving the finger-vein image matching accuracy. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Hand-Based Biometrics Sensors and Systems)

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15 pages, 1632 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Comparison of the Characteristics of Small Commercial NDIR CO₂ Sensor Models and Development of a Portable CO₂ Measurement Device

by Tomomi Yasuda¹, Seiichiro Yonemura² and Akira Tani^3,*

¹ Plant and Environmental Sciences, Department of Environmental Health Science, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan

² National Institute for Agro-Environmental Sciences, 3-1-3 Kannondai, Tsukuba 305-8604, Japan

³ Institute for Environmental Sciences, University of Shizuoka, 52-1 Yada, Shizuoka 422-8526, Japan

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3641-3655; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303641 - 16 Mar 2012

Cited by 132 | Viewed by 18515

Abstract

Many sensors have to be used simultaneously for multipoint carbon dioxide (CO₂) observation. All the sensors should be calibrated in advance, but this is a time-consuming process. To seek a simplified calibration method, we used four commercial CO₂ sensor models [...] Read more.

Many sensors have to be used simultaneously for multipoint carbon dioxide (CO₂) observation. All the sensors should be calibrated in advance, but this is a time-consuming process. To seek a simplified calibration method, we used four commercial CO₂ sensor models and characterized their output tendencies against ambient temperature and length of use, in addition to offset characteristics. We used four samples of standard gas with different CO₂ concentrations (0, 407, 1,110, and 1,810 ppm). The outputs of K30 and AN100 models showed linear relationships with temperature and length of use. Calibration coefficients for sensor models were determined using the data from three individual sensors of the same model to minimize the relative RMS error. When the correction was applied to the sensors, the accuracy of measurements improved significantly in the case of the K30 and AN100 units. In particular, in the case of K30 the relative RMS error decreased from 24% to 4%. Hence, we have chosen K30 for developing a portable CO₂ measurement device (10 × 10 × 15 cm, 900 g). Data of CO₂ concentration, measurement time and location, temperature, humidity, and atmospheric pressure can be recorded onto a Secure Digital (SD) memory card. The CO₂ concentration in a high-school lecture room was monitored with this device. The CO₂ data, when corrected for simultaneously measured temperature, water vapor partial pressure, and atmospheric pressure, showed a good agreement with the data measured by a highly accurate CO₂ analyzer, LI-6262. This indicates that acceptable accuracy can be realized using the calibration method developed in this study. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)

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13 pages, 635 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Durability Tests of a Fiber Optic Corrosion Sensor

by Kai Tai Wan^1,* and Christopher K.Y. Leung²

¹ Department of Civil Engineering, Chu Hai College of Higher Education, Riviera Garden, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong, China

² Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, Clearwater Bay, Hong Kong, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3656-3668; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303656 - 16 Mar 2012

Cited by 21 | Viewed by 8705

Abstract

Steel corrosion is a major cause of degradation in reinforced concrete structures, and there is a need to develop cost-effective methods to detect the initiation of corrosion in such structures. This paper presents a low cost, easy to use fiber optic corrosion sensor [...] Read more.

Steel corrosion is a major cause of degradation in reinforced concrete structures, and there is a need to develop cost-effective methods to detect the initiation of corrosion in such structures. This paper presents a low cost, easy to use fiber optic corrosion sensor for practical application. Thin iron film is deposited on the end surface of a cleaved optical fiber by sputtering. When light is sent into the fiber, most of it is reflected by the coating. If the surrounding environment is corrosive, the film is corroded and the intensity of the reflected signal drops significantly. In previous work, the sensing principle was verified by various experiments in laboratory and a packaging method was introduced. In this paper, the method of multiplexing several sensors by optical time domain reflectometer (OTDR) and optical splitter is introduced, together with the interpretation of OTDR results. The practical applicability of the proposed sensors is demonstrated in a three-year field trial with the sensors installed in an aggressive marine environment. The durability of the sensor against chemical degradation and physical degradation is also verified by accelerated life test and freeze-thaw cycling test, respectively. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical Fiber Sensors 2012)

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24 pages, 1356 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Vapochromic Behaviour of M[Au(CN)₂]₂-Based Coordination Polymers (M = Co, Ni)

by Julie Lefebvre, Jasmine L. Korčok, Michael J. Katz and Daniel B. Leznoff^*

Department of Chemistry, Simon Fraser University, 8888 University Drive, Burnaby, BC V5A 1S6, Canada

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3669-3692; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303669 - 16 Mar 2012

Cited by 30 | Viewed by 10898

Abstract

A series of M[Au(CN)₂]₂(analyte)_x coordination polymers (M = Co, Ni; analyte = dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), pyridine; x = 2 or 4) was prepared and characterized. Addition of analyte vapours to solid M(μ-OH₂)[Au(CN)₂]₂ [...] Read more.

A series of M[Au(CN)₂]₂(analyte)_x coordination polymers (M = Co, Ni; analyte = dimethylsulfoxide (DMSO), N,N-dimethylformamide (DMF), pyridine; x = 2 or 4) was prepared and characterized. Addition of analyte vapours to solid M(μ-OH₂)[Au(CN)₂]₂ yielded visible vapochromic responses for M = Co but not M = Ni; the IR ν_CN spectral region changed in every case. A single crystal structure of Zn[Au(CN)₂]₂(DMSO)₂ revealed a corrugated 2-D layer structure with cis-DMSO units. Reacting a Ni(II) salt and K[Au(CN)₂] in DMSO yielded the isostructural Ni[Au(CN)₂]₂(DMSO)₂ product. Co[Au(CN)₂]₂(DMSO)₂ and M[Au(CN)₂]₂(DMF)₂ (M = Co, Ni) complexes have flat 2-D square-grid layer structures with trans-bound DMSO or DMF units; they are formed via vapour absorption by solid M(μ-OH₂)[Au(CN)₂]₂ and from DMSO or DMF solution synthesis. Co[Au(CN)₂]₂(pyridine)₄ is generated via vapour absorption by Co(μ-OH₂)[Au(CN)₂]₂; the analogous Ni complex is synthesized by immersion of Ni(μ-OH₂)[Au(CN)₂]₂ in 4% aqueous pyridine. Similar immersion of Co(μ-OH₂)[Au(CN)₂]₂ yielded Co[Au(CN)₂]₂(pyridine)₂, which has a flat 2-D square-grid structure with trans-pyridine units. Absorption of pyridine vapour by solid Ni(μ-OH₂)[Au(CN)₂]₂ was incomplete, generating a mixture of pyridine-bound complexes. Analyte-free Co[Au(CN)₂]₂ was prepared by dehydration of Co(μ-OH₂)[Au(CN)₂]₂ at 145 °C; it has a 3-D diamondoid-type structure and absorbs DMSO, DMF and pyridine to give the same materials as by vapour absorption from the hydrate. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Molecular Devices and Machines: Cooperativity and Multifunctionality)

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27 pages, 1647 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Ocean Bottom Seismometer: Design and Test of a Measurement System for Marine Seismology

by Antoni Mànuel¹, Xavier Roset¹, Joaquin Del Rio^1,*

, Daniel Mihai Toma¹, Normandino Carreras¹, Shahram Shariat Panahi¹, A. Garcia-Benadí¹, Tim Owen² and Javier Cadena¹

¹ SARTI Group, Electronics Department, Universitat Politècnica de Catalunya, UPC.Vilanova i la Geltrú 08800, Spain

² Carrack Measurement Technology, Dullingham, Newmarket, Suffolk CB8 9UP, UK

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3693-3719; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303693 - 19 Mar 2012

Cited by 24 | Viewed by 18673

Abstract

The Ocean Bottom Seismometer (OBS) is a key instrument for the geophysical study of sea sub-bottom layers. At present, more reliable autonomous instruments capable of recording underwater for long periods of time and therefore handling large data storage are needed. This paper presents [...] Read more.

The Ocean Bottom Seismometer (OBS) is a key instrument for the geophysical study of sea sub-bottom layers. At present, more reliable autonomous instruments capable of recording underwater for long periods of time and therefore handling large data storage are needed. This paper presents a new Ocean Bottom Seismometer designed to be used in long duration seismic surveys. Power consumption and noise level of the acquisition system are the key points to optimize the autonomy and the data quality. To achieve our goals, a new low power data logger with high resolution and Signal–to-Noise Ratio (SNR) based on Compact Flash memory card is designed to enable continuous data acquisition. The equipment represents the achievement of joint work from different scientific and technological disciplines as electronics, mechanics, acoustics, communications, information technology, marine geophysics, etc. This easy to handle and sophisticated equipment allows the recording of useful controlled source and passive seismic data, as well as other time varying data, with multiple applications in marine environment research. We have been working on a series of prototypes for ten years to improve many of the aspects that make the equipment easy to handle and useful to work in deep-water areas. Ocean Bottom Seismometers (OBS) have received growing attention from the geoscience community during the last forty years. OBS sensors recording motion of the ocean floor hold key information in order to study offshore seismicity and to explore the Earth’s crust. In a seismic survey, a series of OBSs are placed on the seabed of the area under study, where they record either natural seismic activity or acoustic signals generated by compressed air-guns on the ocean surface. The resulting data sets are subsequently used to model both the earthquake locations and the crustal structure. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Underwater Sensor Nodes and Underwater Sensor Networks)

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19 pages, 959 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Design and Testing of a Multi-Sensor Pedestrian Location and Navigation Platform

by Aiden Morrison, Valérie Renaudin, Jared B. Bancroft and Gérard Lachapelle^*

PLAN Group, Schulich School of Engineering, The University of Calgary, 2500 University Drive NW, Calgary AB, T2N 1N4, Canada

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3720-3738; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303720 - 19 Mar 2012

Cited by 38 | Viewed by 11318

Abstract

avigation and location technologies are continually advancing, allowing ever higher accuracies and operation under ever more challenging conditions. The development of such technologies requires the rapid evaluation of a large number of sensors and related utilization strategies. The integration of Global Navigation Satellite [...] Read more.

avigation and location technologies are continually advancing, allowing ever higher accuracies and operation under ever more challenging conditions. The development of such technologies requires the rapid evaluation of a large number of sensors and related utilization strategies. The integration of Global Navigation Satellite Systems (GNSSs) such as the Global Positioning System (GPS) with accelerometers, gyros, barometers, magnetometers and other sensors is allowing for novel applications, but is hindered by the difficulties to test and compare integrated solutions using multiple sensor sets. In order to achieve compatibility and flexibility in terms of multiple sensors, an advanced adaptable platform is required. This paper describes the design and testing of the NavCube, a multi-sensor navigation, location and timing platform. The system provides a research tool for pedestrian navigation, location and body motion analysis in an unobtrusive form factor that enables in situ data collections with minimal gait and posture impact. Testing and examples of applications of the NavCube are provided. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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8 pages, 497 KiB

Open AccessArticle

An Acousto-Optical Sensor with High Angular Resolution

by Gennady Kaloshin^* and Igor Lukin

V.E. Zuev Institute of Atmospheric Optics SB RAS, Tomsk, 634021, Russia

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3739-3746; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303739 - 20 Mar 2012

Cited by 3 | Viewed by 5770

Abstract

The paper introduces a new laser interferometry-based sensor for diagnosis of random media by means of high accuracy angle measurements and describes the results of its development and testing. Theoretical calculations of the dependence of the range of the laser interferometer on laser [...] Read more.

The paper introduces a new laser interferometry-based sensor for diagnosis of random media by means of high accuracy angle measurements and describes the results of its development and testing. Theoretical calculations of the dependence of the range of the laser interferometer on laser beam parameters, device geometry, and atmospheric turbulence characteristics are reported. It is demonstrated that at moderate turbulence intensities corresponding to those observed most frequently in turbulent atmosphere at moderate latitudes and with low interference contrast values, the performance range of the laser interferometer-based device exceeds 5 km. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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15 pages, 562 KiB

Open AccessArticle

Robust Facial Expression Recognition via Compressive Sensing

by Shiqing Zhang¹, Xiaoming Zhao^2,* and Bicheng Lei¹

¹ School of Physics and Electronic Engineering, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China

² Department of Computer Science, Taizhou University, Taizhou 318000, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3747-3761; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303747 - 21 Mar 2012

Cited by 76 | Viewed by 12487

Abstract

Recently, compressive sensing (CS) has attracted increasing attention in the areas of signal processing, computer vision and pattern recognition. In this paper, a new method based on the CS theory is presented for robust facial expression recognition. The CS theory is used to [...] Read more.

Recently, compressive sensing (CS) has attracted increasing attention in the areas of signal processing, computer vision and pattern recognition. In this paper, a new method based on the CS theory is presented for robust facial expression recognition. The CS theory is used to construct a sparse representation classifier (SRC). The effectiveness and robustness of the SRC method is investigated on clean and occluded facial expression images. Three typical facial features, i.e., the raw pixels, Gabor wavelets representation and local binary patterns (LBP), are extracted to evaluate the performance of the SRC method. Compared with the nearest neighbor (NN), linear support vector machines (SVM) and the nearest subspace (NS), experimental results on the popular Cohn-Kanade facial expression database demonstrate that the SRC method obtains better performance and stronger robustness to corruption and occlusion on robust facial expression recognition tasks. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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11 pages, 665 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Pro-Drug Approach for Selective Modulation of AI-2-Mediated Bacterial Cell-to-Cell Communication

by Min Guo, Sonja Gamby, Shizuka Nakayama, Jacqueline Smith and Herman O. Sintim^*

Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry, University of Maryland, Building 091, College Park, MD 20742, USA

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3762-3772; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303762 - 21 Mar 2012

Cited by 17 | Viewed by 8553

Abstract

The universal quorum sensing autoinducer, AI-2, is utilized by several bacteria. Analogs of AI-2 have the potential to modulate bacterial behavior. Selectively quenching the communication of a few bacteria, in the presence of several others in an ecosystem, using analogs of AI-2 is [...] Read more.

The universal quorum sensing autoinducer, AI-2, is utilized by several bacteria. Analogs of AI-2 have the potential to modulate bacterial behavior. Selectively quenching the communication of a few bacteria, in the presence of several others in an ecosystem, using analogs of AI-2 is non-trivial due to the ubiquity of AI-2 processing receptors in many bacteria that co-exist. Herein, we demonstrate that when an AI-2 analog, isobutyl DPD (which has been previously shown to be a quorum sensing, QS, quencher in both Escherichia coli and Salmonella typhimurium) is modified with ester groups, which get hydrolyzed once inside the bacterial cells, only QS in E. coli, but not in S. typhimurium, is inhibited. The origin of this differential QS inhibition could be due to differences in analog permeation of the bacterial membranes or ester hydrolysis rates. Such differences could be utilized to selectively target QS in specific bacteria amongst a consortium of other species that also use AI-2 signaling. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Quorum Sensing: Linking the Outside World to Microbial Behaviour)

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16 pages, 625 KiB

Open AccessArticle

A Vocal-Based Analytical Method for Goose Behaviour Recognition

by Kim Arild Steen^1,*, Ole Roland Therkildsen², Henrik Karstoft¹ and Ole Green¹

¹ Department of Engineering, Aarhus University, Finlandsgade 22, 8200 Aarhus N, Denmark

² Department of Bioscience, Aarhus University, Grenåvej 14, 8410 Rønde, Denmark

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3773-3788; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303773 - 21 Mar 2012

Cited by 22 | Viewed by 8981

Abstract

Since human-wildlife conflicts are increasing, the development of cost-effective methods for reducing damage or conflict levels is important in wildlife management. A wide range of devices to detect and deter animals causing conflict are used for this purpose, although their effectiveness is often [...] Read more.

Since human-wildlife conflicts are increasing, the development of cost-effective methods for reducing damage or conflict levels is important in wildlife management. A wide range of devices to detect and deter animals causing conflict are used for this purpose, although their effectiveness is often highly variable, due to habituation to disruptive or disturbing stimuli. Automated recognition of behaviours could form a critical component of a system capable of altering the disruptive stimuli to avoid this. In this paper we present a novel method to automatically recognise goose behaviour based on vocalisations from flocks of free-living barnacle geese (Branta leucopsis). The geese were observed and recorded in a natural environment, using a shielded shotgun microphone. The classification used Support Vector Machines (SVMs), which had been trained with labeled data. Greenwood Function Cepstral Coefficients (GFCC) were used as features for the pattern recognition algorithm, as they can be adjusted to the hearing capabilities of different species. Three behaviours are classified based in this approach, and the method achieves a good recognition of foraging behaviour (86–97% sensitivity, 89–98% precision) and a reasonable recognition of flushing (79–86%, 66–80%) and landing behaviour(73–91%, 79–92%). The Support Vector Machine has proven to be a robust classifier for this kind of classification, as generality and non-linearcapabilities are important. We conclude that vocalisations can be used to automatically detect behaviour of conflict wildlife species, and as such, may be used as an integrated part of awildlife management system. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Physical Sensors)

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Review

Jump to: Research

22 pages, 951 KiB

Open AccessReview

Upconversion Nanomaterials: Synthesis, Mechanism, and Applications in Sensing

by Jiao Chen and Julia Xiaojun Zhao^*

Department of Chemistry, University of North Dakota, Grand Forks, ND 58202, USA

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2414-2435; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302414 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 268 | Viewed by 20330

Abstract

Upconversion is an optical process that involves the conversion of lower-energy photons into higher-energy photons. It has been extensively studied since mid-1960s and widely applied in optical devices. Over the past decade, high-quality rare earth-doped upconversion nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized with the [...] Read more.

Upconversion is an optical process that involves the conversion of lower-energy photons into higher-energy photons. It has been extensively studied since mid-1960s and widely applied in optical devices. Over the past decade, high-quality rare earth-doped upconversion nanoparticles have been successfully synthesized with the rapid development of nanotechnology and are becoming more prominent in biological sciences. The synthesis methods are usually phase-based processes, such as thermal decomposition, hydrothermal reaction, and ionic liquids-based synthesis. The main difference between upconversion nanoparticles and other nanomaterials is that they can emit visible light under near infrared irradiation. The near infrared irradiation leads to low autofluorescence, less scattering and absorption, and deep penetration in biological samples. In this review, the synthesis of upconversion nanoparticles and the mechanisms of upconversion process will be discussed, followed by their applications in different areas, especially in the biological field for biosensing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)

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20 pages, 702 KiB

Open AccessReview

Interferometric Fiber Optic Sensors

by Byeong Ha Lee^1,*, Young Ho Kim¹, Kwan Seob Park¹, Joo Beom Eom², Myoung Jin Kim², Byung Sup Rho² and Hae Young Choi³

¹ School of Information and Communications, Gwangju Institute of Science and Technology, 123 Cheomdan-gwagiro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 500-712, Korea

² Korea Photonics Technology Institute, Cheomdanbencheo-ro, Buk-gu, Gwangju 500-779, Korea

³ Medical Device Development Center, Osong Medical Innovation Foundation, 186 Osong Saengmyung-ro, Gangoe-myeon, Cheongwon-gun, Chungbuk 363-951, Korea

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2467-2486; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302467 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 637 | Viewed by 34622

Abstract

Fiber optic interferometers to sense various physical parameters including temperature, strain, pressure, and refractive index have been widely investigated. They can be categorized into four types: Fabry-Perot, Mach-Zehnder, Michelson, and Sagnac. In this paper, each type of interferometric sensor is reviewed in terms [...] Read more.

Fiber optic interferometers to sense various physical parameters including temperature, strain, pressure, and refractive index have been widely investigated. They can be categorized into four types: Fabry-Perot, Mach-Zehnder, Michelson, and Sagnac. In this paper, each type of interferometric sensor is reviewed in terms of operating principles, fabrication methods, and application fields. Some specific examples of recently reported interferometeric sensor technologies are presented in detail to show their large potential in practical applications. Some of the simple to fabricate but exceedingly effective Fabry-Perot interferometers, implemented in both extrinsic and intrinsic structures, are discussed. Also, a wide variety of Mach-Zehnder and Michelson interferometric sensors based on photonic crystal fibers are introduced along with their remarkable sensing performances. Finally, the simultaneous multi-parameter sensing capability of a pair of long period fiber grating (LPG) is presented in two types of structures; one is the Mach-Zehnder interferometer formed in a double cladding fiber and the other is the highly sensitive Sagnac interferometer cascaded with an LPG pair. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Optical Fiber Sensors 2012)

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20 pages, 256 KiB

Open AccessReview

Quorum Sensing and Bacterial Social Interactions in Biofilms

by Yung-Hua Li^1,2,* and Xiaolin Tian²

¹ Department of Microbiology and Immunology, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS B3H 1W2, Canada

² Department of Applied Oral Sciences, Dalhousie University, Halifax, NS, B3H 1W2, Canada

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2519-2538; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302519 - 23 Feb 2012

Cited by 540 | Viewed by 35915

Abstract

Many bacteria are known to regulate their cooperative activities and physiological processes through a mechanism called quorum sensing (QS), in which bacterial cells communicate with each other by releasing, sensing and responding to small diffusible signal molecules. The ability of bacteria to communicate [...] Read more.

Many bacteria are known to regulate their cooperative activities and physiological processes through a mechanism called quorum sensing (QS), in which bacterial cells communicate with each other by releasing, sensing and responding to small diffusible signal molecules. The ability of bacteria to communicate and behave as a group for social interactions like a multi-cellular organism has provided significant benefits to bacteria in host colonization, formation of biofilms, defense against competitors, and adaptation to changing environments. Importantly, many QS-controlled activities have been involved in the virulence and pathogenic potential of bacteria. Therefore, understanding the molecular details of quorum sensing mechanisms and their controlled social activities may open a new avenue for controlling bacterial infections. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Quorum Sensing: Linking the Outside World to Microbial Behaviour)

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22 pages, 1637 KiB

Open AccessReview

Metal Oxide Nanostructures and Their Gas Sensing Properties: A Review

by Yu-Feng Sun^1,2,3, Shao-Bo Liu³, Fan-Li Meng^2,*

, Jin-Yun Liu², Zhen Jin², Ling-Tao Kong² and Jin-Huai Liu²

¹ Department of Mechanical and Automotive Engineering, Anhui Polytechnic University, Wuhu 241000, China

² Research Center for Biomimetic Functional Materials and Sensing Devices, Institute of Intelligent Machines, Chinese Academy of Sciences, Hefei 230031, China

³ Wuhu Returned Overseas Students’ Enterprise Park, Wuhu 241000, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2610-2631; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302610 - 27 Feb 2012

Cited by 1050 | Viewed by 39324

Abstract

Metal oxide gas sensors are predominant solid-state gas detecting devices for domestic, commercial and industrial applications, which have many advantages such as low cost, easy production, and compact size. However, the performance of such sensors is significantly influenced by the morphology and structure [...] Read more.

Metal oxide gas sensors are predominant solid-state gas detecting devices for domestic, commercial and industrial applications, which have many advantages such as low cost, easy production, and compact size. However, the performance of such sensors is significantly influenced by the morphology and structure of sensing materials, resulting in a great obstacle for gas sensors based on bulk materials or dense films to achieve highly-sensitive properties. Lots of metal oxide nanostructures have been developed to improve the gas sensing properties such as sensitivity, selectivity, response speed, and so on. Here, we provide a brief overview of metal oxide nanostructures and their gas sensing properties from the aspects of particle size, morphology and doping. When the particle size of metal oxide is close to or less than double thickness of the space-charge layer, the sensitivity of the sensor will increase remarkably, which would be called “small size effect”, yet small size of metal oxide nanoparticles will be compactly sintered together during the film coating process which is disadvantage for gas diffusion in them. In view of those reasons, nanostructures with many kinds of shapes such as porous nanotubes, porous nanospheres and so on have been investigated, that not only possessed large surface area and relatively mass reactive sites, but also formed relatively loose film structures which is an advantage for gas diffusion. Besides, doping is also an effective method to decrease particle size and improve gas sensing properties. Therefore, the gas sensing properties of metal oxide nanostructures assembled by nanoparticles are reviewed in this article. The effect of doping is also summarized and finally the perspectives of metal oxide gas sensor are given. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing at the Nano-Scale: Chemical and Bio-Sensing)

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24 pages, 650 KiB

Open AccessReview

Metamaterials Application in Sensing

by Tao Chen^1,*, Suyan Li² and Hui Sun¹

¹ Mechanical & Power Engineering College, Harbin University of Science and Technology, Harbin 150080, China

² Center for Engineering Training and Basic Experimentation, Heilongjiang Institute of Science and Technology, Harbin 150027, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2742-2765; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302742 - 29 Feb 2012

Cited by 489 | Viewed by 25649

Abstract

Metamaterials are artificial media structured on a size scale smaller than wavelength of external stimuli, and they can exhibit a strong localization and enhancement of fields, which may provide novel tools to significantly enhance the sensitivity and resolution of sensors, and open new [...] Read more.

Metamaterials are artificial media structured on a size scale smaller than wavelength of external stimuli, and they can exhibit a strong localization and enhancement of fields, which may provide novel tools to significantly enhance the sensitivity and resolution of sensors, and open new degrees of freedom in sensing design aspect. This paper mainly presents the recent progress concerning metamaterials-based sensing, and detailedly reviews the principle, detecting process and sensitivity of three distinct types of sensors based on metamaterials, as well as their challenges and prospects. Moreover, the design guidelines for each sensor and its performance are compared and summarized. Full article

(This article belongs to the Section Chemical Sensors)

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21 pages, 866 KiB

Open AccessReview

α-Hydroxyketone Synthesis and Sensing by Legionella and Vibrio

by André Tiaden¹ and Hubert Hilbi^2,*

¹ Competence Center for Applied Biotechnology and Molecular Medicine, University Zürich, Winterthurerstrasse 190, 8057 Zürich, Switzerland

² Max von Pettenkofer Institute, Ludwig-Maximilians University Munich, Pettenkoferstrasse 9a, 80336 Munich, Germany

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 2899-2919; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120302899 - 2 Mar 2012

Cited by 45 | Viewed by 10171

Abstract

Bacteria synthesize and sense low molecular weight signaling molecules, termed autoinducers, to measure their population density and community complexity. One class of autoinducers, the α-hydroxyketones (AHKs), is produced and detected by the water-borne opportunistic pathogens Legionella pneumophila and Vibrio cholerae, which cause [...] Read more.

Bacteria synthesize and sense low molecular weight signaling molecules, termed autoinducers, to measure their population density and community complexity. One class of autoinducers, the α-hydroxyketones (AHKs), is produced and detected by the water-borne opportunistic pathogens Legionella pneumophila and Vibrio cholerae, which cause Legionnaires’ disease and cholera, respectively. The “Legionella quorum sensing” (lqs) or “cholera quorum sensing” (cqs) genes encode enzymes that produce and sense the AHK molecules “Legionella autoinducer-1” (LAI-1; 3-hydroxypentadecane-4-one) or cholera autoinducer-1 (CAI-1; 3-hydroxytridecane-4-one). AHK signaling regulates the virulence of L. pneumophila and V. cholerae, pathogen-host cell interactions, formation of biofilms or extracellular filaments, expression of a genomic “fitness island” and competence. Here, we outline the processes, wherein AHK signaling plays a role, and review recent insights into the function of proteins encoded by the lqs and cqs gene clusters. To this end, we will focus on the autoinducer synthases catalysing the biosynthesis of AHKs, on the cognate trans-membrane sensor kinases detecting the signals, and on components of the down-stream phosphorelay cascade that promote the transmission and integration of signaling events regulating gene expression. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Quorum Sensing: Linking the Outside World to Microbial Behaviour)

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19 pages, 1138 KiB

Open AccessReview

Size Matters: Problems and Advantages Associated with Highly Miniaturized Sensors

by Andreas B. Dahlin

Division of Bionanophotonics, Department of Applied Physics, Chalmers University of Technology, Fysikgränd 3, 41296 Göteborg, Sweden

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3018-3036; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303018 - 6 Mar 2012

Cited by 87 | Viewed by 10615

Abstract

There is no doubt that the recent advances in nanotechnology have made it possible to realize a great variety of new sensors with signal transduction mechanisms utilizing physical phenomena at the nanoscale. Some examples are conductivity measurements in nanowires, deflection of cantilevers and [...] Read more.

There is no doubt that the recent advances in nanotechnology have made it possible to realize a great variety of new sensors with signal transduction mechanisms utilizing physical phenomena at the nanoscale. Some examples are conductivity measurements in nanowires, deflection of cantilevers and spectroscopy of plasmonic nanoparticles. The fact that these techniques are based on the special properties of nanostructural entities provides for extreme sensor miniaturization since a single structural unit often can be used as transducer. This review discusses the advantages and problems with such small sensors, with focus on biosensing applications and label-free real-time analysis of liquid samples. Many aspects of sensor design are considered, such as thermodynamic and diffusion aspects on binding kinetics as well as multiplexing and noise issues. Still, all issues discussed are generic in the sense that the conclusions apply to practically all types of surface sensitive techniques. As a counterweight to the current research trend, it is argued that in many real world applications, better performance is achieved if the active sensor is larger than that in typical nanosensors. Although there are certain specific sensing applications where nanoscale transducers are necessary, it is argued herein that this represents a relatively rare situation. Instead, it is suggested that sensing on the microscale often offers a good compromise between utilizing some possible advantages of miniaturization while avoiding the complications. This means that ensemble measurements on multiple nanoscale sensors are preferable instead of utilizing a single transducer entity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing at the Nano-Scale: Chemical and Bio-Sensing)

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23 pages, 1021 KiB

Open AccessReview

Measurements of True Leak Rates of MEMS Packages

by Bongtae Han

CALCE Electronic Products and Systems Center, Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Maryland, College Park, MD 20742, USA

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3082-3104; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303082 - 6 Mar 2012

Cited by 9 | Viewed by 9146

Abstract

: Gas transport mechanisms that characterize the hermetic behavior of MEMS packages are fundamentally different depending upon which sealing materials are used in the packages. In metallic seals, gas transport occurs through a few nanoscale leak channels (gas conduction) that are [...] Read more.

: Gas transport mechanisms that characterize the hermetic behavior of MEMS packages are fundamentally different depending upon which sealing materials are used in the packages. In metallic seals, gas transport occurs through a few nanoscale leak channels (gas conduction) that are produced randomly during the solder reflow process, while gas transport in polymeric seals occurs through the bulk material (gas diffusion). In this review article, the techniques to measure true leak rates of MEMS packages with the two sealing materials are described and discussed: a Helium mass spectrometer based technique for metallic sealing and a gas diffusion based model for polymeric sealing. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Modeling, Testing and Reliability Issues in MEMS Engineering 2011)

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23 pages, 285 KiB

Open AccessReview

Quorum Sensing and Expression of Virulence in Pectobacteria

by Lee Põllumaa, Tiina Alamäe and Andres Mäe^*

Department of Genetics, Institute of Molecular and Cell Biology, University of Tartu, Riia 23, Tartu 51010, Estonia

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3327-3349; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303327 - 8 Mar 2012

Cited by 78 | Viewed by 11955

Abstract

Quorum sensing (QS) is a population density-dependent regulatory mechanism in which gene expression is coupled to the accumulation of a chemical signaling molecule. QS systems are widespread among the plant soft-rotting bacteria. In Pectobacterium carotovorum, at least two QS systems exist being [...] Read more.

Quorum sensing (QS) is a population density-dependent regulatory mechanism in which gene expression is coupled to the accumulation of a chemical signaling molecule. QS systems are widespread among the plant soft-rotting bacteria. In Pectobacterium carotovorum, at least two QS systems exist being specified by the nature of chemical signals involved. QS in Pectobacterium carotovorum uses N-acylhomoserine lactone (AHL) based, as well as autoinducer-2 (AI-2) dependent signaling systems. This review will address the importance of the QS in production of virulence factors and interaction of QS with other regulatory systems in Pectobacterium carotovorum. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Microbial Quorum Sensing: Linking the Outside World to Microbial Behaviour)

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11 pages, 166 KiB

Open AccessReview

Circulating microRNAs as Biomarkers, Therapeutic Targets, and Signaling Molecules

by Seena K. Ajit

Pharmacology and Physiology, Drexel University College of Medicine, Mail Stop 488, 245 North 15th Street, Philadelphia, PA 19102, USA

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3359-3369; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303359 - 8 Mar 2012

Cited by 152 | Viewed by 13146

Abstract

Small noncoding microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of post-transcriptional gene regulation and have altered the prevailing view of a linear relationship between gene and protein expression. Aberrant miRNA expression is an emerging theme for a wide variety of diseases, highlighting the fundamental role [...] Read more.

Small noncoding microRNAs (miRNAs) are important regulators of post-transcriptional gene regulation and have altered the prevailing view of a linear relationship between gene and protein expression. Aberrant miRNA expression is an emerging theme for a wide variety of diseases, highlighting the fundamental role played by miRNAs in both physiological and pathological states. The identification of stable miRNAs in bodily fluids paved the way for their use as novel biomarkers amenable to clinical diagnosis in translational medicine. Identification of miRNAs in exosomes that are functional upon delivery to the recipient cells has highlighted a novel method of intercellular communication. Delivery of miRNAs to recipient cells via blood, with functional gene regulatory consequences, opens up novel avenues for target intervention. Exosomes thus offer a novel strategy for delivering drugs or RNA therapeutic agents. Though much work lies ahead, circulating miRNAs are unequivocally ushering in a new era of novel biomarker discovery, intercellular communication mechanisms, and therapeutic intervention strategies. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Biomarkers and Nanosensors: New Approaches for Biology and Medicine)

23 pages, 588 KiB

Open AccessReview

New Trends in Impedimetric Biosensors for the Detection of Foodborne Pathogenic Bacteria

by Yixian Wang, Zunzhong Ye and Yibin Ying^*

College of Biosystems Engineering and Food Science, Zhejiang University, Hangzhou 310058, China

Sensors 2012, 12(3), 3449-3471; https://doi.org/10.3390/s120303449 - 12 Mar 2012

Cited by 236 | Viewed by 18330

Abstract

The development of a rapid, sensitive, specific method for the foodborne pathogenic bacteria detection is of great importance to ensure food safety and security. In recent years impedimetric biosensors which integrate biological recognition technology and impedance have gained widespread application in the field [...] Read more.

The development of a rapid, sensitive, specific method for the foodborne pathogenic bacteria detection is of great importance to ensure food safety and security. In recent years impedimetric biosensors which integrate biological recognition technology and impedance have gained widespread application in the field of bacteria detection. This paper presents an overview on the progress and application of impedimetric biosensors for detection of foodborne pathogenic bacteria, particularly the new trends in the past few years, including the new specific bio-recognition elements such as bacteriophage and lectin, the use of nanomaterials and microfluidics techniques. The applications of these new materials or techniques have provided unprecedented opportunities for the development of high-performance impedance bacteria biosensors. The significant developments of impedimetric biosensors for bacteria detection in the last five years have been reviewed according to the classification of with or without specific bio-recognition element. In addition, some microfluidics systems, which were used in the construction of impedimetric biosensors to improve analytical performance, are introduced in this review. Full article

(This article belongs to the Special Issue Sensing at the Nano-Scale: Chemical and Bio-Sensing)

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Sensors, Volume 12, Issue 3 (March 2012) – 83 articles , Pages 2351-3788

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