bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biotransformation of Pristine and Oxidized Carbon Nanotubes by the White Rot Fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium
Authors: Ma Qiang , Yilihamu Ailimire , Ming Zhu , Yang Shengnan , Shi Mengyao , Ouyang Bowei , Zhang Qiangqiang , Guan Xin , Yang Sheng-Tao
Published: September 2019

Carbon nanomaterials are widely studied and applied nowadays, with annual production increasing. After entering the environment, the complete degradation of these carbon nanomaterials by microorganisms is proposed as an effective approach for detoxification and remediation. In this study, we evaluated the degradation of pristine multiwalled carbon nanotubes (p-MWCNTs) and oxidized multiwalled carbon nanotubes (o-MWCNTs) by the white rot fungus Phanerochaete chrysosporium, which is a powerful decomposer in the carbon cycle and environmental remediation. Both p-MWCNTs and o-MWCNTs were partially oxidized by P. chrysosporium as indicated by the addition of oxygen atoms to the carbon skeleton in the forms of C=O and O–H bonds. The fungal oxidation led to the shortening of MWCNTs, where precipitated o-MWCNTs showed more short tubes. During the transformation, the defects on the tubes became detached from the carbon skeleton, resulting in decreases of the ID/IG (intensity of D-band/ intensity of G-band) values in Raman spectra. The transformation mechanism was attributed to the enzymatic degradation by laccase and manganese peroxidase excreted by P. chrysosporium. The results collectively indicated that MWCNTs could be transformed by P. chrysosporium, but complete degradation could not be achieved in a short time period. The implications on the environmental risks of carbon nanomaterials are discussed.
Preparation, Characterization, and Performance Analysis of S-Doped Bi2MoO6 Nanosheets
Authors: Wang Ruiqi , Li Duanyang , Wang Hailong , Liu Chenglun , Xu Longjun
Published: September 2019

S-doped Bi2MoO6 nanosheets were successfully synthesized by a simple hydrothermal method. The as-prepared samples were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscope (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), N2 adsorption–desorption isotherms, Raman spectroscopy, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), elemental mapping spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectra (PL), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), and UV-visible diffused reflectance spectra (UV-vis DRS). The photo-electrochemical performance of the samples was investigated via an electrochemical workstation. The S-doped Bi2MoO6 nanosheets exhibited enhanced photocatalytic activity under visible light irradiation. The photo-degradation rate of Rhodamine B (RhB) by S-doped Bi2MoO6 (1 wt%) reached 97% after 60 min, which was higher than that of the pure Bi2MoO6 and other S-doped products. The degradation rate of the recovered S-doped Bi2MoO6 (1 wt%) was still nearly 90% in the third cycle, indicating an excellent stability of the catalyst. The radical-capture experiments confirmed that superoxide radicals (·O2−) and holes (h+) were the main active substances in the photocatalytic degradation of RhB by S-doped Bi2MoO6.
Amphiphilic Oxygenated Amorphous Carbon-Graphite Buckypapers with Gas Sensitivity to Polar and Non-Polar VOCs
Authors: Homaeigohar Shahin
Published: September 2019

To precisely control the emission limit of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) even at trace amounts, reactive nanomaterials of, e.g., carbon are demanded. Particularly, considering the polar/non-polar nature of VOCs, amphiphilic carbon nanomaterials with a huge surface area could act as multipurpose VOC sensors. Here, for the first time, a buckypaper sensor composed of oxygenated amorphous carbon (a-COx)/graphite (G) nanofilaments is developed. Presence of the oxygen-containing groups rises the selectivity of the sensor to polar VOCs, such as ethanol and acetone through formation of hydrogen bonding, affecting the electron withdrawing ability of the group, the hole carrier density, and, thus, the resistivity. On the other hand, the electrostatic interactions between the toluene aromatic ring and the π electrons of the graphitic crystals cause a formation of charge-transfer complexes, which could be the main mechanism of high responsiveness of the sensor towards non-polar toluene. To the best of my knowledge, an amphiphilic carbon nanofilamentous buckypaper has never been reported for gas sensing, and my device sensing polar/non-polar VOCs is state of the art for environmental control.
Magnetic Nanoclusters Coated with Albumin, Casein, and Gelatin: Size Tuning, Relaxivity, Stability, Protein Corona, and Application in Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Immunoassay
Authors: Khramtsov Pavel , Barkina Irina , Kropaneva Maria , Bochkova Maria , Timganova Valeria , Nechaev Anton , Byzov Il’ya , Zamorina Svetlana , Yermakov Anatoly , Rayev Mikhail
Published: September 2019

The surface functionalization of magnetic nanoparticles improves their physicochemical properties and applicability in biomedicine. Natural polymers, including proteins, are prospective coatings capable of increasing the stability, biocompatibility, and transverse relaxivity (r2) of magnetic nanoparticles. In this work, we functionalized the nanoclusters of carbon-coated iron nanoparticles with four proteins: bovine serum albumin, casein, and gelatins A and B, and we conducted a comprehensive comparative study of their properties essential to applications in biosensing. First, we examined the influence of environmental parameters on the size of prepared nanoclusters and synthesized protein-coated nanoclusters with a tunable size. Second, we showed that protein coating does not significantly influence the r2 relaxivity of clustered nanoparticles; however, the uniform distribution of individual nanoparticles inside the protein coating facilitates increased relaxivity. Third, we demonstrated the applicability of the obtained nanoclusters in biosensing by the development of a nuclear-magnetic-resonance-based immunoassay for the quantification of antibodies against tetanus toxoid. Fourth, the protein coronas of nanoclusters were studied using SDS-PAGE and Bradford protein assay. Finally, we compared the colloidal stability at various pH values and ionic strengths and in relevant complex media (i.e., blood serum, plasma, milk, juice, beer, and red wine), as well as the heat stability, resistance to proteolytic digestion, and shelf-life of protein-coated nanoclusters.
Penicillin Allergy Assessment and Skin Testing in the Outpatient Setting
Authors: Kufel Wesley D. , Justo Julie Ann , Bookstaver P. Brandon , Avery Lisa M.
Published: September 2019

Penicillin allergies are among of the most commonly reported allergies, yet only 10% of these patients are truly allergic. This leads to potential inadvertent negative consequences for patients and makes treatment decisions challenging for clinicians. Thus, allergy assessment and penicillin skin testing (PST) are important management strategies to reconcile and clarify labeled penicillin allergies. While PST is more common in the inpatient setting where the results will immediately impact antibiotic management, this process is becoming of increasing importance in the outpatient setting. PST in the outpatient setting allows clinicians to proactively de-label and educate patients accordingly so beta-lactam antibiotics may be appropriately prescribed when necessary for future infections. While allergists have primarily been responsible for PST in the outpatient setting, there is an increasing role for pharmacist involvement in the process. This review highlights the importance of penicillin allergy assessments, considerations for PST in the outpatient setting, education and advocacy for patients and clinicians, and the pharmacist’s role in outpatient PST.
Morphological and Molecular Characterization of Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides (Rutaceae) from Burkina Faso
Authors: Ouédraogo Lassané , Fuchs Dominik , Schaefer Hanno , Kiendrebeogo Martin
Published: September 2019

Zanthoxylum zanthoxyloides is a West African forest tree that is used for example against malaria and sickle cell anemia in Burkina Faso. The goal of this study was to analyze the genetic and morphological diversity of the species within wild populations in Burkina Faso, where it is potentially under threat due to the uncontrolled harvesting of its roots. Seventy-two trees from three different sites in Southwestern Burkina Faso were analyzed. Each tree was characterized by 12 traits specifying the period of flowering and maturity as well as morphological characteristics of the stem, leaves, and seeds. The molecular analysis was performed using two plastid DNA regions (psbA-trnH and trnL-trnF) and two nuclear regions (GBSSI and ITS) to identify the genetic diversity of the species for further development of a management plan for ex situ reproduction and in situ conservation. We found variability in morphological traits correlating with the geographic distance of the study sites. The molecular analysis, in contrast, revealed hardly any genetic variability among the tested trees and no population structure. Whether the differences in morphological traits are caused by different environmental conditions or by genetic variability in genes linked to morphological traits needs further testing. The apparent lack of genetic differentiation suggests that germplasm throughout the study region is suitable for planting in conservation actions. Efficient conservation management should involve local communities, especially those interested in traditional medicine.
Novel Antibacterial and Toughened Carbon-Fibre/Epoxy Composites by the Incorporation of TiO2 Nanoparticles Modified Electrospun Nanofibre Veils
Authors: Monteserín Cristina , Blanco Miren , Murillo Nieves , Pérez-Márquez Ana , Maudes Jon , Gayoso Jorge , Laza Jose Manuel , Hernáez Estíbaliz , Aranzabe Estíbaliz , Vilas Jose Luis
Published: September 2019

The inclusion of electrospun nanofiber veils was revealed as an effective method for enhancing the mechanical properties of fiber-reinforced epoxy resin composites. These veils will eventually allow the incorporation of nanomaterials not only for mechanical reinforcement but also in multifunctional applications. Therefore, this paper investigates the effect of electrospun nanofibrous veils made of polyamide 6 modified with TiO2 nanoparticles on the mechanical properties of a carbon-fiber/epoxy composite. The nanofibers were included in the carbon-fiber/epoxy composite as a single structure. The effect of positioning these veils in different composite positions was investigated. Compared to the reference, the use of unmodified and TiO2 modified veils increased the flexural stress at failure and the fracture toughness of composites. When TiO2 modified veils were incorporated, new antibacterial properties were achieved due to the photocatalytic properties of the veils, widening the application area of these composites.
Effect of the Chain Structure of Self-Emulsifying Polyester Sizing Agent on ILSS of Carbon Fiber/Unsaturated Polyester Resin Composites
Authors: Wang Zhenyu , Guo Huijun , Zhou Hang , Ouyang Xinfeng , Jiang Di , Li Jianhua , Guo Qipeng , Tang Jun , Yang Chuncai
Published: September 2019

Herein, we report self-emulsifying anionic unsaturated polyester emulsions with different chain segments as novel sizing agents. The epoxy modified unsaturated polyester emulsions were synthesized via a self-emulsifying technique with no organic solvents. Emulsions were characterized by dynamic light scattering (DLS), Zeta potential, centrifuge, and cryo-scanning electron microscopy (Cryo-SEM). The results showed that the emulsions obtained were mono-dispersed nanospheres that had adequate colloidal stability. The maximum Zeta potential of the sizing agent is −52.88 mV. In addition, these emulsions were investigated as the sizing agents in order to improve interfacial adhesion between carbon fibers (CFs) and unsaturated polyester resin (UPR). Compared with the CFs sized with the commercial epoxy sizing agent, the interlaminar shear strength (ILSS) of CF/UPR composites from the CFs sized by these emulsion sizing agents with three different chain structures were enhanced by 25%, 29%, and 42%, respectively. The emulsion sizing agent composed of a flexible segment synthesized from adipic acid, neopentyl glycol, and maleic anhydride is most effective and can achieve the highest enhancement of the ILSS of CF/UPR composites.
Pressure-Relief Impact Control of Open Circuit Hydraulic Pump-Controlled Forging Press System
Authors: Cao Xiaoming , Yao Jing , Sha Tong , Song Yu
Published: September 2019

Taking the open circuit hydraulic pump-controlled forging press system as the research object, according to the problems of pressure-relief impact of this system, the pressure-relief rules, mathematic models of the energy release rules, and the flow release rules were established, and the pressure-relief performance in different stages of each pressure-relief curve was analyzed. Based on the different requirements of the pressure gradient decrease, the combined pressure-relief curve (CPRC) was proposed to realize variable-pump eccentric magnitude planning. An experimental study on the pressure-relief process with CPRC was carried out. The results show that the pressure fluctuation of the pressure-relief pipe was reduced and the suppression effect of pressure-relief impact was better than that of the single regular pressure-relief curve. When the initial pressures were 10 MPa and 15 MPa, the pressure impact of the pressure-relief tube decreased by 45.45% and 37.5%, respectively, which realized the smooth pressure relief of the main cylinder.
Editorial for the Special Issue “Assimilation of Remote Sensing Data into Earth System Models”
Authors: Calvet Jean-Christophe , de Rosnay Patricia , Penny Stephen G.
Published: September 2019

This Special Issue is a collection of papers reporting research on various aspects of coupled data assimilation in Earth system models. It includes contributions presenting recent progress in ocean–atmosphere, land–atmosphere, and soil–vegetation data assimilation.
Deriving Aerosol Absorption Properties from Solar Ultraviolet Radiation Spectral Measurements at Thessaloniki, Greece
Authors: Fountoulakis Ilias , Natsis Athanasios , Siomos Nikolaos , Drosoglou Theano , Bais Alkiviadis F.
Published: September 2019

The gap in knowledge regarding the radiative effects of aerosols in the UV region of the solar spectrum is large, mainly due to the lack of systematic measurements of the aerosol single scattering albedo (SSA) and absorption optical depth (AAOD). In the present study, spectral UV measurements performed in Thessaloniki, Greece by a double monochromator Brewer spectrophotometer in the period 1998–2017 are used for the calculation of the aforementioned optical properties. The main uncertainty factors have been described and there is an effort to quantify the overall uncertainties in SSA and AAOD. Analysis of the results suggests that the absorption by aerosols is much stronger in the UV relative to the visible. SSA follows a clear annual pattern ranging from ~0.7 in winter to ~0.85 in summer at wavelengths 320–360 nm, while AAOD peaks in summer and winter. The average AAOD for 2009–2011 is ~50% above the 2003–2006 average, possibly due to increased emissions of absorbing aerosols related to the economic crisis and the metro-railway construction works in the city center.
Completion Time Minimization for Multi-UAV Information Collection via Trajectory Planning
Authors: Qin Zhen , Li Aijing , Dong Chao , Dai Haipeng , Xu Zhengqin
Published: September 2019

Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) are widely used as mobile information collectors for sensors to prolong the network time in Wireless Sensor Networks (WSNs) due to their flexible deployment, high mobility, and low cost. This paper focuses on the scenario where rotary-wing UAVs complete information collection mission cooperatively. For the first time, we study the problem of minimizing the mission completion time for a multi-UAV system in a monitoring scenario when considering the information collection quality. The mission completion time includes flying time and hovering time. By optimizing the trajectories of all UAVs, we minimize the mission completion time while ensuring that the information of each sensor is collected. This problem can be formulated as a mixed-integer non-convex one which has been proved to be NP-hard. To solve the formulated problem, we first propose a hovering point selection algorithm to select appropriate hovering points where the UAVs can sequentially collect the information from multiple sensors. We model this problem as a BS coverage problem with the information collection quality in consideration. Then, we use a min-max cycle cover algorithm to assign these hovering points and get the trajectory of each UAV. Finally, with the obtained UAVs trajectories, we further consider the UAVs can also collect information when flying and optimize the time allocations. The performance of our algorithm is verified by simulations, which show that the mission completion time is minimum compared with state-of-the-art algorithms.
Commercial Screen-Printed Electrodes Based on Carbon Nanomaterials for a Fast and Cost-Effective Voltammetric Determination of Paracetamol, Ibuprofen and Caffeine in Water Samples
Authors: Serrano Núria , Castilla Òscar , Ariño Cristina , Diaz-Cruz M. , Díaz-Cruz José
Published: September 2019

Carbon screen-printed electrode (SPCE), multi-walled carbon nanotubes modified screen-printed electrode (SPCNTE), carbon nanofibers modified screen-printed electrode (SPCNFE), and graphene modified screen-printed electrode (SPGPHE) were in a pioneer way tested as sensors for the simultaneous determination of the two most consumed pain-killers, paracetamol (PA) and ibuprofen (IB), and the stimulant caffeine (CF) in water by differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Their analytical performances were compared, and the resulting sensitivities (2.50, 0.074, and 0.24 μA V mg−1 L for PA, IB, and CF, respectively), detection limits (0.03, 0.6, and 0.05 mg L−1 for PA, IB, and CF, respectively) and quantification limits (0.09, 2.2, and 0.2 mg L−1 for PA, IB, and CF, respectively) suggested that the SPCNFE was the most suitable carbon-based electrode for the voltammetric determination of the selected analytes in water at trace levels. The methodology was validated using both spiked tap water and hospital wastewater samples. The results were compared to those achieved by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS), the technique of choice for the determination of the target analytes.
UWB/Binocular VO Fusion Algorithm Based on Adaptive Kalman Filter
Authors: Zeng Qingxi , Liu Dehui , Lv Chade
Published: September 2019

Among the existing wireless indoor positioning systems, UWB (ultra-wideband) is one of the most promising solutions. However, the single UWB positioning system is affected by factors such as non-line of sight and multipath, and the navigation accuracy will decrease. In order to make up for the shortcomings of a single UWB positioning system, this paper proposes a scheme based on binocular VO (visual odometer) and UWB sensor fusion. In this paper, the original distance measurement data of UWB and the position information of binocular VO are merged by adaptive Kalman filter, and the structural design of the fusion system and the realization of the fusion algorithm are elaborated. The experimental results show that compared with a single positioning system, the proposed data fusion method can significantly improve the positioning accuracy.
Enhancement of Multimodal Microwave-Ultrasound Breast Imaging Using a Deep-Learning Technique
Authors: Khoshdel Vahab , Ashraf Ahmed , LoVetri Joe
Published: September 2019

We present a deep learning method used in conjunction with dual-modal microwave-ultrasound imaging to produce tomographic reconstructions of the complex-valued permittivity of numerical breast phantoms. We also assess tumor segmentation performance using the reconstructed permittivity as a feature. The contrast source inversion (CSI) technique is used to create the complex-permittivity images of the breast with ultrasound-derived tissue regions utilized as prior information. However, imaging artifacts make the detection of tumors difficult. To overcome this issue we train a convolutional neural network (CNN) that takes in, as input, the dual-modal CSI reconstruction and attempts to produce the true image of the complex tissue permittivity. The neural network consists of successive convolutional and downsampling layers, followed by successive deconvolutional and upsampling layers based on the U-Net architecture. To train the neural network, the input-output pairs consist of CSI’s dual-modal reconstructions, along with the true numerical phantom images from which the microwave scattered field was synthetically generated. The reconstructed permittivity images produced by the CNN show that the network is not only able to remove the artifacts that are typical of CSI reconstructions, but can also improve the detectability of tumors. The performance of the CNN is assessed using a four-fold cross-validation on our dataset that shows improvement over CSI both in terms of reconstruction error and tumor segmentation performance.
Freeze-Damage Detection in Lemons Using Electrochemical Impedance Spectroscopy
Authors: Ochandio Fernández Adrián , Olguín Pinatti Cristian Ariel , Masot Peris Rafael , Laguarda-Miró Nicolás
Published: September 2019

Lemon is the most sensitive citrus fruit to cold. Therefore, it is of capital importance to detect and avoid temperatures that could damage the fruit both when it is still in the tree and in its subsequent commercialization. In order to rapidly identify frost damage in this fruit, a system based on the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy technique (EIS) was used. This system consists of a signal generator device associated with a personal computer (PC) to control the system and a double-needle stainless steel electrode. Tests with a set of fruits both natural and subsequently frozen-thawed allowed us to differentiate the behavior of the impedance value depending on whether the sample had been previously frozen or not by means of a single principal components analysis (PCA) and a partial least squares discriminant analysis (PLS-DA). Artificial neural networks (ANNs) were used to generate a prediction model able to identify the damaged fruits just 24 hours after the cold phenomenon occurred, with sufficient robustness and reliability (CCR = 100%).
Entanglements of Difference as Community Togetherness: Faith, Art and Feminism
Authors: Hickey-Moody Anna , Willcox Marissa
Published: September 2019

Using a feminist, new materialist frame to activate ethico-political research exploring religion and gender at a community level both on Instagram and in arts workshops, we show how sharing ethnic backgrounds, religious beliefs, gender identities and sexualities through art practice entangles a diffraction of differences as ‘togetherness’. Such entanglement creates cross-cultural interfaith understandings and gender diverse acceptance and inclusion online. We use diffraction, intra-action and entanglement as a way of framing our understanding of this ‘togetherness’ and show that human feelings rely on more-than-human assemblages; they rely on homelands, countries, wars, places of worship, orientations, attractions, aesthetics, art and objects of attachment. The feelings of ‘community’ and ‘belonging’ that we discuss are therefore direct products of human and non-human interactions, which we explore through arts-based research. In this article, we apply Karen Barad’s feminist new materialist theories of ‘diffraction’, ‘intra-action’ and ‘entanglement’ to ways of thinking about human experience as intra-acting with aspects of the world that we classify as non-human. We use these new materialist frames to reconceptualize the human feelings of ‘community’, ‘belonging’ and ‘what really matters’ in feminist and intra-religious collaborative art practices and Instagram-based art communities. To better understand and encourage communities of difference, we argue that the feelings of ‘community’ and ‘belonging’, which are central to human subjectivity and experience, are produced by more-than-human assemblages and are central to identity. The methodologies we present are community focused, intra-active, arts-based research strategies for interrogating and understanding expressions of ‘community’ and ‘belonging’. We identify how creative methods are a significant and useful way of knowing about communities and argue that they are important because they are grounded in being with communities, showing that the specificity of their materiality needs to be considered.
Selective Adoption: How Port Authorities in Europe and West Africa Engage with the Globalizing ‘Green Port’ Idea
Authors: Lawer Eric Tamatey , Herbeck Johannes , Flitner Michael
Published: September 2019

The scholarly debate on ‘green ports’ since it emerged in the policy discourse of international maritime organizations has largely focused on exploring the economic benefits associated with implementing related policies and developing green guides and codes of conduct for port authorities. In contrast, it has received little attention how the green port idea and according measures are taken up and what role is played by contextual factors in places of such uptake. By engaging with the expanding literature on policy mobilities and drawing on empirical information collected through interviews with port officials from four ports in Europe and West Africa, we argue that context-specific factors strongly influence what we call the selective adoption of green port tools and measures for transitioning ports towards sustainability. They include environmental priorities, regulatory requirements, financial resources and the immediate areas of competence of port authorities, which all vary widely across regions and specific ports.
Optimal Control Strategy for Variable Air Volume Air-Conditioning Systems Using Genetic Algorithms
Authors: Seong Nam-Chul , Kim Jee-Heon , Choi Wonchang
Published: September 2019

This study is aimed at developing a real-time optimal control strategy for variable air volume (VAV) air-conditioning in a heating, ventilation, and air-conditioning (HVAC) system using genetic algorithms and a simulated large-scale office building. The two selected control variables are the settings for the supply air temperature and the duct static pressure to provide optimal control for the VAV air-conditioning system. Genetic algorithms were employed to calculate the optimal control settings for each control variable. The proposed optimal control conditions were evaluated according to the total energy consumption of the HVAC system based on its component parts (fan, chiller, and cold-water pump). The results confirm that the supply air temperature and duct static pressure change according to the cooling load of the simulated building. Using the proposed optimal control variables, the total energy consumption of the building was reduced up to 5.72% compared to under ‘normal’ settings and conditions.
The Effect of Biochar Used as Soil Amendment on Morphological Diversity of Collembola
Authors: Gruss Iwona , Twardowski Jacek P. , Latawiec Agnieszka , Królczyk Jolanta , Medyńska-Juraszek Agnieszka
Published: September 2019

Biochar was reported to improve the chemical and physical properties of soil. The use of biochar as a soil amendment have been found to improve the soil structure, increase the porosity, decrease bulk density, as well increase aggregation and water retention. Knowing that springtails (Collembola) are closely related to soil properties, the effect of biochar on morphological diversity of these organisms was evaluated. The main concept was the classification of springtails to the life-form groups and estimation of QBS-c index (biological quality index based on Collembola species). We conducted the field experiment where biochar was used as soil amendment in oilseed rape and maize crops. Wood-chip biochar from low-temperature (300 °C) flash pyrolysis was free from PAH (polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon) and other toxic components. Results showed that all springtail life-form groups (epedaphic, hemiedaphic, and euedaphic) were positively affected after biochar application. The QBS-c index, which relates to springtails’ adaptation to living in the soil, was higher in treatments where biochar was applied. We can recommend the use of Collembola’s morphological diversity as a good tool for the bioindication of soil health.
A Method of Speech Coding for Speech Recognition Using a Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Kubanek Mariusz , Bobulski Janusz , Kulawik Joanna
Published: September 2019

This work presents a new approach to speech recognition, based on the specific coding of time and frequency characteristics of speech. The research proposed the use of convolutional neural networks because, as we know, they show high resistance to cross-spectral distortions and differences in the length of the vocal tract. Until now, two layers of time convolution and frequency convolution were used. A novel idea is to weave three separate convolution layers: traditional time convolution and the introduction of two different frequency convolutions (mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC) convolution and spectrum convolution). This application takes into account more details contained in the tested signal. Our idea assumes creating patterns for sounds in the form of RGB (Red, Green, Blue) images. The work carried out research for isolated words and continuous speech, for neural network structure. A method for dividing continuous speech into syllables has been proposed. This method can be used for symmetrical stereo sound.
Risk of Lead Exposure from Transport Stations to Human Health: A Case Study in the Highland Province of Vietnam
Authors: Le Quang Huu , Tran Dung Duc , Chen Yi-Ching , Nguyen Huong Lan
Published: September 2019

Lead (Pb) is a heavy metal that negatively affects human health. Many studies have shown the relationship between lead exposure and various human activities, of which automobile service stations with gasoline emissions are considered the main cause. However, a limited number of studies have specifically considered lead exposure from automobile stations in Vietnam, as well as its impact on human activities and the surrounding natural resources. The objective of this study was to assess the possible risks of lead exposure to the surrounding agricultural and non-agricultural farms of a bus station located in the center of Dalat city, Lamdong province, Vietnam. To address this objective, 45 samples were collected from the soil, irrigated water resources, and vegetable crops of areas both close to and far away from the bus station. These samples were tested using the atomic absorption spectrometry technique. Our findings demonstrated higher lead concentration levels from all three types of samples collected from areas near the bus station. Of which, soil and water samples showed higher than normal exposure values of lead, but these were still under the allowed limits established by the Vietnam standard. Different from the soil and water, vegetable samples surrounding the bus station presented greater lead contamination than the permitted limit. High risk quotient (RQ) indexes were detected to point out that accumulative consumption of leaded vegetables over time could cause lead poisoning and harm human health. This study not only provides significant inferential evidence of the risk of lead exposure to agricultural activities and human health in Vietnam, but also delivers a real-life example for a real-world context.
Can Botulinum Toxin A Still Have a Role in Treatment of Lower Urinary Tract Symptoms/Benign Prostatic Hyperplasia Through Inhibition of Chronic Prostatic Inflammation?
Authors: Chiang Bing-Juin , Kuo Hann-Chorng , Liao Chun-Hou
Published: September 2019

Patients with benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) can exhibit various lower urinary tract symptoms (LUTS) owing to bladder outlet obstruction (BOO), prostatic inflammation, and bladder response to BOO. The pathogenesis of BPH involves an imbalance of internal hormones and chronic prostatic inflammation, possibly triggered by prostatic infection, autoimmune responses, neurogenic inflammation, oxidative stress, and autonomic dysfunction. Botulinum toxin A (BoNT-A) is well recognized for its ability to block acetylcholine release at the neuromuscular junction by cleaving synaptosomal-associated proteins. Although current large clinical trials have shown no clinical benefits of BoNT-A for the management of LUTS due to BPH, BoNT-A has demonstrated beneficial effects in certain subsets of BPH patients with LUTS, especially in males with concomitant chronic prostatitis/chronic pelvic pain syndrome and smaller prostate. We conducted a review of published literature in Pubmed, using Botulinum toxin, BPH, BOO, inflammation, LUTS, and prostatitis as the key words. This article reviewed the mechanisms of BPH pathogenesis and anti-inflammatory effects of BoNT-A. The results suggested that to achieve effectiveness, the treatment of BPH with BoNT-A should be tailored according to more detailed clinical information and reliable biomarkers.
An Overview of Quasinormal Modes in Modified and Extended Gravity
Authors: Moulin Flora , Barrau Aurélien , Martineau Killian
Published: September 2019

As gravitational waves are now being nearly routinely measured with interferometers, the question of using them to probe new physics becomes increasingly legitimate. In this article, we rely on a well established framework to investigate how the complex frequencies of quasinormal modes are affected by different models. The tendencies are explicitly shown for both the pulsation and the damping rate. The goal is, at this stage, purely qualitative. This opportunity is also taken to derive the Regge-Wheeler equation for general static and spherically symmetric metrics.
The 40 kDa Linear Polyethylenimine Inhibits Porcine Reproductive and Respiratory Syndrome Virus Infection by Blocking Its Attachment to Permissive Cells
Authors: Wang Jie , Li Jie , Wang Nana , Ji Qi , Li Mingshuo , Nan Yuchen , Zhou En-Min , Zhang Yanjin , Wu Chunyan
Published: September 2019

Porcine reproductive and respiratory syndrome (PRRS) is one of the most economically devastating infectious diseases in pigs worldwide. The causative agent is the PRRS virus (PRRSV). In this study, we explored polyethylenimine (PEI), a cationic polymer with different forms (linear or branched), to inhibit the replication of PRRSV. Our results demonstrate that the linear but not the 40 kDa branched PEI, or the 25 kDa linear PEI, were well tolerated in cultured cells and exhibited a broad-spectrum inhibition of heterogeneous PRRSV-2 isolates in both MARC-145 cells and primary porcine pulmonary alveolar macrophages (PAMs). Further analysis suggests that PEI could prevent the attachment of PRRSV virions to the susceptible cells. Notably, PEI had a minimal effect on PRRSV internalization in MARC-145 cells, whereas PEI promoted the internalization of PRRSV virions in PAMs, which suggests that these two types of cells might have different internalization processes of PRRSV virions. In conclusion, our data demonstrate that PEI could be used as a novel inhibitor against PRRSV.
Viral Vectors for the Induction of Broadly Neutralizing Antibodies against HIV
Authors: Wilmschen Sarah , Schmitz Joern E. , Kimpel Janine
Published: September 2019

Extensive research on generating an efficient HIV vaccine is ongoing. A major aim of HIV vaccines is the induction of long-lasting, broadly neutralizing antibodies (bnAbs) that can confer sterile immunity for a prolonged period of time. Several strategies have been explored to reach this goal, i.e. protein immunization, DNA, or viral vectors, or a combination thereof. In this review, we give an overview of approaches using viral vectors for the induction of HIV-specific bnAbs. Many pre-clinical studies were performed using various replication-competent and -incompetent vectors. Amongst them, poxviral and adenoviral vectors were the most prevalent ones. In many studies, viral vectors were combined with a DNA prime or a protein boost. However, neutralizing antibodies were mainly induced against the homologous HIV-1 vaccine strain or tier 1 viruses, and in rare cases, against tier 2 viruses, indicating the need for improved antigens and vaccination strategies. Furthermore, we also review next generation Env antigens that are currently being used in protein vaccination approaches and point out how they could be utilized in viral vectors.
In Vivo Administration of Recombinant Human Granulocyte Colony-Stimulating Factor Increases the Immune Effectiveness of Dendritic Cell-Based Cancer Vaccination
Authors: Shimodaira Shigetaka , Yanagisawa Ryu , Koya Terutsugu , Hirabayashi Koichi , Higuchi Yumiko , Sakamoto Takuya , Togi Misa , Kato Tomohisa , Kobayashi Takashi , Koizumi Tomonobu , Koido Shigeo , Sugiyama Haruo
Published: September 2019

Significant recent advances in cancer immunotherapeutics include the vaccination of cancer patients with tumor antigen-associated peptide-pulsed dendritic cells (DCs). DC vaccines with homogeneous, mature, and functional activities are required to achieve effective acquired immunity; however, the yield of autologous monocyte-derived DCs varies in each patient. Priming with a low dose of recombinant human granulocyte colony-stimulating factor (rhG-CSF) 16–18 h prior to apheresis resulted in 50% more harvested monocytes, with a significant increase in the ratio of CD11c+CD80+ DCs/apheresed monocytes. The detection of antigen-specific cytotoxic T lymphocytes after Wilms’ tumor 1-pulsed DC vaccination was higher in patients treated with rhG-CSF than those who were not, based on immune monitoring using tetramer analysis. Our study is the first to report that DC vaccines for cancer immunotherapy primed with low-dose rhG-CSF are expected to achieve higher acquired immunogenicity.
Reduction in Oviposition of Poultry Red Mite (Dermanyssus gallinae) in Hens Vaccinated with Recombinant Akirin
Authors: Lima-Barbero Jose , Contreras Marinela , Bartley Kathryn , Price Daniel , Nunn Francesca , Sanchez-Sanchez Marta , Prado Eduardo , Höfle Ursula , Villar Margarita , Nisbet Alasdair , de la Fuente José
Published: September 2019

The poultry red mite (PRM), Dermanyssus gallinae, is a hematophagous ectoparasite of birds with worldwide distribution that causes economic losses in the egg-production sector of the poultry industry. Traditional control methods, mainly based on acaricides, have been only partially successful, and new vaccine-based interventions are required for the control of PRM. Vaccination with insect Akirin (AKR) and its homolog in ticks, Subolesin (SUB), have shown protective efficacy for the control of ectoparasite infestations and pathogen infection/transmission. The aim of this study was the identification of the akr gene from D. gallinae (Deg-akr), the production of the recombinant Deg-AKR protein, and evaluation of its efficacy as a vaccine candidate for the control of PRM. The anti-Deg-AKR serum IgY antibodies in hen sera and egg yolk were higher in vaccinated than control animals throughout the experiment. The results demonstrated the efficacy of the vaccination with Deg-AKR for the control of PRM by reducing mite oviposition by 42% following feeding on vaccinated hens. A negative correlation between the levels of serum anti-Deg-AKR IgY and mite oviposition was obtained. These results support Deg-AKR as a candidate protective antigen for the control of PRM population growth.
Hydro-Meteorological Trends in the Upper Omo-Ghibe River Basin, Ethiopia
Authors: Jaweso Dessalegn , Abate Brook , Bauwe Andreas , Lennartz Bernd
Published: September 2019

This study aimed to assess trends of hydro-meteorological variables in the Upper Omo-Ghibe river basin, Ethiopia. Data records from eleven rainfall, eight air temperature, and five streamflow stations between 1981 to 2008 were investigated. The trends and change points were evaluated for different periods of time depending on data availability. Mann-Kendall and Pettit tests were used to identify trends and change points at a 5% significance level. The tests were applied to mean annual, monthly and seasonal time scales. Rainfall exhibited statistically decreasing trends at a mean annual time scale, while seasonal rainfall depicted heterogeneous results in both directions. For the majority of the stations, air temperature showed statistically significant increasing trends. The magnitude of change in temperature for mean annual, wet and dry season has increased about 0.48, 0.46, and 0.61 °C per decade for Jimma station. The Pettit test revealed that the late 1980s and 1990s were the change points. There is generally a decreasing trend in streamflow. The decline in annual rainfall and rise in temperature affected the streamflow negatively. Overall, the results indicate that trend sand change point times varied considerably across the stations and catchments. The identified significant trends can help to support planning decisions for water management.
Sustainable Irrigation Using Non-Conventional Resources: What has Happened after 30 Years Regarding Boron Phytotoxicity?
Authors: Mendoza-Grimón Vanessa , Fernández-Vera Juan , Hernández-Moreno Jose , Palacios-Díaz María
Published: September 2019

In the Canary Islands, there is a hydrological imbalance between water consumption and renewable water availability. To provide more water resources, reverse osmosis (RO) from seawater is used. As boron (B) contents in irrigation water higher than 0.7 mg/L may be dangerous for sensible plants, B concentration in RO water (ROW) may be one of the key factors of irrigation sustainability. Some orchards have been studied after they have used drip irrigation using different water qualities for 30 years. B in water, soils, and banana leaves was determined to check the sustainability of ROW irrigation. When irrigating with ROW, in which B concentration varies between 1.0 and 1.4 mgB/L, B content in banana soils seems to be stabilized at 5–7 mg/kg, and no toxicity has been observed in banana leaves. The proper water and soil management used by the local farmers probably prevent the accumulation of higher B levels in soils. Considering water consumption of 9000 m3∙ha−1∙year−1, 8−11 kgB∙ha−1∙year−1 is applied to the soil. The banana plant removes approximately 1 kgB∙ha−1∙year−1; therefore, only 10% of the total B added gets exported. This raises the following question: is it better to use membranes that are able to reduce B in ROW, increase the leaching fraction, or blend water?
Usage of different remote sensing data in land use and vegetation monitoring…………………………
Authors: Burai Péter
Published: September 2019

The use of remote sensing in forest management and agriculture is becoming more prominent. The rapid development of technology allowed the emergence of database suitable for precision application in addition to the previously used low-resolution and low data content images. The high resolution, hyperspectral images are not only suitable for separating the different land use categories and vegetation types but also for examining the soil characteristics and biophysical features of plants (Blackburn and Steel, 1999; Condit, 1970). We processed a multispectral satellite image (Landsat 7 ETM+) and a hypespectral areal image (DAIS 7915) about a farm on the plains and evaluated the different image classification methods. During our examinations, we examined the geometrical and radiometrical characteristics of images first, then assigning the training areas, we determined the spectral characteristics of land use categories. We performed a multispectral analysis for checking land use, where we compared controlled and uncontrolled classification systems to check their reliability. We used areal and spectral reductions to make the classifications more accurate and to reduce the length of calculations.
La familia en la educación estudiantes superdotados del Ecuador
Authors: Fajardo Zila Esteves , Chenet Zuta Manuel Enrique , Muñoz Moran Diana Marjorie , Tandazo Díaz Lucia Concepción
Published: September 2019

Se  midió la relación entre la familia en la educación estudiantes superdotados del Ecuador, con la finalidad de medir el apoyo familiar en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes superdotados. La investigación fue de tipo correlacional. La correlación de Pearson tuvo un resultado de 0, 226, la cual se encuentra en el rango de correlación positiva media y una significancia de 0,505, acercándose a 0,5, generando un nivel de confianza positiva.  Se  rechaza la hipótesis nula H0: el apoyo familiar no tiene relación significativa en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes superdotados.  Aceptándose la hipótesis positiva H1: el apoyo familiar si tiene relación significativa en el aprendizaje de los estudiantes superdotados. La familia juega un papel primordial en la socialización escolar y social de los estudiantes superdotados por cuanto necesitan del apoyo afectivo que les permita tener seguridad en sí mismos.
Estilos de aprendizaje en estudiantes superdotados del Ecuador
Authors: Esteves Fajardo Zila , Casquete Muñoz Ramón Bolívar , Vasconez Rosa Elvira , Calle Cobos Miriam
Published: September 2019

En la actual investigación se analizan los estilos de aprendizaje en estudiantes superdotados del Ecuador, con la finalidad de conocer la preferencia de estilo predominante y articular una orientación sobre el abordaje escolar a desarrollarse con pertinencia de promover una educación inclusiva y de calidad, esto a partir de estudiar el modelo de cuadrantes cerebrales de Ned Herrmann. Se utilizó una metodología descriptiva. Urge fortalecer la perspectiva del aprendizaje centrada en el estudiante, esto permitirá que mediante la investigación e indagación, el estudiante genere un aprendizaje en razón de sus exigencias, perspectivas, en posibilidad de crecer en consonancia a los múltiples retos globales.
Fenomenología de la otredad y su importancia en los cambios de conversación sobre ética, límite y moral
Authors: Labrador Jinette , Argota Gabriel , Ojeda Juana
Published: September 2019

Recibido: 15 de abril de 2019Aprobado: 20 de mayo de 2019La otredad explica cómo es que las personas hacen lo que hacen, bien desde una actitud  de respeto, como de negación al otro, esto último reflejado en conductas disruptivas que conllevan a conflictos interpersonales ante la diversidad de pensamiento, específicamente en el gremio docente. Razón por la que, el presente estudio tuvo como objetivo comprender la dinámica interna de la otredad en educadores del Internado Indígena San Antonio de Aremasain de Colombia. La  metodología que direccionó la investigación se basó en el fenomenológico, por cuanto, los actores sociales involucrados exploraron, describieron y comprendieron de las experiencias narradas los elementos en común de tales vivencias. Se pudo concluir que al cambiar las distinciones y por ende la red de conversaciones, hay un cambio en los sentires, haceres y emociones de las personas.
PRE-EPIDEMIC DIAGNOSIS OF HOSPITALACQUIRED
PURULENT-SEPTIC INFECTIONS` MORBIDITY
Authors: Sergevnin V.I. , Klyucharyova N.M.
Published: September 2019

The list of the basic premises and precursors of epidemiological situation complications of hospitalacquired
purulent septic infections (HAPSI) was determined. Prenosologic forms of HAPSI, including
the carriage of opportunistic bacteria were considered asprecursors.