bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Bacterial Colonization of the Female Upper Genital Tract
Authors: Peric Adriana , Weiss Jürgen , Vulliemoz Nicolas , Baud David , Stojanov Milos
Published: July 2019

Bacteria colonize most of the human body, and the female genital tract is not an exception. While the existence of a vaginal microbiota has been well established, the upper genital tract has been considered a sterile environment, with a general assumption that bacterial presence is associated with adverse clinical manifestation. However, recent metagenomic studies identified specific patterns of microbiota colonizing the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and placenta. These results need confirmation and further investigations since the data are only scarce. Bacterial colonization of these sites appears different from the vaginal one, despite evidence that vaginal bacteria could ascend to the upper genital tract through the cervix. Are these bacteria only commensal or do they play a role in the physiology of the female upper genital tract? Which are the genera that may have a negative and a positive impact on the female reproductive function? The aim of this review is to critically present all available data on upper genital tract microbiota and discuss its role in human reproduction, ranging from the technical aspects of these types of analyses to the description of specific bacterial genera. Although still very limited, research focusing on genital colonization of bacteria other than the vaginal milieu might bring novel insights into physiopathology of human reproduction.
Comparison of Polydopamine-Coated Mesoporous Silica Nanorods and Spheres for the Delivery of Hydrophilic and Hydrophobic Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Pada Anna-Karin , Desai Diti , Sun Kaiyao , Prakirth Govardhanam Narayana , Törnquist Kid , Zhang Jixi , Rosenholm Jessica M.
Published: July 2019

Mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) have been widely studied as drug delivery systems in nanomedicine. Surface coating of MSNs have enabled them to perform efficiently in terms of bioavailability, biocompatibility, therapeutic efficacy and targeting capability. Recent studies have suggested the use of polydopamine (PDA) as a facilitative coating for MSNs that provides sustained and pH-responsive drug release, owing to the adhesive “molecular-glue” function of PDA. This further endows these hybrid MSN@PDA particles with the ability to carry large amounts of hydrophilic drugs. In this study, we expand the feasibility of this platform in terms of exploring its ability to also deliver hydrophobic drugs, as well as investigate the effect of particle shape on intracellular delivery of both a hydrophilic and hydrophobic anticancer drug. MSN@PDA loaded with doxorubicin (hydrophilic) and fingolimod (hydrophobic) was studied via a systematic in vitro approach (cellular internalization, intracellular drug distribution and cytotoxicity). To promote the cellular uptake of the MSN@PDA particles, they were further coated with a polyethylene imine (PEI)-polyethylene glycol (PEG) copolymer. Drug-loaded, copolymer-coated MSN@PDA showed effective cellular uptake, intracellular release and an amplified cytotoxic effect with both doxorubicin and fingolimod. Additionally, rods exhibited delayed intracellular drug release and superior intracellular uptake compared to spheres. Hence, the study provides an example of how the choice and design of drug delivery systems can be tuned by the need for performance, and confirms the PDA coating of MSNs as a useful drug delivery platform beyond hydrophilic drugs.
Pathological Characteristics of Periodontal Disease in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease and Kidney Transplantation
Authors: Kitamura Mineaki , Mochizuki Yasushi , Miyata Yasuyoshi , Obata Yoko , Mitsunari Kensuke , Matsuo Tomohiro , Ohba Kojiro , Mukae Hiroshi , Yoshimura Atsutoshi , Nishino Tomoya , Sakai Hideki
Published: July 2019

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is recognized as an irreversible reduction of functional nephrons and leads to an increased risk of various pathological conditions, including cardiovascular disease and neurological disorders, such as coronary artery calcification, hypertension, and stroke. In addition, CKD patients have impaired immunity against bacteria and viruses. Conversely, kidney transplantation (KT) is performed for patients with end-stage renal disease as a renal replacement therapy. Although kidney function is almost normalized by KT, immunosuppressive therapy is essential to maintain kidney allograft function and to prevent rejection. However, these patients are more susceptible to infection due to the immunosuppressive therapy required to maintain kidney allograft function. Thus, both CKD and KT present disadvantages in terms of suppression of immune function. Periodontal disease is defined as a chronic infection and inflammation of oral and periodontal tissues. Periodontal disease is characterized by the destruction of connective tissues of the periodontium and alveolar bone, which may lead to not only local symptoms but also systemic diseases, such as cardiovascular diseases, diabetes, liver disease, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, and several types of cancer. In addition, the prevalence and severity of periodontal disease are significantly associated with mortality. Many researchers pay special attention to the pathological roles and clinical impact of periodontal disease in patients with CKD or KT. In this review, we provide information regarding important modulators of periodontal disease to better understand the relationship between periodontal disease and CKD and/or KT. Furthermore; we evaluate the impact of periodontal disease on various pathological conditions in patients with CKD and KT. Moreover, pathogens of periodontal disease common to CKD and KT are also discussed. Finally, we examine the importance of periodontal care in these patients. Thus, this review provides a comprehensive overview of the pathological roles and clinical significance of periodontal disease in patients with CKD and KT.
Preoperative versus Postoperative Rectus Sheath Block for Acute Postoperative Pain Relief after Laparoscopic Cholecystectomy: A Randomized Controlled Study
Authors: Jeong Hye-Won , Kim Chan Sik , Choi Kyu Taek , Jeong Sung-Moon , Kim Doo-Hwan , Lee Jong-Hyuk
Published: July 2019

Background: Pain after laparoscopic cholecystectomy (LC) is multifactorial and usually not effectively treated. Rectus sheath block (RSB) has been proven to reduce the pain from midline abdominal incision and laparoscopic surgery. We investigated the preemptive analgesic effect of RSB after LC. Methods: In this prospective, randomized, single-center trial, 200 patients undergoing LC were randomized into preoperative RSB (pre-RSB) or postoperative RSB (post-RSB) group. An ultrasound-guided RSB was performed before skin incision in the pre-RSB group or after skin closure in the post-RSB group. The primary outcome was total rescue analgesic consumption at 24 h post-surgery. The secondary outcomes were cumulated rescue analgesic consumption and postoperative pain measured by numerical rating scale (NRS) at 0, 1, 2, 6, 9, 18, and 24 h post-surgery. Results: Total rescue analgesic consumption at 24 h post-surgery was significantly lower in the pre-RSB group than in the post-RSB group (p = 0.020). The cumulated rescue analgesic consumption was significantly lower in the pre-RSB group than in the post-RSB group at 1 h (p = 0.023), 9 h (p = 0.020) and 18 h (p = 0.002) post-surgery. NRS was significantly lower in the pre-RSB group than in the post-RSB group at 0 h post-surgery (p = 0.023). Conclusion: The pre-RSB reduced the analgesic requirements in patients undergoing LC compared with the post-RSB.
Assessing the Unreliability of Systems during the Early Operation Period of a Ship—A Case Study
Authors: Chybowski Leszek , Gawdzińska Katarzyna , Laskowski Rafał
Published: July 2019

Sea-going ships are unique systems, and each ship—even those which are mass-produced—are different. Once in service, they are subjected to unique environmental exposure due to a variety of factors, including, but not limited to, their mode of operation, sailing area, cargo, hydrometeorological conditions, crew training, etc. This makes it very difficult, if not impossible, to compare individual units. The aim of this study is to present the damage data and analysis of a selected vessel—a complex technical system—during its first year of operation. To that end, the paper analyses the unreliability of a bulk cargo ship’s technical and energetic system components during its first year of operation. The paper also introduces the failure susceptibility of its technical systems, defines concepts of wear and failure and describes the object of analysis. Observed failures in subsystem components of the marine power plant, in the general systems and in the technological system of the ship, were presented in tabular form. Each failure was described by considering the time of operation until the first failure, type of failure, type of wear, nature of an event and methods used to regain efficiency. Selected failures were described in great detail, and the statistics of the ship’s components’ susceptibility to failure were presented by considering the wear type that caused a failure, the component type and the time to the first failure. Additionally the severity of each failure is discussed. Finally, conclusions regarding the susceptibility to failure of particular ship components were presented.
Electrical Properties of Low-Temperature Processed Sn-Doped In2O3 Thin Films: The Role of Microstructure and Oxygen Content and the Potential of Defect Modulation Doping
Authors: Deyu Getnet Kacha , Hunka Jonas , Roussel Hervé , Brötz Joachim , Bellet Daniel , Klein Andreas
Published: July 2019

Low-temperature-processed ITO thin films offer the potential of overcoming the doping limit by suppressing the equilibrium of compensating oxygen interstitial defects. To elucidate this potential, electrical properties of Sn-doped In 2 O 3 (ITO) thin films are studied in dependence on film thickness. In-operando conductivity and Hall effect measurements during annealing of room-temperature-deposited films, together with different film thickness in different environments, allow to discriminate between the effects of crystallization, grain growth, donor activation and oxygen diffusion on carrier concentrations and mobilities. At 200 ∘ C , a control of carrier concentration by oxygen incorporation or extraction is only dominant for very thin films. The electrical properties of thicker films deposited at room temperature are mostly affected by the grain size. The remaining diffusivity of compensating oxygen defects at 200 ∘ C is sufficient to screen the high Fermi level induced by deposition of Al 2 O 3 using atomic layer deposition (ALD), which disables the use of defect modulation doping at this temperature. The results indicate that achieving higher carrier concentrations in ITO thin films requires a control of the oxygen pressure during deposition in combination with seed layers to enhance crystallinity or the use of near room temperature ALD.
Experimental and Numerical Study of Viscoelastic Properties of Polymeric Interlayers Used for Laminated Glass: Determination of Material Parameters
Authors: Hána Tomáš , Janda Tomáš , Schmidt Jaroslav , Zemanová Alena , Šejnoha Michal , Eliášová Martina , Vokáč Miroslav
Published: July 2019

An accurate material representation of polymeric interlayers in laminated glass panes has proved fundamental for a reliable prediction of their response in both static and dynamic loading regimes. This issue is addressed in the present contribution by examining the time–temperature sensitivity of the shear stiffness of two widely used interlayers made of polyvinyl butyral (TROSIFOL BG R20) and ethylene-vinyl acetate (EVALAM 80-120). To that end, an experimental program has been executed to compare the applicability of two experimental techniques, (i) dynamic torsional tests and (ii) dynamic single-lap shear tests, in providing data needed in a subsequent calibration of a suitable material model. Herein, attention is limited to the identification of material parameters of the generalized Maxwell chain model through the combination of linear regression and the Nelder–Mead method. The choice of the viscoelastic material model has also been supported experimentally. The resulting model parameters confirmed a strong material variability of both interlayers with temperature and time. While higher initial shear stiffness was observed for the polyvinyl butyral interlayer in general, the ethylene-vinyl acetate interlayer exhibited a less pronounced decay of stiffness over time and a stiffer response in long-term loading.
Production-Inventory System for Deteriorating Items with Machine Breakdown, Inspection, and Partial Backordering
Authors: Kung K.Y. , Huang Y.D. , Wee H.M. , Daryanto Y.
Published: July 2019

This study considers the effects of a machine breakdown, inspection, and partial backordering for deteriorating items. Most industries try to reduce facility unavailability by implementing a regular inspection and preventive maintenance since there is a possibility that some machines will breakdown during the production process. Moreover, an emergency purchase policy can be provided for quick response to customer’s backorder. The system also produces imperfect items with different rates before and after the inspection. Rework process and post-sales warranty are launched for the defective items. Unlike previous studies, we applied a fixed-point approach and renewal reward theorem to solve the deteriorating production-inventory model while considering machine breakdown, inspection, and partial backordering. A case example and sensitivity analysis are provided. The sensitivity analysis shows the important parameters that should be considered in designing the inspection plan and the replenishment policy when facility unavailability and imperfect items exist.
Bi-Slant Submanifolds of Para Hermitian Manifolds
Authors: Alegre Pablo , Carriazo Alfonso
Published: July 2019

In this paper, we introduce the notion of bi-slant submanifolds of a para Hermitian manifold. They naturally englobe CR, semi-slant, and hemi-slant submanifolds. We study their first properties and present a whole gallery of examples.
Pathogenesis and Management of Acute Kidney Injury in Patients with Nephrotic Syndrome Due to Primary Glomerulopathies
Authors: Lionaki Sophia , Liapis George , Boletis John
Published: July 2019

Acute kidney injury in the context of nephrotic syndrome is a serious and alarming clinical problem. Largely, acute kidney injury is a relatively frequent complication among patients with comorbidities while it has been independently associated with an increased risk of adverse outcomes, including death and chronic kidney disease. Nephrotic syndrome, without hematuria or with minimal hematuria, includes a list of certain glomerulopathies; minimal change disease, focal segmental glomerulosclerosis and membranous nephropathy. In the light of primary nephrotic syndrome, pathophysiology of acute kidney injury is differentiated by the nature of the primary disease and the severity of the nephrotic state. This review aims to explore the clinical circumstances and pathogenetic mechanisms of acute kidney injury in patients with nephrotic syndrome due to primary glomerulopathies, focusing on newer perceptions regarding the pathogenesis and management of this complicated condition, for the prompt recognition and timely initiation of appropriate treatment in order to restore renal function to its baseline level. Prompt recognition of the precise cause of acute kidney injury is crucial for renal recovery. Clinical characteristics, laboratory and serological findings along with histopathological findings, if required, will reveal the implicated pathway leading to individualized approach and management.
Steroid Mass Spectrometry for the Diagnosis of PCOS
Authors: Keevil Brian
Published: July 2019

The most appropriate steroids to measure for the diagnosis of hyperandrogenism in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are still open to debate but should preferably be measured using a high-quality method such as liquid chromatography tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Measurement of testosterone is recommended in all of the current clinical guidelines but other steroids, such as androstenedione and dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS), have also been shown to be useful in diagnosing PCOS and may give additional information on metabolic risk. The 11-oxygenated steroids, and in particular 11KT derived mainly from the adrenal gland, are also increasing in prominence and have been shown to be the dominant androgens in this condition. Polycystic ovary syndrome is a complex syndrome and it is not surprising that each of the clinical phenotypes are associated with different patterns of steroid hormones; it is likely that steroid profiling with LC-MS/MS may be better at identifying hyperandrogensim in each of these phenotypes. Research into PCOS has been hampered by the small sample size of clinical studies previously undertaken and larger studies, preferably using LC-MS/MS profiling of steroids, are needed
Developmental Programming of PCOS Traits: Insights from the Sheep
Authors: Cardoso Rodolfo C. , Padmanabhan Vasantha
Published: July 2019

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a complex disorder that results from a combination of multiple factors, including genetic, epigenetic, and environmental influences. Evidence from clinical and preclinical studies indicates that elevated intrauterine androgen levels increase the susceptibility of the female offspring to develop the PCOS phenotype. Additionally, early postnatal endocrine and metabolic imbalances may act as a “second-hit”, which, through activational effects, might unmask or amplify the modifications programmed prenatally, thus culminating in the development of adult disease. Animal models provide unparalleled resources to investigate the effects of prenatal exposure to androgen excess and to elucidate the etiology and progression of disease conditions associated with this occurrence, such as PCOS. In sheep, prenatal treatment with testosterone disrupts the developmental trajectory of the fetus, culminating in adult neuroendocrine, ovarian, and metabolic perturbations that closely resemble those seen in women with PCOS. Our longitudinal studies clearly demonstrate that prenatal exposure to testosterone excess affects both the reproductive and the metabolic systems, leading to a self-perpetuating cycle with defects in one system having an impact on the other. These observations in the sheep suggest that intervention strategies targeting multiple organ systems may be required to prevent the progression of developmentally programmed disorders.
Improving Mechanical Properties of 18%Mn TWIP Steels by Cold Rolling and Annealing
Authors: Torganchuk Vladimir , Belyakov Andrey , Kaibyshev Rustam
Published: July 2019

The microstructures and mechanical properties of Fe-0.4C-18Mn and Fe-0.6C-18Mn steels subjected to large strain cold rolling followed by annealing were studied. Cold rolling with a total reduction of 86% resulted in substantial strengthening at expense of plasticity. The yield strength and the ultimate tensile strength of above 1400 MPa and 1600 MPa, respectively, were achieved in both steels, whereas total elongation decreased below 30%. Subsequent annealing at temperatures above 600 °C was accompanied with the development of recrystallization leading to fine-grained microstructures with an average grain size of about 1 μm in both steels. The fine-grained steels exhibited remarkable improved mechanical properties with a product of ultimate tensile strength by total elongation in the range of 50 to 70 GPa %. The fine-grained steel with relatively high carbon content of 0.6%C was characterized by ultimate tensile strength well above 1400 MPa that was remarkably higher than that of about 1200 MPa in the steel with 0.4%C.
Using an Environment-Friendly Fertiliser from Sewage Sludge Ash with the Addition of Bacillus megaterium
Authors: Jastrzębska Magdalena , Kostrzewska Marta K.
Published: July 2019

Sewage sludge ash (SSA) is considered to be a valuable secondary raw material for the production of phosphorous fertilisers. This method of recycling may also be a solution to the problem posed by the growing amount of this waste. An innovative suspension fertiliser (SSAB) was produced from SSA and the phosphorus-solubilising bacteria Bacillus megaterium and was tested in a field experiment in the presence of spring wheat as the test plant in comparison to conventional fertilisers (superphosphate, phosphorite). Two variants of plant protection were also adopted: full chemical plant protection (+PP) and no plant protection (−PP). Besides affecting yield, it was expected that SSAB would not worsen the state of the soil environment. This paper presents SSAB effect on soil moisture and temperature, soil pH, content of toxic elements (As, Cd, Cr, Ni and Pb) in the soil, abundance of heterotrophic bacteria and fungi and the occurrence of earthworms. SSAB did not affect the tested soil characteristics when applied in reasonable doses. Plant protection had an individual effect on soil properties but did not modify the fertiliser action. SSAB may be a potential substitute for P fertilisers produced from non-renewable raw materials in times of shortage. Further long-term research is recommended to confirm these findings.
Flavonoid Composition of Salacia senegalensis (Lam.) DC. Leaves, Evaluation of Antidermatophytic Effects, and Potential Amelioration of the Associated Inflammatory Response
Authors: Gomes Nelson G. M. , Oliveira Andreia P. , Cunha Diana , Pereira David M. , Valentão Patrícia , Pinto Eugénia , Araújo Luísa , Andrade Paula B.
Published: July 2019

Predominantly spread in West Tropical Africa, the shrub Salacia senegalensis (Lam.) DC. is known because of its medicinal properties, the leaves being used in the treatment of skin diseases. Prompted by the ethnomedicinal use, a hydroethanolic extract obtained from the leaves of the plant was screened against a panel of microbial strains, the majority of which involved in superficial infections. The extract was found to be active against the dermatophytes Trichophyton rubrum and Epidermophyton floccosum. Notable results were also recorded regarding the attenuation of the inflammatory response, namely the inhibitory effects observed against soybean 5-lipoxygenase (IC50 = 71.14 μg mL−1), no interference being recorded in the cellular viability of RAW 264.7 macrophages and NO levels. Relevantly, the extract did not lead to detrimental effects against the keratinocyte cell line HaCaT, at concentrations displaying antidermatophytic and anti-inflammatory effects. Flavonoid profiling of S. senegalensis leaves was achieved for the first time, allowing the identification and quantitation of myricitrin, three 3-O-substituted quercetin derivatives, and three other flavonoid derivatives, which may contribute, at least partially, to the observed antidermatophytic and anti-inflammatory effects. In the current study, the plant S. senegalensis is assessed concerning its antidermatophytic and anti-inflammatory properties.
A Novel 3-Phytosterone-9α-Hydroxylase Oxygenation Component and Its Application in Bioconversion of 4-Androstene-3,17-Dione to 9α-Hydroxy-4-Androstene-3,17-Dione Coupling with A NADH Regeneration Formate Dehydrogenase
Authors: Zhang Xian , Zhu Manchi , Han Rumeng , Zhao Youxi , Chen Kewei , Qian Kai , Shao Minglong , Yang Taowei , Xu Meijuan , Xu Jianzhong , Rao Zhiming
Published: July 2019

9α-Hydroxy-4-androstene-3,17-dione (9-OH-AD) is one of the significant intermediates for the preparation of β-methasone, dexamethasone, and other steroids. In general, the key enzyme that enables the biotransformation of 4-androstene-3,17-dione (AD) to 9-OH-AD is 3-phytosterone-9α-hydroxylase (KSH), which consists of two components: a terminal oxygenase (KshA) and ferredoxin reductase (KshB). The reaction is carried out with the concomitant oxidation of NADH to NAD+. In this study, the more efficient 3-phytosterone-9α-hydroxylase oxygenase (KshC) from the Mycobacterium sp. strain VKM Ac-1817D was confirmed and compared with reported KshA. To evaluate the function of KshC on the bioconversion of AD to 9-OH-AD, the characterization of KshC and the compounded system of KshB, KshC, and NADH was constructed. The optimum ratio of KSH oxygenase to reductase content was 1.5:1. An NADH regeneration system was designed by introducing a formate dehydrogenase, further confirming that a more economical process for biological transformation from AD to 9-OH-AD was established. A total of 7.78 g of 9-OH-AD per liter was achieved through a fed-batch process with a 92.11% conversion rate (mol/mol). This enzyme-mediated hydroxylation method provides an environmentally friendly and economical strategy for the production of 9-OH-AD.
The Effects of 2′,4′-Dihydroxy-6′-methoxy-3′,5′- dimethylchalcone from Cleistocalyx operculatus Buds on Human Pancreatic Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Tuan Huynh , Minh Bui , Tran Phuong , Lee Jeong , Oanh Ha , Ngo Quynh , Nguyen Yen , Lien Pham , Tran Manh
Published: July 2019

2′,4′-Dihydroxy-6’-methoxy-3′,5′-dimethylchalcone (DMC), a principal natural chalcone of Cleistocalyx operculatus buds, suppresses the growth of many types of cancer cells. However, the effects of this compound on pancreatic cancer cells have not been evaluated. In our experiments, we explored the effects of this chalcone on two human pancreatic cancer cell lines. A cell proliferation assay revealed that DMC exhibited concentration-dependent cytotoxicity against PANC-1 and MIA PACA2 cells, with IC50 values of 10.5 ± 0.8 and 12.2 ± 0.9 µM, respectively. Treatment of DMC led to the apoptosis of PANC-1 by caspase-3 activation as revealed by annexin-V/propidium iodide double-staining. Western blotting indicated that DMC induced proteolytic activation of caspase-3 and -9, degradation of caspase-3 substrate proteins (including poly[ADP-ribose] polymerase [PARP]), augmented bak protein level, while attenuating the expression of bcl-2 in PANC-1 cells. Taken together, our results provide experimental evidence to support that DMC may serve as a useful chemotherapeutic agent for control of human pancreatic cancer cells.
Highly Sensitive Shack–Hartmann Wavefront Sensor: Application to Non-Transparent Tissue Mimic Imaging with Adaptive Light-Sheet Fluorescence Microscopy
Authors: Morgado Brajones Javier , Clouvel Gregory , Dovillaire Guillaume , Levecq Xavier , Lorenzo Corinne
Published: July 2019

High-quality in-depth imaging of three-dimensional samples remains a major challenge in modern microscopy. Selective plane illumination microscopy (SPIM) is a widely used technique that enables imaging of living tissues with subcellular resolution. However, scattering, absorption, and optical aberrations limit the depth at which useful imaging can be done. Adaptive optics (AOs) is a method capable of measuring and correcting aberrations in different kinds of fluorescence microscopes, thereby improving the performance of the optical system. We have incorporated a wavefront sensor adaptive optics scheme to SPIM (WAOSPIM) to correct aberrations induced by optically-thick samples, such as multi-cellular tumor spheroids (MCTS). Two-photon fluorescence provides us with a tool to produce a weak non-linear guide star (NGS) in any region of the field of view. The faintness of NGS; however, led us to develop a high-sensitivity Shack–Hartmann wavefront sensor (SHWS). This paper describes this newly developed SHWS and shows the correction capabilities of WAOSPIM using NGS in thick, inhomogeneous samples like MCTS. We report improvements of up to 79% for spatial frequencies corresponding to cellular and subcellular size features.
A Dialogue-Act Taxonomy for a Virtual Coach Designed to Improve the Life of Elderly
Authors: Montenegro César , López Zorrilla Asier , Mikel Olaso Javier , Santana Roberto , Justo Raquel , Lozano Jose A. , Torres María Inés
Published: July 2019

This paper presents a dialogue act taxonomy designed for the development of a conversational agent for elderly. The main goal of this conversational agent is to improve life quality of the user by means of coaching sessions in different topics. In contrast to other approaches such as task-oriented dialogue systems and chit-chat implementations, the agent should display a pro-active attitude, driving the conversation to reach a number of diverse coaching goals. Therefore, the main characteristic of the introduced dialogue act taxonomy is its capacity for supporting a communication based on the GROW model for coaching. In addition, the taxonomy has a hierarchical structure between the tags and it is multimodal. We use the taxonomy to annotate a Spanish dialogue corpus collected from a group of elder people. We also present a preliminary examination of the annotated corpus and discuss on the multiple possibilities it presents for further research.
Conformational Effects of Pt-Shells on Nanostructures and Corresponding Oxygen Reduction Reaction Activity of Au-Cluster-Decorated NiOx@Pt Nanocatalysts
Authors: Bhalothia Dinesh , Fan Yu-Jui , Lai Yen-Chun , Yang Ya-Tang , Yang Yaw-Wen , Lee Chih-Hao , Chen Tsan-Yao
Published: July 2019

Herein, ternary metallic nanocatalysts (NCs) consisting of Au clusters decorated with a Pt shell and a Ni oxide core underneath (called NPA) on carbon nanotube (CNT) support were synthesized by combining adsorption, precipitation, and chemical reduction methods. By a retrospective investigation of the physical structure and electrochemical results, we elucidated the effects of Pt/Ni ratios (0.4 and 1.0) and Au contents (2 and 9 wt.%) on the nanostructure and corresponding oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) activity of the NPA NCs. We found that the ORR activity of NPA NCs was mainly dominated by the Pt-shell thickness which regulated the depth and size of the surface decorated with Au clusters. In the optimal case, NPA-1004006 (with a Pt/Ni of 0.4 and Au of ~2 wt.%) showed a kinetic current (JK) of 75.02 mA cm−2 which was nearly 17-times better than that (4.37 mA cm−2) of the commercial Johnson Matthey-Pt/C (20 wt.% Pt) catalyst at 0.85 V vs. the reference hydrogen electrode. Such a high JK value resulted in substantial improvements in both the specific activity (by ~53-fold) and mass activity (by nearly 10-fold) in the same benchmark target. Those scenarios rationalize that ORR activity can be substantially improved by a syngeneic effect at heterogeneous interfaces among nanometer-sized NiOx, Pt, and Au clusters on the NC surface.
Scaled-Up Production and Tableting of Grindable Electrospun Fibers Containing a Protein-Type Drug
Authors: Vass Panna , Hirsch Edit , Kóczián Rita , Démuth Balázs , Farkas Attila , Fehér Csaba , Szabó Edina , Németh Áron , Andersen Sune K. , Vigh Tamás , Verreck Geert , Csontos István , Marosi György , Nagy Zsombor K.
Published: July 2019

The aims of this work were to develop a processable, electrospun formulation of a model biopharmaceutical drug, β-galactosidase, and to demonstrate that higher production rates of biopharmaceutical-containing fibers can be achieved by using high-speed electrospinning compared to traditional electrospinning techniques. An aqueous solution of 7.6 w/w% polyvinyl alcohol, 0.6 w/w% polyethylene oxide, 9.9 w/w% mannitol, and 5.4 w/w% β-galactosidase was successfully electrospun with a 30 mL/h feeding rate, which is about 30 times higher than the feeding rate usually attained with single-needle electrospinning. According to X-ray diffraction measurements, polyvinyl alcohol, polyethylene oxide, and β-galactosidase were in an amorphous state in the fibers, whereas mannitol was crystalline (δ-polymorph). The presence of crystalline mannitol and the low water content enabled appropriate grinding of the fibrous sample without secondary drying. The ground powder was mixed with excipients commonly used during the preparation of pharmaceutical tablets and was successfully compressed into tablets. β-galactosidase remained stable during each of the processing steps (electrospinning, grinding, and tableting) and after one year of storage at room temperature in the tablets. The obtained results demonstrate that high-speed electrospinning is a viable alternative to traditional biopharmaceutical drying methods, especially for heat sensitive molecules, and tablet formulation is achievable from the electrospun material prepared this way.
Asymmetric Effects of Daytime and Nighttime Warming on Boreal Forest Spring Phenology
Authors: Deng Guorong , Zhang Hongyan , Guo Xiaoyi , Shan Yu , Ying Hong , Rihan Wu , Li Hui , Han Yangli
Published: July 2019

Vegetation phenology is the most intuitive and sensitive biological indicator of environmental conditions, and the start of the season (SOS) can reflect the rapid response of terrestrial ecosystems to climate change. At present, the model based on mean temperature neglects the role of the daytime maximum temperature (TMAX) and the nighttime minimum temperature (TMIN) in providing temperature accumulation and cold conditions at leaf onset. This study analyzed the spatiotemporal variations of spring phenology for the boreal forest from 2001 to 2017 based on the moderate-resolution imaging spectro-radiometer (MODIS) enhanced vegetation index (EVI) data (MOD13A2) and investigated the asymmetric effects of daytime and nighttime warming on the boreal forest spring phenology during TMAX and TMIN preseason by partial correlation analysis. The results showed that the spring phenology was delayed with increasing latitude of the boreal forest. Approximately 91.37% of the region showed an advancing trend during the study period, with an average advancement rate of 3.38 ± 0.08 days/decade, and the change rates of different land cover types differed, especially in open shrubland. The length of the TMIN preseason was longer than that of the TMAX preseason and diurnal temperatures showed an asymmetrical increase during different preseasons. The daytime and nighttime warming effects on the boreal forest are asymmetrical. The TMAX has a greater impact on the vegetation spring phenology than TMIN as a whole and the effect also has seasonal differences; the TMAX mainly affects the SOS in spring, while TMIN has a greater impact in winter. The asymmetric effects of daytime and nighttime warming on the SOS in the boreal forest were highlighted in this study, and the results suggest that diurnal temperatures should be added to the forest terrestrial ecosystem model.
On the Potential of Sentinel-1 for High Resolution Monitoring of Water Table Dynamics in Grasslands on Organic Soils
Authors: Asmuß Tina , Bechtold Michel , Tiemeyer Bärbel
Published: July 2019

For soils with shallow groundwater and high organic carbon content, water table depth (WTD) is a key parameter to describe their hydrologic state and to estimate greenhouse gas emissions (GHG). Since the microwave backscatter coefficient (σ0) is sensitive to soil moisture, the application of Sentinel-1 satellite data might support the monitoring of these climate-relevant soils at high spatial resolution (~100 m) by detecting spatial and temporal changes in local field and water management. Despite the low penetration depth of the C-band, σ0 is influenced by shallow WTD fluctuations via the soil hydraulic connection between the water table and surface soil. Here, we analyzed σ0 at 60 monitoring wells in a drained temperate peatland with degraded organic soils used as extensive grassland. We evaluated temporal Spearman correlation coefficients between σ0 and WTD considering the soil and vegetation information. To account for the effects of seasonal vegetation changes, we used the cross-over (incidence) angle method. Climatologies of the slope of the incidence angle dependency derived from two years of Sentinel-1 data and their application to the cross-over angle method did improve correlations, though the effect was minor. Overall, averaged over all sites, a temporal Spearman correlation coefficient of 0.45 (±0.17) was obtained. The loss of correlation during summer (higher vegetation, deeper WTD) and the effects of cuts and grazing are discussed. The site-specific general wetness level, described by the mean WTD of each site was shown to be a major factor controlling the strength of the correlation. Mean WTD deeper than about −0.60 m lowered the correlations across sites, which might indicate an important limit of the application.
Multitemporal SAR Image Despeckling Based on a Scattering Covariance Matrix of Image Patch
Authors: Ma Xiaoshuang , Wu Penghai
Published: July 2019

This paper presents a despeckling method for multitemporal images acquired by synthetic aperture radar (SAR) sensors. The proposed method uses a scattering covariance matrix of each image patch as the basic processing unit, which can exploit both the amplitude information of each pixel and the phase difference between any two pixels in a patch. The proposed filtering framework consists of four main steps: (1) a prefiltering result of each image is obtained by a nonlocal weighted average using only the information of the corresponding time phase; (2) an adaptively temporal linear filter is employed to further suppress the speckle; (3) the final output of each patch is obtained by a guided filter using both the original speckled data and the filtering result of step 3; and (4) an aggregation step is used to tackle the multiple estimations problem for each pixel. The despeckling experiments conducted on both simulated and real multitemporal SAR datasets reveal the pleasing performance of the proposed method in both suppressing speckle and retaining details, when compared with both advanced single-temporal and multitemporal SAR despeckling techniques.
Sensitivity Enhancement of NMR Spectroscopy Receiving Chain Used in Condensed Matter Physics
Authors: Kolar Petar , Grbić Mihael S. , Hrabar Silvio
Published: July 2019

Assurance of high measuring sensitivity is one of the most challenging issues for any nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy system. To this end, we propose an accurate noise model of the entire probe-to-spectrometer receiving chain for condensed matter physics, based on the concept of noise figure. The model predicts the propagation of both the signal and noise levels in every component of the NMR spectroscopy receiving chain. Furthermore, it enables identification of the "weakest" component and, therefore, the optimization of the whole system. The most important property of the proposed model is the possibility to find system parameters that reduce the measurement time by an a priori calculation, rather than an a posteriori approach. The model was tested experimentally on several different samples. It was found that the measurement time can still be significantly shortened, down to at least one half of the measurement time, starting from optimized conditions with commercially available components. Thus, the proposed model can be used as a tool for both quantitative analysis of the noise properties and a sensitivity prediction of practical NMR systems in physics and material science.
A Generalized SDP Multi-Objective Optimization Method for EM-Based Microwave Device Design
Authors: Liu Ying , Cheng Qingsha S. , Koziel Slawomir
Published: July 2019

In this article, a generalized sequential domain patching (GSDP) method for efficient multi-objective optimization based on electromagnetics (EM) simulation is proposed. The GSDP method allowing fast searching for Pareto fronts for two and three objectives is elaborated in detail in this paper. The GSDP method is compared with the NSGA-II method using multi-objective problems in the DTLZ series, and the results show the GSDP method saved computational cost by more than 85% compared to NSGA-II method. A diversity comparison indicator (DCI) is used to evaluate approximate Pareto fronts. The comparison results show the diversity performance of GSDP is better than that of NSGA-II in most cases. We demonstrate the proposed GSDP method using a practical multi-objective design example of EM-based UWB antenna for IoT applications.
A Fiber Bragg Grating Sensing Structure for the Design, Simulation and Stress Strain Monitoring of Human Puncture Surgery
Authors: Xiong Pengwen , Huang Xin , Li Yulong , Liu Peter X.
Published: July 2019

In order to improve the precision and stability of puncture surgical operations to assist doctors in completing fine manipulation, a new of type puncturing needle sensor is proposed based on a fiber Bragg grating (FBG). Compared with the traditional puncture needle sensor, the new type of puncturing needle sensor is able to sense not only the axial force, but also the torque force during the puncture process. A spoke-type structure is designed near the needle tip. In order to eliminate the influence of temperature and realize temperature compensation, a reference fiber method using three FBGs is applied. FBG1 and the reference FBG2 are pasted on the upper and lower surfaces of the new-type elastic beam, and FBG3 is pasted into the groove on the surface of the new type of puncturing needle cylinder. The difference of Bragg wavelength between FBG1 and the reference FBG2 is calibrated with the torque force, while the difference between the Bragg wavelength of the FBG3 and the reference FBG2 is calibrated with the axial force. Through simulation and sensing tests, when the torque force calibration range is 10 mN·m, the torque average sensitivity is 22.8 pm/mN·m, and the determination coefficient R2 is 0.99992, with a hysteresis error YH and repetition error YR of 0.03%FS and 0.81%FS, respectively. When the axial force calibration rang is 5 N, the axial force average sensitivity is 0.089 nm/N, and the determination coefficient R2 is 0.9997, with hysteresis error YH and repetition error YR of 0.014%FS and 0.11%FS, respectively. The axial force resolution and torque resolution of the new type of puncturing needle sensor are 0.03 N and 0.8 mN·m, respectively. The experimental data and simulation analysis show that the proposed new type of puncturing needle sensor has good practicability and versatility.
Comparison of Different Electrocardiography with Vectorcardiography Transformations
Authors: Jaros Rene , Martinek Radek , Danys Lukas
Published: July 2019

This paper deals with transformations from electrocardiographic (ECG) to vectorcardiographic (VCG) leads. VCG provides better sensitivity, for example for the detection of myocardial infarction, ischemia, and hypertrophy. However, in clinical practice, measurement of VCG is not usually used because it requires additional electrodes placed on the patient’s body. Instead, mathematical transformations are used for deriving VCG from 12-leads ECG. In this work, Kors quasi-orthogonal transformation, inverse Dower transformation, Kors regression transformation, and linear regression-based transformations for deriving P wave (PLSV) and QRS complex (QLSV) are implemented and compared. These transformation methods were not yet compared before, so we have selected them for this paper. Transformation methods were compared for the data from the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB) database and their accuracy was evaluated using a mean squared error (MSE) and a correlation coefficient (R) between the derived and directly measured Frank’s leads. Based on the statistical analysis, Kors regression transformation was significantly more accurate for the derivation of the X and Y leads than the others. For the Z lead, there were no statistically significant differences in the medians between Kors regression transformation and the PLSV and QLSV methods. This paper thoroughly compared multiple VCG transformation methods to conventional VCG Frank’s orthogonal lead system, used in clinical practice.
Integrating Remote Sensing and Geophysics for Exploring Early Nomadic Funerary Architecture in the “Siberian Valley of the Kings”
Authors: Caspari Gino , Sadykov Timur , Blochin Jegor , Buess Manuel , Nieberle Matthias , Balz Timo
Published: July 2019

This article analyses the architecture of the Early Iron Age royal burial mound Tunnug 1 in the “Siberian Valley of the Kings” in Tuva Republic, Russia. This large monument is paramount for the archaeological exploration of the early Scythian period in the Eurasian steppes, but environmental parameters make research on site difficult and require the application of a diversity of methods. We thus integrate WorldView-2 and ALOS-2 remote sensing data, geoelectric resistivity and geomagnetic survey results, photogrammetry-based DEMs, and ortho-photographs, as well as excavation in order to explore different aspects of the funerary architecture of this early nomadic monument. We find that the large royal tomb comprises of a complex internal structure of radial features and chambers, and a rich periphery of funerary and ritual structures. Geomagnetometry proved to be the most effective approach for a detailed evaluation of the funerary architecture in our case. The parallel application of several surveying methods is advisable since dataset comparison is indispensable for providing context.
Transport Properties of Nanostructured Li2TiO3 Anode Material Synthesized by Hydrothermal Method
Authors: Lakshmi-Narayana  , Hussain  , Mauger  , Julien
Published: July 2019

Li2TiO3 nanopowders were synthesized by hydrothermal process using anatase TiO2 and LiOH H2O as raw materials. Li2TiO3 crystallizes in the layered monoclinic structure (space group C2/c) with average crystallite size of 34 nm. Morphology, elemental composition and local structure of products were carried out using HRTEM, FESEM, EDS, Raman and FTIR spectroscopy. Transport properties investigated by d.c. (4-probe measurements) and a.c. (complex impedance spectroscopy) show the activation energy of 0.71 and 0.65 eV, respectively. The ionic transport properties of Li+ ions in nanocrystalline Li2TiO3 characterized by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) validate the good electrochemical properties of this anode material for lithium-ion batteries.
Skeletal Muscle Fiber Adaptations Following Resistance Training Using Repetition Maximums or Relative Intensity
Authors: Carroll Kevin , Bazyler Caleb , Bernards Jake , Taber Christopher , Stuart Charles , DeWeese Brad , Sato Kimitake , Stone Michael
Published: July 2019

The purpose of the study was to compare the physiological responses of skeletal muscle to a resistance training (RT) program using repetition maximum (RM) or relative intensity (RISR). Fifteen well-trained males underwent RT 3 d·wk−1 for 10 weeks in either an RM group (n = 8) or RISR group (n = 7). The RM group achieved a relative maximum each day, while the RISR group trained based on percentages. The RM group exercised until muscular failure on each exercise, while the RISR group did not reach muscular failure throughout the intervention. Percutaneous needle biopsies of the vastus lateralis were obtained pre-post the training intervention, along with ultrasonography measures. Dependent variables were: Fiber type-specific cross-sectional area (CSA); anatomical CSA (ACSA); muscle thickness (MT); mammalian target of rapamycin (mTOR); adenosine monophosphate protein kinase (AMPK); and myosin heavy chains (MHC) specific for type I (MHC1), type IIA (MHC2A), and type IIX (MHC2X). Mixed-design analysis of variance and effect size using Hedge’s g were used to assess within- and between-group alterations. RISR statistically increased type I CSA (p = 0.018, g = 0.56), type II CSA (p = 0.012, g = 0.81), ACSA (p = 0.002, g = 0.53), and MT (p < 0.001, g = 1.47). RISR also yielded a significant mTOR reduction (p = 0.031, g = −1.40). Conversely, RM statistically increased only MT (p = 0.003, g = 0.80). Between-group effect sizes supported RISR for type I CSA (g = 0.48), type II CSA (g = 0.50), ACSA (g = 1.03), MT (g = 0.72), MHC2X (g = 0.31), MHC2A (g = 0.87), and MHC1 (g = 0.59); with all other effects being of trivial magnitude (g < 0.20). Our results demonstrated greater adaptations in fiber size, whole-muscle size, and several key contractile proteins when using RISR compared to RM loading paradigms.