bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of sainfoin on soil fertility and agro-economic indicators of fodder crop rotations under conditions of East Siberia
Authors: Kozlova Zoya , Matais Lyubov' , Glushkova Ol'ga
Published: July 2020

Under conditions of East Siberia, the positive effect of sainfoin on the fertility of gray forest soil and the introduction of this crop into fodder five-course rotations have been studied. In Siberia the Hungarian sainfoin (Onobrychis arenaria) is well-spread. As a control variant the crop rotation without perennial legume crops (sainfoin-free) was taken. Our research on the introduction of a new legume crop — sainfoin has shown that the content of mobile phosphorus, on the average in crop rotations, varies from 15.3 to 17.1 mg per 100 g of soil, the value of the nitrate nitrogen indicator — from 21.5 to 25.3 mg/kg. The intake of organic matter into the soil, due to a green manure — sainfoin — increases the humus content to 4.8–4.9 %. The rise in the yield of cultivated grain-forage crops after perennial legumes has been proved. Thus, the yield of pea-oats amounted 2.0–2.4 t/ha feed units. Among the crops harvested for green mass corn was more productive. It provided 1.8–2.2 t/ha of feed units. Pea-oats gave less productivity — from 1.5 t/ha of feed units in a control variant to 1.8 t/ha of feed units in the variants with sainfoin. The yielding capacity of sainfoin was 2.1–2.2 t/ha of feed units. The average yield for crop rotations with sainfoin was higher than the control by 16.6 %. Taking the obtained data into account, it may be concluded that all three five-course crop rotations are productive, the best, according to all criteria, is the variant with two fields of sainfoin providing the decline in cost price up to 3529.9 rub. one feed unit, the high level of pure income 11848 rub./ha and the biggest coefficient of energy efficiency — 3.0
New variety of Karlybas volzhski melilot for fodder production in northern Kazakhstan
Authors: Parsaev Evgeniy , Filippova Nadezhda , Kobernickaya Tat'yana , Ostrovskiy Viktor
Published: July 2020

The article presents the characteristics of a new variety of Volzhsky melilot by morphological and biological characteristics, productivity and resistance to biotic and abiotic stress factors.
Assessing Specific Vulnerability of Shallow Aquifers to Pesticide Using GIS Tools. Data Needs and Reliability of Index-Overlay Methods: An Application to the San Giuliano Terme Agricultural Area (Pisa, Italy)
Authors: Rossetto Rudy , Sabbatini Tiziana , Silvestri Nicola
Published: July 2020

Pesticides play a crucial role in regulating crop production by reducing crop losses and increasing crop yield and quality. However, they may threaten surface and groundwater, a phenomenon occurring at global scale, potentially causing environmental damage and prohibition of water use or high treatment costs for drinking water. Assessing spatially-defined aquifer vulnerability to pesticide is then important, as it may allow defining agricultural areas where pesticides should be used following well-defined agronomic practices/limitations. In this study, after a brief review of recent studies on aquifer vulnerability assessment to pesticide, we applied the Vulnerability Index method to the agricultural area of the Municipality of San Giuliano Terme (Pisa, Italy) in order to focus on the data needs and discuss the reliability of this method (as an example of index-overlay methods). The proposed method needs a relatively small number of parameters compared to other more complex ones. Despite a such a small number of parameters, some were not easily available in our case study. Thus, some assumptions were made. This led to vulnerability maps with reduced reliability, no validation with groundwater samples, and little practical use. This means that to produce robust but static vulnerability assessments, large datasets are needed. In turn, the cost of data gathering may be high. The value of these data may, however, be increased, and the cost better justified if the analyses are based on process-based or advanced statistical methods. While the future for vulnerability assessment methods is the use of process-based/advanced statistical methods, index-overlay methods, as a preliminary step for process-based simulation analysis, may still provide initial and relatively quick insights on potential leaching of pesticides. This in turn may support extension services in delivering timely and relevant advices on the use of such pesticides to farmers and owners of plant nurseries and greenhouses.
Inhibition of HDAC6 Attenuates Diabetes-Induced Retinal Redox Imbalance and Microangiopathy
Authors: Abouhish Hossameldin , Thounaojam Menaka C. , Jadeja Ravirajsinh N. , Gutsaeva Diana R. , Powell Folami L. , Khriza Mohamed , Martin Pamela M. , Bartoli Manuela
Published: July 2020

We investigated the contributing role of the histone deacetylase 6 (HDAC6) to the early stages of diabetic retinopathy (DR). Furthermore, we examined the mechanism of action of HDAC6 in human retinal endothelial cells (HuREC) exposed to glucidic stress. Streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats (STZ-rats), a rat model of type 1 diabetes, were used as model of DR. HDAC6 expression and activity were increased in human diabetic postmortem donors and STZ-rat retinas and were augmented in HuREC exposed to glucidic stress (25 mM glucose). Administration of the HDAC6 specific inhibitor Tubastatin A (TS) (10 mg/kg) prevented retinal microvascular hyperpermeability and up-regulation of inflammatory markers. Furthermore, in STZ-rats, TS decreased the levels of senescence markers and rescued the expression and activity of the histone deacetylase sirtuin 1 (SIRT1), while downregulating the levels of free radicals and of the redox stress markers 4-hydroxynonenal (4-HNE) and nitrotyrosine (NT). The antioxidant effects of TS, consequent to HDAC6 inhibition, were associated with preservation of Nrf2-dependent gene expression and up-regulation of thioredoxin-1 activity. In vitro data, obtained from HuREC, exposed to glucidic stress, largely replicated the in vivo results further confirming the antioxidant effects of HDAC6 inhibition by TS in the diabetic rat retina. In summary, our data implicate HDAC6 activation in mediating hyperglycemia-induced retinal oxidative/nitrative stress leading to retinal microangiopathy and, potentially, DR.
Structural Damage Detection Based on Real-Time Vibration Signal and Convolutional Neural Network
Authors: Teng Zhiqiang , Teng Shuai , Zhang Jiqiao , Chen Gongfa , Cui Fangsen
Published: July 2020

The traditional methods of structural health monitoring (SHM) have obvious disadvantages such as being time-consuming, laborious and non-synchronizing, and so on. This paper presents a novel and efficient approach to detect structural damages from real-time vibration signals via a convolutional neural network (CNN). As vibration signals (acceleration) reflect the structural response to the changes of the structural state, hence, a CNN, as a classifier, can map vibration signals to the structural state and detect structural damages. As it is difficult to obtain enough damage samples in practical engineering, finite element analysis (FEA) provides an alternative solution to this problem. In this paper, training samples for the CNN are obtained using FEA of a steel frame, and the effectiveness of the proposed detection method is evaluated by inputting the experimental data into the CNN. The results indicate that, the detection accuracy of the CNN trained using FEA data reaches 94% for damages introduced in the numerical model and 90% for damages in the real steel frame. It is demonstrated that the CNN has an ideal detection effect for both single damage and multiple damages. The combination of FEA and experimental data provides enough training and testing samples for the CNN, which improves the practicability of the CNN-based detection method in engineering practice.
Method to Increase the Accuracy of Large Crankshaft Geometry Measurements Using Counterweights to Minimize Elastic Deformations
Authors: Chybowski Leszek , Nozdrzykowski Krzysztof , Grządziel Zenon , Jakubowski Andrzej , Przetakiewicz Wojciech
Published: July 2020

Large crankshafts are highly susceptible to flexural deformation that causes them to undergo elastic deformation as they revolve, resulting in incorrect geometric measurements. Additional structural elements (counterweights) are used to stabilize the forces at the supports that fix the shaft during measurements. This article describes the use of temporary counterweights during measurements and presents the specifications of the measurement system and method. The effect of the proposed solution on the elastic deflection of a shaft was simulated with FEA, which showed that the solution provides constant reaction forces and ensures nearly zero deflection at the supported main journals of a shaft during its rotation (during its geometry measurement). The article also presents an example of a design solution for a single counterweight.
Evidence-Based Analysis of Cyber Attacks to Security Monitored Distributed Energy Resources
Authors: Cerotti Davide , Codetta-Raiteri Daniele , Dondossola Giovanna , Egidi Lavinia , Franceschinis Giuliana , Portinale Luigi , Terruggia Roberta
Published: July 2020

This work proposes an approach based on dynamic Bayesian networks to support the cybersecurity analysis of network-based controllers in distributed energy plants. We built a system model that exploits real world context information from both information and operational technology environments in the energy infrastructure, and we use it to demonstrate the value of security evidence for time-driven predictive and diagnostic analyses. The innovative contribution of this work is in the methodology capability of capturing the causal and temporal dependencies involved in the assessment of security threats, and in the introduction of security analytics supporting the configuration of anomaly detection platforms for digital energy infrastructures.
Ballasted Track Status Evaluation Based on Apparent Track Stiffness Index
Authors: Park Bongsik , Choi Yeong-Tae , Hwang Sung Ho
Published: July 2020

Currently, maintenance work for ballasted track is performed based on the Track Quality Index (TQI) without a fundamental cause investigation for track irregularity. In this study, a new evaluation standard for ballasted track status is proposed to overcome the limitations of current maintenance work. The new evaluation standard is based on the stiffness index. The stiffness index is defined as the difference between the average and standard deviation of the apparent track stiffness determined by a light falling weight deflectometer (LFWD). After some field tests and analysis, it is shown that the stiffness index has a strong correlation not only with TQI but also with maintenance history. In verification results, the new evaluation standard estimated the ballasted track status quite well.
Vibration Characteristics of Rolling Element Bearings with Different Radial Clearances for Condition Monitoring of Wind Turbine
Authors: Xu Minmin , Feng Guojin , He Qingbo , Gu Fengshou , Ball Andrew
Published: July 2020

Rolling element bearing is a vital component in rotating machinery, such as a wind turbine (WT) system. By accurately monitoring its health condition, the faults can be detected at an early stage, providing sufficient lead time to perform maintenance and hence reducing accidents and economic losses. Bearing usually suffers from various wears and tears, which result in a gradual increase in clearance through its lifetime. Insufficient understanding of vibration characteristics under different clearances brings difficulties for bearing condition monitoring. Thus, this paper presents a nonlinear bearing vibration model with six degrees of freedom (DOF) to investigate the vibration characteristics under different radial clearances and load conditions. Then, a dedicated bearing test is established to verify the reasonability and effectiveness of the vibration model. Furthermore, a comprehensive simulation analysis is conducted to study the vibration characteristics over an extended range of the internal radial clearance and external load. Results show that the dynamic force on each ball presents an impulse whose magnitudes increases whereas the pulse width reduces with clearance increases. Ball pass frequency of outer race (BPFO) is the dominant modulation component and the frequency is in accordance with the number of dynamic force impulses. Two indicators, i.e., root mean square (RMS) value and spectral centroid, are proposed to indicate clearance changes. In general, they show an uptrend with the increase in clearance, which is in line with the dynamic force increasing with clearance, especially the spectral centroid of the low frequency band. However, it should be noted that the RMS value and spectral centroid exhibit a fluctuating behavior due to nonlinear vibration responses. For the first time, this study shows the details of vibration characteristics with clearance variations and provides a foundation for monitoring the bearing conditions before any obvious local defects on raceways.
The Contribution of the Architect Pascuala Campos to the Implementation of a Gender Perspective in the Galician Context
Authors: Fernández Cruces Ainoa , Sousa Goreti , Guerreiro Paulo , Correia Mariana
Published: July 2020

The incorporation of women in society, as active professionals, was probably one of the most important parameters of modernity in the last century. Until the beginning of the twentieth century, women who entered the world of architecture were, generally, assigned to the design of domestic interiors. Thus, they were always in the background, which contributed to the concealment of the female gender perspective in architecture and an incomplete vision of its history. The general purpose of this article is to address the implicit problematic of the female contribution to architecture, through a theoretical reflection that aims at recognizing the relevant impact of Pascuala Campos’s work to the discipline in Galicia, Spain. The Spanish social and architectonic contexts, as well as the biography of Pascuala Campos, are analyzed to better understand her theoretical and architectonic production. The analysis combines data from different sources, mainly documental research, interviews, and architectonic surveys. The basic principles stressed in the theoretical production of Pascuala Campos are thus identified and served as analytic categories for the survey of the Combarro Urban Intervention. These results allowed the identification of concepts and projected guidelines interpreted as gender perspective-oriented.
Mediterranean Diet as a Tool to Combat Inflammation and Chronic Diseases. An Overview
Authors: Tsigalou Christina , Konstantinidis Theocharis , Paraschaki Afroditi , Stavropoulou Elisavet , Voidarou Chrissoula , Bezirtzoglou Eugenia
Published: July 2020

Since ancient times, the quality of nourishment is a milestone for the maintenance of health and as it is stated ‘prevention is better than cure’, amongst the so-called ‘healthy’ diets Mediterranean diet (MD) claims the lion’s share. It stands in good stead because of a variety of valuable macro- and micronutrients. So, adherence to a MD is associated with the reduction of inflammation and non-communicable (NCD) OR chronic diseases. Numerous studies try to scrutinize the role of MD components as regards reducing inflammation, lowering rate, and mortality for disorders and illnesses, and preventing NCD. MD regime of the inhabitants of the Mediterranean basin includes a variety of ethnic nutritional habits and regulates an array of effects and epigenetic changes that affect human wellbeing. The research is still ongoing and endeavors to elucidate every aspect of this issue. This review focuses on the impact of MD on inflammation highlights positive results regarding NCD and indicates the need for more high-quality experiments and trials in order to overcome any discrepancies.
Managing Ectopic Pregnancies by Targeting Chorionic Villi with a Transvaginal Injection of Ethanol into the Lacunar Space
Authors: Osada Hisao , Teramoto Shokichi , Kaijima Hirotsune , Segawa Tomoya , Nagaishi Masaji , Shozu Makio , Kato Keiichi
Published: July 2020

Methotrexate has been the main mode of non-surgical treatment for ectopic pregnancies. However, we have developed an easier, repeatable method that can be applied even to patients with a high beta-human chorionic gonadotropin (β-hCG) level and/or positive fetal heartbeat, by targeting chorionic villi with a transvaginal injection of absolute ethanol (AE) into the lacunar space (intervillous space). The efficacy and safety of this method were examined in 242 cases of ectopic pregnancy, including 103 with positive fetal heartbeat. Serum β-hCG level was measured at frequent intervals, and transvaginal ultrasonography was performed to observe the gestational sac and hyperechoic inner ring. Of the 242 patients, 222 (91.7%) were successfully treated. The average number of AE injection(s) required was 1.6 (range: 1–5), and the average dose was 3.2 mL. After the treatment, many of the patients tried to conceive again, and 63 of the traceable 145 patients (43.4%), who had fallopian tube pregnancy, and 7 of the traceable 12 patients (58.3%), who had cervical or cesarean scar pregnancies, successfully conceived and delivered babies with no observed side effects. Therefore, this method could be an effective treatment for ectopic pregnancy with the potential to replace conventional surgical interventions and medical treatment using methotrexate.
Characterization of Carbon Materials for Hydrogen Storage and Compression
Authors: Sdanghi Giuseppe , Canevesi Rafael L. S. , Celzard Alain , Thommes Matthias , Fierro Vanessa
Published: July 2020

Carbon materials have proven to be a suitable choice for hydrogen storage and, recently, for hydrogen compression. Their developed textural properties, such as large surface area and high microporosity, are essential features for hydrogen adsorption. In this work, we first review recent advances in the physisorption characterization of nanoporous carbon materials. Among them, approaches based on the density functional theory are considered now standard methods for obtaining a reliable assessment of the pore size distribution (PSD) over the whole range from narrow micropores to mesopores. Both a high surface area and ultramicropores (pore width < 0.7 nm) are needed to achieve significant hydrogen adsorption at pressures below 1 MPa and 77 K. However, due to the wide PSD typical of activated carbons, it follows from an extensive literature review that pressures above 3 MP are needed to reach maximum excess uptakes in the range of ca. 7 wt.%. Finally, we present the adsorption–desorption compression technology, allowing hydrogen to be compressed at 70 MPa by cooling/heating cycles between 77 and 298 K, and being an alternative to mechanical compressors. The cyclic, thermally driven hydrogen compression might open a new scenario within the vast field of hydrogen applications.
Trait-Specific Responses of Carabid Beetle Diversity and Composition in Pinus densiflora Forests Compared to Broad-Leaved Deciduous Forests in a Temperate Region
Authors: Jung Jong-Kook , Lee Joon-Ho
Published: July 2020

Since successful reforestation after the 1970s, Korean red pine (Pinus densiflora) forests have become the most important coniferous forests in Korea. However, the scarcity of evidence for biodiversity responses hinders understanding of the conservation value of Korean red pine forests. This study was conducted to explore the patterns of carabid beetle diversity and assemblage structures between broad-leaved deciduous forests and P. densiflora forests in the temperate region of central Korea. Carabid beetles were sampled by pitfall trapping from 2013 to 2014. A total of 66 species were identified from 9541 carabid beetles. Species richness in broad-leaved deciduous forests was significantly higher than that in pine forests. In addition, the species composition of carabid beetles in broad-leaved deciduous forests differed from that of P. densiflora forests. More endemic, brachypterous, forest specialists, and carnivorous species were distributed in broad-leaved deciduous forests than in P. densiflora forests. Consequently, carabid beetle assemblages in central Korea are distinctively divided by forest type based on ecological and biological traits (e.g., endemisim, habitat types, wing forms, and feeding guilds). However, possible variation of the response of beetle communities to the growth of P. densiflora forests needs to be considered for forest management based on biodiversity conservation in temperate regions, because conifer plantations in this study are still young, i.e., approximately 30–40-years old.
Social Network Analysis and Churn Prediction in Telecommunications Using Graph Theory
Authors: Kostić Stefan M. , Simić Mirjana I. , Kostić Miroljub V.
Published: July 2020

Due to telecommunications market saturation, it is very important for telco operators to always have fresh insights into their customer’s dynamics. In that regard, social network analytics and its application with graph theory can be very useful. In this paper we analyze a social network that is represented by a large telco network graph and perform clustering of its nodes by studying a broad set of metrics, e.g., node in/out degree, first and second order influence, eigenvector, authority and hub values. This paper demonstrates that it is possible to identify some important nodes in our social network (graph) that are vital regarding churn prediction. We show that if such a node leaves a monitored telco operator, customers that frequently interact with that specific node will be more prone to leave the monitored telco operator network as well; thus, by analyzing existing churn and previous call patterns, we proactively predict new customers that will probably churn. The churn prediction results are quantified by using top decile lift metrics. The proposed method is general enough to be readily adopted in any field where homophilic or friendship connections can be assumed as a potential churn driver.
Evaluating Patterns of Building Envelope Air Leakage with Infrared Thermography
Authors: Mahmoodzadeh Milad , Gretka Voytek , Wong Stephen , Froese Thomas , Mukhopadhyaya Phalguni
Published: July 2020

The next-generation performance-based building energy codes are focusing on minimizing building envelope air leakage. The quantification of air leakage in buildings is typically performed with a blower door test. However, this test does not provide information about the locations of air leakage. The aim of this study is to demonstrate a method involving qualitative and quantitative components that can be used to characterize locations of air leakage with infrared thermography. Since air leakage can have a significant impact on building energy consumption in cold climates, like in Canada, this approach can quickly inform where air barrier discontinuities occurred during construction or where to selectively target air sealing efforts in existing buildings. The observations from this study are presented, based on a thermographic image analysis during a depressurized blower door test at various pressures, in an attempt to quantify the relative rates of air leakage. The results from the investigation showed that infrared thermography (IRT) was able to discern locations and infer relative ratios of air leakage. The qualitative analysis showed that areas of air leakage are more evident under higher pressure difference. The quantitative approach showed that a minimum of 25 Pa pressure difference was required to detect the air leakage in the vicinity of the window frame, as the surface temperature decreased rapidly (almost 60% of the indoor surface/outdoor air temperature difference) at this pressure. A temperature index was defined to prioritize the areas of air leakage for retrofitting purposes. Furthermore, a thermal image subtraction method was used to determine the characteristics of the cracks based on thermal patterns. Finally, the practical implication of this study, for building developers, home inspectors, property mangers, and homeowners, is the early detection of air leakage for both existing and newly constructed buildings which could result in energy and cost savings.
A New Mathematical Framework for Describing Thin-Reaction-Zone Regime of Turbulent Reacting Flows at Low Damköhler Number
Authors: Sabelnikov Vladimir A. , Lipatnikov Andrei N.
Published: July 2020

Recently, Sabelnikov et al. (2019) developed a phenomenological theory of propagation of an infinitely thin reaction sheet, which is adjacent to a mixing layer, in a constant-density turbulent flow in the case of a low Damköhler number. In the cited paper, the theory is also supported by Direct Numerical Simulation data and relevance of such a physical scenario to highly turbulent premixed combustion is argued. The present work aims at complementing the theory with a new mathematical framework that allows for appearance of thick mixing zones adjacent to an infinitely thin reaction sheet. For this purpose, the instantaneous reaction-progress-variable c ( x , t ) is considered to consist of two qualitatively different zones, that is, (i) mixture of products and reactants, c ( x , t ) < 1 , where molecular transport plays an important role, and (ii) equilibrium products, c ( x , t ) = 1 . The two zones are separated by an infinitely thin reaction sheet, where c ( x , t ) = 1 and | ∇ c | is fixed in order for the molecular flux into the sheet to yield a constant local consumption velocity equal to the speed of the unperturbed laminar reaction wave. Exact local instantaneous field equations valid in the entire spaceare derived for the conditioned (to the former, mixing, zone) reaction progress variable, its second moment, and instantaneous characteristic functions. Averaging of these equations yields exact, unclosed transport equations for the conditioned reaction-progress-variable moments and Probability Density Function (PDF), as well as a boundary condition for the PDF at the reaction sheet. The closure problem for the derived equations is beyond the scope of the paper.
Exploring Pictorial Health Education Tools for Long-Term Home Care: A Qualitative Perspective
Authors: Lin Fang-Suey , Shi Hong-Chun , Fang Kwo-Ting
Published: July 2020

Regarding long-term home care needs, nurses need to communicate effectively and reasonably when teaching home caregivers. Designers can assist medical staff and develop pictorial tools to enhance communication. The purpose of this study is to explore a theoretical basis from the perspective of designers, patients’ home caregivers, and medical staff to construct a theoretical framework that can jointly develop pictorial health education tools and healthcare system. The qualitative methods, including in-depth interview and observation, are applied to this study; ground theory sets out to construct a framework from the verbatim transcript of the interviews. Based on interview results, six axial codes were extracted: (1) the method of interdisciplinary cooperation; (2) medical research ethics; (3) communication methods; (4) forms of health education tools; (5) development of health education tools; (6) home care intubation procedure. Eight groups of home caregivers offered suggestions from their experiences. The designers need to assist medical staff to solve real problems, pay attention to professional norms, and forms of cooperation. Health education tools need to meet the needs of medical staff and home caregivers and designers should pay attention to the processes of communication. This study can also assist in interdisciplinary cooperation to explore the theoretical basis of pictorial health education tools for nurses in the context of long-term care at home.
Effect of Facial Skin Temperature on the Perception of Anxiety: A Pilot Study
Authors: Mauriz Elba , Caloca-Amber Sandra , Vázquez-Casares Ana M.
Published: July 2020

The extent of anxiety and psychological stress can impact upon the optimal performance of simulation-based practices. The current study investigates the association between differences in skin temperature and perceived anxiety by under- (n = 21) and post-graduate (n = 19) nursing students undertaking a cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) training. Thermal facial gradients from selected facial regions were correlated with the scores assessed by the State-Trait Anxiety Inventory (STAI) and the chest compression quality parameters measured using mannequin-integrated accelerometer sensors. A specific temperature profile was obtained depending on thermal facial variations before and after the simulation event. Statistically significant correlations were found between STAI scale scores and the temperature facial recordings in the forehead (r = 0.579; p < 0.000), periorbital (r = 0.394; p < 0.006), maxillary (r = 0.328; p < 0.019) and neck areas (r = 0.284; p < 0.038). Significant associations were also observed by correlating CPR performance parameters with the facial temperature values in the forehead (r = 0.447; p < 0.002), periorbital (r = 0.446; p < 0.002) and maxillary areas (r = 0.422; p < 0.003). These preliminary findings suggest that higher anxiety levels result in poorer clinical performance and can be correlated to temperature variations in certain facial regions.
Following the Fate of Dye-Containing Liposomes In Vitro
Authors: Cauzzo Jennifer , Nystad Mona , Holsæter Ann Mari , Basnet Purusotam , Škalko-Basnet Nataša
Published: July 2020

The rather limited success of translation from basic research to clinical application has been highlighted as a major issue in the nanomedicine field. To identify the factors influencing the applicability of nanosystems as drug carriers and potential nanomedicine, we focused on following their fate through fluorescence-based assays, namely flow cytometry and imaging. These methods are often used to follow the nanocarrier internalization and targeting; however, the validity of the obtained results strictly depends on how much the nanosystem’s fate can be inferred from the fate of fluorescent dyes. To evaluate the parameters that affect the physicochemical and biological stability of the labeled nanosystems, we studied the versatility of two lipid dyes, TopFluor®-PC and Cy5-DSPE, in conventional liposomes utilizing well-defined in vitro assays. Our results suggest that the dye can affect the major characteristics of the system, such as vesicle size and zeta-potential. However, a nanocarrier can also affect the dye properties. Medium, temperature, time, fluorophore localization and its concentration, as well as their interplay, affect the outcome of tracing experiments. Therefore, an in-depth characterization of the labeled nanosystem should be fundamental to understand the conditions that validate the results within the screening process in optimization of nanocarrier.
Concomitant Chemoradiation Therapy with Gold Nanoparticles and Platinum Drugs Co-Encapsulated in Liposomes
Authors: Charest Gabriel , Tippayamontri Thititip , Shi Minghan , Wehbe Mohamed , Anantha Malathi , Bally Marcel , Sanche Léon
Published: July 2020

A liposomal formulation of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) and carboplatin, named LipoGold, was produced with the staggered herringbone microfluidic method. The radiosensitizing potential of LipoGold and similar concentrations of non-liposomal GNPs, carboplatin and oxaliplatin was evaluated in vitro with the human colorectal cancer cell line HCT116 in a clonogenic assay. Progression of HCT116 tumor implanted subcutaneously in NU/NU mice was monitored after an irradiation of 10 Gy combined with either LipoGold, GNPs or carboplatin injected directly into the tumor by convection-enhanced delivery. Radiosensitization by GNPs alone or carboplatin alone was observed only at high concentrations of these compounds. Furthermore, low doses of carboplatin alone or a combination of carboplatin and GNPs did not engender radiosensitization. However, the same low doses of carboplatin and GNPs administered simultaneously by encapsulation in liposomal nanocarriers (LipoGold) led to radiosensitization and efficient control of cell proliferation. Our study shows that the radiosensitizing effect of a combination of carboplatin and GNPs is remarkably more efficient when both compounds are simultaneously delivered to the tumor cells using a liposomal carrier.
A Vivid Orange New Genus and Species of Braconid-Mimicking Clearwing Moth (Lepidoptera: Sesiidae) Found Puddling on Plecoptera Exuviae
Authors: Skowron Volponi Marta
Published: July 2020

A clearwing moth with a distinct orange, black and white colour pattern was found sucking up fluids from Plecoptera (stonefly) exuviae on rocks, surrounded by water, on a river bank in Thailand. During this process, known as puddling, the sesiid ejected brown liquid, indicating that it was not imbibing water alone. The behaviour was documented via video recording. Morphological and DNA analyses indicate that the moth is a new genus and species of the tribe Osminiini and it is described herein as Aurantiosphecia piotrii genus et species nova. Two species of Aschistophleps Hampson, 1893 have been transferred to the newly established genus. The barcode sequence of the cytochrome c oxidase I gene was obtained with universal invertebrate primers after two sets of standard Lepidoptera primers failed to generate a product. Sections on behaviour, conditions of occurrence and possible mimicry models are included. The unique colouration and body posture of A. piotrii suggest that it is a braconid wasp mimic, with the mimicry model potentially also being the sesiid’s parasitoid.
Numerical Modeling of Marine Circulation with 4D Variational Data Assimilation
Authors: Zalesny Vladimir , Agoshkov Valeriy , Shutyaev Victor , Parmuzin Eugene , Zakharova Natalia
Published: July 2020

The technology is presented for modeling and prediction of marine hydrophysical fields based on the 4D variational data assimilation technique developed at the Marchuk Institute of Numerical Mathematics, Russian Academy of Sciences (INM RAS). The technology is based on solving equations of marine hydrodynamics using multicomponent splitting, thereby solving an optimality system that includes adjoint equations and covariance matrices of observation errors. The hydrodynamic model is described by primitive equations in the sigma-coordinate system, which is solved by finite-difference methods. The technology includes original algorithms for solving the problems of variational data assimilation using modern iterative processes with a special choice of iterative parameters. The methods and technology are illustrated by the example of solving the problem of circulation of the Baltic Sea with 4D variational data assimilation of sea surface temperature information.
Nonlinear Dynamic and Kinematic Model of a Spar-Buoy: Parametric Resonance and Yaw Numerical Instability
Authors: Giorgi Giuseppe , Davidson Josh , Habib Giuseppe , Bracco Giovanni , Mattiazzo Giuliana , Kalmár-Nagy Tamás
Published: July 2020

Mathematical models are essential for the design and control of offshore systems, to simulate the fluid–structure interactions and predict the motions and the structural loads. In the development and derivation of the models, simplifying assumptions are normally required, usually implying linear kinematics and hydrodynamics. However, while the assumption of linear, small amplitude motion fits traditional offshore problems, in normal operational conditions (it is desirable to stabilize ships, boats, and offshore platforms), large motion and potential dynamic instability may arise (e.g., harsh sea conditions). Furthermore, such nonlinearities are particularly evident in wave energy converters, as large motions are expected (and desired) to enhance power extraction. The inadequacy of linear models has led to an increasing number of publications and codes implementing nonlinear hydrodynamics. However, nonlinear kinematics has received very little attention, as few models yet consider six degrees of freedom and large rotations. This paper implements a nonlinear hydrodynamic and kinematic model for an archetypal floating structure, commonplace in offshore applications: an axisymmetric spar-buoy. The influence of nonlinear dynamics and kinematics causing coupling between modes of motion are demonstrated. The nonlinear dynamics are shown to cause parametric resonance in the roll and pitch degrees of freedom, while the nonlinear kinematics are shown to potentially cause numerical instability in the yaw degree of freedom. A case study example is presented to highlight the nonlinear dynamic and kinematic effects, and the importance of including a nominal restoring term in the yaw DoF presented.
Molecular Correlation between Larval, Deutonymph and Adult Stages of the Water Mite Arrenurus (Micruracarus) Novus
Authors: Alarcón-Elbal Pedro María , García-Jiménez Ricardo , Peláez María Luisa , Horreo Jose Luis , Valdecasas Antonio G.
Published: July 2020

The systematics of many groups of organisms has been based on the adult stage. Morphological transformations that occur during development from the embryonic to the adult stage make it difficult (or impossible) to identify a juvenile (larval) stage in some species. Hydrachnidia (Acari, Actinotrichida, which inhabit mainly continental waters) are characterized by three main active stages—larval, deutonymph and adult—with intermediate dormant stages. Deutonymphs and adults may be identified through diagnostic morphological characters. Larvae that have not been tracked directly from a gravid female are difficult to identify to the species level. In this work, we compared the morphology of five water mite larvae and obtained the molecular sequences of that found on a pupa of the common mosquito Culex (Culex) pipiens with the sequences of 51 adults diagnosed as Arrenurus species and identified the undescribed larvae as Arrenurus (Micruracarus) novus. Further corroborating this finding, adult A. novus was found thriving in the same mosquito habitat. We established the identity of adult and deutonymph A. novus by morphology and by correlating COI and cytB sequences of the water mites at the larval, deutonymph and adult (both male and female) life stages in a particular case of ‘reverse taxonomy’. In addition, we constructed the Arrenuridae phylogeny based on mitochondrial DNA, which supports the idea that three Arrenurus subgenera are ‘natural’: Arrenurus, Megaluracarus and Micruracarus, and the somewhat arbitrary distinction of the species assigned to the subgenus Truncaturus.
Focal Liver Lesion Detection in Ultrasound Image Using Deep Feature Fusions and Super Resolution
Authors: Mostafiz Rafid , Rahman Mohammad , Islam A. , Belkasim Saeid
Published: July 2020

This research presents a machine vision approach to detect lesions in liver ultrasound as well as resolving some issues in ultrasound such as artifacts, speckle noise, and blurring effect. The anisotropic diffusion is modified using the edge preservation conditions which found better than traditional ones in quantitative evolution. To dig for more potential information, a learnable super-resolution (SR) is embedded into the deep CNN. The feature is fused using Gabor Wavelet Transform (GWT) and Local Binary Pattern (LBP) with a pre-trained deep CNN model. Moreover, we propose a Bayes rule-based informative patch selection approach to reduce the processing time with the selective image patches and design an algorithm to mark the lesion region from identified ultrasound image patches. To train this model, standard data ensures promising resolution. The testing phase considers generalized data with a varying resolution and test the performance of the model. Exploring cross-validation, it finds that a 5-fold strategy can successfully eradicate the overfitting problem. Experiment data are collected using 298 consecutive ultrasounds comprising 15,296 image patches. This proposed feature fusion technique confirms satisfactory performance compared to the current relevant works with an accuracy of 98.40%.
Analysis of the Thermoelastic Damping Effect in Electrostatically Actuated MEMS Resonators
Authors: Serdean Florina , Pustan Marius , Dudescu Cristian , Birleanu Corina , Serdean Mihai
Published: July 2020

An important aspect that must be considered when designing micro-electro-mechanical systems (MEMS) for all domains, including robotics, is the thermoelastic damping which occurs when the MEMS material is subjected to cyclic stress. This paper is focused on a model for the thermoelastic damping developed based on the generalized thermoelastic theory with the non-Fourier thermal conduction equation. The model was implemented in MATLAB and several simulations were performed. The theoretical results show a decrease in the deflection amplitude with the increase in time. The deflection amplitude decrease was validated by the experimental investigations, consisting of measuring the loss in amplitude and velocity of oscillations as a function of time. Moreover, this paper also presents the influence of the geometric dimensions on the mentioned decrease, as well as on the initial and final values of the amplitude for several polysilicon resonators investigated in this paper.
Trading Strategy for Market Situation Estimation Based on Hidden Markov Model
Authors: Chen Peng , Yi Dongyun , Zhao Chengli
Published: July 2020

Determining states of the market and scientific laws of transfer between these states is an important subject in the field of financial mathematics. According to the results of market situation estimation, formulating corresponding trading strategies can gain profits in the market through machine trading. The market situation is mainly divided into three types: bull market, mixed market and bear market, and it can be further subdivided into multiple types. Using the hidden Markov model (HMM) to estimate the market situation is not restricted by linear conditions compared to the traditional use of linear models. In this paper, we first use HMM to model the market situation, perform feature analysis on the hidden state of the model input, and then estimate the three market situations, and propose the Markov situation estimation trading strategy. On this basis, we have made a more fine-grained division of the market situation and increased the number of hidden sequences in the model. Experiments verify that this method can improve the profitability of the strategy.
Impact of Astaxanthin on Diabetes Pathogenesis and Chronic Complications
Authors: Landon Rebecca , Gueguen Virginie , Petite Hervé , Letourneur Didier , Pavon-Djavid Graciela , Anagnostou Fani
Published: July 2020

Oxidative stress (OS) plays a pivotal role in diabetes mellitus (DM) onset, progression, and chronic complications. Hyperglycemia-induced reactive oxygen species (ROS) have been shown to reduce insulin secretion from pancreatic β-cells, to impair insulin sensitivity and signaling in insulin-responsive tissues, and to alter endothelial cells function in both type 1 and type 2 DM. As a powerful antioxidant without side effects, astaxanthin (ASX), a xanthophyll carotenoid, has been suggested to contribute to the prevention and treatment of DM-associated pathologies. ASX reduces inflammation, OS, and apoptosis by regulating different OS pathways though the exact mechanism remains elusive. Based on several studies conducted on type 1 and type 2 DM animal models, orally or parenterally administrated ASX improves insulin resistance and insulin secretion; reduces hyperglycemia; and exerts protective effects against retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy. However, more experimental support is needed to define conditions for its use. Moreover, its efficacy in diabetic patients is poorly explored. In the present review, we aimed to identify the up-to-date biological effects and underlying mechanisms of ASX on the ROS-induced DM-associated metabolic disorders and subsequent complications. The development of an in-depth research to better understand the biological mechanisms involved and to identify the most effective ASX dosage and route of administration is deemed necessary.
Diagnostic Value of Circulating miR-202 in Early-Stage Breast Cancer in South Korea
Authors: Kim Jungho , Park Sunyoung , Hwang Dasom , Kim Seung Il , Lee Hyeyoung
Published: July 2020

Background and objectives: Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women worldwide. Early stage diagnosis is important for predicting increases in treatment success rates and decreases in patient mortality. Recently, circulating biomarkers such as circulating tumor cells, circulating tumor DNA, exosomes, and circulating microRNAs have been examined as blood-based markers for the diagnosis of breast cancer. Although miR-202 has been studied for its function or expression in breast cancer, its potential diagnostic value in a clinical setting remains elusive and miR-202 has not been investigated in South Korea. In this study, we aimed to evaluate the diagnostic utility of miR-202 in plasma samples of breast cancer patients in South Korea. Materials and Methods: We investigated miR-202 expression in the plasma of 30 breast cancer patients during diagnosis along with 30 healthy controls in South Korea by quantitative reverse transcription PCR. Results: The results showed that circulating miR-202 levels were significantly elevated in the breast cancer patients compared with those in healthy controls (p < 0.001). The sensitivity and specificity of circulating miR-202 were 90.0% and 93.0%, respectively. Additionally, circulating miR-202 showed high positivity at early stage. The positive rate of miR-202 was as follows: 100% (10/10) for stage I, 90% (9/10) for stage II, and 80% (8/10) for stage III. miR-202 was also a predictor of a 9.6-fold high risk for breast cancer (p < 0.001). Conclusions: Additional alternative molecular biomarkers for diagnosis and management of pre-cancer patients are needed. Circulating miR-202 might be potential diagnostic tool for detecting early stage breast cancer.
Postoperative Delirium in Patients with Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease after Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting
Authors: Szylińska Aleksandra , Rotter Iwona , Listewnik Mariusz , Lechowicz Kacper , Brykczyński Mirosław , Dzidek Sylwia , Żukowski Maciej , Kotfis Katarzyna
Published: July 2020

Background and Objectives: The incidence of postoperative delirium (POD) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is unclear. It seems that postoperative respiratory problems that may occur in COPD patients, including prolonged mechanical ventilation or respiratory-tract infections, may contribute to the development of delirium. The aim of the study was to identify a relationship between COPD and the occurrence of delirium after cardiac surgery and the impact of these combined disorders on postoperative mortality. Materials and Methods: We performed an analysis of data collected from 4151 patients undergoing isolated coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) in a tertiary cardiac-surgery center between 2012 and 2018. We included patients with a clinical diagnosis of COPD according to the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease (GOLD) criteria. The primary endpoint was postoperative delirium; Confusion Assessment Method in the Intensive Care Unit (CAM-ICU) was used for delirium assessment. Results: Final analysis included 283 patients with COPD, out of which 65 (22.97%) were diagnosed with POD. Delirious COPD patients had longer intubation time (p = 0.007), more often required reintubation (p = 0.019), had significantly higher levels of C-reactive protein (CRP) three days after surgery (p = 0.009) and were more often diagnosed with pneumonia (p < 0.001). The CRP rise on day three correlated positively with the occurrence of postoperative pneumonia (r = 0.335, p = 0.005). The probability of survival after CABG was significantly lower in COPD patients with delirium (p < 0.001). Conclusions: The results of this study confirmed the relationship between chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and the incidence of delirium after cardiac surgery. The probability of survival in COPD patients undergoing CABG who developed postoperative delirium was significantly decreased.