bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Are semen quality parameters sufficient for biomonitoring spermatozoa DNA integrity and oxidatively damaged DNA
Authors: Jeng Hueiwang Anna , Li Ruei-Nian , Lin Wen-Yi 
Published: May 2015

Abstract:The present study aimed to investigate the relationship between semen quality parameters and DNA integrity, and determine whether semen quality parameters could serve as a reliable biomarker for monitoring sperm DNA damage. Conventional semen parameters from a total of 202 male human subjects were analyzed. DNA fragmentation and 8-oxo-7,8-dihydro-2′- deoxyguanosine (8-oxoGuo) were used to assess sperm DNA integrity. DNA fragmentation was analyzed by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) assay and sperm chromatin structure assay (SCSA), while 8-oxodGuo was quantified by the liquid chromatography/tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) coupled with an on-line solid phase system. The levels of 8-oxodGuo levels in sperm were related to the percentages of DNA fragmentation measured by both the TUNEL and SCSA (r = 0.22, p = 0.048; r = 0.12, p = 0.039). Sperm vitality, motility and morphology from all of the participants exhibited a weak correlation with the levels of 8-oxodGuo and the percentages of DNA fragmentation. Semen quality parameters may be independent of the formation of DNA fragmentation and oxidative adducts in sperm. Semen quality parameters may be insufficient to monitor sperm DNA fragmentation and oxidative damage. DNA damage in sperm is recommended to be included in routine measurements.
Genetic diversity and taxonomy of foliose Bangiales (Rhodophyta) from Taiwan based on rbcL and cox1 sequences
Authors: Xie Zhen-You , Lin Showe-Mei , Liu Li-Chia , Ang Put O. , Shyu Jhen-Fong 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
Molecular analyses of >80 specimens of foliose Bangiales from the coasts of Taiwan reveal that only two species are present: Pyropia acanthophora and Pyropia haitanensis. These species had been previously identified as Pyropia suborbiculata (obovoid form), Porphyra yamadae (crisped form), and Pyropia dentata (ribbon-like form) based on morphology. Populations previously identified as P. yamadae from Taiwan and those from the type locality of this species (Ojika Island, Nagasaki Prefecture, Japan) are genetically identical to Py. acanthophora and should be treated as a later synonym of Py. acanthophora, a species originally described from Brazil. Thalli with obovoid blades from northeastern Taiwan that resemble Py. suborbiculata and those with lanceolate or linear blades from Penghu Archipelago that resemble Py. dentata are also genetically identical to Py. acanthophora. In contrast to the widespread Py. acanthophora, Py. haitanensis (previously misidentified as Py. dentata) was found only at two sites, both in Keelung City. Among the nine cox1 haplotypes of Py. acanthophora identified worldwide, eight are present in Taiwan. At least five out of the eight cox1 haplotypes are present in populations from the eastern coast of Keelung City. The high level of genetic diversity within a single species supports the need for establishment of a marine ecological area in this region.
Determination of Stress in Spread Foundation Subsoil by Various Approaches
Authors: Nguyen Giang 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The paper deals with the determination of stress induced in spread foundation subsoil by Slovak Technical Standard STN 73 1001:2010 (STN) and Polish Standard PN-81/B-03020 (PN). While STN does not consider with stress state in subsoil just after carrying out excavation and the stress is determined from overloading only, PN considers with stress states after carrying out excavation and follows loading. Differences are also in determination of foundation stiffness and taking into account soil structural strength. It will be shown that different approaches make difference in the value of additional stress up to 18.6 %.
Evaluation of Dynamic Methods for Earthwork Assessment
Authors: Vlček Jozef , Ďureková Dominika , Zgútová Katarína 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
Rapid development of road construction imposes requests on fast and quality methods for earthwork quality evaluation. Dynamic methods are now adopted in numerous civil engineering sections. Especially evaluation of the earthwork quality can be sped up using dynamic equipment. This paper presents the results of the parallel measurements of chosen devices for determining the level of compaction of soils. Measurements were used to develop the correlations between values obtained from various apparatuses. Correlations show that examined apparatuses are suitable for examination of compaction level of fine-grained soils with consideration of boundary conditions of used equipment. Presented methods are quick and results can be obtained immediately after measurement, and they are thus suitable in cases when construction works have to be performed in a short period of time.
Application of Economic Indicators to Asses the Bridges of Rehablitation
Authors: Pitoňák Martin , Valuch Milan 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The aim of this paper is to point out the advantage of Cost Benefit Analysis (CBA) and its economic indicators to assess a rehabilitation of bridges. The paper includes short example of assessment of the project economic efficiency in which economic indicators are applied in order to evaluate of two technology project variants of bridge object rehabilitation. It quantifies and compares the economic results of alternative 1 with the monolithic prestress construction and alternative 2, with the composite steel - concrete bridge. The contribution reflects the current practice of economic analysis recommended by the Ministry of Transport, Construction and Regional Development.
Synthesis and Study of Ni-Mo-Co Catalysts for Hydroprocessing of Oil Fractions
Authors: Yunusov M.P. , Saidaxmedov Sh.M. , Djalаlova Sh.B. , Nasullaev Kh.A. , Gulyamov Sh.T. , Isaeva N.F. , Mirzaeva E.I. 
Published: May 2015

AbstractThe problems of synthesis of Ni-Mo, Ni-Mo
Co and Co-Mo oxide catalysts for hydrodesulfurization
and hydrogenation of aromatic hydrocarbons in the
composition of kerosene, diesel and oil fractions are
discussed. The influence of spent adsorbent and kaolin
as the additives on the physical-chemical and catalytic
properties of bimetallic and trimetallic catalysts is
established.
On the construction of low-parametric families of min-stable multivariate exponential distributions in large dimensions
Authors: Bernhart German , Mai Jan-Frederik , Scherer Matthias 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
Min-stable multivariate exponential (MSMVE) distributions constitute an important family of distributions,
among others due to their relation to extreme-value distributions. Being true multivariate exponential
models, they also represent a natural choicewhen modeling default times in credit portfolios. Despite
being well-studied on an abstract level, the number of known parametric families is small. Furthermore, for
most families only implicit stochastic representations are known. The present paper develops new parametric
families of MSMVE distributions in arbitrary dimensions. Furthermore, a convenient stochastic representation
is stated for such models, which is helpful with regard to sampling strategies.
Keeping it small: towards a molecular definition of nanotoxicology
Authors: Gallud Audrey , Fadeel Bengt 
Published: May 2015

AbstractIn this essay, we offer the opinion that engineered nanomaterials are, by definition, materials that can interact with biological systems at the nanoscale, and that this very fact underlies both the promise and the peril of this multifaceted class of materials. Furthermore, nanomaterials are cloaked in host-derived proteins, lipids, or other biomolecules as they enter into a living organism and this so-called bio-corona may impact on subsequent interactions with biological structures. We will explore some examples of nanoscale effects of engineered nanomaterials, and discuss how such interactions may underpin toxicity, and, conversely, how nanoscale interactions may be harnessed for clinical applications, including the use of nanoparticles as drugs per se.
The impact of revitalization on the evolution of urban space on former iron and steel works areas in Ruhr region (Germany)
Authors: Chmielewska Marta , Otto Marius 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The aim of the paper was to consider the extent of the impact of revitalization on the evolution of post-industrial sites, which manifests itself in morphological and functional changes of urban space. Research was performed on three former iron and steel works areas located in the Ruhr region in Germany: one of the Thyssen's ironworks in Duisburg - Meiderich, the area of steelworks complex Gute-Hoffnungs-Hütte in Oberhausen and the area of the iron and steel works Phönix in Dortmund - Hörde. Methods were applied specific to urban morphology. For each object of study a comparative analysis of the town plan was carried out. Town plans were compared before and after the revitalization process and special attention was paid to land use. This allowed us to observe morphological and functional changes which occurred as a result of the revitalization of the study areas. The research showed that the revitalization of post-industrial space may be conducted in many different directions but irrespective of that it has a huge impact on the evolution of urban space in both a morphological and a functional way. The extent to which revitalization affects morphological and functional structure of urban space depends on the future plan for the spatial development of the site and its attitude to its post-industrial heritage.
Course of ice phenomena in small water reservoir in Katowice (Poland) in the winter season 2011/2012
Authors: Machowski Robert 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
Investigations on the ice phenomena were carried out on a small water reservoir located in the northern part of Katowice, at A4 motorway, in terrains of the Shopping-Service Centre “3 Ponds” (“Trzy Stawy”). Observations on the course of ice phenomena were performed in the winter season 2011/2012. Measurements were started in the moment occurrence of the first forms of the ice phenomena and were finished after their complete disappearance. The investigations had a character of systematic, daily observations and consisted in the mapping of ice phenomena. Among basic research aims should be numbered as follows: evaluation of the ice phenomena course, the identification of the ice phenomena forms, determination of changes in the range of ice cover and its characteristics in terms of recreational use as well. The first effects of low air temperatures occurred on the 19th November of 2011. At the beginning the ice phenomena in a form of so-called shore naledi and shore ice appeared. The formation of a compact ice cover happened not before than after nearly two months. Permanent ice cover formed on 16th January 2012. At the end of ice cover occurrence its crashing followed, reflecting in a form of numerous fissures in the ice. The complete disappearance of processes and forms ice phenomena happened on the 21st March 2012. Ice phenomena in the winter season 2011/2012 occurred for 124 days from the 18th November 2011 till the 21st March 2012, including uninterruptedly for 65 days. Ice cover in the initial stage had an ephemeral character. Safe recreational use of ice cover at the reservoir (e.g. walking, fishing, ice skating) was possible only for about 20 days, when its thickness exceeded 15 cm and ice composition had a homogenous (crystalline) structure. The course of ice phenomena indicates their quasinatural character, resulting from the natural conditions.
Excessive TV viewing time and associated factors in Brazilian adolescents from a rural area
Authors: Fronza Fernanda Cerveira Abuana Osório , Minatto Giseli , Martins Cilene Rebolho , Petroski Edio Luiz 
Published: May 2015

PurposeSedentary behavior has been identified as a risk factor for chronic non-communicable diseases. This study identified the prevalence of excessive TV viewing time during the week and weekend and associated factors in adolescents living in a small urban and rural area.MethodsA cross-sectional study involving 283 students (aged 10–19 years) from Brazil was conducted in 2010. Data on TV viewing time and sociodemographic information were collected by questionnaires, cardiorespiratory fitness was evaluated by the 20-m shuttle run test, and anthropometric characteristics were obtained by measuring waist circumference and skinfold thickness. Statistical analysis involved binary logistic regression.ResultsThe prevalence of excessive TV viewing time (> 2 h) was 76.7% during on weekdays and 78.4% on the weekend. Adolescents aged 10–12 years (OR = 6.20; 95% CI = 2.91, 13.19; <i>p</i> < 0.001) and 13–15 years (OR = 2.57; 95% CI = 1.28, 5.18; <i>p</i> = 0.008) were more exposed to excessive TV viewing time during the week. No associations were found for excessive TV viewing time on the weekend.ConclusionsApproximately 8 in 10 adolescents presented excessive TV viewing time; excessive TV viewing time during the week was associated with age.
Screening of lysyl oxidase (LOX) and lysyl oxidase like (LOXL) enzyme expression and activity in preterm prelabor rupture of fetal membranes
Authors: Polettini Jossimara , Silva Marcia G. , Kacerovsky Marian , Syed Tariq A. , Saade George R. , Menon Ramkumar 
Published: May 2015

AbstractLysyl oxidase (LOX) and LOX like enzymes (LOXL1–4) physiologically remodel extracellular matrix and pathologically contribute to cellular senescence under oxidative stress (OS). We characterized LOX and LOXL expressions and activity in human fetal membranes.Human fetal membranes from women with uncomplicated pregnancies at term, preterm birth with intact membranes (PTB) or preterm prelabor rupture of membranes (pPROM), andIncrease of LOX expression in pPROM, an OS-related disease, and the apparent inhibition of LOX activity by CSE restored by antioxidant treatment suggest that reactive oxygen species might influence LOX-mediated tissue remodeling in fetal membranes. Balanced antioxidant supplementation during pregnancy may reduce the risk of pPROM by increasing LOX activity.
Diagnostic accuracy of cervical elastography in predicting labor induction success: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Londero Ambrogio P. , Schmitz Ralf , Bertozzi Serena , Driul Lorenza , Fruscalzo Arrigo 
Published: May 2015

AbstractTo determine the accuracy of cervical elastography in predicting labor induction success.A systematic search, review, and meta-analysis of observational studies published in English language between January 2000 and October 2014 was performed. It included studies considering cervix sonoelastography as the index test and successful labor or vaginal delivery as the reference standard. As cervix length and Bishop score were considered comparator tests, the quality of the included studies was assessed using quality assessment tool for diagnostic accuracy studies (QUADAS) tool.A total of four studies assessing 323 women before medical induction of labor were included. Cervical elastography, cervical length, and Bishop score showed a diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) with 95% confidence interval (CI) for successful labor prediction of 3.50 (1.93–6.35), 3.35 (1.94–5.77), and 1.45 (0.33–6.41), respectively. In addition, cervical elastography, cervical length, and Bishop score showed a DOR with 95% CI for successful vaginal delivery prediction of 5.24 (3.23–8.50), 4.94 (2.72–8.98), and 4.62 (0.69–30.94), respectively. Considering the summary of receiver operating characteristic curves we show that cervical elastography or length are similarly reliable, and both are more reliable to predict successful labor than the Bishop score. Two studies were excluded because it was not possible to retrieve data for the meta-analysis. Among the excluded studies, one found no significant contribution from elastography for prediction of successful labor induction.Even though there is a limited number of studies included and the heterogeneity of the methods used, cervical elastography seems to be a promising tool for predicting successful labor induction and vaginal delivery in women treated by medical induction of labor.
Nanowire Lasers
Authors: Couteau C. , Larrue A. , Wilhelm C. , Soci C. 
Published: May 2015

Abstract:We review principles and trends in the use of semiconductor nanowires as gain media for stimulated emission and lasing. Semiconductor nanowires have recently been widely studied for use in integrated optoelectronic devices, such as light-emitting diodes (LEDs), solar cells, and transistors. Intensive research has also been conducted in the use of nanowires for subwavelength laser systems that take advantage of their quasione- dimensional (1D) nature, flexibility in material choice and combination, and intrinsic optoelectronic properties. First, we provide an overview on using quasi-1D nanowire systems to realize subwavelength lasers with efficient, directional, and low-threshold emission. We then describe the state of the art for nanowire lasers in terms of materials, geometry, andwavelength tunability.Next,we present the basics of lasing in semiconductor nanowires, define the key parameters for stimulated emission, and introduce the properties of nanowires. We then review advanced nanowire laser designs from the literature. Finally, we present interesting perspectives for low-threshold nanoscale light sources and optical interconnects. We intend to illustrate the potential of nanolasers inmany applications, such as nanophotonic devices that integrate electronics and photonics for next-generation optoelectronic devices. For instance, these building blocks for nanoscale photonics can be used for data storage and biomedical applications when coupled to on-chip characterization tools. These nanoscale monochromatic laser light sources promise breakthroughs in nanophotonics, as they can operate at room temperature, can potentially be electrically driven, and can yield a better understanding of intrinsic nanomaterial properties and surface-state effects in lowdimensional semiconductor systems.
Green synthesis of nanoparticles: current prospectus
Authors: Thunugunta Tejaswi , Reddy Anand C. , Reddy D.C. Lakshmana 
Published: May 2015

AbstractIn the past few years, nanoparticles have been applied in various fields of science and technology, ranging from material science to biotechnology. Thus, the synthesis of nanoparticles can be considered as a dynamic area in research and application of nanoparticles. The different methods of nanoparticle synthesis include physical, chemical, and biological methods. Of these methods, the biological synthesis is to be comparatively widely used due to its advantages of being low cost, nontoxic and environmental friendly. Bio-applications of nanoparticles have pawed way for green synthesis of nanoparticles. In this review, we have provided brief information on various biological agents used for the synthesis of nanoparticles.
Otoconia: Mimicking a calcite-based functional material of the human body. From basic research to medical aspects
Authors: Kniep Rüdiger 
Published: May 2015

AbstractOtoconia (calcite-based biominerals) are part of the sensory system in the inner ear of vertebrates, acting as gravity receptors responding to linear accelerations. Biomimetic otoconia are grown by double-diffusion into gelatine-gel matrices, and represent the first example of successful imitation of a biomineral, not only in outer shape but also in composite structure and hierarchical inner architecture. Biomimetic and biogenic (human) otoconia are investigated by X-ray methods, chemical analytics, ESEM, and TEM. Shape development (morphogenesis) as well as (partial) dissolution of the calcite component of the composite underline the hierarchical inner architecture built of more dense rhombohedral branches (with plane end-faces) and a rounded, more porous belly area. Atomistic simulations are performed in order to get insight into very first nucleation steps. Based on the detailed observations made up to now, first assumptions for the function of otoconia are developed, including the questions of density distribution within the volume of the specimen, the surrounding endolymph, as well as anchoring and interconnections of otoconia. A final point concerns the degeneration of otoconia which is caused by complexing agents and/or changes in ion concentrations (and pH) of the endolymph.
The Assessment of the Quality of Life in Visually Impaired People with Different Level of Physical Activity
Authors: Kamelska Anna Malwina , Mazurek Krzysztof 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
Quality of life (QOL) is associated with factors such as health, physical functioning, life satisfaction, a sense of happiness, and others. In case of disabled people, much attention is paid to their QOL rather than only the improvement of physiological variables. In a group of blind and visually impaired people, the effect of physical activity (PA) on the socialization process, the ability to explore own personality traits, developing creativity, and more motivation and desire to overcome the difficulties associated with visual impairment were observed.
The study involved 53 people: visually impaired (NT) sedentary lifestyle people (n=18; 51±12 years) and visually impaired tandem cycling athletes (N) (n=17; 42±13 years). Properly sighted people (P) (n=18; 38±12 years) were partners in tandem with visually impaired athletes. To determine the level of PA, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire (IPAQ) was used. The WHO-Quality of Life (WHO-QOL-BREF), the National Eye Institute 25-item Visual Functioning Questionnaire (NEI VFQ-25, version 2000), and the Retina AMD Poland Association questionnaire were used to assess QOL.
In visually impaired athletes, significantly greater PA with moderate intensity, moving by bike, and energy expenditure for vigorous recreational exercise and sport in leisuretime was found. Sedentary lifestyle people mainly participated in moderate physical activity around the house. Significant greater satisfaction with health was observed in the case of visually impaired athletes in comparison with NT. All disabled groups rarely had negative feelings such as despair, depression, and anxiety.
Moderate correlations between variables according to physical activity and quality of life in all participants were observed. The meaningfulness of life and life satisfaction also depended on cycling training and moderate physical activity around the house. The obtained data indicate that all available forms of regular PA in visually impaired people could have a beneficial effect on their quality of life.
Prediction Of Mechanical Properties Of Quench Hardening Steel*
Authors: Chotěborský R. , Linda M. 
Published: May 2015

Abstract
The present study investigated the application of finite element method for prediction of mechanical properties of quench hardening steel. Based on the experimental results obtained, a numerical model for simulation of continuous cooling of quench hardening steel was developed. For the simulation of the kinetics of diffusion phase transformations, the Avrami equation and additive rule were applied. A new model was also developed for martensitic transformation which was validated using metallographic analysis and hardness tests. Experimental and simulation results indicated a good agreement. The developed model information provided here could be used for simulation of continuous cooling and kinetics phase transformation as well as for prediction of final distribution of microstructures and hardness of alloy steels.