bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Spatiotemporal Clustering of Urban Networks
Authors: Pascale Alessandra , Mavroeidis Dimitrios , Lam Hoang Thanh
Published: November 2015

The problem of modeling traffic in urban areas is especially relevant because of the urgent need for managing congestion in big cities. In recent years, the macroscopic fundamental diagram (MFD) has been proposed as a macroscopic description of urban traffic. The MFD has been proved useful in the design of control strategies. However, the MFD cannot be properly defined if congestion across the city is heterogeneously distributed and if its characteristics change with time. This situation is common in large cities, and a method for identifying homogeneous areas in space and time is needed. This paper proposes a spatiotemporal clustering method with which to detect homogeneous areas over the network and over time. In each of these areas, an MFD can be defined. In particular, a segmentation method is proposed that can divide the time intervals into segments optimizing the clustering results within each of them. The algorithm is applied to data collected in the city of London, where a control system called SCOOT (split-cycle offset optimization technique) is in operation.
Developing a Large-Scale Hybrid Simulation Model
Authors: Zitzow Stephen , Lehrke Derek , Hourdos John
Published: November 2015

Long-term, regional travel demand models are essential tools used by planning organizations for resource management, project scheduling, and impact studies. Developed primarily at the macroscopic level, these tools lack sufficient detail to capture the influence of local geometry, dynamic traffic controls, or advanced transportation demand management strategies. To bridge the gap, a hybrid mesoscopic–microscopic model was developed. The core of the model, surrounding two light rail corridors in Minneapolis–Saint Paul, Minnesota (the Twin Cities), was developed at high resolution for microscopic simulation to capture the interaction between traffic signals, transit systems, and the road network. The remainder of the greater Twin Cities area was implemented according to the regional planning model (RPM) maintained by the Metropolitan Council. Interfacing the AIMSUN-based hybrid model with the CUBE-based RPM, the Twin Cities metro hybrid simulation was used to improve mode choice and traffic assignment iteratively to achieve a dynamic user equilibrium state. Significant lessons were learned about the effort needed to develop and to maintain such a model, with implications for future large-scale regional modeling.
Use of Microsimulation for Examination of Macroscopic Fundamental Diagram Hysteresis Patterns for Hierarchical Urban Street Networks
Authors: Mühlich Nicolas , Gayah Vikash V. , Menendez Monica
Published: November 2015

This study used microsimulation to analyze traffic performance on various idealized hierarchical urban street networks. Each network consisted of local streets and arterial streets, which represented the micro- and macro-structure of an urban network, respectively. Arterials were differentiated from local streets through additional green time at intersections and additional travel lanes. An idealized peak period was simulated for completely uniform demand patterns. Observed relationships between average network flow and density—known as the macroscopic fundamental diagram (MFD)—were used to compare the performance of arterial structures. Specifically, the size and shape of hysteresis loops that emerged in the MFD were used, since the networks were found to have more uniform congestion patterns during the onset of congestion than during congestion recovery. The presence of arterials was found to affect significantly the spatial distribution of congestion on the network. Arterials that passed through the congested center of the network and arterials that divided the network resulted in increased congestion inhomogeneity and larger hysteresis loops in the MFD. Arterials placed near the periphery of the network helped to attract vehicles to less-used areas of the network and reduce congestion in the center, which reduced congestion inhomogeneity. Furthermore, limited opportunities to access the arterials also contributed to dense pockets of congestion on nearby streets. For the network and demand conditions studied here, arterial ring roads appeared to distribute congestion more evenly and have had better network performance than arterial grids.
Measurement of hip extension strength with a portable device: Description, reliability and validity of a procedure
Authors: Bohannon Richard W. , Chu Johnson , Portz Megan
Published: November 2015

Although adequate hip extension strength is necessary for the successful performance of weight-bearing activities, practical quantitative procedures for measuring hip extension strength are lacking. We sought, therefore, to describe a practical procedure and the reliability and validity of measurements obtained with it. Apparently healthy individuals (10 men, 10 women) of 18-27 years participated. One male and one female examiner tested all subjects in supine with a hand-held dynamometer during 2 sessions, 1 week apart. Inter-tester and test-retest reliability of measurements were good to excellent (intraclass correlation coefficients = 0.827-0.949). Known groups validity was supported by a demonstration of significant differences in the strength of men and women participants. Based on the findings of this study we can recommend the procedure for testing with other populations.
Local Convergence of an Efﬁcient High Convergence Order Method Using Hypothesis Only on the First Derivative
Authors: Argyros Ioannis , Behl Ramandeep , Motsa S.S.
Published: November 2015

We present a local convergence analysis of an eighth order three step methodin order to approximate a locally unique solution of nonlinear equation in a Banach spacesetting. In an earlier study by Sharma and Arora (2015), the order of convergence wasshown using Taylor series expansions and hypotheses up to the fourth order derivative oreven higher of the function involved which restrict the applicability of the proposed scheme. However, only ﬁrst order derivative appears in the proposed scheme. In order to overcomethis problem, we proposed the hypotheses up to only the ﬁrst order derivative. In this way,we not only expand the applicability of the methods but also propose convergence domain. Finally, where earlier studies cannot be applied, a variety of concrete numerical examplesare proposed to obtain the solutions of nonlinear equations. Our study does not exhibit thistype of problem/restriction.
Computer Aided Diagnosis System for Early Lung Cancer Detection
Authors: Taher Fatma , Werghi Naoufel , Al-Ahmad Hussain
Published: November 2015

Lung cancer continues to rank as the leading cause of cancer deaths worldwide. One of the most promising techniques for early detection of cancerous cells relies on sputum cell analysis. This was the motivation behind the design and the development of a new computer aided diagnosis (CAD) system for early detection of lung cancer based on the analysis of sputum color images. The proposed CAD system encompasses four main processing steps. First is the preprocessing step which utilizes a Bayesian classification method using histogram analysis. Then, in the second step, mean shift segmentation is applied to segment the nuclei from the cytoplasm. The third step is the feature analysis. In this step, geometric and chromatic features are extracted from the nucleus region. These features are used in the diagnostic process of the sputum images. Finally, the diagnosis is completed using an artificial neural network and support vector machine (SVM) for classifying the cells into benign or malignant. The performance of the system was analyzed based on different criteria such as sensitivity, specificity and accuracy. The evaluation was carried out using Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) curve. The experimental results demonstrate the efficiency of the SVM classifier over other classifiers, with 97% sensitivity and accuracy as well as a significant reduction in the number of false positive and false negative rates.
Targeting of Tumor Necrosis Factor Alpha Receptors as a Therapeutic Strategy for Neurodegenerative Disorders
Authors: Dong Yun , Dekens Doortje , De Deyn Peter , Naudé Petrus , Eisel Ulrich
Published: November 2015

Numerous studies have revealed the pleiotropic functions of tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), and have linked it with several neurodegenerative disorders. This review describes the signaling pathways induced by TNF-α via its two receptors (TNFR1 and TNFR2), and their functions in neurodegenerative processes as in Alzheimer’s disease (AD), Parkinson’s disease (PD), multiple sclerosis (MS), and ischemic stroke. It has become clear that TNF-α may exert divergent actions in neurodegenerative disorders, including neurodegenerative and neuroprotective effects, which appear to depend on its signaling via either TNFR1 or TNFR2. Specific targeting of these receptors is a promising therapeutic strategy for many disorders.
Pharmacokinetic/Toxicity Properties of the New Anti-Staphylococcal Lead Compound SK-03-92
Authors: Schwan William , Kolesar Jill , Kabir M. , Elder Edmund , Williams Jeffrey , Minerath Rachel , Cook James , Witzigmann Christopher , Monte Aaron , Flaherty Tricia
Published: November 2015

Because of the potential of a new anti-staphylococcal lead compound SK-03-92 as a topical antibiotic, a patch, or an orally active drug, we sought to determine its safety profile and oral bioavailability. SK-03-92 had a high IC50 (125 μg/mL) in vitro against several mammalian cell lines, and mice injected intraperiteonally at the highest dose did not exhibit gross toxicity (e.g., altered gait, ungroomed, significant weight loss). Single dose (100 μg/g) pharmacokinetic (PK) analysis with formulated SK-03-92 showed that peak plasma concentration (1.64 μg/mL) was achieved at 20–30 min. Oral relative bioavailability was 8%, and the drug half-life was 20–30 min, demonstrating that SK-03-92 is likely not a candidate for oral delivery. Five-day and two-week PK analyses demonstrated that SK-03-92 plasma levels were low. Multi-dose analysis showed no gross adverse effects to the mice and a SK-03-92 peak plasma concentration of 2.12 μg/mL with the presence of significant concentrations of breakdown products 15 min after dosing. SK-03-92 appeared to be very safe based on tissue culture and mouse gross toxicity determinations, but the peak plasma concentration suggests that a pro-drug of SK-03-92 or preparation of analogs of SK-03-92 with greater bioavailability and longer half-lives are warranted.
A New Approach to Optimal Allocation of Reactive Power Ancillary Service in Distribution Systems in the Presence of Distributed Energy Resources
Authors: Samimi Abouzar , Kazemi Ahad
Published: November 2015

One of the most important Distribution System Operators (DSO) schemes addresses the Volt/Var control (VVC) problem. Developing a cost-based reactive power dispatch model for distribution systems, in which the reactive powers are appropriately priced, can motivate Distributed Energy Resources (DERs) to participate actively in VVC. In this paper, new reactive power cost models for DERs, including synchronous machine-based DGs and wind turbines (WTs), are formulated based on their capability curves. To address VVC in the context of competitive electricity markets in distribution systems, first, in a day-ahead active power market, the initial active power dispatch of generation units is estimated considering environmental and economic aspects. Based on the results of the initial active power dispatch, the proposed VVC model is executed to optimally allocate reactive power support among all providers. Another novelty of this paper lies in the pricing scheme that rewards transformers and capacitors for tap and step changing, respectively, while incorporating the reactive power dispatch model. A Benders decomposition algorithm is employed as a solution method to solve the proposed reactive power dispatch, which is a mixed integer non-linear programming (MINLP) problem. Finally, a typical 22-bus distribution network is used to verify the efficiency of the proposed method.
High-Power Continuous-Wave Directly-Diode-Pumped Fiber Raman Lasers
Authors: Yao Tianfu , Harish Achar , Sahu Jayanta , Nilsson Johan
Published: November 2015

We describe novel fiber Raman lasers pumped directly by spectrally combined high power multimode laser diodes at ~975 nm and emitting at ~1019 nm. With a commercial multimode graded-index fiber, we reached 20 W of laser output power with a record slope efficiency of 80%. With an in-house double-clad fiber, the beam quality improved to M2 = 1.9, albeit with lower output power and slope efficiency due to higher fiber loss. We believe this is the first publication of a fiber Raman laser cladding-pumped directly by diodes.
Alcohol and Apoptosis: Friends or Foes?
Authors: Rodriguez Ana , Chawla Karan , Umoh Nsini , Cousins Valerie , Ketegou Assama , Reddy Madhumati , AlRubaiee Mustafa , Haddad Georges , Burke Mark
Published: November 2015

Alcohol abuse causes 79,000 deaths stemming from severe organ damage in the United States every year. Clinical manifestations of long-term alcohol abuse on the cardiac muscle include defective contractility with the development of dilated cardiomyopathy and low-output heart failure; which has poor prognosis with less than 25% survival for more than three years. In contrast, low alcohol consumption has been associated with reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, however the mechanism of this phenomenon remains elusive. The aim of this study was to determine the significance of apoptosis as a mediating factor in cardiac function following chronic high alcohol versus low alcohol exposure. Adult rats were provided 5 mM (low alcohol), 100 mM (high alcohol) or pair-fed non-alcohol controls for 4–5 months. The hearts were dissected, sectioned and stained with cresyl violet or immunohistochemically for caspase-3, a putative marker for apoptosis. Cardiomyocytes were isolated to determine the effects of alcohol exposure on cell contraction and relaxation. High alcohol animals displayed a marked thinning of the left ventricular wall combined with elevated caspase-3 activity and decreased contractility. In contrast, low alcohol was associated with increased contractility and decreased apoptosis suggesting an overall protective mechanism induced by low levels of alcohol exposure.
The Potential Role of the Proteases Cathepsin D and Cathepsin L in the Progression and Metastasis of Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
Authors: Pranjol Md , Gutowski Nicholas , Hannemann Michael , Whatmore Jacqueline
Published: November 2015

Epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) is the leading cause of death from gynecologic malignancies and has a poor prognosis due to relatively unspecific early symptoms, and thus often advanced stage, metastasized cancer at presentation. Metastasis of EOC occurs primarily through the transcoelomic route whereby exfoliated tumor cells disseminate within the abdominal cavity, particularly to the omentum. Primary and metastatic tumor growth requires a pool of proangiogenic factors in the microenvironment which propagate new vasculature in the growing cancer. Recent evidence suggests that proangiogenic factors other than the widely known, potent angiogenic factor vascular endothelial growth factor may mediate growth and metastasis of ovarian cancer. In this review we examine the role of some of these alternative factors, specifically cathepsin D and cathepsin L.
In Vivo Acute on Chronic Ethanol Effects in Liver: A Mouse Model Exhibiting Exacerbated Injury, Altered Metabolic and Epigenetic Responses
Authors: Shukla Shivendra , Aroor Annayya , Restrepo Ricardo , Kharbanda Kusum , Ibdah Jamal
Published: November 2015

Chronic alcoholics who also binge drink (i.e., acute on chronic) are prone to an exacerbated liver injury but its mechanism is not understood. We therefore investigated the in vivo effects of chronic and binge ethanol ingestion and compared to chronic ethanol followed by three repeat binge ethanol on the liver of male C57/BL6 mice fed ethanol in liquid diet (4%) for four weeks followed by binge ethanol (intragastric administration, 3.5 g/kg body weight, three doses, 12h apart). Chronic followed by binge ethanol exacerbated fat accumulation, necrosis, decrease in hepatic SAM and SAM:SAH ratio, increase in adenosine levels, and elevated CYP2E1 levels. Histone H3 lysine acetylation (H3AcK9), dually modified phosphoacetylated histone H3 (H3AcK9/PS10), and phosphorylated H2AX increased after binge whereas phosphorylation of histone H3 ser 10 (H3S10) and H3 ser 28 (H3S28) increased after chronic ethanol-binge. Histone H3 lysine 4 and 9 dimethylation increased with a marked dimethylation in H3K9 in chronic ethanol binge group. Trimethylated histone H3 levels did not change. Nuclear levels of histone acetyl transferase GCN5 and histone deacetylase HDAC3 were elevated whereas phospho-CREB decreased in a distinctive manner. Taken together, acute on chronic ethanol ingestion caused amplification of liver injury and elicited characteristic profiles of histone modifications, metabolic alterations, and changes in nuclear protein levels. These findings demonstrate that chronic ethanol exposure renders liver more susceptible to repeat acute/binge ethanol induced acceleration of alcoholic liver disease.
Synthesis of Ethylene or Propylene/1,3-Butadiene Copolymers Possessing Pendant Vinyl Groups with Virtually No Internal Olefins
Authors: Michiue Kenji , Mitani Makoto , Fujita Terunori
Published: November 2015

In general, ethylene/1,3-butadiene copolymerizations provides copolymers possessing both pendant vinyls and vinylenes as olefinic moieties. We, at MCI, studied the substituent effects of C2-symmetric zirconocene complexes, rac-[Me2Si(Indenyl’)2]ZrCl2 (Indenyl’ = generic substituted indenyl), after activation on the ratio of the pendant vinyls and vinylenes of the resultant copolymers. Complexes examined in this study were rac-dimethylsilylbis (1-indenyl)zirconium dichloride (1), rac-dimethylsilyl-bis[1-(2-methyl-4,5-benzoindenyl)] zirconium dichloride (2), rac-dimethylsilyl-bis[l-(2-methyl -4-phenylindenyl)]zirconium dichloride (3), rac-dimethy1si1y1- bis(2-ethyl-4-phenylindenyl) zirconium dichloride (4), rac-dimethylsilyl-bis[l-(2-n-propyl -4-(1-naphthyl)indenyl)]zirconium dichloride (5), rac-dimethylsilyl-[1-(2-ethyl-4-(5-(2,2-dimethyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-cyclopenta [a]naphthalenyl)indenyl))][1-(2-n-propyl-4-(5-(2,2-dimethyl-2,3-dihydro-1H-cyclopenta[a] naphthalenyl)indenyl))]zirconium dichloride (6), rac-dimethylsilyl-bis[1-(2-ethyl-4-(9-phenanthryl)indenyl)]zirconium dichloride (7), and rac-dimethylsilyl-bis[l-(2-n-propyl-4-(9-phenanthryl)indenyl)]zirconium dichloride (8). We found that the ratio of the pendant vinyls and vinylenes is strongly affected by the bulkiness of the substituent on the complexes examined. The vinyl content increased linearly in the following order, 8 > 7 > 6 > 5 > 4 > 3 > 2 > 1. Notably, complex 8/DMAO formed ethylene/1,3-butadiene copolymers possessing predominant vinyl groups, which can be crucial precursors for functionalized polyolefins. Likewise, complex 8/DMAO afforded propylene/1,3-butadiene copolymers with predominant vinyl groups.
Feature Papers to Celebrate the Landmarks of Catalysts
Authors: Hohn Keith
Published: November 2015

Catalysis is a critical scientific field that underpins much of the world’s chemical industry. For example, it is often quoted that catalysis plays a role in 90% of all industrial chemical products. This importance has led to numerous academic journals and specialized conferences on the subject, as practitioners seek outlets to publish their cutting-edge research on catalysis. [...]
Combining Climate Scenarios and Risk Management Approach—A Finnish Case Study
Authors: Molarius Riitta , Keränen Jaana , Poussa Liisa
Published: November 2015

Climate change impacts on nature and the environment have been widely discussed and studied. Traditionally, a company’s continuity management is based on risk analysis. There are also attempts to implement scenario-based methods in the risk management procedures of companies. For industrial decision makers, it is vital to acknowledge the impacts of climate change with regards to their adaptation strategies. However, a scenario-based approach is not always the most effective way to analyze these risks. This paper investigates the integration of scenario and risk-based methods for a company’s adaptation planning. It considers the uncertainties of the climate change scenarios and the recognized risks as well as suitable adaptation strategies. The paper presents the results of climate risk analysis prepared for two Finnish hydropower plants. The introduced method was first piloted in 2008 and then again in 2015. The update of the analysis pointed out that at the company level, the climate risks and other risks originating from governmental or political decisions form an intertwined wholeness where the origin of the risk is difficult to outline. It seems that, from the business point of view, the main adaptation strategies suggested by the integrated risk and scenarios approach are those that support buying “safety margins” in new investments and reducing decision time horizons. Both of these adaptation strategies provide an advantage in the circumstances where also political decisions and societal changes have a great effect on decision making.
Bio-Based Coatings for Paper Applications
Authors: Rastogi Vibhore , Samyn Pieter
Published: November 2015

The barrier resistance and wettability of papers are commonly controlled by the application of petroleum-based derivatives such as polyethylene, waxes and/or fluor- derivatives as coating. While surface hydrophobicity is improved by employing these polymers, they have become disfavored due to limitations in fossil-oil resources, poor recyclability, and environmental concerns on generated waste with lack of biodegradation. Alternatively, biopolymers including polysaccharides, proteins, lipids and polyesters can be used to formulate new pathways for fully bio-based paper coatings. However, difficulties in processing of most biopolymers may arise due to hydrophilicity, crystallization behavior, brittleness or melt instabilities that hinder a full exploitation at industrial scale. Therefore, blending with other biopolymers, plasticizers and compatibilizers is advantageous to improve the coating performance. In this paper, an overview of barrier properties and processing of bio-based polymers and their composites as paper coating will be discussed. In particular, recent technical advances in nanotechnological routes for bio-based nano- composite coatings will be summarized, including the use of biopolymer nanoparticles, or nanofillers such as nanoclay and nanocellulose. The combination of biopolymers along with surface modification of nanofillers can be used to create hierarchical structures that enhance hydrophobicity, complete barrier protection and functionalities of coated papers.
Word-Length Correlations and Memory in Large Texts: A Visibility Network Analysis
Authors: Guzmán-Vargas Lev , Obregón-Quintana Bibiana , Aguilar-Velázquez Daniel , Hernández-Pérez Ricardo , Liebovitch Larry
Published: November 2015

We study the correlation properties of word lengths in large texts from 30 ebooks in the English language from the Gutenberg Project (www.gutenberg.org) using the natural visibility graph method (NVG). NVG converts a time series into a graph and then analyzes its graph properties. First, the original sequence of words is transformed into a sequence of values containing the length of each word, and then, it is integrated. Next, we apply the NVG to the integrated word-length series and construct the network. We show that the degree distribution of that network follows a power law, P ( k ) ∼ k - γ , with two regimes, which are characterized by the exponents γ s ≈ 1 . 7 (at short degree scales) and γ l ≈ 1 . 3 (at large degree scales). This suggests that word lengths are much more strongly correlated at large distances between words than at short distances between words. That finding is also supported by the detrended fluctuation analysis (DFA) and recurrence time distribution. These results provide new information about the universal characteristics of the structure of written texts beyond that given by word frequencies.
Integrated Planar Solid Oxide Fuel Cell: Steady-State Model of a Bundle and Validation through Single Tube Experimental Data
Authors: Costamagna Paola , Grosso Simone , Travis Rowland , Magistri Loredana
Published: November 2015

This work focuses on a steady-state model developed for an integrated planar solid oxide fuel cell (IP-SOFC) bundle. In this geometry, several single IP-SOFCs are deposited on a tube and electrically connected in series through interconnections. Then, several tubes are coupled to one another to form a full-sized bundle. A previously-developed and validated electrochemical model is the basis for the development of the tube model, taking into account in detail the presence of active cells, interconnections and dead areas. Mass and energy balance equations are written for the IP-SOFC tube, in the classical form adopted for chemical reactors. Based on the single tube model, a bundle model is developed. Model validation is presented based on single tube current-voltage (I-V) experimental data obtained in a wide range of experimental conditions, i.e., at different temperatures and for different H2/CO/CO2/CH4/H2O/N2 mixtures as the fuel feedstock. The error of the simulation results versus I-V experimental data is less than 1% in most cases, and it grows to a value of 8% only in one case, which is discussed in detail. Finally, we report model predictions of the current density distribution and temperature distribution in a bundle, the latter being a key aspect in view of the mechanical integrity of the IP-SOFC structure.
Screen-Printed Electrodes: New Tools for Developing Microbial Electrochemistry at Microscale Level
Authors: Estevez-Canales Marta , Berná Antonio , Borjas Zulema , Esteve-Núñez Abraham
Published: November 2015

Microbial electrochemical technologies (METs) have a number of potential technological applications. In this work, we report the use of screen-printed electrodes (SPEs) as a tool to analyze the microbial electroactivity by using Geobacter sulfurreducens as a model microorganism. We took advantage of the small volume required for the assays (75 μL) and the disposable nature of the manufactured strips to explore short-term responses of microbial extracellular electron transfer to conductive materials under different scenarios. The system proved to be robust for identifying the bioelectrochemical response, while avoiding complex electrochemical setups, not available in standard biotechnology laboratories. We successfully validated the system for characterizing the response of Geobacter sulfurreducens in different physiological states (exponential phase, stationary phase, and steady state under continuous culture conditions) revealing different electron transfer responses. Moreover, a combination of SPE and G. sulfurreducens resulted to be a promising biosensor for quantifying the levels of acetate, as well as for performing studies in real wastewater. In addition, the potential of the technology for identifying electroactive consortia was tested, as an example, with a mixed population with nitrate-reducing capacity. We therefore present SPEs as a novel low-cost platform for assessing microbial electrochemical activity at the microscale level.
Governing China’s Clean Energy Transition: Policy Reforms, Flexible Implementation and the Need for Empirical Investigation
Authors: Lo Kevin
Published: November 2015

In the ten years since committing to clean energy transition, China has formulated a large number of policies and programs to achieve some very ambitious targets. This paper argues that the dearth of empirical studies concerning the implementation of these new policies and programs has created a knowledge gap between official policy documents, which are vague and lacking in specifics, and official policy outcomes, which are unreliable. In particular, the merits and limitations of flexible implementation with regard to desirable outcomes need to be debated and clarified. This paper calls for more empirical investigation in four areas as a starting point: (1) the nature and extent of flexibility in the implementation; (2) implementation strategies and their impacts; (3) factors that shape the behavior of local officials responsible for implementation; and (4) the relationship between the central-local relation and policy implementation.
Bioenergy and Food Supply: A Spatial-Agent Dynamic Model of Agricultural Land Use for Jiangsu Province in China
Authors: Shu Kesheng , Schneider Uwe , Scheffran Jürgen
Published: November 2015

In this paper we develop an agent-based model to explore a feasible way of simultaneously providing sufficient food and bioenergy feedstocks in China. Concerns over the competition for agricultural land resources between food and bioenergy supply hinder the further development of bioenergy, especially in China, the country that needs to feed the world’s largest population. Prior research has suggested the introduction of energy crops and reviewed the resulting agricultural land use change in China. However, there is a lack of quantitative studies which estimate the value, contribution, and impact of bioenergy for specific conditions at the county level and provide adequate information to guide local practices. To fill this gap, we choose the Jiangsu Province in China as a case study, build up a spatial-agent dynamic model of agricultural land use, and perform a sensitivity analysis for important parameters. The simulation results show that straw from conventional crops generally dominates Jiangsu’s biomass supply with a contribution above 85%. The sensitivity analyses reveal severe consequences of bioenergy targets for local land use. For Jiangsu Province, reclaimed mudflats, an alternative to arable lands for energy crop plantation, help to secure the local biomass supply and to alleviate the land use conflict between food and biomass production.
Distributions and Losses of Logging Residues at Clear-Felled Areas during Extraction for Bioenergy: Comparing Dried- and Fresh-Stacked Method
Authors: Nilsson Bengt , Nilsson Daniel , Thörnqvist Thomas
Published: November 2015

It is well known that a large proportion of available logging residues intended for extraction will not reach the energy-conversion industry, because some are lost during transportation or left on the clear-felled area. However, there is little understanding of where logging residue losses occur in the supply chain. In this study, the distribution of logging residues for two methods (dried- and fresh-stacked method) to extract logging residues were studied in one clear-felled area. In addition, residue fractions were examined in a detailed comparison. Even though the fresh-stacked method left somewhat more logging residues at the clear-felled area, the differences are small between the methods. Approximately 30% of the total amount of logging residues was left behind between the harvester heaps, with an additional 10%–15% under these heaps and approximately 2%–3% beneath the windrows. The final product that was delivered to the energy-conversion industry was very similar, regardless of the extraction method used. The delivered chipped logging residues had moisture contents of 37% and 36% following fresh- and dried-stacked methods respectively, and in both cases the needle content in the processed logging residues was approximately 10%. However, the total amount of fine fractions (needles and fines) was slightly higher following dried-stacking.
Postcolonial Trauma Theory in the Contact Zone: The Strategic Representation of Grief in Edwidge Danticat’s Claire of the Sea Light
Authors: Martínez-Falquina Silvia
Published: November 2015

This article starts by engaging in a dialogue with the most relevant postcolonial emendations to trauma theory, addressed to both its aporetic and its therapeutic trends, and it goes on to reflect on the state of the decolonizing trauma theory project, critically examining the motivations behind it as well as some of the problems it still encounters, like the risk of objectification and revictimization of postcolonial peoples, the blurring of their trauma particularities, and the appropriation of their experience. Then, it proposes an alternative understanding of postcolonial trauma theory as a contact zone where trauma criticism and the postcolony are interrelated and mutually transformed, and where unequal power relations are also attended to. Acknowledging the postcolony as a site of theory production rather than the object of external definition, it proceeds to analyze Edwidge Danticat’s short story cycle Claire of the Sea Light: its strategic representation of grief—which she achieves through the short story cycle structure and overall in-betweenness and ambivalence in symbols and characterization—puts Haitians on the critical map of trauma, fighting invisibility and oblivion, but it simultaneously resists an appropriation of Haitian experience by rejecting any monolithic view on Haiti and refusing to fit into a predetermined template.
Air Pollution Exposure and Physical Activity in China: Current Knowledge, Public Health Implications, and Future Research Needs
Authors: Lü Jiaojiao , Liang Leichao , Feng Yi , Li Rena , Liu Yu
Published: November 2015

Deteriorating air quality in China has created global public health concerns in regard to health and health-related behaviors. Although emerging environmental regulations address ambient air pollution in China, the level of enforcement and long-term impact of these measures remain unknown. Exposure to air pollution has been shown to lead to multiple adverse health outcomes, including increased rates of heart disease and mortality. However, a lesser-known but increasingly significant concern is the relationship between air pollution and its effects on outdoor exercise. This is especially important in China, which has a culturally rooted lifestyle that encourages participation in outdoor physical activity. This article evaluates the intersection of air pollution and outdoor exercise and provides a discussion of issues related to its public health impact in China, where efforts to promote a healthy lifestyle may be adversely affected by the ambient air pollution that has accompanied rapid economic development and urbanization.
The Effects of the Urban Built Environment on Mental Health: A Cohort Study in a Large Northern Italian City
Authors: Melis Giulia , Gelormino Elena , Marra Giulia , Ferracin Elisa , Costa Giuseppe
Published: November 2015

Mental health (MH) has a relevant burden on the health of populations. Common MH disorders (anxiety and non-psychotic depression) are well associated to socioeconomic individual and neighborhood characteristics, but little is known about the influence of urban structure. We analyzed among a Turin (Northwest Italy) urban population the association at area level of different urban structure characteristics (density, accessibility by public transport, accessibility to services, green and public spaces) and consumption of antidepressants. Estimates were adjusted by individual socio-demographic variables (education, housing tenure, employment) and contextual social environment (SE) variables (social and physical disorder, crime rates). Data was extracted from the Turin Longitudinal Study (TLS)—a census-based cohort study following up prospectively the mortality and morbidity of the population. As expected, individual characteristics show the strongest association with antidepressant drug consumption, while among built environment (BE) indicators accessibility by public transport and urban density only are associated to MH, being slightly protective factors. Results from this study, in agreement with previous literature, suggest that BE has a stronger effect on MH for people who spend more time in the neighborhood. Therefore, this research suggests that good accessibility to public transport, as well as a dense urban structure (versus sprawl), could contribute to reduced risk of depression, especially for women and elderly, by increasing opportunities to move around and have an active social life.
Radon Exposure Assessment and Relative Effective Dose Estimation to Inhabitants of Puglia Region, South Italy
Authors: Quarto Maria , Pugliese Mariagabriella , La Verde Giuseppe , Loffredo Filomena , Roca Vincenzo
Published: November 2015

Indoor radon concentrations were measured in dwellings of the Puglia region in Southern Italy using LR-115 passive detectors. The results show that the radon concentrations varied from 15 ± 2 to 2166 ± 133 Bq/m3 with a geometric mean of 114 Bq/m3 and a geometric standard deviation of 2.3. An analysis on the factors affecting radon concentration such as age of the dwellings, floors, and stories, was performed. The mean effective dose to inhabitants has been calculated and found to be 8.2 mSv/y. Finally, for estimation of cancer risks, the lifetime risk and lung cancer cases per years per million have been calculated.
Application of Wnt Pathway Inhibitor Delivering Scaffold for Inhibiting Fibrosis in Urethra Strictures: In Vitro and in Vivo Study
Authors: Zhang Kaile , Guo Xuran , Zhao Weixin , Niu Guoguang , Mo Xiumei , Fu Qiang
Published: November 2015

Objective: To evaluate the mechanical property and biocompatibility of the Wnt pathway inhibitor (ICG-001) delivering collagen/poly(l-lactide-co-caprolactone) (P(LLA-CL)) scaffold for urethroplasty, and also the feasibility of inhibiting the extracellular matrix (ECM) expression in vitro and in vivo. Methods: ICG-001 (1 mg (2 mM)) was loaded into a (P(LLA-CL)) scaffold with the co-axial electrospinning technique. The characteristics of the mechanical property and drug release fashion of scaffolds were tested with a mechanical testing machine (Instron) and high-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC). Rabbit bladder epithelial cells and the dermal fibroblasts were isolated by enzymatic digestion method. (3-(4,5-Dimethylthiazol-2-yl)-2,5-Diphenyltetrazolium Bromide (MTT) assay) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) were used to evaluate the viability and proliferation of the cells on the scaffolds. Fibrolasts treated with TGF-β1 and ICG-001 released medium from scaffolds were used to evaluate the anti-fibrosis effect through immunofluorescence, real time PCR and western blot. Urethrography and histology were used to evaluate the efficacy of urethral implantation. Results: The scaffold delivering ICG-001 was fabricated, the fiber diameter and mechanical strength of scaffolds with inhibitor were comparable with the non-drug scaffold. The SEM and MTT assay showed no toxic effect of ICG-001 to the proliferation of epithelial cells on the collagen/P(LLA-CL) scaffold with ICG-001. After treatment with culture medium released from the drug-delivering scaffold, the expression of Collagen type 1, 3 and fibronectin of fibroblasts could be inhibited significantly at the mRNA and protein levels. In the results of urethrography, urethral strictures and fistulas were found in the rabbits treated with non-ICG-001 delivering scaffolds, but all the rabbits treated with ICG-001-delivering scaffolds showed wide caliber in urethras. Histology results showed less collagen but more smooth muscle and thicker epithelium in urethras repaired with ICG-001 delivering scaffolds. Conclusion: After loading with the Wnt signal pathway inhibitor ICG-001, the Collagen/P(LLA-CL) scaffold could facilitate a decrease in the ECM deposition of fibroblasts. The ICG-001 delivering Collagen/P(LLA-CL) nanofibrous scaffold seeded with epithelial cells has the potential to be a promising substitute material for urethroplasty. Longer follow-up study in larger animals is needed in the future.
Metabolite Profile of Cervicovaginal Fluids from Early Pregnancy Is Not Predictive of Spontaneous Preterm Birth
Authors: Thomas Melinda , Sulek Karolina , McKenzie Elizabeth , Jones Beatrix , Han Ting-Li , Villas-Boas Silas , Kenny Louise , McCowan Lesley , Baker Philip
Published: November 2015

In our study, we used a mass spectrometry-based metabolomic approach to search for biomarkers that may act as early indicators of spontaneous preterm birth (sPTB). Samples were selected as a nested case-control study from the Screening for Pregnancy Endpoints (SCOPE) biobank in Auckland, New Zealand. Cervicovaginal swabs were collected at 20 weeks from women who were originally assessed as being at low risk of sPTB. Samples were analysed using gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). Despite the low amount of biomass (16–23 mg), 112 compounds were detected. Statistical analysis showed no significant correlations with sPTB. Comparison of reported infection and plasma inflammatory markers from early pregnancy showed two inflammatory markers were correlated with reported infection, but no correlation with any compounds in the metabolite profile was observed. We hypothesise that the lack of biomarkers of sPTB in the cervicovaginal fluid metabolome is simply because it lacks such markers in early pregnancy. We propose alternative biofluids be investigated for markers of sPTB. Our results lead us to call for greater scrutiny of previously published metabolomic data relating to biomarkers of sPTB in cervicovaginal fluids, as the use of small, high risk, or late pregnancy cohorts may identify metabolite biomarkers that are irrelevant for predicting risk in normal populations.
Safety Profile of TiO2-Based Photocatalytic Nanofabrics for Indoor Formaldehyde Degradation
Authors: Cui Guixin , Xin Yan , Jiang Xin , Dong Mengqi , Li Junling , Wang Peng , Zhai Shumei , Dong Yongchun , Jia Jianbo , Yan Bing
Published: November 2015

Anatase TiO2 nanoparticles (TNPs) are synthesized using the sol-gel method and loaded onto the surface of polyester-cotton (65/35) fabrics. The nanofabrics degrade formaldehyde at an efficiency of 77% in eight hours with visible light irradiation or 97% with UV light. The loaded TNPs display very little release from nanofabrics (~0.0%) during a standard fastness to rubbing test. Assuming TNPs may fall off nanofabrics during their life cycles, we also examine the possible toxicity of TNPs to human cells. We found that up to a concentration of 220 μg/mL, they do not affect viability of human acute monocytic leukemia cell line THP-1 macrophages and human liver and kidney cells.
Redox Roles of Reactive Oxygen Species in Cardiovascular Diseases
Authors: He Feng , Zuo Li
Published: November 2015

Cardiovascular disease (CVD), a major cause of mortality in the world, has been extensively studied over the past decade. However, the exact mechanism underlying its pathogenesis has not been fully elucidated. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) play a pivotal role in the progression of CVD. Particularly, ROS are commonly engaged in developing typical characteristics of atherosclerosis, one of the dominant CVDs. This review will discuss the involvement of ROS in atherosclerosis, specifically their effect on inflammation, disturbed blood flow and arterial wall remodeling. Pharmacological interventions target ROS in order to alleviate oxidative stress and CVD symptoms, yet results are varied due to the paradoxical role of ROS in CVD. Lack of effectiveness in clinical trials suggests that understanding the exact role of ROS in the pathophysiology of CVD and developing novel treatments, such as antioxidant gene therapy and nanotechnology-related antioxidant delivery, could provide a therapeutic advance in treating CVDs. While genetic therapies focusing on specific antioxidant expression seem promising in CVD treatments, multiple technological challenges exist precluding its immediate clinical applications.
Epigenetic Repression of miR-218 Promotes Esophageal Carcinogenesis by Targeting ROBO1
Authors: Yang Miao , Liu Ran , Li Xiajun , Liao Juan , Pu Yuepu , Pan Enchun , Wang Yi , Yin Lihong
Published: November 2015

miR-218, consisting of miR-218-1 at 4p15.31 and miR-218-2 at 5q35.1, was significantly decreased in esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) in our previous study. The aim of this study was to determine whether aberrant methylation is associated with miR-218 repression. Bisulfite sequencing analysis (BSP), methylation specific PCR (MSP), and 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine treatment assay were applied to determine the methyaltion status of miR-218 in cells and clinical samples. In vitro assays were performed to explore the role of miR-218. Results showed that miR-218-1 was significantly CpG hypermethylated in tumor tissues (81%, 34/42) compared with paired non-tumor tissues (33%, 14/42) (p < 0.05). However, no statistical difference was found in miR-218-2. Accordingly, expression of miR-218 was negatively correlated with miR-218-1 methylation status (p < 0.05). After demethylation treatment by 5-aza-2′-deoxycytidine, there was a 2.53- and 2.40-fold increase of miR-218 expression in EC109 and EC9706, respectively. miR-218 suppressed cell proliferation and arrested cells at G1 phase by targeting 3′ untranslated region (3′UTR) of roundabout guidance receptor 1 (ROBO1). A negative correlation was found between miR-218 and ROBO1 mRNA expression in clinical samples. In conclusion, our results support that aberrant CpG hypermethylation at least partly accounts for miR-218 silencing in ESCC, which impairs its tumor-suppressive function.
Effects of Monotypic and Binary Mixtures of Metal Oxide Nanoparticles on Microbial Growth in Sandy Soil Collected from Artificial Recharge Sites
Authors: Ko Kyung-Seok , Ha Kyoochul , Kong In
Published: November 2015

The potential effects of monotypic and binary metal oxide nanoparticles (NPs, ZnO, NiO, Co3O4 and TiO2) on microbial growth were evaluated in sandy soil collected from artificial recharge sites. Microbial growth was assessed based on adenosine triphosphate (ATP) content, dehydrogenase activity (DHA), and viable cell counts (VCC). Microbial growth based on ATP content and VCC showed considerable differences depending on NP type and concentration, whereas DHA did not significantly change. In general, ZnO NPs showed the strongest effect on microbial growth in all measurements, showing an EC50 value of 10.9 mg/L for ATP content. The ranking (EC50) of NPs based on their effect on microbial growth assessed by ATP content and VCC was ZnO > Co3O4 > NiO > TiO2. Upon exposure to binary NP mixtures, synergistic and additive modes of action were observed for ATP content and VCC, respectively. The ranges of observed (P(O)) and expected (P(E)) activity were 83%–92% and 78%–82% of the control (p-value 0.0010) based on ATP content and 78%–95% and 72%–94% of the control (p-value 0.8813) based on VCC under the tested conditions, respectively. The results indicate that the effects of NP mixtures on microbial growth in the sandy soil matrix were as great, or greater, than those of single NPs. Therefore, understanding the effects of single NPs and NP mixtures is essential for proper ecological risk assessment. Additionally, these findings demonstrate that the evaluation of NP effects may be profoundly influenced by the method of microbial growth measurement.