bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Vector monitoring of Aedes aegypti in the Autonomous Region of Madeira, Portugal
Authors: Almeida A PG , Gonçalves Y M , Novo M T , Sousa C A , Melim M , Gracio A JS
Published: October 2017

In 2004, the human population in the Santa Luzia division of the city of Funchal, Madeira, complained of aggressive mosquito biting that leftlarge skin papules.
H5N1 in wild and domestic birds in Europe – remaining vigilant in response to an ongoing public health threat
Authors: Needham H , Influenza team (ECDC) Collective
Published: October 2017

Since the emergence of A/H5N1 in the winter of 2005-2006 at the border of the European Union (EU), including human cases in Turkey, the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) has developed assessments on the public health risks from A/H5N1, and guidance on how to protect those that may be exposed to the virus.
Local cluster of psittacosis after bird show in the Netherlands, November 2007
Authors: Koene R , Hautvast J , Züchner L , Voorn P , Rooyackers-Lemmens E , Noel H , Swaan C
Published: October 2017

On 14 November 2007, a general practitioner in the Nijmegen region of the Netherlands called the Municipal Health Service (MHS). He reported three patients complaining of high fever, vomiting, diarrhoea, and headache, all of whom had visited a bird show in the rural town of Weurt (village of Beuningen).
AURES – the first Austrian report on antimicrobial resistance – perspective of the human sector
Authors: Strauss R , Muchl R , Metz-Gercek S , Sagl M , Allerberger F , Hrabcik H , Mittermayer H
Published: October 2017

The first epidemiological report on communicable diseases in Europe published by the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control (ECDC) identified antibiotic resistance and nosocomial infections as one of the major threats in public health in the future.
PENERAPAN MOTION TWEEN UNTUK ANIMASI DUA DIMENSI RUTE PERJALANAN BUS TRANS JOGJA
Authors: Nugrahenny Dwi , Honggowibowo Anton Setiawan , Mukti Mega Lesya
Published: October 2017

Transportation  is  one  of  the  important  aspects  in  a  region,  where  public transportation  take  effect  on  the  mobility  of  the  people.  To  achieve  a  good transportation can be create, so that the infrastructure and other supporting factors are  needed. Yogyakarta municipality  area  has  a lot  of  public transportasion,  one  of them  is  “Trans  Jogja”  bus,  where  each  bus  line  has  its  route  to  reach  any destination.  It  is  needed  a  supporting  media  that  can  provide  information  about  the route for each bus line so that people can be easily deciding which bus line that can use to reach their destination. Those information presented in the form of animation with  an  interesting  and  informative  media.  The  use  of  animation  as  an  information media  that  shown  as  a  route  trip,  bus  line  including  bus  stop  and  departing passangers  place  assessed  can  be  use  as  one  of  the  other  option  for  obtaining information except from a conventional map.
IMPLEMENTASI FUZZY TOPSIS DALAM PERENCANAAN STRATEGI BISNIS
Authors: Wulandari Fera Tri
Published: October 2017

Strategic planning is done in order to the company can look at it objectively internal and external conditions that the company can anticipate changes in the external environment. Strategic planning begins with the introduction of the company's vision and mission in order to determine which company will produce an overview of the internal and external environment. Furthermore conduct a SWOT analysis to formulate appropriate strategic alternatives to position the company. The last stage is the decision-making strategies using Fuzzy Quantitive Strategic Planning Matrix (FQSPM) to determine and select the best strategy from a number of alternative strategies given certain criteria using Fuzzy Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to Ideal. Solution (FTOPSIS). Results of the determination of the strategy chosen by the fuzzy TOPSIS for furniture company is intelegent increased marketing and promotional products.
ALAT PEMANTAU KENDARAAN BERBASIS GPS DENGAN FITUR LOKAL DAN SMS PINTAR
Authors: Wibowo Teguh
Published: October 2017

Nowadays, the development of the automotive industry in Indonesia is increasing followed by high number of motor vehicle theft. In order to reduce the motor vehicle theft case, a Global Positioning System (GPS) based instrument in motor vehicle is investigated to monitor the location of vehicles. This instrument will be run if there are a phone signal from provider and GPS signal from satellite. The method is that the owner sends a text to the destination number installed in the instrument. There are some codes needed to be paired to the instrument. If the code is matched, instrument will reply the text automatically based on the program installed in the instrument. This instrument has many advantages, such as could give the location accurately with an error less than 5 meters, could turn off the vehicle, could give an information if the vehicle is stolen, and also could record the conversations while the vehicles are in use. This instrument is also improved by installing the local language (Indonesian) and features which meet the owner requirements. Generally, it could be concluded that this instrument really helps the rider or owner from motor vehicle theft. Good response and accurate location given by the instrument verified by the finding of lost vehicle showed that this instrument could be applied and important if it is applied in the motor vehicles.
Membangun Cloud Computing Memanfaatkan Google Drive Untuk Meningkatkan Layanan Akademik
Authors: Wintolo Hero , Purnamasari Derry
Published: October 2017

As one of the products of google, google drive software can be worn and used by computer users who have access to the Internet by using a gmail account. With this account also users of android based smartphone which is also a product of google google drive can access using the equipment. The easier and cheapness of the equipment that is used as cloud computing services to support the academy. This service is an application of academic information used by parents of students to access academic information in the form of academic data. The main source of data from a web server and is designed to upload data automatically academic on google drive, so that data can be read by users who have android smartphone. Academic data that can be seen in the form of pdf format. The software that is made is also tested by utilizing a user who has access to the service academies. The test results showed that the existing data on google drive in accordance with the student registration number is entered and accessed on android smartphone and a value is given using questionnaires and calculated the Likert method was 81.57%.
The Effects Of Mixing And Curing On Morphological And Mechanical Properties Of Epoxy-Albasia Composites
Authors: Pratiwi Henny
Published: October 2017

This research is aimed to know the effect of mixing time, mixing speed and curing temperature on morphological and mechanical properties of epoxy-albasia wood fiber composites. The method used in the manufacturing process was hand lay-up method. The fibers with 30 mesh and 25% volume fraction are mixed with epoxy for the time variations of 15 and 45 minutes by speed variation of 695 rpm, 773 rpm, and 853 rpm. In order to investigate the effects of curing temperature, the same mixture was blended manually for 20 minutes and cured with the temperature variation of 40, 50, 60, 70 and 800C. Experimental results show that mixing the fiber and matrix with the speed of 695 rpm for 15 minutes increases the tensile strength but slightly declines the impact strength. This phenomenon could be possibly caused by the longer the mixing time, the higher the amount of foreign particles entered into the mixture that could affect its properties. Both the tensile and impact tests show that the temperature of 80oC is the optimum curing temperature for epoxy-albasia wood fiber composites. Crack deﬂection presented by Scanning Electron Microscopy (SEM) micrographs results in an increase in the crack propagation path and in the energy-dissipating events in the region immediately ahead of the crack tip.
Desain Dan Animasi 3D Pesawat Terbang Menggunakan Teknik NURBS
Authors: Retnowati Nurcahyani Dewi
Published: October 2017

Abstract— 3D computer graphics are often referred to as 3D modeling is the process of developing a mathematical representation of any three-dimensional surface of an object (either inanimate or living) via specialized software. The design of aircraft at the present time can use a variety of methods one using software Blender and NURBS technique. In the manufacture of aircraft models used animation production process flow is divided into three stages: pre-production, production and post-production. Pre-production stage such as modeling, texturing, rigging. Stage productions such as animating, lighting, rendering. In the manufacture of pre-production stage takes precision accuracy settings using NURBS techniques. While in the post-production stage that is animating, lighting and rendering is done by using video editing blender. Keywords—NURBS Technique, design, 3D animation
Study of Portal Vein Diameter and Spleen Size by Ultrasonography and Their Association with Gastro-esophageal Varices
Authors: Bhattarai Subash , Gyawali M , Dewan KR , Shrestha G , Patowary BS , Sharma P
Published: October 2017

Introduction: Upper Gastro-intestinal endoscopy is considered the best screening tool for varices in cirrhotic patients. It is still an expensive, invasive tool, has poor compliance and not routinely available in every hospitals in Nepal. This study was undertaken to establish the role of portal vein diameter and spleen size by ultrasonography in predicting gastro-esophageal varices.Method: One hundred and fifty patients with clinical features, laboratory and sonological findings suggestive of cirrhosis of liver and endoscopic evidence of portal hypertension were included in the study. Ultrasonography assessments of portal vein diameter and spleen size alongside endoscopy for detection of varices were done.Result: Average portal vein diameter of patients without gastro-esophageal varices was 10.800 ± 1.1402 mm, while it was 13.731 ± 1.061mm in patients with varices(p<0.001). Average spleen size of patients without varices was 12.67 ± 2.35 cm and with varices was 15.367 ± 1.210 cm (p < 0.001). There was 92.72 % sensitivity and 90 % specificity for prediction for presence of esophageal varices when the cutoff value for portal vein diameter was 12.25 mm. There was 94.5 % sensitivity and 75 % specificity for prediction for presence of esophageal varices when the cutoff value for spleen size was 13.9 cm.Conclusion: Ultrasonography of portal vein diameter and spleen size is a reliable non invasive tool in predicting the presence of gastro-esophageal varices in patients with liver cirrhosis. With increase in portal vein diameter and spleen size, risk of formation of gastro-esophageal varices also increases and positive correlations exist between them. Nepalese Journal of Radiology, VOL 4 No. 2 ISSUE 7 July-December, 2014: 6-14
Activation of the Notch-1 signaling pathway may be involved in intracerebral hemorrhage–induced reactive astrogliosis in rats
Authors: Zhong Jian-Hua , Zhou Hua-Jun , Tang Tao , Cui Han-Jin , Yang A-Li , Zhang Qi-Mei , Zhou Jing-Hua , Zhang Qiang , Gong Xun , Zhang Zhao-Hui , Mei Zhi-Gang
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE

Reactive astrogliosis, a key feature that is characterized by glial proliferation, has been observed in rat brains after intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH). However, the mechanisms that control reactive astrogliosis formation remain unknown. Notch-1 signaling plays a critical role in modulating reactive astrogliosis. The purpose of this paper was to establish whether Notch-1 signaling is involved in reactive astrogliosis after ICH.

METHODS

ICH was induced in adult male Sprague-Dawley rats via stereotactic injection of autologous blood into the right globus pallidus. N-[N-(3,5-difluorophenacetyl)-l-alanyl]-S-phenylglycine t-butyl ester (DAPT) was injected into the lateral ventricle to block Notch-1 signaling. The rats’ brains were perfused to identify proliferating cell nuclear antigen (PCNA)-positive/GFAP-positive nuclei. The expression of GFAP, Notch-1, and the activated form of Notch-1 (Notch intracellular domain [NICD]) and its ligand Jagged-1 was assessed using immunohistochemical and Western blot analyses, respectively.

RESULTS

Notch-1 signaling was upregulated and activated after ICH as confirmed by an increase in the expression of Notch-1 and NICD and its ligand Jagged-1. Remarkably, blockade of Notch-1 signaling with the specific inhibitor DAPT suppressed astrocytic proliferation and GFAP levels caused by ICH. In addition, DAPT improved neurological outcome after ICH.

CONCLUSIONS

Notch-1 signaling is a critical regulator of ICH-induced reactive astrogliosis, and its blockage may be a potential therapeutic strategy for hemorrhagic injury.
Subarachnoid hemorrhage after surgical treatment of unruptured intracranial aneurysms
Authors: Matsukawa Hidetoshi , Kamiyama Hiroyasu , Tsuboi Toshiyuki , Noda Kosumo , Ota Nakao , Miyata Shiro , Miyazaki Takanori , Kinoshita Yu , Saito Norihiro , Takahashi Osamu , Takeda Rihee , Tokuda Sadahisa , Tanikawa Rokuya
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE

Only a few previous studies have investigated subarachnoid hemorrhage (SAH) after surgical treatment in patients with unruptured intracranial aneurysms (UIAs). Given the improvement in long-term outcomes of embolization, more extensive data are needed concerning the true rupture rates after microsurgery in order to provide reliable information for treatment decisions. The purpose of this study was to investigate the incidence of and risk factors for postoperative SAH in patients with surgically treated UIAs.

METHODS

Data from 702 consecutive patients harboring 852 surgically treated UIAs were evaluated. Surgical treatments included neck clipping (complete or incomplete), coating/wrapping, trapping, proximal occlusion, and bypass surgery. Clippable UIAs were defined as UIAs treated by complete neck clipping. The annual incidence of postoperative SAH and risk factors for SAH were studied using Kaplan-Meier survival analysis and Cox proportional hazards regression models.

RESULTS

The patients’ median age was 64 years (interquartile range [IQR] 56–71 years). Of 852 UIAs, 767 were clippable and 85 were not. The mean duration of follow-up was 731 days (SD 380 days). During 1708 aneurysm years, there were 4 episodes of SAH, giving an overall average annual incidence rate of 0.23% (95% CI 0.12%–0.59%) and an average annual incidence rate of 0.065% (95% CI 0.0017%–0.37%) for clippable UIAs (1 episode of SAH, 1552 aneurysm-years). Basilar artery location (adjusted hazard ratio [HR] 23, 95% CI 2.0–255, p = 0.0012) and unclippable UIA status (adjusted HR 15, 95% CI 1.1–215, p = 0.046) were significantly related to postoperative SAH. An excellent outcome (modified Rankin Scale score of 0 or 1) was achieved in 816 (95.7%) of 852 cases overall and in 748 (98%) of 767 clippable UIAs at 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

In this large case series, microsurgical treatment of UIAs was found to be safe and effective. Aneurysm location and unclippable morphologies were related to postoperative SAH in patients with surgically treated UIAs.
Adenosine-induced cardiac arrest as an alternative to temporary clipping during intracranial aneurysm surgery
Authors: Intarakhao Patcharin , Thiarawat Peeraphong , Rezai Jahromi Behnam , Kozyrev Danil A. , Teo Mario K. , Choque-Velasquez Joham , Luostarinen Teemu , Hernesniemi Juha
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to analyze the impact of adenosine-induced cardiac arrest (AiCA) on temporary clipping (TC) and the postoperative cerebral infarction rate among patients undergoing intracranial aneurysm surgery.

METHODS

In this retrospective matched-cohort study, 65 patients who received adenosine for decompression of aneurysms during microsurgical clipping were identified (Group A) and randomly matched with 65 selected patients who underwent clipping but did not receive adenosine during surgery (Group B). The matching criteria included age, Fisher grade, aneurysm size, rupture status, and location of aneurysms. The primary outcomes were TC time and the postoperative infarction rate. The secondary outcome was the incidence of intraoperative aneurysm rupture (IAR).

RESULTS

In Group A, 40 patients underwent clipping with AiCA alone and 25 patients (38%) received AiCA combined with TC, and in Group B, 60 patients (92%) underwent aneurysm clipping under the protection of TC (OR 0.052; 95% CI 0.018–0.147; p < 0.001). Group A required less TC time (2.04 minutes vs 4.46 minutes; p < 0.001). The incidence of postoperative lacunar infarction was equal in both groups (6.2%). There was an insignificant between-group difference in the incidence of IAR (1.5% in Group A vs 6.1% in Group B; OR 0.238; 95% CI 0.026–2.192; p = 0.171).

CONCLUSIONS

AiCA is a useful technique for microneurosurgical treatment of cerebral aneurysms. AiCA can minimize the use of TC and does not increase the risk of IAR and postoperative infarction.
Direct versus indirect revascularization in the treatment of moyamoya disease
Authors: Park Seong-eun , Kim Ju-seong , Park Eun Kyung , Shim Kyu-Won , Kim Dong-Seok
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE

For patients with moyamoya disease (MMD), surgical intervention is usually required because of progressive occlusion of the internal carotid artery. The indirect bypass method has been widely accepted as the treatment of choice in pediatric patients. However, in adult patients with MMD, the most effective treatment method remains a matter of debate. Here, the authors compared the clinical outcomes from MMD patients treated with either extracranial-intracranial arterial bypass (EIAB; 43 hemispheres) or modified encephaloduroarteriosynangiosis (mEDAS; 75 hemispheres) to investigate whether mEDAS is an effective surgical method for treating adults with symptomatic MMD.

METHODS

A comparative analysis was performed in patients treated using either mEDAS or EIAB. Collateral grading, collateral vein counting, and symptom analysis were used to assess the outcome of surgery.

RESULTS

Seventy-seven percent (58/75) of mEDAS cases and 83.7% (36/43) of EIAB cases in the analysis experienced improvement in their symptoms after surgery. Furthermore, patients in 98.7% (74/75) of mEDAS cases and those in 95.3% (41/43) of EIAB cases exhibited improved collateral grades. Increases in regions of perfusion were seen after both procedures.

CONCLUSIONS

Modified EDAS and EIAB both result in positive outcomes for symptomatic adults with MMD. However, when considering the benefit of both surgeries, the authors propose mEDAS, a simpler and less strenuous surgery with a lower risk of complications, as a sufficient and safe treatment option for symptomatic adults with MMD.
Surgical site infection after transoral versus posterior approach for atlantoaxial fusion: a matched-cohort study
Authors: Macki Mohamed , Basheer Azam , Lee Ian , Kather Ryan , Rubinfeld Ilan , Abdulhak Muwaffak M.
Published: October 2017

OBJECTIVE

In the past, spine surgeons have avoided the transoral approach to the atlantoaxial segment because of concerns for unacceptable patient morbidity. The objective of this study was to measure 30-day postoperative complications, especially surgical site infection (SSI), after transoral versus posterior approach to atlantoaxial fusion.

METHODS

The source population was provided by the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program database, which was queried for all patients who underwent atlantoaxial fusion for degenerative/spondylotic disease and/or trauma between 2005 and 2014. To eliminate bias from unequal sample sizes, patients who underwent the transoral approach were matched with patients who underwent the posterior approach (generally 1:5 ratio) based on age ± 5 years and modified frailty index score (a measure of preoperative comorbidity burden). Because of rare SSI incidence, adjusted odds ratios (ORadj) of SSI were calculated using penalized maximum likelihood estimation.

RESULTS

A total of 318 patients were included in the study. There were no statistically significant differences between the transoral cohort (n = 56) and the posterior cohort (n = 262) in terms of 30-day postoperative individual complications, including SSI (1.79% vs 1.91%; p = 0.951) and composite complications (10.71% vs 6.87%; p = 0.323). Controlling for sex and smoking, the odds of SSI in the transoral approach were almost equal to the odds in the posterior approach (ORadj 1.17; p = 0.866). While the unplanned reoperation rate of 5.36% after transoral surgery was higher than the 1.53% rate after posterior surgery, the difference approached, but did not reach, statistical significance (p = 0.076).

CONCLUSIONS

Transoral versus posterior surgery for atlantoaxial fusion did not differ in 30-day unexpected outcomes. Therefore, spinal pathology, rather than concern for postoperative complications, should adjudicate the technical approach to the atlantoaxial segment.
Prevalence of Clostridium Difficile Infection in Patients After Radical Cystectomy and Neoadjuvant Chemotherapy
Authors: Cotter Katherine J. , Fan Yunhua , Sieger Gretchen K. , Weight Christopher J. , Konety Badrinath R.
Published: October 2017

Background and Objectives:

Clostridium Difficile is the most common cause of nosocomial infectious diarrhea. This study evaluates the prevalence and predictors of Clostridium Difficile infections in patients undergoing radical cystectomy with or without neoadjuvant chemotherapy.

Methods:

Retrospective chart review was performed of all patients undergoing cystectomy and urinary diversion at a single institution from 2011–2017. Infection was documented in all cases with testing for Clostridium Difficile polymerase chain reaction toxin B. Patient and disease related factors were compared for those who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy vs. those who did not in order to identify potential risk factors associated with C. Difficile infections. Chi squared test and logistic regression analysis were used to determine statistical significance.

Results:

Of 350 patients who underwent cystectomy, 41 (11.7%) developed Clostridium Difficile in the 30 day post-operative period. The prevalence of C. Difficile infection was higher amongst the patients undergoing cystectomy compared to the non-cystectomy admissions at our hospital (11.7 vs. 2.9%). Incidence was not significantly different among those who underwent cystectomy for bladder cancer versus those who underwent the procedure for other reasons. Median time to diagnosis was 6 days (range 3–28 days). The prevalence of C. Diff infections was not significantly different among those who received neoadjuvant chemotherapy vs. those who did not (11% vs. 10.4% p = 0.72). A significant association between C. Difficile infection was not seen with proton pump inhibitor use ( p = 0.48), patient BMI ( p = 0.67), chemotherapeutic regimen ( p = 0.94), individual surgeon ( p = 0.54), type of urinary diversion (0.41), or peri-operative antibiotic redosing ( p = 0.26).

Conclusions:

Clostridium Difficile infection has a higher prevalence in patients undergoing cystectomy. No significant association between prevalence and exposure to neoadjuvant chemotherapy was seen.
Productive and reproductive performances of indigenous chicken in the rural condition of Bangladesh
Authors: Jahan S , Islam F , Bhuiyan MSA , Bhuiyan AKFH
Published: October 2017

The study was aimed at investigating the productive and reproductive performances of the rural chicken in Bangladesh. A total of 200 indigenous chickens in the villages of Sherpur district in Bangladesh was used in this study to collect the data on body weight at hatch (BWH), body weight at sexual maturity (BWS), body weight gain up to sexual maturity (BSBG), body weight gain from sexual maturity to one year of age (BYSG), body weight at one year of age (BWY), age at sexual maturity (AGSX), eggs per clutch (EGC), clutches per year (CLY), hatchability (HATCH) and survivability (SURV). The data showed that cap headed (CH) chickens were good meat producer (1027.14±25.32g meat at one year of age), and Non-Descript Deshi (ND) chickens were good egg producer with 12.03±0.11 eggs per clutch and 4.15±0.07 clutches per year, respectively. The effects of village, sex and type of birds on AGSX of indigenous chickens were significant but, only the effects of chicken type on EGC were significant (P<0.01). At present study, most of growth and reproductive traits found positively correlated and this might be suggestive that selection for one trait would affect the other positively. These results could be used as a guideline for planning, conservation and improvement of indigenous chickens of Bangladesh.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2017. 46 (2): 121-127
Impact of the Complementarity between Variable Generation Resources and Load on the Flexibility of the Korean Power System
Authors: Min Chang-Gi , Kim Mun-Kyeom
Published: October 2017

This study examines the effect of the complementarity between the variable generation resources (VGRs) and the load on the flexibility of the power system. The complementarity may change the ramping capability requirement, and thereby, the flexibility. This effect is quantified using a flexibility index called the ramping capability shortage expectation (RSE). The flexibility is evaluated for different VGR mix scenarios under the same VGR penetration level, and an optimal VGR mix (i.e., one that maximizes flexibility) is obtained. The effect of the complementarity of the wind and PV outputs on the flexibility is investigated for the peak-load day of 2016 for the Korean power system. The result shows that the RSE value for the optimal VGR mix scenario is 6.95% larger than that for the original mix scenario.
Optimal and Learning-Based Demand Response Mechanism for Electric Water Heater System
Authors: Lin Bo , Li Shuhui , Xiao Yang
Published: October 2017

This paper investigates how to develop a learning-based demand response approach for electric water heater in a smart home that can minimize the energy cost of the water heater while meeting the comfort requirements of energy consumers. First, a learning-based, data-driven model of an electric water heater is developed by using a nonlinear autoregressive network with external input (NARX) using neural network. The model is updated daily so that it can more accurately capture the actual thermal dynamic characteristics of the water heater especially in real-life conditions. Then, an optimization problem, based on the NARX water heater model, is formulated to optimize energy management of the water heater in a day-ahead, dynamic electricity price framework. A genetic algorithm is proposed in order to solve the optimization problem more efficiently. MATLAB (R2016a) is used to evaluate the proposed learning-based demand response approach through a computational experiment strategy. The proposed approach is compared with conventional method for operation of an electric water heater. Cost saving and benefits of the proposed water heater energy management strategy are explored.
CO2 Storage Capacity for Multi-Well Pads Scheme in Depleted Shale Gas Reservoirs
Authors: Meng Zhan , Yang Shenglai , Wang Lu , Zou Jie , Jiang Yun , Liang Chenggang , Wang Junru , Zhong Ziyao
Published: October 2017

As a promising technology to improve shale gas (SG) recovery and CO2 storage capacity, the multi-well pads (MWPs) scheme has gained more and more attention. The semi-analytical pressure-buildup method has been used to estimate CO2 storage capacity. It focuses on single multi-fractured horizontal wells (SMFHWs) and does not consider multi-well pressure interference (MWPI) induced by the MWPs scheme. This severely limits the application of this method as incidences of multi-well pressure interference have been widely reported. This paper proposed a new methodology to optimize the injection strategy of the MWPs scheme and maximize CO2 storage capacity. The new method implements numerical discretization, the superposition theory, Gauss elimination, and the Stehfest numerical algorithm to obtain pressure-buildup solutions for the MWPs scheme. The solution by the new method was validated with numerical simulation and pressure-buildup curves were generated to identify MWPI. Using the new method, we observed that the fracture number and fracture half-length have a positive influence on CO2 storage capacity. Both can be approximately related to the CO2 storage capacity by a linear correlation. For a given injection pressure, there is an optimal fracture number; the bigger the limited injection pressure, the smaller the optimal fracture number. Stress sensitivity has positive influences on CO2 storage capacity, thus extending the injection period would improve CO2 storage capacity. This work gains some insights into the CO2 storage capacity of the MWPs scheme in depleted SG reservoirs, and provides considerable guidance on injection strategies to maximize CO2 storage capacity in depleted SG reservoirs.
Testing Open-Air Storage of Stumps to Provide Clean Biomass for Energy Production
Authors: Pari Luigi , Scarfone Antonio , Alfano Vincenzo , Bergonzoli Simone , Gallucci Francesco , Santangelo Enrico
Published: October 2017

When orchards reach the end of the productive cycle, the stumps removal becomes a mandatory operation to allow new soil preparation and to establish new cultivations. The exploitation of the removed stump biomass seems a valuable option, especially in the growing energy market of the biofuels; however, the scarce quality of the material obtained after the extraction compromises its marketability, making this product a costly waste to be disposed. In this regard, the identification of affordable strategies for the extraction and the cleaning of the material will be crucial in order to provide to plantation owners the chance to sell the biomass and offset the extraction costs. Mechanical extraction and cleaning technologies have been already tested on forest stumps, but these systems work on the singular piece and would be inefficient in the conditions of an intensive orchard, where stumps are small and numerous. The objective of this study was to test the possibility to exploit a natural stumps cleaning system through open-air storage. The tested stumps were obtained from two different vineyards, extracted with an innovative stump puller specifically designed for continuous stump removal in intensively-planted orchards. The effects of weathering were evaluated to determine the fuel quality immediately after the extraction and after a storage period of six months with respect to moisture content, ash content, and heating value. Results indicated interesting storage performance, showing also different dynamics depending on the stumps utilized.
Devising Hourly Forecasting Solutions Regarding Electricity Consumption in the Case of Commercial Center Type Consumers
Authors: Pîrjan Alexandru , Oprea Simona-Vasilica , Căruțașu George , Petroșanu Dana-Mihaela , Bâra Adela , Coculescu Cristina
Published: October 2017

This paper focuses on an important issue regarding the forecasting of the hourly energy consumption in the case of large electricity non-household consumers that account for a significant percentage of the whole electricity consumption, the accurate forecasting being a key-factor in achieving energy efficiency. In order to devise the forecasting solutions, we have developed a series of dynamic neural networks for solving nonlinear time series problems, based on the non-linear autoregressive (NAR) and non-linear autoregressive with exogenous inputs (NARX) models. In both cases, we have used large datasets comprising the hourly energy consumption recorded by the smart metering device from a commercial center type of consumer (a large hypermarket), while in the NARX case we have used supplementary temperature and time stamps datasets. Of particular interest was to research and obtain an optimal mix between the training algorithm (Levenberg-Marquardt, Bayesian Regularization, Scaled Conjugate Gradient), the hidden number of neurons and the delay parameter. Using performance metrics and forecasting scenarios, we have obtained results that highlight an increased accuracy of the developed forecasting solutions. The developed hourly consumption forecasting solutions can bring significant benefits to both the consumers and electricity suppliers.
Taxon-Independent and Taxon-Dependent Responses to Drought in Seedlings from Quercus robur L., Q. petraea (Matt.) Liebl. and Their Morphological Intermediates
Authors: Vander Mijnsbrugge Kristine , Turcsán Arion , Maes Jorne , Duchêne Nils , Meeus Steven , Van der Aa Beatrijs , Steppe Kathy , Steenackers Marijke
Published: October 2017

The increasing severity and frequency of summer droughts at mid-latitudes in Europe may impact forest regeneration. We investigated whether the sympatric species Quercus robur L., Q. petraea (Matt.) Liebl., and their morphological intermediates respond differentially to water deficit. Acorns were sourced from a naturally mixed population. Half of the potted seedlings were subjected to two successive drought periods during the first growing season, each followed by a plentiful re-watering. The surviving drought-exposed seedlings subsisted independent of the taxon of the mother tree. The phenological responses were also taxon-independent. However, drought-exposed plants showed a retarded height growth in the year following the treatment which was taxon-dependent. Offspring from Q. robur and from trees with leaves resembling Q. robur leaves and infructescences resembling Q. petraea infructescences showed a stronger decrease in height growth compared to the offspring from Q. petraea and from trees with leaves resembling Q. petraea leaves and infructescences resembling Q. robur infructescences. Diameter growth in the year following the drought treatment showed a weak taxon-dependent response. Together, our results may suggest that the composition of oak species and their hybrids in natural oak forests could be altered upon prolonged periods of precipitation deficit.
Improving Accuracy in α-Models of Turbulence through Approximate Deconvolution
Authors: Dunca Argus
Published: October 2017

In this report, we present several results in the theory of α -models of turbulence with improved accuracy that have been developed in recent years. The α -models considered herein are the Leray- α model, the zeroth Approximate Deconvolution Model (ADM) turbulence model, the modified Leray- α and the Navier–Stokes- α model. For all of the models from above, the accuracy is limited to α 2 in smooth flow regions. Better accuracy requires decreasing the filter radius α , which, in turn, requires a smaller mesh width that will lead in the end to a higher computational cost. Instead, one can use approximate deconvolution (without decreasing the mesh size) to attain better accuracy. Such deconvolution methods have been considered recently in many studies that show the efficiency of this approach. For smooth flows, periodic boundary conditions and van Cittert deconvolution operator of order N, the expected accuracy is α 2 N + 2 . In a bounded domain, such results are valid only in case special conditions are satisfied. In more general conditions, the author has recently proved that, in the case of the ADM, the expected accuracy of the finite element method with Taylor–Hood elements and Crank–Nicolson time stepping method is Δ t 2 + h 2 + K N α 2 , where the constant K < 1 depends on the ratio α / h , which is assumed constant. In this study, we present the extension of the result to the rest of the models.
Examination of the Relationship between In-Store Environmental Factors and Fruit and Vegetable Purchasing among Hispanics
Authors: Sanchez-Flack Jennifer , Pickrel Julie , Belch George , Lin Shih-Fan , Anderson Cheryl , Martinez Maria , Arredondo Elva , Ayala Guadalupe
Published: October 2017

Retail food environments have received attention for their influence on dietary behaviors and for their nutrition intervention potential. To improve diet-related behaviors, such as fruit and vegetable (FV) purchasing, it is important to examine its relationship with in-store environmental characteristics. This study used baseline data from the “El Valor de Nuestra Salud” study to examine how in-store environmental characteristics, such as product availability, placement and promotion, were associated with FV purchasing among Hispanic customers in San Diego County. Mixed linear regression models indicated that greater availability of fresh FVs was associated with a $0.36 increase in FV purchasing (p = 0.01). Placement variables, specifically each additional square foot of display space dedicated to FVs (p = 0.01) and each additional fresh FV display (p = 0.01), were associated with a $0.02 increase and $0.29 decrease, respectively, in FV purchasing. Introducing FV promotions in the final model was not related to FV purchasing. Exploratory analyses indicated that men reported spending $3.69 fewer dollars on FVs compared to women, controlling for covariates (p = 0.02). These results can help inform interventions targeting in-store environmental characteristics to encourage FV purchasing among Hispanics.
Risk Perception and Anxiety Regarding Radiation after the 2011 Fukushima Nuclear Power Plant Accident: A Systematic Qualitative Review
Authors: Takebayashi Yoshitake , Lyamzina Yuliya , Suzuki Yuriko , Murakami Michio
Published: October 2017

The purpose of this study was to provide a review of the publications of the risk perceptions or anxiety regarding radiation among people living in Japan after the 2011 Fukushima nuclear power plant accident. Two database (MEDLINE and PsycINFO) and hand-searched the references in identified publications were searched. For each identified publication, the measurements and time related-change of risk perception and anxiety regarding radiation were summarized. Twenty-four publications were identified. Quantitative measures of risk perception or anxiety were roughly divided into two types: single-item Likert scales that measure anxiety about radiation; and theoretical, or model-based measures. Rates of Fukushima residents with radiation-related anxiety decreased from 2012 to 2015. Factors governing risk perception or radiation-related anxiety were summarized by demographics, disaster-related stressors, trusted information, and radiation-related variables. The effects of risk perception or anxiety regarding radiation were summarized as severe distress, intention to leave employment or not to return home, or other dimensions. This review provides summary of current findings on risk perception or anxiety regarding radiation in Japan after the accident. Further researches are needed about detailed statistical analysis for time-related change and causality among variables.
Does Parental Migration Have Negative Impact on the Growth of Left-Behind Children?—New Evidence from Longitudinal Data in Rural China
Authors: Tian Xu , Ding Caicui , Shen Chong , Wang Hui
Published: October 2017

The soaring number of left-behind children (LBC) in China has raised concerns about whether or not they can receive adequate care. This study investigated the impact of parents’ migration on LBC’s growth. LBC were divided into father-left children (F-LBC) and at least mother left children (M-LBC), both of which were compared with non-left-behind children (non-LBC) in terms of growth indicators. Data of 466 children with two continuous measurements were obtained from the four recent waves of the China Health and Nutrition Survey (CHNS). Anthropometric measures and 24-h recall of three consecutive days of dietary intake were extracted. The disparity of growth and nutrition status were compared by the difference-in-difference (DID) method. Results showed that LBC had significantly worse height and weight than non-LBC at baseline, respectively (p = 0.006, p = 0.003). This disadvantage was improved after parental migration, especially for M-LBC. However, the impact on growth status caused by parents’ migration was statistically insignificant once the pre-treatment disparity was removed. Further analysis on nutrition status indicated that fathers’ migration had a significant negative impact on F-LBC’s calorie intake (p = 0.014), which was mainly caused by the decline of carbohydrates (p = 0.008). This study indicated that the negative impact detected in previous studies might be caused by the retarded growth of LBC before parents’ migration.
Longer Nature-Based Rehabilitation May Contribute to a Faster Return to Work in Patients with Reactions to Severe Stress and/or Depression
Authors: Grahn Patrik , Pálsdóttir Anna María , Ottosson Johan , Jonsdottir Ingibjörg H.
Published: October 2017

The global burden of depression and stress-related mental disorders is substantial, and constitutes a major need for effective rehabilitation. Can nature-based rehabilitation help people return to work? Objective: To study if the length of a nature-based rehabilitation program affects the outcome with regard to return to work one year after the onset of the program, in a group of patients with long-term reactions to severe stress and/or depression. Methods: A prospective, quasi-experimental study comparing results from 8-, 12-, and 24-week periods of rehabilitation. The rehabilitation of 106 participants was carried out by a multimodal rehabilitation team in a specially designed rehabilitation garden. Return to work data were collected before the intervention and one year after the start of rehabilitation. In addition, data were collected regarding self-assessed occupational competence, personal control, and sense of coherence. As many as 68% of the participants returned to work or participated in job training or work-oriented measures, full- or part-time, after one year. Participants with a longer period of rehabilitation reported better results on occupational competence, and were more likely to participate in paid work, full-time or part-time, one year after rehabilitation. Study outcomes indicate that a longer rehabilitation period in a rehabilitation garden increases the possibility of a return to paid work.
An Improved Graph Model for Conflict Resolution Based on Option Prioritization and Its Application
Authors: Yin Kedong , Yu Li , Li Xuemei
Published: October 2017

In order to quantitatively depict differences regarding the preferences of decision makers for different states, a score function is proposed. As a foundation, coalition motivation and real-coalition analysis are discussed when external circumstance or opportunity costs are considering. On the basis of a confidence-level function, we establish the score function using a “preference tree”. We not only measure the preference for each state, but we also build a collation improvement function to measure coalition motivation and to construct a coordinate system in which to analyze real-coalition stability. All of these developments enhance the applicability of the graph model for conflict resolution (GMCR). Finally, an improved GMCR is applied in the “Changzhou Conflict” to demonstrate how it can be conveniently utilized in practice.
Comparative Transcriptomic Analysis Reveals Candidate Genes and Pathways Involved in Larval Settlement of the Barnacle Megabalanus volcano
Authors: Yan Guoyong , Zhang Gen , Huang Jiaomei , Lan Yi , Sun Jin , Zeng Cong , Wang Yong , Qian Pei-Yuan , He Lisheng
Published: October 2017

Megabalanus barnacle is one of the model organisms for marine biofouling research. However, further elucidation of molecular mechanisms underlying larval settlement has been hindered due to the lack of genomic information thus far. In the present study, cDNA libraries were constructed for cyprids, the key stage for larval settlement, and adults of Megabalanus volcano. After high-throughput sequencing and de novo assembly, 42,620 unigenes were obtained with a N50 value of 1532 bp. These unigenes were annotated by blasting against the NCBI non-redundant (nr), Swiss-Prot, Cluster of Orthologous Groups (COG), and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) databases. Finally, 19,522, 15,691, 14,459, and 10,914 unigenes were identified correspondingly. There were 22,158 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) identified between two stages. Compared with the cyprid stage, 8241 unigenes were down-regulated and 13,917 unigenes were up-regulated at the adult stage. The neuroactive ligand-receptor interaction pathway (ko04080) was significantly enriched by KEGG enrichment analysis of the DEGs, suggesting that it possibly involved in larval settlement. Potential functions of three conserved allatostatin neuropeptide-receptor pairs and two light-sensitive opsin proteins were further characterized, indicating that they might regulate attachment and metamorphosis at cyprid stage. These results provided a deeper insight into the molecular mechanisms underlying larval settlement of barnacles.
Aquaporin Protein-Protein Interactions
Authors: Roche Jennifer , Törnroth-Horsefield Susanna
Published: October 2017

Aquaporins are tetrameric membrane-bound channels that facilitate transport of water and other small solutes across cell membranes. In eukaryotes, they are frequently regulated by gating or trafficking, allowing for the cell to control membrane permeability in a specific manner. Protein–protein interactions play crucial roles in both regulatory processes and also mediate alternative functions such as cell adhesion. In this review, we summarize recent knowledge about aquaporin protein–protein interactions; dividing the interactions into three types: (1) interactions between aquaporin tetramers; (2) interactions between aquaporin monomers within a tetramer (hetero-tetramerization); and (3) transient interactions with regulatory proteins. We particularly focus on the structural aspects of the interactions, discussing the small differences within a conserved overall fold that allow for aquaporins to be differentially regulated in an organism-, tissue- and trigger-specific manner. A deep knowledge about these differences is needed to fully understand aquaporin function and regulation in many physiological processes, and may enable design of compounds targeting specific aquaporins for treatment of human disease.
The Glycosyltransferases of LPS Core: A Review of Four Heptosyltransferase Enzymes in Context
Authors: Cote Joy , Taylor Erika
Published: October 2017

Bacterial antibiotic resistance is a rapidly expanding problem in the world today. Functionalization of the outer membrane of Gram-negative bacteria provides protection from extracellular antimicrobials, and serves as an innate resistance mechanism. Lipopolysaccharides (LPS) are a major cell-surface component of Gram-negative bacteria that contribute to protecting the bacterium from extracellular threats. LPS is biosynthesized by the sequential addition of sugar moieties by a number of glycosyltransferases (GTs). Heptosyltransferases catalyze the addition of multiple heptose sugars to form the core region of LPS; there are at most four heptosyltransferases found in all Gram-negative bacteria. The most studied of the four is HepI. Cells deficient in HepI display a truncated LPS on their cell surface, causing them to be more susceptible to hydrophobic antibiotics. HepI–IV are all structurally similar members of the GT-B structural family, a class of enzymes that have been found to be highly dynamic. Understanding conformational changes of heptosyltransferases are important to efficiently inhibiting them, but also contributing to the understanding of all GT-B enzymes. Finding new and smarter methods to inhibit bacterial growth is crucial, and the Heptosyltransferases may provide an important model for how to inhibit many GT-B enzymes.