bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Regulating Clinic: Do UK Clinics Need to Become Alternative Business Structures Under the Legal Services Act 2007?
Authors: Campbell Elaine
Published: January 2016

In clinical legal education circles we tend to focus on the pedagogical aspects of our work. We enjoy lively debate on topics such as assessment, skills, ethics, student self-efficacy, the role of reflection and balancing the needs of the student with the needs of the client. Rarely do we speak or write about the legal framework regulating the work that occurs in clinics. However, the regulatory landscape is changing, and rapidly.

The Legal Services Act 2007 allows organisations that are owned or managed by non-lawyers to provide regulated legal services. It permits and encourages new entrants to the legal services market in England and Wales. It was heralded as ushering in important new opportunities for solicitors to team up with non-lawyers and to attract capital for their businesses in a carefully regulated environment. At first glance, there did not appear to be anything within the framework which affected law school clinics. On closer inspection, this is sadly not the case.

The aim of this paper is to increase the level of awareness within the clinical legal education community, in England and Wales in particular, of the effects of the Legal Services Act 2007 on clinical activity. It will explore the background to the introduction of alternative business structures and compare the approach which Australia has taken. It will also look to the future and discuss potential problems and solutions.
Quality-Lite for Clinics: Appropriate Accountability within ‘Live-Client’ Clinical Legal Education
Authors: Brayne Hugh , Evans Adrian
Published: January 2016

Our paper will explore the tensions. We are not going to be able to jettison quality assurance, even if we wish to. So we will propose a ‘quality-lite’ agenda for law clinic objectives and student outcomes, asserting that self-governance and our own QA processes will protect live-client clinics from ill-designed, externally imposed bureaucratic pressures. Encouragement of innovation in clinical legal education – and its support via quality-lite – need not be restricted to a few institutions that are independently funded. Ultimately, QA must be facilitative of development in technique and policy or there will be less and less to ‘assure’, let alone deliver to communities in need.
Recurring Epidemics of Pharmaceutical Drug Abuse in America: Time for an All-Drug Strategy
Authors: Herzberg David , Guarino Honoria , Mateu-Gelabert Pedro , Bennett Alex S.
Published: January 2016

Observers describe today’s “epidemic” of pharmaceutical drug abuse as a recent phenomenon, but we argue that it is only the most recent of three waves stretching back more than a century.

During each wave, policies have followed a similar pattern: voluntary educational campaigns, followed by supply-side policing and—sometimes—public health responses that would today be understood as “harm reduction.”

These experiences suggest that only broad-based application of all three approaches to users of all drugs (not just pharmaceutical drugs) can produce a reduction in drug-related harm rather than merely shifting it from one type of drug to another. This has rarely happened because policy has been shaped by the racially charged division of drug users into deserving and morally salvageable victims, or fearsome and morally repugnant criminals.
Socioeconomic Position and Premature Mortality in the AusDiab Cohort of Australian Adults
Authors: Bihan Hélène , Backholer Kathrin , Peeters Anna , Stevenson Christopher E. , Shaw Jonathan E. , Magliano Dianna J.
Published: January 2016

Objectives. To determine the association of socioeconomic position indicators with mortality, without and with adjustment for modifiable risk factors.

Methods. We examined the relationships of 2 area-based indices and educational level with mortality among 9338 people (including 8094 younger than 70 years at baseline) of the Australian Diabetes Obesity and Lifestyle (AusDiab) from 1999–2000 until November 30, 2012.

Results. Age- and gender-adjusted premature mortality (death before age 70 years) was more likely among those living in the most disadvantaged areas versus least disadvantaged (hazard ratio [HR] = 1.48; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 1.08, 2.01), living in inner regional versus major urban areas (HR = 1.36; 95% CI = 1.07, 1.73), or having the lowest educational level versus the highest (HR = 1.64; 95% CI = 1.17, 2.30). The contribution of modifiable risk factors (smoking status, diet quality, physical activity, stress, cardiovascular risk factors) in the relationship between 1 area-based index or educational level and mortality was more apparent as age of death decreased.

Conclusions. The relation of area-based socioeconomic position to premature mortality is partly mediated by behavioral and cardiovascular risk factors. Such results could influence public health policies.
Effects of Proximity to Supermarkets on a Randomized Trial Studying Interventions for Obesity
Authors: Fiechtner Lauren , Kleinman Ken , Melly Steven J. , Sharifi Mona , Marshall Richard , Block Jason , Cheng Erika R. , Taveras Elsie M.
Published: January 2016

Objectives. To determine whether proximity to a supermarket modified the effects of an obesity intervention.

Methods. We examined 498 children aged 6 to 12 years with a body mass index (BMI) at or above the 95th percentile participating in an obesity trial in Massachusetts in 2011 to 2013. The practice-based interventions included computerized clinician decision support plus family self-guided behavior change or health coaching. Outcomes were 1-year change in BMI z-score, sugar-sweetened beverage intake, and fruit and vegetable intake. We examined distance to the closest supermarket as an effect modifier.

Results. Distance to supermarkets was an effect modifier of 1-year change in BMI z-score and fruit and vegetable intake but not sugar-sweetened beverage intake. With each 1-mile shorter distance to a supermarket, intervention participants increased their fruit and vegetable intake by 0.29 servings per day and decreased their BMI z-score by −0.04 units relative to controls.

Conclusions. Living closer to a supermarket is associated with greater improvements in fruit and vegetable intake and weight status in an obesity intervention.
The Human Microbiome and Public Health: Social and Ethical Considerations
Authors: O’Doherty Kieran C. , Virani Alice , Wilcox Elizabeth S.
Published: January 2016

Rapid advances in human microbiome research point to an increasing range of health outcomes related to the composition of an individual’s microbiome. To date, much research has focused on individual health, with a paucity of attention to public health implications. This is a critical oversight owing to the potentially shared nature of the human microbiome across communities and vertical and horizontal mechanisms for transferring microbiomes among humans. We explored some key ethical and social implications of human microbiome research for public health. We focused on (1) insights from microbiome research about damage to individual and shared microbiomes from prevalent societal practices, and (2) ethical and social implications of novel technologies developed on the basis of emerging microbiome science.
E-Cigarette Use and Intention to Initiate or Quit Smoking Among US Youths
Authors: Park Ji-Yeun , Seo Dong-Chul , Lin Hsien-Chang
Published: January 2016

Objectives. We assessed whether e-cigarette use is associated with (1) intention to smoke cigarettes among never-smoking youths and youth experimenters, and (2) intention to quit smoking among current youth smokers.

Methods. We categorized participants from the 2012 National Youth Tobacco Survey data (n = 20 193) as never-smoking youth (n = 16 238), youth experimenters (n = 3248), and current youth smokers (n = 707). We matched groups on the basis of a propensity score comprising covariates predicting e-cigarette use.

Results. E-cigarette users who had never smoked cigarettes (adjusted odds ratio [AOR] = 3.62; 95% confidence interval [CI] = 2.04, 6.45) and who had experimented with smoking (AOR = 1.99; 95% CI = 1.50, 2.64) had elevated intention to smoke cigarettes compared with their counterparts who had never used e-cigarettes. We did not find any significant association between e-cigarette use and intention to quit smoking among current youth smokers (P = .33).

Conclusions. E-cigarette use among US youths is associated with intention to smoke but not with intention to quit smoking.
Sexual-Orientation Differences in Positive Youth Development: The Mediational Role of Bullying Victimization
Authors: Coulter Robert W. S. , Herrick A. L. , Friedman M. Reuel , Stall Ron D.
Published: January 2016

Objectives. To examine sexual-orientation differences in positive youth development, and how bullying victimization mediated these differences in a sample of adolescents.

Methods. In 2007 to 2008, positive youth development was measured in 1870 adolescents from US schools and after-school programs in 45 states by using the validated Five Cs model of competence, confidence, connection, character, and caring/compassion. Sexual-minority youths (6.8%) reported having same- or both-gender sexual attractions. Nonattracted youths (4.2%) reported having no sexual attractions.

Results. Compared with sexual-minority youths, heterosexual and nonattracted youths had lower odds of being a victim of bullying. Heterosexual and nonattracted youths also had higher average scores in competence, confidence, and connection, but these associations between sexual orientation and positive youth development scores were partly attributable to lack of bullying victimization.

Conclusions. Designing, implementing, and evaluating interventions that reduce bullying can give sexual-minority youths access to several building blocks of health and well-being.
Machine Learning as a Reliable Technology for Evaluating Time/Rate Performance of Unconventional Wells
Authors: Fulford David S. , Bowie Braden , Berry Michael E. , Bowen Bo , Turk Derrick W.
Published: January 2016

Production-data analysis is a practice fraught with inconsistencies. In the application of any single model, the quantity of answers arrived at by experienced evaluators is often equal to the number of evaluators analyzing the data. The cause of such inconsistency is bias on the part of evaluators. Although the colloquial use of bias typically implies systematic error, in this paper, we define bias as an expression of belief by the evaluator. With the lack of recognition of bias, no means exists with which to gauge its accuracy. A method that requires explicit expression of one's bias in time/rate decline behavior can provide an objective means with which to evaluate it.

In this work, we present a machine-learning method to forecast production in unconventional, liquid-rich shale and gas-shale wells. Methods were developed for probabilistic decline-curve analysis with Markov-chain Monte Carlo simulation (MCMC) as a means to quantify reserves uncertainty, to incorporate prior information (i.e., bias), and to do so quickly. We extend the existing approaches by (a) a modified likelihood-distribution function to improve “learning” of production data, (b) integration of the transient hyperbolic model (THM) to explicitly define the various flow regimes present in unconventional wells, (c) a method for construction of discretized “percentile neighborhood” forecasts, and (d) construction of type wells from an analyzed well population. The accuracy and calibration of the method are demonstrated by an analysis of 136 wells in the Elm Coulee Field of the Bakken. Quantification of change in time/rate behavior caused by completion design, and the inference of physical behavior and properties, is demonstrated with a tight oil play in the Cleveland sand formation of the Anadarko Basin, as well as a shale play in the Wolfcamp formation of the Permian Basin.

We show that this implementation of supervised machine learning, in combination with well-calibrated bias, improves the estimation of uncertainty of the posterior distribution of forecasts. In addition, hindcasts performed at various time intervals result in accurate estimation of mean five-year cumulative production. We observe that the “percentile neighborhood” forecasts are reasonable fits of production data comparable to those that may be created by a human evaluator, and that the type well computed is representative of the decline behavior of the well population upon which it is based. We conclude that, given the speed and accuracy of the process, machine learning is a reliable technology as defined by the US Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC), and can significantly improve the process of production forecasting by human evaluators for most unconventional wells with consistent trends of production history.
Start-up performance of Anammox process in a fixed bed reactor (FBR) filled with honeycomb-like polypropylene carriers
Authors: Wang Tao , Shen Boxiong , Zhang Sha , Wang Zhiqiang , Tian Li
Published: January 2016

Novel honeycomb-like carriers, made of polypropylene, were applied to enhance biomass retention capacity so as to improve Anammox start-up performance in a fixed bed reactor (FBR). The reactor was operated for 3 months. On day 45, Anammox activity appeared. After 61 days' operation, the removal efficiencies of ammonium and nitrite were both over 91% based on 70 mg N L−1 of the influent ammonium and influent nitrite, indicating that a remarkable Anammox activity was attained. A final specific Anammox activity of 0.12 g NH4+-N gVSS−1 d−1 was reached (VSS: volatile suspended solids). The FBR showed a good capacity for resisting shock loading and was more able to resist shock loading of nitrogen concentration than resist hydraulic shock loading. Phylogenetic analysis showed that Candidatus Brocadia anammoxidans' and Candidatus Kuenenia stuttgartiensis' were detected in the mature biofilm, and Candidatus Brocadia anammoxidans' was the dominant Anammox strain. Candidatus Kuenenia stuttgartiensis' played a positive role in the reactor performance, as it could consumed nitrite quickly and efficiently so as to avoid an adverse effect of temporary nitrite accumulation. The results showed that the honeycomb-like carriers were suitable for start-up of Anammox.
Analysis ofSLC16A11Variants in 12,811 American Indians: Genotype-Obesity Interaction for Type 2 Diabetes and an Association WithRNASEKExpression
Authors: Traurig Michael , Hanson Robert L. , Marinelarena Alejandra , Kobes Sayuko , Piaggi Paolo , Cole Shelley , Curran Joanne E. , Blangero John , Göring Harald , Kumar Satish , Nelson Robert G. , Howard Barbara V. , Knowler William C. , Baier Leslie J. , Bogardus Clifton
Published: January 2016

Genetic variants in SLC16A11 were recently reported to be associated with type 2 diabetes in Mexican and other Latin American populations. The diabetes risk haplotype had a frequency of 50% in Native Americans from Mexico but was rare in Europeans and Africans. In the current study, we analyzed SLC16A11 in 12,811 North American Indians and found that the diabetes risk haplotype, tagged by the rs75493593 A allele, was nominally associated with type 2 diabetes (P = 0.001, odds ratio 1.11). However, there was a strong interaction with BMI (P = 5.1 × 10−7) such that the diabetes association was stronger in leaner individuals. rs75493593 was also strongly associated with BMI in individuals with type 2 diabetes (P = 3.4 × 10−15) but not in individuals without diabetes (P = 0.77). Longitudinal analyses suggest that this is due, in part, to an association of the A allele with greater weight loss following diabetes onset (P = 0.02). Analyses of global gene expression data from adipose tissue, skeletal muscle, and whole blood provide evidence that rs75493593 is associated with expression of the nearby RNASEK gene, suggesting that RNASEK expression may mediate the effect of genotype on diabetes.
Numerous Genes in Loci Associated With Body Fat Distribution Are Linked to Adipose Function
Authors: Dahlman Ingrid , Rydén Mikael , Brodin David , Grallert Harald , Strawbridge Rona J. , Arner Peter
Published: January 2016

Central fat accumulation is a strong risk factor for type 2 diabetes. Genome-wide association studies have identified numerous loci associated with body fat distribution. The objectives of the current study are to examine whether genes in genetic loci linked to fat distribution can be linked to fat cell size and number (morphology) and/or adipose tissue function. We show, in a cohort of 114 women, that almost half of the 96 genes in these loci are indeed associated with abdominal subcutaneous adipose tissue parameters. Thus, adipose mRNA expression of the genes is strongly related to adipose morphology, catecholamine-induced lipid mobilization (lipolysis), or insulin-stimulated lipid synthesis in adipocytes (lipogenesis). In conclusion, the genetic influence on body fat distribution could be mediated via several specific alterations in adipose tissue morphology and function, which in turn may influence the development of type 2 diabetes.
Endocrine Pancreas Development and Regeneration: Noncanonical Ideas From Neural Stem Cell Biology
Authors: Masjkur Jimmy , Poser Steven W. , Nikolakopoulou Polyxeni , Chrousos George , McKay Ronald D. , Bornstein Stefan R. , Jones Peter M. , Androutsellis-Theotokis Andreas
Published: January 2016

Loss of insulin-producing pancreatic islet β-cells is a hallmark of type 1 diabetes. Several experimental paradigms demonstrate that these cells can, in principle, be regenerated from multiple endogenous sources using signaling pathways that are also used during pancreas development. A thorough understanding of these pathways will provide improved opportunities for therapeutic intervention. It is now appreciated that signaling pathways should not be seen as “on” or “off” but that the degree of activity may result in wildly different cellular outcomes. In addition to the degree of operation of a signaling pathway, noncanonical branches also play important roles. Thus, a pathway, once considered as “off” or “low” may actually be highly operational but may be using noncanonical branches. Such branches are only now revealing themselves as new tools to assay them are being generated. A formidable source of noncanonical signal transduction concepts is neural stem cells because these cells appear to have acquired unusual signaling interpretations to allow them to maintain their unique dual properties (self-renewal and multipotency). We discuss how such findings from the neural field can provide a blueprint for the identification of new molecular mechanisms regulating pancreatic biology, with a focus on Notch, Hes/Hey, and hedgehog pathways.
Effect of the GLP-1 Receptor Agonist Lixisenatide on Counterregulatory Responses to Hypoglycemia in Subjects With Insulin-Treated Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Farngren Johan , Persson Margaretha , Ahrén Bo
Published: January 2016

OBJECTIVE

Counterregulatory responses are critical to prevent hypoglycemia in subjects with type 2 diabetes. This is particularly important in insulin-treated patients. This study explored the effect of the glucagon-like peptide 1 receptor agonist lixisenatide on the hormonal counterregulatory responses to insulin-induced hypoglycemia when added to basal insulin therapy in subjects with type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

The study was a single-center, double-blind, randomized, placebo-controlled crossover study involving 18 subjects with type 2 diabetes (11 males) with a mean age of 55 years, diabetes duration of 12 years, HbA1c level of 7.7%, fasting blood glucose (FBG) concentration of 9.7 mmol/L, and a BMI of 33 kg/m2, who were treated with basal insulin (mean duration 7 years, daily dose 39 units/day) and metformin (mean daily dose 2.1 g). Subjects received treatment with lixisenatide or placebo for 6 weeks in random order, with a 4-week washout period in between. After 6 weeks of treatment, subjects underwent a two-step hyperinsulinemic hypoglycemic clamp at 3.5 and 2.8 mmol/L.

RESULTS

After 6 weeks of treatment, HbA1c and FBG levels were lower after lixisenatide therapy than after placebo therapy. At the hypoglycemic level of 3.5 mmol/L, glucagon and epinephrine levels were significantly lower during lixisenatide treatment than during placebo treatment, whereas at 2.8 mmol/L glucagon and epinephrine levels did not differ between the subjects. Cortisol, pancreatic polypeptide, and norepinephrine levels did not differ significantly between the treatments.

CONCLUSIONS

Glucagon and epinephrine levels are reduced by lixisenatide at a concentration of 3.5 mmol/L, but their counterregulatory responses to deep hypoglycemia at a concentration of 2.8 mmol/L are sustained during treatment with lixisenatide in combination with basal insulin.
Delayed Photo-activation Effects on Mechanical Properties of Dual Cured Resin Cements and Finite Element Analysis of Shrinkage Stresses in Teeth Restored With Ceramic Inlays
Authors: Soares CJ , Bicalho AA , Verissimo C , Soares PBF , Tantbirojn D , Versluis A
Published: January 2016

Objective: The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of delayed photo-activation on elastic modulus, Knoop hardness, and post-gel shrinkage of dual cure resin cements and how this affects residual shrinkage stresses in posterior teeth restored with ceramic inlays.

Methods and Materials: Four self-adhesive (RelyX Unicem, 3M ESPE; GCem, GC; MonoCem, Shofu; and seT, SDI) and two conventional (RelyX ARC, 3M ESPE; and AllCem, FGM) dual cure resin cements for cementing posterior ceramic inlays were tested. Strain gauge and indentation tests were used to measure the post-gel shrinkage (Shr), elastic modulus (E), and Knoop hardness (KHN) when photo-activated immediately and 3 and 5 minutes after placement (n=10). Shr, E, and KHN results were analyzed using two-way analysis of variance followed by Tukey honestly significant difference post hoc tests (α=0.05). The experimentally determined properties were applied in a finite element analysis of a leucite ceramic inlay (Empress CAD, Ivoclar Vivadent) cemented in a premolar. Modified von Mises stresses were evaluated at the occlusal margins and cavity floor.

Results: Shr, E, and KHN varied significantly among the resin cements (p<0.001). Highest overall Shr values were found for RelyX Unicem; GCem had the lowest. Increasing the photo-activation delay decreased Shr significantly. Delayed photo-activation had no effect on E (p=0.556) or KHN (p=0.927). RelyX Unicem had the highest E values; seT and MonoCem had the lowest E values. AllCem and RelyX Unicem had the highest KHN and MonoCem had the lowest KHN. Cements with high Shr and E values caused higher shrinkage stresses. Stresses decreased with delayed photo-activation for all cements.

Conclusions: KHN and E values varied among the different resin cements. Residual shrinkage stress levels decreased with increasing photo-activation delay with all resin cements.
Relationships Between Two Definitions of Fading Memory for Discrete-Time Systems
Authors: Borys Andrzej
Published: January 2016

In this paper, we refer to two definitions of fading memory property, which were published in the literature, for discrete-time circuits and systems. One of these definitions relates to systems working with signals (sequences) defined for both the positive and negative integers, expanding from minus infinity to plus infinity. On the other hand, the second one refers to systems processing sequences defined only for nonnegative integers, that is starting at the discrete-time point equal to zero and expanding to plus infinity. We show here that the second definition follows from the first one. That is they are not independent. Moreover, we also show that if an operator describing a system possesses a fading memory according to the second definition, then its associated operator has this property, too, but in accordance with the first definition.
Noise Characterization of Differential Multi- Element Multiport Networks - the Wave Approach
Authors: Dobrowolski Janusz A.
Published: January 2016

In this paper there is presented and discussed a general analysis method for noise characterization of noisy multielement multiport differential networks. It is based on mixed mode, differential and common mode, noise waves representation of noise, generalized mixed-mode scattering parameters and generalized mixed-mode noise wave correlation parameters for the network. There are derived analytical relation between the noise figure for a given output port and the noise matrix and the scattering parameters of the network, as well as the correlations between the input port noise waves. The signal to noise ratio degradation factor is derived and discussed, too. Presented results can be implemented directly in a CAD software for noise analysis of differential microwave multi-element multiport networks with differential as well as with conventional single ended ports.
Connectivity Solutions in Automated Trading
Authors: Popławski Paweł
Published: January 2016

The study analyzes the architecture and deployment of direct market access (DMA) solutions for automated trading of securities. It provides an overview of automated trading systems including: trading floor architecture, trading environment connectivity, and DMA solutions. Among a range of factors influencing operational capacities, round-trip latency has been recognized as the key quality differentiator of an automated trading floor. The study identifies potential opportunity costs due to latency levels as a major driver of technological progress in trading in highly liquid market conditions.
The difficult assessment of the financial inclusion policies in India
Authors: Larquemin Aurelie
Published: January 2016

Evidence of the importance of financial inclusion for economic growth and development are now well established and documented but little is known about the role institutions and policies can play and how institutional frameworks can support inclusive financial development. This paper is a case study on India, aiming to highlight the successes and difficulties encountered in the country financial development path. The results presented are based on an in-depth literature review and analysis of public secondary data. In the first section we discuss Indian initiatives for financial inclusion which started a decade ago, while in the second section we focus on more recent initiatives centered on digitization. Most of the oldest initiatives, through several changes and evolutions, have played a key role in expending financial inclusion in India, for instance the National Pension System or SHG groups. Public authorities are aware of the value of these schemes and have constantly tried to improve their features, expand their positive results and tackle identified issues. However they had too limited effects to allow the country to reach its goal towards financial inclusion. Moreover new technologies have appeared, opening new scope for financial inclusion, through innovative tools and schemes recently put in place by the public authorities. While we are lacking perspective to evaluate their effects, their preliminary results are encouraging and new schemes and regulations are being set up in this path.Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-3, issue-1: 31-37
Construction and Standardization of Scientific Aptitude Test (SAT) for Secondary School Students-A Pilot Study
Authors: PandiaVadivu P , Sridhar R , Mohan Kumar B
Published: January 2016

The main objective of the present pilot study was to construct and standardize a Scientific Aptitude Test (SAT) for the secondary school science students (Grade 9 and 10). The test items (30 questions) were prepared by the researchers based on the five important aspects in scientific thinking such as Analogy, Scientific reasoning, Numerical ability, Logical reasoning and Comprehension based questions.  A test of multiple choice items were used as a data collection instrument in the six different schools in the selected districts in Tamilnadu, India. The computer based Microsoft excel spreadsheet (2007) was prepared to document the obtained score and the same used for statistical analysis. Through recent method of item analysis, Cronbach’s Alpha values were computed using IBM SPSS software. The reliability coefficients were found 0.874(Spearman-Brown) and 0.672(Guttmann Split-Half). Hence, the present pilot study revealed that the scientific aptitude test for secondary students to ignite their scientific temper and also useful in preparing future competitive examinations.Int. J. Soc. Sci. Manage. Vol-3, issue-1: 17-21
Effects of Binder, Curing Time, Temperature, and Trafficking on Moduli of Stabilized and Unstabilized Full-Depth Reclamation Materials
Authors: Wu Rongzong , Louw Stefan , Jones David
Published: January 2016

This paper provides a summary of in situ layer moduli of several full-depth reclamation (FDR) materials used in an accelerated pavement test (APT) track. The reclaimed layers were constructed during the FDR of four lanes of 60 mm of rubberized hot-mix asphalt (HMA), 60 mm of HMA, and 130 mm of aggregate base. The FDR layer served as the base under a new HMA layer. Each lane had a different stabilization strategy, namely, unstabilized, stabilized with foam asphalt plus cement, stabilized with cement only, and stabilized with engineered asphalt emulsion. Falling weight deflectometer testing was conducted on the test track at various times during the course of the study, and the data were used to backcalculate the FDR layer moduli. The results were used to investigate the effects of each stabilization strategy, loading temperature, curing time, and trafficking on the in-place layer moduli of the FDR layers and to provide critical inputs for mechanistic–empirical pavement design of FDR layers.
State Design Procedure for Rigid Pavements Based on the AASHTO Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design Guide
Authors: Tompkins Derek , Johanneck Luke , Khazanovich Lev
Published: January 2016

This paper describes research efforts sponsored by the Minnesota Department of Transportation (DOT) to update its rigid design procedure to take advantage of locally calibrated mechanistic–empirical models for performance and consequently design. The new procedure, MnPCC-ME, is based on the AASHTO Mechanistic–Empirical Pavement Design Guide (MEPDG) Version 1.1, but restricts the user to predetermined design input parameters. MnPCC-ME matches the MEPDG predicted performance at a fraction of the computation cost. The user is able to modify key design inputs for state and local pavement projects; the parameters include district climate files and traffic load spectra files (based on historical Minnesota DOT weigh-in-motion data). In addition, MnPCC-ME provides alternative reliability analysis, which is based on a Monte Carlo simulation of pavement performance predictions based on typical variability in slab thickness and flexural strength for Minnesota pavements. The MnPCC-ME program requires virtually no run time and outputs a project report with the recommended design thickness for given performance criteria and reliability level for the specified reliability analysis. Although this tool was developed for Minnesota local conditions, the approach developed in the study can be adopted by other transportation agencies for their region and conditions.
Achieving Safer Roads through the Use of System Dynamics and Porous Friction Courses
Authors: Mallick Rajib B. , Solaimanian Mansour
Published: January 2016

Wet weather–related hazards such as poor visibility and hydroplaning can be reduced significantly with the proper use of porous friction courses (PFCs), which allow water to drain quickly and provide higher friction. However, widespread adoption of this technology has been hampered because of concerns about long-term benefits, early onset of distresses, and progressive clogging of the voids by winter treatment materials. For the proper adoption of a PFC, a system of multicriterion simulation and analysis for a holistic evaluation in different climatic conditions is needed. The objectives of the study reported in this paper were to develop a framework for a system for PFC and to evaluate its long-term performance with a multicriterion analysis approach. A comprehensive system dynamics model was developed, along with a web-based simulation tool. The model was simulated for different conditions during a period of time, and the performance was evaluated in regard to different properties, as well as through a composite index that reflects the cumulative effect of different parameters. Results show that a systems approach is essential to understand the long-term performance of PFC and that the simulation tool can be beneficial for user agencies to experiment with different scenarios and select the most appropriate design, construction, and maintenance method(s).
Comprehensive Model for Fatigue Analysis of Flexible Pavements considering Effects of Dynamic Axle Loads
Authors: Navarrina Fermín , Ramírez Luis , París José , Nogueira Xesús , Colominas Ignasi , Casteleiro Manuel , Fernández-de-Mesa José Ramón
Published: January 2016

A comprehensive model for the fatigue analysis of flexible pavements that considers the effects of dynamic axle loads is presented in this paper. The main objective of this work is to quantify the reduction in the structural service life of the pavement resulting from the rise of the dynamic axle loads exerted by traffic as the progressive deterioration of the road profile occurs. First, the procedure for the fatigue analysis of flexible pavements, as defined in the Spanish Standard 6.1-IC, is explained in detail. The implementation presented here is specific for this standard, but the underlying concepts are not restrictive and the model can be easily adapted to fit the distinctive features of other regulations. Second, the concepts of accumulated damage and structural service life are formalized in mathematical terms. Next, the introduction of dynamic axle loads leads to the definition of a suitable accumulated fatigue damage indicator that takes into account these effects. Dynamic axle loads are introduced in this formulation by means of the dynamic load amplification factor. For the quantification of this factor, the quarter-car model is extended to allow for computing the time evolution of the dynamic axle load exerted by a heavy vehicle on the pavement. The model is completed by adding a simple procedure for simulating how the road profile deteriorates over time. Finally, an application example is presented.
Evaluation of Effects of Variations in Aggregate Base Layer Properties on Flexible Pavement Performance
Authors: Wang Hao , Li Maoyun
Published: January 2016

This paper aims to evaluate flexible pavement responses and performance affected by variations in the aggregate base layer properties. An advanced three-dimensional finite element (FE) model was developed to capture the nonlinear cross-anisotropic behavior of granular material. The FE model characterized the hot-mix asphalt layer as a viscoelastic material and used moving load to predict time- and temperature-dependent pavement responses under different temperatures (25°C and 45°C). Two asphalt pavement sections with different asphalt layer thicknesses (3 and 5 in.) were analyzed, considering variations in aggregate properties. The response changes in the asphalt layer, aggregate base layer, and subgrade depended on the interaction between viscoelastic asphalt layer and stress-dependent aggregate base layer. Fatigue cracking and subgrade rutting were more affected by changes of aggregate base layer properties among different failure mechanisms in each pavement layer. The coefficient of curvature and complex maximum dry density served as the contributing parameters most affecting fatigue cracking potential, especially for the relatively thinner asphalt pavement at the higher temperature. However, the moisture content ratio affected the subgrade rutting potential more than other parameters did. These conclusions serve as the basis for selecting optimum aggregate properties for pavement design and developing a performance-related specification for quality control and quality assurance in pavement construction.
Characterization of Load Transfer Behavior for Bonded Concrete Overlays on Asphalt
Authors: Barman Manik , Vandenbossche Julie M. , Li Zichang
Published: January 2016

A bonded concrete overlay on asphalt (BCOA) is a rehabilitation method for moderately distressed asphalt pavements by relatively thin plain cement concrete or fiber-reinforced concrete slabs. The joint load transfer behavior for BCOAs plays a significant role in the long-term performance. Poor load transfer across the joints of the concrete slabs initiates debonding of the asphalt layer from the concrete slabs, which promotes the development of corner cracks or longitudinal cracks. However, because of the tediousness involved in characterizing the joint load transfer behavior of BCOAs, this important aspect is not accounted for in many available mechanistic–empirical BCOA design procedures. The influences of joint load transfer behavior on the performance of BCOA are discussed. The joint load transfer behavior for BCOAs with 1.52- × 1.83-m (5- × 6-ft) slabs and 1.22- × 1.22-m (4- × 4-ft) slabs is analyzed with the finite element method. The load transfer contributed by the asphalt layer, as well as the concrete slab, is characterized as a function of the BCOA design features. Finally, a method is proposed to determine the nondimensional joint stiffness (AGG*) for BCOAs as a function of the structural design features of the pavement section. The AGG* is significant in that it is the factor commonly used to characterize joint load transfer behavior when pavements are designed with a mechanistic-based design approach.
Synthesis of Novel 15-aryl-2,3,4,15-tetrahydrochromeno[2′,3′:4,5] Pyrimido[6,1-b]Quinazoline-1,9-diones
Authors: Kong Xiu-Xiu , Cao Yong-Nan , Xing Zheng , Chen Li-Zhuang , Han Guang-Fan
Published: January 2016

A new series of 15-aryl-2,3,4,15-tetrahydrochromeno[2′,3′:4,5]pyrimido[6,1-b]quinazoline-1,9-diones was synthesised by the cyclisation of methyl anthranilate with ethyl N-(3-cyano-5-oxo-4-aryl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromen-2-yl)formimidate derivatives, which were obtained by the reactions of 2-amino-5-oxo-4-aryl-5,6,7,8-tetrahydro-4H-chromene-3-carbonitrile derivatives and triethyl orthoformate. The structure of the 2,4-dichlorophenyl derivative was further determined by single crystal X-ray diffraction analysis.
Cancer screening in the United States, 2016: A review of current American Cancer Society guidelines and current issues in cancer screening
Authors: Smith Robert A. , Andrews Kimberly , Brooks Durado , DeSantis Carol E. , Fedewa Stacey A. , Lortet‐Tieulent Joannie , Manassaram‐Baptiste Deana , Brawley Otis W. , Wender Richard C.
Published: January 2016

Answer questions and earn CME/CNE

Each year the American Cancer Society (ACS) publishes a summary of its guidelines for early cancer detection, data and trends in cancer screening rates, and select issues related to cancer screening. In this issue of the journal, we summarize current ACS cancer screening guidelines, including the update of the breast cancer screening guideline, discuss quality issues in colorectal cancer screening and new developments in lung cancer screening, and provide the latest data on utilization of cancer screening from the National Health Interview Survey. CA Cancer J Clin 2016;66:95–114. © 2016 American Cancer Society.
Progeny tested bull production for dairy cattle development in Bangladesh
Authors: Bhuiyan AKFH , Rashid MM , Khan RA , Habib MA , Bhuiyan MSA , Faiz MA
Published: January 2016

The Department of Livestock Services has been implementing Breed Up-gradation Through Progeny Test" Project since 2003, for selecting dairy breeding bulls based on their progeny performance. This paper describes the procedures followed for setting up field based progeny testing scheme involving private farmers and reports the data of progeny testing in Bangladesh from 2007 to 2013. Until now more than 5000 farmers, having at least one Friesian crossbred cow, were registered under this program in 22 districts of the country. Five Friesian crossbred candidate bulls were evaluated on their estimated breeding values for 100-day milk yields of 199 first calving daughters during 2007 to 2013. Out of five bulls, two bulls were found promising due to their positive breeding values compared to the others.  By 2015, 100 day lactation milk yield data from more than 450 daughters of 6 candidate bulls (used in 2009) of the second batch are expected to be available for evaluation, and about 2452 daughters (heifers) of different ages produced out of 29 candidate bulls are available under field recording in different geographical areas of the country. So, proven dairy bull production through field-based progeny testing program in Bangladesh is underway.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2015. 44(2): 106-112
Effect of dietary Black pepper (Piper nigrum) on the performance of broiler
Authors: Ndelekwute EK , Afolabi KD , Uzegbu HO , Unah UL , Amaefule KU
Published: January 2016

An experiment was conducted to determine the dietary effect of different levels of ground black pepper (Piper nigrum) on growth performance and apparent nutrient digestibility of broiler chickens. There were five dietary treatments each containing 0, 0.25, 0.50, 0.75 and 1.00 % black pepper (BP) fed at both starter and finisher phases. One hundred and fifty (150) day old chicks of Arbor-acre strain were divided into five dietary groups having three replication with 10 in each. The five dietary treatments were randomly assigned into five groups. The birds were fed and watered ad libitum. At the starter phase 0.25 and 0.5 % BP improved live weight significantly (p<0.05). Feed intake was significantly (p<0.05) reduced at 1.00% BP. There were no significant differences (P>0.05) in daily gain, feed: gain ratio and protein efficiency ratio. At the finisher phase, final live weight was improved by 0.25% (p<0.05). Final live weight, feed intake, weight gain, feed: gain ratio and protein efficiency ratio were negatively affected by 0.75 and 1.0%BP. Fecal moisture was significantly (P<0.05) reduced by 0.25% while dry matter, protein and ether extract digestibility were improved by all the levels of BP. None of the BP levels improved crude fibre digestibility (p>0.05) over the control. NFE and energy utilization were improved by 0.25 and 0.5%, but significantly (p<0.05) reduced by 1.00% BP.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2015. 44(2): 120-127
Effect of citric acid, herbal feed additive and their combination on the performance of broiler
Authors: Tanzin M , Islam KMS , Debi MR , Islam MR
Published: January 2016

The experiment was conducted with 108 day old straight-run Hubbard Classic broiler chicks for a period of 35 days to investigate the effects of citric acid, commercial herbal additive (Keqinling) and their combination on growth and carcass traits of broiler. The dietary treatments were control (T0), 0.5% citric acid (T1), 0.2% Keqinling (T2) and combination of 0.5% citric acid +0.2% Keqinling (T3).  Final live weight was 1615, 1710, 1707 and 1795g in control, 0.5% citric acid, 0.2% Keqinling and their combination groups respectively. The highest live weight gain (1748g) was found in combination group followed by 0.5% citric acid (1664g), 0.2% Keqinling (1660g), and the lowest (1568g)in control group. The highest feed consumption and feed conversion efficiency was observed in T3 and the lowest in group T0. Significantly (p<0.05) the highest dressed yield (%) was found in 0.5% citric acid group (56.65) than combination (55.73) and Keqinling (55.18) and lowest in control group (54.59). Citric acid reduced the pH of the both feed and faces. The cost of production (Tk/kg broiler) was lowest in citric acid group (Tk. 76.22). Net profit per broiler production was found in 0.5% citric acid group (Tk. 10.03/broiler) followed by combination (Tk. 9.28), Keqinling (Tk. 7.31) and control group (Tk. 6.98) respectively. The addition of 0.5% citric acid and 0.2% Keqinling individually or their combination increase the performance of broiler but citric acid showed better response than Keqinling.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2015. 44 (3):143-150
Effects of cage and barn rearing system on early laying performance of pullet
Authors: Rouf MG , Ahammed M , Ahammad MU , Rahman MR
Published: January 2016

The present experiment was conducted with 144 Shaver 579 egg laying pullets to compare their performances reared on barn and in cages for a period of 16 weeks from 25 to 40 weeks of age. Feed consumption, feed conversion (FC) and egg weight were significantly higher when reared on barn than in cages. However, hen day egg production (HDEP), egg mass, body weight, livability, albumen index, Haugh unit (HU), yolk index, shape index and egg shell thickness did not differ (P>0.05) between pullets under two different rearing systems. Soiled eggs (p<0.01) and shell breaking strength (P<0.05) were higher for the pullets reared on barn than in cages. In contrast, yolk color score (YCS) was higher (P<0.05) in eggs collected from the cage-reared pullets when compared with the eggs of pullets reared on barn. It is concluded that egg laying pullets can be reared either on barn or in cages successfully in Bangladesh condition without any adverse effect on egg production.Bang. J. Anim. Sci. 2015. 44 (3):151-156
Performance of BLRI developed native duck under farmers condition with supplementary feeding
Authors: Khatun H , Islam MN , Bhuyan AA , Hasan MN , Islam MS
Published: January 2016

A total of 198 straight run day old ducklings of Bangladesh Livestock Research Institute (BLRI) developed native duck (named as Rupali and Nageswary) and local native duck genotypes were distributed among nine farmers of low laying areas of Kalihati Upazilla of Tangail district. Rupali and Nageswary ducklings were obtained from existing stock of BLRI and local native ducklings were collected from local farmers of the study area. After 12 weeks of age each farmers retained 10 female and 2 male ducks and sold away remaining ducklings. Farmers were instructed to supply 50g of balanced feed to their ducks in the morning and evening. Ducks were allowed to scavenge in the beel throughout the day. Data on: growth, feed intake, age at onset of lay, egg production rate, egg weight, mortality rate were recorded and cost-benefit was calculated. There found no significant difference on growth parameters, live weight gain, age at first laying or age at peak egg production among the duck genotypes. In the study highest live weight gain was found in Nageswary (1090 g) followed by Rupali (1058 g) and local native (912 g) duck at 8 weeks of age. Egg production rate of local native ducks (37.21%) was found significantly lower (P<0.001) compared to Rupali (50.67 %) and Nageswary (55.40 %). The mortality rate in local duck was significantly higher (P<0.05) compared to Rupali and Nageswary ducks. Rupali ducks produced heavier eggs (66.86g) followed by local native (62.20g) and Nageswary (57.22g) which differed significantly (P<0.05). Rupali ducks laid eggs of thicker shell (0.61mm) compared to other duck genotypes under study which was also varied statistically (P<0.05). Cost benefit analysis shows that earning both from Nageswary and Rupali was much higher than local native ducks. Higher egg production rate of Nageswary and Rupali duck has contributed for higher return. It is concluded that rearing Rupali or Nageswary ducks in the low laying rural areas with scavenging and supplementary feeding facility is more profitable than rearing local native ducks.Bangladesh J. of Livestock Res. 19(1-2): 18-23, Jan-Dec 2012