bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fast Analysis of Optimal Improved-Oil-Recovery Switch Time Using a Two-Factor Production Model and Least-Squares Monte Carlo Algorithm
Authors: Hong Aojie , Bratvold Reidar B. , Lake Larry W.
Published: November 2018

Simple or proxy production models are potentially very useful and tractable because they are computationally attractive while still providing insights into the decisions at hand. Useful and tractable models are required for supporting high-quality decisions in uncertain, complex, and computationally demanding contexts. A key decision for development planning is determining the optimal time to begin an improved-oil-recovery (IOR) process. We aim to illustrate the implementation and application of a useful and tractable approach for analyzing the optimal IOR switch time using a two-factor production model and the least-squares Monte Carlo (LSM) algorithm.

The two-factor production model contains only two parameters for each recovery phase. One parameter describes how much recovery efficiency a recovery mechanism can ultimately achieve, and the other describes how fast the recovery efficiency increases. The simplicity of the model makes it computationally attractive. Our modified LSM algorithm is an approximate dynamic programming approach, which allows for learning over time. It provides a near-optimal solution for the IOR switch-time problem. The value-of-information (VOI) framework, which is a powerful decision-analysis tool, provides an estimate of the value of learning.

Closed-loop reservoir management (CLRM) is considered to be a state-of-the-art approach to solving for the optimal IOR switch time. However, the CLRM approach can produce a suboptimal solution because it considers only uncertainties and actions reflecting currently available information, but not those uncertainties and actions arising from future information. The dynamic programming approach used here considers both the effect of the information obtained before a decision is made and the effect of the information that might be obtained to support future decisions. We conclude that a dynamic programming approach, such as the modified LSM algorithm, can significantly improve both the timing and value of decisions, leading to a significant increase in a field's economic performance. Furthermore, the two-factor model combined with the modified LSM algorithm is tractable and provides useful insights into the IOR switch-time problem.

The novelties provided by this work are developing and illustrating the structure of the IOR switch-time problem using a decision tree; demonstrating and discussing the suboptimality of the CLRM solution; developing and illustrating the detailed steps of applying the modified LSM algorithm for the IOR switch-time decision; and implementing the two-factor model combined with the modified LSM algorithm for analyzing the optimal IOR switch time.
Black Film Mulching and Plant Density Influencing Soil Water Temperature Conditions and Maize Root Growth
Authors: Sun Shijun , Chen Zhijun , Jiang Hao , Zhang Linlin
Published: November 2018

Core Ideas

Transparent film mulching increased the soil water storage more than black film mulching.

The mulching treatment only markedly increased the soil temperature in the maize seeding growth stage.

Higher plant density decreased the root surface area, root volume, root length, and root diameter.

Plastic mulch in combination with high plant density is a common agronomic technique in rainfed maize (Zea mays L.) production. However, the effects of combining colored film mulching and plant density on soil temperature, soil water storage, the maize roots, and yield have not been thoroughly elucidated to date. Thus, a field experiment to explore the effects of colored film mulching and plant density on soil temperature and water, maize roots, and yield was conducted on main plots with three types of mulching (non‐mulching, transparent film mulching, and black plastic film mulching), which were divided into three subplots with three plant densities (60,000, 75,000, and 90,000 plants ha−1). The results were as follows: The mulching increased the soil water storage during the entire period of maize growth, and transparent film mulching increased soil water storage more than black film mulching. The mulching only markedly increased soil temperature in the maize seeding and jointing stages compared with the non‐mulching treatment, but the plant density augmented the soil temperature after the seeding stage. Compared with the non‐mulching treatment, the mulching treatments significantly increased root length, root length density, and root diameter by 17.0, 21.4, and 11.6%, respectively, during the heading stage and by 65.2, 70, and 11.6%, respectively, during the mature stage. As plant density increased, root surface area, root volume, root length, and root diameter decreased. The best combination, which attained higher yield and profit than other treatments, was the combination of a plant density of 90,000 plants ha−1 and black film mulching.
Diálogos possíveis: entrevista com Natalia Borges Polesso
Authors: Dutra Paulo
Published: November 2018

Entrevista com Natalia Borges Polesso, ganhadora do Prêmio Jabuti em 2016 com o livro de contos Amora.
The interaction between governance, social responsibility, and territorial attractiveness: an application of “the structural equation modeling approach”
Authors: el Woujoud Bousselmi Hosn , Caridad Lorena , Ceular Villamandos Nuria
Published: November 2018

The purpose of this article is to present and test a conceptual framework that describes how the government’s commitment in improving corporate social responsibility (CSR) practices promotes the attraction of foreign direct investment (FDI) in Tunisia. As such, this conceptual framework inspires the existence of an interaction between the improvement of CSR practices by public policies (PP), and the attraction of FDI. In this regard, this study applied structural equation modeling (SEM) to empirically test this proposed model. It finds that the Tunisian government is valuing CSR and considering it as an investment. It presents examples of instruments, PP and tools that encourage to adopt CSR practices, thus, enhancing the attraction of FDI, which will have a positive impact on the growth of the country in terms of wealth creation, jobs and poverty reduction.
Sponge city construction in China: policy and implementation experiences
Authors: Xiang Chenyao , Liu Jiahong , Shao Weiwei , Mei Chao , Zhou Jinjun
Published: November 2018

To deal with the three universal urban water problems – namely storm floods, water pollution and water shortage – China has implemented a comprehensive solution: the Sponge City Construction Project. Sponge cities aim to reduce runoff and pollution, and also to restore downstream ecologies. They combine low impact development methods with grey infrastructures, large-scale flood control projects and rehabilitation. This paper describes Chinese experiences of construction and financing for implementation of sponge cities, which could provide references to other countries for building sustainable, climate-resilient cities and urban water management systems. It illustrates the objectives and methods of the sponge city design and demonstrates the differences in configuration and funding structures in cities of different climates and economic conditions. The total construction area involved in the pilot cities covers 449 km2. The configurations are distinct due to different economic conditions, climates and land forms: a humid district inclines to drainage-efficient approaches and pollution control devices, while a semi-humid district prefers green infrastructures and rainwater reuse facilities. The Chinese government plays an important role in the funding of sponge cities: Chinese central government provided CNY (¥)20.7 billion for the construction of 16 cities during 2015–2017, while the rest came from local governments and non-governmental investors.
Production of free radicals by the Co2+/Oxone system to carry out diclofenac degradation in aqueous medium
Authors: Rodríguez-Narváez Oscar M. , Serrano-Torres Oracio , Wrobel Kazimierz , Brillas Enric , Peralta-Hernandez Juan M.
Published: November 2018

This paper reports the degradation of a solution of 0.314 mM diclofenac (DCF), while using 5–15 mM Oxone as oxidizing agent with the catalytic action of 0.05–0.2 mM Co2+. The best performance was obtained for 10 mM Oxone and 0.2 mM Co2+, achieving the total DCF abatement and 77% removal of chemical oxygen demand after 30 min. Oxidizing of sulfate () and hydroxyl (•OH) radicals was formed by the Co2+/Oxone system. Oxone was firstly oxidized to persulfate ion that was then quickly converted into the above free radicals. For Oxone contents ≥10 mM, the decay of DCF concentration followed a second-order kinetic reaction, but the apparent rate constant changed with the Co2+ concentration used. High-performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) analysis of treated solutions showed the formation of some intermediates, whereas oxalic acid was identified as the prevalent final short-linear carboxylic acid by ion-exclusion HPLC.
QUALIDADE DE VIDA DE PACIENTES COM DOENÇA RENAL CRÔNICA
Authors: Santos Raquel De Sousa Sales , Sardinha Ana Hélia De Lima
Published: November 2018

Objetivo: avaliar a Qualidade de Vida dos pacientes com Doença Renal Crônica Terminal em tratamento hemodialítico. Metodologia: estudo descritivo quantitativo, com questionários para os aspectos sociodemográficos e de saúde e o Kidney Disease and Quality of Life Short-Form. Resultados: pacientes na faixa etária 31-50 anos, sexo feminino, pardos, casados, 1-4 filhos, ensino fundamental incompleto, 06-10 anos de hemodiálise e comorbidades como hipertensão, cardiopatia e diabetes. Menores escores nas dimensões: papel profissional, função física, sobrecarga da doença renal e saúde geral. Discussão: A qualidade de vida dos pacientes sofreu alterações. Conclusão: Identificou-se aspectos que requerem atenção da equipe multiprofis-sional de saúde.Descritores: Qualidade de Vida, Insuficiência Renal Crônica, Diálise Renal.QUALITY OF LIFE OF PATIENTS WITH CHRONIC RENAL DISEASE ABSTRACTObjective: to evaluate the Quality of Life of patients with Terminal Chronic Kidney Disease under hemodialysis treatment. Methodology: quantitative descriptive study, with questionnaires for sociodemographic and health aspects and Kidney Disease and Quality of Life Short-Form. Results: patients aged 31-50 years, female, brown, married, 1-4 children, incomplete elementary school, 6-10 years of hemodialysis and comorbidities: hypertension, cardiopathy and diabetes. Lower scores on the dimensions: professional role, physical function, renal disease overload and general health. Discussion: Patients’ quality of life has changed. Conclusion: It was identified aspects that require greater attention from the multiprofessional health team.Descriptors: Quality of Life, Renal Insufficiency Chronic, Renal Dialysis.CALIDAD DE VIDA DE LOS PACIENTES CON ENFERMEDAD RENAL CRÓNICA RESUMENObjetivo: evaluar la calidad de vida de los pacientes con enfermedad renal crónica terminal en tratamiento de hemodiálisis. Metodología: estudio descriptivo cuantitativo con cuestionarios concernientes a los aspectos demográficos, de salud y el Kidney Disease and Quality of Life Short-Form. Deducciones: los pacientes de edad entre 31-50 años, género femenino, pardos, casados, tienen 1-4 hijos, la educación primaria incompleta, 06-10 años conviviendo de forma simultánea con la hemodiálisis y las enfermedades como hipertensión, problemas cardíacos y diabetes. Las valoraciones más bajas en las dimensiones: función profesional, la función física, la sobrecarga de la enfermedad renal y la salud general. Discusión: la calidad de vida de los pacientes ha cambiado. Conclusión: se ha identificado los aspectos que demandan la atención del equipo de salud multidisciplinario.Descriptores: Calidad de Vida, Insuficiencia Renal Crónica, Diálisis Renal.
Advanced Carbon-based Nanoplatforms Combining Drug Delivery and Thermal Therapy for Cancer Treatment
Authors: Xu Yanhong , Shan Yuling , Cong Hailin , Shen Youqing , Yu Bing
Published: November 2018

Anticancer treatment has become a research highlight in recent years. Despite several techniques have
been developed and applied in the clinic, this area still meets great challenges in the construction of smart anticancer
devices with accurate targeting, controlled release and microenvironment response properties. Most of the
carbon-based materials are biocompatible, possessing abundant and tunable pore structures and particularly large
surface areas. These properties make them suitable materials as drug carriers. In addition, some carbon-based
materials are capable of absorbing near-infrared radiation (NIR) and have highly efficient photothermal effects.
The generated heat in situ can be used to kill cancer cells in short time on the position. This review describes the
recent and significant application of four kinds of carbon materials including carbon nanotubes, graphene, carbon
dots and mesoporous carbon for drug delivery and photothermal therapy. After a short introduction of the structures
and properties of these materials, the construction and application of these nanoplatforms in drug delivery,
photothermal therapy or their combination will be summarized and discussed in depth. In addition, other carbon
allotropes as drug carriers will be introduced briefly. Finally, the risk assessments and the perspectives and challenges
of these materials used in cancer therapies are enclosed.
Antimicrobial, Anticancer Drug Carrying Properties of Biopolymers-based Nanocomposites- A Mini Review
Authors: Saravanakumar Kandasamy , Ali Davoodbasha M. , Kathiresan Kandasamy , Wang Myeong-Hyeon
Published: November 2018

Biopolymers are ubiquitous in biomedical and healthcare application. Its nanocomposites have gained
more attention as antimicrobials, a drug carrier, sensors, disease diagnosis, tissue engineering, wound healing, and
cancer therapy. These biopolymer composites are efficient in holding, protecting and releasing bioactive drugs
such as pharmaceutics, nutraceuticals, enzymes, and probiotics. Several studies revealed a polymer-based drug
delivery system in cancer therapy and microbial treatments. However, this mini-review emphasized the source,
extraction, and characterizations of the biopolymers and their use in the fabrication of various drug or metals
based nanocomposites followed by its utilization as drug carrier or drug to treat the various diseases such as antimicrobial
infections and cancer.
Lectins and Nanostructured Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Bruschi Marcos Luciano
Published: November 2018

The advances and the impact of nanostructured systems on therapeutics constitute a
constantly evolving reality. New strategies have been developed for drug delivery control and for
directing these systems to the targeted site improving the therapy. In this commentary, the lectins are
briefly reviewed; their fundamentals and the proposed applications as ligands in nanostructured drug
delivery systems are discussed.
NMR Based Metabolomics: An Exquisite and Facile Method for Evaluating Therapeutic Efficacy and Screening Drug Toxicity
Authors: Guleria Anupam , Kumar Amit , Kumar Umesh , Raj Ritu , Kumar Dinesh
Published: November 2018

Metabolomics is an analytical approach to metabolism and involves quantitative and comparative
analysis of low-molecular-weight metabolites in body fluids or cellular/tissues extracts. Owing
to its ability to reveal disease-specific metabolic patterns or metabolic changes produced in response to
a therapeutic intervention; it is gaining widespread applications virtually in all aspects of biomedical
and pharmaceutical research pertaining to human healthcare management. It has also started playing a
strategic role in pharmacological and toxicological research for evaluating therapeutic efficacy/safety of
promising drug candidates either alone or in conjunction with other omics tools such as genomics, transcriptomics
and proteomics. The metabolic profiling capabilities of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR)
spectroscopy along with pattern recognition methods have successfully been applied for identifying a
diagnostic panel of biomarkers, evaluating drug efficacy/safety, screening toxicity and disease mechanism.
Particularly, the interest in applying NMR-based metabolomics for the assessment of therapeutic
efficacy and safety is increasing among drug researchers and drug regulators owing to its nondestructive,
non-selective and minimal sample preparation requirement. On top of this, it offers the potential
for high-throughput (i.e. >100 samples a day is attainable) and provides highly reproducible results.
In this review, we will discuss some of the recent developments related to NMR based metabolomics
followed by some recent literature examples to highlight its potential in (a) the evaluation of
therapeutic efficacy and safety of lead discovery compounds, (b) monitoring disease status and recovery
after treatment and (c) identification and evaluation of biomarkers of systemic/organ-specific toxicity.
Additionally, the review will also highlight its role to facilitate clinical trial testing and improve
post-approval drug monitoring.
Flavonoids and Anthranquinones as Xanthine Oxidase and Monoamine Oxidase Inhibitors: A New Approach Towards Inflammation and Oxidative Stress
Authors: Malik Neelam , Dhiman Priyanka , Sobarzo-Sanchez Eduardo , Khatkar Anurag
Published: November 2018

The development of xanthine oxidase and monoamine oxidase inhibitors led to important
breakthroughs in the therapy of oxidative damage, hyperuricemia, gout, neurological, neuropsychiatric
disorders and management of reperfusion injury. Drugs obtained from natural sources play an important
role in the treatment of various pathological disorders and act as a lead compound for the discovery of
new synthetic drug substances. In this review, various pharmacological effects produced by the inhibition
of xanthine oxidase and monoamine oxidase through natural and synthetic flavonoids as well as
anthraquinones are discussed in detail. Several methods have been designed for monitoring enzymatic
activity and its inhibitor screening of bioactive natural and synthetic flavonoids and anthraquinones. In
this review, all the in-vitro and other computational approaches are critically discussed which provided
the clue about structure activity requirements for further precise modifications on the basic scaffold.
In Silico Analysis and Molecular Docking Studies of Novel 6,7-dihydropyrano [2,3-d] pyrimidin-5-one Derivatives as Human Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor 2 (HER2) and Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor (EGFR) Inhibitors
Authors: Panchal Ishan I. , Shah Ashish , Devgirkar Animesh , Shah Umang , Patel Ashish , Patel Alkesh , Sen Dhrubo J.
Published: November 2018

Background::

HER2 is a member of the human epidermal growth factor receptor
(HER/EGFR-/ERBB) family. Amplification or over-expression of this oncogene has been shown
to play a major role in the development and progression of certain destructive types of breast cancer.
Several drugs like Trastuzumab, Pertuzumab, Capecitabine, and Letrozole are used in the patients
with metastatic breast cancer that overexpress the HER2 receptor.

Materials and Methods::

We aimed to investigate, the prevalence, ADME prediction, biological
activity prediction of novel HER2/ EGFR mutations in breast cancer. Literature review shows that
pyrano pyrimidin scaffold plays important role in the treatment of Brest cancer. So we have to design
novel 6,7-Dihydropyrano [2,3-d] pyrimidin-5-one derivatives with virtual screening techniques.
Molecular target prediction shows that all derivatives act on tyrosine kinase.

Results::

Among all the compounds H11 (-8.8 kcal/mol), H2 (-8.7 kcal/mol), H15 (-8.6 Kcal/mol),
and H17 (-8.7 Kcal/mol) had a maximum binding affinity as compared to Cipecitabine (-6.0
kcal/mol), STD1 (-7.2 Kcal/mol) and STD2 (-7.9 Kcal/mol) and other derivatives. Most of the
compounds are moderately active and do not cross the blood brain barrier.

Conclusion::

The bioactivity prediction shows that all compounds are active to moderately active.
These positive results show that it could be further investigated and explored.
Flower Pollen Extract in Association with Vitamins (Deprox 500®) Versus Serenoa repens in Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome: A Comparative Analysis of Two Different Treatments
Authors: Macchione Nicola , Bernardini Paolo , Piacentini Igor , Mangiarotti Barbara , Del Nero Alberto
Published: November 2018

Objective:

Chronic Prostatitis/Chronic Pelvic Pain Syndrome (CP/CPPS) is reported in the literature ranging from 1 to 14.2%. The aim of the present study was to assess the impact on patient’s quality of life and symptoms of Flower pollen extract in association with vitamins (Deprox 500®) in comparison with Serenoa repens 320 mg (Permixon 320 mg® by Pierre Fabre) in patients with CP/CPPS.

Methodology:

All consecutive patients, with a diagnosis of CP/CPPS, referred to our center from January to August 2016, were screened to be enrolled in this single-center, randomized, controlled trial. The main outcome measure was the evaluation of IPSS/NIHCPSI (International Prostatic Symptom Score/NIH-Chronic Prostatitis Symptom Index) score variation and the assessment of the quality of life and symptoms at the end of the therapy. The second outcome measure was the evaluation of the comorbidity role in the CP/CPPS therapy. 63 patients were analyzed; patients were randomized into two groups: 29 patients were treated with Deprox 500® 2 tablets/day for 6 weeks and 34 patients with Serenoa repens 320 mg, 1 tablet/day for 6 weeks.

Results:

The mean score variation for IPSS was -12.7 ± 4.3 in the Deprox 500® group and -7.8 ± 4.7 in the Serenoa repens group (p=0.0005) while for NIH-CPSI was -17.3±3.1 in the Deprox 500® group and -13.6±4.8 in the Serenoa repens group (p=0.0016). By accounting only the symptoms part of NIH-CPSI questionnaire, the mean score variation reported was -11.5±2.5 in the Deprox 500® group and -9.02±4.0 in the Serenoa repens group (p=0.009321). Furthermore, analyzing the comorbidity subgroups, in patients with hypertension, the mean IPSS score variation was -14.3±3.2 in the Deprox 500® group and - 9.02±4.0 in the Serenoa repens group.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, in patients with CP/CPPS, Deprox 500® improves IPSS and NIH-CPSI scores up to 74.5% and 84.5% respectively. Furthermore, in patients with hypertension, the antioxidant effect of Deprox 500® reduces the mean IPSS score of 82.7%.
Pentraxin Level is the Key to Determine Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) or Fibrinolysis
Authors: Haybar Habib , Parsa Saeed Alipour , Khaheshi Isa , Zayeri Zeinab Deris
Published: November 2018

Aims: To examine if pentraxin can help identify patients benefitting most from primary
Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (PCI) vs. fibrinolysis.

Methods: Patients with acute ST-Elevation Myocardial Infarction (STEMI) were consecutively
recruited from a community center without PCI and a tertiary center with PCI facilities. Left
ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF) was determined echocardiographically at baseline and 5 days
after the index admission; the difference between two measurements was considered as the
magnitude of improvement. We used regression models to test the hypothesis that the magnitude of
the advantage of PCI over fibrinolysis in preserving LVEF 5 days after STEMI is modified by
pentraxin 3 (PTX3).

Results: The functional advantage (LVEF) of the PCI over fibrinolysis has been determined by
PTX3. LVEF was attenuated and even reversed as PTX3 level increased. The primary PCI of the
participants with less than 7 ng.ml-1 PTX3 level, achieved a clinically significant increase in the
LVEF as compared to fibrinolysis. At lower levels of PTX3, PCI shows a conspicuous advantage
over fibrinolysis in terms of the probability of developing an LVEF <40%.

Conclusion: We demonstrated not only the functional advantage of PCI over fibrinolysis performed
within the recommended time frames but also the relative advantage of its relevance to the baseline
PTX3 levels. PTX3 can play a role in determining the choice of best therapy. More than 75% of
patients with STEMI who have PTX3 levels ≤7 ng.ml-1 imply the need of PCI.
Transport of Bupropion and its Metabolites by the Model CHO and HEK293 Cell Lines
Authors: Han Lyrialle W. , Gao Chunying , Zhang Yuchen , Wang Joanne , Mao Qingcheng
Published: November 2018

Background: Bupropion (BUP) is widely used as an antidepressant and smoking cessation aid. There are three major pharmacologically active metabolites of BUP, Erythrohydrobupropion (EB), Hydroxybupropion (OHB) and Threohydrobupropion (TB). At present, the mechanisms underlying the overall disposition and systemic clearance of BUP and its metabolites have not been well understood, and the role of transporters has not been studied.  Objective: The goal of this study was to investigate whether BUP and its active metabolites are substrates of the major hepatic uptake and efflux transporters.  Method: CHO or HEK293 cell lines or plasma membrane vesicles that overexpress OATP1B1, OATP1B3, OATP2B1, OATP4A1, OCT1, BCRP, MRP2 or P-gp were used in cellular or vesicle uptake and inhibition assays. Liquid Chromatography-Tandem Mass Spectrometry (LC-MS/MS) was used to quantify transport activity.  Results: BUP and its major active metabolites were actively transported into the CHO or HEK293 cells overexpressing OATP1B1, OATP1B3 or OATP2B1; however, such cellular active uptake could not be inhibited at all by prototypical inhibitors of any of the OATP transporters. These compounds were not transported by OCT1, BCRP, MRP2 or P-gp either. These results suggest that the major known hepatic transporters likely play a minor role in the overall disposition and systemic clearance of BUP and its active metabolites in humans. We also demonstrated that BUP and its metabolites were not transported by OATP4A1, an uptake transporter on the apical membrane of placental syncytiotrophoblasts, suggesting that OATP4A1 is not responsible for the transfer of BUP and its metabolites from the maternal blood to the fetal compartment across the placental barrier in pregnant women.

Conclusion:

BUP and metabolites are not substrates of the major hepatic transporters tested and thus these hepatic transporters likely do not play a role in the overall disposition of the drug. Our results also suggest that caution should be taken when using the model CHO and HEK293 cell lines to evaluate potential roles of transporters in drug disposition.
Vascular Calcification and not Arrhythmia in Idiopathic Atrial Fibrillation Associates with Sex Differences in Diabetic Microvascular Injury miRNA Profiles
Authors: Dudink Elton , Florijn Barend , Weijs Bob , Duijs Jacques , Luermans Justin , Peeters Frederique , Schurgers Leon , Wildberger Joachim , Schotten Ulrich , Bijkerk Roel , Crijns Harry J. , van Zonneveld Anton Jan
Published: November 2018

Background:

Atrial Fibrillation (AF) in patients without concomitant cardiovascular
pathophysiological disease, is called idiopathic Atrial Fibrillation (iAF). Nonetheless, iAF patients
have often times subclinical coronary (micro) vascular dysfunction and, particularly in women, a
higher prevalence of subsequent cardiovascular comorbidities. Previously, we identified a plasma
miRNA association with diabetes and microvascular injury in Diabetic Nephropathy (DN) patients.
Therefore, in this study we assessed whether plasma levels of these diabetic, microvascular injury associated
miRNAs reflect microvascular integrity in iAF patients, associated with the presence of
paroxysmal arrhythmia or instead are determined by concealed coronary artery disease.

Methods:

Circulating levels of a pre-selected set of diabetic, (micro) vascular injury associated
miRNAs, were measured in 59 iAF patients compared to 176 Sinus Rhythm (SR) controls. Furthermore,
the presence of coronary artery and aortic calcification in each patient was assessed using Cardiac
Computed Tomography Angiography (CCTA).

Results:

Paroxysmal arrhythmia in iAF patients did not result in significant miRNA expression profile
differences in iAF patients compared to SR controls. Nonetheless, coronary artery calcification
(CAC) was associated with higher levels of miRNAs-103, -125a-5p, -221 and -223 in men. In women,
CAC was associated with higher plasma levels of miRNA-27a and miRNA-126 and correlated
with Agatston scores. Within the total population, ascending Aortic Calcification (AsAC) patients
displayed increased plasma levels of miRNA-221, while women, in particular, demonstrated a Descending
Aorta Calcification (DAC) associated increase in miRNA-212 levels.

Conclusions: Diabetic microvascular injury associated miRNAs in iAF are associated with subclinical
coronary artery disease in a sex-specific way and confirm the notion that biological sex identifies
iAF subgroups that may require dedicated clinical care.
Synthesis of Cost-effective Trimetallic Oxide Nanocatalysts for the Reduction of Nitroarenes in Presence of NaBH4 in an Aqueous Medium
Authors: Mukherjee Arnab , Adak Mrinal K. , Chowdhury Anirban , Dhak Debasis
Published: November 2018

Background:

To prevent the environmental pollution, the release of the carcinogenic
reagents like nitroarenes, especially nitrobenzene must be reduced or to find a way to convert these
hazardous materials into less harmful material. For the reduction of nitroarenes, various types of
catalysts such as metal nanoparticles (mainly coinage and group VIII) and platinum group metals were
used. The chemo/homo selectivity of the reduction of nitroarenes was tested mainly in an organic
solvent medium.

Method:

Trimetallic oxide nanocatalysts were prepared chemically and characterized via Thermogravimetric
analysis (TGA), X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy FTIR),
Scanning electron microscope (SEM) and solid UV studies. A series of nitroarenes were subjected to
get their amine analogues using the NaBH4 in an aqueous medium using the synthesized catalysts. The
completion of the reduction process was confirmed by the spectroscopic analysis.

Results:

The average crystallite of the trimetallic oxide nanocatalysts was found to be 14-32nm. The
reductions were selective (homo/chemo) and kinetics followed the Lindemann-Hinshelwood pseudofirst
order kinetics with the rate constant in the order of 10-3 s-1. Hydroxylamine intermediate was
found to be formed in the reduction procedure.

Conclusion:

The catalysts showed promising for the selectivity (homo/chemo). The reduction processes
were less time consuming e.g. nitrobenzene took 10 mins and a series of nitroanilines required
35-40 s for the reduction. In short, the trimetallic nano-oxide catalysts possess fast reaction process,
cost-effective, easy to handle, reusable and hence could be promising for industrial waste treatment.
Tree-Based Ant Colony Optimization Algorithm for Effective Multicast Routing in Mobile Adhoc Network
Authors: Sharma Priyanka , Nunia Manish Kumar , Basavarajaish Madhushree , Tanwar Sudeep
Published: November 2018

Background:

Multimedia transmission over wireless communication is gaining
momentum with rapid use of mobile hand-held devices. Providing a QoS based routing solution is a
major challenge, due to the transient and inaccurate state of Mobile Ad hoc Networks. Discovering
optimal multicast routes is an NP-Problem and hence, QoS based routing is typically an optimization
problem. Swarm Intelligence is a heuristic-based approach to find solutions to various complex
problems using the principle of collective behaviour of natural agents.

Objective:

An ACO based approach for optimization of QoS based multicast routing algorithm for
multimedia streaming applications is proposed. Proposed approach performed well in comparison to
other state-of-the-art approaches with respect to path maintenance, packet delivery ratio, and end-toend
delay.

Methods:

The multicast routing model is simulated as a tree structure, where the nodes represent
stations and the edges represent the link between the stations.

Results:

Results show that proposed approach is much faster in convergence speed than the
conventional AntNet. With the increasing size of the MANET environment, the convergence time of
proposed approach is much better than AntNet. This is mainly due to the trace maintenance, treebased
approach for path selection and implementation of local update and global update of the
pheromone values.

Conclusion:

We can conclude that the proposed approach is a more effective algorithm for multiconstraints
multicast routing.
Role of Technology in Solid Waste Management: A Review
Authors: Kumari Jyoti , Shrivastava Gulshan , Sinha Akash , Kumar Prabhat
Published: November 2018

Background:

Waste management is an essential process for the progress of any nation. The exponential growth in the urbanization and industrialization has brought the waste management issue into prime focus. The practices adopted for waste management vary across the nations as well as regions and sectors. Solid waste management encompasses a number of activities ranging from waste collection to waste recycling and waste reuse. These activities can make use of the technology for enhancing the throughput at each level.

Objective:

This paper provides a review of the activities involved and technology employed at each step of the solid waste management process.

Methods:

A phase-wise discussion of the activities involved in solid waste management cycle is provided along with the current methods in practice for each activity. The paper further provides a technical review of technology used for improving the waste management scenario. A brief discussion of the methods for reducing waste generation and increasing reuse is also presented. Finally, the paper identifies a list of challenges related to the waste management process and provides suitable suggestions for addressing the identified challenges.

Conclusion:

This work shall help the researchers to gain valuable insight into the challenges involved in solid waste management practices and would guide future research regarding the employment of technology for improving the efficiency of the overall waste management process.
Into the World of Underwater Swarm Robotics: Architecture, Communication, Applications and Challenges
Authors: Keerthi Koyippilly Satheesh , Mahapatra Bandana , Menon Varun Girijan
Published: November 2018

Background:

With the curiosity of exploring the underwater world, science has devised
various technologies and machines that can help them in performing activities like exploring, navigating
and plunging into the unknown world of oceanography. Underwater Robot or vehicle can be
claimed as an outcome of extensive research done by the scientists who aimed at discovering the
unknown mysterious world of ocean and how it can benefit humanity. Swarm robotics is an entirely
new section of robotics that has been developed based on swarm intelligence. Considering the fact,
swarm robotics being still in nuptial stage, researchers have provided immense contribution with an
aim to develop this technology. The objective of the paper is to present a comprehensive review
covering the various technical and conceptual aspects of underwater swarm robotic system.

Methods:

A systematic review on state-of-the-art has been performed where contributions of various
researchers was considered. The study emphasis on the concepts, technical background, architecture
and communication medium along with its applicability in various fields that also include various
issues and challenges faced while attaining them.

Results:

The incorporation of swarm intelligence in underwater robotics provides a new angle altogether
into the working pattern of underwater robotic system.

Conclusion:

The article is a systematic presentation of swarm robot technologies, their mechanisms,
conceived and designed communication medium with respect to adaptability of the vehicle to the
versatile nature of water. The paper delineates the various conceptual and technical details and its
beneficence to humanity.
Does the Distinctiveness of Palliative Care Research Require Distinct Ethical Guidelines?
Authors: Hurst Daniel J.
Published: November 2018

Palliative and end of life care is changing, becoming more widespread and improving for patients. Yet, the current literature in the field suggests that the evidence for palliative and end of life care is somewhat limited. Research on treatment decisions, family care, and advance directions are just a few of the areas that need rigorous research efforts. Palliative care research is essential in order to continue providing effective treatments to those suffering in the last stages of life. Indeed, the goal of good palliative care research is to relieve suffering and to improve quality of life. Similar to any other field, palliative care programs must develop on a research base, and patient care will suffer if it is not backed by sound research. However, weighted against this need are some who maintain that the ethical and practical challenges of palliative care research are unique and insurmountable. This analysis considers if distinct ethical guidelines are needed for palliative care research.
Assistive Technology for the Upper Extremities After Stroke: Systematic Review of Users’ Needs (Preprint)
Authors: van Ommeren Anne L , Smulders Laura C , Prange-Lasonder Gerdienke B , Buurke Jaap H , Veltink Peter H , Rietman Johan S
Published: November 2018

BACKGROUND

Technical innovations have the potential to compensate for loss of upper-limb motor functions after stroke. However, majority of the designs do not completely meet the needs and preferences of the end users. User-centered design methods have shown that the attention to user perspectives during development of assistive technology leads to devices that better suit the needs of the users.

OBJECTIVE

To get more insight into the factors that can bring the design of assistive technology to higher levels of satisfaction and acceptance, studies about user perspectives on assistive technology for the upper limb after stroke are systematically reviewed.

METHODS

A database search was conducted in PubMed, EMBASE, CINAHL, PsycINFO, and Scopus from inception to August 2017, supplemented with a search of reference lists. Methodological quality of the included studies was appraised. User perspectives of stroke survivors, carers, and health care professionals were extracted. A total of 35 descriptive themes were identified, from which 5 overarching themes were derived.

RESULTS

In total, 9 studies with information gathered from focus groups, questionnaires, and interviews were included. Barriers and enablers influencing the adoption of assistive technology for the upper limb after stroke emerged within 5 overarching but highly interdependent themes: (1) promoting hand and arm performance; (2) attitude toward technology; (3) decision process; (4) usability; and (5) practical applicability.

CONCLUSIONS

Expected use of an assistive technology is facilitated when it has a clear therapeutic base (expected benefit in enhancing function), its users (patients and health care professionals) have a positive attitude toward technology, sufficient information about the assistive technology is available, and usability and practical applicability have been addressed successfully in its design. The interdependency of the identified themes implies that all aspects influencing user perspectives of assistive technology need to be considered when developing assistive technology to enhance its chance of acceptance. The importance of each factor may vary depending on personal factors and the use context, either at home as an assistive aid or for rehabilitation at a clinic.
Facility-Level Variations in Kidney Disease Care among Veterans with Diabetes and CKD
Authors: Navaneethan Sankar D. , Akeroyd Julia M. , Ramsey David , Ahmed Sarah T. , Mishra Shiva Raj , Petersen Laura A. , Muntner Paul , Ballantyne Christie , Winkelmayer Wolfgang C. , Ramanathan Venkat , Virani Salim S.
Published: November 2018

Background and objectives

Facility-level variation has been reported among veterans receiving care for various diseases. We studied the frequency and facility-level variations of guideline-recommended practices in patients with diabetes and CKD.

Design, setting, participants, & measurements

Patients with diabetes and concomitant CKD (eGFR 15–59 ml/min per 1.73 m2, measured twice, 90 days apart) receiving care in 130 facilities across the Veterans Affairs Health Care System were included (n=281,223). We studied the proportions of patients (facility-level) receiving recommended core measures and facility-level variations of these study outcomes using median rate ratios, adjusting for various patient and provider-level factors. Median rate ratio quantifies the degree to which care may vary for similar patients receiving care at two randomly chosen facilities, with <1 being no variation and >1.2 as substantial variation between the facilities. Study outcomes included measurement of urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio/urine protein-to-creatinine ratio and blood hemoglobin concentration, prescription of statins and angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors/angiotensin receptor blockers, BP<140/90 mm Hg, and referral to a Veterans Affairs nephrologist (only for those with eGFR<30 ml/min per 1.73 m2).

Results

Among those with eGFR 30–59 ml/min per 1.73 m2, proportion of patients receiving recommended core measures (median and interquartile range across facilities) were 37% (22%–47%) for urine albumin-to-creatinine ratio/urine protein-to-creatinine ratio, 74% (72%–79%) for hemoglobin measurement, 66% (62%–69%) for angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor/angiotensin receptor blocker prescription, 85% (74%–87%) for statin prescription, 47% (42%–53%) for achieving BP<140/90 mm Hg, and 13% (7%–16%) for meeting all outcome measures. Adjusted median rate ratios (95% confidence intervals) were 5.2 (4.1 to 6.4), 2.4 (2.1 to 2.6), 1.3 (1.2 to 1.3), 1.2 (1.2 to 1.3), 1.4 (1.3 to 1.4), and 4.1 (3.3 to 5.0), respectively. Median rate ratios were qualitatively similar in an analysis restricted to those with eGFR 15–29 ml/min per 1.73 m2.

Conclusions

Among patients with diabetes and CKD, at facility-level, ordering of laboratory tests, and scheduling of nephrology referrals in eligible patients remains suboptimal, with substantial variations across facilities.
The Creation of a French Catalan Identity through the Landscape of the Roussillon: The Writings of Josep Pla and Jean
Authors: Popowich Alice Emma
Published: November 2018

The end of the 19th century saw the Roussillon at a crossroads: to the north were the social and financial opportunities that came from adopting French, the language of the aristocracy and the elite (Berjoan, 2009, pp. 121-122), to south was the shining example of Barcelona, now living its Renaixença period, where Catalan arts and culture were gaining the attention on a world stage. In Perpignan, and in neighboring communities, the intellectual classes of the Roussillon were weighing their options. Catalan was widely spoken in this area of France, but few could write it. In fact, the efforts by the French government to unify the nation under one language had resulted in the devaluing of Catalan among its speakers. A lack of grammatical and orthographical norms in French Catalonia had also led native speakers to become confused about the language they spoke (Berjoan, 2009, p. 122). Was it Catalan? Were they?
Estimation of natural groundwater recharge in the Aguascalientes semiarid valley, Mexico
Authors: Guerrero-Martínez Lilia , Hernández-Marín Martín , Burbey Thomas J.
Published: November 2018

Groundwater recharge (GWR) is analyzed and evaluated within the Aguascalientes Valley by means of a modified linearized Boussinesq equation and the Water Table Fluctuations (WTF) technique. These techniques use the specific yield, water table variations and the subsurface drainage of groundwater. The methodology is applied to the semiarid Aguascalientes valley, which contains a thick vadose zone. The combination of the analytical solution based on the Boussinesq equation and the WTF technique, allows the method to be applied in areas with deep groundwater levels, such as the Aguascalientes valley, without the need for high temporal resolution data. The data for the application of the method were provided by various government agencies and includes information on 145 wells positioned within the valley during the period 1985-2015. The specific yield and the transmissivity were integrated from the results of two previous investigations. Results indicate that the variation of recharge ranges from 0.86 to 525.69 mm/year in the analyzed period, with the highest recharge rates occurring in the north and center parts of the valley and is likely attributed to high specific yield and vertical hydraulic conductivity due to the presence of coarse permeable soils present in the area. Conversely, the lowest recharge rates were found to occur near the north and south borders of the valley.
Analogue model of gravity driven deformation in the salt tectonics zone of northeastern Mexico
Authors: Gracia-Marroquín Diego , Cerca Mariano , Carreón-Freyre Dora , Barrientos-García Bernardino
Published: November 2018

In the deep seated gravity-driven deformation systems of the Gulf of Mexico contemporaneous extension and contraction of the overburden is favored by mechanical decoupling from the basement along thick salt sequences (up to 4 km). The updip extension is located inland, on the continental shelf of northeast Mexico, and is characterized by extensional listric faults and roll-overs; the downdip shortening zone is located at the deep waters and is characterized by a fold and thrust belt detached above the salt layer. Two physical experiments are used to discuss some aspects of these gravity-driven systems. The experimental setup includes a motor-driven experimental table, an inclined brittle basement (1°), a silicone layer simulating the salt sequences, and sand layers simulating the pre-kinematic Jurassic-Cretaceous strata before Laramide shortening. Deformation resulted in further tilting of the basement (3° to 4°). After the onset of deformation, thin sand layers were added at regular time intervals simulating the syntectonic sedimentation. The experiments reproduced the geometry of the deformation at the frontal ramp characterized by a seaward vergent thrust and its associated deformed region (the Perdido fold belt). The fold and thrust belt localization was favored by the change in basement inclination (a built-in slope change). Key elements interpreted in one available section of the area were reproduced in the model: a) the presence of an antithethic roll-over in the extensional zone and, b) the basinward vergence of folds and thrusts observed in the downdip shortening zone in the mexican Perdido fold belt.
Inventario de procesos de remoción en masa en la cuenca baja del Río Blanco (31ºS), Andes Centrales Argentinos
Authors: Jeanneret Pilar , Moreiras Stella Maris
Published: November 2018

Este trabajo presenta el primer inventario de los procesos de remoción en masa identificados de la cuenca baja del Río Blanco en la provincia de San Juan, Argentina. La metodología aplicada consistió en la utilización de diferentes sensores remotos para la identificación de los eventos previos a los registros históricos regionales. Los resultados obtenidos en gabinete fueron constatados en terreno verificando la génesis de los depósitos cuaternarios que posteriormente fueron digitalizados en un sistema de información geográfica (QGIS). Mediante un mapeo geomorfológico de detalle, se identificaron cerca de 800 procesos de remoción en masa, los cuales ocupan casi el 30 % del área estudiada, reconociéndose los eventos de caída, flujo, deslizamiento y avalancha de rocas y procesos de soligelifluxión. Estos eventos, casi en su totalidad, presentan sus zonas de arranque por encima de los 3000 m s.n.m. Predominan los eventos activos en ambiente periglacial con claras evidencias de acción glaciar en el pasado. Esto denota un nuevo desafío en el contexto de cambio climático global con tendencia a la degradación del permafrost.