bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Lost, Found and Troubled in Translation: Reconsidering imagined Indigenous “communities” in post-disaster Taiwan settings
Authors: Hsu Minna
Published: March 2016

Post-disaster discourses emphasize the importance of community in fostering reconstruction, yet the focus on recovering from a “natural” disaster can obscure the slower-paced disasters of displacement, dispossession and marginalization. The pre-disaster circumstances of Indigenous peoples influenced reconstruction after Typhoon Morakot, which devastated Taiwan in 2009, and have shaped the relations in which Indigenous groups are embedded as well as the terms used to represent them. “Community”, already contested in its application within various settings, masks a multilingual complexity in Taiwan. This paper explores how the idea of community was mobilized in post-Morakot reconstruction between 2009 and 2015, drawing on ethnographic research within Indigenous Rukai domains and interviews with various institutions. Taking a historical approach to Rukai experiences in Wutai Township, it discusses how imaginings of community reinforce rather than address risk and vulnerability for Indigenous populations in hazardous landscapes, and how external agencies perceive as self-evident what they mean by “community development” and “needs”.
A physical descriptive model for predicting bacteria level variation at a dynamic beach
Authors: He Cheng , Post Yvonne , Dony John , Edge Tom , Patel Mahesh , Rochfort Quintin
Published: March 2016

A rational-based physical descriptive model (PDM) has been developed to predict the levels of Escherichia coli in water at a beach with dynamic conditions in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), Ontario, Canada. Bacteria loadings in the water were affected not only by multiple physical factors (precipitation, discharge, wind, etc.), but also by cumulative effects, intensity, duration and timing of storm events. These may not be linearly related to the observed variations in bacteria levels, and are unlikely to be properly represented by a widely used multiple linear regression model. In order to account for these complex relationships, the amounts of precipitation and nearby creek discharge, the impact of various time-related factors, lag time between events and sample collection, and threshold for different parameters were used in determining bacteria levels. This new comprehensive PDM approach improved the accuracy of the E. coli level predictions in the studied beach water compared to the previously developed statistical predictive and presently used geometric mean models. In spite of the complexity and dynamic conditions at the studied beach, the PDM achieved 75% accuracy overall for the five case years examined.
Rivers and reciprocity: perceptions and policy on international watercourses
Authors: Zhong Yong , Tian Fuqiang , Hu Heping , Grey David , Gilmont Michael
Published: March 2016

The paper analyses geopolitical dimensions of the 1997 United Nations Convention on the Law of the Non-Navigational Uses of International Watercourses (UNWC) using quantitative data on transboundary flows and qualitative data on basin State location within a watercourse. The UNWC has had a long and difficult history. A tendency for downstream support for, and upstream ambivalence/opposition to, the UNWC is identified. It appears not widely recognized that adverse effects can be caused by any State on other States, regardless of their upstream or downstream location. Thus downstream States consider that their actions cannot harm upstream States, and upstream States consider that the UNWC provides them with greater obligations than downstream States. Clarification of the UNWC with the principle of reciprocal obligations on all States, both upstream and downstream, will remove any ambiguity, correct misperceptions, have clear policy implications for all States, promote UNWC engagement of upstream States, and contribute to long-term global water security.
Agenesis of Maxillary Lateral Incisors: Treatment Involves Much More Than Just Canine Guidance
Authors: Silveira Giordani Santos , Mucha José Nelson
Published: March 2016

Objective:

In this study, we aimed highlight some clinical features present in patients whose maxillary lateral incisors are missing, and proposed more logical, rational and predictable solutions to inform decision making in rehabilitation procedures.

Methods:

Literature review and discussion.

Conclusion:

Choosing the best possible treatment for congenital absence of maxillary lateral incisors depends on the multidisciplinary diagnosis of facial, occlusal, functional and periodontal features. It also depends on the individual long-term stability, and it does not only rely on canine-guided disocclusion.
An Open Randomized Trial Comparing the Effects of Oral NSAIDs Versus Steroid Intra-Articular Infiltration in Congestive Osteoarthritis of the Knee
Authors: Dieu-Donné Ouédraogo , Théodore Ouédraogo , Joëlle Zabsonré/Tiendrébéogo , Pierre Dionou , Smaïla Ouédraogo , Christian Compaoré , Fulgence Kaboré , Joseph Drabo Youssouf
Published: March 2016

Objective:

To compare the efficacy on pain and joint function of NSAIDs versus steroid intra-articular infiltration in congestive knee osteoarthritis.

Patients and Methods:

Open randomized study comparing a series of patients treated with NSAIDs for 21 days and another who received steroid intra-articular infiltration (SIAI) spaced at every 7 days. The visual analog scale was used for the weekly assessment of spontaneous pain and pain when walking. Lequesne functional pain scale was used to assess the functional impact of knee osteoarthritis.

Results:

Seventy patients were enrolled, including 35 in the NSAID arm and 35 in SIAI arm. Forty-nine (70%) had stage III of Kellgren and Lawrance scale. On admission, the average pain intensity was 50.46 ± 30.93 in the NSAID arm and 60.92 ± 30 in SIAI arm (p = 0.0189). At the end of follow-up, pain intensity was 6.72 ± 13 in NSAIDs patients and 17.80 ± 21 in SIAI one (p = 0.001). The average intensity of pain on walking was 64.41 ± 22.61. It was 53.33 ± 22.31 in NSAID’s against 74.85 ± 17.55 in SIAI patients (P <0.0001). At the end of the treatment, they were respectively 19.11 ± 11.37, and 35 ± 30.69 (P = 0.0085).

Conclusion:

Corticosteroid injections have a short efficacy compared to NSAIDs. Prescribing NSAIDs should consider the cons-indications, comorbidities and their deleterious digestive, renal, and cardiovascular effect.
Current and Future of Laser Therapy in the Management of Glaucoma
Authors: Ekici Feyzahan , Waisbourd Michael , Katz L. Jay
Published: March 2016

There has been tremendous progress in the past decades in the utilization of lasers for treating patients with glaucoma. This article reviews the use of lasers in different areas of glaucoma, including the shift from argon laser trabeculoplasty (ALT) to selective laser trabeculoplasty (SLT), laser trabeculoplasty as an initial treatment for glaucoma, new laser trabeculoplasty procedures under investigation, and other recent laser treatment modalities such as endoscopic cyclophotocoagulation and laser-assisted deep sclerectomy.
Managing Primary Angle Closure Glaucoma – The Role of Lens Extraction in this Era
Authors: Baig Nafees , Kam Ka-Wai , Tham Clement C.Y.
Published: March 2016

Trabeculectomy has been the gold standard in reducing intraocular pressure (IOP) in glaucoma patients, no matter it is angle closure or open angle glaucoma. However in primary angle closure glaucoma, no matter the lens is cataractous or not, it is likely to be pathological, this thicker than usual lens, with or without a more anterior position, is often regarded as a strong contributing factor to angle closure. Lens extraction, no matter it is cataractous or clear, can theoretically eliminate this anatomical predisposing factor of angle closure, and thus IOP can be reduced. Based on recent results of a number of clinical trials, lens extraction alone or in combination with other IOP-lowering surgeries, may therefore play a more important role in the treating primary angle closure glaucoma. In cases when greater IOP-lowering effect is needed or if drug dependency has to be minimized, combined procedures, such as phacotrabeculectomy, can be considered, but the surgical risk can be higher than lens extraction alone.
Improving the relevance and consistency of outcomes in comparative effectiveness research
Authors: Tunis Sean R , Clarke Mike , Gorst Sarah L , Gargon Elizabeth , Blazeby Jane M , Altman Douglas G , Williamson Paula R
Published: March 2016

Policy makers have clearly indicated – through heavy investment in the Patient Centered Outcomes Research Institute – that reporting outcomes that are meaningful to patients is crucial for improvement in healthcare delivery and cost reduction. Better interpretation and generalizability of clinical research results that incorporate patient-centered outcomes research can be achieved by accelerating the development and uptake of core outcome sets (COS). COS provide a standardized minimum set of the outcomes that should be measured and reported in all clinical trials of a specific condition. The level of activity around COS has increased significantly over the past decade, with substantial progress in several clinical domains. However, there are many important clinical conditions for which high-quality COS have not been developed and there are limited resources and capacity with which to develop them. We believe that meaningful progress toward the goals behind the significant investments in patient-centered outcomes research and comparative effectiveness research will depend on a serious effort to address these issues.
Ceftaroline fosamil treatment outcomes compared with standard of care among hospitalized patients with complicated skin and soft tissue infections
Authors: Karve Sudeep , Hackett Judith , Levinson Jeremy , Gibson Edward , Battersby Alysia
Published: March 2016

Aim:Compare clinical and cost outcomes associated with ceftaroline fosamil with other commonly used antibiotics in complicated skin and soft tissue infections.Methods:Retrospective analysis of hospital records from 2010 to 2013 in Premier’s Perspective comparative database for adults with complicated skin and soft tissue infection treated with intravenous ceftaroline fosamil, vancomycin, daptomycin, linezolid or tigecycline. Length of stay, inpatient costs and mortality were compared between propensity score-matched treatment groups.Results & conclusion:Compared with the other commonly used antibiotics, matched patients in the ceftaroline fosamil treatment group had an equivalent (1%) or lower (compared with linezolid, 2%) in-hospital mortality rate, and significantly lower (p < 0.001) average unadjusted and regression-adjusted length of stay and inpatient costs (savings of $3398.80 compared with daptomycin).
Perspectives for Practice: A New JOSPT Feature to Facilitate Translation of Research Into Practice
Authors: Abbott J. Haxby
Published: March 2016

In this month's issue, we introduce a new feature, Perspectives for Practice, which aims to interpret new research in the context of established best practice. This 2-page feature is designed to offer clinicians insight into the state of the art: what was known before, what research was done before, what new evidence the present study found, and how we should interpret this new evidence in light of what was known before. The second page of the Perspectives for Practice will provide additional material useful for teaching and discussion. The structure and content of these features will undergo continued development in response to reader feedback, which we welcome.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(3):128–129. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.0104
Reporting Guidelines and Checklists Improve the Reliability and Rigor of Research Reports
Authors: Abbott J. Haxby
Published: March 2016

The Journal of Orthopaedic & Sports Physical Therapy (JOSPT) requires the use of robust research reporting guidelines for all research report submissions, including the newly adopted RECORD (REporting of studies Conducted using Observational Routinely-collected health Data) statement. We remind authors submitting research to JOSPT to identify the appropriate guideline and checklist for their study design, and to submit a completely and accurately completed checklist with their manuscript.

J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2016;46(3):130. doi:10.2519/jospt.2016.0105
Green HRM: Goal Attainment through Environmental Sustainability
Authors: Uddin Mohammad Main , Islam Rabiul
Published: March 2016

The green Human Resources Management has emerged from companies engaging in practices related to protection of environment and maintaining ecological balance. The slogan is earning profit through environmental sustainability. This paper proposes the development of a model of green human resource management by reviewing the literature on human resource aspects of environmental management. The study followed archival method of literature review. The literature has been classified on the basis of entry to exit processes in the HRM on the basis of available literature on green Human Resources. From the perspective of green human resource management, this study argues that Green HRM can play a useful role in business in promoting environment related issues by adopting and following the processes. Finally, the paper proposes some research agenda for the future study.Journal of Nepalese Bussiness Studies Vol. 9, No. 1, 2015 pp. 13-19
Role of The Family in Entrepreneurship Develoment in Nepali Society
Authors: Pant Sushil Kumar
Published: March 2016

Entrepreneurship is the engine for social and economic growth of any society. It drives people toward wealth and job creation, which leads to better lives for people in the society. There has been growing interest in entrepreneurship research recently. This paper attempted to assess the impact of family in Nepalese society. This was viewed as essential in a country in which more than 125 ethnic communities are found. The findings show that family has some impact in people to become entrepreneurship but it was not strongly substantiated by statistical tests. It was found that entrepreneur’s parental profession plays some role in entrepreneurship development in Nepal which was similar to some findings that parental profession plays vital role in the choice of profession in children.Journal of Nepalese Bussiness Studies Vol. 9, No. 1, 2015 pp. 37-47
Validation of Staged Construction Pavement Design with the Falling Weight Deflectometer
Authors: Harrell Michael J. , Gillen Steven L. , Yaede Joseph
Published: March 2016

In 2005, the Illinois Tollway staff rehabilitated a 33-mi-long segment of Interstate Highway 88 in Illinois by rubblizing deteriorated jointed plain concrete pavement (JPCP) and placing a hot-mix asphalt (HMA) overlay on the rubblized JPCP. The pavement design called for the ultimate pavement structure to be constructed in two stages: the first at the time of rubblization, when at least 6.0 in. of HMA would be placed, and the second 10 years later, when 2.0 in. of HMA would be cold milled and 6.0 in. of HMA placed back. The pavement design called on the tollway staff’s experience with rubblization and research surrounding the fatigue endurance limit to develop a staged construction strategy. The strategy would reduce up-front construction costs by placing a minimum of 6.0 in. of HMA at initial construction. The tollway staff was confident that the strategy would work, but the pavement performance was monitored annually for verification. Annual monitoring included pavement distress condition surveys, deflection testing and deflection data analysis, and pavement coring. In particular, the tollway staff desired confirmation that the staged construction strategy would yield a perpetual asphalt pavement by controlling the amount of bottom-up fatigue cracking that would develop in the asphalt mat. After 9 years of observations and data analysis, the staff has confirmed the pavement is exhibiting the properties of a perpetual pavement and the staged construction strategy should ultimately prove successful.
Factors triggering an additional resection and determining residual tumor volume on intraoperative MRI: analysis from a prospective single-center registry of supratentorial gliomas
Authors: Scherer Moritz , Jungk Christine , Younsi Alexander , Kickingereder Philipp , Müller Simon , Unterberg Andreas
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE

In this analysis, the authors sought to identify variables triggering an additional resection (AR) and determining residual intraoperative tumor volume in 1.5-T intraoperative MRI (iMRI)-guided glioma resections.

METHODS

A consecutive case series of 224 supratentorial glioma resections (WHO Grades I–IV) from a prospective iMRI registry (inclusion dates January 2011–April 2013) was examined with univariate and multiple regression models including volumetric data, tumor-related, and surgeon-related factors. The surgeon's expectation of an AR, in response to a questionnaire completed prior to iMRI, was evaluated using contingency analysis. A machine-learning prediction model was applied to consider if anticipation of intraoperative findings permits preoperative identification of ideal iMRI cases.

RESULTS

An AR was performed in 70% of cases after iMRI, but did not translate into an accumulated risk for neurological morbidity after surgery (p = 0.77 for deficits in cases with AR vs no AR). New severe persistent deficits occurred in 6.7% of patients. Initial tumor volume determined frequency of ARs and was independently correlated with larger tumor remnants delineated on iMRI (p < 0.0001). Larger iMRI volume was further associated with eloquent location (p = 0.010) and recurrent tumors (p < 0.0001), and with WHO grade (p = 0.0113). Greater surgical experience had no significant influence on the course of surgery. The surgeon's capability of ruling out an AR prior to iMRI turned out to incorporate guesswork (negative predictive value 43.6%). In a prediction model, AR could only be anticipated with 65% accuracy after integration of confounding variables.

CONCLUSIONS

Routine use of iMRI in glioma surgery is a safe and reliable method for resection guidance and is characterized by frequent ARs after scanning. Tumor-related factors were identified that influenced the course of surgery and intraoperative decision-making, and iMRI had a common value for surgeons of all experience levels. Commonly, the subjective intraoperative impression of the extent of resection had to be revised after iMRI review, which underscores the manifold potential of iMRI guidance. In combination with the failure to identify ideal iMRI cases preoperatively, this study supports a generous, tumor-oriented rather than surgeon-oriented indication for iMRI in glioma surgery.
Influence of indocyanine green angiography on microsurgical treatment of spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistulas
Authors: Takai Keisuke , Kurita Hiroki , Hara Takayuki , Kawai Kensuke , Taniguchi Makoto
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVE

The microvascular anatomy of spinal perimedullary arteriovenous fistulas (AVFs) is more complicated than that of dural AVFs, and occlusion rates of AVF after open microsurgery or endovascular embolization are lower in patients with perimedullary AVFs (29%–70%) than they are in those with dural AVF (97%–98%). Reports of intraoperative blood flow assessment using indocyanine green (ICG) video angiography in spinal arteriovenous lesions have mostly been for spinal dural AVFs. No detailed reports on spinal perimedullary AVFs are available.

METHODS

Participants were 11 patients with spinal perimedullary AVFs (Type IVa in 5 patients, Type VIb in 4, and Type IVc in 2). Intraoperative ICG video angiography was assessed by measuring the number of cases in which this modality was judged essential by the surgeon to correctly occlude the fistula.

RESULTS

In all patients, arterial feeders were identified and intravenous ICG video angiography was performed before and after blocking the feeders. In one patient, selective intraarterial ICG video angiography was also performed. The findings provided by ICG video angiography significantly changed the surgical procedure in 4 of 11 patients (36%). Postoperatively, complete occlusion of the AVF was achieved in 10 of the 11 patients (91%).

CONCLUSIONS

Intraoperative ICG video angiography can have a significant impact on deciding surgical strategy in the microsurgical treatment of spinal perimedullary AVF.
An Assessment of Entrepreneurial Affinity in Bangladesh: A Comparative Analysis between Small Live Entrepreneurs and Potential Entrepreneurs of University Level Students
Authors: Aktar Serena
Published: March 2016

This is an empirical and quantitative study conducted on small scale live entrepreneurs and potential entrepreneurs of university level students of Bangladesh. The main purpose of this study is to identify and examine the factors influencing decision of becoming an entrepreneur. For fulfilling the study purpose, by using simple random sampling technique a total of 600 questionnaires were administered; 300 were distributed to the students who were interested to become entrepreneurs and 300 questionnaires were also distributed to small scale live entrepreneurs who formed their business during the last two years and more. Data were analyzed according to objectivity. The results indicated that need for achievement is highly influential factor in picking up decision of becoming an entrepreneur of potential entrepreneurs of university level students and family business background is the main influential factor in taking decision of becoming an entrepreneur of the small scale live entrepreneurs. Parallel factors, e.g., locus of control, risk taking propensity and proactive personality also acted as the influential factors of creating entrepreneurial affinity in both of them.Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka) Vol.10(1) 2015; 1-20
Demonstration of drug-resistant bacteria among commonly available flowers within Dhaka Metropolis and assessment of their anti-bacterial properties
Authors: Afrin Sarah , Basak Priyanka , Rahman Tasmina
Published: March 2016

Present study attempted to emphasize on the drug-resistance attribute of the previously isolated microorganisms within the commonly available flowers including Hibiscus rosa-sinensis, Ixora coccinea, Ipomoea digitata, Allamanda cathartica, Nymphaea nouchali, Vinca rosea, Rosa kordesii, Gladiolus hybrid, Acmella oleracea, Nyctanthes arbor-tristis and Pseudomussaenda flava, randomly collected from different areas in Dhaka city, Bangladesh. Conventional agar well diffusion method was applied to examine the antibiogram of the isolates (Escherichia coli, Klebsiella spp., Pseudomonas spp., and Staphylococcus spp.) against different drugs. Subsequently the anti-bacterial traits of 6 flowers such as Rosa kordesii, Gladiolus hybrid, Acmella oleracea, Nymphaea nouchali (Water lily), Hibiscus rosa- sinensis (Jaba), Ixora coccinea (Rangan) were demonstrated through broth micro-dilution methods. Pseudomonas spp. showed sensitivity against almost 42% tested drugs. Conversely, Staphylococcus spp. (83%) and Klebsiella spp. (75%) revealed resistance against highest number of drugs. Among all the pathogens, E coli showed the highest sensitivity (50%) against all the tested antibiotics. All the isolated bacteria were found to be multi-drug resistant against commonly used antibiotics. Finally six (6) samples unveiled anti-bacterial features against 8 laboratory strains with their MIC concentrations up to 0.2 mg/mL.Stamford Journal of Microbiology, Vol.5(1) 2015: 5-8
Study of N2O Formation over Rh- and Pt-Based LNT Catalysts
Authors: Kubiak Lukasz , Matarrese Roberto , Castoldi Lidia , Lietti Luca , Daturi Marco , Forzatti Pio
Published: March 2016

In this paper, mechanistic aspects involved in the formation of N2O over Pt-BaO/Al2O3 and Rh-BaO/Al2O3 model NOx Storage-Reduction (NSR) catalysts are discussed. The reactivity of both gas-phase NO and stored nitrates was investigated by using H2 and NH3 as reductants. It was found that N2O formation involves the presence of gas-phase NO, since no N2O is observed upon the reduction of nitrates stored over both Pt- and Rh-BaO/Al2O3 catalyst samples. In particular, N2O formation involves the coupling of undissociated NO molecules with N-adspecies formed upon NO dissociation onto reduced Platinum-Group-Metal (PGM) sites. Accordingly, N2O formation is observed at low temperatures, when PGM sites start to be reduced, and disappears at high temperatures where PGM sites are fully reduced and complete NO dissociation takes place. Besides, N2O formation is observed at lower temperatures with H2 than with NH3 in view of the higher reactivity of hydrogen in the reduction of the PGM sites and onto Pt-containing catalyst due to the higher reducibility of Pt vs. Rh.
Wavelet Entropy-Based Traction Inverter Open Switch Fault Diagnosis in High-Speed Railways
Authors: Hu Keting , Liu Zhigang , Lin Shuangshuang
Published: March 2016

In this paper, a diagnosis plan is proposed to settle the detection and isolation problem of open switch faults in high-speed railway traction system traction inverters. Five entropy forms are discussed and compared with the traditional fault detection methods, namely, discrete wavelet transform and discrete wavelet packet transform. The traditional fault detection methods cannot efficiently detect the open switch faults in traction inverters because of the low resolution or the sudden change of the current. The performances of Wavelet Packet Energy Shannon Entropy (WPESE), Wavelet Packet Energy Tsallis Entropy (WPETE) with different non-extensive parameters, Wavelet Packet Energy Shannon Entropy with a specific sub-band (WPESE3,6), Empirical Mode Decomposition Shannon Entropy (EMDESE), and Empirical Mode Decomposition Tsallis Entropy (EMDETE) with non-extensive parameters in detecting the open switch fault are evaluated by the evaluation parameter. Comparison experiments are carried out to select the best entropy form for the traction inverter open switch fault detection. In addition, the DC component is adopted to isolate the failure Isolated Gate Bipolar Transistor (IGBT). The simulation experiments show that the proposed plan can diagnose single and simultaneous open switch faults correctly and timely.
Entanglement Entropy in a Triangular Billiard
Authors: Joseph Sijo , Sanjuán Miguel
Published: March 2016

The Schrödinger equation for a quantum particle in a two-dimensional triangular billiard can be written as the Helmholtz equation with a Dirichlet boundary condition. We numerically explore the quantum entanglement of the eigenfunctions of the triangle billiard and its relation to the irrationality of the triangular geometry. We also study the entanglement dynamics of the coherent state with its center chosen at the centroid of the different triangle configuration. Using the von Neumann entropy of entanglement, we quantify the quantum entanglement appearing in the eigenfunction of the triangular domain. We see a clear correspondence between the irrationality of the triangle and the average entanglement of the eigenfunctions. The entanglement dynamics of the coherent state shows a dependence on the geometry of the triangle. The effect of quantum squeezing on the coherent state is analyzed and it can be utilize to enhance or decrease the entanglement entropy in a triangular billiard.
Real-Time Occupant Based Plug-in Device Control Using ICT in Office Buildings
Authors: Bae Woo-Bin , Mun Sun-Hye , Huh Jung-Ho
Published: March 2016

The purpose of this study is to reduce the unnecessary plug loads used by computers, monitors, and computer peripheral devices, all of which account for more than 95% of the entire plug loads of an office building. To this end, an occupant-based plug-in device control (OBC-P) software was developed. The OBC-P software collects real-time information about the presence or absence of occupants who are connected to the access point through the Wifi and controls the power of monitors or computers, while a standby power off device controls computer peripheral devices. To measure the plug load saving of the occupant-based plug-in device control, an experiment was conducted, targeting 10 occupants of three research labs of the graduate school, for two weeks. The experiment results showed that it could save the plug loads of monitors and computer peripheral devices by 15% in the Awake mode, and by 26% in the Sleep mode.
Optimum Electric Boiler Capacity Configuration in a Regional Power Grid for a Wind Power Accommodation Scenario
Authors: Liu Da , Zhang Guowei , Huang Baohua , Liu Weiwei
Published: March 2016

Wind power generation reduces our reliance on fossil fuels and can thus reduce environmental pollution. However, rapid wind power development has caused various issues related to power grid restructuring. A high proportion of the generating capacity of northeast China is based on combined heat and power (CHP), whose inflexible response to the peak regulation of power grids hinders the ability to accommodate wind power; thus, wind power curtailment is prevalent. Electric boilers can directly consume the excess wind power to supply heat during low load periods and thus mitigate the heat supply stress of CHP units. Therefore, electric boilers improve the power grid’s ability to accommodate additional wind power. From a regional power grid perspective, this paper discussed the feasibility of such a strategy for increasing the ability to accommodate wind power during the heat supply season. This paper analysed the optimum electric boiler capacity configuration of a regional power grid based on various constraint conditions, such as the heat-power balance, with the objective of maximising the associated social benefits. Using the Beijing-Tianjin-Hebei power grid as an example, the optimum electric boiler capacity of the studied power grid is approximately 1100 MW.
Evaluating Internal Technological Capabilities in Energy Companies
Authors: Lee Mingook , Lee Sungjoo
Published: March 2016

As global competition increases, technological capability must be evaluated objectively as one of the most important factors for predominance in technological competition and to ensure sustainable business excellence. Most existing capability evaluation models utilize either quantitative methods, such as patent analysis, or qualitative methods, such as expert panels. Accordingly, they may be in danger of reflecting only fragmentary aspects of technological capabilities, and produce inconsistent results when different models are used. To solve these problems, this paper proposes a comprehensive framework for evaluating technological capabilities in energy companies by considering the complex properties of technological knowledge. For this purpose, we first explored various factors affecting technological capabilities and divided the factors into three categories: individual, organizational, and technology competitiveness. Second, we identified appropriate evaluation items for each category to measure the technological capability. Finally, by using a hybrid approach of qualitative and quantitative methods, we developed an evaluation method for each item and suggested a method to combine the results. The proposed framework was then verified with an energy generation and supply company to investigate its practicality. As one of the earliest attempts to evaluate multi-faceted technological capabilities, the suggested model can support technology and strategic planning.
MHBase: A Distributed Real-Time Query Scheme for Meteorological Data Based on HBase
Authors: Ma Tinghuai , Xu Xichao , Tang Meili , Jin Yuanfeng , Shen Wenhai
Published: March 2016

Meteorological technology has evolved rapidly in recent years to provide enormous, accurate and personalized advantages in the public service. Large volumes of observational data are generated gradually by technologies such as geographical remote sensing, meteorological radar satellite, etc. that makes data analysis in weather forecasting more precise but also poses a threat to the traditional method of data storage. In this paper, we present MHBase, (Meteorological data based on HBase (Hadoop Database), a distributed real-time query scheme for meteorological data based on HBase. The calibrated data obtained from terminal devices will be partitioned into HBase and persisted to HDFS (the Hadoop Distributed File System). We propose two algorithms (the Indexed Store and the Indexed Retrieve Algorithms) to implement a secondary index using HBase Coprocessors, which allow MHbase to provide high performance data querying on columns other than rowkey. Experimental results show that the performance of MHBase can satisfy the basic demands of meteorological business services.
Integrating Expert Knowledge with Statistical Analysis for Landslide Susceptibility Assessment at Regional Scale
Authors: Chalkias Christos , Polykretis Christos , Ferentinou Maria , Karymbalis Efthimios
Published: March 2016

In this paper, an integration landslide susceptibility model by combining expert-based and bivariate statistical analysis (Landslide Susceptibility Index—LSI) approaches is presented. Factors related with the occurrence of landslides—such as elevation, slope angle, slope aspect, lithology, land cover, Mean Annual Precipitation (MAP) and Peak Ground Acceleration (PGA)—were analyzed within a GIS environment. This integrated model produced a landslide susceptibility map which categorized the study area according to the probability level of landslide occurrence. The accuracy of the final map was evaluated by Receiver Operating Characteristics (ROC) analysis depending on an independent (validation) dataset of landslide events. The prediction ability was found to be 76% revealing that the integration of statistical analysis with human expertise can provide an acceptable landslide susceptibility assessment at regional scale.
Effects of Gold Nanorods on Imprinted Genes Expression in TM-4 Sertoli Cells
Authors: Yuan Beilei , Gu Hao , Xu Bo , Tang Qiuqin , Wu Wei , Ji Xiaoli , Xia Yankai , Hu Lingqing , Chen Daozhen , Wang Xinru
Published: March 2016

Gold nanorods (GNRs) are among the most commonly used nanomaterials. However, thus far, little is known about their harmful effects on male reproduction. Studies from our laboratory have demonstrated that GNRs could decrease glycine synthesis, membrane permeability, mitochondrial membrane potential and disrupt blood-testis barrier factors in TM-4 Sertoli cells. Imprinted genes play important roles in male reproduction and have been identified as susceptible loci to environmental insults by chemicals because they are functionally haploid. In this original study, we investigated the extent to which imprinted genes become deregulated in TM-4 Sertoli cells when treated with low dose of GNRs. The expression levels of 44 imprinted genes were analyzed by quantitative real-time PCR in TM-4 Sertoli cells after a low dose of (10 nM) GNRs treatment for 24 h. We found significantly diminished expression of Kcnq1, Ntm, Peg10, Slc22a2, Pwcr1, Gtl2, Nap1l5, Peg3 and Slc22a2, while Plagl1 was significantly overexpressed. Additionally, four (Kcnq1, Slc22a18, Pwcr1 and Peg3) of 10 abnormally expressed imprinted genes were found to be located on chromosome 7. However, no significant difference of imprinted miRNA genes was observed between the GNRs treated group and controls. Our study suggested that aberrant expression of imprinted genes might be an underlying mechanism for the GNRs-induced reproductive toxicity in TM-4 Sertoli cells.
The Efficiency of the European Non-Life Insurance: CEO Power, Macroeconomic, and Market Characteristics Impact
Authors: Bahloul Walid , Bouri Abdelfettah
Published: March 2016

A numbers of studies focusing on the determinant of the insurance market efficiency have increased in the last decade. In fact, many factors, like the CEO’s power, can influence the efficiency in the insurance firm. The purpose of this research is to analyze the relationship between efficiency, measured by the cost function using the stochastic frontier approach (SFA) methodologies, and the market structure, as well as the macroeconomic variables. In addition, it focuses on identifying the impact of the integration of the CEO power variable in the cost function on this relation. The result shows that after the consideration of the CEO power score in the cost efficiency, the relation between insurance efficiency and the determinant of market development, as well as the domestic economy, has changed and become more significant. The result also shows that the firms become more efficient and more profitable with a higher concentration ratio and this is in accordance with the structure-conduct-performance (SCP) theory.
Molecular Recognition of the Catalytic Zinc(II) Ion in MMP-13: Structure-Based Evolution of an Allosteric Inhibitor to Dual Binding Mode Inhibitors with Improved Lipophilic Ligand Efficiencies
Authors: Fischer Thomas , Riedl Rainer
Published: March 2016

Matrix metalloproteinases (MMPs) are a class of zinc dependent endopeptidases which play a crucial role in a multitude of severe diseases such as cancer and osteoarthritis. We employed MMP-13 as the target enzyme for the structure-based design and synthesis of inhibitors able to recognize the catalytic zinc ion in addition to an allosteric binding site in order to increase the affinity of the ligand. Guided by molecular modeling, we optimized an initial allosteric inhibitor by addition of linker fragments and weak zinc binders for recognition of the catalytic center. Furthermore we improved the lipophilic ligand efficiency (LLE) of the initial inhibitor by adding appropriate zinc binding fragments to lower the clogP values of the inhibitors, while maintaining their potency. All synthesized inhibitors showed elevated affinity compared to the initial hit, also most of the novel inhibitors displayed better LLE. Derivatives with carboxylic acids as the zinc binding fragments turned out to be the most potent inhibitors (compound 3 (ZHAWOC5077): IC50 = 134 nM) whereas acyl sulfonamides showed the best lipophilic ligand efficiencies (compound 18 (ZHAWOC5135): LLE = 2.91).
Laminin Receptor-Avid Nanotherapeutic EGCg-AuNPs as a Potential Alternative Therapeutic Approach to Prevent Restenosis
Authors: Khoobchandani Menka , Katti Kavita , Maxwell Adam , Fay William , Katti Kattesh
Published: March 2016

In our efforts to develop new approaches to treat and prevent human vascular diseases, we report herein our results on the proliferation and migration of human smooth muscles cells (SMCs) and endothelial cells (ECs) using epigallocatechin-3-gallate conjugated gold nanoparticles (EGCg-AuNPs) as possible alternatives to drug coated stents. Detailed in vitro stability studies of EGCg-AuNPs in various biological fluids, affinity and selectivity towards SMCs and ECs have been investigated. The EGCg-AuNPs showed selective inhibitory efficacy toward the migration of SMCs. However, the endothelial cells remained unaffected under similar experimental conditions. The cellular internalization studies have indicated that EGCg-AuNPs internalize into the SMCs and ECs within short periods of time through laminin receptor mediated endocytosis mode. Favorable toxicity profiles and selective affinity toward SMCs and ECs suggest that EGCg-AuNPs may provide attractive alternatives to drug coated stents and therefore offer new therapeutic approaches in treating cardiovascular diseases.
Asbestos Induces Oxidative Stress and Activation of Nrf2 Signaling in Murine Macrophages: Chemopreventive Role of the Synthetic Lignan Secoisolariciresinol Diglucoside (LGM2605)
Authors: Pietrofesa Ralph , Velalopoulou Anastasia , Albelda Steven , Christofidou-Solomidou Melpo
Published: March 2016

The interaction of asbestos fibers with macrophages generates harmful reactive oxygen species (ROS) and subsequent oxidative cell damage that are key processes linked to malignancy. Secoisolariciresinol diglucoside (SDG) is a non-toxic, flaxseed-derived pluripotent compound that has antioxidant properties and may thus function as a chemopreventive agent for asbestos-induced mesothelioma. We thus evaluated synthetic SDG (LGM2605) in asbestos-exposed, elicited murine peritoneal macrophages as an in vitro model of tissue phagocytic response to the presence of asbestos in the pleural space. Murine peritoneal macrophages (MFs) were exposed to crocidolite asbestos fibers (20 µg/cm2) and evaluated at various times post exposure for cytotoxicity, ROS generation, malondialdehyde (MDA), and levels of 8-iso Prostaglandin F2α (8-isoP). We then evaluated the ability of LGM2605 to mitigate asbestos-induced oxidative stress by administering LGM2605 (50 µM) 4-h prior to asbestos exposure. We observed a significant (p < 0.0001), time-dependent increase in asbestos-induced cytotoxicity, ROS generation, and the release of MDA and 8-iso Prostaglandin F2α, markers of lipid peroxidation, which increased linearly over time. LGM2605 treatment significantly (p < 0.0001) reduced asbestos-induced cytotoxicity and ROS generation, while decreasing levels of MDA and 8-isoP by 71%–88% and 41%–73%, respectively. Importantly, exposure to asbestos fibers induced cell protective defenses, such as cellular Nrf2 activation and the expression of phase II antioxidant enzymes, HO-1 and Nqo1 that were further enhanced by LGM2605 treatment. LGM2605 boosted antioxidant defenses, as well as reduced asbestos-induced ROS generation and markers of oxidative stress in murine peritoneal macrophages, supporting its possible use as a chemoprevention agent in the development of asbestos-induced malignant mesothelioma.
Microarray Study of Pathway Analysis Expression Profile Associated with MicroRNA-29a with Regard to Murine Cholestatic Liver Injuries
Authors: Li Sung-Chou , Wang Feng-Sheng , Yang Ya-Ling , Tiao Mao-Meng , Chuang Jiin-Haur , Huang Ying-Hsien
Published: March 2016

Accumulating evidence demonstrates that microRNA-29 (miR-29) expression is prominently decreased in patients with hepatic fibrosis, which consequently stimulates hepatic stellate cells’ (HSCs) activation. We used a cDNA microarray study to gain a more comprehensive understanding of genome-wide gene expressions by adjusting miR-29a expression in a bile duct-ligation (BDL) animal model. Methods: Using miR-29a transgenic mice and wild-type littermates and applying the BDL mouse model, we characterized the function of miR-29a with regard to cholestatic liver fibrosis. Pathway enrichment analysis and/or specific validation were performed for differentially expressed genes found within the comparisons. Results: Analysis of the microarray data identified a number of differentially expressed genes due to the miR-29a transgene, BDL, or both. Additional pathway enrichment analysis revealed that TGF-β signaling had a significantly differential activated pathway depending on the occurrence of miR-29a overexpression or the lack thereof. Furthermore, overexpression was found to elicit changes in Wnt/β-catenin after BDL. Conclusion: This study verified that an elevated miR-29a level could alleviate liver fibrosis caused by cholestasis. Furthermore, the protective effects of miR-29a correlate with the downregulation of TGF-β and associated with Wnt/β-catenin signal pathway following BDL.
Natural Killer Cells—An Epigenetic Perspective of Development and Regulation
Authors: Schenk Alexander , Bloch Wilhelm , Zimmer Philipp
Published: March 2016

Based on their ability to recognize and eliminate various endo- and exogenous pathogens as well as pathological alterations, Natural Killer (NK) cells represent an important part of the cellular innate immune system. Although the knowledge about their function is growing, little is known about their development and regulation on the molecular level. Research of the past decade suggests that modifications of the chromatin, which do not affect the base sequence of the DNA, also known as epigenetic alterations, are strongly involved in these processes. Here, the impact of epigenetic modifications on the development as well as the expression of important activating and inhibiting NK-cell receptors and their effector function is reviewed. Furthermore, external stimuli such as physical activity and their influence on the epigenetic level are discussed.
Effects of Pesticide Treatments on Nutrient Levels in Worker Honey Bees (Apis mellifera)
Authors: Feazel-Orr Haley , Catalfamo Katelyn , Brewster Carlyle , Fell Richard , Anderson Troy , Traver Brenna
Published: March 2016

Honey bee colony loss continues to be an issue and no factor has been singled out as to the cause. In this study, we sought to determine whether two beekeeper-applied pesticide products, tau-fluvalinate and Fumagilin-B®, and one agrochemical, chlorothalonil, impact the nutrient levels in honey bee workers in a natural colony environment. Treatments were performed in-hive and at three different periods (fall, spring, and summer) over the course of one year. Bees were sampled both at pre-treatment and two and four weeks post-treatment, weighed, and their protein and carbohydrate levels were determined using BCA and anthrone based biochemical assays, respectively. We report that, based on the pesticide concentrations tested, no significant negative impact of the pesticide products was observed on wet weight, protein levels, or carbohydrate levels of bees from treated colonies compared with bees from untreated control colonies.
Culture of Oral Mucosal Epithelial Cells for the Purpose of Treating Limbal Stem Cell Deficiency
Authors: Paaske Utheim Tor , Aass Utheim Øygunn , Khan Qalb-E-Saleem , Sehic Amer
Published: March 2016

The cornea is critical for normal vision as it allows allowing light transmission to the retina. The corneal epithelium is renewed by limbal epithelial cells (LEC), which are located in the periphery of the cornea, the limbus. Damage or disease involving LEC may lead to various clinical presentations of limbal stem cell deficiency (LSCD). Both severe pain and blindness may result. Transplantation of cultured autologous oral mucosal epithelial cell sheet (CAOMECS) represents the first use of a cultured non-limbal autologous cell type to treat this disease. Among non-limbal cell types, CAOMECS and conjunctival epithelial cells are the only laboratory cultured cell sources that have been explored in humans. Thus far, the expression of p63 is the only predictor of clinical outcome following transplantation to correct LSCD. The optimal culture method and substrate for CAOMECS is not established. The present review focuses on cell culture methods, with particular emphasis on substrates. Most culture protocols for CAOMECS used amniotic membrane as a substrate and included the xenogeneic components fetal bovine serum and murine 3T3 fibroblasts. However, it has been demonstrated that tissue-engineered epithelial cell sheet grafts can be successfully fabricated using temperature-responsive culture surfaces and autologous serum. In the studies using different substrates for culture of CAOMECS, the quantitative expression of p63 was generally poorly reported; thus, more research is warranted with quantification of phenotypic data. Further research is required to develop a culture system for CAOMECS that mimics the natural environment of oral/limbal/corneal epithelial cells without the need for undefined foreign materials such as serum and feeder cells.