bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impaired Adiponectin Signaling Contributes to Disturbed Catabolism of Branched-Chain Amino Acids in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Lian Kun , Du Chaosheng , Liu Yi , Zhu Di , Yan Wenjun , Zhang Haifeng , Hong Zhibo , Liu Peilin , Zhang Lijian , Pei Haifeng , Zhang Jinglong , Gao Chao , Xin Chao , Cheng Hexiang , Xiong Lize , Tao Ling
Published: July 2014

The branched-chain amino acids (BCAA) accumulated in type 2 diabetes are independent contributors to insulin resistance. The activity of branched-chain α-keto acid dehydrogenase (BCKD) complex, rate-limiting enzyme in BCAA catabolism, is reduced in diabetic states, which contributes to elevated BCAA concentrations. However, the mechanisms underlying decreased BCKD activity remain poorly understood. Here, we demonstrate that mitochondrial phosphatase 2C (PP2Cm), a newly identified BCKD phosphatase that increases BCKD activity, was significantly downregulated in ob/ob and type 2 diabetic mice. Interestingly, in adiponectin (APN) knockout (APN−/−) mice fed with a high-fat diet (HD), PP2Cm expression and BCKD activity were significantly decreased, whereas BCKD kinase (BDK), which inhibits BCKD activity, was markedly increased. Concurrently, plasma BCAA and branched-chain α-keto acids (BCKA) were significantly elevated. APN treatment markedly reverted PP2Cm, BDK, BCKD activity, and BCAA and BCKA levels in HD-fed APN−/− and diabetic animals. Additionally, increased BCKD activity caused by APN administration was partially but significantly inhibited in PP2Cm knockout mice. Finally, APN-mediated upregulation of PP2Cm expression and BCKD activity were abolished when AMPK was inhibited. Collectively, we have provided the first direct evidence that APN is a novel regulator of PP2Cm and systematic BCAA levels, suggesting that targeting APN may be a pharmacological approach to ameliorating BCAA catabolism in the diabetic state.
Metformin Supports the Antidiabetic Effect of a Sodium Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitor by Suppressing Endogenous Glucose Production in Diabetic Mice
Authors: Neschen Susanne , Scheerer Markus , Seelig Anett , Huypens Peter , Schultheiss Jürgen , Wu Moya , Wurst Wolfgang , Rathkolb Birgit , Suhre Karsten , Wolf Eckhard , Beckers Johannes , Hrabé de Angelis Martin
Published: July 2014

Combined use of metformin and a sodium glucose cotransporter 2 inhibitor (SGLT2I) is a promising treatment strategy for type 2 diabetes. The mechanism by which combination treatment provides better glycemic control than metformin or SGLT2I monotherapy remains elusive. Therefore, we investigated the physiological mechanism by which both compounds lower blood glucose concentrations in diabetic mice. We compared the potential of metformin and the SGLT2I AVE2268 alone or in combination to mitigate hyperglycemia and modulate glucose fluxes in db/db and diabetic Tallyho/JngJ mice. SGLT2I treatment alone elicited a rapid decline in circulating blood glucose levels, which appeared to induce endogenous glucose production. Supplementation of metformin dampened this counterresponse, and therefore, combination therapy more efficiently maintained glycemic control. Finally, combination treatment blunted postprandial glucose excursions and improved HbA1c levels within 2 weeks. We conclude that coapplication of metformin enhances the glucose-lowering actions of SGLT2I by restraining endogenous glucose production, which may provide long-term improvement of glycemic control in type 2 diabetic patients.
Early Atherosclerosis Relates to Urinary Albumin Excretion and Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Adolescents With Type 1 Diabetes: Adolescent Type 1 Diabetes cardio-renal Intervention Trial (AdDIT)
Authors: Maftei Oana , Pena Alexia S. , Sullivan Thomas , Jones Timothy W. , Donaghue Kim C. , Cameron Fergus J. , Davis Elizabeth , Cotterill Andrew , Craig Maria E. , Gent Roger , Dalton Neil , Daneman Denis , Dunger David , Deanfield John , Couper Jenny J.
Published: July 2014

OBJECTIVE

The origins of cardiovascular and renal disease in type 1 diabetes begin during childhood. We aimed to evaluate carotid (cIMT) and aortic intima-media thickness (aIMT) and their relationship with cardiovascular risk factors and urinary albumin excretion in adolescents with type 1 diabetes in the Adolescent Type 1 Diabetes cardio-renal Intervention Trial (AdDIT).

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

A total of 406 adolescents with type 1 diabetes, who were 14.1 ± 1.9 years old with type 1 diabetes duration of 6.7 ± 3.7 years, and 57 age-matched control subjects provided clinical and biochemical data and ultrasound measurements of vascular structure (cIMT and aIMT). Vascular endothelial and smooth muscle function was also measured in 123 of 406 with type 1 diabetes and all control subjects.

RESULTS

In type 1 diabetic subjects, mean/maximal aIMT (P < 0.006; <0.008), but not mean/maximal cIMT, was greater than in control subjects. Mean/maximal aIMT related to urinary albumin-to-creatinine ratio (multiple regression coefficient [SE], 0.013 [0.006], P = 0.03; 0.023 [0.007], P = 0.002), LDL cholesterol (0.019 [0.008], P = 0.02; 0.025 [0.011], P = 0.02), and age (0.010 [0.004], P = 0.004; 0.012 [0.005], P = 0.01), independent of other variables. Mean/maximal cIMT was greater in males (0.023 [0.006], P = 0.02; 0.029 [0.007], P < 0.0001), and mean cIMT related independently to systolic blood pressure (0.001 [0.001], P = 0.04). Vascular smooth muscle function related to aIMT and cIMT but not to urinary albumin excretion.

CONCLUSIONS

aIMT may be a more sensitive marker of atherosclerosis than cIMT in type 1 diabetes during mid-adolescence. Higher urinary albumin excretion, even within the normal range, is associated with early atherosclerosis and should direct clinical attention to modifiable cardiovascular risk factors.
Determinants of unintended pregnancy among women in Nepal
Authors: Adhikari Ramesh , Soonthorndhada Kusol , Prasartkul Pramote
Published: July 2014

Aim: This study aims to determine the factors influencing unintended pregnancy among married women in Nepal Methods: This paper reports on data drawn from Nepal Demographic and Health Survey (DHS), 2001 which is a nationally representative sample survey. The analysis is restricted to the currently pregnant women at the time of survey. Logistic regression was used to assess the net effect of several independent variables on unintended pregnancy. The factors leading to unintended pregnancy were also predicted by using some significant variables in the model. Results: More than two-fifth of the respondents (41%) reported that their current pregnancies were unintended. The results indicate that age, age at first marriage, religion, exposure to radio and knowledge of family planning (FP) methods were key predictors of unintended pregnancy. Experience of unintended pregnancy augments along with the women’s age. Similarly, increase in age at first marriage reduces the likelihood of unintended pregnancy among women. Those who were exposed to radio were less likely (odds ratio, 0.65) to have unintended pregnancy compared to those who were not. Those women who had higher level of knowledge about FP methods were 40% less likely to experience unintended pregnancy compared to those having lower level of knowledge. Conclusion: One of the important factor contributing to high level of maternal and infant mortality is unintended pregnancy. Programs should intend to reduce unintended pregnancy by focusing on all these identified issues so that infant and maternal morbidity and mortality as well as abortion will be decreased and the overall health of the family could be improved. DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/njog.v3i2.10828   Nepal Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Vol.3(2) 2008; 26-34
Serum Lipid Profiles, Lipid Ratios and Chronic Kidney Disease in a Chinese Population
Authors: Zhang Liying , Yuan Zhiyong , Chen Wu , Chen Shanying , Liu Xinyu , Liang Yan , Shao Xiaofei , Zou Hequn
Published: July 2014

Aim: To examine the association of serum lipids, lipid ratios with Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) in a Chinese population. Methods: Data were drawn from a cross-sectional survey in China. CKD was defined as estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) < 60 mL/min/1.73m2 or albuminuria-to-creatinine ratio (ACR) > 30 mg/g. Multivariable logistic regressions and multivariate regression models were used. Serum lipids and lipid ratios included total cholesterol (TC), triglyceride (TG), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C), high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C), TG/HDL-C ratio, TC/HDL-C ratio and LDL-C/HDL-C ratio. Results: In men, only logarithm-transformed (log) TG was associated with CKD. The odds ratio (every SD increment) was 1.39 (95% CI 1.03–1.87, P = 0.03). In women, none of the serum lipids and lipid ratios was associated with CKD. Using multivariate regression models, it was shown that log TG and log TG/HDL-C were negatively correlated with eGFR (P < 0.05) in men and LDL-C and log LDL-C/HDL-C ratio were correlated with ACR in men. In female subjects, serum TC, log TG, log TG/HDL-C and log TC/HDL-C were negatively correlated with eGFR (P < 0.05). All of serum lipid profiles and lipid related ratio were not correlated with ACR in women. Conclusion: Serum TG is the only suitable predictor for CKD in men. However, in women, none of serum lipids and lipid ratio can be used as a predictor for CKD. Log TG and log TG/HDL-C are negatively correlated with eGFR in both genders.
Health Resource Utilization Associated with Skeletal-Related Events in Patients with Advanced Prostate Cancer: A European Subgroup Analysis from an Observational, Multinational Study
Authors: Bahl Amit , Hoefeler Herbert , Duran Ignacio , Hechmati Guy , Garzon-Rodriguez Cristina , Ashcroft John , Lorusso Vito , Ghelani Prayashi , Wei Rachel , Thomas Emma , Lüftner Diana
Published: July 2014

This study aimed to increase the understanding of health resource utilization (HRU) associated with skeletal-related events (SREs) occurring in patients with bone metastases secondary to advanced prostate cancer. A total of 120 patients from Germany, Italy, Spain and the United Kingdom were enrolled in this observational study. They had bone metastases secondary to prostate cancer and had experienced at least one SRE in the 97 days before giving informed consent. HRU data were collected retrospectively for 97 days before enrolment and prospectively for up to 18–21 months. HRU, including the number and duration of inpatient hospitalizations, number of outpatient and emergency department visits and procedures, was independently attributed by investigators to an SRE. Of the 222 SREs included in this analysis, 26% were associated with inpatient stays and the mean duration per SRE was 21.4 days (standard deviation (SD) 17.8 days). Overall, 174 SREs (78%) required an outpatient visit and the mean number of visits per SRE was 4.6 (SD 4.6). All SREs are associated with substantial HRU. Preventing SREs in patients with advanced prostate cancer and bone metastases may help to reduce the burden to both patients and European healthcare systems.
Mineral Classification of Land Surface Using Multispectral LWIR and Hyperspectral SWIR Remote-Sensing Data. A Case Study over the Sokolov Lignite Open-Pit Mines, the Czech Republic
Authors: Notesco Gila , Kopačková Veronika , Rojík Petr , Schwartz Guy , Livne Ido , Dor Eyal
Published: July 2014

Remote-sensing techniques offer an efficient alternative for mapping mining environments and assessing the impacts of mining activities. Airborne multispectral data in the thermal region and hyperspectral data in the optical region, acquired with the Airborne Hyperspectral Scanner (AHS) sensor over the Sokolov lignite open-pit mines in the Czech Republic, were analyzed. The emissivity spectrum was calculated for each vegetation-free land pixel in the longwave infrared (LWIR)-region image using the surface-emitted radiation, and the reflectance spectrum was derived from the visible, near-infrared and shortwave-infrared (VNIR–SWIR)-region image using the solar radiation reflected from the surface, after applying atmospheric correction. The combination of calculated emissivity, with the ability to detect quartz, and SWIR reflectance spectra, detecting phyllosilicates and kaolinite in particular, enabled estimating the content of the dominant minerals in the exposed surface. The difference between the emissivity values at λ = 9.68 µm and 8.77 µm was found to be a useful index for estimating the relative amount of quartz in each land pixel in the LWIR image. The absorption depth at around 2.2 µm in the reflectance spectra was used to estimate the relative amount of kaolinite in each land pixel in the SWIR image. The resulting maps of the spatial distribution of quartz and kaolinite were found to be in accordance with the geological nature and origin of the exposed surfaces and demonstrated the benefit of using data from both thermal and optical spectral regions to map the abundance of the major minerals around the mines.
High Performance Relaxor-Based Ferroelectric Single Crystals for Ultrasonic Transducer Applications
Authors: Chen Yan , Lam Kwok-Ho , Zhou Dan , Yue Qingwen , Yu Yanxiong , Wu Jinchuan , Qiu Weibao , Sun Lei , Zhang Chao , Luo Haosu , Chan Helen , Dai Jiyan
Published: July 2014

Relaxor-based ferroelectric single crystals Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PMN-PT) have drawn much attention in the ferroelectric field because of their excellent piezoelectric properties and high electromechanical coupling coefficients (d33~2000 pC/N, kt~60%) near the morphotropic phase boundary (MPB). Ternary Pb(In1/2Nb1/2)O3-Pb(Mg1/3Nb2/3)O3-PbTiO3 (PIN-PMN-PT) single crystals also possess outstanding performance comparable with PMN-PT single crystals, but have higher phase transition temperatures (rhombohedral to tetragonal Trt, and tetragonal to cubic Tc) and larger coercive field Ec. Therefore, these relaxor-based single crystals have been extensively employed for ultrasonic transducer applications. In this paper, an overview of our work and perspectives on using PMN-PT and PIN-PMN-PT single crystals for ultrasonic transducer applications is presented. Various types of single-element ultrasonic transducers, including endoscopic transducers, intravascular transducers, high-frequency and high-temperature transducers fabricated using the PMN-PT and PIN-PMN-PT crystals and their 2-2 and 1-3 composites are reported. Besides, the fabrication and characterization of the array transducers, such as phased array, cylindrical shaped linear array, high-temperature linear array, radial endoscopic array, and annular array, are also addressed.
Farmers’ Sustainable Strategies for Soil Conservation on Sloping Arable Lands in the Upper Yangtze River Basin, China
Authors: Tang Qiang , He Chansheng , He Xiubin , Bao Yuhai , Zhong Ronghua , Wen Anbang
Published: July 2014

The Upper Yangtze River Basin comprises a densely-populated agricultural region with mountainous and hilly landforms. Intensive cultivation has been extended onto steep hillslopes, which constitute the principal source area for sediment production. Soil conservation on sloping arable lands is thus of utmost priority for persisting sustainable agricultural production and maintaining sound ecosystem services. Although there have been many soil conservation techniques, either promoted by the government or adopted by local farmers, the practiced area was very limited relative to the total area affected by soil erosion. This paper attempts to introduce four popular soil conservation measures on sloping arable lands in this region to enhance a broader scale of implementation, including hedgerow buffers, level trenches, sloping terraces and limited downslope tillage. These practices, although developed from local farmers’ indigenous knowledge for productive purposes, have well conformed to our contemporary understanding of soil erosion processes on sloping landscape affected by human disturbances, were of sound suitability to regional manual tillage agriculture and more trade-off-efficient on rill prevention, runoff harvest and nutrient management.
Continuous Ambulatory Peritoneal Dialysis in Limpopo Province, South Africa: Predictors of Patient and Technique Survival
Authors: Isla Ramon A. Tamayo , Mapiye Darlington , Swanepoel Charles R. , Rozumyk Nadiya , Hubahib Jerome E. , Okpechi Ikechi G.
Published: July 2014

Introduction and aim

Continuous ambulatory peritoneal dialysis (CAPD) is not a frequently used modality of dialysis in many parts of Africa due to several socio-economic factors. Available studies from Africa have shown a strong association between outcome and socio-demographic variables. We sought to assess the outcome of patients treated with CAPD in Limpopo, South Africa.

Methods

This was a retrospective study of 152 patients treated with CAPD at the Polokwane Kidney and Dialysis Centre (PKDC) from 2007 to 2012. We collected relevant demographic and biochemical data for all patients included in the study. A composite outcome of death while still on peritoneal dialysis (PD) or CAPD technique failure from any cause requiring a change of modality to hemodialysis (HD) was selected. The peritonitis rate and causes of peritonitis were assessed from 2008 when all related data could be obtained.

Results

There were 52% males in the study and the average age of the patients was 36.8 ± 11.4 years. Unemployment rate was high (71.1%), 41.1% had tap water at home, the average distance travelled to the dialysis center was 122.9 ± 78.2 kilometres and half the patients had a total income less than USD ($)180 per month. Level of education, having electricity at home, having tap water at home, body mass index (BMI), serum albumin and hemoglobin were significantly different between those reaching the composite outcome and those not reaching it ( p < 0.05). The overall peritonitis rate was 0.82/year with 1-year, 2-year and 5-year survival found to be 86.7%, 78.7% and 65.3% (patient survival) and 83.3%, 71.7% and 62.1% (technique survival). Predictors of the composite outcome were BMI ( p = 0.011), serum albumin ( p = 0.030), hemoglobin ( p = 0.002) and more than 1 episode of peritonitis ( p = 0.038).

Conclusion

Treatment of anemia and malnutrition as well as training and re-training of CAPD patients and staff to prevent recurrence of peritonitis can have positive impacts on CAPD outcomes in this population.
Methods and Evaluations for Simulation Debriefing in Nursing Education
Authors: Waznonis Annette R.
Published: July 2014

Debriefing is the most important aspect of simulated learning, but actual debriefing practices are not evidence based or widely known. Expert opinions on effective simulation debriefing have been widely published and likely guide debriefing in nursing education. However, various terms are used to discuss simulation debriefing, making it difficult to distinguish debriefing methods. Also, the means for evaluating simulation debriefing are lacking. The purpose of this review is to identify and examine methods and evaluations for simulation debriefing in the educational setting. Twenty-two methods and seven evaluations for simulation debriefing were found. Four areas of differences among methods—suggested uses, design features, supplemental resources, and means for evaluation—were demonstrated. This review offers nurse educators and researchers a comprehensive, practical examination of the methods and evaluations for simulation debriefing in the educational setting, clarifies terminology, and describes how the debriefing methods, phases, approaches, elements, and evaluations are interrelated. [
J Nurs Educ.
2014;53(8):459–465.]
Integrated geoelectrical and structural studies for groundwater investigation in parts of Abuja, North Central Nigeria
Authors: Maxwell Omeje , Wagiran Husin , Ibrahim Noorddin , Andrew Oha Ifeanyi , Solomon Onwuka Obialo , Sabri Soheil
Published: July 2014

Abuja, the capital city of Nigeria, West Africa, is underlain by Precambrian basement rocks consisting mainly of porphyroblastic gneisses, granitic‐gneisses, migmatitic gneisses, amphibolites, Pan‐African granites and undifferentiated schists. The geology of Abuja, therefore, makes the groundwater conditions in the area very unpredictable. Geophysical surveys were carried out at 12 locations within and around the Gosa area and the results integrated with 88 lineament (fractures) extracted from hill‐shaded Shuttle Radar Topography Mission (SRTM) data. The dominant fracture trend for the area is NNE–SSW and N–S, which corresponds to the Pan‐African trends in the basement complex of Nigeria. It is observed that in the Gosa area, whereas fractures exist, they do not possess sufficient interconnectivity; this may have adversely affected the permeability of the fractured zone, resulting in the incidence of dry wells in the area. Moreover, evidence from interpreted two‐dimensional (2D) geoelectric sections reveals that in some parts of Abuja, the weathered overburden is not thick enough to support sufficient yield for a viable borehole. Interconnected fractures therefore become the desirable structural feature capable of improving the aquifer potential. This study demonstrates the usefulness of integrating conventional vertical electrical sounding (VES) surveys with structural data derived from enhanced SRTM imagery in a hydrologically complicated terrain.
Research on Wind Turbine Blade Loads and Dynamics Factors
Authors: Xu Zhi Qiang , Huang Jian
Published: July 2014

Wind turbines consists of three key parts, namely, wind wheels (including blades, hub, etc.), cabin (including gearboxes, motors, controls, etc.) and the tower and Foundation. Wind turbine wheel is the most important part ,which is made up of blades and hubs. Blade has a good aerodynamic shape, which will produce aerodynamic in the airflow rotation, converting wind energy into mechanical energy, and then, driving the generator into electrical energy by gearbox pace. Wind turbine operates in the natural environment, their load wind turbine blades are more complex. Therefore load calculations and strength analysis for wind turbine design is very important. Wind turbine blades are core components of wind turbines, so understanding of their loads and dynamics by which the load on the wind turbine blade design is of great significance.
Prospect Analysis of Shale Gas Resource Exploration in the Lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation, Southeastern Margin of the Sichuan Basin, China
Authors: Hu Chen Lin , Zhang Yuan Fu , Wang Zhi Feng , Zhang Hai Bo
Published: July 2014

In order to understand the sedimentary characteristics of shale and prospects of shale gas exploration in the lower Silurian Longmaxi Formation northern of Guizhou Province, outcrop and core observations, thin sections, X-ray diffraction analysis and other means are used. Studies show that the thickness of Longmaxi formation shale is generally large, range from 20m to 200m, mainly develop in the water shelf. The mineral mainly compose of detrital quartz and clay minerals, and five lithofacies can be identified: black shale, silty shale, carbonaceous shale, calcareous shale and argillaceous siltstone. Longmaxi shale kerogen type is mainlyIand II, and Ro value is average of 1.87%, mainly in the mature - over mature stage. In addition, the TOC content and gas content of Longmaxi shale is high, what’s more, these two parameters have good positive correlation. Compared with the Barnett shale, both of them have some similarities in the development environment shale, shale thickness and type of organic matter and TOC content, while, Longmaxi shale is deeply buried and post-destruction more intense. Longmaxi shale sedimentary environment is stable, high shale thickness and stable distribution, good quality source rocks and high brittle mineral content, which has meet the basic parameters of shale gas exploration and development, and has a large shale gas exploration potential in study area.
Study on Building Materials and Building Color Attribute Changes in Cold Regional for Weather Factors and Distance
Authors: Liu Jie , Wang Qi
Published: July 2014

The sensory experience of visual perception and quantification of physical properties of colors are combined in this paper, and with the colors commonly used in buildings materials in the cold region of China as an example, based on the visual perception principle, the changes in such color attributes of buildings as chromaticness, blackness and hue in vision in different weather and observation distance conditions are analyzed. The result shows that the stimulus degree of chromaticness and blackness decreases with the increase in observation distance, directly related to weather changes, while hue basically remains unchanged.
Keywords: cold regional, color attribute, weather factors
Research on Material Application with Contrast of City Lighting and Light Pollution
Authors: Xu Zhi Qiang , Huang Jian
Published: July 2014

Looking back at the historical process of urban and architectural development, people can clearly see that the light technology and light culture synchronized with the development of cities and architecture, and they can also see what an important role that technological advances of daylight illumination have played in cities and appearance of the architecture as well as modern life. With the development of economy and improvement of the living standards of human, the landscape lighting at night has been rapidly developed, and has made brilliant achievements. In recent years, the city government attaches great importance to city lighting work, taking the construction of city lighting project as an important measure to improve and beautify the city environment. However, the problem of light pollution attendant should be worthy of attention as a serious problem
Research on Environmental Materials with Interference Mechanism on Flue Gas SO2 Concentration Measurement by the Multidispersion Soot
Authors: Gong Yu Han , Chen Bao Hua , Zhao Yan Jun , Cheng Shou Guang
Published: July 2014

The SO2 concentration can be figured out through measuring the light intensity attenuation. But the scattering and absorption of the multidispersion soot particles can attenuate the light intensity, so the visible measurement light intensity attenuation is larger and the concentration is increased. The interference on the SO2 concentration caused by the multidispersion soot particles is discussed in this paper. The dissipativity, concentration, average size, size distribution parameters and the scattering light angle range of the multidispersion soot particles can interference the SO2 concentration.
RETRACTED: Applied-Information Technology with a New Approach for Communication between AB SLC500 and Profibus-DP Network
Authors: Shi Zhi Guo , Zou Li Ren , Tong Da Peng
Published: July 2014

Retracted paper: In order to realize the fast and accurate communication between AB SLC500 PLC and Profibus network, this thesis studies the Profibus protocol and develops the Profibus application program in the Flex I/O module. Thus the communication between SLC500 PLC and Profibus network is realized. Compared with the applying of SLC500 to control the other equipments and network, the applying of the Flex I/O module promotes the controlling efficiency and responding rate and realizes the complete control of the controlling system. The result of this research shows that this plan can ensure the accuracy, reliability and efficiency of the data transported.
Overview of Research Methods of Microscopic Pore Structure with Material Properties in Reservoir Rocks
Authors: Guo Xue Jing , He Shun Li
Published: July 2014

Pore reflects fluid storage capacity of the rock, while the shape and size of the throat, together with the pore throat ratio, control the permeability and fluid reservoir capacity. There are mainly two aspects in microscopic pore structure characteristics evaluation at present: experiment and theoretical modeling. In this paper, several experimental methods and modeling methods that currently exist were compared and analyzed. The analysis shows that in the aspect of experiments, the domestic basic research in the field of three-dimensional pore structure model reconstruction technique is still relatively weak under limited conditions of equipment and technology, while in the aspect of models, the current domestic research is still relatively rare. A conclusion is drawn that the main problems in the study of microscopic pore structure at home are still the degree of improvement in the accuracy of the experiment and the model upgrade.
Research on Information Technology with the Consideration of Computer Professional Education in Big Data Era
Authors: He Zhong Lin , Xiao Xiao Hong , He Yu Hua
Published: July 2014

Big data is another disruptive technological revolution following cloud computing and Internet of Things (IOT) in IT field. Its dramatic growth makes enterprises gradually facing unprecedented challenges in storage architecture, and brings subversive innovation for IT enterprises. This paper presents five challenges in computer professional education under big data environment in IT field, and discusses the corresponding measures of computer specialized education from different aspects, such as the adjustment of subject content, changes of talent cultivation, innovation of teaching mode, and improvement of teachers’ quality.
Research on Air Transportation Network with Information Technology for Express Logistics Enterprise
Authors: Wu Jian Ping
Published: July 2014

Air transportation network reasonable planning related to express the long-term development of the enterprise, optimized air transportation network can make the express enterprises with strong market competitiveness. Based on the induction, and summarized the domestic and foreign related research results of air transportation network, and the importance of long-term development of enterprises, this paper shows the "air transport hub" bi level programming model and algorithm. EMS is an example.
Information Retrieval in Design and Application of Farmed Tilapia Breeding Database
Authors: Hu Shi Yang , Zhang Jin Tuan , Yang Hui Zan , Lin Yong
Published: July 2014

The process of building the database of tilapia’s farming and breeding is described in this paper. It presents the conversion between the database and the extra data files. It describes several strategies to achieve the data constraints of this database and presents the information retrieval methods based on this database. It described commonly used data analysis algorithms, and comes up with some solutions to solve the problem that reading the database frequently makes the efficiency of algorithm slow. Finally, it briefly describes some measures of maintaining the security of the database.
Bcl-xL Regulates CD1d-Mediated Antigen Presentation to NKT Cells by Altering CD1d Trafficking through the Endocytic Pathway
Authors: Subrahmanyam Priyanka B. , Carey Gregory B. , Webb Tonya J.
Published: July 2014

NKT cells are a unique subset of T cells that recognize glycolipid Ags presented in the context of CD1d molecules. NKT cells mount strong antitumor responses and are a major focus in developing effective cancer immunotherapy. It is known that CD1d molecules are constantly internalized from the cell surface, recycled through the endocytic compartments, and re-expressed on the cell surface. However, little is known about the regulation of CD1d-mediated Ag processing and presentation in B cell lymphoma. Prosurvival factors of the Bcl-2 family, such as Bcl-xL, are often upregulated in B cell lymphomas and are intimately linked to sphingolipid metabolism, as well as the endocytic compartments. We hypothesized that Bcl-xL can regulate CD1d-mediated Ag presentation to NKT cells. We found that overexpression or induction of Bcl-xL led to increased Ag presentation to NKT cells. Conversely, the inhibition or knockdown of Bcl-xL led to decreased NKT cell activation. Furthermore, knockdown of Bcl-xL resulted in the loss of CD1d trafficking to lysosome-associated membrane protein 1+ compartments. Rab7, a late endosomal protein, was upregulated and CD1d molecules accumulated in the Rab7+ late endosomal compartment. These results demonstrate that Bcl-xL regulates CD1d-mediated Ag processing and presentation to NKT cells by altering the late endosomal compartment and changing the intracellular localization of CD1d.
Do We Have to Perform a Renal Biopsy? Clinical Dilemmas in a Case with Nephrotic Syndrome
Authors: Akimoto Tetsu , Otani Naoko , Takeshima Eri , Saito Osamu , Kusano Eiji , Nagata Daisuke
Published: July 2014

Renal biopsy is one of the pivotal diagnostic tools used in the field of nephrology. A morphological analysis of the kidney may also be of value for the overall management of patients with diabetic nephropathy. However, the indications for renal biopsy differ considerably among nephrologists, and no global consensus regarding performing this procedure among diabetic patients with various renal manifestations has yet been achieved. In this report, we would like to describe our serendipitous experience with a male type 2 diabetic patient presenting with nephrotic syndrome complicated by concurrent gastric carcinoma. We also discuss several conundrums that arose in the current case, which had an impact on our diagnostic and therapeutic decisions.
Use of Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine in US Travel Medicine Practices in Global TravEpiNet
Authors: Deshpande Bhushan R. , Rao Sowmya R. , Jentes Emily S. , Hills Susan L. , Fischer Marc , Gershman Mark D. , Brunette Gary W. , Ryan Edward T. , LaRocque Regina C. , _ _
Published: July 2014

Few data regarding the use of Japanese encephalitis (JE) vaccine in clinical practice are available. We identified 711 travelers at higher risk and 7,578 travelers at lower risk for JE who were seen at US Global TravEpiNet sites from September of 2009 to August of 2012. Higher-risk travelers were younger than lower-risk travelers (median age = 29 years versus 40 years, P < 0.001). Over 70% of higher-risk travelers neither received JE vaccine during the clinic visit nor had been previously vaccinated. In the majority of these instances, clinicians determined that the JE vaccine was not indicated for the higher-risk traveler, which contradicts current recommendations of the Advisory Committee on Immunization Practices. Better understanding is needed of the clinical decision-making regarding JE vaccine in US travel medicine practices.
Climate justice: the claim of the past
Authors: Humphreys Stephen
Published: July 2014

This synthetic appraisal of the collection of papers in this issue argues that historical injustice saturates the problem of climate change. Those most vulnerable to climate change today are largely those who already lack resources – who have been on the wrong end of colonial history, or who have been globalization's losers, or who have suffered neglect, exclusion or simple rapacity at the hands of their own governments. They are those who have benefitted little or not at all from a carbon-intensive global economy, but who have long suffered its side effects – resource stripping, food price spikes, impoverishment and now the ravages of climate change. Following the other authors in this issue – and examining human rights law, trade law and the overarching ideal of the rule of law – the paper notes that the particular form taken by law in international and transnational affairs, having largely followed the historical progress of industrialism, colonialism and globalization, is peculiarly ill-suited to the task of addressing this vulnerability.
Mass-conserving subglacial hydrology in the Parallel Ice Sheet Model
Authors: Bueler E. , Van Pelt W.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. We describe and test a distributed subglacial hydrology model which combines a pressurized, plastic till with a system of water-filled, linked cavities which open through sliding-generated cavitation and close through ice creep. The addition of this sub-model to the Parallel Ice Sheet Model accomplishes three specific goals: (1) conservation of the mass of two-phase (solid/liquid) water in the ice sheet, (2) simulation of spatially- and temporally-variable basal shear stress from physical mechanisms based on a minimal number of free parameters, and (3) convergence under two-horizontal-dimensional grid refinement of the subglacial water amount and pressure. The model is a common generalization of at least four others: (i) the undrained plastic bed model of Tulaczyk et al. (2000b), (ii) a standard "routing" model used for identifying locations of subglacial lakes, (iii) the lumped englacial/subglacial model of Bartholomaus et al. (2011), and (iv) the elliptic-pressure-equation model of Schoof et al. (2012). We use englacial porosity as a regularization, and we preserve physical bounds on the pressure. In steady state the model generates a local functional relationship between water amount and pressure. We construct an exact solution of the coupled, steady equations which is used for verification of our explicit time-stepping, parallel numerical implementation. We demonstrate the model at scale by five year simulations of the entire Greenland ice sheet at 2 km horizontal resolution, with one million nodes in the hydrology grid.
A Lagrangian Advection scheme with Shape Matrix (LASM) for solving advection problems
Authors: Dong L. , Wang B. , Liu L.
Published: July 2014

Abstract. A new Lagrangian advection scheme with shape matrix (LASM) is proposed to take advantage of extreme low numerical diffusion of Lagrangian methods. The tracer is discretized into finite parcels, which move along the downstream trajectories. Different from other Lagrangian schemes, the parcel shape is simulated explicitly by a linear transformation matrix. By doing so, the aliasing error in the Lagrangian schemes is largely reduced without introducing substantial interparcel mixing in the pure advection stage, because the flow information will be respected when remapping tracer density onto the fixed model grids. An adaptive interparcel mixing algorithm is constructed to ensure the validity of the linear approximation of the parcel shape, where the mixing is only triggered when it is necessary and resembles the physical mixing. The total tracer mass on the parcels is conserved exactly. The new scheme is validated by using several test cases.
The Professional Identity of Nursing: A Qualitative Analysis of Nursing in Valparaiso (1933-2010)
Authors: Chuaqui Kettlun Jorge Renan , Bettancourt Ortega Lorena Paola , Leal Román Valentina Javiera , Aguirre Gonzalez Carlos Alberto ,   Universidad de Valparaíso
Published: July 2014

Objetivo: comprender la evolución de la identidad profesional de la enfermería en Valparaíso, Chile, en el periodo de 1933 hasta el 2010. Materiales y métodos: se trabajó con un diseño cualitativo complementado con análisis documental, apoyado por el software de análisis cualitativo Atlas TI. Se realizaron 17 entrevistas en profundidad a enfermeras que ejercieron la profesión en distintas épocas de la enfermería en Valparaíso, distribuidas en tres periodos que abarcan desde 1933 al 2010. Resultados: los datos muestran que la identidad de la enfermería ha ido variando desde un rol caracterizado por una vocación desinteresada de lo económico e interesada en la ayuda al otro de manera incondicional, a una nueva etapa en que perdura una vocación en el servicio aunque, esta vez, desde un servicio más profesionalizado y complejo. Conclusiones: esta investigación permite identificar que, al igual que las sociedades mo- dernas, la enfermería está caracterizada por un creciente individualismo y complejización de sus procesos, por la exacerbación de la responsabilidad personal y los múltiples quehaceres de estos/as estimulados por el desarrollo científico y académico de la profesión.
Individual and Group Education in Diabetes and Outcomes
Authors: Ünsal-Avdal Elif , Arkan Burcu
Published: July 2014

Objetivo: El propósito del presente estudio fue examinar los efectos de las dos técnicas de educación diabética que se estaban implementando en un entorno real sobre los resultados de la atención (los niveles de conocimiento, el manejo del auto - cuidado, A1c , BMI ). Métodos: La investigación se llevó a cabo como un estudio correlacional y descriptivo. El muestreo fue compuesto por 391 personas. Los datos se seleccionaron mediante formularios de evaluación diabética, formularios de evaluación de los conocimientos diabéticos, la Escala de Agencia de Autocuidado y formularios de evaluación de A1c y BMI. Resultados: Los resultados indicaron que la modalidad de la técnica educativa fue capaz de afectar a los niveles de conocimiento en un 77 %, a la agencia de autocuidado en un 76 % , a los niveles de A1c en un 78% y al índice de masa corporal en un 75 %. Conclusion: Se ve que una combinación de educación diabética individual y grupal es un mejor método para asegurar la autogestión eficaz de un individuo.
Bioethical Observations on the “Istanbul Consensus”: Scientism and Omission of the Human Aspect in Human Embryology
Authors: Gómez-Fajardo Carlos Alberto ,   Universidad Pontificia Bolivariana
Published: July 2014

El “Consenso de Estambul” presenta criterios de calificación de embriones humanos en tres categorías de “calidad” (bueno, regular, malo), según criterios morfológicos establecidos por expertos en embriología dedicados a la aplicación de tecnologías de reproducción asistida en humanos.
Se propone la necesidad de un diálogo interdisciplinario que, superando el reduccionismo cientificista, comprenda y analice prudencialmente las implicaciones de diverso carácter que necesariamente están ligadas en al uso de los embriones humanos como un “objeto” de aplicación de una técnica supuestamente desprovista de implicaciones éticas, humanas, antropológicas, filosóficas y jurídicas. Se destaca el concepto de la condición personal propia de cada ser humano, independientemente de los criterios utilitarios que se pretendan asignar a estos embriones —que se encuentran, bajo la voluntad y el poder de terceras personas— en una de las fases de mayor fragilidad existencial, cuando son convertidos en “material biológico” descartable. Se refuerza el concepto de la autonomía teleológica —estatuto antropológico del embrión humano— y la necesidad de una comprensión cabal del significado de lo humano, como un aporte de la bioética y del diálogo interdisciplinar en pro de una aproximación científica válida y honesta en este campo de la aplicación de la tecnociencia.
Humane Physicians
Authors: Orellana-Peña Cecilia de las Mercedes ,   Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile
Published: July 2014

Siendo el objeto de la medicina toda la persona, se concuerda con quienes proponen reenfocar la formación de los futuros médicos y hacerlo desde la óptica de las humanidades, para reivindicar la medicina como disciplina científico-humanista. Se plantea entender las humanidades en medicina teniendo en cuenta tres aspectos: ético, habilidad comunicacional y humanidad; esta última concebida como: “sensibilidad, compasión por las desgracias de nuestros semejantes”. La propuesta consiste en incluir un comportamiento humanista conforme al American Board of Internal Medicine de 1983, e impartir una formación ética con enfoque personalista, que reconoce en la persona un estatuto objetivo de tipo ontológico. El programa abarca todos los años de formación de pregrado, propone contenidos, metodología de enseñanza y de evaluación centrada en lo actitudinal.
Relative importance of various regeneration mechanisms in different restoration stages of Quercus variabilis forest after selective logging
Authors: Xue Yaoqin , Zhang Wenhui , Ma Chuang , Ma Liwei , Zhou Jianyun
Published: July 2014

Aim of study: Quercus variabilis (Chinese cork oak) reproduces asexually and sexually. This study aimed to determine the status and growth of asexual and sexual recruits of Q. variabilis in different forest recovery stages.Area of study: Three selective logged stands and one unlogged stand in Q. variabilis forest, Shaanxi Province, China.Material and Methods: Origin, number, basal diameter, height and size structure of Q. variabilis shoots (height ≤200 cm) were investigated in the plots of 5, 10, and 20-years post-logging stands and unlogged stand. Effects of recovery stage on the density and growth of the three original recruits (stump sprouts, stem base sprouts and true seedlings) were analysis by One-way ANOVA.Main results: Sprouts dominated logged stands, whereas true seedlings dominated unlogged stand, stem base sprouts only existed in 20-years post-logging and unlogged stands. Stump sprout density and sprout number per stump both declined with extended post-logging time. True seedlings density increased from 7 to 20 shoots/100 m2 as the postlogging time extended, and peaked in unlogged stand (94 shoots/100 m2). An ongoing size structure was observed in true seedlings in all stands. Stump sprouts were taller and greater than true seedlings.Research highlights: Stump sprouts contributed more to Q. variabilis forest recovery in the early stage after disturbance. The contribution of true seedlings was limited in the same stage, but they were beneficial for population long-term development. Stem base sprouts were most likely to be a survival strategy rather than a reproductive strategy.Key words: asexual reproduction; true seedling; post-logging time; Chinese cork oak.
Resource potential of bamboo, challenges and future directions towards sustainable management and utilization in Ethiopia
Authors: Desalegn Getachew , Tadesse Wubalem
Published: July 2014

Aim of study: Bamboo, the fastest growing and high yielding perennial plant of the world has more than 1500 species and 1500 versatile socio-economic uses and ecological services. Ethiopia has two indigenous bamboo species namely Yushania alpina and Oxytenantheria abyssinica, covering about one million ha with a wide distribution. The objective of this paper is to highlight the potential of bamboo resources, challenges including biodeterioration damage, opportunities and future research directions towards its sustainable management and rational utilization.Area of study: Bamboo resources of EthiopiaMaterial and Methods: Reconnaissance survey was done to some parts of the bamboo growing potential areas in Ethiopia besides the literature review. Main results: The bamboo resource, despite its socio-economic and environmental benefits, currently, in most areas has been under high pressure due to land use changes, bamboo mass- flowering, poor processing with low value addition, and damage by biodeteriorating agents (termites, beetles and fungi). The preservative tests on Ethiopian bamboos revealed low natural durability and highlighted the paramount importance of appropriate protection measures such as Tanalith and vehicles used motor oil to increase durability, service life and rational utilization of bamboo-based products and structures as potential alternative construction and furniture material.Research highlights: Therefore, integrated research and development interventions involving different propagation and managements techniques, harvesting season, processing, value addition including proper seasoning and preservation technologies and marketing are recommended to fill the information and technological gaps on sustainable management and rational utilization of this fast growing and multipurpose bamboo resources in Ethiopia.Key words: Bamboo; challenges; management; socio-economic and environmental significance; utilization.