bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
La ultrasonografía obstétrica y el diagnóstico de defectos de la pared abdominal en México
Authors: Bracho Blanchet Eduardo , Partida Gaytán Armando
Published: August 2015

El artículo de sesión anatomoclínica de este número refleja dos problemas relativamente frecuentes a los que todos los pediatras estamos expuestos: la falta de diagnóstico prenatal de malformaciones congénitas y la referencia inadecuada de pacientes críticamente enfermos.
Tratamiento estomatológico de pacientes que ingirieron sustancias cáusticas. Ruta de atención interdisciplinaria y reporte de caso
Authors: Cámara-Miranda Anabelle , Belmont-Laguna Francisco , Cuevas-Schacht Francisco
Published: August 2015

La ingestión de sustancias cáusticas es un grave problema médico y social. La prevención de estos accidentes es esencial para evitar las lesiones y secuelas en la cavidad oral y en el tubo digestivo. Las lesiones producidas por esas sustancias se clasifican, desde un punto de vista anatomopatológico, de manera similar a las quemaduras de la piel. Existe relación entre el grado de profundidad de la lesión, los hallazgos endoscópicos y el pronóstico. La localización, la extensión y la gravedad de las lesiones dependen de muchos factores relacionados con el cáustico, por lo que es muy importante identificar el tipo de cáustico, las propiedades organolépticas, la concentración, la cantidad ingerida, el tiempo transcurrido desde la ingesta, si se han realizado medidas para neutralizar que puedan añadir un efecto térmico y la voluntad o no de la ingesta.

El objetivo de este artículo es establecer, en el Instituto Nacional de Pediatría, la clasificación de lesiones bucales y las bases para su rehabilitación de forma integral; ello con la finalidad de evitar secuelas que limiten la función estética, el crecimiento y desarrollo adecuados con las características orofaciales de cada paciente.
A new approach for local waste water management sanitation case study of rural school (Chorfech 24)
Authors: Ben Saad Marwa , Bousselmi Latifa , Masi Fabio , Ghrabi Ahmed
Published: August 2015

This paper presents one case of wastewater management approach in rural area. The design and the implementation of the solution have been developed in close consultation with the stakeholders and national authorities. The objectives are (i) to solve the problems of the uncontrolled wastewater discharged into nature without treatment, and (ii) to set up a robust solution to be recommended for application in rural school in Tunisia, devoid of sanitation system and characterized by limited financial resources for water supply and sanitation services. Several equipments to save water (push-button taps, waterless urinals, rainwater harvesting) is set up. The sanitation system consists of septic tank followed by horizontal subsurface flow constructed wetland. The treated wastewaters are used in the irrigation of the garden. The evaluation of the performances of the system after 3 years is presented.
Evaluation of titration methods for volatile fatty acids measurement: effect of the bicarbonate interference and feasibility for the monitoring of anaerobic reactors
Authors: Mota V. T. , Santos F. S. , Araújo T. A. , Amaral M. C. S.
Published: August 2015

The analysis of volatile fatty acids (VFA) is of utmost importance for monitoring the stability of anaerobic reactors. For routine control, titration methods are advantageous because of their simplicity, speed and low cost. However, bicarbonate, which is usually present in relatively high concentrations in anaerobic reactors, influences the potentiometric titration. In this paper, the methods of Ripley, Kapp, DiLallo, DiLallo with modified calculations, and DiLallo with sonication were evaluated regarding the effects of bicarbonate interference and their suitability for monitoring an anaerobic reactor containing high concentrations of organic matter and bicarbonate. Standard solutions with various combinations of acetic acid and bicarbonate, ranging from 100 to 4,000 mg/l, and anaerobically treated stillage containing VFA in concentrations between 5,500 and 30 mg/l were analyzed. The methods of DiLallo and Kapp were little affected by sodium bicarbonate interference, unlike Ripley's and DiLallo's methods with sonication, which overestimated VFA concentrations as the relative concentrations of bicarbonate were high compared to the acids. When the anaerobic reactor was starting, the Ripley, Kapp, DiLallo and modified DiLallo methods were statistically equal. As the system achieved stability, with VFA levels up to 200 mg/l, Ripley's method gave significantly higher VFA values. Among the methods evaluated, Kapp and original DiLallo presented the closest results, indicating their feasibility for analysis of VFA over a wide concentration range. Kapp's method stands out due to its greater simplicity and standardization.
The best indicator of hydraulic short-circuiting and mixing of constructed wetlands
Authors: Guo C. Q. , Dong B. , Liu J. J , Liu F. P.
Published: August 2015

Hydraulic residence time (HRT) distribution intuitively reflects flow pattern of constructed wetlands. HRT is able to reflect the merits of flow state clearly. Short-circuiting and mixing are the most important factors on HRT, exerting a significant effect on the flow pattern of wetlands. These two conditions must be avoided in wetlands construction and management. Therefore, it is necessary to select the best indicators measuring short-circuiting and mixing for understanding the flow pattern and the hydraulic performance of wetlands. This paper analyzes numerous indicators reflecting the degree of short-circuiting and mixing, displaying that t10 and Morril index t90/t10 are optimal indicators measuring short-circuiting and mixing, respectively, according to truncation and stability analysis based on tracer data. Data analysis showed that when water depth dropped, t10 increased and t90/t10 reduced gradually, indicating the improvement of short-circuiting and mixing. These results were fully consistent with the analysis results of hydraulic parameters, such as effective volume ratio e and the number of serial mixing tanks N. The excellent indicators of short-circuiting and mixing provide theoretical basis for reasonable design and evaluation of constructed wetlands, contributing to promote the hydraulic performance and purification effect.
Degradation of veterinary antibiotics during anaerobic digestion of dairy manure
Authors: Kitazono Yumika , Ihara Ikko , Toyoda Kiyohiko , Umetsu Kazutaka
Published: August 2015

This study evaluated antibiotic degradation and biogas production during anaerobic digestion of dairy manure contained two common veterinary antibiotics at 37 °C. After 18 days of digestion, the concentration of chlortetracycline (CTC) decreased more than 80% regardless of the initial CTC concentration. The concentration of cefazolin (CEZ) decreased from 10 to 0.08 mg/L in 6 days. Less than 50 mg/L CTC and 10 mg/L CEZ had negligible impact on biogas production during anaerobic digestion process. The result showed that the anaerobic digestion has a potential to degrade antibiotic residues in livestock manure.
The efficiency of Pontederia Cordata in nitrogen removal from landscape water under varying flow rates
Authors: Kirumba George , Dongyang Wei , Ge Ling , He Yiliang , Jiang Cheng , Mao Feijian , Xia Qianyong
Published: August 2015

The Green Origio biological system, a two-stage, solar-powered constructed wetland mesocosm situated in Shanghai Jiao Tong University's plant park was used for nitrogen removal in the institution's landscape water. Whereas the first tank was anaerobic, the second tank containing fully grown Pontederia cordata was operated under aerobic conditions. The system was designed with an overflow by-pass pipe to prevent hydraulic overloading. Pump discharge values of 53, 74, 112, 120, 205 and 270 m3/day were recorded during the study. However, the corresponding flow rate values into the tanks were 16.25 m3/day, 29.47 m3/day, 36.79 m3/day, 50.57 m3/day, 71.38 m3/day and 80.52 m3/day, respectively. Experiments conducted between August and October, 2013 revealed a significant concentration decrease for total nitrogen (TN), ammonia (NH3-N), nitrate (NO3-N), nitrite (NO2-N) and total organic carbon (TOC). Whereas the Multi N/C 3100 Analyzer was used for simultaneous analysis of TN and TOC, the nitrogen fractions were analyzed using spectrophotometric methods. The TN, NO3-N, NH3-N, NO2-N and TOC removal rates under a flow rate of 16.25 m3/day were 55.65%, 75.19%, 74.03%, 95.43% and 29.87%, respectively. TN and NO2-N removal efficiencies of 4.92% and 83.64%, respectively, were observed under a flow rate of 80.52 m3/day. Concentration increase in the effluent caused by washout of accumulated concentrations was noted for NO3-N, NH3-N and TOC.
Monitoring and tracking contaminant sources in catchments and estuaries
Authors: Geary P. M. , Evans C. A. , Maswabi M. T. , Lee C. CC. , Zammit A. , Webster G. , Hunter M.
Published: August 2015

In managing water quality in catchments and estuaries, faecal contamination is typically assessed using microbial indicators, such as faecal coliform bacteria. Bacteriological indicators however cannot be used to distinguish whether the faecal contamination has been derived from human or animal sources. The ability to track contamination and distinguish between sources is particularly important where water is used for potable supply, recreational purposes and where commercial aquaculture for human consumption is undertaken. Various chemicals associated with human metabolism and activities which are present in faecal material (such as faecal sterol, pharmaceutical and fluorescent whitening compounds present in wastewaters) can be utilized to identify a human signal and therefore whether the faecal contamination in water is likely to have been derived from human sources. This paper demonstrates an approach and methodology for future work using a combination of these methods to distinguish human contaminant sources in stormwater runoff in an estuary where aquaculture is practised.
Characteristics and evolution of hydrochemical compositions in groundwater under mining-induced disturbance: a case study
Authors: Chen Song , Gui Herong
Published: August 2015

To understand the hydrochemistry evolution characters of deep groundwater under the coal mine exploitation, 66 historical chemical data of groundwater samples were collected from 1997 to 2011 in Qinan coal mine, Anhui Province, China, the hydrochemical characteristics and its evolution characters were obtained by the methods such as multivariate statistical approach and conventional graphical. The results showed that the concentrations of Na+ + K+ are higher in all groundwater samples, whereas the contents of Ca2+ and Mg2+ are lower. The concentrations of Na+ + K+ were decreasing as follows: limestone aquifer < quaternary aquifers < coal bearing aquifer. The chemical compositions of groundwater collected from three aquifer were varied obviously from 1997 to 2011. Three principle component factors could be extracted through statistical approach, PC1 was affirmed the dissolution of limestone, dolomite and gypsum dissolution. PC2 could be as the carbonation process or desulfurizing process, while PC3 indicated the weathering process of feldspar minerals weathering by the carbonate acid.
A Crossplot for Mud Logging Interpretation of Unconventional Gas Shale
Reservoirs and its Application
Authors: Shi Wen-rui , Zhang Chong , Yuan Shao-yang , Chen Yu-long , Zhu Lin-qi
Published: August 2015

The drilling time data of gas logging are used to calculate drilling time ratio of the reservoir, and the total hydrocarbon
data are used to calculate hydrocarbon contrast coefficient and to establish the drilling time ratio--hydrocarbon
contrast coefficient crossplot. The standards of distinguishing the boundaries of hydrocarbon zones, hydrocarbonaceous
water layers and dry layers are determined according to the statistics of regional oil testing data. Based on the standards,
the crossplot is divided into three areas: hydrocarbon zone, hydrocarbonaceous water layer and dry layer, which are used
in mud logging interpretation of abnormal shows in oil and gas layers. This method is widely used for low-resistivity reservoirs,
fracture reservoirs, shale gas layers, and especially in the oil and gas zone with weak show and a single component.
It is more applicable and accurate than some conventional interpretation methods such as the triangle plot, PIXLER
plot, dual light hydrocarbon alkyl ratio and hydrocarbons ratio (3H).
Permeability Prediction of Tight Sandstone Reservoirs Using Improved BP
Neural Network
Authors: Zhu Peng , Lin Chengyan , Wu Peng , Fan Ruifeng , Zhang Hualian , Pu Wei
Published: August 2015

By analyzing the permeability controlling factors of tight sandstone reservoir in Wuhaozhuang Oil Field, the
permeability is considered to be mainly controlled by porosity, clay content, irreducible water saturation and diagenetic
coefficient. Because the conventional BP algorithm has its drawbacks such as slow convergence speed and easy falling
into the local minimum value, an improved three-layer feed-forward BP neural network model is built by MATLAB neural
network toolbox to predict permeability according to the four permeability controlling factors, while studying samples
of model are selected based on the representative core analysis data. The simulation based on improved neural network
model shows that the improved model has a faster convergence speed and better accuracy. The consistency between
model prediction value and lab test value is good and the mean squared error is less. Therefore, the new model can meet
the needs of the development geology research of oil field better in the future.
Role of PKCδ in Insulin Sensitivity and Skeletal Muscle Metabolism
Authors: Li Mengyao , Vienberg Sara G. , Bezy Olivier , O’Neill Brian T. , Kahn C. Ronald
Published: August 2015

Protein kinase C (PKC)δ has been shown to be increased in liver in obesity and plays an important role in the development of hepatic insulin resistance in both mice and humans. In the current study, we explored the role of PKCδ in skeletal muscle in the control of insulin sensitivity and glucose metabolism by generating mice in which PKCδ was deleted specifically in muscle using Cre-lox recombination. Deletion of PKCδ in muscle improved insulin signaling in young mice, especially at low insulin doses; however, this did not change glucose tolerance or insulin tolerance tests done with pharmacological levels of insulin. Likewise, in young mice, muscle-specific deletion of PKCδ did not rescue high-fat diet–induced insulin resistance or glucose intolerance. However, with an increase in age, PKCδ levels in muscle increased, and by 6 to 7 months of age, muscle-specific deletion of PKCδ improved whole-body insulin sensitivity and muscle insulin resistance and by 15 months of age improved the age-related decline in whole-body glucose tolerance. At 15 months of age, M-PKCδKO mice also exhibited decreased metabolic rate and lower levels of some proteins of the OXPHOS complex suggesting a role for PKCδ in the regulation of mitochondrial mass at older age. These data indicate an important role of PKCδ in the regulation of insulin sensitivity and mitochondrial homeostasis in skeletal muscle with aging.
Effects of premedication with sustained-release buprenorphine hydrochloride and anesthetic induction with ketamine hydrochloride or propofol in combination with diazepam on intraocular pressure in healthy sheep
Authors: Gatson Bonnie J. , Pablo Luisito , Plummer Caryn E. , Granone Tiffany D.
Published: August 2015

OBJECTIVE To determine the effects of diazepam combined with ketamine hydrochloride or propofol for induction of anesthesia (IOA) following premedication with sustained-release buprenorphine hydrochloride (SRB) on intraocular pressure (IOP) in sheep.

ANIMALS 20 healthy adult sheep.

PROCEDURES Diazepam with ketamine or propofol was given IV to each of 10 sheep after premedication with SRB (0.01 mg/kg, SC); after > 4 weeks, each sheep received the other induction combination with no premedication. For both eyes, IOPs were measured before premedication (if given), 10 minutes prior to (baseline) and immediately following administration of ketamine or propofol (time of IOA), after endotracheal intubation, and 5 minutes after IOA. Peak end-tidal Pco2, globe position, and pupillary diameter were also analyzed.

RESULTS Data were not available for all sheep for all anesthetic episodes. Propofol-diazepam administration alone had no significant effect on IOP, whereas there was a significant decrease in IOP immediately following ketamine-diazepam administration alone. At 5 minutes after ketamine-diazepam administration, SRB-premedicated sheep had significantly higher IOP than unpremedicated sheep. Intraocular pressure was significantly higher at baseline, at intubation, and 5 minutes after IOA in SRB-premedicated sheep receiving propofol-diazepam, compared with unpremedicated sheep. Peak end-tidal Pco2 at intubation was significantly higher in SRB-premedicated sheep. For sheep receiving either anesthetic treatment, IOPs did not differ significantly with or without SRB premedication. Globe position or pupillary diameter and IOP were not significantly related at any time point.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results suggested that both ketamine-diazepam and propofol-diazepam combinations were suitable for IOA without increasing IOP in sheep. The use of SRB should be avoided in sheep when increases in IOP are undesirable.
The Functioning of Small and Medium-Sized Enterprises in Conditions of Economic Stability
Authors: Leszczewska Krystyna
Published: August 2015

Modern companies operate in an unstable environment. This requires management of the companies to undertake adjusting measures that will enable companies to survive and achieve competitive advantage. Increasing the risk of doing business has prompted the author to undertake empirical studies of the SME sector and to identify the types of risks faced by entrepreneurs. The article presents the results of empirical studies and contains conclusions that may serve as an advice for the SME sector
Biomechanical Differences of Foot-Strike Patterns During Running: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis
Authors: Almeida Matheus O. , Davis Irene S. , Lopes Alexandre D.
Published: August 2015

Study Design

Systematic review with meta-analysis.

Objectives

To determine the biomechanical differences between foot-strike patterns used when running.

Background

Strike patterns during running have received attention in the recent literature due to their potential mechanical differences and associated injury risks.

Methods

Electronic databases (MEDLINE, Embase, LILACS, SciELO, and SPORTDiscus) were searched through July 2014. Studies (cross-sectional, case-control, prospective, and retrospective) comparing the biomechanical characteristics of foot-strike patterns during running in distance runners at least 18 years of age were included in this review. Two independent reviewers evaluated the risk of bias. A meta-analysis with a random-effects model was used to combine the data from the included studies.

Results

Sixteen studies were included in the final analysis. In the meta-analyses of kinematic variables, significant differences between forefoot and rearfoot strikers were found for foot and knee angle at initial contact and knee flexion range of motion. A forefoot-strike pattern resulted in a plantar-flexed ankle position and a more flexed knee position, compared to a dorsiflexed ankle position and a more extended knee position for the rearfoot strikers, at initial contact with the ground. In the comparison of rearfoot and midfoot strikers, midfoot strikers demonstrated greater ankle dorsiflexion range of motion and decreased knee flexion range of motion compared to rearfoot strikers. For kinetic variables, the meta-analysis revealed that rearfoot strikers had higher vertical loading rates compared to forefoot strikers.

Conclusion

There are differences in kinematic and kinetic characteristics between foot-strike patterns when running. Clinicians should be aware of these characteristics to help in the management of running injuries and advice on training. J Orthop Sports Phys Ther 2015;45(10):738–755. Epub 24 Aug 2015. doi:10.2519/jospt.2015.6019
Client Perspectives on Desirable Attributes and Skills of Veterinary Technologists in Australia: Considerations for Curriculum Design
Authors: Clarke Patricia M. , Al-Alawneh John , Pitt Rachael E. , Schull Daniel N. , Coleman Glen T.
Published: August 2015

Client or service user perspectives are important when designing curricula for professional programs. In the case of veterinary technology, an emerging profession in the veterinary field in Australasia, client views on desirable graduate attributes, skills, and knowledge have not yet been explored. This study reports on a survey of 441 veterinary clients (with 104 responses) from four veterinary practices in Brisbane, Queensland, conducted between October 2008 and February 2009. The included veterinary practices provided clinical placements for veterinary technology undergraduates and employment for veterinary technology graduates (2003–2007). Client socio-demographic data along with ratings of the importance of a range of technical (veterinary nursing) skills, emotional intelligence, and professional attributes for veterinary technology graduates were collected and analyzed. Overall, the majority of clients viewed technical skills, emotional intelligence, and professional attributes as important in the clinical practice of veterinary technology graduates with whom they interacted in the veterinary practice. Client interviews (n=3) contextualized the survey data and also showed that clients attached importance to graduates demonstrating professional competence. Agglomerative hierarchical cluster analysis revealed four distinct groupings of clients within the data based on their differing perceptions. Using a multivariable proportional-odds regression model, it was also found that some client differences were influenced by demographic factors such as gender, age, and number of visits annually. For example, the odds of female clients valuing emotionality and sociability were greater than males. These findings provide useful data for the design of a professionalizing and market-driven veterinary technology curriculum.
Calculations of 3D full-scale VVER fuel assembly and core models using MCU and BIPR-7A codes
Authors: Aleshin S. S. , Bikeev A. S. , Bolshagin S. N. , Kalugin M. A. , Kosourov E. K. , Pavlovichev A. M. , Pryanichnikov A. V. , Sukhino-Khomenko E. A. , Shcherenko Anna I. , Shcherenko Anastasia I. , Shkarovskiy D. A.
Published: August 2015

Two types of calculations were made to compare BIPR-7A and MCU results for 3D full-scale models. First EPS (emergency protection system) efficiency and in-core power distributions were analyzed for an equilibrium fuel load of VVER-1000 assuming its operation within an 18-month cycle. Computations were performed without feedbacks and with fuel burnup distributed over the core. After 3D infinite lattices of full-scale VVER-1000 fuel assemblies (FA's) with uranium fuel 4.4 % enrichment and uranium-erbium fuel 4.4 % enrichment and Er2O3 1 % wt were considered. Computations were performed with feedbacks and fuel burnup at the constant power level. For different time moments effective multiplication factor and power distribution were obtained. EPS efficiency and reactivity effects at chosen time moments were analyzed.
Prospects of subcritical molten salt reactor for minor actinides incineration in closed fuel cycle
Authors: Alekseev P. N. , Balanin A. L. , Blandinsky V. Yu. , Dudnikov A. A. , Fomichenko P. A. , Nevinitsa V. A. , Frolov A. A. , Lubina A. S. , Sedov A. A. , Subbotin A. S.
Published: August 2015

A subcritical molten salt reactor is proposed for minor actinides (separated from spent fuel VVER-1000 light water reactor) incineration and for 233U conversion from 232Th. Here the subcritical molten salt reactor with fuel composition of heavy nuclide fluorides in molten LiF–NaF–KF salt and with external neutron source, based on 1 GeV proton accelerator and molten salt cooled tungsten target is considered. The paper presents the results of parametrical analysis of equilibrium nuclide composition of molten salt reactor with minor actinides feed in dependence of core dimensions, average neutron flux and external neutron source intensity. Reactor design is defined; requirements to external neutron source are posed; heavy nuclides equilibrium and fuel cycle main parameters are calculated.
Neutron-kinetic and thermo-hydraulic uncertainties in the study of Kalinin-3 benchmark
Authors: Pasichnyk I. , Zwermann W. , Velkov K. , Nikonov S.
Published: August 2015

The effects of nuclear data covariance on important reactor parameters are investigated. The analyses are performed on the base of the OECD/NEA coolant transient Benchmark (K-3) on measured data at Kalinin-3 Nuclear Power Plant (NPP). For this purpose the GRS uncertainty and sensitivity software package XSUSA is applied to propagate uncertainties in nuclear data libraries to the full core coupled transient calculations. Moreover, based on the previous thermo-hydraulic studies a set of most important thermo-hydraulic parameters is chosen and added to the uncertain input vector. A statistically representative set of coupled ATHLET-PARCS code steady state calculations is analyzed and both integral and local output quantities are compared with the measurements available in the benchmark. The work is a step forward in establishing a “best-estimate calculations in combination with performing uncertainty analysis” methodology for coupled full core calculations.
Effects on Voter Participation and Unionization Activity from Changes in Railway Labor Act Election Rules
Authors: Elsenrath Michael C.
Published: August 2015

In 2010 the National Mediation Board changed the process by which airline and railroad employees certify a union. To install a collective bargaining entity, new election rules require that the majority of ballots cast be in favor of unionization. This procedure differed from the previous one, which required the majority of a craft or class of laborers to vote in favor of unionization. This study investigated the effects of the voting change on unionization and voter participation for industries covered under the Railway Labor Act. Data from airline- and railroad-related union elections were mined before and after the procedural change and analyzed. Chi-square analysis revealed no significant change in union certification efforts. The t-test results indicated a significant increase in voter participation in Railway Labor Act elections under the new election rules (p < .001).
Advancing the science of child and adolescent development: Do we need a new household panel survey?
Authors: Sabol Terri J. , Chase-Lansdale P. Lindsay , Brooks-Gunn Jeanne
Published: August 2015

This paper examines the extent to which a new nationally representative household panel survey could bring children and adolescents to the forefront of its design. We begin by discussing how major demographic shifts, such as reduced social mobility and transformations in family structure, may affect children and adolescent development through individual, family, and sociocultural processes. We then review the existing household surveys in the United States and highlight the strengths and weaknesses for studying how major societal trends and changes affect child and adolescent development. We then debate several different design approaches for a new study and recommend either a longitudinal panel design, which includes all children in the panel survey, or a sequential cohort design, that includes a subsample of children and embedded birth cohort study. We highlight that a large, nationally representative dataset cannot replace standalone, more in-depth developmental studies of children and adolescents with high-fidelity measurement of processes. Instead, we argue that a new panel survey could take a more targeted approach and measure the major constructs of children's development as well as select family and sociocultural processes by drawing on recent advances in survey measurement techniques. We conclude by affirming that new household survey has the potential to contribute greatly to our understanding of the developmental origins of life long wellbeing as well as the effects of major demographic shifts in the 21st century on child and adolescent development.
Physical health and health behavior
Authors: Adler Nancy , Bachrach Christine , Prather Aric A.
Published: August 2015

This paper examines the potential contributions of a new longitudinal household survey that assesses physical health and the social and behavioral factors that impinge on it. It considers how such a survey could inform efforts to reduce health disparities in the United States and improve population health.

Health is multiply determined by the interaction of genetic vulnerabilities, behavior, social conditions and environmental exposures over the life course. While the mapping of the human genome focused attention on the biological underpinnings of disease, social and behavioral determinants play an equally essential role. Our failure as a nation to adequately address these determinants may help to explain why the US spends more per capita on health care than do other countries, but compared to the other nations, our population is less healthy and has a shorter life expectancy.

This paper describes why achieving better health for the population requires data on individual, family and community conditions and their link to disease risk, onset and progression. It reviews limitations of current surveys in capturing this information and argues for a multi-level life course perspective spanning: macro-environmental exposures (e.g., environmental contaminants, institutional structures), meso-environmental factors (e.g., family and social ties, neighborhood and work conditions), psychological states and traits (e.g., anxiety, mastery, stress), health-related behaviors (e.g., smoking, exercise), and physiological processes and risk (e.g., cortisol, HbA1c, telomeres).

We consider challenges to data collection and sample considerations such as oversampling of high SES blacks and sampling based on place as well as person. We note that technological advances that may increasingly enable direct collection of cognitive and emotional states, behavior, biology, and placement in space. Finally, we acknowledge that a single survey cannot address all the relevant questions, point to opportunities to leverage other studies, and identify key elements for a new survey.
Income, program participation, poverty, and financial vulnerability: Research and data needs
Authors: Ziliak James P.
Published: August 2015

This paper assesses the data infrastructure needed for future research and policy evaluation on income, program participation, poverty, and financial vulnerability in the United States. I present a broad-based discussion of research needs on the long-term consequences of income inequality and mobility, transfer-program participation and intergenerational dependence, poverty measurement and poverty persistence, and material deprivation. I summarize what information we currently collect in U.S. household panels, highlighting specific challenges such as earnings nonresponse and transfer-income underreporting. I conclude that a first priority is to improve the quality, scale, and scope of currently fielded surveys, including linked survey-administrative data, before embarking on a new longitudinal panel to address research on inequality, poverty, and material well being.
Assessing the need for a new household panel study: Health insurance and health care
Authors: Levy Helen
Published: August 2015

This paper considers the availability of data for addressing questions related to health insurance and health care and the potential contribution of a new household panel study. The paper begins by outlining some of the major questions related to policy and concludes that survey data on health insurance, access to care, health spending, and overall economic well-being will likely be needed to answer them. The paper considers the strengths and weaknesses of existing sources of survey data for answering these questions. The paper concludes that either a new national panel study, an expansion in the age range of subjects in existing panel studies, or a set of smaller changes to existing panel and cross-sectional surveys, would significantly enhance our understanding of the dynamics of health insurance, access to health care, and economic well-being.
Leaf Length Variation in Perennial Forage Grasses
Authors: Barre Philippe , Turner Lesley , Escobar-Gutiérrez Abraham
Published: August 2015

Leaf length is a key factor in the economic value of different grass species and cultivars in forage production. It is also important for the survival of individual plants within a sward. The objective of this paper is to discuss the basis of within-species variation in leaf length. Selection for leaf length has been highly efficient, with moderate to high narrow sense heritability. Nevertheless, the genetic regulation of leaf length is complex because it involves many genes with small individual effects. This could explain the low stability of QTL found in different studies. Leaf length has a strong response to environmental conditions. However, when significant genotype × environment interactions have been identified, their effects have been smaller than the main effects. Recent modelling-based research suggests that many of the reported environmental effects on leaf length and genotype × environment interactions could be biased. Indeed, it has been shown that leaf length is an emergent property strongly affected by the architectural state of the plant during significant periods prior to leaf emergence. This approach could lead to improved understanding of the factors affecting leaf length, as well as better estimates of the main genetic effects.
Short, Synthetic Cationic Peptides Have Antibacterial Activity against Mycobacterium smegmatis by Forming Pores in Membrane and Synergizing with Antibiotics
Authors: Gupta Kajal , Singh Sameer , Van Hoek Monique
Published: August 2015

Multicellular organisms are constantly exposed to a multitude of pathogenic microbes. Infection is inhibited in vivo by the innate and adaptive immune system. Mycobacterium species have emerged that are resistant to most antibiotics. We identified several naturally occurring cationic antimicrobial peptides that were active at low micromolar concentrations against Mycobacterium smegmatis. Human-derived cathelicidin LL-37 is well characterized and studied against M. smegmatis; we compared LL-37 with Chinese cobra-derived cathelicidin NA-CATH and mouse cathelicidin (mCRAMP). Two synthetic 11-residue peptides (ATRA-1A and ATRA-2) containing variations of a repeated motif within NA-CATH were tested for their activity against M. smegmatis along with a short synthetic peptide derivative from the human beta-defensin hBD3 (hBD3-Pep4). We hypothesized that these smaller synthetic peptides may demonstrate antimicrobial effectiveness with shorter length (and at less cost), making them strong potential candidates for development into broad-spectrum antimicrobial compounds or use in combination with antibiotics. These peptides have antimicrobial activity with EC50 ranging from 0.05 to 1.88 μg/mL against Mycobacterium smegmatis. The ATRA-1A short peptide was found to be the most effective antimicrobial peptide (AMP) (EC50 = 0.05 μg/mL). High bactericidal activity correlated with bacterial membrane depolarization and permeabilization activities. The efficacy of the peptides was further analyzed through Minimal Inhibitory Concentration (MIC) assays. The MICs were determined by the microdilution method. The peptide mCRAMP showed the best MIC activity at 15.6 μg/mL. Neither of the effective short synthetic peptides demonstrated synergy with the antibiotic rifampicin, although both demonstrated synergy with the cyclic peptide antibiotic polymyxin B. The peptides LL-37 and mCRAMP displayed synergism with rifampicin in MIC assays, whereas antibiotic polymyxin B displayed synergism with LL-37, ATRA-1A, and hBD3-Pep4. In further studies, polymyxin B synergized with LL-37, ATRA-1A, and hBD3-Pep4 while Rifampicin synergized with LL-37 and mCRAMP for intracellular killing of mycobacteria residing inside macrophages. These studies provide the foundation for the potential development of synthetic cationic antimicrobial peptides with activity against mycobacteria.
Grassland Growth in Response to Climate Variability in the Upper Indus Basin, Pakistan
Authors: Abbas Sawaid , Qamer Faisal , Murthy Manchiraju , Tripathi Nitin , Ning Wu , Sharma Eklabya , Ali Ghaffar
Published: August 2015

Grasslands in the upper Indus basin provide a resource base for nomadic livestock grazing which is one of the major traditional livelihood practices in the area. The study presents climate patterns, grassland phenology, productivity and spatio-temporal climate controls on grassland growth using satellite data over the upper Indus basin of the Himalayan region, Pakistan. Phenology and productivity metrics of the grasses were estimated using a combination of derivative and threshold methods applied on fitted seasonal vegetation indices data over the period of 2001–2011. Satellite based rainfall and land surface temperature data are considered as representative explanatory variables to climate variability. The results showed distinct phenology and productivity patterns across four bioclimatic regions: (i) humid subtropical region (HSR)—late start and early end of season with short length of season and low productivity (ii) temperate region (TR)—early start and late end of season with higher length of season and moderate productivity (iii) sub alpine region (SAR)—late start and late end of season with very high length of season and the most productive grasses, and (iv) alpine region (AR)—late start and early end of season with small length of season and least productive grasses. Grassland productivity is constrained by temperature in the alpine region and by rainfall in the humid sub-tropical region. Spring temperature, winter and summer rainfall has shown significant and varied impact on phenology across different altitudes. The productivity is being influenced by summer and annual rainfall in humid subtropical regions, spring temperature in alpine and sub-alpine regions and both temperature and rainfall are contributing in temperate regions. The results revealing a strong relationship between grassland dynamics and climate variability put forth strong signals for drawing more scientific management of rangelands in the area.
Friction Signal Denoising Using Complete Ensemble EMD with Adaptive Noise and Mutual Information
Authors: Li Chengwei , Zhan Liwei , Shen Liqun
Published: August 2015

During the measurement of friction force, the measured signal generally contains noise. To remove the noise and preserve the important features of the signal, a hybrid filtering method is introduced that uses the mutual information and a new waveform. This new waveform is the difference between the original signal and the sum of intrinsic mode functions (IMFs), which are obtained by empirical mode decomposition (EMD) or its improved versions. To evaluate the filter performance for the friction signal, ensemble EMD (EEMD), complementary ensemble EMD (CEEMD), and complete ensemble EMD with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) are employed in combination with the proposed filtering method. The combination is used to filter the synthesizing signals at first. For the filtering of the simulation signal, the filtering effect is compared under conditions of different ensemble number, sampling frequency, and the input signal-noise ratio, respectively. Results show that CEEMDAN outperforms other signal filtering methods. In particular, this method is successful in filtering the friction signal as evaluated by the de-trended fluctuation analysis (DFA) algorithm.
Incorporating Cyber Layer Failures in Composite Power System Reliability Evaluations
Authors: Han Yuqi , Wen Yunfeng , Guo Chuangxin , Huang Han
Published: August 2015

This paper proposes a novel approach to analyze the impacts of cyber layer failures (i.e., protection failures and monitoring failures) on the reliability evaluation of composite power systems. The reliability and availability of the cyber layer and its protection and monitoring functions with various topologies are derived based on a reliability block diagram method. The availability of the physical layer components are modified via a multi-state Markov chain model, in which the component protection and monitoring strategies, as well as the cyber layer topology, are simultaneously considered. Reliability indices of composite power systems are calculated through non-sequential Monte-Carlo simulation. Case studies demonstrate that operational reliability downgrades in cyber layer function failure situations. Moreover, protection function failures have more significant impact on the downgraded reliability than monitoring function failures do, and the reliability indices are especially sensitive to the change of the cyber layer function availability in the range from 0.95 to 1.
Making the Move: A Mixed Research Integrative Review
Authors: Gilbert Sarah , Amella Elaine , Edlund Barbara , Nemeth Lynne
Published: August 2015

The purpose of this mixed research integrative review is to determine factors that influence relocation transitions for older adults who are considering a move from independent living to supervised housing, such as assisted living, using the Theory of Planned Behavior as a conceptual guide. PubMED, CINAHL, and PsychInfo databases were queried using key words: relocation, transition, older adults, and, elderly and time limited from 1992 to 2014. Sixteen articles were retained for review. The majority of articles, qualitative in design, reveal that older adults who comprehend the need to move and participate in the decision-making process of a relocation adjust to new living environments with fewer negative outcomes than older adults who experience a forced relocation. The few quantitative articles examined the elements of impending relocation using a variety of instruments but support the necessity for older adults to recognize the possibility of a future move and contribute to the relocation process. Additionally, the influence of family, friends, and health care providers provides the older adult with support and guidance throughout the process.
Optimizing Groundwater Monitoring Networks Using Integrated Statistical and Geostatistical Approaches
Authors: Thakur Jay
Published: August 2015

The aim of this work is to investigate new approaches using methods based on statistics and geo-statistics for spatio-temporal optimization of groundwater monitoring networks. The formulated and integrated methods were tested with the groundwater quality data set of Bitterfeld/Wolfen, Germany. Spatially, the monitoring network was optimized using geo-statistical methods. Temporal optimization of the monitoring network was carried out using Sen’s method (1968). For geostatistical network optimization, a geostatistical spatio-temporal algorithm was used to identify redundant wells in 2- and 2.5-D Quaternary and Tertiary aquifers. Influences of interpolation block width, dimension, contaminant association, groundwater flow direction and aquifer homogeneity on statistical and geostatistical methods for monitoring network optimization were analysed. The integrated approach shows 37% and 28% redundancies in the monitoring network in Quaternary aquifer and Tertiary aquifer respectively. The geostatistical method also recommends 41 and 22 new monitoring wells in the Quaternary and Tertiary aquifers respectively. In temporal optimization, an overall optimized sampling interval was recommended in terms of lower quartile (238 days), median quartile (317 days) and upper quartile (401 days) in the research area of Bitterfeld/Wolfen. Demonstrated methods for improving groundwater monitoring network can be used in real monitoring network optimization with due consideration given to influencing factors.
Effect of Smoking Reduction Therapy on Smoking Cessation for Smokers without an Intention to Quit: An Updated Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Randomized Controlled
Authors: Wu Lei , Sun Samio , He Yao , Zeng Jing
Published: August 2015

Objective: Effective strategies are needed to encourage smoking cessation for smokers without an intention to quit. We systematically reviewed the literature to investigate whether smoking reduction therapy can increase the long-term cessation rates of smokers without an intention to quit. Methods: PubMed, Embase, and CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) were searched for randomized controlled trials (RCTs) on the effect of smoking reduction therapy on long-term smoking cessation in smokers without an intention to quit. The primary outcome was the cessation rate at the longest follow-up period. A random effects model was used to calculate pooled relative risks (RRs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs). Results: Fourteen trials with a total of 7981 smokers were included. The pooled analysis suggested that reduction support plus medication significantly increased the long-term cessation of smokers without an intention to quit compared to reduction support plus placebo (RR, 1.97; 95% CI, 1.44–2.7; I2, 52%) or no intervention (RR, 1.93; 95% CI, 1.41–2.64; I2, 46%). In a subgroup of smokers who received varenicline or nicotine replacement therapy (NRT), the differences were also statistically significant. This suggests the safety of using NRT. The percentage of smokers with serious adverse events who discontinued because of these events in the non-NRT group was slightly significantly different than in the control group. Insufficient evidence is available to test the efficacy of reduction behavioural support in promoting long-term cessation among this population. Conclusions: The present meta-analysis indicated the efficacy of NRT- and varenicline-assisted reduction to achieve complete cessation among smokers without an intention to quit. Further evidence is needed to assess the efficacy and safety of reduction behavioural support and bupropion.
Metabolic Degradation of 1,4-dichloronaphthalene by Pseudomonas sp. HY
Authors: Yu Jian , Wu Xiaoli , Song Youqun , Ren Wenhui , Tang Hao
Published: August 2015

There is increasing concern regarding the adverse health effects of polychlorinated naphthalenes (PCNs). The metabolic degradation of 1,4-dichloronaphthalene (1,4-DCN) as a model PCN, was studied using a strain of Pseudomonas sp. HY. The metabolites were analyzed by gas chromatography-mass spectrometry (GC-MS). A series of metabolites including dihydroxy-dichloro-naphthalene, epoxy-dichlorinated naphthalene, dichlorinated naphthol, and dichlorinated salicylic acid were identified. The time-concentration plots of the degradation curves of 1,4-DCN was also obtained from the experiments, which set the initial concentration of 1,4-DCN to 10 mg/L and 20 mg/L, respectively. The results showed that 98% removal could be achieved within 48 h at an initial 1,4-DCN concentration of 10 mg/L. Nevertheless, it took 144 h to reach the same degradation efficiency at an initial concentration of 20 mg/L. The degradation of 1,4-DCN may not remove the chloride ions during the processes and the metabolites may not benefit the bacterial growth. The research suggests a metabolic pathway of 1,4-DCN, which is critical for the treatment of this compound through biological processes.