bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Diagnostic yield of conventional transbronchial needle aspiration in suspected bronchogenic carcinoma without intraluminal growth on bronchoscopy
Authors: Rennis Davis Kizhakkepeedika , Krishnakumar Easwaramangalath Venugopal , Sankarapotti Navmi
Published: March 2017

Background: Bronchogenic carcinoma with spread along the mucosal plane presents as an exophytic mass. Most of the submucosal and peribronchial patterns of this malignancy are harder to detect by standard diagnostic procedures such as bronchial washing, brushing and forceps biopsy. We sought to investigate the utility of transbronchial needle aspiration (TBNA) in the diagnosis of bronchogenic carcinoma without intraluminal mass, through prospective analysis of routine diagnostic bronchoscopies performed in a 24-month period, at a tertiary care hospital.Methods: Patients with suspected bronchogenic carcinoma (clinical and radiological) underwent standard computed tomography (CT) of thorax. Further the patients were subjected to conventional TBNA, singly, and in combination with bronchial washings and brushings. The results were analyzed statistically for the diagnostic yield of TBNA.Results: Among the 42 patients assessed, 29 had malignancy confirmed by forceps biopsy or CT guided Fine Needle aspiration cytology or biopsy and bronchoscopy. Among them, 17 cases were detected by a combination of the results of bronchial washing, brushing and TBNA. The individual sensitivities amounted to 3.4% (n=1), 51.72% (n=15) and 27.6% (n=8), respectively. There were no false positive results. Concerning different bronchoscopic sampling techniques, 9 cases were diagnosed solely by bronchial brushings and 2 cases by TBNA alone. No periprocedural complications were encountered.Conclusions: Value of bronchial brushing in the diagnosis of bronchogenic carcinoma without bronchoscopically visible intraluminal mass is above that of conventional TBNA. Addition of bronchial washings, to bronchial brushings and TBNA has an insignificant impact on the diagnosis.
An unusual presentation of hemoglobin SD Punjab in a Saudi Arabian adult
Authors: Adam Soheir S. , Sahly Ahmed N. , Jamjoom Ahmed A. , Ghoneim Abdulrahman H. , Almasoudi Thunayyan M. , Mohsen Mohammed O. , Badawi Maha A.
Published: March 2017

HbDPunjab is an uncommon variant hemoglobin that does not result in significant pathology when inherited as a homozygous disorder. When inherited with other hemoglobinopathies, it may result in varying disease phenotypes. HbSDPunjab has been rarely reported in Saudi Arabia, coexisting with alpha or beta thalassemia. In this report, we discuss the case of a 39 years old male who presented with severe anemia and renal injury and was later diagnosed with HbSDPunjab through electropheresis and genetic testing.
A study on diabetic foot and its association with peripheral artery disease
Authors: Muthiah Alli , Kandasamy Ramachandran , S. Nagulan , Madasamy Aruna
Published: March 2017

Background: Diabetes mellitus is characterized by high blood sugar levels over a prolonged period due to alteration in either the insulin secretion, insulin action, or both. Worldwide, as of the recent 2016 data collected from the World Health Organization (WHO) around 422 million adults have diabetes mellitus which is estimated to almost double by 2030 which is composed of mainly type 2 diabetes (85-90% of all cases). The early detection of peripheral artery disease in asymptomatic patients goes a long way in reduction of major lower limb amputations and mortality. Hence, there is a need for evaluation of peripheral vascular disease in all diabetics, especially those with diabetic foot by formulating effective management protocols, thereby limiting the morbidity, mortality and social costs associated with the disease.Methods: Patients admitted and seen in out-patient department for diabetic foot ulcers between January 2013 and October 2013 in Department of general surgery, vascular surgery and diabetology, Kilpauk Medical College Hospital, Chennai, India were taken for study.Results: 150 cases satisfying the inclusion criteria were taken up for the study from January 2013 to October 2013. Out of 150 patients, 76 patients presented with ulcer in foot, 34 presented with gangrene of toe or foot. After clinical examination it was found that 52 patients had associated neuropathy, 17 patients had ABI less than 0.3 and 39 patients had ABI in between 0.4 and 0.9. Patients with ulcer and gangrene in foot and with ABI less than 0.9 were admitted and evaluated with doppler study of lower limbs. After getting consent, appropriate procedure was done for each patient. Wound debridement was done in 21 cases, toe disarticulation in 12, fore foot amputations in 4, Below knee amputation in 9, above knee amputation in 3. 11 patients were referred to vascular surgery and underwent revascularization procedures (BYPASS).Conclusions: The prevalence of peripheral artery disease in patients with diabetic foot is significantly high i.e. 38 % as per this study. Males have a higher predilection for developing peripheral vascular disease than females. The average age of presentation of PAD in diabetics is 40 -60 years. The most common level of arterial occlusion in PAD associated diabetic foot is femoro-popliteal segment followed by tibial segment.
Outcome of harmonic scalpel circumcision in children with hemophilia
Authors: Mohamed Wael Barakaat Ahmed , Ali Mustafa Ahmed , Abou-Taleb Ashraf
Published: March 2017

Background: There are many techniques described to decrease the risk of bleeding after circumcision in patients with bleeding diathesis such as monopolar diathermy, bipolar scissors and fibrin glue. Up to our knowledge, no previous study described the use of the harmonic scalpel in patients with bleeding diathesis. Our aim was to evaluate postoperative outcome after harmonic scalpel circumcision in boys with hemophilia.Methods: This was a prospective observational study carried out in Sohag University Hospitals, Sohag, Egypt. The patients were recruited from Outpatient pediatric hematology clinic from January 2014 till January 2017. All procedures were done under general anesthesia. After strict sterilization, the dorsal aspect of the prepuce was incised using harmonic scalpel up to the coronal sulcus, then the whole prepuce was cut circumferentially using the harmonic scalpel. It is a sutureless technique.Results: 26 boys with hemophilia A and 5 with hemophilia B were included. Their median age was 5 and 8 years respectively. The most common indication for circumcision was religious (20/31), the intraoperative blood loss ranged between 0-5 ml, operative time ranged between 3-5 minutes, there was no intraoperative complication, one case of rebleeding managed conservatively by factor administration, two cases of wound infection responded to antibiotic therapy, hospital stay ranged between 1-3 days. It was a sutureless technique.Conclusions: Harmonic scalpel circumcision is a safe technique in children with hemophilia, it decreased the risk of rebleeding, decreased operative time and it is also a sutureless technique and may decrease the cost by reducing the amount of factor replacement.
Trypsin-specific Inhibitors from the Macrolepiota procera, Armillaria mellea and Amanita phalloides wild mushrooms.
Authors: Lukanc Tjaša , Brzin Jože , Kos Janko , Sabotič Jerica
Published: March 2017

Wild growing mushrooms are a rich source of novel proteins with unique features. We have isolated and characterized trypsin inhibitors from two edible mushrooms, the honey fungus (Armillaria mellea) and the parasol mushroom (Macrolepiota procera), and from the poisonous death cap (Amanita phalloides). The trypsin inhibitors isolated: armespin, macrospin and amphaspin, have similar molecular masses, acidic isoelectric points and are not N-glycosylated. They are very strong trypsin inhibitors and weak chymotrypsin inhibitors. They are resistant to exposure to high temperatures and withstand extreme pH values. These exceptional characteristics are advantageous for their potential use in biotechnology, agriculture and medicine.
The polar profile of ancient proteins: a computational extrapolation from prebiotics to paleobiochemistry
Authors: Polanco Carlos , Buhse Thomas , Uversky Vladimir , Vizcaino Gloria , Picciotto Jacobo Levy
Published: March 2017

This paper addresses the polar profile of ancient proteins using a comparative study of amino acids found in 25,000,000-year-old shells as described in Abelson's work. We simulated the polar profile with a computer platform that represented an evolutionary computational toy model that mimics the generation of small proteins starting from a pool of amino acid monomers and that included several dynamic properties such as self-replication and fragmentation-recombination of the proteins. The simulations were taken up to 15 generations and produced a considerable number of proteins of 25 amino acids in length. The computational model included the amino acids found in the ancient shells, the thermal degradation factor and the relative abundance of the amino acids observed in the Miller-Urey experimental simulation on prebiotic amino acid formation. We found that the amino acid polar profiles of the ancient shells and those simulated and extrapolated from the Miller-Urey abundances are coincident.
Group II intron-mediated deletion of lactate dehydrogenase gene in an isolated 1,3-propanediol producer Hafnia alvei AD27
Authors: Celinska Ewelina , Drożdżyńska Agnieszka , Wita Agnieszka , Juzwa Wojciech , Białas Wojciech , Czaczyk Katarzyna , Grajek Włodzimierz
Published: March 2017

Our previous studies have shown that glycerol fermentation by H. alvei AD27 strain was accompanied by formation of high quantities of lactate (LA). The ultimate aim of this work was elimination of excessive LA production in the 1,3-PD producer cultures. Group II intron-mediated deletion of ldh (lactate dehydrogenase) gene in an environmental isolate H. alvei AD27 strain has been conducted. The effect of the Δldh genotype in H. alvei AD27 strain varied depending on the culture medium applied. Under lower initial glycerol concentration (20 g/L), LA and 1,3-PD production has been fully abolished, and the main carbon flux was directed to ethanol (EtOH) synthesis. On the other hand, at higher initial glycerol concentrations (40 g/L), 1,3-PD and LA production was recovered in the recombinant strain. The final titer of 1,3-PD and EtOH were corresponding for the recombinant and the WT strains, respectively, while the Δldh genotype was expressed by significantly decreased LA titer. The by-products profile was altered upon ldh gene deletion, while glycerol utilization and biomass accumulation remained unaltered. As indicated by flow-cytometry analyses, the internal pH was not different for the WT and the recombinant Δldh strains over the culture duration, however, the WT strain was characterized by higher redox potential.
Modulação Descontínua com Portadora para Inversores com Pernas em Paralelo
Authors: Nicolini André , Ricciotti Antônio , Carnielutti Fernanda , Pinheiro Humberto
Published: March 2017

Este artigo apresenta um novo método de modulação descontínua com portadora para inversores trifásicos com pernas em paralelo magneticamente acopladas. A modulação proposta é caracterizada por produzir tensões equivalentes de linha multínivel com reduzido conteúdo harmônico, possibilitar o controle da corrente circulante e distribuir adequadamente as comutações entre os interruptores. Para tanto, uma máquina de estados é utilizada, visando também reduzir o número de comutações. Ainda, é importante mencionar que a modulação proposta é de fácil implementação, pois é baseada em portadora e pode ser implementada em DSP e microcontroladores comerciais sem a necessidade de hardware externo. Por fim, resultados de simulação e experimentais são apresentados, demonstrando o bom desempenho do método proposto.
Conversor Boost Quadrático em Serie com o Conversor Zeta para Aplicação de Alto Ganho de Tensão
Authors: Andrade António M. S. S. , Schuch Luciano , Hey Hélio Leães , Martins Mário L. da S.
Published: March 2017

Este artigo propõe uma abordagem diferente para combinar células de conversores PWM CC-CC em cascata e empilhadas, com o objetivo de proporcionar os benefícios de cada estrutura em um único conversor, com um único estágio de processamento de energia e um único interruptor. Além de apresentar e discutir os conceitos das conexões cascata, empilhada e a combinação de ambos, o artigo ainda propõe novas topologias baseadas nestes conceitos e analisa uma delas. O conversor escolhido para ser estudado neste artigo é denominado Boost-Quadrático-Zeta, tendo como caraterística elevado ganho de tensão, com melhoria na eficiência, simplicidade no circuito de comando e alta confiabilidade. Como o nome indica, esse conversor é obtido a partir da combinação de dois conversores CC-CC muito conhecidos na literatura, o conversor Zeta isolado e o conversor Boost-Quadrático. Em consequência disto, o conversor proposto apresenta alto ganho de tensão, baixa ondulação da corrente de entrada (característica do conversor Boost-Quadrático) e baixa ondulação da corrente de saída (característica do conversor Zeta isolado). Com o objetivo de verificar o desempenho do conversor proposto um protótipo foi implementado considerando um painel fotovoltaico de 250 W. Resultados experimentais obtidos em laboratório confirmam as análises teóricas.
Conversor Cc-cc de Alto Ganho e com Compartilhamento da Corrente de Entrada Empregado em Células A Combustível
Authors: Schmitz Lenon , Coelho Roberto Francisco , Martins Denizar Cruz
Published: March 2017

Este artigo propõe uma configuração de conversores cc-cc aplicada ao processamento de energia proveniente de células a combustível. Tal configuração é baseada no uso de conversores Forward com entradas interligadas em paralelo e saídas interligadas em série e traz, como vantagens, elevado ganho estático, compartilhamento da corrente de entrada e emprego de um único sinal de comando para o acionamento de todos os interruptores. No decorrer deste artigo são apresentadas as etapas de operação, as principais formas de onda, uma metodologia para redução da configuração proposta a um conversor Buck equivalente e a modelagem orientada ao controle. Para validar a análise teórica, um protótipo com tensão de entrada de 26 V, tensão de saída de 210 V, potência nominal de 900 W e rendimento de 89,7% em potência nominal foi construído e testado. A configuração de conversores também foi avaliada como parte integrante de uma microrrede híbrida composta por outras fontes renováveis. Resultados experimentais são apresentados e discutidos.
Impact of Common Mode Signal Injection on the Leakage Current of a Grid-connected Transformerless Pv Inverter
Authors: Giacomini Julian C. , Michels Leandro , Pinheiro Humberto , Rech Cassiano
Published: March 2017

Leakage current is one of the most relevant problems in grid-connected transformerless photovoltaic (PV) inverters due to parasitic capacitance of the PV modules. This problem is directly related to the common mode voltage generated by inverter modulation. Therefore, this paper presents an analysis of the impact of the common mode signal usually injected in carrier based modulation approaches, aiming the reduction of the leakage current in three-phase grid-connected transformerless PV inverter. The resulting leakage current is analyzed for an inverter topology with a modified LCL filter, which is utilized to attenuate the high frequency components of the voltage on the PV parasitic capacitance. Experimental results are given to evaluate the performance of a 10 kW transformerless PV inverter.
Three-Level Neutral Point Clamped Inverter Fed By A Photovoltaic System Under Partial Shading
Authors: Andrade Abinadabe S. , Silva Edison R. C. da
Published: March 2017

This paper deals with a system composed of a three-level Neutral-Point- Clamped inverter fed by photovoltaic panels. The system is able to operate adequately even under partial shading operation by controlling the dc-link neutral point injected current. System model, pulse width modulation strategy, maximum power point tracking, and control logic for balancing the dc-link capacitors voltages are presented. Analysis of harmonic distortion, thermal stress, limits of control and power losses are included. Experimental results validate the proposed system.
Pulse-Width-Modulation For A Modified Hybrid 2/3-Level Converter
Authors: Muniz João H. G. , Silva Edison R. C. da , Jr Euzeli C. dos Santos , Bueno Diego A. A.
Published: March 2017

This paper proposes a modification in both topology and operation algorithm for the existent 2/3 level converter. The modified strategy is of simple implementation. In addition, the modified topology reduces the switching losses and the command complexity. The harmonic distortion and losses of the two- level converter, the three-level Neutral-Point-Clamped (NPC) converter and the 2/3-level converter are compared. Also the limitation of the modified topology operation is investigated. Simulated and experimental results demonstrate the validity of the proposed topology and pulsewidth modulation method.
Bidirectional Dual Active Clamping Push-pull Dc-dc Converter
Authors: Souza Eduardo Valmir de , Waltrich Gierri , Barbi Ivo
Published: March 2017

In this paper is presented a bidirectional dual active clamping push-pull dc-dc converter, to be used in applications which require isolated bidirectional interface between two dc ports with low-voltage/low-current ripple. The main characteristics of the proposed converter are the non necessity of input and output filters in both ports, galvanic isolation, reduced number of magnetic components and high efficiency operation. The paper presents a theoretical analysis of the proposed converter and experimental analysis for a 600W prototype, with 50kHz switching frequency, and dc power supplies of 14 and 42 volts, at the input and output ports, respectively. The measured performance agreed well with the theoretical predictions.
HIV/HCV Co-infection, Liver Disease Progression, and Age-Related IGF-1 Decline
Authors: Quinn Jeffrey , Astemborski Jacquie , Mehta Shruti H. , Kirk Gregory D. , Thomas David L. , Balagopal Ashwin
Published: March 2017

Background: We have previously reported that persons co-infected with HIV and hepatitis C virus (HCV) had liver disease stages similar to HIV-uninfected individuals who were approximately 10 years older. Insulin-like growth factor 1(IGF-1) levels have long been known to decline with advancing age in humans and non-humans alike. We examined whether HIV infection affects the expected decline in IGF-1 in persons with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection and if that alteration in IGF-1 decline contributes to the link between HIV, aging, and liver disease progression.Methods: A total of 553 individuals with HCV infection were studied from the AIDS Linked to the Intravenous Experience (ALIVE) cohort for whom more than 10 years of follow-up was available. Serum IGF-1 levels were determined by ELISA and evaluated according to baseline characteristics and over time by HIV status and liver disease progression. Linear regression with generalized estimating equations was used to determine whether IGF-1 decline over time was independently associated with liver disease progression.Results: Baseline IGF-1 levels were strongly associated with age (P < 0.0001) but not with gender or HIV infection. Levels of IGF-1 declined at a rate of -1.75 ng/mL each year in HCV mono-infected individuals and at a rate of -1.23 ng/mL each year in HIV/HCV co-infected individuals (P < 0.05). In a multivariable linear regression model, progression of liver fibrosis was associated with HIV infection and age, as well as with a slower rate of IGF-1 decline (P = 0.001); however, the rate of IGF-1 decline did not alter the strength of the associations between HIV, liver disease, and age.Conclusions: The normal decline in IGF-1 levels with age was attenuated in HIV/HCV co-infected individuals compared to those with HCV mono-infection, and slower IGF-1 decline was independently associated with liver disease progression. Keywords: IGF-1, HIV-1, Hepatitis C, Fibrosis, Liver
Less Commonly Taught Slavic Languages: The Learner, the Instructor, and the Learning Experience in the Second Language Classroom (A North American Context)
Authors: Nedashkivska Alla
Published: March 2017

From the Guest Editor: Introduction.
Herder and Modernity: From Lesser-Taught Languages to Lesser-Taught Cultures
Authors: Votruba Martin
Published: March 2017

The typical North American curriculum of a lesser-taught Slavic language implicitly relies on the legacy of Johann Gottfried von Herder’s interpretation that language in and of itself contains national (ethnic) culture. At the same time, enrolments are dwindling even in courses in the most commonly taught Slavic languages. Millennials’ understandable focus on the practicality of the courses they take make it unlikely for the lesser-taught languages to survive the slump. On the other hand, foreign culture courses are appearing to hold their ground more successfully. Slavic departments may reconsider Herder’s dictum as they try to maintain or establish programs in lesser-taught languages and cultures.
Plot-scale assessment of soil freeze/thaw detection and variability with impedance probes: implications for remote sensing validation networks
Authors: Williamson Matthew , Adams Justin R. , Berg Aaron A. , Derksen Chris , Toose Peter , Walker Anne
Published: March 2017

Several large in-situ soil moisture-monitoring networks currently exist over seasonally frozen regions that may have use for the validation of remote sensing soil freeze/thaw (F/T) products. However, further understanding of how the existing network instrumentation responds to changes in near surface soil F/T is recommended. This case study describes the results of a small plot-scale (7 × 7 m) study from November 2013 through April 2014 instrumented with 36 impedance probes. Soil temperature and real dielectric permittivity ϵr' were measured every 15 minutes during F/T transition periods at shallow soil depths (0–10 cm). Categorical soil temperature and real dielectric permittivity techniques were used to define the soil F/T state during these periods. Results demonstrate that both methods for detecting soil F/T have strong agreement (84.7–95.6%) during the fall freeze but weak agreement (53.3–60.9%) during the spring thaw. Bootstrapping results demonstrated both techniques showed a mean difference within ±1.0°C and ±1.4 ϵr' between the standard 5 cm below surface measurement depth and probes at 2, 10 and integrated 0–5.7 cm depths installed within the same study plot. Overall this study demonstrates that the Hydra Probe offers promise for near surface soil F/T detection using existing soil moisture monitoring networks particularly for the fall freeze.
Groundwater quality modeling using neuro-particle swarm optimization and neuro-differential evolution techniques
Authors: Kisi Ozgur , Keshavarzi Ali , Shiri Jalal , Zounemat-Kermani Mohammad , Omran El-Sayed Ewis
Published: March 2017

Recently, the capabilities of artificial neural networks (ANNs) in simulating dynamic systems have been proven. However, the common training algorithms of ANNs (e.g., back-propagation and gradient algorithms) are featured with specific drawbacks in terms of slow convergence and probable entrapment in local minima. Alternatively, novel training techniques, e.g., particle swarm optimization (PSO) and differential evolution (DE) algorithms might be employed for conquering these shortcomings. In this paper, ANN-PSO and ANN-DE models were applied for modeling groundwater qualitative parameters, i.e., SO4 and sodium adsorption ratio (SAR). Three statistical parameters including root mean square error (RMSE), mean absolute error (MAE), and the coefficient of determination (R2) were used for assessing the models' capabilities. The results showed that the ANN-DE presents more accurate results than ANN-PSO in modeling SAR and electrical conductivity (EC).
Regional aspects of streamflow droughts in the Andean rivers of Patagonia, Argentina. Links with large-scale climatic oscillations
Authors: Rivera Juan Antonio , Araneo Diego C. , Penalba Olga C. , Villalba Ricardo
Published: March 2017

Under the current global warming trend, droughts are expected to increase, with serious implications for water resources management. This study analyzed the regional aspects of droughts in terms of streamflow deficiencies over the Andean rivers of Patagonia, Argentina. Based on the variable threshold level method, the main characteristics of streamflow droughts were obtained for the hydrological years 1962/63–2014/15, considering three different severity levels over 11 representative basins. Two distinct regional behaviors were identified in terms of temporal variations of streamflow drought duration and its cumulative deficit volume, dividing the study area into North and Central Patagonia. The effects of the Southern Annular Mode (SAM), the El Niño–Southern Oscillation (ENSO), and the Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO) on the interannual and interdecadal variability of streamflow droughts were assessed through an empirical decomposition applied to the regional time series. These large-scale climatic oscillations have a distinct regional and temporal behavior in terms of the modulation of streamflow drought variability. Considering the interannual streamflow drought variability, the El Niño signal is more consistent and contributes with humid conditions, especially over North Patagonia. The multi-decadal component of the streamflow drought time series is linked to the upward trend in SAM, particularly over Central Patagonia.
Extreme event characterization for the river basins of Eastern Indian Gangetic Plains
Authors: Yaduvanshi Aradhana , Sinha Anand Kr
Published: March 2017

The Eastern Indian Gangetic Plains are characterized by a primarily nature-dependent region blessed with an enormous supply of mineral resources. The region is witnessing a rapid transition in its demographic structure because of rapid industrialization. The region provides a classic example of an area which shows a trend reverse to that observed globally, as far as the frequency of extreme precipitation events is concerned. This paper provides a risk characterization of the entire region, based on the empirical behavior shown by data available so far, in addition to predictions based on theory of extreme values. The long-term behavior prediction is made with an aim to provide policy makers ample time and direction to develop suitable disaster prevention measures. The focus is primarily on extremely high rainfall events, their frequency, trend and estimated long-term behavior. The study corroborates the stability assumption behind the Indian monsoon, and also provides an indication of the expected long-term as well as short-term threats. This study provides a unique application of the extreme value theory to help in developing a threat map for a region whose population is known to be highly impacted by any significant deviations from a normal monsoon.
Determining discharge coefficient of labyrinth and arced labyrinth weirs using support vector machine
Authors: Roushangar Kiyoumars , Alami Mohammad Taghi , Shiri Jalal , Asl Mahdi Majedi
Published: March 2017

A labyrinth weir is a linear weir folded in plan-view which increases the crest length and the flow rate for a given channel width and an upstream flow depth. The present study aimed at determining discharge coefficients of labyrinth and arced labyrinth weirs using support vector machine (SVM)-based models. A total of 527 laboratory test data of four types of weirs, namely, Normal and Inverted orientation Labyrinth Weirs in flume (NLW, ILW) and Arced Labyrinth Weirs with and without nappe Breakers in reservoir (ALW, ALWB), were captured from the published literature and utilized to feed the SVM-based models. The obtained results revealed the capability of the SVM-based models in determining discharge coefficients. The results showed that the SVM-based model of arced labyrinth weir (ALW) produced the most accurate results when three dimensionless parameters, e.g. (HT/P) head water ratio, (α/θ) angle ratio and (Lc/W) magnification ratio, were introduced as input parameters (Root mean square error [RMSE]= 0.013 and R2 = 0.970 for the test stage). Nonetheless, sensitivity analysis showed that Froude number and head water ratio are the most influential parameters on discharge coefficients of the labyrinth and arced labyrinth weirs, respectively.
Soil moisture and temperature dynamics in typical alpine ecosystems: a continuous multi-depth measurements-based analysis from the Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China
Authors: Zhang Si-Yi , Li Xiao-Yan
Published: March 2017

Soil temperature and moisture are the key variables that control the overall effect of climate and topography on soil and vegetation in alpine regions. However, there has been little investigation of the potential soil temperature and moisture feedbacks on climate changes in different alpine ecosystems and their impact on vegetation change. Soil temperature and moisture at five depths were measured continuously at 10-min intervals in three typical ecosystems (Kobresia meadow (KMd), Achnatherum splendens steppe (ASSt), and Potentilla fruticosa shrub (PFSh)) of the Qinghai Lake watershed on the northeast Qinghai-Tibet Plateau, China. The findings of this study revealed that the KMd and PFSh sites had relatively low soil temperature and high soil moisture, whereas the ASSt site had relatively warm soil temperature and low soil moisture. The soil and vegetation characteristics had important effects on the infiltration process and soil moisture regime; about 47%, 87%, and 34% of the rainfall (minus interception) permeated to the soil in the KMd, PFSh, and ASSt sites, respectively. In the context of the warming climate, changes to soil moisture and temperature are likely to be the key reasons of the alpine meadow deterioration and the alpine shrub expansion in the alpine regions.
A new hybrid drought-monitoring framework based on nonparametric standardized indicators
Authors: Safavi Hamid R. , Raghibi Vahid , Mazdiyasni Omid , Mortazavi-Naeini Mohammad
Published: March 2017

A drought is a multi-dimensional event characterized by changes in the atmospheric and land conditions. Hence, monitoring a single drought indicator may be insufficient for water management. The hybrid drought index (HDI) is presented as a nonparametric composite indicator for monitoring multiple components of the hydrologic cycle. The properties of the HDI can be summarized as follows: (1) HDI describes drought indicated from either climatic anomalies or available water (AW); (2) HDI describes the drought onset as early as a decrease appears in climatic variables, while it shows drought persistence until there is no longer a terrestrial deficit; and (3) HDI shows a more severe drought condition when both the climatic water balance and AW exhibit a deficit. HDI is based on the states of potential meteorological water budget and AW. The proposed integrated drought-monitoring is applied to the Zayandehrud River Basin of Iran to show the status of components and depict drought propagation through each one from climate to groundwater. Finally, HDI announces the general status of the hydrologic cycle. A monitoring system established based on HDI would also allow the managers, local businesses, and farmers to identify the status of water supply capacity and water availability.
Survey of ancient water technologies in semi-arid and arid regions: traditional knowledge for the future
Authors: Mays Larry W.
Published: March 2017

There are many people on Earth today that live with severe water shortages and severe lack of sanitation, particularly among the poor. These people for the most part do not understand the knowledge base of methodologies of harvesting and conveying water and sanitation methods that have been around for thousands of years. A survey of ancient water technologies used in semi-arid and arid regions is presented in this paper. The survey will include methodologies used by Mesopotamians, the Persians, the Egyptians, and the Nabataeans. The attempt here is to explore how these traditional methods developed by the ancients in semi-arid and arid regions of the world could possibly be used to help solve the present-day water resources sustainability problems, especially in developing parts of the world. The advantages of the traditional knowledge of ancient water technologies are explored with the goal of determining ways to help poor people with water shortages and sanitation.
Modelling and optimization of land use/land cover change in a developing urban catchment
Authors: Xu Ping , Gao Fei , He Junchao , Ren Xinxin , Xi Weijin
Published: March 2017

The impacts of land use/cover change (LUCC) on hydrological processes and water resources are mainly reflected in changes in runoff and pollutant variations. Low impact development (LID) technology is utilized as an effective strategy to control urban stormwater runoff and pollution in the urban catchment. In this study, the impact of LUCC on runoff and pollutants in an urbanizing catchment of Guang-Ming New District in Shenzhen, China, were quantified using a dynamic rainfall-runoff model with the EPA Storm Water Management Model (SWMM). Based on the simulations and observations, the main objectives of this study were: (1) to evaluate the catchment runoff and pollutant variations with LUCC, (2) to select and optimize the appropriate layout of LID in a planning scenario for reducing the growth of runoff and pollutants under LUCC, (3) to assess the optimal planning schemes for land use/cover. The results showed that compared to 2013, the runoff volume, peak flow and pollution load of suspended solids (SS), and chemical oxygen demand increased by 35.1%, 33.6% and 248.5%, and 54.5% respectively in a traditional planning scenario. The assessment result of optimal planning of land use showed that annual rainfall control of land use for an optimal planning scenario with LID technology was 65%, and SS pollutant load reduction efficiency 65.6%.
Cost comparison of full-scale water reclamation technologies with an emphasis on membrane bioreactors
Authors: Iglesias Raquel , Simón Pedro , Moragas Lucas , Arce Augusto , Rodriguez-Roda Ignasi
Published: March 2017

The paper assesses the costs of full-scale membrane bioreactors (MBRs). Capital expenditures (CAPEX) and operating expenses (OPEX) of Spanish MBR facilities have been verified and compared to activated sludge plants (CAS) using water reclamation treatment (both conventional and advanced). Spanish MBR facilities require a production of 0.6 to 1.2 kWh per m3, while extended aeration (EA) and advanced reclamation treatment require 1.2 kWh per m3. The energy represents around 40% of the OPEX in MBRs. In terms of CAPEX, the implementation costs of a CAS facility followed by conventional water reclamation treatment (physical–chemical + sand filtration + disinfection) ranged from 730 to 850 €.m−3d, and from 1,050 to 1,250 €.m−3d in the case of advanced reclamation treatment facilities (membrane filtration) with a capacity of 8,000 to 15,000 m3d−1. The MBR cost for similar capacities ranges between 700 and 960 €.m−3d. This study shows that MBRs that have been recently installed represent a cost competitive option for water reuse applications for medium and large capacities (over 10,000 m3d−1), with similar OPEX to EA and conventional water reclamation treatment. In terms of CAPEX, MBRs are cheaper than EA, followed by advanced water reclamation treatment.
Supporting constructed wetlands in P removal efficiency from surface water
Authors: Bus Agnieszka , Karczmarczyk Agnieszka
Published: March 2017

The research investigated the implementation of suspended reactive filters to support the phosphorus (P) removal efficiency of constructed wetlands (CWs). The reactive material (RM) used in this study was autoclaved aerated concrete (AAC). The laboratory experiment consists of four plastic boxes filled with the volume of 10 L of artificial P solution with three variants of RM mass to volume ratio: 1:1 (g:L), 5:1 (g:L), 10:1 (g:L), and the blind probe 0:1 (g:L) as a reference. AAC of different weights (10, 50 and 100 g) was wrapped in a filter bag, put into boxes, and suspended. After 30 days of the laboratory experiment, AAC was able to reduce the P-PO4 concentration from 2.972 mg·L−1 to: 0.341 mgPO4-P·L−1, 0.006 mgPO4-P·L−1 and 0.004 mgPO4-P·L−1 for 10 g, 50 g and 100 g mass variant, respectively. This concentration reduction corresponds to unit sorption of: 2.53 mgP-PO4·g−1, 0.58 mgP-PO4·g−1 and 0.30 mgP-PO4·g−1 for 10 g, 50 g and 100 g, respectively. Based on the obtained data, the CW supporting filter was dimensioned to reduce the outflow P concentration to 0.01 mg·L−1. P removal efficiency prediction was calculated for Cetynia River, Poland.
Model-based methodology for the design of optimal control strategies in MBR plants
Authors: Odriozola Juan , Beltrán Sergio , Dalmau Montse , Sancho Luis , Comas Joaquim , Rodríguez-Roda Ignasi , Ayesa Eduardo
Published: March 2017

This paper proposes a model-based methodology that allows synthesising the most appropriate strategies for optimising the operation of wastewater treatment plants (WWTPs). The methodology is applied with the aim of maximising the nitrogen removal in membrane bioreactors (MBRs). The proposed procedure is based on a systematic approach composed of four steps. First, a sensitivity analysis of the input variables is carried out in order to obtain a first assessment of the potential for operational improvements. Then, the optimum input variable values are calculated by a model-based optimisation algorithm that minimises a cost function associated with the effluent total nitrogen at different temperatures. Then, the optimum operational strategies are identified. Finally, these operational strategies form the conceptual knowledge base for designing automatic control laws. The obtained optimal control strategies have shown a significant improvement in performance in comparison with fixed operation for the studied case, reducing the total nitrogen by 40%.
Factors Cause of Maternal Death in Timor-Leste
Authors: Pinto Feliciano , Suwiyoga I Ketut , Widiana I Gde Raka , Yasa I Wayan Putu Sutirta
Published: March 2017

Maternal mortality was an indicator of basic health services for mothers or women of reproductive age of a country and was one of the eight Millennium Development Goals (MDGs). Factors that affect maternal mortality, among others: medical factors, non-medical factors, and health care system factors. Meanwhile, WHO (2010) reported that the cause of maternal mortality in the world is 25% of bleeding, 15% of infection/sepsis, 12% eclampsia, 13% of abortions are unsafe, 8% obstructed and ectopic pregnancy, 8% embolisms and other related issues with anesthetic problems. WHO (2010) has determined that the maternal mortality rate (MMR) in 40 countries ≥ 300 / 100,000 live births including República Democrática de Timor-Leste at 557 / 100,000 live births. Objective: This study aimed to determine the relationship between the variables of age, parity, spacing pregnancies, health behavior, and health status of mothers with maternal deaths. Methods: The study design was a cross-sectional study with a sample of 298 pregnant women in 13 districts throughout Timor-Leste. Results: Maternal deaths are caused by independent variables simultaneously and the remaining 28.0% were prescribed other factors. Low maternal health behaviors that lead to maternal death by 40.348 times higher compared with mothers who have good health behaviors. The health status of low maternal causes of maternal mortality by 23.340 times higher than mothers who have a good health status. Birth spacing ˂ two years caused the death of the mother of 16.715 times higher than women with birth spacing ˃ 2 years. Maternal age and parity variables showed no significant effect. Conclusion: There was a significant relationship between behavioral maternal health, maternal health, birth spacing with maternal mortality while age and parity are not related.
Effects of Vildagliptin and Metformin on Blood Pressure and Heart Rate Responses to Small Intestinal Glucose in Type 2 Diabetes
Authors: Wu Tongzhi , Trahair Laurence G. , Little Tanya J. , Bound Michelle J. , Zhang Xiang , Wu Hang , Sun Zilin , Horowitz Michael , Rayner Christopher K. , Jones Karen L.
Published: March 2017

OBJECTIVE

To evaluate effects of vildagliptin and metformin on blood pressure (BP) and heart rate (HR) responses to intraduodenal (ID) glucose in diet-controlled type 2 diabetes.

RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS

Study A compared vildagliptin (50 mg) and placebo, given 60 min before a 120-min ID glucose infusion at 2 or 4 kcal/min (ID2 or ID4) in 16 patients. Study B compared metformin (850 mg) and placebo, given 30 min before ID2 over 120 min in 9 patients.

RESULTS

Systolic (P = 0.002) and diastolic (P < 0.001) BP were lower and HR greater (P = 0.005) after vildagliptin compared with placebo, without interaction between vildagliptin and the glucose infusion rate. In contrast, HR was greater after metformin than placebo (P < 0.001), without any difference in systolic or diastolic BP.

CONCLUSIONS

Vildagliptin reduces BP and increases HR, whereas metformin increases HR without affecting BP during ID glucose infusion in type 2 diabetes. These distinct cardiovascular profiles during enteral nutrient exposure may have implications for postprandial hypotension.
KOMPARASI KERAGAMAN JENIS BURUNG-BURUNG DI TAMAN NASIONAL BALURAN DAN ALAS PURWO PADA BEBERAPA TIPE HABITAT
Authors: Widodo W.
Published: March 2017

This research was conducted to compare the species diversity of birds in the Baluran and Alas Purwo National Parks (NPs), East Java Province. The research was done on April 2006. The IPA method was used in this bird’s survey. The parameters of the observation were species numbers (S), the total number of each species (n), the total number of all of species (N), the Shannon diversity (H) and the equitability or evenness indices (J), the Simpson diversity (D) and the equitability indices (E). The results showed that Alas Purwo NP has more species numbers than Baluran NP, i.e. 56: 50 species. The highly value of species diversity in the Baluran NP was found on the natural forests habitat, namely 40 species with index values of H’ = 3.27. The highly value of species diversity in the Alas Purwo NP was found on the production plant forests habitat (Tectona grandis), namely 46 species with index values of H’ = 3.33. The Columbidae and Pycnonotidae families were found more abundant in two national parks area. The values of their relative abundance were 17.9% and 11.0%, respectively. By “t” test knows that species diversity (S) have no significant to the H and D diversities indices and the J and E equitabilities indices (P more than 0.05). Nevertheless, there appears to be a strong and positive correlation between the species diversity (S) and to the value of H and D indices (P less than 0.05, db = 3), with r-value = 0.9204 and r = 0.9031 respectively. In while, the value of S to the E indices are negative correlation highly significant (P less than 0.01; db = 3) with r = –0.9785. However, the species diversity value is no correlation significant to J indices with r = –0.3092.
UMUR GLAS EEL (Anguilla spp.) YANG MASUK MUARA SUNGAI PROGO, YOGYAKARTA
Authors: Budiharjo Agung , Djohan Tjut Sugandawaty , Djumanto Djumanto , Subagja Jusup
Published: March 2017

The leptocephalus drift with sea currents and moving from spawning area into coastal area near mouth of Progo River. In the coastal area, leptocephalus metamorfosed into glass eel, after that glass eel migrated to river. The aims of this research were to estimate glass eels age and predict hatching dates. Glass eels sampled on new moon during Februari 2007–Mei 2009 at mouth of Progo River. Glass eel ages estimated using their otolith microstructure. Hatching dates predicted with back calculation of glass eels age. We collected 1.082 glass eels. The ages of glass eel at recruit ranged from 58 to 190 days, and divided into 5 age groups. Glass eels are migrated to river hatched on new moon from July to January. Glass eels are migrated to river during October–January hatched during July–October. Glass eels are migrated to river during February–Juny hatched during November – January.
Evaluasi Flowering Time Bunga Anggrek (Koleksi Kebun Raya Purwodadi)
Authors: Yulia Nina Dwi
Published: March 2017

The orchid collection of Purwodadi Botanic Garden is one of unique and attractive collection. The exotica of orchid flower were appeared from compacting of shape, color and size flower. The orchids have a different of flowering period of orchid flowering. This observation aimed to do data flowering time of orchid collection Purwodadi Botanic Garden which be done during 2007–2008. The data of evaluation include orchid species which flowering, flowering time and be complicated which open up of flower duration. The Paphiopedilum glaucophyllum is one of orchid which have flowering time long of years. The flowering time of orchid species could be found in July.
ISOLASI, KARAKTERISASI DAN PENGELOMPOKAN STRAIN Salmonella typhi ASAL KABUPATEN SUMBA BARAT DAYA NUSA TENGGARA TIMUR BERDASARKAN SIFAT-SIFAT FENOTIP
Authors: Amarantini Charis , Sembiring Langkah , Kushadiwijaya Haripurnomo , Asmara Widya
Published: March 2017

Typhoid fever is highly endemic in the South-West Sumba Regency, East Nusa Tenggara. The incidence rate of the diseases is high estimated at 725/100,000. It is an acute systemic infection caused by Salmonella typhi. The clinical symptoms of the disease are extremely diverse, starting from the mild form to severe ones with the most feared complication being perforation within the small intestine. Therefore, it is important to perform isolation, characterization, and grouping of S. typhi strains from the blood culture in order to determined definitely diagnosis and the different phenotypic characteristics in the community. Isolation was done in selective and differential media: BacT/ALERT FA culture media, Selenite Cystine Broth, Chromocult Coliform Agar, MacConkey Agar, and Salmonella Shigella Agar. The typical colony of Salmonella was confirmed on Triple Sugar Iron Agar, Urea agar, and L-Lysine decarboxylation media. Phenotypic characteristics of all isolates were identified using API 20E and API 50CHE diagnostics. Based on biochemical characteristics the result showed that 18 strains obtained from different geographical origins were diverse. Four strains have similarity value 100% while the remained strains have similarity value 86.3–98.4%. All of the strains were categorized in the species of S. typhi.
PRODUKTIVITAS BIOMASSA DAN LAJU PERTUMBUHAN RUMPUT LAUT Eucheuma cottonii DI PERAIRAN WAEL SERAM BAGIAN BARAT PROVINSI MALUKU
Authors: Rehena Johanis Fritzgal
Published: March 2017

Biomass productivity and growth rate of Eucheuma cottonii has been done during three cultivation periods of the year 2008 in water territory Wael, in the west of Seram regency. Research of sea grass was conducted by float raft method (floiting method) systems monoline. Statistical design used Factorial Pattern Completely Randomized Design 3 × 3 × 2. Cultivation period as factor A consisted of A1 (period I), A2 (period II), and A3 (period III). The result of the analysis showed that cultivation period (factor A) and also initial weight (factor B) gave a real response to growth rate Eucheuma cottonii, and so do second interaction of factor (AB) gave real response. Average of biomass productivity during three cultivation periods of each different initial number weighing ranged from 108.65–664.76 gram/sea grass with daily growth number ranged from 2.15–6.86% / day