bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Megakaryocytic Leukemia 1 Directs a Histone H3 Lysine 4 Methyltransferase Complex to Regulate Hypoxic Pulmonary Hypertension
Authors: Chen Dewei , Yang Yuyu , Cheng Xian , Fang Fei , Xu Gang , Yuan Zhibin , Xia Jun , Kong Hui , Xie Weiping , Wang Hong , Fang Mingming , Gao Yuqi , Xu Yong
Published: February 2015

Enhanced interaction between vascular endothelial cells and circulating leukocytes, as a result of transcriptional activation of cell adhesion molecules (CAM), helps establish a proinflammatory milieu contributing to the pathogenesis of chronic hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension. The molecular switch that dictates CAM transactivation is not clearly defined. Our goal was to determine the involvement of the transcriptional modulator megakaryocytic leukemia 1 (MKL1), also known as myocardin-related transcription factor A (MRTF-A), in CAM transactivation and the underlying mechanism. We report here that compared with wild-type littermates, MKL1/MRTF-A knockout mice were more resistant to the development of hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension when exposed to low oxygen pressure. Notably, CAM induction in knockout mice was significantly attenuated with a concomitant reduction of leukocyte adhesion. In cultured vascular endothelial cells, overexpression of MKL1/MRTF-A enhanced, whereas depletion of MKL1/MRTF-A dampened, hypoxia-induced CAM transactivation. In response to hypoxia, MKL1/MRTF-A formed a complex with NF-κB on the CAM promoters. Of interest, MKL1/MRTF-A was responsible for recruiting a histone H3 lysine 4 methyltransferase complex to the CAM promoters. Finally, endothelial-specific silencing of ASH2 and WDR5, 2 key components of the histone H3 lysine 4 methyltransferase complex, ameliorated hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension in mice. In conclusion, our data suggest that MKL1/MRTF-A, by coordinating key epigenetic alterations on CAM promoters, provides a critical link to hypoxia-induced endothelial malfunction and contributes to the pathogenesis of hypoxia-induced pulmonary hypertension.
Novel Role for Caspase-Activated DNase in the Regulation of Pathological Cardiac Hypertrophy
Authors: Gao Lu , Huang Kun , Jiang Ding-Sheng , Liu Xiaoxiong , Huang Dan , Li Hongliang , Zhang Xiao-Dong , Huang Kai
Published: February 2015

Caspase-activated DNase (CAD) is a double-strand-specific endonuclease that is responsible for the cleavage of nucleosomal spacer regions and subsequent chromatin condensation during apoptosis. Given that several endonucleases (eg, DNase I, DNase II, and Endog) have been shown to regulate pathological cardiac hypertrophy, we questioned whether CAD, which is critical for the induction of DNA fragmentation, plays a pivotal role in pressure overload–elicited cardiac hypertrophy. A CAD-knockout mouse model was generated and subjected to aortic banding for 8 weeks. The extent of cardiac hypertrophy was evaluated by echocardiography and pathological and molecular analyses. Our results demonstrated that the disruption of CAD attenuated pressure overload–induced cardiac hypertrophy, fibrosis, and cardiac dysfunction. Conversely, transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of CAD showed an aggravated cardiac hypertrophic response to chronic pressure overload. Mechanistically, we discovered that the expression and activation of mitogen-activated protein kinase–extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 was significantly reduced in the CAD-knockout hearts compared with the control hearts; however, they were greatly increased in the CAD-overexpressing hearts after aortic banding. Similar results were observed in ex vivo cultured neonatal rat cardiomyocytes after treatment with angiotensin II for 48 hours. These data indicate that CAD functions as a necessary modulator of the hypertrophic response by regulating the mitogen-activated protein kinase–extracellular signal-regulated kinase 1/2 signaling pathway in the heart. Our study suggests that CAD might be a novel target for the treatment of pathological cardiac hypertrophy and heart failure.
Party System Format and the Longevity of Party Systems: An Empirical Examination
Authors: Golosov Grigorii V.
Published: February 2015

This article employs the Cox proportional hazards model to discover the factors of survival of 162 party systems from 1792 to 2009. In order to avoid the endogeneity problem, the analysis employs the level of democracy as a control variable. The impact of the overall level of party system fragmentation is found negligible, even though excessive fragmentation is conducive to a higher hazard of party system termination. More importantly, systems with close competition among leading parties – including two-party systems and systems with close competition among up to four parties – are more likely to survive across time. The article introduces a methodological innovation by disaggregating the effective number of parties into two components, the leading parties’ balance and the residual fragmentation.
Microaggression and Moral Cultures
Authors: Campbell Bradley , Manning Jason
Published: February 2015

Campus activists and others might refer to slights of one’s ethnicity or other cultural characteristics as “microaggressions,” and they might use various forums to publicize them. Here we examine this phenomenon by drawing from Donald Black’s theories of conflict and from cross-cultural studies of conflict and morality. We argue that this behavior resembles other conflict tactics in which the aggrieved actively seek the support of third parties as well as those that focus on oppression. We identify the social conditions associated with each feature, and we discuss how the rise of these conditions has led to large-scale moral change such as the emergence of a victimhood culture that is distinct from the honor cultures and dignity cultures of the past.
Even the Best Have Difficulties
Authors: Salmela Mari , Määttä Kaarina
Published: February 2015

To achieve top scores, students need not only talents and study skills but also they have to conquer various adversities successfully. This research focused on the study paths, the concept adopted from Hickman, Bartholomew, Mathwig, and Heinrich (2008), of Finnish straight-A graduates in general upper secondary education. In this article, we refer to these paths with the concepts of study processes or just studies. The purpose was to analyze what kinds of difficulties these graduates had faced and how they coped with them. Researchers gathered data from 14 Finnish straight-A graduates by mailing a request to write an essay and by interviewing them. The results showed how the graduates’ core difficulties were related to their peer relationships because of the gifted students’ standing out from the crowd, pressure set by their own ambition, and the burden of wide-ranging interests. The graduates seemed to employ resource-oriented solutions when coping with adversities and difficulties—in this study, the solutions were divided into three dimensions. Based on the results, it is relevant to ask whether schools could support gifted students better by allowing mistakes and failures and supporting students to confront adversities by providing models and tools for survival. It is important to emphasize that failures and adversities are not a sign of weakness.
Tablet-based education to reduce depression-related stigma
Authors: Lu Catherine , Winkelman Megan , Wong Shane Shucheng
Published: February 2015

Objectives:

This study investigated the efficacy of a tablet-based multimedia education application, the Project Not Alone Depression Module, in improving depression literacy and reducing depression stigma among a community-based mental health clinic population.

Methods:

A total of 93 participants completed either a tablet-based multimedia education or a print education module containing the same content on depression. Primary outcomes were changes in depression literacy as measured by a knowledge quiz and stigma as measured by the Depression Stigma Scale administered before and after the education intervention. Secondary outcomes included participant preference, ease of use, and likeliness to discuss topic with a physician.

Results:

In comparison to print education, tablet-based multimedia education significantly increased depression-related knowledge and reduced depression stigma ( p < .05). Among all participants, a reduction in the personal stigma score was correlated with an increase in knowledge score ( p < .05). Participants preferred the tablet-based module to a human health educator ( p < .05).

Conclusion:

With advantages of scalability, user preference, and efficacy in improving depression literacy and stigma, tablet-based multimedia education has the potential to improve the health outcomes of mental health clinic populations. Although the study findings are limited by small sample size and lack of randomisation, the results are encouraging for future research and development in tablet-based multimedia patient education.
Potentially deceptive health nutrition–related advertising claims: The role of inoculation in conferring resistance
Authors: Mason Alicia M , Miller Claude H
Published: February 2015

Objective:

This study sought to examine the efficacy of inoculation message treatments to facilitate resistance to health nutrition–related (HNR) commercial food advertising claims.

Design:

Data were collected across three phases extending across a 5-week period conducted over two semesters at a Midwest US university. A 2 × 3 between-subjects factorial design was adopted, with multivariate and univariate analyses being used to interpret the results.

Setting:

Pittsburg, USA.

Method:

Participants were emerging adult undergraduate students (aged 18–25 years) recruited from introductory communication courses. A total of 167 students participated in Phase 1 of the work, of whom 152 completed Phase 2 and 145 completed Phase 3 (resulting in an 86.8% retention rate). Among these, 45% were men.

Results:

The results indicated ( F(3, 129) = 9.83, p < .001, partial η2 = .18) that compared to control ( M = 5.20, standard deviation [ SD] = .84), participants who received an inoculation treatment experienced greater Phase 3 attitude strength ( M = 5.73, SD = .77) to the position that eating healthy food is necessary to maintaining a healthy life. Inoculated participants reported greater Phase 3 attitude certainty ( M = 77.15, SD = 19.21) for the above position than the control group ( M = 65.43, SD = 25.48). Inoculated participants held less favourable views towards the source of the HNR claims ( M = 4.80, SD = 1.18) relative to controls ( M = 5.73, SD = 1.36) and generated greater numbers of counter-arguments ( M = 3.90, SD = 1.74) compared to control groups ( M = 2.75, SD = 1.69), thus demonstrating resistance to persuasion.

Conclusion:

Inoculation was demonstrated to be an effective preemptive strategy against potentially deceptive HNR advertising claims. Hence, it may offer an effective strategy for helping to protect the health-conscious attitudes of emerging adults by providing resistance to the ‘pufferised’ appeals used by many commercial food advertisers.
Development of weft-knitted spacer fabrics with negative stiffness effect in a special range of compression displacement
Authors: Chen Fuxing , Hu Hong , Liu Yanping
Published: February 2015

Negative stiffness refers to a negative ratio of the force to the displacement in a deformed material system. It can be very useful in the design and fabrication of vibration isolation systems. In this study, a new kind of weft-knitted spacer structure that can achieve negative stiffness under compression was specially developed by using elastic yarn to knit the outer layers of spacer structure. Twelve fabric samples were knitted on an electronic flat knitting machine with three different linking distances and four diameters of spacer monofilaments. The compression tests were conducted to verify the negative stiffness effect of the fabrics after a steaming treatment. The results obtained have shown that the negative stiffness effect can be obtained for weft-knitted spacer fabrics in a special range of compression displacement if suitable fabric structure and fiber materials are used, and the decrease of the linking distance of spacer monofilaments can enhance the negative stiffness effect. It is expected that this study could provide useful information in the design and fabrication of spacer fabrics for vibration isolation.
Through-thickness air permeability of woven fabric under low pressure compression
Authors: Xiao Xueliang , Hu Jinlian , Hua Tao , Zeng Xuesen , Long Andrew
Published: February 2015

Through-thickness permeability (TTP) is one primary property of technical textiles used in air-related applications, such as filtration and protection. The TTP depends on the textile geometrical factors and usually varies according to the test conditions. In this article, the effect of low air pressure compression (LPC) on TTP of woven fabric was investigated. Nine woven fabrics were measured for the relationships of LPC and thickness, LPC and fabric in-plane dimensions, air pressure drop (APD) and air velocity, as well as LPC and fabric TTP. A dramatic decrease of woven fabric thickness was found below the APD value of 200 Pa and less decreased thickness was observed with a continued increase of APD. The variation of fabric in-planar dimensions was found to be negligible during LPC. The plot relationship of the APD and measured air velocity was presented in linearity for most fabric samples. The fabric TTP showed a linear proportion to the fabric thickness, indicating the fabric to be more permeable with the increase of thickness. A sensitivity study showed an evident difference between using fabric constant and decreased (LPC) thickness in calculating TTP, disclosing the importance of compression in fabric TTP evaluation.
What should the ventilation objectives be for retrofit energy efficiency interventions of dwellings?
Authors: Milner James , Hamilton Ian , Shrubsole Clive , Das Payel , Chalabi Zaid , Davies Michael , Wilkinson Paul
Published: February 2015

Major energy efficiency refurbishment of the UK housing stock is needed to help attain emission reduction targets of greenhouse gases. Such measures typically entail some planned or incidental reduction of uncontrolled ventilation in dwellings. This paper examines the trade-offs for health and sustainability objectives of typical retrofit refurbishments in UK homes. While reducing ventilation can help protect against the ingress of harmful pollutants from the outdoor air, our results demonstrate that reducing permeability to low levels, without additional purpose-provided ventilation, is likely to lead to substantial increases in pollutants derived from indoor sources, including indoor-generated particles, radon and environmental tobacco smoke. The monetised equivalent cost of the health dis-benefits associated with these exposures may exceed the potential benefits of reducing energy costs and greenhouse gas emissions.

Practical application: Reducing uncontrolled ventilation of dwellings helps to improve energy efficiency and can protect against the ingress of pollutants from the outdoor environment. However, simulation studies suggest that at high degrees of airtightness (very low permeability) there is a potentially steep rise in pollutants of indoor origin, whose adverse effects on health may outweigh the benefits of reduced energy use, lower CO2 emissions and protection against outdoor pollution. Though the optimal permeability level for a given dwelling will vary with local circumstances, considerations of health protection suggest the need to avoid reducing permeability to low levels.
A medium-rise 1970s maternity hospital in the east of England: Resilience and adaptation to climate change
Authors: Short C Alan , Renganathan Giridharan , Lomas Kevin J
Published: February 2015

The late 1970s design for the Rosie Maternity Hospital on the Addenbrookes campus in Cambridge is a recurring type across the UK National Health Service, a framed three-storey courtyard configuration in brick masonry. It was selected as a case study project for the ‘Design and Delivery of Robust Hospitals in a Changing Climate’ project, pursuing the methodology developed for that research. Temperature data were collected in representative spaces within the hospital, over a two-year period. These revealed overheating in mild conditions relative to an observed 24℃ threshold for sleep but concealed within the customary 28℃ threshold marking the upper limit of acceptable conditions. The building was modelled using current climate data to predict 2010 conditions. The model was then calibrated against the observed 2010 data and used to predict the likely internal temperatures in current and 2030s. The results indicated an increase in peak temperatures. Four adaptive intervention schemes were subsequently developed: an ‘enlightened’ industry standard ‘Passivhaus’-type option providing superinsulation, sealed glazing and heat recovery; a lower technology-based scheme promoting natural cross-ventilation by providing greater opening glazing area, opening up the plan, sunshading and additional insulation; an enhanced natural ventilation scheme glazing over the courtyards to provide supply air winter gardens, and an advanced natural ventilation option pursuing passive downdraught cooling. All four schemes were modelled using the projected current and 2030s weather data and their performance was compared. The schemes were fully costed to yield relative ‘value for money’ guidance to National Health Service Trusts.

Practical application: The Heat wave Plan for England 2014 warns National Health Service (NHS) organisations of the risks to patients, particularly the very young, the elderly and the seriously ill, from extreme summer heat events.1 The Chief Medical Officer in her introduction challenges each NHS locality to plan well in advance of hot spells, as appropriate. This paper describes the likely extent of overheating risk and a series of potential adaptation plans for a recurring NHS hospital building type. As a consequence, estates and facilities decision makers in NHS organisations and Public Health England officers charged with the mitigation of risk resulting from overheating of wards and clinical spaces will benefit directly in their necessary decision making from the findings. Policy makers in the Department of Health and policy advisors in the NHS Sustainable Development Unit and the Climate Change Committee Adaptation Sub-Committee will benefit from the evidence presented in advising the NHS and Department of Health.
Four years on: Are the gazelles still running? A longitudinal study of firm performance after a period of rapid growth
Authors: Senderovitz Martin , Klyver Kim , Steffens Paul
Published: February 2015

This article examines variations in performance between fast-growth – the so-called gazelle – firms. Specifically, we investigate how the level of growth affects future profitability and how this relationship is moderated by firm strategy. Hypotheses are developed regarding the moderated growth–profitability relationship and are tested using longitudinal data from a sample of 964 Danish gazelle firms. We find a positive relationship between growth and profitability among gazelle firms. This relationship is moderated, however, by market strategy; it is stronger for firms pursuing a broad market strategy rather than a niche strategy. This study contributes to the current literature by providing a more nuanced view of the growth–profitability relationship and investigating the potential for the future performance of gazelle firms.
Diffusion-weighted imaging for evaluating lymph node eradication after neoadjuvant chemoradiation therapy in locally advanced rectal cancer
Authors: Ryu Kyeong Hwa , Kim Seung Ho , Yoon Jung-Hee , Lee Yedaun , Paik Jin Ho , Lim Yun-Jung , Lee Kwang Hwi
Published: February 2015

Background

As lymph node (LN) eradication is the prerequisite for clinical surveillance or local excision for patients who have achieved a complete response after preoperative chemoradiation therapy (CRT), the radiological evaluation of LN eradication is important.

Purpose

To evaluate the added value of diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI) in the evaluation of LN eradication after CRT in patients with locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC).

Material and Methods

Ninety-five consecutive patients (64 men, 31 women; mean age, 59 years; range, 32–82 years) who underwent pre- and post-CRT 1.5-T MRI with DWI (b = 0, 1000 s/mm2) were enrolled. To evaluate the added value of DWI in the evaluation of LN eradication after CRT, two radiologists first independently read the pre- and post-CRT T2-weighted (T2W) images and then read the combined T2W imaging set and the pre- and post-CRT DWIs with a 4-week interval. The radiologists recorded their confidence scores for LN eradication using a 5-point scale on a per-patient basis. The diagnostic performances were compared between the two reading sessions for each reader with pair-wise comparisons of receiver-operating characteristic curves. Histopathological reports served as the reference standards for LN eradication.

Results

The study population consisted of an LN-eradicated group ( n = 66) and a non-eradicated group ( n = 29). The diagnostic performances did not significantly differ between the two reading sessions for the two readers (AUCs for reader 1, 0.770 and 0.774, P = 0.8155; for reader 2, 0.794 and 0.798, P = 0.8588).

Conclusion

Adding DWI to T2W imaging provided no additional diagnostic benefit for the evaluation of LN eradication following CRT in patients with LARC.
Comparison of image quality and application values on different field-of-view diffusion-weighted imaging of breast cancer
Authors: Dong Haibo , Li Yadi , Yu Kang , Li Hui
Published: February 2015

Background

Single-shot echo planar imaging (SS-EPI) diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) is the most-widely sequence in breast MRI. MRI artifacts and magnetic susceptibility are sometimes severe when this sequence is utilized at 3T.

Purpose

To compare the imaging quality, ADC values between SS-EPI DWI sequence and two reduced field-of-view (rFOV) DWI sequences of breast cancer.

Material and Methods

Twelve cases with breast cancer were scanned using SS-EPI DWI (FOV, 360 × 360 mm), rFOV DWI1 (FOV, 360 × 180 mm), and rFOV DWI2 (FOV, 280 × 140 mm), respectively. Image quality (scores 1 to 5) and ADC values of breast imaging were compared among three groups by different DWI sequences. SNR were compared between rFOV DWI1 and rFOV DWI2.

Results

The imaging quality score of 12 cases was 5.00 in rFOV DWI1, 3.60 in SS-EPI DWI, and 3.75 in rFOV DWI2. The mean ADC value of 12 cases was 1.211 × 10−3 mm2/s in SS-EPI DWI, 1.107 × 10–3 mm2/s in rFOV DWI1, and 1.038 × 10–3 mm2/s in rFOV DWI2. SNR of rFOV DWI1 images was much higher than that of rFOV DWI2.

Conclusion

rFOV DWI1 is the optimal DWI sequence in our study. Comparing with SS EPI DWI, suitable rFOV DWI has an obvious advantage, which can present higher image resolution and less distortion. It may be helpful in the diagnosis of breast cancer.
Costs of Children and Models of Parenthood
Authors: Rusterholz Caroline
Published: February 2015

The transition from the baby boom to the baby bust has never been studied with a particular focus on the increase in the relative costs of children. This article uses this explanation and applies it to Lausanne and Fribourg, two Swiss cities characterized by different institutional contexts and by strikingly divergent trends in terms of fertility. This article conjectures that new rights for children and models of parenthood that appeared during the 1960s increased the cost of child rearing and are key explanations for the transition from the baby boom to the baby bust.
Overexpression of TGF-β via rAAV-Mediated Gene Transfer Promotes the Healing of Human Meniscal Lesions Ex Vivo on Explanted Menisci
Authors: Cucchiarini Magali , Schmidt Katharina , Frisch Janina , Kohn Dieter , Madry Henning
Published: February 2015

Background:

Direct application of therapeutic gene vectors derived from the adeno-associated virus (AAV) might be beneficial to improve the healing of meniscal tears.

Purpose:

To test the ability of recombinant AAV (rAAV) to overexpress the potent transforming growth factor–β (TGF-β) in primary cultures of human meniscal fibrochondrocytes, in human meniscal explants, and in experimental human meniscal lesions as a new tool to enhance meniscal repair.

Study Design:

Controlled laboratory study.

Methods:

The effects of the candidate treatment on the proliferative and metabolic activities of meniscal cells were monitored in vitro for up to 21 days and in situ in intact and injured human menisci for up to 15 days using biochemical, immunohistochemical, histological, and histomorphometric analyses.

Results:

Efficient production of TGF-β via rAAV was achieved in vitro and in situ, both in the intact and injured meniscus. Application of the rAAV TGF-β vector stimulated the levels of cell proliferation and matrix synthesis (type I collagen) compared with control gene transfer in all systems tested, especially in situ in regions of poor healing capacity and in sites of meniscal injury. No adverse effects of the candidate treatment were observed at the level of osseous differentiation, as tested by immunodetection of type X collagen. Most remarkably, a significant reduction of the amplitude of meniscal tears was noted after TGF-β treatment, an effect that was associated with increased expression levels of the α–smooth muscle actin contractile marker.

Conclusion:

Overexpression of TGF-β via rAAV gene transfer is capable of modulating the reparative activities of human meniscal cells, allowing for the healing of meniscal lesions by convenient injection in sites of injury.

Clinical Relevance:

Direct gene-based approaches using rAAV have strong potential to develop new therapeutic options that aim at treating human meniscal defects.
Sports-Specialized Intensive Training and the Risk of Injury in Young Athletes
Authors: Jayanthi Neeru A. , LaBella Cynthia R. , Fischer Daniel , Pasulka Jacqueline , Dugas Lara R.
Published: February 2015

Background:

Data are lacking regarding the independent risk of injury related to intense single-sport training or growth rate in young athletes.

Purpose:

To determine whether sports specialization, weekly training volumes, and growth rates are associated with increased risk for injury and serious overuse injury in young athletes.

Study Design:

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Injured athletes aged 7 to 18 years were recruited from 2 hospital-based sports medicine clinics and compared with healthy controls from affiliated primary care clinics undergoing sports physicals (2010-2013). Participants completed surveys reporting hours per week spent in organized sports, physical education class, and free play, as well as degree of sports specialization and Tanner stage. Heights and weights were measured. Injury details were obtained from athlete surveys and electronic medical records.

Results:

Of 1214 athletes enrolled, 1190 (50.7% male) had data satisfactory for analysis. There were 822 injured participants (49.5% male; unique injuries, n = 846) and 368 uninjured participants (55% male). Injured athletes were older than uninjured athletes (14.1 ± 2.1 vs 12.9 ± 2.6 years; P < .001) and reported more total hours of physical activity (19.6 ± 9.2 vs 17.6 ± 8.9 h/wk; P < .001) and organized sports activity (11.2 ± 2.6 vs 9.1 ± 6.3 h/wk; P < .01). After accounting for age and hours in sports activity spent per week, sports-specialized training was an independent risk for injury (odds ratio [OR], 1.27; 95% CI, 1.07-1.52; P < .01) and serious overuse injury (OR, 1.36; 95% CI, 1.08-1.72; P < .01). Young athletes participating in more hours of sports per week than number of age in years (OR, 2.07; 95% CI, 1.40-3.05; P < .001) or whose ratio of organized sports to free play time was >2:1 hours/week had increased odds of having a serious overuse injury (OR, 1.87; 95% CI, 1.26-2.76; P < .01). Growth rates were similar between injured and uninjured athletes (4.8 cm/y for both groups; P = .96).

Conclusion:

Injured young athletes were older and spent more hours per week in organized sports. There is an independent risk of injury and serious overuse injury in young athletes who specialize in a single sport. Growth rate was not related to injury risk. The study data provide guidance for clinicians counseling young athletes and their parents regarding injury risks associated with sports specialization.
Nitrogen transformations and losses during composting of sewage sludge with acidified sawdust in a laboratory reactor
Authors: Li Yunbei , Li Weiguang
Published: February 2015

Composting is one of the cost-saving ways for sewage sludge treatment to produce a ﬁnal product that is stable, and free of pathogens and plant seeds. However, the loss of nitrogen through ammonia emission not only reduces the agronomic value of the composting product, but also leads to air pollution and is potentially health threatening. Five mixtures of sewage sludge and acidified sawdust were co-composted for 22 days with different initial pH values (3.51, 4.45, 5.51, 6.48 and 7.56). Acidified sawdust was used as a pH regulator and also bulking agent during composting. Changes in physicochemical properties were characterised by the temperature, organic matter degradation, carbon dioxide emission and pH value. The results showed that regulating the initial pH of composting materials to 5.51~6.48 was the most effective way in reducing ammonia emissions. Compared with the control group, the cumulative ammonia emission was reduced by 52.1% and the nitrogen loss decreased from 44.7% to 24.8% with no adverse effects on organic matter degradation and microbial activity.
ISO 14001 adoption and industrial waste generation: The case of Swedish manufacturing firms
Authors: Zobel Thomas
Published: February 2015

Adoption of environmental management systems (EMSs) based on ISO 14001 has constituted one of the most important developments in sustainable industry management in recent years. Previous research on the impact of EMSs has relied heavily on corporate representatives’ subjective perception of benefits. Moreover, studies tend to focus on the systems’ impact on firms’ overall environmental performance, not distinguishing between the differences in different environmental aspects. This study aims to contribute knowledge about the influence of certified EMSs on industrial waste generation based on objective industrial waste data derived from mandatory annual environmental reports. The study focuses on changes in waste generation over a period of 12 years and includes both ISO 14001-certified firms (66 firms) and non-certified firms (50 firms). Consideration is given to the improvement efforts in the firms before EMS adoption. Analysis has been carried out using statistical methods for three different industrial waste parameters: hazardous waste, waste to landfill and the total amounts of waste. The results indicate that the certified EMSs have no statistically significant effect on any of the three waste parameters.
Interval linear programming model for long-term planning of vehicle recycling in the Republic of Serbia under uncertainty
Authors: Simic Vladimir , Dimitrijevic Branka
Published: February 2015

An interval linear programming approach is used to formulate and comprehensively test a model for optimal long-term planning of vehicle recycling in the Republic of Serbia. The proposed model is applied to a numerical case study: a 4-year planning horizon (2013–2016) is considered, three legislative cases and three scrap metal price trends are analysed, availability of final destinations for sorted waste flows is explored. Potential and applicability of the developed model are fully illustrated. Detailed insights on profitability and eco-efficiency of the projected contemporary equipped vehicle recycling factory are presented. The influences of the ordinance on the management of end-of-life vehicles in the Republic of Serbia on the vehicle hulks procuring, sorting generated material fractions, sorted waste allocation and sorted metals allocation decisions are thoroughly examined. The validity of the waste management strategy for the period 2010–2019 is tested. The formulated model can create optimal plans for procuring vehicle hulks, sorting generated material fractions, allocating sorted waste flows and allocating sorted metals. Obtained results are valuable for supporting the construction and/or modernisation process of a vehicle recycling system in the Republic of Serbia.
Experimental investigation on NOx emission characteristics of a new solid fuel made from sewage sludge mixed with coal in combustion
Authors: Zhai Yunbo , Zhu Lu , Chen Hongmei , Xu Bibo , Li Caiting , Zeng Guangming
Published: February 2015

In this article, a new briquette fuel (SC), which was produced by the mixture of coal fines (25.9%), sewage sludge (60.6%), lignin (4.5%), tannic acid (4.5%) and elemental silicon (4.5%), was provided. Then, in a high temperature electric resistance tubular furnace, the total emissions of NO2 and NO, effects of combustion temperature, air flow rate and heating rate on NOx (NO, NO2) emissions of SC were studied during the combustion of SC; furthermore, effects of additives on hardness were also analysed, and the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy was applied to investigate the reduced NOx emission mechanism. The research results showed that, compared with the characteristics of briquette fuel (SC0) produced only by the mixture of coal and sewage sludge (the ratio of coal to sewage sludge was the same as that of SC), the Meyer hardness of SC was 12.6% higher than that of SC0 and the emissions of NOx were 27.83% less than that of SC0 under the same combustion conditions. The NOx emissions of SC decreased with the adding of heating rate and increased with the rise of air flow rate. When the temperature was below 1000 °C, the emissions of NOx increased with the elevated temperature, however, further temperature extension will result in a decreasing in emissions of NOx. Furthermore, the X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy results proposed that the possible mechanism for the reduction of NOx emissions was nitrogen and silicon in SC to form the compounds of silicon and nitrogen at high temperatures.
Parameter determination of a compression model for landfilled municipal solid waste: An experimental study
Authors: Xu Xiao Bing , Zhan Tony Liang Tong , Chen Yun Min , Guo Qi Gang
Published: February 2015

The methods to determine the parameters of a one-dimensional compression model for landfilled municipal solid waste were investigated. In order to test the methods for parameter determination, long-term laboratory compression experiments were carried out under different surcharge loads (i.e. 100, 200 and 400 kPa). Based on the measured compression strain and the reported creep index, the modified primary compression indexes, pre-consolidation pressure and ultimate biodegradation-induced secondary compression strain were determined using the proposed methods. It was found that the simulated compression could not capture the measured secondary compression behavior when using a constant value of biodegradation-induced compression rate coefficient. The variation of the rate coefficient with the change of decomposition rate should be considered during modeling. Accordingly, the biodegradation-induced secondary compression strain in the compression model should be expressed in an incremental form in order to consider the variation of the rate coefficient.
Albumin-based micro-composite drug carriers with dual chemo-agents for targeted breast cancer treatment
Authors: Abedin Farhana , Anwar Md R , Asmatulu Ramazan , Yang Shang-You
Published: February 2015

Albumin-based drug-carrying micro-composite spheres were fabricated and studied to evaluate their potentials for breast cancer treatment. Magnetic nanoparticles and albumin were incorporated within poly(D l-lactide-co-glycolide) microspheres to increase accumulation of the microspheres at the target site. Two chemotherapeutics, cyclophosphamide and 5-fluorouracil, were encapsulated into the microspheres. The drug-release study revealed an initial burst of drug and then sustained release by diffusion. A Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy study confirmed the presence of all components of the drug delivery system. An in vitro study using fibroblast cells (3T3) and breast cancer cells (MDA-486) exhibited an effective cytotoxicity behavior when exposed to the drug delivery system in a dose- and time-dependent manner. The therapeutic influence of the drug delivery system was evaluated in vivo using a nude mouse breast cancer model. A continuous decrease in tumor size was observed in groups treated with microspheres containing the chemotherapeutics, whereas mice treated with direct chemotherapy without drug delivery system showed less efficacy and suggested tumor relapse after cessation of treatment. The enhanced therapeutic influence of the drug delivery system may be attributed to the increased uptake of the microspheres by malignant cells due to the presence of albumin and magnetic force. The bioavailability of chemotherapeutics at the target site was further increased due to the sustained release of the drugs by diffusion following the burst release. Continuous investigations will optimize the size of the drug delivery system and portions of the target driving-force components (magnetic nanoparticles and albumin) in the drug delivery system to maximize its therapeutic efficacy and minimize potential long-term side effects.
Preparation and properties of high-performance poly(amide–imide) composite films based on glucose-functionalized multiwalled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Mallakpour Shadpour , Zadehnazari Amin
Published: February 2015

Glucose has been covalently linked to multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs). After that, the modified MWCNTs were added to a poly(amide–imide) (PAI) matrix. PAI-based composites were fabricated by an ex situ blending technique with 5, 10, and 15% of loading by weight. The composite hybrid films were prepared by a solvent-casting method. The structural properties of all hybrids have been characterized using a large variety of spectroscopic and microscopic techniques. It was found that the functionalization of MWCNTs could improve their dispersion and interfacial adhesion to the PAI matrix. The thermal stability of the MWCNT/PAI composite films was improved due to excellent dispersion of MWCNT in the polymer matrix. Tensile tests on the composites showed an increase in the elastic modulus and the yield strength and a decrease in the failure strain.
Hardware-in-the-loop test for the design of a hybrid electric bus control system
Authors: Wang Jun , Wang Qing-nian , Wang Peng-yu
Published: February 2015

Hybrid electric vehicles present a promising approach to reduce fuel consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. The core technology of hybrid electric vehicles is an energy management strategy to distribute torque between the engine and the electric motor. This study presents an optimized energy management strategy based on real-time control. The operation platform of the control system is based on the dSPACE/simulator, which is a commercial hardware closed-loop system. First, an energy management strategy is built by using an empirical analysis method. To reduce fuel consumption further and to maintain the balance of the battery state of charge, dynamic programming is introduced to achieve the best fuel economy. Optimal gear shifting and engine torque control rules are then extracted into a rule-based control algorithm. Meanwhile, genetic algorithm is introduced to optimize the mode transition rules and the engine torque under parallel mode through an iterative method by defining a cost function over specific driving cycles. Second, a driving cycle recognition algorithm is built to obtain the optimization result over different driving cycles. The real vehicle model is verified by using a hardware-in-the-loop simulator in a virtual forward-facing simulation environment. The energy management strategy uses a code generation technology in the TTC200 controller to achieve vehicle real-time communication. Simulation results demonstrate that the real-time energy management strategy can coordinate the overall hybrid electric powertrain system to optimize fuel economy over different driving cycles and to maintain the battery state of charge.
Perceptions of and intentions to adopt HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis among black men who have sex with men in Los Angeles
Authors: Brooks Ronald A , Landovitz Raphael J , Regan Rotrease , Lee Sung-Jae , Allen Vincent C
Published: February 2015

This study assessed perceptions of pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and their association with PrEP adoption intention among a convenience sample of 224 low socioeconomic status black men who have sex with men (BMSM) residing in Los Angeles. Participants received educational information about PrEP and completed an in-person interview. More than half (60%) of the participants indicated a high intention to adopt PrEP. Younger BMSM (18–29 years) were twice as likely to report a high intention to adopt PrEP compared to older BMSM (30+ years). Only 33% of participants were aware of PrEP and no participant had ever used PrEP. Negative perceptions were associated with a lower PrEP adoption intention and included being uncomfortable taking an HIV medicine when HIV-negative and not knowing if there are long-term side effects of taking an HIV medication. These findings suggest that BMSM may adopt PrEP but that negative perceptions may limit its uptake among this population. In order to facilitate PrEP adoption among BMSM targeted educational and community awareness programmes are needed to provide accurate information on the benefits of PrEP and to address the negative perceptions of PrEP held by local BMSM populations.
Body Image and the Female Adolescent Oncology Patient
Authors: Burg Alison Joy
Published: February 2015

Female adolescent oncology patients undergo many physical changes throughout treatment that have challenging psychological, emotional, and social implications. Body image for this population is a subject that tends to be overlooked in the midst of the cancer experience. This article will examine the complex concept of body image and discuss why female adolescent patients are at such high risk for negative body image. Assessment and care strategies are needed to foster a positive body image, resiliency, and overall well-being. Although survivorship studies may offer insightful information about the effects of the cancer journey on long-term body image, focus should be on prevention and holistic care as part of the treatment itself. The health care team, especially nursing professionals, should acknowledge, recognize, and address this vital issue as a critical part of oncology care.
Feasibility of Virtual Reality Environments for Adolescent Social Anxiety Disorder
Authors: Parrish Danielle E. , Oxhandler Holly K. , Duron Jacuelynn F. , Swank Paul , Bordnick Patrick
Published: February 2015

Purpose:

This study assessed the feasibility of virtual reality (VR) exposure as an assessment and treatment modality for youth with social anxiety disorder (SAD).

Methods:

Forty-one adolescents, 20 of which were identified as having SAD, were recruited from a community sample. Youth with and without SAD were exposed to two social virtual environments—party and public speaking—and two neutral virtual environments.

Results:

All youth reported significantly higher ratings on the Subjective Units of Distress Scale (SUDS) during the party and public speaking scenarios compared to the two neutral environments, while youth with SAD reported significantly higher SUDS in the public speaking and party environments than those without SAD. Youth also demonstrated acceptable levels of presence and immersion in the VR environments.

Discussion:

VR exposure treatment appears to be feasible for youth with SAD, highlighting the need for further research on its development.
Drawing on Accounts of Long-Term Urinary Catheter Use
Authors: Chapple Alison , Prinjha Suman , Feneley Roger , Ziebland Sue
Published: February 2015

The design of the Foley catheter has not changed since 1937. Scientists interested in medical technology tend to focus on state-of-the-art designs for newsworthy specialties rather than the more mundane technologies of daily life. We interviewed 36 people living with a long-term urinary catheter in the United Kingdom, who described limitations of the current catheter design, including infections and complications and consequences for social life and relationships, and their perceptions of whose responsibility it was to improve the design. All took steps to hide the urine bag, but the need to use a catheter and urine bag had, for some, a very detrimental effect on social life and relationships. People living with long-term catheters are relatively isolated at home and dealing with many different underlying health problems, undermining opportunities to speak with a collective patient voice. Qualitative health researchers could act as a conduit to help stimulate new designs.
Generic imatinib in the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia: Cerrahpaşa experience
Authors: Eskazan Ahmet Emre , Soysal Teoman
Published: February 2015

As the first tyrosine kinase inhibitor (TKI), imatinib (Gleevec or Glivec, Novartis Pharmaceuticals) was introduced, the treatment of chronic myeloid leukemia (CML) has changed radically, and the TKIs are now the mainstay of CML treatment. The substantially high treatment cost has unfortunately been a major issue, which puts a strain on health-care budgets even in developed countries. So reimbursement policies encourage generic drug (i.e. generic imatinib) use to lower the expenses, and it is true that generics would lead to considerable cost savings, but they also give rise to questions associated with their efficacy, safety and quality. In this commentary, we discuss the current evidence on generic imatinib based mainly on our “Cerrahpaşa” experience along with other data available in the literature together with the data discussed by de Lemos and colleagues.
Effects of Physical Exercise Intervention on Motor Skills and Executive Functions in Children With ADHD: A Pilot Study
Authors: Pan Chien-Yu , Tsai Chia-Liang , Chu Chia-Hua , Sung Ming-Chih , Huang Chu-Yang , Ma Wei-Ya
Published: February 2015

Objective: This study examined the effect of a 12-week table tennis exercise on motor skills and executive functions in children with ADHD. Method: Fifteen children with ADHD received the intervention, whereas 15 children with ADHD and 30 typically developing children did not. The Test of Gross Motor Development–2, Stroop, and Wisconsin Card Sorting Test (WCST) were conducted before and after the intervention. Results: After the intervention, the ADHD training group scored significantly higher in the locomotor as well as object-control skills, Stroop Color–Word condition, and WCST total correct performance compared with the ADHD non-training group, and we noted improvements in the locomotor as well as object-control skills, Stroop Color–Word condition, and three aspects of the WCST performances of the ADHD training group over time. Conclusion: A 12-week table tennis exercise may have clinical relevance in motor skills and executive functions of children with ADHD.