bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Perioperative morbidity and outcome of esophageal surgery in dogs and cats: 72 cases (1993–2013)
Authors: Sutton Jessie S. , Culp William T. N. , Scotti Katherine , Seibert Rachel L. , Lux Cassie N. , Singh Ameet , Wormser Chloe , Runge Jeffrey J. , Schmiedt Chad W. , Corrie Jessica , Phillips Heidi , Selmic Laura E. , Nucci Daniel J. , Mayhew Philipp D. , Kass Philip H.
Published: September 2016

OBJECTIVE To evaluate perioperative morbidity and outcome in dogs and cats undergoing esophageal surgery.

DESIGN Retrospective case series.

ANIMALS 63 client-owned dogs and 9 client-owned cats.

PROCEDURES Medical records of dogs and cats that underwent esophageal surgery were reviewed for information on signalment, history, results of preoperative diagnostic testing, condition treated, details of surgery, intraoperative complications, and postoperative complications. Long-term follow-up data were obtained via veterinarian and client telephone conversations. The relationship between complications and survival to hospital discharge was evaluated by means of regression analysis.

RESULTS The most common indication for surgical intervention was an esophageal foreign body in dogs (50/63 [79%]) and esophageal stricture in cats (3/9). Complications were documented in 54% (34/63) of dogs and 3 of 9 cats. The most common immediate postoperative complications were respiratory in nature (9 dogs, 1 cat). Partial esophagectomy and resection with anastomosis were significantly associated with the development of immediate postoperative complications in dogs. The most common delayed postoperative complications were persistent regurgitation (7 dogs) and esophageal stricture formation (3 dogs, 1 cat). For dogs, a mass lesion and increasing lesion size were significantly associated with the development of delayed postoperative complications. Six dogs (10%) and 1 cat died or were euthanized prior to discharge, and pneumomediastinum and leukopenia were negative prognostic factors for dogs being discharged from the hospital.

CONCLUSIONS AND CLINICAL RELEVANCE Results of this study suggested that the short-term prognosis for dogs and cats that survive surgery for treatment of esophageal lesions is favorable, with 90% of patients discharged from the hospital (57/63 dogs; 8/9 cats). However, dogs treated for more extensive esophageal lesions as well as those undergoing esophagectomy or resection and anastomosis were more likely to develop postoperative complications.
Effectiveness of dexmedetomidine in reducing blood loss during middle ear surgery under general anaesthesia: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Sarkar Chiranjib , Bhattacharyya Chiranjib , Samal Rajiv , De Anisha , Bhar (Kundu) Sudeshna , Verma Arvind Kumar , Pal Suchismita
Published: September 2016

Background: Maintenance of relatively dry bloodless field is favoured by surgeons during middle ear surgery under operating microscope as it produces better visibility, ease of operation and reduces operating time. A highly selective alpha2 adrenergic agonist like dexmedetomidine, by virtue of its central sympatholytic, sedative and analgesic-sparing effect may provide such desired operating conditions.Methods: A randomised double-blind, placebo-controlled study was conducted to evaluate whether dexmedetomidine reduces blood loss in middle ear surgery under general anaesthesia and improve operative field visibility. Fifty-four patients aged 18-40 years, posted for elective middle ear surgeries were randomly divided into two groups. Patients of Group D (n=27) received dexmedetomidine in a loading dose of 1mcg/kg over 10 minutes before induction of anaesthesia followed by steady infusion at 0.4mcg/kg/hr. Group P (n=27) patients received corresponding volumes of normal saline as placebo. The operating surgeon assessed the intraoperative bleeding by a four-point Bleeding Score at the 10-minute interval and the Final Opinion on Bleeding Score at the end of surgery. For the test of statistical significance, a value of p less than 0.05 was chosen.Results: In Group D, the Bleeding Scores and the Final Opinion on Bleeding Score were significantly lower when compared with Group P (p < 0.05).Conclusions: Dexmedetomidine was found to significantly reduce intraoperative bleeding. This, in turn, improves operative field visibility and increases surgeon’s satisfaction during middle-ear surgery under general anaesthesia.
Randomized clinical trial of trapezius squeezing test and jaw thrust as optimal indicators for Laryngeal mask airway insertion in adults under propofol anesthesia
Authors: Khanal Sushil , Shrestha Bibhush , Amatya Roshana , Marhatta Moda Nath
Published: September 2016

Background: Laryngeal mask airway insertion requires a certain depth of anesthesia that blunts the airway reflexes. We compared the effectiveness of the trapezius squeezing test with that of the jaw thrust test as clinical indicators of adequate condition for laryngeal mask airway insertion in adults under propofol anesthesia.Methods: In this randomized study, seventy adult patients undergoing surgery with general anesthesia maintained with laryngeal mask airway were randomly allocated to the group T (trapezius squeezing, n = 35) or the group J (jaw thrust, n = 35). The laryngeal mask airway was inserted immediately after the loss of response to trapezius squeezing or jaw thrust.  We recorded successful and unsuccessful attempts. An unsuccessful attempt was defined as development of coughing, SPO2 < 90%, body movements during or within one minute of laryngeal mask airway insertion and failed insertion of laryngeal mask airway. Preparation time for laryngeal mask airway insertion, blood pressure, and heart rate were recorded.Results: The incidence of successful attempts was significantly higher in the group T than in the group J (p-value = 0.002). The time taken for preparation and insertion of laryngeal mask airway, arterial blood pressure and heart rate were comparable in both the groups.Conclusion: This study has demonstrated that the trapezius squeezing test is a superior indicator of an adequate condition for laryngeal mask airway insertion compared to the jaw thrust test in adults.
Anesthesiologists are like Maestro: A tribute to a Canadian well-wisher
Authors: Pradhan Bishwas
Published: September 2016

This article is a tribute to Clinical Associate Professor Dr Charles Leslie MacAdams from Foothills Hospital, Calgary, Canada
Prospective observational study on caudal epidural block for transurethral resection of prostate in patients with comorbidities
Authors: Paudel Bandana , Paudel Sumitra , Das Chitta Ranjan
Published: September 2016

Background: The most important goal of anaesthesia for geriatric patients with comorbid diseases is to maintain normal homoeostasis of different systems during and after surgery. This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the success rate and associated complications of the caudal epidural block for transurethral resection of prostate in elderly patients with comorbid diseases.Methods: This is a prospective study of a cohort of 100 elderly patients posted for transurethral resection of prostate with comorbid diseases belonging to American Society of anaesthesiologists physical status II, III and IV over a period of 1 year from April 2015 to April 2016. Standard recommended technique for caudal epidural block was followed. Time of onset, spread, duration of analgesia, intensity of block, complications, and unwanted effects were noted.Results: The mean age was 73.5+-7.69. Eighty-two percent patients belonged to ASA III and IV grade. The majority (87%) had excellent to a good quality of anaesthesia with no motor block. 83% of patients had the onset of analgesia between 5-15 minutes and 78% had a duration between 90-130 minutes. Three patients had patchy analgesia and they were considered as a failure. No death was encountered in the study.Conclusion: Caudal epidural block is a safe, effective anaesthetic technique for transurethral resection of the prostate in elderly with comorbid diseases of other systems.
Comparison of I-Gel and classic Laryngeal Mask Airway in paediatric population: a parallel group study
Authors: Sapkota Shanta , Hamal Pawan Kumar , Shah Malla Sadicchya
Published: September 2016

Background: I-gel, the novel Supraglottic airway device, is easier to insert, has improved stability after insertion with reduced tissue compression.The study aims to compare the efficacy of I-gel with classic Laryngeal Mask Airway in the paediatric population.Methods: A randomised parallel group study was done in Department of Anesthesiology, Kanti Children Hospital, Kathmandu for a period of three months. I gel and classic LMA was compared based on leak airway pressure, time of insertion and ease of insertion.Results: Age and weight are comparable among groups. Compared to cLMA, I-gel provides a better leak pressure seal (16.40+-3.42 vs. 23.11+- 6.17 cm of H2O, p 0.027), faster time of insertion (19.42+-4.40 vs. 29.84+-7.70 seconds, p-0.02) and similar ease of insertion (p-0.571).Conclusions: I-gel compared to classic Laryngeal Mask Airway provides better resistance to leak airway pressure, faster time of insertion with comparable ease of insertion.
Russia, State Capitalism and Arctic Degradation
Authors: Josephson Paul R.
Published: September 2016

The leaders of the USSR actively pursued Arctic exploration, settlement and resource exploitation. Working with scientists, engineers, settlers and local people, and using gulag labourers, they created the most urban Arctic environment in the world that focused on extractive industries – oil, gas, nickel, platinum, coal and others. Owing to a centrally-planned economy, forced settlement and unwavering determination to harness resources, they faced the constant threat of industrial accidents and pollution-borne illnesses; epidemiological surveys reveal significant life expectancy and infant mortality impacts. The break-up of the USSR left Arctic regions without the extensive subsidies of the Soviet era. But under Vladimir Putin, Russia has again determined to force Arctic development in support of state power. This essay will examine continuity and change in the efforts of Russian leaders from Stalin to Putin to develop rich Arctic resources and establish urban settlements and military bases across the Arctic Circle. It will consider the human and environmental costs of the state-sponsored effort, as well as fledgling efforts at remediation of persistent pollution and social problems.
Lactate Sensors on Flexible Substrates
Authors: Yang Xuesong , Fu Timothy , Kota Pavan , Tjia Maggie , Nguyen Cuong , Chiao Jung-Chih
Published: September 2016

Lactate detection by an in situ sensor is of great need in clinical medicine, food processing, and athletic performance monitoring. In this paper, a flexible, easy to fabricate, and low-cost biosensor base on lactate oxidase is presented. The fabrication processes, including metal deposition, sol-gel IrOx deposition, and drop-dry enzyme loading method, are described in detail. The loaded enzyme was examined by scanning electron microscopy. Cyclic voltammetry was used to characterize the sensors. Durability, sensibility, and selectivity of the biosensors were examined. The comparison for different electrode sizes and different sensing film materials was conducted. The sensor could last for four weeks with an average surface area normalized sensitivity of 950 nA/(cm2 mM) and 9250 nA/(cm2 mM) for Au-based electrodes, and IrOx-modified electrodes respectively, both with an electrode size of 100 × 50 μm. The self-referencing method to record noises simultaneously with the working electrode greatly improved sensor sensitivity and selectivity. The sensor showed little response to interference chemicals, such as glutamate and dopamine.
Empowering Energy Justice
Authors: Finley-Brook Mary , Holloman Erica
Published: September 2016

The U.S. is experiencing unprecedented movement away from coal and, to a lesser degree, oil. Burdened low-income communities and people of color could experience health benefits from reductions in air and water pollution, yet these same groups could suffer harm if transitions lack broad public input or if policies prioritize elite or corporate interests. This paper highlights how U.S. energy transitions build from, and contribute to, environmental injustices. Energy justice requires not only ending disproportionate harm, it also entails involvement in the design of solutions and fair distribution of benefits, such as green jobs and clean air. To what extent does the confluence of state, civic, and market processes assure “just” transitions to clean, low-carbon energy production involving equitable distribution of costs, benefits, and decision-making power? To explore this question we assess trends with (1) fossil fuel divestment; (2) carbon taxes and social cost of carbon measurements; (3) cap-and-trade; (4) renewable energy; and (5) energy efficiency. Current research demonstrates opportunities and pitfalls in each area with mixed or partial energy justice consequences, leading to our call for greater attention to the specifics of distributive justice, procedural justice, and recognition justice in research, policy, and action. Illustrative energy transition case studies suggest the feasibility and benefit of empowering approaches, but also indicate there can be conflict between “green” and “just”, as evident though stark inequities in clean energy initiatives. To identify positive pathways forward, we compile priorities for an energy justice research agenda based on interactive and participatory practices aligning advocacy, activism, and academics.
Identifying the Uncertainty in Physician Practice Location through Spatial Analytics and Text Mining
Authors: Shi Xuan , Xue Bowei , Xierali Imam
Published: September 2016

In response to the widespread concern about the adequacy, distribution, and disparity of access to a health care workforce, the correct identification of physicians’ practice locations is critical to access public health services. In prior literature, little effort has been made to detect and resolve the uncertainty about whether the address provided by a physician in the survey is a practice address or a home address. This paper introduces how to identify the uncertainty in a physician’s practice location through spatial analytics, text mining, and visual examination. While land use and zoning code, embedded within the parcel datasets, help to differentiate resident areas from other types, spatial analytics may have certain limitations in matching and comparing physician and parcel datasets with different uncertainty issues, which may lead to unforeseen results. Handling and matching the string components between physicians’ addresses and the addresses of the parcels could identify the spatial uncertainty and instability to derive a more reasonable relationship between different datasets. Visual analytics and examination further help to clarify the undetectable patterns. This research will have a broader impact over federal and state initiatives and policies to address both insufficiency and maldistribution of a health care workforce to improve the accessibility to public health services.
Synthesis of Novel Ether Thionocarbamates and Study on Their Flotation Performance for Chalcopyrite
Authors: Zhao Gang , Peng Jing , Zhong Hong , Wang Shuai , Liu Guangyi
Published: September 2016

Novel ether thionocarbamates, O-butoxy isopropyl-N-ethoxycarbonyl thionocarbamate (BIPECTC) and O-(2-butoxy-1-methylethoxy) isopropyl-N-ethoxycarbonyl thionocarbamate (BMIPECTC), were synthesized in this study. Their collecting efficiencies in the flotation of chalcopyrite were investigated using flotation tests, adsorption measurements, ultraviolet spectra (UV) and Fourier transform-infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and density functional theory (DFT) calculations. The synthesized ether thionocarbamates showed better frothing properties than methyl-isobutyl-carbinol (MIBC) and stronger affinity to chalcopyrite compared with O-isopropyl-N-ethyl thionocarbamate (IPETC) and O-isobutyl-N-ethoxycarbonyl thionocarbamate (IBECTC). UV spectra analysis showed that the ether thionocarbamates react with Cu2+, with the exception of Fe2+, Ni2+, Zn2+ and Pb2+. Additionally, it was further confirmed by FTIR spectra that a chemical reaction occurs between copper ion and BIPECTC and BMIPECTC. The adsorption capacity measurements revealed that chalcopyrite exhibits good adsorption ability for ether thionocarbamates at an approximate pH of 8–10, which agrees with the flotation tests. The quantum chemistry calculation results indicated that the ether thionocarbamates exhibit stronger collecting ability for copper mineral in terms of frontier molecular orbital analysis, binding model simulation with copper ions and the molecular hydrophobicity compared with IPETC and IBECTC. The computational results are in very good agreement with the experimental results.
Optimized Conditions for Passerini-Smiles Reactions and Applications to Benzoxazinone Syntheses
Authors: Martinand-Lurin Elodie , Dos Santos Aurélie , Robineau Emmanuelle , Retailleau Pascal , Dauban Philippe , Grimaud Laurence , El Kaïm Laurent
Published: September 2016

Initial conditions disclosed for the Passerini-Smiles reaction are associated with a lack of efficiency that has prevented chemists from using it since its discovery. We wish to report herein our thorough study in the development of new experimental conditions for this coupling between electron-poor phenols, isocyanides, and carbonyl derivatives. These new conditions have been applied to several synthetic strategies towards benzoxazinones.
Antiangiogenic Effects of VH02, a Novel Urea Derivative: In Vitro and in Vivo Studies
Authors: Phowichit Suwadee , Kobayashi Miho , Fujinoya Yuriko , Sato Yasufumi , Sanphanya Kingkarn , Vajragupta Opa , Chularojmontri Linda , Wattanapitayakul Suvara
Published: September 2016

Vascular endothelial growth factor receptor 2 (VEGFR2) is a vital target for therapeutic intervention in cancer. We have recently described a computer-based drug design for a small molecule VEGFR2 inhibitor named VH02 (1-((1-(1H-indazol-6-yl)-1H-1,2,3-triazol-4-yl)methyl)-3-(3-chloromethylphenyl)urea). This study aimed to further explore the anti-angiogenic activity of VH02 both in vitro and in vivo. The in vitro assays include cell viability, capillary-like tube formation, MMP activity, and western blot analyses of signaling through VEGFR2 while the in vivo anti-angiogenic response were performed to evaluate the effect on vascularization in Matrigel plug applied in C57BL/6L mice. VH02 reduced angiogenesis behavior of EA.hy926 including cell viability, migration, adhesion, capillary-like tube formation, and MMP-2 activity induced by VEGF. Furthermore, VH02 regulated angiogenesis by directly inhibiting VEGFR2 on Tyr1175 signaling pathway leading to the inhibition of Akt-mediated cell survival and migration. Disruption of phosphorylation at VEGFR2-Tyr1175 by VH02 abolished FAK-Tyr397 signaling but not phosphorylation of p38 MAPK. This suggests that blockade of FAK by VH02 apparently associated with reduction of endothelial cell motility. Actin cytoskeleton rearrangement was diminished by VH02 in human endothelial cells. The anti-angiogenic effect of VH02 was confirmed in the in vivo model, revealing the reduction of vascular density in Matrigel plug after VH02 treatment. Additionally, the pericyte-like cells surrounding blood vessels in the plugs were significantly reduced as well as vascular density and p-Akt intensity. Our findings indicate that VH02 successfully inhibits VEGF-induced angiogenesis both in vitro and in vivo models. The compound could be further developed as an antiangiogenesis agent for cancer therapy.
Effects of Dihydrophaseic Acid 3′-O-β-d-Glucopyranoside Isolated from Lycii radicis Cortex on Osteoblast Differentiation
Authors: Park Eunkuk , Kim Mun-Chang , Choi Chun , Kim Jeonghyun , Jin Hyun-Seok , Lee Ryunjin , Lee Ji-Won , Park Jin-Hyok , Huh Dam , Jeong Seon-Yong
Published: September 2016

Our previous study showed that ethanol extract of Lycii radicis cortex (LRC) prevented the loss of bone mineral density in ovariectomized mice by promoting the differentiation of osteoblast linage cells. Here, we performed fractionation and isolation of the bioactive compound(s) responsible for the bone formation–enhancing effect of LRC extract. A known sesquiterpene glucoside, (1′R,3′S,5′R,8′S,2Z,4E)-dihydrophaseic acid 3′-O-β-d-glucopyranoside (abbreviated as DPA3G), was isolated from LRC extract and identified as a candidate constituent. We investigated the effects of DPA3G on osteoblast and osteoclast differentiation, which play fundamental roles in bone formation and bone resorption, respectively, during bone remodeling. The DPA3G fraction treatment in mesenchymal stem cell line C3H10T1/2 and preosteoblast cell line MC3T3-E1 significantly enhanced cell proliferation and alkaline phosphatase activity in both cell lines compared to the untreated control cells. Furthermore, DPA3G significantly increased mineralized nodule formation and the mRNA expression of osteoblastogenesis markers, Alpl, Runx2, and Bglap, in MC3T3-E1 cells. The DPA3G treatment, however, did not influence osteoclast differentiation in primary-cultured monocytes of mouse bone marrow. Because osteoblastic and osteoclastic precursor cells coexist in vivo, we tested the DPA3G effects under the co-culture condition of MC3T3-E1 cells and monocytes. Remarkably, DPA3G enhanced not only osteoblast differentiation of MC3T3-El cells but also osteoclast differentiation of monocytes, indicating that DPA3G plays a role in the maintenance of the normal bone remodeling balance. Our results suggest that DPA3G may be a good candidate for the treatment of osteoporosis.
Promiscuous Effects of Some Phenolic Natural Products on Inflammation at Least in Part Arise from Their Ability to Modulate the Expression of Global Regulators, Namely microRNAs
Authors: Tili Esmerina , Michaille Jean-Jacques
Published: September 2016

Recent years have seen the exploration of a puzzling number of compounds found in human diet that could be of interest for prevention or treatment of various pathologies. Although many of these natural products (NPs) have long been used as remedies, their molecular effects still remain elusive. With the advent of biotechnology revolution, NP studies turned from chemistry and biochemistry toward global analysis of gene expression. Hope is to use genetics to identify groups of patient for whom certain NPs or their derivatives may offer new preventive or therapeutic treatments. Recently, microRNAs have gained the statute of global regulators controlling cell homeostasis by regulating gene expression through genetic and epigenetic regulatory loops. Realization that certain plant polyphenols can modify microRNA expression and thus impact gene expression globally, initiated new, mainly in vitro studies, in particular to determine phytochemicals effects on inflammatory response, whose exacerbation has been linked to several disorders including cancer, auto-immune, metabolic, cardiovascular and neuro-inflammatory diseases. However, very few mechanistic insights have been provided, given the complexity of genetic regulatory networks implicated. In this review, we will concentrate on data showing the potential interest of some plant polyphenols in manipulating the expression of pro- and anti-inflammatory microRNAs in pathological conditions.
The Extract of Aster Koraiensis Prevents Retinal Pericyte Apoptosis in Diabetic Rats and Its Active Compound, Chlorogenic Acid Inhibits AGE Formation and AGE/RAGE Interaction
Authors: Kim Junghyun , Jo Kyuhyung , Lee Ik-Soo , Kim Chan-Sik , Kim Jin
Published: September 2016

Retinal capillary cell loss is a hallmark of early diabetic retinal changes. Advanced glycation end products (AGEs) are believed to contribute to retinal microvascular cell loss in diabetic retinopathy. In this study, the protective effects of Aster koraiensis extract (AKE) against damage to retinal vascular cells were investigated in streptozotocin (STZ)-induced diabetic rats. To examine this issue further, AGE accumulation, nuclear factor-kappaB (NF-κB) and inducible nitric oxide synthase (iNOS) were investigated using retinal trypsin digests from streptozotocin-induced diabetic rats. In the diabetic rats, TUNEL (Terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase mediated dUTP Nick End Labeling)-positive retinal microvascular cells were markedly increased. Immunohistochemical studies revealed that AGEs were accumulated within the retinal microvascular cells, and this accumulation paralleled the activation of NF-κB and the expression of iNOS in the diabetic rats. However, AKE prevented retinal microvascular cell apoptosis through the inhibition of AGE accumulation and NF-κB activation. Moreover, to determine the active compounds of AKE, two major compounds, chlorogenic acid and 3,5-di-O-caffeoylquinic acid, were tested in an in vitro assay. Among these compounds, chlorogenic acid significantly reduced AGE formation as well as AGE/RAGE (receptor for AGEs) binding activity. These results suggest that AKE, particularly chlorogenic acid, is useful in inhibiting AGE accumulation in retinal vessels and exerts a preventive effect against the injuries of diabetic retinal vascular cells.
Efficient Data Gathering Methods in Wireless Sensor Networks Using GBTR Matrix Completion
Authors: Wang Donghao , Wan Jiangwen , Nie Zhipeng , Zhang Qiang , Fei Zhijie
Published: September 2016

To obtain efficient data gathering methods for wireless sensor networks (WSNs), a novel graph based transform regularized (GBTR) matrix completion algorithm is proposed. The graph based transform sparsity of the sensed data is explored, which is also considered as a penalty term in the matrix completion problem. The proposed GBTR-ADMM algorithm utilizes the alternating direction method of multipliers (ADMM) in an iterative procedure to solve the constrained optimization problem. Since the performance of the ADMM method is sensitive to the number of constraints, the GBTR-A2DM2 algorithm obtained to accelerate the convergence of GBTR-ADMM. GBTR-A2DM2 benefits from merging two constraint conditions into one as well as using a restart rule. The theoretical analysis shows the proposed algorithms obtain satisfactory time complexity. Extensive simulation results verify that our proposed algorithms outperform the state of the art algorithms for data collection problems in WSNs in respect to recovery accuracy, convergence rate, and energy consumption.
18 Million Cracks, but No Cigar: News Media and the Campaigns of Clinton, Palin, and Bachmann
Authors: Foster Shoaf Nicole , Parsons Tara
Published: September 2016

Decades of research within political science, political communication, and mass media found pervasive gender biased media coverage of female political candidates. However, recent research suggests that gender stereotypes do not have a consistent effect in all campaign environments and when gender stereotypes are not activated, female candidates are not disadvantaged. As a result, if we see a reduction in reliance on gender stereotypes in the media, female candidates should enjoy a more level playing field. In this analysis, we focus on mass media’s coverage of female candidates in elite executive political races. This study conducts a content analysis of media coverage of three recent women candidates for the United States’ highest executive offices: Senator Hillary Clinton, Congresswoman Michelle Bachmann, and Governor Sarah Palin. Our analysis of newspapers and television news coverage confirms the media do not discuss female and male candidates in neutral terms, but instead fall back onto traditional gender stereotypes and emphasize female candidates’ physical appearances and family roles far more frequently than they do for male candidates. This may, in turn, prime gender stereotypes in voters, impair candidates’ fundraising ability, and limit the electoral ambition of future generations of female candidates.
Sustainable Development in China’s Coastal Area: Based on the Driver-Pressure-State-Welfare-Response Framework and the Data Envelopment Analysis Model
Authors: Wang Song , Sun Caizhi , Li Xin , Zou Wei
Published: September 2016

The economic development of China’s coastal areas is being constrained by resources and the environment, with sustainable development being the key to solving these problems. The data envelopment analysis (DEA) model is widely used to assess sustainable development. However, indicators used in the DEA model are not selected in a scientific and comprehensive manner, which may lead to unrepresentative results. Here, we use the driver-pressure-state-welfare-response (DPSWR) framework to select more scientific and comprehensive indicators for a more accurate analysis of efficiency in China’s coastal area. The results show that the efficiencies of most provinces and cities in China’s coastal area have a stable trend. In the time dimension, efficiency was rising before 2008, after which it decreased. In the spatial dimension, China’s coastal provinces and cities are divided into three categories: high efficiency, low efficiency, and greater changes in efficiency. By combining DPSWR and DEA, we produce reliable values for measuring efficiency, with the benefit of avoiding the incomplete selection of DEA indicators.
Novel Therapeutic Transplantation of Induced Neural Stem Cells for Stroke
Authors: Yamashita Toru , Liu Wentao , Matsumura Yoshiaki , Miyagi Ryosuke , Zhai Yun , Kusaki Momoko , Hishikawa Nozomi , Ohta Yasuyuki , Kim Sung Min , Kwak Tae Hwan , Han Dong Wook , Abe Koji
Published: September 2016

Somatic cells can be directly converted into induced neural stem cells (iNSCs) by defined transcription factors. However, the therapeutic effect of undifferentiated iNSCs on ischemic stroke has not been demonstrated. In this study, we used a mouse model of transient middle cerebral artery occlusion (tMCAO). iNSCs (5 × 105) were injected directly into the ipsilateral striatum and cortex 24 h after tMCAO. Histological analysis was performed at 7 days, 28 days, and 8 months after tMCAO. We found that iNSC transplantation successfully improved the survival rate of stroke model mice with significant functional recovery from the stroke. The fate of engrafted iNSCs was that the majority of iNSCs had differentiated into astroglial cells but not into neural cells in both the sham-operated brain and the poststroke brain without forming a tumor up to 8 months after tMCAO. Our data suggest that the directly converted iNSCs can be regarded as a candidate of safe cell resource for transplantation therapy in patients suffering from ischemic stroke.
ON STABILITY ANALYSIS OF FINITE DIFFERENCE SCHEMES FOR GENERALIZED KURAMOTO-TSUZUKI EQUATION WITH NONLOCAL BOUNDARY CONDITIONS
Authors: Leonavičienė Teresė , Bugajev Andrej , Jankevičiūtė Gerda , Čiegis Raimondas
Published: September 2016

A general methodology for the stability analysis of discrete approximations of nonstationary PDEs is applied to solve the Kuramoto-Tsuzuki equation, including also the Schr¨odinger problem. Stability regions are constructed for the explicit, backward and symmetrical Euler schemes. The obtained results are applied to solve the Kuramoto-Tsuzuki problem with a non-local integral boundary condition. Results of computational experiments are provided.
ON DIFFERENT TYPE SOLUTIONS OF BOUNDARY VALUE PROBLEMS
Authors: Dobkevich Maria , Sadyrbaev Felix
Published: September 2016

We consider boundary value problems of the type x'' = f(t, x, x'), (∗) x(a) = A, x(b) = B. A solution ξ(t) of the above BVP is said to be of type i if a solution y(t) of the respective equation of variations y'' = fx(t, ξ(t), ξ' (t))y + fx' (t, ξ(t), ξ' (t))y' , y(a) = 0, y' (a) = 1, has exactly i zeros in the interval (a, b) and y(b) 6= 0. Suppose there exist two solutions x1(t) and x2(t) of the BVP. We study properties of the set S of all solutions x(t) of the equation (∗) such that x(a) = A, x'1(a) ≤ x' (a) ≤ x'2(a) provided that solutions extend to the interval [a, b].
Correlations of Regional Geotechnical Parameters on the Basis of CPTU and DMT Tests
Authors: Godlewski Tomasz , Wszędyrówny-Nast Małgorzata
Published: September 2016

The requirements for field research for Polish conditions demand proper dependences. Dependences based on more than 30 localizations for different genetic types of soils were derived for the area of Poland. Direct results from CPT, DMT and profiles from boreholes have been collected at the test sites for individual localization. For interpretation of results, dependences and diagrams of CPTU versus DMT were created. Correlations on the background of results from literature for different types of soils for numerous research areas were collected, with established dependences for Polish grounds conditions. Additionally some recommendations for the interpretation of the results from CPTU and DMT tests for analysed soils have been proposed.
Direct Shear Test: Normal and Tangential Stresses Evaluation According to Constant and Variable Shearing Area
Authors: Skuodis Šarūnas , Norkus Arnoldas
Published: September 2016

Investigations of soil shear strength properties for Baltic Sea shore sand along Klaipėda city is presented. Investigated sand angle of internal friction (φ) and cohesion (c) is determined via two different direct shear tests procedures. First procedure is standard and ordinary in geotechnical practice, when direct shear test is provided using constant shearing area. Second test procedure is different because shearing area according to horizontal displacement each test second is recalculated and reducing during horizontal movement. According to these two different testing procedures provided comparison of normal and tangential stresses.
The Boring Sounding of Alluvial Soils
Authors: Boldyrev Gennadii , Novichkov Gennadii
Published: September 2016

In article the description and results of in situ test of soils is resulted by of Russian drilling test (RDT). It involves several drilling parameters: torque, axial force, rotation speed, linear velocity, tip resistance for identifying soil strata of different strengths and for determining dependences between drilling parameters and soil deformation properties.
Probabilistic Approach to the Assessment of the Depth of Soil Freezing
Authors: Żurański Jerzy Antoni , Sobolewski Andrzej
Published: September 2016

The paper deals with the probabilistic method of the assessment of the depth of soil freezing. Annual (winter) maxima of the position of the zero centigrade temperature measured in the soil were approximated by Gumbel probability distribution. Its parameters were estimated using maximum likelihood method. Results received on the base of data from 2 meteorological stations and 30 years of observations, called as characteristic values of 50-year return period, refelect the influence of the climatic conditions on the freezing depth. On the other hand the soil structure and its conditions also play an important role in freezing. Nowadays they may be taken into account using correction coefficients. It is concluded that this methods is more precise than a method using so called air freezing index. Received results are not the same as given in the old Polish Standard. New analysis is currently being done.
Overconsolidation Ratio Determination of Cohesive Soil
Authors: Urbaitis Donatas , Lekstutytė Ieva , Gribulis Domas
Published: September 2016

In order to evaluate overconsolidation ratio (OCR) of soil, the necessity to restore them as much as possible to in situ conditions appears, because sometimes when it is not taken into account, mistakes could be made while interpreting mechanical – strength properties of the soil. According to the work purpose, overconsolidation ratio of the investigated soil was set by performing odometer test and the obtained values were compared with the OCR calculated from cone and seismic penetration data. When the tests were performed and data analysed, it was found that OCR values depends on soil occurance depth, strength characteristics and stress conditions. The OCR values decreases with the declination of the depth. As many authors noted in the literature – the upper part of the soil is consolidated abnormally, thereby we can see that in our work. When results are evaluate, we can conclude that all of the analysed soils was overconsolidation. That was demonstrated by calculations according static penetration, oedometer test and seismic waves results. OCR values differences between the laboratory and field tests can show low quality of soil sampling, also due to correlations which was applied.
Back-Calculation of Element Tests with a Rate Dependent Soft Soil Model
Authors: Yannie Jorge , Sivasithamparam Nallathamby
Published: September 2016

It is well known that soft clays are geo-materials with properties such as fabric, bonding and rate-dependency. The response observed when modelling complex boundary value problems will depend on the ability of the soil model to capture these features. This paper point out the importance of modelling anisotropy, de-structuration and rate-dependency for normally or slightly over-consolidated clays. In this study, samples from Bothkennar clay (Scotland) were simulated and compared to laboratory data. The constitutive model used in this paper is the recently developed Creep- SCLAY1S. The model could predict both qualitative and quantitative the tests results. Selection of the parameters from standard laboratory tests was a key step in the predictions. It was relevant to have different types of laboratory tests to derive a best set of parameters.
A 3D Shear Material Damping Model for Man-Made Vibrations of the Ground
Authors: Macijauskas Darius , Baars Stefan Van
Published: September 2016

In this article, a 3 dimensional shear damping constitutive soil model is presented. This model has been implemented as a user defined soil model for the Finite Element Method software of Plaxis 2D. Verification tests demonstrate a good agreement with the theoretical model. A pulse load on a circular area on a soil surface has been numerically modelled with this shear damping soil model and compared to the results obtained by using the Rayleigh damping. The shear damping model demonstrates a different physical behaviour of the soil, in comparison to the Rayleigh damping.
Design Sequence on The Base on Numerical Simulation and Experimental Testing of a Plane Frame Under Deformations of Piled Foundations
Authors: Tumosa Kęstutis , Samofalov Michail
Published: September 2016

In the paper the stress/strain state of a big-span transversal frame has been investigated. The frame has been acted by external loads and also by vertical and horizontal displacements at support joints. The frame has been selected from a real facility, built in Lithuania. Ground around the piles is soft, under piles toe the ground is the dense sand. Vibrated cast-in-place type of piles has been selected. Pressure of the steel pipe into the ground using the vibrator has been applied for installation. Each pile consists of two parts: the upper part is of 600 mm diameter and 2 m length, the last one of 380 mm diameter. After pile mounting the steel shell of the pipe is pulled out. In the paper some results of pile tests and distribution of stress/strain parameters of the frame under-ground and over-ground structural members are presented and analysed.
Interaction of Piles and Raft
Authors: Kull Tõnis , Mets Mait , Leppik Villu
Published: September 2016

The current article analyses model tests carried out at the laboratory of the Estonian University of Life Sciences. The behaviour or piles in soil was tested both with and without the raft. The tests showed that the raft influences the behaviour and bearing capacity of the pile foundations.
Spinnanker – Experiences with a New Foundation and Anchor System
Authors: Katzenbach Rolf , Leppla Steffen , Norkus Arnoldas , Okonek Peter
Published: September 2016

The Spinnanker is a new developed foundation and anchor system to lead forces into the subsoil. The Spinnanker can be installed almost on ervery type of terrain, even on steep slopes, in nearly all kinds of subsoil material. Based on comprehensive theoretical analysis and in-situ field tests the load deformation behaviour of the Spinnanker has been defined. Up to now more than 4,000 Spinnanker have been installed for permanent and temporary construction tasks. The Spinnanker consists of a steel plate and 6 or 12 steel bars with a length of up to 8 m. For the installation the steel bars are screwed into the subsoil. One person can install the Spinnanker in less than one hour without using any heavy equipment. The system does not need any concrete and can be removed totally without any parts remaining in the subsoil. The paper presents the theoretical approaches, the developed principle of the design and the application in engineering practice. For example the Spinnanker is used for anchoring and foundation of houses, farming and fabrication halls, slope stabilisation, auxiliary constructions (e.g. for overhead electricity line towers) and fixed-points for construction machines.
Settlement Analysis of Road and Storage Areas Based on Organic Soil Surcharged by Ash – Slag Layer
Authors: Meyer Zygmunt , Kowalow Mariusz , Wróbel-Hen Małgorzata
Published: September 2016

The outlet distance of large river, Odra in Poland is a place where large area of the terrain is made of peat. Those places are close to the river so the investors would like to use the area for industrial purpose having direct access to the waterways (cheap transport). One of the methods to reinforce the soft soil (peat) is consolidation. In the presented case the surcharging layer is made of fly ashes. The researches have been done at the Technical University of Szczecin that allow to formulate a mathematical description of peat consolidation in case when elasticity modulus of peat increases along with the consolidation process and the permeability coefficient for peat decreases. The method also allows to calculate the terminal settlement of the peat layer in a long time. The method was invented by Z. Meyer. The paper presents the method and the results of practical calculations in the case of peat from area of Szczecin – Skolwin close to Odra River in Poland.
Simulation of the Plug inside Open Steel Pipe Piles with Regards to Different Installation Methods
Authors: Labenski Johannes , Moormann Christian , Aschrafi Johannes , Bienen Britta
Published: September 2016

Open steel pipe piles are used for various applications in costal engineering and port structures and they are becoming increasingly more important for offshore structures. A plug formed during the installation of open steel pipe piles has an influence on the installation process of the steel pipe pile as well as on the final bearing behaviour and the pile resistance. Forming of the plug depends on different influences, e.g. the pile diameter, the soil conditions and the installation method. To obtain a better understanding of the formation of the plug and its consequences several experimental small-scale tests, experimental field tests and numerical simulations have been performed. But so far this phenomenon is not completely investigated yet. At the beginning of this paper a structured overview about the characterization of the plug as well as soil mechanical processes during the pile installation in non-cohesive soil are provided. Then, the results of a centrifuge study are shown. The focus of this paper is the numerical simulation of the installation process of impact and vibratory driven piles in non-cohesive soil to investigate the effect of plugging with regard to different installation methods. Centrifuge experimental results are utilized to validate the numerical model, which can provide detailed insights into the physical processes occurring in the soil but are difficult to measure in experiments. The numerical analyses hence illustrate zones of densification/loosening, which highlight the differences resulting from the installation methods.
Experimental Investigation into Internal Erosion Potential for Granular Filters
Authors: Israr Jahanzaib , Indraratna Buddhima , Rujikiatkamjorn Cholachat
Published: September 2016

Internal erosion is a phenomenon whereby the filtrates under the influence of significant seepage forces accompany the finer fraction from potential internally unstable filters (e.g. broadly- and gap-graded soil), occasionally rendering them ineffective. The filter assessment for internal erosion or instability potential is emphasized through particle size distribution based geometrical criteria ignoring the effect of compaction. In this study, the results of hydraulic gradient controlled internal erosion tests conducted over a wide range of compacted sand-gravel mixtures were used to analyse some of the available geometrical criteria, which interestingly showed partial success in assessing the filter’s internal erosion potential. It was revealed that the occurrence of internal erosion is a combined function of particle size distribution and the relative density of soils that had been ignored in many of the existing criteria. A comparison between the assessments obtained from some of the particle size based criteria and that from a constriction size based technique was reported for a large body of published data. It was observed that the latter criterion, which incorporates the effects of both particle size distribution and relative density of soils in tandem, could assess the reported test results with higher accuracy.
Comparative Study of Static and Dynamic Piles Load Tests Carried Out in Different Testing Sites in Vilnius City
Authors: Tumosa Kęstutis , Martinkus Vaidas
Published: September 2016

The current paper presents experimental results and analysis of static and dynamic load tests carried out in different undergoing construction sites in Vilnius city. The piles testing procedures, used equipment, as well as geological condition are presented and discussed. Furthermore, the conclusions of feasibility of used pile testing technique in particular testing sites are given.
RESEARCH OF SNOW MELTING MATERIALS PERFORMANCE EFFICIENCY FOR ROAD WINTER MAINTENANCE
Authors: Laurinavičius Alfredas , Čygas Donatas , Vaitkus Audrius , Ratkevičius Tomas , Bulevičius Matas , Mučinis Darjušas , Baltrušaitis Andrius
Published: September 2016

In 2012, the Lithuanian Road Administration initiated a three-year research project ‘The study of effective winter road maintenance of national significance roads in Lithuania’. The main purpose of this research was to optimize road maintenance in winter and to determine the most effective means of combating slippery conditions. The research project was carried out by two institutions: the Road Research Institute of the Faculty of Environmental Engineering of Vilnius Gediminas Technical University and JSC ‘Problematika’. JSC ‘Problematika’ conducted exploratory experiments, which were divided into two phases. In the first phase of the experiment, five different snow melting materials (Slipperiness Reducing Materials – SRMs) were investigated in the laboratory. Different test methods were used in this investigation. In the second phase of the experiment, three SRMs with different properties were selected, and experimental road sections were set up to determine the road slipperiness and the change in coating layer thickness over time concerning different environmental conditions, as well as different snow and ice layer thicknesses. An optical remote sensor of Road Condition Monitor (RCM 411) was used for friction measurements on the roads. This report covers the laboratory test results of five different SRMs, road slipperiness measurement results using three selected SRMs and their analysis, comparison of the performance efficiency of the most widely used SRMs in Lithuania and the tested SRMs under different environmental conditions.