bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Association between Peripheral Arterial Disease and Coronary Artery Disease among Tobacco User Diabetic Patients
Authors: Md Taimur Syed Dawood , Haq M Maksumul , Rashid MA , Ali SM Keramat , Shahjahan Md , Islam Farzana
Published: October 2017

Background: Peripheral arterial disease (PAD) is a marker of increased risk for cardiovascular events and of poorer prognosis in patients with coronary artery disease (CAD). The prevalence of unknown PAD amongst patients with ACS varies between studies according to the mode of diagnosis.Aims: To evaluate the prevalence of peripheral arterial disease (PAD) in diabetic ACS patients with or without tobacco user by using ankle brachial index (ABI).We also assess the probable predictors of PAD among these patients.Methodology: This prospective observational study was conducted in the Department of Cardiology, Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital and Research Institute, Dhaka, Bangladesh starting from 1st January 2016 to 30th April 2016 over a period of four months. A total of 60 patients were studied. They were grouped on the basis of their smoking habit. Diabetic patients with ACS and tobacco user (smoke and smoke less) in group I and without tobacco user in group II.Results: The mean age of the studied patients was 56.63 ± 8.95 years, range from 25-90 years. 73.30% was male and 26.70% was female. Twenty three patients of tobacco user in group-I (n=30) had peripheral artery disease and ten patients of group-II (n=30) had peripheral artery disease. It was statistically significant (p=0.003).Conclusion: There is correlation between peripheral arterial disease and coronary artery disease. Diagnosis and supervision of patients with PAD is important for preventing the local progression of the disease and effective secondary prevention of future coronary and cerebrovascular events.Bangladesh Heart Journal 2017; 32(1) : 3-9
Disparity in Coronary Artery Diameter in Diabetic and Nondiabetic Subjects undergoing Percutaneous Coronary Intervention in Bangladesh: A 2-Year Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Kabir CM Shaheen , Haq M Maksumul , Cader F Aaysha
Published: October 2017

Objective: Coronary arteries in diabetic patients were found to be narrower than in non-diabetic subjects. The aim of the study was to compare the coronary arteries diameter between diabetic and non-diabetic patients undergoing percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) using stent diameter for greater accuracy.Methods: This was a randomized observational study. From a dedicated database, we retrospectively analysed all consecutive patients of both gender who underwent PCI in the cardiac catheterization laboratory of Ibrahim Cardiac Hospital and Research Institute, Dhaka, Bangladesh, from January 2011 to December 2012. Patients who required left main coronary artery stenting were excluded from this study. Patients were divided into two groups; diabetics and non-diabetics. We calculated the coronary artery diameter according to the diameter of the stent, achieved at the final pressure at which the stent was deployed. The diameter which was achieved at a given atmospheric pressure was taken from the attached booklet provided with the stent packaging. If post dilatation was required then the diameter achieved by the non-compliant balloon after post dilatation was taken as the reference diameter of the artery.Results: A total of 571 patients, 333 in diabetic and 238 in non-diabetic group were included in the study. Proximal segments of left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery in diabetics and non-diabetics were 2.99±0.44 vs 3.14±0.50 mm (p=0.00) while mid and distal segments were 2.90±0.38 vs 3.10±0.42 mm (p=0.00) and 2.25±0.39 vs 2.42±0.45 mm (p=0.00) respectively. Various segments of proximal left Circumflex (LCx) coronary artery in diabetics and non-diabetics were 2.98±0.21 vs 3.01±0.25 mm (p=0.39) while distal circumflex were 2.35±0.40 vs 2.49±0.43 mm (p=0.00) respectively. Proximal segments of right coronary artery (RCA) in diabetic and nondiabetics were 3.0±0.28 vs 3.28±0.25 mm (p=0.00) while mid and distal segments were 2.97±0.26 vs 3.19±0.25 mm (p=0.00) and 2.43±0.51 vs 2.87±0.32 mm (p=0.00) respectively. The number of stents (1.34±0.87 vs 1.30±0.65; p=0.40) and type of stent utilized (DES & non DES: 87.3 & 12.7% vs 85.2 & 14.8%; p=0.50) between diabetic & non-diabetic groups were not significantly different; however the total stent length (23.1±13.3 vs 21.5±9.52 mm; p=0.03) in diabetic group was significantly longer.Conclusions: The diameter of LAD, distal circumflex and right coronary arteries were significantly narrower in diabetic than non-diabetic subjects.Bangladesh Heart Journal 2017; 32(1) : 23-28
International News Vol.31(1)
Authors: Chowdhury Saleha Begum
Published: October 2017

Abstract not availableBangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2016; Vol. 31(1) : 60
Prenatal Diagnosis
Authors: Begum Rashida
Published: October 2017

Abstract not availableBangladesh J Obstet Gynaecol, 2016; Vol. 31(2) : 61-62
Effect of Class Attendance on Medical Student's Academic Performance - An Observational Study
Authors: Ahmad Mushtaq , Rahman Farial Naima , Shawon Md Mozaharul Islam , Ali Mohammad
Published: October 2017

This cross sectional study was conducted at Armed Forces Medical College (AFMC), Dhaka from October 2015 to September 2016. A total of 475 students belonged to four different phase groups were selected as research sample. Research Data regarding academic results and class attendance was collected from records of training section of the college and different departments. A pre tested semi structured questionnaire was distributed to the students to get their opinion regarding attendance and absence in the classes. Data was analyzed in terms of percentage and Chi- Square test using SPSS- 20 version of software. Male and female student ratio in this study was 168(35.36%): 307(64.64%). Majority of male students 142(84.52%) and female 282(91.86 %) obtained eligibility level of attendance. Considering item examinations 139(97.88%) male and 269(95.39%) female students completed the items in due time. Among students with good attendance male 133 (93.66%) and female 269(95.39%) passed the Term final exams regularly. In Professional examinations 128(90.14%) male and 261(92.55%) female students with better attendance passed at first chance. Statistically result by Chi-Square test showed significant result. Considering reasons for presence in the class 475(100%) students said it is a requirement for qualification to sit for professional MBBS examinations, 472(99.37%) attended to get clear idea about topic of discussion, 471(99.16%) opted for getting chance for interaction with class teacher, 468(98.53%) gave opinion about getting suggestions and important questions for examination, 412(86.74%) found the topic interesting and 67(14.11%) attended class for avoiding fine for absence. Regarding absence in the class 54(11.37%) was sick, 51(10.74%) found the class boring, 44(9.26%) felt the topic boring, 41(8.63%) was busy otherwise, 37(7.79%) thought they could get notes from friends, 22(4.63%) was on leave and 17(3.58%) thought they could pass subject without attending the classes. Students with regular attendance in class generally have positive effect since they get benefit from having better examination results, higher self concept, higher standardized test scores and educational attainment.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2017;12(2): 58-63
Pregnancy Outcome after Cerclage for Cervical Incompetence at a Private Hospital of Dhaka
Authors: Khanam Shafeya , Rashid Maliha , Purobi Ayesha Siddika , Parvin Zebunnessa , Das Sanjoy Kumar , Naher Lutfun , Obayed Trifa , Hossain Parisa Salsabil
Published: October 2017

Miscarriage, particularly recurrent mid-trimester miscarriage is a distressful condition. This form of miscarriage and preterm birth appear to have some etiologies. An important etiology is cervical incompetence that describes a disorder in which painless cervical dilatation leads to recurrent second trimester pregnancy losses. Every year more than 10 million preterm birth occurs and more than 1 million baby die from this common complication of pregnancy. The incidence of true cervical insufficiency is estimated at less than 1% of the obstetric population. In the index pregnancy, findings indicative of possible cervical insufficiency include cervical funneling, cervical shortening, and overt cervical dilatation. The main objective of the study was to explore the benefit from cervical cerclage in pregnant women with cervical incompetence. This is a retrospective observational study conducted over a period of twelve months. All cases delivered in Central Hospital were assisted by consultant obstetricians, in which 16(61.5%) out of 26 cases were delivered by caesarean section. Miscarriage rate was 11.53%. Out of the caesarean deliveries 2(12.5%) were at term and 14(87.5%) were at preterm. In this study 3(21.42%) babies born at 32nd and 33rd weeks, 6(42.85%) at 34th week and 2(14.28%) were at 35th week. There was no fetal loss. Extreme low birth weight was only one, 7(43.75%) of the babies had normal body weight for the area of study, 8 babies (50%) had low birth weight. The cervical cerclage procedure therefore should be available more widely to benefit those patients with proven or strongly suspected cervical incompetence.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2017;12(2): 78-81
A case report of Evans Syndrome
Authors: Kamruzzaman Muhammad , Hossain Mohammad Iqbal , Islam MM Shahin Ul , Mohammad Arif Khan , Alam Md Towhid , Ali Md Yusuf
Published: October 2017

Evans syndrome is a haematological disorder characterized by the sequential or simultaneous development of direct antiglobulin test (DAT) positive autoimmune haemolytic anaemia (AIHA), immune thrombocytopenia (ITP) and/or immune neutropenia in the absence of a known aetiology. No sex predilection is known. It may occur in all ethnic groups and all ages. This condition generally runs a chronic course and is characterized by frequent exacerbations and remissions. Here we report a case of a female who presented with both acute decompensated anaemia & thrombocytopenia. She received total 5 bags blood within 10 days for correction of anaemia but patients condition was deteriorating. CBC with PBF showed features consistent with immune haemolytic anaemia with thrombocytopenia, marked roulaeux formation and reticulocytosis. Direct Coomb's test (DAT) was positive and Indirect coomb's test was (IAT) negative. Her general condition was improved after injection methyl prednisolone for 3 days followed by oral prednisolone. Follow up CBC showed increased haemoglobin and platelet count without blood transfusion.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2017;12(2): 88-91
Impact of Money, Interest Rate and Inflation on Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) of Bangladesh
Authors: Mahzabeen Shakira
Published: October 2017

In this study, the impact of money supply, interest rate and inflation on Dhaka Stock Exchange (DSE) of Bangladesh is explored. These macroeconomic variables are said to have strong impact on capital market. The purpose of this study is to find out if it is true for Dhaka Stock Exchange. For this purpose, data were collected for a period of twelve years from January 2001 to December 2012, on 144 variables. Broad money supply (M2) has been taken as a measure of money supply, 91-days T-bill has been taken as a measure of short-term interest rate and CPI general inflation rate (Base: 1995=100) has been taken as a measure of inflation rate. Apart from that many rules and regulations were reviewed. As to the relationship of the market indices, month-end DGEN Index and its percentage change were used in this paper. A unit root test has been done to see the stationarity of the variables because stationary data are needed for the analysis. A pairwise correlation matrix shows that there was no multicolinearity problem. A simple OLS regression indicates a relationship with money growth, interest rate. But Granger causality test shows that there is only a slight relationship with short term interest rate, nothing else. Overall though a short-run relationship is found between interest rate and market index; the relationship is not very strong. It is proposed that a study estimating long run impact of the explanatory variables should be taken up to know the full effect.Journal of Business and Technology (Dhaka) Vol.11(1-2) 2016; 41-54
Prioritising Dhakas Urban Transport System
Authors: Gallagher Robert
Published: October 2017

Abstract not availableJournal of Business and Technology (Dhaka) Vol.11(1-2) 2016; 141-144
Fast Frequency Acquisition and Phase Locking of Nonplanar Ring Oscillators
Authors: Wang Yunxiang , Wang Chen , Tao Yangping , Liu Yang , Zhou Qiang , Su Jun , Wang Zhiyong , Shi Shuangjin , Qiu Qi
Published: October 2017

Optical phase locking is a critical technique in space coherent optical communication and active coherent laser beam combining. In a typical optical phase locking loop based on nonplanar ring oscillators, the pull-in range is normally less than 1 MHz, limited by loop delay and frequency tuning bandwidth of the laser source. Phase locking cannot be achieved at large initial frequency differences. In this work, a fast laser frequency acquisition method is demonstrated. The frequency difference between the signal and local lasers was measured via frequency dividing and period counting, and the frequency control signal was generated by a frequency discrimination and control module, to reduce the frequency difference to the pull-in range of the loop. Under the coordinating function of the loop filter and the frequency discrimination and control module, phase locking under a large initial frequency difference was achieved. The frequency acquisition range reached 164 MHz, and the acquisition and locking time was measured to be 440 ms. Additionally, the acquisition time was shortened with the decrease in initial frequency difference.
Atmospheric Levels of Benzene and C1-C2 Carbonyls in San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon, Mexico: Source Implications and Health Risk
Authors: Cerón Bretón Julia Griselda , Cerón Bretón Rosa María , Kahl Jonathan D.W. , Lara-Severino Reyna del Carmen , Ramírez Lara Evangelina , Espinosa Fuentes María de la Luz , Rangel Marrón Marcela , Uc Chi Martha Patricia
Published: October 2017

Atmospheric benzene and carbonyls were studied in San Nicolas de los Garza, Nuevo Leon, during 2011 and 2012. The relative abundance for measured VOCs was the following: formaldehyde (9.06 µg m−3) > acetaldehyde (8.06 µg m−3) > benzene (0.65 µg m−3). All measured VOCs had a clear seasonal trend with higher values of concentration during summer. Benzene and formaldehyde had a marked diurnal trend with the highest levels during morning, whereas acetaldehyde did not show a clear diurnal pattern. Meteorological analysis showed that the dominant winds came from NNE and ENE, suggesting that sources located in these directions contribute to the VOC levels. Principal component analysis (PCA) analysis revealed that photochemical activity influenced benzene and carbonyl levels during summer and that benzene was associated with vehicular traffic emissions during autumn and winter, showing good correlation with CO. Meteorological data showed that measured VOCs were influenced by regional sources. A health risk assessment showed that local exposure to carbonyls and benzene exceeded 1 × 10−6 for integrated lifetime cancer risk. People living in San Nicolas de los Garza, thus, have a probable risk of suffering cancer in their lifetime. It is, therefore, necessary to improve environmental policies for controlling VOC levels in this area.
A Traditional Turkish Fermented Non-Alcoholic Beverage, “Shalgam”
Authors: Coskun Fatma
Published: October 2017

Shalgam is a traditional Turkish beverage produced by lactic acid fermentation. Shalgam is also sold in markets in some European cities. In shalgam production, bulgur flour (formed during the crushing process, it is the part that remains under the sieve after breaking the outer shells of boiled dried wheat for processing), salt, water, purple carrot, turnip, and sometimes red beet is used. The traditional method of production can take 10–12 days. Commercial production takes 4–5 days. Shalgam is a probiotic food and a good source of nutrients. It helps regulate the pH of the digestive system. It contains β-carotene, group B vitamins, calcium, potassium, and iron. People also use it as a medicine because of its antiseptic agents. Shalgam consumption should be increased and become worldwide.
Synthesis and Crystal Structure of a New Hydrated Benzimidazolium Salt Containing Spiro Structure
Authors: Zeng Wulan , Jiang Jinhe
Published: October 2017

A new hydrated benzimidazolium salt containing spiro structure was obtained when benzimidazole is added to ethyl alcohol of 1,5-dioxaspiro[5.5]undecane-2,4-dione and trimethoxymethane. The title compound (C19H21O8) (C7H7N2) (0.5H2O) was characterized by elemental analysis, IR, UV-Vis, and single-crystal X-ray diffraction. The result shows that it belongs to the triclinic system, space group P-1, with a = 11.017(2) Å, b = 11.424(2) Å, c = 11.650(2) Å, α = 70.60(3)°, β = 71.00(3)°, γ = 67.64(3)°, Mr = 505.51, V = 1245.2(5) Å, Z = 2, Dc = 1.348 g/cm3, F(000) = 534, μ(MoKa) = 0.102 mm−1. There exist two types of hydrogen bonds in the crystal. (C19H21O8)− anions and (C7H7N2)+ cations are linked by N–H···O hydrogen bonds, while (C19H21O8)− anions and free water are linked by O–H···O hydrogen bonds. All of the above hydrogen bonds form a one-dimensional (1D)-chained structure. The 1D chains further links the molecule into a three-dimensional (3D)-layered structure.
Methods for Calculating Empires in Quasicrystals
Authors: Fang Fang , Hammock Dugan , Irwin Klee
Published: October 2017

This paper reviews the empire problem for quasiperiodic tilings and the existing methods for generating the empires of the vertex configurations in quasicrystals, while introducing a new and more efficient method based on the cut-and-project technique. Using Penrose tiling as an example, this method finds the forced tiles with the restrictions in the high dimensional lattice (the mother lattice) that can be cut-and-projected into the lower dimensional quasicrystal. We compare our method to the two existing methods, namely one method that uses the algorithm of the Fibonacci chain to force the Ammann bars in order to find the forced tiles of an empire and the method that follows the work of N.G. de Bruijn on constructing a Penrose tiling as the dual to a pentagrid. This new method is not only conceptually simple and clear, but it also allows us to calculate the empires of the vertex configurations in a defected quasicrystal by reversing the configuration of the quasicrystal to its higher dimensional lattice, where we then apply the restrictions. These advantages may provide a key guiding principle for phason dynamics and an important tool for self error-correction in quasicrystal growth.
Synthesis, Crystal Structure and Catalytic Activity of a Novel Ba(II) Complex with Pyridine-2-Carboxaldehyde-2-Phenylacetic Acid Hydrazone Ligand
Authors: Wang Li-Hua , Tai Xi-Shi , Liu Li-Li , Li Peng-Fei
Published: October 2017

A novel Ba(II) complex, [BaL2Cl2] (1) (L = pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde-2-phenylacetic acid hydrazone), has been synthesized using BaCl2, pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde and 2-phenylacetohydrazide as raw materials. The structure of 1 has been determined by elemental analysis and X-ray single-crystal diffraction technique. X-ray structural analysis showed that the Ba(II) complex (1) crystallizes in monoclinic, space group P21/c with cell parameters: a = 12.464(3) Å, b = 13.531(3) Å, c = 8.8035(18) Å, β = 95.06(3)°. In 1, the Ba(II) atom is eight-coordinated in a distorted doubly-capped octahedral geometry through four N atoms and two O atoms from two different pyridine-2-carboxaldehyde-2-phenylacetic acid hydrazone ligands and two Cl−. The complex (1) forms a 3D network structure by the interaction of intermolecular N-H···Cl hydrogen bonds and π···π stacking of neighboring pyridine rings and benzene rings. The optimum conditions for the benzyl alcohol oxidation reaction using the Ba(II) complex as catalyst was investigated.
Estimating the Value of Price Risk Reduction in Energy Efficiency Investments in Buildings
Authors: Tuominen Pekka , Seppänen Tuomas
Published: October 2017

This paper presents a method for calculating the value of price risk reduction to a consumer that can be achieved with investments in energy efficiency. The value of price risk reduction is discussed to some length in general terms in the literature reviewed but, so far, no methodology for calculating the value has been presented. Here we suggest such a method. The problem of valuating price risk reduction is approached using a variation of the Black–Scholes model by considering a hypothetical financial instrument that a consumer would purchase to insure herself against unexpected price hikes. This hypothetical instrument is then compared with an actual energy efficiency investment that reaches the same level of price risk reduction. To demonstrate the usability of the method, case examples are calculated for typical single-family houses in Finland. The results show that the price risk entailed in household energy consumption can be reduced by a meaningful amount with energy efficiency investments, and that the monetary value of this reduction can be calculated. It is argued that this often-overlooked benefit of energy efficiency investments merits more consideration in future studies.
Towards Cost and Comfort Based Hybrid Optimization for Residential Load Scheduling in a Smart Grid
Authors: Javaid Nadeem , Ahmed Fahim , Ullah Ibrar , Abid Samia , Abdul Wadood , Alamri Atif , Almogren Ahmad
Published: October 2017

In a smart grid, several optimization techniques have been developed to schedule load in the residential area. Most of these techniques aim at minimizing the energy consumption cost and the comfort of electricity consumer. Conversely, maintaining a balance between two conflicting objectives: energy consumption cost and user comfort is still a challenging task. Therefore, in this paper, we aim to minimize the electricity cost and user discomfort while taking into account the peak energy consumption. In this regard, we implement and analyse the performance of a traditional dynamic programming (DP) technique and two heuristic optimization techniques: genetic algorithm (GA) and binary particle swarm optimization (BPSO) for residential load management. Based on these techniques, we propose a hybrid scheme named GAPSO for residential load scheduling, so as to optimize the desired objective function. In order to alleviate the complexity of the problem, the multi dimensional knapsack is used to ensure that the load of electricity consumer will not escalate during peak hours. The proposed model is evaluated based on two pricing schemes: day-ahead and critical peak pricing for single and multiple days. Furthermore, feasible regions are calculated and analysed to develop a relationship between power consumption, electricity cost, and user discomfort. The simulation results are compared with GA, BPSO and DP, and validate that the proposed hybrid scheme reflects substantial savings in electricity bills with minimum user discomfort. Moreover, results also show a phenomenal reduction in peak power consumption.
Two-Stage Electricity Demand Modeling Using Machine Learning Algorithms
Authors: Gajowniczek Krzysztof , Ząbkowski Tomasz
Published: October 2017

Forecasting of electricity demand has become one of the most important areas of research in the electric power industry, as it is a critical component of cost-efficient power system management and planning. In this context, accurate and robust load forecasting is supposed to play a key role in reducing generation costs, and deals with the reliability of the power system. However, due to demand peaks in the power system, forecasts are inaccurate and prone to high numbers of errors. In this paper, our contributions comprise a proposed data-mining scheme for demand modeling through peak detection, as well as the use of this information to feed the forecasting system. For this purpose, we have taken a different approach from that of time series forecasting, representing it as a two-stage pattern recognition problem. We have developed a peak classification model followed by a forecasting model to estimate an aggregated demand volume. We have utilized a set of machine learning algorithms to benefit from both accurate detection of the peaks and precise forecasts, as applied to the Polish power system. The key finding is that the algorithms can detect 96.3% of electricity peaks (load value equal to or above the 99th percentile of the load distribution) and deliver accurate forecasts, with mean absolute percentage error (MAPE) of 3.10% and resistant mean absolute percentage error (r-MAPE) of 2.70% for the 24 h forecasting horizon.
Evaluation of Economic, Social and Environmental Effects of Low-Emission Energy Technologies Development in Poland: A Multi-Criteria Analysis with Application of a Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (FAHP)
Authors: Ligus Magdalena
Published: October 2017

The European Commission as well as the Polish government are promoting sustainable use of energy sources as a part of the dominating sustainable development paradigm. The development of low-emission energy sources engages the challenges of gradual depletion of coal, oil and natural gas reserves, as well as the intensification of the greenhouse effect. The energy policy should take into account development of low-emission energy technologies that contribute mostly to meeting the goals of sustainable development in three dimensions: economic, social and environmental. This study aims to assess the extent to which five low-emission energy technologies contribute to social welfare in the scope of the concept of sustainable development. Heuristic methods, including fuzzy analytic hierarchy process (FAHP) are used to resolve the multi-goal problem in order to achieve the aim of this research. Research results show that economic goal is still the most important to the development of various low-emission energy technologies in Poland, followed by the social and environmental goals. Secondly, renewable energy technologies should be utilized instead of nuclear energy to meet sustainable development policy goals. Photovoltaics, followed by biomass and biogas are perceived as the most suitable renewable energy sources. Wind on-shore and wind of-shore are on third and fourth place, respectively.
A Novel Design Method for the Geometric Shapes of Flux Modulation Poles in the Surface-Mounted Permanent Magnet Vernier Machines
Authors: Jang Daekyu , Chang Junghwan
Published: October 2017

This paper presents a novel approach to determine geometric shapes of flux modulation poles (FMPs) by using the analytical equations for flux density distribution due to armature windings. The magnetic field by the windings is modulated by the FMPs. Then, the resulting magnetic field produces the torque by interacting with the rotor permanent magnets (PMs). Thus, to improve the output power of the machine, the FMP shape should be optimized in terms of the magnetic flux modulation. To do so, the permeance function which can consider the changes of the geometric parameters for the FMPs is defined using the Fourier series analysis method. Consequently, the working harmonic, which is the spatial harmonic of the air-gap magnetic field due to the windings and creates the torque, is given as the function of the geometric variables. The optimal set of design variables to maximize the working harmonic in the analytical equation is obtained by employing the genetic algorithm. The finite element analysis results show that the proposed method improves the output torque of the surface-mounted permanent magnet vernier (SPMV) machines up to 31%. In addition, the torque ripple can be minimized by regulating the harmonic components of the permeance in the analytical equations.
Gas-In-Place Estimate for Potential Gas Hydrate Concentrated Zone in the Kumano Basin, Nankai Trough Forearc, Japan
Authors: Taladay Katie , Boston Brian , Moore Gregory
Published: October 2017

Methane hydrate concentrated zones (MHCZs) have become targets for energy exploration along continental margins worldwide. In 2013, exploratory drilling in the eastern Nankai Trough at Daini Atsumi Knoll confirmed that MHCZs tens of meters thick occur directly above bottom simulating reflections imaged in seismic data. This study uses 3-dimensional (3D) seismic and borehole data collected from the Kumano Basin offshore Japan to identify analogous MHCZs. Our survey region is located ~100 km southwest of the Daini Atsumi Knoll, site of the first offshore gas hydrate production trial. Here we provide a detailed analysis of the gas hydrate system within our survey area of the Kumano forearc including: (1) the 3D spatial distribution of bottom simulating reflections; (2) a thickness map of potential MHCZs; and (3) a volumetric gas-in-place estimate for these MHCZs using constraints from our seismic interpretations as well as previously collected borehole data. There is evidence for two distinct zones of concentrated gas hydrate 10–90 m thick, and we estimate that the amount of gas-in-place potentially locked up in these MHCZs is 1.9–46.3 trillion cubic feet with a preferred estimate of 15.8 trillion cubic feet.
Rapid Urban Growth in the Kathmandu Valley, Nepal: Monitoring Land Use Land Cover Dynamics of a Himalayan City with Landsat Imageries
Authors: Ishtiaque Asif , Shrestha Milan , Chhetri Netra
Published: October 2017

The Kathmandu Valley of Nepal epitomizes the growing urbanization trend spreading across the Himalayan foothills. This metropolitan valley has experienced a significant transformation of its landscapes in the last four decades resulting in substantial land use and land cover (LULC) change; however, no major systematic analysis of the urbanization trend and LULC has been conducted on this valley since 2000. When considering the importance of using LULC change as a window to study the broader changes in socio-ecological systems of this valley, our study first detected LULC change trajectories of this valley using four Landsat images of the year 1989, 1999, 2009, and 2016, and then analyzed the detected change in the light of a set of proximate causes and factors driving those changes. A pixel-based hybrid classification (unsupervised followed by supervised) approach was employed to classify these images into five LULC categories and analyze the LULC trajectories detected from them. Our results show that urban area expanded up to 412% in last three decades and the most of this expansion occurred with the conversions of 31% agricultural land. The majority of the urban expansion happened during 1989–2009, and it is still growing along the major roads in a concentric pattern, significantly altering the cityscape of the valley. The centrality feature of Kathmandu valley and the massive surge in rural-to-urban migration are identified as the primary proximate causes of the fast expansion of built-up areas and rapid conversions of agricultural areas.
Intra-Annual Variation of Stem Radius of Larix principis-rupprechtii and Its Response to Environmental Factors in Liupan Mountains of Northwest China
Authors: Liu Zebin , Wang Yanhui , Tian Ao , Yu Pengtao , Xiong Wei , Xu Lihong , Wang Yarui
Published: October 2017

Fine-resolution studies on the stem radius variation at short timescale can provide useful information about the tree growth process and the major environmental variables that trigger and drive stem radius variation. This study investigated the stem radius variation of Larix principis-rupprechtii Mayr growing in the semi-humid Liupan Mountains of Northwest China at daily and seasonal scales using high-resolution automatic band dendrometers from May to October in 2015. The results showed that the stem radius variation of Larix principis-rupprechtii has a clear diurnal pattern which can be divided into contraction, recovery, and increment phases; and also a seasonal pattern which can be divided into three stages: (1) the rapid growth stage in spring (stage 1) with the radius increment of 94.0% of the total in the entire growing period; (2) the persistent shrinkage stage in the dry summer (stage 2) with a negative diurnal radius increment for most days, and a significantly larger amplitude of stem contraction and recovery than other stages; (3) the minimal growth stage in autumn (stage 3), mainly caused by the lowering temperature and leaf area. The amplitude of stem contraction was significantly correlated with air temperature (both the mean and highest value) in all three stages: vapor pressure deficit (VPD) in stage 1; relative humidity (RH), VPD and soil moisture (Ms) in stage 2; and soil temperature (Ts) in stage 3. This indicates that the stem radius contraction was mainly controlled by the factors influencing tree transpiration rate in spring and autumn stages, but jointly controlled by the factors influencing both the tree transpiration rate and the soil moisture availability in the dry summer stage. The factors controlling the stem radius recovery was similar to the stem contraction. The amplitude of stem increment was significantly correlated with the rainfall amount and air temperature (both the mean and highest value) in stage 1 and 3, Ms in stage 2, and the lowest air temperature and Ts in stage 3. This indicates that temperature and precipitation were the key factors controlling the stem radius increment in the spring and autumn stages, and soil moisture was the main factor limiting the stem radius increment in the dry summer stage at the study site with semi-humid climate in Northwest China.
Forest Harvest Patterns on Private Lands in the Cascade Mountains, Washington, USA
Authors: Soulard Christopher , Walker Jessica , Griffith Glenn
Published: October 2017

Forests in Washington State generate substantial economic revenue from commercial timber harvesting on private lands. To investigate the rates, causes, and spatial and temporal patterns of forest harvest on private tracts throughout the Cascade Mountains, we relied on a new generation of annual land-use/land-cover (LULC) products created from the application of the Continuous Change Detection and Classification (CCDC) algorithm to Landsat satellite imagery collected from 1985 to 2014. We calculated metrics of landscape pattern using patches of intact and harvested forest in each annual layer to identify changes throughout the time series. Patch dynamics revealed four distinct eras of logging trends that align with prevailing regulations and economic conditions. We used multiple logistic regression to determine the biophysical and anthropogenic factors that influence fine-scale selection of harvest stands in each time period. Results show that private lands forest cover became significantly reduced and more fragmented from 1985 to 2014. Variables linked to parameters of site conditions, location, climate, and vegetation greenness consistently distinguished harvest selection for each distinct era. This study demonstrates the utility of annual LULC data for investigating the underlying factors that influence land cover change.
The Effect of Re-Planting Trees on Soil Microbial Communities in a Wildfire-Induced Subalpine Grassland
Authors: Chang Ed-Haun , Tian Guanglong , Chiu Chih-Yu
Published: October 2017

Wildfire often causes tremendous changes in ecosystems, particularly in subalpine and alpine areas, which are vulnerable due to severe climate conditions such as cold temperature and strong wind. This study aimed to clarify the effect of tree re-planting on ecosystem services such as the soil microbial community after several decades. We compared the re-planted forest and grassland with the mature forest as a reference in terms of soil microbial biomass C and N (Cmic and Nmic), enzyme activities, phospholipid fatty acids (PLFA) composition, and denaturing gradient gel electrophoresis (DGGE). The Cmic and Nmic did not differ among the grassland, re-planted forest and mature forest soil; however, ratios of Cmic/Corg and Nmic/Ntot decreased from the grassland to re-planted forest and mature forest soil. The total PLFAs and those attributed to bacteria and Gram-positive and Gram-negative bacteria did not differ between the re-planted forest and grassland soil. Principle component analysis of the PLFA content separated the grassland from re-planted forest and mature forest soil. Similarly, DGGE analysis revealed changes in both bacterial and fungal community structures with changes in vegetation. Our results suggest that the microbial community structure changes with the re-planting of trees after a fire event in this subalpine area. Recovery of the soil microbial community to the original state in a fire-damaged site in a subalpine area may require decades, even under a re-planted forest.
Vibrio Pathogens: A Public Health Concern in Rural Water Resources in Sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Osunla Charles , Okoh Anthony
Published: October 2017

Members of the Vibrio genus are autochthonous inhabitants of aquatic environments and play vital roles in sustaining the aquatic milieu. The genus comprises about 100 species, which are mostly of marine or freshwater origin, and their classification is frequently updated due to the continuous discovery of novel species. The main route of transmission of Vibrio pathogens to man is through drinking of contaminated water and consumption inadequately cooked aquatic food products. In sub-Saharan Africa and much of the developing world, some rural dwellers use freshwater resources such as rivers for domestic activities, bathing, and cultural and religious purposes. This review describes the impact of inadequately treated sewage effluents on the receiving freshwater resources and the associated risk to the rural dwellers that depends on the water. Vibrio infections remain a threat to public health. In the last decade, Vibrio disease outbreaks have created alertness on the personal, economic, and public health uncertainties associated with the impact of contaminated water in the aquatic environment of sub-Saharan Africa. In this review, we carried out an overview of Vibrio pathogens in rural water resources in Sub-Saharan Africa and the implication of Vibrio pathogens on public health. Continuous monitoring of Vibrio pathogens among environmental freshwater and treated effluents is expected to help reduce the risk associated with the early detection of sources of infection, and also aid our understanding of the natural ecology and evolution of Vibrio pathogens.
Analysis of Transmission and Control of Tuberculosis in Mainland China, 2005–2016, Based on the Age-Structure Mathematical Model
Authors: Zhao Yu , Li Mingtao , Yuan Sanling
Published: October 2017

Tuberculosis (TB), an air-borne infectious disease, is a major public-health problem in China. The reported number of the active tuberculosis cases is about one million each year. The morbidity data for 2005–2012 reflect that the difference in morbidity based on age group is significant, thus the role of age-structure on the transmission of TB needs to be further developed. In this work, based on the reported data and the observed morbidity characteristics, we propose a susceptible-exposed-infectious-recovered (SEIR) epidemic model with age groupings, involving three categories: children, the middle-aged, and senior to investigate the role of age on the transmission of tuberculosis in Mainland China from 2005 to 2016. Then, we evaluated the parameters by the Least Square method and simulated the model and it had good alignment with the reported infected TB data in Mainland China. Furthermore, we estimated the basic reproduction number R0 of 1.7858, with an obtained 95% confidence interval for R0 of (1.7752, 1.7963) by Latin hypercube sampling, and we completed a sensitivity analysis of R0 in terms of some parameters. Our study demonstrates that diverse age groups have different effects on TB. Two effective measures were found that would help reach the goals of theWorld Health Organization (WHO) End TB Strategy: an increase in the recovery rate and the reduction in the infectious rate of the senior age group.
Relationships among Environment, Climate, and Longevity in China
Authors: Huang Yi , Rosenberg Mark , Hou Lingli , Hu Mengjin
Published: October 2017

Human longevity is influenced by environment and nutrition. We considered environmental and nutritional factors relating to longevity in Chinese cities. We found higher 85+/65+ distribution ratios, indicating enhanced longevity, in the coastal and southern regions of China. These areas also featured higher humidity, low standard deviation of monthly temperature, higher levels of selenium (Se) distribution in soil, and greater sea fish consumption. Moderate climate is more conducive to longevity, however, there is no significant difference in longevity between different sub-climatic types within moderate climate; the relation between humidity and longevity is not always positive, the relation between altitude and longevity is not always negative. Nutritional factors like Se and omega-3 fatty acids contained in sea fish were crucial to longevity. In contrast, the consumption of meat and freshwater fish were less related to longevity. Taken together, humidity, altitude, and per capita sea fish consumption, when evaluated via geographically weighted regression, explained 66% and 68% of longevity among Chinese individuals in 2000 and 2010, respectively. Other factors require further discussion.
Achiral Mannich-Base Curcumin Analogs Induce Unfolded Protein Response and Mitochondrial Membrane Depolarization in PANC-1 Cells
Authors: Szebeni Gábor J. , Balázs Árpád , Madarász Ildikó , Pócz Gábor , Ayaydin Ferhan , Kanizsai Iván , Fajka-Boja Roberta , Alföldi Róbert , Hackler Jr. László , Puskás László G.
Published: October 2017

Achiral Mannich-type curcumin analogs have been synthetized and assayed for their cytotoxic activity. The anti-proliferative and cytotoxic activity of curcuminoids has been tested on human non-small-cell lung carcinoma (A549), hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) and pancreatic cancer cell line (PANC-1). Based on the highest anti-proliferative activity nine drug candidates were further tested and proved to cause phosphatidylserine exposure as an early sign of apoptosis. Curcumin analogs with the highest apoptotic activity were selected for mechanistic studies in the most sensitive PANC-1 cells. Cytotoxic activity was accompanied by cytostatic effect since curcumin and analogs treatment led to G0/G1 cell cycle arrest. Moreover, cytotoxic effect could be also detected via the accumulation of curcuminoids in the endoplasmic reticulum (ER) and the up-regulation of ER stress-related unfolded protein response (UPR) genes: HSPA5, ATF4, XBP1, and DDIT3. The activated UPR induced mitochondrial membrane depolarization, caspase-3 activation and subsequent DNA breakdown in PANC-1 cells. Achiral curcumin analogs, C509, C521 and C524 possessed superior, 40-times more potent cytotoxic activity compared to natural dihydroxy-dimetoxycurcumin in PANC-1 cells.
Aquaporin-3 in Cancer
Authors: Marlar Saw , Jensen Helene H. , Login Frédéric H. , Nejsum Lene N.
Published: October 2017

Increasing evidence suggests that the water/glycerol channel aquaporin-3 (AQP3) plays a pivotal role in cancer metastasis. AQP3 knockout mice were resistant to skin tumor formation and overexpression correlated with metastasis and poor prognosis in patients with breast or gastric cancer. In cultured cancer cells, increased AQP3 expression stimulated several intracellular signaling pathways and resulted in increased cell proliferation, migration, and invasion as well as aggravation of epithelial-to-mesenchymal transition. Besides AQP facilitated water transport at the leading edge of migrating cells, AQP3 signaling mechanisms are beginning to be unraveled. Here, we give a thorough review of current knowledge regarding AQP3 expression in cancer and how AQP3 contributes to cancer progression via signaling that modulates cellular mechanisms. This review article will expand our understanding of the known pathophysiological findings regarding AQP3 in cancer.
Evolution Analysis of the Aux/IAA Gene Family in Plants Shows Dual Origins and Variable Nuclear Localization Signals
Authors: Wu Wentao , Liu Yaxue , Wang Yuqian , Li Huimin , Liu Jiaxi , Tan Jiaxin , He Jiadai , Bai Jingwen , Ma Haoli
Published: October 2017

The plant hormone auxin plays pivotal roles in many aspects of plant growth and development. The auxin/indole-3-acetic acid (Aux/IAA) gene family encodes short-lived nuclear proteins acting on auxin perception and signaling, but the evolutionary history of this gene family remains to be elucidated. In this study, the Aux/IAA gene family in 17 plant species covering all major lineages of plants is identified and analyzed by using multiple bioinformatics methods. A total of 434 Aux/IAA genes was found among these plant species, and the gene copy number ranges from three (Physcomitrella patens) to 63 (Glycine max). The phylogenetic analysis shows that the canonical Aux/IAA proteins can be generally divided into five major clades, and the origin of Aux/IAA proteins could be traced back to the common ancestor of land plants and green algae. Many truncated Aux/IAA proteins were found, and some of these truncated Aux/IAA proteins may be generated from the C-terminal truncation of auxin response factor (ARF) proteins. Our results indicate that tandem and segmental duplications play dominant roles for the expansion of the Aux/IAA gene family mainly under purifying selection. The putative nuclear localization signals (NLSs) in Aux/IAA proteins are conservative, and two kinds of new primordial bipartite NLSs in P. patens and Selaginella moellendorffii were discovered. Our findings not only give insights into the origin and expansion of the Aux/IAA gene family, but also provide a basis for understanding their functions during the course of evolution.
PARP1 in Carcinomas and PARP1 Inhibitors as Antineoplastic Drugs
Authors: Wang Luyao , Liang Chao , Li Fangfei , Guan Daogang , Wu Xiaoqiu , Fu Xuekun , Lu Aiping , Zhang Ge
Published: October 2017

Poly (ADP-ribose) polymerase 1 (PARP1), the best-studied isoform of the nuclear enzyme PARP family, plays a pivotal role in cellular biological processes, such as DNA repair, gene transcription, and so on. PARP1 has been found to be overexpressed in various carcinomas. These all indicate the clinical potential of PARP1 as a therapeutic target of human malignancies. Additionally, multiple preclinical research studies and clinical trials demonstrate that inhibition of PARP1 can repress tumor growth and metastasis. Up until now, PARP1 inhibitors are clinically used not only for monotherapy to suppress various tumors, but also for adjuvant therapy, to maintain or enhance therapeutic effects of mature antineoplastic drugs, as well as protect patients from chemotherapy and surgery-induced injury. To supply a framework for understanding recent research progress of PARP1 in carcinomas, we review the structure, expression, functions, and mechanisms of PARP1, and summarize the clinically mature PARP1-related anticancer agents, to provide some ideas for the development of other promising PARP1 inhibitors in antineoplastic therapy.