bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COMMUNITY STRUCTURE AND DIVERSITY OF MACROZOOBENTHOS IN QUARRY RIBNICA’S CREEK AS INDICATOR OF SURFACE WATER MANAGEMENT
Authors: Dorić Semir , Čučuković Adnan
Published: June 2018

Benthic macroinvertebrata (macrozoobenthos) are widely used for water quality assessments because they are considered as one of the best indicators of habitat quality in running waters, very conventionally called as „river health“. Benefits of research on macroinvertebrates include the quick assessment of biological resources for conservation purposes and the detection of water pollution. This research was performed in accordance with the EU Water Framework Directive (WFD). AQEM methodology was used for macrozoobenthos specimen collection from six sampling sites along quarry Ribnica’s main hydroecosystems – the Forest creek (quarry's water supply system) and the estuary of the river Ribnica (Mar-Sep, 2016). Laboratory analyses were carried out for the purpose of separation, counting and final taxonomic identification of organisms. Cluster analysis and diversity index computing were performed using BioDiversity Pro 2.0 software. Our findings suggest the existence of 15 taxa from classes Gastropoda, Hirudinea and Insecta with a total number of 454 sampled individuals. The Insecta class was the most numerous one with respect to the species found, including larvae of the orders Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, Trichoptera and Diptera. Shannon-Weaver and Simpson diversity indices revealed highly developed communities of aquatic macroinvertebrates at all sampling sites. Water quality along quarry Ribnica based on macrozoobenthos indicator species of saprobity was found to be classified into moderate, low and non to very low polluted (Quality class I-II). Further long-term monitoring studies of macrozoobenthos are necessary in order to keep track of the good ecological status (GES) observed at quarry Ribnica’s aquatic ecosystems.
ASSOCIATION BETWEEN INSERTION/DELETION POLYMORPHISM OF THE ANGIOTENSIN-CONVERTING ENZYME GENE AND CORONARY ARTERY DISEASE IN BOSNIAN POPULATION
Authors: Hadžibeganović Dražena , Terzić Rifet , Jusić Amela , Avdić Aldijana
Published: June 2018

One of the genes considered as a risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD) is the angiotensin-converting enzyme (ACE) gene. Many studies have been published regarding the relation between the ACE gene insertion/deletion (I/D) polymorphism and CAD. However, studies have provided controversial results. To explore this further in the population of Bosnia and Herzegovina, we compared the ACE I/D genotypes and alleles distribution between two groups: 100 CAD patients and 100 healthy control subjects. The higher distribution of DD genotype (47.0%) and D allele (65.5%) were found in CAD patients compared to controls (DD 34.0%; D allele 51.0%). Genotype odds ratio, (DD + ID) on the II, was 2.471 (1.252 – 4.876; 95% CI; p < 0.05). This leads to the conclusion that the DD genotype of the ACE I/D polymorphism affects the risk for development of coronary artery disease in Bosnian population.
COMPARATIVE ANALYSIS OF THE EFICENCY OF POWERPLEX 16 AND POWERPLEX FUSION MULTIPLEX STR KITS IN THE ANALYSIS OF THE CHALLENGING FORENSIC SAMPLES
Authors: Husukić Zlatan , Pilav Amela , Čakar Jasmina , Džehverović Mirela , Dogan Serkan , Marjanović Damir
Published: June 2018

Since the introduction of the term low copy number DNA, also referred as low template DNA, touch DNA or trace DNA analysis, it has quickly become focal point of forensic DNA testing as well as other DNA based studies. Low template DNA (ltDNA) samples can be described as the samples which involve single source samples with template DNA in concentrations below 100 picograms (pg). Due to sensitivity of ltDNA samples to contamination, it is of great importance to optimize performance of the multiplex STR systems and existing protocols to increase chance of successful analysis. The main objective of this study was analysis of 20 challenging samples (skeletal remains, cigarette buts, chewing gum, poorly collected buccal swabs etc.) mostly low template DNA samples, preliminarily profiled by PowerPlex® 16 multiplex STR systems and additionally processed with new generation multiplex STR kit PowerPlex® Fusion. Sample isolation was done using a standard phenol-chloroform method for bone samples and DNeasy® Blood and Tissue Kit for other forensic samples. PowerPlex® 16 (PP16), multiplex STR system and PowerPlex® Fusion (PP Fusion) were used for co-amplification of 15 and 24 autosomal STR loci respectively. Results of this preliminary study suggest that PP Fusion primer set is better optimized for the analysis of ltDNA samples, and it is more robust regarding presence of the potential PCR inhibitors.
GENETIC PURITY ASSESSMENT OF COMMON BUCKWHEAT VARIETY ‘DARJA’ WITH THE USE OF SSR MOLECULAR MARKERS
Authors: Grahić Jasmin , Kurtović Mirsad , Šimon Silvio , Đikić Mirha , Gaši Fuad
Published: June 2018

In order to assess the genetic purity of common buckwheat variety ‘Darja’ which is the most commonly produced variety of this crop in Bosnia and Herzegovina, 10 SSR markers have been used. Five samples have been collected from different production regions in B&H (Breza, Nisici Plateau, Ustikolina, Bihac and Bosanska Krupa) and compared to the reference ‘Darja’ sample obtained from an ex situ seed collection from Slovenia. Seven out of ten primer pairs used managed to amplify SSR alleles. Analyses of molecular variance (AMOVA) showed a significant differentiation between the reference and all analyzed ‘Darja’ samples. Furthermore, the factorial correspondence analysis revealed a clear differentiation between the reference and ‘Darja’ samples from the most known production regions of common buckwheat in B&H clustering four out of five analyzed samples very close together. The most divergent one among the analyzed samples was the one from Ustikolina. Genetic purity of varieties of all of cross pollinated species produced in Bosnia and Herzegovina is questionable due to the general use of farm-saved seeds.
Uma Sociologia das Organizações Policiais
Authors: Junior Almir de Oliveira
Published: June 2018

O artigo reve minuciosamente o embasamento conceitual das organizações policiais e das atividades de policiamento, tecendo considerações sobre as relações entre polícia e sociedade, bem como sobre a própria autoimagem do policial, baseando-se em impressões próprias e citações de autores internacionais e nacionais consagrados, como Bailey, Skolnick, Bittner, Monjardet, Mingardi, Goffman e Manning, entre outros.
O Profiling nos Aeroportos como Ferramenta de Prevenção ao Terrorismo
Authors: Damasceno Fonseca Guilherme
Published: June 2018

Os atentados de 11 de setembro mostraram ao mundo novamente o que parecia estar esquecido: a importância da aviação comercial como alvo do Terrorismo. Desde então, várias potências ocidentais têm buscado um aprimoramento da segurança aeroportuária, submetendo passageiros de todo o mundo a uma exaustiva rotina de procedimentos, muitas vezes constrangedores. O mundo ocidental progressivamente começa a adotar as técnicas de Contraterrorismo israelenses, cujos aeroportos são considerados exemplos em termos de segurança. Nesse contexto, destacam-se as diversas espécies de Profiling, técnica que busca prevenir ataques através da procura do perfil esperado do terrorista. Considerando que os tipos de Profiling baseados em critérios como raça ou etnia não são compatíveis com a maioria das Constituições democráticas, torna-se importante a análise do Profiling comportamental, o qual parte do pressuposto de que o passageiro com intenções criminosas quase sempre demonstra, ao passar pelos procedimentos de segurança, sinais reveladores de nervosismo ou ansiedade, que podem ser identificados por olhos adequadamente treinados. No entanto, o uso de tal técnica em um ambiente peculiar como o aeroporto traz questionamentos que desafiam seus defensores, principalmente, no que se refere à sua viabilidade em Estados Democráticos de Direito.
Inteligência Policial: efeitos das distorções no entendimento e na aplicação
Authors: Scarpelli de Andrade Felipe
Published: June 2018

O presente trabalho objetiva analisar o uso inadequado do termo “Inteligência” nas instituições públicas e privadas, sobretudo aquelas relacionadas à segurança pública, bem como demonstrar as consequências e desdobramentos que essa utilização indevida acarreta para a atividade. Ao destacar o aspecto metodológico da atividade de inteligência e traçar aproximações e diferenças com a investigação e produção do conhecimento científico, procura-se desenvolver ideias que delimitam a atividade de inteligência em contraponto as demais atividades de assessoramento, fiscalização e a própria investigação. Nesse sentido, analisa-se, a partir de conceitos e legislação, a inviabilidade do uso de algumas técnicas de investigação, notadamente aquelas dependentes de autorização judicial, na atividade de Inteligência. Nesse sentido, expõe-se a necessidade dos organismos de inteligência de se apropriarem efetivamente de técnicas e processos de trabalho da Inteligência, concluindo ao identificar a oportunidade de aprendizado ao delimitarmos seu conceito para, então, evoluirmos sua teoria, com contribuição para a fundamentação e fortalecimento dos estudos sobre a atividade de Inteligência.
Locais de Crime: dos vestígios à dinâmica criminosa, de Jesus Antonio Velho et al. Campinas: Millennium Editora, 2013, 574 pp.
Authors: De Martinis Bruno Spinosa
Published: June 2018

Resenha de livro
Os Crimes Financeiros à luz dos Princípios Constitucionais Brasileiros
Authors: Fornazari Junior Milton
Published: June 2018

O presente artigo trata da definição e dos conceitos dos princípios constitucionais penais e princípios influentes em matéria penal, bem como sua aplicação aos crimes financeiros, à luz da Constituição Federal de 1988.
O papel da Polícia Judiciária no Brasil e sua importância para a estruturação, manutenção, fortalecimento e evolução da democracia
Authors: Busnello Priscila de Castro
Published: June 2018

O objetivo desse artigo é demonstrar a influência da atividade de Polícia Judiciária no Estado Democrático de Direito brasileiro, por meio de uma breve análise histórica e evolutiva. Foi a Revolução Francesa que representou o marco histórico dos direitos humanos e qualificou a polícia como uma instituiçã o cidadã e garantidora desses direitos. No entanto, foi com a Constituição Federal de 1988, que a funçã o de Polícia Judiciária, atribuída às Polícias Federal e Civis, passou a respaldar a manutenção e o fortalecimento das instituições democráticas noEstado de Direito Humanista.
Cooperação Jurídica Internacional: atribuições legais no auxílio direto
Authors: Júnior Milton Fornazari
Published: June 2018

Trata-se de estudo acerca da cooperação jurídica internacional aplicada na persecução penal, por meio do auxílio direto (mutual legal assistance), analisada em especial as atribuições constitucionais e legais para o seu manuseio.
Competência em Sede de Investigação Preliminar: há prejuízos ao processo?
Authors: Lopes Alessandro Maciel
Published: June 2018

Trata-se de breve pesquisa para analisar a adequação do uso da expressão “competência” à atividade de investigação preliminar e seus reflexos práticos na ação penal. Pretende-se analisar a validade da prova a partir da capacidade do agente que produz a investigação e formalização de seus atos.
Análise de Riscos e a Atividade de Inteligência
Authors: Scarpelli de Andrade Felipe
Published: June 2018

O presente trabalho tem como objetivo fornecer suporte para instituições públicas, sobretudo aquelas relacionadas à atividade de Inteligência, na Gestão e Análise de Riscos. O processo de produção do conhecimento técnico e a sua gestão possuem papel relevante, pois qualificam a informação e se apresentam como forma que permite diminuir incertezas, ampliar as possibilidades dos processos decisórios e potencializar as ações e estratégias organizacionais e operacionais. Assim, o estudo aborda a contribuição que a Análise de Riscos pode oferecer aos órgãos de Inteligência, ao provir ao seu usuário conhecimentos organizados e processados de forma técnica, sugerindo ações e medidas de prevenção ou correção de possíveis falhas detectadas em um determinado processo, seja ele operacional ou de governança. Ao compreender o fenômeno da segurança pública e os seus processos por meio deste instrumento, assessora-se, com maior qualidade, a tomada de decisão sobre a viabilidade de se tratar um determinado risco. Dessa forma, apresenta-se uma estrutura adaptada e customizada de Gestão de Riscos por meio de uma abordagem sistêmica sobre o tema, a fim de permitir melhor compreensão do assunto ao sugerir que a Análise de Riscos deve ser implementada e adaptada em todo o contexto organizacional.
Current Trend of Caesarean Section in a Tertiary Care Military Hospital
Authors: Ara Ismat , Sultana Rokshana , Solaiman SM , Hassain MN Sakhawat
Published: June 2018

Caesarean section rates are increasing worldwide. It contributes to substantial maternal and perinatal morbidity and mortality.South Asian countries including Bangladesh have recorded substantial increases in caesarean sectionrates over the past decade. In Bangladesh, the caesarean incidence rate was 2.6 percent in 2001 and 12.2 percent in 2010. So, the incidence rate increased five times over the last decade.This descriptive cross sectional study was conducted at Combined Military Hospital (CMH), Savar, Dhaka during January 2014 to December 2015, aimed to assess the current trend of mode of deliveries of babies. A total of 1253 pregnant women who attendedthis tertiary level hospital, for their delivery,were enrolled in the study. The study subjects wereselected by simple random sampling. A pretested structured questionnaire was used for data collection. The mean age of respondents was 25.81±4.46 years. Most (72%) of them were between 20-29 years of age. Some thirty nine percent of the respondents completed secondary level of education. The study showed that among 1253 respondents, 70.3% underwent CS and 29.7 % had normal vaginal delivery. Most common indication for caesarean section was previous CS (42.4%) that contributed an increase in total caesarean birth. Lowest incidence was antepartum haemorrhage (0.9%). Prolonged labour and cervical dystocia, hypertensive disorder, malpresentation were also contributing factors for caesarean section. So, previous caesarean birth was the most important factor in making decision about the way of delivery. Based on the study findings, to decrease the rate of caesarean section,careful monitoring of the foetusat all levels of health care facilities for critical decisions are suggested.Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2018; 44(1):15-22
Triple-phase multidetector computed tomography:an evaluation of hepatic space occupying lesion in cirrhotic patients
Authors: Hasinuzzaman Reza Taufiq Muhammad , Roy Shyamal Kumar , Hossain Md Sazzad , Paul Fonindra Nath , Akther Monira , Barua Sharmila
Published: June 2018

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) is a common tumor with an incidence of 1 - 6 % among cirrhotic patients. Dysplastic nodule often occurs within regenerative cirrhotic nodules. They can show low or high grade dysplasia. MRI best differentiates this iso-or hypo intense lesion from hyper intense HCC. The current study was designed to assess the usefulness of Triple-phase multiphasic multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in evaluation of hepatic space occupying lesion in cirrhotic patients.This cross sectional study was carried out in Radiology and Imaging department in collaboration with Hepatology and Hepatobiliary surgery department, of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka during July 2014 to June 2016. A total of 62 cirrhotic patients with hepatic space occupying lesion were included in this study. MDCT was done in all these patients and they were followed-up from the admission up to post operative tissue diagnosis of hepatic space occupying lesion in respective pathology departments to assess the histopathological correlation. Patients with suspected hepatic space occupying lesion diagnosed by clinical andultrasonography and having high serum α-fetoprotein level were enrolled. The mean age was 50.0±13.6 years with ranged from 25 to 79 years. Male female ratio was 2.3:1.In MDCT, a total of 54 malignant cases were found, out of which 49(79.0%) patients had HCC, 4(6.5%) had metastases and 1(1.6%) had dysplastic nodule. In benign tumor group, 6(9.7%) patients had cirrrhotic nodule, 1(1.6%) had hepatic adenoma and 1(1.6%) had haemangioma. In histopahology, a total 53 malignant cases were found, out of them 48(77.5%) patients had HCC, 3(4.8%) had metastases and 2(3.2%) had dysplastic nodule. Triphasic MDCT in diagnosis of hepatic space occupying lesion in cirrhotic patients revealed a sensitivity of 98.1%, specificity of 77.8%, accuracy 95.2%, positive predictive values 96.3% and negative predictive values 87.5%. While the same diagnostic tool showed a sensitivity95.8%, specificity 78.6%, accuracy 91.9%, positive predictive values 93.9% and negative predictive values 84.6% in identification of HCC. In evaluation of metastasis MDCT had a sensitivity of 100.0%, specificity 98.3%, accuracy 98.4%, positive predictive values 75.0% and negative predictive values 100.0%. In evaluation of dysplastic nodule MDCT had sensitivity 50.0%, specificity 100.0%, accuracy 98.4%, positive predictive values 100.0% and negative predictive values 98.4%.So, MDCT can be an ideal diagnostic tool for detecting as well as characterizing the hepaticspace occupying lesion (SOLs) in cirrhotic patients.Bangladesh Med Res Counc Bull 2018; 44(1):23-29
Determination of Optimum Drying Temperature Profile by Iterative Learning Control (ILC) Method to Obtain a Desired Moisture Content in Tablets
Authors: Sanzida Nahid
Published: June 2018

The paper presents an industrial case study example to evaluate the performance of the linear time varying (LTV) perturbation model based iterative learning control (ILC) in a pilot scale batch system. The operating data based strategy applied here is based on utilizing the repetitive nature of batch processes to update the operating trajectories using process knowledge obtained from previous runs and thereby providing a convergent batch-to-batch improvement of the process performance indicator. The method was applied to determine the required drying temperature of Paracetamol granules to obtain desired moisture content at the end of the batch. After granulation operations, Paracetamol granules were dried in a fluid bed dryer in the pilot plant laboratory of GlaxoSmithKline Bangladesh Limited, Chittagong, Bangladesh. These results demonstrate the potential of the ILC approach for controlling batch processes without rigorous process models.

Chemical Engineering Research Bulletin 20(2018) 1-7
Thermodynamic properties of the dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid-acetone binary liquid mixture using a modified flory theory
Authors: Jazie Ali A
Published: June 2018

Prigogine–Flory–Patterson (P-F-P) theory was applied for the correlation the experimental data of excess molar volume for the binary liquid mixture of DBSA-Acetone at the temperature range of (293.15-303.15 K). The three contribution terms (pressure, interaction and free volume) in the P-F-P equation were compared with the total effect of P-F-P equation. A positive excess molar volume were obtained at all the range of mole fraction and at all the temperatures. The maximum value of excess molar volume was positioned at the 0.4 mole fraction. Eyring-Flory-Huggins theory was found useful in the estimation of the viscosity deviation variation with mole fraction at the same temperature range. A negative deviation was found in the viscosity for all the range of temperature and mole fraction. The maximum deviation in the viscosity was found at the mole fraction of 0.4. The increase in the negative deviation values with temperature was interpreted as a result of the decrease in the attractive forces between the like molecules.

Chemical Engineering Research Bulletin 20(2018) 30-35
Immunoregulatory Effects of Myeloid-Derived Suppressor Cell Exosomes in Mouse Model of Autoimmune Alopecia Areata
Authors: Zöller Margot , Zhao Kun , Kutlu N. Natali , Bauer Nathalie , Provaznik Jan , Hackert Thilo , Schnölzer Martina
Published: June 2018

The treatment of autoimmune diseases still poses a major challenge, frequently relying on non-specific immunosuppressive drugs. Current efforts aim at reestablishing self tolerance using immune cells with suppressive activity like the regulatory T cells (Treg) or the myeloid-derived suppressor cells (MDSC). We have demonstrated therapeutic efficacy of MDSC in mouse Alopecia Areata (AA). In the same AA model, we now asked whether MDSC exosomes (MDSC-Exo) can replace MDSC. MDSC-Exo from bone marrow cells (BMC) cultures of healthy donors could substantially facilitate treatment. With knowledge on MDSC-Exo being limited, their suitability needs to be verified in advance. Protein marker profiles suggest comparability of BMC- to ex vivo collected inflammatory MDSC/MDSC-Exo in mice with a chronic contact dermatitis, which is a therapeutic option in AA. Proteome analyses substantiated a large overlap of function-relevant molecules in MDSC and MDSC-Exo. Furthermore, MDSC-Exo are taken up by T cells, macrophages, NK, and most avidly by Treg and MDSC-Exo uptake exceeds binding of MDSC themselves. In AA mice, MDSC-Exo preferentially target skin-draining lymph nodes and cells in the vicinity of remnant hair follicles. MDSC-Exo uptake is accompanied by a strong increase in Treg, reduced T helper proliferation, mitigated cytotoxic activity, and a slight increase in lymphocyte apoptosis. Repeated MDSC-Exo application in florid AA prevented progression and sufficed for partial hair regrowth. Deep sequencing of lymphocyte mRNA from these mice revealed a significant increase in immunoregulatory mRNA, including FoxP3 and arginase 1. Downregulated mRNA was preferentially engaged in prohibiting T cell hyperreactivity. Taken together, proteome analysis provided important insights into potential MDSC-Exo activities, these Exo preferentially homing into AA-affected organs. Most importantly, changes in leukocyte mRNA seen after treatment of AA mice with MDSC-Exo sustainably supports the strong impact on the adaptive and the non-adaptive immune system, with Treg expansion being a dominant feature. Thus, MDSC-Exo could potentially serve as therapeutic agents in treating AA and other autoimmune diseases.
Variable Tap-Length Algorithm with Mixed Parameter
Authors: Han Yufei , Wang Mingjiang , Lu Yun
Published: June 2018

Convergence speed and steady-state performance are important factors to estimate the variable tap-length algorithm. The step-size of tap-length (ST) and the error width considerably impact the performance of the fractional variable tap-length algorithm. A mixed fractional variable tap-length algorithm that simultaneously applies time-varying ST and error width strategies is presented in this paper. The ST and the error width are analyzed in detail. This method uses the same variable to control both aspects, so their changes are relatively consistent. The parameters have strong adaptive ability at different stages. The proposed algorithm can solve some defects of the previous algorithms, including slow convergence rate, weak steady-state performance and robustness. A novel mean square deviation (MSD) gradient experiment is performed. Experimental results show good agreement with the theoretical analysis.
Using Small Capacity Fuel Cells Onboard Drones for Battery Cooling: An Experimental Study
Authors: Mukhopadhyay Shayok , Fernandes Sheehan , Shihab Mohammad , Waleed Danial
Published: June 2018

Recently, quadrotor-based drones have attracted a lot of attention because of their versatility, which makes them an ideal medium for a variety of applications, e.g., personal photography, surveillance, and the delivery of lightweight packages. The flight duration of a drone is limited by its battery capacity. Increasing the payload capacity of a drone requires more current to be supplied by the battery onboard a drone. Elevated currents through a Li-ion battery can increase the battery temperature, thus posing a significant risk of fire or explosion. Li-ion batteries are suited for drone applications, due to their high energy density. There have been attempts to use hydrogen fuel cells onboard drones. Fuel cell stacks and fuel tank assemblies can have a high energy to weight ratio. So, they may be able to power long duration drone flights, but such fuel cell stacks and associated systems, are usually extremely expensive. Hence, this work proposes the novel use of a less expensive, low capacity, metal hydride fuel stick-powered fuel cell stack as an auxiliary power supply onboard a drone. A primary advantage of this is that the fuel sticks can be used to cool the batteries, and a side effect is that this slightly reduces the burden on the onboard Li-ion battery and provides a small increment in flight time. This work presents the results of an experimental study which shows the primary effect (i.e., decrease in battery temperature) and the secondary side effect (i.e., a small increment in flight time) obtained by using a fuel cell stack. In this work, a metal hydride fuel stick powered hydrogen fuel cell is used along with a Li-ion battery onboard a drone.
Assessing Clinical Outcomes in Colorectal Cancer with Assays for Invasive Circulating Tumor Cells
Authors: Zhang Yue , Zarrabi Kevin , Hou Wei , Madajewicz Stefan , Choi Minsig , Zucker Stanley , Chen Wen-Tien
Published: June 2018

Colorectal carcinoma (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer-related mortality. The goals of this study are to evaluate the association between levels of invasive circulating tumor cells (iCTCs) with CRC outcomes and to explore the molecular characteristics of iCTCs. Peripheral blood from 93 patients with Stage I–IV CRC was obtained and assessed for the detection and characterization of iCTCs using a functional collagen-based adhesion matrix (CAM) invasion assay. Patients were followed and assessed for overall survival. Tumor cells isolated by CAM were characterized using cell culture and microarray analyses. Of 93 patients, 88 (95%) had detectable iCTCs, ranging over 0–470 iCTCs/mL. Patients with Stage I–IV disease exhibited median counts of 0.0 iCTCs/mL (n = 6), 13.0 iCTCs/mL (n = 12), 41.0 iCTCs/mL (n = 12), and 133.0 iCTCs/mL (n = 58), respectively (p < 0.001). Kaplan–Meier curve analysis demonstrated a significant survival benefit in patients with low iCTC counts compared with in patients with high iCTC counts (log-rank p < 0.001). Multivariable Cox model analysis revealed that iCTC count was an independent prognostic factor of overall survival (p = 0.009). Disease stage (p = 0.01, hazard ratio 1.66; 95% confidence interval: 1.12–2.47) and surgical intervention (p = 0.03, HR 0.37; 95% CI: 0.15–0.92) were also independent prognostic factors. Gene expression analysis demonstrated the expression of both endothelial and tumor progenitor cell biomarkers in iCTCs. CAM-based invasion assay shows a high detection sensitivity of iCTCs that inversely correlated with overall survival in CRC patients. Functional and gene expression analyses showed the phenotypic mosaics of iCTCs, mimicking the survival capability of circulating endothelial cells in the blood stream.
Evolving Treatment Strategies for Elderly Leukemia Patients with IDH Mutations
Authors: Buege Michael J. , DiPippo Adam J. , DiNardo Courtney D.
Published: June 2018

Acute myeloid leukemia (AML) is a debilitating and life-threatening condition, especially for elderly patients who account for over 50% of diagnoses. For over four decades, standard induction therapy with intensive cytotoxic chemotherapy for AML had remained unchanged. However, for most patients, standard therapy continues to have its shortcomings, especially for elderly patients who may not be able to tolerate the complications from intensive cytotoxic chemotherapy. New research into the development of targeted and alternative therapies has led to a new era in AML therapy. For the nearly 20% of diagnoses harboring a mutation in isocitrate dehydrogenase 1 or 2 (IDH1/2), potential treatment options have undergone a paradigm shift away from intensive cytotoxic chemotherapy and towards targeted therapy alone or in combination with lower intensity chemotherapy. The first FDA approved IDH2 inhibitor was enasidenib in 2017. In addition, IDH1 inhibitors are in ongoing clinical studies, and the oral BCL-2 inhibitor venetoclax shows preliminary efficacy in this subset of patients. These new tools aim to improve outcomes and change the treatment paradigm for elderly patients with IDH mutant AML. However, the challenge of how to best incorporate these agents into standard practice remains.
A Novel High-Activity Zn-Co Catalyst for Acetylene Acetoxylation
Authors: He Peijie , Huang Liuhua , Wu Xueyi , Xu Zhuang , Zhu Mingyuan , Wang Xugen , Dai Bin
Published: June 2018

In this paper, Zn(OAc)2/AC and Zn-Co/AC catalysts were prepared and applied in an acetylene acetoxylation reaction. Compared with monometallic Zn(OAc)2/AC catalyst, which is widely applied in industry, the Zn-Co catalysts exhibited excellent catalytic performance. Transmission electron microscopy results displayed that the addition of cobalt improved the dispersity of zinc acetate particles and inhibited catalyst sintering on the catalyst surface. X-ray photoelectron spectra suggested that the Co additive changed the electron density of zinc acetate probably because of the interaction between Zn and Co species. Temperature programmed desorption analysis demonstrated Co additive strengthened the adsorption of acetic acid and weakened the adsorption of acetylene.
Self-Reported Physical Activity is Not a Valid Method for Measuring Physical Activity in 15-Year-Old South African Boys and Girls
Authors: Monyeki Makama Andries , Moss Sarah J. , Kemper Han C.G. , Twisk Jos W.R.
Published: June 2018

Physical activity plays an important role in the prevention of chronic lifestyle-related diseases. The development of valid instruments for the assessment of physical activity remains a challenge in field studies. The purpose of the present study was therefore to determine the level of agreement between physical activity objectively measured by the ActiHeart® (Cambridge Neurotechnology Ltd, Cambridge, UK) device and subjectively reported physical activity by means of the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form (IPAQ-SF) among adolescents attending schools in the Tlokwe Local Municipality, South Africa. A cross-sectional study design was used with a total of 63 boys and 45 girls aged 15 years who took part in the Physical Activity and Health Longitudinal Study (PHALS). Stature and weight were measured according to standard International Society for the Advancement of Kinanthropometry (ISAK) protocols. Objective physical activity (PA) was measured by a combined heart rate and accelerometer device (ActiHeart®) for seven consecutive days. Time spent in moderate-to-vigorous intensity physical activity (MVPA) was assessed. Subjective physical activity was assessed with the self-reported IPAQ-SF. Objective PA indicated that 93% of the participants were inactive and only 6% were highly active. The IPAQ-SF showed that 24% were inactive, with 57% active. A non-significant correlation (r = 0.11; p = 0.29) between the ActiHeart® measure of activity energy expenditure (AEE) and total physical activity (IPAQ-SF) was observed. The Bland–Altman plot showed no agreement between the two measurement instruments and also a variation in the level of equivalence. When Cohen’s kappa (κ) was run to determine the agreement between the two measurement instruments for estimated physical activity, a poor agreement (κ = 0.011, p < 0.005) between the two was found. The poor level of agreement between the objective measure of physical activity (ActiHeart®) and the IPAQ-SF questionnaire should be interpreted cautiously. Future physical activity research using a combination of subjective and objective assessment methods in a large-scale cohort in adolescents is recommended.
Surface Modification of Esophageal Stent Materials by a Drug-Eluting Layer for Better Anti-Restenosis Function
Authors: Bai Yuxin , Zhang Kun , Xu Ru , Liu Hongtao , Guan Fangxia , Luo Huiwen , Chen Ye , Li Jingan
Published: June 2018

It is generally accepted that stent implantation is the mainstream therapy in clinics for esophageal cancer in the later period. However, the restenosis caused by tumor cells, epithelial cells, and fibroblasts seriously interferes with the stent medical application and limits its long-term services. To address this conundrum, a series of drug-eluting stents were invented and verified to be feasible in the early stage after implantation, but the limited drug loading and good cell compatibility of the stent materials may lead to more serious restenosis and further endanger the patient’s life. In previous work, we modified the esophageal stent material 317L stainless steel (317L SS) surface with a poly-dopamine/poly-ethylenimine layer (PDA/PEI), which had strong anti-tumor functions. In this contribution, we employed a usual drug in clinic, 5-fluorouracil (5-Fu), with series of density onto the PDA/PEI modified 317L SS to investigate the influence of 5-Fu immobilization on the anti-restenosis function. The surface characterization including 5-Fu quantity, atomic force microscopy (AFM). Water contact angle measurement indicated successful preparation of the PDA/PEI/5-Fu layers. The spectrophotometric characterization revealed that the immobilized 5-Fu rapidly released over 24 h. However, the Eca109, Het-1A, and L929 cells culture results suggested that the released 5-Fu made a significant contribution to improving the apoptosis and necrosis of these pathological cells, and the PDA/PEI/5-Fu layers maintain the consistent anti-restenosis function on their surfaces with the PDA/PEI layer after 24 h. All the results demonstrated the PDA/PEI/5-Fu layers’ excellent ability to suppress esophageal tumor cells, epithelial cells, and fibroblasts, suggesting a potential application on the surface modification of esophageal stents for better anti-restenosis function.
Does Thinning Homogenous and Dense Regrowth Benefit Bats? Radio-Tracking, Ultrasonic Detection and Trapping
Authors: Law Bradley , Gonsalves Leroy , Brassil Traecey , Hill David
Published: June 2018

Renewal ecology promotes the creation and enhancement of landscapes that support biodiversity and ecosystem services for humans. Silvicultural thinning of forest regrowth to reduce tree competition represents a form of active management that may also benefit biodiversity, especially where secondary regrowth dominates. However, ecological responses to thinning can be complex, particularly for insectivorous bats whose ecomorphology is often related to vegetation structure. Furthermore, thinning may affect multiple aspects of bat ecology (i.e., roosting and foraging). We assessed this in dense white cypress regrowth in the Pilliga forests of New South Wales, Australia, where recent experimental thinning created thinned stands (4 × 12 ha) surrounded by unthinned regrowth. We contrasted flight activity and roost selection of three narrow-space species with differing conservation statuses (Nyctophilus corbeni, N. gouldi and N. geoffroyi), plus one edge-space species (Vespadelus vulturnus). Radio-tracking over two maternity seasons revealed a preference by all species for roosting in dead trees that were slightly larger than the mean for available dead trees in the vicinity. Although all tagged bats were caught in thinned patches, only 6% of roosts were located there. In contrast, ultrasonic detectors recorded significantly greater activity for V. vulturnus (p = 0.05) in thinned than unthinned patches and no treatment difference for Nyctophilus spp. Systematic trapping using acoustic lures found a higher trap rate for N. gouldi in unthinned than thinned treatments, but no treatment effect for N. corbeni, N. geoffroyi and V. vulturnus. Our results reveal differential use of forest treatments by multiple species, emphasising the value of heterogeneous landscapes supporting thinned and unthinned patches of dense regrowth.
Equilibrium States in Open Quantum Systems
Authors: Rotter Ingrid
Published: June 2018

The aim of this paper is to study the question of whether or not equilibrium states exist in open quantum systems that are embedded in at least two environments and are described by a non-Hermitian Hamilton operator H . The eigenfunctions of H contain the influence of exceptional points (EPs) and external mixing (EM) of the states via the environment. As a result, equilibrium states exist (far from EPs). They are different from those of the corresponding closed system. Their wavefunctions are orthogonal even though the Hamiltonian is non-Hermitian.
The Gibbs Paradox: Early History and Solutions
Authors: Darrigol Olivier
Published: June 2018

This article is a detailed history of the Gibbs paradox, with philosophical morals. It purports to explain the origins of the paradox, to describe and criticize solutions of the paradox from the early times to the present, to use the history of statistical mechanics as a reservoir of ideas for clarifying foundations and removing prejudices, and to relate the paradox to broad misunderstandings of the nature of physical theory.
Effects of an International Undergraduate Honors Course on Awareness of Global Justice
Authors: Schutte Ingrid , Kamans Elanor , Wolfensberger Marca , Veugelers Wiel
Published: June 2018

How can undergraduate students be prepared for global citizenship? This question was investigated in a mixed-methods case study of an international, blended one-semester course. Undergraduate honors students (N = 22) from the USA and the Netherlands collaborated to explore what it means to be a member of the global community. Curriculum guidelines from the social justice oriented education for global citizenship were used to analyze the course’s program and focus the case study. The research questions were as follows: 1. How did the course relate to the curriculum guidelines? 2. What and how did students learn from the course? Analyses of the program showed that the course partly reflects the social justice oriented global citizenship education, in particular by addressing intercultural sensitivity and experiential learning. Quantitative measures in a pre-post design with control groups (N = 40) showed some growth in ethical sensitivity and social awareness. Qualitative measures indicated that participants developed a broader view on society and demonstrated a more open and active attitude towards others after the course. Experiential learning was considered a powerful aspect of the pedagogical approach. The results are discussed in relation to a developmental process whereby students gain awareness of global justice issues.
Loading History Effect on Creep Deformation of Rock
Authors: Yang Wendong , Gamage Ranjith Pathegama , Huang Chenchen , Luo Guangyu , Guo Jingjing , Wang Shugang
Published: June 2018

The creep characteristics of rocks are very important for assessing the long-term stability of rock engineering structures. Two loading methods are commonly used in creep tests: single-step loading and multi-step loading. The multi-step loading method avoids the discrete influence of rock specimens on creep deformation and is relatively time-efficient. It has been widely accepted by researchers in the area of creep testing. However, in the process of multi-step loading, later deformation is affected by earlier loading. This is a key problem in considering the effects of loading history. Therefore, we intend to analyze the deformation laws of rock under multi-step loading and propose a method to correct the disturbance of the preceding load. Based on multi-step loading creep tests, the memory effect of creep deformation caused by loading history is discussed in this paper. A time-affected correction method for the creep strains under multi-step loading is proposed. From this correction method, the creep deformation under single-step loading can be estimated by the super-position of creeps obtained by the dissolution of a multistep creep. We compare the time-affected correction method to the coordinate translation method without considering loading history. The results show that the former results are more consistent with the experimental results. The coordinate translation method produces a large error which should be avoided.
Improvement of Transient State Response through Feedforward Compensation Method of AC/DC Power Conversion System (PCS) Based on Space Vector Pulse Width Modulation (SVPWM)
Authors: Hong Seok-Jin , Hyun Seung-Wook , Kang Kyung-Min , Lee Jung-Hyo , Won Chung-Yuen
Published: June 2018

In a DC distribution system configured by AC/DC power conversion system (PCS), the voltage control performance of the AC/DC PCS determines the stability and reliability of the DC distribution grid. The DC voltage of grid is maintained by capacitor, thus transient voltage is an inevitable problem when a grid is connected with a high amount of load or renewable energy. Space vector pulse width modulation (SVPWM) is well known as a stable modulation method and is used in AC/DC PCS and many types of topologies, but a solution for the transient states issue of DC link has not clearly been studied. In this paper, a feedforward compensation method based on the mathematical model of SVPWM is proposed to solve the transient state problem in a DC distribution system. The proposed method is verified by simulation and experiment. AC/DC PCS with the proposed feedforward compensation method has more robust DC voltage control characteristics.
Reaction Mechanism Reduction for Ozone-Enhanced CH4/Air Combustion by a Combination of Directed Relation Graph with Error Propagation, Sensitivity Analysis and Quasi-Steady State Assumption
Authors: Liu Yingzu , Wang Zhihua , Li Liang , Wan Kaidi , Cen Kefa
Published: June 2018

In this study, an 18-steps, 22-species reduced global mechanism for ozone-enhanced CH4/air combustion processes was derived by coupling GRI-Mech 3.0 and a sub-mechanism for ozone decomposition. Three methods, namely, direct relation graphics with error propagation, (DRGRP), sensitivity analysis (SA), and quasi-steady-state assumption (QSSA), were used to downsize the detailed mechanism to the global mechanism. The verification of the accuracy of the skeletal mechanism in predicting the laminar flame speeds and distribution of the critical components showed that that the major species and the laminar flame speeds are well predicted by the skeletal mechanism. However, the pollutant NO was predicated inaccurately due to the precursors for generating NO were removed as redundant components. The laminar flame speeds calculated by the global mechanism fit the experimental data well. The comparisons of simulated results between the detailed mechanism and global mechanism were investigated and showed that the global mechanism could accurately predict the major and intermediate species and significantly reduced the time cost by 72%.
Analysis of Pressure Fluctuations in a Prototype Pump-Turbine with Different Numbers of Runner Blades in Turbine Mode
Authors: Li Deyou , Sun Yuekun , Zuo Zhigang , Liu Shuhong , Wang Hongjie , Li Zhenggui
Published: June 2018

In pump-turbines, high pressure fluctuation is one of the crucial instabilities, which is harmful to the stable and effective operation of the entire unit. Extensive studies have been carried out to investigate pressure fluctuations (amplitude and frequency) at specific locations. However, limited research was conducted on the distribution of pressure fluctuations in turbine mode in a pump-turbine, as well as the influence of the number of runner blades on pressure fluctuations. Hence, in this study, three dimensional numerical simulations were performed to predict the distribution of pressure fluctuations with different numbers of runner blades in a prototype pump-turbine in turbine mode using the shear stress transport (SST) k-ω turbulence model. Three operating points with the same hydraulic head and different mass flow rates were simulated. The distribution of pressure fluctuation components of blade passing frequency and its harmonics in the direction along the whole flow path, as well as along the circumferential direction, was presented. The mass flow rate and number of runner blades have great influence on the distribution of pressure fluctuations, especially at blade passing frequency along circumferential direction. The mass flow rate mainly affects the position of peak pressure fluctuations, while the number of runner blades mainly changes the number of peak pressure fluctuations. Additionally, the number of runner blades influences the dominant frequencies of pressure fluctuations especially in the spiral casing and draft tube.
Feasibility Study of Self-Sufficient Solar Cooling Façade Applications in Different Warm Regions
Authors: Prieto Alejandro , Knaack Ulrich , Auer Thomas , Klein Tillmann
Published: June 2018

Small-scale systems and integrated concepts are currently being explored to promote the widespread application of solar cooling technologies in buildings. This article seeks to expand application possibilities by exploring the feasibility of solar cooling integrated façades, as decentralized self-sufficient cooling modules on different warm regions. The climate feasibility of solar electric and solar thermal concepts is evaluated based on solar availability and local cooling demands to be met by current technical possibilities. Numerical calculations are employed for the evaluation, considering statistical climate data; cooling demands per orientation from several simulated scenarios; and state-of-the-art efficiency values of solar cooling technologies, from the specialized literature. The main results show that, in general, warm-dry climates and east/west orientations are better suited for solar cooling façade applications, compared to humid regions and north/south orientations. Results from the base scenario show promising potential for solar thermal technologies, reaching a theoretical solar fraction of 100% in several cases. Application possibilities expand when higher solar array area and lower tilt angle on panels are considered, but these imply aesthetical and constructional constraints for façade design. Finally, recommendations are drafted considering prospects for the exploration of suitable technologies for each location, and façade design considerations for the optimization of the solar input per orientation.
Economic Evaluation of Actively Consuming Wind Power for an Integrated Energy System Based on Game Theory
Authors: Han Xiaojuan , Wang Feng , Tian Chunguang , Xue Kai , Zhang Junfeng
Published: June 2018

Facing the growing problem of the curtailed wind during winter heating periods in the north of China, a flexible control method of wind power heating using the integrated energy system to consume the curtailed wind is proposed. Energy storage technology is introduced to coordinate regenerative electric boilers to match the fast fluctuation of wind power. The consuming model of the curtailed wind for the integrated energy system is established under three models through the study of the consumption mechanisms for the curtailed wind. The “wind power-energy storage system” and “wind power-regenerative electric boiler” are regarded as the game’s participants, and the maximum daily benefit of the system is regarded as the objective function, an economic evaluation model of the integrated energy system to consume the curtailed wind based on game theory is established. For comparative analysis, the model is respectively solved by particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the firefly algorithm (FA). The effectiveness of the model is verified by the actual operation data of a wind power heating demonstration project in China. The simulation results show that the most economy benefits of the overall system can be obtained by using energy storage systems to coordinate regenerative electric boilers, which provides a theoretical basis for the consumption of the curtailed wind.