bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Early outcome of “Modified Uncut Roux-En-Y” Technique in Gastric Reconstruction Surgery
Authors: Rahman ABM Mahbubur , Alam Tamjeed , Alam AHM Shamsul , Bhuiyan AKM Minhaj Uddin , Hossain Md Shamim , Rana Mushtaque Ahmad
Published: September 2018

Loop gastro-Jejunostomy and Roux-en-Y gastro- Jejunostomy, the commonest reconstructions in gastric surgery, are significantly associated with alkaline reflux gastritis and Roux stasis syndrome (RSS) respectively. The Modified Uncut Roux-en-Y (MUREY) technique could be an effective technique in preventing both the conditions. This prospective observational study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of Modified UREY reconstruction to prevent RSS and Alkaline reflux gastro-esophagitis while avoiding “Staple- line dehiscence”. A total of 47 patients of gastric outlet obstruction, both benign and malignant, undergoing Modified Uncut Roux-en-Y reconstruction with/ without Gastrectomy at BMCH over the span of July 2014 to July 2016, were incorporated in this study. Patients were followed up from the immediate post-operative periods till discharge and postoperatively for 2 months. There was no incidence of bile reflux or bilious vomiting in the follow-up period. There were two (4.3%) incidences of RSS among the 47 patients (P<0.001). Postoperative endoscopy was carried out in 9 patients to assess the integrity of staple line occlusion which revealed normal looking mucosa of upper GIT with an intact staple line occlusion. There was significant decrease in the average Visick score, from 3.5±0.6 (SD) preoperatively to 1.2±0.4(SD) in the post-operative period. Average increase in the body weight at the time of final follow-up was 6.7%±5.1 kg. The Modified “Uncut Roux-En-Y” reconstruction technique is bothfeasible and safe. It is effective in preventing RSS and alkaline reflux gastritis while preventing Staple-line dehiscence and, can be a preferred technique of gastric bypass.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(4): 139-144
Endotracheal Tube and Proseal Laryngeal Mask Airway in Elderly Hypertensive Diabetic Patients Undergoing Routine Laparoscopic Surgical Procedures: A Comparison of Hemodynamic Parameters
Authors: Rahman Md Mushfiqur , Munir Md Mhbubul Hasan , Sardar Kawsar , Khan Abdus Salam , Chowdhury AKM Nurnobi , Rahman Md Khalilur , Mondal Samiron Kumar
Published: September 2018

Background: The effects of ProSeal laryngeal mask airway (PLMA) removal and tracheal extubationon cardiovascular responses were studied in elderly hypertensive diabetic patients in a randomize double-blind study.Methods: A total of 60 elderly controlled diabetic hypertensive American Society of Anesthesiologists II & III patients were randomly allocated to two groups (n-30 of each) for PLMA insertion or endotracheal intubation. A standardized anesthetic sequence was used for induction and maintenance of anesthesia. The two groups were then compared for haemodynamic changes at the time of extubation/PLMA removal.Results: In PLMA group, heart rate increased during PLMA removal but remained elevated for only 3 minutes while mean arterial pressure remained elevated for only 2 minutes.The elevations of heart rate and mean arterial pressure were exaggerated in the extubation group and persisted for more than 5 minutes. No complication was observed in any patient and no difficulty was encountered in insertion of PLMA in any patient.Conclusion: Elderly hypertensive diabetic patients are at risk of exaggerated pressor response at the time of extubation. PLMA removal is associated with fewer hemodynamic changes than tracheal extubation and should be preferred wherever possible.J Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(4): 153-158
Young Boy with Hematemesis
Authors: Rupa Sharmin Akhtar , Hossain Humayran Tahseen
Published: September 2018

Abstract not availableJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(4): 179-180
From the Desk of Editor in Chief Vol.36(4)
Authors: Islam Ferdousi
Published: September 2018

Abstract not availableJ Bangladesh Coll Phys Surg 2018; 36(4): 188
Local Pressure Application Effects on Neurological and Circulatory Function
Authors: Games Kenneth E. , Lakin Joni M. , Quindry John C. , Weimar Wendi H. , Sefton JoEllen M.
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND: Pain and discomfort reported during sitting is a significant problem for aviators during prolonged missions. Previous work has determined that areas of local pressure exist during prolonged sitting in UH-60 seat systems; however, no work has examined the effects of
this local pressure on measures of neurological and circulatory function.METHODS: A total of 30 healthy subjects completed the study in which focal pressure was applied in three conditions (no pressure, pressure to the ischial tuberosity, and pressure to the posterior thigh). We
applied pressure using a purpose-built pressure application system allowing subjects to sit in a position mimicking the sitting position in a UH-60 Black Hawk helicopter and measurements were taken before, during, and after pressure application. We measured neurological function with the soleus
Hoffmann reflex and sural nerve conduction velocity, and circulatory function with dynamic infrared thermography.RESULTS: We found a decrease in soleus Hoffmann reflex by 0.87 V and 0.52 V during pressure application at the posterior thigh and ischial tuberosity, respectively. No
changes in nerve conduction velocity were found among the conditions during or after pressure application. Limb temperature increased 0.42–0.44°C during pressure application, but began to return to baseline once pressure was removed.DISCUSSION: This study examined the
development of neurological and circulatory alterations due to local pressure application in an aviation specific functional position. These results may be used in the development of future interventions to mitigate the negative effects of localized pressure in military aviators.Games
KE, Lakin JM, Quindry JC, Weimar WH, Sefton JM. Local pressure application effects on neurological and circulatory function. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(8):693–699.
Medical Guidelines for Airline Travel: Management of In-Flight Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Ruskin Keith J. , Ricaurte Eduard M. , Alves Paulo M.
Published: September 2018

INTRODUCTION: Although cardiac arrest during airline flights is relatively uncommon, the unusual setting, limited resources, and the variability of the skills in medical volunteers present unique challenges. Survival in patients who suffer a witnessed arrest with a shockable
rhythm who are treated promptly has improved since the advent of widely available automated external defibrillators (AEDs). In general, the chances of survival from an out-of-hospital cardiac arrest (OHCA) are greater when ventricular fibrillation (VF) is seen as the initial rhythm or if there
is return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC). Not all in-flight cardiac arrests are witnessed because cabin crew or fellow passengers might simply assume that the victim is sleeping. Based upon a review of the literature on resuscitation after OHCA, we recommend that automatic external defibrillators
be carried on all commercial airline flights, regardless of duration. Patients presenting with shockable rhythm (e.g., VF, unstable ventricular tachycardia) have the best prognosis for survival and usually require diversion of the aircraft for advanced cardiac life support (ACLS). Because
diversion may require interruption of cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and may impact flight safety, the volunteer rescuer, cabin crew, flight crew, and medical consultation services should discuss the possible outcome and operational considerations before recommending a diversion for a
patient with a nonshockable rhythm. The recommendations in this article were developed by members of the Air Transport Medicine and Aerospace Human Performance Committees and approved by the Council of the Aerospace Medical Association.Ruskin KJ, Ricaurte EM, Alves PM. Medical guidelines
for airline travel: management of in-flight cardiac arrest. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(8):754–759.
Energy Drink and Nutritional Supplement Beliefs Among Naval Aviation Candidates
Authors: Sather Thomas E. , Woolsey Conrad L. , Delorey Donald R. , Williams Jr. Ronald D.
Published: September 2018

INTRODUCTION: The National Academy of Medicine called for increased research on nutritional supplement use among military members. Current research has suggested potential health risks posed by energy drink consumption. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship
of energy drink consumption and beliefs about nutritional supplements in a U.S. military population.METHODS: Data were collected by means of an anonymous 44-item survey that was administered to and completed by 302 naval aviation candidates (100% response rate) enrolled in aviation
preflight indoctrination (API) at Naval Air Station Pensacola, FL.RESULTS: Bivariate correlations indicated a statistically significant relationship between beliefs regarding the safety of energy drinks, energy drink consumption frequency, and personal beliefs regarding supplements
[r(202) = −0.23]. The negative correlational coefficient indicated an inverse relationship between favorable perceptions on supplements and energy drink consumption.DISCUSSION: This study assessed beliefs about the safety of nutritional supplements among API candidates and
to examine if a relationship between nutritional supplement beliefs and energy drink consumption exists. Results indicated a significant inverse relationship between API candidates’ beliefs regarding consumption frequency and safety of energy drinks as well as beliefs regarding supplement
use. Results also suggested that the more positively an API candidate perceived nutritional supplements, the less frequently energy drinks were consumed. The findings of this study indicated a weak inverse relationship between the beliefs/use of energy drinks and beliefs regarding the effectiveness
of nutritional supplement use among naval aviation candidates.Sather TE, Woolsey CL, Delorey DR, Williams RD Jr. Energy drink and nutritional supplement beliefs among naval aviation candidates. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(8):731–736.
Semicircular Canal Size and Shape Influence on Disorientation
Authors: Cheung Bob , Ercoline William
Published: September 2018

INTRODUCTION: Orientation in a 3-dimensional environment increases demands on the vestibular system. The anterior, lateral, and posterior semicircular canals sense pitch, roll, and yaw acceleration, respectively. The macular end organs sense linear acceleration and provide gravity
reference. Creatures that evolved to fly (birds) share the same sensory systems and probably the same limitations as creatures that did not evolve to fly. However, bird semicircular canals have been noted for their large size relative to body mass since 1907.METHODS: A brief literature
review was conducted regarding the morphological structure of the vestibular systems in birds, and their evolutionary and functional significance as compared to that in humans.RESULTS: For any given body mass, qualitatively more “agile” species have semicircular canals
with larger radius of curvature. Specifically, the anterior and lateral canals were found to be preferentially larger than those of nonavian theropods and humans. Avian canals rarely approach circularity and all three canals typically undergo torsional excursions out of their respective planes.DISCUSSION:
Increase in the length of the semicircular canal is associated with greater sensitivity to rotational stimuli. Highly maneuverable birds of prey have the largest overall canal dimensions relative to body mass, most plausibly to match the rapid body rotations that characterize variable speed
maneuvering during pursuit. By comparison, the semicircular canals in humans are relatively smaller and lack the adaptive morphological asymmetry in agile flying species. This teleological symmetry may present another inherent but less understood vestibular limitation during aerobatic maneuvers,
which could lead to spatial disorientation.Cheung B, Ercoline W. Semicircular canal size and shape influence on disorientation. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(8):744–748.
General Aviation Accidents Involving Octogenarian Airmen: Implications for Medical Evaluation
Authors: Boyd Douglas D.
Published: September 2018

BACKGROUND: No upper age limit exists at which general aviation pilots are disallowed from exercising their flying privileges. Operating an aircraft, and landing in particular, requires high visual acuity, cognitive function, and eye-hand/foot coordination; i.e., functions which
commonly deteriorate with age. No studies have addressed flight safety of airmen ≥ 80 yr of age (octogenarian+ or 80+) or whether such airmen are more landing accident-prone. This research seeks to answer these questions.METHODS: Accidents and private pilot-certificated airmen
counts were obtained from the National Transport Safety Board accident database and the U.S. Civil Airmen Statistics, respectively. Contingency tables were used to determine differences in proportions. A Poisson distribution was employed to determine whether airmen count (80+ and 30–39
yr) and their accident rates differed over time. Differences in median values were tested with a Mann-Whitney test.RESULTS: The proportion of airmen 80+ years doubled and their accident rate increased (6 and 11 mishaps/1000 airmen, respectively) between 2002 and 2016. Landing accidents
were over-represented for octogenarian+ pilots compared with airmen 30–39 yr (31 and 17%, respectively) and did not reflect inferior experience but were often due to an aircraft flaring deficiency. The proportion of fatal accidents was comparable (11 and 13%, respectively) for the older
and younger age cohorts.CONCLUSION: A growing population and a climbing accident rate for octogenarian+ airmen were evident. The disproportionate count of pilots involved in landing mishaps raises a concern for an increase in such mishaps for octogenarian airmen opting for BasicMed
due to less restrictive/frequent visual acuity tests.Boyd DD. General aviation accidents involving octogenarian airmen: implications for medical evaluation. Aerosp Med Hum Perform. 2018; 89(8):687–692.
The Picaro and the Prole, the Spiv and the Honest Tommy in Leon Griffiths'sMinder
Authors: Baker Stephen , Hoey Paddy
Published: September 2018

First broadcast in 1979, Thames Television's comedy drama, Minder, coincided with the arrival of the Conservative government led by Margaret Thatcher. Central to the series’ popularity was the character of Arthur Daley, a shady, small-time businessman whose proclivity for wheeling and dealing saw him regarded as epitomising an era marked by the free-market, entrepreneurial zeal of the Thatcher administration. Arthur's ‘partner’, Terry McCann, by contrast, was a disconcerting picture of what life could be like for the working class in the new economy. As an ex-boxer and an ex-prisoner with a conscience, he relied on Arthur to find him casual employment as a minder.

Far from reading Minder as an endorsement of Thatcherism and its military adventurism, enterprise culture and hankering after a perceived past national glory, this article considers the series as an ironic comment on such pretentions, and Arthur and Terry as underworld, low-life versions of familiar national heroes – the entrepreneur and the ‘honest Tommy’. The article also goes further, situating Arthur Daley's character in a generic tradition of dubious working-class enterprise and criminality that pre-dates the image of the spiv, popularised in British films such as Waterloo Road in the 1940s, going back to the picaros and proles of the eighteenth century and illustrated in Peter Linebaugh's book about the period, The London Hanged.
Plasma Membrane Lipid Domains as Platforms for Vesicle Biogenesis and Shedding?
Authors: Pollet Hélène , Conrard Louise , Cloos Anne-Sophie , Tyteca Donatienne
Published: September 2018

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) contribute to several pathophysiological processes and appear as emerging targets for disease diagnosis and therapy. However, successful translation from bench to bedside requires deeper understanding of EVs, in particular their diversity, composition, biogenesis and shedding mechanisms. In this review, we focus on plasma membrane-derived microvesicles (MVs), far less appreciated than exosomes. We integrate documented mechanisms involved in MV biogenesis and shedding, focusing on the red blood cell as a model. We then provide a perspective for the relevance of plasma membrane lipid composition and biophysical properties in microvesiculation on red blood cells but also platelets, immune and nervous cells as well as tumor cells. Although only a few data are available in this respect, most of them appear to converge to the idea that modulation of plasma membrane lipid content, transversal asymmetry and lateral heterogeneity in lipid domains may play a significant role in the vesiculation process. We suggest that lipid domains may represent platforms for inclusion/exclusion of membrane lipids and proteins into MVs and that MVs could originate from distinct domains during physiological processes and disease evolution.
C-Type Natriuretic Peptide (CNP) Inhibition of Interferon-γ-Mediated Gene Expression in Human Endothelial Cells In Vitro
Authors: Day Amy , Jameson Zoe , Hyde Carolyn , Simbi Bigboy , Fowkes Robert , Lawson Charlotte
Published: September 2018

Cardiovascular diseases, including atherosclerosis, now account for more deaths in the Western world than from any other cause. Atherosclerosis has a chronic inflammatory component involving Th1 pro-inflammatory cytokines such as IFN-γ, which is known to induce endothelial cell inflammatory responses. On the other hand CNP, which acts via its receptors to elevate intracellular cGMP, is produced by endothelium and endocardium and is upregulated in atherosclerosis. It is believed to be protective, however its role in vascular inflammation is not well understood. The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of CNP on human endothelial cell inflammatory responses following IFN-γ stimulation. Human umbilical vein endothelial cells were treated with either IFN-γ (10 ng/mL) or CNP (100 nm), or both in combination, followed by analysis by flow cytometry for expression of MHC class I and ICAM-1. IFN-γ significantly increased expression of both molecules, which was significantly inhibited by CNP or the cGMP donor 8-Bromoguanosine 3’,5’-cyclic monophosphate (1 µm). CNP also reduced IFN-γ mediated kynurenine generation by the IFN-γ regulated enzyme indoleamine-2,3-deoxygenase (IDO). We conclude that CNP downmodulates IFN-γ induced pro-inflammatory gene expression in human endothelial cells via a cGMP-mediated pathway. Thus, CNP may have a protective role in vascular inflammation and novel therapeutic strategies for CVD based on upregulation of endothelial CNP expression could reduce chronic EC inflammation.
Repurposing of Drugs Targeting YAP-TEAD Functions
Authors: Elisi Gian Marco , Santucci Matteo , D’Arca Domenico , Lauriola Angela , Marverti Gaetano , Losi Lorena , Scalvini Laura , Bolognesi Maria Laura , Mor Marco , Costi Maria Paola
Published: September 2018

Drug repurposing is a fast and consolidated approach for the research of new active compounds bypassing the long streamline of the drug discovery process. Several drugs in clinical practice have been reported for modulating the major Hippo pathway’s terminal effectors, namely YAP (Yes1-associated protein), TAZ (transcriptional co-activator with PDZ-binding motif) and TEAD (transcriptional enhanced associate domains), which are directly involved in the regulation of cell growth and tissue homeostasis. Since this pathway is known to have many cross-talking phenomena with cell signaling pathways, many efforts have been made to understand its importance in oncology. Moreover, this could be relevant to obtain new molecular tools and potential therapeutic assets. In this review, we discuss the main mechanisms of action of the best-known compounds, clinically approved or investigational drugs, able to cross-talk and modulate the Hippo pathway, as an attractive strategy for the discovery of new potential lead compounds.
TRPC6 Channels Are Required for Proliferation, Migration and Invasion of Breast Cancer Cell Lines by Modulation of Orai1 and Orai3 Surface Exposure
Authors: Jardin Isaac , Diez-Bello Raquel , Lopez Jose , Redondo Pedro , Salido Ginés , Smani Tarik , Rosado Juan
Published: September 2018

Transient receptor potential channels convey signaling information from a number of stimuli to a wide variety of cellular functions, mainly by inducing changes in cytosolic Ca2+ concentration. Different members of the TRPC, TRPM and TRPV subfamilies have been reported to play a role in tumorigenesis. Here we show that the estrogen receptor positive and triple negative breast cancer cell lines, MCF7 and MDA-MB-231, respectively, exhibit enhanced expression of the TRPC6 channel as compared to the non-tumoral MCF10A cell line. In vitro TRPC6 knockdown using shRNA impaired MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cell proliferation, migration and invasion detected by BrdU incorporation, wound healing and Boyden chamber assays, respectively. Using RNAi-mediated TRPC6 silencing as well as overexpression of the pore-dead dominant-negative TRPC6 mutant we have found that TRPC6 plays a relevant role in the activation of store-operated Ca2+ entry in the breast cancer cell lines but not in non-tumoral breast cells. Finally, we have found that TRPC6 interacts with Orai1 and Orai3 in MCF7 and MDA-MB-231 cells and is required for the translocation of Orai1 and Orai3 to the plasma membrane in MDA-MB-231 and MCF7 cells, respectively, upon Ca2+ store depletion. These findings introduce a novel mechanism for the modulation of Ca2+ influx and the development of different cancer hallmarks in breast cancer cells.
Relationship between Altered miRNA Expression and DNA Methylation of the DLK1-DIO3 Region in Azacitidine-Treated Patients with Myelodysplastic Syndromes and Acute Myeloid Leukemia with Myelodysplasia-Related Changes
Authors: Merkerova Michaela Dostalova , Remesova Hana , Krejcik Zdenek , Loudova Nikoleta , Hrustincova Andrea , Szikszai Katarina , Cermak Jaroslav , Jonasova Anna , Belickova Monika
Published: September 2018

The DLK1–DIO3 region contains a large miRNA cluster, the overexpression of which has previously been associated with myelodysplastic syndromes (MDS). To reveal whether this overexpression is epigenetically regulated, we performed an integrative analysis of miRNA/mRNA expression and DNA methylation of the regulatory sequences in the region (promoter of the MEG3 gene) in CD34+ bone marrow cells from the patients with higher-risk MDS and acute myeloid leukemia with myelodysplasia-related changes (AML-MRC), before and during hypomethylating therapy with azacytidine (AZA). Before treatment, 50% of patients showed significant miRNA/mRNA overexpression in conjunction with a diagnosis of AML-MRC. Importantly, increased level of MEG3 was associated with poor outcome. After AZA treatment, the expression levels were reduced and were closer to those seen in the healthy controls. In half of the patients, we observed significant hypermethylation in a region preceding the MEG3 gene that negatively correlated with expression. Interestingly, this hypermethylation (when found before treatment) was associated with longer progression-free survival after therapy initiation. However, neither expression nor methylation status were associated with future responsiveness to AZA treatment. In conclusion, we correlated expression and methylation changes in the DLK1–DIO3 region, and we propose a complex model for regulation of this region in myelodysplasia.
Optimization of Solar Energy System for the Electric Vehicle at University Campus in Dhaka, Bangladesh
Authors: Chowdhury Nusrat , Hossain Chowdhury Akram , Longo Michela , Yaïci Wahiba
Published: September 2018

The incorporation of renewable energy and the transportation system can be significantly beneficial for the economy and environment of Bangladesh. The main energy source for vehicles in Bangladesh are the country’s natural gas and fuel. However, due to the rapid depletion of the gas reserve, soaring gas prices and global warming, alongside the environmental pollution caused by burning fuel, this raises concerns about these energy sources. Renewable energy offers a plausible solution to these problems. This paper’s objective is to focus on the maximum usages of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system in electrical vehicles and to minimize the environmental impact in terms of CO2 emission. This system may be partially used to power up the electric vehicle with a charging facility and contribute excess power to the national grid. The modeling, with its optimal analysis of the green transportation system, is simulated using the Hybrid Optimization of Multiple Energy Renewables (HOMER) software. The energy produced by the PV system can provide up to 13,792 kWh/year. Approximately 21% of the total production can be used in the charging station for charging the electrical vehicles and the rest of the energy can contribute to the national grid. Moreover, using the proposed concept of green transport will ultimately reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 52,944 kg/year.
A New Consideration for Validating Battery Performance at Low Ambient Temperatures
Authors: Tripathy Yashraj , McGordon Andrew , Low Chee Tong John
Published: September 2018

Existing validation methods for equivalent circuit models (ECMs) do not capture the effects of operating lithium-ion cells over legislative drive cycles at low ambient temperatures. Unrealistic validation of an ECM may often lead to reduced accuracy in electric vehicle range estimation. In this study, current and power are used to illustrate the different approaches for validating ECMs when operating at low ambient temperatures (−15 °C to 25 °C). It was found that employing a current-based approach leads to under-testing of the performance of lithium-ion cells for various legislative drive cycles (NEDC; FTP75; US06; WLTP-3) compared to the actual vehicle. In terms of energy demands, this can be as much as ~21% for more aggressive drive cycles but even ~15% for more conservative drive cycles. In terms of peak power demands, this can range from ~27% for more conservative drive cycles to ~35% for more aggressive drive cycles. The research findings reported in this paper suggest that it is better to use a power-based approach (with dynamic voltage) rather than a current-based approach (with fixed voltage) to characterise and model the performance of lithium-ion cells for automotive applications, especially at low ambient temperatures. This evidence should help rationalize the approaches in a model-based design process leading to potential improvements in real-world applications for lithium-ion cells.
Effect of Ice Shedding on Discharge Characteristics of an Ice-Covered Insulator String during AC Flashover
Authors: Li Xiangxin , Zhou Ming , Luo Yazhou , Wang Gang , Jia Lin
Published: September 2018

Considering the ice shedding phenomena on ice-covered outdoor insulators, this paper conducted the artificial experiments by using a five-unit suspension ceramic insulator string covered with wet-grown ice to investigate the effects of ice shedding on the icing discharge characteristics. According to IEEE Standard 1783/2009, the minimum flashover voltage (VMF), propagation of discharges to flashover and related leakage current (LC) were measured. It was found that VMF after ice shedding can be increased by about 17% as compared with that before ice shedding. The initiation and formation of discharge arcs across ice-free regions caused by ice shedding become difficult, showing an unstable propagating path, indeterminate arc shape and longer arc column. Although VMF under ice shedding conditions is higher than that without ice shedding, the fundamental component, and harmonics show lower amplitudes for the latter case. The ratios of harmonics to the fundamental are well in accordance with discharge characteristics during the flashover for which the ratios show a relatively stable varying tendency in the absence of ice shedding, but show changeable and indeterminate variation under ice shedding conditions. The obtained results are helpful to understand the icing state and its influence on surface discharges for preventing the icing flashovers.
Numerical Study of the Respirable Coal Dust Removal Performance of a Vortex Ventilation System at an Excavation Face
Authors: Liu Xiaofei , Chang Ping , Wang Enyuan , Zhang Zhenguo , Yang Shuai
Published: September 2018

Coal dust is one of the most serious issues in coal mines. The miners at an excavation face have a high potential for exposure to high concentrations of coal dust. The main method for removing coal dust is by ventilation. To better control the coal dust at the excavation face, it is important to understand the coal dust movement patterns and distribution characteristics. This paper used the computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach to simulate coal dust movement under two different ventilation systems. The Eulerian-Lagrange method was used to study the gas‒solid two-phase fluid behavior. The coal dust concentration distributions under the two ventilation systems are presented and further compared. From the comparison results, it is found that a vortex ventilation system has better coal dust removal performance. This ventilation system is recommended for excavation for better coal dust control and miners’ health protection.
Historical Drivers and Contemporary Perceptions of Wildfire in a Post-Industrial Rural Landscape
Authors: Saladyga Thomas , Standlee Alecea
Published: September 2018

Placed-based fire management planning that considers historical patterns and processes as well as contemporary local knowledge is recognized as an alternative to broad-scale, regional approaches. In this paper, we used dendrochronology and an online survey to assess historical trends and contemporary perceptions of wildfire, respectively, in the fire-prone anthracite coal region of northeastern Pennsylvania. We developed an annual index of fire occurrence and extent from 216 fire-scarred pitch pine (Pinus rigida) distributed across 9 ridgetop study sites for the period 1900–2016. In addition, we collected survey responses from area residents regarding contemporary perceptions of wildfire hazards and management. Our results show that 20th century wildfire activity was not associated with drought, but closely followed fluctuations in the anthracite coal industry, with increased fire occurrence and extent associated with times of severe job losses. Less extensive wildfire continues to occur frequently, with area residents recognizing the need for fuel management (i.e., prescribed fire) and an increase in resources allocated to wildfire prevention and management as well as trash disposal and recycling programs. Our research represents one example of an integrated approach to informing sustainable fire management that considers the link between historical patterns and contemporary perceptions.
CO2 Injection Effect on Geomechanical and Flow Properties of Calcite-Rich Reservoirs
Authors: Kim Kiseok , Vilarrasa Victor , Makhnenko Roman Y.
Published: September 2018

Geologic carbon storage is considered as a requisite to effectively mitigate climate change, so large amounts of carbon dioxide (CO2) are expected to be injected in sedimentary saline formations. CO2 injection leads to the creation of acidic solution when it dissolves into the resident brine, which can react with reservoir rock, especially carbonates. We numerically investigated the behavior of reservoir-caprock system where CO2 injection-induced changes in the hydraulic and geomechanical properties of Apulian limestone were measured in the laboratory. We found that porosity of the limestone slightly decreases after CO2 treatment, which lead to a permeability reduction by a factor of two. In the treated specimens, calcite dissolution was observed at the inlet, but carbonate precipitation occurred at the outlet, which was closed during the reaction time of three days. Additionally, the relative permeability curves were modified after CO2–rock interaction, especially the one for water, which evolved from a quadratic to a quasi-linear function of the water saturation degree. Geomechanically, the limestone became softer and it was weakened after being altered by CO2. Simulation results showed that the property changes occurring within the CO2 plume caused a stress redistribution because CO2 treated limestone became softer and tended to deform more in response to pressure buildup than the pristine rock. The reduction in strength induced by geochemical reactions may eventually cause shear failure within the CO2 plume affected rock. This combination of laboratory experiments with numerical simulations leads to a better understanding of the implications of coupled chemo-mechanical interactions in geologic carbon storage.
Study and Characterization of Environmental Deposition on Marble and Surrogate Substrates at a Monumental Heritage Site
Authors: Fermo Paola , Goidanich Sara , Comite Valeria , Toniolo Lucia , Gulotta Davide
Published: September 2018

In this study, the results of the field exposure activity conducted between 2014 and 2017 on the façade of the Milano cathedral (Italy) are reported. The main research aim was to characterize environmental deposition in real exposure conditions and for this purpose, both stone substrates (Candoglia marble) and surrogate substrates (quartz fibre filters) were exposed on the cathedral façade in two sites at different heights. A complete chemical characterization has been performed on quartz filters and marble substrates, i.e., quantification of the deposited aerosol particulate matter (PM) and of the main ions. On quartz filters, the carbonaceous component of deposits was also investigated, as well as the color change induced by soiling, by means of colorimetric measurements. The combined approach exploiting marble and surrogate substrates seems to be a suitable monitoring strategy, although some aspects should be taken into account. In particular, differences in the deposits composition have been highlighted mainly depending on the type of substrate. The environmental data related to atmospheric pollution in Milan for the same period have also been considered but no direct correlations were found between some atmospheric precursors and their related ions in solid deposits.
Enemy Encounters in the War Poetry of Wilfred Owen, Keith Douglas, and Randall Jarrell
Authors: Sarnowski Michael
Published: September 2018

While some war poets amplify the concept of anonymity for enemy soldiers, projecting an “us vs. them” mentality, other defining voices of war counter this militaristic impulse to dehumanize the enemy. This pivot toward describing the World Wars more like humanitarian crises than an epic of good and evil is most notable in poems that chronicle both real and imagined close-range encounters between combatants. The poem “Strange Meeting” by British First World War soldier Wilfred Owen uses the vision of two enemy soldiers meeting in hell to reinforce his famous notion that war is something to be pitied. As a result of technological advancements in the Second World War and the increasing distance of combat, the poems “Vergissmeinnicht” and “How to Kill” by British Second World War soldier Keith Douglas wrestle with dehumanizing the enemy and acknowledging their humanity. “Protocols” by American Second World War soldier Randall Jarrell is an imagined view of civilian victims, and is a reckoning with the horrors human beings are capable of committing.
The Cytoscan HD Array in the Diagnosis of Neurodevelopmental Disorders
Authors: Scionti Francesca , Di Martino Maria Teresa , Pensabene Licia , Bruni Valentina , Concolino Daniela
Published: September 2018

Submicroscopic chromosomal copy number variations (CNVs), such as deletions and duplications, account for about 15–20% of patients affected with developmental delay, intellectual disability, multiple congenital anomalies, and autism spectrum disorder. Most of CNVs are de novo or inherited rearrangements with clinical relevance, but there are also rare inherited imbalances with unknown significance that make difficult the clinical management and genetic counselling. Chromosomal microarrays analysis (CMA) are recognized as the first-line test for CNV detection and are now routinely used in the clinical diagnostic laboratory. The recent use of CMA platforms that combine classic copy number analysis with single-nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) genotyping has increased the diagnostic yields. Here we discuss the application of the Cytoscan high-density (HD) SNP-array for the detection of CNVs. We provide an overview of molecular analyses involved in identifying pathogenic CNVs and highlight important guidelines to establish pathogenicity of CNV.
Vitamin D3 Supplementation Reduces the Symptoms of Upper Respiratory Tract Infection during Winter Training in Vitamin D-Insufficient Taekwondo Athletes: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Jung Hyun Chul , Seo Myong-Won , Lee Sukho , Kim Sung Woo , Song Jong Kook
Published: September 2018

Vitamin D insufficiency may be associated with increased risk of upper respiratory tract infection (URTI) in athletes. This study examined the effects of vitamin D3 supplementation on salivary immune functions and symptoms of URTI in vitamin D-insufficient taekwondo athletes. Twenty-five male taekwondo athletes, aged 19–22 years with vitamin D insufficiency [serum 25-hydroxyvitamin-D concentrations (25(OH)D, 31.3 ± 1.39 nmol/L)], participated in this study. They were randomized to receive 5000 IU/day of vitamin D3 (n = 13) or placebo capsule (n = 12) during 4 weeks of winter training. Blood samples were collected two times (pre- and post-tests) for analyzing serum 25(OH)D concentration while salivary samples were obtained three times (pre-, mid-, and post-tests) for secretory immunoglobulin A (SIgA) and lactoferrin analyses. The symptoms of URTI were reported daily during the intervention. Serum 25(OH)D concentration significantly increased by 255.6% in the vitamin D group, whereas in the placebo group it did not change (p < 0.001). While the significant increase in SIgA was observed in both groups (p < 0.001), elevated salivary lactoferrin level in response to winter training was found only in the placebo group (p = 0.011). The change in serum 25(OH)D concentration was negatively associated with total URTI symptoms (r = −0.435, p = 0.015). Vitamin D3 supplementation may be effective in reducing the symptoms of URTI during winter training in vitamin D-insufficient taekwondo athletes.
2-Bromo-4′-methoxychalcone and 2-Iodo-4′-methoxychalcone Prevent Progression of Hyperglycemia and Obesity via 5′-Adenosine-Monophosphate-Activated Protein Kinase in Diet-Induced Obese Mice
Authors: Hsieh Chi-Ting , Chang Fang-Rong , Tsai Yi-Hong , Wu Yang-Chang , Hsieh Tusty-Jiuan
Published: September 2018

Obesity and diabetes are global health-threatening issues. Interestingly, the mechanism of these pathologies is quite different among individuals. The discovery and development of new categories of medicines from diverse sources are urgently needed for preventing and treating diabetes and other metabolic disorders. Previously, we reported that chalcones are important for preventing biological disorders, such as diabetes. In this study, we demonstrate that the synthetic halogen-containing chalcone derivatives 2-bromo-4′-methoxychalcone (compound 5) and 2-iodo-4′-methoxychalcone (compound 6) can promote glucose consumption and inhibit cellular lipid accumulation via 5′-adenosine-monophosphate-activated protein kinase (AMPK) activation and acetyl-CoA carboxylase 1 (ACC) phosphorylation in 3T3-L1 adipocytes and C2C12 skeletal myotubes. In addition, the two compounds significantly prevented body weight gain and impaired glucose tolerance, hyperinsulinemia, and insulin resistance, which collectively help to delay the progression of hyperglycemia in high-fat-diet-induced obese C57BL/6 mice. These findings indicate that 2-bromo-4′-methoxychalcone and 2-iodo-4′-methoxychalcone could act as AMPK activators, and may serve as lead compounds for a new class of medicines that target obesity and diabetes.
Condition Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Bridges: Current Practice and Research Challenges
Authors: Omar Tarek , Nehdi Moncef L.
Published: September 2018

One quarter of bridges in Canada and the United States need repair. The present study provides a critical overview of the state-of-the-art existing condition assessment techniques for reinforced concrete bridges, with an emphasis on current practice in North America. The techniques were classified into five categories, including visual inspection, load testing, non-destructive evaluation, structural health monitoring, and finite element modelling. The potential applications of these technologies are discussed and compared, highlighting their primary advantages and limitations. The review revealed that quantitative assessment could be effectively achieved using several complementary technologies. It is shown that there is need for concerted research efforts to achieve automated data collection and interpretation analyses. Also, the configuration of monitoring systems was found to be paramount in effectively assessing bridge performance parameters of interest. The study suggests appropriate investigation methods for some bridge deterioration mechanisms. Knowledge gaps and challenges in this field are outlined in order to motivate further research and development of these technologies.
Perceived Barriers to Exercise in Adults with Traumatic Brain Injury Vary by Age
Authors: Pinto Shanti M. , Newman Mark A. , Hirsch Mark A.
Published: September 2018

Physical activity and exercise are important adjuncts to medical treatment for overall health in individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI); however, many individuals do not partake in the recommended weekly exercise. The objective of this study was to investigate the barriers to exercise after TBI and determine whether these barriers varied by age. The sample was 172 adults with moderate to severe TBI who completed Barriers to Physical Exercise and Disability (B-PED) survey. Lack of interest, motivation, and energy as well as cost, lack of counseling on exercise by a physician, not having home equipment, and being too lazy were reported as barriers to exercise by all age groups. Those aged 35 to 54-years-old were more likely to report that cost, lack of transportation, having health concerns, not knowing where to exercise, and fear of leaving the home as barriers to exercise than those aged 18 to 34-years-old or 55-years-old and older. Overall, adults with TBI report multiple barriers to exercise, and these barriers vary by age.
Dual Light- and pH-Responsive Composite of Polyazo-Derivative Grafted Cellulose Nanocrystals
Authors: Liu Xiaohong , Li Ming , Zheng Xuemei , Retulainen Elias , Fu Shiyu
Published: September 2018

As a type of functional group, azo-derivatives are commonly used to synthesize responsive materials. Cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs), prepared by acid hydrolysis of cotton, were dewatered and reacted with 2-bromoisobuturyl bromide to form a macro-initiator, which grafted 6-[4-(4-methoxyphenyl-azo) phenoxy] hexyl methacrylate (MMAZO) via atom transfer radical polymerization. The successful grafting was supported by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR) and Solid magnetic resonance carbon spectrum (MAS 13C-NMR). The morphology and surface composition of the poly{6-[4-(4-methoxyphenylazo) phenoxy] hexyl methacrylate} (PMMAZO)-grafted CNCs were confirmed with Transmission electron microscopy (TEM) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The grafting rate on the macro-initiator of CNCs was over 870%, and the polydispersities of branched polymers were narrow. The crystal structure of CNCs did not change after grafting, as determined by X-ray diffraction (XRD). The polymer PMMAZO improved the thermal stability of cellulose nanocrystals, as shown by thermogravimetry analysis (TGA). Then the PMMAZO-grafted CNCs were mixed with polyurethane and casted to form a composite film. The film showed a significant light and pH response, which may be suitable for visual acid-alkali measurement and reversible optical storage.
A Nonlinear Systems Framework for Cyberattack Prevention for Chemical Process Control Systems †
Authors: Durand Helen
Published: September 2018

Recent cyberattacks against industrial control systems highlight the criticality of preventing future attacks from disrupting plants economically or, more critically, from impacting plant safety. This work develops a nonlinear systems framework for understanding cyberattack-resilience of process and control designs and indicates through an analysis of three control designs how control laws can be inspected for this property. A chemical process example illustrates that control approaches intended for cyberattack prevention which seem intuitive are not cyberattack-resilient unless they meet the requirements of a nonlinear systems description of this property.
Degradation Behavior of Micro-Arc Oxidized ZK60 Magnesium Alloy in a Simulated Body Fluid
Authors: Wang Ze-Xin , Chen Guan-Qun , Chen Liang-Yu , Xu Lei , Lu Sheng
Published: September 2018

Bio-ceramic coatings were synthesized on ZK60 magnesium alloys by micro-arc oxidation (MAO). The degradation behavior of the ZK60 alloys with and without MAO coating in the simulated body fluid (SBF) was studied. The samples were characterized by means of scanning electron microscopy (SEM), laser scanning confocal microscopy (CLSM), and X-ray diffraction (XRD). Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) was used to study the degradation behavior. The results showed that the porous MAO coating mainly consisted of MgO, Mg2SiO4, Mg3(PO4)2, and CaCO3. The pH values of both coated and uncoated samples increased over time. However, the pH values of the SBF for coated samples always maintained a lower level compared with those for the uncoated samples. Thereby, the coated samples showed a much lower degradation rate. After immersion in SBF for 5 days, corrosion product containing Ca and P was found on both samples, while the deposition was more active on the coated samples. The degradation models for the uncoated and coated samples in the SBF are also proposed and discussed.
Particle Size Distribution of Cemented Rockfill Effects on Strata Stability in Filling Mining
Authors: Wu Jiangyu , Feng Meimei , Xu Jingmin , Qiu Peitao , Wang Yiming , Han Guansheng
Published: September 2018

It is of great significance for engineering safety, economic benefits, environmental protection, and sustainable development to investigate the strata stability in filling mining with cemented rockfill. Consequently, this paper is based on a specific coal mine where we applied the fully-mechanized longwall mining and filling and designed a cemented rockfill material for which the particles satisfied the Talbot gradation. Uniaxial and triaxial compression experiments were carried out on the cemented rockfill specimen, which obtained the relations between the mechanical parameters (Poisson ratio, elastic modulus, compressive strength, cohesive force, internal friction angle, and tensile strength) and the particle size distribution of the aggregate. The excavation and filling processes in the coal seam were simulated based on the numerical software FLAC3D. The characteristics of the displacement and stress fields of the strata when the goaf was filled by cemented rockfill with different granule gradations were discussed. The influences of the particle size distribution and mining distance on the maximum subsidence displacement of the coal seam roof, internal stress of the backfill, and the stress of the rock mass in the coalface were analyzed. The feasibility and effectiveness of the filling mining with cemented rockfill to protect the integrity of the overlying strata were discussed. The results showed that optimizing the particle size distribution of the aggregate in cemented rockfill could increase the loading capacity of the backfill to improve the filling effect, effectively control the strata movement, and decrease the stress of rock mass in the coalface to reduce the potential danger.