bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Composição mineralógica da fração argilosa nos sedimentos superficiais de fundo da região estuarina do complexo industrial e portuário de Suape (PE)
Authors: Barros Luciano Cintrão , Valença Lúcia Maria Mafra , Souza Neto João Adauto
Published: July 2015

A geologia da região do Complexo Industrial e Portuário de Suape é constituída basicamente por riolitos, traquitos, basaltos, (Suíte Ipojuca), embasamento cristalino (Rochas Metamórficas do Complexo Belém do São Francisco e as rochas graníticas neoproterozoicas), conglomerados, arenitos arcoseanos e siltitos (Formação Cabo), calcários (Formação Estiva), conglomerados, arenitos e argilitos (Formação Barreiras) e depósitos sedimentares quaternários. O objetivo principal desta pesquisa foi identificar os minerais presentes na fração fina (< 4μm) dos sedimentos superficiais de fundo da região estuarina de Suape, permitindo discutir a proveniência destes. Foram coletadas 13 amostras em estações de amostragem estrategicamente dispostas na área de estudo, visando uma melhor representatividade da região estuarina. Posteriormente foi analisada a fração fina destas amostras por difratometria de Raios-X, através da varredura pelo método de Pó (Debye-Scherrer), com faixa entre 2 a 50 f. Os resultados identificaram a presença de quartzo, muscovita, calcita e ortoclásio, além de caulinita e esmectita. Quartzo e caulinita destacam-se como as fases minerais dominantes na região estudada, predominando em todas as amostras. A distribuição do quartzo foi condicionada pelos tributários que atravessam distintas formações geológicas, pela hidrodinâmica dos estuários, que favorece a acumulação deste mineral, e pelo retrabalhamento dos materiais das margens. A fonte da caulinita provavelmente são as rochas sedimentares da Formação Cabo, Formação Barreiras, rochas do embasamento cristalino e vulcânicas. Das amostras investigadas, 38 % apresentam calcita, que provavelmente tem sua origem relacionada à ocorrência das rochas sedimentares carbonáticas da Formação Estiva (Ilha de Cocaia). Alternativamente a calcita pode ter uma origem bioclástica, preferencialmente nas amostras coletadas nas proximidades da Baía de Suape e do Rio Tatuoca. Muscovita foi encontrada em 54% das amostras dos sedimentos estudados, e tem sua possível origem no intemperismo das rochas granítico-gnáissicas e rochas graníticas neoproterozoicas do embasamento cristalino presente a oeste da área de estudo. Ortoclásio foi encontrado em apenas uma amostra, que foi coletada na região próxima ao embasamento cristalino, do qual possivelmente foi originado. Esmectita foi encontrada nas imediações do Canal Retificado e no Riacho Ilha da Cana, ocorrendo em aproximadamente 23% das amostras. As possíveis fontes da esmectita na área de estudo estão relacionadas provavelmente à alteração de feldspatos constituintes das Formações Cabo e Barreiras e embasamento cristalino. Conclui-se que entre dos argilominerais encontrados na pesquisa, a presença das esmectitas coincide com local de maior potencial de retenção de metais pesados, tendo sido revelado a ocorrência na estação ao norte do Canal Retificado.
Levantamento geofísico utilizando o método radioativo na região de Itabaiana (PB)
Authors: Manso Valdir do Amaral Vaz , Arruda Sharliane Dornelle d’Almeida
Published: July 2015

O trabalho realizado na região de Itabaiana (PB) consta de um levantamento geofísico da área utilizando o método radiométrico. De acordo com esse levantamento a área não apresenta concentrações de minerais radioativos significantes, apresentando em toda a sua extensão valores em torno do background. A radiometria apresentou-se como uma ferramenta muito útil na diferenciação de tipos litológicos demonstrados nesse trabalho. O levantamento radiométrico abrangeu aproximadamente 700km2 de área mapeada, e dentro da área não foram detectados valores acima dos padrões normais de radiação (background). Assim sendo, o método geofísico (radioatividade) teve mais utilidade com relação a sua utilização no mapeamento geológico, diferenciando unidades litoestratigráficas pelo seu nível de radiação, do que na prospecção de minerais radioativos, que inegavelmente é seu maior objetivo. Mesmo tendo considerado as variações de radioatividade existentes na mesma unidade litoestratigráfica, pode-se estabelecer, com certa precisão, uma classificação para as mesmas no que se refere à correspondência entre radiação e unidade.
Estratigrafia da bacia de Jatobá: estado da arte
Authors: Guzmán Juliana , Fambrini Gelson Luís , Oliveira Edison Vicente , Usma Cristian David
Published: July 2015

A Bacia de Jatobá representa a extremidade setentrional do sistema rifte Recôncavo-Tucano-Jatobá no nordeste brasileiro. Seus sedimentos registram a evolução da fragmentação intracontinental que dividiu Gondwana nos continentes América do Sul e África, criando o oceano Atlântico Sul. O manuscrito apresenta o estado da arte da estratigrafia da Bacia de Jatobá abordando sua evolução de ruptura no tempo com respeito à biozonação de ostracodes não marinhos. A informação apresentada foi reunida a partir da literatura disponível para as bacias do Nordeste do Brasil, principalmente do sistema rifte Recôncavo-Tucano-Jatobá e da Bacia do Araripe. Da base para o topo as unidades litoestratigráficas que preenchem a Bacia de Jatobá são: Grupo Jatobá (formações Tacaratu e Inajá), Grupo Brotas (formações Aliança e Sergi), Grupo Santo Amaro (Formação Candeias), Grupo Ilhas, Grupo Massacará (Formação São Sebastião), Formação Marizal, Grupo Santana (formações Crato e Romualdo), Formação Exu e coberturas cenozoicas.
Polar lessons learned: long‐term management based on shared threats in Arctic and Antarctic environments
Authors: Bennett Joseph R , Shaw Justine D , Terauds Aleks , Smol John P , Aerts Rien , Bergstrom Dana M , Blais Jules M , Cheung William WL , Chown Steven L , Lea Mary-Anne , Nielsen Uffe N , Pauly Daniel , Reimer Kenneth J , Riddle Martin J , Snape Ian , Stark Jonathan S , Tulloch Vivitskaia J , Possingham Hugh P
Published: July 2015

The Arctic and Antarctic polar regions are subject to multiple environmental threats, arising from both local and ex‐situ human activities. We review the major threats to polar ecosystems including the principal stressor, climate change, which interacts with and exacerbates other threats such as pollution, fisheries overexploitation, and the establishment and spread of invasive species. Given the lack of progress in reducing global atmospheric greenhouse‐gas emissions, we suggest that managing the threats that interact synergistically with climate change, and that are potentially more tractable, is all the more important in the short to medium term for polar conservation. We show how evidence‐based lessons learned from scientific research can be shared between the poles on topics such as contaminant mitigation, biosecurity protocols to reduce species invasions, and the regulation of fisheries and marine environments. Applying these trans‐polar lessons in tandem with expansion of international cooperation could substantially improve environmental management in both the Arctic and Antarctic.
Engineering away our natural defenses: an analysis of shoreline hardening in the US
Authors: Gittman Rachel K , Fodrie F Joel , Popowich Alyssa M , Keller Danielle A , Bruno John F , Currin Carolyn A , Peterson Charles H , Piehler Michael F
Published: July 2015

Rapid population growth and coastal development are primary drivers of marine habitat degradation. Although shoreline hardening or armoring (the addition of concrete structures such as seawalls, jetties, and groins), a byproduct of development, can accelerate erosion and loss of beaches and tidal wetlands, it is a common practice globally. Here, we provide the first estimate of shoreline hardening along US Pacific, Atlantic, and Gulf of Mexico coasts and predict where future armoring may result in tidal wetland loss if coastal management practices remain unchanged. Our analysis indicates that 22 842 km of continental US shoreline – approximately 14% of the total US coastline – has been armored. We also consider how socioeconomic and physical factors relate to the pervasiveness of shoreline armoring and show that housing density, gross domestic product, storms, and wave height are positively correlated with hardening. Over 50% of South Atlantic and Gulf of Mexico coasts are fringed with tidal wetlands that could be threatened by future hardening, based on projected population growth, storm frequency, and an absence of coastal development restrictions.
Effects of drought and prescribed fire on energy exchange in longleaf pine ecosystems
Authors: Whelan Andrew , Starr Gregory , Staudhammer Christina L. , Loescher Henry W. , Mitchell Robert J.
Published: July 2015

The structure and function of longleaf pine savanna ecosystems is regulated by cyclic fire, yet there is a lack of understanding about how the frequency of fire influences longleaf pine ecosystem energy dynamics. There are further uncertainties in how predicted changes in temperature and precipitation may affect the interaction between fire and energy exchange in these ecosystems. We investigated energy dynamics in three frequently burned longleaf pine ecosystems along a gradient of soil moisture availability using eddy covariance techniques. We analyzed sensible energy (H), latent energy (LE) and soil heat flux (G) over time since fire, using micrometeorological variables as covariates. Based on statistical tests of autocorrelation, data were analyzed as 30‐day averages with general linear models. Over three years of measurement, we found that sensible energy, latent energy and soil heat flux recovered to pre‐fire rates within one month following prescribed fire. Changes in water availability associated with drought over the study period had a stronger influence on energy dynamics than did fire. When precipitation was near long‐term averages, annual evapotranspiration (ET) was 743, 816 and 666 mm y−1 at the mesic, intermediate and xeric sites, respectively. During extreme drought, annual ET decreased 4 and 7% at the xeric and intermediate sites, to 754 and 642 mm y−1, respectively, and decreased 20% at the mesic site, to 594 mm y−1. Similarly, Bowen ratios were up to two times higher during drought years versus those with average precipitation. These frequently burned longleaf pine ecosystems are known to be well adapted to fire. The more xeric the site, the more resilient they were to drought, suggesting adaptations of this ecosystem maintained higher levels of physiological activity. This three‐year study begins to illuminate longleaf pine ecosystem energy dynamics, however long‐term observations over a greater range of environmental conditions are necessary to increase our knowledge of the complex interactions between fire, climate and energy dynamics in these ecosystems.
Role of gene polymorphism in development of thromboses
Authors: Elezovic Ivo
Published: July 2015

The development of thromboses is one of the most common causes of morbidity
and mortality in the Western world. The perturbation of haemostasis is the
central event in the pathogenesis of all thromboses. Most patients with
thromboses have no recognisable associated haemostatic disorders. However,
some patients do manifest hereditary hypercoagulable states, which contribute
to the development of thromboses as well as other clinical manifestations,
such as miscarriages and foetal complications. The major determinants of
thrombosis include both environmental influences and genetic factors.
Transient or long-lasting environmental influences may play important roles
in arterial and venous thromboses. Haemostatic perturbance may also be
genetically determined and exert a life-long influence. Specific mutations of
genes predisposed to thrombosis, such as deficiency of antithrombin, protein
C, or protein S, are found in relatively small number of families. In the
absence of genetic deficiencies, thrombosis occurs in the older population,
largely within the context of marked environmental influences (such as
surgery, obesity, and malignancy). In contrast, familial thrombosis,
associated with gene mutation, is associated with a younger age. The general
importance of gene polymorphism was established after the recognition of
activated protein C resistance (APCR) due to gene polymorphism G1691A in
factor V (Factor V Leiden). This single gene defect increases the risk of
venous thrombosis, without interaction with other genetic or environmental
risk factors. The development of APCR led to many other investigations of
gene polymorphism, such as prothrombin 20210, thrombomodulin, factors in the
coagulation and fibrinolytic system, glycoproteins of platelet membranes, as
well as polymorphism C677T of methylene tetrahydrofolate reductase. The
number of potential genetic risk factors for occlusive thrombotic disease has
increased significantly. Most of these gene polymorphisms increase the risk
of venous thrombosis but there is no strong evidence of their influence as
far as arterial thrombosis is concerned.
Risk factors and health condition of workers in school environment
Authors: Nikolovski Dubravka , Saric-Tanaskovic Mica
Published: July 2015

INTRODUCTION. An assessment of influence of risk factors and distress on the
health of workers in school environment was performed as pilot study with the
objective to identify problems and to further improvement of school
environment and health of teachers. OBJECTIVE. The objective was to determine
the prevalence of mental health problems and risk factors of workers from
preschool and school facilities in Pancevo. METHOD. An interview method in
cross-sectional study. Standardized The Four-Dimensional Symptom
Questionnaire (4DSQ) with 5 level graduated scale contents questions about
symptoms in last seven days was used as well as the questionnaire about risk
factors. The studied sample included 174 workers in preschool facilities and
180 teachers in primary and secondary schools. RESULTS. A total of 255
(response rate 72.0%) teachers fulfilled the questionnaire: 28 (11.0%) men
and 227 (89.0%) women, average age 41.85 ? 8.87 years. One third of workers
(33.3%) somatized their health problems, 27.5% were occasionally or regularly
distressed. The most frequent regular difficulties were concern (31%), back
pain, neck pain and headache, and sometimes workers were most frequently
tense (49.8%), with headache, worries, easy emotional reactions and easily
irritated. Diseases of bone and locomotion system appeared to be the most
frequent chronic disturbances in 38 (14.9%) cases, chronic respiratory
diseases in 24 (9.4%), cardiovascular diseases in 22 (8.6%), gastrointestinal
diseases in 12 (4.7%) and endocrine diseases in 12 (4.7%) cases. More than a
half of workers were smokers (44.4% on regular and 9.8% on occasional basis).
Physical inactivity was documented in 16.1%, while 47.5% were occasionally
active. 4.3% were undernourished, and excessive body weight was recorded in
38.5% of workers. 34.5% workers had irregular nutrition, and 9.8% had
superabundant meals. Self-estimation of health condition was stated as good
by 31.8%, relatively good by 61.2% and bad by 7.1% of workers. CONCLUSION.
Our investigation showed high prevalence of mental health problems as a
consequence of distress and somatization. Most reported risk factors were
smoking, obesity and irregular nutrition.
Leases: A Review of Contemporary Academic Literature Relating to Lessees
Authors: Spencer Angela Wheeler , Webb Thomas Z.
Published: July 2015

SYNOPSIS

Accounting for corporate leasing activities has been examined and debated for more than 30 years. Currently both the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) and International Accounting Standards Board (IASB) are developing standards to modify financial reporting for operating leases, which are currently reported off-balance sheet. In light of these proposals, we examine existing literature to better anticipate possible effects of any changes. Namely, we review existing studies to understand why firms engage in operating leases and how information about these arrangements impacts users. First, we review studies directly examining leases. As that review reports, some studies show that companies engage in off-balance sheet leasing at least in part to manage financial statement presentation. Other studies, however, suggest that firms utilize operating leases to manage costs and preserve capital. In general, the research reports that lenders, credit rating agencies, and other capital market participants sufficiently understand off-balance sheet leases and consider them in their decision making. Second, we provide commentary on one of the current proposals' more debated areas and a current point of FASB and IASB divergence: classification of expenses associated with operating leases. While the IASB proposes disaggregating interest and amortization elements, the FASB proposes reporting a single, combined lease expense. However, very little research explicitly addresses expenses associated with operating leases. Existing studies do, however, suggest that information disaggregation, particularly with regard to operating and financing activities, is important. Our review may be useful to regulators as the reporting standards for operating leases are debated.
Small Cell Carcinoma of the Ovary, Hypercalcemic Type: Report of a Bilateral Case in a Teenager Associated with SMARCA4 Germline Mutation
Authors: Lavrut Pierre-Marie , Le Loarer François , Normand Charline , Grosos Céline , Dubois Rémi , Buenerd Annie , Conter Cécile , Dijoud Frédérique , Blay Jean-Yves , Collardeau-Frachon Sophie
Published: July 2015

Small cell carcinoma of the ovary, hypercalcemic type (SCCOHT), is a highly aggressive neoplasm that typically occurs in young females. Paraneoplastic hypercalcemia is associated in two thirds of the cases. Recent studies demonstrated that this rare tumor harbors the same molecular features of malignant rhabdoid tumor secondary to SMARCA4/BRG1 mutations. We illustrate herein a typical bilateral case of SCCOHT with comprehensive molecular characterization in a 14-year-old girl. We also discuss the value of SMARCA4 immunostaining in the diagnostic approach of undifferentiated ovarian and pelvic malignancies.
Agriculture Education for Rural Development in Nepal
Authors: Chaudhary Phanindra Kumar , Pasa Rajan Binayek
Published: July 2015

This paper appraises the possible importance of accessible agriculture education program in agriculture and rural development sectors. Rural development is a strategy for reducing poverty and uplift socio-economic infrastructures in rural areas especially through agriculture development which is almost impossible without proper management of agriculture graduates and trained farmers. An attempt is also made to examine the transformative role of responsible public and private mechanism, skilled farmers and agriculture graduates for achieving ultimate goals and objectives of agricultural policies and rural development efforts during various plan periods. However, still most of agriculture graduates have to be encouraged to working with farmers and need to be devoted in agricultural based occupations. Nepalese economy has undergone a gradual structural shift in the recent years and there is 4.03% average GDP contribution by agriculture sector. Still 2.5 million people need immediate assistance because of insufficient land and production and 4.4 million people are trapping in food insecurity because of raising price in food grains. But Nepal ranked as the sixth largest producer of lentils and the third largest producers of ginger. Cardamom, lentils, tea and ginger are also the leading agricultural export items. This situation suggests that the country is still potential destination form the perspectives commercial farming and agricultural transformation, if the government gives excessive emphasize to providing accessible and affordable agriculture education opportunities to socio-economically backward students whose family members are still working in agriculture sectors. This paper emphasizes that formulating agriculture and rural development policies are not proper way to solve socio-economic problems but it is inevitable to diffuse agriculture education program in rural areas for producing skilled and knowledgeable workforce. The government needs to expand agricultural service delivery mechanism and mobilize agriculture graduates in remote areas and private sectors also need to invest in agriculture sectors as for struggling against food insecurity.DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.3126/jtd.v1i0.13089 Journal of Training and Development Vol.1 2015: 38-45
Hypertension of neurogenic origin: effect of microvascular decompression of the CN IX-X root entry/exit zone and ventrolateral medulla on blood pressure in a prospective series of 48 patients with hemifacial spasm associated with essential hypertension
Authors: Sindou Marc , Mahmoudi Mohamed , Brînzeu Andrei
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

In spite of solid anatomical and physiological arguments and the promising results of Jannetta in the 1970s, treating essential hypertension by microvascular decompression (MVD) of the brainstem has not gained acceptance as a mainstream technique. The main reason has been a lack of established selection criteria. Because of this, the authors' attempts have been limited to patients referred for MVD for hemifacial spasm (HFS) who also had hypertension likely to be related to neurovascular compression (NVC).

METHODS

Of 201 patients referred for HFS, 48 (23.8%) had associated hypertension. All had high-resolution MR images that demonstrated NVC. All underwent MVD of the root exit/entry zone (REZ) of the ninth and tenth cranial nerves (CN IX-X) and adjacent ventrolateral medulla in addition to the CN VII REZ. Effects on hypertension, graded using the WHO classification, were studied up to the latest follow-up, which was 2–16 years from the time of surgery, 7 years on average. Also, effects of MVD on blood pressure (BP) according to the side of vascular compression were evaluated.

RESULTS

Preoperatively, hypertension was severe in all but 1 of the patients; in spite of medical treatment, 47 patients still had WHO Grade 1 or 2 hypertension, and 18 still had unstable BP. After MVD, at latest follow-up, BP had returned to normal (i.e., systolic pressure < 140 mm Hg) in 28 patients; 14 of these patients (29.10% of the whole series) were able to maintain normal BP without any antihypertensive treatment; the other 14 still required some medication to maintain their BP below 140 mm Hg (p < 0.0001). Also, at latest follow-up, BP remained unstable in only 8 of the 18 patients with instability prior to MVD (p < 0.02). Analysis according to side of compression showed that of the 30 patients with left-sided compression, 17 had their BP normalized (without medication in 11 cases), and of the 18 patients with right-sided compression, 11 had their BP normalized (without medication in 3 cases). The difference between sides was not significant.

CONCLUSIONS

These results argue for considering MVD for the treatment of hypertension likely to be due to NVC at the CN IX-X REZ and adjacent ventrolateral medulla. Criteria for selecting patients with hypertension alone still need to be established and could include the following indications: apparently essential hypertension, likely to be neurogenic, in patients in whom high-resolution MRI shows clear-cut images of NVC at the CN IX-X REZ and adjacent ventrolateral medulla and in whom BP cannot be controlled by medical treatment.
Downregulation of serum microRNA-205 as a potential diagnostic and prognostic biomarker for human glioma
Authors: Yue Xiao , Lan FengMing , Hu Man , Pan Qiang , Wang Qiong , Wang JinHuan
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are a new class of highly promising cancer biomarkers. Malignant glioma is one of the most devastating and lethal forms of intrinsic CNS tumor. Here, the authors evaluated serum miRNA 205 (miR-205) levels in patients with glioma.

METHODS

Sixty-four patients in whom glioma was diagnosed and 45 healthy controls were recruited between October 2011 and March 2012 and randomly assigned to the screening cohort or the validation cohort. Cohorts of patients with other brain tumors, including meningioma (n = 8), primary diffuse large B-cell lymphoma of the CNS (n = 6), and pituitary adenoma (n = 5), were investigated and compared. miR-205 extraction from serum was detected by real-time quantitative reverse-transcription polymerase chain reaction. The Kaplan-Meier method was applied to perform survival analysis, the risk factors were analyzed by using a Cox regression model, and the receiver operating characteristic working curve was used to analyze the value of miR-205 in the prognostic evaluation of the patients.

RESULTS

The authors first demonstrated that serum miR-205 expression was significantly lower in patients with glioma than in healthy controls (p < 0.001). It is important to note that serum miR-205 expression demonstrated a stepwise decrease with ascending pathological grades. The serum miR-205 biomarker had high sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy in patients with glioma. Serum levels of miR-205 were identified as an individual diagnostic marker and were significantly lower in the glioma cohort than in the other brain tumor cohorts. Serum miR-205 levels were significantly increased in postoperative samples over those in the preoperative samples and were reduced again during glioblastoma recurrences. Statistical analysis revealed a significant correlation between low serum miR-205 expression and both ascending pathological grades (p = 0.002) and low Karnofsky Performance Scale scores (p = 0.01). Patients with glioma at an advanced pathological grade (Grade III or IV) and a higher miR-205 serum level showed longer overall survival than those with a lower miR-205 serum concentration (p < 0.01). Furthermore, Cox regression analysis revealed that miR-205 serum levels were independently associated with overall survival.

CONCLUSIONS

These data indicate that serum miR-205 expression is a novel and valuable biomarker for the diagnosis of glioma and a prognostic factor for those with a tumor at an advanced pathological grade.
Shunt placement after cyst fenestration for middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts in children
Authors: Kimiwada Tomomi , Hayashi Toshiaki , Narisawa Ayumi , Shirane Reizo , Tominaga Teiji
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

Some pediatric patients with middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts present with symptoms of increased intracranial pressure (ICP) and require shunt placement after a cyst fenestration. However, factors concerning increased ICP after fenestration followed by shunt placement have not been elucidated. This study evaluated factors that are associated with shunt placement following cyst fenestration in pediatric patients with middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts.

METHODS

Twenty-six pediatric patients with middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts who were surgically treated at a single institution between 2004 and 2013 were retrospectively identified. The surgical indications for middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts were as follows: 1) arachnoid cysts associated with symptoms such as headache and abnormally enlarging head circumference; 2) progressively expanding arachnoid cysts; and 3) large arachnoid cysts such as Galassi Type III. A cyst fenestration was performed as a first-line treatment, and shunt placement was required if symptoms associated with increased ICP were found following fenestration. The risk factors evaluated included age, sex, presenting symptoms, the presence of head enlargement, progressive cyst expansion, and subdural hematoma/hygroma.

RESULTS

Four patients (15.4%) required shunt placement after cyst fenestration. Younger age, abnormal head enlargement, and progressive cyst expansion before fenestration were significantly associated with the need for shunt placement following fenestration. Arachnoid cysts decreased in size in 22 patients (84.6%) after fenestration and/or shunt placement. The presence of symptoms was not associated with postoperative cyst size in this study.

CONCLUSIONS

In this study, younger age, abnormal head enlargement, and progressive cyst expansion were risk factors for shunt placement after cyst fenestration in pediatric patients with middle cranial fossa arachnoid cysts. It is important to consider that cyst fenestration may not be effective because of a latent derangement of CSF circulation in patients with these risk factors.
Impact of obesity on complications, infection, and patient-reported outcomes in adult spinal deformity surgery
Authors: Soroceanu Alex , Burton Douglas C. , Diebo Bassel Georges , Smith Justin S. , Hostin Richard , Shaffrey Christopher I. , Boachie-Adjei Oheneba , Mundis Gregory M. , Ames Christopher , Errico Thomas J. , Bess Shay , Gupta Munish C. , Hart Robert A. , Schwab Frank J. , Lafage Virginie , _ _
Published: July 2015

OBJECT

Adult spinal deformity (ASD) surgery is known for its high complication rate. This study examined the impact of obesity on complication rates, infection, and patient-reported outcomes in patients undergoing surgery for ASD.

METHODS

This study was a retrospective review of a multicenter prospective database of patients with ASD who were treated surgically. Patients with available 2-year follow-up data were included. Obesity was defined as having a body mass index (BMI) ≥ 30 kg/m2. Data collected included complications (total, minor, major, implant-related, radiographic, infection, revision surgery, and neurological injury), estimated blood loss (EBL), operating room (OR) time, length of stay (LOS), and patient-reported questionnaires (Oswestry Disability Index [ODI], Short Form-36 [SF-36], and Scoliosis Research Society [SRS]) at baseline and at 6 weeks, 1 year, and 2 years postoperatively. The impact of obesity was studied using multivariate modeling, accounting for confounders.

RESULTS

Of 241 patients who satisfied inclusion criteria, 175 patients were nonobese and 66 were obese. Regression models showed that obese patients had a higher overall incidence of major complications (IRR 1.54, p = 0.02) and wound infections (odds ratio 4.88, p = 0.02). Obesity did not increase the number of minor complications (p = 0.62), radiographic complications (p = 0.62), neurological complications (p = 0.861), or need for revision surgery (p = 0.846). Obesity was not significantly correlated with OR time (p = 0.23), LOS (p = 0.9), or EBL (p = 0.98). Both groups experienced significant improvement overtime, as measured on the ODI (p = 0.0001), SF-36 (p = 0.0001), and SRS (p = 0.0001) questionnaires. However, the overall magnitude of improvement was less for obese patients (ODI, p = 0.0035; SF-36, p = 0.0012; SRS, p = 0.022). Obese patients also had a lower rate of improvement over time (SRS, p = 0.0085; ODI, p = 0.0001; SF-36, p = 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

This study revealed that obese patients have an increased risk of complications following ASD correction. Despite these increased complications, obese patients do benefit from surgical intervention; however, their improvement in health-related quality of life (HRQL) is less than that of nonobese patients.
A Clinical Drug Library Screen Identifies Tosufloxacin as Being Highly Active against Staphylococcus aureus Persisters
Authors: Niu Hongxia , Cui Peng , Yee Rebecca , Shi Wanliang , Zhang Shuo , Feng Jie , Sullivan David , Zhang Wenhong , Zhu Bingdong , Zhang Ying
Published: July 2015

To identify effective compounds that are active against Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus) persisters, we screened a clinical drug library consisting of 1524 compounds and identified six drug candidates that had anti-persister activity: tosufloxacin, clinafloxacin, sarafloxacin, doxycycline, thiostrepton, and chlorosalicylanilide. Among them, tosufloxacin had the highest anti-persister activity, which could completely eradicate S. aureus persisters within 2 days in vitro. Clinafloxacin ranked the second with very few persisters surviving the drug exposure. Interestingly, we found that both tosufloxacin and trovafloxacin that had high activity against persisters contained at the N-1 position the 2,4-difluorophenyl group, which is absent in other less active quinolones and may be associated with the high anti-persister activity. Further studies are needed to evaluate tosufloxacin in animal models and to explain its unique activity against bacterial persisters. Our findings may have implications for improved treatment of persistent bacterial infections.
Breast Cancer in Elderly Caucasian Women—An Institution-Based Study of Correlation between Breast Cancer Prognostic Markers, TNM Stage, and Overall Survival
Authors: Orucevic Amila , Curzon Matthew , Curzon Christina , Heidel Robert , McLoughlin James , Panella Timothy , Bell John
Published: July 2015

There is still a paucity of data on how breast cancer (BC) biology influences outcomes in elderly patients. We evaluated whether ER/PR/HER2 subtype and TNM stage of invasive BC had a significant impact on overall survival (OS) in a cohort of 232 elderly Caucasian female patients (≥70 year old (y/o)) from our institution over a ten-year interval (January 1998–July 2008). Five ER/PR/HER2 BC subtypes classified per 2011 St. Gallen International Expert Consensus recommendations were further subclassified into three subtypes (traditionally considered “favorable” subtype-ER+/PR+/HER2-, and traditionally considered “unfavorable” BC subtypes: HER2+ and triple negative). OS was measured comparing these categories using Kaplan Meier curves and Cox regression analysis, when controlled for TNM stage. The majority of our patients (178/232 = 76.8%) were of the “favorable” BC subtype; 23.2% patients were with “unfavorable” subtype (HER2+ = 12% (28/232) and triple negative = 11.2% (26/232)). Although a trend for better OS was noted in HER2+ patients (68%) vs. 56% in ER+/PR+ HER2- or 58% in triple negative patients, “favorable” BC subtype was not significantly predictive of better OS (p = 0.285). TNM stage was predictive of OS (p < 0.001). These results are similar to our published studies on Caucasian BC patients of all ages in which ER/PR/HER2 status was not predictive of OS, irrespective of classification system used.
Role of the Aryl Hydrocarbon Receptor in Colon Neoplasia
Authors: Xie Guofeng , Raufman Jean-Pierre
Published: July 2015

For both men and women, colorectal cancer (CRC) is the second leading cause of cancer death in the United States, primarily as a consequence of limited therapies for metastatic disease. The aryl hydrocarbon receptor (AhR) is a ligand-dependent transcription factor with diverse functions in detoxification of xenobiotics, inflammatory responses, and tissue homeostasis. Emerging evidence indicates that AhR also plays an important role in regulating intestinal cell proliferation and tumorigenesis. Here, we review both the pro- and anti-carcinogenic properties of AhR signaling and its potential role as a therapeutic target in CRC.
Non-Overlapping Distributions and Functions of the VDAC Family in Ciliogenesis
Authors: Majumder Shubhra , Cash Ayla , Fisk Harold
Published: July 2015

Centrosomes are major microtubule-organizing centers of animal cells that consist of two centrioles. In mitotic cells, centrosomes are duplicated to serve as the poles of the mitotic spindle, while in quiescent cells, centrosomes move to the apical membrane where the oldest centriole is transformed into a basal body to assemble a primary cilium. We recently showed that mitochondrial outer membrane porin VDAC3 localizes to centrosomes where it negatively regulates ciliogenesis. We show here that the other two family members, VDAC1 and VDAC2, best known for their function in mitochondrial bioenergetics, are also found at centrosomes. Like VDAC3, centrosomal VDAC1 is predominantly localized to the mother centriole, while VDAC2 localizes to centriolar satellites in a microtubule-dependent manner. Down-regulation of VDAC1 leads to inappropriate ciliogenesis, while its overexpression suppresses cilia formation, suggesting that VDAC1 and VDAC3 both negatively regulate ciliogenesis. However, this negative effect on ciliogenesis is not shared by VDAC2, which instead appears to promote maturation of primary cilia. Moreover, because overexpression of VDAC3 cannot compensate for depletion of VDAC1, our data suggest that while the entire VDAC family localizes to centrosomes, they have non-redundant functions in cilogenesis.
Probabilistic Forecasts: Scoring Rules and Their Decomposition and Diagrammatic Representation via Bregman Divergences
Authors: Hughes Gareth , Topp Cairistiona
Published: July 2015

A scoring rule is a device for evaluation of forecasts that are given in terms of the probability of an event. In this article we will restrict our attention to binary forecasts. We may think of a scoring rule as a penalty attached to a forecast after the event has been observed. Thus a relatively small penalty will accrue if a high probability forecast that an event will occur is followed by occurrence of the event. On the other hand, a relatively large penalty will accrue if this forecast is followed by non-occurrence of the event. Meteorologists have been foremost in developing scoring rules for the evaluation of probabilistic forecasts. Here we use a published meteorological data set to illustrate diagrammatically the Brier score and the divergence score, and their statistical decompositions, as examples of Bregman divergences. In writing this article, we have in mind environmental scientists and modellers for whom meteorological factors are important drivers of biological, physical and chemical processes of interest. In this context, we briefly draw attention to the potential for probabilistic forecasting of the within-season component of nitrous oxide emissions from agricultural soils.
Life’s a Gas: A Thermodynamic Theory of Biological Evolution
Authors: Skene Keith
Published: July 2015

This paper outlines a thermodynamic theory of biological evolution. Beginning with a brief summary of the parallel histories of the modern evolutionary synthesis and thermodynamics, we use four physical laws and processes (the first and second laws of thermodynamics, diffusion and the maximum entropy production principle) to frame the theory. Given that open systems such as ecosystems will move towards maximizing dispersal of energy, we expect biological diversity to increase towards a level, Dmax, representing maximum entropic production (Smax). Based on this theory, we develop a mathematical model to predict diversity over the last 500 million years. This model combines diversification, post-extinction recovery and likelihood of discovery of the fossil record. We compare the output of this model with that of the observed fossil record. The model predicts that life diffuses into available energetic space (ecospace) towards a dynamic equilibrium, driven by increasing entropy within the genetic material. This dynamic equilibrium is punctured by extinction events, which are followed by restoration of Dmax through diffusion into available ecospace. Finally we compare and contrast our thermodynamic theory with the MES in relation to a number of important characteristics of evolution (progress, evolutionary tempo, form versus function, biosphere architecture, competition and fitness).
A Distributed Control Strategy for Frequency Regulation in Smart Grids Based on the Consensus Protocol
Authors: Fu Rong , Wu Yingjun , Wang Hailong , Xie Jun
Published: July 2015

This paper considers the problem of distributed frequency regulation based on the consensus control protocol in smart grids. In this problem, each system component is coordinated to collectively provide active power for the provision of ancillary frequency regulation service. Firstly, an approximate model is proposed for the frequency dynamic process. A distributed control algorithm is investigated, while each agent exchanges information with neighboring agents and performs behaviors based on communication interactions. The objective of each agent is to converge to a common state considering different dynamic load characteristics, and distributed frequency control strategy is developed to enable the agents to provide active power support. Then, the distributed proportional integral controllers with the state feedback are designed considering the consensus protocol with topology . The theory of distributed consensus protocol isfurther developed to prove the stability of the proposed control algorithm. Whenproperly controlled, the controllers can provide grid support services in a distributed manner that turn out the grid balanced globally. Finally, simulations of the proposed distributed control algorithm are tested to validate the availability of the proposed approach and the performance in the electrical networks.
Photovoltaic Electricity for Sustainable Building. Efficiency and Energy Cost Reduction for Isolated DC Microgrid
Authors: Sechilariu Manuela , Locment Fabrice , Wang Baochao
Published: July 2015

In the context of sustainable buildings, this paper investigates power flow management for an isolated DC microgrid and focuses on efficiency and energy cost reduction by optimal scheduling. Aiming at high efficiency, the local produced power has to be used where, when, and how it is generated. Thus, based on photovoltaic sources, storage, and a biofuel generator, the proposed DC microgrid is coupled with the DC distribution network of the building. The DC bus distribution maximizes the efficiency of the overall production-consumption system by avoiding some energy conversion losses and absence of reactive power. The isolated DC microgrid aims to minimize the total energy cost and thus, based on forecasting data, a cost function is formulated. Using a mixed integer linear programming optimization, the optimal power flow scheduling is obtained which leads to an optimization-based strategy for real-time power balancing. Three experimental tests, operated under different meteorological conditions, validate the feasibility of the proposed control and demonstrate the problem formulation of minimizing total energy cost.
Release of Extracellular Polymeric Substance and Disintegration of Anaerobic Granular Sludge under Reduced Sulfur Compounds-Rich Conditions
Authors: Kobayashi Takuro , Xu Kai-Qin , Chiku Haruyuki
Published: July 2015

The effect of reduced form of sulfur compounds on granular sludge was investigated. Significant release of extracellular polymeric substance (EPS) from the granular sludge occurred in the presence of sulfide and methanethiol according to various concentrations. Granular sludge also showed a rapid increase in turbidity and decrease in diameter in accordance with sulfide concentration during the long-term shaking, suggesting that the strength of the granules was reduced with high-concentration sulfide. A continuous experiment of up-flow anaerobic sludge blanket reactors with different concentrations of sulfide (10, 200, 500 mg-S/L) influence demonstrated that the reactor fed with higher concentration of sulfide allowed more washout of small particle-suspended solid (SS) content and soluble carbohydrate and protein, which were considered as EPS released from biofilm. Finally, the presence of sulfide negatively affected methane production, chemical oxygen demand removal and sludge retention in operational performance.
Design and Experimental Study of a VCM-Based Stewart Parallel Mechanism Used for Active Vibration Isolation
Authors: Chi Weichao , Cao Dengqing , Wang Dongwei , Tang Jie , Nie Yifan , Huang Wenhu
Published: July 2015

This paper presents the design and experimental study of a voice coil motor (VCM)-based Stewart platform used for active vibration isolation. The high precision payloads carried on the satellites always require an extremely stable environment to work properly. Installing a vibration isolation device between the vibration sources and precision payloads is an efficient method for dissipating vibration energy. A Stewart platform with active damping is designed to isolate the vibration transferring from the satellite to the payloads in six degrees-of-freedom. First, the kinematics and dynamical equations of a Stewart platform with spherical joints at both the base and top of each leg are established with Newton-Euler Method in task space and joint space. Second, the H∞ Control Theory is employed to design a robust controller for the linearized system with parameter uncertainty, noise and sensor errors. Finally, an experimentation study on the vibration of the payload supported by a Stewart platform with VCM actuator is conducted. The feasibility and effectiveness of the vibration isolation system are verified by comparing the amplitude-frequency characteristics of the active control system with that of the passive control system and the system without damping.
Smallholders’ Tree Planting Activity in the Ziro Province, Southern Burkina Faso: Impacts on Livelihood and Policy Implications
Authors: Etongo Daniel , Djenontin Ida , Kanninen Markku , Fobissie Kalame
Published: July 2015

Climate variability and change significantly affect smallholder farmers’ food security and livelihoods in sub-Saharan Africa. Tree planting is one of the measures promoted by development programs to mitigate and adapt to climate change. Tree planting is also believed to positively contribute to livelihoods. This paper examines factors influencing smallholders’ tree planting activities in four villages in the Ziro province, Southern Burkina Faso. Furthermore, it analyses the challenges encountered and willingness to continue tree planting under current tenure arrangements. The data was obtained through key informants, household interviews, focus group discussions, and field observations. Results indicate that the majority of farmers interviewed planted Mangifera indica (50%), Anacardium occidentale (32%) and Moringa oleifera (30%). In a number of trees planted, Eucalyptus camaldulensis, Mangifera indica and Anacardium occidentale dominated. Tree planters were mainly farmers who held large and old farm areas, were literate and relatively wealthy, had favorable attitudes toward tree planting, and with considerable years of participation in a farmers’ group. The main reasons for planting trees included income generation from the sale of tree products, access to markets and local support for tree planting. Preference for agriculture, tenure insecurity and lack of sufficient land were the main reasons cited for not planting trees. Farm households that were relatively poor, had smaller workforces and smaller farm sizes were not willing to continue tree planting. To effectively engage farmers in tree planting and to make it more attractive, policies are needed that address tenure insecurity for migrants, enable better access to markets, and support fair pricing structures for wood and other tree resources.