bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Role of 64/128-Slice Multidetector Computed Tomography to Assess the Progression of Coronary Atherosclerosis
Authors: Ayad Sherif W. , Elsharkawy Eman M. , Eltahan Salah M. , Sobhy Mohamed A. , Laymouna Reem H.
Published: May 2015

Objectives

We studied the progression of coronary atherosclerosis over time as detected by multidetector computed tomography (MDCT) in relation to risk factors and plaque composition.

Background

Studies using MDCT are limited to the assessment of the degree of stenosis without taking into consideration the plaque composition that is seen by MDCT.

Methods

This study included 200 patients, complaining of chest pain and referred to do 64/128-contrast–enhanced MDCT for the second time, and both studies were retrieved and evaluated for the presence of plaque, plaque type, vessel wall remodeling, percent area, and diameter stenosis and compared in both studies. Plaque progression over time and its association with risk factors were determined.

Results

We included 200 patients, and 348 plaques were detected by 64/128 MDCT. The duration between follow-up and baseline studies was 25.9 ± 19.2 month. In all, 200 plaques showed progression (57.47%), 122 were stable (35.06%), and 26 regressed (7.47%). In longitudinal regression analysis, the presence of history of diabetes mellitus and dyslipidemia and the absence of intraplaque calcium deposits were independently associated with plaque progression over time ( P < 0.0001).

Conclusion

Coronary plaque burden of patients with chest pain and no history of acute coronary syndrome significantly increased over time. Progression is dependent on plaque composition and cardiovascular risk factors. Larger studies and longer follow-up period are needed to confirm the determinant factors for plaque progression.
How Patients Experience Antral Irrigation
Authors: Blomgren Karin , Eliander Lotta , Hytönen Maija , Ylinen Suvi , Laitio Mirja , Virkkula Paula
Published: May 2015

Background

Antral irrigation earlier had an important role in the diagnosis and treatment of rhinosinusitis. Nowadays, it is often considered too unpleasant. However, the experience of patients of this procedure has been very seldom evaluated. Nor has the effect on pain in rhinosinusitis been evaluated. The aim of this study was to evaluate patients’ experience of discomfort and pain during antral irrigation. We also assessed facial pain caused by rhinosinusitis before the procedure and pain soon after the procedure.

Methods

Doctors and 121 patients completed their questionnaires independently after antral irrigation in a university clinic, in a private hospital, and at a communal health center.

Results

Patients experienced mild pain during antral irrigation (mean and median visual analog scale score: <3). Their experience of pain during antral irrigation was closely comparable to pain during dental calculus scaling. Facial pain assessed before antral irrigation decreased quickly after the procedure.

Conclusions

Antral irrigation was well tolerated as an outpatient procedure. The procedure seems to relieve facial pain caused by the disease quickly. The role of antral irrigation in the treatment of acute rhinosinusitis will need further investigation.
Child and Caregiver Attitudes about Sports Drinks and Weekly Sports Drink Intake among U.S. Youth
Authors: Zytnick Deena , Park Sohyun , Onufrak Stephen J.
Published: May 2015

Purpose.

To examine caregiver and youth attitudes about sports drinks (SDs) and the association of those attitudes with youth SD intake.

Design.

Study design was cross-sectional. The online YouthStyles survey was sent to youth (ages 12–17 years) whose caregivers completed the online Summer ConsumerStyles survey for adults.

Setting.

The 2011 Styles survey data comprised the setting.

Subjects.

The sample was composed of 815 U.S. caregiver-youth dyads.

Measures.

The outcome variable is youth SD consumption, and exposure variables are youth and caregivers' attitudes that SDs are healthy for children, and caregivers' attitude that children need SDs for hydration. Covariates are youth demographic and physical activity variables.

Analysis.

Multivariable logistic regression was used to estimate adjusted odds ratios (ORs) for youth SD consumption one or more times per week after controlling for covariates.

Results.

About one in five youth consumed SDs one or more times per week. Caregiver attitudes about the healthfulness of SDs and children's need of SDs for hydration both significantly differed by race and caregiver education level. The odds of youth SD consumption one or more times per week were significantly higher among youth of caregivers who agreed that SDs are good, healthy drinks for children (OR, 2.72 vs. disagreed) and among youth of caregivers who agreed that children need SDs for hydration (OR, 3.15 vs. disagreed). Youth attitude about SD healthfulness was not associated with intake.

Conclusion.

Caregivers, particularly minority and less educated caregivers, may need more education about SD use.
The Role of Age in Moderating the Association between Disability and Light-Intensity Physical Activity
Authors: Prizer Lindsay P. , Gay Jennifer L. , Gerst-Emerson Kerstin , Froehlich-Grobe Katherine
Published: May 2015

Purpose.

There's a lack of evidence on the association between light-intensity physical activity and disability. This study examines the relationships in activity by self-reported physical function in five domains (i.e., activities of daily living [ADL], instrumental ADL, leisure activities, lower extremity, and general activities), and whether this association varies by age.

Design.

Cross-sectional.

Setting.

Data from National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2003–2004 and 2005–2006 waves.

Subjects.

Participants included 5700 men and women ages 20 to 85 years.

Measures.

Difficulty with various activities was measured with the Physical Functioning Questionnaire, accelerometer-measured physical activity, demographics, and self-rated health.

Analysis.

Ordinary least squares regression models were run to examine the relationship between physical function in each domain, light-intensity activity, and the moderating effect of age. Analyses controlled for body mass index, moderate-to-vigorous–intensity activity, self-reported health, accelerometer wear time, and gender.

Results.

Little variation was seen in light-intensity physical activity among younger adults regardless of disability status. Older adults reporting difficulty with activities engaged in significantly less light-intensity physical activity compared to those with no disability (271.8 vs. 316.5 minutes). Age significantly moderated the association between light-intensity physical activity and leisure activities (p = .048), and lower extremity mobility (p = .039). Age did not moderate other domains of disability.

Conclusion.

Younger age may be protective regarding the influence of disability on light-intensity activity. In addition, disability may be more debilitating for some older individuals. Interventions to increase light-intensity activity should aim to address disability at all ages, with increased attention for older adults.
Community Lenses Revealing the Role of Sociocultural Environment on Physical Activity
Authors: Belon Ana Paula , Nieuwendyk Laura M. , Vallianatos Helen , Nykiforuk Candace I. J.
Published: May 2015

Purpose.

To identify perceptions of how sociocultural environment enabled and hindered physical activity (PA) participation.

Design.

Community-based participatory research.

Setting.

Two semirural and two urban communities located in Alberta, Canada.

Participants.

Thirty-five people (74.3% females, 71.4% aged 25–64 years) across the four communities.

Method.

PhotoVoice activities occurred over 3 months during the spring of 2009. Participants were asked to document perceived environmental attributes that might foster or inhibit PA in their community. Photographs and narratives were shared in one-on-one interviews. Line-by-line coding of the transcripts was independently conducted by two researchers using an inductive approach. Codes were arranged into themes and subthemes, which were then organized into the Analysis Grid for Environments Linked to Obesity (ANGELO) framework.

Results.

Six main themes (accompanied by subthemes) emerged: sociocultural aesthetics, safety, social involvement, PA motivation, cultural ideas of recreation, and car culture. Representative quotes and photographs illustrate enablers and obstacles identified by participants.

Conclusion.

This PhotoVoice study revealed how aspects of participants' sociocultural environments shaped their decisions to be physically active. Providing more PA resources is only one step in the promotion of supportive environments. Strategies should also account for the beautification and maintenance of communities, increasing feelings of safety, enhancement of social support among community members, popularization of PA, and mitigating car culture, among others.
A change in the climate: Online social capital and the spiral of silence
Authors: Sheehan Kim
Published: May 2015

This study explores the connection between online social capital and the Spiral of Silence. Online social capital is an individual’s network of social connections, a network that enables and encourages social cooperation. The Spiral of Silence theory suggests that an opinion can become dominant if those who perceive their opinion to be in the minority do not speak up because society threatens them with isolation. A study of 550 individuals explored their willingness to speak up on an issue, and assessed whether they thought they held a majority of a minority opinion. This study compared both their bonding social capital (via homogeneous networks) and bridging social capital (via heterogeneous networks) to their willingness to speak up and their perceptions of whether others held their opinions. Regression analyses shows that bridging social capital is a key influencer in people’s willingness to speak up in social media and other online venues.
Can regimes really discourage social networking? Urbanization, mobile phone use, and the dictator's plight
Authors: Lee Shin Haeng
Published: May 2015

Are dictators ever really successful at hindering the diffusion of social networking services (SNSs)? This study reports a panel data analysis on 181 countries observed from 2010 to 2013, to assess country-level predictors of Facebook adoption. The findings show that the spread of such a global SNS decelerates as perceptions of democratic governance deteriorate above and beyond socioeconomic and infrastructural development. Nevertheless, once dictatorship fails to maintain socio-political stability, the diffusion of Facebook accelerates to a greater extent than in democracy. This trend could transcend institutional constraints, as well as socioeconomic developments, because of widespread proliferation of mobile phone use in addition to increasing wireless or shared connectivity in urban areas.
Controlling singularity: The role of online communication for young visual artists’ identity management
Authors: Hansson Karin
Published: May 2015

This paper contributes to the literature on art, new media and identity by investigating the role online communication plays for young visual artists’ identity management. Drawing from comprehensive sources on the Internet such as blogs, Web pages, networking sites and digital magazines, as well as interview data from art students at the Royal Institute of Art in Stockholm, this article describes how artists deal with convergent contexts online, while addressing an exclusive public of cultural producers and simultaneously reaching for a broad cultural significance.
Establishing an epidemiosurveillance centre in a resource-constrained setting: A Zambian experience
Authors: Hamoonga Raymond , Songolo Nadi , Musako Chimuka
Published: May 2015

This presentation outlines the creation of a Provincial Epidemiological and Information Centre (PEIC) in Zambia’s Luapula province. This is only the second epidemiosurveillance centre in the country. Luapula province in the northern part of Zambia being one of only 3 provinces out of a total of 10 provinces that are free of theilleriosis in Zambia has the potential of being Zambia’s largest disease free zone. The challenges as well as lessons learnt from setting up this epidemiosurveillance centre are presented.
Community Perceptions on Integrating Animal Vaccination and Health Education by Veterinary and Public Health Workers in the Prevention of Brucellosis among Pastoral Communities of South Western Uganda
Authors: Kansiime Catherine , Atuyambe Lynn M. , Guma Victor , Mugisha Anthony , Mugisha Samuel , Asiimwe Benon B. , Rwego Innocent B. , Rutebemberwa Elizeus
Published: May 2015

Integration of animal vaccination against and health education on brucellosis (the activity level) by veterinary and public health workers (the actors‰Ûª level), how to conduct the integration process, and challenges likely to be faced was conducted in pastoral communities. It was noted that integration of animal vaccination and health education would be feasible if government and other stakeholders were involved in facilitation of the programs. Key areas of improvement mentioned included; improving human resources, facilitating the necessary activities such as sensitization of the communities about the brucellosis, and providing the vaccines and diagnostic kits, collaboration with all stakeholders.
Determining Disease Load through the National Health Information System in Pakistan
Authors: Mursalin Syed M.
Published: May 2015

Before the launch of standard National Health Information System (NMHIS) in 2000, there had been acute paucity of reliable and timely health information in Pakistan. The launch of new System had put in place a standard system of data collection and transmission in the country.
Real-time Forecasting of the 2014 Dengue Fever Season in Thailand
Authors: Reich Nicholas G. , Sakrejda Krzysztof , Lauer Stephen A. , Cummings Derek A. , Suangtho Paphanij , Hinjoy Soawapak , Iamsirithaworn Sopon , Clapham Hannah , Salje Henrik , Lessler Justin
Published: May 2015

Real-time surveillance of an infectious disease in a third world country poses many problems that are not conventionally confronted by statistical researchers. As the first ones - to our knowledge - to attempt real-time forecasts of dengue fever in Thailand, we have faced these problems head-on in our quest to build a model that accurately predicts case counts in the presence of erratic reporting, shifting population dynamics, and potential climate change.
Involvement of Local Communities and Households in the Implementation of the “One Health” Initiative Through the East African Integrated Disease Surveillance Network (EAIDSNet) Stanley S. SONOIYA*
Authors: SONOIYA Stanley S.
Published: May 2015

Field Experiences in promoting the involvement of Local Communities and Households in the implementation of the One Health initiative through participatory approaches under the East African Integrated Disease Surveillance Network (EAIDSNet)
Validation of the Michigan’s Public Health Syndromic System Using Electronic Medical Records
Authors: Swarnavel Sandhya , Collins Jim , Miller Corrine
Published: May 2015

Michigan has been collecting chief complaint data from emergency departments statewide to support situational awareness activities related to communicable disease since 2004. We validated the syndromic system by comparing the chief complaint data to the electronic medical records (EMR) of a tertiary hospital in southeast Michigan to better understand the utility of the system for non-communicable disease situations.Findings of this study will help determine the accuracy of the automated classification of data based on chief complaints. This study can add confidence in planning for public health preparedness activities and situational awareness.
Establishing Prospective Road Traffic Injury Surveillance in India: Challenges and Solutions
Authors: Tetali Shailaja , Josyula Lakshmi , Gupta Shivam , Wadhwaniya Shirin , Gururaj G , Stevens Kent
Published: May 2015

There are many challenges in establishing surveillance systems for road injuries in India, predominantly rapid staff turnover, heavy workload and the absence of already existing data recording and management in hospitals. Pending administrative solutions such as improved staffing and posting, the chief measures to address these challenges were sustained dialogue and rapport-building with hospital administrators, training of data collectors, and enlisting the aid of bridge personnel, such as interns. Reiterating the value of surveillance data to negotiate for hospital resources commensurate with the high burden of road injuries may help convince hospital administrators to sustain such surveillance initiatives.
Effect of motivation on employee performance of commercial banks in Kenya: A case study of Kenya Commercial Bank in Migori County
Authors: Omolo Pamela Akinyi
Published: May 2015

This study sought to assess the effect that motivation had on the job of workers of the Kenya Commercial Bank in Migori County. The study also focused on the demotivating factors like delay of promotion, no clear career progression, unreasonable load, long working hours and lack of appreciation from the managers. This study adopted a descriptive design because it involved interviewing or administering questionnaire to a sample of individuals ( Orodho, 2003). Simple random sampling was used as no complexities were be involved. All that was needed was a relatively small, clearly defined population (Orodho and Okombo, 2002).. The study employed the use of self administered questionnaire to collect the required primary data. Descriptive statistical analysis technique was employed to obtain useful summary of responses. Statistical Programme of Social Scientists (SPSS) version 17 tool was used to generate data that was presented in tables and piecharts as was necessary. Simple random sampling was used and total sample population was forty five employees. In conclusion, managers should know that employees are motivated by monetary rewards. It is recommended that there is need for managers to have a comprehensive motivation scheme in all aspects of an organization as this is directly proportional to the output of the employees.
So far where we Stand in the Recruitment and Selection Studies? A Review Study based on earlier Studies
Authors: Nabi Ghulam , Wei Song , Raja Mohammad Waqas , Zhao Shuliang , Ahmed Bilal
Published: May 2015

Since the modern human civilization has become known, the struggle for growth and survival has remained a central focus of all times and it is inevitable to gain this without competitive and well balanced workforce. This lead the studies focus on human resource which has been identified as key resource for organizations, due to which the recruitment and selection become the basic activity for effective selection apart from any ethical, social and legal issues influence. A vast amount of research studies have been conducted in the field of recruitment and selection from various perspectives, due to which it has become difficult to contemplate and comment on its reasonability. This review study has analyzed the different perspectives of the recruitment and selection that has been much focused in earlier studies with a focus on a sole objective of this study, to understand how future studies may be focused to address the issue of generalization and conduct future studies in the field of recruitment and selection.
An econometric approach to crowding in touristic city centres
Authors: Neuts Bart
Published: May 2015

Using a common property resource conceptualization, this article introduces a new methodology for crowding valuation in touristic city centres. Crowding issues are defined in terms of utility gains or losses through a stated-preference choice experiment, making it possible to quantify crowding disturbances in monetary terms. The proposed method is applied to the case of Antwerp, Belgium, specifically focusing on the effect of use density on local inhabitants. The case study serves to reveal quantitatively the theorized quadratic effects of crowding on the space utility of residents. Potential utility effects of different crowding levels are discussed and compared to actual use levels. The methodology provides new opportunities for threshold optimization in crowding-sensitive urban areas, taking into account a community-based norm development.
Mycocoenological studies in Poland. 1952-2002
Authors: Ławrynowicz Maria , Bujakiewicz Anna , Mułenko Wiesław
Published: May 2015

Polish mycosociological studies contribute remarkably to the European mycocoenology. They are widely cited in recent mycoecological research syntheses aiming at the elucidation of the role of fungi in the structure and functioning of plant communities. Thus, there is an urgent need of reviewing our mycosociological works published since the 50’s of the last century. Professor Andrzej Nespiak, who examined cap fungi in the Białowieża National Park, was the first to carry out mycocoenological research in Poland. His work was the turning point for the development of field mycological studies and inspired subsequent generations of our mycologists.

Mycosociological studies were also stimulated by numerous, frequently outstanding phytosociological examinations of vast areas of the country, particularly of the protected ones.

The list of 623 mycosociological publications, spanning over 50 years which coincide with the most extensive development of mycosociological studies in Poland, offers material that reflects current trends, approaches, advantages and limitations in research on the participation of fungi in phytocoenoses as well as on fungi forming their own communities.

Apart from classical mycosociological studies, focusing mostly on basidiomycetes, a few publications describing mycocoenotic role of microscopic fungi are also compiled, including symbiotic, saprotrophic and parasitizing fungi, aquatic and soil species.

A survey of mycosociological studies carried out in plant communities follows the MATUSZKIEWICZ’S (2001) system of plant syntaxonomy. It offers information which plant communities were investigated and how thoroughly, and which phytocoenoses were not examined mycologically. The project was undertaken to address interests of mycologists and phytosociologists. It is dedicated to the memory of Professor Andrzej Nespiak, the founder of the Polish school of mycosociology.
Grzyby z rodzaju Ramularia występujące w Polsce [The Ramularia species in Poland]
Authors: Wołczańska Agata
Published: May 2015

The Ramularia species represent a big and interesting group among parasitic Hyphomycetes. In Poland have been collected so far 115 species: one on fern, three on 5 species of rust fungi and the remaining ones on angiosperms (on 304 species belonging to 38 families). The most common are: R. geranii var. geranii, R. grevilleana var. grevilleana, R. inaequale and R. urticae. But more than 40% of all the species occur very seldom (they are known from 1-5 stands). The following examples be- long to this group: R. asplenii, R. asteris, R. keithii, R. minutissima and R. rhaetica.

The biggest number of parasitic species are noted on the representatives of Asteraceae (17 species), Scrophulariaceae (9), Rosaceae (7) and Polygonaceae (7).

The best explored regions in Poland are situated in the south and south-east part of the country: Kraina Karpat Zachodnich, Kraina Południowomazowiecko-Podlaska and Kraina Dolnośląska.

The Ramularia species are facultative saprotrophs. Anamorphs parasite on host plants and fungi, but known teleomorphs, belonging to Mycosphaerella genus, develop on plants remains. The vegeta- tive season indicates their occurrence limits. They start to grow in April, the biggest number of spe- cies are collected in summer and the end of vegetation in November, is the signal to stop producing spores. At that time they form sclerotia, perithecia or pass the winter as mycelium and conidia.

 
On some contemporary global security risks and challenges
Authors: Ivančík Radoslav , Jurčák Vojtech , Nečas Pavel
Published: May 2015

As the new millennium starts to unfold, we see before us an area of security that has been
radically reshaped since the end of the cold war and the end of the bipolar division of the
world. Still more and more deepening globalisation brings not only a lot of positives, but
also a lot of negatives appearing mainly in the form of new asymmetric security threats
or risks, so we understand that a real effort will now be required to reappraise the 21st
century. Simultaneously, it is clear that, if we want to stabilize security environment, we
must look beyond our traditional military philosophy and deal very seriously with new
global security risks and challenges.
Arctic – the new “Great Game” or peaceful cooperation
Authors: Gabrielson Risto , Śliwa Zdzisław
Published: May 2015

The Arctic area with its harsh climate and austere icecap has not raised any great international passions in the past. However, enduring global warming has opened new views on exploitation of that area. If the climate gets steadily warmer in the future, it could mean the opening of the Northwest Passage for ship routes. On the other hand, it is estimated that the region has got remarkable gas reserves, which could amount to as much as 30 % of the world’s undiscovered reserves, as well as oil, which encompasses some 13 % of world’s undiscovered stocks. As for now, any serious international conflicts in this area are not likely, even though there are real expectations and claims imposed by several nations. The current peaceful cooperation is supported by feasible treaties that are already in place. Until lately, the work of the Arctic Council has not raised any great international attentiveness, but the expected development in the area has activated stronger interest from many countries, and not only those from the Arctic region. There are several regional disputes among the five states, USA, Canada, Russia, Norway and Denmark about the Arctic Ocean. As expert opinion still differs quite significantly about the resources available in the Arctic region and about the feasibility of the Northwest and Northeast routes, it is hard to say if there are any practical economic gains to be achieved. Although cooperation between the nations has been peaceful, the military presence in the area is increasing. Moreover, it remains to be seen how the recent Ukrainian crisis will affect the development in the area.
The essence and assumptions of evaluation of crisis response operations
Authors: Denysiuk Irmina , Osypowicz Marta
Published: May 2015

This paper includes discussions about the issue of evaluating CROs. They are an expression
of the theoretical exploration of factors and criteria which may have a significant impact
on such an evaluation. It should be noted that evaluation of CROs is an important and
complex problem, because today, in the real environment dominated by conflicts and
crises, there is a real need to involve some of the resources of third party countries to resolve
tensions in unstable areas. The need for a response from multinational forces (national,
alliance) is dictated by the dynamics of the changes taking place in the security sphere, the
multi-dimensionality of crises and conflicts, and their unpredictability (Iraq, Afghanistan).
Today it is emphasised that such a commitment will form the basis of future international
relations.
Critical infrastructure security in Poland and the surrounding area. Legislation analysis
Authors: Grzywna Zbigniew
Published: May 2015

The Critical Management Act creates a legal basis for dealing with critical infrastructure.
It contains the following definition: critical infrastructure includes systems and functional
objects which are connected with each other, including: buildings, devices, systems, key
services for a country and its citizens’ security and other systems and objects which deal
with ensuring efficient functioning of public administration bodies as well as institutions
and enterprises. At national level, the protection of critical infrastructure is coordinated
by the Government Centre for Security. In accordance with the critical management act,
which is in effect at present, the legislator defines that critical infrastructure is created by
systems and consists of functional objects connected with each other: buildings, devices,
systems, key services for a country’s security and its citizens’ security and other objects and
services which deal with ensuring efficient functioning of public administration bodies as
well as institutions and enterprises The article contains an enumeration of the systems
which are included in critical infrastructure.
An Implicit Model for Water Rate Setting Within Municipal Utilities
Authors: Enouy Rrobert , Rehan Rashid , Brisley Neil , Unger Andre
Published: May 2015

It is estimated that at least $1 trillion will be required over the next 25 years to maintain the current level of water service in the United States. A pay‐as‐you‐go approach is expected to allow water utilities to pay for these expenses using water price increases. These price increases encourage water conservation, decreasing overall water demand. Financial forecasts that fail to consider this effect will therefore overstate anticipated system revenues and potentially lead to realized shortfalls. Therefore, understanding changes in water demand is crucial for accurate price forecasting. This article combines simple relationships that are relevant to water supply services to develop an implicit model of time‐dependent system revenues, water prices, and water demand. The implicit model provides a theoretical basis for water rate–setting to generate financially sustainable water utility revenues. Results suggest that a comprehensive physical infrastructure model is critical for precision and accuracy in model forecasts.
Nitrosamine Precursor Removal by BAC: A Case Study of Adsorption Versus Biotreatment
Authors: Liao Xiaobin , Chen Chao , Xie Shuguang , Hanigan David , Wang Jun , Zhang Xiaojian , Westerhoff Paul , Krasner Stuart W.
Published: May 2015

Biological activated carbon (BAC) can effectively remove nitrosamine (NA) precursors. However, the relative significance of adsorption and biotreatment in the NA removal process remains unclear. In this study, organic matter in the influent of a pilot‐scale BAC plant was separated into four fractions that were adsorbable, biodegradable, or both. Bench‐scale tests showed that 70% of the N‐nitrosodimethylamine formation potential was biodegradable and 42% was adsorbable. In addition, 45% of the N‐nitro sodiethylamine formation potential was biodegradable and 59% was adsorbable. Biological treatment included two consecutive actions: biosorption, which was quick and accounted for 10% of the removal of NA formation potential, and biodegradation, which accounted for 70% of the removal of NA formation potential but took up to seven days to maximize. Activated carbon adsorption during bench‐scale tests was capable of effectively removing NA formation potential in 7 h, but its performance was impaired in pilot‐scale tests because of declining adsorption capacity after extended operation and shorter contact time in the BAC filter.
Development of a Monitoring Method for Nonlabeled Human Pluripotent Stem Cell Growth by Time-Lapse Image Analysis
Authors: Suga Mika , Kii Hiroaki , Niikura Keiichi , Kiyota Yasujiro , Furue Miho K.
Published: May 2015

Cell growth is an important criterion for determining healthy cell conditions. When somatic cells or cancer cells are dissociated into single cells for passaging, the cell numbers can be counted at each passage, providing information on cell growth as an indicator of the health conditions of these cells. In the case of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), because the cells are usually dissociated into cell clumps of ∼50–100 cells for passaging, cell counting is time-consuming. In the present study, using a time-lapse imaging system, we developed a method to determine the growth of hPSCs from nonlabeled live cell phase-contrast images without damaging these cells. Next, the hPSC colony areas and number of nuclei were determined and used to derive equations to calculate the cell number in hPSC colonies, which were assessed on time-lapse images acquired using a culture observation system. The relationships between the colony areas and nuclei numbers were linear, although the equation coefficients were dependent on the cell line used, colony size, colony morphology, and culture conditions. When the culture conditions became improper, the change in cell growth conditions could be detected by analysis of the phase-contrast images. This method provided real-time information on colony growth and cell growth rates without using treatments that can damage cells and could be useful for basic research on hPSCs and cell processing for hPSC-based therapy.

Significance

This is the first study to use a noninvasive method using images to systemically determine the growth of human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs) without damaging or wasting cells. This method would be useful for quality control during cell culture of clinical hPSCs.
Klimato rodiklių scenarijai Lietuvos teritorijoje XXI a.
Authors: Keršytė Dovilė , Rimkus Egidijus , Kažys Justas
Published: May 2015

Straipsnyje pateikiami prognostiniai klimato rodiklių (vidutinės oro temperatūros ir kritulių kiekio) pokyčiai Lietuvos teritorijoje XXI a. Pasinaudota 24 klimato modelių išvesties duomenimis. Oro temperatūros ir kritulių kiekio reikšmės atskirais mėnesiais analizuotos Lietuvos teritorijoje 1861–2100  m. Sudaryti 2016–2035 ir 2081–2100 m. klimato rodiklių scenarijai, palyginti su 1986–2005 m. bazinio laikotarpio vidutinėmis reikšmėmis. Prognostiniai dydžiai pateikiami pagal skirtingus RCP scenarijus 5 gardelėms (jų dydis – 2,5° × 2,5°), dengiančioms Lietuvos teritoriją. Taip pat tyrime buvo panaudoti 16 Lietuvos meteorologijos stočių kritulių kiekio ir oro temperatūros duomenys. Tikimasi, jog XXI a. oro temperatūra Lietuvos teritorijoje didės visais metų laikais, o teritoriniai pokyčių skirtumai bus nedideli (iki 0,5 °C). Iki 2035 m. vidutinė metinė temperatūra padidės 1,1–1,4 °C, o iki 2100  m. – 1,5–5,1 °C. Labiausiai turėtų padidėti šaltojo metų laikotarpio temperatūra. Vidutinis metinis kritulių kiekis iki 2035 m. turėtų išaugti 1,6–4,0 %, o iki 2100 m. – nuo 3,7 iki 13,5 %. Kritulių kiekio augimas prognozuojamas spalio–birželio mėn., o liepą–rugsėjį galimas kritulių kiekio mažėjimas. Šiaurinėje šalies dalyje tikėtini didesni kritulių kiekio pasikeitimai.
Mitochondrial Ca2+ and membrane potential, an alternative pathway for Interleukin 6 to regulate CD4 cell effector function
Authors: Yang Rui , Lirussi Dario , Thornton Tina M , Jelley-Gibbs Dawn M , Diehl Sean A , Case Laure K , Madesh Muniswamy , Taatjes Douglas J , Teuscher Cory , Haynes Laura , Rincón Mercedes
Published: May 2015

IL-6 plays an important role in determining the fate of effector CD4 cells and the cytokines that these cells produce. Here we identify a novel molecular mechanism by which IL-6 regulates CD4 cell effector function. We show that IL-6-dependent signal facilitates the formation of mitochondrial respiratory chain supercomplexes to sustain high mitochondrial membrane potential late during activation of CD4 cells. Mitochondrial hyperpolarization caused by IL-6 is uncoupled from the production of ATP by oxidative phosphorylation. However, it is a mechanism to raise the levels of mitochondrial Ca2+ late during activation of CD4 cells. Increased levels of mitochondrial Ca2+ in the presence of IL-6 are used to prolong Il4 and Il21 expression in effector CD4 cells. Thus, the effect of IL-6 on mitochondrial membrane potential and mitochondrial Ca2+ is an alternative pathway by which IL-6 regulates effector function of CD4 cells and it could contribute to the pathogenesis of inflammatory diseases.
Sensor faults diagnosis in aircraft lateral flight control using model based approaches
Authors: Kiyak Emre
Published: May 2015

In this paper, sensor fault detection and isolation schemes are proposed. Fault detection and isolation techniques are used in fail safe control systems such as aerospace. In these systems, failures can cause to arise undesirable results. Using model based approaches, sensor faults can be detected and isolated. To detect sensor faults, some kind of observers can be used while isolating the faulty sensors, some kind of schemes can be used. In this study, sensor fault detection and isolation are obtained on an aircraft lateral flight control system using model based approaches. Full Order Observer and Reduced Order Observer are used for sensor fault detection while Dedicated Observer Scheme (DOS) and Generalized Observer Scheme (GOS) are used for sensor isolation. Fault detection and fault isolation methods are analyzed and compared with each other.
Toward a parameterization of global‐scale organic carbon mineralization kinetics in surface marine sediments
Authors: Stolpovsky K. , Dale A. W. , Wallmann K.
Published: May 2015

An empirical function is derived for predicting the rate‐depth profile of particulate organic carbon (POC) degradation in surface marine sediments including the bioturbated layer. The rate takes the form of a power law analogous to the Middelburg function. The functional parameters were optimized by simulating measured benthic O2 and NO3− fluxes at 185 stations worldwide using a diagenetic model. The novelty of this work rests with the finding that the vertically resolved POC degradation rate in the bioturbated zone can be determined using a simple function where the POC rain rate is the governing variable. Although imperfect, the model is able to fit 71% of paired O2 and NO3− fluxes to within 50% of measured values. It further provides realistic geochemical concentration‐depth profiles, NO3− penetration depths, and apparent first‐order POC mineralization rate constants. The model performs less well on the continental shelf due to the high sediment heterogeneity there. When applied to globally resolved maps of rain rate, the model predicts a global denitrification rate of 182 ± 88 Tg yr−1 of N and a POC burial rate of 107 ± 52 Tg yr−1 of C with a mean carbon burial efficiency of 6.1%. These results are in very good agreement with published values. Our proposed function is conceptually simple, requires less parameterization than multi‐G‐type models, and is suitable for nonsteady state applications. It provides a basis for more accurately simulating benthic nutrient fluxes and carbonate dissolution rates in Earth system models.
Seasonal variations in the aragonite saturation state in the upper open‐ocean waters of the North Pacific Ocean
Authors: Kim Tae‐Wook , Park Geun‐Ha , Kim Dongseon , Lee Kitack , Feely Richard A. , Millero Frank J.
Published: May 2015

Seasonal variability of the aragonite saturation state (ΩAR) in the upper (50 m and 100 m depths) North Pacific Ocean (NPO) was investigated using multiple linear regression (MLR). The MLR algorithm derived from a high‐quality carbon data set accurately predicted the ΩAR of evaluation data sets (three time series stations and P02 section) with acceptable uncertainty (<0.1 ΩAR). The algorithm was combined with seasonal climatology data, and the estimated ΩAR varied in the range of 0.4–0.6 in the midlatitude western NPO, with the largest variation found for the tropical eastern NPO. These marked variations were largely controlled by seasonal changes in vertical mixing and thermocline depth, both of which determine the degree of entrainment of CO2‐rich corrosive waters from deeper depths. Our MLR‐based subsurface ΩAR climatology is complementary to surface climatology based on pCO2 measurements.
Relating wave attenuation to pancake ice thickness, using field measurements and model results
Authors: Doble Martin J. , De Carolis Giacomo , Meylan Michael H. , Bidlot Jean‐Raymond , Wadhams Peter
Published: May 2015

Wave attenuation coefficients (α, m−1) were calculated from in situ data transmitted by custom wave buoys deployed into the advancing pancake ice region of the Weddell Sea. Data cover a 12 day period as the buoy array was first compressed and then dilated under the influence of a passing low‐pressure system. Attenuation was found to vary over more than 2 orders of magnitude and to be far higher than that observed in broken‐floe marginal ice zones. A clear linear relation between α and ice thickness was demonstrated, using ice thickness from a novel dynamic/thermodynamic model. A simple expression for α in terms of wave period and ice thickness was derived, for application in research and operational models. The variation of α was further investigated with a two‐layer viscous model, and a linear relation was found between eddy viscosity in the sub‐ice boundary layer and ice thickness.
Synoptic scale controls on the δ18O in precipitation across Beringia
Authors: Bailey Hannah L. , Kaufman Darrell S. , Henderson Andrew C. G. , Leng Melanie J.
Published: May 2015

Oxygen isotope records of precipitation (δ18Oprecip) from Beringia are thought to reflect synoptic‐scale circulation changes associated with the Aleutian Low. To delineate the spatial pattern of δ18Oprecip associated with the two dominant modes of Aleutian Low circulation, we combine modern δ18Oprecip and deuterium excess data with climate reanalysis and back trajectory modeling. Aleutian Low strength and position are revealed to systematically affect regional moisture source and δ18Oprecip; whereby a strengthened Aleutian Low causes lower (higher) δ18Oprecip in western (eastern) Beringia. We compare a new 100 year long δ18O record from the Aleutian Islands with the North Pacific Index, the primary indicator of Aleutian Low strength, and find a significant positive relationship (r = 0.43, P < 0.02, n = 28) that tracks late twentieth century change. This study demonstrates synoptic‐scale circulation controls on our isotope record and provides a coherent framework for interpreting existing and emerging paleoisotope data from the region.
Mechanisms driving the seasonality of catchment scale nitrate export: Evidence for riparian ecohydrologic controls
Authors: Duncan Jonathan M. , Band Lawrence E. , Groffman Peter M. , Bernhardt Emily S.
Published: May 2015

Considerable variability in the seasonal patterns of stream water nitrate (
) has been observed in forested watersheds throughout the world. While many forested headwater catchments exhibit winter and early spring peaks in
concentrations, several watersheds have peak concentrations during the summer months. Pond Branch, a headwater catchment in Maryland monitored for over 10 years, exhibits recurrent and broad summer peaks in both
concentrations and watershed export. Higher
export from June to September is particularly surprising, given that these summer months typically have the year's lowest discharge. A key challenge is identifying the source(s) of
and the mechanism(s) by which it is transported to the watershed outlet during the summer. In this study, we assessed multiple hypotheses (not mutually exclusive) that could account for the seasonal trend including proximal controls of groundwater‐surface water interactions, instream processes, and riparian groundwater‐N cycling interactions, as well as two distal controls: geochemical weathering and senescence of riparian vegetation. A combination of long‐term weekly and limited duration high‐frequency sensor data reveals the importance of riparian ecohydrologic processes during base flow. In this watershed, patterns of seasonal stream water
concentrations and fluxes depend fundamentally on interactions between groundwater dynamics and nitrogen (N) cycling in the riparian zone. Groundwater tables control nitrification‐denitrification dynamics as well as hydrologic transport. Our results suggest that in many watersheds, a more sophisticated exploration of
production and
transport mechanisms is required to identify critical points in the landscape and over time that disproportionately drive patterns of watershed
export.
Genetics and Epigenetics of Autoimmune Diseases
Authors: Konsta Orsia D , Le Dantec Christelle , Brooks Wesley H , Renaudineau Yves
Published: May 2015

Elucidating the interrelationships between genetic and epigenetic factors represents an important challenge in our knowledge of autoimmune diseases (AID). Accordingly, the first clues support (1) the initiating role of environmental factors (e.g. infectious agents, drugs, diet and UV light exposure) on the epigenetic machinery, (2) the presence of specific cell‐type epigenetic marks in AID (DNA methylation/demethylation, histone modifications and chromatin organisation), (3) the critical role of epigenetic processes in the control of transposons and key immune protein‐coding gene expression, (4) the presence of AID‐associated genetic risk variants that are predominantly present within cell‐type‐specific and epigenetically controlled long‐range gene‐regulatory sequences and, last but not the least, (5) the detection of AID‐specific transcriptome hallmarks that are in part related to microRNA dysregulation. Altogether, advances in our understanding of the mechanisms involved in the development of AID offer novel ways for the diagnosis, prognosis and therapy of AID patients.

Key Concepts

Autoimmune diseases (AID) are complex diseases.

Genetics, epigenetics and environmental factors control AID.

AID genetic risk variants are mainly located in the epigenetic AID‐related hotspots.

Epigenetic modifications are cell specific in AID.

Environmental factors control cell‐specific epigenetic modifications in AID.
A numerical comparison of precipitating turbulent flows between large‐eddy simulation and one‐dimensional turbulence
Authors: Abboud Alex W. , Schroeder Ben B. , Saad Tony , Smith Sean T. , Harris Derek D. , Lignell David O.
Published: May 2015

This study presents the results of computational fluid dynamics simulations of a multiphase, reacting, turbulent mixing layer in an idealized geometry. The purpose is to compare large‐eddy simulation (LES) to one‐dimensional turbulence (ODT) and examine the trends of the flow under differing mixing conditions. Aqueous streams are mixed together to precipitate polymorphs of calcium carbonate. The polymorphs of calcium carbonate are tracked numerically using population balance equations (PBE). Each PBE contains all of the relevant physical models to track the particle evolution including nucleation, growth, and aggregation. A simple subgrid mixing model that is convenient for use with PBEs was implemented in the LES code. The higher spatial resolution achievable with ODT allowed an investigation on the effect of resolution on the mixing‐model error. The Reynolds number of the flow is varied and is shown to cause a decrease in average particle sizes with higher mixing rates. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 3185–3197, 2015
Salting‐out of acetone, 1‐butanol, and ethanol from dilute aqueous solutions
Authors: Xie Shaoqu , Yi Conghua , Qiu Xueqing
Published: May 2015

The salting‐out phase equilibria for acetone, 1‐butanol, and ethanol (ABE) from dilute aqueous solutions using potassium carbonate (K2CO3) and dipotassium hydrogen phosphate trihydrate (K2HPO4⋅3H2O) as outstanding salting‐out agents were investigated. Increasing the salt concentration strengthened the salting‐out effects and improved the distribution coefficients of all three solvents (ABE) significantly. Temperature had a slight effect on the phase equilibria. The K2HPO4 solution (69 wt %) showed a stronger salting‐out effect than the K2CO3 solution (56 wt %) on recovering ABE from dilute aqueous solutions. Dilute aqueous solutions containing more solvents increased the recoveries of acetone and 1‐butanol, while the results showed a negligible effect on the solubility of ABE. The solubility of ABE was also correlated well with the molar number of salt per gram of water in the aqueous phase. A new equation demonstrated this satisfactorily. © 2015 American Institute of Chemical Engineers AIChE J, 61: 3470–3478, 2015