bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling Freeway Work Zones with Mesoscopic Dynamic Traffic Simulator: Validation, Gaps, and Guidance
Authors: Tanvir Shams , Karmakar Nabaruna , Rouphail Nagui M. , Schroeder Bastian J.
Published: November 2016

This study developed a validation procedure for a dynamic traffic assignment–based mesoscopic simulator and identified its relevant data requirements. Model inconsistencies at the network level can be detected through route-based validation with probe vehicle travel time data. Simultaneously, link-based validation uses point detector–based volume and speed data. A procedure for filtering the validation data set to make it consistent and comparable with the simulation results is outlined in the paper. Two assignment methods were tested with a detailed validation data set through a case study. The no-diversion assignment approach yielded higher travel time than the field-observed average time. In contrast, simulated travel time with the optimal diversion method implied a more rational behavior by drivers than was observed in the field, along with more diversion of trips on arterial routes in the vicinity of a work zone. Finally, a link-based performance comparison revealed worse queue spillback effects on the upstream links of the work zone than in reality.
Knoevenagel Condensation between C-glycoside and Active Methylene Compounds without Catalysts
Authors: Gu Xiaomin , Fang Zhijie
Published: November 2016

A Knoevenagel condensation reaction between a C-glycoside based aromatic aldehyde and cyclic active methylene compounds such as barbituric acid, thiobarbituric acid, 1,3-dimethylbarbituric acid, 5,5-dimethyl-1,3-cyclohexanedione, 2,2-dimethyl-1,3-dioxane-4,6-dione and 3-methyl-1-phenyl-2-pyrazolin-5-one has been developed, to give a series of unusual fused heterocyclic compounds. The structures of all the new compounds were established by the spectral data. This method which did not use any catalysts, has the advantages of operational simplicity and minimal environmental impact.
Synthesis and antibacterial activity of new spiro-isoquinolin-1-ones
Authors: Jegham Nafâa , Braiek Mourad Ben , Kacem Yakdhane , Hassine Béchir Ben
Published: November 2016

New spiro-isoquinolinones have been efficiently synthesised by the condensation of secondary N-allylamines and 2-bromobenzoyl chloride, followed by a sequential procedure involving an intramolecular Heck reaction and 1,3-dipolar cycloaddition. The regiospecificity of the reaction was established by mono and two-dimensional NMR analysis. The spiro-compounds were evaluated for their antibacterial activity against some strains of bacteria using the disc diffusion method and micro-dilution tests.
Hydrostatic Message is an Effective Measure in Canalization of Congenital Naso- Lacrimal Duct Obstruction
Authors: Hossain Khandaker Anowar , Rashid Md Abdur , Islam AKM Rafiqul , Hossain Md Amjad
Published: November 2016

Congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction presented as watering from eye is often seen in ophthalmic practice. It is estimated that about 20% of newborn suffer from such condition. Out of this, 2-3% suffers from only watering but most of them suffer from both watering & discharge. Most cases of watering in the newborn are due to incomplete canalization of nasolacrimal duct, which is delayed due to unfavourable environment in the vicinity. It needs effective medical treatment to keep healthy environment to exacerbate the process of canalization. Treatment of nasolacrimal duct obstruction varies among physicians, as to timing & forms but highly successful in most cases but early treatment is important. About 95% cases can be cured by hydrostatic message and only 5% needs probing operation under general anesthesia. The aim of our study is to establish that hydrostatic message is an important treatment option for congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction. This study was conducted in the department of Ophthalmology at Diabetic Association Medical College & Hospital, Faridpur, from January 2012 to December 2014. A total 100 cases of newborn baby of watering with or without discharges were selected by random sampling. Age group ranges between 07 days to two years. Hydrostatic message was given to all of them after adequate training of hydrostatic message & its importance for the effective treatment to parents or the attendant. In addition, broad spectrum topical antibiotic drops and supportive medication was given. Patients were followed up 3 monthly for 2 years. In this study, 95 patients (95%) were cured. So, hydrostatic message is effective in canalization of congenital nasolacrimal duct obstruction.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2015;10(2): 50-51
Risk Analysis of Placenta Previa in Subsequent Pregnancy with History of Cesarean Section: A Case Control Study in Faridpur Medical College Hospital
Authors: Zeba Dilruba , Das Shila Rani , Biswas Swapan Kumar , Roy Rajib Kumar , Fattah Abul , Akter Selina
Published: November 2016

Placenta previa is a life threatening pregnancy complication where placenta partially or completely covers the internal cervical os causing serious adverse consequence for both mother and baby. History of cesarean delivery is an important risk factor for placenta previa. Which have a increased chance of cesarean hysterectomy and bladder injury because of an associated accrete syndrome. The objective of this study is to analyze the outcome of placenta previa with history of cesarean section. This is a prospective study done in Faridpur Medical College Hospital, Bangladesh from 01.01.2013 up to 31.12.14. Total 18 (study group) patients had undergone cesarean delivery with placenta previa and history of previous cesarean section. Among 18 patients maternal age range was 25- 40, parity 1-4, emergency hysterectomy was done in 11, average blood transfusion 2-8 and other morbidity like urinary bladder injury was 4. So we decided to conduct the study to evaluate the frequency of the placenta previa and morbidity related to number of previous cesarean deliveries.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2015;10(2): 52-54
Outcome of Delorme's Procedure for Full-Thickness Rectal Prolapse: Our experience in Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Medical University, Dhaka
Authors: Khan Tariq Akhtar , Sheikh Md Shahadot Hossain , Taher Md Abu , Rahman Md Rayhanur , Islam Md Rashidul , Suman Md Ariful Alam , Mustafa Golam , Nahid Nigar
Published: November 2016

The study was undertaken to determine the efficacy and safety profile of Delorme's procedure as the treatment for full-thickness rectal prolapse. In this study, outcome of Delorme's procedure for full-thickness rectal prolapse were assessed retrospectively. All the patients who underwent this surgery (22 patients) from July, 2013 to June, 2015 were included in the study. There were 18 males and 4 females with mean age of 37.4 years (range 12-70). The mean operative time was 92.6 minutes (Range 60-180 minutes). There was no mortality and blood loss was minimal. Mean hospital stay was 3.5 days (2-6 days). Outcomes of the procedure were satisfactory and no patient reported recurrence of the disease within the follow up period. Delorme's operation is safe and effective treatment for complete rectal prolapse in patients of all age and sex.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2015;10(2): 55-58
Adenoid Cystic Carcinoma of the Lacrimal Gland Metastasizing after a Short Followup to Multiple Distant Bones - a Case Report with a Review of the Literature
Authors: Haque Md Nizamul , Chowdhury ASM Jahangir , Ali Md Yusuf
Published: November 2016

Adenoid cystic carcinoma (ACC) of the lacrimal gland is a rare disease, but it is the most common malignant epithelial tumor of the lacrimal gland, with poor prognosis. ACC of the lacrimal gland is notorious for its slow growth and tendency to recur despite surgical therapy and following radiotherapy and/or chemotherapy. This tumor type occasionally metastasize via haematogenous spread to lungs, brain and bone in decreasing order of frequency. When it happens, metastases are always multiple and wide. We report a case of a 28-year young man followed in our Hospital with ACC of right lacrimal gland resected on April 2014 and treated with surgery followed by post-operative radiotherapy (50Gy total dose). After one years of follow-up, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scan reported multiple lytic lesions in distant bones specially to multiple sites of vertebral column. Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology (FNAC) confirmed metastasis of ACC. No evidence of other loco-regional or distant metastasis were described. Patient was treated with chemotherapy. After treatment, patient is actually in close follow up.Faridpur Med. Coll. J. Jul 2015;10(2): 84-86
A Study on Development and Evaluation of Functional Herbal Wafer Biscuits
Authors: Haque MA , Mandal R , Akter N , Akter S , Sultana MM
Published: November 2016

Herbal extracts are often used by the folk medicinal practitioners, rural peoples of Bangladesh for the treatments of various ailments for the primary health care. Now-a-days its uses are going more frequent with an established scientific literature. Low cost nutritive wafer biscuits made of ayurvedic or herbal extracts such as shatavari, ashwagandha and yastimadhu powder was developed and evaluated for its chemical composition for nutritive parameters. Brief microbiological studies were also planned to evaluate the shelf life and safety of the product. Finally a sensory evaluation was conducted to ascertain its overall acceptability amongst the population. It was shown that newly developed wafer biscuits were rich in carbohydrate (65%), energy and fat (24% fat). The results indicate that newly formulated biscuits were surprising high in protein (8.20%), dietary fiber (1.5%) and widely accepted by the consumers mainly due to its low cost and health benefits with respect to sensory qualities, high nutritive values . The results also indicated that the newly formulated biscuits were high in self-life ranking and it was agreed that this type of initiative could more effective for growing children as well as in certain therapeutic conditions when general malaise dominates the diseases and such type of fortified foods can be industrially launched as a social business.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 9(1): 17-21 2016
A Study on Understanding the Relationship between Predisposing and Enabling Factors on Nutritional Status among Secondary School Students
Authors: Hoque MA , Afzal A , Nasrin T , Mafiz AI
Published: November 2016

Child malnutrition coexists in households and communities in Bangladesh due to illiteracy, poverty and knowledge which leading to a risk of disease and mortality. This study is a descriptive cross sectional study, which assessed nutritional status and related factors among high school children. In this study only 52.5% of respondents had a healthy weight. While 45% were underweight and 2.5% were overweight. The relationship between nutritional status and some independent variables at 5% level of significance were birth order (P=0.003), snacking habit (P=0.000), taking care of respondents (P=0.007), fathers occupation (P=0.019), mothers education (P=0.007), earning person of the family (P=0.028) and money for snacking (P=0.020). Based on results, its suggested that periodical monitoring and evaluation of nutritional status of the students should focus on underweight students. Supplementary support from school is still needed, to assist daily intake of students still underweight especially. Health and nutrition education should be taught.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 9(1): 47-51 2016
E-waste Generation from Mobile Phone and its Recovery Potential in Bangladesh
Authors: San Q , Muntaha C , Hossain MM
Published: November 2016

Waste from Electrical and Electronic Equipment (WEEE) or Electronic Waste (E-waste) comes under a special category of waste which is the result of industrialization and ever increasing demand of electronic products in our daily life. With increasing usage of these products waste production is also increasing and leads to continuous depletion of finite natural resources and leading us to an uncertain future. Total number of mobile phone subscribers was 116.55 million at June 2014, about 35 % of the active mobile phone subscribers were account for the dual Subscriber Identity Module (SIM) mobile phone set (MPS) and total volume of this is 990 m³, cumulatively the total weight is 1125 ton. Most of the amounts of these mobile phone sets are added per year in the total waste stream of Bangladesh. Only 2-3 % of these amounts of MPSs were recycled through the informal sector and recovered some precious metals also. If we can recycled the entire amount of MPSs about 348.75 kg gold, 105.75 kg of platinum and palladium, more than 163.29 ton of aluminum and 214.32 ton of copper can be recovered. However, these can be the basis of a sustainable material recycle industry to recover materials from the end-of-life mobile phones.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 9(1): 91-94 2016
Effects of Nitrogen Phosphorus Potassium and Sulphur on Growth Yield and Nutrient Content of Strawberry (Fragaria ananassa)
Authors: Afroz CA , Shimul MAH , Ikrum M , Siddiky MA , Razzaque MA
Published: November 2016

The experiment was conducted at Horticulture Research Centre, Gazipur, Bangladesh, to study the effects of N, P, K, and S on growth, yield and nutrient content of strawberry following Randomized Complete Block Design (RCBD) method. There were 4 levels of different nutrients and there was a positive impact of each fertilizer combinations on yield, yield parameters and nutrient contents of BARI Strawberry except control treatment. The highest values of plant height (25.60 cm); number of leaves (21.66), flowers (125.33), fruits (12.35),destroyed fruits (11), fruit weight (215.10 g) plant-1 and fruit length (4.16 cm), fruit diameter (3.41cm), individual fruit weight (17.85 g) and fruit yield (11.50 t ha-1) were found in treatment of 115,40,110 and 25 kg ha-1NPKS, respectively. Among the fertilizers, the single effect of N (115 kg ha-1), P (40 kg ha-1), K (110 kg ha-1) and S (25 kg ha-1) gave maximum growth and yield of strawberry. The highest concentration of N, P, K and S were found in shoot and fruit of strawberry when N, P, K and S fertilizers were used 140,60,135 and 35 kg ha-1, respectively.J. Environ. Sci. & Natural Resources, 9(1): 99-108 2016
Hysteresis Curve Fitting Optimization of Magnetic Controlled Shape Memory Alloy Actuator
Authors: Tu Fuquan , Hu Shengmou , Zhuang Yuhang , Lv Jie , Wang Yunxue , Sun Zhe
Published: November 2016

As a new actuating material, magnetic controlled shape memory alloys (MSMAs) have excellent characteristics such as a large output strain, fast response, and high energy density. These excellent characteristics are very attractive for precision positioning systems. However, the availability of MSMAs in practical precision positioning is poor, caused by weak repeatability under a certain stimulus. This problem results from the error of a large magnetic hysteresis in an external magnetic field. A suitable hysteresis modelling method can reduce the error and improve the accuracy of the MSMA actuator. After analyzing the original hysteresis modelling methods, three kinds of hysteresis modelling methods are proposed: least squares method, back propagation (BP) artificial neural network, and BP artificial neural network based on genetic algorithms. Comparing the accuracy and convergence rate of three kinds of hysteresis modelling methods, the results show that the convergence rate of least squares method is the fastest, and the convergence accuracy of BP artificial neural networks based on genetic algorithms is the highest.
Effects of Process Parameters on the Extraction of Quercetin and Rutin from the Stalks of Euonymus Alatus (Thumb.) Sieb and Predictive Model Based on Least Squares Support Vector Machine Optimized by an Improved Fruit Fly Optimization Algorithm
Authors: Liao Jiangqing , Qu Baida , Zheng Nan
Published: November 2016

Ultrasonic-assisted extraction (UAE) of quercetin and rutin from the stalks of Euonymus alatus (Thunb.) Sieb in our laboratory, which aimed at evaluating and optimizing the process parameters, was investigated in this work. In addition, process parameters such as ethanol solution concentration, solvent volume/sample ratio, ultrasound power and extraction time, ultrasound frequency and extraction temperature were also first applied for evaluating the influence of extraction of quercetin and rutin. Optimum process parameters obtained were: ethanol solution 60%, extraction time 30 min, solvent volume/sample ratio 40 mL/g, ultrasound power 200 W, extraction temperature 30 °C and ultrasound frequency 80 kHz. Further a hybrid predictive model, which is based on least squares support vector machine (LS-SVM) in combination with improved fruit fly optimization algorithm (IFOA), was first used to predict the UAE process. The established IFOA-LS-SVM model, in which six process parameters and extraction yields of quercetin and rutin were used as input variables and output variables, respectively, successfully predicted the extraction yields of quercetin and rutin with a low error. Moreover, by comparison with SVM, LS-SVM and multiple regression models, IFOA-LS-SVM model has higher accuracy and faster convergence. Results proved that the proposed model is capable of predicting extraction yields of quercetin and rutin in UAE process.
Torque Characteristic Analysis of a Transverse Flux Motor Using a Combined-Type Stator Core
Authors: Yang Xiaobao , Kou Baoquan , Luo Jun , Zhou Yiheng , Xing Feng
Published: November 2016

An external rotor transverse flux motor using a combined-type stator core is proposed for a direct drive application in this paper. The stator core is combined by two kinds of components that can both be manufactured conveniently by generic laminated silicon steel used in traditional motors. The motor benefits from the predominance of low manufacturing cost and low iron loss by using a silicon-steel sheet. Firstly, the basic structure and operation principles of the proposed motor are introduced. Secondly, the expressions of the electromagnetic torque and the cogging torque are deduced by theoretical analysis. Thirdly, the basic characteristics such as permanent magnet flux linkage, no-load back electromotive force, cogging torque and electromagnetic torque are analyzed by a three-dimensional finite element method (3D FEM). Then, the influence of structure parameters on the torque density is investigated, which provides a useful foundation for optimum design of the novel motor. Finally, the torque density of the proposed motor is calculated and discussed, and the result shows that the proposed motor in this paper can provide considerable torque density by using few permanent magnets.
Practicalities and Research Considerations for Conducting Childhood Obesity Prevention Interventions with Families
Authors: Morgan Philip , Jones Rachel , Collins Clare , Hesketh Kylie , Young Myles , Burrows Tracy , Magarey Anthea , Brown Helen , Hinkley Trina , Perry Rebecca , Brennan Leah , Spence Alison , Campbell Karen
Published: November 2016

Internationally, childhood obesity is a major public health concern. Given the established difficulties in treating obesity, designing and evaluating effective obesity prevention interventions are research priorities. As parents play a crucial role in establishing positive health behaviours in children, they are a key target for child obesity prevention programs. However, recruiting and engaging parents in such interventions can be a considerable challenge for researchers and practitioners. Members of the ‘Parenting, Child Behaviour and Well-being’ stream of the Australasian Child and Adolescent Obesity Research Network (ACAORN) have considerable and varied expertise in conducting such interventions and can provide insights into addressing these challenges. This paper aims to highlight considerations regarding the design, implementation, and evaluation of obesity prevention interventions with families and provide practical insights and recommendations for researchers and practitioners conducting family-based research in this area. Case studies of three family-based interventions conducted by ACAORN members are highlighted to provide examples and contextualise the recommendations proposed.
A Novel 12-Lead ECG T-Shirt with Active Electrodes
Authors: Boehm Anna , Yu Xinchi , Neu Wilko , Leonhardt Steffen , Teichmann Daniel
Published: November 2016

We developed an ECG T-shirt with a portable recorder for unobtrusive and long-term multichannel ECG monitoring with active electrodes. A major drawback of conventional 12-lead ECGs is the use of adhesive gel electrodes, which are uncomfortable during long-term application and may even cause skin irritations and allergic reactions. Therefore, we integrated comfortable patches of conductive textile into the ECG T-shirt in order to replace the adhesive gel electrodes. In order to prevent signal deterioration, as reported for other textile ECG systems, we attached active circuits on the outside of the T-shirt to further improve the signal quality of the dry electrodes. Finally, we validated the ECG T-shirt against a commercial Holter ECG with healthy volunteers during phases of lying down, sitting, and walking. The 12-lead ECG was successfully recorded with a resulting mean relative error of the RR intervals of 0.96% and mean coverage of 96.6%. Furthermore, the ECG waves of the 12 leads were analyzed separately and showed high accordance. The P-wave had a correlation of 0.703 for walking subjects, while the T-wave demonstrated lower correlations for all three scenarios (lying: 0.817, sitting: 0.710, walking: 0.403). The other correlations for the P, Q, R, and S-waves were all higher than 0.9. This work demonstrates that our ECG T-shirt is suitable for 12-lead ECG recordings while providing a higher level of comfort compared with a commercial Holter ECG.
SoC-Based Output Voltage Control for BESS with a Lithium-Ion Battery in a Stand-Alone DC Microgrid
Authors: Yu Seung-Yeong , Kim Hyun-Jun , Kim Jae-Hyuk , Han Byung-Moon
Published: November 2016

This paper proposes a new DC output voltage control for a battery energy storage system (BESS) with a lithium-ion battery based on the state of charge (SoC). The proposed control scheme was verified through computer simulations for a typical stand-alone DC microgrid, which consists of a BESS, photovoltaic (PV) panel, engine generator (EG), and DC load. A scaled hardware prototype for a stand-alone DC microgrid was set up in the lab, in which the proposed control scheme was loaded in a DSP controller. The experimental results were compared with the simulation results for performance verification. The proposed control scheme provides relatively lower variation of the DC grid voltage than the conventional droop control.
Simulation of Polygeneration Systems
Authors: Calise Francesco , Dentice D’Accadia Massimo
Published: November 2016

This Special Issue aims at collecting the recent studies dealing with polygeneration systems, with a special focus on the possible integration of different technologies into a single system, able to convert one or multiple energy sources into energy services (electricity, heat and cooling) and other useful products (e.g., desalinized water, hydrogen, glycerin, ammonia, etc.). Renewable sources (solar, wind, hydro, biomass and geothermal), as well as fossil fuels, feeding advanced energy systems such as fuel cells and cogeneration systems, are considered. Special attention is paid to control strategies and to the management of the systems in general. Studies including thermoeconomic analyses and system optimizations are presented.
Role of Metabolic Genes in Blood Aluminum Concentrations of Jamaican Children with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Rahbar Mohammad , Samms-Vaughan Maureen , Pitcher Meagan , Bressler Jan , Hessabi Manouchehr , Loveland Katherine , Christian MacKinsey , Grove Megan , Shakespeare-Pellington Sydonnie , Beecher Compton , McLaughlin Wayne , Boerwinkle Eric
Published: November 2016

Aluminum is a neurotoxic metal with known health effects in animals and humans. Glutathione-S-transferase (GST) genes and enzymes play a major role in detoxification of several heavy metals. Besides a direct relationship with oxidative stress; aluminum decreases GST enzyme activities. Using data from 116 Jamaican children; age 2–8 years; with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and 116 sex- and age-matched typically developing (TD) children; we investigated the association of polymorphisms in three GST genes (GSTP1; GSTM1; and GSTT1) with mean blood aluminum concentrations in children with and without ASD. Using log-transformed blood aluminum concentration as the dependent variable in a linear regression model; we assessed the additive and interactive effects of ASD status and polymorphisms in the three aforementioned GST genes in relation to blood aluminum concentrations. Although none of the additive effects were statistically significant (all p > 0.16); we observed a marginally significant interaction between GSTP1 Ile105Val (rs1695) and ASD status (p = 0.07); even after controlling for parental education level and consumption of avocado; root vegetables; and tuna (canned fish). Our findings indicate a significantly lower (p < 0.03) adjusted geometric mean blood aluminum concentration for TD children who had the Val/Val genotype (14.57 µg/L); compared with those with Ile/Ile or Ile/Val genotypes who had an adjusted geometric mean of 23.75 µg/L. However; this difference was not statistically significant among the ASD cases (p = 0.76). Our findings indicate that ASD status may be a potential effect modifier when assessing the association between GSTP1 rs1695 and blood aluminum concentrations among Jamaican children. These findings require replication in other populations.
Cost-Sharing of Ecological Construction Based on Trapezoidal Intuitionistic Fuzzy Cooperative Games
Authors: Liu Jiacai , Zhao Wenjian
Published: November 2016

There exist some fuzziness and uncertainty in the process of ecological construction. The aim of this paper is to develop a direct and an effective simplified method for obtaining the cost-sharing scheme when some interested parties form a cooperative coalition to improve the ecological environment of Min River together. Firstly, we propose the solution concept of the least square prenucleolus of cooperative games with coalition values expressed by trapezoidal intuitionistic fuzzy numbers. Then, based on the square of the distance in the numerical value between two trapezoidal intuitionistic fuzzy numbers, we establish a corresponding quadratic programming model to obtain the least square prenucleolus, which can effectively avoid the information distortion and uncertainty enlargement brought about by the subtraction of trapezoidal intuitionistic fuzzy numbers. Finally, we give a numerical example about the cost-sharing of ecological construction in Fujian Province in China to show the validity, applicability, and advantages of the proposed model and method.
Economic Evaluations of the Health Impacts of Weather-Related Extreme Events: A Scoping Review
Authors: Schmitt Laetitia , Graham Hilary , White Piran
Published: November 2016

The frequency and severity of extreme events is expected to increase under climate change. There is a need to understand the economic consequences of human exposure to these extreme events, to underpin decisions on risk reduction. We undertook a scoping review of economic evaluations of the adverse health effects from exposure to weather-related extreme events. We searched PubMed, Embase and Web of Science databases with no restrictions to the type of evaluations. Twenty studies were included, most of which were recently published. Most studies have been undertaken in the U.S. (nine studies) or Asia (seven studies), whereas we found no studies in Africa, Central and Latin America nor the Middle East. Extreme temperatures accounted for more than a third of the pool of studies (seven studies), closely followed by flooding (six studies). No economic study was found on drought. Whilst studies were heterogeneous in terms of objectives and methodology, they clearly indicate that extreme events will become a pressing public health issue with strong welfare and distributional implications. The current body of evidence, however, provides little information to support decisions on the allocation of scarce resources between risk reduction options. In particular, the review highlights a significant lack of research attention to the potential cost-effectiveness of interventions that exploit the capacity of natural ecosystems to reduce our exposure to, or ameliorate the consequences of, extreme events.
Mercury Exposure in Children of the Wanshan Mercury Mining Area, Guizhou, China
Authors: Du Buyun , Li Ping , Feng Xinbin , Qiu Guangle , Zhou Jun , Maurice Laurence
Published: November 2016

To evaluate the mercury (Hg) exposure level of children located in a Hg mining area, total Hg concentrations and speciation were determined in hair and urine samples of children in the Wanshan Hg mining area, Guizhou Province, China. Rice samples consumed by these same children were also collected for total mercury (THg) and methyl-mercury (MeHg) analysis. The geometric mean concentrations of THg and MeHg in the hair samples were 1.4 (range 0.50–6.0) μg/g and 1.1 (range 0.35–4.2) μg/g, respectively, while the geometric mean concentration of urine Hg (UHg) was 1.4 (range 0.09–26) μg/g Creatinine (Cr). The average of the probable daily intake (PDI) of MeHg via rice consumption was 0.052 (0.0033–0.39) µg/kg/day, which significantly correlated with the hair MeHg concentrations (r = 0.55, p < 0.01), indicating that ingestion of rice is the main pathway of MeHg exposure for children in this area. Furthermore, 18% (26/141) of the PDIs of MeHg exceeded the USEPA Reference Dose (RfD) of 0.10 µg/kg/day, indicating that children in this area are at a high MeHg exposure level. This paper for the first time evaluates the co-exposure levels of IHg and MeHg of children living in Wanshan mining area, and revealed the difference in exposure patterns between children and adults in this area.
Addendum: Morén, C.; Hernández, S.; Guitart-Mampel, M.; Garrabou, G. Mitochondrial Toxicity in Human Pregnancy: An Update on Clinical and Experimental Approaches in the Last 10 Years. Int. J. Environ. Res. Public Health 2014, 11, 9897–9918
Authors: Morén Constanza , Hernández Sandra , Guitart-Mampel Mariona , Garrabou Glòria
Published: November 2016

The authors wish to update the Acknowledgments Section in their paper published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health [1], doi:10.3390/ijerph110909897, website: http://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/11/9/9897.[...]
Diabetic Microvascular Disease and Pulmonary Fibrosis: The Contribution of Platelets and Systemic Inflammation
Authors: Jagadapillai Rekha , Rane Madhavi , Lin Xingyu , Roberts Andrew , Hoyle Gary , Cai Lu , Gozal Evelyne
Published: November 2016

Diabetes is strongly associated with systemic inflammation and oxidative stress, but its effect on pulmonary vascular disease and lung function has often been disregarded. Several studies identified restrictive lung disease and fibrotic changes in diabetic patients and in animal models of diabetes. While microvascular dysfunction is a well-known complication of diabetes, the mechanisms leading to diabetes-induced lung injury have largely been disregarded. We described the potential involvement of diabetes-induced platelet-endothelial interactions in perpetuating vascular inflammation and oxidative injury leading to fibrotic changes in the lung. Changes in nitric oxide synthase (NOS) activation and decreased NO bioavailability in the diabetic lung increase platelet activation and vascular injury and may account for platelet hyperreactivity reported in diabetic patients. Additionally, the Janus kinase/signal transducer and activator of transcription (JAK/STAT) pathway has been reported to mediate pancreatic islet damage, and is implicated in the onset of diabetes, inflammation and vascular injury. Many growth factors and diabetes-induced agonists act via the JAK/STAT pathway. Other studies reported the contribution of the JAK/STAT pathway to the regulation of the pulmonary fibrotic process but the role of this pathway in the development of diabetic lung fibrosis has not been considered. These observations may open new therapeutic perspectives for modulating multiple pathways to mitigate diabetes onset or its pulmonary consequences.
The Role of CC-Chemokines in the Regulation of Angiogenesis
Authors: Ridiandries Anisyah , Tan Joanne , Bursill Christina
Published: November 2016

Angiogenesis, the formation of new blood vessels, is critical for survival and in the regenerative response to tissue injury or ischemia. However, in diseases such as cancer and atherosclerosis, inflammation can cause unregulated angiogenesis leading to excessive neovascularization, which exacerbates disease. Current anti-angiogenic therapies cause complete inhibition of both inflammatory and ischemia driven angiogenesis causing a range of side effects in patients. Specific inhibition of inflammation-driven angiogenesis would therefore be immensely valuable. Increasing evidence suggests that the CC-chemokine class promotes inflammation-driven angiogenesis, whilst there is little evidence for a role in ischemia-mediated angiogenesis. The differential regulation of angiogenesis by CC-chemokines suggests it may provide an alternate strategy to treat angiogenesis associated pathological diseases. The focus of this review is to highlight the significant role of the CC-chemokine class in inflammation, versus ischemia driven angiogenesis, and to discuss the related pathologies including atherosclerosis, cancer, and rheumatoid arthritis. We examine the pros and cons of anti-angiogenic therapies currently in clinical trials. We also reveal novel therapeutic strategies that cause broad-spectrum inhibition of the CC-chemokine class that may have future potential for the specific inhibition of inflammatory angiogenesis.
Focal Adhesion Kinase-Dependent Role of the Soluble Form of Neurotensin Receptor-3/Sortilin in Colorectal Cancer Cell Dissociation
Authors: Béraud-Dufour Sophie , Devader Christelle , Massa Fabienne , Roulot Morgane , Coppola Thierry , Mazella Jean
Published: November 2016

The aim of the present review is to unravel the mechanisms of action of the soluble form of the neurotensin (NT) receptor-3 (NTSR3), also called Sortilin, in numerous physiopathological processes including cancer development, cardiovascular diseases and depression. Sortilin/NTSR3 is a transmembrane protein thought to exert multiple functions both intracellularly and at the level of the plasma membrane. The Sortilin/NTSR3 extracellular domain is released by shedding from all the cells expressing the protein. Although the existence of the soluble form of Sortilin/NTSR3 (sSortilin/NTSR3) has been evidenced for more than 10 years, the studies focusing on the role of this soluble protein at the mechanistic level remain rare. Numerous cancer cells, including colonic cancer cells, express the receptor family of neurotensin (NT), and particularly Sortilin/NTSR3. This review aims to summarize the functional role of sSortilin/NTSR3 characterized in the colonic cancer cell line HT29. This includes mechanisms involving signaling cascades through focal adhesion kinase (FAK), a key pathway leading to the weakening of cell–cell and cell–extracellular matrix adhesions, a series of events which could be responsible for cancer metastasis. Finally, some future approaches targeting the release of sNTSR3 through the inhibition of matrix metalloproteases (MMPs) are suggested.
Association between Interleukin-6 Promoter Polymorphism (-174 G/C), Serum Interleukin-6 Levels and Mortality in Severe Septic Patients
Authors: Lorente Leonardo , Martín María , Pérez-Cejas Antonia , Barrios Ysamar , Solé-Violán Jordi , Ferreres José , Labarta Lorenzo , Díaz César , Jiménez Alejandro
Published: November 2016

The association between interleukin (IL)-6 promoter polymorphism (-174 G/C), circulating IL-6 levels and mortality in septic patients has scarcely been addressed, and then only in studies of small sample size, and a direct association among them has not been previously reported. Therefore, the purpose of our study was to determine whether this association exists. An observational, prospective and multicenter study including severe septic patients was undertaken and serum IL-6 levels at severe sepsis diagnosis and IL-6 promoter polymorphism (-174 G/C) were determined. The end-point of the study was 30-day mortality. The study included 263 patients with the following genotypes of IL-6 promoter polymorphism (-174 G/C): 123 (46.8%) GG, 110 (41.8%) GC and 30 (11.4%) CC. CC homozygous patients showed lower sepsis-related organ failure assessment (SOFA) score, serum IL-6 levels and mortality at 30 days compared to those with other genotypes (GC or GG). On regression analysis, CC homozygous patients showed lower 30-day mortality than those with genotype GG (odds ratio = 0.21; 95% CI = 0.053−0.838; p = 0.03) or GC (hazard ratio = 0.28; 95% CI = 0.074−1.037; p = 0.06). The most important results of our study were that CC might be a favorable genotype in septic patients showing lower serum IL-6 levels and lower risk of death within 30 days.
Classification of 27 Tumor-Associated Antigens by Histochemical Analysis of 36 Freshly Resected Lung Cancer Tissues
Authors: Kurosawa Gene , Sugiura Mototaka , Hattori Yoshinobu , Tsuda Hiroyuki , Kurosawa Yoshikazu
Published: November 2016

In previous studies, we identified 29 tumor-associated antigens (TAAs) and isolated 488 human monoclonal antibodies (mAbs) that specifically bind to one of the 29 TAAs. In the present study, we performed histochemical analysis of 36 freshly resected lung cancer tissues by using 60 mAbs against 27 TAAs. Comparison of the staining patterns of tumor cells, bronchial epithelial cells, and normal pulmonary alveolus cells and interalveolar septum allowed us to determine the type and location of cells that express target molecules, as well as the degree of expression. The patterns were classified into 7 categories. While multiple Abs were used against certain TAAs, the differences observed among them should be derived from differences in the binding activity and/or the epitope. Thus, such data indicate the versatility of respective clones as anti-cancer drugs. Although the information obtained was limited to the lung and bronchial tube, bronchial epithelial cells represent normal growing cells, and therefore, the data are informative. The results indicate that 9 of the 27 TAAs are suitable targets for therapeutic Abs. These 9 Ags include EGFR, HER2, TfR, and integrin α6β4. Based on our findings, a pharmaceutical company has started to develop anti-cancer drugs by using Abs to TfR and integrin α6β4. HGFR, PTP-LAR, CD147, CDCP1, and integrin αvβ3 are also appropriate targets for therapeutic purposes.
Myocarditis in Paediatric Patients: Unveiling the Progression to Dilated Cardiomyopathy and Heart Failure
Authors: Farinha Inês , Miranda Joana
Published: November 2016

Myocarditis is a challenging and potentially life-threatening disease associated with high morbidity in some paediatric patients, due to its ability to present as an acute and fulminant disease and to ultimately progress to dilated cardiomyopathy. It has been described as an inflammatory disease of the myocardium caused by diverse aetiologies. Viral infection is the most frequent cause of myocarditis in developed countries, but bacterial and protozoal infections or drug hypersensitivity may also be causative agents. The prompt diagnosis in paediatric patients is difficult, as the spectrum of clinical manifestation can range from no myocardial dysfunction to sudden cardiac death. Recent studies on myocarditis pathogenesis have revealed a triphasic nature of this disease, which influences the diagnostic and therapeutic strategies to adopt in each patient. Endomyocardial biopsy remains the gold standard for diagnosing myocarditis, and several non-invasive diagnostic tools can be used to support the diagnosis. Intravenous immunoglobulin has become part of routine practice in the treatment of myocarditis in paediatric patients at many centres, but its true effect on the cardiac function has been the target of many studies. The aim of this review is to approach the recently discovered facets of paediatric myocarditis regarding its progression to dilated cardiomyopathy.
Improvements for the Western North Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico ADCIRC Tidal Database (EC2015)
Authors: Szpilka Christine , Dresback Kendra , Kolar Randall , Feyen Jesse , Wang Jindong
Published: November 2016

This research details the development and validation of an updated constituent tidal database for the Western North Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico (WNAT) region, referred to as the EC2015 database. Regional databases, such as EC2015, provide much higher resolution than global databases allowing users to more accurately define the tidal forcing on smaller sub-region domains. The database last underwent major updates in 2001 and was developed using the two-dimensional, depth-integrated form of the coastal hydrodynamic model, ADvanced CIRCulation (ADCIRC), which solves the shallow-water equations in the generalized wave continuity equation form. Six main areas of improvement are examined: (1) placement of the open ocean boundary; (2) higher coastal resolution using Vertical Datum (VDatum) models; (3) updated bathymetry from global databases; (4) updated boundary forcing compared using two global tidal databases; (5) updated bottom friction formulations; and (6) improved model physics by incorporating the advective terms in ADCIRC. The skill of the improved database is compared to that of its predecessor and is calculated using harmonic data from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Center for Operational Oceanographic Products and Services (NOAA CO-OPS) stations and historic International Hydrographic Organization (IHO) data. Overall, the EC2015 database significantly reduces errors realized in the EC2001 database and improves the quality of coastal tidal constituents available for smaller sub-regional models in the Western North Atlantic, Caribbean and Gulf of Mexico (WNAT) region.
Pressure-Induced Phase Transition and Mechanical Properties of Mg2Sr Intermetallics
Authors: Yan Haiyan , Han Xingming , Zheng Baobing
Published: November 2016

A pressure-induced phase transition of Mg2Sr intermetallics from the low-pressure C14-type phase to an orthorhombic phase (space group Cmcm, Z = 4) at a high pressure of 21.0 GPa was firstly predicted using first-principles calculations combined with unbiased swarm structure searching techniques. The phase transition was identified as a first-order nature with a volume drop of 4.7%, driven by the softening of elastic behavior at high pressure. Further phonon calculations indicate that the newly predicted orthorhombic phase is dynamically stable at high pressure and ambient pressure. The mechanical properties including the elastic anisotropy of this orthorhombic phase were thus fully studied at ambient pressure. The elastic anisotropy behavior of this orthorhombic phase was investigated by the distributions of elastic moduli. The evidence of the bonding nature of Mg–Sr was also manifested by density of states (DOS) and electronic localization function (ELF) calculations.
The Microwave-Assisted Green Synthesis of TiC Powders
Authors: Wang Hui , Zhu Wencheng , Liu Yanchun , Zeng Lingke , Sun Luyi
Published: November 2016

Titanium carbide (TiC) is an important engineering material and has found widespread applications. Currently, TiC is typically synthesized through carbothermal reduction, requiring a high temperature (ca. 1700–2300 °C) and long reaction time (ca. 10–20 h), which is not eco-friendly. During a conventional reaction path, anatase TiO2 (A-TiO2) was first converted to rutile TiO2 (R-TiO2), which was subsequently reduced to TiC. Herein, we explored the synthesis of TiC powders with the assistance of microwave heating. In particular, we achieved the conversion of A-TiO2, which was more reactive than R-TiO2 for the carbothermal reduction, to TiC, which was directly due to quick microwave heating. As such, the carbothermal reduction started at a much lower temperature of ca. 1200 °C and finished within 30 min when reacting at 1400 °C, leading to significant energy saving. This study shows that microwave-assisted synthesis can be an effective and green process for preparing TiC powders, which is promising for future large-scale production. The influence of the reaction temperature, the reaction duration, and the carbon content on the synthesis of TiC powders was investigated.
Microscale Testing and Modelling of Cement Paste as Basis for Multi-Scale Modelling
Authors: Zhang Hongzhi , Šavija Branko , Chaves Figueiredo Stefan , Lukovic Mladena , Schlangen Erik
Published: November 2016

This work aims to provide a method for numerically and experimentally investigating the fracture mechanism of cement paste at the microscale. For this purpose, a new procedure was proposed to prepare micro cement paste cubes (100 × 100 × 100 µm3) and beams with a square cross section of 400 × 400 µm2. By loading the cubes to failure with a Berkovich indenter, the global mechanical properties of cement paste were obtained with the aid of a nano-indenter. Simultaneously the 3D images of cement paste with a resolution of 2 µm3/voxel were generated by applying X-ray microcomputed tomography to a micro beam. After image segmentation, a cubic volume with the same size as the experimental tested specimen was extracted from the segmented images and used as input in the lattice model to simulate the fracture process of this heterogeneous microstructure under indenter loading. The input parameters for lattice elements are local mechanical properties of different phases. These properties were calibrated from experimental measured load displacement diagrams and failure modes in which the same boundary condition as in simulation were applied. Finally, the modified lattice model was applied to predict the global performance of this microcube under uniaxial tension. The simulated Young’s modulus agrees well with the experimental data. With the method presented in this paper the framework for fitting and validation of the modelling at microscale was created, which forms a basis for multi-scale analysis of concrete.
In Situ Observation of Crystal Rain and Its Effect on Columnar to Equiaxed Transition
Authors: Zhong Honggang , Zhang Yunhu , Chen Xiangru , Wu Congsen , Wei Zhiqiang , Zhai Qijie
Published: November 2016

The investigation of a columnar to equiaxed transition (CET) and grain refinement is of high commercial importance for the improvement of the solidification structure of metal castings. The crystal rain from the free surface is frequently generated to produce grain refinement and promote a CET in alloys under the application of electromagnetic fields. However, the mechanism underlying the CET influenced by the generated crystal rain is not clear because the employed metallic alloys are opaque. In the present paper, the crystal rain in a transparent NH4Cl–H2O solution is produced by blowing a cooled nitrogen gas on the free surface to observe in situ its impact on the occurrence of a CET. The results show that the crystal rain can significantly promote a CET even in a high temperature gradient and that a CET only can occur when the temperature gradient is almost close to zero in the reference experiment. Finally, the most likely mechanism is discussed and clarified.