bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Total Glucosides of Danggui Buxue Tang Attenuate BLM-Induced Pulmonary Fibrosis via Regulating Oxidative Stress by Inhibiting NOX4
Authors: Zhao Ping , Zhou Wen-Cheng , Li De-Lin , Mo Xiao-Ting , Xu Liang , Li Liu-Cheng , Cui Wen-Hui , Gao Jian
Published: August 2015

Pulmonary fibrosis (PF) is a serious chronic lung disease with unknown pathogenesis. Researches have confirmed that oxidative stress which is regulated by NADPH oxidase-4 (NOX4), a main source of reactive oxygen species (ROS), is an important molecular mechanism underlying PF. Previous studies showed that total glucosides of Danggui Buxue Tang (DBTG), an extract from a classical traditional Chinese herbal formula, Danggui Buxue Tang (DBT), attenuated bleomycin-induced PF in rats. However, the mechanisms of DBTG are still not clear. We hypothesize that DBTG attenuates PF through regulating the level of oxidative stress by inhibiting NOX4. And we found that fibrosis indexes hydroxyproline (HYP) and type I collagen (Col-I) were lower in DBTG groups compared with the model group. In addition, the expression of transforming growth factor-β1 (TGF-β1) and expression of alpha smooth muscle actin (α-SMA) were also much more decreased than the model group. For oxidative stress indicators, DBTG blunted the decrease of superoxide dismutase (SOD) activity, total antioxidant capacity (T-AOC), and the increase in malondialdehyde (MDA), 8-iso-prostaglandin in lung homogenates. Treatment with DBTG restrained the expression of NOX4 compared to the model group. Present study confirms that DBTG inhibits BLM-induced PF by modulating the level of oxidative stress via suppressing NOX4.
Treatment of Antibiotic Pharmaceutical Wastewater Using a Rotating Biological Contactor
Authors: Su Rongjun , Zhang Guangshan , Wang Peng , Li Shixiong , Ravenelle Ryan M. , Crittenden John C.
Published: August 2015

Rotating biological contactors (RBC) are effective for treating wastewater, while they are rarely reported to be used for treating antibiotic pharmaceutical wastewater (APW). The current study investigates treatment of APW using an RBC. The effects of influent concentration, number of stages, and temperature on the remediation of APW were studied. The results indicated, even at low ambient temperature, 45% COD and 40%NH4+-N removal efficiencies. Moreover, the BOD5removal efficiency was 85%. Microscopic observations illustrated that there were various active microorganisms displayed in the biofilms and their distribution changed from stage to stage. Compared with activated sludge, the biofilms in this study have higher content of dry matter and are easier to dehydrate and settle. Compared with current commercial incineration processes or advanced oxidation processes, RBC can greatly reduce the treatment cost. This research shows RBC is effective for such an inherently biorecalcitrant wastewater even at low ambient temperature.
Relationship between Health Insurance Status and the Pattern of Traditional Medicine Utilisation in Ghana
Authors: Gyasi Razak Mohammed
Published: August 2015

This paper examines the relationship between national health insurance status and the pattern of traditional medicine (TRM) use among the general population in Ghana. A retrospective cross-sectional survey of randomly sampled adults, aged ≥18 years (N=324), was conducted. The results indicate that TRM use was high with prevalence of over 86%. The study found no statistically significant association between national health insurance status and TRM utilisation (P>0.05). Paradoxically, major sources of TRM, frequency of TRM use, comedical administration, and disclosure of TRM use to health care professionals differed significantly between the insured and uninsured subgroups (P<0.001). Whereas effectiveness of TRM predicted its use for both insured [odds ratio (OR) = 4.374 (confidence interval (CI): 1.753–10.913;P=0.002)] and uninsured [OR = 3.383 CI: 0.869–13.170;P=0.039)], work experience predicted TRM use for the insured [OR = 1.528 (95% CI: 1.309–1.900;P=0.019)]. Cultural specific variables and health philosophies rather than health insurance status may influence health care-seeking behaviour and TRM use. The enrollment of herbal-based therapies on the national health insurance medicine plan is exigent to ensure monitoring and rational use of TRM towards intercultural health care system in Ghana.
A Very Compact and Sharp Roll-Off Low-Pass Filter with Four Transmission Zeros
Authors: Xiao Yang , Li Lin
Published: August 2015

A novel structure with sharp roll-off, wide stopband, and very compact size is presented in this paper. By combining a capacitor-embedded transmission line ring and two shunt open stubs, this structure exhibits a high-performance three-pole low-pass filter (LPF) response with four generated transmission zeros. With the help of these four transmission zeros, the proposed LPF achieves improved roll-off rate, extended stopband, and significantly very compact size. To verify the feasibility of the proposed structure, a prototype LPF having the cut-off frequency at 0.63 GHz is designed, fabricated, and measured as an illustrative example. Final result shows that a roll-off rate of 109.3 dB/GHz along with a relative stopband bandwidth of 114.6% can be obtained. Moreover, the filter dimensions are as small as 15.7 mm × 26.9 mm, that is,0.004λg2, whereλgis the guided wavelength at the cut-off frequency. The filter structure is simple and easy to fabricate as well.
New Eye Cleansing Product Improves Makeup-Related Ocular Problems
Authors: Okura Masako , Kawashima Motoko , Katagiri Mikiyuki , Shirasawa Takuji , Tsubota Kazuo
Published: August 2015

Purpose. This study evaluated the effects of using a newly developed eye cleansing formulation (Eye Shampoo) to cleanse the eyelids for 4 weeks in a parallel-group comparative study in women with chronic eye discomfort caused by heavy use of eye makeup and poor eye hygiene habits.Methods. Twenty women participants who met the inclusion criteria were randomly allocated to 2 groups comprising 10 participants each. The participants were asked to use either artificial tears alone or artificial tears in conjunction with Eye Shampoo for 4 weeks. The participants answered the questionnaire again and were reexamined, and changes in symptoms within each group and variations of symptoms between the two groups were statistically analyzed.Results. In the group using only artificial tears, improvements in subjective symptoms but not in ophthalmologic examination results were found. In the group using Eye Shampoo together with artificial tears, significant improvements were observed in the subjective symptoms, meibomian orifice obstruction, meibum secretion, tear breakup time, and superficial punctate keratopathy.Conclusion. In patients with chronic eye discomfort thought to be caused by heavy eye makeup, maintaining eyelid hygiene using Eye Shampoo caused a marked improvement in meibomian gland blockage and dry eye symptoms.
Absent Right Side Iliac Arterial System, an Intraoperative Surprise during Live Related Recipient Renal Transplantation
Authors: Radhakrishnan Vijay , Kumar Rana , George Datson , Abraham G. P.
Published: August 2015

Introduction. Renal transplantation has become the standard of care for patients with end stage renal disease. We present a rare case of an absent right sided iliac arterial system encountered during recipient renal transplantation. The presence of such vascular anomaly intraoperatively can present a technically challenging situation to the surgeon.Case Presentation. During a routine renal transplantation of a 34-year-old man, we encountered a complete absence of right side iliac arterial system and a prominent branch arising from left hemipelvis and coursing to the right lower limb and the urinary bladder. The artery to the bladder was divided and anastomosed end to end to the donor renal artery. Intraoperatively the renal perfusion and the urine output were good. A posttransplant magnetic resonance angiogram done six weeks later revealed good vascular supply to the kidney and the lower limb.Conclusion. Absent iliac artery on one or both sides is a rare phenomenon. The presence of it during an unanticipated renal transplant surgery can pose a significant technical challenge to the surgeons. We advocate routine assessment of pelvic vasculature before recipient renal transplant surgery so as to avoid a difficult situation like this.
Potential of Controlled Irrigation and Drainage for Reducing Nitrogen Emission from Rice Paddies in Southern China
Authors: Shao Guang-cheng , Wang Ming-hui , Yu Shuang-en , Liu Na , Xiao Meng-hua , Yuan Min
Published: August 2015

The effect of controlled irrigation and drainage (CID) at different growth stages of rice on nitrogen (N) from rice paddy was studied. Submergence at different stages was imposed in specially designed experimental tanks in 2009 and 2010 based on alternate wetting and drying technology (AWD, the control, CK). Treatments include CID treatment at tiller stage (T1), jointing-booting stage (T2), panicle initiation stage (T3), and milky stage (T4). Results showed that fertilization could significantly increase the concentration ofNH4+-N and TN in surface water but had a little influence onNO3--N. The concentrations ofNH4+-N andNO3--N in surface water increased at first and then decreased after fertilization, while the concentrations ofNH4+-N and TN in groundwater kept on being relatively stable. Compared to CK, CID significantly increased the concentration ofNH4+-N in surface water at four stages. However, it reduced the concentration ofNO3--N. Consistent with the reduction of drainage, CID at four stages could significantly decrease the amount ofNH4+-N andNO3--N losses by runoff in relation to CK.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Studies of Postpartum Depression: An Overview
Authors: Fiorelli Marco , Aceti Franca , Marini Isabella , Giacchetti Nicoletta , Macci Enrica , Tinelli Emanuele , Calistri Valentina , Meuti Valentina , Caramia Francesca , Biondi Massimo
Published: August 2015

Postpartum depression is a frequent and disabling condition whose pathophysiology is still unclear. In recent years, the study of the neural correlates of mental disorders has been increasingly approached using magnetic resonance techniques. In this review we synthesize the results from studies on postpartum depression in the context of structural, functional, and spectroscopic magnetic resonance studies of major depression as a whole. Compared to the relative wealth of data available for major depression, magnetic resonance studies of postpartum depression are limited in number and design. A systematic literature search yielded only eleven studies conducted on about one hundred mothers with postpartum depression overall. Brain magnetic resonance findings in postpartum depression appear to replicate those obtained in major depression, with minor deviations that are not sufficient to delineate a distinct neurobiological profile for this condition, due to the small samples used and the lack of direct comparisons with subjects with major depression. However, it seems reasonable to expect that studies conducted in larger populations, and using a larger variety of brain magnetic resonance techniques than has been done so far, might allow for the identification of neuroimaging signatures for postpartum depression.
ESR1 Mutations in Circulating Plasma Tumor DNA from Metastatic Breast Cancer Patients
Authors: Chu David , Paoletti Costanza , Gersch Christina , VanDenBerg Dustin A. , Zabransky Daniel J. , Cochran Rory L. , Wong Hong Yuen , Toro Patricia Valda , Cidado Justin , Croessmann Sarah , Erlanger Bracha , Cravero Karen , Kyker-Snowman Kelly , Button Berry , Parsons Heather A. , Dalton W. Brian , Gillani Riaz , Medford Arielle , Aung Kimberly , Tokudome Nahomi , Chinnaiyan Arul M. , Schott Anne , Robinson Dan , Jacks Karen S. , Lauring Josh , Hurley Paula J. , Hayes Daniel F. , Rae James M. , Park Ben Ho
Published: August 2015

Purpose: Mutations in the estrogen receptor (ER)α gene, ESR1, have been identified in breast cancer metastases after progression on endocrine therapies. Because of limitations of metastatic biopsies, the reported frequency of ESR1 mutations may be underestimated. Here, we show a high frequency of ESR1 mutations using circulating plasma tumor DNA (ptDNA) from patients with metastatic breast cancer.

Experimental Design: We retrospectively obtained plasma samples from eight patients with known ESR1 mutations and three patients with wild-type ESR1 identified by next-generation sequencing (NGS) of biopsied metastatic tissues. Three common ESR1 mutations were queried for using droplet digital PCR (ddPCR). In a prospective cohort, metastatic tissue and plasma were collected contemporaneously from eight ER-positive and four ER-negative patients. Tissue biopsies were sequenced by NGS, and ptDNA ESR1 mutations were analyzed by ddPCR.

Results: In the retrospective cohort, all corresponding mutations were detected in ptDNA, with two patients harboring additional ESR1 mutations not present in their metastatic tissues. In the prospective cohort, three ER-positive patients did not have adequate tissue for NGS, and no ESR1 mutations were identified in tissue biopsies from the other nine patients. In contrast, ddPCR detected seven ptDNA ESR1 mutations in 6 of 12 patients (50%).

Conclusions: We show that ESR1 mutations can occur at a high frequency and suggest that blood can be used to identify additional mutations not found by sequencing of a single metastatic lesion. Clin Cancer Res; 22(4); 993–9. ©2015 AACR.
MicroRNA-203 Regulates Growth and Metastasis of Breast Cancer
Authors: Zhao Shan , Han Jinzhu , Zheng Likang , Yang Zixin , Zhao Li , Lv Yingqian
Published: August 2015

Backgrounds/Aims: MicroRNAs (MiRNAs) control many biological events and play critical roles in the development of tumor. Among all miRNAs, miR203 has been recently shown to have an inhibitory effect on prostate cancer. However, its involvement in the carcinogenesis of breast cancer has not been reported. Methods: We examined the levels of miR203 in the breast cancer from the patients compared to the paired normal breast tissue. We also examined the levels of miR203 in several commonly used breast cancer cell lines. The effects of overexpression or depletion of miR203 on breast cancer cell growth were analyzed by a MTT assay, and on breast cancer cell invasion were examined by a scratch wound healing assay and a transwell cell migration assay. MiR203-targeted genes were analyzed by Western blot. Results: We detected significantly lower levels of miR203 in the breast cancer from the patients compared to the paired normal breast tissue. Moreover, the levels of miR203 were significantly lower in breast cancer tissue from the patients with cancer metastasis. Decreased miR203 levels were detected in all examined breast cancer lines. Overexpression of miR203 inhibited breast cancer cell growth and invasion, while antisense-mediated inhibition of miR203 enhanced cancer cell growth and invasion. Further analyses show that miR203 may inhibit cell growth through decreasing cell-cycle activator cyclinD2 and CDK6, increasing cell-cycle suppressor p21 and p27, and increasing apoptosis-associated protein Bcl-2. MiR203 may also inhibit cell metastasis through suppressing matrix metalloproteinase 2 (MMP2), MMP7 and MMP9. Conclusion: Our data thus highlight miR203 as a novel therapeutic target for breast cancer.
Multidisciplinary Assessment of Patients with Musical Hallucinations, Tinnitus and Hearing Loss
Authors: Rocha Savya Cybelle Milhomem , Kii Marcia Akemi , Pereira Cristiana Borges , Borelli Danilo Totarelli , Forlenza Orestes , Sanchez Tanit Ganz
Published: August 2015

Background: Although auditory hallucinations are considered a psychopathological phenomenon, musical hallucinations have been reported in individuals without psychosis but with auditory symptoms (tinnitus and/or hearing loss). Thus, a possible different cognitive functioning may be involved in musical hallucinations. The aim of the study was to characterize patients with tinnitus and musical hallucinations through a multidisciplinary assessment, allowing a better understanding of these concomitant phenomena. Sampling and Methods: As this sample is rare to find, all consecutive patients with tinnitus, hearing loss and musical hallucinations were included over a 3-year period, excluding those unable to respond. All subjects underwent the following assessments: (1) otolaryngological and audiological assessment (physical examination and audiometry), (2) neurological assessment (cognition, electroencephalogram and imaging examination) and (3) psychiatric assessment (structured interview). Results: A total of 16 patients were included (87.5% women; mean age 61.43 ± 15.99 years). The otolaryngological examination was normal in all cases, but audiometry revealed that the degree of hearing loss was severe to profound in 68.75% of participants. Neurological assessment showed electroencephalogram changes in only 17.6% of cases, while 25% presented with mild attention deficit and 43.75% had small foci of gliosis or ischemia on the imaging examination. Psychiatric assessment showed that 68.75% of cases had depression, 6.25% had anxiety disorder and 25% had no psychiatric conditions. Conclusions: Musical hallucinations were strongly associated with female elderly adults and with mood disorders. Thus, in contrast to common auditory hallucinations, patients with musical hallucinations associated with tinnitus and hearing loss should be offered a more multidisciplinary assessment.
Vasospasm Is a Consistent Finding in Pernio (Chilblains) and a Possible Clue to Pathogenesis
Authors: Shahi Varun , Wetter David A. , Cappel Jonathan A. , Davis Mark D.P. , Spittell Peter C.
Published: August 2015

Background/Aims: Pernio (chilblains) is an inflammatory condition classically characterized by localized erythema and swelling of acral sites upon exposure to cool and damp conditions. We sought to determine whether cold-induced vasospasm has a role in the development of pernio. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 5 patients with pernio who were seen at our institution between January 1, 2000 and December 31, 2011, and had undergone a noninvasive arterial vascular study of the upper extremities that corresponded to a site of clinical involvement of pernio and who had also undergone vasospastic testing and ice water immersion as part of the noninvasive arterial vascular study protocol. Results: Vascular testing in all patients (mean age 37.8 years; 4 women) demonstrated vasospasm with ice water immersion. Conclusion: Our findings suggest that vasospasm likely has a role in the pathophysiology of pernio and may also provide a rationale for the pharmacological treatment of vasospasm in patients with pernio.
Influence of the Boreal Autumn Southern Annular Mode on Winter Precipitation over Land in the Northern Hemisphere
Authors: Liu Ting , Li Jianping , Zheng Fei
Published: August 2015

As an atmospheric oscillation with a global scale, the Southern Hemisphere (SH) annular mode (SAM) contributes not only to SH climate variability but also to climate anomalies in the Northern Hemisphere (NH). This paper demonstrates that the strong (weak) boreal autumn SAM usually favors a positive (negative) tripole precipitation pattern in the NH, with more (less) precipitation over the equator and midlatitudes but less (more) precipitation in the subtropics. The corresponding mechanism is examined based on reanalysis data and numerical modeling. It is suggested that the boreal autumn SAM is associated with changes in surface subpolar westerlies, which influence the surface heat exchange and drive the meridional oceanic Ekman flow, redistributing heat near the surface. Through these, warmer (colder) and colder (warmer) sea surface temperature (SST) belts in the SH middle and high latitudes form in response to the positive (negative) boreal autumn SAM, respectively. Such a positive (negative) Southern Ocean SST dipole pattern can persist into the boreal winter via the “memory” of SST. It can then affect the vertical motion in the SH meridional circulation and strengthen (weaken) the NH upward and downward branches. These anomalous vertical flows favor a positive (negative) tripole precipitation anomaly pattern in the NH under suitable moisture conditions. Such an “ocean–atmosphere coupled bridge” allows the influence of the boreal autumn SAM to persist into the following season and affect the NH climate. Hence, this work suggests that the boreal autumn SAM provides a significant forecasting signal for the NH climate in the following winter.
A Strong Wind Event on the Ross Ice Shelf, Antarctica: A Case Study of Scale Interactions
Authors: Chenoli Sheeba Nettukandy , Turner John , Samah Azizan Abu
Published: August 2015

In situ observations, satellite imagery, numerical weather prediction, and reanalysis fields are used to investigate the synoptic and mesoscale environment of a strong wind event (SWE) at McMurdo Station/Ross Island region on the Ross Ice Shelf, Antarctica, on 10 October 2003. The SWE occurred during the passage of a sequence of three mesoscale low pressure systems from the central Ross Ice Shelf to the southwest Ross Sea. A potential vorticity (PV) analysis showed that the lows drew air of continental origin down the glacial valleys of the Transantarctic Mountains and onto the ice shelf as a katabatic drainage flow. However, the analysis indicated that the air mass associated with the SWE was of recurved maritime origin drawn in by the second mesoscale low (L2). This air mass approached McMurdo Station from the south where interactions with the orography played a critical role. In the early stages of the event, when the wind speed was less than 10 m s−1, the air was deflected around the topographical features, such as Minna Bluff and Black and White Islands. As the pressure gradient increased, winds of more than 10 m s−1 crossed the orography and developed mountain waves along the lee slopes. When the Froude number became larger than 1, large-amplitude vertically propagating mountain waves developed over the McMurdo Station/Ross Island area, increasing the wind to 16 m s−1. The reanalysis fields did not resolve the mesoscale lows; however, the Antarctic Mesoscale Prediction System (AMPS) model was able to simulate important characteristics of the SWE such as the mesoscale low pressure system, flow around the topographical barrier, and the mountain wave.
Great Is Their Sin
Authors: Graves Joseph L.
Published: August 2015

The roots of biological determinism are ancient. Yet despite advances in biological science in the twentieth century, determinist thinking has not been eliminated. This article reviews the history of biological determinism, examining its varieties from its creationist beginnings to present-day biological thinking in the age of genomics. It elucidates the relationship between biological determinism and racialist understandings of human genetic variation. Of particular importance in this regard are the ongoing claims of racial medicine (a modern biological determinist variety) as well as resurgent attempts to classify humans into biological races utilizing genomic data and clustering algorithms (such as STRUCTURE). Finally it presents how the complexity of biological variation generated by genetic, epigenetic, environmental, and chance effects vitiates simplistic biological determinism.
A Level Playing Field? Media Constructions of Athletics, Genetics, and Race
Authors: Hughey Matthew W. , Goss Devon R.
Published: August 2015

The link between black athleticism and biological determinism has been wrought with debate. With the domination of black athletics over white challengers—such as boxer Jack Johnson or sprinter Jessie Owens—some began to assert that blacks possessed a biological predisposition toward athletic excellence and that Darwinian winnowing during chattel slavery’s harsh conditions magnified African American and West Indian athletic prowess. Despite biological and sociological evidence to the contrary, recent mainstream journalism has collectively advanced the proposition that black athletic success is the product of little more than genetic traits. In this article, we examine the events and ideologies employed to reify a media discourse of “black brawn vs. white brains.” We demonstrate how such a thesis is empirically untenable. Through an examination of English-language newspaper articles ( N = 292) published in the decade immediately following the completion of human genome mapping (2003–2014), we examine contemporary media discourse surrounding athletics, genetics, and race. We demonstrate how mainstream media narratives construct and reinforce racial essentialism and provide a unique space for racist discourse in an age dominated by “postracial” and “color-blind” dialogue.
Back to the Future? The Emergence of a Geneticized Conceptualization of Race in Sociology
Authors: Frank Reanne
Published: August 2015

Discoveries in human molecular genetics have reanimated unresolved debates over the nature of human difference. In this context, the idea that race has a discrete and measurable genetic basis is currently enjoying a resurgence. The return of a biologized construction of race is somewhat surprising because one of the primary pronouncements to come out of the Human Genome Project was one of human genetic similarity (i.e., humans are over 99.9 percent similar at the molecular level). Perhaps even more surprising is that genetically based notions of race have not been restricted to the biomedical sciences but have recently emerged within the social sciences, specifically sociology, to explicitly challenge a socially constructed understanding of race. Drawing on existing critiques, this article describes problems in recent sociological scholarship and the potential role of social scientists in future work occurring at the intersection of race and genetics. I argue that recent scholarly work meant to challenge the notion of race as a social construction actually makes a powerful case for its continued utility.
Beautiful Melodies Telling Me Terrible Things
Authors: Hughey Matthew W. , Byrd W. Carson
Published: August 2015

To conclude this volume, we first engage in a brief history of scientific racism and the extent to which it resonates with the public. We then attempt to explain why American society and culture continue to fall prey to the seduction of biological determinism and racial essentialism: (1) the DNA mystique, (2) scientific revolutions and paradigm shifts, (3) the ethno-politics of genetics, (4) dismissals of social science as “soft,” (5) the defense of biology against reactionary dismissals, and (6) the aura of “objectivity” surrounding genetics. Last, we point to a way forward that may help scholars and the public avoid a return to old and debunked theories: (1) engagement with interdisciplinary fields and science and technology studies, (2) involvement of knowledgeable scholars and policy experts in government and higher education, (3) revision of the current additive funding model used by federal agencies, and (4) evolution in the training of future and current scholars and policy-makers toward mitigating inequality.
Effects of education on breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes among middle school students
Authors: Zeller Cynthia Lee
Published: August 2015

Objective:

The purpose of this pilot study was to examine the impact of a school health module on the breastfeeding knowledge and attitudes of middle school students.

Method:

A convenience sample of 39 middle school students received education related to breastfeeding and completed a pre-test and a post-test. The School Survey on Breastfeeding Beliefs and Attitudes tool was used to determine if an educational module could change attitudes and knowledge about infant feeding. The survey instruments were identical for the pre-test and the post-test.

Results:

Inferential statistics and a multivariate analysis of variance revealed a significant effect of the education module in attitudes and knowledge towards breastfeeding.

Conclusion:

The findings of this study suggest that education modules in the middle school setting can address myths regarding infant feeding and delineate barriers for acceptance and support of breastfeeding. Recommendations include further research exploring the impact of breastfeeding education on attitudes towards breastfeeding in larger, randomised groups.
Static and dynamic mechanical properties of novel treated jute/green epoxy composites
Authors: Jabbar Abdul , Militký Jiří , Wiener Jakub , Karahan Mehmet
Published: August 2015

The focus of this paper is to evaluate the mechanical and dynamic mechanical properties of woven jute fabric-reinforced green epoxy composites as a function of modification of jute fibers by enzyme, CO2 pulsed infrared laser and ozone treatments. The treated jute fibers were characterized by scanning electron microscopy and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. Composites were prepared by the hand layup method and compression molding technique and the resin curing process was optimized with the help of differential scanning calorimetry. The treatments resulted in the enhancement of flexural and impact properties. Statistical analysis of mechanical properties of composites, done by one-way analysis of variance, showed significant differences between the results obtained. Dynamic mechanical analysis (DMA) results revealed that treated composites have a higher storage modulus over the range of temperature. A positive shift of loss modulus and tangent delta peaks of treated composites to higher temperature was observed. The reduction in the tangent delta peak height of treated composites was also observed due to improvement in fiber/matrix interfacial adhesion. The degree of interfacial adhesion between the jute fiber and green epoxy was anticipated using the adhesion factor obtained through DMA data. Complex modulus variations and phase behavior of composites was studied by Cole–Cole analysis.
Disturbance rejection control for multiple-effect falling-film evaporator based on disturbance observer
Authors: Wang Xiaojun , Li Chao , Chen Xisong
Published: August 2015

The multiple-effect falling-film evaporator (MEFFE), as a widely used process in industry, is usually affected by strong disturbances, which make it very difficult to control. Several control strategies have been applied to MEFFE; however, most of them did not focus on the disturbance rejection, which may lead to poor control performance when disturbances occur. Although model predictive control (MPC) shows the ability to decouple multivariable and control complex processes, it rejects disturbances merely through feedback regulation and does not deal with disturbances directly. To improve disturbance rejection in MEFFE, a control scheme based on MPC and disturbance observer is proposed in this paper. The scheme combines a feedforward compensation part-based on disturbance observer and a feedback regulation part using MPC. The performance of disturbance rejection is analysed in both a nominal case and a model mismatch case. The results of simulation illustrate that the proposed method obtained remarkable superiority in disturbance rejection compared with the MPC method in MEFFE control.
Challenges in Introducing New Contraceptive Methods
Authors: Khan M. E. , Bhatnagar Isha
Published: August 2015

Increasing choice and introducing new contraceptive methods in the National Family Welfare Program in India could play a significant role in increasing adoption of contraception and meeting the unmet need of a large proportion of couples. However, inclusion of any new contraceptive method in India has to face many challenges at different steps: from clinical trials, administrative processes, acceptance in the national program, and reaching the intended beneficiaries. Having a good product is necessary but not sufficient for widespread accessibility, acceptance, and use. This article reviews the challenges based on the available policy documents, literature review, and discussions with senior program managers of the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare and development organizations. It concludes that comprehensive strategic planning is needed to address all possible barriers to ensure new contraceptive access at an affordable price by the beneficiaries it is intended for.
Options for reducing oil content of sludge from a petroleum wastewater treatment plant
Authors: Kwon Tae-Soon , Lee Jae-Young
Published: August 2015

Wastewater treatment plants at petroleum refineries often produce substantial quantities of sludge with relatively high concentrations of oil. Disposal of this waste is costly, in part because the high oil content requires use of secure disposal methods akin to handling of hazardous wastes. This article examines the properties of oily sludge and evaluates optional methods for reducing the oil content of this sludge to enable use of lower cost disposal methods. To reduce the oil content or break the structure of oily sludge, preliminary lab-scale experiments involving mechanical treatment, surfactant extraction, and oxidation are conducted. By applying surfactants, approximately 36% to 45% of oils are extracted from oily sludge. Of this, about 33% of oils are rapidly oxidised via radiation by an electron beam within 10 s of exposure. The Fenton reaction is effective for destruction of oily sludge. It is also found that 56% of oils were removed by reacting oily sludge with water containing ozone of 0.5 mg l-1 over a period of 24 h. Oxidation using ozone thus can also be effectively used as a pretreatment for oily sludge.
Is It Good to Be Green? Assessing the Ecological Results of County Green Infrastructure Planning
Authors: Lynch Amy J.
Published: August 2015

This study assesses the process and outcomes of landscape-scale green infrastructure planning as a strategy for supporting biodiversity and ecosystem services. The research examines how nine county planning agencies carry out green infrastructure planning and the effectiveness of those strategies in retaining, preserving, and connecting green space over time. The study develops and applies a new framework for green infrastructure planning and uses remote sensing, land conversion analysis, and a landscape ecology–oriented spatial analysis program (FRAGSTATS) to assess on-the-ground change. Results confirm the relationship between green infrastructure planning and green space outcomes, question conventional metrics, and highlight the importance of strategies that support connectivity and manage growth.
An Evaluation of the CDC’s Community-Based Breastfeeding Supplemental Cooperative Agreement
Authors: Lilleston Pamela , Nhim Kunthea , Rutledge Gia
Published: August 2015

Background:

Community-based organizations (CBOs) have an important role to play in promoting breastfeeding continuation among mothers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s Nutrition, Physical Activity, and Obesity Program’s Cooperative Agreement Breastfeeding Supplement funded 6 state health departments to support CBOs to implement community-based breastfeeding support activities.

Objectives:

Study objectives were to (1) describe the reach of the Cooperative Agreement, (2) describe breastfeeding support strategies implemented by state health departments and CBOs, and (3) understand the barriers and facilitators to implementing community-based breastfeeding support strategies.

Methods:

Qualitative and quantitative data were abstracted from state health departments’ final evaluation reports. Qualitative data were analyzed for common themes using deductive and inductive approaches.

Results:

Within the 6 states funded by the Cooperative Agreement, 66 primary CBOs implemented breastfeeding support strategies and reported 59 256 contacts with mothers. Support strategies included incorporating lactation services into community-based programs, training staff, providing walk-in locations for lactation support, connecting breastfeeding mothers to resources, and providing services that reflect community-specific culture. Community partnerships, network building, stakeholders’ commitment, and programmatic and policy environments were key facilitators of program success.

Conclusion:

Key lessons learned include the importance of time in creating lasting organizational change, use of data for program improvement, choosing the right partners, taking a collective approach, and leveraging resources.
Biocomposite of a multilayer film scrap and curauá fibers
Authors: Spinacé Márcia AS , De Paoli Marco-Aurelio
Published: August 2015

An important material for making composites is the scrap of multilayer films. Using plant fibers in these composites can further contribute to reduce their environmental impact. We prepared, by extrusion and injection molding, composites of this scrap reinforced with 20 wt% of curauá fibers. These were characterized using scanning electron microscopy (SEM); optical microscopy; tensile, flexural, and notched impact strength tests; differential scanning calorimetry; carbonyl index (CI) by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy; reflectance ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy; and water absorption measurements. The fiber promoted an increase in the flexural and tensile moduli strengths. SEM showed good fiber/matrix adhesion, dispersion of the fibers in the matrix and their fibrillation. Weathering of the surface of the composite during environmental aging was evidenced by CI, degree of crystallinity, melting temperature, and the formation of cracks caused by chemi-crystallization. Despite the environmental degradation of the exposed composite surface, the mechanical properties and interfacial adhesion did not change significantly.
Thermal properties and crystallization kinetics of a new polypropylene–polyamide 6 composite
Authors: Zhang Kaizhou , Wu Bin , Shao Huiju , Yang Jingkui , Qin Shuhao
Published: August 2015

The crystallization behavior of polypropylene (PP)-polyamide 6 (PA6) composites prepared by melt blending was analyzed by differential scanning calorimetry. Nonisothermal experiments were used to evaluate the effect of lithium chloride (LiCl) on the crystallization process of PP from molten state. The addition of LiCl dramatically modified the nonisothermal crystallization behavior of the PP matrix, the crystallization temperature first increased and then decreased with the increase of LiCl, and crystallization rate and effective activation energy decreased compared with PP-PA composite. The influence of LiCl on the thermal stability of PP-PA6 composites was investigated by thermogravimetry. The results showed the addition of LiCl increased the temperatures at the maximum degradation rate and improved the thermal stability of PP-PA6 composites. In addition, the hydrophilicity of PP was largely improved due to the introduction of hygroscopic PA6 and LiCl. The water contact angle of PP-PA 2.25 decreased from 103° to 65° compared with pure PP.
Study on thermal properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) and polyurethane composites with multiwalled carbon nanotubes/silica nanohybrids
Authors: Xie Hongyan , Ye Qing , Liu Jin , Zhou Guanglian , Liu Wei , Lu Hongdian , Yang Wei
Published: August 2015

Two kinds of multiwalled carbon nanotubes/silica nanohybrids (CNTs/SiO2) were synthesized via a sol–gel method by coating SiO2 on the surfaces of CNTs that had been functionalized with poly(sodium- p-styrenesulfonate) (PSS). The influence of the nanohybrids on the thermal properties of poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA) and polyurethane (PU) composites was investigated. Characterization of CNTs/SiO2 nanohybrids, elucidated with scanning electron microscopy and X-ray diffraction, showed that PSS played a key role in the final morphology and resulted in a “core/shell” and “candied haws on a stick”-like structure. The thermal degradation and thermo-oxidation of PVA and PU composites evaluated by thermogravimetic analyses suggested that the thermal properties of PVA/(CNTs/SiO2) composites were improved at relative high temperature range when compared with pure PVA, and the improvement mainly depended on the loading fraction of the nanohybrids, while for PU/(CNTs/SiO2) composites, a small fraction of the nanohybrids increased the materials thermal properties, but the improvements were influenced by the type of CNTs/SiO2 nanohybrids.
Effect of N,N′-ethylenebis(stearamide) on the water absorption and hydrolytic degradation of poly(lactic acid)/halloysite nanocomposites
Authors: Tham WL , Poh BT , Ishak ZA Mohd , Chow WS
Published: August 2015

Poly(lactic acid)/halloysite nanoclay (PLA/HNC) nanocomposites with N, N′-ethylenebis(stearamide) (EBS) were produced by melt mixing. Water absorption behaviors of the PLA nanocomposites were studied at three different temperatures, that is, 30, 40, and 50°C. The water absorption kinetics of PLA/HNC nanocomposites conform to Fickian diffusion behavior at immersion temperatures of 30 and 40°C due to the diffusional exponent ( n) values that were close to 0.5 for all specimens. However, the hydrolysis of PLA occurred for longer time deviations at 50°C. Activation energy of water diffusion ( Ea) for PLA nanocomposites were found to be affected by the HNC and EBS contents. The glass transition temperature ( Tg), cold crystallization temperature ( Tcc), and melting temperature ( Tm) of the PLA sample were shifted to lower temperature after subjected to immersion temperature of 50°C. The carbonyl index of all PLA specimens increased after water absorption at 40 and 50°C due to the formation of higher amount of carboxylic acid end groups during the hydrolysis process.
Contribution of Personality, Job Strain, and Occupational Self-Efficacy to Job Satisfaction in Different Occupational Contexts
Authors: Maggiori Christian , Johnston Claire S. , Rossier Jérôme
Published: August 2015

Using a large sample of employed adults ( N = 1,714) living in Switzerland, this study investigates the relationship between the five-factor model of personality dimensions and job satisfaction, considering the role of job strain as defined by Karasek’s job demand–control model and occupational self-efficacy. These relationships were assessed both within the overall sample of employed and specific occupational groups. The analyses on the overall sample show an effect of neuroticism and extraversion on job satisfaction. Furthermore, job strain and occupational self-efficacy are related to job satisfaction. The effect of neuroticism is partly mediated by job strain and occupational self-efficacy, while extraversion and conscientiousness have an indirect effect through occupational self-efficacy. When we consider the occupational groups, the results highlight differences between the groups showing variability in the relationship between personality, job strain and occupational self-efficacy, and their effects on job satisfaction.
Metamodel-based optimization of the bolted connection of a wing spar considering fatigue resistance
Authors: Xia Tianxiang , Yao Weixing , Xu Lipu , Zou Jun
Published: August 2015

In this paper, the optimization considering the constraint of fatigue life was conducted on a bolted connection of a wing spar, after which a series of fatigue tests were carried out to verify the optimized result. The object of the optimization was to minimize the weight of the bolted connection. Meanwhile, a constraint of fatigue life was taken into account. Considering the nonlinear relationship between the fatigue life and the design parameters, experimental design and Kriging model were applied in the optimization. In order to reduce the calculation cost of the finite element analysis and the fatigue life prediction, a so-called coupled bolt model was applied and stress severity factor approach was applied to assess the fatigue life of the connection. After the optimization, the weight of the optimized result was only 85.9% of the initial design and the fatigue life of the structure satisfied the constraint condition. In order to evaluate the reasonability of the optimized result, six specimens were machined based on the optimized result. Using these specimens, a series of fatigue tests were carried out. The test results demonstrated that the optimized result could be regarded as the best solution.
The Influence of Outrage Factors on Journalists’ Gatekeeping of Health Risks
Authors: You Myoungsoon , Ju Youngkee
Published: August 2015

Public risk perception is critical in understanding the modern “risk society,” and news media can be a significant influence on the perception. Based on Peter Sandman’s concept of “outrage factors” of risk, this study investigated whether these factors influence journalistic risk gatekeeping. A survey of 200 Korean journalists was conducted and results showed that the average outrage factors perceived by the reporters were influential in determining the degree of newsworthiness in all the cases across the five hazards. In particular, “catastrophic potential” was the most salient influence in that it was influential in three of the five hazards.
Effect of physical exercise on workplace social capital: Cluster randomized controlled trial
Authors: Andersen Lars L. , Poulsen Otto M. , Sundstrup Emil , Brandt Mikkel , Jay Kenneth , Clausen Thomas , Borg Vilhelm , Persson Roger , Jakobsen Markus D.
Published: August 2015

Aims: While workplace health promotion with group-based physical exercise can improve workers’ physical health, less is known about potential carry-over effects to psychosocial factors. This study investigates the effect of physical exercise on social capital at work. Methods: Altogether, 200 female healthcare workers (nurses and nurse’s aides) from 18 departments at three hospitals were randomly allocated at the department level to 10 weeks of (1) group-based physical exercise at work during working hours or (2) physical exercise at home during leisure time. At baseline and follow-up, participants replied to a questionnaire concerning workplace social capital: (1) within teams (bonding); (2) between teams (bridging); (3) between teams and nearest leaders (linking A); (4) between teams and distant leaders (linking B). Results: At baseline, bonding, bridging, linking A and linking B social capital were 74 (SD 17), 61 (SD 19), 72 (SD 22) and 70 (SD 18), respectively, on a scale of 0–100 (where 100 is best). A group by time interaction was found for bonding social capital ( P=0.02), where physical exercise at work compared with physical exercise during leisure time increased 5.3 (95% confidence interval 2.3– 8.2)(effect size, Cohen’s d = 0.31) from baseline to follow-up. For physical exercise at home during leisure time and exercise at work combined, a time effect ( P=0.001) was found for linking A social capital, with a decrease of 4.8 (95% confidence interval 1.9–7.6). Conclusions: Group-based physical exercise at work contributed to building social capital within teams at the workplace. However, the general decrease of social capital between teams and nearest leaders during the intervention period warrants further research.
Ethnic origin and access to electronic health services
Authors: Mesch Gustavo S
Published: August 2015

E-health holds the promise of changing the delivery of health care by extending and enhancing its reach, and democratizing and improving the access of disadvantaged groups to health care services. This study investigated ethnic inequalities in access to e-health information, communication and electronic services in Israel. Based on the diversification hypothesis, we expected that disadvantaged ethnic groups would be more likely to use e-health services to compensate for their lack of social capital. Data gathered from a representative sample of Internet users in Israel (n=1371) provided partial support for the hypothesis, indicating that in multicultural societies, disadvantaged groups are more motivated than the majority group to use the Internet to access medical information. However, despite expectations, minority groups were less likely to access e-health services. Implications of the findings are discussed.