bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Visualization of nerve fibers and their relationship to peripheral nerve tumors by diffusion tensor imaging
Authors: Cage Tene A. , Yuh Esther L. , Hou Stephanie W. , Birk Harjus , Simon Neil G. , Noss Roger , Rao Anuradha , Chin Cynthia T. , Kliot Michel
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

The majority of growing and/or symptomatic peripheral nerve tumors are schwannomas and neurofibromas. They are almost always benign and can usually be resected while minimizing motor and sensory deficits if approached with the proper expertise and techniques. Intraoperative electrophysiological stimulation and recording techniques allow the surgeon to map the surface of the tumor in an effort to identify and thus avoid damaging functioning nerve fibers. Recently, MR diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) techniques have permitted the visualization of axons, because of their anisotropic properties, in peripheral nerves. The object of this study was to compare the distribution of nerve fibers as revealed by direct electrical stimulation with that seen on preoperative MR DTI.

METHODS

The authors conducted a retrospective chart review of patients with a peripheral nerve or nerve root tumor between March 2012 and January 2014. Diffusion tensor imaging and intraoperative data had been prospectively collected for patients with peripheral nerve tumors that were resected. Preoperative identification of the nerve fiber location in relation to the nerve tumor surface as seen on DTI studies was compared with the nerve fiber’s intraoperative localization using electrophysiological stimulation and recordings.

RESULTS

In 23 patients eligible for study there was good correlation between nerve fiber location on DTI and its anatomical location seen intraoperatively. Diffusion tensor imaging demonstrated the relationship of nerve fibers relative to the tumor with 95.7% sensitivity, 66.7% specificity, 75% positive predictive value, and 93.8% negative predictive value.

CONCLUSIONS

Preoperative DTI techniques are useful in helping the peripheral nerve surgeon to both determine the risks involved in resecting a nerve tumor and plan the safest surgical approach.
Perineural spread of pelvic malignancies to the lumbosacral plexus and beyond: clinical and imaging patterns
Authors: Capek Stepan , Howe Benjamin M. , Amrami Kimberly K. , Spinner Robert J.
Published: September 2015

OBJECT

Perineural spread along pelvic autonomie nerves has emerged as a logical, anatomical explanation for selected cases of neoplastic lumbosacral plexopathy (LSP) in patients with prostate, bladder, rectal, and cervical cancer. The authors wondered whether common radiological and clinical patterns shared by various types of pelvic cancer exist.

METHODS

The authors retrospectively reviewed their institutional series of 17 cases concluded as perineural tumor spread. All available history, physical examination, electrodiagnostic studies, biopsy data and imaging studies, evidence of other metastatic disease, and follow-up were recorded in detail. The series was divided into 2 groups: cases with neoplastic lumbosacral plexopathy confirmed by biopsy (Group A) and cases included based on imaging characteristics despite the lack of biopsy or negative biopsy results (Group B).

RESULTS

Group A comprised 10 patients (mean age 69 years); 9 patients were symptomatic and 1 was asymptomatic. The L5–S1 spinal nerves and sciatic nerve were most frequently involved. Three patients had intradural extension. Seven patients were alive at last follow-up. Group B consisted of 7 patients (mean age 64 years); 4 patients were symptomatic, 2 were asymptomatic, and 1 had only imaging available. The L5–S1 spinal nerves and the sciatic nerve were most frequently involved. No patients had intradural extension. Four patients were alive at last follow-up.

CONCLUSIONS

The authors provide a unifying theory to explain lumbosacral plexopathy in select cases of various pelvic neoplasms. The tumor cells can use splanchnic nerves as conduits and spread from the end organ to the lumbosacral plexus. Tumor can continue to spread along osseous and muscle nerve branches, resulting in muscle and bone “metastases.” Radiological studies show a reproducible, although nonspecific pattern, and the same applies to clinical presentation.
A Highly Efficient Method for the Synthesis of Novel 1′H-spiro[indene-2,2′-quinazoline]-1,3,4′(3′H)-trione Derivatives
Authors: Sadat-Ebrahimi Seyed Esmail , Irannezhad Soroor , Moghimi Setareh , Yahya-Meymandi Azadeh , Mahdavi Mohammad , Shafiee Abbas , Foroumadi Alireza
Published: September 2015

A Series of Novel Ninhydrin-derived Spiro-quinazolinone Derivatives in Moderate to Good Yields Have Been Synthesised Through a Ferric Chloride Catalysed Reaction in 1,2-dichloroethane.
Synthesis, Crystal Structures and Cytotoxic Activity of New 1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2H-1,5-benzodiazepine Derivatives
Authors: Faidallah Hassan M. , Taib Layla A. , Albeladi Shams N.A. , Rahman Mohammed E. Ur , Al-Zahrani Fatimah Ali , Arshad Muhammad Nadeem , Asiri Abdullah M.
Published: September 2015

The synthesis of a series of 1,3,4,5-tetrahydro-2H-1,5-benzodiazepine has been achieved by reaction of DHA (dehydroacetic acid), o-PDA (o-phenylenediamine) and aromatic aldehydes in the presence of a catalytic amount of TFA (trifluoroacetic acid). Four molecules were crystallised and their structures determined using single crystal X-ray crystallography The 15-benzodiazepines derivatives were evaluated for their in vitro cytotoxic effects.
Oxidative Acetoxylactonisation of Alkenoic Acids Using H2O2 in Acetic Acid Catalysed by KI
Authors: Zhou Zhong-Shi , He Xue-Han
Published: September 2015

In the presence of a catalytic amount of KI in combination with H2O2, a convenient catalytic procedure has been developed for the direct preparation of acetoxylactones from alkenoic acids in acetic acid at room temperature which provides the corresponding cyclic products in good yields. This novel methodology mediated by an in situ generated hypervalent iodine intermediate extends the catalytic application of KI in organic synthesis.
Synthesis and Anticancer Activity of 4-azasteroidal-20-oxime Derivatives
Authors: Chen Shao-Rui , Shen Feng-Juan , Feng Guo-Liang , Yuan Rui-Xian
Published: September 2015

A new series of 4-azasteroidal-20-oxime derivatives have been synthesised from progesterone. All the new compounds have been characterised by analysis and spectroscopic data and subsequently evaluated for their anticancer activity in vitro against T24 cell. The studies show that the methyl and ethyl oxime-ethers exhibited higher activity than the aryl substituted oxime-esters.
Synthesis of Dihydrobenzo[b]pyrimido[4,5-e][1,4]Thiazepines; Derivatives of a Novel Ring System
Authors: Akbarzadeh Marzieh , Bakavoli Mehdi , Eshghi Hossein , Shiri Ali , Tajabadi Javad
Published: September 2015

Several derivatives of the novel dihydrobenzo[b]pyrimido[4,5-e][1,4]thiazepine ring system have been synthesised through the initial heterocyclisation of 2,4-dichloro-5-(chloromethyl)-6-methylpyrimidine with o-aminothiophenol followed by treatment with various secondary amines in boiling ethanol.
Modified Syntheses of the Dietary Flavonoid Luteolin
Authors: Wang Qian , Zhang Ji , Liu Man , Yang Jian , Zhang Xiang-ming , Zhou Lei , Cao Lang , Liao Xia-li
Published: September 2015

Two novel syntheses of the flavone luteolin are described. In the first, 3,5-dimethoxyphenol was converted to 2-hydroxy-4,6-dimethoxyacetophenone and then by condensation with 3,4-dimethoxybenzaldehyde to 2′-hydroxy-3,4,4′,6′-tetramethoxychalcone. In the second, the chalcone step was prepared in which 3,5-dimethoxyphenol was acylated with 3,4-dimethoxycinnamoyl chloride. The chalcone was then cyclised with iodine and demethylated with pyridine hydrochloride to form luteolin in 47% and 40% overall yield, respectively. Several disadvantages of previous syntheses like long reaction time, harsh reaction conditions and low overall yield have been overcome.
An Efficient Multigram Synthesis of Juglone Methyl Ether
Authors: Cui Jia-hua , Cui Qing , Zhang Qi-jing , Li Shao-shun
Published: September 2015

Based on the regioselective oxidation of 1,4,5-trimethoxynaphthalene by cerium (IV) ammonium nitrate, an efficient synthesis of juglone methyl ether has been achieved with high overall yield (74%) and good purity (98.6%). Compared with the reported methods, the reaction conditions are milder and the work-up of each step is much simpler. Moreover, the new strategy considerably reduces the cost in the synthesis of juglone methyl ether and is suitable for large-scale preparations.
Block Split Subdivision Domination in Graphs
Authors: Muddebihal M. H. , Shekanna P , Ahmed S.
Published: September 2015

A dominating set D ? V[BS(G)] is a split dominating set in [BS(G)] if the induced subgraph  ?V[BS(G)] - D? is disconnected in [BS(G)]. The split domination number of [BS(G)] is denoted by ?sbs(G), is the minimum cardinality of a split dominating  set in   [BS(G)]. In this paper, some results on ?sbs(G) were obtained interms of vertices, blocks and other different parameters of G but not the members of [BS(G)]. Further we develop its relationship with other different domination parameters of G.
First-principles Study of Vickers Hardness and Thermodynamic Properties of Ti3SnC2 Polymorphs
Authors: Rayhan M. A. , Ali M. A. , Naqib S. H. , Islam A. K. M. A.
Published: September 2015

We have investigated Vickers hardness and the thermodynamic properties of the recently discovered nanolaminate carbide Ti3SnC2 polymorphs using the first-principles calculations. The chemical bonding shows a combination of covalent, ionic and metallic types. The strong covalent bonding is mainly responsible for high Vickers hardness of Ti3SnC2 polymorphs. Thermodynamic properties are studied using the quasi-harmonic Debye model. The variation of bulk modulus, thermal expansion coefficient, specific heats, and Debye temperature with applied pressure (P) and temperature (T) are investigated systematically within the ranges of 0 - 50 GPa and 0 - 1000 K. The calculated results have been compared with available experimental and theoretical data.
Protective Effect of Vitamins C and E against Gasoline Vapors Induced Haematological and Biochemical Changes in Male Rats
Authors: Sedky A. , Elsawy H.
Published: September 2015

The present work was designed to investigate the changes in some hematological, biochemical parameters and lipid profile as well as possible protective role of vitamins C and E against gasoline vapors induced toxicity in male rats. The present results showed that gasoline 80 vapors significantly decreased (p?0.05) the concentration of total serum protein (TSP) and albumin concentrations and increased (p?0.05) in serum activities of serum aminotransferases (ALT and AST) and alkaline phosphatase (ALP) compared to the control group. Also, exposure to gasoline 80 vapors induced significant decrease (p?0.05) in hemoglobin concentration, red blood cell count (RBCs), packed cell volume (PCV) and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-C) compared to control group. On the other hand, exposure to gasoline 80 vapors resulted in significant increase (p?0.05) in the levels of total cholesterol (TC), triglycerides (TGs), LDL-cholesterol (LDL-C) and very low density lipoprotein cholesterol (VLDL-C) relative to untreated experimental animals. However, concomitant treatment with gasoline vapors and administration of vitamins C and E exhibited a protective role on the observed toxic effect of gasoline vapors in male rats. The results of the present study indicated that toxic effects of gasoline vapors could be reduced by dietary supplementation of vitamins C and E.
Effect of Cow Dung, Biogas Slurry and Vermicompost on Phosphorus Adsorption Behavior of Soil
Authors: Seafatullah M. , Hoque M. A , Islam M. S. , Islam M. M. , Islam M. N.
Published: September 2015

One of the approaches for phosphorus fertilizer management is controlling the soil phosphorus adsorption behavior. To examine the effect on phosphorus adsorption behavior, three amended soil samples were prepared by mixing 10% (w/w in dry basis) cow dung, biogas slurry and vermicompost with soil. Phosphorus adsorption behavior was examined by using Langmuir, and Temkin adsorption isotherms. Initially, biogas slurry and vermicompost increased the maximum phosphorus adsorption capacity (MPAC) of soil from 461 µg g-1 (control) to 558.0357 and 586.17 µg g-1 respectively, and then decreased steadily and reached 429.92 and 398.41 µg g-1 respectively in five weeks.  Whereas in case of cow dung, MPAC was initially decreased, then reached maximum in 17 days and ultimately decreased. Thus application of cow dung along with phosphate fertilizer seems to increase the loss of the fertilizer through runoff and leaching. Conversely, biogas slurry and vermicompost prevent phosphorus loss by regulating phosphorus release through initial enhancement followed by gradual decrease in phosphorus adsorption capacity of soil. Both biogas slurry and vermicompost can be considered as good soil amendments as they have the ability to control the release of phosphorus fertilizer as per the need of the plants.
A Comparative Study of Modern Heuristics on the School Timetabling Problem
Authors: Katsaragakis Iosif , Tassopoulos Ioannis , Beligiannis Grigorios
Published: September 2015

In this contribution a comparative study of modern heuristics on the school timetabling problem is presented. More precisely, we investigate the application of two population-based algorithms, namely a Particle Swarm Optimization (PSO) and an Artificial Fish Swarm (AFS), on the high school timetabling problem. In order to demonstrate their efficiency and performance, experiments with real-world input data have been performed. Both algorithms proposed manage to create feasible and efficient high school timetables, thus fulfilling adequately the timetabling needs of the respective high schools. Computational results demonstrate that both algorithms manage to reach efficient solutions, most of the times better than existing approaches applied to the same school timetabling input instances using the same evaluation criteria.
The Flight of Birds and Other Animals
Authors: Pennycuick Colin
Published: September 2015

Methods of observing birds in flight now include training them to fly under known conditions in wind tunnels, and fitting free-flying birds with data loggers, that are either retrieved or read remotely via satellite links. The performance that comes to light depends on the known limitations of the materials from which they are made, and the conditions in which the birds live. Bird glide polars can be obtained by training birds to glide in a tilting wind tunnel. Translating these curves to power required from the flight muscles in level flight requires drag coefficients to be measured, which unfortunately does not work with bird bodies, because the flow is always fully detached. The drag of bodies in level flight can be determined by observing wingbeat frequency, and shows CD values around 0.08 in small birds, down to 0.06 in small waders specialised for efficient migration. Lift coefficients are up to 1.6 in gliding, or 1.8 for short, temporary glides. In-flight measurements can be used to calculate power curves for birds in level flight, and this has been applied to migrating geese in detail. These typically achieve lift:drag ratios around 15, including allowances for stops, as against 19 for continuous powered flight. The same calculations, applied to Pacific Black-tailed Godwits which start with fat fractions up to 0.55 at departure, show that such birds not only cross the Pacific to New Zealand, but have enough fuel in hand to reach the South Pole if that were necessary. This performance depends on the “dual fuel” arrangements of these migrants, whereby they use fat as their main fuel, and supplement this by extra fuel from burning the engine (flight muscles), as less power is needed later in the flight. The accuracy of these power curves has never been checked, although provision for stopping the bird, and making these checks at regular intervals during a simulated flight was built into the original design of the Lund wind tunnel. The Flight programme, which does these comparisons, also had provision for including contributions due to extracting energy from the atmosphere (soaring), or intermittent bounding flight in small birds (Passerines). It has been known for some time that the feathered surface allows the bird to delay or reverse detachment of the boundary layer, although exactly how this works remains a mystery, which might have practical applications. The bird wing was in use in past times, when birds were still competing with pterosaurs, although these had less efficient wings. The birds that survived the extinction that killed the pterosaurs and dinosaurs have (today) an automatic spherical navigator, which enables them to cross the Pacific and find New Zealand on the other side. Bats have never had such a device, and pterosaurs probably did not either. Animals, when seen from a zoological point of view, are adapted to whatever problems they had to deal with in earlier times.
Perceptions of Sustainability and Functional Aspects on Liquid Carton Board Packaging Materials versus Competing Materials for Juice Applications in Sweden
Authors: Olsmats Carl , Nilsson Birgitta , Pousette Sandra
Published: September 2015

This research explores the downstream perceptions of liquid carton board versus competing materials in packaging applications for juice. The methodology used is focus groups. The context is sustainability and functional performance, and related potential implications for the beverage industry value chain. The purpose is to get a deeper insight and understanding of functionality in relation to juice beverage packaging. The results confirm that there is no optimal packaging for every juice product, but a multitude, depending on the distribution channel, retail outlet, customer preferences, and context of consumption. There are some general packaging preferences, but the main deciding criteria for purchase seem to be the product characteristics in terms of quality, taste, brand, price and shelf life. For marketing reasons, packaging has to be adopted to the product and its positioning, liquid carton board packaging seem to have some functional advantages in distribution and is considered as sustainable and functional among many consumers. Major drawbacks seem to be shape limitations, lack of transparency, and lack of a “premium look”. To improve packaging performance and avoid sub-optimization, actors in the beverage industry value chain need to be integrated in development processes.
Alcoholic Liver Disease: Role of Cytokines
Authors: Neuman Manuela , Maor Yaakov , Nanau Radu , Melzer Ehud , Mell Haim , Opris Mihai , Cohen Lawrence , Malnick Stephen
Published: September 2015

The present review spans a broad spectrum of topics dealing with alcoholic liver disease (ALD), including clinical and translational research. It focuses on the role of the immune system and the signaling pathways of cytokines in the pathogenesis of ALD. An additional factor that contributes to the pathogenesis of ALD is lipopolysaccharide (LPS), which plays a central role in the induction of steatosis, inflammation, and fibrosis in the liver. LPS derived from the intestinal microbiota enters the portal circulation, and is recognized by macrophages (Kupffer cells) and hepatocytes. In individuals with ALD, excessive levels of LPS in the liver affect immune, parenchymal, and non-immune cells, which in turn release various inflammatory cytokines and recruit neutrophils and other inflammatory cells. In this review, we elucidate the mechanisms by which alcohol contributes to the activation of Kupffer cells and the inflammatory cascade. The role of the stellate cells in fibrogenesis is also discussed.
Public Perception of Climate Change in a Period of Economic Crisis
Authors: Papoulis Dimitrios , Kaika Dimitra , Bampatsou Christina , Zervas Efthimios
Published: September 2015

The present study surveys the opinion of the residents of the Athens area in Greece on a wide range of issues related to climate change, such as their environmental consciousness and awareness and their willingness to take action against climate change. This study is performed at a time of a severe economic crisis in Greece. Based on a questionnaire, this study examines the general trends reported on various environmental issues, more particularly concerning climate change. The main results are that Greek citizens are aware of the problems of environmental and of climate change and also believe that the environmental quality of Greece is quite poor. They believe they are fairly well informed about climate change. However, the current economic crisis in Greece has reversed the progress made in the past concerning the awareness of climate change. Also, the citizens have very low confidence in the public authorities and the big enterprises to deal with climate change, while they have high level of trust in scientific and environmental organizations. They agree with public actions, but are against individual actions to protect the environment as they consider the main stakeholders (state, industry) to be mainly responsible for environmental degradation.
A Comparative Theoretical Study of Picric Acid and Its Cocrystals
Authors: Chen Peng-Yuan , Zhang Lin , Zhu Shun-Guan , Cheng Guang-Bin
Published: September 2015

A novel cocrystal of picric acid/acetophenone was prepared by solvent evaporation method and the crystal structure was characterized by single crystal X-ray diffraction. Analysis of the crystal structure shows that the hydrogen bonding, van der Waals and π-π stacking are the main driving forces for the cocrystal formation. Density functional theory (DFT) calculation was performed to better understand the formation mechanism and properties of the cocrystal. The results suggest that π-π stacking is more important than hydrogen bonding considering their interaction energies. Furthermore, Mulliken charge analysis shows picric acid becomes less sensitive after cocrystallization with other compounds because of the electron transfer.
Pelvic Actinomycosis Associated with an Intrauterine Contraceptive Device Demonstrated on F-18 FDG PET/CT
Authors: Dejanović Danijela , Ahnlide Jan , Nilsson Cecilia , Berthelsen Anne , Loft Annika
Published: September 2015

A 44-year-old woman with a history of dysmenorrhea, obstipation, and low back pain was investigated for gynecological disorder. Physical examination indicated a “frozen pelvis”. Ultrasound examination revealed the ovaries adherent to the uterus, bilateral ovarian cysts, and an intrauterine contraceptive device in situ, which reportedly had been in place for 19 years. Prior to a scheduled laparoscopy, the patient returned with oedema of the lower abdomen and legs, fatigue, and weight loss. Laboratory findings included elevated CA-125, anemia, leucocytosis and high C-reactive protein. Pelvic actinomycosis was subsequently diagnosed. We report the PET/CT appearance of this condition.
MOGAT2: A New Therapeutic Target for Metabolic Syndrome
Authors: Yang Muhua , Nickels Joseph
Published: September 2015

Metabolic syndrome is an ever-increasing health problem among the world’s population. It is a group of intertwined maladies that includes obesity, hypertriglyceridemia, hypertension, nonalcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), and diabetes mellitus type II (T2D). There is a direct correlation between high triacylglycerol (triglyceride; TAG) level and severity of metabolic syndrome. Thus, controlling the synthesis of TAG will have a great impact on overall systemic lipid metabolism and thus metabolic syndrome progression. The Acyl-CoA: monoacylglycerolacyltransferase (MGAT) family has three members (MGAT1, -2, and -3) that catalyze the first step in TAG production, conversion of monoacylglycerol (MAG) to diacylglycerol (DAG). TAG is then directly synthesized from DAG by a Acyl-CoA: diacylglycerolacyltransferase (DGAT). The conversion of MAG → DAG → TAG is the major pathway for the production of TAG in the small intestine, and produces TAG to a lesser extent in the liver. Transgenic and pharmacological studies in mice have demonstrated the beneficial effects of MGAT inhibition as a therapy for treating several metabolic diseases, including obesity, insulin resistance, T2D, and NAFLD. In this review, the significance of several properties of MGAT physiology, including tissue expression pattern and its relationship to overall TAG metabolism, enzymatic biochemical properties and their effects on drug discovery, and finally what is the current knowledge about MGAT small molecule inhibitors and their efficacy will be discussed. Overall, this review highlights the therapeutic potential of inhibiting MGAT for lowering TAG synthesis and whether this avenue of drug discovery warrants further clinical investigation.
Distributing Secret Keys with Quantum Continuous Variables: Principle, Security and Implementations
Authors: Diamanti Eleni , Leverrier Anthony
Published: September 2015

The ability to distribute secret keys between two parties with information-theoretic security, that is regardless of the capacities of a malevolent eavesdropper, is one of the most celebrated results in the field of quantum information processing and communication. Indeed, quantum key distribution illustrates the power of encoding information on the quantum properties of light and has far-reaching implications in high-security applications. Today, quantum key distribution systems operate in real-world conditions and are commercially available. As with most quantum information protocols, quantum key distribution was first designed for qubits, the individual quanta of information. However, the use of quantum continuous variables for this task presents important advantages with respect to qubit-based protocols, in particular from a practical point of view, since it allows for simple implementations that require only standard telecommunication technology. In this review article, we describe the principle of continuous-variable quantum key distribution, focusing in particular on protocols based on coherent states. We discuss the security of these protocols and report on the state-of-the-art in experimental implementations, including the issue of side-channel attacks. We conclude with promising perspectives in this research field.
Optimal Base Wavelet Selection for ECG Noise Reduction Using a Comprehensive Entropy Criterion
Authors: He Hong , Tan Yonghong , Wang Yuexia
Published: September 2015

The selection of an appropriate wavelet is an essential issue that should be addressed in the wavelet-based filtering of electrocardiogram (ECG) signals. Since entropy can measure the features of uncertainty associated with the ECG signal, a novel comprehensive entropy criterion Ecom based on multiple criteria related to entropy and energy is proposed in this paper to search for an optimal base wavelet for a specific ECG signal. Taking account of the decomposition capability of wavelets and the similarity in information between the decomposed coefficients and the analyzed signal, the proposed Ecom criterion integrates eight criteria, i.e., energy, entropy, energy-to-entropy ratio, joint entropy, conditional entropy, mutual information, relative entropy, as well as comparison information entropy for optimal wavelet selection. The experimental validation is conducted on the basis of ECG signals of sixteen subjects selected from the MIT-BIH Arrhythmia Database. The Ecom is compared with each of these eight criteria through four filtering performance indexes, i.e., output signal to noise ratio (SNRo), root mean square error (RMSE), percent root mean-square difference (PRD) and correlation coefficients. The filtering results of ninety-six ECG signals contaminated by noise have verified that Ecom has outperformed the other eight criteria in the selection of best base wavelets for ECG signal filtering. The wavelet identified by the Ecom has achieved the best filtering performance than the other comparative criteria. A hypothesis test also validates that SNRo, RMSE, PRD and correlation coefficients of Ecom are significantly different from those of the shape-matched approach (α = 0.05 , two-sided t- test).
Power Quality Prediction, Early Warning, and Control for Points of Common Coupling with Wind Farms
Authors: Bai Jingjing , Gu Wei , Yuan Xiaodong , Li Qun , Xue Feng , Wang Xuchong
Published: September 2015

Wind farms can affect the power quality (PQ) of the power supply grid, with subsequent impacts on the safe and stable operation of other electrical equipment. A novel PQ prediction, early warning, and control approach for the common coupling points between wind farms and the network is proposed in this paper. We then quantify PQ problems and provide rational support measures. To obtain predicted PQ data, we first establish a trend analysis model. The model incorporates a distance-based cluster analysis, probability distribution analysis based on polynomial fitting, pattern matching based on similarity, and Monte Carlo random sampling. A data mining algorithm then uses the PQ early warning flow to analyze limit-exceeding and abnormal data, quantify their severity, and output early warning prompts. Finally, PQ decision support is applied to inform both the power suppliers and users of anomalous changes in PQ, and advise on corresponding countermeasures to reduce relevant losses. Case studies show that the proposed approach is effective and feasible, and it has now been applied to an actual PQ monitoring platform.
Numerical Simulation Research on the Process of Reburning South American Coal and Cornstalk
Authors: Gou Xiang , Wang Zifang , Liu Yurou , Si Meng , Singh Surjit , Wang Enyu , Liu Liansheng , Wu Jinxiang
Published: September 2015

Photo-chemical smog and acid rain formed from many pollutants including NOx are serious problems that have attracted much attention due to their negative influences on the atmosphere, plants, animals and even building materials. Effective measures of controlling NOx emissions are necessary. In this study, a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) software, Ansys Fluent 14.5, has been applied to research the processes of South American coal (SAm) reburning and cornstalk reburning. The influences of reburn zone excess air coefficient, reburning fuel fraction (Rff) and the secondary air temperature on the furnace combustion and NOx reduction have been determined. Results show that, in the simulated data range, the lower reburn zone excess air coefficient, the greater the rate of denitration for both SAm reburning and cornstalk reburning. The highest rates of denitration for SAm reburning and cornstalk reburning were 56.15% and 66.89%, respectively, in comparison to the conventional combustion. The denitration rate increases with the increase of reburning fuel fraction. However, when the reburning fuel fraction increases beyond a certain level, fuels within the furnace will undergo incomplete combustion. Under the premise of the fuel burnout, a relatively good case occurs at the reburning fuel fraction of 20% for the two kinds of reburning, and the NOx removal rate is 60.57% for cornstalk reburning, which is 7.61% higher than that of the SAm reburning. Temperature also has certain influences on the denitration effect and it shows that, in the lower temperature range, the higher the temperature of the secondary air, the higher the denitration rate. However, as temperature reaches a certain value, the denitration effect is no longer enhanced but reduced. For the two kinds of reburning, the case with the secondary air at 500 K is a relatively good one, and the NOx removal rate reaches 66.36% for cornstalk reburning, while it is 55% for SAm reburning. Overall, cornstalk reburning provides a higher NOx reduction rate in comparison to SAm reburning.
Impacts of Mastication: Soil Seed Bank Responses to a Forest Thinning Treatment in Three Colorado (USA) Conifer Forest Types
Authors: Faist Akasha , Stone Heather , Tripp Erin
Published: September 2015

Mastication is a forest fuel thinning treatment that involves chipping or shredding small trees and shrubs and depositing the material across the forest floor. By decreasing forest density mastication has been shown to lessen crown fire hazard, yet other impacts have only recently started to be studied. Our study evaluates how mastication treatments alter the density and composition of soil seed banks in three Colorado conifer forest types. The three forest types were (1) lodgepole pine, (2) ponderosa pine and (3) pinyon pine-juniper. Results showed that masticated sites contained higher seed bank densities than untreated sites: a pattern primarily driven by treatment effects in ponderosa pine forests. The seed bank was dominated by forbs regardless of forest type or treatment. This pattern of forb dominance was not observed in the aboveground vegetation cover as it demonstrated more even proportions of the functional groups. Graminoids showed a higher seed density in treated sites than untreated and, similarly, the identified non-native species only occurred in the treated ponderosa pine sites suggesting a potential belowground invasion for this forest type. These results suggest that presence of masticated material might not be creating a physical barrier hindering the transfer of seeds as predicted.
Effective Strategies for Monitoring and Regulating Chemical Mixtures and Contaminants Sharing Pathways of Toxicity
Authors: Venkatesan Arjun , Halden Rolf
Published: September 2015

Traditionally, hazardous chemicals have been regulated in the U.S. on a one-by-one basis, an approach that is slow, expensive and can be inefficient, as illustrated by a decades-long succession of replacing one type of organohalogen flame retardants (OHFRs) with another one, without addressing the root cause of toxicity and associated public health threats posed. The present article expounds on the need for efficient monitoring strategies and pragmatic steps in reducing environmental pollution and adverse human health impacts. A promising approach is to combine specific bioassays with state-of-the-art chemical screening to identify chemicals and chemical mixtures sharing specific modes of action (MOAs) and pathways of toxicity (PoTs). This approach could be used to identify and regulate hazardous chemicals as classes or compound families, featuring similar biological end-points, such as endocrine disruption and mutagenicity. Opportunities and potential obstacles of implementing this approach are discussed.
Trichloroethylene and Its Oxidative Metabolites Enhance the Activated State and Th1 Cytokine Gene Expression in Jurkat Cells
Authors: Pan Yao , Wei Xuetao , Hao Weidong
Published: September 2015

Trichloroethylene (TCE) is an occupational and ubiquitous environmental contaminant, and TCE exposure will increase the risk of autoimmune diseases and allergic diseases. T cells play an important role in the pathogenesis of TCE-related immune disorders, but the effect of TCE and its oxidative metabolites, trichloroacetic acid (TCA) and dichloroacetic acid (DCA), on the activation of human T cells is still unknown. In this study, Jurkat cells were pre-treated with TCE, TCA and DCA overnight and then stimulated with phorbol 12-myristate 13-acetate and ionomycin for another 4, 8 and 24 hours. IL-2 secretion was detected by ELISA; the expressions of CD25 and CD69 were tested by flow cytometry; and IFN-γ and IL-2 mRNA expression levels were investigated by real-time PCR. The results showed that TCE and its oxidative metabolites, TCA and DCA, significantly enhanced IL-2 releasing and the expression of T cell activation markers, CD25 and CD69. Consistent with this result, these compounds markedly up-regulated the expression levels of IFN-γ and IL-2 mRNA. Collectively, these findings suggest that TCE and its metabolites, TCA and DCA, might enhance the activation of T cells and disrupt various activities of peripheral T cells.
Affects of Anxiety and Depression on Health-Related Quality of Life among Patients with Benign Breast Lumps Diagnosed via Ultrasonography in China
Authors: Lou Zhe , Li Yinyan , Yang Yilong , Wang Lie , Yang Jun
Published: September 2015

There is a high incidence of benign breast lumps among women, and these lumps may lead to physical and psychological problems. This study aims to evaluate anxiety and depressive symptoms among patients with benign breast lumps diagnosed via ultrasonography and investigate their impacts on health-related quality of life (HRQOL). A cross-sectional survey was conducted in Shenyang, China, from January to November 2013. Data were collected with self-administered questionnaires, including the Zung Self-Rating Anxiety Scale (SAS), the Center for Epidemiologic Studies Depression Scale (CES-D), and the 36-item Short-Form Health Survey (SF-36), together with demographic characteristics, from patients of the Department of Breast Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of China Medical University. Hierarchical multiple regression analysis (HMR) was performed to explore the effects of anxiety and depression on HRQOL. The overall prevalences of anxiety (SAS score ≥ 40) and depression (CES-D scores ≥ 16) were 40.2% and 62.0%, respectively, and 37.5% of the participants had both of these psychological symptoms. The means and standard deviations of PCS and MCS were 75.42 (15.22) and 68.70 (17.71), respectively. Anxiety and depressive symptoms were significantly negatively associated with the HRQOL of patients with benign breast lumps diagnosed via ultrasonography. Women with benign breast lumps diagnosed via ultrasonography in China experienced relatively high levels of anxiety and depressive symptoms. Anxiety and depressive symptoms had significant negative impacts on both the mental and physical quality of life (QOL) of women with benign breast lumps. Beyond the necessary clinical treatment procedures, psychological guidance and detailed explanations of the disease should be offered to alleviate the anxiety and depressive symptoms and enhance the HRQOL of patients with benign breast lumps.
Comparative Assessment of Heavy Metals in Drinking Water Sources in Two Small-Scale Mining Communities in Northern Ghana
Authors: Cobbina Samuel , Duwiejuah Abudu , Quansah Reginald , Obiri Samuel , Bakobie Noel
Published: September 2015

The study assessed levels of heavy metals in drinking water sources in two small-scale mining communities (Nangodi and Tinga) in northern Ghana. Seventy-two (72) water samples were collected from boreholes, hand dug wells, dug-out, and a stream in the two mining communities. The levels of mercury (Hg), arsenic (As), lead (Pb), zinc (Zn), and cadmium (Cd) were determined using an atomic absorption spectrophotometer (AAS). Mean levels (mg/l) of heavy metals in water samples from Nangodi and Tinga communities were 0.038 and 0.064 (Hg), 0.031 and 0.002 (As), 0.250 and 0.031 (Pb), 0.034 and 0.002 (Zn), and 0.534 and 0.023 (Cd), respectively, for each community. Generally, levels of Hg, As, Pb, Zn, and Cd in water from Nangodi exceeded the World Health Organisation (WHO) stipulated limits of 0.010 for Hg, As, and Pb, 3.0 for Zn and 0.003 for Cd for drinking water, and levels of Hg, Pb, and Cd recorded in Tinga, exceeded the stipulated WHO limits. Ingestion of water, containing elevated levels of Hg, As, and Cd by residents in these mining communities may pose significant health risks. Continuous monitoring of the quality of drinking water sources in these two communities is recommended.
Impacts of the Urbanization Process on Water Quality of Brazilian Savanna Rivers: The Case of Preto River in Formosa, Goiás State, Brazil
Authors: Pires Nayara , Muniz Daphne , Kisaka Tiago , Simplicio Nathan , Bortoluzzi Lilian , Lima Jorge , Oliveira-Filho Eduardo
Published: September 2015

The release of domestic sewage in water resources is a practical feature of the urbanization process, and this action causes changes that may impair the environmental balance and the water quality for several uses. The aim of this study was to evaluate the influence of urbanization on the surface water quality of the Preto River throughout the town of Formosa, Goiás, Brazil. Samples were collected at five points along the river, spatially distributed from one side to the other of the town of Formosa, from May to October of 2012. Data were subjected to descriptive statistics, as well as variance and cluster analysis. Point P2, the first point after the city, showed the worst water quality indicators, mainly with respect to the total and fecal coliform parameters, as well as nitrate concentrations. These results may be related to the fact that this point is located on the outskirts of the town, an area under urbanization and with problems of sanitation, including absence of sewage collection and treatment. The data observed in this monitoring present a public health concern because the water body is used for bathing, mainly in parts of Feia Lagoon. The excess of nutrients is a strong indicator of water eutrophication and should alert decision-makers to the need for preservation policies.
A Conceptual Framework for Planning Systemic Human Adaptation to Global Warming
Authors: Tait Peter , Hanna Elizabeth
Published: September 2015

Human activity is having multiple, inter-related effects on ecosystems. Greenhouse gas emissions persisting along current trajectories threaten to significantly alter human society. At 0.85 °C of anthropogenic warming, deleterious human impacts are acutely evident. Additional warming of 0.5 °C–1.0 °C from already emitted CO2 will further intensify extreme heat and damaging storm events. Failing to sufficiently address this trend will have a heavy human toll directly and indirectly on health. Along with mitigation efforts, societal adaptation to a warmer world is imperative. Adaptation efforts need to be significantly upscaled to prepare society to lessen the public health effects of rising temperatures. Modifying societal behaviour is inherently complex and presents a major policy challenge. We propose a social systems framework for conceptualizing adaptation that maps out three domains within the adaptation policy landscape: acclimatisation, behavioural adaptation and technological adaptation, which operate at societal and personal levels. We propose that overlaying this framework on a systems approach to societal change planning methods will enhance governments’ capacity and efficacy in strategic planning for adaptation. This conceptual framework provides a policy oriented planning assessment tool that will help planners match interventions to the behaviours being targeted for change. We provide illustrative examples to demonstrate the framework’s application as a planning tool.
Medical Efforts and Injury Patterns of Military Hospital Patients Following the 2013 Lushan Earthquake in China: A Retrospective Study
Authors: Kang Peng , Tang Bihan , Liu Yuan , Liu Xu , Liu Zhipeng , Lv Yipeng , Zhang Lulu
Published: September 2015

The aim of this paper is to investigate medical efforts and injury profiles of victims of the Lushan earthquake admitted to three military hospitals. This study retrospectively investigated the clinical records of 266 admitted patients evacuated from the Lushan earthquake area. The 2005 version of the Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS-2005) was used to identify the severity of each injury. Patient demographic data, complaints, diagnoses, injury types, prognosis, means of transportation, and cause of injury were all reviewed individually. The statistical analysis of the study was conducted primarily using descriptive statistics. Of the 266 patients, 213 (80.1%) were admitted in the first two days. A total of 521 injury diagnoses were recorded in 266 patients. Earthquake-related injuries were primarily caused by buildings collapsing (38.4%) and victims being struck by objects (33.8%); the most frequently injured anatomic sites were the lower extremities and pelvis (34.2%) and surface area of the body (17.9%). Fracture (41.5%) was the most frequent injury, followed by soft tissue injury (27.5%), but crush syndrome was relatively low (1.2%) due to the special housing structures in the Lushan area. The most commonly used procedure was suture and dressings (33.7%), followed by open reduction and internal fixation (21.9%).The results of this study help formulate recommendations to improve future disaster relief and emergency planning in remote, isolated, and rural regions of developing countries.
Blocking the Wnt/β-Catenin Pathway by Lentivirus-Mediated Short Hairpin RNA Targeting β-Catenin Gene Suppresses Silica-Induced Lung Fibrosis in Mice
Authors: Wang Xin , Dai Wujing , Wang Yanrang , Gu Qing , Yang Deyi , Zhang Ming
Published: September 2015

Silicosis is a form of occupational lung disease caused by inhalation of crystalline silica dust. While the pathogenesis of silicosis is not clearly understood, the Wnt/β-catenin signaling pathway is thought to play a major role in lung fibrosis. To explore the role of Wnt/β-catenin pathway in silicosis, we blocked Wnt/β-catenin pathway both in silica-treated MLE-12 cells (a mouse pulmonary epithelial cell line) and in a mouse silicosis model by using a lentiviral vector expressing a short hairpin RNA silencing β-catenin (Lv-shβ-catenin). In vitro, Lv-shβ-catenin significantly decreased the expression of β-catenin, MMP2 and MMP9, and secretion of TGF-β1. In vivo, intratracheal treatment with Lv-shβ-catenin significantly reduced expression of β-catenin in the lung and levels of TGF-β1 in bronchoalveolar lavage fluid, and notably attenuated pulmonary fibrosis as evidenced by hydroxyproline content and collagen I\III synthesis in silica-administered mice. These results indicate that blockade of the Wnt/β-catenin pathway can prevent the development of silica-induced lung fibrosis. Thus Wnt/β-catenin pathway may be a target in prevention and treatment of silicosis.
Mercury Exposure Assessment and Spatial Distribution in A Ghanaian Small-Scale Gold Mining Community
Authors: Rajaee Mozhgon , Long Rachel , Renne Elisha , Basu Niladri
Published: September 2015

Mercury is utilized worldwide in artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASGM) and may pose a risk for miners and mining communities. While a number of studies have characterized mercury in ASGM communities, most have focused on a single media and few have taken a holistic approach. Here, a multiple media exposure assessment and cross-sectional study of mercury was conducted in 2010 through 2012 in northeast Ghana with a small-scale gold mining community, Kejetia, a subsistence farming community, Gorogo, and an urban ASGM gold refinery in Bolgatanga. The objective was to assess mercury in a range of human (urine and hair) and ecological (household soil, sediment, fish, and ore) samples to increase understanding of mercury exposure pathways. All participants were interviewed on demographics, occupational and medical histories, and household characteristics. Participants included 90 women of childbearing age and 97 adults from Kejetia and 75 adults from Gorogo. Median total specific gravity-adjusted urinary, hair, and household soil mercury were significantly higher in Kejetia miners (5.18 µg/L, 0.967 µg/g, and 3.77 µg/g, respectively) than Kejetia non-miners (1.18 µg/L, 0.419 µg/g, and 2.00 µg/g, respectively) and Gorogo participants (0.154 µg/L, 0.181 µg/g, and 0.039 µg/g) in 2011. Sediment, fish, and ore Hg concentrations were below guideline values. Median soil mercury from the Bolgatanga refinery was very high (54.6 µg/g). Estimated mean mercury ingestion for Kejetia adults from soil and dust exceeded the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency reference dose (0.3 µg Hg/kg·day) for pica (0.409 µg Hg/kg·day) and geophagy (20.5 µg Hg/kg·day) scenarios. Most participants with elevated urinary and household soil mercury were miners, but some non-miners approached and exceeded guideline values, suggesting a health risk for non-mining residents living within these communities.