bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Direct Reversible Kidney Injury in Familial Hemophagocytic Lymphohistiocytosis Type 3
Authors: Malaga-Dieguez Laura , Ming Wu , Trachtman Howard
Published: April 2015

Hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis is a hyperinflammatory disorder resulting from primary or secondary immune dysfunction. AKI is frequent in severe hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis and has been attributed to multiorgan failure or the use of nephrotoxic drugs, but AKI is rarely considered a direct consequence of the disease process. We describe a child with familial hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis type 3 who developed AKI requiring prolonged renal replacement therapy because of severe renal inflammation. There was massive infiltration of the renal parenchyma by activated macrophages and cytotoxic T cells, and acute tubular injury. The patient responded to high-dose intravenous methylprednisolone, which resulted in improvement of renal function and discontinuation of renal replacement therapy. This case confirms the occurrence of reversible AKI due to hemophagocytic lymphohistiocytosis-induced activated macrophage infiltration of the renal parenchyma and inflammation.
THE RUSSIAN MONOCITY AS THE CRISIS PHENOMENON
Authors: SOLODILOV M. V
Published: April 2015

In article the author puts a problem of the Russian monocity as crisis phenomenon.
SOCIAL ADVERTISING IN THE MODERN INFORMATION FIELD
Authors: SMOLENSKAYa E. O
Published: April 2015

The article deals with the social problems of modern society in the light of human interaction with the outside information space, ways of influencing social consciousness through social advertising. The technique and methods of advertising design by the example of social action are stated.
THE CONSTRUCTIVE DECISION AND BUILDING MATERIALS OF EXHIBITION PAVILIONSOF GREAT BRITAIN THROUGH THE EXAMPLE THE FIRST AND LAST WORLD EXHIBITION-EXPO
Authors: ShEINA T. V , IVANOV A. V
Published: April 2015

The results of investigating structural solution and building materials of exhibition pavilions of Great Britain taken at diﬀerent epochs are presented in this article. Features of architectural formation of exhibition pavilion demonstrate the application of new building materials and constructions. There is presented the development building technology trends, which find the further application in the world architecture. Innovative architectural methods, the unusual thing of setting and forms of pavilions show the achievements of Great Britain in such areas as science, culture, technology and building materials at its best.
DEVELOPMENT AND INTEGRATION IN THE URBAN ENVIRONMENT OF MULTIFUNCTIONAL SHOPPING AND PUBLIC SPACES IN SAMARA
Authors: PROSKURIN R. Yu
Published: April 2015

The results of analytical study of trade and public spaces in the system of social and public relations in Samara in different socio-political formations are presented. The different character of urban spaces for commercial purposes can be based on international town planning experience. Understanding of the features and patterns of retail development contributes to a more balanced approach to the management of municipal areas.
PRINCIPLES OF ZONING OF COASTAL TERRITORIES DEPENDING ON CITY PLANNING STRUCTURES (ON THE EXAMPLE OF CITIES OF THE VOLGA REGION)
Authors: LITVINOV D. V
Published: April 2015

In article models of variants of a lay-out of coastal territories of cities of the Volga region, taking into account their composite qualities revealed on the basis of studying of foreign experience and actual situation are considered. Planning models linear, rows and central are directed on creation of continuous green system of coastal spaces of the cities integrated into structures.
INORQANIC HIAT RESISTANT INDUSTRIALWORSES AS RAW WABERTAL BASE FOR MANUFACTUREOF FARE RESISTANT KILN MATERIALS
Authors: KhLYSTOV A. I , KONNOV M. V , VLASOV A. V , ChERNOVA E. A
Published: April 2015

The question of usage of high-heat inorganic waste material of industry in the structure of heat-resistant binding agents, fillers and concretes is considered. It was established that physical and thermal properties of heat- resistant composites depend on the type of concrete used for chemical binding of anthropogenic raw material. The ways of an efficient choice of raw components and heat- resistant binding agents are suggested for optimization of the structures of refractory lining materials.
PUNCHING IN OBJECTS OF DESIGN OF ENVIRONMENT
Authors: KARAKOVA T. V , SIDOROVA Yu. O
Published: April 2015

The history and punching evolution in architecture, design and in objects of the city environment is studied. Kinds of punching and area of its application, popularity of use of the punched sheet in modern architecture, punching and light interaction, both artificial, and natural, structure of punching and the newest technologies in the field of the punched sheet are considered. The theme of punching of surfaces is brightly presented in works of modern architects and designers, such as to architectural bureau Jakob + Macfarlane, BHSF ArchitectsClaus en Kaan Architecten, Steven Holl, Manuelle Gautrand and others.
DEVELOPMENT PROSPECTS OF BUSINESS CENTRES IN THE REGIONS OF RUSSIA
Authors: KAYaSOV A. A
Published: April 2015

The article deals with the perspectives and stages of business centre construction in the regions and biggest cities of Russia. It touches upon the historical aspect of placement and development of business activity zones on the territories of former industrial and production complexes in the structure of urban environment.
CONCEPTION OF ANALYSIS AND TYPOLOGIE OF THE CONTACT ZONES THROUGH THE EXAMPLE OF INTRAURBAN PONDS OF SAMARA
Authors: ROZhDESTVENSKAYa E. S
Published: April 2015

The article considers the problem of inner city areas of recreational waters of Samara, their typological relation to town planning grounds, recreational use, sanitary and hygienic condition, landscape and environmental conditions, visual aesthetic and compositional characteristics. The recommendations for the renovation of these areas are proposed.
THE DEVELOPMENT OF WOODEN ARCHITECTURE IN CITIES OF NIKOLAEVSK DISTRICT IN SAMARA REGION OF THE END OF XIX – THE BEGINNING OF XX CENTURIES
Authors: SYSOEVA E. A
Published: April 2015

The article describes the features of the development of wooden architecture in cities of Nikolaevsk district in Samara region of the end of XIX the beginning of XX centuries. The main stages of the development of the plan structure in such cities as Balakovo and Nikolaevsк are shown in this article, the preconditions of the development of wooden architecture are identified in the article. Urban areas build by wooden stone-wooden houses are identified in the text. It is shown the development of structure of the city yard properties number of floors, construction and stylistic features of architecture.
CONSTRUCTION AND BUILDING MATERIALS IN ARCHITECTURE OF NATIONAL EXHIBITION HALLS AT THE WORLD UNIVERSAL EXHIBITION OF THE EXPO
Authors: ShEINA T. V , IVANOV A. V
Published: April 2015

The results of investigating structural solution and building materials of exhibition pavilions of Russia taken at different epochs are presented in this article. Features of architectural formation of exhibition pavilion demonstrate the application of new build materials and constructions. There is presented the development building technology trends, which find the further application in the world architecture. Innovative architectural methods, the unusual thing of setting and forms of pavilions show the achievements of Russia in such areas as science, culture, technology and building materials at its best.
INFLUENCE OF ADDING THE BACILLUS KIND STAMM ON WORKING PARAMETERS OF WASTE WATER BUOLOGICAL TREATMENT
Authors: ANTsIFEROV A. V , FILENKOV V. M
Published: April 2015

Research results of granular sludge application for waste water quality improvement and reducing charges for polluting discharges of hazardous substances into surface waters are given. There is considered the technology of waste water treatment based on the use of biochemical methods of processing. Methodology is given for biomass use with the selection of microorganisms for waste water treatment herewith the effectiveness of treatment plants (type 201) work is over the design standards.
Long‐term changes in liana loads and tree dynamics in a Malaysian forest
Authors: Wright S. Joseph , Sun I-Fang , Pickering Maria , Fletcher Christine D. , Chen Yu-Yun
Published: April 2015

The importance of lianas through time and their effect on tree reproduction are evaluated for the first time in a Southeast Asian Dipterocarp forest. We quantified flower and seed production by lianas and trees for 13 years, assessed liana loads in the crowns of all trees larger than 30 cm in diameter at breast height (1.3 m) in 2002 and 2014, and assessed levels of reproduction for the same trees during a strong general flowering event in 2014 for the 50‐ha forest dynamics plot at the Pasoh Forest Reserve, Malaysia. General flowering refers to synchronous reproduction by hundreds of plant species at irregular, multiyear intervals and only occurs in Southeast Asian Dipterocarp forests. Overall, lianas were present in 50% of tree crowns and comprised 31% of flower production and 46% of seed production. Lianas reduced growth, survival, and reproduction by their host trees. Lianas were less frequent in canopy‐emergent trees, Dipterocarps comprised a disproportionately large proportion of canopy emergents, and, as a consequence, lianas were less frequent in Dipterocarps than in trees from other plant families. Lianas infested the crowns of significantly fewer trees in 2014 (47.9%) than in 2002 (52.3%); however, the decrease was restricted to trees with the lightest liana loads and sample sizes and statistical power were enormous. Lianas comprised a stable proportion of flower production and a highly variable proportion of seed production from 2002 through 2013. We conclude lianas have a huge impact on trees in this forest and were a stable component of the forest between 2002 and 2014. The emergent habit and associated ability to avoid lianas might contribute to the success of the Dipterocarpaceae.
Water Control Applications in Horizontal Open Hole With Polymer Gels and Microfine Cement, Case Studies From Gabon
Authors: Cheikh S. , Perez D. , Asedegbega D. , Grossetete M. , Segot B.
Published: April 2015

Gel and microfine Cement treatment have been pumped for production well WOR reduction. There have been cases where treatment has been pumped and results were below expectations. This paper describes an innovative approach in water control that enable reduction in water production and significant increase of hydrocarbon recovery. Two case studies are provided where a systematic methodology was employed to correctly diagnose and resolve excess water production on wells producing at 90% water cut before the intervention. Candidate selection, treatment design, and implementation for the two cases will be discussed including future treatment design enhancements.
Using Canopy Resistance for Infrared Heater Control When Warming Open‐Field Plots
Authors: Kimball Bruce A.
Published: April 2015

To simulate future global warming, several research groups use arrays of infrared heaters to warm open‐field plots with a control strategy that involves maintaining a constant rise in canopy temperatures of the Heated plots above those of un‐heated Reference plots. However, if the warming treatment itself alters canopy architecture, plant physiology, albedo, or other plot characteristics in ways that affect the energy balances of the Heated plots so as to make them materially different from those of the Reference plots, then the Reference plots no longer are proper references against which to determine a desired canopy temperature rise. Herein, a novel alternative control strategy is proposed whereby plant and air temperature and other micro‐climate measurements are used to determine the canopy resistances of the Heated plots, which in turn are used to calculate the amount of infrared radiation that is needed to achieve the desired rise in canopy temperature. Then the voltage supplied to the heaters can be modulated accordingly to attain this temperature rise.
Soybean Yield and Nutrient Utilization following Long‐Term Pelletized Broiler Litter Application to Cotton
Authors: Adeli Ardeshir , Read John J. , McCarty Jack , Jenkins Johnie N. , Feng Gary
Published: April 2015

Broiler (Gallus gallus domesticus) litter may have long‐lasting plant growth benefits after application is terminated. This study determined residual effects of pelletized litter applied to cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) on yield and nutrient utilization of soybean [Glycine max (L.) Merr.]. Treatments were replicated three times. Treatments included pelletized broiler litter subsurface banded to cotton at the rate of 6.7 Mg ha−1, urea‐ammonium nitrate (UAN solution) injected at the rate of 134 kg N ha−1 and unfertilized control in three previous years (2008–2010). Soybean planted in 2011, 2012, and 2013, and provided no additional litter or fertilizer. Soybean height was determined at 28, 42, 56, 71, 86, 102, and 115 d after planting. Total aboveground biomass, leaf area index (LAI) and plant nutrient concentrations were determined at growth stage R5. Soybean yield and plant nutrient concentrations were greater in pelletized litter than fertilizer N treatments. Soybean plants in plots received pelletized litter were significantly (P < 0.05) taller and had greater leaf area than the fertilizer N and control plots. Total aboveground biomass at R5 did not differ between pelletized litter and fertilizer N treatments; however grain yield was greatest for residual litter treatment. In 2011, soybean grain yield and grain N, P, and K uptake were significantly greater in plots received pelletized litter, as compared with fertilizer N and control plots. Residual effects of pelletized broiler litter in cotton increased soybean production for 1 yr and influenced soil fertility for several years beyond the year of application.
Compost and Manure Effects on Sugarbeet Nitrogen Uptake, Nitrogen Recovery, and Nitrogen Use Efficiency
Authors: Lehrsch G. A. , Brown B. , Lentz R. D. , Johnson‐Maynard J. L. , Leytem A. B.
Published: April 2015

To maximize recoverable sucrose from sugarbeet (Beta vulgaris L.), producers must effectively manage added N, be it from urea or organic sources such as manure or composted manure. Our study's objective was to determine the effects of a one‐time application of stockpiled and composted dairy cattle (Bos taurus) manure on sugarbeet N uptake, nitrogen recovery (NR) and nitrogen use efficiency (NUE). First‐year Site A treatments included a control (no N), urea (202 kg N ha−1), compost (218 and 435 kg estimated available N ha−1), and manure (140 and 280 kg available N ha−1). Site B treatments were a control, urea (82 kg N ha−1), compost (81 and 183 kg available N ha−1), and manure (173 and 340 kg available N ha−1). Compost and manure were incorporated into two silt loams, a Greenleaf (fine‐silty, mixed, superactive, mesic Xeric Calciargid) near Parma, ID, in fall 2002 and 2003 and a Portneuf (coarse‐silty, mixed, superactive, mesic Durinodic Xeric Haplocalcid) near Kimberly, ID, in fall 2002 with sugarbeet planted the following spring. At each site, N uptake of sugarbeet tops, but not roots, was similar whether fertilized with urea or organic N, regardless of rate. Incorporating equal organic amendment rates to 0.05 rather than 0.10 m increased whole‐plant N uptake 1.13‐fold, to 163.3 kg N ha−1. In general, NR varied among fertilizer sources such that urea >> manure > compost. Where similar available N rates were supplied, NUE ranged from 44.1 to 83.5 kg sucrose kg−1 available N, not differing among inorganic and organic N sources within site‐years.
Measuring and Modeling the Long‐Term Impact of Crop Management on Soil Carbon Sequestration in the Semiarid Canadian Prairies
Authors: Congreves K. A. , Grant B. B. , Campbell C. A. , Smith W. N. , VandenBygaart A. J. , Kröbel R. , Lemke R. L. , Desjardins R. L.
Published: April 2015

Agricultural management practices which promote soil organic carbon (SOC) sequestration can contribute to the long‐term productivity of soils, thus research must quantify and predict SOC dynamics in response to crop management. Using long‐term (1967–2009) data from 10 cropping systems on a Brown Chernozem (Aridic Haploboroll) in the Canadian semiarid prairies at Swift Current, Saskatchewan, we assessed the effect of fertilizer, cropping frequency, and crop type on SOC dynamics in the 0‐ to 15‐cm depth. Three models: Campbell, introductory carbon balance model (ICBM), and DayCent were evaluated, all of which produced fairly accurate predictions of SOC content and sequestration rates (R2 of 0.64–0.82); however, DayCent had the highest correlation and lowest errors of prediction and was deemed superior. Residue inputs of 0.87 to 1.13 Mg C ha−1 yr−1 maintained the SOC level, and SOC content was directly related to factors which increased C inputs. The SOC content and sequestration rates were lowest for wheat (Triticum aestivum L.)‐based rotations which were frequently fallowed and included flax (Linum usitatissimum L.), but highest for systems which were frequently cropped, well‐fertilized, and included rye (Secale cereale L.) or pulse crops in rotation. For systems with high C input, DayCent projected SOC gains of 12 Mg C ha−1 from 2009 to 2100, indicating that the soil at Swift Current had not reached maximum C capacity. This study was the first to rigorously test and demonstrate the strength of the DayCent for simulating SOC under different cropping systems on the Canadian prairies.
A Study on China's Petroleum Enterprise Social Responsibility
Information Disclosure-Based on the Comparison of Shell and PetroChina
Social Responsibility Information Disclosure
Authors: Rui Wang , Chi Ai Xue , Jing Wu
Published: April 2015

Corporate social responsibility information disclosure's late start in China, both in quantity and quality needs to
be improved. This shell and PetroChina from 2013 respectively published by the sustainability report for analysis, according
to disclosure forms, content, management bodies and the guidelines for the preparation of the report compared the
four aspects. Recommended China Petroleum strengthening stakeholder engagement and feedback mechanisms, improve
the transparency and accuracy of the information disclosed, and actively carry out third-party tickets, to further improve
the index system construction of social responsibility
The Analysis of Heat Storage Capacity and the Formation Characteristics
of Geothermal Resources in Sedimentary Basins —— A Case Study on
Dunhuang Basin
Authors: He Yujiang , Wang Guiling , Lin Wenjing , Zhang Wei
Published: April 2015

The geothermal resources in sedimentary basin are affected by many factors because the characteristic of
geothermal reservoirs is very complex, so the heat storage capacities are hard to calculate. This paper took Dunhuang
Basin as an example to analyze the geological structure, stratigraphic structure and the formation mechanism of
geothermal water based on the formation characteristics of the geothermal resources. The analysis results showed the
geothermal reservoir parameters, including the area, thickness, and temperature of the geothermal reservoir, and porosity,
etc. Based on geothermal reservoir model, the conclusion was that the geothermal resource of Dunhuang Basin was
7.75E+16kJ. The results provided an advice for the exploitation of geothermal resources in sedimentary basins.
On the Pricing of Mandatory DCF Disclosures: Evidence from Oil and Gas Royalty Trusts
Authors: Patatoukas Panos N. , Sloan Richard G. , Zha Jenny
Published: April 2015

We identify a setting in which firms are required to disclose discounted cash flow (DCF) estimates relating to the value of their primary assets. ASC 932 (formerly SFAS No. 69) has mandated DCF disclosures for proved oil and gas reserves since 1982, and these reserves constitute the primary assets of oil and gas royalty trusts. For a hand-collected sample of oil and gas royalty trusts, we find that (1) the mandatory DCF disclosures are incrementally value-relevant over historical cost accounting variables, (2) investors misprice royalty trust units because they underweight the disclosed DCF estimates when forecasting future distributions, and (3) media articles bringing attention to discrepancies between price and the disclosed DCF estimates are significant stock price catalysts. While our evidence indicates that mandatory DCF disclosures can be incrementally useful for security valuation, it also indicates that investors may overlook such information, potentially due to lack of attention and accounting expertise.

Data Availability: Data are publicly available from sources indicated in the text.
Hypothalamic Neuropeptide 26RFa Acts as an Incretin to Regulate Glucose Homeostasis
Authors: Prévost Gaëtan , Jeandel Lydie , Arabo Arnaud , Coëffier Moïse , El Ouahli Mariama , Picot Marie , Alexandre David , Gobet Françoise , Leprince Jérôme , Berrahmoune Hind , Déchelotte Pierre , Malagon Maria , Bonner Caroline , Kerr-Conte Julie , Chigr Fatiha , Lefebvre Hervé , Anouar Youssef , Chartrel Nicolas
Published: April 2015

26RFa is a hypothalamic neuropeptide that promotes food intake. 26RFa is upregulated in obese animal models, and its orexigenic activity is accentuated in rodents fed a high-fat diet, suggesting that this neuropeptide might play a role in the development and maintenance of the obese status. As obesity is frequently associated with type 2 diabetes, we investigated whether 26RFa may be involved in the regulation of glucose homeostasis. In the current study, we show a moderate positive correlation between plasma 26RFa levels and plasma insulin in patients with diabetes. Plasma 26RFa concentration also increases in response to an oral glucose tolerance test. In addition, we found that 26RFa and its receptor GPR103 are present in human pancreatic β-cells as well as in the gut. In mice, 26RFa attenuates the hyperglycemia induced by a glucose load, potentiates insulin sensitivity, and increases plasma insulin concentrations. Consistent with these data, 26RFa stimulates insulin production by MIN6 insulinoma cells. Finally, we show, using in vivo and in vitro approaches, that a glucose load induces a massive secretion of 26RFa by the small intestine. Altogether, the present data indicate that 26RFa acts as an incretin to regulate glucose homeostasis.
Toward Understanding Ambulatory Activity Decline in Parkinson Disease
Authors: Cavanaugh James T. , Ellis Terry D. , Earhart Gammon M. , Ford Matthew P. , Foreman K. Bo , Dibble Leland E.
Published: April 2015

Background

Declining ambulatory activity represents an important facet of disablement in Parkinson disease (PD).

Objective

The primary study aim was to compare the 2-year trajectory of ambulatory activity decline with concurrently evolving facets of disability in a small cohort of people with PD. The secondary aim was to identify baseline variables associated with ambulatory activity at 1- and 2-year follow-up assessments.

Design

This was a prospective, longitudinal cohort study.

Methods

Seventeen people with PD (Hoehn and Yahr stages 1–3) were recruited from 2 outpatient settings. Ambulatory activity data were collected at baseline and at 1- and 2-year annual assessments. Motor, mood, balance, gait, upper extremity function, quality of life, self-efficacy, and levodopa equivalent daily dose data and data on activities of daily living also were collected.

Results

Participants displayed significant 1- and 2-year declines in the amount and intensity of ambulatory activity concurrently with increasing levodopa equivalent daily dose. Worsening motor symptoms and slowing of gait were apparent only after 2 years. Concurrent changes in the remaining clinical variables were not observed. Baseline ambulatory activity and physical performance variables had the strongest relationships with 1- and 2-year mean daily steps.

Limitations

The sample was small and homogeneous.

Conclusions

Future research that combines ambulatory activity monitoring with a broader and more balanced array of measures would further illuminate the dynamic interactions among evolving facets of disablement and help determine the extent to which sustained patterns of recommended daily physical activity might slow the rate of disablement in PD.
Situational Action Theory: Cross-Sectional and Cross-Lagged Tests of Its Core Propositions
Authors: Bruinsma Gerben J.N. , Pauwels Lieven J.R. , Weerman Frank M. , Bernasco Wim
Published: April 2015

Situational Action Theory (SAT) is a recently developed general action theory of crime that integrates and synthesizes existing individual and ecological explanations. SAT explicitly states that the individual’s propensity for criminal behaviour (morality and self-control) and exposure to criminogenic settings (rule breaking peers and time spent in unsupervised, unstructured activities) interact to determine whether a crime is committed. In the present article, core assumptions of SAT are tested by estimating cross-sectional and lagged models on two-wave panel data from adolescents in The Hague (The Netherlands). Generally, the findings support SAT, including the situational interaction between morality and self-control. However, the findings also raise questions about SAT. In particular, we did not find lagged effects of morality on later offending, and we found only a few significant interaction effects on offending between the two peer variables and morality and self-control. Generally, there was not much support for the SAT theory that adolescents with low morality or low self-control are more vulnerable to (situational) peer influences. The article concludes with a discussion of how additional situational peer variables may be included in SAT.
Indian Wealth and Agricultural Improvement in Northern Scotland
Authors: Grant Eric , Mutch Alistair
Published: April 2015

General Patrick Duff and Dr Kenneth Murchison became friends in India and remained so on their return to Scotland. Their careers, as illustrated through their letters and other documents, give a vivid example of the making of fortunes by Scots of relatively humble origins in India and their conversion of that wealth into landed estates on their return to Scotland. Their combined history adds to our understanding of the role played by wealth generated in imperial service in the agricultural improvement of Scotland in the late eighteenth century. It also adds something of a counter to a focus on the more spectacular ‘nabobs’ of metropolitan discourse.
Signaling during Kidney Development
Authors: Krause Mirja , Rak-Raszewska Aleksandra , Pietilä Ilkka , Quaggin Susan , Vainio Seppo
Published: April 2015

The kidney plays an essential role during excretion of metabolic waste products, maintenance of key homeostasis components such as ion concentrations and hormone levels. It influences the blood pressure, composition and volume. The kidney tubule system is composed of two distinct cell populations: the nephrons forming the filtering units and the collecting duct system derived from the ureteric bud. Nephrons are composed of glomeruli that filter the blood to the Bowman’s capsule and tubular structures that reabsorb and concentrate primary urine. The collecting duct is a Wolffian duct-derived epithelial tube that concentrates and collects urine and transfers it via the renal pelvis into the bladder. The mammalian kidney function depends on the coordinated development of specific cell types within a precise architectural framework. Due to the availability of modern analysis techniques, the kidney has become a model organ defining the paradigm to study organogenesis. As kidney diseases are a problem worldwide, the understanding of mammalian kidney cells is of crucial importance to develop diagnostic tools and novel therapies. This review focuses on how the pattern of renal development is generated, how the inductive signals are regulated and what are their effects on proliferation, differentiation and morphogenesis.
Indian Farmers’ Perceptions and Willingness to Supply Surplus Biomass to an Envisioned Biomass-Based Power Plant
Authors: Zyadin Anas , Natarajan Karthikeyan , Chauhan Suresh , Singh Harminder , Hassan Md. , Pappinen Ari , Pelkonen Paavo
Published: April 2015

The main objectives of this socio-technical study are to investigate the Indian farmers’ biomass production capacities and their perceptions and willingness to supply their surplus biomass to fuel an envisioned biomass-based power plant in three selected Indian states: Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh and Tamil Nadu. For doing so, 471 farmers (about one-third from each state) have been interviewed in the field with info-sheet filled in by the field investigators. The farmers from all of the states appeared very much willing to sell their surplus biomass directly to a power plant. The farmers seem to depreciate the involvement of a middleman in the biomass procurement process. The farmers, however, appeared to highly appreciate a community-based association to regulate the biomass prices, with varying perceptions regarding government intervention. The majority of the farmers perceived the establishment of a biomass-based power plant in their region with positive economic outcomes. The farmers identified several barriers to supply biomass to a power plant where transportation logistics appeared to be the main barrier. The study recommends considering biomass collection, storage and transportation logistics as a fundamental segment of any envisioned investment in a biomass-based power plant. Biomass processing, such as pelletization or briquetting is recommended for efficient transportation of biomass at longer distances to reduce the transportation costs. The study further encourages the establishment of a farmers’ association aimed at collecting and selling biomass in agriculture areas predominant for small land holdings.
Residual Long-Term Effects of Forest Fertilization on Tree Growth and Nitrogen Turnover in Boreal Forest
Authors: From Fredrik , Strengbom Joachim , Nordin Annika
Published: April 2015

The growth enhancing effects of forest fertilizer is considered to level off within 10 years of the application, and be restricted to one forest stand rotation. However, fertilizer induced changes in plant community composition has been shown to occur in the following stand rotation. To clarify whether effects of forest fertilization have residual long-term effects, extending into the next rotation, we compared tree growth, needle N concentrations and the availability of mobile soil N in young (10 years) Pinus sylvestris L. and Picea abies (L.) H. Karst. stands. The sites were fertilized with 150 kg·N·ha−1 once or twice during the previous stand rotation, or unfertilized. Two fertilization events increased tree height by 24% compared to the controls. Needle N concentrations of the trees on previously fertilized sites were 15% higher than those of the controls. Soil N mineralization rates and the amounts of mobile soil NH4-N and NO3-N were higher on sites that were fertilized twice than on control sites. Our study demonstrates that operational forest fertilization can cause residual long-term effects on stand N dynamics, with subsequent effects on tree growth that may be more long-lasting than previously believed, i.e., extending beyond one stand rotation.
Shared Decision Aids: Increasing Patient Acceptance of Long-Acting Reversible Contraception
Authors: George Tracy , DeCristofaro Claire , Dumas Bonnie , Murphy Pamela
Published: April 2015

Unintended pregnancies are an important public health issue. Long-acting reversible contraceptive methods (LARCs) are reliable, safe, highly effective methods for most women; however they are underutilized in the United States. Shared decision aids were added to usual care in five public health family planning clinics in the Southeastern United States, staffed by advance practice nurses and registered nurses. All five sites showed an increase in the use of LARCs during the time period that shared decision aids were used (results statistically significant to p < 0.001). It is important for women to make informed choices about contraception, and shared decision aids can be utilized to support this decision making. This resource has been adopted for statewide use in all public health clinics, and implications for practice suggest that the use of shared decision aids is an effective method to support informed patient decision making and acceptance of LARC methods of contraception.
Nitrogen Removal from Micro-Polluted Reservoir Water by Indigenous Aerobic Denitrifiers
Authors: Huang Ting-Lin , Zhou Shi-Lei , Zhang Hai-Han , Zhou Na , Guo Lin , Di Shi-Yu , Zhou Zi-Zhen
Published: April 2015

Treatment of micro-polluted source water is receiving increasing attention because of environmental awareness on a global level. We isolated and identified aerobic denitrifying bacteria Zoogloea sp. N299, Acinetobacter sp. G107, and Acinetobacter sp. 81Y and used these to remediate samples of their native source water. We first domesticated the isolated strains in the source water, and the 48-h nitrate removal rates of strains N299, G107, and 81Y reached 33.69%, 28.28%, and 22.86%, respectively, with no nitrite accumulation. We then conducted a source-water remediation experiment and cultured the domesticated strains (each at a dry cell weight concentration of 0.4 ppm) together in a sample of source water at 20–26 °C and a dissolved oxygen concentration of 3–7 mg/L for 60 days. The nitrate concentration of the system decreased from 1.57 ± 0.02 to 0.42 ± 0.01 mg/L and that of a control system decreased from 1.63 ± 0.02 to 1.30 ± 0.01 mg/L, each with no nitrite accumulation. Total nitrogen of the bacterial system changed from 2.31 ± 0.12 to 1.09 ± 0.01 mg/L, while that of the control system changed from 2.51 ± 0.13 to 1.72 ± 0.06 mg/L. The densities of aerobic denitrification bacteria in the experimental and control systems ranged from 2.8 × 104 to 2 × 107 cfu/mL and from 7.75 × 103 to 5.5 × 105 cfu/mL, respectively. The permanganate index in the experimental and control systems decreased from 5.94 ± 0.12 to 3.10 ± 0.08 mg/L and from 6.02 ± 0.13 to 3.61 ± 0.11 mg/L, respectively, over the course of the experiment. Next, we supplemented samples of the experimental and control systems with additional bacteria or additional source water and cultivated the systems for another 35 days. The additional bacteria did little to improve the water quality. The additional source water provided supplemental carbon and brought the nitrate removal rate in the experimental system to 16.97%, while that in the control system reached only 3.01%, with no nitrite accumulation in either system. Our results show that aerobic denitrifying bacteria remain highly active after domestication and demonstrate the applicability of such organisms in the bioremediation of oligotrophic ecosystems.
Development of Carbon Nanotube Modified Cement Paste with Microencapsulated Phase-Change Material for Structural–Functional Integrated Application
Authors: Cui Hongzhi , Yang Shuqing , Memon Shazim
Published: April 2015

Microencapsulated phase-change materials (MPCM) can be used to develop a structural–functional integrated cement paste having high heat storage efficiency and suitable mechanical strength. However, the incorporation of MPCM has been found to degrade the mechanical properties of cement based composites. Therefore, in this research, the effect of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) on the properties of MPCM cement paste was evaluated. Test results showed that the incorporation of CNTs in MPCM cement paste accelerated the cement hydration reaction. SEM micrograph showed that CNTs were tightly attached to the cement hydration products. At the age of 28 days, the percentage increase in flexural and compressive strength with different dosage of CNTs was found to be up to 41% and 5% respectively. The optimum dosage of CNTs incorporated in MPCM cement paste was found to be 0.5 wt %. From the thermal performance test, it was found that the cement paste panels incorporated with different percentages of MPCM reduced the temperature measured at the center of the room by up to 4.6 °C. Inverse relationship was found between maximum temperature measured at the center of the room and the dosage of MPCM.
Heavy Metal Complexation of Thiol-Containing Peptides from Soy Glycinin Hydrolysates
Authors: Ding Xiuzhen , Hua Yufei , Chen Yeming , Zhang Caimeng , Kong Xiangzhen
Published: April 2015

Many thiol-containing molecules show heavy metal complexation ability and are used as antidotes. In this study, the potential function associated with thiol-containing peptides (TCPs) from soy protein hydrolysates as natural detoxicants for heavy metals is reported. TCPs enriched by Thiopropyl-Sepharose 6B covalent chromatography had different molecular weight distributions as well as different numbers of proton dissociable groups, depending on the proteases and degree of hydrolysis. The major contribution of sulfhydryl groups was confirmed by the largest pH decrease between 8.0 and 8.5 of the pH titration curves. The complexation of TCPs with heavy metals was evaluated by stability constants (βn) of TCP-metal complexes whose stoichiometry was found to be 1:1 (ML) and 1:2 (ML2). TCPs from degree of hydrolysis of 25% hydrolysates gave high affinities towards Hg2+, Cd2+, and Pb2+ (giving similar or even bigger lgβ values than that of glutathione). A significantly positive correlation was found between the logarithm of stability constants for ML2 (lgβ2) and the sulfhydryl group content. Molecular weight distribution of TCPs affected the complexation with Pb2+ notably more than Hg2+ and Cd2+. These results suggest that soy TCPs have the potential to be used in the formulation of functional foods to counteract heavy metal accumulation in humans.
Iron Oxide Nanoparticles for Magnetically-Guided and Magnetically-Responsive Drug Delivery
Authors: Estelrich Joan , Escribano Elvira , Queralt Josep , Busquets Maria
Published: April 2015

In this review, we discuss the recent advances in and problems with the use of magnetically-guided and magnetically-responsive nanoparticles in drug delivery and magnetofection. In magnetically-guided nanoparticles, a constant external magnetic field is used to transport magnetic nanoparticles loaded with drugs to a specific site within the body or to increase the transfection capacity. Magnetofection is the delivery of nucleic acids under the influence of a magnetic field acting on nucleic acid vectors that are associated with magnetic nanoparticles. In magnetically-responsive nanoparticles, magnetic nanoparticles are encapsulated or embedded in a larger colloidal structure that carries a drug. In this last case, an alternating magnetic field can modify the structure of the colloid, thereby providing spatial and temporal control over drug release.
Rational Combinations of Targeted Agents in AML
Authors: Bose Prithviraj , Grant Steven
Published: April 2015

Despite modest improvements in survival over the last several decades, the treatment of AML continues to present a formidable challenge. Most patients are elderly, and these individuals, as well as those with secondary, therapy-related, or relapsed/refractory AML, are particularly difficult to treat, owing to both aggressive disease biology and the high toxicity of current chemotherapeutic regimens. It has become increasingly apparent in recent years that coordinated interruption of cooperative survival signaling pathways in malignant cells is necessary for optimal therapeutic results. The modest efficacy of monotherapy with both cytotoxic and targeted agents in AML testifies to this. As the complex biology of AML continues to be elucidated, many “synthetic lethal” strategies involving rational combinations of targeted agents have been developed. Unfortunately, relatively few of these have been tested clinically, although there is growing interest in this area. In this article, the preclinical and, where available, clinical data on some of the most promising rational combinations of targeted agents in AML are summarized. While new molecules should continue to be combined with conventional genotoxic drugs of proven efficacy, there is perhaps a need to rethink traditional philosophies of clinical trial development and regulatory approval with a focus on mechanism-based, synergistic strategies.
Current Approaches in the Treatment of Relapsed and Refractory Acute Myeloid Leukemia
Authors: Ramos Nestor , Mo Clifton , Karp Judith , Hourigan Christopher
Published: April 2015

The limited sensitivity of the historical treatment response criteria for acute myeloid leukemia (AML) has resulted in a different paradigm for treatment compared with most other cancers presenting with widely disseminated disease. Initial cytotoxic induction chemotherapy is often able to reduce tumor burden to a level sufficient to meet the current criteria for “complete” remission. Nevertheless, most AML patients ultimately die from their disease, most commonly as clinically evident relapsed AML. Despite a variety of available salvage therapy options, prognosis in patients with relapsed or refractory AML is generally poor. In this review, we outline the commonly utilized salvage cytotoxic therapy interventions and then highlight novel investigational efforts currently in clinical trials using both pathway-targeted agents and immunotherapy based approaches. We conclude that there is no current standard of care for adult relapsed or refractory AML other than offering referral to an appropriate clinical trial.
Neurocognitive Outcomes and School Performance in Solid Tumor Cancer Survivors Lacking Therapy to the Central Nervous System
Authors: Mohrmann Caroline , Henry Jennifer , Hauff Marnie , Hayashi Robert
Published: April 2015

School performance in patients who have received therapy for childhood cancers has been studied in depth. Risk factors have historically included cranial radiation, intrathecal chemotherapy, and high doses of chemotherapy, including methotrexate and cytarabine. Leukemia and brain tumor survivors who receive such therapy have been the primary focus of this area of investigation. Extracranial solid tumor cancer patients lacking such risk factors have historically been expected to have normal school performance. We examined the medical records of 58 young pediatric extracranial solid tumor patients who lacked CNS-directed therapy or other known risk factors for cognitive impairment to evaluate the incidence of reported difficulties or abnormalities in neuropsychological testing. Thirty-one percent of patients were found to have at least one reported difficulty or abnormality. Of note, 34% of patients with Wilms tumor possessed difficulties compared to 23% of patients with other extracranial solid tumors. Extracranial solid tumor cancer survivors without known risk factors for school performance difficulties appear to have a higher incidence of problems than expected.
Damage Behavior of Sintered Fiber Felts
Authors: Lippitz Nicolas , Rösler Joachim
Published: April 2015

The reduction of aircraft noise is important due to a rising number of flights and the growth of urban centers close to airports. During landing, a significant part of the noise is generated by flow around the airframe. To reduce that noise porous trailing edges are investigated. Ideally, the porous materials should to be structural materials as well. Therefore, the mechanical properties and damage behavior are of major interest. The aim of this study is to show the change of structure and the damage behavior of sintered fiber felts, which are promising materials for porous trailing edges, under tensile loading using a combination of tensile tests and three dimensional computed tomography scans. By stopping the tensile test after a defined stress or strain and scanning the sample, it is possible to correlate structural changes and the development of damage to certain features in the stress-strain curve and follow the damage process with a high spatial resolution. Finally, the correlation between material structure and mechanical behavior is demonstrated.
Enantioselective Synthesis of cis-Decalins Using Organocatalysis and Sulfonyl Nazarov Reagents
Authors: Peña Javier , Silveira-Dorta Gastón , Moro Rosalina , Garrido Narciso , Marcos Isidro , Sanz Francisca , Díez David
Published: April 2015

The first organocatalytic synthesis of cis-decalins using sulfonyl Nazarov reagents is reported. The Jørgensen’s catalyst directs this highly enantioselective synthesis using different cyclohexenal derivatives.
Cytotoxic Activity of Piper cubeba Extract in Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Graidist Potchanapond , Martla Mananya , Sukpondma Yaowapa
Published: April 2015

This study aimed to evaluate the cytotoxicity of a crude extract of Piper cubeba against normal and breast cancer cell lines. To prepare the extract, P. cubeba seeds were ground, soaked in methanol and dichloromethane and isolated by column chromatography. Fractions were tested for cytotoxicity effects on normal fibroblast (L929), normal breast (MCF-12A) and breast cancer cell lines (MCF-7, MDA-MB-468 and MDA-MB-231). The most effective fraction was selected for DNA fragmentation assay to detect apoptotic activity. The results showed that the methanolic crude extract had a higher cytotoxic activity against MDA-MB-468 and MCF-7 than a dichloromethane crude extract. Then, the methanolic crude extract was separated into six fractions, designated A to F. Fraction C was highly active against breast cancer cell lines with an IC50 value less than 4 μg/mL. Therefore, Fraction C was further separated into seven fractions, CA to CG. The 1H-NMR profile showed that Fraction CE was long chain hydrocarbons. Moreover, Fraction CE demonstrated the highest activity against MCF-7 cells with an IC50 value of 2.69 ± 0.09 μg/mL and lower cytotoxicity against normal fibroblast L929 cells with an IC50 value of 4.17 ± 0.77 μg/mL. Finally, DNA fragmentation with a ladder pattern characteristic of apoptosis was observed in MCF-7, MDA-MB-468, MDA-MB-231 and L929 cells, but not in MCF-12A cells.
Consumption and Sources of Dietary Salt in Family Members in Beijing
Authors: Zhao Fang , Zhang Puhong , Zhang Lu , Niu Wenyi , Gao Jianmei , Lu Lixin , Liu Caixia , Gao Xian
Published: April 2015

In China, few people are aware of the amount and source of their salt intake. We conducted a survey to investigate the consumption and sources of dietary salt using the “one-week salt estimation method” by weighing cooking salt and major salt-containing food, and estimating salt intake during dining out based on established evidence. Nine hundred and three families (1981 adults and 971 children) with students in eight primary or junior high schools in urban and suburban Beijing were recruited. On average, the daily dietary salt intake of family members in Beijing was 11.0 (standard deviation: 6.2) g for children and adolescents (under 18 years old), 15.2 (9.1) g for adults (18 to 59 years old), and 10.2 (4.8) g for senior citizens (60 years old and over), respectively. Overall, 60.5% of dietary salt was consumed at home, and 39.5% consumed outside the home. Approximately 90% of the salt intake came from cooking (household cooking and cafeteria or restaurant cooking), while less than 10% came from processed food. In conclusion, the dietary salt intake in Beijing families far surpassed the recommended amounts by World Health Organization, with both household cooking and dining-out as main sources of salt consumption. More targeted interventions, especially education about major sources of salt and corresponding methods for salt reduction should be taken to reduce the risks associated with a high salt diet.