bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
EVALUATION THE EXPRESSION OF THREE GENES TO EPITHELIAL OVARIAN CANCER RISK IN CHINESE POPULATION
Authors: Huang Ju , Lin Hao , Lin Ming En
Published: April 2016

Background: Ovarian cancer is associated with poor survival, because patients are diagnosed at an advanced stage of the disease, and

in addition, tumors develop chemoresistance, which carries a poor prognosis for the patient.

Material and methods: We hypothesize that high expression of SDF-1, survivin and smac is associated with ovarian cancers

development and could be used as a biomarker to identify this disease. The expressions of SDF-1, survivin and smac in normal

ovarian (NO) tissue, benign tumor (BT) tissue and epithelial ovarian cancer (EOC) tissue were immunohistochemically analysed.

Results: Positive expressions of SDF-1, survivin and smac were significantly higher in EOC tissue than those in NO and BT tissues.

SDF-1 expressions were significantly more weaker in advanced ovarian carcinomas (FIGO stage III–IV), and in high-grade

carcinomas. There was a positive correlation between EOC patients with lymph node metastasis and with ascites and SDF-1

positivity (P < 0.05). Survivin expressions were significantly more stronger in advanced ovarian carcinomas (FIGO stage III–IV), and in high-grade carcinomas. There was a positive correlation between EOC patients with lymph node metastasis and with ascites and surviving positivity (P < 0.05). Smac expressions were significantly more stronger in advanced ovarian carcinomas (FIGO stage III–IV), and in high-grade carcinomas. There was a positive correlation between EOC patients with lymph node metastasis and with ascites and smac positivity (P < 0.05).
ETHNOBIOLOGICAL SURVEY OF PLANTS AND ANIMALS USED FOR THE TREATMENT OF ACUTE RESPIRATORY INFECTIONS IN CHILDREN OF A TRADITIONAL COMMUNITY IN THE MUNICIPALITY OF BARBALHA, CEARÁ, BRAZIL.
Authors: Lemos Izabel Cristina Santiago , Delmondes Gyllyandeson de AraÃºjo , Santos Ana Deyva Ferreira dos , Santos Enaide Soares , De Oliveira Dayanne Rakelly , Figueiredo PatrÃ­cia Rosane Leite de , Alves Dailon de AraÃºjo , Barbosa Roseli , Menezes Irwin Rose Alencar de , Coutinho Henrique Douglas Melo , Kerntopf Marta Regina , Fernandes George Pimentel
Published: April 2016

Background: The use of natural resources for the treatment of acute respiratory infections in children is a widespread practice

within traditional communities, especially by women by being the primary caregivers. This study aimed to perform ethnobiological

survey of plants and animals used for the treatment of acute respiratory infections in children of a traditional community in the

municipality of Barbalha, Ceará, Brazil. Methods: It is a descriptive exploratory study with a quantitative approach, developed in

Sítio Santo Antônio, in the municipality of Barbalha, Ceará, Brazil. As a tool for data collection, was applied a questionnaire and a

semi-structured interview. Data analysis used descriptive statistics (simple and percentage rate) and the Relative Frequency of

Citation.

Results: The research included a total of 54 informants. In total, there were 38 species cited. According to the Relative Frequency of

Citation the following species were the most cited: Ocimum basilicum L. (0.59), Eucalyptus globulus Labill (0.59), Plectranthus

amboinicus (L.) Spreng (0.42), Hyptis suaveolens (L.) Poit. (0.24), Allium aescalonicum L. (0.22) and Mentha arvensis L. (0.18).

Among the symptoms mentioned by the research subjects to treat the acute respiratory infections in childhood, there were: fever;

cough; coughing with secretions; sore throat; hoarseness; tiredness; nasal congestion.

Conclusions: It is important the knowledge about the usefulness of natural resources as alternative practices in diseases treatment,

seeking to rescue popular knowledge used in the traditional community and fomenting the need to consider cultural aspects in the

full practice to children´s health care.
EFFECT OF HARVEST DATE AND STALK SECTION ON SELECTED STRENGTH CHARACTERISTICS OF TURKISH OREGANO (ORIGANUM ONITES L)
Authors: Yilmaz Deniz , Jasinskas Algirdas
Published: April 2016

Background: The time required to harvest plant crops is important to the plant properties. It is affected by design of the harvest

equipment and the desire for high-quality products with low energy usage.

Materials and Methods: Strength characteristics of Origanum onites L., an important medicinal aromatic plant, harvested on 2, 9,

16 and 23 July, 2012–2014 (H1, H2, H3 and H4, respectively) were measured at the bottom and top sections of the stalk.

Measurements included maximum force, bio-yield force, shearing force, bending stress, shearing stress, shearing energy, and

shearing deformation.

Results: The highest maximum force (35.17 N) was at H4 on the bottom section, and the lowest was at H1 on the top. Maximum

values for bio-yield force, shearing force, and bending stress were at H4 on the bottom section, and corresponding minimum values

were at H1 on the top section. Shearing stress decreased at successive harvest dates for both stalk sections. The minimum shearing

energy was at H4, (0.13 J and 0.06 J for bottom and top, respectively). Strength measurements for bottom sections of the stalk were

greater than those for top sections.

Conclusion: When reduced harvesting force is needed because of harvester design or harvest procedures, harvesting near the top of

the stalk is recommended.
PROTECTIVE EFFECTS OF ETHYL ACETATE EXTRACTION FROM GASTRODIA ELATA BLUME ON BLOOD-BRAIN BARRIER IN FOCAL CEREBRAL ISCHEMIA REPERFUSION
Authors: He Fangyan , Duan Xiaohua , Dai Rong , Wang Wei , Yang Cui , Lin Qing
Published: April 2016

Background: Damage of the blood brain barrier (BBB) during the process of cerebral ischemic injury is a key factor which

influences the therapeutic efficacy to the cerebral ischemic injury. The present study was designed to verify the mechanisms

underlying the protective effects of the ethyl acetate (EtOAc) extraction from Gastrodia elata Blume (GEB) on the BBB by

developing a model of cerebral ischemia-reperfusion in rats. Material and methods: MCAO/R model in rats was developed through

a thread embolism method. The neurological scales, the moisture and the evans blue (EB) contents of brains were detected.

Meanwhile, the release of nitric oxide (NO) and activities of NO synthase (NOS) in brain tissues were measured. Western blotting

analyses were also performed to assess the protein expressions of AQP-4, Occludin and Claudin-5 in brain tissue. Result: After rats

were pretreated with different concentrations of EtOAc extractions from GEB, the neurologic scores, the EB contents in the brain

tissues and the moisture of the brains were significantly decreased. Meanwhile, the release of NO, the activities of nNOS and iNOS

were notably inhibited. Furthemore, the protein expression of AQP-4 was markedly decreased, but the protein expressions of

Claudin-5 and Occludin were significantly increased. Conclusion: the EtOAc extracts of GEB may decrease the permeability of

BBB when focal cerebral ischemia occurs. The inhibition of the NOS pathways, the attenuation of the protein expression of AQP-4

and the enhancement of the expressions of the tight junction proteins may contribute to the protective effects of the EtOAc extracts

from GEB on BBB.
Storybook Read-Alouds to Enhance Students’ Comprehension Skills in ESL Classrooms: A Case Study
Authors: Omar Ainon , Saufi Maizatulliza Mohd.
Published: April 2016

The effectiveness of using storybooks during read-alouds to develop children’s comprehension skills as well as in understanding the story has been widely studied. The reading aloud strategy has also been proven through numerous researches to be the most highly recommended activity for encouraging language and literacy. The study identified the comprehension strategies used by the teachers during their read-aloud sessions, matched teachers’ current practices using the comprehension strategies to the identified practices for the approach, and obtained the teachers’ perceptions of their current practices of the comprehension strategies during reading aloud in their English language classrooms. The teachers’ comprehension strategies were matched with a research-based strategy for comprehending texts during read-alouds proposed by Whitehurst et al (1994). Three primary school English language teachers teaching in the rural schools participated in this study. Qualitative research methods were used in this study. Primary data was obtained through observations using an observation protocol; while secondary data was obtained through interviews from teachers. Findings from the study revealed that the three teachers employed a few of the comprehension strategies that were proposed by researchers in the field. The findings also indicate that the teachers utilized only the strategies that they thought were relevant to their teaching context and as such, proposed the need to provide teachers with knowledge on the best practices for conducting reading aloud to develop ESL students’ comprehension skills
A New Non-Darcy Flow Model for Low Velocity Multiphase Flow in Tight Reservoirs
Authors: Xiong Yi , Yu Jinbiao , Sun Hongxia , Yuan Jiangru , Huang Zhaoqin , Wu Yu-shu
Published: April 2016

This paper is to present a new non-linear flow model for low-velocity multiphase flow in tight petroleum reservoirs as well as its analytical and numerical solutions. The pore and pore-throat sizes of shale and tight-rock formations are on the order of tens of nanometers. The fluid flow in such small pores is significantly affected by walls of pores and pore-throats. This boundary-layer effect on fluid flow in tight rocks has been investigated through laboratory work. In analogue to flow through capillary tubes, it is found that the ratio of the thickness of boundary layer over the size of capillary tube is a function of pressure gradient; and the non-linear relationship between flow rate and pressure gradient is pronounced under the drive of small pressure gradient or low flow velocity. It is also observed that low permeability is associated with large boundary layer effect on fluid flow. Based on the studies of single-phase and multiphase flow though capillary tubes, the new non-Darcy flow model is proposed for describing multiphase flow in tight rock.

The experimental results from a single capillary tube are extended to a bundle of tubes and finally to porous media of tight formations. A physics-based, non-Darcy low-velocity flow equation is derived to account for the boundary layer effect of tight reservoirs by adding a non-Darcy coefficient term, which is function of dimensionless thickness of boundary layer and pressure gradient. This non-Darcy equation describes the fluid flow more accurately for tight oil reservoir with low production rate and low pressure gradient as compared to laboratory observation.

Both analytical and numerical solutions are obtained for the new non-Darcy flow model. First, a Buckley-Leverett type analytical solution is derived including gravity effect with this non-Darcy flow equation. Then, a numerical model has been developed for implementing this non-Darcy flow model for accurate simulation of multi-dimensional porous and fractured tight oil reservoirs. The sensitivity studies based on numerical simulations demonstrate the non-negligible effect of boundary layer on fluid flow in tight formations using an actual field example. Eventually, the experiment-based non-Darcy flow model could improve the forecast accuracy for long-term production rate and recovery factors of tight oil reservoirs.

A new, physics-based low-velocity non-Darcy flow model is developed for description of single-phase and multiphase flow in tight reservoirs. In addition, both analytical and numerical solutions are provided for application of the new non-Darcy flow model for field studies. The results and knowledge obtained in this study may be applicable to both oil and gas flow in unconventional reservoirs.
Volume Effects on Methane-Shale Adsorption under Reservoir Conditions
Authors: Yang Sheng , Wu Wei , Xu Jinze , Ji Dongqi , Chen Zhangxin
Published: April 2016

Due to the low porosity of a shale reservoir, the amount of stored free gas is limited. The pore volume of shale is majorly composed of micropores and mesopores, which are perfect storage spaces for sorbed gas. As a result, a shale gas reservoir contains a significant amount of sorbed gas through physical adsorption. The adsorption behavior of shale is usually analogue to coal, although the average diameters of nanopores and compositions of shale are different from those of coal. Many adsorption models of shale and coal have been proposed in previous studies. No matter which model is chosen to describe an isothermal adsorption, the absolute adsorption is derived from the measured excess adsorption data. The basic calculation theory of absolute adsorption assumes that volume changes are only caused by adsorption. However, volume changes are also caused by adsorbent swelling or shrinkage, gas absorption into organic matter, and Helium adsorption. In this work, a modified adsorption model is introduced to account for the unexpected volume effects and accurately calculate absolute adsorption.

The proposed model is based on the Dubinin-Astakhov (DA) model (pore-filling theory), since it is more suitable to describe the gas adsorption behavior in nanopores than the Langmuir Model that mainly describes the monolayer adsorption on homogeneous surfaces. Methane is a supercritical fluid under a high pressure and temperate reservoir condition. As a result, the pressure terms in the DA model are replaced by the density to overcome the problem of the determination of saturation pressure. The volume change term is additionally added to the adsorption equation to account for the effect of volume changes. Six groups of shale adsorption data are applied to validate the proposed model and analyze the volume effects.

The proposed model shows better fitting results than the traditional DA model. Especially, the proposed model captures abnormal adsorption behavior under the extreme high pressure and high temperature conditions. The previous reported adsorbent swelling or shrinkage and gas absorption into organic matter are illustrated and explained by the calculated volume change terms. The adsorption capacity and other fitted parameters estimated by the proposed model are more reasonable and accurate than those predicted by the DA model. This study highlights the effect of volume changes on absolute adsorption calculation, and provides an extensive insight on shale gas adsorption behaviors under reservoir conditions.
First Sealant Application in a Multilayered Reservoir With Water Entry in One Zone, in Lago Agrio Field, Ecuador
Authors: Hernandez Rubys , Medina Diego , Calderon Fausto , Enriquez Nelson , Moran Milton
Published: April 2016

The primary oil production from the Lago Agrio field originates from the Hollin formation, which has a strong waterdrive production mechanism. The Hollin tidal and shallow marine intervals are vertically discontinuous in some field sectors and show slightly lower pressure with regard to the fluvial zone, as a result of stratigraphic barriers and the action of an edge waterdrive system. Over time, water breakthrough in higher permeability zones caused excessive water production. In Well LGA-013, the vertical barriers are apparent in the openhole logs. Spectral natural gamma-ray and saturation logs identified current water advance, and a sealing treatment was selected to shut off water flow into the Hollin tidal zone.

This paper summarizes the first case of water conformance in the Lago Agrio field using an organically crosslinked polymer (OCP) and describes the candidate selection process, treatment design, execution procedure, and production results. The Hollin shallow marine interval was selected for hydraulic fracturing, and a water soluble polymeric sealant system was designed and pumped into the base of Hollin's tidal zone to delay water breakthrough.

The polymer treatment for water shutoff was applied in Well LGA-013. A total treatment of 40 bbl was injected into the formation in two stages with 1.5-in. coiled tubing (CT): 24 bbl at 0.5 bbl/min and 3,500 psi, and 16 bbl at 0.3 bbl/min and 3,400 psi. After treatment, the well was tested with 36% water cut and 220 bbl of oil. The treatment r was successful. It reduced water cut from 65 to 36% during early evaluation.

The sealant used in Well LGA-013 employs a porosity filling strategy that seals the targeted permeability (water zone) by forming a hydrogel. This treatment strategy can be used in other Hollin reservoir wells to create an effective seal between water and oil zones and, in turn, increase the oil-to-water ratio.
Elemental Modeling of a Process Combining EOR with In-Situ-Upgrading in a Naturally Fractured Reservoir
Authors: Chávez-Morales Silvia , Pereira-Almao Pedro
Published: April 2016

The purpose of this research work is to show laboratory experiments conducted at 1500 psi and 3501C, experimentally simulating a reservoir located in the Gulf of the Mexico. The experiments conducted used a novel process that involved a hot fluid to be injected with an ultra-dispersed nano catalyst. The results obtained showed that API gravity can be improved permanently as well as its viscosity, with the advantage of no coke or solid deposits formation. Laboratory analyses showed that by using this new process it is possible to enter into the matrix zone, expelling at least partially the oil confined inside.

As a consequence of the temperature increase, matrix rock may expand and expel its oil; while temperatures decrease, the pores in the matrix could be contracted, generating additional oil expulsion from this area. As a consequence of this expansion-contraction in the reservoir the reserves could be increased. Also, a change in the permeability appears due to the temperature increases.

The present study was focused in oil matrix extraction and in situ oil upgrading from a naturally fractured reservoir of heavy oil as a result of a hot fluid injection with nano catalyst. Moreover, the effects of capillary pressure, mobility, viscous effects, wettability, and gravitational drainage on the process were analyzed. Another aspect that was studied is how the thermal expansion generated as a consequence of the process could expel the oil confined in the matrix.
Generally Applicable Method For Calculation Of The Matrix-fracture Fluid Transfer Rates
Authors: Heinemann Zoltán E. , Mittermeir Georg M.
Published: April 2016

The paper presents a practical method for calculating the matrix-fracture fluid transfer correctly, applicable under expansion, solution gas, capillary and gravitational drives and their combinations, considering water, gas and oil as displacing agents. The method is an improvement of the Reiss (1973) formulation based on time-depending recovery functions. Reiss could not consider depletion drive in combination with water and gas displacement. Kazemi et al. (1976) extended the Warren-Root shape factor approach to multi-phase cases, but without satisfying the conditions under which the single-phase solution is correct. Since that continuous efforts were made for improvement including diversification and making the shape factor time-dependent. Many publications demonstrated that these efforts are futile. Su et al. (2013) clearly postulated "a change of focus to the improvement of the transfer function would be a path to explore". The paper is an attempt in this sense with encouraging results. The suggested approach determines on fine gridded single matrix block (SMB) models recovery curves. Those are used directly in dual continuum models.
Multiscale Fracture Integration into a Multiple-Porosity Model: Fracture Lumping and Optimal Number of Scales
Authors: Legrand N. , Kamp A. M. , Gosselin O. R.
Published: April 2016

Reservoir models for fractured reservoirs are mainly dual-porosity models, and assume a unique equivalent fracture scale. However, fractured reservoirs are generally characterized by a multitude of fracture scales, ranging from small-scale diffuse fractures to large-scale seismic faults. This paper presents a methodology to extend single-fracture-scale dual-porosity models to situations with more scales, and investigates the optimal number of fracture scales.

We focus on what happens at local level (zero-dimensional system of one cell) in case of a singlephase sequential flow through different fracture levels with some fracture pattern assumptions. Different options to turn a continuous fracture distribution into a given number of discrete levels are investigated. Eventually, based on dimensionless coefficients, an optimal number of fracture scales is determined by lumping levels with similar behaviour. Rate-limiting transfer occurs between these lumped levels.

The dimensionless parameters that are defined are similar to the dimensionless parameter lambda used in dual porosity well test interpretation. They are a dimensionless representation of transfer rates. Each rate is also characterized by a dimensionless time, which is the reciprocal of the dimensionless transfer coefficient. The lumping of scales is thus done in between groups that are separated by low dimensionless transfer coefficients (slow transfer). Examples are shown of cases in which a 5-scale representation can be lumped to two scales (dual porosity) or three scales (triple porosity fracture- fracture-matrix).

This study is a first step towards a reservoir modelling representing more than one single fracture scale, and sets a general methodology for lumping scales in a single-phase context. However for practical application the multiscale issue is even more relevant for multi-phase flow, and must be addressed. Such extension will be part of future work, which will also include implementing multiple scale models in 3D reservoir simulation.
Redevelopment of the Pembina Cardium Field by CO2-EOR Using Existing Wells
Authors: Qin Tianjie , Chen Zhangxin , Zhang Kai , Han Jiabei , Wu Keliu
Published: April 2016

CO2-EOR, combined with multi-stage fractured horizontal wells has been considered as the most promising and environmentally-friendly technique for unlocking tight oil resources (Ghaderi et al., 2013). With more than 2,500 horizontal wells drilled into the Cardium formation within the Pembina field (CDL, 2016), adapting and utilizing existing wells and infrastructure for future CO2-EOR development is economically attractive. Nevertheless, the drilling, completion and hydraulic fracturing design and practices can vary greatly as a result of different geological conditions, operator preference and technology advancements through the years. This paper presents an effective workflow that selects hydraulically fractured horizontal wells suitable for CO2-EOR in consideration of both reservoir and completion qualities. The process of identifying refracturing candidates and potential risk associated with CO2-EOR performance is also developed.

Two groups of parameters - the reservoir quality group (remaining oil in place, permeability, reservoir depth and a fluid type) and the completion quality group (well lateral length, well spacing, fracture spacing, SRV and a skin factor) - are first defined. A fully compositional simulator is applied to study the effects of these parameters on reservoir responses to CO2 injection. A Fuzzy Analytic Hierarchy Process (F-AHP) is then employed to rank candidate horizontal well pads for CO2-EOR. The ranking results and simulated oil recovery factor for each candidate show significant agreement. In addition, with the help of crossplots, the horizontal wells with below-average completion quality, but relatively good reservoir quality, are selected as refracturing candidates.

A risk analysis reveals that the presence of conglomerate on the top of the Cardium formation plays a significant role, resulting in upward moving of CO2 and hence a lessened chance of contacting and displacing oil contained in the lower sands. Additionally, permeability heterogeneity has an adverse effect on CO2 sweep efficiency and can add uncertainty to the success of a recovery process. These factors should be further evaluated after the initial screening process.
Catalogue of Well Test Responses in a Fluvial Reservoir System
Authors: Walsh J. L. , Gringarten A. C.
Published: April 2016

Well test analysis has greatly improved over the years. It remains the most suitable source for determining the hydraulic connectivity and effective permeability in large reservoir volumes, and has become an important tool for reservoir characterization, especially with the recent development of complex interpretation models which account for detailed geological features.

Well test analysis in fluvial reservoirs is still challenging, however, due to a depositional environment conducive to significant internal heterogeneity. Analytical models used in conventional analysis are limited to simplified channel geometries and therefore fail to capture key parameters such as sand body dimensions, orientations and connectivity which control fluid flow and pressure behaviour. This paper aims at a better understanding of the impact of channel content in complex fluvial channel systems on well test derivative responses. To achieve this, a catalogue of 870 drawdown type curves was generated (using a 3D numerical simulator) for different channel contents, body shapes, body dimensions and permeability contrasts.

The paper also illustrates how geological reservoir parameters can be identified, using data from a fluvial North Sea reservoir. A workflow is described for matching field test data with the type curves generated in this study to obtain the fluvial channel characteristics. This then enables the geological description in a full field simulation model to be constrained to well test data, thus reducing uncertainty, aiding development decisions, and improving predictions of the final recovery. Because the match is non-unique, a large number of geological realizations is required, which can be reduced by a good geological understanding of the reservoir.
Organic Cultivation of Jasmine and Tea Increases Carbon Sequestration by Changing Plant and Soil Stoichiometry
Authors: Wang Weiqi , Min Qingwen , Sardans Jordi , Wang Chun , Asensio Dolores , Bartrons Mireia , Peñuelas Josep
Published: April 2016

Organic cultivation methods would be a good alternative to conventional cultivation, avoiding the use of industrial fertilizer and reducing the risk of eutrophication, but its impacts on soil elemental composition and stoichiometry warrants to be clearly stated. This study was conducted to determine the effects of long‐term organic cultivation on soil elemental composition, stoichiometry, and C storing capacity and CO2 emissions in the plant‐soil systems of jasmine (Jasminum spp.) and tea [Camellia sinensis (L.) Ktze.] plantations in Fujian and other regions in China. We examined the impact of organic cultivation on the concentrations, contents and stoichiometric relationships among C, N, P, and K. Organic cultivation was associated with lower plant N and P concentrations, and P mineralomasses and with higher total plant C/N, C/P, C/K, and N/P ratios and higher soil N and P concentrations and contents at some depths. Organic cultivation was thus associated with a shift of P from plants to soil and with a higher nutrient‐use efficiency in biomass production, mainly of P. Soil CO2 emissions were higher under organic cultivation, but the soil was able to accumulate more C with no changes in C storage in plant biomass, suggesting that organic cultivation could increase the overall C sequestration, thereby mitigating climate change and enhancing soil nutrient content. Our results thus showed that the organic cultivation of jasmine and tea in Fujian can improve soil fertility and C accumulation, reduce the use of industrial fertilizers and phytosanitary products, and improve product quality without loss of economical profits.

Core Ideas

Jasmine and tea cultivation have a long history in Fujian and other regions in China

We explored their organic cultivation for the future viability of these crops

Organic cultivation increased nutrient‐use efficiency

Soil was able to accumulate more C under organic cultivation

Organic cultivation improved soil fertility without affecting economic profits
Long‐Term Effects of Controlled‐Release Urea on Crop Yields and Soil Fertility under Wheat–Corn Double Cropping Systems
Authors: Zheng Wenkui , Sui Changling , Liu Zhiguang , Geng Jibiao , Tian Xiaofei , Yang Xiuyi , Li Chengliang , Zhang Min
Published: April 2016

The long‐term effects of controlled‐release urea (CRU) on crop yields and soil properties were investigated in lysimeters under wheat and corn rotation system from 2009 to 2014 in northern China. The CRU included polymer‐coated urea (PCU), sulfur‐coated urea (SCU), and polymer coating of sulfur‐coated urea (PSCU) was applied at 147, 210 kg N ha−1 for wheat and 262.5, 375 kg N ha−1 for corn and the urea was applied at 210 kg N ha−1 for wheat and 375 kg N ha−1 for corn. Results showed that the N release characteristics of three kinds of CRU in field condition were all closely matched to the N requirement of crops. Consequently, the CRU treatments improved wheat and corn yields by 3.2 to 10.1% and 4.9 to 11.1%, increased apparent N use efficiency by 45.9 to 53.8% in wheat, and 36.2 to 45.4% in corn, respectively, compared with urea. Furthermore, the PSCU achieved the highest and the most stable crop yields among CRU. Even reducing CRU rate by 30% produced the same yields as with the 100% rate of urea. In addition, soil total N and organic matter contents in CRU were effectively increased in the topsoil of 0 to 20 cm after 5 yr. Therefore, long‐term application of CRU had great potential to increase wheat–corn yields, N use efficiency, reduce application frequency, improve soil fertility, decrease the leaching of soil NO3−–N and NH4+–N, and also relieve soil pH decreased.

Core Ideas

The long‐term effect of controlled‐release urea on crop yield and soil chemical properties was studied.

The N release rates of controlled‐release urea were closely matched to the demand for N during the whole growth periods of crops.

The wheat and corn yields were increased by 3.2 to 10.1% and 4.9 to 11.1% by controlled‐release urea fertilization, compared with urea treatment.
Surface Runoff of Pesticides from a Clay Loam Field in Sweden
Authors: Larsbo Mats , Sandin Maria , Jarvis Nick , Etana Ararso , Kreuger Jenny
Published: April 2016

Pesticides stored at or close to the soil surface after field application can be mobilized and transported off the field when surface runoff occurs. The objective of our study was to quantify the potential pesticide losses in surface runoff from a conventionally managed agricultural field in a Swedish climate. This was achieved by measuring surface runoff volumes and concentrations in runoff of six spring‐applied pesticides and autumn‐applied glyphosate and its metabolite aminomethylphosphonic acid (AMPA). Measurements were performed for 3 yr both during the growing seasons and during intervening winter snowmelt periods on a clay loam field close to Uppsala. During growing seasons, surface runoff was generated on only five occasions during one 25‐d period in 2012 when the infiltration capacity of the soil may have been reduced by structural degradation due to large cumulative rainfall amounts after harrowing. Concentrations in surface runoff exceeded Swedish water quality standards in all samples during this growing season for diflufenican and pirimicarb. Surface runoff was generated during three snowmelt periods during the winter of 2012–2013. All of the applied pesticides were found in snowmelt samples despite incorporation of residues by autumn plowing, degradation, and leaching into the soil profile during the period between spraying and sampling. Concentrations of glyphosate ranged from 0.12 to 7.4 μg L−1, and concentrations of AMPA ranged from 0 to 2.7 μg L−1. Our results indicate that temporal changes in hydraulic properties during the growing season and when the soil freezes during winter affect pesticide losses through surface runoff.

Core Ideas

Pesticide concentrations often exceeded Swedish water quality standards.

All of the applied pesticides were found in samples taken during snowmelt.

Total pesticide losses were small due to small surface runoff volumes.

Temporal changes in hydraulic properties affected losses in surface runoff.
Sample Sizes to Control Error Estimates in Determining Soil Bulk Density in California Forest Soils
Authors: Han Youzhi , Zhang Jianwei , Mattson Kim G. , Zhang Weidong , Weber Thomas A.
Published: April 2016

Core Ideas

Sample sizes varied from 3 to 17 to achieve ±10% error at a 95% confidence level.

Bootstrapping is more robust for estimating sample size than the traditional method.

Soil variability must be considered before sampling.

Characterizing forest soil properties with high variability is challenging, sometimes requiring large numbers of soil samples. Soil bulk density is a standard variable needed along with element concentrations to calculate nutrient pools. This study aimed to determine the optimal sample size, the number of observation (n), for predicting the soil bulk density with a precision of ±10% at a 95% confidence level among different soil types. We determined soil bulk density samples at three depths at 186 points distributed over three different 1‐ha forest sites. We calculated n needed for estimating means of bulk density using a traditional method. This estimate was compared to a bootstrapping method n where the variance was estimated by re‐sampling our original sample over 500 times. The results showed that patterns of soil bulk density varied by sites. Bootstrapping indicated 3 to 17 samples were needed to estimate mean soil bulk density at ± 10% at a 95% confidence level at the three sites and three depths. Sample sizes determined by the bootstrap method were larger than the numbers estimated by the traditional method. Bootstrapping is considered theoretically to be more robust, especially at a site with more variability or for site measures that are not normally distributed.
What Is Philo-Performance? A roundtable
Authors: Garcin Marrou Flore , Boyer Amalia , Hess Charlotte , Kakogianni Maria , Kharoubi Liza , Kirkkopelto Esa , Louis Camille , Pélisséro Marielle , Perrier Mélanie , Vadori-Gauthier Nadia , Wiame Aline
Published: April 2016

This article is an edited transcript of the roundtable entitled “What is Philo-Performance?” that took place in Paris on 28 June 2014, within the framework of the “Theatre, Performance, Philosophy International Conference: Crossings and Transfers in Anglo-American Thought”. The conference was organized by Julien Alliot, Flore Garcin-Marrou, Liza Kharoubi and Anna Street from the LAPS, a French research group on performance philosophy.
Editorial - Performance Philosophy Vol 1
Authors: Cull � Maoilearca Laura
Published: April 2016

Editorial introduction for Volume 1 of Performance Philosophy
Methods of conducting effective outreach to private well owners – a literature review and model approach
Authors: Morris Lucinda , Wilson Steve , Kelly Walton
Published: April 2016

Educational outreach programs have the potential to increase the occurrence of private well testing and maintenance behaviors, but are not always able to successfully engage the intended audience and overcome their barriers to change. We conducted a review of literature regarding behavior change and risk communication to identify common barriers to private well stewardship and motivational strategies to encourage change, as well as best practices for communicating with well owners. Results indicated that no specific strategy will be appropriate for all audiences, as different groups of well owners will have different barriers to change. For this reason, educators must develop an understanding of their audience so they are able to identify the most significant barriers to change and select motivational strategies that will directly reduce barriers. Implications for private well outreach programs are discussed.
Household water insecurity, depression and quality of life among postnatal women living in urban Nepal
Authors: Aihara Yoko , Shrestha Salina , Sharma Jyoti
Published: April 2016

Objectives: This observational study aimed to assess distress related to the household water supply and to examine the relationship between household water insecurity and psychological health among Nepali postnatal women. Methods: In total, 300 women consented to participate in the study, of which 267 women were able to participate in a follow-up 1 month after discharge. We developed a household water insecurity scale (HWIS; total score range 0–24 points) by adapting the household food insecurity access scale. Results: The Cronbach's coefficient alpha for the HWIS was moderately acceptable. Psychological health was assessed in terms of postnatal depression and physical health-related quality of life (HRQOL). The median score of the HWIS was 8, and more than 60% of the participants answered that they sometimes or often worried about not having enough water, used only small amounts of water, had a lack of hygiene, and had insufficient time for childrearing. Multiple regression models showed that women with high levels of stress derived from household water insecurity had greater odds of probable depression and lower physical HRQOL scores than did women with low HWIS scores. Conclusion: The results suggest that improving water security is necessary to foster maternal psychological health in developing countries.
Measurement of selected polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) in water via ultrasound assisted emulsification–microextraction (USAEME) using low-density organic solvents
Authors: Yurdakok-Dikmen Begum , Kuzukiran Ozgur , Filazi Ayhan , Kara Erdem
Published: April 2016

Despite bans and restrictions for their adverse health effects including endocrine disruption, due to their stability in the environment, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are still of concern for their residues in several matrices. This study employed low-density ultrasound-assisted emulsification–microextraction (USAEME) to measure selected PCBs (28, 52, 101, 118, 138, 153, and 180) in water samples for gas chromatography-mass spectrometry analysis. Among tested solvents (isooctane, chloroform, hexane, and cyclohexane), 200 μL isooctane resulted in the highest yield for a 10 mL sample. The optimized method was validated and yielded recoveries of 87.29–92.83% with the limit of detection and limit of quantification (LOQ) values 3–12 ng/L and 10–40 ng/L, respectively. Twelve tap water samples collected in September 2014 were screened using this simple, rapid, and validated method. PCB concentrations in two samples were above the LOQ values; one sample contained 1,380 ng/L of PCB 118, 530 ng/L of PCB 138, and 152 ng/L of PCB 153, and the other contained 444 ng/L of PCB 138. Despite the city water supply being clean and the municipality employing all available measures to ensure clean water supply, the general public must be made aware of the regular maintenance of local water pipelines and storage tanks for the prevention of PCB contamination.
Waterborne diseases classification and relationship with social-environmental factors in Florianópolis city – Southern Brazil
Authors: Cesa M. , Fongaro G. , Barardi C. R. M.
Published: April 2016

This study aimed to investigate and classify the occurrence of waterborne diseases in Florianópolis city, Santa Catarina State, Southern Brazil and to correlate these diseases with the following social-environmental indicators of the local population: type of water supply, adequate collection and sewage treatment, areas of flooding and domestic water tank cleaning. Reports of outpatients were analyzed for surveillance of waterborne diseases during the period of 2002 to 2009. Waterborne diseases were classified into four groups: Group A: diarrheal diseases; Group B: parasitological diseases; Group C: skin diseases and Group D: eye diseases. The diarrheal, parasitological and skin diseases were the most frequently reported. Waterborne diseases belonging to Group A in all sites were correlated with other waterborne diseases groups, which can be an indicator of the circulation of other waterborne diseases. Regarding the social-environmental indicators assessed, the most correlated with waterborne diseases were the origin and quality of the water supply, followed by inadequate collection and treatment of sewage, frequent flooding, and finally the lack of cleanliness of the water reservoir. The results highlight the need for policies aiming for improvement of the sanitation service in the maintenance of human, animal and environmental health.
Evaluation by hierarchical clustering of multiple cytokine expression after phytohemagglutinin stimulation
Authors: Yang Chunhe , Du Hongwu
Published: April 2016

The hierarchical clustering method has been used for exploration of gene
expression and proteomic profiles; however, little research into its
application in the examination of expression of multiplecytokine/chemokine
responses to stimuli has been reported. Thus, little progress has been made
on how phytohemagglutinin(PHA) affects cytokine expression profiling on a
large scale in the human hematological system. To investigate the
characteristic expression pattern under PHA stimulation, Luminex, a multiplex
bead-based suspension array, was performed. The data set collected from human
peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMC) was analyzed using the hierarchical
clustering method. It was revealed that two specific chemokines (CCL3
andCCL4) underwent significantly greater quantitative changes during
induction of expression than other tested cytokines/chemokines after PHA
stimulation. This result indicates that hierarchical clustering is a useful
tool for detecting fine patterns during exploration of biological data, and
that it can play an important role in comparative studies.
High-Intensity Interval Training and Moderate-Intensity Continuous Training in Ambulatory Chronic Stroke: Feasibility Study
Authors: Boyne Pierce , Dunning Kari , Carl Daniel , Gerson Myron , Khoury Jane , Rockwell Bradley , Keeton Gabriela , Westover Jennifer , Williams Alesha , McCarthy Michael , Kissela Brett
Published: April 2016

Background

Poststroke guidelines recommend moderate-intensity, continuous aerobic training (MCT) to improve aerobic capacity and mobility after stroke. High-intensity interval training (HIT) has been shown to be more effective than MCT among healthy adults and people with heart disease. However, HIT and MCT have not been compared previously among people with stroke.

Objective

The purpose of this study was to assess the feasibility and justification for a definitive randomized controlled trial (RCT) comparing HIT and MCT in people with chronic stroke.

Design

A preliminary RCT was conducted.

Setting

The study was conducted in a cardiovascular stress laboratory and a rehabilitation research laboratory.

Patients

Ambulatory people at least 6 months poststroke participated.

Intervention

Both groups trained 25 minutes, 3 times per week, for 4 weeks. The HIT strategy involved 30-second bursts at maximum-tolerated treadmill speed alternated with 30- to 60-second rest periods. The MCT strategy involved continuous treadmill walking at 45% to 50% of heart rate reserve.

Measurements

Measurements included recruitment and attendance statistics, qualitative HIT acceptability, adverse events, and the following blinded outcome variables: peak oxygen uptake, ventilatory threshold, metabolic cost of gait, fractional utilization, fastest treadmill speed, 10-Meter Walk Test, and Six-Minute Walk Test.

Results

During the 8-month recruitment period, 26 participants consented to participate. Eighteen participants were enrolled and randomly assigned to either the HIT group (n=13) or the MCT group (n=5). Eleven out of the 13 HIT group participants attended all sessions. Participants reported that HIT was acceptable and no serious adverse events occurred. Standardized effect size estimates between groups were moderate to very large for most outcome measures. Only 30% of treadmill speed gains in the HIT group translated into overground gait speed improvement.

Limitations

The study was not designed to definitively test safety or efficacy.

Conclusions

Although further protocol optimization is needed to improve overground translation of treadmill gains, a definitive RCT comparing HIT and MCT appears to be feasible and warranted.
Responsiveness of the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) in People With Subacute Stroke
Authors: Chinsongkram Butsara , Chaikeeree Nithinun , Saengsirisuwan Vitoon , Horak Fay B. , Boonsinsukh Rumpa
Published: April 2016

Background

The reliability and convergent validity of the Balance Evaluation Systems Test (BESTest) in people with subacute stroke have been established, but its responsiveness to rehabilitation has not been examined.

Objective

The study objective was to compare the responsiveness of the BESTest with those of other clinical balance tools in people with subacute stroke.

Design

This was a prospective cohort study.

Methods

Forty-nine people with subacute stroke (mean age=57.8 years, SD=11.8) participated in this study. Five balance measures—the BESTest, the Mini-BESTest, the Berg Balance Scale, the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients, and the Community Balance and Mobility Scale (CB&M)—were used to measure balance performance before and after rehabilitation or before discharge from the hospital, whichever came first. The internal responsiveness of each balance measure was classified with the standardized response mean (SRM); changes in Berg Balance Scale scores of greater than 7 were used as the external standard for determining the external responsiveness. Analysis of the receiver operating characteristic curve was used to determine the accuracy and cutoff scores for identifying participants with balance improvement.

Results

Participants received 13.7 days (SD=9.3, range=5–44) of physical therapy rehabilitation. The internal responsiveness of all balance measures, except for the CB&M, was high (SRM=0.9–1.2). The BESTest had a higher SRM than the Mini-BESTest and the CB&M, indicating that the BESTest was more sensitive for detecting balance changes than the Mini-BESTest and the CB&M. In addition, compared with other balance measures, the BESTest had no floor, ceiling, or responsive ceiling effects. The results also indicated that the percentage of participants with no change in scores after rehabilitation was smaller with the BESTest than with the Mini-BESTest and the CB&M. With regard to the external responsiveness, the BESTest had higher accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and posttest accuracy than the Postural Assessment Scale for Stroke Patients and the CB&M for identifying participants with balance improvement. Changes in BESTest scores of 10% or more indicated changes in balance performance.

Limitations

A limitation of this study was the difference in the time periods between the first and the second assessments across participants.

Conclusions

The BESTest was the most sensitive scale for assessing balance recovery in participants with subacute stroke because of its high internal and external responsiveness and lack of floor and ceiling effects.