bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Solid Organ Transplant Recipients' Opinions of Pre- and Post-Transplant Supervised Exercise Programmes: A Brief Report
Authors: Schoo Emma , Gustaw Tanya , Barbalinardo Colleen , Rodrigues Nicole , Zameni Yalda , Mathur Sunita , Janaudis-Ferreira Tania
Published: January 2017

Purpose: Access to pre- and post-transplant supervised exercise programmes in Canada is not consistent across organ types. The opinions of solid organ transplant (SOT) recipients can contribute to the discussion among stakeholders regarding increasing the availability of supervised exercise programmes. The objective of the study was to determine Canadian SOT recipients' opinions of pre- and post-transplant supervised exercise programmes and the factors that influenced their participation. Method: An Internet-based questionnaire was distributed to members of the Canadian Transplant Association. It was part of a larger survey and examined seven items related to accessibility to, and opinion of, supervised exercise programmes. Results: A total of 35% (n=39) of respondents had attended a pre-transplant exercise programme, and 54% (n=61) had attended a post-transplant exercise programme. The majority of participants believed that a supervised exercise programme was beneficial to health and well-being. Perception of benefits, a physician's recommendation, and health status and symptoms were key influencing factors in the decision of whether to attend a pre- or post-transplant exercise programme. Conclusion: SOT recipients had positive opinions of supervised exercise programmes despite unequal access among organ groups. Some key influencing factors (e.g., a physician's recommendation) are modifiable and should be taken into consideration to encourage participation in such programmes.
Mentoring in Medicine: Introducing a structured programme in a Medical College in Delhi
Authors: Ahmad Ayesha , Elahi Arifa Anwar , Nigam Aruna , Kapoor Rohan
Published: January 2017

Objectives: To evaluate the response to mentoring amongst medical students after introduction of a structured mentorship programme.Methods: This was a cross sectional study conducted at Hamdard Institute of Medical Sciences and Research, [HIMSR] New Delhi. A pre validated confidential questionnaire, designed as both open and closed ended questions was utilised to obtain responses from a sample size of 300 students, both males and females. Our questionnaire solicited the following information: clarity of the concept to the mentee, duration of being involved in the programme, preferred mentoring model, comments on intended benefits and those obtained, frequency of meetings, forms of communication used and preferred place of interaction. All students in 1st, 2nd and 3rd year at HIMSR who agreed to participate in the study were included.Results: A total of 231 students returned their questionnaire, making the response rate of 77%. Different forms of communication were being used, of which personal meeting was most frequent. Both males and females were contacting their mentors in person. Majority of students preferred the mentorship model to be 1:1 and faculty members as mentors instead of senior students. Most of the students wanted the relationship to be mutual on both the sides, with both mentors and mentees having a say in the allocation process. There was no preference to gender for most of the students.Conclusions: The mentorship programme found good acceptance with medical students.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.29-34
The frequency of metabolic syndrome in patients with acrochordons
Authors: Kurtipek Gulcan Saylam , Duran Cevdet , Kutlu Orkide , Ataseven Arzu , Akyürek Fatma Tuncez , Kurku Huseyin , Elmas Halis
Published: January 2017

Objective: To investigate the frequency of metabolic syndrome (MetS) in patients with acrochordons.Materials and Methods: 102 patients with acrochordons and 76 controls were enrolled into the study. The presence of MetS was evaluated under the criteria NCEP-ATP III.Results and Discussion: Waist circumference (p<0.001), body mass index (p<0.001), systolic (p=0.014) and diastolic blood pressure (p<0.001), insulin (p<0.001) and triglyceride (TG) levels (p<0.001) were higher in the group with acrochordons. The presence of MetS was found as 71.6% in patients with acrochordon and 40.8% in controls (p<0.001).Conclusions: Patients with acrochordons should be evaluated in terms of the presence of MetS and its components.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.35-41
Antibiotic resistance pattern of bacteria causing urinary tract infection in a private medical college hospital, Dhaka
Authors: Siddiqua Mahmuda , Alam Ahmed Nawsher , Akter Sonia , Ferdousi Reena Saad
Published: January 2017

Background and objective: Urinary tract infection (UTI) is one of the frequently seen infections both in the world and in our country as well. Escherichia coli (E. coli) aremost frequently isolated in complicated or uncomplicated, nosocomial or community acquired urinary tract infections. To guide the empirical therapy, the resistance pattern of E. coli responsible was evaluated throughout the period in this study.Material and Method: Urine samples from outpatient / inpatient department of Ibn Sina Medical College Hospital between 1st January, 2015 and 31st December, 2015 were retrospectively analyzed. Presence of ?105 colony forming units/ml in urine culture was considered as significant for UTI. Isolated bacteria were identified by standard laboratory techniques and antibiotic susceptibility testing was performed by Kirby-Bauer disk diffusion method using Clinical Laboratory Standard Institute (CLSI) criteria.Result: A total of 271(13.4%) uropathogens were isolated. Overall E. coli accounted for 180 (66.42%) of all isolates. Resistance rates of E. coli to antimicrobial agents was demonstrated to be as follows: cefuroxime 82%, nalidaxic acid 74%, azithromycin 56%, cefotaxime52%, ceftazidime50%, cefixime 47%, cotrimoxazole 43%, ceftriaxone 41%, ciprofloxacin38%, amoxicillin- clavulanic acid 31%, cefepime30%, and low resistance which ranges from 9 to 1% included gentamycin 9%, meropenem 3%, imipenem2%, nitrofurantoin2% and amikacin 1%.Conclusion: As resistance rates show regional differences, it is necessary to regularly monitor regional resistance pattern to determine the appropriate empiric antibiotic treatment. The national antibiotic usage policies must be reorganized according to data obtained from these studies.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.42-47
Non-Fluoroscopic Uretero-Lithotripsy for Distal and Mid Ureteric Stone: Is it Safe and Feasible? Single Center Experience
Authors: Hussein Naser S , Khumasi Hussein A Al
Published: January 2017

Objective: To assess safety and feasibility of completely non-fluoroscopic ureteroscopy for treatment of mid and distal ureteric stone in term of stone free-rate and complications.Material and Methods: Over study period between January 2014 and January 2015, ninety-one complete fluoroscopy-less semirigid ureteroscopies were performed for treatment of symptomatic ureteric stones. Age, sex, stone size, location, side, operative time, auxiliary procedures, stonefree rate and complications, all were assessed. A Stone-free rate was defined as the lack of radiographic evidence of residual stone at 4 weeks. Postoperative imaging, and complications were grading according to modified Clavien classification system, which used initially to grade complications of general surgery.Results: The average age of our subjects was 32.9, with male and right side predominant, 68 % and 64.8% respectively. The average stone size and operative time were 10.07 and 32.08 respectively. Fifty six semirigid retrograde ureteroscopies were done for distal ureteric and 35 for mid ureteric stones, achieving 91.2% stone free rate, with overall intraoperative complications of 18.6%. All cases were managed on day case basis, ureters were stenting preoperatively in 37 patients and all cases were stenting with an appropriate size of double J.Conclusion: Zero fluoroscopic semirigid retrograde ureteroscopy is a safe and feasible treatment modality for management of distal and mid ureteric stones.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.48-52
Titanium elastic percutaneous nails for pediatric long bone shaft fractures: current concept
Authors: Sahu Ramji Lal , Ahmed Nadeem
Published: January 2017

Introduction: The objective of this study was to determine the effectiveness and the complications associated with elastic stable intramedullary nailing in long bone fractures in children.Methods: This study was conducted in the Department of Orthopaedic surgery in M. M. Medical College from July 2006 to November 2009. Eighty two patients were recruited from Emergency and out patient department having closed fracture of long bones of upper and lower limbs. All patients were operated under general or spinal anaethesia. All patients were followed for twelve months.Results: All children achieved union in a mean time of 10 weeks (range from 6 - 16 weeks) depending on the type of long bone. Full weight bearing was possible in a mean time of 8.8 weeks. Mean duration of hospital stay was 9.8 days. The mean follow-up period was 28 months (17-48 months). Complications were recorded in 5 (6.09%) patients and included: two entry site skin irritations, one protrusion of the wires through the skin and two delayed union. The results were excellent in 97.310% and good in 2.44% patients.Conclusion: We concluded that this technique is advantageous because of early mobilization (early weight bearing), less complication with good results and is economical.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.61-68
A review of adult head and neck soft tissue sarcoma in a tertiary centre: malaysia experience
Authors: Amiruddin Salman , Yunus Mohd Razif Muhamad , Baki Marina Mat
Published: January 2017

Background: Head and neck tissue sarcoma are rare with potential high morbidity and mortality. The purpose of the present study was to present these cases and determine the optimal treatment for adult patients with head and neck soft tissue sarcomas.Methods: It is a retrospective study of adult head and neck soft tissue sarcoma conducted in the Department of Otorhinolaryngology at Universiti Kebangsaan Malaysia Medical Centre (UKMMC) which is one of the national referral center within the period of 16 years from 1998 till 2014.Results: Fourteen cases were reviewed in which7 histopathological variations of soft tissue sarcomas were identified. Local control after surgery alone or combined with radiotherapy was obtained in 50 % of the patients which is influenced by histologic grade, tumor size, and surgical margins. Patients with high-grade tumors or positive margins have improved local control if adjuvant radiotherapy is used. Distant metastases occurred in 14.2 % of patients and the 5-year survival rate was 50 %.Conclusions: The optimal treatment for adult head and neck soft tissue sarcomas is surgery. Adjuvant radiotherapy improves outcomes for those with high-grade tumors or positive margins.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.69-76
Bowel preparation in intravenous urography doesnt have an impact on the quality of urinary tract image
Authors: Yueniwati Yuyun , Laksono Ari Eko
Published: January 2017

Purpose: The procedure of bowel preparation before intravenous urography (IVU) is still a controversial debate and it varies in each health center. Preparation is believed to reduce residual feces and intestinal gas thus improving the quality of visualization of the urinary tract. On the other hand, many radiology and urology studies did not mention the need for preparation before IVU procedure. Preparation before IVU, especially giving laxative agent, gives many adverse effects to the patient. The purpose of this study was to know the difference in quality visualization of the urinary tract in IVU patients with and without preparation in Saiful Anwar hospital Malang.Materials and Methods: A total of 20 patients participated in this study and they were divided into two groups in which each group consists of 10 patients with and without preparation before IVU. Abdominal x-ray and IVU were performed on all patients. Urinary tract visualization quality assessment was done through two methods of assessing the quality of the image by the European Commission Guidelines and of assessing the residue of feces/ intestinal gas based on Dadkhahs studies.Results: Results showed the total score of image quality and the residue of feces/intestinal gas was not significantly different in the abdominal plain photo of IVU patients with and without preparation (Mann-Whitney test (p=1.000) and Independent T-test (p=0.5111)).Conclusions: In conclusion, there was no difference in the quality of visualization of the urinary tract in IVU patients with and without preparation in Saiful Anwar hospital Malang.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.107-114
Dental Anomalies and Gender Dimorphism in Tooth Size of Malay Patients
Authors: Bunyarit SS , Asma AAA , Rahman NA Abdul , Adri SS , Rahman MM
Published: January 2017

Objectives: To determine the prevalence of dental anomalies, sexual dimorphism and antimere differences of tooth size of Malay in Malaysia.Methods: Orthodontic patients for the years 2008-2010 were selected. Among these two hundred patients were selected based on file records. Their panoramic radiographs were examined. The prevalence of various dental anomalies was determined. Mesiodistal and buccolingual diameters of the teeth were measured using electronic calipers with accuracy of up to 0.01mm. Analysis was carried out using SPSS statistical package version 18.0 (2009).Results: In the Malay patients the frequency of hypodontia was 7.5%, followed by hyperdontia (2%), microdontia, dens evaginatus and short root were 1%, respectively. In addition, their macrodontia, germination and dilaceration were 0.5% , while the remaining 86% did not display any dental anomalies. This study demonstrated greater tooth sizes in male compared to female subjects except for buccolingual site of upper canine and lower incisors. Greatest dimorphism in mesiodistal dimension was noted in the lower canine while buccolingual dimension was presented by upper lateral incisor. It was found that there was no significant difference (P>0.05) in tooth measurements for right and left antimeres observed for the majority of tooth classes.Conclusion: In the Malay subjects, hypodontia was the commonest dental anomaly. The Malay males had greater tooth sizes than their female counterparts. There were almost no significant antimere differences in tooth sizes.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.115-121
Dual Signaling of the Fas Receptor: on Saudi Patients with Chronic Leukemia
Authors: Alenzi Faris Q , Alonizi Fozah SM , Ballow Amani A , Alanazi Meaad Q , Shaya Dalal S Al , Alanazi Fahad G , Bagader Omar , Alanazi Abdulrahman Q
Published: January 2017

Introduction: Purifed CD34+ cells and cultured colony forming unit-granulocyte and macrophage (CFU-GM) from human bone marrow were utilized to examine the role of Fas/FasL and caspase-8interactionsin the regulation of myelopoiesis.Methods: Fas and FasL expression in CD34+ cells and in day 14 CFU-GM were measured by RTPCR and immunofluorescence in each case. The functional tests for the CFU-GM were the standard settlement test and the proliferative limit of CFU-GM was measured by replating the essential cells and monitoring auxiliary colony development.Results: Treatment of CFU-GM with IETD significantly increased, the proliferative limit, while the Fas mAb resulted in decreased the Fas and FasL expression were measuredutilizing RT-PCR and immunofluorescence individually.Conclusion: Fas, FasL, and caspase attenuationplay important rolesin the control of myelopoiesis.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.122-126
Type ii osteoporosis pathogenesis as a result of secondary edentulous
Authors: Oleksiy Bida , Vitaliy Bida , Yevhen Kuzenko , Olena Diachenko , Mykola Lyndin , Olena Hudymenko
Published: January 2017

Purpose: The main sign of osteoporosis is a significant decrease of bone mass that is caused by imbalance between resorption and osteogenesis. There are two main factors that contribute to the genesis of this illness. All these factors bring todecrease of thickness of bone and its destruction doesnt depend on their combination. Therefore, our objective was to study the changes in the alveolar bones of elderly people in secondary edentulous.

Material and Methods: For deeper study of morphological changes in segments of teeth we have conducted pathological researches of biopsy material of dead patients at the Center of Pathological Studies of the Sumy Medical University. The first group of patients included n=7 who died of various somatic abnormalities and had no significant atherosclerotic lesions. The second group includes segments of teeth and jaws of patients n=7 who died from complications of atherosclerosis In our studies, we used: Histological study; Fluorescence microscopy; Immunohistochemistry; Microphotography and image analysis; Mathematical calculations.

Results: Based on the statistical analysis we can see a downward trend in the number of osteocytes in trabeculae of the periapical third part of the tooth at atherosclerosis 26.85±7.44; P=0.05. We can also see the dependence of trabecular thinning of toothless area of the alveolar bone 226.57±70.53; P=0.02 from losing of teeth against the background of atherosclerosis with hypertension. The osteopontin expression and fluorescencetion of toothless bone area also tend to decrease in atherosclerosis and hypertension 42.81±16.24; P=0.048.

Conclusion: The cause of tooth loss is difficult to determine, since it is not clear whether it is due to osteoporosis or some forms of periodontitis in patients. The bone resorption has actived by reactive oxygen species both during atherosclerosis. Through our research found out that in order to reduce changes in the toothless bone we should reduce the pressure on chewing toothless alveolar sprout by dental implants.

Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.127-137
Dyspnea on swallowing: a case of thyroid lymphoma
Authors: Lawal Basheer , Mohamad Irfan , Zawawi Norzaliana , Othman Nor Hayati , Husin Azlan
Published: January 2017

Purpose: The main sign of osteoporosis is a significant decrease of bone mass that is caused by imbalance between resorption and osteogenesis. There are two main factors that contribute to the genesis of this illness. All these factors bring todecrease of thickness of bone and its destruction doesnt depend on their combination. Therefore, our objective was to study the changes in the alveolar bones of elderly people in secondary edentulous.Material and Methods: For deeper study of morphological changes in segments of teeth we have conducted pathological researches of biopsy material of dead patients at the Center of Pathological Studies of the Sumy Medical University. The first group of patients included n=7 who died of various somatic abnormalities and had no significant atherosclerotic lesions. The second group includes segments of teeth and jaws of patients n=7 who died from complications of atherosclerosis In our studies, we used: Histological study; Fluorescence microscopy; Immunohistochemistry; Microphotography and image analysis; Mathematical calculations.Results: Based on the statistical analysis we can see a downward trend in the number of osteocytes in trabeculae of the periapical third part of the tooth at atherosclerosis 26.85±7.44; P=0.05. We can also see the dependence of trabecular thinning of toothless area of the alveolar bone 226.57±70.53; P=0.02 from losing of teeth against the background of atherosclerosis with hypertension. The osteopontin expression and fluorescencetion of toothless bone area also tend to decrease in atherosclerosis and hypertension 42.81±16.24; P=0.048.Conclusion: The cause of tooth loss is difficult to determine, since it is not clear whether it is due to osteoporosis or some forms of periodontitis in patients. The bone resorption has actived by reactive oxygen species both during atherosclerosis. Through our research found out that in order to reduce changes in the toothless bone we should reduce the pressure on chewing toothless alveolar sprout by dental implants.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.138-141
An unusual case of duplicated popliteal vein and its effect on the diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis
Authors: P Ashwini Aithal , Kumar Naveen , B Satheesha Nayak , Shetty Surekha D , Patil Jyothsna , S Swamy Ravindra
Published: January 2017

Background: We report in here a very unusual appearance of a duplicated popliteal vein found in a male cadaver. Popliteal vein is usually a single vein present deep in the popliteal fossa which is formed by the union of venae comitantes of the anterior and posterior tibial arteries.Methods: Anatomical variation in the lower extremity was identified during routine dissection of human cadaver.Result: We noted the presence of unilateral doublepopliteal veins which were formed at the lower end of popliteal fossa. Both the veins were found closely related to the popliteal artery and both of them received tributaries. In the adductor canal both the popliteal veins joined to form the femoral vein.Conclusion: It has been believed that such venous variations in lower limbs have important implications for diagnostic ultrasonography imaging in cases which are suspected with deep vein thrombosis. Thus this case reported in here is very helpful for surgeons for proper diagnosis and management of deep vein thrombosis and also to radiologists to aid in the interpretation of venograms.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.150-153
A Rare Case of Ataxia Telangiectasia in Malaysia
Authors: Ashari Noor Suryani Mohd , Hamid Wan Zuraida Wan Abdul
Published: January 2017

Ataxia telangiectasia is a primary immunodeficiency disease that affects multiple organs systems. Affected patients typically manifest ataxia, immune function abnormalities, sinopulmonary infections, and telangiectasia. Ataxia telangiectasia is listed as a rare disease by the Office of Rare Diseases [ORD] of the National Institutes of Health [NIH]. Because ataxia telangiectasia is so rare, doctors may not be familiar with the symptoms, or methods of making a diagnosis. Not all children develop in the same manner or at the same rate; it may be some years before ataxia telangiectasia is properly diagnosed. We report a rare case of ataxia telangiectasia in Malaysia who was diagnosed only at the age of 10 years.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.154-156
Multifocal primary tumour with lesions in prostate gland and urinary bladder: clinical case
Authors: Romaniuk Anatolii , Lyndin Mykola , Sikora Vladyslav , Piddubnyi Artem , Budko Ganna , Andrii Volkogon
Published: January 2017

In some cases a combination of several malignant tumours in one person can be observed. In such case it is the multifocal primary tumour (MPT). The tumours combination in genitourinary system is rare phenomenon, including a rare combination of prostate and urinary bladder cancers. These pathologies can be caused by both the endogenous factors - age, gender, heredity, inflammatory and proliferative processes, abnormal inclusions (calculi and amyloids) and exogenous factors, among which the leading cause is the environmental pollution (heavy metals salts and others), bad habits, occupational hazards, oncogenic viruses and ionizing radiation. A 76 - year- old male patient, Ukrainian, was hospitalized at urology department with complaints on pollakiuria, frequent urinary retention, haematuria appeared about 1 month before. After examination of patient the preliminary diagnosis was made: «Urinary bladder cancer, acute urinary retention, macrohematuria and posthemorrhagic anemia». Based on the histological and immunohistochemical examinations, the final diagnosis was determined: combined malignant tumours - acinar adenocarcinoma of prostate index 9 (5 + 4) accordimg to D.F. Gleason and invasive urothelial carcinoma of the urinary bladder. This clinical case demonstrates that the probability of combined oncologic cancer pathology with lesions in one system is rather high. Therefore, in order to exclude the cancer combinations, the patients with malignant tumour in the genitourinary system should undergo a complex examination.Bangladesh Journal of Medical Science Vol.16(1) 2017 p.161-165
A Fault Detection and Data Reconciliation Algorithm in Technical Processes with the Help of Haar Wavelets Packets
Authors: Mercorelli Paolo
Published: January 2017

This article is focused on the detection of errors using an approach that is signal based. The proposed algorithm considers several criteria: soft, hard and very hard recognition error. After the recognition of the error, the error is replaced. In this sense, different strategies for data reconciliation are associated with the proposed criteria error detection. Algorithms in several industrial software platforms are used for detecting errors of sensors. Computer simulations confirm the validation of the presented applications. Results with actual sensor measurements in industrial processes are presented.
Toward Personalized Vibrotactile Support When Learning Motor Skills
Authors: Santos Olga
Published: January 2017

Personal tracking technologies allow sensing of the physical activity carried out by people. Data flows collected with these sensors are calling for big data techniques to support data collection, integration and analysis, aimed to provide personalized support when learning motor skills through varied multisensorial feedback. In particular, this paper focuses on vibrotactile feedback as it can take advantage of the haptic sense when supporting the physical interaction to be learnt. Despite each user having different needs, when providing this vibrotactile support, personalization issues are hardly taken into account, but the same response is delivered to each and every user of the system. The challenge here is how to design vibrotactile user interfaces for adaptive learning of motor skills. TORMES methodology is proposed to facilitate the elicitation of this personalized support. The resulting systems are expected to dynamically adapt to each individual user’s needs by monitoring, comparing and, when appropriate, correcting in a personalized way how the user should move when practicing a predefined movement, for instance, when performing a sport technique or playing a musical instrument.
Manganese and Zinc Spinel Ferrites Blended with Multi-Walled Carbon Nanotubes as Microwave Absorbing Materials
Authors: Teber Ahmet , Cil Kadir , Yilmaz Turgut , Eraslan Busra , Uysal Dilara , Surucu Gokce , Baykal Abdul , Bansal Rajeev
Published: January 2017

Magnetic and dielectric materials can be blended to enhance absorption properties at microwave frequencies, although the materials may have relatively weak attenuation capabilities by themselves. The specific goal of this work is to enhance microwave absorption properties of materials with interesting dielectric behavior by blending them with magnetic materials based on transition metals. The synthesized Mn1−xZnxFe2O4 (x = 0.0 and 1.0) spinel ferrite nanoparticles (MZF NPs) were blended with commercial multi-walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) in various proportions with a binder matrix of paraffin. This simple and efficient process did not cause a significant variation in the energy states of MWCNTs. MZF NPs were synthesized with a citric acid assisted sol–gel method. Their electromagnetic characteristics and microwave absorption properties were investigated. These properties were derived from the microwave scattering parameters measured via the transmission line technique by using a vector network analyzer (VNA) in conjunction with an X band waveguide system. The return loss (RL) values of the samples were obtained from the electromagnetic constitutive parameters (permittivity and permeability). The results indicate that the minimum RL value and the bandwidth change significantly with the amount of ferrite material in the blend. These results encourage further development of MWCNTs blended with ferrite nanoparticles for broadband microwave applications.
Practices for Reducing Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Rice Production in Northeast Thailand
Authors: Arunrat Noppol , Pumijumnong Nathsuda
Published: January 2017

Land management practices for rice productivity and carbon storage have been a key focus of research leading to opportunities for substantial greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation. The effects of land management practices on global warming potential (GWP) and greenhouse gas intensity (GHGI) from rice production within the farm gate were investigated. For the 13 study sites, soil samples were collected by the Land Development Department in 2004. In 2014, at these same sites, soil samples were collected again to estimate the soil organic carbon sequestration rate (SOCSR) from 2004 to 2014. Surveys were conducted at each sampling site to record the rice yield and management practices. The carbon dioxide (CO2), methane (CH4), and nitrous oxide (N2O) emissions, Net GWP, and GHGI associated with the management practices were calculated. Mean rice yield and SOCSR were 3307 kg·ha−1·year−1 and 1173 kg·C·ha−1·year−1, respectively. The net GWP varied across sites, from 819 to 5170 kg·CO2eq·ha−1·year−1, with an average value of 3090 kg·CO2eq·ha−1·year−1. GHGI ranged from 0.31 to 1.68 kg·CO2eq·kg−1 yield, with an average value of 0.97 kg·CO2eq·kg−1 yield. Our findings revealed that the amount of potassium (potash, K2O) fertilizer application rate is the most significant factor explaining rice yield and SOCSR. The burning of rice residues in the field was the main factor determining GHGI in this area. An effective way to reduce GHG emissions and contribute to sustainable rice production for food security with low GHGI and high productivity is avoiding the burning of rice residues.
Thioridazine: A Non-Antibiotic Drug Highly Effective, in Combination with First Line Anti-Tuberculosis Drugs, against Any Form of Antibiotic Resistance of Mycobacterium tuberculosis Due to Its Multi-Mechanisms of Action
Authors: Amaral Leonard , Viveiros Miguel
Published: January 2017

This review presents the evidence that supports the use of thioridazine (TZ) for the therapy of a pulmonary tuberculosis infection regardless of its antibiotic resistance status. The evidence consists of in vitro and ex vivo assays that demonstrate the activity of TZ against all encountered Mycobacterium tuberculosis (Mtb) regardless of its antibiotic resistance phenotype, as well as in vivo as a therapy for mice infected with multi-drug resistant strains of Mtb, or for human subjects infected with extensively drug resistant (XDR) Mtb. The mechanisms of action by which TZ brings about successful therapeutic outcomes are presented in detail.
Response Surface Methodology and Aspen Plus Integration for the Simulation of the Catalytic Steam Reforming of Ethanol
Authors: Cifuentes Bernay , Figueredo Manuel , Cobo Martha
Published: January 2017

The steam reforming of ethanol (SRE) on a bimetallic RhPt/CeO2 catalyst was evaluated by the integration of Response Surface Methodology (RSM) and Aspen Plus (version 9.0, Aspen Tech, Burlington, MA, USA, 2016). First, the effect of the Rh–Pt weight ratio (1:0, 3:1, 1:1, 1:3, and 0:1) on the performance of SRE on RhPt/CeO2 was assessed between 400 to 700 °C with a stoichiometric steam/ethanol molar ratio of 3. RSM enabled modeling of the system and identification of a maximum of 4.2 mol H2/mol EtOH (700 °C) with the Rh0.4Pt0.4/CeO2 catalyst. The mathematical models were integrated into Aspen Plus through Excel in order to simulate a process involving SRE, H2 purification, and electricity production in a fuel cell (FC). An energy sensitivity analysis of the process was performed in Aspen Plus, and the information obtained was used to generate new response surfaces. The response surfaces demonstrated that an increase in H2 production requires more energy consumption in the steam reforming of ethanol. However, increasing H2 production rebounds in more energy production in the fuel cell, which increases the overall efficiency of the system. The minimum H2 yield needed to make the system energetically sustainable was identified as 1.2 mol H2/mol EtOH. According to the results of the integration of RSM models into Aspen Plus, the system using Rh0.4Pt0.4/CeO2 can produce a maximum net energy of 742 kJ/mol H2, of which 40% could be converted into electricity in the FC (297 kJ/mol H2 produced). The remaining energy can be recovered as heat.
Implementing Demons and Ratchets
Authors: Orem Peter , Orem Frank
Published: January 2017

Experimental results show that ratchets may be implemented in semiconductor and chemical systems, bypassing the second law and opening up huge gains in energy production. This paper summarizes or describes experiments and results on systems that effect demons and ratchets operating in chemical or electrical domains. One creates temperature differences that can be harvested by a heat engine. A second produces light with only heat input. A third produces harvestable electrical potential directly. These systems share creating particles in one location, destroying them in another and moving them between locations by diffusion (Brownian motion). All absorb ambient heat as they produce other energy forms. None requires an external hot and cold side. The economic and social impacts of these conversions of ambient heat to work are, of course, well-understood and huge. The experimental results beg for serious work on the chance that they are valid.
Exploring the Influence of Nature Relatedness and Perceived Science Knowledge on Proenvironmental Behavior
Authors: Obery Amanda , Bangert Arthur
Published: January 2017

This study was undertaken to investigate the factors influencing proenvironmental behavior of individuals residing in the Northern Rocky Mountains (N = 267). Measures of relatedness to nature and perceived science knowledge were collected through a convenience sample approach using multiple avenues such as city email lists, organizational newsletters, and social media channels. Analysis of the data was conducted using both partial least squares and covariance based structural equation modeling to explore the relationships between the constructs. Additionally, qualitative definitions of proenvironmental behavior were investigated in order to address potential gaps between self-reported and observed behaviors. Quantitative findings show a renewed positive connection between science education, nature relatedness, and proenvironmental behaviors. Furthermore, qualitative findings suggest positive relationships between how publicly people are willing to share their passion for the outdoors and their willingness to engage in proenvironmental behaviors.
Multi-Objective Aerodynamic and Structural Optimization of Horizontal-Axis Wind Turbine Blades
Authors: Zhu Jie , Cai Xin , Gu Rongrong
Published: January 2017

A procedure based on MATLAB combined with ANSYS is presented and utilized for the multi-objective aerodynamic and structural optimization of horizontal-axis wind turbine (HAWT) blades. In order to minimize the cost of energy (COE) and improve the overall performance of the blades, materials of carbon fiber reinforced plastic (CFRP) combined with glass fiber reinforced plastic (GFRP) are applied. The maximum annual energy production (AEP), the minimum blade mass and the minimum blade cost are taken as three objectives. Main aerodynamic and structural characteristics of the blades are employed as design variables. Various design requirements including strain, deflection, vibration and buckling limits are taken into account as constraints. To evaluate the aerodynamic performances and the structural behaviors, the blade element momentum (BEM) theory and the finite element method (FEM) are applied in the procedure. Moreover, the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA) II, which constitutes the core of the procedure, is adapted for the multi-objective optimization of the blades. To prove the efficiency and reliability of the procedure, a commercial 1.5 MW HAWT blade is used as a case study, and a set of trade-off solutions is obtained. Compared with the original scheme, the optimization results show great improvements for the overall performance of the blade.
Spread of the Introduced Sitka Spruce (Picea sitchensis) in Coastal Norway
Authors: Nygaard Per , Øyen Bernt-Håvard
Published: January 2017

Positive and negative effects on ecosystem services from plantation forestry in Europe have led to conflicts regarding non-native tree species. Sitka spruce (Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.) is the most common plantation species in northwest Europe, covering 1.3 Mha. In costal Norway, Sitka spruce was intentionally introduced and is currently occupying about 50,000 ha. Sitka spruce was blacklisted in Norway in 2012, mainly based on the risk for invasive spreading, but little quantitative documentation exists on spread. Here we quantify spread from plantations into abandoned heathland and pastures in thirteen sites where natural regeneration occurs. Spread distances and zero-square distributions related to the nearest edge of the parent stand were fitted by use of Weibull. The median expansion rate was 0.8 m·year−1 in north Norway and 4.4 m·year−1 in west Norway. The maximum establishment distance measured was 996 m. A peak in sapling density occurred within 50 m from the edge, and there was a general decrease in saplings with increasing distance. Conversely, increase in zero-squares percentages occurred with increasing distance. We argue that inclusion of abundance in assessing spread is necessary to define invasiveness. Based on spread models and prevailing forestry practices we recommend that the establishment of new Sitka spruce plantations within 200 m of protected areas should be avoided.
Social Pressure and Environmental Effects on Networks: A Path to Cooperation
Authors: Pereda María , Vilone Daniele
Published: January 2017

In this paper, we study how the pro-social impact due to the vigilance by other individuals is conditioned by both environmental and evolutionary effects. To this aim, we consider a known model where agents play a Prisoner’s Dilemma Game (PDG) among themselves and the pay-off matrix of an individual changes according to the number of neighbors that are “vigilant”, i.e., how many neighbors watch out for her behavior. In particular, the temptation to defect decreases linearly with the number of vigilant neighbors. This model proved to support cooperation in specific conditions, and here we check its robustness with different topologies, microscopical update rules and initial conditions. By means of many numerical simulations and few theoretical considerations, we find in which situations the vigilance by the others is more effective in favoring cooperative behaviors and when its influence is weaker.
Spatial Analysis of Human Health Risk Due to Arsenic Exposure through Drinking Groundwater in Taiwan’s Pingtung Plain
Authors: Liang Ching-Ping , Chien Yi-Chi , Jang Cheng-Shin , Chen Ching-Fang , Chen Jui-Sheng
Published: January 2017

Chronic arsenic (As) exposure continues to be a public health problem of major concern worldwide, affecting hundreds of millions of people. A long-term groundwater quality survey has revealed that 20% of the groundwater in southern Taiwan’s Pingtung Plain is clearly contaminated with a measured As concentration in excess of the maximum level of 10 µg/L recommended by the World Health Organization. The situation is further complicated by the fact that more than half of the inhabitants in this area continue to use groundwater for drinking. Efforts to assess the health risk associated with the ingestion of As from the contaminated drinking water are required in order to determine the priorities for health risk management. The conventional approach to conducting a human health risk assessment may be insufficient for this purpose, so this study adopts a geostatistical Kriging method to perform a spatial analysis of the health risk associated with ingesting As through drinking groundwater in the Pingtung Plain. The health risk is assessed based on the hazard quotient (HQ) and target cancer risk (TR) established by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. The results show that most areas where the HQ exceeds 1 are in the southwestern part of the study area. In addition, the high-population density townships of Daliao, Linyuan, Donggang, Linbian, Jiadong, and Fangliao presently have exceedingly high TR values that are two orders of magnitude higher than the acceptable standard. Thus, the use of groundwater for drinking in these townships should be strictly avoided. A map that delineates areas with high TR values and high population densities is provided. The findings broaden the scope of the spatial analysis of human health risk and provide a basis for improving the decision-making process.
3D Space Shift from CityGML LoD3-Based Multiple Building Elements to a 3D Volumetric Object
Authors: Ying Shen , Guo Renzhong , Yang Jie , He Biao , Zhao Zhigang , Jin Fengzan
Published: January 2017

In contrast with photorealistic visualizations, urban landscape applications, and building information system (BIM), 3D volumetric presentations highlight specific calculations and applications of 3D building elements for 3D city planning and 3D cadastres. Knowing the precise volumetric quantities and the 3D boundary locations of 3D building spaces is a vital index which must remain constant during data processing because the values are related to space occupation, tenure, taxes, and valuation. To meet these requirements, this paper presents a five-step algorithm for performing a 3D building space shift. This algorithm is used to convert multiple building elements into a single 3D volumetric building object while maintaining the precise volume of the 3D space and without changing the 3D locations or displacing the building boundaries. As examples, this study used input data and building elements based on City Geography Markup Language (CityGML) LoD3 models. This paper presents a method for 3D urban space and 3D property management with the goal of constructing a 3D volumetric object for an integral building using CityGML objects, by fusing the geometries of various building elements. The resulting objects possess true 3D geometry that can be represented by solid geometry and saved to a CityGML file for effective use in 3D urban planning and 3D cadastres.
Long Non-Coding RNA Profiling in a Non-Alcoholic Fatty Liver Disease Rodent Model: New Insight into Pathogenesis
Authors: Chen Yi , Huang Haixiu , Xu Chengfu , Yu Chaohui , Li Youming
Published: January 2017

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is one of the most prevalent chronic liver diseases worldwide with an unclear mechanism. Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) have recently emerged as important regulatory molecules. To better understand NAFLD pathogenesis, lncRNA and messenger RNA (mRNA) microarrays were conducted in an NAFLD rodent model. Potential target genes of significantly changed lncRNA were predicted using cis/trans-regulatory algorithms. Gene Ontology (GO) analysis and Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathway enrichment analysis were then performed to explore their function. In the current analysis, 89 upregulated and 177 downregulated mRNAs were identified, together with 291 deregulated lncRNAs. Bioinformatic analysis of these RNAs has categorized these RNAs into pathways including arachidonic acid metabolism, circadian rhythm, linoleic acid metabolism, peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor (PPAR) signaling pathway, sphingolipid metabolism, steroid biosynthesis, tryptophan metabolism and tyrosine metabolism were compromised. Quantitative polymerase chain reaction (qPCR) of representative nine mRNAs and eight lncRNAs (named fatty liver-related lncRNA, FLRL) was conducted and this verified previous microarray results. Several lncRNAs, such as FLRL1, FLRL6 and FLRL2 demonstrated to be involved in circadian rhythm targeting period circadian clock 3 (Per3), Per2 and aryl hydrocarbon receptor nuclear translocator-like (Arntl), respectively. While FLRL8, FLRL3 and FLRL7 showed a potential role in PPAR signaling pathway through interaction with fatty acid binding protein 5 (Fabp5), lipoprotein lipase (Lpl) and fatty acid desaturase 2 (Fads2). Functional experiments showed that interfering of lncRNA FLRL2 expression affected the expression of predicted target, circadian rhythm gene Arntl. Moreover, both FLRL2 and Arntl were downregulated in the NAFLD cellular model. The current study identified lncRNA and corresponding mRNA in NAFLD, providing new insight into the pathogenesis of NAFLD. Moreover, we identified a new lncRNA FLRL2, that might participate NAFLD pathogenesis mediated by Arntl.
Tumor Microenvironment Modulation via Gold Nanoparticles Targeting Malicious Exosomes: Implications for Cancer Diagnostics and Therapy
Authors: Roma-Rodrigues Catarina , Raposo Luís , Cabral Rita , Paradinha Fabiana , Baptista Pedro , Fernandes Alexandra
Published: January 2017

Exosomes are nanovesicles formed in the endosomal pathway with an important role in paracrine and autocrine cell communication. Exosomes secreted by cancer cells, malicious exosomes, have important roles in tumor microenvironment maturation and cancer progression. The knowledge of the role of exosomes in tumorigenesis prompted a new era in cancer diagnostics and therapy, taking advantage of the use of circulating exosomes as tumor biomarkers due to their stability in body fluids and targeting malignant exosomes’ release and/or uptake to inhibit or delay tumor development. In recent years, nanotechnology has paved the way for the development of a plethora of new diagnostic and therapeutic platforms, fostering theranostics. The unique physical and chemical properties of gold nanoparticles (AuNPs) make them suitable vehicles to pursuit this goal. AuNPs’ properties such as ease of synthesis with the desired shape and size, high surface:volume ratio, and the possibility of engineering their surface as desired, potentiate AuNPs’ role in nanotheranostics, allowing the use of the same formulation for exosome detection and restraining the effect of malicious exosomes in cancer progression.
Estrogen Enhances the Expression of the Multidrug Transporter Gene ABCG2—Increasing Drug Resistance of Breast Cancer Cells through Estrogen Receptors
Authors: Chang Fung-Wei , Fan Hueng-Chuen , Liu Jui-Ming , Fan Tai-Ping , Jing Jin , Yang Chia-Ling , Hsu Ren-Jun
Published: January 2017

Background: Multidrug resistance is a major obstacle in the successful therapy of breast cancer. Studies have proved that this kind of drug resistance happens in both human cancers and cultured cancer cell lines. Understanding the molecular mechanisms of drug resistance is important for the reasonable design and use of new treatment strategies to effectively confront cancers. Results: In our study, ATP-binding cassette sub-family G member 2 (ABCG2), adenosine triphosphate (ATP) synthase and cytochrome c oxidase subunit VIc (COX6C) were over-expressed more in the MCF-7/MX cell line than in the normal MCF7 cell line. Therefore, we believe that these three genes increase the tolerance of MCF7 to mitoxantrone (MX). The data showed that the high expression of COX6C made MCF-7/MX have more stable on mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and reactive oxygen species (ROS) expression than normal MCF7 cells under hypoxic conditions. The accumulation of MX was greater in the ATP-depleted treatment MCF7/MX cells than in normal MCF7/MX cells. Furthermore, E2 increased the tolerance of MCF7 cells to MX through inducing the expression of ABCG2. However, E2 could not increase the expression of ABCG2 after the inhibition of estrogen receptor α (ERα) in MCF7 cells. According to the above data, under the E2 treatment, MDA-MB231, which lacks ER, had a higher sensitivity to MX than MCF7 cells. Conclusions: E2 induced the expression of ABCG2 through ERα and the over-expressed ABCG2 made MCF7 more tolerant to MX. Moreover, the over-expressed ATP synthase and COX6c affected mitochondrial genes and function causing the over-expressed ABCG2 cells pumped out MX in a concentration gradient from the cell matrix. Finally lead to chemoresistance.