bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of artificial monolayer application on stored water quality at the air–water interface
Authors: Pittaway P. , Martínez-Alvarez V. , Hancock N. , Gallego-Elvira B.
Published: September 2015

Evaporation mitigation has the potential to significantly improve water use efficiency, with repeat applications of artificial monolayer formulations the most cost-effective strategy for large water storages. Field investigations of the impact of artificial monolayers on water quality have been limited by wind and wave turbulence, and beaching. Two suspended covers differing in permeability to wind and light were used to attenuate wind turbulence, to favour the maintenance of a condensed monolayer at the air/water interface of a 10 m diameter tank. An octadecanol formulation was applied twice-weekly to one of two covered tanks, while a third clean water tank remained uncovered for the 14-week duration of the trial. Microlayer and subsurface water samples were extracted once a week to distinguish impacts associated with the installation of covers, from the impact of prolonged monolayer application. The monolayer was selectively toxic to some phytoplankton, but the toxicity of hydrocarbons leaching from a replacement liner had a greater impact. Monolayer application did not increase water temperature, humified dissolved organic matter, or the biochemical oxygen demand, and did not reduce dissolved oxygen. The impact of an octadecanol monolayer on water quality and the microlayer may not be as detrimental as previously considered.
Influence of Underground Excavation of Large-Section Intercity Railway Tunnel on Adjacent Pile Foundation
Authors: Lu Junfu , Li Dongming , Ji Feng , Xu Wenlai
Published: September 2015

Three-dimensional model is established with finite difference method to simulate construction process based on
design and construction plans of existing overpass pile foundation adjacent to certain large-section railway tunnel in
Chengdu, China. Ground, isolation pile, main bridge pier and ramp pile near the tunnel are taken as research object, and
surface settlement amount, displacement change law of each pile foundation and structural mechanics property are analyzed
to further judge whether safety of adjacent overpass structure can be ensured during construction in accordance with
used tunnel design and construction plans. Research result shows that the maximum value of surface settlement amount is
13 mm, and settlement range is within 8 m at two sides of tunnel axis; and the settlement amount of pile top of main
bridge pier is greatest, referring to 47 mm. Axial force and bending moment borne by the main bridge pier are greatest,
and horizontal displacement and bending moment distribution at different positions of the main bridge pier at two sides of
the tunnel have the characteristics of right-and-left symmetry, and point of inflection is at the position being 1/3 of pile
length away from the pile top, while point of inflection of isolation pile is at the position being 2/5 of pile length away
from the pile top, and reinforcement of the pile body may be adjusted accordingly. The pile with minimum safety factor is
the isolation pile which is closest to the tunnel, and the minimum safety factor is 3.5. As displacement value of each pile
foundation is within allowed range, and safety factor meets standard requirement, so construction as per the design and
construction plan may ensure safety of adjacent overpass structure.
Test on Durability of Shield Tunnel Concrete Segment under Coupling Multi-Factors
Authors: Li Qiang , Yu Hongfa , Ma Haiyan , Chen Shudong , Liu Shuguang
Published: September 2015

To study the durability of shield tunnel concrete segment under coupling multi-factors, the durability and degradation
law of reinforced concrete segments under the joint action of carbonation, sulfate, chloride salt and stray current
was studied by accelerated environmental and direct current (DC) power simulation test. The results show that the presence
of the stray current not only accelerates the migration of chloride ions to the concrete, but also makes chlorine ion
gradually converge to the steel surface. The steel corrosion near the corrosion solution on the up surface of segment is
more serious than the steel corrosion near the carbon dioxide on the lower surface. The interaction of chlorine ions and
stray current primarily controls the durability of the segment.
Effect of Tillage and Straw Returning on Nitrogen Reserves in Summer Corn Topsoil
Authors: Ren Xiujuan , Cheng Yanan , Wu Dafu , Wang Chunhu , Chen Shilin
Published: September 2015

A field experiment with six treatments was conducted to study the nitrogen reserves in summer maize topsoil
on the north China plain. Results showed that topdressing significantly increased topsoil nitrogen reserves. Summer corn
topsoil nitrogen reserves were affected by several management measures. Shallow tillage, wheat straw no-returning and
deep intertillage at the corn seedling stage significantly decreased topsoil nitrogen reserves, while wheat straw returning,
no-tillage and biogas residue application during the wheat planting season significantly increased topsoil nitrogen reserves.
The topsoil nitrogen reserve of Treatment 5 (straw returning + biogas residue + no-tillage + no-intertillage at the
corn seedling stage) (biogas residue applied in the wheat season) increased by 629.55 kg/ha in the corn season. In Treatment
2 (straw returning + no-tillage + no-intertillage at corn seedling stage), topsoil nitrogen reserve increased by 445.2
kg/ha. Topsoil nitrogen storage showed the largest decrease in Treatment 3 (straw returning + no-tillage + intertillage at
corn seedling stage), with a reduction of 1283.85 kg/ha. The topsoil N storage of Treatment 4 (straw returning + shallow
(spin) tillage + no-intertillage at corn seedling) stage, Treatment 1 (straw no-returning + no-tillage + no-intertillage at corn
seedling stage) and Treatment 3 (straw returning + no-tillage + intertillage at corn seedling stage) decreased by 935.7
kg/ha, 399.3 kg/ha and 351.9 kg/ha, respectively.
Study on Influencing Zone of Thermal Bridge of Corner Column in Self-insulation System
Authors: Dai Shaobin , Zhang Yichao , Huang Jun , Ni Qingrong
Published: September 2015

The two-dimensional steady heat transfer of corner column is analyzed using ANSYS, moreover, influencing
zone of thermal bridge and heat loss in influencing zone is analyzed quantitatively. Research shows that when the thickness
of insulation layer is more than 20mm, influencing zone of thermal bridge is about 160mm, and additional heat flow
in influencing zone accounts for more than 20% of additional heat flow in thermal bridge.
Experiment Study of Loess-filled Embankment under Dynamic Compaction
Authors: Han Yunshan , Dong Yanli , Wang Yuanlong , Duan Wei , Qin Weihua
Published: September 2015

To investigate the dynamic compaction mechanism of loess-filled embankment, a computational model of unit
volume compaction effort was proposed as compared with the compaction test. The energy level of dynamic compaction
used in actual projects was also considered. The differences between the compaction test and the unit volume compaction
effort in the actual projects were studied. And also, the unit volume compaction efforts of the main tamping point and the
whole reinforcement scope were analyzed. It can be drawn out that the compaction criterion should be chosen based on
the water content of loess on site. Based on the model test, the laws of acceleration, velocity and displacement under the
dynamic impact of hammer on the loess-filled embankment were analyzed in our study. The whole process also perfectly
explained the movement history of hammer under dynamic compaction and the work-energy conversion efficiency of dynamic
compaction.
Study and Analysis of Human Survival Parameters in Mine Refuge Station
Authors: Zhe Yang , Longzhe Jin , Shu Wang
Published: September 2015

In order to study life support key techniques in mine refuge station, test the clinical emergency response of participants
and human survival parameters in rescue state. A manned test with 50 miners for 48h in a real underground refuge
station was conducted in Guilaizhuang gold mine. The experiment simulated rescue living environment of human and
consisted of three stages (the passive stage, the compressed air supplying stage, and the compressed O supplying stage).
By monitoring environmental concentrations of O2, CO2, temperature, relative humidity, and human activity states during
the test, the O2 consumption, CO2 production and respiration quotient was obtained and analysed in different activities,
time quantum and O2 concentration. On the basis, the minimum air supply volumes for the survival of test personnel
were determined. That is 0.067m/min per person and is far lower than the national standard 0.3m/min per person.
During the test, no people experienced discomfort by health check and questionnaire. It is expected that the conclusions
provide an important reference for the design of underground refuge stations and mine emergency rescue.
Numerical Simulation of a Subway Station Structure Subjected to Terrorism Bombing
Authors: Yan Qiushi
Published: September 2015

Subway stations are important means of transportation and main targets attacked by terrorists. In order to study
the subway station response and damage subjected to blast loading, numerical simulation is carried out to estimate a subway
station in beijing. An “explosive-air-structure ” dynamic interactive numerical model is built for the blast dynamic
analysis of subway station subjected to blast. The patterns of damage about column are compared in different charges of
explosive. The damages of concrete and reforcing bar in column are discussed. Although the column near the explosive is
destoried under the charge of 30kg TNT, The calculations showns that it’s safe for the subway station to subject to blast
loading under the charge of 30kg TNT. The local damage of column influence collapse of the station little. The dynamtic
response of the structure is given to support the protection on the subway station against terrorism bombing.
The Reform and Development of the Research on the Management System of Small Scale Water Conservancy Project Counties Taking Jiangsu Suqian County as an Example of a Water Conservancy Pro-ject Management
Authors: Xiang Jie
Published: September 2015

With the rapid development of social economy, small water conservancy projects have become an important infrastructure
for social development [1]. Jiangsu Suqian County’s water conservancy project management is relatively
backward therefore; the existing infrastructure lacks maintenance and has been constantly attenuated. The lack of water
conservancy project management has brought great hidden dangers for the national economy, therefore, in order to fundamentally
solve the problem, a huge sum of money is required to fully utilize the facilities of small water conservancy
project. Therefore, it is an urgent need to promote small-scale water conservancy project management system reform. This
paper mainly focused on Jiangsu Suqian County’s water conservancy project management as an example, and analyzed
the management situation and the existing problems. Moreover, the study also improved the management system of small
water conservancy project, by making necessary reforms in the project , and by putting forward principles, objectives and
key measures which have practical significance .
Experimental Research on the Hydration Heat Temperature Field of
Hollow Concrete Piers
Authors: Peng Jun , Tang Chunping , Zhang Liangliang , Saeed Ayad Thabit
Published: September 2015

Measuring points were observed continuously to reveal the hydration heat temperature distribution of hollow
concrete bridge pier. The results showed that as the thickness of the pier increased, the central temperature of the pier increased
significantly due to hydration and the heat was difficult to be dissipated. The hydration temperature accounted for
up to 70% of the maximum temperature rise during 20 h and reached the maximum temperature at 24 h after pouring the
concrete. There was a jump value between the central temperature and surface temperature in a short period after removing
the framework. The jumping was the most dangerous moment for the cracking of pier surfaces. Therefore, the formwork
removal time has to be determined prudently and corresponding measures have to be conducted to reduce the possibility
of pier surface cracking.
Differences in macro- and microelement contents in milk and yoghurt
Authors: Bilandzic Nina , Sedak Marija , Djokic Maja , Bozic Djurdjica , Solomun-Kolanovic Bozica , Varenina Ivana
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to determine the concentration of macroelements
(Ca, Na, K, Mg) and essential elements (Zn, Fe, Se, Cu) in milk and yoghurt
collected from the Croatian market. Inductively coupled plasma-optical
emission spectrometry was used as an analytical technique. Mean
concentrations measured in milk and yoghurt were (mg/kg): Ca 1406.9 and
1153.8, K 1995.5 and 1526.5, Na 608.3 and 519.2, Mg 136.4 and 108.0, Zn 3.92
and 3.48, Fe 0.332 and 0.231, Cu 0.005 and 0.124. Significantly higher
concentrations of Ca, K, Na and Cu (p<0.01-p<0.001) were found in milk than
in yoghurt. The element concentrations measured in milk, with the exception
of higher K and Na levels, were in agreement with the literature data.
Variations in the content of all elements in yoghurt were found in comparison
to data from other countries. These results represent the first data on
macro- and microelements from the Croatian market. The variations found in
comparison to other countries suggest that unique processes are utilized in
the production of yoghurt products.
Interrelationships and genetic analysis of seed yield and morphological traits in mini core collection of Iranian landrace, breeding lines and improved chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) cultivars
Authors: Mohammadi Khosro , Talebi Reza
Published: September 2015

To determine the association between genetic parameters and morphological
traits in chickpea (Cicer arietinum L.) genotypes, a field experiment was
conducted with 49 different landrace, breeding lines and cultivated chickpea
genotypes using a 7?7 lattice square design with 2 replications in the
2012-2013 growing season. Genetic parameters including genetic, environmental
and phenotypic variances; coefficients of variation; heritability;
correlation coefficients; factor analysis and path coefficients were
estimated, and cluster analysis was performed. High heritability values
observed in measured traits indicating that these traits are controlled
mainly by additive genes and that selection of such traits may be effective
for improving seed yield. Number of seeds per plant, 100-seed weight and
plant biomass had a positive direct effect on seed yield. These traits also
had positive and highly significant phenotypic correlations with seed yield.
Using principal component (PC) analysis, the first three PCs with eigenvalues
more than 1 contributed 70.94% of the variability among accessions. The
germplasm were grouped into 3 clusters. Each cluster had some specific
characteristics of its own and the cluster I was clearly separated from
cluster II and III. Overall the results, it can be concluded that seed yield
in chickpea can be improved by selecting an ideotype having greater number of
seeds per plant, 100-seed weight and plant biomass.
Killer-cell immunoglobulin-like receptor genes linkage disequilibrium analysis in population of Vojvodina
Authors: Vojvodic Svetlana , Ademovic-Sazdanic D.
Published: September 2015

Killer Immunoglobulin-like Receptors (KIRs) form a group of regulatory
molecules that modulate cytolytic activity of natural killer cells and T
cells through interaction with specific human leukocyte antigen (HLA)
molecules on target cells. KIRs are encoded by the family of 16 homologous
genes that vary substantially between haplotypes and display sequence
polymorphism with allelic variation that also contributes to diversity within
the complex. The aim of the study is to estimate two locus linkage
disequilibrium for 16 KIR loci. In this study, we report the evaluation of
KIR gene content, allele, haplotype and genotype frequencies in 175 unrelated
healthy individuals from Vojvodina who were KIR typed by polymerase chain
reaction-sequence specific primers genotyping assay. The linkage
disequilibrium (LD) was studied at the structural level (presence or absence
of 16 KIR genes). Our results revealed that linkage disequilibrium is present
between telomeric gene pairs KIR2DL1~KIR2DL4, KIR2DP1~KIR2DL4,
KIR2DP1~KIR3DL1, KIR2DL1~KIR3DL2, KIR2DP1~KIR3DL2, KIR2DL4~KIR3DL1,
KIR2DL4~KIR2DS4, KIR2DL4~KIR3DL2 where (r2=1), but positive association
between KIR genes, with higher observed than expected haplotype frequencies
were observed for KIR3DS1~KIR2DS1 and KIR2DL5~KIR2DS1 pair of genes
(r2=0.646) and (r2=0.371), respectively. Thirty-eight different genotypes
were identified, where 12% of the individuals have unique genotype, present
in only one person. Our results will help to understand the genetic
background of the Vojvodina population, in illustrating the population
migration events in the northern part of Serbia, in explaining the extensive
genetic admixture amongst the different ethnic groups of the region and also
in KIR-related disease studies.
A microarray gene expressions with classification using extreme learning machine
Authors: Yasodha M. , Ponmuthuramalingam P.
Published: September 2015

In the present scenario, one of the dangerous disease is cancer. It spreads
through blood or lymph to other location of the body, it is a set of cells
display uncontrolled growth, attack and destroy nearby tissues, and
occasionally metastasis. In cancer diagnosis and molecular biology, a
utilized effective tool is DNA microarrays. The dominance of this technique
is recognized, so several open doubt arise regarding proper examination of
microarray data. In the field of medical sciences, multicategory cancer
classification plays very important role. The need for cancer classification
has become essential because the number of cancer sufferers is increasing. In
this research work, to overcome problems of multicategory cancer
classification an improved Extreme Learning Machine (ELM) classifier is used.
It rectify problems faced by iterative learning methods such as local minima,
improper learning rate and over fitting and the training completes with high
speed.
Determination of the best indirect selection criteria in Iranian durum wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) genotypes under irrigated and drought stress conditions
Authors: Golparvar Ahmad , Gheisari Mohammad , Naderi Davoud , Mehrabi Ali , Hadipanah Amin , Salehi Saeed
Published: September 2015

In order to evaluate and classify morphological and morpho-physiological
traits of durum wheat genotypes in drought and irrigated conditions 200 durum
wheat genotypes were sown in modify augmented design with four replications
during 2013- 2014 farming season. Two replications were considered as drought
condition and two as irrigated. Factor analysis based on principal component
analysis method and varimax rotation indicated that four important factors
accounted for about 87 and 92 percent of the total variation among traits in
drought and irrigated conditions, respectively. In drought stress condition,
the first factor assigned 37 percent of total variation between traits and
was significantly related with spike yield and it?s components. Therefore,
this factor was regarded as spike seed yield factor. Other factors in drought
stress condition accounted for 22, 16 and 12 percent of variation between
traits and were entitled as plant seed yield, spike density and assimilate
transmission factors, respectively. In irrigated condition, the first factor
assigned 36 percent of total variation between traits and was significantly
related with traits plant and spike seed yield, plant and spike harvest
index, No. seed/spike and plant height. This factor was regarded as plant
seed yield factor. Other factors in irrigated condition accounted for 24, 18
and 14 percent of variation between traits and were entitled as production,
assimilate transmission and spike density factors, respectively. Overall,
results revealed effect of different environments on extracted factors,
percent of variation accounted for by factors and traits related with each
factor.
Analysis of intra-population variability of bald cypress (Taxodium distichum L. Rich.) in seed stand near Backa Palanka using RAPD markers
Authors: Popovic Vladan , Lucic Aleksandar , Ristic Danijela , Rakonjac Ljubinko , Hadrovic Sabahudin , Mladenovic-Drinic Snezana
Published: September 2015

The analysis of Bald cypress genetic variability at the level of test trees
was performed using RAPD (Random Amlified Polymorphic DNA) markers. RAPD
analysis was performed on 20 test trees with 13 primers. A total of ten
primers gave a clear picture while three primers amplified weakly. 60 is a
total number of detected bands obtained by RAPD analysis with 10 selected
primers, and the average number of bands is 6. Based on presence/absence of
RAPD fragments among all 20 Bald cypress test trees were calculated
similarity coefficients by Dice and they range from 0.73 to 1. Based on
similarity coefficients was performed the cluster analysis and results were
presented as a dendrogram. All 20 test trees were grouped into two
sub-clusters. Test trees 1, 4 and 11 were grouped in the first sub-cluster
while other test trees were grouped in the second sub-cluster. By analysis of
relations within every sub-cluster and sub-sub-cluster the existence of
genetic distances between observed test trees can be noticed. The greatest
similarity is between test trees 2, 12, 15 and 18. The results of genetic
similarity and distance between observed test trees indicate the overwhelming
presence of genetic diversity.
Handedness and phenotypic characteristics of the head and face
Authors: Cvetkovic Milena , Vasiljevic Perica
Published: September 2015

Craniofacial characteristics are used to identify similarities and
differences between human populations or within a single population. The aim
of this study is to provide data on the differences/similarities between two
groups of subjects, left-handed and right-handed children, based on the
parameters that determine the phenotypic characteristics of the head and
face: head dimensions, face dimensions, hair color, eye color and earlobe
shape. The study participants included 1354 students aged 7 to 15 years from
regular schools of southeastern Serbia. The instruments used include: the
Edinburgh Handedness Questionnaire for handedness determination, the
cephalometer, and the questionnaire. 135 students (9.97%) were identified as
left-handed, and the differences in the observed parameters were recorded
between left-handed and right-handed girls in relation to the cephalic index,
nasal index, head breadth, face breadth, and eye color.
DNA repair gene XRCC3 241Met variant and breast cancer susceptibility of Azeri population in Iranian
Authors: Gohari-Lasaki Sahar , Gharesouran Jalal , Ghojazadeh Morteza , Montazeri Vahid , Saadatian Hakimeh , Ardebili Seyyed
Published: September 2015

DNA-repair systems are essential for repairing damage that occurs when there
is recombination between homologous chromosomes. The gene XRCC3 (X-ray cross
complementing group 3) encodes a member of the RecA/Rad51-related protein
family that participates in homologous recombination to maintain chromosome
stability and repair DNA damage. The Thr241Met XRCC3-18067C>T, rs861539)
substitution, a C to T transition at codon 241 in exon7, thus plays critical
roles in cancer development. The aim of this study was association between
XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism and risk of sporadic breast cancer in Azari
population. We analysed DNA samples from 100 sporadic breast cancer patients
and 100 healthy women, for XRCC3 Thr241Met polymorphism using PCR-RFLP.
Genotype specific risks were tested using chi-test with 95% confident
intervals. Frequency of Thr/Thr at codon 241was 69% in controls and 70% in
patients, Thr/Met frequency was 22% in controls and 13 % in patients, the
Met/Met genotype was 9% incontrols and 17% in patients. No correlation
between the genotype and allele distribution and increased susceptibility for
breast Cancer. Our results suggested that in pre-menopausal women, breast
cancer riskis not significantly associated with rs861539 in Azari population.
Anthropogenetic variability in the groups of homo- and heterosexually oriented individuals
Authors: Cvjeticanin Suzana
Published: September 2015

This population-genetic study compares morphophysiological and genetic
variability in a group of homosexually oriented individuals from Serbia
(N=96) with control group of heterosexual individuals (N=96) using a test of
determination of homozygously recessive characteristics in humans (HRC-test).
Results of our study revealed a statistically significant difference in the
mean values of genetic homozygosity (control group 5.0+0.2 ; homosexuals 3.4
+0.1 HRCs, out of 20 observed characteristics) the differences in the
distribution type, as well as in the variances of presence of specific
combinations of such traits. These results suggest a complex polygenic
difference between two observed systems. There is no difference in the degree
of genetic homozygosity between the genders in each tested group of
individuals. However, both homosexually oriented females and males have
significantly lower mean values of HRCs compared to female and male
heterosexuals.
Angiogenic microRNAs Linked to Incidence and Progression of Diabetic Retinopathy in Type 1 Diabetes
Authors: Zampetaki Anna , Willeit Peter , Burr Simon , Yin Xiaoke , Langley Sarah R. , Kiechl Stefan , Klein Ronald , Rossing Peter , Chaturvedi Nishi , Mayr Manuel
Published: September 2015

Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) have emerged as novel biomarkers of diabetes. The current study focuses on the role of circulating miRNAs in patients with type 1 diabetes and their association with diabetic retinopathy. A total of 29 miRNAs were quantified in serum samples (n = 300) using a nested case-control study design in two prospective cohorts of the DIabetic REtinopathy Candesartan Trial (DIRECT): PROTECT-1 and PREVENT-1. The PREVENT-1 trial included patients without retinopathy at baseline; the PROTECT-1 trial included patients with nonproliferative retinopathy at baseline. Two miRNAs previously implicated in angiogenesis, miR-27b and miR-320a, were associated with incidence and with progression of retinopathy: the odds ratio per SD higher miR-27b was 0.57 (95% CI 0.40, 0.82; P = 0.002) in PREVENT-1, 0.78 (0.57, 1.07; P = 0.124) in PROTECT-1, and 0.67 (0.50, 0.92; P = 0.012) combined. The respective odds ratios for higher miR-320a were 1.57 (1.07, 2.31; P = 0.020), 1.43 (1.05, 1.94; P = 0.021), and 1.48 (1.17, 1.88; P = 0.001). Proteomics analyses in endothelial cells returned the antiangiogenic protein thrombospondin-1 as a common target of both miRNAs. Our study identifies two angiogenic miRNAs, miR-320a and miR-27b, as potential biomarkers for diabetic retinopathy.
Prospective Association of GLUL rs10911021 With Cardiovascular Morbidity and Mortality Among Individuals With Type 2 Diabetes: The Look AHEAD Study
Authors:   The Look AHEAD Research Group
Published: September 2015

Genetic studies have identified a glutamate-ammonia ligase gene (GLUL) polymorphism associated with cardiovascular disease morbidity and mortality among people with type 2 diabetes (T2D). We sought to determine whether GLUL rs10911021 is associated prospectively with adjudicated cardiovascular composite end points among overweight/obese individuals with T2D and whether a lifestyle intervention resulting in weight loss could diminish this association. Look AHEAD is a randomized, controlled trial to determine the effects of intensive lifestyle intervention (ILI), including weight loss and physical activity, relative to diabetes support and education, on cardiovascular outcomes. Look AHEAD participants included in this report were 3,845 overweight/obese individuals with T2D who provided consent for genetic analyses. Over a median of 9.6 years of follow-up, the risk (C) allele for GLUL rs10911021 was significantly associated with the primary composite end point of death from cardiovascular causes, nonfatal myocardial infarction, nonfatal stroke, or hospitalization for angina among individuals with no history of cardiovascular disease (CVD) at baseline using additive genetic models (hazard ratio 1.17 [95% CI 1.01–1.36]; P = 0.032). Results appeared more consistent in recessive models and among individuals with no known history of CVD at baseline; ILI did not alter these associations. These results extend the association of GLUL rs10911021 to incident CVD morbidity and mortality in the setting of T2D.
Wildfire trends in Nepal based on MODIS burnt-area data
Authors: Khanal S.
Published: September 2015

Not available.Banko Janakari; A Journal of Forestry Information for NepalVol. 25, No. 1Page: 76-79
The Correlation Between Fine Needle Aspiration Cytology and Histopathology of Head and Neck Lesions in Kathmandu University Hospital
Authors: Rajbhandari M , Dhakal P , Shrestha S , Sharma S , Shrestha S , Pokharel M , Shrestha I , Shrestha B , Makaju R
Published: September 2015

Background Fine needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) with it’s minimally invasiveness has been a well accepted procedure in the initial diagnosis of various swellings. With time and experience high sensitivity and specificity of FNAC over conventional open biopsy has lead to the wide acceptance of this procedure.Objective To evaluate the utility of aspiration cytology as a first-line diagnostic tool in palpable head and neck masses and correlate with histologic results for evaluating diagnostic accuracy.Methods A hospital based prospective, comparative study was conducted among patients with various swellings at Head and Neck regions in the Department of Pathology, Dhulikhel Hospital between July 2011 to June 2012. FNAC were done from the palpable masses of head and neck regions and were compared with biopsy findings of the same lesions. Data entry and analysis performed using SPSS version 16. The sensitivity, specificity and accuracy rates were calculated.Results A total 64 patients were subjected to both FNAC and histopathological examination (HPE). Total 39 (61 %) were females and 25 (39 %) were males with M: F ratio of 1:1.6. The age group ranged from 9 to 80 years. Twenty five percent of patients were in the age group below 20 years. The highest number of cases included lymph nodes 29 (45%) followed by thyroid 24(37.5 %), salivary glands 10(16%) and 1 case (1.6%) was a soft tissue swelling over the occipital region. Highest sensitivity, specificity and accuracy rate for diagnosis by FNAC were observed in thyroid. The overall sensitivity and specificity of FNAC were 86% and 97% respectively in determining the various pathologies. The overall accuracy of FNAC in present study was 87.4%.Conclusion FNAC is a minimally invasive first line investigation with a high sensitivity and specificity for the diagnosis of various head and neck lesionsKathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 296-299
An Interesting Case of Post Traumatic Tibialis Anterior Muscle Herniation
Authors: Hegde AS
Published: September 2015

A muscle hernia is defined as a protrusion of the muscle belly through an acquired or congenital fascial defect. Muscle herniation through fascia is a relatively rare entity. Though predominantly asymptomatic, rarely they can be cause of vague pain in the leg, aggravated by exercises. Various conservative measures have been described for asymptomatic hernias, but treatment of symptomatic cases remains controversial. Here we present a case of symptomatic post traumatic tibialis anterior muscle herniation which was treated successfully with autologous fascia lata graft in Yenepoya Medical College, Mangalore in the month of January 2013.Muscle hernias should be kept in mind as a rare differential diagnosis whenever patients present with persisting vague leg pain with or without swelling. If conservative treatment fails, we recommend closure with autologous graft or fasciotomy to relieve the symptoms.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 332-334
Blood Transfusion in Obstetrics
Authors: Nigam A , Prakash A , Saxena P
Published: September 2015

Transfusion of blood and blood components is a common practice in obstetric wards but it is not without risk. The incidence of transfusion reactions varies from 4 in every hundred transfusions for non-haemolytic reactions to one in every 40,000 for haemolytic transfusion reactions. The physiological basis of blood transfusion is outlined in this article. Most of the donated blood is processed into components: packed red cells (PRBCs), platelets, and fresh frozen plasma (FFP) or cryoprecipitate. Various alternatives to blood transfusion exist and include autotransfusion, pre-autologous blood storage, use of oxygen carrying blood substitutes and intraoperative cell salvage. Despite the risks associated with transfusions, obstetricians are frequently too aggressive in transfusing blood and blood products to their patients. Acute blood loss in obstetrics is usually due to placenta praevia, postpartum blood loss and surgery related. An early involvement of a consultant obstetrician, anaesthetist, haematologist and the blood bank is essential. There are no established criteria for initiating red cell transfusions and the decision is purely based on clinical and haematological parameters, which have been discussed along with the general principles of blood transfusion in obstetrics and some practical guidelines.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 355-359
Joint Effusions And Purpura In Multiply-Transfused Adult Beta-Thalassemia- Clinical Pointers To Diagnosis Of Scurvy
Authors: Prakash A , Pandey AK
Published: September 2015

Periodic transfusions and effective chelation have ensured that thalassemics survive in to adulthood but their life is punctuated by peculiar problems in adulthood. Three cases of scurvy are being reported presenting uniquely as purpura, right hip joint effusion and right knee joint effusion with haemorrhage in prepatellar and retropatellar bursae, respectively over an 18 month period (2009-2010). The first two cases did give a history of gum bleed. None had any coagulation disturbance or transfusion-transmitted infections or connective tissue disorder. All the three cases responded dramatically to vitamin C supplementation. It is imperative to keep in mind that recurrent blood transfusions are associated with a state of sub-clinical vitamin C deficiency and overt scurvy may manifest as cumulative number of transfusions increase, as in adult thalassemics.Kathmandu Univ Med J 2013; 11(4): 360-362
A mathematical model for the municipal solid waste location-routing problem with intermediate transfer stations
Authors: Asefi Hossein , Lim Samsung , Maghrebi Mojtaba
Published: September 2015

Municipal solid waste management is one of the challenging issues in mega cities due to various interrelated factors such as operational costs and environmental concerns. Cost as one of the most significant constraints of municipal solid waste management can be effectively economized by efficient planning approaches. Considering diverse waste types in an integrated municipal solid waste system, a mathematical model of the location-routing problem is formulated and solved in this study in order to minimize the total cost of transportation and facility establishment.
Multi-Objective Decision Analytics for Short-Notice Bushfire Evacuation: An Australian Case Study
Authors: Shahparvari Shahrooz , Chhetri Prem , Abareshi Ahmad , Abbasi Babak
Published: September 2015

This paper develops a multi-objective optimisation model to compute resource allocation,shelter assignment and routing options to evacuate late evacuees from affected areas to shelters.Three bushfire scenarios are analysed to incorporate constraints of restricted time-window and potential road disruptions.Capacity and number of rescue vehicles and shelters are other constraints that are identical in all scenarios.The proposed mathematical model is solved by ?-constraint approach.Objective functions are simultaneously optimised to maximise the total number of evacuees and assigned rescue vehicles and shelters.We argue that this model provides a scenario-based decision-making platform to aid minimise resource utilisation and maximise coverage of late evacuees.
A New User Model based Interactive Product Retrieval Process for improved eBuying
Authors: Alahakoon Oshadi
Published: September 2015

When searching for items online there are three common problems that e-buyers may encounter; null retrieval, retrieving unmanageable number of items, and retrieving unsatisfactory items. In the past information retrieval systems or recommender systems were used as solutions. With information retrieval systems, too rigorous filtering based on the user query to reduce unmanageable number of items result in either null retrieval or filtering out the items users prefer. Recommender systems on the other hand do not provide sufficient opportunity for users to communicate their needs. As a solution, this paper introduces a novel method combining a user model with an interactive product retrieval process. The new layered user model has the potential of being applied across multiple product and service domains and is able to adapt to changing user preferences. The new product retrieval algorithm is integrated with the user model and is able to successfully address null retrieval, retrieving unmanageable number of items, and retrieving unsatisfactory items. The process is demonstrated using a bench mark dataset and a case study. Finally the Product retrieval process is evaluated using a set of guidelines to illustrate its suitability to current eBuying environments.
Inverted Classroom and Its Influence on Students' Attitudes across Learning Styles
Authors: Cruzado Ivette , Román Edgardo M.
Published: September 2015

Students learn in different ways, and any mismatch between the learning preference of a student and the teaching style of the instructor could lead to poor performance in the classroom. To improve the education process, instructors may modify their courses, for example, by requiring a group project or changing their teaching methods. These changes can be considered an advantage for some students and a disadvantage for others if these modifications are not compatible with their learning styles. In the literature on learning styles, two models have been commonly identified to describe how students gather and process information during the learning process: experiential learning theory and the visual–auditory–kinesthetic framework. A study at the University of Puerto Rico at Mayagüez involved students enrolled in the introduction to transportation engineering course. The study took place during two academic semesters, and a before-and-after study was performed in which the instructor used the inverted classroom teaching method during the second study period. The purpose of the study was to determine whether this teaching method was appropriate for all students regardless of learning preference. Study results indicated that learning preferences did not influence students' grades but did influence other measures of students' attitudes toward the classroom, such as attendance record. In addition, the inverted classroom concept was neither beneficial nor disadvantageous to the students; the average grade remained the same across both study periods.
Sequence Optimization at Signalized Diamond Interchanges Using High-Resolution Event-Based Data
Authors: Hainen Alexander M. , Li Howell , Stevens Amanda L. , Day Christopher M. , Sturdevant James R. , Bullock Darcy M.
Published: September 2015

Signalized diamond interchanges are pairs of ramp intersections characterized by interlocked left turns and relatively close spacing. This paper describes a series of performance measures derived from high-resolution signal controller event data that can be used to optimize the internal phase sequence and offset to improve traffic flows within diamond interchanges and to assess the progression of the interior movements qualitatively and quantitatively. The new heuristic developed in this paper improves on traditional green band optimization techniques by incorporating actual demand profiles measured in the field. A field analysis was performed on a diamond interchange at I-69 and 96th Street in northwest Indianapolis, Indiana, where the existing sequence data were collected and used to model the alternative sequences to identify the optimal sequence. Interior operations were improved under the optimized settings: the percentage of vehicle arrivals on green increased by 19% during the 09:00-to-15:00 midday plan. Video observations were used to corroborate the data and are included in a video synthesis of the time–space trajectories.
Bavarian Road Administration's use of Probe Data for Large-Scale Traffic Signal Evaluation Support
Authors: Wünsch Gregor , Bölling Frank , von Dobschütz Andreas , Mieth Peter
Published: September 2015

The Bavarian Road Administration (BRA) is responsible for all extra-urban traffic signals in the German state of Bavaria. BRA is instructed by ministerial decree to establish a quality management system for its traffic signals, including periodic reviews of relevant performance indicators at the signals. A proposed practice is to interview the participating 19 state building offices. However, such an approach would be time-consuming and not sufficiently consistent. This paper presents an alternative multi-step approach to support the required signal reviews in a large-scale generic analysis. The procedure is based solely on anonymized GPS probe data from navigation devices and works in the following way. A special fine-granular digital map with the locations of traffic signals is used as the starting point. Then, in a generic geofencing step, the areas of influence around the signalized junctions are determined, and the probe data are map matched onto that qualified network. From these map-matched data, paths are identified that represent the maneuvers of the probe vehicles through the intersection area. Finally, delay times and other indicators of all the traveled paths at a junction are calculated through comparison of all individually measured path travel times with reference travel times on the paths. These reference travel times also were calculated from GPS probe data that analyzed path-specific speed distributions. This is the first time an approach has been developed that allows automatic analysis of a huge number of traffic light control systems at intersections at one time. The data and figures for 2,300 Bavarian traffic signals were provided to the BRA in support of the evaluation of their traffic signals.
Inhibitory effect of schizophyllan on rat glioma cells
Authors: Zhou Bin , Fu Qiang , Song Sha-Sha , Zheng Hong-Li , Wei Yu-Zhen
Published: September 2015

The aim of this study was to examine the anticancer effects of schizophyllan (a -D-glucan) against the growth of rat CNS-1 glioma cells and preliminarily assess its effect on inducing apoptosis and blocking cell cycle. In order to evaluate its inhibitory effect, firstly MTT assay was conducted followed by annexin V/propidium iodide double staining or propidium iodide single staining, apoptosis and cell cycle using flow cytometry. All the experiments were carried in a dose- and time-dependent manner. Experimental results showed that treatment of 40 and 60 mg/L schizophyllan significantly increa-sed the apoptotic rate and blocked the cell cycle. In addition, increase in the proportion of cells in G0/G1 phase and decrease in the proportion of S-phase cells were also observed. Overall experimental studies suggest that schizo-phyllan can significantly inhibit the growth of rat CNS-1 glioma cells, in vitro and induced apoptosis and blocked the cell cycle.

 
Modifiable variables in physical therapy education programs associated with first-time and three-year National Physical Therapy Examination pass rates in the United States
Authors: Cook Chad , Engelhard Chalee , Landry Michel D. , McCallum Christine
Published: September 2015

Purpose: This study aimed to examine the modifiable programmatic characteristics reflected in the Commission on Accreditation in Physical Therapy Education (CAPTE) Annual Accreditation Report for all accredited programs that reported pass rates on the National Physical Therapist Examination, and to build a predictive model for first-time and three-year ultimate pass rates. Methods: This observational study analyzed programmatic information from the 185 CAPTE-accredited physical therapy programs in the United States and Puerto Rico out of a total of 193 programs that provided the first-time and three-year ultimate pass rates in 2011. Fourteen predictive variables representing student selection and composition, clinical education length and design, and general program length and design were analyzed against first-time pass rates and ultimate pass rates on the NPTE. Univariate and multivariate multinomial regression analysis for first-time pass rates and logistic regression analysis for three-year ultimate pass rates were performed. Results: The variables associated with the first-time pass rate in the multivariate analysis were the mean undergraduate grade point average (GPA) and the average age of the cohort. Multivariate analysis showed that mean undergraduate GPA was associated with the three-year ultimate pass rate. Conclusions: Mean undergraduate GPA was found to be the only modifiable predictor for both first-time and three-year pass rates among CAPTE-accredited physical therapy programs.
Cavity Quantum Electrodynamics of Continuously Monitored Bose-Condensed Atoms
Authors: Lee Mark , Ruostekoski Janne
Published: September 2015

We study cavity quantum electrodynamics of Bose-condensed atoms that are subjected to continuous monitoring of the light leaking out of the cavity. Due to a given detection record of each stochastic realization, individual runs spontaneously break the symmetry of the spatial profile of the atom cloud and this symmetry can be restored by considering ensemble averages over many realizations. We show that the cavity optomechanical excitations of the condensate can be engineered to target specific collective modes. This is achieved by exploiting the spatial structure and symmetries of the collective modes and light fields. The cavity fields can be utilized both for strong driving of the collective modes and for their measurement. In the weak excitation limit the condensate–cavity system may be employed as a sensitive phonon detector which operates by counting photons outside the cavity that have been selectively scattered by desired phonons.
Approximate Analytical Solutions of Time Fractional Whitham–Broer–Kaup Equations by a Residual Power Series Method
Authors: Wang Linjun , Chen Xumei
Published: September 2015

In this paper, a new analytic iterative technique, called the residual power series method (RPSM), is applied to time fractional Whitham–Broer–Kaup equations. The explicit approximate traveling solutions are obtained by using this method. The efficiency and accuracy of the present method is demonstrated by two aspects. One is analyzing the approximate solutions graphically. The other is comparing the results with those of the Adomian decomposition method (ADM), the variational iteration method (VIM) and the optimal homotopy asymptotic method (OHAM). Illustrative examples reveal that the present technique outperforms the aforementioned methods and can be used as an alternative for solving fractional equations.