bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Catalytic Activities of Fe3+- and Zn2+-Natural Zeolite on the Direct Cyclisation-Acetylation of (R)-(+)-Citronellal
Authors: Cahyono Edy , Muchalal M. , Triyono Triyono , Pranowo Harno Dwi 
Published: July 2014

Characterisation and catalytic ativities investigation of modified natural zeolite on cyclisation acetylation reaction of (R)-(+)-citronellal was performed. The experimental work involved isolation of (R)-(+)-citronellal from Java Citronella oil (Cymbopogon winterianus) by vacuum fractional distillation, determination of its enantiomer, preparation and characterisation of different catalysts i.e. H-natural zeolite (H-Za), Fe3+-natural zeolite (Fe3+-Za), and Zn2+-natural zeolite (Zn2+-Za), followed by examination of catalytic activity and selectivity. Isolated citronellal contained 88.21% ee of (R)-(+)-citronellal. The main products of cyclisation-acetylation of (R)-(+)-citronellal was IPA (isopulegyl acetate) and NIPA (neo-isopulegyl acetate). Although the highest yield of IPA and NIPA was obtained by Fe3+-Za catalyst (78.69%) at 80oC and 120 min, the stereoselectivity of Fe3+-Za slightly lower than that of Zn2+-Za. Structure elucidation of citronellal and products was carried out by means of GC and GC-MS. Lewis acidity plays the role of acetyl ionic formation from acetic anhydride. The Activity and stereoselectivity of catalysts depended on Lewis acidity and cation distribution on the catalyst surface. © 2014 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0)
Carbon footprint of crop production in China: an analysis of National Statistics data
Authors: CHENG K. , YAN M. , NAYAK D. , PAN G. X. , SMITH P. , ZHENG J. F. , ZHENG J. W. 
Published: July 2014

SUMMARYAssessing carbon footprint (CF) of crop production in a whole crop life-cycle could provide insights into the contribution of crop production to climate change and help to identify possible greenhouse gas (GHG) mitigation options. In the current study, data for the major crops of China were collected from the national statistical archive on cultivation area, yield, application rates of fertilizer, pesticide, diesel, plastic film, irrigated water, etc. The CF of direct and indirect carbon emissions associated with or caused by these agricultural inputs was quantified with published emission factors. In general, paddy rice, wheat, maize and soybean of China had mean CFs of 2472, 794, 781 and 222 kg carbon equivalent (CE)/ha, and 0·37, 0·14, 0·12 and 0·10 kg CE/kg product, respectively. For dry crops (i.e. those grown without flooding the fields: wheat, maize and soybean), 0·78 of the total CFs was contributed by nitrogen (N) fertilizer use, including both direct soil nitrous oxide (N2O) emission and indirect emissions from N fertilizer manufacture. Meanwhile, direct methane (CH4) emissions contributed 0·69 on average to the total CFs of flooded paddy rice. Moreover, the difference in N fertilizer application rates explained 0·86–0·93 of the provincial variations of dry crop CFs while that in CH4 emissions could explain 0·85 of the provincial variation of paddy rice CFs. When a 30% reduction in N fertilization was considered, a potential reduction in GHGs of 60 megatonne (Mt) carbon dioxide equivalent from production of these crops was projected. The current work highlights opportunities to gain GHG emission reduction in production of crops associated with good management practices in China.
Tranexamic acid – a useful drug in ENT surgery?
Authors: Robb P J 
Published: July 2014

AbstractBackground:Tranexamic acid is a synthetic antifibrinolytic drug. It has been widely available for over 40 years, but only recently has it started to be used routinely in many surgical disciplines. For ENT surgeons, epistaxis and post-tonsillectomy bleeding contribute a significant proportion of the morbidity and emergency workload in a general ENT department. Published evidence indicates a potentially helpful role for tranexamic acid in managing epistaxis.Results and conclusion:To date, the benefits of tranexamic acid as a prophylactic treatment to reduce the rate and severity of post-tonsillectomy bleeding are less certain. Two recently published pilot studies looking at primary haemorrhage in children and secondary haemorrhage in adults following tonsillectomy suggest that further large, randomised trials should explore the efficacy of tranexamic acid in routine ENT surgery. There are potential reductions in patient morbidity and cost savings if tranexamic acid is found to be efficacious in larger trials.
Picking buttercups and eating butter cups: Spelling alternations, semantic relatedness, and their consequences for compound processing
Authors: MARELLI MARCO , DINU GEORGIANA , ZAMPARELLI ROBERTO , BARONI MARCO 
Published: July 2014

ABSTRACTSemantic transparency (ST) is a measure quantifying the strength of meaning association between a compound word (buttercup) and its constituents (butter, cup). Borrowing ideas from computational semantics, we characterize ST in terms of the degree to which a compound and its constituents tend to share the same contexts in everyday usage, and we collect separate measures for different orthographic realizations (solid vs. open) of the same compound. We can thus compare the effects of semantic association in cases in which direct semantic access is likely to take place (buttercup), vis-á-vis forms that encourage combinatorial procedures (butter cup). ST effects are investigated in an analysis of lexical decision latencies. The results indicate that distributionally based ST variables are most predictive of response times when extracted from contexts presenting the compounds as open forms, suggesting that compound processing involves a conceptual combination procedure focusing on the merger of the constituent meanings.
A novel hybrid genetic algorithm for the multidepot periodic vehicle routing problem
Authors: Mirabi Mohammad 
Published: July 2014

AbstractA genetic algorithm is a metaheuristic proposed to derive approximate solutions for computationally hard problems. In the literature, several successful applications have been reported for graph-based optimization problems, such as scheduling problems. This paper provides one definition of periodic vehicle routing problem for single and multidepots conforming to a wide range of real-world problems and also develops a novel hybrid genetic algorithm to solve it. The proposed hybrid genetic algorithm applies a modified approach to generate a population of initial chromosomes and also uses an improved heuristic called the iterated swap procedure to improve the initial solutions. Moreover, during the implementation a hybrid algorithm, cyclic transfers, an effective class of neighborhood search is applied. The author uses three genetic operators to produce good new offspring. The objective function consists of two terms: total traveled distance at each depot and total waiting time of all customers to take service. Distances are assumed Euclidean or straight line. These conditions are exactly consistent with the real-world situations and have received little attention in the literature. Finally, the experimental results have revealed that the proposed hybrid method can be competitive with the best existing methods as asynchronous parallel heuristic and variable neighborhood search in terms of solution quality to solve the vehicle routing problem.
Evaluation and use of clustering algorithms for standard penetration test data classification
Authors: Göktepe A. Burak , Altun Selim , Sezer Alper 
Published: July 2014

AbstractThe standard penetration test (SPT) is the most common test conducted in the field, and it is used to determine in situ properties of different soils. Although it is a matter of debate, these tests are also used for the determination of the consistency of fine-grained soils, whereby the test results can also be utilized to establish numerous empirical correlations to predict the strength of soils in the field. In this study, unsupervised clustering algorithms were employed to classify the SPT standard penetration resistance value (SPT-N) in the field. In this scope, shear strength and liquidity index parameters were used to classify the SPT-N values by taking the classification system of Terzaghi and Peck (1967) into consideration. The results showed that the input parameters were successful for classifying the SPT-N value to an acceptable degree of strength attribute. Therefore, in cases where the SPT tests are unreliable or could not be performed, laboratory tests on undisturbed specimens can give valuable information regarding the consistency and SPT-N value of the soil specimen under investigation. Data in this study is based on several tests that were conducted in a region; nevertheless, it is advised that the results of this study should be evaluated using global data.
Evaluation of PCR in the diagnosis of canine leishmaniasis in two different epidemiological regions: Campinas (SP) and Teresina (PI), Brazil
Authors: COSTA L. N. G. , BORBA A. S. , CASTAGNA C. L. , CARVALHO FILHO E. B. , MARSON F. A. L. , SÁ JUNIOR F. F. , ANGERAMI R. N. , LEVY C. E. ,   the Leishmaniasis Study Group
Published: July 2014

SUMMARYUsing the polymerase chain reaction (PCR) test for diagnosis of canine leishmaniasis has greater sensitivity and specificity than culture and visualization of the parasite. This study compares PCR for the diagnosis of the genus and species ofLeishmaniawith serological techniques used for the control of canine visceral leishmaniasis (CVL) in Brazil, considering two regions. We analysed peripheral blood samples collected from 195 dogs in the Campinas (SP) and Teresina (PI) regions. ELISA was performed as a serological method and PCR was performed using specific primers for the genusLeishmaniaspp. and the speciesLeishmania chagasi. In Campinas, a greater sensitivity of PCR (88·24%) (P = 0·0455) compared to Teresina (14·71%) (P < 0·0001) was observed, and an agreement was observed for Cohen's kappa index (0·9096). Both PCR and ELISA showed discordance for sensitivity (Campinas 100%, Teresina 21·74%), specificity (Campinas 30·77%, Teresina 100%), positive predictive value (Campinas 68·97%, Teresina 100%), negative predictive value (Campinas 100%, Teresina 37·94%) and Cohen's kappa index (0·1238). This study confirms the importance of PCR in analysis of the canine reservoir, and as an effective method for the detection of active and recent infection.
Alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco use trajectories from age 12 to 24 years: Demographic correlates and young adult substance use problems
Authors: Nelson Sarah E. , Van Ryzin Mark J. , Dishion Thomas J. 
Published: July 2014

AbstractSubstance use trajectories were examined from early adolescence to young adulthood among a diverse sample of 998 youths. Analysis of longitudinal data from ages 12 to 24 identified distinct trajectories for alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco use. Modeling revealed 8 alcohol, 7 marijuana, and 6 tobacco use trajectories. Analyses assessed risk for substance use problems in early adulthood within each trajectory, as well as overlap among alcohol, marijuana, and tobacco use trajectories. Findings confirmed that adolescents with early- and rapid-onset trajectories are particularly vulnerable to the development of problematic substance use in early adulthood. However, analyses also identified an escalating high school onset trajectory for alcohol and for marijuana use that was equally prognostic of problem use in adulthood. Moreover, tobacco use in early adolescence was associated with developing high-risk marijuana and alcohol use patterns. Random assignment to the Family Check-Up intervention was found to reduce risk for membership in the high-risk marijuana use trajectories, suggesting that family-based approaches delivered during adolescence can prevent escalations to problematic substance use. These findings suggest the importance of developmental heterogeneity and equifinality in considering prevention for alcohol and drug use.
Antidepressant dose and the risk of deliberate self-harm
Authors: Barbui C. , Patten S.B. 
Published: July 2014

Although the mechanism by which antidepressants (ADs) may increase the risk of suicide-related outcomes is unknown, it has been hypothesised that some adverse effects, including akathisia, insomnia and panic attacks, as well as an early energising effect that might allow patients with depression to act on suicidal impulses, may have a key role. Considering that these adverse effects are dose-related, it might be hypothesised that the risk of suicidal behaviour is similarly related to the AD dose. This research question has recently been addressed by a propensity score-matched observational cohort study that involved 162 625 patients aged 10–64 years with a depression diagnosis who initiated therapy with citalopram, sertraline or fluoxetine. In this commentary, we discuss the main findings of this study in view of its methodological strengths and limitations, and we suggest possible implications for day-to-day clinical practice.
Using Randomized Variable Practice in the Treatment of Childhood Apraxia of Speech
Authors: Skelton Steven L. , Hagopian Aubrie Lynn 
Published: July 2014

Purpose
The purpose of this study was to determine if randomized variable practice, a central component of concurrent treatment, would be effective and efficient in treating childhood apraxia of speech (CAS). Concurrent treatment is a treatment program that takes the speech task hierarchy and randomizes it so that all tasks are worked on in one session. Previous studies have shown the treatment program to be effective and efficient in treating phonological and articulation disorders. The program was adapted to be used with children with CAS.

Method
A research design of multiple baselines across participants was used. Probes of generalization to untaught words were administered every fifth session. Three children, ranging in age from 4 to 6 years old, were the participants. Data were collected as percent correct productions during baseline, treatment, and probes of generalization of target sounds to untaught words and three-word phrases.

Results
All participants showed an increase in correct productions during treatment and during probes. Effect sizes (standard mean difference) for treatment were 3.61–5.00, and for generalization probes, they were 3.15–8.51.

Conclusions
The results obtained from this study suggest that randomized variable practice as used in concurrent treatment can be adapted for use in treating children with CAS. Replication of this study with other children presenting CAS will be needed to establish generality of the findings.
SU‐E‐T‐334: Track Structure Simulations of Charged Particles at Low and Intermediate Energies: Cross Sections Needs for Light and Heavy Ions
Authors: Dingfelder M 
Published: July 2014

Purpose/Methods:Monte Carlo (MC) track structure simulations follow the primary as well as all produced secondary particles in an event‐by‐event manner, from starting or ejection energy down to total stopping. They provide useful information on physics and chemistry of the biological response to radiation. They depend on reliable interaction cross sections and transport models of the considered radiation quality with biologically relevant materials. Most transport models focus on sufficiently fast and bare (i.e., fully ionized) ions and cross sections calculated within the (relativistic) first Born or Bethe approximations. These theories consider the projectile as a point particle and rely on proton cross sections and simple charge‐scaling methods; they neglect the atomic nature of the ion and break down at low and intermediate ion energies. Heavier ions are used in particle therapy and slow to intermediate and low energies in the biologically interesting Bragg peak. Lighter and slower fragment ions, including alpha particles, protons, and neutrons are also produced in nuclear and break up reactions of charged particles. Secondary neutrons also produce recoil protons and ions, mainly in the intermediate energy range.Results/Conclusion:This work reviews existing models for track structure simulations and cross section calculations for light and heavy ions focusing on the low and intermediate energy range. It also presents new and updated aspects on cross section calculations and simulation techniques for ions and discusses the need for new models, calculations, and experimental data.
SU‐E‐T‐339: Universally Reprogrammable Automated Planning
Authors: Wang H , Xing L 
Published: July 2014

Purpose:Automating treatment planning has recently become a subject of intense research. The current limitation is there is no way to get around the black box nature of planning. One way is know the components inside the black box, but this idealistic approach is rarely practical. The purpose of this work is to develop a generic framework that is capable of automating any existing black box planning environment without the need to know the details of the implementation inside.Methods:We used a record, playback, and validation mechanism to fully automate the treatment planning procedure. Varian Eclipse Treatment Planning and Coutouring were used for VMAT planning. Different actions were pre‐recorded and played back with adjustable parameters calculated and inputted on the fly. The decision on which parameters to tune and how much to make the adjustment is based on previous results produced and saved.Results:We have tested our interface with four different head and neck VMAT patients. The system successfully ran and the results were in strong agreement with clinical requirements. Each iteration consists of tuning, decision making based on previous runs, optimization, and dose calculation. For each patient 20 iterations were sufficient and each iteration took on average 34.6 minutes. The DVH was exported after the dose calculation and the priority for all the organs were adjusted in the optimizer for each adjustment iteration.Conclusion:We have developed a generic framework that allows researchers to fully automate the treatment planning process. We have showed a proof‐of‐concept using Varian Eclipse. The automation does not require the user to know the details of the implementation of the treatment planning environment. It approaches treatment planning in a similar way as a manual planner would, by trying different adjustment strategies on the fly and deciding subsequently what the best action is.
SU‐E‐T‐343: Valencia Applicator Commissioning Using a Micro‐Chamber Array
Authors: Carmona‐Meseguer V , Garcia‐Martinez T , Palomo‐Llinares R , Candela‐Juan C , Richart‐Sancho J , Gimeno‐Olmos J , Lliso‐Valverde F , Granero D , Ballester F , Perez‐Calatayud J 
Published: July 2014

Purpose:In the commissioning and QA of surface isotope‐based applicators, source‐indexer distance (SID) has a great influence in the flatness, symmetry and output. To these purposes, methods described in the literature are the use of a special insert at the entrance of dwell chamber or radiochromic films. Here we present the experience with a micro‐chamber array to perform the commissioning and QA of Valencia applicators.Methods:Valencia applicators have been used, the classic and the new extra‐shielded version. A micro‐chamber array has been employed, 1000 SRS (PTW), with 977 liquid filled, 2.3×2.3×0.5 mm3 sized ion chambers covering 11×11 cm2, which spacing is 2.5 mm in the central 5.5×5.5 cm2, dedicated mainly in principle, in conjunction with Octavius 4D (PTW), to IMRT, VMAT, SBRT verifications. Verisoft software that allows for 3D and planar analysis has been used to evaluate the results. Applicators were located on the surface of the array. To verify the SID, measurements corresponding to the reference value, SID ± 1 mm and SID ± 2 mm were acquired (integration time was fixed in order to discard the influence of the source entrance/exit). Once SID was determined, standard protocol treatments corresponding to 3 Gy and 7 Gy were acquired in order to establish typical patient dose distribution.Results:The method is fast and sensitive. The SID obtained was 1321 mm which is the nominal value included in the applicator manual. For example at 1319 mm an asymmetry of ±8% with respect to the central value was measured, along with a central deviation of −4% referred to 1321 mm.Conclusion:A practical method for the commissioning and QA of Valencia applicators has been described. It has been shown that it is an efficient and accurate tool for these purposes as well as for the verification of the absolute output constancy.
SU‐E‐T‐344: Validation and Clinical Experience of Eclipse Electron Monte Carlo Algorithm (EMC)
Authors: Pokharel S , Rana S 
Published: July 2014

Purpose:The purpose of this study is to validate Eclipse Electron Monte Carlo (Algorithm for routine clinical uses.Methods:The PTW inhomogeneity phantom (T40037) with different combination of heterogeneous slabs has been CT‐scanned with Philips Brilliance 16 slice scanner. The phantom contains blocks of Rando Alderson materials mimicking lung, Polystyrene (Tissue), PTFE (Bone) and PMAA. The phantom has 30×30×2.5 cm base plate with 2cm recesses to insert inhomogeneity. The detector systems used in this study are diode, tlds and Gafchromic EBT2 films. The diode and tlds were included in CT scans. The CT sets are transferred to Eclipse treatment planning system. Several plans have been created with Eclipse Monte Carlo (EMC) algorithm 11.0.21. Measurements have been carried out in Varian TrueBeam machine for energy from 6–22mev.Results:The measured and calculated doses agreed very well for tissue like media. The agreement was reasonably okay for the presence of lung inhomogeneity. The point dose agreement was within 3.5% and Gamma passing rate at 3%/3mm was greater than 93% except for 6Mev(85%). The disagreement can reach as high as 10% in the presence of bone inhomogeneity. This is due to eclipse reporting dose to the medium as opposed to the dose to the water as in conventional calculation engines.Conclusion:Care must be taken when using Varian Eclipse EMC algorithm for dose calculation for routine clinical uses. The algorithm dose not report dose to water in which most of the clinical experiences are based on rather it just reports dose to medium directly. In the presence of inhomogeneity such as bone, the dose discrepancy can be as high as 10% or even more depending on the location of normalization point or volume. As Radiation oncology as an empirical science, care must be taken before using EMC reported monitor units for clinical uses.