bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Atherogenic phenotype remains in elderly diabetic patients
Authors: Yoshino Hiroshi , Hasegawa Kazuo , Yokono Koichi , Yoshino Gen 
Published: April 2014

AimIt is known that plasma low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL‐C) levels tend to decrease with age. Thus, most elderly diabetic patients often show normal LDL‐C levels. Therefore, the present study was carried out to examine whether elderly diabetic patients show “the atherogenic phenotype” even if their LDL‐C is not elevated.MethodsThe study participants consisted of 236 patients. They were separated into four groups according to their age (below 64 years and above 65 years) and an association of type 2 diabetes. A total of 88 middle‐aged diabetic, 34 middle‐aged non‐diabetic, 64 elderly diabetic and 50 elderly non‐diabetic participants were enrolled. LDL‐C, small dense LDL‐C (sLDL‐C) were investigated. ANOVA were used for comparison of LDL‐C, sLDL‐C and the sLDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio between the four groups. Multivariate regression analysis was carried out in order to find the independent factors associated with the sLDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio.ResultsAmong the four groups, the LDL‐C of the elderly diabetic group showed lower LDL‐C levels compared with that of middle‐aged diabetic group, although the difference was not significant (128.6 ± 38.7 vs 138.4 ± 35.8 mg/dL). In contrast, sLDL‐C and the sLDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio in the elderly diabetic group were both higher than those of the elderly non‐diabetic group (47.0 ± 24.2 mg/dL and 0.36 ± 0.14 mg/dL, vs 21.4 ± 16.7 mg/dL and 0.19 ± 0.11 mg/dL, P < 0.05). Multivariate regression analysis showed that age, sex, the presence of diabetes mellitus and plasma triglyceride were the independent factors determining the sLDL‐C/LDL‐C ratio.DiscussionIt is concluded from the present data that the atherogenic phenotype remains in elderly diabetic patients even if their LDL‐C is not elevated. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 15: 34–37.
Efficient Storage of Large MODFLOW Models
Authors: Jones Norman L. , Lemon Alan M. , Kennard Michael J. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractWe present a methodology for storing the bulkier portions of a set of MODFLOW input and output files in a compressed binary format using the HDF5 library. This approach results in compression ratios of up to 99% with no significant time penalty. The highly compressed format is particularly beneficial when dealing with large regional models or Monte Carlo simulations. The strategy is focused on the list‐ and array‐based portions of the input files including the cell property and recharge arrays, and is compatible with models containing parameters, including pilot points. The utilities are based on a modified version of the MODFLOW code and are, therefore, compatible with any standard MODFLOW simulation. We present used cases and instructions on how to use the utilities.
Determination of Hydraulic Conductivity from Grain‐Size Distribution for Different Depositional Environments
Authors: Rosas Jorge , Lopez Oliver , Missimer Thomas M. , Coulibaly Kapo M. , Dehwah Abdullah H.A. , Sesler Kathryn , Lujan Luis R. , Mantilla David 
Published: April 2014

AbstractOver 400 unlithified sediment samples were collected from four different depositional environments in global locations and the grain‐size distribution, porosity, and hydraulic conductivity were measured using standard methods. The measured hydraulic conductivity values were then compared to values calculated using 20 different empirical equations (e.g., Hazen, Carman‐Kozeny) commonly used to estimate hydraulic conductivity from grain‐size distribution. It was found that most of the hydraulic conductivity values estimated from the empirical equations correlated very poorly to the measured hydraulic conductivity values with errors ranging to over 500%. To improve the empirical estimation methodology, the samples were grouped by depositional environment and subdivided into subgroups based on lithology and mud percentage. The empirical methods were then analyzed to assess which methods best estimated the measured values. Modifications of the empirical equations, including changes to special coefficients and addition of offsets, were made to produce modified equations that considerably improve the hydraulic conductivity estimates from grain size data for beach, dune, offshore marine, and river sediments. Estimated hydraulic conductivity errors were reduced to 6 to 7.1 m/day for the beach subgroups, 3.4 to 7.1 m/day for dune subgroups, and 2.2 to 11 m/day for offshore sediments subgroups. Improvements were made for river environments, but still produced high errors between 13 and 23 m/day.
Modeling Transient Streaming Potentials in Falling‐Head Permeameter Tests
Authors: Malama Bwalya , Revil André 
Published: April 2014

AbstractWe present transient streaming potential data collected during falling‐head permeameter tests performed on samples of two sands with different physical and chemical properties. The objective of the work is to estimate hydraulic conductivity (K) and the electrokinetic coupling coefficient (Cl) of the sand samples. A semi‐empirical model based on the falling‐head permeameter flow model and electrokinetic coupling is used to analyze the streaming potential data and to estimate K and Cl. The values of K estimated from head data are used to validate the streaming potential method. Estimates of K from streaming potential data closely match those obtained from the associated head data, with less than 10% deviation. The electrokinetic coupling coefficient was estimated from streaming potential vs. (1) time and (2) head data for both sands. The results indicate that, within limits of experimental error, the values of Cl estimated by the two methods are essentially the same. The results of this work demonstrate that a temporal record of the streaming potential response in falling‐head permeameter tests can be used to estimate both K and Cl. They further indicate the potential for using transient streaming potential data as a proxy for hydraulic head in hydrogeology applications.
Isotope Approach to Assess Hydrologic Connections During Marcellus Shale Drilling
Authors: Sharma Shikha , Mulder Michon L. , Sack Andrea , Schroeder Karl , Hammack Richard 
Published: April 2014

AbstractWater and gas samples were collected from (1) nine shallow groundwater aquifers overlying Marcellus Shale in north‐central West Virginia before active shale gas drilling, (2) wells producing gas from Upper Devonian sands and Middle Devonian Marcellus Shale in southwestern Pennsylvania, (3) coal‐mine water discharges in southwestern Pennsylvania, and (4) streams in southwestern Pennsylvania and north‐central West Virginia. Our preliminary results demonstrate that the oxygen and hydrogen isotope composition of water, carbon isotope composition of dissolved inorganic carbon, and carbon and hydrogen isotope compositions of methane in Upper Devonian sands and Marcellus Shale are very different compared with shallow groundwater aquifers, coal‐mine waters, and stream waters of the region. Therefore, spatiotemporal stable isotope monitoring of the different sources of water before, during, and after hydraulic fracturing can be used to identify migrations of fluids and gas from deep formations that are coincident with shale gas drilling.
Spatial Periodic Boundary Condition for MODFLOW
Authors: Laattoe Tariq , Post Vincent E.A. , Werner Adrian D. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractSmall‐scale hyporheic zone (HZ) models often use a spatial periodic boundary (SPB) pair to simulate an infinite repetition of bedforms. SPB's are common features of commercially available multiphysics modeling packages. MODFLOW's lack of this boundary type has precluded it from being effectively utilized in this area of HZ research. We present a method to implement the SPB in MODFLOW by development of the appropriate block‐centered finite‐difference expressions. The implementation is analogous to MODFLOW's general head boundary package. The difference is that the terms on the right hand side of the solution equations must be updated with each iteration. Consequently, models that implement the SPB converge best with solvers that perform both inner and outer iterations. The correct functioning of the SPB condition in MODFLOW is verified by two examples. This boundary condition allows users to build HZ‐bedform models in MODFLOW, facilitating further research using related codes such as MT3DMS and PHT3D.
Recovery of Injected Freshwater from a Brackish Aquifer with a Multiwell System
Authors: Miotliński Konrad , Dillon Peter J. , Pavelic Paul , Barry Karen , Kremer Sarah 
Published: April 2014

AbstractHerein we propose a multiple injection and recovery well system strategically operated for freshwater storage in a brackish aquifer. With the system we call aquifer storage transfer and recovery (ASTR) by using four injection and two production wells, we are capable of achieving both high recovery efficiency of injected freshwater and attenuation of contaminants through adequately long residence times and travel distances within the aquifer. The usual aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) scheme, in which a single well is used for injection and recovery, does not warrant consistent treatment of injected water due to the shorter minimum residence times and travel distances. We tested the design and operation of the system over 3 years in a layered heterogeneous limestone aquifer in Salisbury, South Australia. We demonstrate how a combination of detailed aquifer characterization and solute transport modeling can be used to maintain acceptable salinity of recovered water for its intended use along with natural treatment of recharge water. ASTR can be used to reduce treatment costs and take advantage of aquifers with impaired water quality that might locally not be otherwise beneficially used.
Monitoring Soil Water Content by Vertical Temperature Variations
Authors: Bechkit Mohamed Amine , Flageul Sébastien , Guerin Roger , Tabbagh Alain 
Published: April 2014

AbstractThe availability of high sensitivity temperature sensors (0.001 K sensitivity platinum resistors), which can be positioned at intervals of a few centimeters along a vertical profile in the unsaturated zone, allows short‐term in situ determinations—one day or even less—of the thermal diffusivity. The development of high data storage capabilities also makes this possible over long periods and the relative variations in thermal diffusivity allow the monitoring of the variations in water content. The processing of temperature measurements recorded at different depths is achieved by solving the heat equation, using the finite elements method, with both conductive and convective heat transfers. A first set of measurements has allowed this approach to be validated. Water content variations derived from thermal diffusivity values are in excellent agreement with TDR measurements carried out on the experimental site at Boissy‐le‐Châtel (Seine et Marne, France).
Anthropogenic Impacts on a Bedrock Aquifer at the Village Scale
Authors: Kozuskanich John C. , Novakowski Kent S. , Anderson Bruce C. , Crowe Allan S. , Balakrishnan Vimal K. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractThis study focuses on assessing groundwater potability in a highly complex and heterogeneous fractured bedrock aquifer having variable overburden cover. Eight monitoring wells were installed in a privately serviced lakeside village, and groundwater was routinely sampled over a 2‐year timeframe for concentration analysis of nitrate, fecal indicator bacteria, stable isotopes, and a total of 41 pharmaceutical compounds. While pollutant concentrations remained low throughout the study, the presence of fecal indicator bacteria and pharmaceuticals was noted at least once (but not always consistently) in most sampling intervals. An interpretation based on the integration of chemical, bacterial, and site characterization datasets suggests that: (1) the fracture network is complex and heterogeneous with limited vertical connectivity; (2) existing pathways are sufficient for the quick and widespread migration of surface contaminants to depth; (3) anthropogenic contaminants from both septic systems and agriculture are likely sourced in the surrounding uplands where overburden is thin; and (4) fecal contamination, as observed over the long term, is ubiquitous at the village scale. Groundwater quality is continually changing in this hydrogeologic environment and the determination of potability on the larger scale is not likely to be adequately captured with infrequent domestic well sampling (i.e., voluntary annual sampling by homeowners).
A Method for Conducting Simultaneous Convergent Tracer Tests in Multilayered Aquifers
Authors: Greswell Richard B. , Durand Véronique , Aller Maria F. , Riley Michael S. , Tellam John H. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractForced gradient tracer tests between two boreholes can be used to study contaminant transport processes at the small field scale or investigate the transport properties of an aquifer. Full depth tests, in which tracer samples are collected just from the discharge of the abstraction borehole, often give rise to breakthrough curves with multiple peaks that are usually attributed to different flow paths through the aquifer that can rarely be identified from the test results alone. Tests in selected levels of the aquifer, such as those between packer‐isolated sections of the boreholes, are time consuming, expensive; and the identification of major transport pathways is not guaranteed. We present a method for simultaneously conducting multiple tracer tests covering the full depth of the boreholes, in which tracer sampling and monitoring is carried out by a novel multilevel sampling system allowing high frequency and cumulative sampling options. The method is applied to a tracer test using fluorescein conducted in the multilayered sandstone aquifer beneath the city of Birmingham, UK, producing six well‐defined tracer breakthrough curves.
Treatment Adherence in Patients With Headache: A Systematic Review
Authors: Ramsey Rachelle R. , Ryan Jamie L. , Hershey Andrew D. , Powers Scott W. , Aylward Brandon S. , Hommel Kevin A. 
Published: April 2014

ObjectiveTo review and critically evaluate the extant research literature pertaining to adherence in youth and adults with headache and to provide recommendations for future research.BackgroundThis article provides the first systematic review of pediatric headache adherence and updates a previous review of treatment adherence in adults with headache.DesignSystematic review of empirical literature.MethodsA literature search with no date restriction was conducted using PubMed and PsycINFO electronic databases and bibliographies of relevant articles.ResultsAdherence rates in adults with headache range considerably from 25% to 94% across treatment, assessment method, and definition of adherence utilized. Methods to assess adherence included retrospective prescription claims data, paper or electronic diaries, follow‐up appointment attendance, written and verbal self‐report of general adherence, verbal self‐report of adherence over a specific amount of time via in person interview or telephone, validated adherence measures, adherence questionnaires without validation, and counselor ratings of homework. Each methodology and assessment tool demonstrated strengths and weaknesses. No studies have systematically examined medication adherence in children with headache, and the few available studies examining adherence to behavioral treatment have documented adherence rates ranging from 52% to 86%.ConclusionsAdherence research in adults with headache is growing, but studies demonstrate a number of methodological shortcomings. Adherence research in children with headache, and adherence intervention research in both adults and children, is scant. Future research should use objective measures of adherence, consider over‐the‐counter medications and medication overuse, examine demographic, psychological, and behavioral correlates of adherence, assess adherence to botulinum toxin type A, and examine the efficacy of adherence interventions in individuals with headache.
Clinical Aspects of Headache in HIV
Authors: Sheikh Huma U. , Cho Tracey A. 
Published: April 2014

BackgroundHeadaches are commonly seen in those patients with human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) and are the most common form of pain reported among HIV patients. There have been relatively few studies attempting to determine the rates and phenotypes of the headaches that occur in patients with HIV.DiscussionPatients with HIV are susceptible to a much broader array of secondary headache causes, sometimes with atypical manifestations due to a dampened inflammatory response. The investigation of a headache in the HIV patient should be thorough and focused on making sure that secondary and HIV‐specific causes are either ruled out or treated if present.ConclusionAn effective treatment plan should incorporate the use of appropriate pharmacological agents along with the integration of non‐pharmacological therapies, such as relaxation and lifestyle regulation. When treating for headaches in patients with HIV, it is important to keep in mind comorbidities and other medications, especially combination antiretroviral therapy. For those with complicated headache histories, referral to a specialized headache center may be appropriate.
Persistent problems and practices in information systems development: a study of mobile applications development and distribution
Authors: Bergvall‐Kåreborn Birgitta , Howcroft Debra 
Published: April 2014

AbstractThe widespread uptake of mobile technologies has witnessed a re‐structuring of the mobile market with major shifts in the predominance of particular firms and the emergence of new business models. These sociotechnical trends are significant in the ways that they are influencing and shaping the working lives of software professionals. Building on prior research investigating the persistent problems and practices of systems development, this paper examines mobile applications development and distribution. A qualitative study of 60 developers based in Sweden, the UK and the USA was analysed around the interrelated problems of diversity, knowledge and structure. The analysis revealed how platform‐based development in an evolving mobile market represents significant changes at the business environment level. These changes ripple through and accentuate ongoing trends and developments, intensifying the persistent problems and challenges facing software developers.
The Economic and Gender Consequences of South Africa's Home‐based Care Policy
Authors: Hunter Nina 
Published: April 2014

AbstractSouth Africa's approach to care provision in the era of HIV/AIDS is home‐ and community‐based care, but in reality care for ill people in the home is provided on an unpaid basis, predominantly by women. But how much do they spend on this care work, in time and money? And what economic consequences does this policy have, particularly for poorer women? This article is based on findings from a study that focuses on unpaid care provision within the home for those in late‐stage HIV/AIDS in KwaZulu‐Natal, South Africa, and specifically on the costs of such provision. The findings show that female caregivers are bearing the bulk of the costs of care provision for ill people within the home on an unpaid basis. Home‐based care is cost‐effective for the provincial government but not for unpaid caregivers who are subsidizing the provincial economy. While hospital care for people with HIV/AIDS has been capped, home‐based care services have not been increased to a commensurate level. Unpaid caregivers and ill people within the home are largely disconnected from the health system. The analysis clearly shows that the home‐based care policy is not resulting in appropriate or sufficient support for these individuals in need and needs to be revised.
Implementation of Web‐based argumentation in facilitating elementary school students to learn environmental issues
Authors: Wang T.H. 
Published: April 2014

AbstractThis research develops a Web‐based argumentation system named the Web‐based Interactive Argumentation System (WIAS). WIAS can provide teachers with the scaffolding for argumentation instruction. Students can propose their statements, collect supporting evidence and share and discuss with peers online. This research adopts a quasi‐experimental design, applying WIAS to the teaching of environmental issues, including mudslides, global warming and nuclear power. Fifty‐seven elementary school fifth graders from two classes participated in this research. With each class as a unit, they were divided into the WIAS group (n = 30) and the traditional argumentation instruction (TAI) group (n = 27). Before research, all students took the pre‐test of the ‘achievement test for environmental issues (ATEI)’ and the ‘environmental literacy scale (ELS).’ Then all students received argumentation training and six classes of argumentation instruction. Students in the WIAS group performed argumentation in the WIAS, while those in the TAI group performed argumentation in a traditional classroom. After the six‐class argumentation instruction, all students took the post‐test of the ATEI and ELS. The results show that students in the WIAS group have significantly better learning effectiveness than those in the TAI group. Students in the WIAS group also exhibited significantly better improvement in their environmental literacy.
Microbial Communities Associated with Tree Bark Foliose Lichens: A Perspective on their Microecology
Authors: Anderson O. Roger 
Published: April 2014

AbstractTree‐bark, foliose lichens occur widely on a global scale. In some locales, such as forests, they contribute a substantial amount of biomass. However, there are few research reports on microbial communities including eukaryotic microbes associated with foliose lichens. Lichens collected from tree bark at 11 locations (Florida, New York State, Germany, Australia, and the Arctic) were examined to determine the density and C‐biomass of bacteria and some eukaryotic microbes, i.e. heterotrophic nanoflagellates (HNF) and amoeboid protists. A rich microbial diversity was found, including large plasmodial slime molds, in some cases exceeding 100 μm in size. The densities of HNF and amoeboid protists were each positively correlated with densities of bacteria, r = 0.84 and 0.80, respectively (p < 0.01, N = 11 for each analysis) indicating a likely bacterial‐based food web. Microbial densities (number/g lichen dry weight) varied markedly across the geographic sampling sites: bacteria (0.7–13.1 × 108), HNF (0.2–6.8 × 106) and amoeboid protists (0.4–4.6 × 103). The ranges in C‐biomass (μg/g lichen dry weight) across the 11 sites were: bacteria (8.8–158.5), HNF (0.03–0.85), and amoeboid protists (0.08–540), the latter broad range was due particularly to absence or presence of large slime mold plasmodia.