bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Use or Transient Temperature Measurements to Determine Combustor Liner Heat Transfer Coefficients
Authors: Schlein Barry
Published: April 2015

The use of transient temperature measurements to determine convective heat transfer coefficients is extended to the more complex environment of the gas turbine combustion chamber. Numerical solutions to a transient liner wall heat balance demonstrate that the rate of metal temperature with time is exponential and that the rate is only a function of the convective heat transfer coefficients. Data taken during a snap acceleration of a gas turbine confirms the exponential temperature response. The combination of numerical analysis and transient temperature measurements provides an approximate method of determining linear heat transfer coefficients.
Development of an Industrial Gas Turbine Combustor Burning a Variety of Coal-Derived Low Btu Fuels and Distillate
Authors: Battista R. A. , Farrell R. A.
Published: April 2015

An industrial gas turbine combustor has been developed which is capable of operating over the gas turbine load range on a variety of coal-derived low Btu gases as well as No. 2 distillate fuel. At gas turbine cycle conditions using simulated coal-derived low Btu gas, CO emissions and combustor blowout characteristics are comparable to those obtained with current product line combustors burning No. 2 distillate. The results of laboratory single burner combustion tests with simulated low Btu gases, ranging in heating value from 809 to 1369 kcal/NM3 (91–154 Btu/scf), are described. Parametric studies were also conducted in which the moisture content of the fuel (at constant volumetric lower heating value) and heating value were varied. The results of these tests are compared with those obtained with a conventional constant cross-sectional area combustor and those of other investigators.
Fuel Property Effects on Combustor Performance
Authors: Moses C. A. , Naegeli D. W.
Published: April 2015

Two combustor rigs have been used to study the sensitivities of combustor operation to the physical and chemical properties of fuels. Nineteen fuels including synfuels were used to accentuate the properties of concern: composition, viscosity, and boiling-point distribution. Flame radiation and smoke were best correlated by hydrogen content rather than hydrocarbon structure; the soot formation was due to gas-phase reactions. Lean-blowout conditions were about the same for all fuels except that gasoline could be burned leaner at idle conditions. Ignition limits were more sensitive to volatility than viscosity. Gaseous emissions and combustion efficiency were not significantly affected by fuel properties although some sensitivity to boiling point distribution was evident. In all performance areas, the syncrude fuels correlated in the same ways as the petroleum-derived fuels except for the NOx emissions from the nitrogen containing shale oil fuel.
Thermal-Structural Mission Analyses of Air-Cooled Gas Turbine Blades
Authors: Kaufman Albert , Gaugler R. E.
Published: April 2015

Cyclic temperature and stress-strain states in cooled turbine blades were calculated for a simulated mission of an advanced technology aircraft engine. TACT1 (three dimensional heat transfer) and MARC (non-linear structural analysis) computer programs were used to analyze impingement cooled airfoils, with and without leading-edge film cooling. Creep was the pre-dominant damage mode, particularly around film cooling holes. Radially angled holes exhibited less creep than holes normal to surface. Beam-type analyses of all-impingement cooled airfoils gave fair agreement with MARC results for initial creep.
Low Frequency Gas Turbine Noise
Authors: Newman J. R. , McEwan K. I.
Published: April 2015

British Gas have experienced problems at some installations from low frequency turbine noise. The paper describes how the low frequency noise problems were investigated and then resolved by aerodynamic modifications and a silencer extension.
A 2500 HP Addition to the Ruston Range
Authors: Andronowski P. M.
Published: April 2015

This paper describes the newly introduced Ruston TA2500 gas turbine. The design is based on that of the well proven TA1750 and retains its outstanding features of reliability, long life, and ease of maintenance. Component efficiencies have been improved to increase the overall thermal performance and the Ruston designed solid-state control system with its Rustronic solid-state governor has been incorporated to give greater operating flexibility. Other changes include a compressor driven auxiliary gearbox which obviates the necessity for motor driven auxiliary pumps and a new design of frame similar to that of the Ruston TB5000 gas turbine.
Marine Operation of Gas Turbine Engines and Waterjet Pumps for Small Passenger Vessels
Authors: Kowleski S. M. , Harrington C. D.
Published: April 2015

This paper describes the planning, developmental, equipment selection and operational problem phases of the high-speed ferry system presently being operated on San Francisco Bay by the Golden Gate Bridge, Highway and Transportation District. The reasons for the selection of the vessel propulsion package consisting of gas turbine engines and waterjet pumps are discussed in some detail. Most importantly, the paper covers the problems experienced to date with this equipment in continuous marine operation.
Investigations of Transonic Turbine Cascade With High Stagger and Low Solidity
Authors: Inoue M. , Yamaguchi S. , Kuroumaru M.
Published: April 2015

In order to clarify the transonic flow characteristics of a turbine cascade with high stagger, low solidity and small deflections, experimental studies were carried out by shortening the chord length of a “Laval-nozzle shaped” blade with thick trailing edge. The behavior of the shock system depends on the amount of overlap between the blades. The relations between the behavior and the performances were discussed in detail. The results may be applied to more standard sections. Lastly, validity of an appropriate time marching analysis for the highly staggered cascade was investigated by comparing with the experiment.
On the Film Cooling Effectiveness Controversy
Authors: Amana O. M.
Published: April 2015

A relationship between isothermal and adiabatic film cooling effectiveness has been derived. Data from the open literature have been used to validate this relationship. This effectively uncouples short duration techniques from the concept of isothermal effectiveness. Thus, it allows the experimenter the freedom to choose between steady-state and short duration techniques as a means of acquiring data. Once acquired, the data can be used in either approach. The criterion for choice thus becomes the rigor of the modeling of flow conditions. Reynolds numbers, Prandtl numbers, boundary layer parameters and temperature ratios have to be rigorously modeled if heat fluxes are to be accurate. Under these conditions, short duration techniques may provide greater flexibility.
Application of a Hot Air Turbine for Efficiency Improvement in MHD/Steam Power Plants
Authors: Way Stewart
Published: April 2015

It is possible to gain 2 percent to 3 percent efficiency points in the MHD/steam combined cycle by application of a hot air turbocompressor. This gain is accomplished without any increase of air preheat temperature. Moreover, the size of the steam boiler and turbines in the bottom plant is reduced In the arrangement here proposed, all the compressed and preheated air expands through the turbine, rather than having a flow division as in older design concepts.
Benefits of Solar/Fossil Hybrid Gas Turbine Systems
Authors: Bloomfield H. S.
Published: April 2015

The potential benefits of solar/fossil hybrid gas turbine power systems were assessed. Both retrofit and new systems were considered from the aspects of: cost of electricity, fuel conservation, operational mode, technology requirements, and fuels flexibility. Hybrid retrofit (repowering) of existing combustion (simple Brayton cycle) turbines can provide near-term fuel savings and solar experience, while new and advanced recuperated or combined-cycle systems may be an attractive fuel saving and economically competitive vehicle to transition from today’s gas- and oil-fired powerplants to other more abundant fuels.
Conceptual Design of a Solar Powered Closed-Cycle Gas Turbine Electric Power Generation System
Authors: Horton T. L. O. , Kuo S. C. , Shu H. T. , Fisher E. R.
Published: April 2015

The conceptual design characteristics of a closed-cycle gas turbine system suitable for solar electric power generation are presented in this paper. This system can be integrated with a gas-cooled solar central receiver designed by Boeing Engineering and Construction to produce 75-MWe power output on an intermediate demand basis. The conceptual designs for both the gas turbine and the heat exchangers required to provide an integrated power conversion system are presented. Technology projected for 1985 availability was utilized in these designs to provide a cost-effective installation in the 1990 time frame. This task was made more credible by the utilization of air rather than helium as the working gas since the vast majority of required technology is well known and available. Also presented are potential power conversion system part-load performance, component layout, and operating characteristics resulting from this conceptual design which allow evaluation of the feasibility of their integration into a total solar plant installation.
Power Requirements for Offshore Hydrocarbon Production From the Brent System
Authors: Clare G. , Newton J. W.
Published: April 2015

The paper reviews the techniques adopted to produce the power required to recover, process, and distribute hydrocarbons from a number of northern North Sea Shell-Esso fields included in the Brent System. There are six different combined drilling and production platforms, together with seabed and floating storage facilities with a design throughput of up to 770,000 bbl per day of oil and 1000 mmscfd of natural gas. The main energy demands have been identified as crude oil export pumping, compression of gas for sale, or re-injection and water injection to maintain reservoir pressure. To meet the power requirement 42 gas turbines of both industrial and aero derivative types have been installed. These have been selected to meet the specific applications and are used both for direct mechanical drives and electrical power generation. The merits of the various prime movers including electric motors are discussed with the relative advantages of reliability and flexibility developed. The paper outlines the design criteria used in the lay-out of the gas turbines and concludes with a description of the electrical system studies which predicted the motor and turbine inter-relationships when accelerating the various pumps and compressors to running speed.
Application of the Centaur Industrial Gas Turbine to the Central Receiver Concept for Solar Electric Power
Authors: Roberts P. B.
Published: April 2015

One important method of converting solar energy to electric power is thermal energy conversion in conjunction with an industrial turbine-generator set. The application of the industrial gas turbine to the central receiver concept for solar electric power presents several unique problems, however, particularly in the fields of combustion and control systems. This paper covers a design study of the application of the Solar Turbines International (STI) recuperative Centaur gas turbine to the central receiver concept when operating in a hybrid solar-fossil fuel mode, examines the key technology voids and offers potential solutions.
An Approach to Optimum Subsonic Inlet Design
Authors: Luidens R. W. , Stockman N. O. , Diedrich J. H.
Published: April 2015

The approach consists of comparing inlet operating requirements with estimated inlet separation characteristics to identify the most critical inlet operating condition. This critical condition is taken to be the design point and is defined by the values of inlet mass flow, free stream velocity, and inlet angle of attack. Optimum flow distributions on the inlet surface are determined to be a high, flat top Mach number distribution on the inlet lip to turn the flow quickly into the inlet and a low, flat bottom skin friction distribution on the diffuser wall to diffuse the flow rapidly and efficiently to the velocity required at the fan face. These optimum distributions are then modified to achieve other desirable flow characteristics. Example applications are given. Extension of the method is suggested.
Study of Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle Plant Interaction and Control
Authors: Ahner D. J. , Patel A. S. , Quentin G.
Published: April 2015

This paper discusses the model features and preliminary results of an analytical simulation control study of an integrated gasification combined cycle plant, incorporating air blown, fixed bed gasifiers. This effort is being conducted under an EPRI contract. The general scope of the study effort and the model capabilities are discussed. In addition, dynamic simulations utilizing various fuel system subloop and station control logic are presented and their implications with respect to power system response and fuel system excursions are described.
A Compact Closed Cycle Gas Turbine for Marine Propulsion
Authors: Spurrier F. R.
Published: April 2015

A compact closed cycle gas turbine is described. The design was developed during the course of research conducted for the Office of Naval Research on the feasibility of lightweight, compact closed Brayton cycle systems (Contract N00014-C-0706). Emphasis was placed on applying the closed Brayton cycle to Navy high-speed ships currently under development and planned. These applications pose demanding requirements for compactness and light weight necessitating careful attention to the design of turbomachinery and heat exchanger components and their integration into the powerplant. The use of helium, with its propensity to leak at ducting joints, requires that containment integrity be provided without precluding access to plant components for maintenance. The design described meets these requirements by arranging the powerplant components in a closely integrated assembly within a completely enveloping pressure vessel. The research accomplished to date is discussed and the predicted power conversion system performance and characteristics are summarized.
Investigation of Process and System Design Variables for Catathermal Combustion of Low Btu Gas
Authors: Osgerby I. T. , Heck R. M. , Carrubba R. V. , Bunker W. W.
Published: April 2015

A laboratory scale experimental program was conducted* to determine design criteria for specification of catalyst configurations for “catalytically supported thermal combustion” of low Btu gas. The range of experimental parameters was chosen to simulate gas turbine combustor operation. Flashback-free operation was demonstrated for premixed combustor feed to a CATCOM* catalyst over the entire range of an anticipated commercial cycle. The effect of inlet gas compositional variables on combustion efficiency was defined. The trade-off between combustion efficiency and pressure loss was evaluated by testing five catalyst configurations having different catalyst volumes and geometric properties. A prototype catalyst configuration was selected, and a parametric performance map was developed showing the effect of low Btu gas composition, heating value, operating temperature and pressure, and reference velocity. No effect of low Btu gas heating value on combustion efficiency was observed over the range of 4.5 to 6.75 MJ/m3 (120 to 180 Btu/ft3). A lower inlet temperature which ensures combustion efficiency>percent at 30.5 m/s was 200 C. An inlet temperature of 150 C was sufficient to maintain combustion efficiency>99 percent at 15 m/s. Pressure loss for the preferred configuration was as low as 3.5 percent, even at 30.5 m/s reference velocity.
An Electronically Controlled Automotive Gas Turbine
Authors: Walzer P. , Meier-Grotrian J. , Mardell J.
Published: April 2015

The paper describes the use of an electronic control system with an experimental automotive gas turbine. A description of the gas turbine together with a summary of the control requirements is given. The resultant control system consisting of electronic logic and hydraulic interface components is presented. Finally, engine and vehicle behavior in steady-state and transient operation and reported.
The Storage and Regeneration of High Temperature Thermal Energy by Means of Reversible Chemical Reactions: The Ammonium Hydrogen Sulfate System
Authors: Wentworth W. E. , Batten C. F. , Merrill J. , Schuler T. , Ibanez J. G. , Cook C. J. , Chen E. C. M. , Ray J.
Published: April 2015

A chemical reaction cycle suitable for the storage of high temperature thermal energy from concentrated solar flux is described. The cycle is based on a reversible reaction involving ammonium hydrogen sulfate. Thermal decomposition of this compound would be used to store energy in the liquified reaction products (NH3, H2O, and SO3) at ambient temperature with a theoretical density of 3100 MJ/m3. Recombination of these products would be used to regenerate energy upon demand at a temperature suitable for use in electrical power generating facilities. Both steps of the cycle have been studied experimentally. Thermodynamic and kinetic data have been obtained for the energy storage step. These results are presented and discussed in terms of their significance to the proposed cycle.
Review of Liquid Piston Pumps and Their Operation With Solar Energy
Authors: Murphy C. L.
Published: April 2015

Liquid Piston Pumps are considered to be systems involving the up and down oscillations of a fluid column contained in a vessel which is enclosed at the top. At the bottom a suitable arrangement of check valves converts the oscillatory motion to a pumping action. The oscillations may be generated by cyclic heating, inertia forces, or combinations of the two. Existing designs of LPP’s are reviewed. Experimental results, and a theoretical analysis, are given for a straight tube L.P.P. The design of a Solar LPP is presented, which appears to be a practical and simple means of converting heat energy from a solar panel to potential energy of a water reservoir.
The Yellowstone magmatic system from the mantle plume to the upper crust
Authors: Huang Hsin-Hua , Lin Fan-Chi , Schmandt Brandon , Farrell Jamie , Smith Robert B. , Tsai Victor C.
Published: April 2015

Yellowstone's missing magmatic link

Yellowstone is an extensively studied “supervolcano” that has a large supply of heat coming from a pool of magma near the surface and the mantle below. A link between these two features has long been suspected. Huang
et al.
imaged the lower crust using seismic tomography (see the Perspective by Shapiro and Koulakov). Their findings provide an estimate of the total amount of molten rock beneath Yellowstone and help to explain the large amount of volcanic gases escaping from the region.

Science
, this issue p.
773
; see also p.
758
Draft Genome Sequences of 53 Genetically Distinct Isolates of Bordetella bronchiseptica Representing 11 Terrestrial and Aquatic Hosts
Authors: Register Karen B. , Ivanov Yury V. , Jacobs Nathan , Meyer Jessica A. , Goodfield Laura L. , Muse Sarah J. , Smallridge William E. , Brinkac Lauren , Kim Maria , Sanka Ravi , Harvill Eric T. , Losada Liliana
Published: April 2015

Bordetella bronchiseptica
infects a variety of mammalian and avian hosts. Here, we report the genome sequences of 53 genetically distinct isolates acquired from a broad range of terrestrial and aquatic animals. These data will greatly facilitate ongoing efforts to better understand the evolution, host adaptation, and virulence mechanisms of
B. bronchiseptica
.
Genome Sequences of Three Helicobacter pylori Strains from Patients with Gastric Mucosa-Associated Lymphoid Tissue Lymphoma
Authors: Wang Hsuan-Chen , Cheng Feng-Chi , Wu Ming-Shiang , Shu Hung-Yu , Sun H. Sunny , Wang Yu-Chun , Su Ih-Jen , Wu Chi-Jung
Published: April 2015

Most of the published complete genome sequences of
Helicobacter pylori
strains are limited to clinical isolates associated with gastritis, peptic ulcers, or gastric cancer. The genome sequences of three
H. pylori
strains isolated from patients with gastric mucosa-associated lymphoid tissue (MALT) lymphoma are presented here to facilitate studies of
H. pylori
-associated MALT lymphomagenesis.
Genome Sequence of Methanosarcina soligelidi SMA-21, Isolated from Siberian Permafrost-Affected Soil
Authors: Alawi Mashal , Shapiro Nicole , Woyke Tanja , Horn Fabian , Bakermans Corien , Wagner Dirk
Published: April 2015

Here, we announce the genome sequence of
Methanosarcina soligelidi
SMA-21, an anaerobic methanogenic archaeon that was previously isolated from Siberian permafrost-affected soil. The sequencing of strain SMA-21 yielded a 4.06-Mb genome with 41.5% G+C content, containing a total of 2,647 open reading frames.
Complete Genome Sequence of Duck Tembusu Virus Isolated from Pekin Ducks in Shanghai, China
Authors: Cheng Yuqiang , Zhang Chuanpeng , Wang Hengan , Yan Yaxian , Ding Chan , Sun Jianhe
Published: April 2015

We report here the complete genomic sequence of the duck Tembusu virus (DTMUV) SH001 strain, isolated from Pekin ducks in Shanghai, China, in 2013. The genome of SH001 is 10,990 nucleotides (nt) in length and contains a single open reading frame encoding a putative polyprotein of 3,425 amino acids.
Genome Sequence of Acidovorax citrulli Group 1 Strain pslb65 Causing Bacterial Fruit Blotch of Melons
Authors: Wang Tielin , Sun Baixin , Yang Yuwen , Zhao Tingchang
Published: April 2015

Acidovorax citrulli
is typed into two groups, mainly based on the host. We determined the draft genome of
A. citrulli
group 1 strain pslb65. The strain was isolated from melon collected from Xinjiang province, China. The
A. citrulli
pslb65 genome contains 4,903,443 bp and has a G+C content of 68.8 mol%.
Genome Sequence of Jannaschia aquimarina GSW-M26, a Member of the
Roseobacter
Clade
Authors: Voget Sonja , Díaz Valerio Stefani Maria , von Hoyningen-Huene Avril Jean Elisabeth , Nattramilarasu Praveen Kumar , Vollheyde Katharina , Xiao Shengbin , Daniel Rolf
Published: April 2015

The Gram-negative alphaproteobacterium
Jannaschia aquimarina
GSW-M26 (DSM 28248) is a member of the
Roseobacter
clade. The size of the draft genome is 4.1 Mb. Genome analysis revealed the presence of genes encoding a complete gene transfer agent and aerobic anoxygenic photosynthesis. The latter indicated a photoheterotrophic lifestyle.
Genome Sequence of a Versatile Aromatic Hydrocarbon-Degrading Bacterium,
Arthrobacter
sp. W1
Authors: Jiang Yi , Qu Yuanyuan , Xu Ping , Tang Hongzhi
Published: April 2015

Arthrobacter
sp. W1 is a versatile aromatic-degrading strain which can directly or cometabolically degrade various organic pollutants, such as phenol, naphthalene, carbazole, dibenzofuran, and dibenzothiophene. Here, we present a 3.8-Mb draft genome sequence of strain W1, which may provide comprehensive genetic information for the application in environmental pollution remediation.
Tuberculous lymphadenitis and syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis, improbable partners
Authors: Vitorino Helena , Castanheira Andrea , Veiga Manuela Zita , Silva Alberto Mello
Published: April 2015

A patient with acute respiratory infection and severe hyponatraemia was admitted to our department. The hyponatraemia study was compatible with syndrome of inappropriate antidiuresis (SIAD) and an association with the respiratory problem was initially assumed. The recurrence of hyponatraemia after resolution of the pulmonary infection led to further investigation and to the diagnosis of tuberculous lymphadenitis. After treatment of this condition, discontinuation of SIAD treatment was possible, making this association presumable. We would like to highlight the importance of considering alternative conditions in the approach to SIAD.
Oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma—a rare pathological variant
Authors: Kalra Sidhartha , Manikandan Ramanitharan , Srinivas BH
Published: April 2015

Oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma is a rare histopathological variant of adrenocortical carcinoma with very few instances reported in the literature to date. With progressive research, new insights have emerged in the molecular profiling of these tumours. This advancement has led to more clarity in reporting of this tumour. We report a case of oncocytic adrenocortical carcinoma with its attending clinical presentation, immunohistochemical profiling and characteristic electron microscopy findings.
The truth is in the water: metastatic prostate cancer presenting as an intermittent facial nerve palsy
Authors: Wooles N , Gupta S , Wilkin-Crowe H , Juratli A
Published: April 2015

An elderly man presented to the acute ear, nose and throat (ENT) services with a history of intermittent, self-limiting facial nerve palsy. Full ENT examination was normal, with all cranial nerves and peripheral neurology intact. Multiple imaging modalities suggested an aggressive bony lesion, secondary to locally advanced prostate malignancy with extensive metastatic infiltration. Prostate cancer is known to preferentially metastasise to bone and has been known to cause multiple cranial nerve palsies and ophthalmoplegia. This is the first case described in the literature of metastatic prostate cancer presenting with intermittent facial nerve palsy.
Interventions with potential to reduce sedentary time in adults: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Martin Anne , Fitzsimons Claire , Jepson Ruth , Saunders David H , van der Ploeg Hidde P , Teixeira Pedro J , Gray Cindy M , Mutrie Nanette
Published: April 2015

Context

Time spent in sedentary behaviours (SB) is associated with poor health, irrespective of the level of physical activity. The aim of this study was to evaluate the effect of interventions which included SB as an outcome measure in adults.

Methods

Thirteen databases, including The Cochrane Library, MEDLINE and SPORTDiscus, trial registers and reference lists, were searched for randomised controlled trials until January 2014. Study selection, data extraction and quality assessment were performed independently. Primary outcomes included SB, proxy measures of SB and patterns of accumulation of SB. Secondary outcomes were cardiometabolic health, mental health and body composition. Intervention types were categorised as SB only, physical activity (PA) only, PA and SB or lifestyle interventions (PA/SB and diet).

Results

Of 8087 records, 51 studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis of 34/51 studies showed a reduction of 22 min/day in sedentary time in favour of the intervention group (95% CI −35 to −9 min/day, n=5868). Lifestyle interventions reduced SB by 24 min/day (95% CI −41 to −8 min/day, n=3981, moderate quality) and interventions focusing on SB only by 42 min/day (95% CI −79 to −5 min/day, n=62, low quality). There was no evidence of an effect of PA and combined PA/SB interventions on reducing sedentary time.

Conclusions

There was evidence that it is possible to intervene to reduce SB in adults. Lifestyle and SB only interventions may be promising approaches. More high quality research is needed to determine if SB interventions are sufficient to produce clinically meaningful and sustainable reductions in sedentary time.
Medium-term cost-effectiveness of an automated non-invasive ventilation outpatient set-up versus a standard fixed level non-invasive ventilation inpatient set-up in obese patients with chronic respiratory failure: a protocol description
Authors: Mandal S , Arbane G , Murphy P , Elliott M W , Janssens J P , Pepin J L , Muir J F , Cuvelier A , Polkey M , Parkin D , Douiri A , Hart N
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Obesity is an escalating issue, with an accompanying increase in referrals of patients with obesity-related respiratory failure. Currently, these patients are electively admitted to hospital for initiation of non-invasive ventilation (NIV), but it is unknown whether outpatient initiation is as effective as inpatient set-up. We hypothesise that outpatient set-up using an autotitrating NIV device will be more cost-effective than a nurse-led inpatient titration and set-up.

Methods and analysis

We will undertake a multinational, multicentre randomised controlled trial. Participants will be randomised to receive the usual inpatient set-up, which will include nurse-led initiation of NIV or outpatient set-up with an automated NIV device. They will be stratified according to the trial site, gender and previous use of NIV or continuous positive airway pressure. Assuming a 10% dropout rate, a total sample of 82 patients will be required. Cost-effectiveness will be evaluated using standard treatment costs and health service utilisation as well as health-related quality of life measures (severe respiratory insufficiency (SRI) and EuroQol-5 dimensions (EQ-5D)). A change in the SRI questionnaire will be based on the analysis of covariance adjusting for the baseline measurements between the two arms of patients.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Westminster National Research Ethics Committee (11/LO/0414) and is the trial registered on the UKCRN portfolio. The trial is planned to start in January 2015 with publication of the trial results in 2017.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN 51420481.
The role of cognitive function in the relationship between age and health literacy: a cross-sectional analysis of older adults in Chicago, USA
Authors: Kobayashi Lindsay C , Smith Samuel G , O'Conor Rachel , Curtis Laura M , Park Denise , von Wagner Christian , Deary Ian J , Wolf Michael S
Published: April 2015

Objectives

To investigate how 3 measures of health literacy correlate with age and the explanatory roles of fluid and crystallised cognitive abilities in these relationships among older adults.

Design

Cross-sectional baseline analysis of the ‘LitCog’ cohort study.

Setting

1 academic internal medicine clinic and 5 federally qualified health centres in Chicago, USA.

Participants

English-speaking adults (n=828) aged 55–74 years, recruited from August 2008 through October 2011.

Outcome measures

Health literacy was measured by theTest of Functional Health Literacy in Adults(TOFHLA) and theNewest Vital Sign(NVS), both of which assess reading comprehension and numeracy in health contexts, and by theRapid Estimate of Adult Literacy in Medicine(REALM), which assesses medical vocabulary. Fluid cognitive ability was assessed through the cognitive domains of processing speed, inductive reasoning, and working, prospective and long-term memories, and crystallised cognitive ability through the verbal ability domain.

Results

TOFHLA and NVS scores were lower at ages 70–74 years compared with all other age groups (p<0.05 for both tests). The inverse association between age and TOFHLA score was attenuated from β=−0.39 (95% CI −0.55 to −0.22) to β=−0.06 (95% CI −0.20 to 0.08) for ages 70–74 vs 55–59 years when fluid cognitive ability was added to the model (85% attenuation). Similar results were seen with NVS scores (68% attenuation). REALM scores did not differ by age group (p=0.971). Crystallised cognitive ability was stable across age groups, and did not influence the relationships between age and TOFHLA or NVS performance.

Conclusions

Health literacy skills show differential patterns of age-related change, which may be explained by cognitive ageing. Researchers should select health literacy tests appropriate for their purposes when assessing the health literacy of older adults. Clinicians should be aware of this issue to ensure that health self-management tasks for older patients have appropriate cognitive and literacy demands.
Interprofessional education in the care of people diagnosed with dementia: protocol for a systematic review
Authors: Pelone Ferruccio , Reeves Scott , Ioannides Andreas , Emery Claire , Titmarsh Kumud , Jackson Marcus , Hassenkamp Anne Marie , Greenwood Nan
Published: April 2015

Introduction

Interprofessional education (IPE) offers a possible way to improve interprofessional collaboration and patient care. Current research addressing the effectiveness of IPE in dementia care is limited. A protocol is described for a systematic review to investigate the evidence for the influence of IPE on collaborative knowledge and skills; interprofessional practice and the delivery of dementia care.

Methods and analysis

We will search the following electronic databases: PubMed, EMBASE, The Cochrane Library, PsycINFO CINAHL, Applied Social Sciences Index and Abstracts (ASSIA), ERIC British Education Index (BEI) and the Healthcare Management Information Consortium (HMIC). Additional studies will be identified by manually searching relevant journals and the reference list of selected studies. The selection of the studies, data collection and quality appraisal will be performed independently by two reviewers. Data will be initially analysed through a narrative synthesis method. If a subset of data we analyse appears comparable, we will investigate the possibility of pooling such data via formal meta-analysis analytical techniques.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval will not be required as this is a protocol for a systematic review. This systematic review aims to establish the effectiveness of IPE programmes on collaborative professional practice and the delivery of care for people with dementia. The findings of this systematic review may also identify specific gaps in the evidence informing a future agenda for research, policy and practice. It will be published in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

PROSPERO CRD42014015075.
Tunable and switchable fiber laser based on modal interference
Authors: Ma Lin , Sun Jiang , Qi Yanhui , Kang Zexin , Jian Shuisheng
Published: April 2015

A tunable and switchable erbium-doped fiber (EDF) laser based on modal interference has been proposed and experimentally demonstrated in this paper. Here a core-offset structure has been used to excite the cladding modes and a segment of polarization maintaining fiber inserted in a Sagnac loop interferometer has been used as wavelength selective component. By adjusting the statement of polarization controller (PC) and the bending of the core-offset structure, a tunable and switchable fiber laser with the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of more than 50 dB has been achieved in this paper.
RECOGNIZING THE CONTRIBUTION OF FEMALE ENTREPRENEURS IN ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN SUB-SAHARAN AFRICA: SOME EVIDENCE FROM GHANA
Authors: ADOM KWAME
Published: April 2015

In recent decades, female entrepreneurs have been seen to contribute to the economic development of nations especially in developing countries. Until now the contribution of female entrepreneurs to economic development in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) has been relegated to the background or ignored in development circles. Part of the reason is because female entrepreneurs mainly work in the informal economy and are necessity driven and marginalized. The main research question the study poses is 'what is the contribution of female entrepreneurs to socio-economic development in SSA?' This paper seeks to answer this by examining critically the contribution of female entrepreneurs from Ghana as a means to achieve economic development. The study employs a qualitative approach using multiple case study design. To examine female entrepreneurship, a 2014 survey involving face-to-face interviews of 60 female entrepreneurs from Accra in Ghana is analyzed. The key finding is that, although male entrepreneurs contribute significantly more to economic development than their female counterparts, there remains untapped potential for female entrepreneurs becoming key players for achieving economic development. This and other findings of the study have some implications for policy on female entrepreneurship. Therefore, there is a call to harness these potentials through policies that would promote female entrepreneurship on an equal wavelength as their male counterparts. This is the first known study of female entrepreneurship as a catalyst for economic development in Ghana.
Iterated index and the mean Euler characteristic
Authors: Ginzburg Viktor L. , Gören Yusuf
Published: April 2015

The aim of the paper is three-fold. We begin by proving a formula, both global and local versions, relating the number of periodic orbits of an iterated map and the Lefschetz numbers, or indices in the local case, of its iterations. This formula is then used to express the mean Euler characteristic (MEC) of a contact manifold in terms of local, purely topological, invariants of closed Reeb orbits, without any non-degeneracy assumption on the orbits. Finally, turning to applications of the local MEC formula to dynamics, we use it to reprove a theorem asserting the existence of at least two closed Reeb orbits on the standard contact S3(by Cristofaro–Gardiner and Hutchings in the most general form) and the existence of at least two closed geodesics for a Finsler metric on S2(Bangert and Long).
The small molecule ferristatin II induces hepatic hepcidin expression in vivo and in vitro
Authors: Alkhateeb Ahmed A. , Buckett Peter D. , Gardeck Andrew M. , Kim Jonghan , Byrne Shaina L. , Fraenkel Paula G. , Wessling-Resnick Marianne
Published: April 2015

Previous studies have shown that administration of ferristatin II to rats is associated with decreased serum iron, reduced transferrin saturation, and increased hepatic hepcidin expression. BMP and IL-6 signaling act via Smad and Stat3 transcription factors, respectively, to increase expression of hepcidin, the master regulator of iron metabolism. In this study, we aimed to explore the underlying mechanism of ferristatin II action on hepcidin production. We found that ferristatin II greatly increased hepcidin expression both in vivo and in vitro. In the rat liver, ferristatin II treatment decreased expression of Smad downstream targets Smad7 and Id1 and increased expression of Stat3 downstream targets α-2-macroglobulin, α-1-acid glycoprotein, and C-reactive peptide. Ferristatin II also increased Stat3 phosphorylation in the rat liver without affecting serum or hepatic IL-6 levels. It is unclear whether the Stat3 activation observed in vivo is a cause or a consequence to hepcidin induction. Reporter gene expression studies demonstrated that ferristatin II synergized with BMP6 and IL-6 to enhance hepcidin expression in vitro. However, this synergy was not due to activation of either Smad or Stat3 signaling, raising the possibility that ferristatin II may activate a novel pathway for hepcidin regulation.
NTS adenosine A2a receptors inhibit the cardiopulmonary chemoreflex control of regional sympathetic outputs via a GABAergic mechanism
Authors: Minic Zeljka , O'Leary Donal S. , Scislo Tadeusz J.
Published: April 2015

Adenosine is a powerful central neuromodulator acting via opposing A1 (inhibitor) and A2a (activator) receptors. However, in the nucleus of the solitary tract (NTS), both adenosine receptor subtypes attenuate cardiopulmonary chemoreflex (CCR) sympathoinhibition of renal, adrenal, and lumbar sympathetic nerve activity and attenuate reflex decreases in arterial pressure and heart rate. Adenosine A1 receptors inhibit glutamatergic transmission in the CCR pathway, whereas adenosine A2a receptors most likely facilitate release of an unknown inhibitory neurotransmitter, which, in turn, inhibits the CCR. We hypothesized that adenosine A2a receptors inhibit the CCR via facilitation of GABA release in the NTS. In urethane-chloralose-anesthetized rats ( n = 51), we compared regional sympathetic responses evoked by stimulation of the CCR with right atrial injections of the 5-HT3 receptor agonist phenylbiguanide (1–8 μg/kg) before and after selective stimulation of NTS adenosine A2a receptors [microinjections into the NTS of CGS-21680 (20 pmol/50 nl)] preceded by blockade of GABAA or GABAB receptors in the NTS [bicuculline (10 pmol/100 nl) or SCH-50911 (1 nmol/100 nl)]. Blockade of GABAA receptors virtually abolished adenosine A2a receptor-mediated inhibition of the CCR. GABAB receptors had much weaker but significant effects. These effects were similar for the different sympathetic outputs. We conclude that stimulation of NTS adenosine A2a receptors inhibits CCR-evoked hemodynamic and regional sympathetic reflex responses via a GABA-ergic mechanism.
Cell- and molecular-level mechanisms contributing to diastolic dysfunction in HFpEF
Authors: Campbell Kenneth S. , Sorrell Vincent L.
Published: April 2015

Heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF) is the default diagnosis for patients who have symptoms of heart failure, an ejection fraction >0.5, and evidence of diastolic dysfunction. The clinical condition, which was largely unrecognized 30 years ago, is now a major health problem and currently accounts for 50% of all patients with heart failure. Clinical studies show that patients with HFpEF exhibit increased passive stiffness of the ventricles and a slower rate of pressure decline during diastole. This review discusses some of the cell- and molecular-level mechanisms that contribute to these effects and focuses on data obtained using human samples. Collagen cross linking, modulation of protein kinase G-related pathways, Ca2+ handling, and strain-dependent detachment of cross bridges are highlighted as potential factors that could be modulated to improve ventricular function in patients with HFpEF.
MiR-10b Directly Targets ZEB1 and PIK3CA to Curb Adenomyotic Epithelial Cell Invasiveness via Upregulation of E-Cadherin and Inhibition of Akt Phosphorylation
Authors: Guo Ying , Lang Xiao , Lu Zhen , Wang Jianchao , Li Ting , Liao Ying , Jia Chunyan , Zhao Wenxia , Fang Huiqi
Published: April 2015

Background/Aims: Adenomyosis is a disease in which ectopic endometrial glands and stromal cells appear in the uterine myometrium. Despite its prevalence, the molecular mechanisms involved in the development of adenomyosis are largely unknown. The aim of this study was to investigate the role of miR-10b and its target genes ZEB1 and PIK3CA in adenomyosis. Methods: 1387 miRNAs in human normal endometrium and ectopic endometrial lesions of adenomyosis using a microarray screen assay. The significant differential expression of 10 miRNAs was confirmed by qRT-PCR. The expression of miR-10b in endometrial epithelial cells isolated from normal endometrium and paired eutopic and ectopic endometrium of adenomyosis was measured by qRT-PCR. Subsequently, the targets of miR-10b were predicted by bioinformatics and confirmed using a luciferase assay, and the mRNA and protein expression of ZEB1 and PIK3CA were assessed in the endometrium or endometrial epithelial cells by qRT-PCR and western blotting or immunohistochemical analysis. Cell migration and cell invasion of endometrial epithelial cells with different treatments by Transwell assays. The expression of p-AKT, Akt and E-cadherin proteins was determined by Western blot analysis. Results: MiR-10b expression was significantly downregulated in both adenomyotic lesions and adenomyotic epithelial cells. MiR-10b overexpression in adenomyotic epithelial cells inhibited cell migration and invasion. We then demonstrated that miR-10b directly targets the 3'-UTRs of ZEB1 and PIK3CA, and downregulates ZEB1 and PIK3CA in adenomyotic epithelial cells, leading to increased E-cadherin expression and decreased Akt phosphorylation. Conclusions: miR-10b directly targets ZEB1 and PIK3CA to curb adenomyotic epithelial cell invasiveness via upregulation of E-Cadherin and inhibition of Akt phosphorylation.
The p53/miR-34a/SIRT1 Positive Feedback Loop in Quercetin-Induced Apoptosis
Authors: Lou Guohua , Liu Yanning , Wu Shanshan , Xue Jihua , Yang Fan , Fu Haijing , Zheng Min , Chen Zhi
Published: April 2015

Background: The anti-tumor effects of quercetin have been reported, but the underlying molecular mechanisms remain to be elucidated. The aim of present study was to explore the role of miRNA in the anticancer effects of quercetin. Methods: The differential miRNAs expression between the HepG2 and Huh7 cells treated by quercetin were detected by microarray. The xCELLigence, Flow cytometry, RT-PCR and Western blot were used to analyze the cell proliferation, cell apoptosis, cell cycle arrest, anti-tumor genes, and protein expression. Results: miR-34a was up-regulated in HepG2 cells treated by quercetin exhibiting wild-type p53. When inhibiting the miR-34a, the sensitivity of the cells to quercetin decreased and the expression of the SIRT1 was up-regulated, but the acetylation of p53 and the expression of some genes related to p53 down-regulated. Conclusion: miR-34a plays an important role in the anti-tumor effects of querctin in HCC, miR-34a may be a tiemolecule between the p53 and SIRT1 and is composed of a p53/miR-34a/SIRT1 signal feedback loop, which could enhance apoptosis signal and significantly promote cell apoptosis.
Phenotypic Characterization of a Human Immortalized Cranial Periosteal Cell Line
Authors: Alexander Dorothea , Biller Regina , Rieger Melanie , Ardjomandi Nina , Reinert Siegmar
Published: April 2015

Background/Aims: Human cell material for basic research work is limited due to restricted patient numbers and occurring cell senescence during prolonged in vitro cell cultivation. In the present study, we established for the first time a human immortalized cranial periosteal cell line and characterized its phenotype in detail in comparison to that of parental cells. Methods: For this purpose, human primary cranial periosteal cells were stably transduced with the large T antigen cDNA from polyomavirus SV40 (TAg cells). Results: The functional activity of the large T antigen was demonstrated by human telomerase gene expression. Whereas TAg cells maintained long-term cell proliferation, immortalization did not compromise their osteogenic differentiation potential. In contrast, TAg cells showed an earlier and stronger mineralization compared to parental cells. Among the analysed stem cell surface markers, CD146 and MSCA-1 (mesenchymal stem cell antigen-1) were shown to be elevated in Tag cells. Gene expression analyses revealed in general higher constitutive m-RNA levels of key factors of osteogenesis than in parental cells. Conclusion: We conclude that the herein generated cell line represents a suitable cell source for basic science research studying bone biology, the osteogenesis process or biomaterial tests for bone regeneration purposes.