bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A prospective study of alcohol involvement and the dual‐systems model of adolescent risk‐taking during late adolescence and emerging adulthood
Authors: Ellingson Jarrod M. , Corley Robin , Hewitt John K. , Friedman Naomi P.
Published: November 2018

Aims

To estimate interactions and unique effects of behavioral approach and behavioral control on alcohol involvement hypothesized by dual‐systems models, during adolescence and emerging adulthood.

Design

In a longitudinal study, behavioral approach and behavioral control were examined in relation to alcohol involvement, cross‐sectionally and prospectively.

Setting and participants

A total of 846 general population twins born in Colorado, USA were assessed twice (mean = 17.3 and 22.8 years; female = 51.4%; white = 91.8%).

Measurements

Behavioral approach was measured by self‐report questionnaires of sensation‐seeking and subjective effects of alcohol. Behavioral control was measured by self‐reported lack of planning and nine executive functioning (EF) tasks. Interviewers administered semi‐structured clinical interviews to assess alcohol use and disorder (AUD).

Findings

None of 36 interaction effects was statistically significant (β = −0.16–0.14, P > 0.06), suggesting that dual systems are additively related to alcohol involvement. In multiple regression models, behavioral approach and behavioral control explained independent variance in alcohol use quantity (β = 0.09–0.33, P < 0.04) and frequency (β = −0.11–0.29, P < 0.03) at both waves. During adolescence, only subjective effects (β = 0.27–0.28, P < 0.001) explained independent variance in AUD. Moreover, measures of the same construct explained independent variance in alcohol involvement: for behavioral control, lack of planning and EF were associated with alcohol frequency in adolescence (β = −0.11–0.25, P < 0.02) and AUD in emerging adulthood (β = −0.09–0.16, P < 0.03). For the behavioral approach, subjective effects were associated with all measures at both waves (β = 0.20–0.33, P < 0.01) and sensation‐seeking was associated with all measures in emerging adulthood (β = 0.09–0.11, P < 0.04). In prospective models, adolescent alcohol involvement was associated with later lack of planning (β = 0.12–0.18, P < 0.03) and lack of planning in adolescence was associated with later alcohol involvement (β = 0.12–0.14, P < 0.02).

Conclusions

Both the behavioral approach and behavioral control components of dual‐systems models explain alcohol involvement during adolescence and adulthood, and different measures of the same system assess separate risk processes. The relations between alcohol involvement and the dual systems appear to be bidirectional.
In the footsteps of Wallace: population structure in the breadfruit fruit fly, Bactrocera umbrosa (F.) (Diptera: Tephritidae), suggests disjunction across the Indo‐Australian Archipelago
Authors: Krosch Matt N , Schutze Mark K , Newman Jaye , Strutt Francesca , Bryant Litticia M , McMahon Jacinta , Clarke Anthony R
Published: November 2018

Understanding the interplay between plant host and insect herbivore diversification underpins many areas of pure and applied research. The tephritid fruit fly Bactrocera umbrosa is a primary pest of a small number of Artocarpus species throughout Southeast Asia and the West Pacific. Recent molecular evidence supports a pattern of eastward migration and species diversification in Artocarpus. Here, we aimed to test whether population structure in B. umbrosa was associated with historical biogeographical barriers such as Wallace's Line and discuss observed patterns in the context of Artocarpus diversification. We used an integrative approach to explore population structure within B. umbrosa based on morphological (wing shape and aedeagus length) and molecular (mitochondrial COI and COII) data. Overall, aedeagi and wing centroid sizes were generally larger and exhibited greater variation in the West Pacific than Southeast Asia. Molecular data agreed with this trend, and COI also showed a subtle but clear disjunction between regions associated with Weber/Lydekker's Lines. Taken together, the West Pacific was supported as the putative origin of B. umbrosa, whereas movement westward into Southeast Asia occurred more recently, likely via a single colonisation event followed by highly restricted gene flow. Population structure in B. umbrosa does not reflect an ancient history of tracking Artocarpus diversification eastward out of Southeast Asia.
Preferences for anuran calls in hematophagous corethrellids (Diptera: Corethrellidae) from Southern Brazil
Authors: Ambrozio‐Assis André , Cortês Lopes Benedito , Amaral André P , Pinho Luiz C , Peeters Edwin T H M , Neckel‐Oliveira Selvino
Published: November 2018

Corethrellids are hematophagous flies that locate their frog hosts by using their calls as an auditory cue. The attractiveness of frog calls to these insects has been associated with the complexity of the vocalisation or an evolutionary relationship between the fly and frog species. We investigated the possible preferences of a local Corethrella fauna for the calls of six anurans, three species of the genus Boana (Hylidae) and three Physalaemus (Leptodactylidae) species in the Atlantic Rainforest of southern Brazil. We recorded loops of the natural advertisement calls of the different frog host species, which we broadcast from acoustic traps consisting of modified CDC (Center for Disease Control) traps fitted with a speaker under the collecting system, but without a source of light. Nine species of hematophagous flies were captured during 360 h of trapping. Three of the species captured were new to Brazil, and two could not be identified and may represent new taxa. Two corethrellid species contributed 75% of the individuals captured and were present in all the acoustic traps, while three species were attracted to only one trap. The median richness and abundance of corethrellids varied significantly in relation to the different calls broadcast by the traps. These differences in the abundance and species richness of Corethrella in the traps indicate that the frog calls vary in their attractiveness to the hematophagous flies. A model‐based analysis using mvabund also indicated that the frog species and genera that produced the calls used in an acoustic trap were a significant factor determining the composition of the Corethrella assemblages captured in that trap. The variation found in the Corethrella communities of southern Brazil may be explained not only by the acoustic traits of frog vocalisations but also by differences in the morphological and ecological characteristics of the frog species.
Is the New Infant Jarvik 2015 Suitable for Patients<8 kg? In Vitro Study Using a Hybrid Simulator
Authors: Di Molfetta Arianna , Zielinski Krzysztof , Ferrari Gianfranco , Kozarski Macej , Okrzeja Piotr , Iacobelli Roberta , Filippelli Sergio , Perri Gianluigi , Darowski Marek , Massetti Massimo , Jarvik Robert , Amodeo Antonio
Published: November 2018

Our aim was to study the feasibility of implanting the Infant Jarvik 2015 in patients weighing less than 8 kg. The Infant Jarvik 2015 left ventricular assist device (LVAD) was tested in a hybrid simulator of the cardiovascular system reproducing specific patients’ hemodynamics for different patient weights (2–7 kg). For each weight, the sensitivity of the pump to different circulatory parameters (peripheral resistance, left ventricular elastance, right ventricular elastance, heart rate, and heart filling characteristics) has been tested repeating for each experiment a pump ramp (10 000–18 000 rpm). The increase in the pump speed causes a decrease (increase) in the left (right) atrial pressure, an increase (decrease) in the arterial systemic (pulmonary) pressure, an increase in the right ventricular pressure, a decrease (increase) in the left (right) ventricular volume, a decrease in the left ventricular cardiac output, an increase in the LVAD output and an increase in the right ventricular cardiac output (total cardiac output). Suction was observed for lower weight patients and for higher pump speed in the case of vasodilation, left ventricular recovery, bradycardia, right ventricular failure, and left ventricular hypertrophy. Backflow was observed in the case of left ventricular recovery at lower pump speed. In the hybrid simulator, the Infant Jarvik 2015 could be suitable for the implantation in patients lower than 8 kg because of the stability of the device respect to the cardio/circulatory changes (low frequency of suction and backflow) and because of the capability of the device to maintain adequate patient hemodynamics.
Control methodologies for vibration control of smart civil and mechanical structures
Authors: Li Zhijun , Adeli Hojjat
Published: November 2018

Artificial intelligence and expert system remains a key technology in the 21st century. Using active controllers, a structure can adaptively adjust its behaviour during dynamic loads. Such structures with self‐modifying capabilities are referred to as intelligent or smart structures. Smart structure technology has the potential to be a game changer in the structural engineering field. It promises to have enormous consequences in terms of preventing loss of life and damage to structure and their content especially for large structures with hundreds or thousands of components. A key element in successful implementation of smart active control technology is an effective control algorithm to compute the magnitudes of actual forces to be applied to the structure. In this paper, an overview of main active control methodologies for vibration control of smart civil and mechanical structures subjected to external dynamic loads is presented. The advantages and the disadvantages of different control algorithms are discussed. Finally, new trends in control algorithm research are pointed out including multiparadigm strategies, decentralized control, application of deep neural network machine learning techniques, control design for sustainability, and unification of the two fields of structural health monitoring and vibration control.
Proteolysis and in situ ruminal degradation of lucerne ensiled with Cistus ladanifer tannins
Authors: Dentinho Maria Teresa. P. , Paulos Kátia , Portugal Paula V. , Moreira Olga C. , Santos‐Silva José , Bessa Rui J. B.
Published: November 2018

The effects of ensiling lucerne with graded inclusion of Cistus ladanifer condensed tannins (CT) on in silo fermentative parameters, in vitro organic matter digestibility (IVOMD) and on in situ rumen degradability of dry matter (DM) and crude protein (CP) were studied. Lucerne forage (Medicago sativa subsp. sativa) was sprayed with different solutions of C. ladanifer CT extract in 60 ml of water in order for dose 0 (control), 40 (L40), 80 (L80) and 120 (L120) g of CT per kg of lucerne DM and was ensiled in lab‐scale silos. After 35 days, the silages were analysed for chemical composition, and the in situ ruminal degradability was determined in rams. The inclusion of CT in the silages caused an important dose‐dependent reduction in soluble‐N, NH3‐N and a large increase in true protein content and N bound with neutral detergent fibre (NDF‐N), which indicates an effective proteolysis reduction during ensiling. Also, the rumen undegradable protein (RUP) increased linearly (P < 0.01) with CT inclusion. However, a linear decrease (P < 0.02) of 5%, 13% and 22% of IVOMD was observed for the silages L40, L80 and L120 respectively. The results obtained suggest that C. ladanifer CT can be used as silage additives to reduce proteolysis of high‐protein forages during ensiling. A level of CT of 40 g/kg DM seems to be the best compromise between the gains achieved by the protection of CP degradation in silo and in the rumen and the losses associated with the depression of the digestion and absorption.
Productivity and nutritive value of Brachiaria decumbens and performance of dairy heifers in a long‐term silvopastoral system
Authors: Lima Marina A. , Paciullo Domingos S. C. , Morenz Mirton J. F. , Gomide Carlos A. M. , Rodrigues Renato A. R. , Chizzotti Fernanda H. M.
Published: November 2018

Silvopastoral system (SPS) has been suggested to ensure sustainability in animal production systems in tropical ecosystems. The objective of this study was to evaluate the productive and nutritive value traits of Brachiaria decumbens and performance of dairy heifers in SPS and open pasture (OP) during the summer and autumn of two consecutive years in the SPS and OP (17th and 18th years after establishment). Experimental design was a randomized complete block with two treatments (SPS and OP) and three replications in subdivided plots with repeated measures in time. There was reduction in the tiller population density, total and green forage mass, and total and green forage bulk density in the SPS when compared to the OP in the summer. In the autumn, no difference was observed between the systems. Shading in SPS increased crude protein content of the grass pasture by 25% and 33% when compared to the OP during the first and second experimental years, respectively, and reduced neutral detergent fibre content. However, it did not change acid detergent fibre or lignin content. OP provided higher stocking rate and weight gain per area than the SPS. Average daily gain was higher in the OP in the second experimental year. Severe shading conditions should be avoided, because in the long‐term they may threaten the persistence and sustainability of pasture in the SPS. It is recommended to plant a low density of trees or implement management strategies of the tree component by either thinning or pruning over the years after planting.
On agency and empowerment in a #MeToo world
Authors: Ozkazanc‐Pan Banu
Published: November 2018

In the midst of the #MeToo movement sweeping across different societies, what opportunities and challenges exist for changing extant gender structures and systems that have allowed for sexual harassment and assault to take shape? Such a discussion provokes questions around what kinds of feminisms, both as philosophical traditions and as a set of praxis/practices, enable societal and organizational change. This article focuses explicitly on different notions of agency deriving from various feminist traditions to underscore possibilities for engaging in such change. Borrowing from intersectional, decolonial, postcolonial and transnational feminist perspectives, I suggest that a collectivist approach to agency is necessary for gender system change. I coin collective feminism as a way to conceptualize agency that only becomes possible through the work of many and then discuss this mode of feminism in relation to empowerment and social change toward gender equality.
Building Bridges to the Community: the Kirkham Family Connectors (KFC) Prison Programme
Authors: HALL LAUREN JAY , BEST DAVID , OGDEN‐WEBB CLARE , DIXON JACQUI , HESLOP ROB
Published: November 2018

Families represent a form of social capital that can influence effective reintegration depending on the strength of the bond, and the nature of the relationship. An innovative training programme delivered at HMP Kirkham was designed to mobilise the strengths of prisoners, in the period prior to their release, by engaging family members as bridges to community resources and by a shared planning process designed to build stronger bonds between prisoners and their families. The conceptual framework for the Kirkham Family Connectors (KFC) project is based on the principles of Asset Based Community Development (ABCD) and Assertive Linkage (assisting individuals in engaging with such assets). The project aimed to build prisoner resettlement capital by identifying what each prisoner's skills and strengths were, what enthused and engaged them, and to create partnerships with family members to establish accessible pathways to related resources in the communities to which they would be returning on their release. Evaluation data show that the programme generated hope and a sense of partnership among participants and key lessons for a strengths‐based intervention to support the prison‐community transition. All three of the participating groups – staff, prisoners, and families – reported positive engagement and an emerging sense of hope, and group cohesion through shared goals. There is considerable scope for both peer and probation staff delivery of the programme in the future, and for extending the scale and the scope of the project.
Association between smoking type and prevalence of atopic dermatitis and asthma in men and women
Authors: Moon Hye‐Mi , Kim Yoonjung , Kwak Yeunhee , Kim Kyunghee
Published: November 2018

Aim

This study aimed to examine the association between smoking type and the prevalence of atopic dermatitis and asthma in men and women.

Background

Cases of allergic diseases have been steadily increasing worldwide. Smoking is associated with serious diseases. Only a few studies have assessed the association between smoking and atopic dermatitis and asthma in adults, and gender difference studies are scarce despite a significant difference in smoking rates.

Methods

We conducted a secondary cross‐sectional analysis of 17 886 adults with atopic dermatitis and 17 889 with asthma aged ≥19 years, using raw data from the Fifth Korea national Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (2010‐2012).

Results

The prevalence of atopic dermatitis in men was not associated with active or passive smoking, whereas asthma prevalence in men was associated with indoor passive smoking exposure at home. We found that atopic dermatitis prevalence in women was associated with current smoking status, whereas asthma prevalence in women was associated with the presence of an indoor daily smoker at home and indoor passive smoking exposure at home.

Conclusion

Asthmatic adults should be informed of the hazards of passive smoking, and women with atopic dermatitis should in particular be dissuaded from smoking.
The perceived legitimacy of a basic income among Finnish food aid recipients
Authors: Linnanvirta Suvi , Kroll Christian , Blomberg Helena
Published: November 2018

Discussions on the pros and cons of a basic income (BI) have remained mainly at the ‘systemic level’. Based on survey and interview data, this study provides a ‘bottom‐up’ perspective on the legitimacy of the idea of a basic income among people queuing in breadlines in Helsinki in late 2016, who are assumed to be affected positively by this benefit. While general support for the idea is high, not everyone supports an unconditional BI. Despite the likely ‘objective interest’, a BI does not seem to be supported by food aid recipients any more than by the general population as measured by a previous study. Besides interests, normative beliefs and perceptions of deservingness seem of importance for legitimacy too, especially among those not supporting a BI. Doubts regarding a BI are to some extent connected to wishes to limit the social citizenship of some of the persons in the breadlines.
Investment Committee, Corporate Cash Holdings and Corporate Life Cycle
Authors: Eulaiwi Baban , Al‐Hadi Ahmed , Hussain Syed Mujahid , Al‐Yahyaee Khamis Hamed
Published: November 2018

We investigate the association between voluntary formation of board investment committee (IC) and corporate cash holdings of nonfinancial firms over the corporate life cycle stages for a large sample of Gulf Cooperation Council firms during 2005–2016. We find that IC increases corporate cash holdings in growth and maturity stages of firm, compared to introduction, shake‐out, and decline stages. These results have important implications for investors, policy makers, and regulators. Our findings are robust to various econometrics specifications.
Bmi‐1 high‐expressing cells enrich cardiac stem/progenitor cells and respond to heart injury
Authors: Song Yuewang , Zhao Mengmeng , Xie Yuan , Zhu Tingfang , Liang Wenbin , Sun Baiming , Liu Weixin , Wu Liqun , Lu Guoping , Li Tao‐Sheng , Yin Tong , Xie Yucai
Published: November 2018

Bmi‐1 gene is well recognized as an oncogene, but has been recently demonstrated to play a role in the self‐renewal of tissue‐specific stem cells. By using Bmi‐1GFP/+ mice, we investigated the role of Bmi‐1 in cardiac stem/progenitor cells and myocardial repair. RT‐PCR and flow cytometry analysis indicated that the expression of Bmi‐1 was significantly higher in cardiac side population than the main population from CD45−Ter119−CD31− heart cells. More Sca‐1+ cardiac stem/progenitor cells were found in Bmi‐1 GFPhi subpopulation, and these Bmi‐1 GFPhi heart cells showed the potential of differentiation into SMM+ smooth muscle‐like cells and TnT+ cardiomyocyte‐like cells in vitro. The silencing of Bmi‐1 significantly inhibited the proliferation and differentiation of heart cells. Otherwise, myocardial infarction induced a significantly increase (2.7‐folds) of Bmi‐1 GFPhi population, mainly within the infarction and border zones. These preliminary data suggest that Bmi‐1hi heart cells are enriched in cardiac stem/progenitor cells and may play a role in myocardial repair.
Trans‐repression ofNFκB pathway mediated byPPARγ improves vascular endothelium insulin resistance
Authors: Kong Ying , Gao Yan , Lan Dongyi , Zhang Ying , Zhan Rixin , Liu Meiqi , Zhu Zhouan , Zeng Guohua , Huang Qiren
Published: November 2018

Previous study has shown that thiazolidinediones (TZDs) improved endothelium insulin resistance (IR) induced by high glucose concentration (HG)/hyperglycaemia through aPPARγ‐dependent‐NFκB trans‐repression mechanism. However, it is unclear, whether changes inPPARγ expression affect the endotheliumIRand what the underlying mechanism is. In the present study, we aimed to address this issue.HG‐treated human umbilical vascular endothelial cells (HUVEC) were transfected by eitherPPARγ‐overexpressing (Ad‐PPARγ) orPPARγ‐shRNA‐containing (Ad‐PPARγ‐shRNA) adenoviral vectors. Likewise, the rats fed by high‐fat diet (HFD) were infected by intravenous administration of Ad‐PPARγ or Ad‐PPARγ‐shRNA. The levels of nitric oxide (NO), endothelin‐1 (ET‐1) and cytokines (TNFα,IL‐6,sICAM‐1 andsVCAM‐1) and the expression levels ofPPARγ,eNOS,AKT, p‐AKT,IKKα/β and p‐IKKα/β and IκBα were examined; and the interaction betweenPPARγ andNFκB‐P65 as well as vascular function were evaluated. Our present results showed that overexpression ofPPARγ notably increased the levels ofNO,eNOS, p‐AKTand IκBα as well as the interaction ofPPARγ andNFκB‐P65, and decreased the levels ofET‐1, p‐IKKα/β,TNFα,IL‐6,sICAM‐1 andsVCAM‐1. In contrast, down‐expression ofPPARγ displayed the opposite effects. The results demonstrate that the overexpression ofPPARγ improves while the down‐expression worsens the endotheliumIRvia aPPARγ‐mediatedNFκB trans‐repression dependent manner. The findings suggestPPARγ is a potential therapeutic target for diabetic vascular complications.
Spatial equilibrium in deviations: An application to skill‐premium and skill‐mix heterogeneity
Authors: Accetturo Antonio , Dalmazzo Alberto , de Blasio Guido
Published: November 2018

In this paper, we propose a novel—and general‐purpose—modeling approach. We give a linear representation of the spatial general equilibrium, expressed in terms of local percentage deviations from the benchmark case of symmetry, where all the areas in the economy are taken to be initially identical. To illustrate the flexibility of our approach, we revisit the literature on the spatial heterogeneity of local skill premia and local skill mix. We show that our approach is able to encompass a variety of alternative explanations in a simple “unifying framework.” Finally, we exploit a graphical version of the model to show how to implement empirical tests.
The comprehensive outcomes of hepatitis C virus infection: A multi‐faceted chronic disease
Authors: Younossi Zobair , Papatheodoridis Georgios , Cacoub Patrice , Negro Francesco , Wedemeyer Heiner , Henry Linda , Hatzakis Angelos
Published: November 2018

Treatment of hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection has been revolutionized with the introduction of pangenotypic, interferon‐ and ribavirin‐free regimens associated with high cure rates and a low side effect profile. Additionally, there is evidence that HCV cure reduces HCV complications, improves patient‐reported outcomes and is cost‐saving in most western countries in the long term. This is a review of the comprehensive burden of HCV and the value of eliminating HCV infection. With the introduction of the interferon‐free all‐oral, once a day pill treatment regimen for the cure of HCV, the potential to eliminate HCV by 2030 has become a possibility for some regions of the world. Nevertheless, there are barriers to screening, linkage to care, and treatment in many countries that must be overcome in order to reach this goal. In conclusion, globally, work must continue to ensure national policies are in place to support screening, linkage to care and affordable treatment in order to eliminate HCV.
Deliberation, Reasons, and Alternatives
Authors: Snedegar Justin
Published: November 2018

A plausible constraint on normative reasons to act is that it must make sense to use them as premises in deliberation. I argue that a central sort of deliberation – what Bratman calls partial planning – isquestion‐directed: it is over, and aims to resolve, deliberative questions. Whether it makes sense to use some consideration as a premise in deliberation in a case of partial planning can vary with the deliberative question at issue. I argue that the best explanation for this is that reasons arecontrastiveor relativized to deliberative questions.
Comparison of built‐up area maps produced within the global human settlement framework
Authors: Sabo Filip , Corbane Christina , Florczyk Aneta J. , Ferri Stefano , Pesaresi Martino , Kemper Thomas
Published: November 2018

The validation of built‐up areas derived from different sensors is crucial for gaining a deeper understanding of the consistency and interoperability between them. This article presents the methodology and results of an inter‐sensor comparison of built‐up area data derived from Landsat, Sentinel‐1, Sentinel‐2, and SPOT5/SPOT6. The assessment was performed for 13 cities across the world for which cartographic reference building footprints were available. Several validation approaches were used: cumulative built‐up curve analysis, pixel‐by‐pixel performance metrics, and regression analysis. The results indicate that Sentinel‐1 and Sentinel‐2 contribute greatly to improved built‐up area detection compared to Landsat, within the global human settlement framework. However, Sentinel‐2 tends to show high omission errors while Landsat tends to have the lowest omission error. The built‐up area obtained from SPOT5/SPOT6 shows high consistency with the reference data for all European cities, and hence can potentially be considered as a reference dataset for wall‐to‐wall validation in Europe.
Low‐level transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation attenuates cardiac remodelling in a rat model of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction
Authors: Zhou Liping , Filiberti Adrian , Humphrey Mary Beth , Fleming Christian D. , Scherlag Benjamin J. , Po Sunny S. , Stavrakis Stavros
Published: November 2018

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

What is the effect of chronic intermittent low‐level transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation on cardiac inflammation, fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction in a rat model of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction?

What is the main finding and its importance?

In salt‐sensitive rats fed with high salt diet, low‐level transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation significantly attenuated blood pressure elevation, ameliorated diastolic function, and attenuated left ventricular inflammation and fibrosis compared to the sham group. Further studies to examine the efficacy of this novel treatment in humans are warranted.

Inflammation and fibrosis play a central role in the development of heart failure with preserved ejection fraction (HFpEF). We previously showed that low‐level, transcutaneous stimulation of the vagus nerve at the tragus (LLTS) is anti‐inflammatory. We investigated the effect of chronic intermittent LLTS on cardiac inflammation, fibrosis and diastolic dysfunction in a rat model of HFpEF. Dahl salt‐sensitive (DS) rats were randomized in three groups: low salt (LS, 0.3% NaCl; n = 12; control group without stimulation) and high salt (HS, 4% NaCl) with either active (n = 18) or sham (n = 18) LLTS at 7 weeks of age. After 6 weeks of diet (baseline), sham or active LLTS (20 Hz, 2 mA, 0.2 ms) was implemented for 30 min daily for 4 weeks. Echocardiography was performed at baseline and 4 weeks after treatment (endpoint). At endpoint, left ventricle (LV) histology and gene expression were examined. After 6 weeks of diets, HS rats developed hypertension and LV hypertrophy compared to LS rats. At endpoint, LLTS significantly attenuated blood pressure elevation, prevented the deterioration of diastolic function and improved LV circumferential strain, compared to the HS sham group. LV inflammatory cell infiltration and fibrosis were attenuated in the HS active compared to the HS sham group. Pro‐inflammatory and pro‐fibrotic genes (tumour necrosis factor, osteopontin, interleukin (IL)‐11, IL‐18 and IL‐23A) were differentially altered in the two groups. Chronic intermittent LLTS ameliorates diastolic dysfunction, and attenuates cardiac inflammation and fibrosis in a rat model of HFpEF, suggesting that LLTS may be used clinically as a novel non‐invasive neuromodulation therapy in HFpEF.
Exploring the Use of Alumina Nanofluid as Emergency Coolant for Nuclear Fuel Bundle
Authors: Chinchole A. S. , Dasgupta Arnab , Kulkarni P. P. , Chandraker D. K. , Nayak A. K.
Published: November 2018

Nanofluids are suspensions of nanosized particles in any base fluid that show significant enhancement of their heat transfer properties at modest nanoparticle concentrations. Due to enhanced thermal properties at low nanoparticle concentration, it is a potential candidate for utilization in nuclear heat transfer applications. In the last decade, there have been few studies which indicate possible advantages of using nanofluids as a coolant in nuclear reactors during normal as well as accidental conditions. In continuation with these studies, the utilization of nanofluids as a viable candidate for emergency core cooling in nuclear reactors is explored in this paper by carrying out experiments in a scaled facility. The experiments carried out mainly focus on quenching behavior of a simulated nuclear fuel rod bundle by using 1% Alumina nanofluid as a coolant in emergency core cooling system (ECCS). In addition, its performance is compared with water. In the experiments, nuclear decay heat (from 1.5% to 2.6% reactor full power) is simulated through electrical heating. The present experiments show that, from heat transfer point of view, alumina nanofluids have a definite advantage over water as coolant for ECCS. Additionally, to assess the suitability of using nanofluids in reactors, their stability was investigated in radiation field. Our tests showed good stability even after very high dose of radiation, indicating the feasibility of their possible use in nuclear reactor heat transfer systems.
Consideration-Constrained Engineering Design for Strategic Insights
Authors: Long Minhua , Erickson Michael , MacDonald Erin F.
Published: November 2018

Consumer behavior can be modeled using a decision-making process termed “consideration” in which consumers form requirements, “consideration rules,” in order to narrow their options for further evaluation. One type of consideration rule is the conjunctive rule, where a consumer makes a list of requirements and a product must meet all of the requirements in order to be considered for purchase, such as “the vehicle must get 25 miles per gallon or more”; “it must be priced at $22,000 or less”; and “it must be a standard-sized sedan.” This paper offers a design framework for linking these consideration rules with design. We demonstrate the use of our framework with a case study, namely the Volkswagen (VW) “clean diesel” scandal, which investigates the design strategies used in response to the scandal by capturing considerations within the marketing product planning subproblem and assuring engineering feasibility within the engineering design subproblem.
Near-Real-Time Seismic Monitoring for Pipelines
Authors: Zaleski Martin , Ferris Gerald , Baumgard Alex
Published: November 2018

Earthquake hazard management for oil and gas pipelines should include both preparedness and response. The typical approach for management of seismic hazards for pipelines is to determine where large ground motions are frequently expected, and apply mitigation to those pipeline segments. The approach presented in this paper supplements the typical approach but focuses on what to do, and where to do it, just after an earthquake happens. In other words, we ask and answer: “Is the earthquake we just had important?”, “What pipeline is and what sites might it be important for?”, and “What should we do?”

In general, modern, high-pressure oil and gas pipelines resist the direct effects of strong shaking, but are vulnerable to large co-seismic differential permanent ground displacement (PGD) produced by surface fault rupture, landslides, soil liquefaction, or lateral spreading. The approach used in this paper employs empirical relationships between earthquake magnitude, distance, and the occurrence of PGD, derived from co-seismic PGD case-history data, to prioritize affected pipeline segments for detailed site-specific hazard assessments, pre-event resiliency upgrades, and post-event response.

To help pipeline operators prepare for earthquakes, pipeline networks are mapped with respect to earthquake probability and co-seismic PGD susceptibility. Geological and terrain analyses identify pipeline segments that cross PGD-susceptible ground. Probabilistic seismic models and deterministic scenarios are considered in estimating the frequency of sufficiently large and close causative earthquakes. Pipeline segments are prioritized where strong earthquakes are frequent and ground is susceptible to co-seismic PGD. These may be short-listed for mitigation that either reduces the pipeline’s vulnerability to damage or limits failure consequences.

When an earthquake occurs, pipeline segments with credible PGD potential are highlighted within minutes of an earthquake’s occurrence. These assessments occur in near-real-time as part of an online geohazard management database. The system collects magnitude and location data from online earthquake data feeds and intersects them against pipeline network and terrain hazard map data. Pipeline operators can quickly mobilize inspection and response resources to a focused area of concern.
State-of-the-Art Assessment of Today’s Composite Repair Technologies
Authors: Alexander Chris , Kania Richard
Published: November 2018

For almost 30 years composite repair technologies have been used to reinforce high pressure gas and liquid pipeline transmission systems around the world. The backbone of this research has been full-scale testing, aimed at evaluating the reinforcement of anomalies including, corrosion, dents, vintage girth welds, and wrinkle bends. Also included have been the assessment of reinforced pipe geometries including welded branch connections, elbows, and tees. Organizations sponsoring these research efforts have included the Pipeline Research Council International, regulatory agencies, pipeline operators, and composite repair manufacturers. Many of these efforts have involved Joint Industry Programs; to date more than 15 different industry-sponsored programs and independent research efforts have been conducted involving more than 1,000 full-scale destructive tests.

The aim of this paper is to provide for the pipeline industry an updated perspective on research associated with composite repair technologies. Because of the continuous advance in both composite technology and research programs to evaluate their effectiveness, it is essential that updated information be provided to industry to minimize the likelihood for conducting research efforts that have already been addressed. To provide readers with useful information, the authors will include multiple case studies that include the reinforcement of dents, wrinkle bends, welded branch connections, and planar defects.
The EPRG Recommendations for Crack Arrest Toughness for Line Pipe Steel (Third Edition)
Authors: Cosham Andrew , Andrews Robert , Schmidt Tanja
Published: November 2018

The third edition of the EPRG recommendations for crack arrest toughness for line pipe steels is presented. The third edition extends the applicability of the recommendations to pipelines transporting lean natural gas at pressures up to 100 barg (1450 psig), in diameters up to 1422.4 mm (56 inch), in grades up to Grade L555 (API 5L X80), and design factors up to 0.8.

A quantitative definition of a lean gas is included in the third edition.

The recommendations are intended to be applied to new pipelines. The recommendations are not intended to be applied retrospectively to existing pipelines.
Leak Localization Algorithm Applied to Non-Isothermal Liquid Flow in Horizontal Pipelines
Authors: Figueiredo Aline , Sondermann Carina N. , Patricio Rodrigo A. C. , Viggiano Raphael , Bodstein Gustavo C. R. , Rachid Felipe B. de F. , Baptista Renan M.
Published: November 2018

In the oil industry liquid pipelines are very important for the transport of liquids, particularly in long offshore pipelines. The operation of these oil pipelines is susceptible to the occurrence of leaks in the system. Localizing a leak in a very long oil pipeline is an important piece of information that needs to be obtained before mitigating actions can be taken. These pipelines are usually subject to the temperature gradients that exist in the bottom of the ocean, and the resulting heat transfer process may lead to wax formation and deposition. The single-phase flow that occurs in this type of offshore pipeline that presents one leak point and suffers the effects of an external temperature gradient is numerically simulated in this paper. We consider a one-dimensional mathematical model that includes conservation equations of mass, momentum and energy, and its associated numerical method to calculate the transient liquid flow inside the pipeline. We are particularly interested in testing a leak localization model based upon the intersection of the hydraulic grade lines emanating from the pipeline ends under the influence of a non-zero temperature distribution. This paper proposes to compare the results for a non-isothermal flow with the corresponding isothermal flow to study the influence of the temperature distribution upon the leak localization strategy. The flow that develops along the entire pipeline, upstream and downstream of the leak, strongly affects the pressure gradient and has a significant influence on the location of the leak. Our numerical simulations show results that allow the model sensitivity to be studied by changing the leak magnitude, for a given leak position. From this analysis, we may observe how these parameters affect the pressure gradients along the pipeline that develop upstream and downstream of the leak and the model’s ability to predict the leak location.
Advanced SAWL Developments and Optimizations for High Toughness, Low Hardness and Sour Environment
Authors: Silva Fernando F. , Arroyo Fabio , Darcis Philippe , Fritz Marcelo , Salani Marcelo , Silva Adriano
Published: November 2018

Natural gas exploitation has been increasing progressively and the pipeline community are facing more challenging demands to ensure safe and reliable operations. In that direction, gas fields in very harsh environments are demanding material and welding procedure selections to comply with a combination of important requirements such as toughness at low temperature, sour environment, very low hardness, manual ultrasonic inspection (for UOE longitudinal weld soundness assurance) and others. Looking forwarding big challenges, Tenaris Confab has been successfully working to continue improving the know how regarding plate to pipe mechanical properties behavior, through steel selection using TMCP plates, welding consumables definition and process control to assure material performance. Considering this scenario, the main challenge is to comply with a combination of toughness and hardness requirements, assuring the material soundness through manual ultrasonic testing after 48h. These combination lead to a careful selection of welding consumable to add the right content of alloy element at the welding pool aiming a specific weld metal chemical composition after dilution. The alloy element selection has to be considered due to the aimed final microstructure at the weld metal, i.e. increases acicular ferrite, in order to achieve the toughness, hardness and manual ultrasonic performance for delayed hydrogen cracking (DHC); it is important to avoid grain boundary ferrite (GBF) nucleation. High wall thickness and high heat input increases residual stress after pipe welding, high residual stress combined to poor microstructure and hydrogen, is a perfect scenario for DHC. To avoid hydrogen cracks, a robust pipe forming process and welding concept is needed to give enough energy to diffuse hydrogen out from weld metal. Quality controls were applied to strict hydrogen content such as welding consumable specifications, evaluating the correlation curve between flux moisture and diffusible hydrogen, flux temperature control and others. As a result of those actions, good mechanical properties were achieved and overcoming the hydrogen cracking performance during automatic and manual ultrasonic testing confirm a robust pipe forming and welding procedure for demanding projects.
Evaluation of Burst Pressure of Corroded Pipe Segments Using Three-Dimensional Finite Element Analyses
Authors: Bao Ji , Zhang Shulong , Zhou Wenxing , Zhang Shenwei
Published: November 2018

In this paper, three-dimensional finite element models are developed to simulate full-scale burst tests of corroded pipes containing multiple naturally occurring corrosion anomalies. Both the von Mises and Tresca yield criteria and associated flow rules are employed in finite element analysis (FEA). For the Tresca criterion, the corresponding constitutive model subroutine is developed and incorporated in the FEA. The accuracy of FEA is investigated by comparing the burst pressures observed in the tests and corresponding burst pressures predicted using FEA. The implications of using the von Mises and Tresca criteria for the accuracy of the predicted burst pressure are investigated. Sensitivity analyses are also carried out to investigate the impact on the predicted burst pressure due to the mesh density in the corroded region, characterization of the geometry of the corrosion cluster and different types of element (e.g. solid and shell elements) used in FEA. The results suggest that the Tresca criterion always underestimates the burst pressure and the von Mises yield criterion predicts the burst pressure accurately.

This study demonstrates the feasibility of using high-fidelity FEA and the Tresca yield criterion to simulate full-scale burst tests of corroded pipes and therefore establish a large database of burst pressure capacities of corroded pipes that can be used to develop an accurate, practical burst pressure capacity model amenable to the pipeline integrity management practice.
Is the Push for More Prescriptive Regulation Making Us Less Safe?
Authors: Wright Charlene B. , Jean Mark S.
Published: November 2018

Current pipeline regulations in North America have changed significantly over the past several decades and will continue to change as public and regulatory scrutiny intensifies and new industry standards are developed (i.e. API RP 1173). As regulators assess the approach to take, they are increasingly looking at what other regulators are doing in their respective jurisdictions, including those at federal, state and provincial levels.

Despite historical commitments to conceptual models fostering cooperation between regulators and regulated entities, recent trends in the United States signify a departure from performance or outcome-based regulation toward a more prescriptive approach. Pipelines remain the safest method of transporting oil and natural gas.1 However, when pipeline incidents do occur, the consequences can be catastrophic and are often well publicized. Federal and state regulators are under increased pressure in the aftermath of high-profile incidents to assuage the concerns of legislators and the public at large.

This paper generally compares various regulatory models and the relative benefits and drawbacks of each. A more in-depth review of regulatory changes in the United States is examined, to analyze the potential intended and unintended consequences of the move towards more prescriptive pipeline safety regulations.
Identifying Stress Concentrations on Buried Steel Pipelines Using Large Standoff Magnetometry Technology
Authors: McDonnell Shamus , Onuoha Chukwuma , Pozniak Eric , Shankar Vignesh
Published: November 2018

Buried steel pipelines are subjected to mechanical stress, by internal or external forces, resulting from geo-hazards, shear or external loading, and hoop stress. These conditions are key factors that can be detrimental to the integrity of the pipeline and lead to possible failures such as: coating damage, dents, buckles, cracks, and leaks.

Identifying stress concentration regions, in difficult to pig pipelines, is challenging, especially when compared to piggable pipelines. Using the Large Standoff Magnetometry (LSM) technology, an innovative screening tool, we can identify stress concentration by performing an indirect inspection. LSM technology detects inverse magnetostriction (also known as the Villari effect) “which is the change of the magnetic susceptibility of a material when subjected to mechanical stress”. Using this technology we can detect changes in the magnetic field of the pipeline which can indicate the presence of stress on the pipe wall.

LSM technology has shown significant results when correlated with additional data. For instance, LSM technology correlated with Inline Inspection (ILI) or As-Built drawings have aided in the accurate selection of digs to mitigate failures due to stress concentration. Successfully identifying digs to mitigate stress concentration is vital as it substantially reduces cost due to potential failures and avoiding unnecessary digs.

This paper will show the benefits of an integrated approach and how the correlation of inline and aboveground pipeline integrity data ensures that threats due to stress concentrations are confidently identified and mitigated. Several case studies will be presented to show how recent advancements have helped to identify and prioritize regions with Stress Corrosion Cracking (SCC), Cracks, Unknown Buried Feature, Dents, and Buckles.