bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partner associations across sympatric broad‐headed bug species and their environmentally acquired bacterial symbionts
Authors: Garcia J. R. , Laughton A. M. , Malik Z. , Parker B. J. , Trincot C. , S. L. Chiang S. , Chung E. , Gerardo N. M.
Published: January 2014

Many organisms have intimate associations with beneficial microbes acquired from the environment. These host–symbiont associations can be specific and stable, but they are prone to lower partner specificity and more partner‐switching than vertically transmitted mutualisms. To investigate partner specificity in an environmentally acquired insect symbiosis, we used 16S rRNA gene and multilocus sequencing to survey the bacterial population in the bacteria‐harbouring organ (crypts) of 49 individuals across four sympatric broad‐headed bug species (Alydus calcaratus, A. conspersus, A. tomentosus and Megalotomus quinquespinosus). Similar to other insect–bacteria associations, Burkholderia spp. were the most common residents of the crypts in all four insect species (77.2% of recovered sequences). Burkholderia presence was associated with prolonged survival to adulthood in A. tomentosus, suggesting a beneficial role of these specialized associations. Burkholderia were also found in environmental reservoirs in the insects’ habitat, which may facilitate acquisition by insects by increasing Burkholderia–insect encounters. Symbiont establishment could also be facilitated by resistance to insect defences; zone of inhibition assays demonstrated that Burkholderia and other bacteria isolated from crypts are resistant to insect defences that limit growth of Escherichia coli. Alternatively, the insects’ defences may not efficiently kill a broad range of bacteria. Although the symbiosis is targeted to Burkholderia, the insects’ crypts housed other bacteria, including non‐Burkholderiaceae species. There is no significant effect of host insect species on Burkholderia distribution, suggesting a lack of strong partner specificity at finer scales. The presence of frequent partner‐switching between sympatric insects and their symbionts likely prevents tight co‐evolutionary dynamics.
Direct and individual analysis of stress‐related phytohormone dispersion in the vascular system of Cucurbita maxima after flagellin 22 treatment
Authors: Furch Alexandra C. U. , Zimmermann Matthias R. , Kogel Karl‐Heinz , Reichelt Michael , Mithöfer Axel
Published: January 2014

The stress‐related phytohormones, salicylic acid (SA) and abscisic acid (ABA), and the three jasmonates, jasmonic acid (JA), cis‐12‐oxo‐phytodienoic acid (cis‐OPDA), and (+)‐7‐iso‐jasmonoyl‐l‐isoleucine (JA‐Ile), were investigated in phloem and xylem exudates of Cucurbita maxima.

Phloem and xylem exudates were separately collected and analysed via liquid chromatography–mass spectrometry.

We show direct evidence for all three jasmonates, ABA, and SA in both phloem and xylem exudates of C. maxima. JA and JA‐Ile concentrations are higher in xylem (JA: cxylem ≈ 199.5 nM, cphloem ≈ 43.9 nM; JA‐Ile: cxylem ≈ 7.9 nM, cphloem ≈ 1.6 nM), whereas ABA and SA concentrations are higher in phloem exudates (ABA: cxylem ≈ 37.1 nM, cphloem ≈ 142.6 nM; SA: cxylem ≈ 61.6 nM, cphloem ≈ 1319 nM). During bacteria‐derived flagellin 22 (flg22)‐triggered remote root‐to‐shoot signalling, phytohormone concentration changed rapidly both in phloem and xylem.

The unequal distribution of phytohormones suggests that phloem and xylem have distinct roles in defence responses. Our data shed light on systemic phytohormone signalling and help explain how plants cope with environmental challenges by lateral exchange between phloem and xylem. Our analysis is a starting point for further investigations of how phytohormones contribute to phloem‐ and xylem‐based defence signalling.
Exploring continental‐scale stand health – N : P ratio relationships for European forests
Authors: Veresoglou Stavros D. , Peñuelas Josep , Fischer Richard , Rautio Pasi , Sardans Jordi , Merilä Päivi , Tabakovic‐Tosic Mara , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: January 2014

Understanding the relationship between nitrogen (N) availability and stand health in forest ecosystems is crucial, because a large proportion of European forests is subjected to N‐deposition levels beyond their retention capacity.

We used data from a long‐term forest monitoring programme (ICP Forests) to test the relationship between an index of N availability, foliar nitrogen : phosphorus (N : P) ratios, tree defoliation and discoloration. We hypothesized a segmented response of stand health to N : P ratios and an improved model‐fit after correcting for climatic covariates.

In accordance with the hypothesis, we found a segmented response with a breakpoint for conifer defoliation at N : P ratios as low as 7.3. Inclusion of climatic variables improved the fit of the models, but there was significant collinearity with N : P.

Increases in N availability appear, at least for conifers, to have a negative effect on tree health even under N‐limiting conditions. Regulation of N‐deposition levels is consequently as timely as ever. We propose that increases in tree defoliation, other than resulting in serious plant fitness issues, may represent early diagnostic symptoms of N‐addition related imbalances.
Capturing the His‐Purkinje System is Not Possible from Conventional Right Ventricular Apical and Nonapical Pacing Sites
Authors: PANG BENJAMIN J. , KUMAR SAURABH , TACEY MARK A. , MOND HARRY G.
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Direct His bundle capture may negate ventricular electrical dyssynchrony induced by right ventricular (RV) apical pacing. We sought to evaluate if direct His bundle pacing is possible with conventional pacemaker lead implantation at various sites in the RV.

Methods

Consecutive patients underwent RV pacing using standard implantable active fixation pacing leads in a random order in the RV outflow tract, middle RV, and RV apex at stimulation threshold and at increasing voltages of 2.5, 5, 7.5, and 10 volts (V). At each location, QRS width and morphology on 12‐lead electrocardiograph (ECG) were compared in sinus and paced rhythm at the different voltages.

Results

Twelve patients underwent a total of 2,160 paced QRS measurements. Progressive increases in stimulation voltage did not change QRS morphology or duration regardless of site of pacing (RV outflow tract, middle RV, and RV apex) in any of the 12 ECG leads. In addition, apart from the stimulation threshold between the RV outflow tract and RV apex, there was no statistically significant difference in QRS duration between the three pacing sites.

Conclusion

In patients with a baseline normal QRS duration, none of the three conventional RV pacing sites were able to produce QRS narrowing and capture the His‐Purkinje system. Furthermore, based on paced QRS duration as an indirect surrogate of electrical LV dyssynchrony, there was no clear advantage of one pacing site over another.
The 2‐Year Cost‐Effectiveness of 3 options to Treat Lumbar Spinal Stenosis Patients
Authors: Udeh Belinda L. , Costandi Shrif , Dalton Jarrod E. , Ghosh Raktim , Yousef Hani , Mekhail Nagy
Published: January 2014

Lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS) may result from degenerative changes of the spine, which lead to neural ischemia, neurogenic claudication, and a significant decrease in quality of life. Treatments for LSS range from conservative management including epidural steroid injections (ESI) to laminectomy surgery. Treatments vary greatly in cost and success. ESI is the least costly treatment may be successful for early stages of LSS but often must be repeated frequently. Laminectomy surgery is more costly and has higher complication rates. Minimally invasive lumbar decompression (mild®) is an alternative. Using a decision‐analytic model from the Medicare perspective, a cost‐effectiveness analysis was performed comparing mild® to ESI or laminectomy surgery. The analysis population included patients with LSS who have moderate to severe symptoms and have failed conservative therapy. Costs included initial procedure, complications, and repeat/revision or alternate procedure after failure. Effects measured as change in quality‐adjusted life years (QALY) from preprocedure to 2 years postprocedure. Incremental cost‐effectiveness ratios were determined, and sensitivity analysis conducted. The mild® strategy appears to be the most cost‐effective ($43,760/QALY), with ESI the next best alternative at an additional $37,758/QALY. Laminectomy surgery was the least cost‐effective ($125,985/QALY).
Transepidermal Water Loss in Newborns Within the First 24 Hours of Life: Baseline Values and Comparison with Adults
Authors: Raone Beatrice , Raboni Roberta , Rizzo Nicola , Simonazzi Giuliana , Patrizi Annalisa
Published: January 2014

The measurement of transepidermal water loss (TEWL) is important for evaluating the integrity of the barrier function of the stratum corneum. Normal TEWL values in healthy adults and in children ages 2 and older are well known, but few studies have been performed in infants and neonates. TEWL in healthy neonates younger than 24 hours old was assessed and compared with that of an adult study population. We also studied possible correlations between this parameter, gestational age, and mode of delivery. A prospective study was conducted in healthy newborns. The areas tested were the volar forearm and the popliteal fossa. Ninety‐nine healthy newborns were enrolled and 33 healthy adults were analyzed as controls. Statistically significant differences were noted between newborns and adults in TEWL (p < 0.01). Newborns had a much higher mean TEWL than adults. Differences in the morphology and physiology between newborn and mature skin can explain the higher TEWL in newborns. Higher TEWL could also be due to the sudden functional adaptation of the skin immediately after delivery, when the newborn transits from a liquid to the dry, gaseous extrauterine environment. Functional evaluation of the neonatal skin barrier is important mainly because maintaining skin integrity facilitates cutaneous adaptation.
Evaluation of the Vascular Pattern in Psoriatic Plaques in Children Using Videodermatoscopy: An Open Comparative Study
Authors: Musumeci Maria Letizia , Lacarrubba Francesco , Verzì Anna Elisa , Micali Giuseppe
Published: January 2014

Psoriasis is a common erythematous desquamative dermatosis. The diagnosis may sometimes be troublesome in children, especially if clinical presentation is mild or atypical. Videodermatoscopy has been suggested as a new noninvasive aid for the diagnosis of psoriasis, prognostic evaluation, and treatment monitoring. An open comparative study in children aimed at assessing the correlation between the vascular pattern evaluated using videodermatoscopy and the clinical diagnosis of psoriasis and other erythematous desquamative disorders was designed and performed. Sixty Caucasian children were enrolled and subdivided into two groups: group A, 24 patients with multiple plaque psoriasis; group B, 36 patients with other erythematous desquamative disorders. At least two lesions were examined in each patient using videodermatoscopy at 150× magnification and the superficial vascular pattern of each lesion was evaluated in three different fields. In group A, the presence of dilated capillaries with a “bushy” aspect, homogeneously distributed in all examined fields, was seen in all considered plaques. In group B, videodermatoscopic findings were not specific, showing normal‐looking capillaries, slightly dilated vessels, or a few isolated “bushes.” Videodermatoscopy may be considered an important adjunct diagnostic tool in clinically doubtful erythematous desquamative lesions in children, allowing a psoriatic vascular pattern to be confirmed or excluded, with some distinct advantages over skin biopsy.
Practical Labeling Methodology for Choline‐Derived Lipids and Applications in Live Cell Fluorescence Imaging
Authors: Li Caishun , Key Jessie A. , Jia Feng , Dandapat Arpan , Hur Soo , Cairo Christopher W.
Published: January 2014

Lipids of the plasma membrane participate in a variety of biological processes, and methods to probe their function and cellular location are essential to understanding biochemical mechanisms. Previous reports have established that phosphocholine‐containing lipids can be labeled by alkyne groups through metabolic incorporation. Herein, we have tested alkyne, azide and ketone‐containing derivatives of choline as metabolic labels of choline‐containing lipids in cells. We also show that 17‐octadecynoic acid can be used as a complementary metabolic label for lipid acyl chains. We provide methods for the synthesis of cyanine‐based dyes that are reactive with alkyne, azide and ketone metabolic labels. Using an improved method for fluorophore conjugation to azide or alkyne‐modified lipids by Cu(I)‐catalyzed azide‐alkyne cycloaddition (CuAAC), we apply this methodology in cells. Lipid‐labeled cell membranes were then interrogated using flow cytometry and fluorescence microscopy. Furthermore, we explored the utility of this labeling strategy for use in live cell experiments. We demonstrate measurements of lipid dynamics (lateral mobility) by fluorescence photobleaching recovery (FPR). In addition, we show that adhesion of cells to specific surfaces can be accomplished by chemically linking membrane lipids to a functionalized surface. The strategies described provide robust methods for introducing bioorthogonal labels into native lipids.
Peripheral venous and arterial blood gas analysis in adults: are they comparable? A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Byrne Anthony L , Bennett Michael , Chatterji Robindro , Symons Rebecca , Pace Nathan L , Thomas Paul S
Published: January 2014

Peripheral venous blood gas (PVBG) analysis is increasingly being used as a substitute for arterial blood sampling; however, comparability has not been clearly established. To determine if the pH, PCO2 and PO2 obtained from PVBG analysis is comparable with arterial blood gas (ABG) analysis. A search was conducted of electronic databases as well as hand‐searching of journals and reference lists through December 2012 to identify studies comparing PVBG with ABG analysis in adult subjects. A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta‐Analyses statement. A meta‐analysis using a random effects model was used to calculate the average difference (bias) and the limits of agreement for the venous and arterial pH, PCO2 and PO2. A total of 18 studies comprising 1768 subjects were included in the meta‐analysis. There was considerable heterogeneity between studies with I2 approaching 100%. There was little difference between the pH obtained from the PVBG and the ABG, with the arterial pH typically 0.03 higher than the venous pH (95% confidence interval 0.029–0.038). The venous and arterial PCO2 were not comparable because the 95% prediction interval of the bias for venous PCO2 was unacceptably wide, extending from −10.7 mm Hg to +2.4 mm Hg. The PO2 values compared poorly, the arterial PO2 typically 36.9 mm Hg greater than the venous with significant variability (95% confidence interval from 27.2 to 46.6 mm Hg). PVBG analysis compares well with ABG analysis for pH estimations in adults but not to the PCO2 or PO2. These differences are sufficiently large to be of clinical significance.
REGIONAL INEQUALITIES IN THE EUROPEAN UNION AND THE ROLE OF INSTITUTIONS
Authors: Muštra Vinko , Škrabić Blanka
Published: January 2014

This research extends the literature on regional inequalities in the European Union in two directions. First, it confirms the importance of institutions for regional inequalities among 18 EU member countries, and second, indicates which dimension of the institutional quality is important by using the six dimensions of the Worldwide Governance Indicator. The results support standard “rules of engagement” that reduce transaction costs by lowering uncertainty and facilitating the mutual trustworthiness of individual economic agents that spread equally among regions in specific countries. In addition, we interpret empirical evidence to determine that institutions also shape regional inequalities indirectly through political channels.
DAS181 treatment of hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients with parainfluenza virus lung disease requiring mechanical ventilation
Authors: Chalkias S. , Mackenzie M.R. , Gay C. , Dooley C. , Marty F.M. , Moss R.B. , Li T. , Routh R.L. , Walsh S.R. , Tan C.S.
Published: January 2014

Parainfluenza infection is a cause of significant morbidity and mortality in allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant (HSCT) patients. DAS181 is a novel antiviral agent with activity against influenza and parainfluenza. We report the first 2 cases, to our knowledge, of successful DAS181 use in ventilated HSCT patients with severe parainfluenza lung disease.
The Role Of Extracellular Matrix Elasticity and Composition In Regulating the Nucleus Pulposus Cell Phenotype in the Intervertebral Disc: A Narrative Review
Authors: Hwang Priscilla Y. , Chen Jun , Jing Liufang , Hoffman Brenton D. , Setton Lori A.
Published: January 2014

Intervertebral disc (IVD) disorders are a major contributor to disability and societal health care costs. Nucleus pulposus (NP) cells of the IVD exhibit changes in both phenotype and morphology with aging-related IVD degeneration that may impact the onset and progression of IVD pathology. Studies have demonstrated that immature NP cell interactions with their extracellular matrix (ECM) may be key regulators of cellular phenotype, metabolism and morphology. The objective of this article is to review our recent experience with studies of NP cell-ECM interactions that reveal how ECM cues can be manipulated to promote an immature NP cell phenotype and morphology. Findings demonstrate the importance of a soft (<700 Pa), laminin-containing ECM in regulating healthy, immature NP cells. Knowledge of NP cell-ECM interactions can be used for development of tissue engineering or cell delivery strategies to treat IVD-related disorders.
Maximizing Sensitivity Vector Fields: A Parametric Study
Authors: Sloboda Andrew R. , Epureanu Bogdan I.
Published: January 2014

Sensitivity vector fields (SVFs) have proven to be an effective method for identifying parametric variations in dynamical systems. These fields are constructed using information about how a dynamical system's attractor deforms under prescribed parametric variations. Once constructed, they can be used to quantify any additional variations from the nominal parameter set as they occur. Since SVFs are based on attractor deformations, the geometry and other qualities of the baseline system attractor impact how well a set of SVFs will perform. This paper examines the role attractor characteristics and the choices made in SVF construction play in determining the sensitivity of SVFs. The use of nonlinear feedback to change a dynamical system with the intent of improving SVF sensitivity is explored. These ideas are presented in the context of constructing SVFs for several dynamical systems.
The Development of a Model for the Assessment of Biofouling in Gas Turbine System
Authors: Onabanjo Tosin , Di Lorenzo Giuseppina , Goodger Eric , Pilidis Pericles
Published: January 2014

A significant problem encountered in the gas turbine industry with fuel products is the degradation of fuel and fuel systems by micro-organisms, which are largely bacteria, embedded in biofilms. These micro-organisms cause system fouling and other degradatory effects, extending often to sudden failure of components with cost implications. Current methods of assessment are only postimpact evaluation and do not necessarily quantify the effects of fuel degradation on engine performance and emission. Therefore, effective models that allow predictive condition monitoring are required for engine's fuel system reliability, especially with readily biodegradable biofuels. The aim of this paper is to introduce the concept of biofouling in gas turbines and the development of a biomathematical model with potentials to predict the extent and assess the effects of microbial growth in fuel systems. The tool takes into account mass balance stoichiometry equations of major biological processes in fuel biofouling. Further development, optimization, and integration with existing Cranfield in-house simulation tools will be carried out to assess the overall engine performance and emission characteristics. This new tool is important for engineering design decision, optimization processes, and analysis of microbial fuel degradation in gas turbine fuels and fuel systems.
Study of the Variations in Cylinder-Exhaust-Gas Temperature Over Inlet Air and Operation-Input Parameters of Compression-Ignition Engines
Authors: Chen Gong
Published: January 2014

Cylinder-exhaust-gas temperature (Texh) of a turbocharged compression-ignition engine indicates the levels of engine thermal loading on cylinder and exhaust components, thermal efficiency performance, and engine exhaust emissions. In consideration that Texh is affected by engine air inlet condition that primarily includes inlet air temperature (Ti) and pressure (pi), this paper studies the variation (ΔTexh) of Texh over varying the engine inlet air parameters of compression-ignition engines. The study is to understand ΔTexh with appropriate relations between the inlet parameters and Texh being identified and simply modeled. The regarded effects on Texh and ΔTexh for both naturally aspirated and turbocharged engines of this type are analyzed and predicted. The results indicate that Texh increases as Ti increases or pi decreases. The rate of variation in ΔTexh over varying Ti or pressure pi is smaller in a turbocharged engine than that in a naturally aspirated engine, as reflected from the model and results of the analysis. The results also indicate, for instance, Texh would increase approximately by ∼2 °C as Ti increases by 1 °C or increase by ∼35 °C as pi decreases by 10−2 MPa, as predicted for a typical high-power turbocharged diesel engine operating at a typical full-load condition. The design and operating parameters significant in influencing ΔTexh along with varying Ti or pi are studied in addition. These include the degree of engine cylinder compression, the level of intake manifold air temperature, the magnitude of intake air boost, and the quantity of cycle combustion thermal input. As those parameters change, the rate of variation in Texh varies. For instance, the results indicate that the rate of ΔTexh versus the inlet air parameters would increase as the quantity of cycle combustion thermal input becomes higher. With the understanding of ΔTexh, the engine output performances of thermal loading, efficiency, and exhaust emissions, concerning engine operation at variable ambient temperature or pressure, can be understood and evaluated for the purpose of engine analysis, design, and optimization.
Comparison of Mixture and Multifluid Models for In-Nozzle Cavitation Prediction
Authors: Battistoni Michele , Som Sibendu , Longman Douglas E.
Published: January 2014

Fuel injectors often feature cavitation because of large pressure gradients, which in some regions lead to extremely low pressures. The main objective of this work is to compare the prediction capabilities of two multiphase flow approaches for modeling cavitation in small nozzles, like those used in high-pressure diesel or gasoline fuel injectors. Numerical results are assessed against quantitative high resolution experimental data collected at Argonne National Laboratory using synchrotron X-ray radiography of a model nozzle. One numerical approach uses a homogeneous mixture model with the volume of fluid (VOF) method, in which phase change is modeled via the homogeneous relaxation model (HRM). The second approach is based on the multifluid nonhomogeneous model and uses the Rayleigh bubble-dynamics model to account for cavitation. Both models include three components, i.e., liquid, vapor, and air, and the flow is compressible. Quantitatively, the amount of void predicted by the multifluid model is in good agreement with measurements, while the mixture model overpredicts the values. Qualitatively, void regions look similar and compare well with the experimental measurements. Grid converged results have been achieved for the prediction of mass flow rate while grid-convergence for void fraction is still an open point. Simulation results indicate that most of the vapor is produced at the nozzle entrance. In addition, downstream along the centerline, void due to expansion of noncondensable gases has been identified. The paper also includes a discussion about the effect of turbulent pressure fluctuations on cavitation inception.
Convective Condensation Inside Horizontal Smooth and Microfin Tubes
Authors: Wu Zan , Sundén Bengt , Wang Lei , Li Wei
Published: January 2014

An experimental investigation was performed for convective condensation of R410A inside one smooth tube (3.78 mm, inner diameter) and six microfin tubes (4.54, 4.6 and 8.98 mm, fin root diameter) of different geometries for mass fluxes ranging from 99 to 603 kg m−2s−1. The experimental data were analyzed with updated flow pattern maps and evaluated with existing correlations. The heat transfer coefficient in the microfin tubes decreases at first and then increases or flattens out gradually as mass flux decreases. This obvious nonmonotonic heat transfer coefficient-mass flux relation may be explained by the complex interactions between the microfins and the fluid, mainly by surface tension effects. The heat transfer enhancement mechanism in microfin tubes is mainly due to the surface area increase at large mass fluxes, while liquid drainage by surface tension and interfacial turbulence enhance heat transfer greatly at low mass fluxes.
Magnetohydrodynamics Flow and Heat Transfer Around a Solid Cylinder Wrapped With a Porous Ring
Authors: Sadegh Valipour Mohammad , Rashidi Saman , Masoodi Reza
Published: January 2014

The problem of the effect of an external magnetic field on fluid flow and heat transfer characteristics is relevant to several physical phenomena. In this paper, flow and heat transfer of an electrically-conductive fluid around a cylinder, wrapped with a porous ring and under the influence of a magnetic field, is studied numerically. The ranges of the Stuart (N), Reynolds (Re), and Darcy (Da) numbers are 0–7, 1–40, and 10−8–10−1, respectively. The Darcy–Brinkman–Forchheimer model was used for simulating flow in the porous layer. The governing equations provide a coupling between flow and magnetic fields. The governing equations, together with the relevant boundary conditions, are solved numerically using the finite-volume method (FVM). The effect of the Stuart, Reynolds, and Darcy numbers on the flow patterns and heat transfer rate are explored. Finally, two empirical equations for the average Nusselt number were suggested, in which the effect of a magnetic field and the Darcy numbers are taken into account. It was found that in the presence of a magnetic field, the drag coefficient and the critical radius of the insulation increases, while the wake length and Nusselt number decrease.
Effects of Unsteady Wake on Heat Transfer of Endwall Surface in Linear Cascade
Authors: Park Jun Su , Jung Eui Yeop , Lee Dong Hyun , Kim Kyung Min , Kim Beom Soo , Chang Byoung Moon , Cho Hyung hee
Published: January 2014

The present study aimed to investigate the effect of an unsteady wake on the heat transfer for the endwall surface of a linear of cascade turbine blade. A naphthalene sublimation method was implemented to obtain the detailed heat/mass transfer distributions on the endwall surface. Tests were conducted on a five-passage linear cascade in a low-speed wind tunnel. The effects of unsteady wakes were simulated in the facility by a wake generator consisting of circular rods that were traversed across the inlet flow. The test conditions were fixed at a Reynolds number of 70,000 based on the inlet velocity and chord length. The flow coefficients were varied from 1.3 to 4.2 and the range of Strouhal number was 0.1–0.3. The results showed that the heat transfer distributions differed between steady and unsteady cases. The overall heat transfer for the unsteady cases was higher, and the heat transfer was enhanced with increasing the Strouhal number due to the resulting thin boundary layer and high turbulence intensity. Therefore, a cooling system for the endwall of a rotor should focus on reducing the high temperatures on the endwall surface induced by the unsteady wakes.
Inverse Surfacelet Transform for Image Reconstruction With Constrained-Conjugate Gradient Methods
Authors: Huang Wei , Wang Yan , Rosen David W.
Published: January 2014

Image reconstruction is the transformation process from a reduced-order representation to the original image pixel form. In materials characterization, it can be utilized as a method to retrieve material composition information. In our previous work, a surfacelet transform was developed to efficiently represent boundary information in material images with surfacelet coefficients. In this paper, new constrained-conjugate-gradient based image reconstruction methods are proposed as the inverse surfacelet transform. With geometric constraints on boundaries and internal distributions of materials, the proposed methods are able to reconstruct material images from surfacelet coefficients as either lossy or lossless compressions. The results between the proposed and other optimization methods for solving the least-square error inverse problems are compared.
Large Eddy Simulations of a Stratified Shear Layer
Authors: Pham Hieu T. , Sarkar Sutanu
Published: January 2014

The performance of the large eddy simulation (LES) approach in predicting the evolution of a shear layer in the presence of stratification is evaluated. The LES uses a dynamic procedure to compute subgrid model coefficients based on filtered velocity and density fields. Two simulations at different Reynolds numbers are simulated on the same computational grid. The fine LES simulated at a low Reynolds number produces excellent agreement with direct numerical simulations (DNS): the linear evolution of momentum thickness and bulk Richardson number followed by an asymptotic approach to constant values is correctly represented and the evolution of the integrated turbulent kinetic energy budget is well captured. The model coefficients computed from the velocity and the density fields are similar and have a value in range of 0.01-0.02. The coarse LES simulated at a higher Reynolds number Re = 50,000 shows acceptable results in terms of the bulk characteristics of the shear layer, such as momentum thickness and bulk Richardson number. Analysis of the turbulent budgets shows that, while the subgrid stress is able to remove sufficient energy from the resolved velocity fields, the subgrid scalar flux and thereby the subgrid scalar dissipation are underestimated by the model.
Stepwise Erosion as a Method for Investigating the Wear Mechanisms at Different Impact Angles in Slurry Erosion
Authors: Abd-Elrhman Y. M. , Abouel-Kasem A. , Ahmed S. M. , Emara K. M.
Published: January 2014

In the present work, stepwise erosion technique was carried out to investigate in detail the influence of impact angle on the erosion process of AISI 5117 steel. The number of impact sites and their morphologies at different impact angles were investigated using scanning electron microscope (SEM) examination and image analysis. The tests were carried out with particle concentration of 1 wt. %, and the impact velocity of slurry stream was 15 m/s. Silica sand—which has a nominal size range of 250–355 μm—was used as an erodent, using whirling-arm test rig. The results have shown that the number of craters, as expected, increases with the increase in the mass of erodent for all impact angles and this number decreases with the increase of the impact angle. In addition, the counted number of craters is larger than the calculated number of particles at any stage for all impact angles. This may be explained by the effect of the rebound effect of particles, the irregular shape for these particles, and particle fragmentation. The effect of impact angle based on the impact crater shape can be divided into two regions; the first region for θ ≤ 60 deg and the second region for θ ≥ 75 deg. The shape of the craters is related to the dominant erosion mechanisms of plowing and microcutting in the first region and indentation and lip extrusion in the second region. In the first region, the length of the tracks decreases with the increase of impact angle. The calculated size ranges are from few micrometers to 100 μm for the first region and to 50 μm in the second region. Chipping of the former impact sites by subsequent impact particles plays an important role in developing erosion.
Draft Genome Sequence of Bacillus cereus LCT-BC25, Isolated from Space Flight
Authors: Zhang Xuelin , Wang Tong , Su Longxiang , Zhou Lisha , Li Tianzhi , Wang Junfeng , Liu Yan , Jiang Xuege , Wu Chunyan , Liu Changting
Published: January 2014

Bacillus cereus
strain LCT-BC25, which was carried by the Shenzhou VIII spacecraft, traveled in space for about 398 h. To investigate the response of
B. cereus
to space environments, we determined the genome sequence of
B. cereus
strain LCT-BC25, which was isolated after space flight.
Complete Genome Sequences of
Lactobacillus
Phages J-1 and PL-1
Authors: Dieterle Maria Eugenia , Jacobs-Sera Deborah , Russell Daniel , Hatfull Graham , Piuri Mariana
Published: January 2014

Lactobacillus
phages J-1 and PL-1 were isolated during the 1960s from abnormal fermentations of Yakult. The genomes are almost identical, but PL-1 has a deletion in the genetic switch region and also differs in a gene coding for a putative tail protein.
Effect of Laser Acupuncture and Auricular Acupressure in a Child with Trismus as a Sequela of Medulloblastoma
Authors: Ferreira Danielly Cunha Araújo , De Rossi Andiara , Torres Carolina Paes , Galo Rodrigo , Paula-Silva Francisco Wanderley Garcia , de Queiroz Alexandra Mussolino
Published: January 2014

In several countries the most common cause of death in young people is cancer. Patients with head and neck cancer often have complications after cancer treatment. Radiation therapy can cause oral trismus, which is related to high doses of radiation. Although acupuncture is reported to be effective and is widely used for the treatment of peripheral facial paralysis by promoting an improvement of motor functions, few reports in the literature demonstrate its effectiveness. We report a case in which the symptoms of a patient with facial paralysis after surgical cancer treatment associated with chemotherapy and radiotherapy improved after laser treatment at acupuncture points. Ten weekly sessions of laser therapy were conducted, using the Twin laser device, applied to systemic acupuncture points (LR3, LI4, LI18, LI19, LI20, SI17, SI19, ST4, ST6, ST7, GV20), together with 10 weekly sessions of auricular acupressure. Significant improvement of the trismus was seen, confirmed by the increase in mouth opening from 33.26 to 53.3 mm. The patient's family also noted reduced anxiety and hyperactivity. These results suggest that laser acupuncture and auricular acupressure for trismus and facial paralysis following cancer treatment is worth further investigation.
Large bowel obstruction due to gallstones: an endoscopic problem?
Authors: Waterland Peter , Khan Faisal Shehzaad , Durkin Damien
Published: January 2014

A 73-year-old man was admitted with symptoms of large bowel obstruction. An emergency CT scan revealed pneumobilia and large bowel obstruction at the level of the rectosigmoid due to a 4×4 cm impacted gallstone. Flexible sigmoidoscopy confirmed the diagnosis but initial attempts to drag the stone into the rectum failed. An endoscopic mechanical lithotripter was employed to repeatedly fracture the gallstone into smaller fragments, which were passed spontaneously the next day. The patient made a complete recovery avoiding the potential dangers of surgery. This case report discusses cholecystoenteric fistula and a novel minimally invasive treatment for large bowel obstruction due to gallstones.
Eosinophilic cholangiopathy: the diagnostic dilemma of a recurrent biliary stricture. Should surgery be offered for all?
Authors: Seow-En Isaac , Chiow Adrian Kah Heng , Tan Siong San , Poh Wee Teng
Published: January 2014

A 63-year-old man presented with the initial diagnosis of autoimmune pancreatitis with obstructive jaundice. CT of the abdomen revealed an oedematous pancreas and dilated common bile duct (CBD), without gallstones. After failure of initial retrograde cholangiopancreatography, a percutaneous biliary catheter was inserted with good drainage. Subsequent endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) revealed a 2 cm distal CBD stricture. A biliary stent was inserted past the stricture. Biopsy of the stricture, brush cytology of the bile duct and fine needle aspiration of pancreatic head under endoscopic ultrasound guidance were negative for malignancy. Autoimmune screen was negative as well. However, the patient represented with cholangitis requiring repeat ERCP and insertion of a second biliary stent. He finally underwent cholecystectomy with excision of the distal CBD and Roux-En-Y hepaticojejunostomy. Histology revealed diffuse eosinophilic cholecystitis and cholangitis. A retrospective review of the blood results showed persistent eosinophilia in full blood count measurements from presentation and persisting throughout the treatment period.
Accidental hijab pin ingestion in Muslim women: an emerging endoscopic emergency?
Authors: Goh Jason , Patel Neeral , Boulton Ralph
Published: January 2014

Ingested foreign body is an infrequent indication for emergency endoscopy in the adult gastroenterology practice. We describe the clinical features and endoscopic management of the first four cases of accidental ingestion of hijab pins by Muslim women in our unit, all presenting within a 12-month period. The pins were all successfully retrieved without any complications. In this report, we review published guidelines and the current literature, as well as discussing the approach (conservative vs proactive endoscopic retrieval) and timing of endoscopic treatment. The Muslim community may need to be alerted to the potential health hazard of hijab pins.
Migrants Examined for Determinants of psychopathology through INternet Assessment (MEDINA) study: a cross-sectional study among visitors of an Internet community
Authors: van de Beek Madelien Hermina , van der Krieke Lian , Schoevers Robert Anton
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Migration is a risk factor for the onset of psychopathology. A range of social factors may play a role in the aetiology of psychiatric disorders in migrants. A better understanding of these associations is needed to develop preventive interventions to reduce the disease burden in the migrant population. Research among minority groups is generally time consuming and it is difficult to recruit participants. Internet can offer interesting new possibilities to conduct research among ethnic minorities. This article describes the design of an epidemiological study in the Moroccan-Dutch population, which will be entirely performed online. We investigate the association between social factors and psychopathology.

Methods and analysis

The website Marokko.nl is visited by 70% of the young Moroccan-Dutch population in the Netherlands. This website therefore provides a unique possibility for research within this population. We will conduct a survey with online questionnaires via this website. The online survey consists of several validated short self-report questionnaires, measuring depressive and anxiety symptoms (The Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K10)), psychotic symptoms (The Prodromal Questionnaire-16 (PQ-16)) and instruments measuring discrimination, social support and social defeat. Furthermore, demographic characteristics are collected. We will use univariate and multivariate methods for analysing the data.

Ethics and dissemination

The local medical ethical committee has assessed the study protocol and judged that the study could be conducted without their approval. Knowledge dissemination will take place through peer-reviewed publication in scientific journals as well as publication for participants on the project website.

Discussion

In this study we further explore the association between psychopathology and social factors within an online Moroccan-Dutch sample. The recruitment of participants via the website Marokko.nl creates a big advantage in collecting a large sample of a specific migrant population. Strengths and limitations of the methodology are discussed. Furthermore, we review the advantages and challenges of online epidemiological research methods.
Attitudes, risk of infection and behaviours in the operating room (the ARIBO Project): a prospective, cross-sectional study
Authors: Birgand Gabriel , Azevedo Christine , Toupet Gaelle , Pissard-Gibollet Roger , Grandbastien Bruno , Fleury Eric , Lucet Jean-Christophe
Published: January 2014

Introduction

Inappropriate staff behaviours can lead to environmental contamination in the operating room (OR) and subsequent surgical site infection (SSI). This study will focus on the continued assessment of OR staff behaviours using a motion tracking system and their impact on the SSI risk during surgical procedures.

Methods and analysis

This multicentre prospective cross-sectional study will include 10 ORs of cardiac and orthopaedic surgery in 12 healthcare facilities (HCFs). The staff behaviour will be assessed by an objective, continued and prolonged quantification of movements within the OR. A motion tracking system including eight optical cameras (VICON-Bonita) will record the movements of reflective markers placed on the surgical caps/hoods of each person entering the room. Different configurations of markers positioning will be used to distinguish between the staff category. Doors opening will be observed by means of wireless inertial sensors fixed on the doors and synchronised with the motion tracking system. We will collect information on the OR staff, surgical procedures and surgical environment characteristics. The behavioural data obtained will be compared (1) to the ‘best behaviour rules’ in the OR, pre-established using a Delphi method and (2) to surrogates of the infectious risk represented by microbiological air counts, particle counts, and a bacteriological sample of the wound at closing. Statistics will be performed using univariate and multivariate analysis to adjust on the aerolic and architectural characteristics of the OR. A multilevel model will allow including surgical specialty and HCFs effects. Through this study, we will develop an original approach using high technology tools associated to data processing techniques to evaluate ‘automatically’ the behavioural dynamics of the OR staff and their impact on the SSI risk.

Ethics and dissemination

Approbation of the Institutional Review Board of Paris North Hospitals, Paris 7 University, AP-HP (no 11-113, 6 April 2012). The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed journals, and national and international conference presentations.
Primary manual aspiration thrombectomy (MAT) for acute ischemic stroke: safety, feasibility and outcomes in 112 consecutive patients
Authors: Jankowitz Brian , Grandhi Ramesh , Horev Anat , Aghaebrahim Amin , Jadhav Ashutosh , Linares Guillermo , Jovin Tudor
Published: January 2014

Aim

To describe procedural aspects and clinical outcomes in a consecutive series of patients in whom manual aspiration thrombectomy (MAT) was performed as the first treatment modality with other techniques used only in case MAT did not yield recanalization.

Methods

A retrospective review of a prospectively acquired acute stroke intervention database was performed. Primary MAT was carried out with a preference for the largest catheter considered to be trackable into the target occlusive lesion. The catheter was wedged into the thrombus followed by manual aspiration with a 20 ml syringe.

Results

112 consecutive patients were evaluated. The median age was 66 years and the median NIH Stroke Scale score was 17. Occlusion locations included the M1 (62%), M2 (8%), internal carotid artery terminus (19%) and the vertebrobasilar artery (11%). Patients with anterior occlusions had tandem extracranial/intracranial occlusive lesions in 18.7% Median time from symptom onset to groin puncture was 267 min, and from groin puncture to recanalization was 70 min. Successful recanalization (defined as Thrombolysis in Cerebral Infarction (TICI) 2b/3) with primary MAT was 59% with a median of two passes. 41% of patients required the use of adjunctive therapy yielding an overall recanalization rate of TICI 2b/3 (86%) and TICI 3 (30.6%). Parenchymal hematoma of any type (PH1/PH2) was seen in 9.8% of patients, with symptomatic hemorrhage in 6%. Favorable outcomes (90-day modified Rankin Scale ≤2) were 46%. Mortality at 3 months was 31%. Primary MAT was associated with faster procedural times (mean 63 vs 97 min, p<0.0001) but not with higher rates of favorable outcomes.

Conclusions

Primary MAT is an alternative endovascular recanalization technique with reasonable first pass efficacy that will likely improve with technology and experience.
Impacts of fire and climate change on long-term nitrogen availability and forest productivity in the New Jersey Pine Barrens
Authors: Lucash Melissa S. , Scheller Robert M. , Kretchun Alec M. , Clark Kenneth L. , Hom John
Published: January 2014

Increased wildfires and temperatures due to climate change are expected to have profound effects on forest productivity and nitrogen (N) cycling. Forecasts about how wildfire and climate change will affect forests seldom consider N availability, which may limit forest response to climate change, particularly in fire-prone landscapes. The overall objective of this study was to examine how wildfire and climate change affect long-term mineral N availability in a fire-prone landscape. We employed a commonly used landscape simulation model (LANDIS-II) in the New Jersey Pine Barrens, a landscape characterized by frequent small fires and fire-resilient vegetation. We found that fire had little effect on mineral N, whereas climate change and fire together reduced mineral N by the end of the century. Though N initially limited forest productivity, mineral N was no longer limiting after 50 years. Our results suggest that mineral N is resilient to fire under our current climate but not under climate change. Also, predictions that do not consider N limitation may underestimate short-term but not long-term productivity responses to climate change. Together these results illustrate the importance of including N dynamics when simulating the effects of climate change on forest productivity, particularly in fire-prone regions such as the New Jersey Pine Barrens.