bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of yttria surface modification on high temperature corrosion of porous Ni22Cr alloy
Authors: Karczewski Jakub , Dunst Katarzyna , Jasinski Piotr , Molin Sebastian
Published: November 2017

Protective coatings for porous alloys for high temperature use are relatively new materials. Their main drawback is high temperature corrosion. In this work protective coatings based the on Y‐precursor infiltrated into the sintered Ni22Cr alloys are studied at 700°C. Effects of the amount of the protective phase on the resulting corrosion properties are evaluated in air and humidified hydrogen. Weight gain of the samples, their open porosities and microstructures are analyzed and compared. Results show, that by the addition of even a minor amount of the Y‐precursor corrosion rates can be decreased by a factor of 50.
Barriers to medication adherence and links to cardiovascular disease risk factor control: the Framingham Heart Study
Authors: Hennein Rachel , Hwang Shih‐Jen , Au Rhoda , Levy Daniel , Muntner Paul , Fox Caroline S. , Ma Jiantao
Published: November 2017

Background

In the elderly, impaired cognition may weaken medication adherence and compromise treatment for cardiovascular disease (CVD).

Aim

We examined risk factors for medication adherence and the relationship between adherence and levels of CVD risk factors among older participants with hypertension, dyslipidaemia and diabetes in the Framingham Heart Study.

Methods

The four‐item Morisky Medication Adherence Scale was administered to 1559 participants, median age 70 years, 53% women. We created an adherence score, ranging from 0 to 4, with low adherence defined as a score ≥2. CVD risk factors were assessed using standard protocols. Cognition was measured using the Mini‐Mental State Examination (MMSE) and depressive symptoms were measured using the Center for Epidemiologic Studies of Depression (CES‐D) scale.

Results

Among participants who self‐reported taking antihypertensive, lipid‐lowering and/or hyperglycaemic medication(s), 12% (n = 191) had low medication adherence. The risk of low adherence increased by 45% (95% confidence interval (CI): 25–68%, P < 0.001) per five‐unit increase in CES‐D score. In participants taking antihypertensive medication (n = 1017), low adherence was associated with higher mean diastolic blood pressure (73 mmHg, 95% CI: 71–75 vs 71 mmHg, 95% CI: 70–71; P = 0.04) after adjusting for covariates. Among participants taking lipid‐lowering medication (n = 937), low adherence was associated with higher mean low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (92 mg/dL, 95% CI: 87–96 vs 86 mg/dL, 95% CI: 84–88; P = 0.03). Low adherence was not associated with fasting plasma glucose (P = 0.10) or haemoglobin A1c (P = 0.68) in the subgroup of participants (n = 192) taking hypoglycaemic medication.

Conclusions

Depressive symptoms might act as a barrier for medication adherence, which exacerbates CVD risk factors in older‐aged adults.
Mobility transition at grain boundaries in two‐step sintered 8 mol% yttria‐stabilized zirconia
Authors: Dong Yanhao , Chen I‐Wei
Published: November 2017

Stagnation of grain growth is often attributed to impurity segregation, which becomes more severe as the grain size grows. In this respect, there is no evidence for segregation‐induced slowdown in the grain growth of yttria‐stabilized cubic zirconia, which obeys the parabolic law when the size increases by more than ten times. However, lowering the temperature below 1300°C triggers an abrupt slowdown, constraining the average grains to grow by less than 0.5 μm in 1000 hours despite a relatively large driving force imparted in the fine grains of ~0.5 μm. Yet isolated pockets of abnormally large grains, and even most remarkably, pockets of abnormally small grains, emerge in the same latter sample. Such extreme bifurcation of microstructure has never been observed before, and can be explained by an inhomogeneous distribution of immobile four‐grain junctions. The implications of these findings for two‐step sintering are discussed.
Acute inhibition of PMCA4, but not global ablation, reduces blood pressure and arterial contractility via a nNOS‐dependent mechanism
Authors: Lewis Sophronia , Little Robert , Baudoin Florence , Prehar Sukhpal , Neyses Ludwig , Cartwright Elizabeth J. , Austin Clare
Published: November 2017

Cardiovascular disease is the world's leading cause of morbidity and mortality, with high blood pressure (BP) contributing to increased severity and number of adverse outcomes. Plasma membrane calcium ATPase 4 (PMCA4) has been previously shown to modulate systemic BP. However, published data are conflicting, with both overexpression and inhibition of PMCA4 in vivo shown to increase arterial contractility. Hence, our objective was to determine the role of PMCA4 in the regulation of BP and to further understand how PMCA4 functionally regulates BP using a novel specific inhibitor to PMCA4, aurintricarboxylic acid (ATA). Our approach assessed conscious BP and contractility of resistance arteries from PMCA4 global knockout (PMCA4KO) mice compared to wild‐type animals. Global ablation of PMCA4 had no significant effect on BP, arterial structure or isolated arterial contractility. ATA treatment significantly reduced BP and arterial contractility in wild‐type mice but had no significant effect in PMCA4KO mice. The effect of ATAin vivo and ex vivo was abolished by the neuronal nitric oxide synthase (nNOS) inhibitor Vinyl‐l‐NIO. Thus, this highlights differences in the effects of PMCA4 ablation and acute inhibition on the vasculature. Importantly, for doses here used, we show the vascular effects of ATA to be specific for PMCA4 and that ATA may be a further experimental tool for elucidating the role of PMCA4.
Working in a storied way—Narrative‐based approaches to person‐centred care and practice development in older adult residential care settings
Authors: Buckley Catherine , McCormack Brendan , Ryan Assumpta
Published: November 2017

Aims and objectives

To evaluate the effects of the implementation of a methodological framework for a narrative‐based approach to practice development and person‐centred care in residential aged care settings.

Background

Care in long‐term residential settings for older people is moving away from the biomedical approach and adopting a more person‐centred one. Narrative can help shape the way care is planned and organised. The provision of person‐centred care that is holistic and that takes account of resident's beliefs and values can be enhanced by incorporating narrative approaches to care within a practice development framework.

Design

The chosen methodology was participatory action research.

Methods

Between 2010–2014, a methodological framework of narrative practice was implemented in two residential care settings, comprising 37 residents and 38 staff, using an action research approach. Three action cycles: (i) narrative practice and culture identification, (ii) developing narrative practice and (iii) working in a storied way emerged during the implementation.

Results

Key outcomes emerged in relation to the findings. These were based on narrative being, knowing and doing and centred around the key outcomes of (i) how people responded to change (narrative being), (ii) the development of shared understandings (narrative knowing) and (iii) intentional action (narrative doing).

Conclusion

The implementation of a framework of narrative practice demonstrated that how people respond to change, the development of shared understandings and intentional action were interrelated and interlinked. It illustrated the importance of ensuring that practice context is taken account of in the implementation of action research and the importance of ensuring that narrative being, knowing and doing are clear and understandable for change to occur.

Relevance to clinical practice

Implementation of a narrative approach to care can develop new ways of working that value biography and promote the development of a co‐constructed plan of care.
Formalising the precepting process: A concept analysis of preceptorship
Authors: Ward Amanda E. , McComb Sara A.
Published: November 2017

Aims and objectives

To elucidate the terminology associated with preceptorships, articulate an operational description of preceptorship that may be useful in formalising the precepting process and provide guidance for constructing a clinical environment where precepting can thrive.

Background

Precepting facilitates the transition of nurses into new roles. Precepting may improve patient outcomes and safety, as well as enhance nursing satisfaction. Most research focuses on preceptor preparation and perceptions. A comprehensive operational description of what is required to formalise the precepting process is missing from the literature.

Design

This concept analysis was completed using a combination of Walker and Avant's and Rodger's methods.

Methods

Existing literature relating to preceptorship was reviewed. Critical attributes, antecedents, consequences and empirical referents were identified. Model, contrary, related and borderline cases were developed.

Results

Preceptorships have the specific attributes of being (i) one‐on‐one relationships, (ii) embedded within formalised programmes, (iii) that evolve over set amounts of time, (iv) to systematically facilitate practical experiences. Antecedents include how precepting is triggered and organisational supporting activities that may facilitate effective precepting. Consequences include new hire preparedness, confidence and increased retention. Empirical referents are provided for assessing hands‐on clinical expertise, individualisation of precepting programmes and the preceptor–preceptee relationship.

Conclusions

This concept analysis provides a holistic view of the precepting process that shifts the focus from the people or checklist to formalised preceptorships.

Relevance to clinical practice

Continuity throughout an organisation's system streamlines the process of hiring new employees and transitioning nursing students to practice. Organisational policies, dedicated resources and engagement in systematically improving the precepting process are critical. Nurse managers must promote and support formalised preceptorships by providing preceptors and preceptees the time and space needed and fostering a culture that supports preceptorships.
Effects of Toceranib Phosphate on the Hypothalamic‐Pituitary‐Thyroid Axis in Tumor‐Bearing Dogs
Authors: Hume K.R. , Rizzo V.L. , Cawley J.R. , Balkman C.E.
Published: November 2017

Background

Thyroid dysfunction is associated with the use of tyrosine kinase inhibitors (TKI) in people.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To determine whether dysfunction in the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐thyroid axis occurs in dogs receiving theTKI, toceranib phosphate.

Animals

Forty‐three client‐owned dogs with cancer.

Methods

Prospective, observational study. Concentrations of total thyroxine (TT4), free thyroxine (FT4), total triiodothyronine (TT3), and thyroid‐stimulating hormone (TSH) were evaluated on day 0, 30, and 90. Dogs also were evaluated for the presence of thyroglobulin autoantibodies.

Results

The proportion of dogs with lowTT4, lowFT4, lowTT3, highTSH, or primary hypothyroidism (increasedTSHand decreasedTT4,FT4 or both) did not change over 90 days. Hormone concentrations remained within laboratory reference intervals, butFT4 (P= 0.0032) andTSH(P< 0.0001) changed over time. MeanFT4 was 1.22 ng/dL(95% confidence interval [CI], 1.10–1.34) on day 0 and 1.00 ng/dL(95%CI, 0.86–1.16) on day 90. MeanTSHwas 0.17 ng/mL(95%CI, 0.13–0.23) on day 0 and 0.34 ng/mL(95%CI, 0.24–0.48) on day 90. Furthermore,TT4/TT3 ratio also changed over time (P= 0.0086). MeanTT4/TT3 ratio was 2.57 (95%CI, 2.26–2.88) on day 0 and 2.02 on day 90 (95%CI, 1.61–2.44). Thyroglobulin autoantibodies were not detected in any dog.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Toceranib phosphate can disrupt the hypothalamic‐pituitary‐thyroid axis in dogs. Periodic evaluation ofTT4,FT4,TT3, andTSHshould be carried out in dogs receiving long‐term treatment with this medication.
Comparison of Multiplate, Platelet Function Analyzer‐200, and Plateletworks in Healthy Dogs Treated with Aspirin and Clopidogrel
Authors: Saati S. , Abrams‐Ogg A.C.G. , Blois S.L. , Wood R.D.
Published: November 2017

Background

Platelet function testing may be warranted to assess response to aspirin and clopidogrel.

Hypothesis/Objectives

To evaluate the effects of aspirin, clopidogrel, or combination therapy using 3 platelet function tests: Multiplate Analyzer (MP), Platelet Function Analyzer‐200 (PFA), and Plateletworks (PW).

Animals

Six healthy laboratory Beagles.

Methods

Randomized double‐blind placebo‐controlled study (crossover design). Dogs were given aspirin 1 mg/kg, clopidogrel 2 mg/kg, or combination therapy for 1 week each, with a washout period of 2 weeks. Platelet function was assessed on days 0 and 7 of each phase using MP (adenosine diphosphate [ADP], arachidonic acid [AA], collagen [COL] agonists), PFA (P2Y, COL‐ADP [CADP], COL‐Epinephrine [CEPI] cartridges), and PW (ADP, AA, COL agonists). Platelet counts were obtained with impedance and optical counters.

Results

For MP, mean aggregation was decreased for COL and AA with combination therapy and for ADP with all treatments. For PFA, mean CT was increased for the CEPI cartridge with aspirin; and for the P2Y and CADP cartridges with clopidogrel or combination therapy. More dogs receiving clopidogrel showed an increase in PFA CT using the P2Y than the CADP cartridge. For PW, mean aggregation was decreased for AA with all treatments; for ADP with clopidogrel or combination therapy; and for COL with clopidogrel. The PW results with the 2 hematology counters showed almost perfect agreement.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

All platelet function tests detected treatment effects in some dogs and may have utility for monitoring therapy.
Differences in Epidural Pathology between Cervical and Thoracolumbar Intervertebral Disk Extrusions in Dogs
Authors: Züger L. , Fadda A. , Oevermann A. , Forterre F. , Vandevelde M. , Henke D.
Published: November 2017

Background

Although the basic pathophysiology is the same in both cervical and thoracolumbar intervertebral disk (IVD) extrusions, there are considerable clinical differences that have only been partially explained.

Hypothesis/Objectives

The epidural inflammatory response differs between cervical and thoracolumbar IVD extrusions.

Animals

Fifty‐five dogs with cervical and 80 dogs with thoracolumbar IVD extrusions.

Methods

Clinical data and histopathologic variables were investigated. Associations between severity of epidural inflammation and clinical and pathologic variables, impact of chondrodystrophic phenotype, and localization (cervical versus thoracolumbar) were evaluated statistically.

Results

Dogs with cervical IVD extrusion were significantly older (P < 0.001), had less severe and longer duration of neurologic signs (both P < 0.001), were more painful (P = 0.038), and had a better outcome (P = 0.005) than dogs with a thoracolumbar IVD extrusion. On histopathology, cervical epidural material had less severe calcification (P = 0.002) and inflammation (P < 0.001). No significant differences regarding chondrodystrophic phenotype were found.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

There was significantly less intensive inflammatory response in the cervical epidural space. This observation correlated positively with less nucleus pulposus calcification in cervical extrusions indicating biochemical, metabolic, and biomechanical differences between the 2 locations, which remain to be characterized in future studies.
Worker Morale and Effort: Is the Relationship Causal?
Authors: Hassink Wolter H. J. , Fernandez Roberto M.
Published: November 2017

We investigate a unique setting which enables us to distinguish between two theories of work performance. A standard labor supply framework implies a negative effect of the nonpecuniary cost of work on the employee's effort. In contrast, a model of worker morale that is consistent with a widely used theory of Akerlof and Yellen (QJE, 1990) predicts this negative effect is stronger (weaker) for low‐morale (high‐morale) workers. We exploit a natural experiment design of a firm relocation from Milwaukee's Central Business District to the area's suburban ring in 1992. There is an exogenous source of variation on the adjusted commuting distance among those who stay at the firm. Some workers received a windfall gain, whereas other workers experienced an unforeseen cost in longer commuting time. The estimates suggest that low‐morale workers are responsive to the shock in commuting time for some of the dimensions of morale. We conclude that the results give some indication of the model of worker morale.
Evidence for a widely expanded humpback whale calving range along the Western Australian coast
Authors: Irvine Lyn G. , Thums Michele , Hanson Christine E. , McMahon Clive R. , Hindell Mark A.
Published: November 2017

The recognized calving grounds of humpback whales (Megaptera novaeangliae) that breed along the Western Australian coast (Breeding Stock D) extend along the Kimberley coast between Camden Sound and Broome (15°–18°S). However, there are reports of neonates further south, suggesting that the calving areas may be poorly defined. During aerial photogrammetric research in 2013 and 2015, we sighted large numbers of humpback whale calves along North West Cape (21°47′–22°43′S). We estimated the minimum relative calf abundance to be 463–603 in 2013 and 557–725 in 2015. We categorized the calves as either neonate or post neonate according to their color and size. The majority of calves sighted in both years (85% in 2013; 94% in 2015) were neonates. Our observations indicate that a minimum of approximately 20% (17.1%–24.3%) of the expected number of calves of this population are born near, or south of, North West Cape. We thus demonstrate that the calving grounds for the Breeding Stock D population extend south from Camden Sound in the Kimberley (15°S) to at least North West Cape (22°43′S), 1,000 km southwest of the currently recognized calving area.
Isotopic niche width differentiation between common bottlenose dolphin ecotypes and sperm whales in the Gulf of California
Authors: Díaz‐Gamboa Raúl E. , Gendron Diane , Busquets‐Vass Geraldine
Published: November 2017

World populations or stock distinction of Tursiops truncatus has been difficult to assess, because of large variations in morphology, habitat, feeding habits, and social structure among areas, which may reflect phylogenetic segregation or ecological plasticity. In the Gulf of California, Mexico, two common bottlenose dolphin ecotypes (inshore and offshore) have been reported. The offshore ecotype is frequently observed in association with sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) but the reason for this is still unknown. To explore the degree of resource partitioning/overlap between these species and stocks, we used skin stable isotope values (δ13C, δ15N) to estimate quantitative metrics of isotopic niche width (Bayesian standard ellipse areas, SEAB) and estimated their diet composition using Bayesian isotopic mixing models. The inshore ecotype in different regions (north, central, and south) of the Gulf of California exhibited distinct δ15N values and SEAB, suggesting a latitudinal gradient in nitrogen sources of coastal localities. The SEAB of inshore and offshore bottlenose dolphin ecotypes was completely distinct, indicating resource partitioning. Associated offshore ecotype and sperm whales had overlapping SEAB. The isotopic mixing model indicates that a considerable proportion of both species’ diet is large Humbolt squid. Our results suggest that resource partitioning and species association are two strategies that bottlenose dolphin ecotypes use in this zone.
Living with dolphins: Local ecological knowledge and perceptions of small cetaceans along the Sindhudurg coastline of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Jog Ketki , Sule Mihir , Bopardikar Isha , Patankar Vardhan , Sutaria Dipani
Published: November 2017

Two near shore small cetaceans occur commonly along the Maharashtra coast, the Indian Ocean humpback dolphin and Indo Pacific finless porpoise. These cetaceans frequently interact with fisheries in this region due to overlap in space and resource use. Besides stranding records, little ecological information is available about these species from Maharashtra. We conducted 143 semistructured interviews to document local ecological knowledge and community perceptions of small cetaceans in 30 coastal fishing villages in Sindhudurg. Perceptions of finless porpoises were largely neutral, whereas humpback dolphins were negative. A classification regression tree (CART) analysis (root node error: 60%) showed that the annual cost of gear damage was an important predictor variable of humpback dolphin perceptions, followed by occupation (gear type) and age. Entanglements were reported for both species in large and small gill nets, and shore seines. Perceived net damage and catch loss due to humpback dolphins was six times greater than that of finless porpoises. However, finless porpoises were reportedly more frequently entangled in gear than humpback dolphins. We provide an insight into the perceptions of cetaceans in the local community and the fisheries‐cetacean interactions that shape them.
Nomenclatural updates in Ipomoea (Convolvulaceae)
Authors: Delgado Geadelande Carolino , Athiê‐Souza Sarah Maria , Buril Maria Teresa
Published: November 2017

The lectotypification of Ipomoea fimbriosepala, I. horsfalliae, I. marcellia, I. subincana and I. tenera is proposed herein. In addition, we suggest to change one name, from I. tubata to I. sidifolia since I. sidifolia predate I. tubata and must replace it.
OsCERK1 plays a crucial role in the lipopolysaccharide‐induced immune response of rice
Authors: Desaki Yoshitake , Kouzai Yusuke , Ninomiya Yusuke , Iwase Ryosuke , Shimizu Yumi , Seko Keito , Molinaro Antonio , Minami Eiichi , Shibuya Naoto , Kaku Hanae , Nishizawa Yoko
Published: November 2017

Plant cell surface receptor‐like kinases (RLKs) mediate the signals from microbe‐associated molecular patterns (MAMPs) that induce immune responses. Lipopolysaccharide (LPS), the major constituent of the outer membrane of gram‐negative bacteria, is a common MAMP perceived by animals and plants; however, the plant receptors/co‐receptors are unknown except for LORE, a bulb‐type lectin S‐domain RLK (B‐lectin SD1‐RLK) in Arabidopsis. OsCERK1 is a multifunctional RLK in rice that contains lysin motifs (LysMs) and is essential for the perception of chitin, a fungal MAMP, and peptidoglycan, a bacterial MAMP. Here, we analyzed the relevance of OsCERK1 to LPS perception in rice.

Using OsCERK1‐knockout mutants (oscerk1), we evaluated hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) production and gene expression after LPS treatment. We also examined the LPS response in knockout mutants for the B‐lectin SD1‐RLK genes in rice and for all LysM‐protein genes in Arabidopsis.

Compared with wild‐type rice cells, LPS responses in oscerk1 cells were mostly diminished. By contrast, rice lines mutated in either of three B‐lectin SD1‐RLK genes and Arabidopsis lines mutated in the LysM‐protein genes responded normally to LPS.

From these results, we conclude that OsCERK1 is an LPS receptor/co‐receptor and that the LPS perception systems of rice and Arabidopsis are significantly different.
Evolution on the bright side of life: microorganisms and the evolution of mutualism
Authors: Hillesland Kristina Linnea
Published: November 2017

Mutualistic interactions, where two interacting species have a net beneficial effect on each other's fitness, play a crucial role in the survival and evolution of many species. Despite substantial empirical and theoretical work in past decades, the impact of these interactions on natural selection is not fully understood. In addition, mutualisms between microorganisms have been largely ignored, even though they are ecologically important and can be used as tools to bridge the gap between theory and empirical work. Here, I describe two problems with our current understanding of natural selection in mutualism and highlight the properties of microbial mutualisms that could help solve them. One problem is that bias and methodological problems have limited our understanding of the variety of mechanisms by which species may adapt to mutualism. Another problem is that it is rare for experiments testing coevolution in mutualism to address whether each species has adapted to evolutionary changes in its partner. These problems can be addressed with genome resequencing and time‐shift experiments, techniques that are easier to perform in microorganisms. In addition, microbial mutualisms may inspire novel insights and hypotheses about natural selection in mutualism.
Leadless pacemaker extraction from a single‐center perspective
Authors: González Villegas Elkin , Al Razzo Omar , Silvestre García Jorge , Mesa García José
Published: November 2017

Background

Leadless pacemaker can be considered as a technical revolution in cardiac pacing devices, with clear advantages over conventional pacemakers in overcoming all lead‐related complications. However, the management of these devices once they reach the end of life (EOL) of the battery is still controversial.

In the next years, there will be an increase in the need to define a clear strategy in the management of leadless PM once they reach their EOL. Safe extraction of these devices will define in a great manner this strategy

Methods

We performed the extraction of three functioning Nanostim leadless pacemaker prophylactically in two females and one male patients as part of the Nanostim battery depletion field action recommendation. All patients had a prior transesophageal 3D echocardiography to determine the device intracardiac mobility and the extent of possible endothelialization. For the extractions, we used the Nanostim Retrieval Catheter S1RSIN (St. Jude Medical, St. Paul, MN, USA), which is a proprietary catheter provided by the manufacturing company based on a lasso.

Results

Complete extraction of the devices was achieved in all patients using a relatively short fluoroscopic time (16, 19, and 12 minutes).

Conclusions

The extraction of leadless pacemakers can be considered as a safe and feasible procedure using the tools provided by the manufacturer and designed for the extraction. However, a very low threshold must be maintained to avoid any risk to the patients. Our extraction time ranges are between 983 and 1,070 days, nevertheless it is necessary to gather more long‐term data to assess the feasibility and safety of these procedures.
Mycorrhizal tomato plants fine tunes the growth‐defence balance upon N depleted root environments
Authors: Sánchez‐Bel P. , Sanmartín N. , Pastor V. , Mateu D. , Cerezo M. , Vidal‐Albalat A. , Pastor‐Fernández J. , Pozo M.J. , Flors V.
Published: November 2017

In low nutritive environments, the uptake of N by arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi may confer competitive advantages for the host. The present study aims to understand how mycorrhizal tomato plants perceive and then prepare for an N depletion in the root environment. Plants colonized by Rhizophagus irregularis displayed improved responses to a lack of N than nonmycorrhizal (NM) plants. These responses were accomplished by a complex metabolic and transcriptional rearrangement that mostly affected the gibberellic acid and jasmonic acid pathways involving DELLA and JAZ1 genes, which were responsive to changes in the C/N imbalance of the plant. N starved mycorrhizal plants showed lower C/N equilibrium in the shoots than starved NM plants and concomitantly a downregulation of the JAZ1 repressor and the increased expression of the DELLA gene, which translated into a more active oxylipin pathway in mycorrhizal plants. In addition, the results support a priorization in AM plants of stress responses over growth. Therefore, these plants were better prepared for an expected stress. Furthermore, most metabolites that were severely reduced in NM plants following the N depletion remained unaltered in starved AM plants compared with those normally fertilized, suggesting that the symbiosis buffered the stress, improving plant development in a stressed environment.
Racial realism I: Are biological races real?
Authors: Spencer Quayshawn
Published: November 2017

In this article, I discuss and critique how metaphysicians of race have conceived of and defended racial realism according to how biologists use “race”. I start by defining “racial realism” in the broadest accepted way in the metaphysics of race. Next, I summarize a representative sample of recent attempts from metaphysicians of race and biologists to defend racial realism and the main criticisms against each attempt. I discuss how metaphysicians of race have defended racial realism according to how ordinary people use “race” in Part II.
The “Just Too Different” Objection to Normative Naturalism
Authors: Paakkunainen Hille
Published: November 2017

Consider normative properties and facts, such as facts consisting in something's being what you ought to do, or the property of being morally wrong. Normative naturalism is the view that normative properties and facts such as these exist, and that they are natural properties and facts. Some suspect, however, that normativity is incompatible with a wholly naturalistic worldview: that the normative couldn't be natural because it's somehow “just too different” from the natural. I critically examine recent forms of this “just too different” objection to normative naturalism, with a view to making the debate accessible to a general philosophical audience.
Comparison of peri‐implant and periodontal marginal soft tissues in health and disease
Authors: Ivanovski Saso , Lee Ryan
Published: November 2017

The integrity of the peri‐implant soft‐tissue seal is crucial for maintaining peri‐implant tissue health. Whilst the transmucosal component of the restored implant shares some common features with teeth, namely the presence of a junctional epithelium and a connective tissue component, there are some important differences. A key difference is the nature of the relationship of the connective tissue with the implant surface, whereby there is ‘adaptation’ of collagen fibers in a parallel orientation in relation to the implant, but insertion of fiber attachment perpendicularly into cementum in the case of teeth. This, combined with reduced cellularity and vascularity in the peri‐implant connective tissue, may make implants more susceptible to disease initiation and progression. Furthermore, the presence of a subgingival connection between the implant and the abutment/restoration poses some specific challenges, and maintaining the integrity of this connection is important in preserving peri‐implant tissue health. Implant design features, such as the nature of the connection between the implant and the abutment, as well as the surface characteristics of the abutment and implants, may influence the maintenance of the integrity of soft tissue around implants. Iatrogenic factors, such as incorrect seating of the abutment and/or the restoration, and the presence of residual subgingival cement, will lead to loss of soft‐tissue integrity and hence predispose to peri‐implant disease.
Design Characteristic and Method of the Flywheel Motor of CIHFAPE Used in Helicopter
Authors: Jianguo Bu , Ming Zhou , Xudong Lan , Kaixiong Lv
Published: November 2017

The flywheel motor is one of the best ways to improve the power-to-weight ratio of heavy fuel helicopter that equipped with compression ignition heavy fuel aircraft piston engine (CIHFAPE). In this paper, a flywheel system is designed, engine start, power demand of helicopter and rotation landing with flywheel motor are studied. Design characteristic of flywheel motor is studied for the application background of the helicopter designed by us, and the design indexes are given. The design method of the flywheel motor is proposed based on this Design characteristic, and the design is given. Finally, the performance of the flywheel motor designed by this method is verified by finite element method (FEM).
Performance of High Order Method on Simulation of In-Cylinder Tumble Flow
Authors: Xia Aiguo , Chen Zhiqiang , Huang Xudong , Zhou Ming
Published: November 2017

Accurate and efficient simulation of unsteady turbulent in-cylinder flow process of the piston engine is essential in better understanding the physical process and better designing the cylinder scavenging system. The engineering RANS method is dominated by second order. This paper studies the performance of the high order method in the numerical simulation of the cylinder scavenging under the RANS framework. The current study is with a 2-D setup to simulate tumble flow during the intake process of an SI engine. We adopt the monotonicity preserving(MP) scheme from fifth order (MP5) to up to ninth order (MP9) with SST turbulence model equipped. The simulation results are compared between conventional second order and high order ones with a same resolution of mesh grid. It is shown that the vorticity resolving ability of RANS method can be better improved by using the high order scheme. Different reconstruction variables such as primary variable, conservative variable and characteristic variable can also influence the capturing of these details to a certain extent. For flow processes that do not have strong discontinuities, the use of primary variable reconstruction provides the best simulation precision. In terms of computational efficiency, the high order scheme is comparable to the second order scheme. Therefore, the high order scheme is very applicable in RANS method for the simulation and design purpose of the cylinder.
Comparative Analysis of EGR and Air Dilution in Spark-Ignited Natural Gas Engines
Authors: Glewen William , Hoops Chris , Hiltner Joel , Flory Michael
Published: November 2017

Industrial natural gas engines are used in a wide range of applications, each with unique requirements in terms of power density, initial cost, thermal efficiency, and other factors. As a result of these requirements, distinct engine designs have evolved to serve various applications. Heavy-duty spark-ignited engines can generally be divided into two broad categories based on their charge characteristics and method of emissions control.

Stoichiometric engines are widely used in applications where first cost, absolute emissions and relative engine simplicity are more important than fuel consumption. In most of the developed world, stoichiometric engines are equipped with a three-way catalyst to control emissions of nitrogen oxides (NOx) as well as products of incomplete combustion and raw unburned fuel.

Dilution of the charge mixture with excess air reduces the peak combustion gas temperature and associated heat rejection. As a result, lean burn engines are generally able to achieve higher efficiency and power density without inducing excessive component temperatures or end gas knock. NOx formation is mitigated by the reduced gas temperatures, such that most regulatory standards can currently be met in-cylinder. Significant obstacles exist to meeting more stringent future emissions regulations in this manner, however.

Another possible strategy is to dilute the charge mixture with recirculated exhaust gas. This offers similar benefits as air dilution while maintaining the ability to use a three-way catalyst for emissions after-treatment. While similar principles apply in either case, the choice of diluent can have a significant impact on knock resistance, emissions formation, thermal efficiency, and other parameters of importance to engine developers and operators.

This work aimed to examine the unique characteristics of EGR and air dilution from a thermodynamic and combustion perspective. A combination of cycle simulation tools and experimental data from a single-cylinder test engine was applied to demonstrate the impact of diluent properties on a fundamental level, and to illustrate departures from idealized behavior and practical considerations specific to the development of combustion systems for spark-ignited natural gas engines.
Application of a Rectified Linear Unit (ReLU) Based Artificial Neural Network to Cetane Number Predictions
Authors: Kessler Travis , Dorian Gregory , Mack J. Hunter
Published: November 2017

Due to the high cost and time required to synthesize alternative fuel candidates for comprehensive testing, an Artificial Neural Network (ANN) can be used to predict fuel properties, allowing researchers to preemptively screen desirable fuel candidates. However, the accuracy of an ANN is limited by its error, measured by the root mean square error (RMSE), standard deviation, and r-squared values derived from a given input database. The present work improves upon an existing model for predicting the Cetane Number (CN) by changing the neuron activation function of the ANN from sigmoid to rectified linear unit (ReLU). This change to the ANN’s architecture provides an increase in accuracy by reducing the RMSE by 21.4% (1.35 CN units), the average standard deviation across models by 28%, and increasing the r-squared value by 0.0492 across a wide range of molecular structures. Additionally, by using the ReLU activation function, input data is not required to be normalized, which reduces the likelihood of an inaccurate prediction on future fuel candidates which may have input parameters outside the range of normalization. Increasing the accuracy of the predictive ANN in this way will allow researchers to obtain more accurate fuel property predictions for promising fuel candidates.
Experimental Study of Flame Stretch Under Engine-Like Conditions
Authors: Afkhami Behdad , Wang Yanyu , Miers Scott A. , Naber Jeffrey D.
Published: November 2017

Since fossil fuels will remain the main source of energy for power generation and transportation in next decades, their combustion processes remain an important concern for the foreseeable future. For liquid or gaseous fuels, flame velocity that propagates normal to itself and relative to the flow into the unburned mixture is one of the most important quantities to study. In a non-uniform flow, a curved flame front area changes continually which is known as flame stretch. The concept becomes more important when it is realized that the stretch affects the turbulent flame speed.

The current research empirically studies flame stretch under engine-like conditions since there has not been enough experimental studies in this area. For this reason, a one-cylinder, direct-injection, spark-ignition, naturally-aspirated optical engine was utilized to image the flame propagation process inside an internal combustion engine cylinder on the tumble plane. The flame front was found by processing high speed images which were taken from the flame inside the cylinder.

Flame front propagation analysis showed that after the flame kernel was developed, during flame propagation period, the stretch rate decreased until the flame front touches the piston surface. This trend was common among stoichiometric, lean, and rich mixtures. In addition, the fuel-air mixture with λ = 0.85 showed lower stretch rate compared to stoichiometric or lean mixture with λ = 1.2. However, based on previous studies, further enrichment may result in the flame stretch rate become greater than that of the stretch rates for stoichiometric or lean mixtures. Also, comparing the stretch rate at two different engine speeds revealed that as the speed increased the stretch rate also increased; especially during the early flame development period. Therefore, according to previous studies which discussed flame stretch as a mechanism for flame extinguishment, the probability of the flame extinction is higher when the engine speed is higher.
A Computational Investigation of Fuel Chemical and Physical Properties Effects on Gasoline Compression Ignition in a Heavy-Duty Diesel Engine
Authors: Zhang Yu , Voice Alexander , Pei Yuanjiang , Traver Michael , Cleary David
Published: November 2017

Gasoline compression ignition (GCI) offers the potential to reduce criteria pollutants while achieving high fuel efficiency in heavy-duty diesel engines. This study aims to investigate the fuel chemical and physical properties effects on GCI operation in a heavy-duty diesel engine through closed-cycle, 3-D computational fluid dynamics (CFD) combustion simulations, investigating both mixing-controlled combustion (MCC) at 18.9 compression ratio (CR) and partially premixed combustion (PPC) at 17.3 CR.

For this work, fuel chemical properties were studied in terms of the primary reference fuel (PRF) number (0–91) and the octane sensitivity (0–6) while using a fixed fuel physical surrogate. For the fuel physical properties effects investigation, PRF70 was used as the gas-phase chemical surrogate. Six physical properties were individually perturbed, varying from the gasoline to the diesel range.

Combustion simulations were carried out at 1375 RPM and 10 bar brake mean effective pressure (BMEP). Reducing fuel reactivity (or increasing PRF number) was found to influence ignition delay time (IDT) more significantly for PPC than for MCC due to the lower charge temperature and higher EGR rate involved in the PPC mode. 0-D IDT calculations suggested that the fuel reactivity impact on IDT diminished with an increase in temperature. Moreover, higher reactivity gasolines exhibited stronger negative coefficient (NTC) behavior and their IDTs showed less sensitivity to temperature change. When exploring the octane sensitivity effect, ignition was found to occur in temperature conditions more relevant to the MON test. Therefore, increasing octane sensitivity (reducing MON) led to higher reactivity and shorter ignition delay.

Under both MCC (TIVC: 385K) and PPC (TIVC: 353K), all six physical properties showed little meaningful impact on global combustion behavior, NOx and fuel efficiency. Among the physical properties investigated, only density showed a notable effect on soot emissions. Increasing density resulted in higher soot due to deteriorated air entrainment into the spray and the slower fuel-air mixing process. When further reducing the IVC temperature from 353K to 303K under PPC, the spray vaporization and fuel-air mixing were markedly slowed. Consequently, increasing the liquid fuel density created a more pronounced presence of fuel-rich and higher reactivity regions, thereby leading to an earlier onset of hot ignition and higher soot.
Host-dependent life history and life table parameters of Tetranychus truncatus (Acari: Tetranychidae)
Authors: Islam Md. Tarikul , Jahan Mahbuba , Gotoh Tetsuo , Ullah Mohammad Shaef
Published: November 2017

The effects of three economically important host plants, jute (Corchorus capsularis L.), bean (Lablab purpureus L.) and papaya (Carica papaya L.), on the development, reproduction and demographic parameters of the spider mite Tetranychus truncatus Ehara (Acari: Tetranychidae) were investigated under laboratory conditions of 30 ± 1°C, 60–80% RH and a photoperiod of 16L: 8D using age-stage, two-sex life table analysis. Both male and female T. truncatus successfully completed development from egg to adult on the three host plants. The development time from egg to adult for female T. truncatus was longer on Jute than on bean and papaya. Male and female longevities were higher on jute and bean than on papaya. Fecundity of T. truncatus was higher on jute than on bean and papaya. Adult pre-oviposition period was lower on bean and the number of oviposition days were higher on jute. The net reproduction rate of T. truncatus was significantly higher on jute than on bean and papaya, whereas intrinsic rate of natural increase and the finite rate of increase were higher on bean than on the other two host plants. The mean generation time of T. truncatus was higher on jute than on bean and papaya. These results based on the intrinsic rate of natural increase indicate that jute and bean were more suitable than papaya as hosts for T. truncatus, to helping develop management and control strategies for this pest.
The image-forming mirror in the eye of the scallop
Authors: Palmer Benjamin A. , Taylor Gavin J. , Brumfeld Vlad , Gur Dvir , Shemesh Michal , Elad Nadav , Osherov Aya , Oron Dan , Weiner Steve , Addadi Lia
Published: November 2017

Fine-tuned for image formation

We typically think of eyes as having one or more lenses for focusing incoming light onto a surface such as our retina. However, light can also be focused using arrays of mirrors, as is commonly done in telescopes. A biological example of this is the scallop, which can have up to 200 reflecting eyes that focus light onto two retinas. Palmer
et al.
find that spatial vision in the scallop is achieved through precise control of the size, shape, and packing density of the tiles of guanine that together make up an image-forming mirror at the back of each of the eyes.

Science
, this issue p.
1172
Observations and modeling of the elastogravity signals preceding direct seismic waves
Authors: Vallée Martin , Ampuero Jean Paul , Juhel Kévin , Bernard Pascal , Montagner Jean-Paul , Barsuglia Matteo
Published: November 2017

Gravity gets into the earthquake game

Earthquakes generate large movements of mass, which slightly change the gravitational field. Unlike the elastic waves that propagate from the earthquake, the gravity perturbations travel at the speed of light. Vallée
et al.
have finally observed these gravity perturbations in seismometer records from the great Tohoku earthquake in Japan in 2011. The signal would have allowed an accurate magnitude estimation in minutes, rather than hours, for this catastrophic earthquake.

Science
, this issue p.
1164
Comment on “Water harvesting from air with metal-organic frameworks powered by natural sunlight”
Authors: Bui Duc Thuan , Chua Kian Jon , Gordon Jeffrey M.
Published: November 2017

Kim
et al
. (Reports, 28 April 2017, p. 430) presented results for the solar-driven harvesting of water from air via metal-organic frameworks as a prodigious potential advance toward remedying global water shortages. Basic thermodynamics and a survey of multiple off-the-shelf technologies show that their approach is vastly inferior in efficiency (and thereby in feasibility) to available alternatives.
Physiologically based cord clamping stabilises cardiac output and reduces cerebrovascular injury in asphyxiated near-term lambs
Authors: Polglase Graeme R , Blank Douglas A , Barton Samantha K , Miller Suzanne L , Stojanovska Vanesa , Kluckow Martin , Gill Andrew W , LaRosa Domenic , te Pas Arjan B , Hooper Stuart B
Published: November 2017

Background

Physiologically based cord clamping (PBCC) has advantages over immediate cord clamping (ICC) during preterm delivery, but its efficacy in asphyxiated infants is not known. We investigated the physiology of PBCC following perinatal asphyxia in near-term lambs.

Methods

Near-term sheep fetuses (139±2 (SD) days’ gestation) were instrumented to measure umbilical, carotid, pulmonary and femoral arterial flows and pressures. Systemic and cerebral oxygenation was recorded using pulse oximetry and near-infrared spectroscopy, respectively. Fetal asphyxia was induced until mean blood pressure reached ~20 mm Hg, where lambs underwent ICC and initiation of ventilation (n=7), or ventilation for 15 min prior to umbilical cord clamping (PBCC; n=8). Cardiovascular parameters were measured and white and grey matter microvascular integrity assessed using qRT-PCR and immunohistochemistry.

Results

PBCC restored oxygenation and cardiac output at the same rate and in a similar fashion to lambs resuscitated following ICC. However, ICC lambs had a rapid and marked overshoot in mean systemic arterial blood pressure from 1 to 10 min after ventilation onset, which was largely absent in PBCC lambs. ICC lambs had increased cerebrovascular injury, as indicated by reduced expression of blood–brain barrier proteins and increased cerebrovascular protein leakage in the subcortical white matter (by 86%) and grey matter (by 47%).

Conclusion

PBCC restored cardiac output and oxygenation in an identical time frame as ICC, but greatly mitigated the postasphyxia rebound hypertension measured in ICC lambs. This likely protected the asphyxiated brain from cerebrovascular injury. PBCC may be a more suitable option for the resuscitation of the asphyxiated newborn compared with the current standard of ICC.