bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of three‐dimensional analysis and stereological techniques for quantifying lithium‐ion battery electrode microstructures
Authors: TAIWO OLUWADAMILOLA O. , FINEGAN DONAL P. , EASTWOOD DAVID S. , FIFE JULIE L. , BROWN LEON D. , DARR JAWWAD A. , LEE PETER D. , BRETT DANIEL J.L. , SHEARING PAUL R.
Published: March 2016

Lithium‐ion battery performance is intrinsically linked to electrode microstructure. Quantitative measurement of key structural parameters of lithium‐ion battery electrode microstructures will enable optimization as well as motivate systematic numerical studies for the improvement of battery performance. With the rapid development of 3‐D imaging techniques, quantitative assessment of 3‐D microstructures from 2‐D image sections by stereological methods appears outmoded; however, in spite of the proliferation of tomographic imaging techniques, it remains significantly easier to obtain two‐dimensional (2‐D) data sets. In this study, stereological prediction and three‐dimensional (3‐D) analysis techniques for quantitative assessment of key geometric parameters for characterizing battery electrode microstructures are examined and compared. Lithium‐ion battery electrodes were imaged using synchrotron‐based X‐ray tomographic microscopy. For each electrode sample investigated, stereological analysis was performed on reconstructed 2‐D image sections generated from tomographic imaging, whereas direct 3‐D analysis was performed on reconstructed image volumes. The analysis showed that geometric parameter estimation using 2‐D image sections is bound to be associated with ambiguity and that volume‐based 3‐D characterization of nonconvex, irregular and interconnected particles can be used to more accurately quantify spatially‐dependent parameters, such as tortuosity and pore‐phase connectivity.
Dying with dignity: a concept analysis
Authors: Hemati Zeinab , Ashouri Elaheh , AllahBakhshian Maryam , Pourfarzad Zahra , Shirani Farimah , Safazadeh Shima , Ziyaei Marziyeh , Varzeshnejad Maryam , Hashemi Maryam , Taleghani Fariba
Published: March 2016

Aims and objectives

This article is a report of an analysis of the concept of dying with dignity.

Background

Dignity is an important component of providing care for dying patients and their families. Nevertheless, given that this concept is poorly defined, concept analysis is one of the best ways to define and clarify the concept of death with dignity with the aim to enhance its application in clinical practice, research and education.

Design

A search of multiple nursing and social sciences databases was undertaken, including Academic Search Complete, Science Direct, ProQuest, Scopus, Medline, PubMed, EBSCO, Ovid, Noormage, Cinahl, Magiran, PsycINFO and SID.

Methods

After an extensive review of the literature from 1998–2014, about 14 related articles were included in the study. Based on these articles, the applications, attributes and experimental results of and references to death with dignity were recorded.

Results

Based on this analysis, the most important attributes of this concept included respect for privacy, respect, spiritual peace and hope. The antecedents of this concept included consideration of moral values during caregiving, preservation of human dignity as a patient right and professional ethics, and belief in the dignity of self and others, consideration of culture in providing end‐of‐life care. The consequences of this concept included a sense of peace in the patient and their family, peaceful death and provision of patient privacy and comfort.

Conclusion

The concept of patient dignity has been referred to in many contexts. However, considering the dignity of dying patients commensurate with their culture is the most important component of care provided by nurses to facilitate a peaceful death.

Relevance to clinical practice

Respecting the dignity of the patient results in the reduction of her/his suffering and prepares her/him for a comfortable death.
Information Flows in Foreign Exchange Markets: Dissecting Customer Currency Trades
Authors: MENKHOFF LUKAS , SARNO LUCIO , SCHMELING MAIK , SCHRIMPF ANDREAS
Published: March 2016

We study the information in order flows in the world's largest over‐the‐counter market, the foreign exchange (FX) market. The analysis draws on a data set covering a broad cross‐section of currencies and different customer segments of FX end‐users. The results suggest that order flows are highly informative about future exchange rates and provide significant economic value. We also find that different customer groups can share risk with each other effectively through the intermediation of a large dealer, and differ markedly in their predictive ability, trading styles, and risk exposure.
Transmissible amyloid
Authors: Tjernberg L.O. , Rising A. , Johansson J. , Jaudzems K. , Westermark P.
Published: March 2016

There are around 30 human diseases associated with protein misfolding and amyloid formation, each one caused by a certain protein or peptide. Many of these diseases are lethal and together they pose an enormous burden to society. The prion protein has attracted particular interest as being shown to be the pathogenic agent in transmissible diseases such as kuru, Creutzfeldt–Jakob disease and bovine spongiform encephalopathy. Whether similar transmission could occur also in other amyloidoses such as Alzheimer's disease, Parkinson's disease and serum amyloid A amyloidosis is a matter of intense research and debate. Furthermore, it has been suggested that novel biomaterials such as artificial spider silk are potentially amyloidogenic. Here, we provide a brief introduction to amyloid, prions and other proteins involved in amyloid disease and review recent evidence for their potential transmission. We discuss the similarities and differences between amyloid and silk, as well as the potential hazards associated with protein‐based biomaterials.
The Concept of Familism in the Lived Experiences of Mexican‐Origin Caregivers
Authors: Mendez‐Luck Carolyn A. , Applewhite Steven R. , Lara Vicente E. , Toyokawa Noriko
Published: March 2016

This study qualitatively examined the experiences of Mexican‐origin women caring for elderly family members in order to identify aspects of familism in their caregiving situations. Data were collected from one‐time interviews with 44 caregivers living in the greater East Los Angeles area. Kinscripts guided the framing of familism in this study. Data were analyzed using a grounded theory approach. Caregivers' descriptions of the Mexican family reflected an idealized view of familism. Caregivers reported a lack of support from others and relying for support on fewer family members than were potentially available to them. Findings suggest that the construct of familism has evolved from its long‐standing portrayals in the literature. More research is needed to reexamine familism as a theoretical perspective to explain how Mexican‐origin families negotiate and construct elder care over the family life course.
Computed tomographic excretory urography features of intramural ectopic ureters in 10 dogs
Authors: Fox A. J. , Sharma A. , Secrest S. A
Published: March 2016

OBJECTIVES

To describe the morphologic and morphometric computed tomographic excretory urography features of intramural ectopic ureters in dogs.

METHODS

Retrospective evaluation of computed tomographic excretory urography studies in 10 dogs with surgical and/or cystoscopically confirmed intramural ectopic ureters. All studies were assessed for ureteral ectopia, dilatation, tortuosity, ureterovesicular junction morphology and ureteral orifice location.

RESULTS

A total of 14 intramural ectopic ureters were confirmed at surgery/cystoscopy with reviewers correctly identifying 100% (14/14). Abnormalities on computed tomographic excretory urography included ureteral dilatation (7), ureteral tortuosity (3), lack of a normal ureterovesicular junction (14), urethral ureteral orifice location (14) and lack of ureteral divergence (14).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Lack of a normal ureterovesicular junction, a urethral–ureteral orifice location and lack of ureteral divergence are common computed tomographic excretory urography findings in dogs with intramural ectopic ureters. This technique requires further investigation to determine whether it might allow differentiation of intramural and extramural ectopic ureters.
The Impact of Aging and Progressive Neurological Disease on Swallowing: A Concise Overview
Authors: Britton Deanna
Published: March 2016

Difficulty with swallowing, also known as “dysphagia,” is a common consequence of neurologic disease, including a variety of progressive neurologic diseases associated with aging. The effects of various neurogenic degenerative diseases on swallowing may differ substantially, depending on the nature of the condition. However, the process of aging alone also has an impact on swallowing function. In this concise review, a brief overview of normal swallowing and changes in swallowing associated with aging will be presented. This will be followed by a discussion of the additional impact of neurodegenerative diseases associated with aging on swallowing.

Practical Applications

Many of the neurodegenerative diseases are prevalent in the aging population. For aging individuals, the impact of the neurodegenerative disease on swallowing is overlaid upon and may interact with the impact of aging on swallowing. In order to effectively assess and treat these individuals, it is critical to understand both the impact of aging and the underlying pathology of the disease itself.
Clinical impact of five large‐scale screening projects for chronic hepatitis B in Chinese migrants in the Netherlands
Authors: Coenen Sandra , van Meer Suzanne , Vrolijk Jan M. , Richter Clemens , van Erpecum Karel J. , Mostert Marijke C. , Veldhuijzen Irene K. , Reijnders Jurriën G. P. , van Soest Hanneke , Dirksen Kees , Drenth Joost P. H. , Koene René P. M. , Bosschart Maaike , Friederich Pieter , ter Borg Martijn J. , Daemen Rick H. P. J. , Arends Joop E. , Verhagen Marc A. M. T. , Schout Christine , Spanier B. W. Marcel
Published: March 2016

Background & Aims

In low‐endemic countries it is debated whether first‐generation migrants should be screened for chronic hepatitis B infection. We describe the clinical impact of five large‐scale Dutch screening projects for hepatitis B in first‐generation Chinese migrants.

Methods

Between 2009 and 2013 five independent outreach screening projects for hepatitis B targeting first‐generation Chinese migrants were conducted in five main Dutch regions. To explore the relevance of our screening we defined clinical impact as the presence of an indication for: (i) antiviral therapy, (ii) strict follow‐up because of high hepatitis B DNA levels and/or (iii) surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma.

Results

In total, 4423 persons participated in the projects of whom 6.0% (n = 264) were HBsAg positive. One hundred and twenty‐nine newly diagnosed HBsAg‐positive patients were analysed in specialist care. Among these patients prevalence of cirrhosis was 6.9% and antiviral therapy for hepatitis B was started in 32 patients (25%). In patients without a treatment indication, strict follow‐up because of high hepatitis B DNA levels and/or surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma was considered indicated in 64 patients (50%).

Conclusions

In our screening project in first‐generation Chinese migrants, antiviral treatment, strict follow‐up because of high hepatitis B DNA levels and/or surveillance for hepatocellular carcinoma were considered indicated in three of four analysed HBsAg‐positive patients. These data show that detection of hepatitis B in Chinese migrants can have considerable impact on patient care.
High levels of circulating TNFR1 increase the risk of all‐cause mortality and progression of renal disease in type 2 diabetic nephropathy
Authors: Fernández‐Juárez Gema , Villacorta Perez Javier , Luño Fernández José Luis , Martinez‐Martinez Ernesto , Cachofeiro Victoria , Barrio Lucia Vicente , Tato Ribera Ana M. , Mendez Abreu Angel , Cordon Alfredo , Oliva Dominguez Jesus Angel , Praga Terente Manuel
Published: March 2016

Background

Several studies have demonstrated that levels of circulating inflammatory markers such as tumour necrosis factorα (TNFα), are associated with early progression of diabetic nephropathy (DN). The aim of this study was to investigate whether there is an association between circulating TNFα receptor and disease progression in patients with advanced type 2 DN and severe proteinuria.

Methods

Between 2006 and 2011, we measured levels of circulating soluble TNFα receptor 1 (TNFR1) and soluble TNFα receptor 2 (TNFR2) at baseline and 4 and 12 months in 101 patients included in a multicenter randomized controlled trial to compare the effect of optimal doses of renin‐angiotensin system blockers in monotherapy or in combination (dual blockade) to slow progression of established type 2 DN. The primary composite endpoint was a >50% increase in baseline serum creatinine, end‐stage renal disease, or death.

Results

The median follow‐up was 32 months (IQR, 18‐48), during which time 28 patients (22.7%) achieved the primary endpoint. The TNFR1 level, but not the TNFR2 level, was correlated with other inflammatory markers. Cox regression analysis showed that the highest TNFR1 levels (HR, 2.60; 95%CI, 1.11–86.34) and baseline proteinuria (HR 1.32; 95%CI 1.15–1.52) were associated with the primary endpoint. The mixed model analysis revealed that TNFR1 and the TNFR2 levels did not change after starting treatment with renin‐angiotensin system blockers.

Conclusions

Our results show that the highest levels of TNFR1 are independently associated with progression of renal disease and death in type 2 DN. The renin angiotensin blockers have no effect on these inflammatory markers.
DOES WATER DISINFECTANT PLAY A SUPPORTIVE ROLE IN THE SPREAD OF INFECTIOUS DISEASE? A MATHEMATICAL STUDY
Authors: KUMARI NITU , SHARMA SANDEEP
Published: March 2016

The waterborne diseases cause millions of deaths across the globe. It was a preconceived notion since years that ingestion of contaminated water is the only possible way for the spread of waterborne infectious diseases. But some recent studies have shown that waterborne disease can also spread as a result of human to human transmission. The use of disinfectants is a common practice to prevent a waterborne disease. We assume that the inclusion of the disinfectant, although helpful in prevention of disease, caused negative effect on individuals. In this paper, a nonlinear mathematical model has been proposed to analyze the negative effects caused by disinfectant of water on individuals. Our study shows that if the mixing of disinfectant has not been performed in a controlled manner, then it results in an increase in human to human transmission of disease. The equilibrium and stability analysis have been performed to study the nature of the model system. An extensive numerical experiment has been performed to support the analytical findings.
Project managers on the edge: liminality and identity in the management of technical work
Authors: Paton Steve , Hodgson Damian
Published: March 2016

This paper explores the consequences of ‘corporate professionalisation’ through an analysis of the experiences of technical specialists adopting the position of project manager. Shifts towards ‘corporate professionalism’ in this and other occupations result in a tension between competing logics, the logic of the traditional profession versus another focused on delivery of market value for clients/employers. Living with this tension places project managers in a ‘liminal’ position in two ways; they find themselves in a liminal position created, first, by the transition from a technical specialist role into a managerial role, and second, as they occupy the space between the often opposing institutions of profession and employing organisation. Drawing on empirical data gathered within a project‐based industry and referring to Gouldner's ‘cosmopolitan’ and ‘local’ typologies, we explore the ‘identity work’ engaged in by project managers as they attempt to creatively negotiate the tensions inherent in the role.
Long‐term neuropathological and behavioral impairments after exposure to nerve agents
Authors: Aroniadou‐Anderjaska Vassiliki , Figueiredo Taiza H. , Apland James P. , Prager Eric M. , Pidoplichko Volodymyr I. , Miller Steven L. , Braga Maria F.M.
Published: March 2016

One of the deleterious effects of acute nerve agent exposure is the induction of status epilepticus (SE). If SE is not controlled effectively, it causes extensive brain damage. Here, we review the neuropathology observed after nerve agent‒induced SE, as well as the ensuing pathophysiological, neurological, and behavioral alterations, with an emphasis on their time course and longevity. Limbic structures are particularly vulnerable to damage by nerve agent exposure. The basolateral amygdala (BLA), which appears to be a key site for seizure initiation upon exposure, suffers severe neuronal loss; however, GABAergic BLA interneurons display a delayed death, perhaps providing a window of opportunity for rescuing intervention. The end result is a long‐term reduction of GABAergic activity in the BLA, with a concomitant increase in spontaneous excitatory activity; such pathophysiological alterations are not observed in the CA1 hippocampal area, despite the extensive neuronal loss. Hyperexcitability in the BLA may be at least in part responsible for the development of recurrent seizures and increased anxiety, while hippocampal damage may underlie the long‐term memory impairments. Effective control of SE after nerve agent exposure, such that brain damage is also minimized, is paramount for preventing lasting neurological and behavioral deficits.
Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus in Children: Experience from a Tertiary Care Pediatric Dermatology Clinic
Authors: AlKharafi Najla N. A. H. , Alsaeid Khaled , AlSumait Anwar , Al‐Sabah Humoud , Al‐Ajmi Hejab , Rahim Jasim Abdul , Al‐Enezi Hamid , Nanda Arti
Published: March 2016

Background/Objectives

The manifestations of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) and their relevance to systemic disease are well characterized in adults, but data are limited in children. The objective of the current study was to examine the spectrum of CLE and its relationship to systemic disease in children from a tertiary care pediatric dermatology clinic.

Materials and Methods

An analysis of 26 children with CLE registered consecutively over 14 years was performed.

Results

Ninety‐six percent of the patients were of Arab ethnicity. They included seven (27%) cases with neonatal lupus erythematosus (LE) (71% females and 29% males). Of the other 19 children with CLE, 95% were female. The mean and median age at diagnosis was 11 years. Eighty‐nine percent of the patients fulfilled the criteria for systemic LE. All patients had LE‐specific lesions and 83% had LE‐nonspecific manifestations. Atypical initial presentations were recorded in 28% of the patients, and 22% of the patients had the rare LE variants. Of the LE‐specific manifestations, acute CLE was seen in 83%, subacute in 44%, and chronic in 22%. Autoimmune associations were recorded in 44% and a positive family history of autoimmune diseases in 61%.

Conclusion

This study highlights a striking female predominance, higher risk of systemic disease in children presenting with CLE, higher prevalence of atypical presentation and rare CLE variants, and underrepresentation of discoid LE in children and signifies the need for more surveys to delineate the spectrum of pediatric CLE in different parts of the world.
The “Jewelry Addict”: Allergic Contact Dermatitis from Repetitive Multiple Children's Jewelry Exposures
Authors: Silverberg Nanette B.
Published: March 2016

A 9‐year‐old girl with atopic dermatitis developed persistent plaques on the lips, hands, and fingers that were unresponsive to topical steroids. Her mother reported that she was “addicted” to costume jewelry and developed rashes in reaction to a number of adornments, ranging from rubber bracelets to costume metal jewelry and belt buckles. A careful history of jewelry exposures was taken and patch testing was performed to identify allergenic sources. Patch testing revealed allergy to nickel, gold, and thiuram mix. The case illustrates the importance of investigating a range of different types of allergens when evaluating for jewelry sensitivity in children with frequent use of accessories, including rubber jewelry, plastics, dyed yarns, beads, metals, and ceramics. This article provides an overview of jewelry allergies and the potential allergens requiring screening.
Hair Follicle Nevus Located on the Chin of an Infant: Case Report and Review of Literature
Authors: Larson Krista N. , O'Shea Patrick , Zedek Daniel C. , Morrell Dean S.
Published: March 2016

Hair follicle nevi are rare, benign, congenital hamartomas that usually occur in the distribution of the first brachial arch. Histopathologically, the distinction between hair follicle nevus, trichofolliculoma, and accessory tragus has recently come into question, and it may be that they are all on a spectrum of the same condition. We report the case of a 7‐day‐old boy who presented with a “tag”‐like lesion on his midline chin that had been present since birth. Biopsy of the lesion proved it to be a hair follicle nevus.
Pathogenicity of Fusarium graminearum and F. meridionale on soybean pod blight and trichothecene accumulation
Authors: Chiotta M. L. , Alaniz Zanon M. S. , Palazzini J. M. , Scandiani M. M. , Formento A. N. , Barros G. G. , Chulze S. N.
Published: March 2016

Soybean (Glycine max) is the most important crop in Argentina. At present Fusarium graminearum is recognized as a primary pathogen of soybean in several countries in the Americas, mainly causing seed and root rot and pre‐ and post‐emergence damping off. However, no information about infections at later growth stages of soybean development and pathogenicity of F. graminearum species complex is available. Therefore, the objectives of this study were to compare the pathogenicity of F. graminearum and F. meridionale isolates towards soybean under field conditions and to evaluate the degree of pathogenicity and trichothecene production of these two phylogenetic species that express different chemotypes. Six isolates of F. graminearum and F. meridionale were evaluated during 2012/13 and 2013/14 soybean growing seasons for pod blight severity, percentage of seed infected in pods and kernel weight reduction. The results showed a higher aggressiveness of both F. graminearum and F. meridionale species during the 2013/14 season. However, the differences in pathogenicity observed between the seasons were not reflected in a distinct trichothecene concentration in soybean seeds at maturity. Fusarium meridionale isolates showed similar pathogenicity to F. graminearum isolates but they were not able to produce this toxin in planta during the two field trials.
Physical activity and health of adults with cystic fibrosis
Authors: Williams Craig A.
Published: March 2016

See article, page 511
Application of Molecular Typing Results in Source Attribution Models: The Case of Multiple Locus Variable Number Tandem Repeat Analysis (MLVA) of Salmonella Isolates Obtained from Integrated Surveillance in Denmark
Authors: de Knegt Leonardo V. , Pires Sara M. , Löfström Charlotta , Sørensen Gitte , Pedersen Karl , Torpdahl Mia , Nielsen Eva M. , Hald Tine
Published: March 2016

Salmonella is an important cause of bacterial foodborne infections in Denmark. To identify the main animal‐food sources of human salmonellosis, risk managers have relied on a routine application of a microbial subtyping‐based source attribution model since 1995. In 2013, multiple locus variable number tandem repeat analysis (MLVA) substituted phage typing as the subtyping method for surveillance of S. Enteritidis and S. Typhimurium isolated from animals, food, and humans in Denmark. The purpose of this study was to develop a modeling approach applying a combination of serovars, MLVA types, and antibiotic resistance profiles for the Salmonella source attribution, and assess the utility of the results for the food safety decisionmakers. Full and simplified MLVA schemes from surveillance data were tested, and model fit and consistency of results were assessed using statistical measures. We conclude that loci schemes STTR5/STTR10/STTR3 for S. Typhimurium and SE9/SE5/SE2/SE1/SE3 for S. Enteritidis can be used in microbial subtyping‐based source attribution models. Based on the results, we discuss that an adjustment of the discriminatory level of the subtyping method applied often will be required to fit the purpose of the study and the available data. The issues discussed are also considered highly relevant when applying, e.g., extended multi‐locus sequence typing or next‐generation sequencing techniques.
Assessing the Effectiveness of On‐Farm and Abattoir Interventions in Reducing Pig Meat–Borne Salmonellosis within E.U. Member States
Authors: Hill Andrew A. , Simons Robin L. , Swart Arno N. , Kelly Louise , Hald Tine , Snary Emma L.
Published: March 2016

As part of the evidence base for the development of national control plans for Salmonella spp. in pigs for E.U. Member States, a quantitative microbiological risk assessment was funded to support the scientific opinion required by the EC from the European Food Safety Authority. The main aim of the risk assessment was to assess the effectiveness of interventions implemented on‐farm and at the abattoir in reducing human cases of pig meat–borne salmonellosis, and how the effects of these interventions may vary across E.U. Member States. Two case study Member States have been chosen to assess the effect of the interventions investigated. Reducing both breeding herd and slaughter pig prevalence were effective in achieving reductions in the number of expected human illnesses in both case study Member States. However, there is scarce evidence to suggest which specific on‐farm interventions could achieve consistent reductions in either breeding herd or slaughter pig prevalence. Hypothetical reductions in feed contamination rates were important in reducing slaughter pig prevalence for the case study Member State where prevalence of infection was already low, but not for the high‐prevalence case study. The most significant reductions were achieved by a 1‐ or 2‐log decrease of Salmonella contamination of the carcass post‐evisceration; a 1‐log decrease in average contamination produced a 90% reduction in human illness. The intervention analyses suggest that abattoir intervention may be the most effective way to reduce human exposure to Salmonella spp. However, a combined farm/abattoir approach would likely have cumulative benefits. On‐farm intervention is probably most effective at the breeding‐herd level for high‐prevalence Member States; once infection in the breeding herd has been reduced to a low enough level, then feed and biosecurity measures would become increasingly more effective.
Suicide After Evaluation for Involuntary Psychiatric Commitment—Who Gets Them and What Influences Survival Time?
Authors: Vannoy Steven D. , Andrews Bonnie K. , Srebnik Debra
Published: March 2016

Although involuntary psychiatric hospitalizations are associated with suicide risk, little is known about the relationship between evaluation for involuntary detention and suicide. We analyzed data on 10,082 suicides from 2000 to 2011 to examine demographics related to evaluation for detention and the association between demographics and evaluation dispositions on survival time. Evaluation preceded 11% of suicides; 53.8% of deaths occurred within 365 days, 6.5 times the expected rate. Males and older individuals were least likely to have been evaluated. Minority status and referral disposition influence 30‐day survival time. Risk is highly concentrated in the first year following evaluation.
Unravelling the moisture sources of the Alpine glaciers using tunnel valleys as constraints
Authors: Reber Regina , Schlunegger Fritz
Published: March 2016

A lack of archives has impeded reconstructions of moisture pathways for past glaciations in the European Alps. Here, we focus on the confluence area of two palaeoglaciers in the Swiss Plateau that were sourced on the northern (Aare glacier) and southern sides (Valais glacier) of the European Alps. We mapped tunnel valleys in the region using a drilling database, based on which we inferred the relative extent of each glacier c. 270 ka ago when the valleys were formed. We then compared this situation with that of the LGM. We found that, while the Valais glacier expanded farther into the foreland than the Aare glacier during the LGM, the opposite was the case c. 270 ka ago. We also found that LGM glaciers were non‐erosive in the distal foreland. These contrasts in extents and erosional efficiencies imply differences in moisture pathways between the LGM and the time when the tunnel valleys were formed.
Stepwise palaeoclimate change across the Eocene–Oligocene transition recorded in continental NW Europe by mineralogical assemblages and δ15Norg (Rennes Basin, France)
Authors: Tramoy Romain , Salpin Marie , Schnyder Johann , Person Alain , Sebilo Mathieu , Yans Johan , Vaury Véronique , Fozzani Jérôme , Bauer Hugues
Published: March 2016

The Eocene–Oligocene transition (EOT, ~34 Ma) is the largest global cooling of the Cenozoic Era and led the Earth's climatic system to change from a greenhouse to an icehouse mode. Although it is well documented in marine settings, the few studies focusing on continental environments have demonstrated regional heterogeneities. The study core CDB1, located in the Rennes Basin (Western France), is a unique terrestrial (lacustrine–palustrine) record comprising well‐preserved and terrestrial‐derived organic‐rich sediments encompassing the EOT. Clay minerals and the first organic nitrogen isotope record (δ15Norg) of terrestrial origin for this period are used to reconstruct palaeoclimate changes across this key interval. As suggested in worldwide marine and a few continental records, a stepwise transition from warm/humid conditions in the Late Eocene to cooler/drier conditions in the Early Oligocene is confirmed in the area. In addition, an episode of drier conditions in the Late Eocene and humid/dry cycles in the Early Oligocene are suggested.
Europe's ‘Others’ in the Polar Mediterranean
Authors: Steinberg Philip E.
Published: March 2016

A large body of literature problematises the role of the Mediterranean, as both civilisational hearth and liminal frontier, in both ancient and modern Europe. However, much less attention has been directed to the inland sea at Europe's northern edge: the Arctic. Increasingly, as the Arctic becomes attractive to non‐Arctic European capitals as a potential site of investment and (in)security, European states, and perhaps the EU as a whole, are seeking to construct the Arctic, like the Mediterranean, as a space that is both marginal and central to the continent's future. This paper seeks to investigate the extent to which the Arctic is, to paraphrase Viljhalmur Stefansson, Europe's ‘Polar Mediterranean’ and what this means for Europe as it constructs institutions and identities that, as in the Mediterranean, use the concept of the inland sea to both incorporate and differentiate its internal and external ‘others.’
‘Spatial Play’ at the Ends of Europe: Oyapock Bridge, Amazonia
Authors: Kramsch Olivier Thomas
Published: March 2016

Drawing on the work of philosopher‐semiotician Louis Marin, this contribution to Outlook on Europe reveals the ‘spatial play’ of contending outlooks hovering fitfully over the construction of a bridge at the ‘ends of Europe’, in the heart of the Amazon rainforest, on that very spot where French Guiana and Brazil, the European Union and Mercosul, physically touch one another over a muddy tributary, the Rio Oyapock. The inter‐play of visions colliding around the Oyapock bridge, it is argued, illuminates the paradoxes and contradictions of European territorial governance in the globalised time‐space of its postcolonial frontiers. In spite of the high geopolitical rhetoric seeking to unite both continents, the peculiar blindness of Europe's metropolitan gaze vis‐à‐vis indigenous difference sets the stage for perverse effects of exclusion and disempowerment in and around the site of the bridge itself, extending far into its regional hinterlands. Framed against the backdrop of a long, ‘utopian’ modernity of European imperial expansion and territorial conquest, the ghostly spatial dynamics surrounding the Oyapock River bridge project serve to illuminate wider challenges to the projection of EU influence ‘in the world’. A close examination of similar dynamics elsewhere may help bring into focus the lineaments of a more fully confident and mature postcolonial European border studies.
Developmental Plasticity and Language: A Comparative Perspective
Authors: Griebel Ulrike , Pepperberg Irene M. , Oller D. Kimbrough
Published: March 2016

The growing field of evo‐devo is increasingly demonstrating the complexity of steps involved in genetic, intracellular regulatory, and extracellular environmental control of the development of phenotypes. A key result of such work is an account for the remarkable plasticity oforganismal formin many species based on relatively minor changes in regulation of highly conserved genes and genetic processes. Accounting forbehavioralplasticity is of similar potential interest but has received far less attention. Of particular interest is plasticity in communication systems, where human language represents an ultimate target for research. The present paper considers plasticity of language capabilities in a comparative framework, focusing attention on examples of a remarkable fact: Whereas there exist design features of mature human language that have never been observed to occur in non‐humans in the wild, many of these features can be developed to notable extents when non‐humans are enculturated through human training (especially with intensive social interaction). These examples of enculturated developmental plasticity across extremely diverse taxa suggest, consistent with the evo‐devo theme of highly conserved processes in evolution, that human language is founded in part on cognitive capabilities that are indeed ancient and that even modern humans show self‐organized emergence of many language capabilities in the context of rich enculturation, built on the special social/ecological history of the hominin line. Human culture can thus be seen as a regulatory system encouraging language development in the context of a cognitive background with many highly conserved features.
The role of hemovigilance and postmarketing studies when introducing innovation into transfusion medicine practice: the amotosalen‐ultraviolet A pathogen reduction treatment model
Authors: Corash Laurence , Benjamin Richard J.
Published: March 2016

BACKGROUND

Innovations in transfusion medicine require randomized controlled clinical trials (RCTs) to demonstrate safety and efficacy before approval; however, these studies are costly and limited in scope and may be underpowered to detect rare adverse events (AEs). Regulatory agencies, such as the Food and Drug Administration, require postmarketing surveillance, hemovigilance (HV), and controlled Phase IV studies to monitor performance and confirm safety.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

The INTERCEPT Blood System (IBS) is an illustrative model for implementation of a transformative technology for which sponsored active HV, regulatory authority HV, and Phase IV studies were used to extend preapproval efficacy and safety information.

RESULTS

After CE mark registration in Europe, 13,644 patients received 76,346 IBS components prepared largely without gamma irradiation or bacterial screening in sponsored active HV studies documenting no increased incidence of AEs compared to historical controls and no increased component utilization. National HV systems in France and Switzerland specifically demonstrated no transfusion‐associated graft‐versus‐host disease or increased incidence of transfusion‐associated acute lung injury, after transfusion of 317,669 IBS platelet (PLT) components, and significant reduction of transfusion‐transmitted bacterial infection as well as acute transfusion reactions. Cumulatively, these studies provide new information about safety and efficacy of IBS PLT and plasma components not obtainable from RCTs.

CONCLUSION

Although inherently different from RCTs, properly designed postmarketing studies are informative regarding the safety and efficacy of innovative transfusion technologies in large patient populations under conditions of routine use.
The use, publication and future directions of immunocytochemistry in veterinary medicine: a consensus of the Oncology‐Pathology Working Group
Authors: Priest H. L. , Hume K. R. , Killick D. , Kozicki A. , Rizzo V. L. , Seelig D. , Snyder L. A. , Springer N. L. , Wright Z. M. , Robat C.
Published: March 2016

One of the primary objectives of the Oncology Pathology Working Group (OPWG), a joint initiative of the Veterinary Cancer Society and the American College of Veterinary Pathologists, is for oncologists and pathologists to collaboratively generate consensus documents to standardize aspects of and provide guidelines for oncologic pathology. Consensus is established through review of relevant peer‐reviewed literature relative to a subgroup's particular focus. In this document, the authors provide descriptions of the literature reviewed, the review process, and a summary of the information gathered on immunocytochemistry. The intent of this publication is to help educate practitioners and pathologists on the process of immunocytochemistry and to provide a guide for the use of this technique in veterinary medicine. This document represents the opinions of the working group and the authors and does not constitute a formal endorsement by the American College of Veterinary Pathologists or the Veterinary Cancer Society.
Draying and Picking: Precarious Work and Labor Action in the Logistics Sector
Authors: Jaffee David , Bensman David
Published: March 2016

Recent research on labor market conditions in the United States points to a rise in “precarious work,” which is characterized by low wages, unstable and/or temporary work arrangements, underemployment, economic insecurity, and an absence of employer‐provided benefits. This article examines the prevalence of precarious work in the growing logistics sector of the U.S. economy and the mechanisms facilitating these working conditions. These domestic developments are placed in the context of the geographic reorganization of production and the restructuring of the employment relationship under a neo‐liberal political economic regime. This article highlights two logistics industries, drayage trucking and warehouse/distribution centers (W/DCs)—and the challenges facing workers in these industries. For port truckers, this involves their misclassification as “independent contractors.” For W/DC workers, the core issue is labor outsourcing and temporary work. The article concludes with an overview of recent labor actions taken to improve conditions for workers.
A Study of the Contact of an Elastic Layer–Substrate System Indented by a Long Rigid Cylinder IncorporatingSurface Effects
Authors: Vasu Thamarai Selvan , Bhandakkar Tanmay K.
Published: March 2016

Contact problem of a layer–substrate system comprising of an elastic layer and an elastic substrate perfectly bonded to each other with surface effects based on Gurtin–Murdoch (GM) model indented by a long rigid cylinder is solved. The requisite Green's function relating surface displacement to surface load is obtained semi-analytically through the combination of the Airy stress function and Fourier transforms under the plane-strain condition. The contact solution is analyzed to study the influence of layer thickness, modulus mismatch between the layer and substrate, and surface parameters on contact size and contact pressure during indentation of a layer–substrate system. A map is presented which indicates whether during indentation by a rigid cylinder, a layer–substrate system is required or a homogeneous system based on layer properties is enough for a given shear modulus mismatch ratio and layer thickness. The map and the related analysis clearly indicate that whenever the contact size or layer thickness approaches intrinsic length scale based on the ratio of surface parameter and bulk elastic properties, surface effects should be considered.
A Geodesics-Based Surface Parameterization to Assess Aneurysm Progression
Authors: Phan Ly , Courchaine Katherine , Azarbal Amir , Vorp David , Grimm Cindy , Rugonyi Sandra
Published: March 2016

Abdominal aortic aneurysm (AAA) intervention and surveillance is currently based on maximum transverse diameter, even though it is recognized that this might not be the best strategy. About 10% of patients with small AAA transverse diameters, for whom intervention is not considered, still rupture; while patients with large AAA transverse diameters, for whom intervention would have been recommended, have stable aneurysms that do not rupture. While maximum transverse diameter is easy to measure and track in clinical practice, one of its main drawbacks is that it does not represent the whole AAA and rupture seldom occurs in the region of maximum transverse diameter. By following maximum transverse diameter alone clinicians are missing information on the shape change dynamics of the AAA, and clues that could lead to better patient care. We propose here a method to register AAA surfaces that were obtained from the same patient at different time points. Our registration method could be used to track the local changes of the patient-specific AAA. To achieve registration, our procedure uses a consistent parameterization of the AAA surfaces followed by strain relaxation. The main assumption of our procedure is that growth of the AAA occurs in such a way that surface strains are smoothly distributed, while regions of small and large surface growth can be differentiated. The proposed methodology has the potential to unravel different patterns of AAA growth that could be used to stratify patient risks.
A Study on Enhancing the Performance of Thermally Autofrettaged Cylinder Through Shrink-Fitting
Authors: Kamal S. M. , Dixit U. S.
Published: March 2016

Thick-walled cylinders are subjected to autofrettage process to increase their pressure carrying capacity and fatigue lifetime. The thermal autofrettage process is a potential process that can generate beneficial compressive thermal residual stresses at and around the inner radius of the cylinder by employing a radial temperature difference across its wall thickness. This enables the thermally autofrettaged cylinder to withstand more pressure than a nonautofrettaged one. However, due to the limitation on the maximum temperature that the cylinder can be subjected to without the change of material properties, the maximum increase of pressure carrying capacity is also limited by thermal autofrettage. In this work, a methodology is proposed for enhancing the pressure carrying capacity of the thermally autofrettaged cylinder through shrink-fit. This also keeps the main cylinder under compression, thus improving its fatigue strength. The analysis of thermal autofrettage is based on the assumptions of constant axial strain and Tresca yield criterion.
Performance Analysis of a Compressed Humid Air Energy Storage System
Authors: Zhang Huisheng , Zhou Dengji , Huang Di , Wang Xinhui
Published: March 2016

With the growing need for the use of electricity, power plants sometimes cannot generate enough power during the high demand periods. Thus various methods are introduced to solve this situation. Compressed air energy storage (CAES) technology seems to be a good solution to both peaking power demand and intermittent energy utilization transformed from renewable energy source like wind energy. Utilization of heat generated from the air compression process is a crucial problem of this technology. A compressed air energy storage system, with humid air as working fluid, is designed in this paper. In this system, heat of compressing air is transformed to the latent heat of water vapour, decreasing the power consumption of compressor and increasing energy generated per volume of storage. A Compressed Humid Air Energy Storage (CHAES) system model is established in this paper to simulate the performance of this system. Then the performance of this new system is evaluated by comparison to conventional CAES system, based on the simulation result. The result of this paper confirm the growing interest to CAES as a solution to peaking power demand and intermittent energy utilization, and indicates that CHAES system, as a great improvement of CAES system, has huge potential in the future.
Design and Thermoeconomic Evaluation of a Waste Plant With an Integrated CO2 Chemical Sequestration System for CH4 Production
Authors: Romano Sebastiano Luca , Sciubba Enrico , Toro Claudia
Published: March 2016

Object of this paper is the modelling, process design and simulation of a waste incineration plant integrated with a novel CO2 chemical sequestration system for CH4 production.

The main components of the proposed system are: the incineration plant (whose operational data are considered known here), a Sabatier reactor for CH4 production, a post-combustion monoethanolamine (MEA) chemical absorption unit and a H2O electrolyser.

Carbon dioxide captured from the waste plant stack gases and hydrogen from water electrolysis feed the Sabatier chemical reactor in a temperature range of 250–450°C. Through the exothermic methanation reaction (CO2 + 4H2 = CH4 + 2H2O + Heat), methane is produced with a conversion yield of 90–95%. Through a perm-selective membrane, hot steam can be extracted from the reactor and recycled to cover about 40% of the MEA regenerating re-boiler duty.

The methanation of CO2 is an established carbon capture technique, profitably suitable for waste plants. When the produced methane is burned, the CO2 absorbed in the process returns to the environment, enacting in a global sense a quasi-zero-emissions cycle.

The possible integration of the electrolyser with renewable-generated electricity has been investigated to evaluate the storage capacity of electrical energy as “renewable methane”, which from a technical point of view is more suitable than hydrogen to be stored, burned or sent into natural gas pipelines. A thermo-economic analysis is presented to evaluate the exergetic performance of the proposed system and the final cost of products.