bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Importance of Atrial Fibrillation Burden and the Origin of Device‐Tailored Anticoagulation
Authors: ZIMETBAUM PETER , ELLIS ETHAN R. , WAKS JONATHAN W. , PASSMAN ROD S.
Published: October 2013

The current paradigm for anticoagulation in patients with atrial fibrillation is based upon clinical risk factors for stroke without reference to the frequency or duration (i.e., burden) of atrial fibrillation episodes. In the last decade, increasing evidence derived from device‐based surveillance of atrial fibrillation has suggested that in some patients the burden of atrial fibrillation may be associated with thromboembolic risk. The development of rapidly acting oral anticoagulants and devices with remote monitoring capability has allowed the testing of a strategy of tailored or “pill‐in‐the‐pocket” anticoagulation based upon atrial fibrillation burden.
Management of severe asthma in childhood – State of the art and novel perspectives
Authors: Hedlin Gunilla
Published: October 2013

The majority of children with asthma have mild or moderate disease and can obtain adequate control of symptoms through avoidance of triggering factors and/or with the help of medications. There is still a group of children with severe asthma in whom symptom control is poor depending either on identifiable aggravating factors or on true therapy resistance. These children have a poor quality of life and are limited by the severity of their disease. There is a need for a staged approach to the assessment and treatment of this small but vulnerable and resource‐consuming group. The current review will provide an overview of a possible standardized approach to characterize this heterogeneous group of severely sick children including some newly developed ways of assessing asthma severity and potentialities of new asthma therapies. Furthermore, the umbrella term ‘problematic severe asthma’ is described. The term encompasses children whose severe asthma is due to identifiable exacerbating factors, as well as children who are resistant to any conventional therapeutic approach. Characteristics of these two groups of children are described, as are possible biomarkers and current and emerging diagnostic tools for allergy evaluation. Some recent advances and future possibilities for treatment of severe asthma are also presented in this review.
Development and validation of the Pediatric Anesthesia Behavior score – an objective measure of behavior during induction of anesthesia
Authors: Beringer Richard M. , Greenwood Rosemary , Kilpatrick Nicky
Published: October 2013

Background

Measuring perioperative behavior changes requires validated objective rating scales. We developed a simple score for children's behavior during induction of anesthesia (Pediatric Anesthesia Behavior score) and assessed its reliability, concurrent validity, and predictive validity.

Methods

Data were collected as part of a wider observational study of perioperative behavior changes in children undergoing general anesthesia for elective dental extractions. One‐hundred and two healthy children aged 2–12 were recruited. Previously validated behavioral scales were used as follows: the modified Yale Preoperative Anxiety Scale (m‐YPAS); the induction compliance checklist (ICC); the Pediatric Anesthesia Emergence Delirium scale (PAED); and the Post‐Hospitalization Behavior Questionnaire (PHBQ). Pediatric Anesthesia Behavior (PAB) score was independently measured by two investigators, to allow assessment of interobserver reliability. Concurrent validity was assessed by examining the correlation between the PAB score, the m‐YPAS, and the ICC. Predictive validity was assessed by examining the association between the PAB score, the PAED scale, and the PHBQ.

Results

The PAB score correlated strongly with both the m‐YPAS (P < 0.001) and the ICC (P < 0.001). PAB score was significantly associated with the PAED score (P = 0.031) and with the PHBQ (P = 0.034). Two independent investigators recorded identical PAB scores for 94% of children and overall, there was close agreement between scores (Kappa coefficient of 0.886 [P < 0.001]).

Conclusion

The PAB score is simple to use and may predict which children are at increased risk of developing postoperative behavioral disturbance. This study provides evidence for its reliability and validity.
Effects of sevoflurane on the expression of tau protein mRNA and Ser396/404 site in the hippocampus of developing rat brain
Authors: Hu Zhi‐yong , Jin Hai‐yan , Xu Li‐li , Zhu Zhi‐rui , Jiang Yi‐lei , Seal Robert
Published: October 2013

Background

General anesthesia induces a transient hyperphosphorylation of tau protein that is associated with neurotoxicity in neonatal rats, but the mechanism remains unknown. The current study sought to investigate the effects of sevoflurane on the levels of tau phosphorylation at phosphor‐Ser396/404 and total tau mRNA in the hippocampus of neonatal rats.

Materials and Methods

Thirty‐six 7‐day‐old rats were randomly exposed for 6 h to either 3% sevoflurane (S) or air (NC) as a placebo. They were sacrificed at 1, 7 and 14 days after the anesthesia, respectively, and thus assigned to S1d, S7d, S14d, NC1d, NC7d, and NC14d groups (n = 6). Their brain tissues were harvested and then subjected to histopathologic, Western blot and real‐time polymerase chain reaction analysis.

Results

Microtubule cytoskeletons were arranged in neat parallel rows in rats exposed only to air, whereas the microtubules were arranged in a disorderly and intermittent (nonparallel) fashion in rats exposed to sevoflurane. The levels of tau mRNA in the S1d and S7d groups were significantly higher than those in the NC1d and NC7d groups. There was no significant difference in the levels of tau mRNA between the S14d and NC14d groups. The levels of tau protein at Ser404 in the S1d, S7d, and S14d groups were significantly higher than those in NC1d, NC7d, and NC14d groups. The levels of tau protein at Ser396 in the S1d, and S7d groups were significantly higher than those in the NC1d, and NC7d groups, while there was no significant difference in the levels of tau protein at Ser396 between the S14d group and the NC14d group, respectively.

Conclusion

In rat hippocampus, sevoflurane was associated with microtubular disarray as well as increased levels of tau mRNA and excessive phosphorylation of tau protein at Ser396 and Ser404. This implicates that sevoflurane may induce neurotoxicity.
The Impact of PRAISEDD on Adherence and Initiation of Heart Health Behaviors in Senior Housing
Authors: Resnick Barbara , Michael Kathleen , Griffith Kathleen , Klinedinst Jennifer , Galik Elizabeth
Published: October 2013

Objective

Building on prior theoretical work and research, we developed a community‐based intervention, People Reducing Risk And Improving Strength through Exercise, Diet, and Drug Adherence (PRAISEDD), a three‐phase program which was implemented in 2009. The purpose of this study was to report on Phase III, the Inoculation Phase, of the PRAISEDD program and explore participant experiences.

Design and Sample

This was a descriptive, qualitative study focused on exploring participation in heart healthy PRAISEDD classes. Ten residents participated in the focus group, all of whom attended at least one PRAISEDD session.

Measures

Qualitative data were obtained at the end of the 12 months during which Phase III was implemented. Descriptive data were gathered to describe the number of initial PRAISEDD participants and the number of new participants who came to classes.

Results

Nine codes were identified and reduced to two themes: motivators to participate in exercise classes; and factors that decrease willingness to participate. The Phase III monthly PRAISEDD inoculation classes were attended by 10–12 residents, the majority of whom participated in Phase I of PRAISEDD.

Conclusion

We were able to engage new participants in classes during Phase III, and qualitative findings provided important recommendations for future work.
Decay Kinetics of Benzophenone Triplets and Corresponding Free Radicals in Soft and Rigid Polymers Studied by Laser Flash Photolysis
Authors: Levin Peter P. , Efremkin Alexei F. , Sultimova Natalie B. , Kasparov Valery V. , Khudyakov Igor V.
Published: October 2013

The kinetics of transients formed under photoexcitation of benzophenone (B) dissolved in three different polymers was studied by ns laser flash photolysis. These polymers were the soft rubbers poly (ethylene‐co‐butylene) (EB), polystyrene block‐poly(ethylene‐ran‐butylene)‐block‐polystyrene (SEBS) and hard polystyrene (PS). We monitored the decay kinetics of triplet state 3B*and of ketyl radicals BH●. We observed exponential decay of 3B* and two‐stage decay kinetics of BH●in EB. The first stage is a fast cage recombination of a radical pair (BH●, radical of polymer R●). The second slow stage of BH● decay follows the second‐order law with a relatively high rate constant, which corresponds to recombination of BH● in a homogeneous liquid with a viscosity of only ~0.1 P (about five times of 2‐propanol viscosity). Application of a magnetic field (MF) of 0.2 T leads to deceleration of both stages of BH● decay in EB by approximately 20%. Decay kinetics of both transients were observed in SEBS. There was no MF effect on BH● decay in SEBS. We only observed 3B* in PS. Decay kinetics of 3B* in this case were described as polychromatic dispersive first‐order kinetics. We discuss the effects of polymer structure on transient kinetics and the MF effect.
Differential IFN‐γ production by adult and neonatal blood CD56+ natural killer (NK) and NK‐like‐T cells in response to Trypanosoma cruzi and IL‐15
Authors: Guilmot A. , Carlier Y. , Truyens C.
Published: October 2013

Early interferon‐gamma (IFN‐γ) release by innate cells is critical to direct type 1 immune response able to control intracellular pathogens like Trypanosoma cruzi. Although CD56bright natural killer (NK) cells are reported to be potent early IFN‐γ producers, other CD56+ cells like CD56dim NK cells and NK‐like T cells have recently been shown to also release IFN‐γ. We have here studied the contribution of each CD56+ lymphocyte populations in early IFN‐γ production in both adults and neonates. On this purpose, we analysed the kinetics of IFN‐γ production by RT‐PCR, ELISA and flow cytometry from 2 h onwards after T. cruzi and IL‐15 stimulation and sought for the responding CD56+ cells. CD56bright and CD56dimCD16− NK cells were the more potent IFN‐γ early producers in response to IL‐15 and parasites in adults and neonates. In both age groups, the majority of IFN‐γ producing cells were NK cells. However, on the contrary to neonates, CD3+CD56+ NK‐like T cells and CD3+CD56− ‘classical’ T cells also contributed to early IFN‐γ production in adults. Altogether, our results support that whereas NK cells responded almost similarly in neonates and adults, cord blood innate CD56+ and CD56− T cells displayed major quantitative and qualitative defects that could contribute to the well‐known neonatal immune immaturity.
Cardiac stability at differing levels of temporal analysis in panic disorder, post‐traumatic stress disorder, and healthy controls
Authors: Fisher Aaron J. , Woodward Steven H.
Published: October 2013

The panic disorder (PD) literature provides evidence for both physiologic rigidity and instability as pathognomonic features of this disorder. This ambiguity may be a result of viewing PD at differential levels of temporal analysis. We assessed cardiac variability across three levels of temporal scale in PD patients, post‐traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) patients, and healthy controls. Sixteen healthy controls, 14 PD patients, 23 PTSD patients, and 16 PTSD + PD patients presented for a polysomnogram. Differences were assessed in respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA), autoregressive stability of heart rate (HR), and the number of nonspecific accelerations in HR over the night. No differences in RSA were found between groups; however, PD patients exhibited significantly lower autoregressive HR stability, and all patients had significantly more HR accelerations than controls. These data reinforce prior findings demonstrating physiologic instability in PD and indicate that prior equivocalities regarding physiologic variability in PD may be due to limited temporal scaling of measurements.
Acute haemodynamic effects of continuous positive airway pressure in awake patients with heart failure
Authors: Schroll Stephan , Sériès Frédéric , Lewis Keir , Benjamin Amit , Escourrou Pierre , Luigart Ruth , Pfeifer Michael , Arzt Michael
Published: October 2013

Background and objective

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) has been used to treat patients with chronic heart failure (CHF) and sleep‐disordered breathing (SDB). CPAP treatment in severe CHF with concomitant SDB and atrial fibrillation has been linked to impairment of cardiac output (CO) as a potential cause for adverse outcome. The aim of the present study was to test whether incremental CPAP application in awake CHF patients with SDB, with and without atrial fibrillation, induces acute alterations of blood pressure (BP), heart rate (HR) and CO.

Methods

During daytime, we applied incremental CPAP (4–10 cmH2O) in 37 stable patients with CHF and SDB. BP and HR were assessed after each 1 cmH2O CPAP increase in 5‐min intervals in the entire sample, and CO was assessed at one centre (n = 11).

Results

Neither mean BP, HR nor CO changed significantly with incremental CPAP (at 0 and 10 cmH2O: 85 ± 2 and 84 ± 2 mm Hg, P = 1.0, 63 ± 1 to 61 ± 2 b.p.m., P = 0.88 and 2.03 ± 0.5 and 2.35 ± 0.8 L/min/m2, P = 0.92, respectively). No significant differences in maximum BP drop or HR drop between patients with sinus rhythm and atrial fibrillation were found. In 1 of 37 patients, a prespecified event of haemodynamic compromise (drop of mean BP >15 mm Hg) without clinical signs occurred.

Conclusions

These results contribute to the evidence that CPAP does not cause haemodynamic compromise in the vast majority of normotensive CHF patients with SDB.
Linear Manifold Modelling of Multivariate Functional Data
Authors: Chiou Jeng-Min , Müller Hans-Georg
Published: October 2013

Multivariate functional data are increasingly encountered in data analysis, whereas statistical models for such data are not well developed yet. Motivated by a case-study where one aims to quantify the relationship between various longitudinally recorded behaviour intensities for Drosophila flies, we propose a functional linear manifold model. This model reflects the functional dependence between the components of multivariate random processes and is defined through data-determined linear combinations of the multivariate component trajectories, which are characterized by a set of varying-coefficient functions. The time varying linear relationships that govern the components of multivariate random functions yield insights about the underlying processes and also lead to noise-reduced representations of the multivariate component trajectories. The functional linear manifold model proposed is put to the task for an analysis of longitudinally observed behavioural patterns of flying, feeding, walking and resting over the lifespan of Drosophila flies and is also investigated in simulations.
Optical coherence tomography imaging of non‐melanoma skin cancer undergoing imiquimod therapy
Authors: Banzhaf C. A. , Themstrup L. , Ring H. C. , Mogensen M. , Jemec G. B. E.
Published: October 2013

Purpose

To explore the application of optical coherence tomography (OCT) imaging of basal cell carcinomas (BCC) and actinic keratosis (AK) before, during and after imiquimod treatment and the ability of OCT to predict treatment outcome.

Methods

The study subjects were 20 patients with biopsy‐verified BCC (9) or AK (11). Patients were OCT‐scanned before, after 1 and 4 weeks of imiquimod treatment and after 3 months. Lesions were identified clinically and with OCT. Thickness and morphology of the lesions were recorded at each visit. Any remaining lesions were biopsied at follow‐up.

Results

Complete data sets were available for 16 patients (8 women and 8 men aged 52–82 years), four in‐compliant patients were excluded. OCT identified all lesions. Previously suggested OCT‐criteria identified 5/8 BCCs. Crusting, ulceration and active treatment significantly reduced image quality. All BCCs cleared, but at follow‐up residual structures were seen clinically in 4 cases. OCT and histology both ruled out residual BCC. For AKs significant thinning occurred after 1 week of treatment (P = 0.04). Imiquimod cleared 2/8 AKs, and significantly decreased the thickness of all lesions (P = 0.02).

Conclusions

OCT could identify superficial BCC and AK before treatment. Monitoring during imiquimod treatment revealed impaired image quality most likely caused by inflammation, crusting and ulceration. On follow‐up, OCT showed thinning of AKs indicating effect of treatment. All treated BCCs cleared, but where residual tissue was suspected clinically this could be ruled out by OCT.
Barack Obama and the Rhetoric of Electoral Logic
Authors: Azari Julia R. , Vaughn Justin S.
Published: October 2013

Objectives

This article examines Barack Obama's efforts to interpret and characterize the contrasting outcomes of the 2008 and 2010 elections, using an original data set of presidential communications.

Methods

We performed a content analysis of 241 presidential communications.

Results

Obama's post‐2008 mandate claims alternated between claiming a mandate on a variety of policy issues and framing the election as a repudiation of Republican theories of governing. Post‐2010, however, Obama framed the midterm results as evidence for electoral demand for bipartisan cooperation, rather than a repudiation of Democratic policies and ideas.

Conclusions

Obama's choices in framing the 2008 election contributed to the administration's failure to communicate effectively. Specifically, Obama neglected to create a strong narrative linking the election's results to support for his policy agenda, focusing instead on the election as a repudiation of Republican policies. In contrast, his interpretations of the 2010 midterms appear to be more effective. By identifying the Republicans' behavior as “dysfunctional” and conceding that the election had indicated a demand for the ideas of both parties, Obama offered a more successful alternative to the Republican narrative.
Quantifying the Effect of Age Structure on Voter Registration
Authors: Morrison Peter A.
Published: October 2013

Objective

Where population subgroups have distinctly “young” or “old” adult age distributions, their observed overall rates of political participation may differ for this demographic reason. Age standardization can quantify the proportion of an observed difference in registration rates attributable to age structural differences between two populations, thereby facilitating comparison of political participation across subgroups.

Methods

I illustrate the derivation and interpretation of an age‐standardized registration rate. This rate weights a set of observed age‐specific registration rates with a standard age distribution to create a hypothetical total (all‐ages) registration rate, to afford an undistorted comparison of Hispanic and non‐Hispanic white voter registration.

Results

For seven communities studied here, differences in adult age structure account for as much as one‐third of the observed difference in the voter registration rates of adult Hispanics and non‐Hispanic whites in a community. The effect of age structure is most apparent in those communities registering substantial influxes of young‐adult Hispanics.

Conclusion

Age standardization is a useful technique to control for differences in population structure that may obscure a comparison of political participation across subgroups.
Cover crop growth and impact on N leaching as affected by pre‐ and postharvest sowing and time of incorporation
Authors: Thomsen I. K. , Hansen E. M.
Published: October 2013

In Northern Europe, cover crops are traditionally established before spring crops by undersowing, but some cover crops might also have an effect if preharvest sown before spring crops and even winter crops. The effects of cover crop sowing date, sowing technique and succeeding main crop on biomass production, N uptake, nitrate leaching and soil inorganic N were tested in lysimeters and in the field. Cruciferous cover crops (oil radish, white mustard) were sown preharvest by broadcasting into winter wheat in July and were allowed to grow until a following winter wheat was established in September. Other preharvest cover crops were left in place until late autumn. For comparison, the same cruciferous cover crops were established postharvest after light harrowing. Perennial ryegrass undersown in spring barley was also included. Aboveground N uptake in preharvest cover crops amounted to a maximum of 24 kg N/ha in September before sowing winter wheat. When left until late autumn, preharvest oil radish took up a maximum of 66 kg N/ha, and ryegrass and postharvest cover crops 35 kg N/ha. Preharvest establishment of cruciferous cover crops before a spring‐sown crop thus seems promising. The soil was depleted of inorganic N to the same extent in late autumn irrespective of cover crop type, sowing time and technique within winter wheat or spring barley. However, the reduction in nitrate leaching of preharvest cover crops incorporated after 2 months and followed by winter wheat was only half of that achieved by cover crops left until late autumn or spring.
The novel allele HLA‐C*03:04:36 identified by sequence‐based typing
Authors: Yoon Y. A. , Song J. S. , Lee S. Y. , Yoon C. E. , Kang E. S.
Published: October 2013

The new allele, HLA‐C*03:04:36, differs from C*03:04:01:01 by one nucleotide substitution at codon 207 (GGC→GGT).
Teaching ‘Instant Experience’ with Graphical Model Validation Techniques
Authors: Ekstrøm Claus Thorn
Published: October 2013

Graphical model validation techniques for linear normal models are often used to check the assumptions underlying a statistical model. We describe an approach to provide ‘instant experience’ in looking at a graphical model validation plot, so it becomes easier to validate if any of the underlying assumptions are violated.
Analysis of cerebral toxoplasmosis in a series of 170 allogeneic hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients
Authors: Hakko E. , Ozkan H.A. , Karaman K. , Gulbas Z.
Published: October 2013

Introduction

Cerebral toxoplasmosis is a rare but fatal complication in hematopoietic stem cell transplant patients, which mostly is caused by reactivation of latent disease.

Methods

In this study, we report an analysis of cerebral toxoplasmosis in a series of 170 allogeneic stem cell transplant patients during a 30‐month period at our institution.

Results

Among these allogeneic stem cell transplant patients, 5 were diagnosed with cerebral toxoplasmosis by brain magnetic resonance imaging and polymerase chain reaction of Toxoplasma gondii DNA. The incidence of cerebral toxoplasmosis was found to be 2.94%.

Conclusion

Mortality rate is known to be very high in cerebral toxoplasmosis; therefore, it is life saving to diagnose the disease in the early stages and start treatment promptly, especially in high‐endemic countries like Turkey.
In vitro maturation
Authors: Vitek Wendy , Robins Jared C
Published: October 2013

Key content

In vitro maturation is an alternative to in vitro fertilisation for young women with polycystic ovary syndrome and young ovulatory women.

In vitro maturation accomplishes the maturation of immature oocytes in the laboratory, thus minimising or avoiding gonadotrophin stimulation and the associated cost, side‐effects and risks.

Pregnancy rates are lower with in vitro maturation than with in vitro fertilisation.

Learning objectives

To define appropriate candidates for in vitro maturation.

To review variations in protocols and laboratory aspects of in vitro maturation and the rationale for these variations.

To highlight outcome data from in vitro maturation cycles.

Ethical issues

Infertile couples must consider both the risks and benefits of in vitro maturation and make an informed decision regarding their treatment options.

Further long‐term outcome data regarding the health of children born through in vitro maturation is necessary.
Dissecting Functions of the Conserved Oligomeric Golgi Tethering Complex Using a Cell‐Free Assay
Authors: Cottam Nathanael P. , Wilson Katherine M. , Ng Bobby G. , Körner Christian , Freeze Hudson H. , Ungar Daniel
Published: October 2013

Vesicle transport sorts proteins between compartments and is thereby responsible for generating the non‐uniform protein distribution along the eukaryotic secretory and endocytic pathways. The mechanistic details of specific vesicle targeting are not yet well characterized at the molecular level. We have developed a cell‐free assay that reconstitutes vesicle targeting utilizing the recycling of resident enzymes within the Golgi apparatus. The assay has physiological properties, and could be used to show that the two lobes of the conserved oligomeric Golgi tethering complex play antagonistic roles in trans‐Golgi vesicle targeting. Moreover, we can show that the assay is sensitive to several different congenital defects that disrupt Golgi function and therefore cause glycosylation disorders. Consequently, this assay will allow mechanistic insight into the targeting step of vesicle transport at the Golgi, and could also be useful for characterizing some novel cases of congenital glycosylation disorders.
Bordering on the modern: power, practice and exclusion in Astana
Authors: Koch Natalie
Published: October 2013

State‐led urban development projects, especially in non‐democratic settings, are conducive to a top–down analytic that focuses on state planners and architects. The goal of this article is to explore how we might decentre this narrative and jointly consider elite and non‐elite narratives, through an analysis of discourses of modernity as enacted in and through these statist urban projects. Deploying a practice‐based analytic, I explore how notions of ‘modernity’ are performed and enacted through the exclusionary practices of elites and non‐elites alike. Taking the case of Kazakhstan's new capital city, Astana, I examine how the state‐led urban modernisation agenda simultaneously draws upon and re‐inscribes a set of interlocking popular geographic imaginaries (Soviet/modern, urban/rural, north/south), and demonstrate how ordinary citizens are not just passive spectators, but active participants in the political drama of state‐ and city‐building.
Towards Eurosclerosis: Will Poland Escape?
Authors: Ingham Hilary , Ingham Mike
Published: October 2013

The economic crisis has exacted a heavy price on labour markets throughout the world and raised serious questions about the ability of the flexicurity policies to deal with the consequences. In this regard, the experience of Poland with its more flexible approach and relative success in weathering the storm is notable. Shortly before the tumult erupted, the country witnessed a dramatic decline in its unemployment rate from one of the highest in the EU‐27 to a figure below the average. However, this turnaround was apparently driven by amendments to the country's Labour Code, which generated an enormous increase in temporary working. Using consecutive annual panels from the Labour Force Survey, a strong link between this development and the fall in unemployment is identified. A multinomial logit model reveals that the flows were most heavily concentrated among males, young workers of both sexes and the less well educated. There is also evidence that fixed‐term work lured previously discouraged individuals back into the labour market. However, the requirement that Poland aligns its temporary employment legislation with that of the EU could conceivably lead to at least a partial reversal of fortune.
Ocular manifestation of lymphoma in newly diagnosed cats
Authors: Nerschbach V. , Eule J. C. , Eberle N. , Höinghaus R. , Betz D.
Published: October 2013

Ocular manifestations of lymphoma are described in humans and dogs but rarely in cats. In this prospective study, cats with newly diagnosed and treatment‐naïve lymphoma were evaluated concerning clinical stage and ophthalmologic findings. Twenty‐six cats were included. In 12 cats (48%), ocular changes were documented. Uveitis anterior and posterior were predominant findings, being present in 58% of affected individuals. Other findings included exophthalmos, corneal surface lesions and chemosis. Eight cats received chemotherapy, two of which had ocular involvement. In these two cats, a complete remission of an anterior and a partial remission of a posterior uveitis were documented. Due to the detection of ocular involvement, a stage migration from stage IV to V occurred in four patients. In the light of these findings, an opthalmological examination may be considered as an important part of staging in feline lymphoma as well as of follow‐up examination in affected cats.
Comparison of components of biological variation between 3 equine thromboelastography assays
Authors: Hyldahl Laursen Sigrid , Andersen Pia Haubro , Kjelgaard‐Hansen Mads , Wiinberg Bo
Published: October 2013

Background

There is a paucity of information about the analytical performance of thromboelastography (TEG) in horses, specifically concerning components of variation among different analytical methods. Such data may be obtained by nested analysis of repetitive standardized sampling of healthy individuals.

Objectives

The objectives were (1) to assess the relative susceptibility to sources of preanalytical variation in a highly standardized setting, (2) to directly compare and evaluate the observed analytical variation, and (3) to assess the applicability of population‐based reference intervals.

Methods

Blood was collected once from 20 healthy adult horses and weekly for 5 consecutive weeks from 8 healthy adult horses. TEG analyses were performed on citrated whole blood using nonactivated TEG and 2 TEG assays with human recombinant tissue factor (TF) or kaolin as activators.

Results

There were significant differences between nonactivated and activated assays for all measured parameters (P < .05). The intraindividual variation was significantly higher with the nonactivated assay compared with TF‐ and kaolin‐activated protocols. Analytical variation was generally low and comparable for all 3 assays. Nonactivated TEG showed the highest degree of within‐subject variation, TF‐activated TEG (TF‐TEG) intermediate and kaolin‐activated TEG (K‐TEG) the lowest degree of within‐subject variation.

Conclusions

Nonactivated TEG is more sensitive to preanalytical variation than both TF‐TEG and K‐TEG. Analytical variation was low and comparable for all assays, but not all parameters reached objective analytical goals. The results further indicate that population‐based reference intervals can be readily applied to TF‐TEG, but not to nonactivated or K‐TEG, where critical difference may provide a better interpretation criterion.
Adverse reactions to equine‐derived F(ab’)2‐antivenin in 54 dogs envenomated by Vipera berus berus
Authors: Lund Heidi S. , Kristiansen Veronica , Eggertsdóttir Anna V. , Skancke Ellen , Ranheim Birgit
Published: October 2013

Objective

To describe the occurrence of acute and delayed adverse reactions following the administration of an equine‐derived F(ab’)2‐antivenin in dogs with Vipera berus berus envenomation.

Design

Prospective study (2006–2009).

Setting

Private small animal clinics and university small animal teaching hospital in Norway.

Animals

Fifty‐four dogs with Vipera berus berus envenomation treated with F(ab’)2‐antivenin.

Interventions

Administration of equine‐derived antivenin for treatment of Vipera berus berus envenomation in dogs.

Measurements and Main Results

Acute adverse reactions to antivenin administration occurred in 4/54 dogs (7%), and facial swelling occurred in 2/54 dogs (4%), sudden respiratory distress in 1 dog, and vomiting occurred in 1 dog. The adverse reactions were self‐limiting in 3 of the dogs, while 1 dog was treated with corticosteroids to reduce the facial swelling that occurred during administration of antivenin. No delayed adverse reactions believed to be associated with the antivenin administration were noted.

Conclusions

An occurrence of adverse effects comparable to the numbers reported in human medicine (10%) should be expected when administering F(ab’)2‐antivenin to dogs with Vipera berus berus envenomation. The results are also comparable with rates of adverse effects reported with antivenin administration for crotalid‐envenomated dogs. Further research is required to determine whether there is a relationship between adverse and the number of vials administered or repeated use in the same patient.
RADIOGRAPHIC AND HISTOPATHOLOGIC CHARACTERISTICS OF PULMONARY FIBROSIS IN NINE CATS
Authors: Evola Maria G. , Edmondson Elijah F. , Reichle Jean K. , Biller David S. , Mitchell Colleen W. , Valdés‐Martínez Alejandro
Published: October 2013

Pulmonary fibrosis is a progressive fatal interstitial lung disease that is often idiopathic, occurs in multiple species, and may be caused by a number of inciting factors. The purpose of this retrospective, multicenter study was to describe the radiographic and histopathologic characteristics of idiopathic and induced pulmonary fibrosis in a group of cats. Cats with thoracic radiographs and histopathologically confirmed pulmonary fibrosis were recruited using the American College of Veterinary Radiology list serve. A board‐certified veterinary radiologist and diagnostic imaging intern reviewed radiographs and recorded characteristics by consensus. Findings from additional imaging modalities were also recorded when available. All histopathology samples were re‐reviewed by a veterinary pathology resident. A total of nine cats met inclusion criteria. All patients had a broad range of radiographic characteristics that included broncho‐interstitial pattern, alveolar pattern, pulmonary masses, pulmonary bullae, pleural effusion, and cardiomegaly. Cats with available echocardiographic studies had characteristics that included right ventricular dilation and hypertrophy and pulmonary arterial hypertension interpreted to be secondary to primary lung disease. Cats with available CT studies had characteristics that included focally increased soft tissue attenuation, masses, and ventral consolidation that exhibited no improvement with dorsal versus ventral recumbency. Histopathology showed pulmonary fibrosis, type II pneumocyte hyperplasia, and smooth muscle hypertrophy in all patients. Epithelial metaplasia was present only in one patient. Findings from the current study indicated that cats with pulmonary fibrosis have highly variable radiographic characteristics and that these characteristics may mimic other diseases such as asthma, pneumonia, pulmonary edema, or neoplasia.
Gain Scheduled Control of Gas Turbine Engines: Stability and Verification
Authors: Pakmehr Mehrdad , Fitzgerald Nathan , Feron Eric M. , Shamma Jeff S. , Behbahani Alireza
Published: October 2013

A stable gain scheduled controller for a gas turbine engine that drives a variable pitch propeller is developed and described. A stability proof is developed for gain scheduled closed-loop system using global linearization and linear matrix inequality (LMI) techniques. Using convex optimization tools, a single quadratic Lyapunov function is computed for multiple linearizations near equilibrium and nonequilibrium points of the nonlinear closed-loop system. This approach guarantees stability of the closed-loop gas turbine engine system. To verify the stability of the closed-loop system on-line, an optimization problem is proposed, which is solvable using convex optimization tools. Simulation results show that the developed gain scheduled controller is capable to regulate a turboshaft engine for large thrust commands in a stable fashion with proper tracking performance.
Instantaneous Heat Flux Simulation of a Motored Reciprocating Engine: Unsteady Thermal Boundary Layer With Variable Turbulent Thermal Conductivity
Authors: Agrira Abdalla , Buttsworth David R. , Said Mior A.
Published: October 2013

Due to the inherently unsteady environment of reciprocating engines, unsteady thermal boundary layer modeling may improve the reliability of simulations of internal combustion engine heat transfer. Simulation of the unsteady thermal boundary layer was achieved in the present work based on an effective variable thermal conductivity from different turbulent Prandtl number and turbulent viscosity models. Experiments were also performed on a motored, single-cylinder spark-ignition engine. The unsteady energy equation approach furnishes a significant improvement in the simulation of the heat flux data relative to results from a representative instantaneous heat transfer correlation. The heat flux simulated using the unsteady model with one particular turbulent Prandtl number model agreed with measured heat flux in the wide open and fully closed throttle cases, with an error in peak values of about 6% and 35%, respectively.
Physics of the Interaction of Ultrasonic Excitation With Nucleate Boiling
Authors: Krishnan Sreenath , Das Sarit K. , Chatterjee Dhiman
Published: October 2013

Physics of ultrasound-assisted augmentation of saturated nucleate boiling through the interaction of multiphase fluid flow is revealed in the present work. Different regimes of influence of ultrasound, ranging from augmentation to deterioration and even no effect, as reported in literature in a contradictory fashion, have been observed. However unlike the previous studies, here it has been clearly demonstrated that this apparent anomaly lies in the different natures of interactions between the influencing parameters like heat flux, ultrasonic frequency, and pressure amplitude. The present results clearly bring out an interactive effect of these operating parameters with surface parameter like surface roughness. A mechanistic model unifying all these parameters has been presented to explain quantitatively the physics of the interaction. The model-based predictions match experimental results quite well suggesting the validity of the hypothesis on liquid–vapor-surface interaction through the process of nucleation and its site density, on which the model is built, and thus revealing the underlying physics.
Analytical Solution for the Optimal Spacing of Wind Turbines
Authors: Prasad Ajay K.
Published: October 2013

The lateral and longitudinal spacing between individual turbines in a wind turbine array must be large enough to minimize the wake effects caused by an upstream turbine on those that lie downstream from it. Here, the flow downstream of a single wind turbine is examined by modeling its far-field development as a turbulent axisymmetric wake which is well described in the turbulence literature. In particular, the velocity defect profile in the wake is approximated by a Gaussian function in the radial coordinate. Scaling laws are used to derive closed-form solutions for the wake diameter, wake velocity defect, and wake power recovery as functions of downstream distance from the rotor. Our results show that at a downstream distance of 10 rotor diameters, the wake centerline velocity will recover to 77% of the free-stream value. It is also seen that the power within the wake recovers quickly for small downstream distances, but beyond about 10 rotor diameters, the rate of power recovery slows down. Implications for the optimal spacing of wind turbines are discussed based on these findings.
Whole Cell Mechanical Property Characterization Based on Mechanical Properties of Its Cytoplasm and Bio Membrane
Authors: Abbasi Ali A. , Ahmadian M. T.
Published: October 2013

Analysis and investigation of the relation between different parts of biological cells such as biomembrane, cytoplasm and nucleus can help to better understand their behaviors and material properties. In this paper, first, the whole elastic properties of mouse oocyte and embryo cells have been computed by inverse finite element and Levenberg–Marquardt optimization algorithm and second, using the derived mechanical properties and the mechanical properties of its bio membrane from the literature, the mechanical properties of its cytoplasm has been characterized. It has been assumed that the cell behavior is as continues, isotropic, nonlinear and homogenous material for modeling. Matching the experimental forces with the forces from the finite element (FE) simulation by the Levenberg–Marquardt optimization algorithm, gives the nonlinear hyperelastic model parameters for the whole cell. Experimental data of mouse oocyte and embryo cells captured from the literatures.
Evaluation of Paddle Wheels in Generating Hydroelectric Power
Authors: Liu Yucheng , Peymani Yoosef
Published: October 2013

This paper presents an innovative analytical model to correctly evaluate the performance of a paddle wheel in generating hydroelectric power. The deficiencies of current analytical model in evaluating such performance are pointed out and overcome by the developed analytical algorithm. Important factors that affect the paddle wheel’s performance, such as the drag force, relative velocity, efficiency curve of generator, are considered in the developed method. The presented method and analytical results are validated through CFD (Computational Fluid Dynamics) modeling and simulation.
Rack Level Modeling of Air Flow Through Perforated Tile in a Data Center
Authors: Arghode Vaibhav K. , Kumar Pramod , Joshi Yogendra , Weiss Thomas S. , Meyer Gary
Published: October 2013

Effective air flow distribution through perforated tiles is required to efficiently cool servers in a raised floor data center. We present detailed computational fluid dynamics (CFD) modeling of air flow through a perforated tile and its entrance to the adjacent server rack. The realistic geometrical details of the perforated tile, as well as of the rack are included in the model. Generally models for air flow through perforated tiles specify a step pressure loss across the tile surface, or porous jump model based on the tile porosity. An improvement to this includes a momentum source specification above the tile to simulate the acceleration of the air flow through the pores, or body force model. In both of these models geometrical details of tile such as pore locations and shapes are not included. More details increase the grid size as well as the computational time. However, the grid refinement can be controlled to achieve balance between the accuracy and computational time. We compared the results from CFD using geometrical resolution with the porous jump and body force model solution as well as with the measured flow field using Particle Image Velocimetry (PIV) experiments. We observe that including tile geometrical details gives better results as compared to elimination of tile geometrical details and specifying physical models across and above the tile surface. A modification to the body force model is also suggested and improved results were achieved.
Optimal Design of Mechanical Transmissions for High Performance Servo-Drive Systems
Authors: Arafa Hani A. , Shaltout Mohamed L.
Published: October 2013

Optimizing the design of the mechanical transmission elements in a servo-drive system has a profound effect on its dynamic performance; the acceleration capability. Servo-drive systems can be classified, according to the type of its inertial load, into rotary and translatory systems. Accordingly, the components of the transmission system mainly include a gear set and/or a ball-screw. In this paper the effect of the mechanical transmission characteristics (moments of inertia, gear set reduction ratio and ball-screw pitch) on the acceleration capability of the servo-drive system is investigated. Three gear schemes are presented in order to describe the variation of the gear set moment of inertia as function of its reduction ratio. In the first gear scheme, the driving pinion dimensions and moment of inertia remain constant, while the driven gear wheel pitch circle diameter increases as the gear set reduction ratio increases. The second gear scheme assumes a fixed center distance between the pinion and gear wheel for any gear set reduction ratio. Finally, the third gear scheme expresses the mass moment of inertia of the pinion and the gear wheel as a function of the gear set reduction ratio and the mass moment of inertia of the pinion at unity gear ratio. A generalized relation, applicable to any gear scheme, between the pinion moment of inertia at unity reduction ratio and the applied torque is presented. The effect of the choice of the gear scheme on the acceleration capability of the rotary and translatory servo-drive systems is investigated and compared. The paper provides the servo-system designer with means for integrating the “variable” reduction gear characteristics into the mechanical model in an adaptive manner.
On High Cycle Fatigue Characteristic of Locomotive Wheels
Authors: Ju Jinsan , You Xiaochuan
Published: October 2013

Fatigue life is of great importance in assessing strength design and safety of the locomotive wheel. In this paper, the FEM model of locomotive, including wheel, axle and track, has been built by using solid element with ABAQUS software. Stress distribution characteristic in self-weight condition will be achieved when considering contact. Then, material failure criterion will be introduced to analyze the effects on fatigue life, which are influenced by surface processing and thermolizing. Meanwhile, nSoft is also used to analyze fatigue properties distribution of all the elements in the locomotive structure. In the end, hot rolling and shot blasting has a great influence on its fatigue life.
Mechanism for the Reduction of Lateral Friction Capabilities of a Delaminated Tire
Authors: Semones Paul T. , Renfroe David A. , Roberts H. Alex , Lee Don Y.
Published: October 2013

Tire delamination is a significant vehicle dynamics safety problem contributing to the loss of control of passenger vehicles, often resulting in accidents and injuries.

This paper examines vehicle handling characteristics after a complete outer tread belt separation on 2-steel belt and 3-steel belt tires. The test vehicle used to examine this phenomenon was a Ford 15-passenger van. The test procedure was the SAE J266 circle test, and the measure of effectiveness was taken to be the lateral acceleration at which the vehicle transitioned to an oversteer characteristic.

For a typical tread separation on a 2-steel belted tire, the tire loses one of its steel belts and thus much of its structural rigidity. Vehicle testing using a 3-steel belted tire, in which only the outermost single belt was removed, and the remaining two belts were oriented along opposite diagonals, showed that the vehicle remained in an understeer condition at higher lateral accelerations than with the 2-steel belted tire, indicating that the retention of greater structural rigidity to the impaired tire resulted in it maintaining much of its cornering stiffness.

Until now, it has been assumed that the reduction in cornering stiffness of a delaminated tire was predominately due to the low coefficient of friction of the exposed steel belt after delamination. The testing described in this paper suggests that a significant influence on the remaining cornering stiffness of the tire after tread separation is the overall remaining structural rigidity of the tire.

From this testing, it is theorized that the rigidity of the delaminated tire is at least as important as the reduced coefficient of friction for the purposes of maintaining vehicle understeer behavior after a delamination.