bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Behavior of Cape fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus) in response to spatial variation in white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) predation risk
Authors: De Vos Alta , Justin O'Riain M. , Meÿer Michael A. , Kotze P. Gideon. H. , Kock Alison A.
Published: April 2015

Foraging and predation risk are often separated at rookeries of marine central place foragers, thus offering an opportunity to gain insight into how predator‐avoidance shapes the behavior of prey. Here we compare the behavior of Cape fur seals (Arctocephalus pusillus pusillus) at two island rookeries with and without white shark (Carcharodon carcharias) predations, and assess seal behavior in relation to marked spatiotemporal variation in risk at the high‐risk site (Seal Island, South Africa). Our results show that seal behavior at the two sites is comparatively similar in summer, when predation risk is low at both sites, but not in winter. Compared to seals at the “low‐risk” site, seals at Seal Island avoided deep‐water habitat around the island at high risk times and restricted their use of this habitat in favor of safe, shallow waters when engaging in social and thermoregulatory behaviors. Seals increased their frequency of jostling, porpoising, and diving when moving through the danger zone and seals in groups were safer than single individuals. Overall, our results suggest that seal behavior around the high‐risk site is strongly affected by predation risk, and show this rookery to be an excellent predator‐prey system at which to evaluate long‐standing ecological hypotheses.
How does social behavior differ among sperm whale clans?
Authors: Cantor Maurício , Whitehead Hal
Published: April 2015

When individuals primarily associate with and learn from those who behave similarly, society and culture become closely tied. Sperm whales (Physeter macrocephalus) exhibit multilevel social structure, the levels of which are differentiated in part by characteristic cultural behaviors. Sperm whales are organized into sympatric clans, with distinctive vocal repertoires that are socially learned. Other behaviors, such as movement patterns and foraging, also differ among clans. Here we ask whether the clan partition also includes divergences in social behavior. Off the Galápagos Islands, members of two clans differed consistently in diving synchrony, heterogeneity, and temporal stability of social relationships. While number of associates (indicated by social unit, group, and cluster sizes) were similar between clans, Regular clan members dived more synchronously and had more homogeneous relationships than the Plus‐One clan members. Plus‐One social units had generally longer associations than those of the Regular clan. Differences in surface‐time coordination and quality of social relationships are likely byproducts of the clan segregation, which could affect alloparental care giving, therefore scaling up to differential calf survival rates between clans. This new dimension of behavioral divergence between sperm whale clans indicates that sympatric, socio‐cultural entities of nonhumans can also display characteristic social behavior.
An apparent population decrease, or change in distribution, of Weddell seals along the Victoria Land coast
Authors: Ainley David G. , Larue Michelle A. , Stirling Ian , Stammerjohn Sharon , Siniff Donald B.
Published: April 2015

Ground counts during 1959–1968 compared with counts using high resolution (0.6 m2) satellite imagery during 2008–2012 indicated many fewer Weddell seals (Leptonychotes weddellii) at two major molting areas in the western Ross Sea: Edisto Inlet‐Moubray Bay, northern Victoria Land, and McMurdo Sound, southern Victoria Land. Breeding seals have largely disappeared from Edisto‐Moubray, though the breeding population in McMurdo Sound appears to have recovered from harvest in the 1960s. The timing of decline, or perhaps spreading (lower numbers of seals in more places), is unknown but appears unrelated to changes in sea ice conditions. We analyzed both historic and satellite‐derived ice data confirming a large expansion of pack ice mostly offshore of the Ross Sea, and not over the continental shelf (main Weddell seal habitat), and a thinning of fast ice along Victoria Land (conceivably beneficial to seals). Timing of fast ice presence and extent in coves and bays along Victoria Land, remains the same. The reduction in numbers is consistent with an altered food web, the reasons for which are complex. In the context of a recent industrial fishery targeting a seal prey species, a large‐scale seal monitoring program is required to increase understanding of seal population changes.
An in vitro bioassay for the quantitative evaluation of mosquito repellents against Stegomyia aegypti (=Aedes aegypti) mosquitoes using a novel cocktail meal
Authors: HUANG T.‐H. , TIEN N.‐Y. , LUO Y.‐P.
Published: April 2015

To assess the efficacy of new insect repellents, an efficient and safe in vitro bioassay system using a multiple‐membrane blood‐feeding device and a cocktail meal was developed. The multiple‐membrane blood‐feeding device facilitates the identification of new insect repellents by the high‐throughput screening of candidate chemicals. A cocktail meal was developed as a replacement for blood for feeding females of Stegomyia aegypti (=Aedes aegypti) (L.) (Diptera: Culicidae). The cocktail meal consisted of a mixture of salt, albumin and dextrose, to which adenosine triphosphate was added to induce engorging. Feeding rates of St. aegypti on the cocktail meal and pig blood, respectively, did not differ significantly, but were significantly higher than the feeding rate on citrate phosphate dextrose‐adenine 1 (CPDA‐1) solutions, which had been used to replace bloodmeals in previous repellent assays. Dose‐dependent biting inhibition rates were analysed using probit analysis. The RD50 (the dose producing 50% repellence of mosquito feeding) values of DEET, citronella, carvacrol, geraniol, eugenol and thymol were 1.62, 14.40, 22.51, 23.29, 23.83 and 68.05 µg/cm2, respectively.
Beyond the Thomas–Kilmann Model: Into Extreme Conflict
Authors: Trippe Blair , Baumoel Douglas
Published: April 2015

This article discusses an extension to the Thomas–Kilmann conflict mode instrument (Thomas and Kilmann 1977) designed specifically for conflict situations in which strong negative emotional relationships are at play. The Thomas–Kilmann (TK) model is widely used to help participants (disputants and mediators) identify how two basic conflict characteristics interact to influence how stakeholders shape their actions with regard to their interests. Essentially the TK Model is built on the premise that the two salient conflict variables are the relative importance of the relationships at hand and the substantive issues being discussed. These variables are illustrated with a simple matrix that shows how each party will interact with the other based on the relative importance it places on these variables. Graphically illustrating where the behaviors fall on the matrix can explicate parties' behaviors to add a new perspective that may change the dynamic of the conflict.

But the TK Model does not address scenarios in which individuals have very negative or destructive relationships, and sabotage, blocking, and exclusion are behavioral norms. Hence, we developed the Baumoel–Trippe (BT) Extension to the TK Model to address the highly negative and often identity‐based conflicts that are often found in the world of family business. Accordingly, the BT Extension to the TK Model explores conflicts in which the relationships are not merely unimportant or uncooperative, but where they become negative to downright vengeful. There is so much at stake for family business stakeholders that the family relationships may become so adversarial that the very business and family harmony all parties value are at risk. With our extension of the TK Model, we seek to provide insight into how decisions might be made when stakeholders are in highly negative, conflictual relationships.
A new method to estimate catheter length for esophageal multichannel intraluminal impedance monitoring in children
Authors: Mutalib M. , Sintusek P. , Punpanich D. , Thapar N. , Lindley K.
Published: April 2015

Background

Multichannel intraluminal impedance combined with pH (MII‐pH) is the gold standard test for diagnosing gastro‐esophageal reflux disease (GERD). It provides an opportunity to study acid and non‐acid GOR and temporal association between symptoms and reflux. Accurate catheter placement is essential to prevent erroneous recording of reflux events. The aims of our study were to assess the accuracy of our devised method in predicting the catheter length for MII‐pH in children (Great Ormond Street Hospital (GOSH) Table) and to compare the results with Strobel and Monreau methods.

Methods

Retrospective review of all records of infants and children who underwent MII‐pH studies between January to October 2014. Desired catheter position was calculated using Strobel, Monreau and GOSH formulas and compared to X ray position.

Key Results

One hundred and forty‐four children were included; mean age was 5.1 (±4.5) years, 73 males and 71 females. In the whole group, the correlation between desired catheter position and GOSH Table was 0.95, for Strobel was 0.84, and Monreau was 0.85. In the first group (age <3 years), the correlation was: GOSH Table 0.91, Strobel 0.56, and Monreau 0.6; in the second group (3–10 years): GOSH Table 0.78, Strobel 0.82, and Monreau 0.82; the third group (>10 years): GOSH 0.81, Strobel 0.43, and Monreau 0.43.

Conclusions & Inferences

GOSH Table is an accurate method to estimate the insertion length of MII‐pH catheters from nares to a point of approximately two vertebral bodies above the diaphragm in children. Although radiography is required to confirm final catheter position, using GOSH Table will reduce the need for repeated catheter manipulation after initial insertion and will reduce the use of a mathematically complicated formulae
Pronounced gradients of light, photosynthesis and O2 consumption in the tissue of the brown alga Fucus serratus
Authors: Lichtenberg Mads , Kühl Michael
Published: April 2015

Macroalgae live in an ever‐changing light environment affected by wave motion, self‐shading and light‐scattering effects, and on the thallus scale, gradients of light and chemical parameters influence algal photosynthesis. However, the thallus microenvironment and internal gradients remain underexplored.

In this study, microsensors were used to quantify gradients of light, O2 concentration, variable chlorophyll fluorescence, photosynthesis and O2 consumption as a function of irradiance in the cortex and medulla layers of Fucus serratus.

The two cortex layers showed more efficient light utilization compared to the medulla, calculated both from electron transport rates through photosystem II and from photosynthesis–irradiance curves. At moderate irradiance, the upper cortex exhibited onset of photosynthetic saturation, whereas lower thallus layers exhibited net O2 consumption. O2 consumption rates in light varied with depth and irradiance and were more than two‐fold higher than dark respiration.

We show that the thallus microenvironment of F. serratus exhibits a highly stratified balance of production and consumption of O2, and when the frond was held in a fixed position, high incident irradiance levels on the upper cortex did not saturate photosynthesis in the lower thallus layers. We discuss possible photoadaptive responses and consequences for optimizing photosynthetic activity on the basis of vertical differences in light attenuation coefficients.
Lipoprotein receptor–related protein 6 is required for parathyroid hormone–induced Sost suppression
Authors: Li Changjun , Wang Weishan , Xie Liang , Luo Xianghang , Cao Xu , Wan Mei
Published: April 2015

Parathyroid hormone (PTH) suppresses the expression of the bone formation inhibitor sclerostin (Sost) in osteocytes by inducing nuclear accumulation of histone deacetylases (HDACs) to inhibit the myocyte enhancer factor 2 (MEF2)‐dependent Sost bone enhancer. Previous studies revealed that lipoprotein receptor–related protein 6 (LRP6) mediates the intracellular signaling activation and the anabolic bone effect of PTH. Here, we investigated whether LRP6 mediates the inhibitory effect of PTH on Sost using an osteoblast‐specific Lrp6‐knockout (LRP6‐KO) mouse model. An increased level of Sost mRNA expression was detected in femur tissue from LRP6‐KO mice, compared to wild‐type littermates. The number of osteocytes expressing sclerostin protein was also increased in bone tissue of LRP6‐KO littermates, indicating a negative regulatory role of LRP6 on Sost/sclerostin. In wild‐type littermates, intermittent PTH treatment significantly suppressed Sost mRNA expression in bone and the number of sclerostin+ osteocytes, while the effect of PTH was much less significant in LRP6‐KO mice. Additionally, PTH‐induced downregulation of MEF2C and 2D, as well as HDAC changes in osteocytes, were abrogated in LRP6‐KO mice. These data indicate that LRP6 is required for PTH suppression of Sost expression.
Climate fluctuations interact with local demography and resources to predict spatially dynamic adult sex ratios in a megaherbivore
Authors: Manning Jeffrey A. , Medill Sarah A. , McLoughlin Philip D.
Published: April 2015

Adult sex ratio (ASR) is a fundamental concept in population and evolutionary biology, with implications for management and conservation. Although ASR is typically measured at the population‐level, local mate competition points toward spatial variation in ASR within populations, the causes of which remain unclear. Over five breeding seasons (2008–2012), we tracked the life histories and movements of all male and female feral horses known to be alive (n = 721) on Sable Island, Canada, to investigate determinants of spatially explicit ASRs. We show that local demographic traits (density, adult female abundance, and abundance of unpaired males (e.g. floaters, adult bachelors)) operate together with inter‐annual changes in weather to determine asymmetrical ASRs across time and space that deviate from the population‐level mean. While accounting for possible confounding effects of unpaired male movements and weather, we also show that local demographics are best explained by different responses to an environmental gradient (distance to surface water). Our results demonstrate that local demographic traits operate as mechanisms by which environmental gradients and weather can shape spatial variation in ASR within wild populations, which has important implications for predicting how opportunities for sexual selection may follow from changes in resource availability and climate.
Spatial stoichiometry: cross‐ecosystem material flows and their impact on recipient ecosystems and organisms
Authors: Sitters Judith , Atkinson Carla L. , Guelzow Nils , Kelly Patrick , Sullivan Lauren L.
Published: April 2015

Cross‐ecosystem material flows, in the form of inorganic nutrients, detritus and organisms, spatially connect ecosystems and impact food web dynamics. To date research on material flows has focused on the impact of the quantity of these flows and largely ignored their elemental composition, or quality. However, the ratios of elements like carbon, nitrogen and phosphorus can influence the impact material flows have on food web interactions through stoichiometric mismatches between resources and consumers. The type and movement of materials likely vary in their ability to change stoichiometric constraints within the recipient ecosystem and materials may undergo changes in their own stoichiometry during transport. In this literature review we evaluate the importance of cross‐ecosystem material flows within the framework of ecological stoichiometry. We explore how movement in space and time impacts the stoichiometry of material flow, as these transformations are essential to consider when assessing the ability of these flows to impact food web productivity and ecosystem functioning. Our review suggests that stoichiometry of cross‐ecosystem material flows are highly dynamic and undergo changes during transport across the landscape or from human influence. These material flows can impact recipient organisms if they change stoichiometry of the abiotic medium, or provide resources that have a different stoichiometry to in situ resources. They might also alter consumer excretion rates, in turn altering the availability of nutrients in the recipient ecosystem. These alterations in stoichiometric constraints of recipient organisms can have cascading trophic effects and shape food web dynamics. We highlight significant gaps in the literature and suggest new avenues for research that explore how cross‐ecosystem material flows impact recipient ecosystems when considering differences in stoichiometric quality, their movement through the landscape and across ecosystem boundaries, and the nutritional constraints of the recipient organisms.
Plant‐based oral delivery of β‐glucocerebrosidase as an enzyme replacement therapy for Gaucher's disease
Authors: Shaaltiel Yoseph , Gingis–Velitski Svetlana , Tzaban Salit , Fiks Nadia , Tekoah Yoram , Aviezer David
Published: April 2015

Gaucher's disease (GD), a lysosomal storage disorder caused by mutations in the gene encoding glucocerebrosidase (GCD), is currently treated by enzyme replacement therapy (ERT) using recombinant GCD that is administered intravenously every 2 weeks. However, intravenous administration includes discomfort or pain and might cause local and systemic infections that may lead to low patient compliance. An orally administered drug has the potential to alleviate these problems. In this study, we describe the potential use of plant cells as a vehicle for the oral delivery of recombinant human GCD (prGCD) expressed in carrot cells. The in vitro results demonstrate that the plant cells protect the recombinant protein in the gastric fluids and may enable absorption into the blood. Feeding experiments, with rat and pig as model animals, using carrot cells containing prGCD, show that active recombinant prGCD was found in the digestive tract and blood system and reached both, liver and spleen, the target organs in GD. These results demonstrate that the oral administration of proteins encapsulated in plant cells is feasible. Specifically, carrot cells containing recombinant human prGCD can be used as an oral delivery system and are a feasible alternative to intravenous administration of ERT for GD.
Cyst‐theca relationships and phylogenetic positions of Peridiniales (Dinophyceae) with two anterior intercalary plates, with description of Archaeperidinium bailongense sp. nov. and Protoperidinium fuzhouense sp. nov
Authors: Liu Tingting , Mertens Kenneth Neil , Ribeiro Sofia , Ellegaard Marianne , Matsuoka Kazumi , Gu Haifeng
Published: April 2015

Protoperidinium species with two anterior intercalary plates were originally classified by Jörgensen in the subgenus Archaeperidinium and assigned to the sections Excentrica, Avellana and Archaeperidinium by Taylor, on the basis of the relative size of anterior intercalary plates and the extent of cingulum displacement. Phylogenetic relationships among these three sections have not been fully explored. Recently, Archaeperidinium was reinstated as a genus, but several species fitting the emended description have not been transferred formally as molecular data were not available. In the present study we examined the cyst‐theca relationship of seven species with two anterior intercalary plates: four species assigned to Protoperidinium and three to Archaeperidinium, from the China Sea. Partial large subunit ribosomal DNA sequences were obtained from these seven species by single‐cell polymerase chain reaction, and for the cyst of Protoperidinium stellatum from France. Two new species, Archaeperidinium bailongense and Protoperidinium fuzhouense, were described based on both theca and cyst morphology, and the cyst‐theca relationships of A. constrictum and P. abei var. rotunda were established for the first time. Maximum‐likelihood and Bayesian inference analyses revealed that P. fuzhouense was nested within the Protoperidinium sensu stricto clade despite having only six postcingular plates, and sections Excentrica, Avellana and the genus Archaeperidinium were all monophyletic. Our results suggest that the presence/absence of a sulcal fin and antapical horns and the displacement of the cingulum are the most stable characteristics of the motile stages within the respective clades.
Cyst‐theca relationship of a new dinoflagellate with a spiny round brown cyst, Protoperidinium lewisiae sp. nov., and its comparison to the cyst of Oblea acanthocysta
Authors: Mertens Kenneth Neil , Takano Yoshihito , Gu Haifeng , Yamaguchi Aika , Pospelova Vera , Ellegaard Marianne , Matsuoka Kazumi
Published: April 2015

Round spiny brown cysts with apiculocavate processes were isolated from sediments of Lake Saroma, Japan, Changle Harbor, East China Sea, China, Jinzhou Harbor, Bohai Sea, China, and San Pedro Harbor, California, USA. Superficially similar round spiny brown cysts of the species, Oblea acanthocysta were, for comparison, restudied through light microscopy and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and by sequencing of small subunit (SSU) and large subunit (LSU) rDNA obtained through a single cyst from Lake Saroma. These morphological measurements and SEM observations showed that the new cysts can be discriminated from O. acanthocysta by the archeopyle, number of processes, shape of process bases and its apiculocavate processes. Based on LSU sequences, the most closely related species was Protoperidinium monovelum, for which no cyst stage has been described so far. However, the thecal morphology of the specimens found in this study differed from P. monovelum in details of the sulcal plates and shape of apical pore and 2a plate. We therefore describe Protoperidinium lewisiae sp. nov., which can be found in estuarine subtropical to temperate waters of the Pacific Ocean.
Managing contingency in semiarid grassland restoration through repeated planting
Authors: Wilson Scott D.
Published: April 2015

The success of grassland restoration in semiarid regions is contingent on good establishment years. Here it is asked whether success rate can be increased by planting repeatedly among years, or by consistently using high planting densities. I planted seeds of a dominant native perennial grass, Elymus lanceolatus, at five densities (range: 30–3000 seeds/m2) in each of 3 years. Elymus seedling emergence and cover increased significantly with planting density. Cover after three growing seasons was maximized (i.e. not significantly different from the greatest cover) at planting densities of 300–600 seeds/m2. On the other hand, low germination in a dry warm year resulted in density having no effect on cover 3 years later. Two favorable planting years showed trajectories to native dominance after three growing seasons. In contrast, one unfavorable planting year showed a trajectory of non‐native dominance. Emergence was increased modestly by both herbivore and interspecific neighbor removal. Overall, the most economical process for ensuring success (assuming that seed costs are high and planting and site‐preparation costs are low) may be to plant at moderate density (300–600 seeds/m2) in repeated years until a favorable year is encountered.
What Are the Drivers of Fiscal Performance Gaps between Anglophone and Francophone Africa? A Blinder–Oaxaca Decomposition
Authors: Sarr Babacar
Published: April 2015

In this paper, we make use of the Blinder–Oaxaca decomposition to examine how the quality of budget institutions affects fiscal performance – primary balance and public debt – in sub‐Saharan Africa. To organise our approach, we categorise sub‐Saharan Africa countries according to the two main systems of budgetary institutions: the English‐based system and the French‐based system. The quality of budget institutions is measured through five criteria: centralisation, comprehensiveness, fiscal and procedural rules, sustainability and credibility, and transparency.

Our findings show that, on average, Anglophone Africa countries have better budgetary institutions than their Francophone counterparts, and this difference is the main determinant of the fiscal performance gaps between the two groups. These performance gaps are mostly due to the characteristics effect, meaning that the relative poor fiscal performance of Francophone countries is not due to the French‐based system itself but rather to the environment in which it operates. The budget process and procedures in these countries are relatively less comprehensive, sustainable and transparent and that adversely affects their fiscal performance.
Constipation in pregnancy
Authors: Verghese Tina Sara , Futaba Kaori , Latthe Pallavi
Published: April 2015

Key content

Constipation affects up to 38% of pregnancies.

Rising progesterone levels in pregnancy contribute to slow gut motility.

The standard clinical measures of chronic constipation are the Rome III criteria, which are based on frequency and difficulty in the passage of stool.

Secondary constipation is due to primary disease of the colon (anal fissure, stricture and neoplasia), metabolic disturbances (hypothyroidism and hypercalcaemia) and neurological disorders.

Severe constipation may result in faecal impaction, retention of urine, pain or abdominal discomfort, rectal bleeding and/or rectal prolapse.

A treatment algorithm using laxatives that are effective, safe and non‐teratogenic will be discussed.

Learning objectives

To understand the prevalence and pathophysiology of this condition in pregnancy.

To understand the management of constipation in pregnancy.

Ethical issues

The studies on safety of laxatives in pregnancy have small sample sizes although they have not shown any effect on congenital malformations.

When to involve a gastroenterologist or a colorectal surgeon in the care of a woman with constipation in pregnancy.
High diagnostic accuracy of the Sysmex XT‐2000iV delta total nucleated cells on effusions for feline infectious peritonitis
Authors: Giordano Alessia , Stranieri Angelica , Rossi Gabriele , Paltrinieri Saverio
Published: April 2015

Background

The ΔWBC (the ratio between DIFF and BASO counts of the Sysmex XT‐2000iV), hereafter defined as ΔTNC (total nucleated cells), is high in effusions due to feline infectious peritonitis (FIP), as cells are entrapped in fibrin clots formed in the BASO reagent. Similar clots form in the Rivalta's test, a method with high diagnostic accuracy for FIP.

Objectives

The objective of this study was to determine the diagnostic accuracy for FIP and the optimal cutoff of ΔTNC.

Methods

After a retrospective search of our database, DIFF and BASO counts, and the ΔTNC from cats with and without FIP were compared to each other. Sensitivity, specificity, and positive and negative likelihood ratios (LR+, LR−) were calculated. A ROC curve was designed to determine the cutoff for best sensitivity and specificity.

Results

Effusions from 20 FIP and 31 non‐FIP cats were analyzed. The ΔTNC was higher (P < .001), and BASO and DIFF counts were lower (P < .001 and P < .05) in FIP than in non‐FIP cats. Only 2 FIP cats with atypical effusions had a ΔTNC < 3.0. The cutoff identified by the ROC curve (area under curve: 0.94; P < .001) was 1.7 (Sensitivity = 90.0%; Specificity = 93.53%; LR+ = 13.9; LR− = 0.1). A ΔTNC > 2.5 had 100% specificity.

Conclusions

The ΔTNC has a high diagnostic accuracy for FIP‐related effusions by providing an estimate of precipitable proteins, as the Rivalta's test, in addition to the cell count. As fibrin clots result in false lower BASO counts, the ΔTNC is preferable to the WBC count generated by the BASO channel alone in suspected FIP effusions.
Simultaneous passenger lymphocyte syndrome and multiple alloimmunization against donor's blood group antigens after liver transplantation
Authors: Monfort M. , Honoré P. , Gothot A. , Gérard C.
Published: April 2015

Background

If ‘passenger lymphocyte syndrome’ (PLS) is a well‐recognized complication in ABO‐mismatched solid organ transplantation, the coexistence of this reaction with recipient's alloimmunization against multiple antigens expressed on the residual red blood cells in the graft is less common and unpredictable.

Methods

The receiver of an ABO minor‐mismatch liver graft from a cadaveric donor developed haemolytic anaemia within 2 weeks after transplantation. The organ donor was of blood group O D+C+c+E+e+ K+k+ Le(a+b‐) and the recipient, A1 D‐C‐c+E‐e+ K‐k+ Le(a‐b‐).

The donor and recipient were both tested for irregular antibodies. Elution was performed on the recipient's red blood cells (RBCs).

Results

None of the recipient and donor had irregular alloantibodies at the time of transplantation. On day 10, anti‐A antibodies were detected in the recipient's serum and eluted from his RBCs. At the same time, the patient developed multiple alloantibodies: anti‐D, anti‐C, anti‐E, anti‐K and anti‐Lea against the donor's erythrocyte antigens.

Conclusion

Although serological analysis and haemolytic parameters confirmed the diagnosis of PLS which required transfusion support, no sign of graft damage due to recipient's immune reaction was detected. This case illustrates the required follow‐up of the recipient after transplantation.
Clinical practice of platelet transfusions in haemato‐oncology
Authors: Kreuger A. L. , Middelburg R. A. , Zwaginga J. J. , van der Bom J. G. , Kerkhoffs J.‐L. H.
Published: April 2015

Platelets are prophylactically transfused to patients receiving myeloablative chemotherapy. The trigger can be adapted if a patient has risk factors for bleeding. We performed an international survey to quantify differences in transfusion policies. While platelet counts are most important, bleeding, fever, use of anticoagulants and invasive procedures also determine transfusion strategies. The largest variation of triggers was observed for lumbar punctures and removal of central venous catheters.
ULTRASONOGRAPHIC FEATURES OF CANINE GASTROINTESTINAL STROMAL TUMORS COMPARED TO OTHER GASTROINTESTINAL SPINDLE CELL TUMORS
Authors: Hobbs Joshua , Sutherland‐Smith James , Penninck Dominique , Jennings Samuel , Barber Lisa , Barton Bruce
Published: April 2015

Canine gastrointestinal stromal tumors (GISTs) are a recent subtype of gastrointestinal spindle cell tumor recognized with the increasing use of immunohistochemistry. To our knowledge, no imaging features have been described in immunistochemically confirmed canine GISTs. The objective of this retrospective, cross‐sectional study was to describe ultrasonographic features of canine GISTs compared with other spindle cell tumors. Thirty‐seven dogs with an ultrasonographically visible gastrointestinal mass and a histopathologic diagnosis of spindle cell neoplasia were examined. Immunohistochemistry staining was performed for retrieved tissue samples to further differentiate the tumor type and each sample was interpreted by a single veterinary pathologist. Ultrasonographic features recorded examined included mass echogenicity, homogeneity, presence of cavitation, layer of origin, bowel wall symmetry, and loss of wall layering, location, size, vascularity, and evidence of perforation or ulceration. Tumor types included 19 GISTs, eight leiomyosarcomas, six leiomyomas, and four nonspecified sarcomas. Gastrointestinal stromal tumors were significantly more likely to be associated (P< 0.03) with abdominal effusion than other tumor types. There was overlap between the anatomical locations of all tumors types with the exception of the cecum where all eight tumors identified were GISTs. Besides location, there were no unique ultrasound features of GISTs that would allow distinction from other gastrointestinal spindle cell tumors. Similar to previous studies, GISTs appeared to be the most common spindle cell tumor associated with the cecum in our sample of dogs. The high frequency of abdominal effusion with GIST's was of unknown etiology could possibly have been due to septic peritonitis.
Mechanisms underlying presynaptic Ca2+ transient and vesicular glutamate release at a CNS nerve terminal during in vitro ischaemia
Authors: Lee Seul Yi , Kim Jun Hee
Published: April 2015

Key points

Here we demonstrate presynaptic responses and mechanisms of increased vesicular glutamate release during in vitro ischaemia in the calyx of Held terminal, an experimentally accessible presynaptic terminal in the CNS.

The ischaemia‐induced increase in presynaptic Ca2+ was mediated by both Ca2+ influx and Ca2+‐induced Ca2+ release from intracellular stores.

The reverse operation of the plasma membrane Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) plays a key role in Ca2+ influx for triggering Ca2+ release from intracellular stores at presynaptic terminals during in vitro ischaemia.

Ca2+ uptake via NCX underlies the ischaemia‐induced Ca2+ rise and the consequent increase in vesicular glutamate release from presynaptic terminals in the early phase of brain ischaemia.

An early consequence of brain ischaemia is an increase in vesicular glutamate release from presynaptic terminals. However, the mechanisms of this increased glutamate release are not fully understood. Here we studied presynaptic responses and mechanisms of increased glutamate release during in vitro ischaemia, using pre‐ and postsynaptic whole‐cell recordings and presynaptic Ca2+ imaging at the calyx of Held synapse in rat brainstem slices. Consistent with results from other brain regions, in vitro ischaemia significantly increased the frequency of spontaneous excitatory postsynaptic currents (sEPSCs) without affecting their amplitude, suggesting that ischaemia enhances vesicular glutamate release from presynaptic terminals. We found that ischaemia‐induced vesicular glutamate release was dependent on a rise in basal Ca2+ at presynaptic terminals, which resulted from extracellular Ca2+ influx and Ca2+ release from intracellular stores. During early ischaemia, increased Ca2+ influx into presynaptic terminals was due to reverse operation of the plasma membrane Na+/Ca2+ exchanger (NCX) rather than presynaptic depolarization or voltage‐activated Ca2+ currents. KB‐R7943, an inhibitor of NCX, prevented the ischaemia‐induced increases in presynaptic Ca2+ and vesicular glutamate release. In addition, the removal of extracellular Na+ completely inhibited the ischaemia‐induced Ca2+ rise. It therefore appears that a link between Na+ accumulation and Ca2+ uptake via NCX underlies the ischaemia‐induced Ca2+ rise and the consequent increase in vesicular glutamate release from presynaptic terminals in the early phase of brain ischaemia.
Oxidation Resistance of Gas Turbine Combustion Materials
Authors: Rothman M. F.
Published: April 2015

The oxidation behavior of five different gas turbine combustor alloy materials has been characterized in both combustion burner rig environments and in flowing air. The alloys are compared in terms of resistance to weight loss, or thinning, and also in terms of resistance to subsurface internal attack. Burner rig exposures were performed at 1095°C (2000°F) for 100, 200 and 300 hours under combustion conditions involving an air to fuel ratio of about 50:1. Results are also presented for similar exposures where the burner rig air lines were unintentionally plugged-up, yielding a low air:fuel ratio and severe carbon deposition on the samples. In addition to the burner rig studies, results are presented for 1008 hour flowing-air oxidation exposures over the temperature range from 980°C (1800°F) to 1205°C (2200°F).
Gas Turbine Retrofit With Modern Control Systems
Authors: McMullen J. C.
Published: April 2015

The rapid advances in technology of control systems precipitated by the development of microprocessors has made retrofit of older type controls an attractive alternative for many gas turbine owners. High reliability, enhanced operator interface, and optimized maintenance planning are some of the tangible benefits that can accrue from these retrofits. The design and features of the new equipment are discussed, and some of the complexities of changing out control systems and their associated instrumentation in field units are reviewed.
A Low-Cost Undergraduate Test Rig for Heat Transfer in Turbine Blade Cooling
Authors: Kenkare A. S. , Kilner T. M.
Published: April 2015

Although turbine blade cooling has consistently led to the use of higher turbine inlet temperatures leading to improved cycle efficiencies, very little of this technology has found its way into undergraduate laboratory work. The cost of modern blade heat transfer research rigs virtually rules out the possibility of introducing this topic in undergraduate teaching laboratories of Universities or Polytechnics in the UK operating within tight budgetary constraints.

However, the underlying principles of blade cooling heat transfer may be demonstrated quite easily by using inlet temperatures about half those existing in the actual turbine and the paper describes the design and development of a low-cost blade cooling heat transfer rig. Test results obtained on the ‘model’ rig enable an appreciation of the problems encountered in turbine blade cooling to be made and may serve as a basis for the design and development of more complicated blade cooling systems.
Ceramic Design Methodology and the AGT101
Authors: Boyd G. L. , Carruthers W. D. , Evershed R. J. , Kidwell J. R.
Published: April 2015

The Garrett/Ford Advanced Gas Turbine (AGT101) technology project has made significant progress in the areas of ceramic component design, analysis, and test evaluation using an iterative approach. Design stress limits are being defined for state-of-the-art fine ceramics with good correlation between analytical predictions and empirical results.

Recent tests in both rigs and engines are demonstrating the feasibility of high temperature/strength ceramic materials in the gas turbine environment. Component transient stress fields are being defined providing the data base for lower stress/longer life component design.

Thermally induced transient stresses to 220 MPa (32 ksi) in reaction bonded silicon nitride (RBSN), 310 MPa (45 ksi) in sintered alpha silicon carbide (SASC), and 345 MPa (50 ksi) in sintered silicon nitride (SSN) have been successfully demonstrated in AGT101 component screening and qualification test rigs.
Fabrication Effects Upon the Structure and Properties of Solid Solution Strengthened High Temperature Alloys
Authors: Cadden C. H. , Tawancy H. M.
Published: April 2015

Samples from production sheets of several solid-solution strengthened high temperature alloys were strained by 10 percent and 20 percent and then heat treated at 1040°C (1900°F) and 1120°C (2050°F) to simulate conditions experienced during the manufacture of hardware items. The alloys used in the study were HASTELLOY® alloy X, HAYNES® alloy No. 230, HAYNES alloy No. 188 and INCONEL® alloy 617. Mechanical properties were measured and compared to those of solution annealed material. The microstructure associated with each fabrication cycle was characterized based upon optical microscopy. The variations observed are reported herein.
Dynamic Analysis of Complex Composite Rotor Systems With Substructure Transfer Matrix Method
Authors: Litang Yan
Published: April 2015

A substructure transfer matrix method for the dynamic analysis of multi-Rotor systems and complex composite systems is presented. When calculating, the rotor system should be decomposed into several single rotor shafts (substructures). Corresponding unknown external loads and deflections are applied to the separated surfaces, rigid support sections and ball joint sections respectively to replace the original connections. According to the connective and boundary conditions of the whole rotor system, a system of equations is established, from which the frequency equation results. The calculating formulas of vibration modes and of unbalanced response will be easily formed by linear combination method. All computations are performed with the transfer matrix method. This method is intelligible, readily programmed and much simpler than the current transfer matrix method and modal synthesis method.
Vacuum Plasma Spray Turbine Bucket Coating Development
Authors: Wood J. H. , Schilke P. W. , Collins M. F.
Published: April 2015

This paper describes the vacuum plasma spray (VPS) turbine bucket coating development work conducted by the General Electric Company, Gas Turbine Division. The potential for corrosion in gas turbine buckets is described, and examples of the different types of hot corrosion are shown. Development of the first VPS coating (PLASMAGUARD* GT-29) is discussed, and corrosion laboratory burner test and field test results are presented. Coating development work aimed at low-temperature hot-corrosion conditions is also summarized. Laboratory test results on a new PLASMAGUARD coating (GT-43) developed for low-temperature hot corrosion are presented. The new General Electric Gas Turbine Division VPS coating manufacturing facility used to apply these coatings is also described.
Blade Vibration on Centrifugal Compressors: Fundamental Considerations and Initial Measurements
Authors: Haupt U. , Bammert K. , Rautenberg M.
Published: April 2015

Blade vibration has to be considered in the design of high pressure ratio / high mass flow centrifugal compressors with increasing rotational speed values due to the reduced blade thickness. Results of a theoretical and experimental investigation concerning this problem are described. FE calculations of the stress distribution on the blade for the lower natural frequencies and various vibration tests at rest were carried out to investigate resonance and damping effects. This preparatory work was aimed at determining blade vibration behavior and acquiring fundamental experience for measurements on compressors in operation.

Results of blade vibration measurements on compressors with a vaneless diffuser carried out with semiconductor strain gages and an 8-channel telemetry system are presented for constant rotational speed and for constant throttle valve position, and indicate considerable blade excitation during stall effects. Simultaneous flow measurements complete the investigation to determine the causes of blade vibration. For example, investigations were made of the extent of blade resonance excitation due to non-uniformity of the flow downstream of the impeller or due to flow disturbances caused by carrier blades for bearings in the compressor inlet and simulated by spoilers.
Frequency Distribution of Blades in Turboengines and Vibration Characteristics of Mistuned Blades
Authors: Liao Ming-Fu , Shen Da-Kuan
Published: April 2015

In this paper, the probability distribution of blade frequencies is given as a Gaussian distribution approximately. The computations for comparing and simulating the effects of blade mistune on blade-disk vibration are made, which show that in general cases, blade mistune will cause the blade vibration amplitude to increase 20–30%. If the frequency difference of the blades on one stage is within ± 2%, the effect of mistune on the blade vibration will not be obvious. It is suggested that the blades can be divided into groups for mounting them and the frequency difference in each group not exceeds a certain range, for example, ± 2%.
An Experimental Investigation on the Mechanism of Stall Margin Improvement of Casing Treatment
Authors: Ping Zhuang , Ya-Jun Lu , Bao-Ju Li , Yu-Chen Feng
Published: April 2015

A single-rotor axial flow compressor and a two-dimensional cascade have been tested with and without casing treatment. A three-dimensional flow mechanism of the onset of rotating stall is suggested. It gives good reason to explain the mechanism of stall-margin improvement of casing treatment.
A Survey of Accelerated Vibratory Fatigue Test Method of Aero-Engine Compressor Blading
Authors: Wu Tie-Ying , Lu Qi-Xin
Published: April 2015

In this paper, a new accelerated fatigue test (AFT) method based on Miner’s Law is advanced, which is used for vibratory fatigue test of aero-engine compressor blading. By using this method, a sample life distribution can be obtained and it saves time about 50–60%. This approach is validated by experiments and the test data are compared by two statistical methods — namely, F-test and t-test.
The Local Analytic Numerical Method for the Double Vortex Combustor Flow
Authors: He J. , Zhang B. Q.
Published: April 2015

A new hyperbolic function discretization equation for two dimensional Navier-Stokes equation in the stream function vorticity from is derived. The basic idea of this method is to integrat the total flux of the general variable ϕ in the differential equations, then incorporate the local analytic solutions in hyperbolic function for the one-dimensional linearized transport equation. The hyperbolic discretization (HD) scheme can more accurately represent the conservation and transport properties of the governing equation. The method is tested in a range of Reynolds number (Re=100~2000) using the viscous incompressible flow in a square cavity. It is proved that the HD scheme is stable for moderately high Reynolds number and accurate even for coarse grids. After some proper extension, the method is applied to predict the flow field in a new type combustor with air blast double-vortex and obtained some useful results.
Numerical Prediction of Three-Dimensional Flows in a Double-Recirculating Combustor
Authors: Wang Y. , Zhang B. Q.
Published: April 2015

The SIMPLE (for Semi-Implicit Method for Pressure-Linked Equations) is successfully used in predicting three-dimensional flows in a double-recirculating combustor. Effects of different boundary conditions and turbulence models on the flow are examined. Compared with experiment results, the numerical predictions are satisfactory.
Test and Evaluation of Shale Derived Jet Fuel by the United States Air Force
Authors: Delaney C. L.
Published: April 2015

In June 1980, the United States Congress passed the Energy Security Act which provided for the formation of the United States Synthetic Fuels Corporation and amended the Defense Production Act of 1950 to provide for synthetic fuels for the Department of Defense (DOD). A subsequent law, P.L., 96-304, appropriated up to $20 billion for financial incentives to foster a national synthetic fuel industry. The initial synthetic fuel project funded under the Energy Security Act is the Unocal Parachute Creek Project in Colorado with an expected shale oil production of 10,000 bbls/day. The Defense Fuel Supply Center (DFSC) contracted with Gary Energy Refining Company, Fruita, Colorado to provide approximately 5000 bbls/day of shale JP-4 for the United States Air Force (USAF) using crude from the Parachute Creek project, with initial deliveries to begin in 1985.

The USAF immediately accelerated preparations for the eventual operational use of shale derived fuels for turbine engine aircraft. An extensive test and evaluation program was initiated consisting of aviation turbine fuel processing, fuel characterization, aircraft component and subsystem testing, engine and flight testing.

This paper describes the testing program that was accomplished, the significant results which were determined and the quality assurance program that is being implemented to assure that the shale fuel meets the requirements of JP-4, the standard USAF jet fuel.
Study on Two-Phase Fuel Distributions in High Speed Hot Transverse Air Stream
Authors: Mao-Lin Yang , Shan-Jian Gu , Xiang-Yi Li
Published: April 2015

It was found that fuel distribution in a hot high speed transverse air stream differed greatly from that in a cold stream. In a hot air stream there exist two-phase fuel distributions, hence, two mass center lines extending downstream. Experimental results of fuel distributions are presented. By using the model of trajectory with diffusion and also considering the fuel evaporation, a semi-empirical method to predict two-phase fuel distributions has been developed.