bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Formation of Trihalomethanes in Soil and Groundwater by the Release of Sodium Hypochlorite
Authors: Jackman Thomas A. , Hughes Carrie L.
Published: November 2009

Trihalomethanes (THMs) are formed by the reaction of reactive chlorine species, such as hypochlorous acid, with naturally occurring organic matter. THMs are also found in soil and groundwater at sites where releases of organic solvents have occurred and are often ascribed to the biological degradation chlorinated solvents. This research was prompted by the discovery of THMs in groundwater at a site with a reported discharge of sodium hypochlorite. This paper reports the formation of THMs in soil and water resulting from the reaction of sodium hypochlorite with soil. Soil samples were reacted with dilute bleach solutions (sodium hypochlorite) and the solution collected for analysis by gas chromatography/mass spectrometry. All THMs were detected in test samples after treatment. Concentrations of chloroform up to 2450 µg/L in aqueous extracts were detected compared to 40 µg/L in bleach and 1 µg/L in blank samples.
Emissions of 1,2‐Dichloroethane from Holiday Decorations as a Source of Indoor Air Contamination
Authors: Doucette W.J. , Hall A.J. , Gorder K.A.
Published: November 2009

Groundwater contamination associated with an industrial facility in Utah has led to concerns about potential vapor intrusion into residences outside the facility boundary. Trichloroethylene (TCE) is the main contaminant of concern with 1,2‐dichloroethane (1,2‐DCA) present in some areas. An air‐monitoring program implemented to detect vapor intrusion of these compounds found 1,2‐DCA in homes outside areas of groundwater contamination, suggesting indoor sources in these cases. Investigative indoor air and product sampling were conducted to isolate consumer products emitting 1,2‐DCA and to quantify the emission rates of identified products. The combination of room‐by‐room air sampling and emission measurements was successfully used to identify molded plastic holiday ornaments, having measured emission rates as high as 0.3 µg 1,2‐DCA/min. Subsequent testing of seven comparable retail items found similar 1,2‐DCA emissions. Screening‐level calculations show that the measured emission rates of 1,2‐DCA from these items can lead to indoor concentrations high enough to be of regulatory concern (0.094 to 9.4 µg/m3 based on 10–6 to 10–4 cancer risk levels).
Dechlorinating and Iron Reducing Bacteria Distribution in a TCE‐Contaminated Aquifer
Authors: Zaa Carmen Lourdes Yupanqui , McLean Joan E. , Dupont R. Ryan , Norton Jeanette M. , Sorensen Darwin L.
Published: November 2009

Dehalorespiration bioremediation has been considered for chlorinated compound removal from two trichloroethene contaminated groundwater plumes in the OU 5 area of Hill Air Force Base, Utah. The distributions and population densities of the 16S rRNA genes of Bacteria, Dehalococcoides ethenogenes, Desulfuromonas michiganensis, Geobacter spp. and Rhodoferax ferrireducens‐like bacteria, as well as the functional genes trichloroethene reductive dehalogenase (tceA) and vinyl chloride reductase (vcrA) were determined in contaminated aquifer material samples. The influence of aquifer physical and chemical properties, including iron availability, on these distributions was evaluated. Twenty aquifer cores were collected. DNA was extracted and analyzed using real‐time quantitative polymerase chain reaction (RT‐qPCR) to quantify the gene densities. Dehalococcoides population densities were low and unevenly distributed. D. michiganensis was found in 12 cores while Geobacter spp. were found in 8 cores. Rhodoferax ferrireducens‐like bacteria were widely distributed. The vcrA gene distribution was relatively uniform and broad but the tceA gene was detectable in only 2 cores. Gene distribution was not related to core clusters derived from physical/chemical characteristics.
Influence of Materials on Teacher Adoption of Abstinence‐Only‐ Until‐Marriage Programs
Authors: Wilson Kelly L. , Wiley David C.
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: Given the growing scientific evidence against abstinence‐only‐until‐marriage education, health educators are supporting an evidence‐based approach to teaching sexuality education. However, there is still an abundance of federal support and funding streams allocated to sustain abstinence‐only programs. This study assessed indicators that influence the adoption of abstinence‐only‐until‐marriage education as well as school teachers' likelihood of adopting such programs.

METHODS: Predictors included relative advantage, compatibility, complexity, and observability and were assessed with a self‐administered, validated questionnaire. Additional questions were asked related to demographics, professional history, and abstinence‐only‐until‐marriage education policies and funding. The relationships were tested with multiple regression analysis.

RESULTS: A trend became apparent in which most teachers would allow a state‐ or federally funded program to be offered and presented in their schools, but most did not know if their school received funding to support abstinence‐only‐until‐marriage education. Attendance at religious services, complexity of abstinence‐only‐until‐marriage programs, and abstinence‐only‐until‐marriage curriculum emerged as important predictors of the likelihood to adopt abstinence education.

CONCLUSIONS: Trends in political agendas, policy development, and state and federal funding have supported abstinence‐only‐until‐marriage education programs. In order to ensure an understanding about the inclusion of sexuality education in the classroom, insight into the teacher's role in the integration of sexuality education in the classroom is important.
Improving the Mental Health, Healthy Lifestyle Choices, and Physical Health of Hispanic Adolescents: A Randomized Controlled Pilot Study
Authors: Melnyk Bernadette M. , Jacobson Diana , Kelly Stephanie , O'Haver Judith , Small Leigh , Mays Mary Z.
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: Obesity and mental health disorders are 2 major public health problems in American adolescents, with prevalence even higher in Hispanic teens. Despite the rapidly increasing incidence and adverse health outcomes associated with overweight and mental health problems, very few intervention studies have been conducted with adolescents to improve both their healthy lifestyles and mental health outcomes. Even fewer studies have been conducted with Hispanic youth. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the preliminary efficacy of the COPE (Creating Opportunities for Personal Empowerment) Healthy Lifestyles TEEN (Thinking, Emotions, Exercise, and Nutrition) program, a manualized educational and cognitive behavioral skills‐building program, on Hispanic adolescents' healthy lifestyle choices as well as mental and physical health outcomes.

METHODS: A cluster randomized controlled pilot study was conducted with 19 Hispanic adolescents enrolled in 2 health classes in a southwestern high school. One class received COPE and the other received an attention control program.

RESULTS: Adolescents in the COPE program increased their healthy lifestyle choices and reported a decrease in depressive and anxiety symptoms from baseline to postintervention follow‐up. A subset of 7 overweight adolescents in the COPE program had a decrease in triglycerides and an increase in high‐density lipoproteins. In addition, these overweight adolescents reported increases in healthy lifestyle beliefs and nutrition knowledge along with a decrease in depressive symptoms.

CONCLUSION: The COPE TEEN program is a promising school‐based strategy for improving both physical and mental health outcomes in adolescents.
Body Weight Perception, Unhealthy Weight Control Behaviors, and Suicidal Ideation Among Korean Adolescents
Authors: Kim Dong‐Sik , Cho Youngtae , Cho Sung‐Il , Lim In‐Sook
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: This study examined the mediating function of body weight perception (BWP) in the relation between body mass index (BMI) and unhealthy weight control behaviors (UWCBs; eg, fasting, using diet pills, or laxatives), and between BMI and suicidal ideation. It also explored the correlation between exposure to multiple UWCBs and suicidal ideation among Korean adolescents.

METHODS: Data on BMI, BWP, UWCBs, and suicidal ideation were obtained from the 2006 Korean Youth Risk Behavior Web‐based Survey, a school‐based survey conducted on a nationally representative sample of students in grades 7–12 (36,463 boys and 33,433 girls). Data were analyzed using bivariate and multivariate logistic regression.

RESULTS: BMI was significantly associated with both UWCB and suicidal ideation among boys and girls, even after controlling for covariates. However, the significance and magnitude of the association between BMI and UWCB were considerably attenuated when BWP was added to the model. When BWP was included, the association between overweight BMI status and suicidal ideation became nonsignificant in both sexes, whereas the association between underweight BMI status and suicidal ideation remained significant among boys. Adolescent boys and girls engaging in multiple UWCBs were at greater risk for experiencing suicidal thoughts.

CONCLUSIONS: This study suggests that BWP represents a potential mediator between BMI and UWCB, and between BMI and suicidal ideation among both boys and girls. Thus, school programs addressing issues related to BWP should be developed and targeted at adolescents to reduce the potential risks for both UWCB and suicidal behavior.
Inventory Versus Checklist Approach to Assess Middle School à la Carte Food Availability*
Authors: Hearst Mary O. , Lytle Leslie A. , Pasch Keryn E. , Heitzler Carrie D.
Published: November 2009

BACKGROUND: The purpose of this research is to evaluate 2 methods of assessing foods available on school à la carte lines for schools' ability to assess the proportion of foods that are healthful options.

METHODS: This observational study used data collected at 38 middle schools, October 2006‐May 2007. An inventory method was used to collect detailed information of items available on each school's à la carte line, followed by a simplified checklist form. Using the detailed inventory method, the proportion of items meeting the Institute of Medicine's (IOM) nutrition standards for foods available at each school was calculated. From the checklists, we calculated the proportion of categories representing more healthful foods. Schools were independently ranked according to the percentage of items meeting the IOM criteria, (inventory data) and the percentage of food categories considered “healthy” (checklist data). Wilcoxon rank sum test was used to compare school rankings.

RESULTS: The inventory and checklist approaches showed a good level of agreement when both methods were independently used to rank the level of healthy foods available on à la carte (Wilcoxon rank sum = 32.5, p = .62).

CONCLUSION: For purposes of ranking schools along a continuum of “healthfulness of foods on à la carte lines,” especially when resources are limited, a checklist approach appears to be satisfactory. This method may also be useful to school stakeholders needing an inexpensive à la carte assessment tool.
Incentives for and Protection of Cultural Expression: Art, Trade and Geographical Indications
Authors: Kamperman Sanders Anselm
Published: November 2009

After the adoption of the Universal Declaration of Cultural Diversity, the interaction between the protection of traditional cultural expressions (TCEs) and geographical indicators (GIs) is an interesting one. The capacity of a geographical indication of origin to create a global market with local control over brand, quality and methods of production seems to make it immensely suitable for preservation of cultural diversity. Since the Agreement on Trade‐Related Aspects of Intellectual Property Rights does not limit the potential causes of action for the unauthorized use of GIs, the tort of misappropriation may be applied in relation to TCEs. In order to reconcile intellectual property rights with non‐Western belief systems, application of the tort of misappropriation, unjust enrichment and the remedy of restitution may make enforcement of GIs in relation to TCEs more palatable than other forms of protection.
Experiences with advance care planning: nurses’ perspective
Authors: Jeong Sarah Yeun‐Sim , Higgins Isabel , McMillan Margaret
Published: November 2009

jeong s.y.‐s., higgins i. & mcmillan m. (2011) Experiences with advance care planning: nurses’ perspective. International Journal of Older People Nursing 6, 165–175

doi: 10.1111/j.1748‐3743.2009.00200.x

Aims and objectives.  The aim of this paper is to report the findings of a case study that explored the phenomenon of advanced care planning and advance care directives in residential care settings in Australia. In particular, this paper focuses on the experiences of Registered Nurses with advanced care planning and advance care directives.

Background.  Nurses need to know how to engage with residents and families when they invest time and effort on advanced care planning and documentation of advance care directives.

Methods.  A case‐study design involving participant observation, field note recording, semi structured interviews and document analysis was used. Data were collected over 7 months. Data analysis involved thematic content analysis.

Findings.  The factors that enhanced and inhibited the experiences of the Registered Nurses with advanced care planning were identified. The enhancing factors include; ‘it is their essence of who they are’, and ‘back‐up from family members and other nursing staff’. The inhibiting factors are ‘lack of time’, ‘a culture of do everything and don’t go there’, and ‘lack of family involvement’.

Conclusion.  The findings of the current study provided nurses with evidence of the positive nature of experiences of older people, family members, and nurses themselves with advanced care planning in an attempt to better implement and practise advanced care planning.
The Role of N‐Terminal Pro‐Brain Natriuretic Peptide and Echocardiography for Screening Asymptomatic Left Ventricular Dysfunction in a Population at High Risk for Heart Failure: The PROBE‐HF Study
Authors: Tepper David , Harris Scott , Ip Randy
Published: November 2009

Abstract. Background.  Screening for asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction (ALVD) in patients at risk for heart failure (HF) can affect clinical management. The aim of the present study is to examine the role of N‐terminal pro‐brain natriuretic peptide (NT‐pro‐BNP) in the diagnosis of ALVD in patients with hypertension and diabetes from primary care.

Methods and Results.  A total of 1012 patients with hypertension and/or diabetes and no symptoms or signs of HF were assessed by NT‐pro‐BNP assay and echocardiography. Diastolic dysfunction was present in 368 of 1012 patients (36.4%): 327 (32.4%) with mild diastolic dysfunction and 41 (4%) with a moderate to severe diastolic dysfunction. Systolic dysfunction was present in 11 of 1012 patients (1.1%). NT‐pro‐BNP levels were 170±206 and 859±661 pg/mL, respectively, in diastolic and systolic dysfunction and 92±169 in healthy patients (P<.0001). Pooling moderate to severe diastolic with systolic dysfunction, a total of 52 patients (5.1%) were obtained: the best cutoff of NT‐pro‐BNP was 125 pg/mL (men younger than 67 years: sensitivity, 87.5%; specificity, 92.7%; negative predictive value [NPV], 99.5%; positive predictive value [PPV], 33.3%; women younger than 67 years: sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 84.1%; NPV, 100%; PPV, 33.3%; men 67 years or older: sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 77.1%; NPV, 100%; PPV, 32.5%; women 67 years or older: sensitivity, 100%; specificity, 59.9%; NPV, 100%; PPV, 23%).

Conclusions.  The prevalence of ALVD in patients at risk for HF is 5.1%. Because of its excellent NPV, NT‐pro‐BNP assessment can be used by general practitioners to rule out ALVD in hypertensive or diabetic patients.—Betti I, Castelli G, Barchielli A, et al. The role of N‐terminal Pro‐brain natriuretic peptide and echocardiography for screening asymptomatic left ventricular dysfunction in a population at high risk for heart failure. The PROBE‐HF study. J Card Fail. 2009;15:377–384.
Laccase‐catalysed polymeric dye synthesis from plant‐derived phenols for potential application in hair dyeing: Enzymatic colourations driven by homo‐ or hetero‐polymer synthesis
Authors: Jeon Jong‐Rok , Kim Eun‐Ju , Murugesan Kumarasamy , Park Hyo‐Keun , Kim Young‐Mo , Kwon Jung‐Hee , Kim Wang‐Gi , Lee Ji‐Yeon , Chang Yoon‐Seok
Published: November 2009

Laccase efficiently catalyses polymerization of phenolic compounds. However, knowledge on applications of polymers synthesized in this manner remains scarce. Here, the potential of laccase‐catalysed polymerization of natural phenols to form products useful in hair dyeing was investigated. All 15 tested phenols yielded coloured products after laccase treatment and colour diversity was attained by using mixtures of two phenolic monomers. After exploring colour differentiation pattern of 120 different reactions with statistical regression analysis, three monomer combinations, namely gallic acid and syringic acid, catechin and catechol, and ferulic acid and syringic acid, giving rise to brown, black, and red materials, respectively, were further characterized because such colours are commercially important for grey hair dyeing. Selected polymers could strongly absorb visible light and their hydrodynamic sizes ranged from 100 to 400 nm. Analyses of enzyme kinetic constants, liquid chromatography and electrospray ionization‐mass spectrometry (ESI‐MS) coupled with collision‐induced dissociation MS/MS indicate that both monomers in reactions involving catechin and catechol, and ferulic acid and syringic acid, are coloured by heteropolymer synthesis, but the gallic acid/syringic acid combination is based on homopolymer mixture formation. Comparison of colour parameters from these three reactions with those of corresponding artificial homopolymer mixtures also supported the idea that laccase may catalyse either hetero‐ or homo‐polymer synthesis. We finally used selected materials to dye grey hair. Each material coloured hair appropriately and the dyeing showed excellent resistance to conventional shampooing. Our study indicates that laccase‐catalysed polymerization of natural phenols is applicable to the development of new cosmetic pigments.
Pleurotus ostreatus manganese‐dependent peroxidase silencing impairs decolourization of Orange II
Authors: Salame Tomer M. , Yarden Oded , Hadar Yitzhak
Published: November 2009

Decolourization of azo dyes by Pleurotus ostreatus, a white‐rot fungus capable of lignin depolymerization and mineralization, is related to the ligninolytic activity of enzymes produced by this fungus. The capacity of P. ostreatus to decolourize the azo dye Orange II (OII) was dependent and positively co‐linear to Mn2+ concentration in the medium, and thus attributed to Mn2+‐dependent peroxidase (MnP) activity. Based on the ongoing P. ostreatus genome deciphering project we identified at least nine genes encoding for MnP gene family members (mnp1–9), of which only four (mnp1–4) were previously known. Relative real‐time PCR quantification analysis confirmed that all the nine genes are transcribed, and that Mn2+ amendment results in a drastic increase in the transcript levels of the predominantly expressed MnP genes (mnp3 and mnp9), while decreasing versatile peroxidase gene transcription (mnp4). A reverse genetics strategy based on silencing the P. ostreatus mnp3 gene by RNAi was implemented. Knock‐down of mnp3 resulted in the reduction of fungal OII decolourization capacity, which was co‐linear with marked silencing of the Mn2+‐dependent peroxidase genes mnp3 and mnp9. This is the first direct genetic proof of an association between MnP gene expression levels and azo dye decolourization capacity in P. ostreatus, which may have significant implication on understanding the mechanisms governing lignin biodegradation. Moreover, this study has proven the applicability of RNAi as a tool for gene function studies in Pleurotus research.
HRQoL changes, mood disorders and satisfaction after treatment in an unselected population of patients with lung cancer
Authors: Rolke Heidi Berg , Bakke Per Sigvald , Gallefoss Frode
Published: November 2009

Objectives:  This study intended to explore the impact of the first treatment modality on health‐related quality of life (HRQoL), mood disorders and mastery in an unselected population of patients with primary lung cancer and to judge patient satisfaction with treatment.

Materials and Methods:  An unselected group of 479 patients with newly diagnosed lung cancer in Southern Norway (Agder counties) were included prospectively from June 2002 to June 2005, collecting data on histology, treatment options, HRQoL, mood disorders and mastery at baseline as well as satisfaction with treatment, and changes in HRQoL and mood disorders after finishing the first treatment modality.

Results:  After finishing the first treatment modality, patients experienced a worsening of nine HRQoL parameters and an improvement in one. Patients in good performance status experienced reduced physical and role function, and if in reduced performance, improved emotional and role function. Patients with mood disorders experienced reduced anxiety and depression, anxious patients experienced reduced neuropathies, and depressed patients experienced improved social functioning and appetite. Half of the patients treated actively were definitely positive to repeat the same treatment again compared with only 15% in the best supportive care group.

Surgery was associated with reduced role function and increased dyspnoea, radiation was associated with increased fatigue, and chemotherapy in small cell lung cancer (SCLC), to a larger extent, was associated with alopecia than in non‐SCLC (NSCLC).

Conclusion:  The development of many HRQoL parameters after the first treatment modality in an unselected population of patients with primary lung cancer seemed, at large, well correlated to general disease progression and to well‐known treatment side effects. However, reduced role function after lung surgery, and reduced anxiety and depression in patients with mood disorders at baseline might be surprising. Patient satisfaction with treatment was surprisingly good. Several findings in this study may help clinicians to improve their handling of patients with lung cancer.

Please cite this paper as: Rolke HB, Bakke PS and Gallefoss F. HRQoL changes, mood disorders and satisfaction after treatment in an unselected population of patients with lung cancer. The Clinical Respiratory Journal 2010; 4: 168–175.
Neural contrast sensitivity calculated from measured total contrast sensitivity and modulation transfer function
Authors: Michael Ralph , Guevara Osvaldo , de la Paz Maria , Alvarez de Toledo Juan , Barraquer Rafael I.
Published: November 2009

Purpose:  To test the feasibility of calculating neural contrast sensitivity function (neural CSF) from conventionally measured total contrast sensitivity function (total CSF) and measured modulation transfer function (MTF). Neural CSF considers the retina and the brain, whereas total CSF considers the optical eye media, the retina and the brain together.

Methods:  We studied three groups comprising nine eyes each: one group with normal ocular optics but retinal alterations (mild diabetic retinopathy), one with altered ocular optics and normal retina (keratoconus), and a normal control group.

Results:  Total CSF in the keratoconus and retinopathy groups was significantly lower compared to the control group. Modulation transfer function for keratoconus was lower, and in the retinopathy group was similar to that of the control group. Calculated neural CSF in the diabetes mellitus group was lower than in the control group whereas in the keratoconus group it was similar to that of the control group, with overestimations for some keratoconus cases.

Conclusion:  It is possible to calculate a meaningful neural CSF from measured total CSF and MTF data. The neural CSF represents a CSF adjusted for optical aberrations. This would allow comparison of the neural component of visual function in eyes with different optical aberrations.
Optimization and Coordination of Fresh Product Supply Chains with Freshness‐Keeping Effort
Authors: Cai Xiaoqiang , Chen Jian , Xiao Yongbo , Xu Xiaolin
Published: November 2009

We consider a supply chain in which a distributor procures from a producer a quantity of a fresh product, which has to undergo a long‐distance transportation to reach the target market. During the transportation process, the distributor has to make an appropriate effort to preserve the freshness of the product, and his success in this respect impacts on both the quality and quantity of the product delivered to the market. The distributor has to determine his order quantity, level of freshness‐keeping effort, and selling price, by taking into account the wholesale price of the producer, the cost of the freshness‐keeping effort, the likely spoilage of the product during transportation, and the possible demand for the product in the market. The producer, on the other hand, has to determine the wholesale price based on its effect on the order quantity of the distributor. We develop a model to study this problem, and characterize each party's optimal decisions in both decentralized and centralized systems. We further develop an incentive scheme to facilitate coordination between the two parties. Computational results are reported to show the effects of freshness‐keeping efforts.
ABC Classification: Service Levels and Inventory Costs
Authors: Teunter Ruud H. , Babai M. Zied , Syntetos Aris A.
Published: November 2009

ABC inventory classifications are widely used in practice, with demand value and demand volume as the most common ranking criteria. The standard approach in ABC applications is to set the same service level for all stock keeping units (SKUs) in a class. In this paper, we show (for three large real life datasets) that the application of both demand value and demand volume as ABC ranking criteria, with fixed service levels per class, leads to solutions that are far from cost optimal. An alternative criterion proposed by Zhang et al. performs much better, but is still considerably outperformed by a new criterion proposed in this paper. The new criterion is also more general in that it can take criticality of SKUs into account. Managerial insights are obtained into what class should have the highest/lowest service level, a topic that has been disputed in the literature.
On the Benefit of Inventory‐Based Dynamic Pricing Strategies
Authors: Chen Hong , Wu Owen Q. , Yao David D.
Published: November 2009

We study the optimal pricing and replenishment decisions in an inventory system with a price‐sensitive demand, focusing on the benefit of the inventory‐based dynamic pricing strategy. We find that demand variability impacts the benefit of dynamic pricing not only through the magnitude of the variability but also through its functional form (e.g., whether it is additive, multiplicative, or others). We provide an approach to quantify the profit improvement of dynamic pricing over static pricing without having to solve the dynamic pricing problem. We also demonstrate that dynamic pricing is most effective when it is jointly optimized with inventory replenishment decisions, and that its advantage can be mostly realized by using one or two price changes over a replenishment cycle.
Placebo Effect in Canine Epilepsy Trials
Authors: Muñana K.R. , Zhang D. , Patterson E.E.
Published: November 2009

Background:The placebo effect is a well‐recognized phenomenon in human medicine; in contrast, little information exists on the effect of placebo administration in veterinary patients.

Hypothesis:Nonpharmacologic therapeutic effects play a role in response rates identified in canine epilepsy trials.

Animals:Thirty‐four dogs with epilepsy.

Methods:Meta‐analysis of the 3 known prospective, placebo‐controlled canine epilepsy trials. The number of seizures per week was compiled for each dog throughout their participation in the trial. Log‐linear models were developed to evaluate seizure frequency during treatment and placebo relative to baseline.

Results:Twenty‐two of 28 (79%) dogs in the study that received placebo demonstrated a decrease in seizure frequency compared with baseline, and 8 (29%) could be considered responders, with a 50% or greater reduction in seizures. For the 3 trials evaluated, the average reduction in seizures during placebo administration relative to baseline was 26% (P= .0018), 29% (P= .17), and 46% (P= .01).

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:A positive response to placebo administration, manifesting as a decrease in seizure frequency, can be observed in epileptic dogs. This is of importance when evaluating open label studies in dogs that aim to assess efficacy of antiepileptic drugs, as the reported results might be overstated. Findings from this study highlight the need for more placebo‐controlled trials in veterinary medicine.
Whole Blood Manganese Concentrations in Dogs with Congenital Portosystemic Shunts
Authors: Gow A.G. , Marques A.I.C. , Yool D.A. , Duncan A. , Mellanby R.J.
Published: November 2009

Background: Manganese (Mn) is an essential mineral that is a cofactor for many enzymes required in the synthesis of proteins, carbohydrates, and lipids. Because hepatic clearance is essential in Mn homeostasis, conditions in humans resulting in hepatic insufficiency including cirrhosis and both acquired and congenital portosystemic shunting have been reported to result in increased blood Mn concentrations and increased Mn content in the central nervous system. Because Mn toxicity causes neurologic disturbances, increased Mn concentrations have been implicated in the pathogenesis of hepatic encephalopathy.

Hypotheses: Dogs with congenital portosystemic shunts (cPSS) have significantly higher whole blood Mn concentrations than do healthy dogs or those with nonhepatic illnesses.

Animals: Eighteen dogs with cPSS, 26 dogs with nonhepatic illnesses, and 14 healthy dogs.

Methods: Whole blood Mn was measured by graphite furnace atomic absorption spectrometry. The diagnosis of cPSS was made by ultrasonography or during celiotomy either by visual inspection of a shunting vessel or portovenography.

Results: Dogs with a cPSS had significantly higher whole blood Mn concentrations than did healthy dogs and dogs with nonhepatic illnesses. Whole blood Mn concentrations were not significantly different between healthy dogs and dogs with nonhepatic illnesses.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance: Dogs with a cPSS have significantly increased whole blood Mn concentrations. Additional studies are warranted to investigate the role of Mn in cPSS‐associated hepatic encephalopathy.
Insights into Serotonin Signaling Mechanisms Associated with Canine Degenerative Mitral Valve Disease
Authors: Oyama M.A. , Levy R.J.
Published: November 2009

Little is known about the molecular abnormalities associated with canine degenerative mitral valve disease (DMVD). The pathology of DMVD involves the differentiation and activation of the normally quiescent mitral valvular interstitial cell (VIC) into a more active myofibroblast phenotype, which mediates many of the histological and molecular changes in affected the valve tissue. In both humans and experimental animal models, increased serotonin (5‐hydroxytryptamine, 5HT) signaling can induce VIC differentiation and myxomatous valve damage. In canine DMVD, numerous lines of evidence suggest that 5HT and related molecules such as transforming growth factor‐β play a critical role in the pathogenesis of this disease. A variety of investigative techniques, including gene expression, immunohistochemistry, protein blotting, and cell culture, shed light on the potential role of 5HT in the differentiation of VIC, elaboration of myxomatous extracellular matrix components, and activation of mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways. These studies help support a hypothesis that 5HT and its related pathways serve as an important stimulus in canine DMVD. This review describes the pathological characteristics of canine DMVD, the organization and role of the 5HT pathway in valve tissue, involvement of 5HT in human and experimental models of valve disease, avenues of evidence that suggest a role for 5HT in naturally occurring DMVD, and finally, a overarching hypothesis describing a potential role for 5HT in canine DMVD.
Antithrombotic Effect of Enoxaparin in Clinically Healthy Cats: A Venous Stasis Model
Authors: Van De Wiele C.M. , Hogan D.F. , Green H.W. , Sederquist K.D.
Published: November 2009

Background:Systemic arterial thromboembolic events are a serious complication of cardiac disease in cats.

Objectives:To determine if enoxaparin induces an antithrombotic effect in cats at a dosage of 1 mg/kg SC q12h and if this antithrombotic effect is predicted by anti‐Xa activity.

Animals:Fourteen clinically healthy cats were divided into 3 groups: control (4 cats), treated and assessed at 4 hours (5 cats), and treated and assessed at 12 hours (5 cats).

Methods:A venous stasis model was used and the extent of thrombus formation estimated by measuring thrombus weight and accretion of125I‐fibrinogen. Plasma anti‐Xa activity was measured in treated cats.

Results:There was a significant reduction in thrombus formation in the 4 h group compared with control (median weight, 0.000 versus 0.565 mg/mm,P< .01; median %125I‐fibrinogen accretion, 0.0 versus 42.0%,P< .01). There was a reduction in thrombus formation in the 12 h group (median weight, 0.006 mg/mm,P= .09; median %125I‐fibrinogen accretion, 3.83%,P= .09) but this reduction was not significant. The median percent thrombus inhibition for treated cats was 100.0% at 4 hours and 91.4% at 12 hours. Plasma anti‐Xa activity was not significantly correlated with thrombus formation.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:This pilot study demonstrates that enoxaparin, when administered at a dosage of 1 mg/kg SC q12h, produces an antithrombotic effect in a venous statsis model in clinically healthy cats. Furthermore, this study demonstrates that anti‐Xa activity is a poor predictor of enoxaparin's antithrombotic effect.
Spray in Crossflow: Dependence on Weber Number
Authors: Lubarsky Eugene , Reichel Jonathan R. , Zinn Ben T. , McAmis Rob
Published: November 2009

This paper describes an experimental investigation of the spray created by Jet A fuel injection from a plate containing sharp edged orifice 0.018in.(457μm) in diameter and L∕D ratio of 10 into the crossflow of preheated air (555K) at elevated pressure in the test section (4atm) and liquid to air momentum flux ratio of 40. A two component phase Doppler particle analyzer was used for measuring the characteristics of the spray. The Weber number of the spray in crossflow was varied between 33 and 2020 and the effect of Weber number on spray properties was investigated. It was seen that the shear breakup mechanism dominates at Weber number greater than about 300. Droplets’ diameters were found to be in the range of 15–30μm for higher values of Weber numbers, while larger droplets (100–200μm) were observed at Weber number of 33. Larger droplets were observed at the periphery of the spray. The droplet velocities and diameters were measured in a plane 30mm downstream of the orifice along the centerline of the spray at an incoming airflow Mach number of 0.2. The droplets reach a maximum of 90% of the flow velocity at this location. The velocity of the droplets in the directions perpendicular to the airflow direction is higher at the periphery of the spray possibly due to the presence of larger droplets there. The rms values of the droplet velocities are highest slightly off the centerline of the spray due to the presence of vortices and shear layers around the liquid jet. The data presented here improve the understanding of spray formation processes, and provide benchmark data for computational fluid dynamics (CFD) code validation.
Nonlinear Dynamic Analysis and Experiment Verification of Rotor-Ball Bearings-Support-Stator Coupling System for Aeroengine With Rubbing Coupling Faults
Authors: Chen G. , Li C. G. , Wang D. Y.
Published: November 2009

In this paper, a new rotor-ball bearings-support-stator coupling system dynamic model with rubbing coupling faults is established for practical aeroengine. In the model, the rubbing fault is modeled, the stator motion is considered, the flexible support and squeeze film damper are established, and the nonlinear factors of ball bearing, such as the clearance of the bearing, the nonlinear Hertzian contact force between balls and races, and the varying compliance vibration because of the periodical variety of the contact position between balls and races, are modeled. The numerical integral method is used to obtain the system responses, the effect of support stiffness on rotor responses is studied using a vibration amplitude-rotating speed plot, and the characteristics of the rubbing fault is analyzed using a 3D cascade plot. An aeroengine tester with a stator is established to carry out the rubbing fault experiments, the simulation results from the rotor-ball bearings-support-stator coupling model are compared with the experimental results, and the consistency of the results show fully the effectiveness of the new rotor-ball bearings-support-stator coupling model with rubbing fault.
Analysis and Modeling of Novel Low-Temperature SOFC With a Co-Ionic Conducting Ceria-Based Composite Electrolyte
Authors: Huang Jianbing , Yuan Jinliang , Mao Zongqiang , Sundén Bengt
Published: November 2009

In recent years, ceria-based composites (CBCs) have been developed as electrolytes for low-temperature solid oxide fuel cells. These materials exhibit extremely high ionic conductivities at 400–600°C. It has also been found that both oxide ion and proton can be conducted in the CBC electrolytes, which makes such co-ionic conducting fuel cell distinct from any other types of fuel cells. In this study, a model involving three charge carriers (oxide ion, proton, and electron) is developed to describe the fuel cell with CBC electrolytes. Various operating characteristics of the fuel cell with CBC electrolytes are investigated, compared to those of the fuel cell with doped ceria electrolytes. The results indicate that the CBC electrolyte behaves as a pure ionic conductor, the cell is more efficient, and a higher output is expected at low temperatures under the same pressure operation than that of the cell with doped ceria electrolytes.
Causal Fuel Cell System Model Suitable for Transportation Simulation Applications
Authors: Boulon Loïc , Péra Marie-Cécile , Delarue Philippe , Bouscayrol Alain , Hissel Daniel
Published: November 2009

This paper presents a model of a whole polymer electrolyte fuel cell system including the stack, an air compressor, a cooling system, and a power converter. This model allows its integration in a complete hybrid electric vehicle simulation. The level of detail of the model is chosen to enable control rules design, ancillaries sizing, and study of the interaction between the components of the vehicle. This model is formalized with energetic macroscopic representation, thus organized in a unified multidomain graphical description. Experimental results are compared to simulations for validation of the model accuracy.
Control Strategies for Start-Up and Part-Load Operation of Solid Oxide Fuel Cell/Gas Turbine Hybrid System
Authors: Jiang Wei , Fang Ruixian , Khan Jamil , Dougal Roger
Published: November 2009

Control strategy plays a significant role in ensuring system stability and performance as well as equipment protection for maximum service life. This work is aimed at investigating the control strategies for start-up and part-load operating conditions of the solid oxide fuel cell/gas turbine (SOFC/GT) hybrid system. First, a dynamic SOFC/GT hybrid cycle, based on the thermodynamic modeling of system components, has been successfully developed and simulated in the virtual test bed simulation environment. The one-dimensional tubular SOFC model is based on the electrochemical and thermal modeling, accounting for voltage losses and temperature dynamics. The single cell is discretized using a finite volume method where all the governing equations are solved for each finite volume. Two operating conditions, start-up and part load, are employed to investigate the control strategies of the SOFC/GT hybrid cycle. In particular, start-up control is adopted to ensure the initial rotation speed of a compressor and a turbine for a system-level operation. The control objective for the part-load operation regardless of load changes, as proposed, is to maintain constant fuel utilization and a fairly constant SOFC temperature within a small range by manipulating the fuel mass flow and air mass flow. To this end, the dynamic electrical characteristics such as cell voltage, current density, and temperature under the part load are simulated and analyzed. Several feedback control cycles are designed from the dynamic responses of electrical characteristics. Control cycles combined with control related variables are introduced and discussed.
Fuel Cell Bionic Flow Slab Design
Authors: Wang C. T. , Chang C. P. , Shaw C. K. , Cheng J. Y.
Published: November 2009

Fuel cells possessing high potency and low pollution are well known and are considered the new generation of power technology. This study presents a novel bionic concept flow slab design to improve fuel cell performance. A series of 2D simulations was executed at Re=10 and 100 for the bionic flow and traditional flow slabs. In addition, the effect of aspect ratio was studied using 3D simulation. Numerical results obtained show that this novel bionic flow slab design will exhibit better performance than traditional flow slabs regardless of Reynolds numbers and aspect ratios because it possesses a more uniform velocity and a lower pressure drop. Finally, the performance in the bionic flow slab’s reaction area was determined to be superior. These findings show that the bionic concept and flow slab design addressed in this paper will be useful in enhancing fuel cell performance.
Measurement of Flow Phenomena in a Lower Plenum Model of a Prismatic Gas-Cooled Reactor
Authors: McIlroy Hugh M. , McEligot Donald M. , Pink Robert J.
Published: November 2009

Mean-velocity-field and turbulence data are presented that measure turbulent flow phenomena in an approximately 1:7 scale model of a region of the lower plenum of a typical prismatic gas-cooled reactor similar to a General Atomics gas-turbine-modular helium reactor design. The data were obtained in the Matched-Index-of-Refraction (MIR) Facility at Idaho National Laboratory (INL) and are offered for assessing computational fluid dynamics software. This experiment has been selected as the first standard problem endorsed by the Generation IV International Forum. Results concentrate on the region of the lower plenum near its far reflector wall (away from the outlet duct). The flow in the lower plenum consists of multiple jets injected into a confined cross flow—with obstructions. The model consists of a row of full circular posts along its centerline with half-posts on the two parallel walls to approximate geometry scaled to that expected from the staggered parallel rows of posts in the reactor design. The model is fabricated from clear, fused quartz to match the refractive-index of the working fluid so that optical techniques may be employed for the measurements. The benefit of the MIR technique is that it permits optical measurements to determine flow characteristics in complex passages in and around objects to be obtained without locating intrusive transducers that will disturb the flow field and without distortion of the optical paths. An advantage of the INL system is its large size, leading to improved spatial and temporal resolutions compared with similar facilities at smaller scales. A three-dimensional particle image velocimetry system was used to collect the data. Inlet-jet Reynolds numbers (based on the jet diameter and the time-mean bulk velocity) are approximately 4300 and 12,400. Uncertainty analyses and a discussion of the standard problem are included. The measurements reveal developing, nonuniform, turbulent flow in the inlet jets and complicated flow patterns in the model lower plenum. Data include three-dimensional vector plots, data displays along the coordinate planes (slices), and presentations that describe the component flows at specific regions in the model. Information on inlet conditions is also presented.
A Study of Temperature Distribution Across a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Stack
Authors: Sudaprasert Kaokanya , Travis Rowland P. , Martinez-Botas Ricardo F.
Published: November 2009

In this work, a three-dimensional model of a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) stack is developed to predict the temperature distribution across the stack. The model simulates a particular SOFC stack comprising of five single cells. Isothermal and adiabatic walls are chosen as the different boundary conditions in order to simulate the real situation, which lies somewhere in between. In the situation where adiabatic walls are assumed, the result shows that heat convection dominates the heat transfer process. However, heat conduction plays a major role when the isothermal walls are assumed. It is found that the highest temperature found in the isothermal stack is 1135 K at an operating temperature of 1073 K. The temperature difference is significant with the hottest point located in the middle of the active area. In the adiabatic stack, the temperature is at its maximum of 1574 K near the outlets of fuel and air at the same operating temperature. It should be kept in mind that both situations will have effects on the temperature behavior of the stack in reality. The temperature and current distributions of stack models in this work are also plotted in three dimensions and the analyses of stack performances are given. By comparing the results of five-cell and ten-cell stack models, the temperature differences of the five-cell stack and the ten-cell stack are 62 and 109 K, respectively. This indicates that there is a drastic temperature change throughout the stack when the stack size is increased.
Elucidating Liquid Water Distribution and Removal in an Operating Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell via Neutron Radiography
Authors: Hickner Michael A. , Chen Ken S. , Siegel Nathan P.
Published: November 2009

Neutron radiography was used to quantify the steady-state water content and its distribution in a 50 cm2 operating proton exchange membrane fuel cell. It was observed that the liquid water distribution near the corners of the gas-flow channels (GFCs) is influenced by the local gas-flow velocity as determined by the cathode stoichiometric flow ratio. At low velocity, the distribution of liquid water down the channel was found to be fairly uniform with only a slight reduction in liquid water content at the exit of the GFC corners. It was further observed that as the cathode gas-flow velocity is increased, a noticeable pattern develops in which liquid water is concentrated at the entrance to the GFC corners and becomes depleted in the corner and near the exit of the corner; liquid water content again increases further down the channel away from the corners. A single-phase computational fluid dynamics (CFD) model was developed and employed to help explain the observed water-distribution patterns. Flow-fields computed from our CFD model reveal recirculation regions in the GFC corners as well as in the areas of increased local gas-flow velocity, which help explain the experimentally observed liquid water distribution.