bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
First Characterization in China of Encephalitozoon cuniculi in the Blue Fox (Alopex lagopus)
Authors: Meng Xiangchun , Zheng Jun , He Xijun , Jia Honglin , Zhang Yanlong
Published: July 2014

Encephalitozoon cuniculi is a microsporidian parasite that infects a wide range of vertebrates, including primates. It has recently emerged as an opportunistic parasite of patients infected with the human immunodeficiency virus. The blue fox (Alopex lagopus; also known as the arctic fox) is one of the most susceptible species for encephalitozoonosis. Here, we report an outbreak of encephalitozoonosis at a fox farm in China. The isolated parasites displayed the typical morphology of E. cuniculi as assessed by Masson's trichrome staining. Analysis of the internal transcribed spacer sequence indicated that the isolated parasite is a genotype III strain of E. cuniculi. Furthermore, phylogenetic analysis of the PTP1 gene verifies classification of this new strain (termed LN‐1) with other genotype III E. cuniculi strains, though the PTP3 and SWP1 sequences diverge from the reference strain. This is the first report of encephalitozoonosis in farmed blue foxes in China.
Discrimination of Defective (Full Black, Full Sour and Immature) and Nondefective Coffee Beans by Their Physical Properties
Authors: Belay Abebe , Bekele Yirgalem , Abraha Ataklti , Comen Dagne , Kim Hyung Kook , Hwang Yoon‐Hwae
Published: July 2014

In this research the physical properties of defective and nondefective coffee beans were investigated. The study results show that there are highly significant differences (P < 0.001) in the physical properties (true and bulk volume, true and bulk density, mass) and (P < 0.05) in sphericity and porosity of green coffee beans, respectively. Higher and lower values of mass and dimensional parameters were obtained in full sour and full black coffee beans, respectively. On the other hand, the physical properties of the beans investigated as the function of moisture content (%db) were found to be a linear relation with volume, mass and equivalent diameter, and an inverse relation with density of the beans. Generally, the moisture content (% dry basis [d.b.]) of defective beans (full sour 12.87%, immature 11.34%, full black 10.41%) is higher than nondefective beans (10.22%) for sample kept at oven temperature (105C) for 48 h. The results of the study indicated that the physical properties alone can successfully separate defective and nondefective beans prior and after roasting.

Practical Applications

The physical properties of defective and nondefective coffee beans were investigated. The determined physical properties of beans have useful applications in coffee quality control. In addition, these properties have significant importance for machinery and process equipment design. The methods are simple, fast and inexpensive as compared with the chemical methods that need high‐cost equipment and solvents.
Distributed rainfall‐runoff simulation for an unclosed river basin with complex river system: a case study of lower reach of the Wei River, China
Authors: Peng D. , Xu Z. , Qiu L. , Zhao W.
Published: July 2014

As the largest tributary of Yellow River and the ‘Mother River’ of Guanzhong Plain in Shaanxi Province, Wei River plays a great role in the development of West China. The lower reach of Wei River is the key economic district of this region. In this study, TOPMODEL with infiltration excess runoff was modified and applied to simulate inflow process between the Xianyang and Huaxian (outlet of the study area) hydrological stations for an unclosed river basin with a complex river system as well as ungauged tributaries. At the Qinduzhen and Muduwang hydrological stations, the Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiencies were between 0.70 and 0.84, and the relative errors were between −2% and 12%. Integrated with the observed streamflow in Jing River and Shichuan River and the segmented Muskingum flow routing method, streamflow at Huaxian was simulated. Comparison of the simulation results with and without the south inflow showed that the simulated streamflow at Lintong hydrological station with the south inflow between Xianyang and Lintong was closer to the observed streamflow than the one without the south inflow. However, the difference between the simulated streamflow at Huaxian with and without the south inflow was insignificant. This demonstrates that the streamflow simulation at Lintong is important for simulating flows in the study area with reliability.
Aspartate aminotransferase to platelet ratio index as a prospective predictor of hepatocellular carcinoma risk in patients with chronic hepatitis B virus infection
Authors: Hann Hie‐Won , Wan Shaogui , Lai Yinzhi , Hann Richard S , Myers Ronald E , Patel Fenil , Zhang Kejin , Ye Zhong , Wang Chun , Yang Hushan
Published: July 2014

Background and Aim

APRI (aspartate aminotransferase [AST] to platelet ratio index) is widely used to assess fibrosis and cirrhosis risk, especially in hepatitis C virus (HCV)‐infected patients. Few studies have evaluated APRI and hepatitis B virus (HBV)‐related hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) risk. Prospective evidence is needed to assess whether APRI predicts HCC risk in HBV patients.

Method

In a prospectively enrolled clinical cohort of 855 HBV patients with a 1‐year exclusion window (followed for > 1 year and did not develop HCC within 1 year), the predictive value of APRI in HCC risk was evaluated by Cox proportional hazards model using univariate and multivariate analyses and longitudinal analysis.

Results

Higher APRI prospectively conferred a significantly increased risk of HCC in univariate analysis (quartile analysis, P trend = 2.9 × 10−7). This effect remained highly significant after adjusting for common host characteristics but not cirrhosis (P trend = 7.1 × 10−5), and attenuated when cirrhosis is adjusted (P trend = 0.021). The effect remained prominent when the analysis was restricted to patients with a more stringent 2‐year exclusion window (P trend = 0.008 in quartile analysis adjusting all characteristics including cirrhosis), indicating that the association was unlikely due to including undetected HCC patients in the cohort, thus minimizing the reverse‐causation limitation in most retrospective studies. Longitudinal comparison demonstrated a persistently higher APRI value in HBV patients who developed HCC during follow‐up than those remaining cancer free.

Conclusion

APRI might be a marker of HCC risk in HBV patients in cirrhosis‐dependent and ‐independent manners. Further studies are warranted to validate this finding and test its clinical applicability in HCC prevention.
A multiaxis device for in‐focus manipulation of objects under a dissecting microscope
Authors: GRAS HERIBERT
Published: July 2014

An inexpensive specimen holder for objects under a dissecting microscope is described which allows arbitrary orientation and rotation of the object within the visual field and focal plane of the microscope. Based on a spherical cap upon a magnet, this apparatus is easy to construct and permits single‐handed manipulation of the specimen from some distance. Precise positioning is demonstrated for halteres of Drosophila under up to 120× magnification.

Because of the restricted field of view and depth of focus of a dissecting microscope, it is often difficult to position tiny objects under study in varying orientation, especially if the specimen must simultaneously be dissected with forceps, microscissors or needles. The problem is solved most conveniently with a specimen holder based on a spherical cap which is held by a strong magnet on a steel ring. The specimen tilts vertically in any direction by up to 70° and—even in oblique orientation—rotates through 360° around the sphere's centre in the focal plane. By help of an interleaved plastic foil in a ring carrier, these movements can be controlled unimanually from outside the visual field.
DEMOGRAPHIC TRANSITION AND LABOUR MARKET CHANGES: IMPLICATIONS FOR ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT IN CHINA
Authors: Du Yang , Yang Cuifen
Published: July 2014

China has witnessed a rapid demographic transition in recent decades, which has driven changes in labour market outcomes as evidenced by labour shortages and increasing wages for unskilled workers. In this paper, the authors survey the literature on population transition, factors influencing fertility and how these have changed, and population policies in China. The fundamental role of demographic transition in labour market changes is also reviewed. In addition, the paper discusses the implications of demographic transition and labour market changes for economic development in China, including ageing, impacts on potential economic growth rates, and challenges to human capital accumulation.
Chiasmatic‐Hypothalamic Masses in Adults: A Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Raelson Colin , Chiang Gloria
Published: July 2014

Chiasmatic‐hypothalamic masses are commonly seen in children with neurofibromatosis type 1 and often demonstrate a benign clinical course. These masses are, however, rare in adults and require tissue sampling for diagnosis. Here, we present four cases of chiasmatic‐hypothalamic masses in adults with pathologically proven diagnoses. We also provide a review of the literature and propose a limited differential in this age group.
Wall Shear Stress in Major Cerebral Arteries as a Function of Age and Gender—A Study of 301 Healthy Volunteers
Authors: Zhao Xixi , Zhao Meide , Amin‐Hanjani Sepideh , Du Xinjian , Ruland Sean , Charbel Fady T.
Published: July 2014

BACKGROUND

The hemodynamic force of wall shear stress (WSS) has demonstrated a critical role in atherogenesis.

PURPOSE

To study the effect of age and gender on mean WSS (MWSS) values in major cerebral arteries.

METHOD

Thirteen cerebral arterial location sites in 301 healthy (157 M, 144 F; mean 47 ± 15 years; range 18‐84 years old) were studied. Quantitative magnetic resonance angiography was used to obtain volume flow and diameter, and subsequently to calculate MWSS via the Hagen‐Poiseuille equation.

RESULTS

MWSS decreased significantly with age in all vessels, declining from 9.5 to 5.7 dynes/cm2 in the neck vessels and from 22.9 to 16.2 dynes/cm2 in the intracranial vessels. MWSS is significantly higher in females than in males in all six neck vessels. The most significant drop in MWSS occurred between the age groups 48‐57 and 58‐67 (P < .05 for 12 vessels).

CONCLUSION

The overall decline in MWSS observed with age may be due to a decrease in flow. However, the marked drop in MWSS between the 48‐57 and 58‐67 age groups corresponded with an increase in diameter and systolic blood pressure rather than a significant drop in flow.
Metabolic parameters in rats receiving different levels of oral glycerol supplementation
Authors: Lisenko K. G. , Andrade E. F. , Lobato R. V. , Orlando D. R. , Damin D. H. C. , Costa A. C. , Lima R. R. , Alvarenga R. R. , Zangeronimo M. G. , Sousa R. V. , Pereira L. J.
Published: July 2014

The use of glycerol in the diets for animals is of interest because it is a residue of biodiesel production and rich in energy. Thus, this study aimed to evaluate metabolic and physiological parameters of rats receiving supplemental pure glycerol by gavage. We used 30 Wistar rats (initial weight 202.7 ± 29.98 g) receiving 0 (control/saline), 200, 400, 800 and 1600 mg glycerol/kg of body weight (bidistilled glycerine, 99.85% glycerol) beside food and water ad libitum for 28 days. We used a completely randomised design with five treatments and six replicates. At the end of the experiment, the animals were killed, and the results showed that there was no change (p > 0.05) in the intake and excretion of water, the average daily weight gain, dry matter, ash and crude protein in the carcass or plasma triacylglycerols. There was a beneficial effect (p < 0.05) up to a dose of 800 mg/kg glycerol on feed intake, percentage of carcass fat, plasma levels of aspartate aminotransferase (AST), alanine aminotransferase (ALT), high‐density lipoprotein (HDLc) and low‐/very low‐density lipoprotein (LDLc + VLDLc). The levels of total cholesterol and glucose were increased with up to a dose of 800 mg/kg glycerol (but remained within the normal range); they were reduced with the dose of 1600 mg/kg. The total leucocyte count tended to be reduced, although it was within the reference values for rats. There were no renal or pancreatic lesions. In conclusion, glycerol presented as a safe supplement at the studied doses, even having some beneficial effects in a dose‐dependent manner in rats.
Healthcare‐associated and nosocomial bacterial infections in cirrhosis: predictors and impact on outcome
Authors: Sargenti Konstantina , Prytz Hanne , Strand Anna , Nilsson Emma , Kalaitzakis Evangelos
Published: July 2014

Background & Aims

Population‐based data on the occurrence of healthcare‐associated (HCA) and hospital‐acquired (HA) bacterial infections in cirrhosis, their predictors, and their impact on outcome are limited.

Methods

All patients with incident cirrhosis in 2001–2010 residing in an area of 600 000 inhabitants were retrospectively identified. All serious bacterial infections (resulting in or occurring during an inpatient hospital episode) during this period were registered. Acquisition type, site of infection, occurrence of infection‐related acute‐on‐chronic liver failure (ACLF), acute kidney injury (AKI) and bacterial resistance were analysed. Patients were followed longitudinally until death, transplant or end of 2011.

Results

A total of 398 serious infections occurred in 241/633 (38%) patients. Forty‐seven per cent were HCA and 21% HA. Proton pump inhibitor (PPI) use was more common in HA (80%) vs. HCA (64%) vs. community‐acquired (44%) infections (P < 0.001). In regression analysis, decompensated status, use of antibiotics and PPIs at infection diagnosis were independent predictors of HCA/HA infections (P < 0.05). After adjustment for confounders, HCA/HA infections were significantly related to infection‐related ACLF (P < 0.05), but not severe sepsis, AKI or infection‐related mortality (P > 0.05). Antibiotic‐resistant infections were more frequent among HA (17%) than HCA (6%) or community‐acquired (8%) infections (P < 0.05). Antibiotic‐resistant HCA/HA infections were independently related to severe sepsis (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

In a population‐based cirrhotic cohort, two‐thirds of serious bacterial infections were HCA or HA. Decompensated liver disease, antibiotics and PPIs were predictors of serious HCA/HA infections, which were associated with the development of ACLF. Antibiotic resistance was frequent, especially in HA infections, and contributed to risk of severe sepsis.
Supplemental iron intake and the risk of glucose intolerance in pregnancy: re‐analysis of a randomised controlled trial in Finland
Authors: Kinnunen Tarja I. , Luoto Riitta , Helin Annika , Hemminki Elina
Published: July 2014

Observational studies suggest that high iron intake during pregnancy is associated with the risk of gestational diabetes. As such studies are prone to bias, we re‐analysed data from a randomised controlled trial of iron supplementation to see whether it supports the risk found in observational studies. The trial was conducted in primary health care setting in five municipalities in Finland in 1985–1986. The participants were 2944 women (95% of pregnant women in the area) who were randomly allocated either to (1) the selective iron group (elemental iron 50 mg twice a day only if diagnosed as anaemic, continuing until their haemoglobin increased to 110 g L−1) or (2) the routine iron group (elemental iron 100 mg day−1 throughout the pregnancy regardless of haemoglobin level). The numbers of women in the analyses were 1358 and 1336, respectively. The main outcome measure was a composite variable including any glucose intolerance‐related outcome (e.g. glucosuria, gestational diabetes, large‐for‐gestational‐age child) in mothers' or children's patient records during pregnancy and post‐partum. There were no statistically significant differences in the incidence of the primary outcome between the selective iron and the routine iron groups (13.0 vs. 11.0%, P = 0.12). The most common outcome was large‐for‐gestational‐age calculated from children's hospital data (8.3 vs. 8.2%, P = 0.95). The results were mainly similar when stratified by the mothers' baseline haemoglobin level, body mass index or gestational weight gain. Routine iron supplementation throughout pregnancy did not increase the risk of glucose intolerance during pregnancy. The results need to be confirmed in future trials.
Opportunistic in‐hospital screening for kidney disease using the Kidney Health Check
Authors: Hewitt Nathan A. , Elder Grahame J
Published: July 2014

Background

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a major public health issue and early detection may prevent morbidity and mortality. Screening for CKD is simply assessed using the Kidney Health Check (KHC), a compilation of blood pressure (BP), estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) and urinalysis (UA). KHC screening of high risk hospital inpatients is recommended, but its implementation and cost‐effectiveness is unknown.

Aims

We aimed to determine the proportion of patients currently tested for all components of the KHC during an acute hospital admission, and to compare the estimated costs of screening and subsequent follow‐up with other screening programs.

Methods

A retrospective audit was conducted of consecutively admitted adult patients, and the frequency of BP, eGFR and UA testing recorded. Using published data, the likely costs and benefits of components of the KHC were estimated.

Results

Two hundred patients (median age 75 years, range 20–98) were assessed. All had a documented BP and eGFR, and 55% had a UA, representing a complete KHC. Of the total, 141 (71%) had one or more abnormalities detected, and of 71 with an eGFR <60 mL/min per 1.73 m2, only 22 (31%) had a recorded diagnosis of CKD. Estimated costs of opportunistic in‐hospital KHC screening are below those of current Australian screening programs.

Conclusions

Hospital in‐patients frequently have a full KHC and most have abnormalities detected. Opportunistic inpatient KHC screening would have little impact on hospital costs, but may result in significant health benefits. The KHC should be included in routine discharge documentation.
Relationship of cystatin‐C change and the prevalence of death or dialysis need after acute kidney injury: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Feng Yunlin , Zhang Yue , Li Guisen , Wang Li
Published: July 2014

Aim

Cystatin‐C (CysC) has been demonstrated as a sensitive and reliable biomarker to predict the onset of acute kidney injury (AKI). However, there are few studies concerned about the relationship between CysC and the outcomes of AKI. The aim of the present study was to determine whether CysC elevation prior to definite diagnosis of AKI is related to higher prevalence of death and dialysis need outcome.

Methods

A meta‐analysis was conducted by searching PubMed, EMBASE and Cochrane Library database using the terms related to AKI combined with ‘cystatin‐C’. Bibliographies of relevant papers were reviewed manually. Eligible studies were those investigating death and dialysis need outcomes after AKI with CysC measurement, and were limited to English articles. Non‐human studies were excluded. Random effect Mantel‐Haenszel statistical method was used.

Results

Six studies were finally enrolled, consisting of 2332 patients. All of these studies were hospital‐based prospective cohort studies. The follow‐up duration varied from 5 days to 1 year. The odds ratio values for baseline CysC elevation and death as well as baseline CysC elevation and dialysis need were 2.34 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.46–3.75) and 4.40 (95% CI 1.58–12.22), respectively (both P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients with CysC elevated prior to AKI diagnosis have higher risk to develop death and need dialysis during short‐ and long‐term follow‐up after AKI, thus having worse outcomes. This population deserves more careful observation and might benefit from more frequent follow‐up visits in the clinic. Future work is needed to get a consensus cut‐off value defining CysC elevation.
Fragmented sleep and fatigue during postpartum hospitalization in older primiparous women
Authors: Tsuchiya Miyako , Mori Emi , Iwata Hiroko , Sakajo Akiko , Maehara Kunie , Ozawa Harumi , Morita Akiko , Maekawa Tomoko , Saeki Akiko
Published: July 2014

The objective of this cross‐sectional study was to investigate the associations among sleep characteristics, feeding variables, and fatigue among older Japanese primiparas (≥ 35 years old) during hospitalization after childbirth. A convenience sample of 16 participants who had given birth to a single newborn were recruited from maternity wards, and before discharge they completed a sleep assessment and questionnaires. Sleep characteristics were assessed using actigraphs. Diaries of daily activities recorded infant caregiving and subjective hours of sleep. The degree of fatigue was assessed using self‐administered questionnaires. Although participants' sleep was found to be significantly fragmented by the average number of feeds per night, sleep loss in this sample was not severe compared with previous actigraph studies of young Japanese mothers. Lower percentages of sleep efficiency (percentage of sleep between going to bed and waking up) and parameters of fragmented sleep were significantly correlated with higher degrees of fatigue. Nurses and other healthcare providers should observe mothers' sleep and assess levels of fatigue. Assistance should be offered to mothers who are tired, so that they can have less fragmented sleep during the night.
Phloem flow and sugar transport in Ricinus communis L. is inhibited under anoxic conditions of shoot or roots
Authors: PEUKE ANDREAS D. , GESSLER ARTHUR , TRUMBORE SUSAN , WINDT CAREL W. , HOMAN NATALIA , GERKEMA EDO , VAN AS HENK
Published: July 2014

Anoxic conditions should hamper the transport of sugar in the phloem, as this is an active process. The canopy is a carbohydrate source and the roots are carbohydrate sinks. By fumigating the shoot with N2 or flooding the rhizosphere, anoxic conditions in the source or sink, respectively, were induced. Volume flow, velocity, conducting area and stationary water of the phloem were assessed by non‐invasive magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) flowmetry. Carbohydrates and δ13C in leaves, roots and phloem saps were determined.

Following flooding, volume flow and conducting area of the phloem declined and sugar concentrations in leaves and in phloem saps slightly increased. Oligosaccharides appeared in phloem saps and after 3 d, carbon transport was reduced to 77%. Additionally, the xylem flow declined and showed finally no daily rhythm. Anoxia of the shoot resulted within minutes in a reduction of volume flow, conductive area and sucrose in the phloem sap decreased. Sugar transport dropped to below 40% by the end of the N2 treatment. However, volume flow and phloem sap sugar tended to recover during the N2 treatment.

Both anoxia treatments hampered sugar transport. The flow velocity remained about constant, although phloem sap sugar concentration changed during treatments. Apparently, stored starch was remobilized under anoxia.
Deconvoluting the interactions of phytochrome isoforms in regulating growth and development
Authors: NAGY FERENC , DAVIS SETH J.
Published: July 2014

This article comments on:Tissue‐specific and light‐dependent regulation of phytochrome gene expression in rice
Mesophyll conductance with a twist
Authors: THOLEN DANNY , ÉTHIER GILBERT , GENTY BERNARD
Published: July 2014

This article comments on: Implications of the mesophyll conductance to CO2 for photosynthesis and water‐use efficiency during long‐term water stress and recovery in two contrasting Eucalyptus species
Unrestricted Quantification
Authors: Florio Salvatore
Published: July 2014

Semantic interpretations of both natural and formal languages are usually taken to involve the specification of a domain of entities with respect to which the sentences of the language are to be evaluated. A question that has received much attention of late is whether there is unrestricted quantification, quantification over a domain comprising absolutely everything there is. Is there a discourse or inquiry that has absolute generality? After framing the debate, this article provides an overview of the main arguments for and against the possibility of unrestricted quantification, highlighting some of the broader implications of the debate.
Disgust Talked About
Authors: Strohminger Nina
Published: July 2014

Disgust, the emotion of rotting carcasses and slimy animalitos, finds itself at the center of several critical questions about human culture and cognition. This article summarizes recent developments, identify active points of debate, and provide an account of where the field is heading next.
Iris Marion Young's Legacy for Feminist Theory
Authors: La Caze Marguerite
Published: July 2014

The work of Iris Marion Young (1949–2006) comprises major contributions in the areas of feminist phenomenology, international justice, political theory, and ethical responses to differences. Many of Young's articles, such as ‘Throwing like a Girl’, ‘Pregnant Embodiment’, ‘Women Recovering our Clothes’, ‘Gender as Seriality’, and ‘House and home’, in addition to her booksJustice and the Politics of Difference(1990) andInclusion and Democracy(2000) are particularly significant. My paper shows how Young's earlier essays in feminist phenomenology concerning the lived body can be linked to her later political thought, despite her own separation of these two strands in her work. Furthermore, I explore her legacy by examining how feminists have challenged her self‐criticisms and have also developed Young's ideas in these fields, including her work on oppression and responsibility.
Philosophical Issues in Recent Paleontology
Authors: Turner Derek D.
Published: July 2014

The distinction between idiographic science, which aims to reconstruct sequences of particular events, and nomothetic science, which aims to discover laws and regularities, is crucial for understanding the paleobiological revolution of the 1970s and 1980s. Stephen Jay Gould at times seemed conflicted about whether to say (a) that idiographic science is fine as it is or (b) that paleontology would have more credibility if it were more nomothetic. Ironically, one of the lasting results of the paleobiological revolution was a new way of doing historical science that defies categorization as idiographic or nomothetic. Yet the tension between (a) and (b) persists in some recent work in the philosophy of science, with Carol Cleland defending a version of (a) and Dan McShea and Robert Brandon defending a version of (b). In placing Cleland's work into conversation with that of McShea and Brandon, this paper defends a third (c) synthetic approach that emphasizes the blending of idiographic and nomothetic work.
Simultaneous Irradiation with Different Wavelengths of Ultraviolet Light has Synergistic Bactericidal Effect on Vibrio parahaemolyticus
Authors: Nakahashi Mutsumi , Mawatari Kazuaki , Hirata Akiko , Maetani Miki , Shimohata Takaaki , Uebanso Takashi , Hamada Yasuhiro , Akutagawa Masatake , Kinouchi Yousuke , Takahashi Akira
Published: July 2014

Ultraviolet (UV) irradiation is an increasingly used method of water disinfection. UV rays can be classified by wavelength into UVA (320–400 nm), UVB (280‐320 nm), and UVC (<280 nm). We previously developed UVA sterilization equipment with a UVA light‐emitting diode (LED). The aim of this study was to establish a new water disinfection procedure using the combined irradiation of the UVA‐LED and another UV wavelength. An oxidative DNA product, 8‐hydroxy‐2’‐deoxyguanosine (8‐OHdG), increased after irradiation by UVA‐LED alone, and the level of cyclobutane pyrimidine dimers (CPDs) was increased by UVC alone in Vibrio parahaemolyticus. Although sequential irradiation of UVA‐LED and UVC‐induced additional bactericidal effects, simultaneous irradiation with UVA‐LED and UVC‐induced bactericidal synergistic effects. The 8‐OHdG and CPDs production showed no differences between sequential and simultaneous irradiation. Interestingly, the recovery of CPDs was delayed by simultaneous irradiation. The synergistic effect was absent in SOS response‐deficient mutants, such as the recA and lexA strains. Because recA‐ and lexA‐mediated SOS responses have crucial roles in a DNA repair pathway, the synergistic bactericidal effect produced by the simultaneous irradiation could depend on the suppression of the CPDs repair. The simultaneous irradiation of UVA‐LED and UVC is a candidate new procedure for effective water disinfection.
Building product diversification through contractual R&D agreements
Authors: Alcalde Heras María del Henar
Published: July 2014

Firms engage in contractual R&D agreements for several reasons, including product innovation motives, firm performance goals, and technological diversification. This article demonstrates that firms also might enter into external collaborations to penetrate new markets. This study therefore explores both the effects and the strategic risks of contractual R&D agreements and their related knowledge structures for a firm's capacity to diversify into new markets. Drawing on a novel panel data set obtained from 102 Fortune high‐tech firms, the authors demonstrate that strategic alliances enable knowledge‐integrated firms to penetrate new businesses; however, these organizations should be cautious about engaging in licensing‐in agreements, which have negative effects on product diversification.
Does prolonged onset of symptoms have a prognostic significance in community‐acquired pneumonia?
Authors: Sanz Francisco , Restrepo Marcos I. , Fernández‐Fabrellas Estrella , Cervera Ángela , Briones María Luisa , Novella Laura , Aguar María Carmen , Chiner Eusebi , Fernandez Juan F. , Blanquer José
Published: July 2014

Background and objective

Severity assessment is made at the time of the initial clinical presentation in patients with community‐acquired pneumonia (CAP). It is unclear how the gap between time of presentation and duration of symptoms onset may impact clinical outcomes. Here we evaluate the association of prolonged onset of symptoms (POS) and the impact on clinical outcomes among hospitalized patients with CAP.

Methods

This was a prospective, multicentre study of CAP in Spain. The primary outcomes were the clinical factors associated with POS defined as days from symptoms onset to pneumonia diagnosis >7 days. The secondary outcomes were intensive care unit (ICU) admission, the presence of suppurative complications, septic shock and 30‐day mortality.

Results

We enrolled 1038 patients diagnosed of CAP: 152 (14.6%) patients had a POS. In multivariate analysis, the presence of prior corticosteroid therapy, alcohol abuse, prior antibiotic therapy, and confusion, urea, respiratory rate, blood pressure and age 65 years or older score 0–1 was independently associated with POS. Patients with POS had a higher incidence of suppurative complications, but not of 30‐day mortality when compared with a shorter onset of symptoms.

Conclusions

Approximately 15% of patients diagnosed with CAP had POS. Risk factors associated with POS were previous corticosteroids and antibiotic therapy, alcoholism and less severe pneumonia. POS was associated with a higher rate of suppurative complications and less need for ICU admission.
3D fold growth rates
Authors: Frehner Marcel
Published: July 2014

Geological folds are inherently 3D structures; therefore, they also grow in three dimensions. Here, fold growth in all three dimensions is quantified by numerically simulating upright single‐layer folds in 3D Newtonian media. Horizontal uniaxial shortening leads to a buckling instability, which grows from a point‐like initial perturbation in all three dimensions by fold amplification (vertical), fold elongation (parallel to fold axis) and sequential fold growth (parallel to shortening direction) of secondary (and further) folds adjacent to the initial isolated fold. The two lateral directions exhibit similar averaged growth rates, leading to bulk fold structures with aspect ratios in map view close to 1. However, fold elongation is continuous with increasing bulk shortening, while sequential fold growth exhibits jumps whenever a new sequential fold appears and the bulk fold structure therefore suddenly occupies more space. Compared with the two lateral growth directions, fold amplification exhibits a slightly higher growth rate.
Balancing Critique and Commitment: A Synthetic Approach to Teaching Religion and the Environment
Authors: O'Brien Kevin J.
Published: July 2014

Courses about religion and the environment should work toward a synthesis of critical thinking – teaching students to examine and question the interplay of environmental degradation, religious traditions, and new religious movements – and advocacy – helping students to embrace, articulate, and refine their own environmentalist commitments, in religious terms when appropriate. To meet these goals, teachers of religion and the environment can learn from literature on balancing faith and critical analysis in other religion courses. This literature will help us to clarify the goals of our courses, critically examine the environmental movement with our students, and remain trustworthy to those who do not share environmentalist commitments. See a companion essay in this issue of the journal (Jennifer R. Ayres, “Learning on the Ground”) and a response to both of these essays (Forrest Clingerman, “Pedagogy as a Field Guide to the Ecology of the Classroom”) also published in this issue of the journal.
Pedagogy as a Field Guide to the Ecology of the Classroom
Authors: Clingerman Forrest
Published: July 2014

Reflecting on the complementary pedagogical models on teaching courses related to religion and the environment presented in this issue of the journal by Kevin O'Brien (“Balancing Critique and Commitment”) and Jennifer Ayres (“Learning on the Ground”), I suggest ways in which these essays form a conversation about teaching. Together, O'Brien and Ayres show how the classroom must acknowledge the materiality and embodied nature of learning, the emotional and intellectual levels of commitment, and the place of critical reflection on our everyday practices and actions. O'Brien and Ayres show the benefits of more fully reflecting on the ecology of the classroom – the relationship between individual members of the educational community, and the educational environment itself – in religious studies and theology.
A Begrudging, Recalcitrant Academic Observes What She's Learning: Distance Learning in Leadership Formation
Authors: Hess Lisa M.
Published: July 2014

Neither advocacy nor condemnation of distance learning, this essay offers observations and critical reflection on four years' longitudinal engagement with distance learning pedagogies for formation in higher theological education. Instead, readers are invited to curiosity, communal‐institutional discernment, and intense ambivalence. Theological, pedagogical, contextual, and ethical concerns are examined, as well as potential opportunities for innovation amidst age‐old practical theological challenges. A moral imperative emerges for those within and outside historic faith traditions, and some plausible impacts on educational and communal life are explored, especially faculty grief.
An unusual lung mass post stem cell transplantation
Authors: Lyons J. , Vandenberghe E. , Fahy R. , McDonnell C. , Keane J. , McLaughlin A.M.
Published: July 2014

We report a case of Mycobacterium kansasii presenting as an obstructing endobronchial mass in a patient post stem cell transplant. The patient had a complete clinical, microbiological, and radiological response to anti‐tuberculous treatment. To our knowledge, this is the first case of M. kansasii presenting post transplant with an obstructing lung mass simulating relapse or post‐transplant lymphoma.
Restrictive blood transfusion practices are associated with improved patient outcomes
Authors: Goodnough Lawrence T. , Maggio Paul , Hadhazy Eric , Shieh Lisa , Hernandez‐Boussard Tina , Khari Paul , Shah Neil
Published: July 2014

Background

Blood transfusion has been cited as one of the five most overutilized therapeutic procedures in the United States. We assessed the impact of clinical decision support at computerized physician order entry and education on red blood cell (RBC) transfusions and clinical patient outcomes at our institution.

Study Design and Methods

Clinical patient outcomes and RBC transfusions were assessed before and after implementation of a best practice alert triggered for transfusions when the hemoglobin level was higher than 7 g/dL for all inpatient discharges from January 2008 through December 2013. Retrospective clinical and laboratory data related to RBC transfusions were extracted: case‐mix complexity, patient discharges and selected surgical volumes, and patient outcomes (mortality, 30‐day readmissions, length of stay).

Results

There was a significant improvement in RBC utilization as assessed by RBC units transfused per 100 patient‐days‐at‐risk. Concurrently, hospital‐wide clinical patient outcomes showed improvement (mortality, p = 0.034; length of stay, p = 0.003) or remained stable (30‐day readmission rates, p = 0.909). Outcome improvements were even more pronounced in patients who received blood transfusions, with decreased mortality rate (55.2 to 33.0, p < 0.001), length of stay (mean, 10.1 to 6.2 days, p < 0.001), and 30‐day readmission rate (136.9 to 85.0, p < 0.001). The mean number of units transfused per patient also declined (3.6 to 2.7, p < 0.001). Acquisition costs of RBC units per 1000 patient discharges decreased from $283,130 in 2009 to $205,050 in 2013 with total estimated savings of $6.4 million and likely far greater impact on total transfusion‐related costs.

Conclusion

Improved blood utilization is associated with improved clinical patient outcomes.
Foreign Direct Investment, R&D Mobility and the New Economic Geography: A Survey
Authors: Santos‐Paulino Amelia U. , Squicciarini Mariagrazia , Fan Peilei
Published: July 2014

This paper surveys several strands of the economics literature focusing on the international mobility of FDI in general, and the offshoring and outsourcing of R&D activities in particular. The paper outlines key findings, identifies common features and existing divergences and addresses the relevant research gaps emerging from the R&D offshoring and outsourcing literatures. The aim is to investigate the main drivers of R&D (re)location and the possible impact that the offshoring and outsourcing of R&D activities might have on the competitiveness and growth of both firms and countries. Factor price differences, trading costs, countries' size and openness, relative skill endowments, productivity differentials, completeness and enforceability of contracts, knowledge production and spillovers and IPR regimes all shape foreign sourcing and the specific R&D location patterns that emerge. The overall impact of offshoring and outsourcing in general—and of R&D in particular—cannot be seen in isolation, as it is part of more complex globalisation dynamics.
Altered fundus appearance resulting from autofluorescence imaging with the confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (cSLO) in cats
Authors: Occelli Laurence M. , Petersen‐Jones Simon M.
Published: July 2014

Purpose

This paper is to report that imaging the tapetal fundus of cats with the 488 nm laser of the Spectralis® HRA+OCT (Heidelberg Engineering Inc., Heidelberg, Germany) can result in a pale appearance of the imaged area.

Animals studied and procedures

Wild‐type and Rdy kittens (CRX mutant heterozygotes—CRXRdy+/−) (8–20 weeks of age) and adult cats (1–4 years of age) were imaged by confocal scanning laser ophthalmoscope (cSLO) and spectral domain optical coherence tomography (SD‐OCT) using the Spectralis® HRA+OCT. Color fundus photography (RetCam II®, Clarity Medical Systems, Inc., Pleasanton, CA) was performed after imaging using the Spectralis® HRA+OCT.

Results

Following retinal cSLO imaging using the 488 nm laser (autofluorescence imaging) in both wild‐type kittens and adult cats, the imaged region appeared paler than the adjacent retina that had not been imaged. This change was probably due to retinal bleaching and was fully reversible. Imaging CRXRdy+/− kittens or adults, which had very reduced levels of visual pigments, did not induce the altered fundus appearance.

Conclusions

Those using autofluorescence imaging by cSLO should be aware that it can induce a characteristic pale appearance of the tapetal fundus in the imaged area of normal cats.
Recurrent Temporary Paralysis Reported After Human Rabies Post‐Exposure Prophylaxis
Authors: Dato V. M. , Campagnolo E. R. , Shah D. U. , Bellush M. J. , Rupprecht C. E.
Published: July 2014

Adverse events can occur after rabies post‐exposure prophylaxis (PEP), and linkage to causality is often difficult to determine. We report a case of recurrent temporary paralysis that began immediately after the initiation of rabies PEP in a man exposed to a bat. The recurrent temporary paralysis first occurred in the patient after his initial dose and then again after day 3 of his rabies PEP. The PEP was terminated prior to a serologic response. The patient continued to experience numerous discrete episodes of temporary paralysis for over two years.
PM-HIP Research for Pressure Retaining Applications Within the Electric Power Industry
Authors: Gandy David , Siefert John , Lherbier Lou , Novotnak David
Published: July 2014

For more than 60 years now, the nuclear power industry has relied on structural and pressure retaining materials generated via established manufacturing practices such as casting, plate rolling-and-welding, forging, drawing, and/or extrusion. During the past three years, EPRI has been leading the development and introduction of another established process, powder metallurgy and hot isostatic pressing (PM/HIP), for pressure retaining applications in the electric power industry. The research includes assessment of two primary alloys: 316L stainless steel and Grade 91 creep-strength enhanced ferritic steels, for introduction into the ASME Boiler and Pressure Vessel Code. Continuing DOE and EPRI research on other structural/pressure retaining alloys such as Alloy 690, SA 508 Class 1, Alloy 625, hard-facing materials, and others are also underway. This research will have a tremendous impact as we move forward over the next few decades on the selection of new alloys and components for advanced light water reactors and small modular reactors. Furthermore, fabrication of high alloy materials/components may require the use of new manufacturing processes to achieve acceptable properties for higher temperature applications such as those in Generation IV applications. Current research by EPRI and DOE will be reviewed and emphasis will be targeted at advanced applications where PM/HIP may be applied in the future.
Gas-Cooled Modular Reactors With Spherical Fuel Elements — Their Inherent Safety and Applications Not Just for Power Generation
Authors: Jaeger Walter , Hamel H. J. , Termuehlen Heinz
Published: July 2014

The gas-cooled reactor design with spherical fuel elements, referred to as high-temperature gas-cooled reactors (HTGR or HTR reactors) or pebble bed reactors has been already suggested by Farrington Daniels in the late 1940s; also referred to as Daniels’ pile reactor design. Under Rudolf Schulten the first pebble bed reactor, the 46MWth AVR Juelich reactor (Atom Versuchs-Reactor Jülich) was built in the late 1960s. It was in operation for 22 years and extensive testing confirmed its inherent safety.
The Flow Characteristics of a New Microchannel Heat Exchanger
Authors: Zhang Tiantian , Li Jing
Published: July 2014

Cooling technology is very important for the safe operation of nuclear power plant. Microchannel heat exchangers have been treated as one of the most potential cooling technologies. Flow characteristics of microchannels (hydraulic diameter is 100 μm) with a new structure, with which obstructions were placed along channels walls, have been investigated under the consideration of the effect of compressibility and viscosity heating. The influences of the Reynolds number, obstruction height, pitch, and geometry and width height ratio on the flow characteristics are investigated. It indicated that Poiseuille number increased with the increasing of Reynolds number and second order increasing with obstruction height. It was observed that the obstruction pitch is an important design parameter for flow characteristics, the pressure drop decreased with the increase of the obstruction pitch. The Poiseuille number reaches maximum for triangular obstruction and minimum for semicircle obstruction. It is also found that width height Ratio of obstruction plays an important role, Poiseuille number will obviously increase when width height Ratio of obstruction is bigger than 1.
Instrumentation and Controls Design and Maintenance Strategy for Small Modular Reactors
Authors: Hashemian Alex H. , Hashemian Hash M. , Thomasson Tommy C. , Kapernick Jeffrey R.
Published: July 2014

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs) under design and development today are working to crystallize the measurements that must be made to control the reactor and monitor its safety. Traditionally, temperature, pressure, level, flow, and neutron flux are measured in conventional nuclear reactors for operation and control and to protect against equipment and process deviations that can affect safety. In most current SMR designs, essentially the same process variables may have to be measured; especially primary coolant flow depending on whether the core cooling and heat transfer results from natural circulation or forced flow. The flow can be measured directly or inferred from other measurements or estimated through empirical or physical modeling.

The conventional sensors that are qualified for nuclear services and are currently used in nuclear power plants may or may not be suitable for SMRs. It all depends on the size and qualification requirements, installation details, static and dynamic performance specifications, wiring details, and sensor life expectancy. This paper will explore the possibilities that exist for SMRs to use today’s sensors and any need for new sensor designs. In addition, the paper will identify new means for automated monitoring of instrumentation and control (I&C) sensor performance in SMRs. In particular, the existing array of online calibration monitoring techniques and in-situ response time measurement methods will be evaluated for implementation in SMRs. This is important at this early stage as SMRs can easily build provisions in their mechanical, electrical, and I&C designs to accommodate online and automated I&C maintenance. For example, it is envisioned that SMRs will not be performing periodic sensor calibrations using classical hands-on procedures. Rather, SMRs are expected to be equipped with new technologies to verify the I&C performance automatically and flag the sensors and systems to be calibrated, response time tested, repaired, or replaced. The paper will explore these possibilities and will report on a current R&D project that is underway at AMS with funding from the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) with the goal to adapt the existing online monitoring (OLM) technologies for implementation in SMRs. The existing OLM technologies have been used by AMS in commercial nuclear power plants and research reactors for monitoring of I&C equipment performance including calibration, response time, detection of sensing line blockages, and to distinguish whether a signal anomaly is due to cables/connectors, electromagnetic interference, an end device being a sensor or a pump, other rotating equipment, etc.