bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Both the central and peripheral retina contribute to myopia development in chicks
Authors: Wang Jian Chao , Chun Rachel K. M. , Zhou Yun Y. , Zuo Bing , Li King Kit , Liu Quan , To Chi Ho
Published: August 2015

Purpose

This study examined the contribution of the central and peripheral retina to the development of form deprivation myopia in chicks.

Methods

Chicks were treated for 7 days either with centrally form‐deprived (CFD) lenses of 2/4/6/8 mm diameter central diffuse zone, or a full size diffuser lens on their right eyes. The left eyes wore a full field plano lens. Axial dimensions and refractions were measured before and after 4 and 7 days of lens wear.

Results

All eyes that had worn CFD lenses of 2/4/6/8 mm had significant changes in refractive errors (from −2.69 ± 0.40 D to −6.13 ± 0.76 D, p < 0.05), vitreous chamber depth (from 0.19 ± 0.04 mm to 0.56 ± 0.04 mm, p < 0.05) and axial length (from 0.42 ± 0.03 mm to 0.96 ± 0.04 mm, p < 0.05) during the experiment, except for the changes in refractive error (−2.81 ± 0.33 D, p = 0.053) and axial length (0.77 ± 0.04 mm, p = 0.050) in the 2 mm lens group after 7 days of lens wear. The myopic shift in the CFD lens wearing eyes was due primarily to an increase in vitreous chamber depth. Linear regression analysis showed that the changes of refractive error, vitreous chamber depth and axial length were positively correlated with the size of central form‐deprived retina. Form depriving the central retina produced axial myopia even in the presence of clear peripheral vision.

Conclusions

The current study showed that both the central and peripheral retina contributes to myopia development in chicks. The amount of myopia induced increased linearly with the area of retina being form‐deprived. It suggests that in terms of decoding optical input for growth, the area of retina being exposed to optical signals may be critical in determining eye growth.
Prediction of deoxynivalenol and zearalenone concentrations in Fusarium graminearum inoculated backcross populations of maize by symptom rating and near‐infrared spectroscopy
Authors: Miedaner Thomas , Han Sen , Kessel Bettina , Ouzunova Milena , Schrag Tobias , Utz Friedrich H. , Melchinger Albrecht E.
Published: August 2015

Gibberella ear rot (GER) caused by Fusarium graminearum is a destructive disease in maize of temperate regions resulting in yield reduction and contamination by the mycotoxins deoxynivalenol (DON) and zearalenone (ZON). We wanted to analyse whether prediction of DON and ZON concentrations is feasible either by GER severity ratings or by near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). We analysed 80 and 102 lines developed by backcrossing doubled‐haploid lines from segregating populations to the resistant and susceptible parent, respectively, by artificial infection at three locations in Germany and France. Both backcross (BC) populations differed substantially in their means for all traits with significant (P < 0.01) genotypic variances. DON and ZON concentrations measured by immunotests were significantly (P < 0.01) correlated with each other and with GER severity within each BC population (0.6 ≤ r ≤ 0.9, P < 0.01). DON concentration measured by immunotest and NIRS significantly correlated (r ≈ 0.9, P < 0.01). In conclusion, DON and ZON concentrations could be reliably predicted by GER severity. Additional NIRS analysis of DON concentration might be useful for the positively selected fraction.
A SNP genetic linkage map based on the ‘Hamilton’ by ‘Spencer’ recombinant inbred line population identified QTL for seed isoflavone contents in soybean
Authors: Akond Masum , Liu Shiming , Kantartzi Stella K. , Meksem Khalid , Bellaloui Nacer , Lightfoot David A. , Yuan Jiazheng , Wang Dechun , Anderson James , Kassem My Abdelmajid
Published: August 2015

Soybean is one of the most important crops worldwide for its protein and oil as well as the health beneficial phytoestrogens or isoflavone. This study reports a relatively dense single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP)‐based genetic map based on ‘Hamilton’ by ‘Spencer’ recombinant inbred line population and quantitative trait loci (QTL) for seed isoflavone contents. The genetic map is composed of 1502 SNP markers and covers about 1423.72 cM of the soybean genome. Two QTL for seed isoflavone contents have been identified in this population. One major QTL that controlled both daidzein (qDZ1) and total isoflavone contents (qTI1) was found on LG C2 (Chr 6). And a second QTL for glycitein content (qGT1) was identified on the LG G (Chr 18). These two QTL in addition to others identified in soybean could be used in soybean breeding to optimize isoflavone content. This newly assembled soybean linkage map is a useful tool to identify and map QTL for important agronomic traits and enhance the identification of the genes involved in these traits.
Renal ultrasound and DMSA screening for high‐grade vesicoureteral reflux
Authors: Wongbencharat Kunruedi , Tongpenyai Yothi , Na‐rungsri Kunyalak
Published: August 2015

Background

Selection of the appropriate radiologic investigation in a child after first febrile urinary tract infection (UTI) remains a contentious issue. This report investigated the effectiveness of renal bladder ultrasound (RBUS) and late 6 month dimercaptosuccinic acid (DMSA) renal scan in the detection of high‐grade vesicoureteral reflux (VUR) after first febrile UTI in infants aged <1 year.

Methods

A total of 387 infants aged <1 year with first febrile UTI who completed diagnostic follow up consisting of RBUS, voiding cystourethrogram (VCUG) and late 6 month DMSA scan were enrolled in the study. The effectiveness of RBUS and DMSA scan in the detection of high‐grade VUR, including cost and benefit were assessed.

Results

Abnormal RBUS was identified in 95 infants (24.5%). VUR was identified on VCUG in 79 (20.4%), of whom eight (2.1%) had high‐grade VUR (grade IV–V). Abnormal renal parenchyma was identified on late 6 month DMSA scan in 22 infants (5.7%). The sensitivity of abnormal RBUS and of late 6 month DMSA scan in the prediction of high‐grade VUR was 50% and 87.5%, and the proportion of infants who avoided unnecessary VCUG was 75.5% and 94.3%, respectively.

Conclusions

Fifty percent of high‐grade VUR was not identified on RBUS screening after first febrile UTI. Although late 6 month DMSA scan had higher sensitivity in the detection of high‐grade VUR, with the added benefit of detection of renal scars, the practical application of this method was limited due to its high cost, radiation exposure and the associated delay in decision making.
Rituximab and low‐dose cyclosporine combination therapy for steroid‐resistant focal segmental glomerulosclerosis
Authors: Suyama Kazuhide , Kawasaki Yukihiko , Miyazaki Kyohei , Kanno Syuto , Ono Atsushi , Suzuki Yuichi , Ohara Shinichiro , Hosoya Mitsuaki
Published: August 2015

Background

We investigated the efficacy of rituximab and low‐dose cyclosporine combination therapy for focal segmental glomerulosclerosis (FSGS) in children with steroid‐resistant nephrotic syndrome (SRNS).

Methods

Five FSGS children with SRNS were treated twice with rituximab and low‐dose cyclosporine (CyA) combination therapy (RTX‐CyAT). The clinical features and laboratory data were investigated before and after RTX‐CyAT, and the outcomes were assessed.

Results

Prednisolone (PSL) was discontinued 3 months after RTX‐CyAT in all patients. The number of CD19‐positive cells decreased to <1% of all white blood cells in all patients at 1 month after RTX‐CyAT, and was maintained at this level for 259.6 ± 68.2 days. All patients remained in remission for the duration of the decrease in CD19‐positive cells to <1%. Two patients also remained in remission throughout the observation period, with three patients having a single relapse at 333 ± 89 days (range, 231–376 days) after RTX‐CyAT. In all patients, the mean steroid and CyA doses after RTX‐CyAT were lower than those before RTX‐CyAT.

Conclusions

RTX‐CyAT is effective in FSGS patients with SRNS and may ameliorate the side‐effects of PSL and immunosuppressive drugs.
Diagnostic value of red blood cell distribution width in pediatric acute appendicitis
Authors: Bozlu Gulcin , Taskinlar Hakan , Unal Selma , Alakaya Mehmet , Nayci Ali , Kuyucu Necdet
Published: August 2015

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the diagnostic value of red blood cell distribution width (RDW) in children with acute appendicitis.

Methods

In this retrospective study, a total of 344 children aged ≤18 years with clinically suspected acute appendicitis who underwent appendectomy between January 2007 and January 2014 were reviewed, and 200 healthy controls of the same age group were included. Based on histopathology, the patients were classified as having normal appendix, simple or perforated appendicitis, and preoperative white blood cell count (WBC), C‐reactive protein (CRP) and RDW were compared.

Results

Compared with the controls, mean WBC, CRP and RDW were significantly higher in the appendectomy group (P <0.001). The children with simple or perforated appendicitis had significantly higher WBC, CRP and RDW than did those with normal appendix (P <0.001). Mean WBC and CRP were significantly higher in the children with perforated appendicitis (P <0.001), but no statistically significant difference was found in RDW between the simple and perforated appendicitis groups (P = 0.081).

Conclusions

Children with histologically proven acute appendicitis have higher RDW than children without appendicitis, but the diagnostic value of RDW was not superior to WBC or CRP in children with acute appendicitis. Although higher RDW may be valuable for aiding the diagnosis of acute appendicitis in children, it is not a useful marker for predicting perforated appendicitis.
Consciousness and Criterion: On Block's Case for Unconscious Seeing
Authors: Phillips Ian
Published: August 2015

Block () highlights two experimental studies of neglect patients which, he contends, provide ‘dramatic evidence’ for unconscious seeing. In Block's hands this is the highly non‐trivial thesis that seeingof the same fundamental kind as ordinary conscious seeingcan occur outside ofphenomenalconsciousness. Block's case for it provides an excellent opportunity to consider a large body of research on clinical syndromes widely held to evidence unconscious perception. I begin by considering in detail the two studies of neglect to which Block appeals. I show why their interpretation as evidence of unconscious seeing faces a series of local difficulties. I then explain how, even bracketing these issues, a long‐standing but overlooked problem concerning our criterion for consciousness problematizes the appeal to both studies. I explain why this problem is especially pressing for Block given his view that phenomenal consciousness overflows access consciousness. I further show that it is epidemic—not only affecting all report‐based studies of unconscious seeing in neglect, but also analogous studies of the condition most often alleged to show unconscious seeing, namely blindsight.
Gap prepulse inhibition of the auditory late response in healthy subjects
Authors: Ku Yunseo , Ahn Joong Woo , Kwon Chiheon , Suh Myung‐Whan , Lee Jun Ho , Oh Seung Ha , Kim Hee Chan
Published: August 2015

The gap‐startle paradigm has been used as a behavioral method for tinnitus screening in animal studies. This study aimed to investigate gap prepulse inhibition (GPI) of the auditory late response (ALR) as the objective response of the gap‐intense sound paradigm in humans. ALRs were recorded in response to gap‐intense and no‐gap‐intense sound stimuli in 27 healthy subjects. The amplitudes of the baseline‐to‐peak (N1, P2, and N2) and the peak‐to‐peak (N1P2 and P2N2) were compared between two averaged ALRs. The variations in the inhibition ratios of N1P2 and P2N2 during the experiment were analyzed by increasing stimuli repetitions. The effect of stimulus parameter adjustments on GPI ratios was evaluated. No‐gap‐intense sound stimuli elicited greater peak amplitudes than gap‐intense sound stimuli, and significant differences were found across all peaks. The overall mean inhibition ratios were significantly lower than 1.0, where the value 1.0 indicates that there were no differences between gap‐intense and no‐gap‐intense sound responses. The initial decline in GPI ratios was shown in N1P2 and P2N2 complexes, and this reduction was nearly complete after 100 stimulus repetitions. Significant effects of gap length and interstimulus interval on GPI ratios were observed. We found significant inhibition of ALR peak amplitudes in performing the gap‐intense sound paradigm in healthy subjects. The N1P2 complex represented GPI well in terms of suppression degree and test‐retest reliability. Our findings offer practical information for the comparative study of healthy subjects and tinnitus patients using the gap‐intense sound paradigm with the ALR.
Pregnancy Rates to Fixed Embryo Transfer of Vitrified IVP Bos indicus, Bos taurus or Bos indicus × Bos taurus Embryos
Authors: Marinho LSR , Sanches BV , Rosa CO , Tannura JH , Rigo AG , Basso AC , Pontes JHF , Seneda MM
Published: August 2015

Contents

The pregnancy rates obtained after the transfer of cryopreserved in vitro‐produced (IVP) embryos are usually low and/or inconsistent. The objective of this study was to evaluate the pregnancy rates of Holstein, Gyr and Holstein × Gyr cattle after the transfer of vitrified IVP embryos produced with X‐sorted sperm. Seventy‐two Gyr and 703 Holstein females were subjected to ovum pickup (OPU) sessions, followed by in vitro embryo production using semen from sires of the same breeds. Embryos (1636 Holstein, 241 Gyr and 1515 Holstein × Gyr) were exposed to forskolin for 48 h prior to vitrification. The pregnancy rate achieved with Gyr dam and sire was 46.1%, which was similar (p = 0.11) to that of Holstein dam and Gyr sire (40.3%). Crossing Gyr dams with Holstein sires resulted in a pregnancy rate of 38.9% and did not differ (p = 0.58) from the pregnancy rate obtained with the cross between Holstein dams and Gyr sires. The rate obtained with Holstein dam and sire was 32.5%. The average pregnancy rate was 36.6%, and no difference was found in the proportion of female foetuses (88.8%, in average) among breeds (p > 0.05). In conclusion, transfer of cryopreserved X‐sorted embryos represents an interesting choice for dairy cattle. Despite the small differences between pregnancy rates, we highlight the efficiency of this strategy for all of the racial groups studied.
Role of a functional polymorphism in the F2R gene promoter in sarcoidosis
Authors: Platé Manuela , Lawson Phillippa J. , Hill Michael R. , Marshall Richard P. , Booth Helen L. , Kumari Meena , Laurent Geoffrey J. , Hurst John R. , Chambers Rachel C.
Published: August 2015

Sarcoidosis is a multisystem granulomatous disease of unknown aetiology characterized by increased inflammation, and results from gene–environment interactions. Proteinase‐activated receptor‐1 mediates the interplay between coagulation and inflammation. The rs2227744G > A promoter single nucleotide polymorphism has been linked to inflammation, cardiovascular disease and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease exacerbations. Using a case‐control study (184 cases with sarcoidosis and 368 controls), we show that the rs2227744A allele significantly associates with protection from sarcoidosis (P = 0.003, OR = 0.68 (0.52–0.88)).
DISSATISFACTION WITH DWELLING ENVIRONMENTS IN AN AGING SOCIETY: AN EMPIRICAL ANALYSIS OF THE KANTO AREA IN JAPAN
Authors: Ishikawa Noriko , Fukushige Mototsugu
Published: August 2015

We conducted a questionnaire survey in the Kanto area regarding people's dissatisfaction with various aspects of their dwelling environment. Dissatisfaction with access to transportation, shopping, and medical facilities is an important reason for moving house. The empirical results from a probit model imply that increased economic wealth improves satisfaction with proximity to transportation, shopping, and medical facilities but does not reduce dissatisfaction with living costs, whereas aging increases satisfaction not only with proximity to transportation, shopping, and medical facilities, but also with living costs and family and acquaintances.
Predicting Efficiency in Angolan Banks: A Two‐Stage TOPSIS and Neural Networks Approach
Authors: Wanke Peter , Barros Carlos , Macanda Nkanga Pedro João
Published: August 2015

This paper presents an efficiency assessment of the Angolan banks using Technique for Order Preference by Similarity to the Ideal Solution (TOPSIS). TOPSIS is a multi‐criteria decision‐making technique similar to data envelopment analysis, which ranks a finite set of units based on the minimisation of distance from an ideal point and the maximisation of distance from an anti‐ideal point. In this research, TOPSIS is used first in a two‐stage approach to assess the relative efficiency of Angolan banks using the most frequent indicators adopted by the literature. Then, in the second stage, neural networks are combined with TOPSIS results as part of an attempt to produce a model for banking performance with effective predictive ability. The results reveal that variables related to cost structure have a prominent negative impact on efficiency. Findings also indicate that the Angolan banking market would benefit from higher level of competition between institutions.
Strength training improves muscle aerobic capacity and glucose tolerance in elderly
Authors: Frank P. , Andersson E. , Pontén M. , Ekblom B. , Ekblom M. , Sahlin K.
Published: August 2015

The primary aim of this study was to investigate the effect of short‐term resistance training (RET) on mitochondrial protein content and glucose tolerance in elderly. Elderly women and men (age 71 ± 1, mean ± SEM) were assigned to a group performing 8 weeks of resistance training (RET, n = 12) or no training (CON, n = 9). The RET group increased in (i) knee extensor strength (concentric +11 ± 3%, eccentric +8 ± 3% and static +12 ± 3%), (ii) initial (0–30 ms) rate of force development (+52 ± 26%) and (iii) contents of proteins related to signaling of muscle protein synthesis (Akt +69 ± 20 and mammalian target of rapamycin +69 ± 32%). Muscle fiber type composition changed to a more oxidative profile in RET with increased amount of type IIa fibers (+26.9 ± 6.8%) and a trend for decreased amount of type IIx fibers (−16.4 ± 18.2%, P = 0.068). Mitochondrial proteins (OXPHOS complex II, IV, and citrate synthase) increased in RET by +30 ± 11%, +99 ± 31% and +29 ± 8%, respectively. RET resulted in improved oral glucose tolerance measured as reduced area under curve for glucose (−21 ± 26%) and reduced plasma glucose 2 h post‐glucose intake (−14 ± 5%). In CON parameters were unchanged or impaired. In conclusion, short‐term resistance training in elderly not only improves muscular strength, but results in robust increases in several parameters related to muscle aerobic capacity.
The use of a potential novel tool in virtual crossmatching for platelet transfusion in platelet refractoriness
Authors: Bub C. B. , Gonçalez A. C. , Barjas‐Castro M. L. , Sousa L. C. D. M. , do Monte S. J. H. , Castro V.
Published: August 2015

Background and Objectives

Transfusion support for immune‐mediated platelet refractoriness (PR) is clinically challenging, technically laborious and costly. The development of ‘EpHLA/EpVix software’ has been used successfully to select kidney donors. Here, we sought to evaluate this new software as a tool for platelet virtual crossmatch (VxM).

Materials and Methods

This is a prospective study from 2007 to 2014 of PR patients in a tertiary hospital. Platelet components selected by HLAMatchmaker program were crossmatched by EpHLA/EpVix, anti‐human globulin complement‐dependent lymphocytotoxicity test (AHG‐CDC), flow cytometry platelet crossmatch (FCxM) and then compared. Effectiveness of platelet components transfused was evaluated by CCI.

Results

Ninety‐seven crossmatched platelet transfusions for 27 patients were enrolled. Partial matches were analysed for 75 transfusions by the 3 methods, and 22% showed discrepant results among the assays. After further analysis, data showed that all divergent cases could be explained by HPA alloimmunization, prozone effect (FCxM), low sensitivity of AHG‐CDC and possible interference in FCxM/AHG‐CDC assays. Notably, sensitivity and specificity of VxM analysis was excellent (100%). Satisfactory CCI counts were obtained for the majority (22/30) of the transfusions.

Conclusion

The new EpHLA/EpVix method showed to be effective, feasible and fast for VxM at no cost and able to minimize labour on donor identification. However, platelet crossmatching may be a necessary step because EpHLA/EpVix does not formally exclude HPA alloimmunization.
Additive solutions differentially affect metabolic and functional parameters of platelet concentrates
Authors: Leitner G. C. , List J. , Horvath M. , Eichelberger B. , Panzer S. , Jilma‐Stohlawetz P.
Published: August 2015

Background

Pathogen inactivation (PI) of platelet concentrates with extension of shelf life to 7 days requires the use of platelet additive solutions (PAS). We examined the quality of platelets resuspended in three different PAS stored for up to 7 days.

Materials and Methods

Twelve triple adult dose platelet concentrates (PC) were collected using the TrimaAccel® collection system. Each highly concentrated product was divided into three equal parts, and the additive solutions (Composol® or SSP+® or Intersol™) were added to a final concentration of 56% PAS and 44% plasma. Samples were drawn on days 1, 5 and 7 to measure pH, glucose, lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), lactate, mean platelet volume (MPV) and the aggregation response to collagen and the thrombin receptor agonist peptide‐6. Further, p‐selectin expression on platelets was assessed.

Results

No statistically significant changes were observed for pH and MPV during 7 days of storage in all PAS containing PCs, whereas glucose decreased and LDH and lactate increased over time (P < 0·05). These changes were particularly evident in Intersol PCs on days 5 and 7 compared with Composol® PCs or SSP+® PCs (P < 0·05). Platelets from Intersol PCs exhibited the highest baseline activation of p‐selectin and showed reduced collagen‐ and TRAP‐6‐induced aggregation.

Conclusion

Resuspension of platelets in Intersol for 7 days results in increased platelet activation and platelet metabolism compared with SSP+® or Composol®. Further clinical studies are needed to evaluate whether the observed differences in PAS‐PCs affect the recovery rate or the life span of transfused platelets.
The potential Public Health Impact of Mycobacterium avium ssp. paratuberculosis: Global Opinion Survey of Topic Specialists
Authors: Waddell L. A. , Rajić A. , Stärk K. D. C. , McEwen S. A.
Published: August 2015

Global research knowledge has accumulated over the past few decades, and there is reasonable evidence for a positive association between Mycobacterium avium spp. paratuberculosis and Crohn's disease in humans, although its role as a human pathogen has not been entirely accepted. For this reason, management of public health risk due to M. paratuberculosis remains an important policy issue in agri‐food public health arenas in many countries. Responsible authorities must decide whether existing mitigation strategies are sufficient to prevent or reduce human exposure to M. paratuberculosis. A Web‐based questionnaire was administered to topic specialists to elicit empirical knowledge and opinion on the overall public health impact of M. paratuberculosis, the importance of various routes of human exposure to the pathogen, existing mitigation strategies and the need for future strategies. The questionnaire had four sections and consisted of 20 closed and five open questions. Topic specialists believed that M. paratuberculosis is likely a risk to human health (44.8%) and, given the paucity of available evidence, most frequently ranked it as a moderate public health issue (40.1%). A significant correlation was detected between topic specialists' commitment to M. paratuberculosis in terms of the number of years or proportion of work dedicated to this topic, and the likelihood of an extreme answer (high or low) to the above questions. Topic specialists identified contact with ruminants and dairy products as the most likely routes of exposure for humans. There was consensus on exposure routes for ruminants and what commodities to target in mitigation efforts. Described mandatory programmes mainly focused on culling diseased animals and voluntary on‐farm prevention programmes. Despite ongoing difficulties in the identification of subclinical infections in animals, the topic specialists largely agreed that further enhancement of on‐farm programmes in affected commodities by the agri‐food industry (68.4%) and allocation of resources by governments to monitor the issue (92%) are most appropriate given the current state of evidence.
Mutually Coordinated Visualization of Product and Supply Chain Metadata for Sustainable Design
Authors: Bernstein William Z. , Ramanujan Devarajan , Kulkarni Devadatta M. , Tew Jeffrey , Elmqvist Niklas , Zhao Fu , Ramani Karthik
Published: August 2015

In this paper, we present a novel visualization framework for product and supply chain metadata in the context of redesign-related decision scenarios. Our framework is based on the idea of overlaying product-related metadata onto the interactive graph representations of a supply chain and its associated product architecture. By coupling environmental data with graph-based visualizations of product architecture, our framework provides a novel decision platform for expert designers. Here, the user can balance the advantages of a redesign opportunity and manage the associated risk on the product and supply chain. For demonstration, we present ViSER, an interactive visualization tool that provides an interface consisting of different mutually coordinated views providing multiple perspectives on a particular supply chain presentation. To explore the utility of ViSER, we conduct a domain expert exploration using a case study of peripheral computer equipment. Results indicate that ViSER enables new affordances within the decision making process for supply chain redesign.
Ranked-Based Sensitivity Analysis for Size Optimization of Structures
Authors: Dizangian Babak , Ghasemi Mohammad Reza
Published: August 2015

This article proposes a novel ranked-based method for size optimization of structures. This method uses violation-based sensitivity analysis and borderline adaptive sliding technique (ViS-BLAST) on the margin of feasible nonfeasible (FNF) design space. ViS-BLAST maybe considered a multiphase optimization technique, where in the first phase, the first arbitrary local optimum is found by few analyses and in the second phase, a sequence of local optimum points is found through jumps and BLASTs until the global optimum is found. In fact, this technique reaches a sensitive margin zone where the global optimum is located, with a small number of analyses, utilizing a space-degradation strategy (SDS). This strategy substantially degrades the high order searching space and then proceeds with the proposed ViS-BLAST search for the optimum design. Its robustness and effectiveness are then defied by some well-known benchmark examples. The ViS-BLAST not only speeds up the optimization procedure but also it ensures nonviolated optimum designs.
A Novel Joint Design for Robotic Hands With Humanlike Nonlinear Compliance
Authors: Kuo Pei-Hsin , Deshpande Ashish D.
Published: August 2015

Robotic hands are typically too rigid to react against unexpected impacts and disturbances in order to prevent damage. Human hands have great versatility and robustness due, in part, to the passive compliance at the hand joints. In this paper, we present a novel design for joint with passive compliance that is inspired by biomechanical properties of the human hands. The design consists of a compliant material and a set of pulleys that rotate and stretch the material as the joint rotates. We created six different compliant materials, and we optimized the joint design to match the desired humanlike compliance. We present two design features that allow for the tuning of the joint torque profile, namely, a pretension mechanism to increase pretension of the compliant material, and a design of varying pulley configuration. We built a prototype for the new joint by using additive manufacturing to fabricate the design components and built a test-bed with a force sensor and a servo motor. Experimental results show that the joint exhibits a nonlinear, double exponential joint compliance with all six compliant materials. The design feature involving variable pulley configurations is effective in adjusting the slope of joint torque during the joint rotation while the pretension mechanism showed only a limited effect on increasing the torque amplitude. Overall, with its small size, light weight, low friction, and humanlike joint compliance, the presented joint design is ready for implementation in robotic hands.
Subcooled Pool Film Boiling Heat Transfer From Spheres With Superhydrophobic Surfaces: An Experimental Study
Authors: Fan Li-Wu , Li Jia-Qi , Su You-You , Wang Huan-Li , Ji Ting , Yu Zi-Tao
Published: August 2015

Pool film boiling was studied by visualized quenching experiments on stainless steel spheres in water at the atmospheric pressure. The surfaces of the spheres were coated to be superhydrophobic (SHB), having a static contact angle greater than 160 deg. Subcooled conditions were concerned parametrically with the subcooling degree being varied from 0 °C (saturated) to 70 °C. It was shown that film boiling is the overwhelming mode of heat transfer during the entire course of quenching as a result of the retention of stable vapor film surrounding the SHB spheres, even at very low wall superheat that normally corresponds to nucleate boiling. Pool boiling heat transfer is enhanced with increasing the subcooling degree, in agreement with the thinning trend of the vapor film thickness. The heat flux enhancement was found to be up to fivefold for the subcooling degree of 70 °C in comparison to the saturated case, at the wall superheat of 200 °C. A modified correlation in the ratio form was proposed to predict pool film boiling heat transfer from spheres as a function of the subcooling degree.
Effects of Flow Distortions as They Occur in S-Duct Inlets on the Performance and Stability of a Jet Engine
Authors: Rademakers Rudolf. P. M. , Bindl Stefan , Niehuis Reinhard
Published: August 2015

One of the research areas at the Institute of Jet Propulsion focuses on the design and optimization of s-shaped engine inlet configurations. The distortion being evoked within such inlet ducts should be limited to ensure an optimal performance, stability, and durability of the engine's compression system. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD) play a major role in the design process of bent engine inlet ducts. The flow within such ducts can be computed, distortion patterns can be visualized, and related distortion coefficients are easily calculated. The impact of a distortion on flow phenomena within the compressor system can, however, only be computed with major computational efforts and thus the quality of an s-duct design in development is usually assessed by analyzing the evoked distortion with suitable distortion coefficients without a true knowledge of the duct's influence on the downstream propulsion system. The influence of inlet distortion on both the performance and stability of the Larzac 04 jet engine was parameterized during experimental investigations at the engine test bed of the Institute of Jet Propulsion. Both pressure and swirl distortion patterns as they typically occur in s-duct inlet configurations were reproduced with distortion generators. Pressure distortion patterns were generated using seven types of distortion screens. The intensity of the distortion varies with the mesh size of the screen whereas the extension of the distortion is defined by the dimensions of the screen in radial and circumferential direction. A typical counter rotating twin-swirl was generated with a delta-wing installed upstream of the compressor system. First, the development of flow distortion was analyzed for several engine operating points (EOPs). A linear relation between the total pressure loss in the engine inlet and the EOPs was found. Second, the flow within the compressor system with an inlet distortion was analyzed and unsteady flow phenomena were detected for severe inlet distortions. Finally, the effect of both pressure and swirl distortion on the performance and stability of the test vehicle was parameterized. A loss in engine performance with increasing inlet distortion is observable. The limiting inlet distortion with respect to engine stability was found; and moreover, it was shown that pressure distortion has a stronger influence on the stability of the compressor system compared to a counter rotating twin-swirl distortion. The presented parameterization was essential for the s-duct design, which was under development for an experimental setup with the Larzac 04 jet engine.
Influence of Changing Casing Groove Parameters on the Performance of Centrifugal Compressors Near Stall Condition
Authors: Halawa Taher , Gadala Mohamed S. , Alqaradawi Mohamed , Badr Osama
Published: August 2015

The casing treatment is an effective method for increasing the stall margin of compressors and enhancing the flow distribution at the blades tip. The present numerical study focuses on making an optimization of the casing groove parameters which can enhance the centrifugal compressor performance during stall. The casing grooves parameters considered are the groove cross section aspect ratio (the groove height to width ratio), groove location, and the number of grooves. Five groove aspect ratios were considered ranging from 0.2 to 1.8. Three groove locations were studied: at full blades leading edge, at splitter blades leading edge, and after the splitter blades leading edge by a distance equals to the distance between the first and second groove locations. Comparisons were made among different cases with number of grooves starting from one up to seven grooves located at the most effective locations and have the optimum cross section dimensions as deduced from the results of the groove aspect ratio and groove location optimization. Results showed that by using groove aspect ratio less than one, the reinjected groove flow is relatively weak but when the aspect ratio is equal to one, there is enough space inside the groove for the flow to circulate and generate the reinjected groove flow with higher velocities. When the groove aspect ratio was increased to be more than one, the reinjected flow velocity was increased slightly and its effective area was increased in the circumferential direction. Results also indicated that the best location for the groove is at the full blades leading edge because the stall area can be minimized and controlled in a better way comparing with the other groove locations. Results showed that by increasing the number of grooves, the surge margin (SM) increases and the isentropic efficiency decreases, but the stall area at the shroud surface decreases in size and its location is shifted toward the blades trailing edge.
Oscillating Journal Bearings Under Steady Load: A Numerical Study of Limiting Cases
Authors: Boedo S. , Anderson D. P.
Published: August 2015

This note provides a more extensive assessment of bearing performance for steadily loaded oscillating journal bearings using the mobility method of solution. Even with significantly large journal oscillation amplitudes, unexpectedly thin films are predicted for conventional designs as the load number goes to zero. Offset journal bearing arrangements subjected to the same loads and kinematics are shown to provide a substantial improvement in film thickness, particularly at low oscillation amplitudes, compared with the conventional design configuration.
Comparison of B2O3 and BN deposited by atomic layer deposition for forming ultrashallow dopant regions by solid state diffusion
Authors: Consiglio Steven , Clark Robert D. , O'Meara David , Wajda Cory S. , Tapily Kandabara , Leusink Gert J.
Published: August 2015

In this study, the authors investigated atomic layer deposition (ALD) of B2O3 and BN for conformal, ultrashallow B doping applications and compared the effect of dopant-containing overlayers on sheet resistance (Rs) and B profiles for both types of films subjected to a drive-in thermal anneal. For the deposition of B2O3, tris(dimethylamido)borane and O3 were used as coreactants and for the deposition of BN, BCl3 and NH3 were used as coreactants. Due to the extreme air instability of B2O3 films, physical analysis was performed on B2O3 films, which were capped in-situ with ∼30 Å ALD grown Al2O3 layers. For the BN films, in-situ ALD grown Si3N4 capping layers (∼30 Å) were used for comparison. From spectroscopic ellipsometry, a thickness decrease was observed after 1000 °C, 30 s anneal for the B2O3 containing stack with 60 ALD cycles of B2O3, whereas the BN containing stacks showed negligible thickness decrease after the annealing step, regardless of the number of BN cycles tested. The postanneal reduction in film thickness as well as decrease in Rs for the B2O3 containing stack suggests that the solid state diffusion dopant mechanism is effective, whereas for the BN containing stacks this phenomenon seems to be suppressed. Further clarification of the effectiveness of the B2O3 containing layer compared to the film stacks with BN was evidenced in backside secondary ion mass spectrometry profiling of B atoms. Thus, B2O3 formed by an ALD process and subsequently capped in-situ followed by a drive-in anneal offers promise as a dopant source for ultrashallow doping, whereas the same method using BN seems ineffective. An integrated approach for B2O3 deposition and annealing on a clustered tool also demonstrated controllable Rs reduction without the use of a capping layer.
Draft Genome Sequence of Bacillus ginsengihumi Strain M2.11 with Phytase Activity
Authors: Toymentseva Anna A. , Suleimanova Aliya D. , Boulygina Eugenia A. , Kazakov Sergey V. , Baranova Daria S. , Akhmetova Alina I. , Mardanova Ayslu M. , Sharipova Margarita R.
Published: August 2015

This paper announces the genome sequence of

Bacillus ginsengi
humi

strain M2.11, which has been characterized as a strain which produces the enzyme with the ability to degrade phytase. The genome of the strain M2.11 is 3.7 Mb and harbors 3,082 coding sequences.
Genome Sequences of Three Oenococcus oeni Strains Isolated from Maipo Valley, Chile
Authors: Jara Carla , Romero Jaime
Published: August 2015

Oenococcus oeni
is part of the microbial terroir involved in wine production. Here, we present three genome sequences of
O. oeni
strains isolated from spontaneous malolactic fermentation of cultivar Cabernet Sauvignon Maipo Valley, Chile.
Draft Genome Sequence of Lactobacillus fermentum NB-22
Authors: Chaplin A. V. , Shkoporov A. N. , Efimov B. A. , Pikina A. P. , Borisova O. Y. , Gladko I. A. , Postnikova E. A. , Lordkipanidze A. E. , Kafarskaia L. I.
Published: August 2015

We announce here a draft genome sequence of
Lactobacillus fermentum
NB-22, a strain isolated from human vaginal microbiota. The assembled sequence consists of 190 contigs, joined into 137 scaffolds, and the total size is 2.01 Mb.
Metagenome Sequencing of the Greater Kudu (
Tragelaphus strepsiceros
) Rumen Microbiome
Authors: Dube Anita N. , Moyo Freeman , Dhlamini Zephaniah
Published: August 2015

Ruminant herbivores utilize a symbiotic relationship with microorganisms in their rumen to exploit fibrous foods for nutrition. We report the metagenome sequences of the greater kudu (
Tragelaphus strepsiceros
) rumen digesta, revealing a diverse community of microbes and some novel hydrolytic enzymes.
Draft Genome Sequence of Neisseria gonorrhoeae Sequence Type 1407, a Multidrug-Resistant Clinical Isolate
Authors: Anselmo A. , Ciammaruconi A. , Carannante A. , Neri A. , Fazio C. , Fortunato A. , Palozzi A. M. , Vacca P. , Fillo S. , Lista F. , Stefanelli P.
Published: August 2015

Gonorrhea may become untreatable due to the spread of resistant or multidrug-resistant strains. Cefixime-resistant gonococci belonging to sequence type 1407 have been described worldwide. We report the genome sequence of
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
strain G2891, a multidrug-resistant isolate of sequence type 1407, collected in Italy in 2013.
Draft Genome Sequence of Purine-Degrading Clostridium cylindrosporum HC-1 (DSM 605)
Authors: Poehlein Anja , Montoya Solano José D. , Bengelsdorf Frank R. , Schiel-Bengelsdorf Bettina , Daniel Rolf , Dürre Peter
Published: August 2015

Here, we report the draft genome sequence of
Clostridium cylindrosporum
HC-1, a purine- and glycine-fermenting anaerobe, which uses selenoprotein glycine reductase for substrate degradation. The genome consists of a single chromosome (2.72 Mb) and a circular plasmid (14.4 kb).
Draft Genome Sequence of Bacillus pseudalcaliphilus PN-137
T
(DSM 8725), an Alkaliphilic Halotolerant Bacterium Isolated from Garden Soils
Authors: Wang Jie-ping , Liu Bo , Liu Guo-hong , Xiao Rong-feng , Zheng Xue-fang , Shi Huai , Ge Ci-bin
Published: August 2015

Bacillus pseudalcaliphilus
PN-137
T
(DSM 8725) is a Gram-positive, spore-forming, alkaliphilic, and halotolerant bacterium. Here, we report the 4.49-Mb genome sequence of
B. pseudalcaliphilus
PN-137
T
, which will accelerate the application of this alkaliphile and provide useful information for genomic taxonomy and phylogenomics of
Bacillus
-like bacteria.
Soil Metagenomes from Different Pristine Environments of Northwest Argentina
Authors: McCarthy Christina B. , Colman Déborah I.
Published: August 2015

This is the first study to use a high-throughput metagenomic shotgun approach to explore the biosynthetic potential of soil metagenomes from different pristine environments of northwest Argentina. Our data sets characterize these metagenomes and provide information on the possible effect these ecosystems have on their diversity and biosynthetic potential.
Cornelia de Lange syndrome due to mosaic NIPBL mutation: antenatal presentation with sacrococcygeal teratoma
Authors: Banait Nishant , Fenton Alan , Splitt Miranda
Published: August 2015

A male infant at 36 weeks gestation was born by section. At 20 weeks of gestation, congenital diaphragmatic hernia and sacrococcygeal teratoma had been seen on ultrasound. At birth, the infant had features suggestive of Cornelia de Lange syndrome (CdLS). He remained hypoxic despite aggressive ventilatory manoeuvres and was palliated. At postmortem, the lungs were hypoplastic. In CdLS, mutations in NIPBL are found in around 50% of cases. Mutation analysis, including multiplex ligation dependent probe amplification of the NIPBL gene from the DNA extracted from peripheral blood lymphocytes was negative, but microarray comparative genomic hybridisation on DNA from skin fibroblast showed a 0.13Mb deletion on chromosome 5p13. The deleted region includes exons 42–47 of the NIPBL gene. It is important to perform NIBPL mutation analysis on DNA from more than one tissue when testing for CdLS.
A rare case of bilateral chylothorax: a diagnostic challenge—follicular lymphoma versus primary effusion lymphoma
Authors: Podder Sidhertha , Mora Maximo , Patel Viral , Sivamurthy Shetra
Published: August 2015

Chylothorax is most common on the left side owing to the position of the thoracic duct. Malignancy-associated chylothorax is not uncommon. However, bilateral chylothorax is rare and malignancy should be a consideration in absence of trauma. We report a case of a patient with follicular lymphoma who presented with bilateral pleural effusion; pleural fluid analysis confirmed chylothorax. The patient did not have any significant peripheral or axial lymphadenopathy, which made the diagnosis difficult in absence of histopathology. Pleural fluid analysis was negative for malignant cells, however, the flow cytometry markers were suggestive of follicular lymphoma. Primary effusion lymphoma, which could have been another possibility, was ruled out by the flow cytometry markers. We conclude that pleural fluid flow cytometry markers play an important role where there is no significant lymphadenopathy and in absence of histopathological diagnosis. This demands further evaluation.
Effective components of exercise and physical activity-related behaviour-change interventions for chronic non-communicable diseases in Africa: protocol for a systematic mixed studies review with meta-analysis
Authors: Igwesi-Chidobe Chinonso N , Godfrey Emma L , Kengne Andre P
Published: August 2015

Introduction

Chronic non-communicable diseases (NCDs) account for a high burden of mortality and morbidity in Africa. Evidence-based clinical guidelines recommend exercise training and promotion of physical activity behaviour changes to control NCDs. Developing such interventions in Africa requires an understanding of the essential components that make them effective in this context. This is a protocol for a systematic mixed studies review that aims to determine the effective components of exercise and physical activity-related behaviour-change interventions for chronic diseases in Africa, by combining quantitative and qualitative research evidence from studies published until July 2015.

Methods and analysis

We will conduct a detailed search to identify all published and unpublished studies that assessed the effects of exercise and physical activity-related interventions or the experiences/perspectives of patients to these interventions for NCDs from bibliographic databases and the grey literature. Bibliographic databases include MEDLINE, EMBASE, CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials), PsycINFO, CINAHL and Web of Science. We will include the following African regional databases: African Index Medicus (AIM) and AFROLIB, which is the WHO's regional office database for Africa. The databases will be searched from inception until 18 July 2015. Appraisal of study quality will be performed after results synthesis. Data synthesis will be performed independently for quantitative and qualitative data using a mixed methods sequential explanatory synthesis for systematic mixed studies reviews. Meta-analysis will be conducted for the quantitative studies, and thematic synthesis for qualitative studies and qualitative results from the non-controlled observational studies. The primary outcome will include exercise adherence and physical activity behaviour changes. This review protocol is reported according to Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analysis protocols (PRISMA-P) 2015 guidelines.

Ethics and dissemination

There is no ethical requirement for this study, as it utilises published data. This review is expected to inform the development of exercise and physical activity-related behaviour-change interventions in Africa, and will be presented at conferences, and published in peer reviewed journals and a PhD thesis at King's College London.

Protocol registration number

This study was registered with the International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) on 22 January 2015 (registration number: PROSPERO 2015: CRD42015016084).