bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving the ceramic yield of polycarbosilane by radiation cross‐linking in the presence of multifunctional monomers
Authors: Zhou Lulu , Cheng Yong , Zhang Wenfa , Zhang Wenli , Liu Weihua , Li Yunbo , Wang Mouhua
Published: May 2018

An interesting method for radiation cross‐linking polycarbosilane (PCS) at high efficiency and low cost was developed by adding multifunctional monomers (trimethylolpropane trimethacrylate (TMPTMA) or divinylbenzene (DVB)). The effect of multifunctional monomers on the radiation cross‐linking and ceramic yield of PCS was investigated. The results revealed that the addition of a small amount of multifunctional monomer can substantially improve the ceramic yield and reduce the absorbed dose by promoting cross‐linking. The ceramic yields of radiation cross‐linked “PCS/2%DVB (300 kGy)” and “PCS/2%TMPTMA (300 kGy)” were 74 wt% and 78 wt%, respectively, while that of the radiation cross‐linked “PCS (300 kGy)” was only 64 wt%. The presence of double bonds in multifunctional monomers stimulated the combination reactions of free radicals in PCS induced by γ‐ray irradiation and subsequently enhanced the efficiency of cross‐linking. Furthermore, it was found that the incorporation of a small amount of multifunctional monomer hardly affected the chemical composition and crystallization behavior of the final SiC ceramics.
Aquafaba, wastewater from chickpea canning, functions as an egg replacer in sponge cake
Authors: Mustafa Rana , He Yue , Shim Youn Young , Reaney Martin J. T.
Published: May 2018

Aquafaba, the viscous liquid resulting from cooking chickpeas in water is typically discarded. However, this solution is now widely used by the vegan community as an egg replacement that adds texture to food products, such as mayonnaise, pudding, ice cream and baked goods. Sponge cake was prepared with either egg white or aquafaba derived from ten different brands of canned chickpea and the texture and colour were compared. Aquafaba obtained from each chickpea can produced foam which differed in both properties and stability. In addition, aquafaba from some brands provided comparable foam volume and stability to that achieved with egg white. The colour and texture of sponge cake made with either egg white or aquafaba were similar and acceptable, but cakes prepared with aquafaba were less springy, and less cohesive than cake that included egg white. Based on our results, it appears that aquafaba has potential to replace egg white in eggless cake recipes.
How frontline staff manage paperwork in group homes for people with intellectual disability: Implications for practice
Authors: Quilliam Claire , Bigby Christine , Douglas Jacinta
Published: May 2018

Background

Paperwork is a key tool that transforms organizational intentions into actions in group homes, although prescriptive procedures may limit how frontline staff use it in practice. The aim of this study was to explore how frontline staff use paperwork in group homes for people with intellectual disability and identify practice implications.

Method

Constructivist grounded theory methodology guided the research. Data collection included semi‐structured interviews and participant observations. Coding, comparison and sorting methods were adopted to analyse how staff used paperwork.

Results

Staff followed organizational paperwork rules when they aligned with their resident‐focused approach to work. When they perceived rules to misalign with this approach, they managed paperwork by adjusting the time and place of completion, managing content, creating alternative tools and refusing completion.

Conclusions

Staff purposefully managed paperwork rather than simply following procedures. Disability service organizations could develop flexible paperwork procedures and include frontline perspectives in paperwork development.
An evaluation of staff training in positive behavioural support
Authors: MacDonald Anne , McGill Peter , Murphy Glynis
Published: May 2018

Background

Positive Behavioural Support (PBS) has been shown to be effective in minimizing challenging behaviour and improving the lives of people with intellectual disabilities. Training in PBS is an important factor in achieving good coverage in the use of PBS. The aim of this study was to evaluate the impact of training managers of social care services in PBS.

Method

A year‐long training programme in PBS was delivered to 50 managers of community‐based services for people with challenging behaviour. Data were collected pre‐ and post‐training, and at six month follow‐up. A non‐randomized control group design was used.

Results

Data demonstrated significant reduction in challenging behaviour. However, there was no change in quality of life for service users.

Conclusion

Training in PBS can reduce challenging behaviour in people with intellectual disabilities; demonstrating any impact of PBS training on quality of life remains a challenge.
Identification of spatiotemporal gait parameters and pressure‐related characteristics in children with Angelman syndrome: A pilot study
Authors: Grieco Joseph C. , Gouelle Arnaud , Weeber Edwin J.
Published: May 2018

Background

Angelman syndrome (AS) leads to clinical manifestations that include intellectual impairments, developmental delay and poor motor function. Initiatives to develop therapeutics implie an urgent need to identify methods that accurately measure the motor abilities.

Methods

Six children with AS (6 to 9 years old) walked on an instrumented walkway to get spatiotemporal parameters (STPs) and center of pressure (CoP). These outcomes were compared to typically developing children (TD): 44 TD 6 to 9 years old and 20 TD 4 to 5 years old.

Results

Analysis revealed differences in all STPs and gait variability index when compared to TD individuals. When AS participants were compared to younger TD individuals, except step length, STPs were different. Analysis of the CoP pathway revealed a less consistent and efficient pathway in AS.

Conclusions

We could delineate the functional difference between children with AS and TD children. The variability of STP and the CoP were the most valuable components in gait to be considered in AS.
Association between cryoglobulinemia and liver fibrosis in chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: Batsaikhan Batbold , Huang Ching‐I , Yeh Ming‐Lun , Huang Chung‐Feng , Liang Po‐Cheng , Hsieh Ming‐Yen , Huang Jee‐Fu , Yu Ming‐Lung , Chuang Wan‐Long , Lee Jin‐Ching , Lee Pei‐Lun , Dai Chia‐Yen
Published: May 2018

Background and Aim

The prevalence of mixed cryoglobulinemia is 15–50% in chronic hepatitis C (CHC) patients, and these patients are in an increased risk of liver fibrosis and cirrhosis, but it is controversial. This study aimed to reveal the prevalence of mixed cryoglobulinemia in Asian population and to determine the relationship between presence of serum cryoglobulinemia and liver fibrosis in CHC patients with or without liver biopsy.

Methods

In total, 2255 treatment‐naïve patients retrospectively enrolled in our study. Serum cryoglobulinemia precipitation, liver biopsy, and four indexes of fibrosis (FIB4) were assessed to detect the associated factors.

Results

Three hundred sixty‐four (32%) out of 1135 liver biopsy patients and 341 (30.4%) out of 1120 non‐biopsy patients were positive for serum cryoglobulinemia. Multivariate analysis revealed that male gender, hepatitis C virus RNA, platelet and advanced fibrosis (odds ratio [OR] 1.40, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.05–1.87, P = 0.021) were significantly associated with the presence of cryoglobulinemia in the liver biopsy proven patients. The presence of serum cryoglobulinemia (OR 1.43, 95% CI 1.04–1.96, P = 0.026) was associated with advanced liver fibrosis (F3 and F4) by multivariate logistic regression analysis. In patients without liver biopsy, FIB4 (OR 1.72, 95% CI 1.30–2.27, P = 0.0001) was associated with the presence of serum cryoglobulinemia, and also cryoglobulinemia (OR 1.74, 95% CI 1.32–2.30, P = 0.0001) was associated with high FIB4 (≥ 3.25) patients.

Conclusion

The prevalence of the presence of serum cryoglobulinemia is 30.4–32% in CHC patients and associated with advanced fibrosis in liver biopsy proven patients and high‐FIB4 (≥ 3.25) patients without liver biopsy.
Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive human Mac‐2 binding protein in decompensated cirrhosis
Authors: Uojima Haruki , Hidaka Hisashi , Tanaka Yoshiaki , Inoue Tomoyoshi , Onoue Mie , Wada Naohisa , Kubota Kousuke , Nakazawa Takahide , Shibuya Akitaka , Fujikawa Tomoaki , Nakayama Tsuyoshi , Yamanoue Hiroki , Sung Ji Hyun , Kako Makoto , Koizumi Wasaburo
Published: May 2018

Background and Aim

An assay for Wisteria floribunda agglutinin‐positive human Mac‐2 binding protein (WFA+‐M2BP) has been reported as a useful non‐invasive marker for the evaluation of the staging of fibrosis in several chronic liver diseases. However, available data on the effect of WFA+‐M2BP level in decompensated cirrhosis patients were limited. It is important that these investigations can validate the diagnostic utility of WFA+‐M2BP in the full range of patients with liver cirrhosis.

Methods

A multicenter study was conducted at five locations in Japan. A total of 207 patients with liver cirrhosis were enrolled in the present study. To determine whether or not the WFA+‐M2BP value was associated with a progression of fibrosis among cirrhosis, this study examined WFA+‐M2BP levels between patients with cirrhosis in the decompensated and compensated groups.

Results

The numbers and proportions of compensated and decompensated patients were 113 (54.6%) and 94 (45.4%), respectively. The average WFA+‐M2BP levels were 2.22 ± 1.61 in the compensated group and 6.91 ± 5.04 in the decompensated group. Significantly higher WFA+‐M2BP levels were observed in the decompensated group than those in the compensated group (P < 0.0001). The respective cut‐off index values for decompensated cirrhosis were estimated using receiver‐operating characteristic curves for WFA+‐M2BP levels. Using a cut‐off index value of 3.37 for WFA+‐M2BP, predicting decompensated cirrhosis had a sensitivity of 77.8% and a specificity of 86.7%.

Conclusions

WFA+‐M2BP values were higher in patients with decompensated liver cirrhosis.
Sinus‐like dilatations of the mammary milk ducts, Ki67 expression, and CD3‐positive T lymphocyte infiltration, in the mammary gland of wild European rabbits during pregnancy and lactation
Authors: Hughes Katherine , Watson Christine J.
Published: May 2018

Sinus‐like dilatations of the mammary duct are recognisable in the mammary gland of pregnant and lactating wild European rabbits. These dilatations exhibit a bilaminar epithelial lining, with luminal epithelial cells expressing basal and lateral E‐cadherin. Occasional binucleated mammary epithelial cells are present in the luminal layer. Underlying the luminal epithelial cells is a basal layer of cytokeratin 14‐positive cells, supported by a thin layer of fibrous tissue. Multi‐segmental epithelial proliferation, as indicated by Ki67 expression, is apparent in the luminal epithelial cells, suggesting a capacity for division during pregnancy and lactation. CD3‐positive T lymphocytes are present both intraepithelially, suggesting exocytosis, and in foci subjacent to the ductular epithelium. We consider that sinus‐like dilatations of the mammary duct may have the potential to give rise to a subset of the mammary gland neoplasms classified as ductal in origin. Milk accumulation in these sinus‐like dilatations is likely to provide a niche for bacterial replication in cases of mastitis in rabbits. These structures are an important component of the innate immune system of the mammary gland, both as a physical barrier and as an interface between the milk and mammary immune cells.
Ambivalence in Later‐Life Family Networks: Beyond Intergenerational Dyads
Authors: Girardin Myriam , Widmer Eric D. , Connidis Ingrid Arnet , Castrén Anna‐Maija , Gouveia Rita , Masotti Barbara
Published: May 2018

In later life, changing conditions related to health, partnership, and economic status may trigger not only support but also conflict and ambivalence, with the consequent renegotiation of family ties. The aim of this study is to investigate both conflict and emotional support in the family networks of older adults, taking the research beyond the level of intergenerational dyads. We used a subsample of 563 elders (aged 65 years and older) from the Swiss Vivre/Leben/Vivere survey. Multiple correspondence analysis and in‐depth case studies were used to identify the key social conditions that relate to the prevalence of conflicted and supportive dyads in family networks. Findings showed that the balance of conflict and emotional support in older adults' family networks varied according to the composition of their family network as well as their age, health, income, and gender.
A model of informal favor exchange on networks
Authors: Masson V. , Choi S. , Moore A. , Oak M.
Published: May 2018

We develop a model of informal favor exchange within a social network where the cost of providing a favor is stochastic. The community has a norm, which specifies a cost threshold under which one should perform a favor if asked, as well as a punishment—exclusion from the network of the “noncompliers,” that is, of those who do not perform favors despite their cost being below the threshold, and those who refuse to punish nonperformers. We show that there always exists a cost threshold such that all agents participating in the favor exchange system receive strictly positive expected utility, and the system is a stable system. For systems involving stars and regular networks, we provide an ordering of the highest cost threshold supporting their stability. We also identify the conditions under which systems are efficient and show that, among all efficient systems, the one with the complete network provides the highest sum of expected utilities. An efficient system, however, need not be stable.
Canine recommended breed weight ranges are not a good predictor of an ideal body condition score
Authors: Smith E. G. , Davis K. , Sulsh L. , Harvey S. C. , Fowler K. E.
Published: May 2018

Breed‐specific ideal bodyweight range information is widely used by dog owners and breeders as a guideline to ensure animals are within a healthy weight range. Body Condition Scoring, a method used by veterinarians to assess an animal's overall shape with regard to weight is considered to be an excellent method to determine an animal's overall body condition; these values, however, do not always correspond to published weight ranges. Here, the weight, neuter status, age and a nine‐point Body Condition Score of a population of 140 purebred dogs were recorded and subsequently analysed to determine whether bodyweight was an effective predictor for Body Condition Scores. This comparison indicated that published recommended, breed‐specific body weight ranges are not a good predictor for an ideal BCS and as such, guidelines for owners and breeders need to be systematically reviewed.
British Nutrition Foundation Annual Lecture 2017 – Diet, obesity and cardiovascular risk
Authors: Jebb S. A. , White A.
Published: May 2018

This paper provides a summary of the British Nutrition Foundation Annual Lecture by Professor Susan Jebb held at the Royal College of Physicians, London, on 14 November 2017. Professor Jebb, recipient of the 2016 British Nutrition Foundation Prize for outstanding achievement in the area of nutrition, spoke of her research on diet, obesity and cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk and her work to translate science into action to help improve the nation's diet. This paper briefly summarises her research, including analyses of the links between dietary patterns and cardiometabolic risk in prospective cohorts, mechanistic studies such as the effect of portion size on energy intake, a series of randomised controlled trials to test the impact of diet composition on markers of CVD risk, and clinical trials of interventions to treat obesity in primary healthcare settings. Professor Jebb emphasised the need to translate the considerable scientific knowledge about the prevention of CVD through modification of risk factors such as obesity, into systems embedded in routine practice and population‐level interventions, in order to improve public health and tackle health inequalities.
Cognitive and physical factors affecting daily function in Alzheimer's disease: A cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Yu Fang , Chen Yan , Mathiason Michelle A. , Wan Qiaoqin , Lin Feng V.
Published: May 2018

Understanding the factors affecting activities of daily living (ADL) is important in Alzheimer's disease (AD), because decline in ADL contributes to many poor health outcomes. Existing studies often investigate the factors in isolation without a theoretical framework. The purpose of the present study was to provide preliminary results on how cognition, physical performance, and behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia mediate the relationship of aerobic fitness and ADL in AD. A cross‐sectional analysis was used (n = 28: average age 78 [8] years, education 16 (3) years, Mini‐Mental State Examination scores 20 [4]). The results showed that aerobic fitness is not linked to ADL directly, and its association with ADL was mediated by physical performance and global cognition. Our findings provide preliminary support for aerobic fitness as a potential therapeutic target, as enhanced aerobic fitness could simultaneously modify other factors affecting ADL. Nurses are in a unique position for coordinating exercise safety assessment and prescription and educating older adults with AD about exercise participation.
Must we incorporate soil moisture information when applying light use efficiency models with satellite remote sensing information?
Authors: Baldocchi Dennis D.
Published: May 2018

This article is a Commentary on Stocker et al., 218: 1430–1449.
Submergence tolerance in rice: resolving a pervasive quandary
Authors: Ismail Abdelbagi M.
Published: May 2018

This article is a Commentary on Kurokawa et al., 218: 1558–1569.
Root development in agronomically distinct six‐rowed barley (Hordeum vulgare) cultivars inoculated with Azospirillum brasilense Sp7
Authors: Lade Sarah B. , Román Carla , Cueto‐Ginzo Ana I. , Maneiro Laura , Muñoz Pilar , Medina Vicente
Published: May 2018

The growth‐promoting rhizobacteria Azospirillum brasilense Sp7 positively affects many crops, but its influence on barley remains to be fully investigated. The aim of this study was to track early root growth of four barley cultivars that are widely used in Spanish breeding programmes under different growing scenarios. Different growth conditions are hypothesized to affect the response of young plants to A. brasilense Sp7, so seeds were inoculated with A. brasilense Sp7 and directly sown in the growth chamber, or planted in vitro. Plant height was measured and root structure analysed with the WinRHIZO program. Azospirillum brasilense Sp7 inoculation increased the length, surface area and number of root tips in both systems and in most cultivars in a similar way. Cultivars ‘Barberousse’ and ‘Plaisant’ were the most responsive to A. brasilense Sp7 treatment, while ‘Albacete’ was especially interesting in terms of its physiological interaction with A. brasilense Sp7 under abiotic stress imposed by the in vitro system. The utility of the in vitro system is criticized.
Power in Editorial Positions: A Feminist Critique of Public Administration
Authors: Feeney Mary K. , Carson Lisa , Dickinson Helen
Published: May 2018

Journal editors serve a vital, powerful role in academic fields. They set research priorities, serve as gatekeepers for research, play a critical role in advancing junior scholars as reviewers and eventually into editorial roles, build extensive networks, and gain valuable insight into the behavior and preferences of reviewers and scholars. This article analyzes data collected from leading public administration journals in 2017 to investigate the role of women as gatekeepers of public administration knowledge. The data illustrate a clear underrepresentation of women on editorial boards. Drawing from these data, research on journal editorships, and feminist theory, the authors present a critique of the current state of public administration research and a discussion of a way forward. They conclude with a proposal for how all public administration scholars (junior, senior, men, and women), journal leadership, and academic departments can move toward increasing women's representation in these important positions.
Planning and evaluation for vascular access in the elderly
Authors: Halinski Candice , Koncicki Holly M.
Published: May 2018

Vascular access is of vital importance for patients requiring dialysis therapies. AV fistulas have been endorsed by many professional societies as the access of choice, however, subsequent creation does not go without consequences. As the population ages and patients become more medically complex, access failure has become a major cause of treatment complication. For the elderly, this is especially true and there are multiple decision points that require careful reflection before an AVF is placed. This article reviews access considerations for AVF placement in the elderly population and considers the possibility that the fistula first approach to vascular access should not be an absolute.
The early effect of microdermabrasion on hydration and sebum level
Authors: Fąk M. , Rotsztejn H. , Erkiert‐Polguj A.
Published: May 2018

Background

Microdermabrasion is a popular form of mechanical peel, used for many aesthetic purposes. Because it removes the superficial epidermal layer, it has an impact on hydrolipid skin coat.

Objective

The aim of the study was to examine the changes taking place in the hydrolipid coat of the skin after microdermabrasion measured by skin hydration and sebum level.

Methods

Sixteen healthy women were included in the study, and the aluminium oxide crystal microdermabrasion device was used over the entire face of each patient. Measurements of stratum corneum hydration and sebum level were taken at baseline, just after the treatment, and 30 and 60 minutes later.

Results

A statistically significant difference in stratum corneum hydration was found on the cheeks 30 minutes after treatment and in the T‐zone immediately after the procedure. Sebum reduction was observed immediately after the procedure irrespective of skin type and face area. In addition, sebum value was found to return to baseline 1 hour after the procedure.

Conclusions

The observed changes in epidermal barrier function may be responsible for the clinical improvement following microdermabrasion.
Using soil organic matter fractions as indicators of soil physical quality
Authors: Pulido‐Moncada M. , Lozano Z. , Delgado M. , Dumon M. , Van Ranst E. , Lobo D. , Gabriels D. , Cornelis W. M.
Published: May 2018

The objective of this study was to evaluate the use of chemical and physical fractions of soil organic matter (SOM), rather than SOM per se, as indicators of soil physical quality (SPQ) based on their effect on aggregate stability (AS). Chemically extracted humic and fulvic acids (HA and FA) were used as chemical fractions, and heavy and light fractions (HF and LF) obtained by density separation as physical fractions. The analyses were conducted on medium‐textured soils from tropical and temperate regions under cropland and pasture. Results show that soil organic carbon (SOC), SOM fractions and AS appear to be affected by land use regardless of the origin of the soils. A general separation of structurally stable and unstable soils between samples of large and small SOC content, respectively, was observed. SOM fractions did not show a better relationship with AS than SOC per se. In both geographical regions, soils under cropland showed the smallest content of SOC, HA and carbon concentration in LF and HF, and the largest HF/LF ratio (proportion of the HF and LF in percent by mass of bulk soil). With significant associations between AS and SOC content (0.79**), FA/SOC (r = −0.83**), HA/FA (r = 0.58**), carbon concentration of LF (r = 0.69**) and HF (r = 0.70**) and HF/LF ratio (r = 0.80**), cropland showed lowest AS. These associations indicate that SOM fractions provide information about differences in SOM quality in relation to AS and SPQ of soils from tropical and temperate regions under cropland and pasture.
Knowledge and attitudes about cervical cancer and its prevention among female secondary school students in Nigeria
Authors: Ifediora Chris O. , Azuike Emmanuel C.
Published: May 2018

Objective

To ascertain the level of awareness and attitudes towards cervical cancer among secondary school students in Nigeria.

Method

Cross‐sectional survey of 432 female senior secondary school students in south‐eastern Nigeria.

Results

A total of 321 (74.3%) responses were valid; 42.7% had heard of cervical cancer, 32.8% of screening, 23.2% of Pap smears and 22.0% of HPV/HPV vaccinations. No widely available reliable source of information exists. General knowledge about Pap smears (41.8%) and HPV (43.1%) was poor, as was specific knowledge about their benefits, timing and frequency, and about HPV vaccinations, but associated attitudes were moderately positive at 60.2% and 65.1%, respectively. Awareness of cervical cancers increases knowledge about when to start screening (OR = 2.30; P = 0.02) and about early symptoms of cervical cancer (OR = 2.56; P = 0.001).

Conclusion

Overall knowledge of cervical cancer is poor, but attitudes are positive. Awareness campaigns are therefore necessary, and are expected to be effective. Campaigns should target teenage females, and commencing teaching in high schools of developing countries, through materials included in their academic curricula, is recommended.
Detection of major loci associated with the variation of 18 important agronomic traits between Solanum pimpinellifolium and cultivated tomatoes
Authors: Zhang Shuaibin , Yu Hong , Wang Ketao , Zheng Zheng , Liu Lei , Xu Meng , Jiao Zhicheng , Li Ren , Liu Xiyan , Li Jiayang , Cui Xia
Published: May 2018

Wild species can be used to improve various agronomic traits in cultivars; however, a limited understanding of the genetic basis underlying the morphological differences between wild and cultivated species hinders the integration of beneficial traits from wild species. In the present study, we generated and sequenced recombinant inbred lines (RILs, 201 F10 lines) derived from a cross between Solanum pimpinellifolium and Solanum lycopersicum tomatoes. Based on a high‐resolution recombination bin map to uncover major loci determining the phenotypic variance between wild and cultivated tomatoes, 104 significantly associated loci were identified for 18 agronomic traits. On average, these loci explained ~39% of the phenotypic variance of the RILs. We further generated near‐isogenic lines (NILs) for four identified loci, and the lines exhibited significant differences for the associated traits. We found that two loci could improve the flower number and inflorescence architecture in the cultivar following introgression of the wild‐species alleles. These findings allowed us to construct a trait–locus network to help explain the correlations among different traits based on the pleiotropic or linked loci. Our results provide insights into the morphological changes between wild and cultivated tomatoes, and will help to identify key genes governing important agronomic traits for the molecular selection of elite tomato varieties.
Na restriction activates epithelial Na channels in rat kidney through two mechanisms and decreases distal Na+ delivery
Authors: Frindt Gustavo , Yang Lei , Bamberg Krister , Palmer Lawrence G.
Published: May 2018

Key points

Dietary Na restriction, through the mineralocorticoid aldosterone, acts on epithelial Na channels via both fast (24 h) and slow (5–7 days) mechanisms in the kidney.

The fast effect entails increased proteolytic processing and trafficking of channel protein to the apical membrane. It is rapidly reversible by the mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist eplerenone and is largely lost when tubules are studied ex vivo.

The slow effect does not require increased processing or surface expression, is refractory to acute eplerenone treatment, and is preserved ex vivo.

Both slow and fast effects contribute to Na retention in vivo.

Increased Na+ reabsorption in the proximal tubule also promotes Na conservation under conditions of chronic dietary Na restriction, reducing Na+ delivery to the distal nephron.

Changes in the activity of the epithelial Na channel (ENaC) help to conserve extracellular fluid volume. In rats fed a low‐salt diet, proteolytic processing of ENaC increased within 1 day, and was almost maximal after 3 days. The rapid increase in the abundance of cleaved αENaC and γENaC correlated with decreased urinary Na+ excretion and with increased ENaC surface expression. By contrast, ENaC activity, measured ex vivo in isolated cortical collecting ducts, increased modestly after 3 days and required 5 days to reach maximal levels. The mineralocorticoid receptor antagonist eplerenone reversed the increase in cleaved γENaC and induced natriuresis after 1 or 3 days but failed to alter either ENaC currents or Na+ excretion after 7 days of Na restriction. We conclude that Na depletion, through aldosterone, stimulates ENaC via independent fast and slow mechanisms. In vivo, amiloride‐induced natriuresis increased after 1 day of Na depletion. By contrast, hydrochlorothiazide (HCTZ)‐induced natriuresis decreased gradually over 7 days, consistent with increased ability of ENaC activity to compensate for decreased Na+ reabsorption in the distal convoluted tubule. Administration of amiloride and HCTZ together increased Na+ excretion less in Na‐depleted compared to control animals, indicating decreased delivery of Na+ to the distal nephron when dietary Na is restricted. Measurements of creatinine and Li+ clearances indicated that increased Na reabsorption by the proximal tubules is responsible for the decreased delivery. Thus, Na conservation during chronic dietary salt restriction entails enhanced transport by both proximal and distal nephron segments.
Stainless Steel Extrusions and Product Properties for High Pressure-High Temperature (HPHT) Applications
Authors: Maitra Debajyoti , Gudipati Phani P.
Published: May 2018

Extrusion process produces semi-finished product that provides significant savings in machining and fabrication of the finished components. Plymouth Engineered Shapes (PES) employs forward extrusion techniques to produce products up to 40 feet long that are utilized in power generation, nuclear, and petrochemical applications where it is critical to meet or exceed ASME piping, boiler and pressure vessels code specifications. The extrusion process has been successfully employed to manufacture components such as various types of valve bodies, manifolds, adapters and more that are targeted for elevated temperature applications up to 1200°F and under high pressures up to 10,000 PSIG. Critical product characteristics include flatness, straightness, twist, angularity, surface quality and dimensions over the full length. This paper presents an overview of the carbon steel and stainless steel extrusion process, the room temperature and elevated temperature mechanical properties, metallographic characterization, testing requirements and the applications of such products. Properties are also be compared to those produced by the conventional hot rolling and forging operations.
The Assessment of Creep-Fatigue Crack Initiation in Carburized Austenitic Stainless Steel
Authors: Chevalier Marc
Published: May 2018

It has been identified that in-service carburization of austenitic stainless steels in the UK Advanced Gas Cooled Reactor (AGR) fleet can impact upon creep-fatigue crack initiation, which is assessed using the R5 Volume 2/3 assessment methodology.

Material properties for the carburized layer have been derived through testing of preconditioned specimens. These properties have been used to propose a simplified assessment methodology for the treatment of creep-fatigue crack initiation in carburized specimens. The methodology accounts for the negative impacts of carburization, such as the reduced creep ductility, but does not benefit from the potentially positive impacts, such as the increased creep deformation resistance.

At relatively low strain ranges, typically seen by plant components, these simplifications generally result in a very conservative creep-fatigue lifetime prediction. However, at short dwell times (in load control) at high strain ranges (in strain control) the methodology has the potential to be non-conservative when the stress mismatch between the carburised layer and bulk material is severe due to differing cyclic stress-strain properties. Therefore pragmatic limits of application must be applied to the simplified approach. This paper explores these limitations of the simplified assessment advice, the impact on plant assessments and how current research is looking at how less conservative assessment methodology can be developed.
Effect of PWHT on the Fracture Toughness and Burst Test Response of Grade 91 Tube Weldments
Authors: Siefert J. , Parker J. , Foulds J.
Published: May 2018

Requirements for post-weld heat treatment (PWHT) of steels for pressure boundary component applications have been defined in terms of exceeding a minimum Charpy impact energy in an attempt to overcome the risk of brittle cracking. This approach can be excessively conservative since it does not properly assess resistance to cracking under the relatively static conditions encountered in pressure service. It is well established that under these conditions, cracking resistance, brittle or ductile, is more properly characterized using fracture toughness (KIc/JIc) type tests. The current paper describes room temperature fracture testing conducted via Charpy testing, fracture toughness testing, and tube (burst) pressurization of Grade 91 weldments after different PWHT conditions. The results obtained highlight (a) the excessive conservatism associated with use of Charpy data for assessing burst, (b) the value of fracture toughness testing to measure the sensitivity of fracture resistance to changes in PWHT (not seen in the Charpy data), and (c) the response of tube weldments with known flaws to pressurization. The observed burst pressure results are consistent with predictions made by analysis using the fracture toughness test results. Detailed analysis, including information from post-test examination of tube weldments and a fracture mechanics-based interpretation of test data for component flaw tolerance, provide a quantitative basis for specifying repair procedures and quality assurance methods for such welds. The findings illustrate the need to utilize long-established material fracture toughness testing methods and related properties to establish rules for construction and for post-construction repair. This is particularly true for the creep strength enhanced ferritic (CSEF) steels where the elevated temperature behavior may be compromised by potentially over-tempering weldments to meet requirements based simply on the results from inexpensive but inappropriate tests such as the Charpy test.
Weld Overlay of Highly Corrosion Resistant Nickel Chromium Molybdenum Alloys, UNS N06059, on Low Alloy Equipment Operating at High Temperature
Authors: Volpi A. , Serra G.
Published: May 2018

Corrosion conditions in the Chemical and Oil and Gas Industries are such that equipment must withstand pressure and corrosion at high temperatures.

Due to the fact that in many cases only the internal surface is exposed to corrosive attack, and so only that surface needs to be protected, savings on material costs can be achieved by taking advantage of the weld overlay technique.

Weld overlay, through the choice of alloy, is selected to resist to the corrosive attack. Parent material can be selected based on the required strength at temperature.

In recent years, highly corrosion resistant Nickel Chromium-Molybdenum Alloys have been developed to operate in the most severe corrosive environments.

One of the recent developments in this family of materials, is Alloy 59 UNS N06059 that is replacing Hastelloy C-2000 UNS N06200 and Hastelloy C-22 UNS N06022. Nickel-Chromium-Molybdenum alloys are the most versatile nickel alloys, because they contain molybdenum, which protects against corrosion under reducing conditions, and chromium which protects against corrosion under oxidizing conditions.

Wrought products produced from these alloys are processed to obtain a homogeneous austenitic grain structure. Weld overlay or weld deposit, due to the fundamental differences in processing compared to base material, result in a more heterogeneous metallurgical grain structure that in general shows however a good level of corrosion resistance.

Weld or Weld overlay features are highly dependent on electric parameters, filler metal, technique, base material temperature, etc., and for this reason the general settings of the welding process need to be finalized and tested, with the intent of optimizing all these parameters in order to allow the best corrosion results.

A research activity has been carried out by ALFA LAVAL OLMI to define a processes and parameters’ selection in order to obtain a weld deposit with a behavior as close as possible to wrought Alloy 59 base material.
Fitness-for-Service Evaluation of a Gr 91 to Gr 22 Dissimilar Metal Weldment Subject to Creep
Authors: Cohn Marvin J. , Cronin Michael T. , Faham Fatma
Published: May 2018

A fitness-for-service (FFS) evaluation was performed on a cogeneration power plant high pressure steam line. The piping system included a Gr 91 to Gr 22 dissimilar metal weld (DMW) between an SA-335 Gr P91 pipe and an SA-335 Gr P22 reducer. This unit had accumulated more than 100,000 service hours. The FFS project included as-built and as-found piping stress analyses, redistribution of creep stresses, weld residual stress estimates, review of the nondestructive examination (NDE) results, evaluation of the plant information data, and a fracture mechanics evaluation.

Due to tapering of the Gr P22 pipe to match the wall thickness of the Gr P91 pipe at the DMW interface, the Gr P22 pipe wall thickness was not in compliance with the ASME B31.1-2000 Code minimum wall thickness (MWT). In addition, an inspection of the single groove girth DMW revealed ultrasonic indications along the fusion face of the weld. The lack of side wall fusion (LSWF) can be considered as a planar and crack-like indication, so a fracture mechanics evaluation was performed.

The piping stress analysis revealed that the DMW was subject to low axial stresses. A creep life fraction evaluation was performed for the material that does not have the LSWF indication, considering conservative creep rupture data, weld performance degradation, redistributed creep stresses, and multiaxial stresses in the DMW. Due to the low stresses, the life fraction analysis estimated more than 50 years of remaining creep life.

Failure Assessment Diagrams (FADs) were developed to evaluate the component integrity for various combinations of crack depths and lengths. The reported indications should not compromise the integrity of the component subject to the typical plant operation during the next 12 years and the component is fit for continued operation.

The crack propagation evaluation determined that the DMW has a predicted minimum safe operating life of at least 12 years if operated as in the past. Because the wall thickness of the tapered reducer is below the ASME B31.1 Code allowable MWT, it was recommended that the DMW be examined during a scheduled outage within 5 years and the component be replaced with Gr P91 material during a major outage within 8 years.
Native oxide removal from Ge surfaces by hydrogen plasma
Authors: Zheng Yuanxia , Lapano Jason , Bruce Rayner G. , Engel-Herbert Roman
Published: May 2018

The mechanisms to remove the native oxide layer on Ge(001) surfaces by an in situ hydrogen plasma inside an atomic layer deposition (ALD) reactor has been studied. A strong dependence of the reaction mechanism in the temperature range commonly employed by ALD has been identified through the combined analysis of atomic force microscopy, x-ray photoelectron and Raman spectroscopy. At low temperatures (e.g., 110 °C), the hydrogen plasma removed both Ge and O species from the native GeO2 layer, but also induced surface damage to Ge substrate. At high temperatures (e.g., 330 °C), only O species were removed from the native oxide leaving a nanocrystalline Ge overlayer behind. The thermodynamically unstable nature of hydrogen passivation on Ge resulted in a Ge surface with a high density of dangling bonds. The transition temperature between the two reaction mechanisms was determined to be about 270 °C, allowing to compromise between removing a native oxide layer entirely and hydrogenating the underlying Ge surface without surface damage.
Growth of yttrium iron garnet on SiO2
Authors: Aquino Hadrian Renaldo O. , Rouvimov Sergei , Orlov Alexei , Porod Wolfgang , Bernstein Gary H.
Published: May 2018

The authors performed several studies on the quality of yttrium iron garnet thin films grown on silicon dioxide via radio frequency magnetron sputtering. The use of rapid thermal annealing as the postdeposition anneal was explored for different thicknesses, and a surprisingly narrow temperature window was found to produce the highest saturation magnetization for ultrathin films. Transmission electron microscopy imaging visually shows a correlation between the saturation magnetization, and the structure of the film and shows a change in structure when annealing above the temperature window.
Chemical synapses without synaptic vesicles: Purinergic neurotransmission through a CALHM1 channel-mitochondrial signaling complex
Authors: Romanov Roman A. , Lasher Robert S. , High Brigit , Savidge Logan E. , Lawson Adam , Rogachevskaja Olga A. , Zhao Haitian , Rogachevsky Vadim V. , Bystrova Marina F. , Churbanov Gleb D. , Adameyko Igor , Harkany Tibor , Yang Ruibiao , Kidd Grahame J. , Marambaud Philippe , Kinnamon John C. , Kolesnikov Stanislav S. , Finger Thomas E.
Published: May 2018

Atypical mitochondria generate ATP released through nearby CALHM1 channels in unconventional synapses in taste receptor cells.
Comparative Characterization of the Sindbis Virus Proteome from Mammalian and Invertebrate Hosts Identifies nsP2 as a Component of the Virion and Sorting Nexin 5 as a Significant Host Factor for Alphavirus Replication
Authors: Schuchman Ryan , Kilianski Andy , Piper Amanda , Vancini Ricardo , Ribeiro José M. C. , Sprague Thomas R. , Nasar Farooq , Boyd Gabrielle , Hernandez Raquel , Glaros Trevor
Published: May 2018

Recent advances in mass spectrometry methods and instrumentation now allow for more accurate identification of proteins in low abundance. This technology was applied to Sindbis virus, the prototypical alphavirus, to investigate the viral proteome. To determine if host proteins are specifically packaged into alphavirus virions, Sindbis virus (SINV) was grown in multiple host cells representing vertebrate and mosquito hosts, and total protein content of purified virions was determined. This analysis identified host factors not previously associated with alphavirus entry, replication, or egress. One host protein, sorting nexin 5 (SNX5), was shown to be critical for the replication of three different alphaviruses, Sindbis, Mayaro, and Chikungunya viruses. The most significant finding was that in addition to the host proteins, SINV nonstructural protein 2 (nsP2) was detected within virions grown in all host cells examined. The protein and RNA-interacting capabilities of nsP2 coupled with its presence in the virion support a role for nsP2 during packaging and/or entry of progeny virus. This function has not been identified for this protein. Taken together, this strategy identified at least one host factor integrally involved in alphavirus replication. Identification of other host proteins provides insight into alphavirus-host interactions during viral replication in both vertebrate and invertebrate hosts. This method of virus proteome analysis may also be useful for the identification of protein candidates for host-based therapeutics.

IMPORTANCE
Pathogenic alphaviruses, such as Chikungunya and Mayaro viruses, continue to plague public health in developing and developed countries alike. Alphaviruses belong to a group of viruses vectored in nature by hematophagous (blood-feeding) insects and are termed arboviruses (arthropod-borne viruses). This group of viruses contains many human pathogens, such as dengue fever, West Nile, and Yellow fever viruses. With few exceptions, there are no vaccines or prophylactics for these agents, leaving one-third of the world population at risk of infection. Identifying effective antivirals has been a long-term goal for combating these diseases not only because of the lack of vaccines but also because they are effective during an ongoing epidemic. Mass spectrometry-based analysis of the Sindbis virus proteome can be effective in identifying host genes involved in virus replication and novel functions for virus proteins. Identification of these factors is invaluable for the prophylaxis of this group of viruses.
Trends in asthma hospital admissions and mortality in Kuwait, 2000–2014: a national retrospective observational study
Authors: Ziyab Ali H , Abul Adnan T
Published: May 2018

Objectives

To examine trends in asthma hospitalisation and mortality rates from 2000 to 2014 in Kuwait according to sex, age and nationality.

Methods

For this nationwide, retrospective observational study, data from hospital discharge records and death certificates listing asthma as the primary reason for hospitalisation or mortality were obtained from the National Center for Health Information database using International Classification of Diseases, Tenth Revision codes J45 and J46. Trends in sex-adjusted, age-adjusted and nationality-adjusted hospitalisation and mortality rates were examined. Poisson regression models were applied to test for linear trends overtime and estimate adjusted rate ratios and 95% CI.

Results

During the 15-year study period, a total of 43 652 hospitalisations and 484 deaths due to asthma exacerbations were identified. The average annual adjusted rates of asthma hospitalisation and mortality were estimated to be 134.9 (95% CI 131.8 to 138.1) and 2.1 (95% CI 1.8 to 2.4) per 100 000 population, respectively. Hospitalisation rates decreased by 49.5% in the total population (from 180.8 to 91.3 admissions per 100 000 population between 2000 and 2014, ptrend<0.001) and by 57.9% in the age group of 5–44 years (from 77.3 to 32.5 admissions per 100 000 population, ptrend<0.001). Mortality rates decreased from 4.1 to 0.9 deaths per 100 000 population between 2000 and 2014 in the total population (77.6% decrease, ptrend<0.001) and from 0.6 to 0.2 deaths per 100 000 population among those aged 5–44 years (61.9% reduction, ptrend=0.005). Kuwaiti compared with non-Kuwaiti subjects had higher risk of asthma hospitalisation and mortality. Among children aged ≤19 years, the risk of hospitalisation was higher in boys compared with girls; however, among adults, women experienced more hospitalisations than men.

Conclusions

Asthma hospitalisation and mortality rates have substantially decreased between 2000 and 2014 in Kuwait, with persisting differences between genders, age groups and citizens versus non-citizens. The observed decreasing trends in Kuwait are in agreement with global trends.