bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physical activity as a risk factor for prostate cancer diagnosis: a prospective biopsy cohort analysis
Authors: De Nunzio Cosimo , Presicce Fabrizio , Lombardo Riccardo , Cancrini Fabiana , Petta Stefano , Trucchi Alberto , Gacci Mauro , Cindolo Luca , Tubaro Andrea
Published: April 2015

Objectives

To assess the association between physical activity, evaluated by the Physical Activity Scale for the Elderly (PASE) questionnaire, and prostate cancer risk in a consecutive series of men undergoing prostate biopsy.

Patients and Method

From 2011 onwards, consecutive men undergoing 12‐core prostate biopsy were enrolled into a prospective database. Indications for a prostatic biopsy were a prostate‐specific antigen (PSA) value of ≥4 ng/mL and/or a positive digital rectal examination. Body mass index (BMI) and waist circumferences were measured before the biopsy. Fasting blood samples were collected before biopsy and tested for: total PSA, glucose, high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol, and trygliceride levels. Blood pressure was recorded. Metabolic syndrome (MetS) was defined according to the Adult Treatment panel III. The PASE questionnaire was completed before the biopsy.

Results

In all, 286 patients were enrolled with a median (interquartile range, IQR) age and PSA level of 68 (62–74) years and 6.1 (5–8.8) ng/mL, respectively. The median (IQR) BMI was 26.4 (24.6–29) kg/m2 and waist circumference was 102 (97–108) cm, with 75 patients (26%) presenting with MetS. In all, 106 patients (37%) had prostate cancer at biopsy. Patients with prostate cancer had higher PSA levels (median [IQR] 6.7 [5–10] vs 5.6 [4.8–8] ng/mL; P = 0.007) and lower LogPASE scores (median [IQR] 2.03 [1.82–2.18] vs 2.10 [1.92–2.29]; P = 0.005). On multivariate analysis, in addition to well‐recognised risk factors such as age, PSA level and prostate volume, LogPASE score was an independent risk factor for prostate cancer diagnosis (odds ratio [OR] 0.146, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.037–0.577; P = 0.006]. LogPASE score was also an independent predictor of high‐grade cancer (OR 0.07, 95% CI 0.006–0.764; P = 0.029).

Conclusion

In our single‐centre study, increased physical activity, evaluated by the PASE questionnaire, is associated with a reduced risk of prostate cancer and of high‐grade prostate cancer at biopsy. Further studies should clarify the molecular pathways behind this association.
From regional to global patterns in vertebrate scavenger communities subsidized by big game hunting
Authors: Mateo‐Tomás Patricia , Olea Pedro P. , Moleón Marcos , Vicente Joaquín , Botella Francisco , Selva Nuria , Viñuela Javier , Sánchez‐Zapata José Antonio
Published: April 2015

Aim

Anthropogenic food subsidies are increasingly present in ecosystems, but their impacts remain poorly understood. Big game hunting is a growing activity that annually subsidizes ecosystems with tonnes of carrion world‐wide. By feeding on carrion, scavengers support key ecosystem functions and services, becoming key vectors to transfer the impacts of human‐mediated food subsidies across ecosystems. We characterize and compare the structure of vertebrate communities feeding on these subsidies, namely big game hunting remains, at a global scale.

Location

Global.

Methods

We collected data from a countrywide field study in Spain and broadened it up to nine regions in four continents by reviewing scientific literature. We analysed the structure of the scavenger communities considering species composition, richness and scavenging frequency.

Results

Seventy‐nine vertebrate species, 19% globally threatened, scavenged food subsidies from big game hunting world‐wide. Scavenger richness (2.0–11.0% of vertebrates/region) positively correlated with total vertebrate richness. Although scavenger communities at hunting remains varied among regions, we describe a general structural pattern. Birds and mammals dominate consumption, with birds scavenging twice more frequently than mammals – but more mammal species scavenge compared to birds. Generalists dominate scavenging globally, especially where the presence of obligate scavengers (vultures) and apex predators (e.g. wolves, hyenas, eagles) is low.

Main conclusions

Anthropogenic food from hunting subsidizes many vertebrate species from different trophic levels and conservation status and thus is expected to affect from populations to ecosystems. Obligate scavengers and apex predators seem to play a key role structuring the scavenger community through top‐down mechanisms. The general structure of scavenger communities we describe here provides a benchmark for comparisons of subsidized and non‐subsidized communities. More data on the spatio‐temporal availability of anthropogenic food subsidies and their consumption by scavengers world‐wide are needed to efficiently preserve biodiversity, and the associated ecological functions and services, in increasingly subsidized ecosystems.
THE HOME MARKET EFFECT IN INTERNATIONAL ARMS TRADE
Authors: Tocoian Oana
Published: April 2015

I show that military spending contributes to international arms proliferation through a push effect: large demand encourages production growth in the domestic market if transport costs are non‐negligible. Under increasing returns to scale, the country can then supply weapons on the global market at low prices. This is a manifestation of the home market effect (HME), which states that countries with higher demand for a differentiated good will be net exporters of that good. I construct a monopolistic competition model of international trade that accounts for differences in demand across countries, and test its predictions using post‐Cold War data. (JEL F1, H5, R1)
Traumatic coccygeal luxation and distal amputation of the tail of an Appaloosa mare
Authors: McMaster M. , Munsterman A. , Albanese V.
Published: April 2015

A 17‐year‐old Appaloosa mare presented to the emergency service for acute, traumatic, partial amputation of the tail at the level of the ninth coccygeal vertebra. The patient did not have tail or anal tone and did not respond to sharp stimulation of skin in the perineal region. Two grade 1 rectal tears were found during rectal palpation. Radiographs revealed dislocation of the second (Cd2) and third (Cd3) caudal vertebrae. The patient was treated with antibiotics, an anti‐inflammatory drug and stall confinement. The ninth caudal vertebra was surgically removed to facilitate closure of skin over the wound. When the mare was discharged after 7 days of hospitalisation, she had regained partial sensation of the perineum and partial function of the internal and external anal sphincters. At re‐evaluation one year following injury, the mare was able to move her tail laterally and had regained sensation of her perineum and tail; however, she still was unable to lift her tail.
Geriatric conditions, rather than multimorbidity, as predictors of disability and mortality among octogenarians: A population‐based cohort study
Authors: Lu Feng‐Ping , Chang Wen‐Chiung , Wu Shwu‐Chong
Published: April 2015

Aim

To examine the impact of geriatric conditions and multimorbidity on the risk of incident disability and mortality among young‐old and old‐old adults.

Methods

The present study used nationally‐representative data from the “Survey of Health and Living Status of the Elderly in Taiwan” for the years 2003 and 2007. Non‐disabled older adults were divided into two age groups (65–79 years and ≥80 years). Chronic morbidities and geriatric conditions were assessed in 2003. Incident disability was defined as dependency in one or more activities of daily living in 2007. Vital statistics of the participants was linked to death registration data through 31 December 2007. Multivariable logistic regression and Cox regression were used to determine the effect of multimorbidity and geriatric conditions on health outcomes.

Results

Among those aged 65–79 years (n = 1874), the presentation of multimorbidity or two or more geriatric conditions was related to incident disability. Among octogenarians, the presentation of one or more geriatric conditions, but not multimorbidity, was shown to be independently associated with the risk of disability. Multimorbidity was related to a higher adjusted risk of mortality in the young‐old group (hazard ratio 1.54; 95% confidence interval 1.1–2.2) but not in the old‐old group. Among octogenarians, those with two or more geriatric conditions had a higher adjusted risk of mortality (hazard ratio 1.7; 95% confidence interval 1.2–2.5), compared with those with 0–1 geriatric conditions.

Conclusions

The risk of incident disability and mortality increased in octogenarians with geriatric conditions, but not in cases with multimorbidity. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2015; 16: 345–351.
Can percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy be carried out safely in the elderly?
Authors: Oh Dong Jun , Kim Bernice , Lee Jun Kyu , Kang Hyoun Woo , Kim Jae Hak , Lim Yun Jeong , Koh Moon‐Soo , Lee Jin Ho
Published: April 2015

Aim

Percutaneous endoscopic gastrostomy (PEG) is carried out commonly for patients with dysphagia. Clinicians, however, are often reluctant to carry out PEG in the elderly because of concerns about complications and short life expectancy. The present study aimed to assess the safety of PEG in elderly patients.

Methods

The medical records of 116 patients who received PEG from October 2005 to May 2012 were reviewed retrospectively. Among them, 63 patients were aged 65 years and older (the elderly group), and 53 were aged less than 65 years (the younger group).

Results

Baseline characteristics showed no significant difference in both groups, except that pulmonary comorbidities was more common in the elderly group (P = 0.003). Overall, PEG‐related complications occurred in 23 (19.8%) patients. Wound infections were the most common (15 patients), and followed by gastrointestinal bleeding, esophageal injury, pneumomediastinum and buried bumper syndrome. Although there was no difference in the overall complications, wound infections were less frequent in the elderly group than in the younger group (4 [6.3%] out of 63 vs 11 [20.8%] out of 53, P = 0.027). There were 17 (14.7%) cases of mortality, with three patients (2.5%) dying within 30 days after the procedure and the causes of deaths were unrelated to PEG. No significant difference in mortality rate was observed between the two groups (13 [20.6%] vs 4 [7.5%], P = 0.065).

Conclusions

PEG can be carried out safely in elderly patients, as procedure‐related complications and mortality did not increase compared with those of younger patients. Geriatr Gerontol Int 2016; 16: 481‐485.
The Concept of Distance in International Business Research: A Review and Research Agenda
Authors: Hutzschenreuter Thomas , Kleindienst Ingo , Lange Sandra
Published: April 2015

This paper reviews the literature on the effects of distance arising from country differences on outcomes at the firm and subsidiary level. It provides some clarity on what has been learned so far about distance by answering four questions: Which distance? Why does distance matter? What outcomes are affected by distance? and What aggravates or alleviates the effects of distance? Based on the review of the literature, a set of future research suggestions are developed, intended to direct attention to research questions that the authors believe are among the most pressing questions in distance research and that may have the potential to advance the field substantially.
MRI‐Based Measurement of Brain Stem Cross‐Sectional Area in Relapsing‐Remitting Multiple Sclerosis
Authors: Chivers Tomos R. , Constantinescu Cris S. , Tench Christopher R.
Published: April 2015

PURPOSE

To determine if patients with relapsing‐remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS) have a reduced brain stem cross‐sectional area (CSA) compared to age‐ and sex‐matched controls. The brain stem is a common site of involvement in MS. However, relatively few imaging studies have investigated brain stem atrophy.

METHODS

Brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed on patients and controls using a 1.5T MRI scanner with a quadrature head coil. Three‐dimensional magnetization‐prepared rapid acquisition gradient‐echo (MPRAGE) images with 128 contiguous slices, covering the whole brain and brain stem and a T2‐weighted image with 3 mm transverse contiguous images were acquired. We measured the brain stem CSA at three sites, the midbrain, the pons, and the medulla oblongata in 35 RRMS patients and 35 controls using a semiautomated algorithm. CSA readings were normalized using the total external cranial volume to reduce normal population variance and increase statistical power.

RESULTS

A significant CSA reduction was found in the midbrain (P ≤ .001), pons (P ≤ .001), and the medulla oblongata (P = .047) postnormalization. A CSA reduction of 9.3% was found in the midbrain, 8.7% in the pons, and 6.5% in the medulla oblongata.

CONCLUSIONS

A significantly reduced, normalized brain stem CSA was detected in all areas of the brain stem of the RRMS patients, when compared to age‐ and gender‐matched controls. Lack of detectable upper cervical cord atrophy in the same patients suggests some independence of the MS pathology in these regions.
Sonographic Optic Nerve Sheath Diameter: A Simple and Rapid Tool to Assess the Neurologic Prognosis After Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Ueda Takeshi , Ishida Eri , Kojima Yusuke , Yoshikawa Satoshi , Yonemoto Hitoshi
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The early prediction of hypoxic encephalopathy after cardiac arrest is challenging. Measurement of the optic nerve sheath diameter (ONSD) by using sonography is a straightforward, noninvasive technique to detect an increased intracranial pressure, which can even be conducted at the bedside. However, it remains unknown whether or not sonographic ONSD measurement is valuable as a prognostic indicator of hypoxic encephalopathy.

METHODS

Seventeen patients after cardiac arrest were retrospectively enrolled in this study. ONSD measurements 3 mm behind the papilla were recorded. A Glasgow Outcome Scale score of 4 or above was considered to indicate a favorable prognosis.

RESULTS

The mean ONSD associated with a favorable prognosis was 5.0 mm (4.4‐6.1 mm). The ONSD associated with a poor prognosis was 6.1 mm (5.4‐7.2 mm). ONSD less than or equal to 5.4 mm was an indicator of a favorable prognosis, with a sensitivity of 83%, specificity of 73%, positive likelihood ratio of 3.1, and negative likelihood ratio of .23.

CONCLUSIONS

Sonographic ONSD measurement is a simple, rapid technique to assess the neurological prognosis after cardiac arrest.
Brain Hyperechogenicities are not Associated with Venous Insufficiency in Multiple Sclerosis: A Pilot Neurosonology Study
Authors: Krogias Christos , Gold Ralf , Chan Andrew , Triantafyllou Nikos , Voumvourakis Konstantinos , Tsivgoulis Georgios
Published: April 2015

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE

The “venous hypothesis” of multiple sclerosis (MS) postulates that intracranial venous congestion disintegrates the blood‐brain barrier, resulting in iron accumulation in brain parenchyma triggering the inflammatory process of MS. Transcranial sonography (TCS) reveals brain parenchyma hyperechogenic alterations (BPHA) that are thought to reflect iron accumulation. We sought to investigate potential association of BPHA with chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency (CCSVI) in MS.

METHODS

MS patients were evaluated according to established TCS protocol for extrapyramidal disorders examining the presence of hyperechogenicities in different basal ganglia regions. Cerebral and cervical venous system was assessed according to proposed ultrasound protocol for CCSVI detection.

RESULTS

In a total of 32 MS patients (age = 40 ± 14 years; male = 41%; EDSS‐score = 3.1 ± 2.2) brain parenchyma hyperechogenic alterations were detected in twelve (38%) patients. The two sonographers agreed independently in 28 (87.5%) of the 32 examinations, resulting in a substantial to almost perfect agreement (Cohen's weighted kappa: substantia nigra = 0.904, Lentiform nucleus = 0.871, Thalamus = 0.784, caudate nucleus = 0.651). Two (6%) patients fulfilled the neurosonology criteria of CCSVI, while in 7 patients (22%) one positive criterion was detected. No BPHA were observed in any MS patient fulfilling CCSVI criteria. The prevalence of one positive CCSVI feature did not differ (P = .999) among patients with present (25%) or absent (20%) BPHA.

CONCLUSION

There was no association of BPHA with CCSVI findings. Our findings do not support the “venous hypothesis” resulting in iron accumulation even in the few MS patients fulfilling CCSVI‐criteria.
Renegotiating Aquinas
Authors: Cahill Lisa Sowle
Published: April 2015

While Roman Catholic feminist ethicists typically endorse moral realism and crosscultural standards of justice, they also have been influenced by the postmodern interrogation of abstract reason and moral universalism. As theologians writing after the Second Vatican Council, they are increasingly sensitive to the communal and ecclesial dimensions of morality and of Christian ethics, and to the integral relation of Christian faith and ethics. This essay will consider two approaches to Catholic feminist ethics that differ in the relative weight they give to constructive work for social justice (realist gender justice ethics), or to the grounding of ethics in prayer and mysticism (postmodern gendered faith ethics). Using critical feminist reappropriations of the theology and ethics of Aquinas as examples, this essay will argue that the two approaches are overlapping and interdependent.
The Cry of the Forgotten Stones
Authors: Omer Atalia
Published: April 2015

Based on extensive archival work, this essay assesses the contribution of a Palestinian liberation theology (PLT) to a comprehensive view of peacebuilding that involves not only liberation from oppressive occupation but also a holistic vision and strategy for attaining just societal structures. Emerging out of the victim's viewpoint, aPLTis consistent with a multiperspectival approach to justice. It articulates a call for a holistic transformation of the interrelations between Jews and Palestinians, envisioning a just peace that must entail a re‐framing of geopolitical structures as well as ideological discourses that vindicate systemic and symbolic violence against the Palestinians. However, the author shows that aPLTis asymmetrical: while it challenges the theopolitical affinities between Christian and Jewish Zionists and the structural injustices and social mechanisms they endorse, it refrains from contesting the symbolic boundaries of a Palestinian national identity. This bears important implications for the broader debate concerning the role of religion in peacebuilding. The author argues that the limits of aPLTas a peacebuilding framework relate to its conceptual reliance on an unreconstructed secularist interpretation of a future Palestinian state and on its elective affinity with a supersessionist and theological orientation that, by definition, hermeneutically de‐Zionizes the Bible and its interpretations.
Population Structure and Development of Resistance to Hymexazol Among Fusarium solani Populations from Date Palm, Citrus and Cucumber
Authors: Al‐Sadi Abdullah M. , Al‐Masoodi Ruqaya S. , Al‐Ismaili Majid , Al‐Mahmooli Issa H.
Published: April 2015

A study was conducted to investigate genetic diversity and sensitivity to hymexazol among 80 isolates of Fusarium solani complex obtained from date palm (30), citrus (31) and cucumber (19). Characterization based on sequences of the EF1α and ITS rRNA showed that isolates belong to F. solani complex MLST type 3 + 4. AFLP analysis produced 980 polymorphic loci, 80 AFLP genotypes and moderate levels of genetic diversity (H = 0.2494). Clustering of the isolates was not related to the host or the geographical origin of the isolates. Analysis of molecular variance (amova) indicated the existence of a low level of genetic differentiation among populations obtained from different hosts (Fst = 0.0162) and regions (Fst = 0.0066). This may provide evidence for frequent movement of inoculum among hosts and regions in Oman, which could be attributed to cultural practices employed by farmers. Isolates of F. solani displayed variation in sensitivity to hymexazol, with EC50 values ranging from 2 to 5745 μg/ml (mean = 878 μg/ml); 19% of the isolates have an EC50 value of more than 1000 μg/ml. Findings are discussed in terms of the factors that affect diversity in F. solani isolates. The study reports for the first time the development of resistance to hymexazol among F. solani isolates from date palm, citrus and cucumber.
Evaluation of an oesophageal Doppler device for monitoring cardiac output in anaesthetised healthy normotensive dogs
Authors: Canfrán S. , Cediel R. , Sández I. , Caro‐Vadillo A. , Gómez de Segura I. A.
Published: April 2015

OBJECTIVES

To compare cardiac output measured by oesophageal Doppler and by thermodilution monitoring and to correlate the Doppler cardiac output‐generated minute distance with thermodilution cardiac output in healthy anaesthetised beagle dogs.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

Prospective experimental study. Six healthy adult beagle dogs were pre‐medicated with intramuscular acepromazine (0 · 05 mg/kg) and methadone (0 · 3 mg/kg). Anaesthesia was induced with intravenous propofol (dose‐effect) and maintained with isoflurane in oxygen. Simultaneously, a constant rate infusion of dopamine (3 µg/kg/minute) was administered to the dogs to prevent hypotension. The minute distance, Doppler and thermodilution cardiac outputs were assessed at three different end‐tidal concentrations of isoflurane (1 · 0, 1 · 3 and 2 · 0%).

RESULTS

Correlation between Doppler and thermodilution cardiac output (r2 = 0 · 582) and between minute distance and thermodilution cardiac output (r2 = 0 · 658) were moderately good, but the limits of agreement between Doppler and thermodilution cardiac outputs were above the recommended values (±39%, for a recommended value up to 30%).

CLINICAL SIGNIFICANCE

Doppler and minute distance cannot be considered as an alternative method to thermodilution to monitor cardiac output in the healthy anaesthetised dog.
Mash‐Up Songs: Are There Any Exceptions to the Exclusive Rights in the Light of the Jordanian Copyright Protection and Related Rights Law?
Authors: Madi Ramzi
Published: April 2015

This article focuses on the phenomenon of mash‐up songs. The paper highlights the exclusive rights of authors and audio recordings producers under the Jordanian Copyright Protection and Related Rights Law (No. 22 of 1992) and its latest amendments in 2014. I will refer to UK, US, Australian and Canadian laws and case laws because there is no judicial precedent in Jordan relating to mash‐up songs, and Jordan as a developing country shall benefit from the experience of other jurisdictions, in this field.

One of the exceptions and limitations to exclusive rights, that is, fair use defence was developed in England in the eighteenth century and the United States in the nineteenth century in Folsom v Marsh case. Moreover, the Canadian Copyright Act (R.S.C., 1985, c. C‐42) has recently added a “mash‐up exception”, therefore, it would be interesting to refer in brief, to the above exception. I will distinguish between the exclusive rights of authors and audio recordings producers that are applicable to mash‐ups. My aim in this paper is to determine whether there are any exceptions and limitations to these exclusive rights. This article concludes by recommending the inclusion of mash‐up exceptions to the Jordanian law.
Self‐DNA: a blessing in disguise?
Authors: Veresoglou Stavros D. , Aguilar‐Trigueros Carlos A. , Mansour India , Rillig Matthias C.
Published: April 2015

See also the Commentary by Duran‐Flores and Heil
The effects of morbid obesity on maternal and neonatal health outcomes: a systematic review and meta‐analyses
Authors: Lutsiv O. , Mah J. , Beyene J. , McDonald S. D.
Published: April 2015

Morbidly obese (Class III, body mass index [BMI] ≥ 40 kg m−2) women constitute 8% of reproductive‐aged women and are an increasing proportion; however, their pregnancy risks have not yet been well understood. Hence, we performed meta‐analyses following the MOOSE (Meta‐Analysis of Observational Studies in Epidemiology) guideline, searching Medline and Embase from their inceptions. To examine graded relationships, we compared Class III obesity to Class I and I/II, and separately to normal weight. We found important effects on all three primary outcomes in morbidly obese women: preterm birth <37 weeks was 31% higher compared with Class I (relative risk [RR] 1.31 [1.19, 1.43]) and 20% higher than Class I/II (RR 1.20 [1.13, 1.27]), large‐for‐gestational age was higher (RR 1.37 [1.29, 1.45] and RR 1.30 [1.24, 1.36] compared with Class I and I/II, respectively), while small‐for‐gestational age was lower (RR 0.89 [0.84, 0.93] compared with Class I, with nearly identical reductions for Class I/II). Morbidly obese women have higher risks of preterm birth, large‐for‐gestational age and numerous other adverse maternal and infant health outcomes, relative to not only normal weight but also Class I or I/II obese women. These findings have important implications for screening and care of morbidly obese pregnant women, to try to decrease adverse outcomes.
Punctuated Equilibria in the Private Sector and the Stability of Market Systems
Authors: Epp Derek A.
Published: April 2015

The article examines longitudinal trends in expenditures by over 1,200 private firms, finding evidence of punctuated equilibrium—a pattern of change widely interpreted as evidence of stick‐slip dynamics in decision‐making processes. Levels of punctuation in the private sector closely resemble those observed in studies on public budgeting, suggesting that the private sector is not on average any less resistant to change than government. Both private‐ and public‐sector decision making is a function of deliberative processes, which the article compares to market systems. Deliberative decision making takes place when a group comes to a consensus about the allocation of resources. Market processes aggregate the actions of many independent decision makers to arrive at an outcome, such as the value of a commodity. The article considers the relative informational efficiency of these two processes and concludes that market systems should be more adaptive to incoming information. Three case studies provide natural experiments to investigate the stability of outputs during periods of deliberative and market control. A key finding is that when outputs are determined by market systems it greatly reduces the magnitude of punctuation.
Isolating the role of soil resources, defoliation, and interspecific competition on early establishment of the late successional bunchgrassFestuca campestris
Authors: Tannas Steven , Hewins Daniel B. , Bork Edward W.
Published: April 2015

Native grasslands are valued for biodiversity and supporting dormant season grazing, but are prone to invasion. In western Canada, revegetation ofFestuca campestrisgrasslands may be hindered byPoa pratensis, an invasive grass. To determine the competitive interaction of these species during establishment, two greenhouse experiments were conducted whereF. campestrisseedlings were planted in monocultures or mixtures withP. pratensis. The first experiment used equal‐aged (3‐month old) seedlings of both species, while the second experiment used unequal‐aged seedlings (4‐month‐oldF. campestrisand 2‐month‐oldP. pratensis). Seedling performance was measured in response to manipulations of water and nitrogen, defoliation, and plant neighbor. While water and nitrogen reduced the biomass and vegetative reproduction (tillering) ofF. campestris, exposure toP. pratensismost strongly limited the growth ofF. campestrisseedlings regardless of other treatments. More frequent and consistent decreases inF. campestrisdue toP. pratensiswere observed in olderF. campestrisseedlings than younger seedlings. Defoliation also reduced the growth ofF. campestris, and the added presence ofP. pratensisduring defoliation further enhanced these reductions in younger, equal‐aged bunchgrass seedlings. Overall, these results suggest that when restoring nativeF. campestrisgrasslands, early establishment may be improved by reducing the negative impacts ofP. pratensis, and avoiding severe defoliation.
Barriers to dental care for older minority adults
Authors: Davis Demetress L. , Reisine Susan
Published: April 2015

Objectives:

To explore factors that motivate and/or discourage use of dental care among low‐income minority older adults

Methods:

Participants were recruited from low‐income senior housing in Hartford, CT. In‐depth semistructured interviews were conducted to obtain data on demographics, oral health status, oral health knowledge, and factors that affected use of dental care.

Results:

Seventeen participants completed interviews. The major perceived barriers to dental care were cost/lack of dental insurance, fear/mistrust of the dentist, and transportation problems. Other factors included having complex medical conditions, no perceived need for care, and lack of knowledge about the importance of dental care.

Conclusions:

Participants would like to have dental care provided on‐site in the housing complexes. Improving communication between dentists and their older patients would help reduce fear and mistrust. Other health care providers could help educate older patients about oral health, conduct simple oral health screenings, and refer for acute and/or comprehensive care.
Barriers to dental care access for patients with special needs in an affluent metropolitan community
Authors: Williams Julie J. , Spangler Craig C. , Yusaf Nisha K.
Published: April 2015

Background:

The number of adults with developmental and acquired disabilities is growing and there are not enough general dentists treating special needs patients to meet the increased demand. In Oakland County, there are 140,160 persons registered with a developmental or acquired disability and only 36 dentists in the county that are indicated for treating patients with special needs.

Methods:

A survey was sent to 385 students, ages 3 to 26, at six special education schools and developmental centers in Oakland County. There were 117 responses.

Results:

The most difficult barrier to oral healthcare that adult patients with special needs, encounter is finding a dentist willing to treat these complex patients. 20% of the surveyed population currently does not have a dentist. There is a correlation between decreased dental access and lower median income.

Conclusions:

There is a significant need for improving special care dentistry training and increasing the number of general dentists that are able and willing to treat adults with special needs. Adequate resources and a database can help caregivers, parents, and medical professionals locate dentists who treat special needs patients. Increased experience for general dentists through residency training and continuing education courses will help to increase confidence and knowledge in practice special care dentistry.
Theoretical and Experimental Investigations of Flow Downstream of Two-Dimensional Transonic Turbine Cascades
Authors: Meyer J. B.
Published: April 2015

This paper describes a method for determining the development of the losses downstream of two-dimensional transonic turbine cascades. The distance between the cascade exit and the plane downstream at which the flow has become nearly uniform is evaluated by theory and experiment. The problems associated with measuring local flow properties in the nonuniform supersonic flow field behind transonic turbine cascades are discussed and analyzed.
Calculation of the Flow Properties Up- and Downstream of and Within a Supersonic Turbine Cascade
Authors: Lawaczeck O. K.
Published: April 2015

This paper deals with the flow through cascades, which have a supersonic flow up- and downstream. A theoretical method is described to calculate, under certain conditions, the flow quantities up- and downstream of and within the cascade and to determine the pressure distribution on the blades. The method is compared with experimental results, carried out in the cascade wind tunnel of the Aero dynamische Versuchsanstalt Göttingen (AVA), Germany.
Design and Evolution of a 60-KW, 400-HZ Generator Set
Authors: McEachern A. B.
Published: April 2015

The EMU-30/E generator set was developed and produced under contract to the USAF for use in the 407L Tactical Air Control System. For this application, two generator sets, complete with auxiliary equipment, are installed on a pallet to form an A/E24U-8 power plant. One EMU-30/E generator set provides the precise 400-Hz power required for the 3-D radar, computers, communications system, and air conditioning; the second set is on “standby” and will automatically start and assume the electrical load if the operating unit malfunctions. Due to the broad range of operating conditions, precise power limits, high reliability, and low maintenance requirements of the 407L System, the design of the EMU-30/E generator set had to incorporate certain unique features such as solid-state electronic controls, winterization equipment, automatic fault shotdown, and automatic paralleling capabilities. The design concept was based on using proven equipment, such as the Titan gas turbine engine, an alternator, and advanced electronic controls, all packaged into a compact and rugged enclosure and featuring low maintenance requirements and ease of servicing.
Environmental Effects on Fluidic Amplifers
Authors: Hedeen J. O.
Published: April 2015

The technology of fluidics has frequently been advertised as being a solution to environmental problems encountered with more conventional control techniques. However, those applying fluidics to control problems soon discover that fluidic components have their own peculiar sensitivity to changes in the environment. This paper describes the typical environmental sensitivity of fluidic proportional and digital amplifiers, and provides a method for predicting this sensitivity based on the amplifier’s dependence on Reynolds Number. The principal performance parameters considered are gain, noise and null shift. The sensitivity of these parameters to supply pressure, fluid temperature and altitude or reference pressure is described. Both liquid and gaseous fluids are considered.
Steam and Gas Turbine Combined Cycle Equipment Currently Available for Natural Gas Pipelines
Authors: Lang R. P. , Chase D. L.
Published: April 2015

The high thermal efficiency of the combined steam and gas turbine cycle makes it an attractive candidate for gas pipeline drivers. This paper discusses some aspects of the performance which can be achieved, and the economics associated with this cycle using currently available equipment. One equipment selection has an output capability of over 20,000 hp with a net thermal efficiency of approximately 40 percent. A second equipment selection has an output capability of over 35,000 hp with a net thermal efficiency of approximately 47 percent.
Transition Procedure of Instationary Boundary Layers
Authors: Pfeil H. , Herbst R.
Published: April 2015

Instationary afflux conditions as they exist in a turbomachine can be realized by means of a rotating spoke cylinder interposed ahead of the test section. Measurements of instationary boundary layers confirm the idea that when the wake regions impinge on the plate surface for the duration of the disturbance, the boundary layer becomes turbulent. As a consequence of the transition zones being formed in this way, intermittently laminar and turbulent states of the boundary layer are observed.
The Co-Turboshaft: A Novel Gas Turbine Powerplant for Heavy Equipment
Authors: Millar D. A. J. , Chappell M. S. , Okelah R.
Published: April 2015

A major advantage of the two-shaft gas turbine as a prime mover is the steep torque-speed characteristic, so that the stall torque is typically twice the design torque. The co-turboshaft engine has a torque-speed curve which can be more than twice as steep as the conventional engine, so that only a rudimentary transmission would be required for normal operations. The co-turboshaft gas turbine engine has a co-rotating compressor case which is geared, together with the free power turbine, to the output shaft. As load increases and output shaft speed decreases, the effective gas generator speed increases, with no increase in rotor speed, and the power output rises. The engine has a torque-speed curve with up to four times the slope of a conventional free shaft turbine engine torque curve. This paper reviews results of testing a compressor with a co-rotating casing, and presents the results of simulating a typical engine using a hybrid computer to predict engine steady state performance. Effects of different design choices of compressor casing speed ratio are shown on engine torque, power and turbine inlet temperature characteristics. Control strategies for some possible applications, such as off-road vehicles and construction equipment, are discussed in relation to their likely duty cycles.
Operation of a GT-225 Diffusion-Flame Combustor on Alternative Fuels Performance, Durability and Emissions
Authors: Hammond D. C.
Published: April 2015

Ten fuels were burned in a GT-225 diffusion-flame combustor and the performance, durability, and emissions evaluated. These fuels were: reference kerosene, three petroleum distillales, two alcohols, one coal-derived fuel, a fuel made from far sands, and two fuels made from oil shale. All of the fuels were burned without modifying either combustor or fuel nozzle. The more volatile petroleum distillates burned more efficiently than kerosene. The alcohols and the more viscous synthetic fuels exhibited combustion efficiencies slightly lower than that of kerosene, possibly as a result of pooper initial atomization. The synthetic fuels having high aromatic contents produced higher flame-tube-wall temperatures than did kerosene, but not sufficiently high to reduce durability. The emissions from the combustion of all petroleum distillates were comparable to those of kerosene. The alcohols gave 60 to 80 percent lower oxides of nitrogen emissions, up to 650 percent higher carbon monoxide emissions and up to 300 percent higher total hydrocarbon emissions than kerosene, but these emissions were considerably reduced by increasing atomizing-air differental pressure to the injector. Some of the synthetic fuels contained large amounts of nitrogen and substantial oxidation of it was evidenced. The most viscous synthetic fuels exhibited carbon monixide and total hydrocarbon emissions 100 percent higher than kerosene.
Elastomer Mounted Rotors: An Alternative for Smoother Running Turbomachinery
Authors: Tecza J. A. , Darlow M. S. , Jones S. W. , Smalley A. J. , Cunningham R. E.
Published: April 2015

This paper describes the design of elastomeric bearing supports for a rotor built to simulate the power turbine of an advanced gas turbine engine which traverses two bending critical speeds. The elastomer dampers were constructed so as to minimize rotor dynamic response at the critical speeds. Results are presented of unbalance response tests performed with two different elastomer materials. These results showed that the resonances on the elastomer-mounted rotor were well damped for both elastomer materials and showed linear response to the unbalance weights used for response testing. Additional tests were performed using solid steel supports at either end (hard-mounted), which resulted in drastically increased sensitivity and nonlinear response, and with steel supports in one end of the rotor and the elastomer at the other, which yielded results which were between the soft- and hard-mounted cases. It is concluded that elastomeric supports are a viable alternative to other methods of mounting flexible rotors, that damping was well in excess of predictions and that elastomeric supports are tolerant of small rotor misalignments.
Conceptual Design of a Pulverized Coal Furnace for a Utility Size Closed-Cycle, Gas-Turbine Power Plant
Authors: Strumpf H. J.
Published: April 2015

A study has recently been completed for the Department of Energy on the conceptual design of coal-fired, closed-cycle, gas-turbine power plants that operate at high turbine-inlet temperatures and use air as the cycle fluid. This paper describes the design of one type of heater system for such a power plant — a pulverized coal furnace. Designs are presented for a 1550 F (843 C) turbine inlet temperature cycle that utilizes metallic superalloy heat exchanger tubes and a 1750 F (954 C) turbine inlet temperature cycle that utilizes ceramic heat exchanger tubes. The heaters consist of two sections — a radiant section where heat is transferred primarily by radiation from the pulverized coal luminous flame, and a convective section where heat is transferred primarily by forced convection from the nonluminous combustion gas. To maintain flame stability in the furnace, a minimum power density criterion must be met. This requires modularization of the radiant heaters.
Combined Cycles for Pipeline Compressor Drives Using Heat
Authors: Malewski W. F. , Holldorff G. M.
Published: April 2015

Combined cycles for pipeline-booster stations using waste heat from gas turbines exhaust can improve the overall efficiency of such stations remarkably. Several working fluids are suitable. Due to existing criteria for selecting a working medium under mentioned conditions, water, ammonia, propane and butane can be considered as practical working fluids. The investigations have shown that: (a) ammonia is advantageous at low exhaust gas and ambient temperatures, (b) water is most effective at high exhaust gas and ambient temperatures, and (c), additionally, hydrocarbons are suitable in a medium range for exhaust gas and condensing temperatures. Not only thermodynamic but also operational features have to be considered. There is not one optimum working fluid but a best one suitable according to the prevailing site conditions.
Laser-Particulate Control for Open-Cycle, Coal Fired Gas Turbines
Authors: Botts T. E. , Powell J. R.
Published: April 2015

Direct coal-fired gas turbines need efficient high temperature particulate control in order to be an attractive option for the efficient conversion of coal to electrical energy. Particulates in the range of three to ten microns are very difficult to remove and it is, therefore, proposed that they be fragmented into particulates below the threshold size for turbine blade erosion using pulsed CO2 lasers. Beam interaction with combustion products is considered. A 1000-MW(e) conceptual plant is presented to demonstrate costs and recirculating power requirements.
Vortex Effects Resulting From Transverse Injection in Turbine Cascades, and Attempts at Their Reduction
Authors: Aburwin B. A. , Maccallum N. R. L.
Published: April 2015

A preliminary experimental investigation has been made of the effects of vortices in the approach stream on turbine blade row performance. The vortex regime has been simulated by stationary vortex generators. The net pressure losses within the following blade row were reduced by 23 and 12 percent when the vortex generators were placed in line, respectively, with the mid-passages and with the leading edges. Further, the discrete inlet vortices had virtually disappeared at the exit plane. In addition, methods have been tested for reducing the exit vortex, particularly when enhanced by transverse injection. The most effective scheme examined was a fence location on the suction surface near the endwall. However, there is a pressure loss penalty.
Design of Pressurized Fluid-Bed Combustor/Particulate Control System for Reliable Turbine Operation
Authors: Keairns D. L. , Hamm J. R. , Ciliberti D. F. , Wolfe R. W. , Ranadive A. Y. , Sverdrup E. F.
Published: April 2015

The commercial operation of coal-fired pressurized fluid-bed combustion-gas turbine plants for central station electric power generation or for industrial cogeneration applications depends on the reliable operation of the gas turbine. Reliable operation of the turbine is related to the particulate and chemical composition of the gases that it expands. This study is limited to an evaluation of particulates as they limit turbine life by erosion. Pressurized fluid-bed combustor design and operation trade-offs exist that affect the particle concentration and size ranges presented to the gas cleaning equipment. Gas cleaning equipment choices will subsequently effect the particulates going to the turbine. The development of a particle profile model permits an assessment of the effect of these decisions on the particles that enter the turbine. Turbine tolerance models previously developed by Westinghouse are then used to estimate turbine life and the incremental energy cost penalty. The scope of the evaluation procedure is presented and selected parametric cases presented to illustrate available trade-offs for design, operation, and cost.
The Advanced Low-Emissions Catalytic-Combustor Program: Phase I — Description and Status
Authors: Szaniszlo A. J.
Published: April 2015

The Advanced Low-Emissions Catalytic-Combustor Program ia an ongoing three-phase contract contract effort with the primary objective of evolving the technology required for incorporating catalytic combustors into advanced aircraft gas-turbine engines. Phase I is corrently in progress. At the present time, analytical evaluation is being conducted on advanced catalytic combustor concepts — including variable geometry — with their known inherent potential advantages of low level pollutant emission, widened combustion at ability limits, and reduced pattern factor for longer turbine life. Phases II and III will consist of experimental evaluation of the most promising concepts.
The Effects of Coolant Air Inlet Conditions on the Flow Regime Between a Turbine Disk and its Casing
Authors: Uzkan T.
Published: April 2015

A method to predict the performance of the incompressible, turbulent flow between a rotating disk and a parallel stationary wall, when there is radial outflow of ventilation air, is presented. Using this method, the effects of the ventilation air inlet conditions on the core rotation, on the radial velocity profile development, on the radial inflow rates, on the separation stremlines between outflow and inflow regions and on the disk torque coefficient are calculated and presented. The method is general enough to calculate other effects. The important conclusions for the analysis of ventilation air inlet conditions are: (a) the inlet radial velocity profile should be skewed toward the stationary wall, to more effectively prevent radial inflow; (b) the disk friction can be decreased by increasing the rotation of the ventilation air.
Measurements of Heat Transfer in Circular, Rectangular and Triangular Ducts, Representing Typical Turbine Blade Internal Cooling Passages Using Transient Techniques
Authors: Ainsworth R. W. , Jones T. V.
Published: April 2015

Internal convection cooling of turbine blades and nozzle guide vanes in jet engines is a method used to prolong the life of those components, which are subjected to very high temperature flows from the engine’s combustion chambers. The cooling is effected by passing cold gas through the internal coolant passages situated in the core of the components, the shape of these passages in many cases being simple duct geometries. Experiments are described in which transient techniques were used in an Internal Flow Facility to measure the flow property variation and heat transfer in various geometries simulating typical internal coolant passages, at conditions representative of those found in engines. Results obtained from the three geometries studied (circular, rectangular, and triangular ducts) are compared with existing experimental data and an integral-approach theoretical prediction. In addition, flow in the circular duct with mass removal representing film cooling mass flow was also studied experimentally, and these results are compared with theoretical predictions.