bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Material Footprint Assessment in a Global Input‐Output Framework
Authors: Giljum Stefan , Bruckner Martin , Martinez Aldo
Published: December 2014

Material flow‐based indicators play an important role in measuring green and resource‐efficient growth. This article examines the global flows of materials and the amounts of materials directly and indirectly necessary to satisfy domestic final demand in different countries world‐wide. We calculate the indicator Raw Material Consumption (RMC), also referred to as material footprint (MF), by applying a global, multiregional input‐output model based on the Global Trade Analysis Project (GTAP) database and extended by material extraction data. We examine world‐wide patterns of material extraction and materials embodied in trade and consumption, investigating changes between 1997 and 2007. We find that flows of materials related to international trade have increased by almost 60% between 1997 and 2007. We show that the differences in MFs per capita are huge, ranging from up to 100 tonnes in the rich, oil‐exporting countries to values as low as 1.5 to 2.0 tonnes in some developing countries. We also quantify the differences between the indicators Domestic Material Consumption (DMC) and RMC, illustrating that net material exporters generally have a DMC larger than RMC, whereas the reverse is observed for net importers. Finally, we confirm the fact that most countries with stable or declining DMCs actually show increasing RMCs, indicating the occurrence of leakage effects, which are not fully captured by DMC. This challenges the world‐wide use of DMC as a headline indicator for national material consumption and calls for the consideration of upstream material requirements of international trade flows.
Differential transcriptome analysis between Populus and its synthesized allotriploids driven by second‐division restitution
Authors: Cheng Shiping , Huang Zhen , Li Yun , Liao Ting , Suo Yujing , Zhang Pingdong , Wang Jun , Kang Xiangyang
Published: December 2014

In this report, we compared transcriptomic differences between a synthetic Populus section Tacamahaca triploid driven by second‐division restitution and its parents using a high‐throughput RNA‐seq method. A total of 4,080 genes were differentially expressed between the high‐growth vigor allotriploids (SDR‐H) and their parents, and 719 genes were non‐additively expressed in SDR‐H. Differences in gene expression between the allotriploid and male parent were more significant than those between the allotriploid and female parent, which may be caused by maternal effects. We observed 3,559 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) between the SDR‐H and male parent. Notably, the genes were mainly involved in metabolic process, cell proliferation, DNA methylation, cell division, and meristem and developmental growth. Among the 1,056 DEGs between SDR‐H and female parent, many genes were associated with metabolic process and carbon utilization. In addition, 1,789 DEGs between high‐ and low‐growth vigor allotriploid were mainly associated with metabolic process, auxin poplar transport, and regulation of meristem growth. Our results indicated that the higher poplar ploidy level can generate extensive transcriptomic diversity compared with its parents. Overall, these results increased our understanding of the driving force for phenotypic variation and adaptation in allopolyploids driven by second‐division restitution.
Does “Banking the Unbanked” Help Families to Save? Evidence from the United Kingdom
Authors: FITZPATRICK KATIE
Published: December 2014

I use an electronic transfer mandate in the UK Child Benefit program, a transfer received by virtually all families with children, to estimate the effect of bank account ownership on the savings behavior of less educated families with children. Compared to similar families without children, the mandate increased account ownership by 9 percentage points (12%) for families with children. Using this exogenous increase in account ownership, I examine the causal effect of transaction account ownership on the accumulation of financial assets. I find evidence of small but significant increases in financial assets for families that transitioned into account ownership. These estimates suggest that a policy to increase bank account ownership may have spillover effects that improve family economic well‐being.
Serious psychological distress as a barrier to dental care in community‐dwelling adults in the United States
Authors: Xiang Xiaoling , Lee Wonik , Kang Sung‐wan
Published: December 2014

Objectives

To examine whether serious psychological distress (SPD), a nonspecific indicator of past year mental health problems, was associated with subsequent dental care utilization, dental expenditures, and unmet dental needs.

Methods

We analyzed data from panel 13 thru 15 of the Medical Expenditure Panel Survey ‐Household Component (n = 31,056). SPD was defined as a score of 13 or higher on the Kessler Psychological Distress Scale (K6). Logistic regression, zero‐inflated negative binomial model, and generalized linear model (GLM) with a gamma distribution were used to test the study hypotheses.

Results

Adults with SPD had, in the subsequent year, 35 percent lower odds of adhering to annual dental checkups and a twofold increase in the odds of having unmet dental needs. Although adults with SPD did not have significantly more dental visits than those without SPD, they spent 20 percent more on dental care.

Conclusions

SPD was a modest independent risk factor for lack of subsequent preventive dental care, greater unmet dental needs, and greater dental expenditures. In addition to expanding adult dental coverage, it is important to develop and evaluate interventions to increase the utilization of dental care particularly preventive dental services among people with mental illness in order to improve oral health and reduce dental expenditures among this vulnerable population.
Eligibility and safety of the first interferon‐free therapy against hepatitis C in a real‐world setting
Authors: Höner zu Siederdissen Christoph , Maasoumy Benjamin , Deterding Katja , Port Kerstin , Sollik Lisa , Mix Carola , Kirschner Janina , Cornberg Janet , Manns Michael P. , Wedemeyer Heiner , Cornberg Markus
Published: December 2014

Background & Aims

Several real world data demonstrated that eligibility for and tolerability of triple therapy against hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection with a first‐wave protease inhibitor is limited. With the approval of sofosbuvir (SOF) effective treatment with and without pegylated interferon (PEG‐IFN) has become available for most genotypes. However, no data are available regarding the added benefit of an interferon‐free treatment concerning eligibility and tolerability in a real‐world scenario. We aimed to assess the eligibility and safety of SOF based therapies in patients with primarily advanced cirrhosis, including decompensated cirrhosis, in a real‐world setting.

Results

In total, 207 patients were evaluated for a SOF based treatment with and without PEG‐IFN. Twenty‐six patients did not receive treatment because of safety reasons. Common causes were severe concomitant cardiac disease and advanced renal disease. Autoimmune disease, thrombopaenia, anaemia or hepatic dysfunction did not preclude treatment. Eighty‐four patients started treatment, 15 with decompensated cirrhosis. During the first 12 weeks hospitalization occurred in 11 patients most frequently because of typical complications of advanced liver disease. Risk factors for hospitalization were low platelet count and deteriorated liver function. Overall, 982 of 1008 planned treatment weeks (97%) were successfully completed within the first 12 weeks of therapy.

Conclusion

With the better safety profile of interferon‐free therapies, eligibility for HCV treatment will expand broadly, including patients with decompensated cirrhosis. Current limitations are renal failure and concomitant cardiac disease. Patients with advanced cirrhosis still have a high risk for hospitalization even with interferon‐free therapies, but can continue HCV treatment in most cases.
Lineage‐specific activities of a multipotent mitochondrion of trypanosomatid flagellates
Authors: Škodová‐Sveráková Ingrid , Verner Zdeněk , Skalický Tomáš , Votýpka Jan , Horváth Anton , Lukeš Julius
Published: December 2014

Trypanosomatids are a very diverse group composed of monoxenous and dixenous parasites belonging to the excavate class Kinetoplastea. Here we studied the respiration of five monoxenous species (Blechomonas ayalai, Herpetomonas muscarum, H. samuelpessoai, Leptomonas pyrrhocoris and Sergeia podlipaevi) introduced into culture, each representing a novel yet globally distributed and/or species‐rich clade, and compare them with well‐studied flagellates Trypanosoma brucei, Phytomonas serpens, Crithidia fasciculata and Leishmania tarentolae. Differences in structure and activities of respiratory chain complexes, respiration and other biochemical parameters recorded under laboratory conditions reveal their substantial diversity, likely a reflection of different host environments. Phylogenetic relationships of the analysed trypanosomatids do not correlate with their biochemical parameters, with the differences within clades by far exceeding those among clades. As the S. podlipaevi canonical respiratory chain complexes have very low activities, we believe that its mitochondrion is utilised for purposes other than oxidative phosphorylation. Hence, the single reticulated mitochondrion of diverse trypanosomatids seems to retain multipotency, with the capacity to activate its individual components based on the host environment.
Refreshing memory traces: thinking of an item improves retrieval from visual working memory
Authors: Souza Alessandra S. , Rerko Laura , Oberauer Klaus
Published: December 2014

This article provides evidence that refreshing, a hypothetical attention‐based process operating in working memory (WM), improves the accessibility of visual representations for recall. “Thinking of”, one of several concurrently active representations, is assumed to refresh its trace in WM, protecting the representation from being forgotten. The link between refreshing and WM performance, however, has only been tenuously supported by empirical evidence. Here, we controlled which and how often individual items were refreshed in a color reconstruction task by presenting cues prompting participants to think of specific WM items during the retention interval. We show that the frequency with which an item is refreshed improves recall of this item from visual WM. Our study establishes a role of refreshing in recall from visual WM and provides a new method for studying the impact of refreshing on the amount of information we can keep accessible for ongoing cognition.
Frontotemporal dementia: a bridge between dementia and neuromuscular disease
Authors: Ng Adeline S.L. , Rademakers Rosa , Miller Bruce L.
Published: December 2014

The concept that frontotemporal dementia (FTD) is a purely cortical dementia has largely been refuted by the recognition of its close association with motor neuron disease, and the identification of transactive response DNA‐binding protein 43 (TDP‐43) as a major pathological substrate underlying both diseases. Genetic findings have transformed this field and revealed connections between disorders that were previous thought clinically unrelated. The discovery that the C9ORF72 locus is responsible for the majority of hereditary FTD, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), and FTD–ALS cases and the understanding that repeat‐containing RNA plays a crucial role in pathogenesis of both disorders has paved the way for the development of potential biomarkers and therapeutic targets for these devastating diseases. In this review, we summarize the historical aspects leading up to our current understanding of the genetic, clinical, and neuropathological overlap between FTD and ALS, and include brief discussions on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE), given its association with TDP‐43 pathology, its associated increased dementia risk, and reports of ALS in CTE patients. In addition, we describe other genetic associations between dementia and neuromuscular disease, such as inclusion body myositis with Paget's disease and FTD.
Evaluating the performance of neutrality tests of a local community using a niche‐structured simulation model
Authors: Takeuchi Yayoi , Innan Hideki
Published: December 2014

Understanding the processes that underlie species diversity and abundance in a community is a fundamental issue in community ecology. While the species abundance distributions (SADs) of various natural communities may be well explained by Hubbell's neutral model, it has been repeatedly pointed out that Hubbell's SAD‐fitting approach lacks the ability to detect the effects of non‐neutral factors such as niche differentiation; however, our understanding of its quantitative effect is limited. Herein, we conducted extensive simulations to quantitatively evaluate the performance of the SAD‐fitting method and other recently developed tests. For simulations, we developed a niche model that incorporates the random stochastic demography of individuals and the nonrandom replacements of those individuals, i.e. niche differentiation. It therefore allows us to explore situations with various degrees of niche differentiation. We found that niche differentiation has strong effects on SADs and the number of species in the community under this model. We then examined the performance of these neutrality tests, including Hubbell's SAD‐fitting method, using extensive simulations. It was demonstrated that all these tests have relatively poor performance except for the cases with very strong niche structure, which is in accordance with previous studies. This is likely because two important parameters in Hubbell's model are usually unknown and are commonly estimated from the data to be tested. To demonstrate this point, we showed that the precise estimation of the two parameters substantially improved the performance of these neutrality tests, indicating that poor performance can be owed to overfitting Hubbell's neutral model with unrealistic parameters. Our results therefore emphasize the importance of accurate parameter estimation, which should be obtained from data independent of the local community to be tested.
The development of pediatric anesthesia and intensive care in Scandinavia
Authors: Nilsson Krister , Ekström‐Jodal Barbro , Meretoja Olli , Valentin Niels , Wagner Kari
Published: December 2014

The initiation and development of pediatric anesthesia and intensive care have much in common in the Scandinavian countries. The five countries had to initiate close relations and cooperation in all medical disciplines. The pediatric anesthesia subspecialty took its first steps after the Second World War. Relations for training and exchange of experiences between Scandinavian countries with centers in Europe and the USA were a prerequisite for development. Specialized pediatric practice was not a full‐time position until during the 1950s, when the first pediatric anesthesia positions were created. Scandinavian anesthesia developed slowly. In contrast, Scandinavia pioneered both adult and certainly pediatric intensive care. The pioneers were heavily involved in the teaching and training of anesthetists and nurses. This was necessary to manage the rapidly increasing work. The polio epidemics during the 1950s initiated a combination of clinical development and technical innovations. Blood gas analyses technology and interpretation in combination with improved positive pressure ventilators were developed in Scandinavia contributing to general and pediatric anesthesia and intensive care practice. Scandinavian specialist training and accreditation includes both anesthesia and intensive care. Although pediatric anesthesia/intensive care is not a separate specialty, an ‘informal accreditation’ for a specialist position is obtained after training. The pleasure of working in a relatively small group of devoted colleagues and staff has persisted from the pioneering years. It is still one of the most inspiring and pleasant gifts for those working in this demanding specialty.
A Pilot study to determine whether visually evoked hemodynamic responses are preserved in children during inhalational anesthesia
Authors: Perera Thushara , Lewis Philip M. , Davidson Andrew J. , Junor Paul , Bottrell Stephen
Published: December 2014

Background

Anesthetic depth is an important parameter to monitor during surgery, yet remains difficult to quantify, particularly in young children where developmental changes influence the electroencephalogram. A more fundamental physiological response to stimulation is the increase in cerebral blood flow secondary to increased metabolic demand, referred to as flow–metabolism coupling (FMC) and measurable using near‐infrared spectroscopy (NIRS). Little is known about the effect of anesthesia on FMC; therefore, we studied visually evoked hemodynamic responses (VEHRs) using NIRS in children undergoing general anesthesia for minor surgical procedures.

Method

We recruited 23 children (aged 2–5 years), undergoing surgery requiring general anesthesia. VEHRs were measured for 30 min using NIRS, including 5 min of baseline recording after anesthetic induction. Parameters recorded using NIRS included the concentrations of oxygenated (oxy), deoxygenated (deoxy), and total hemoglobin (Hb), which were separated into epochs for evoked response analysis after filtration of motion artifact and baseline drift. Goodness‐of‐fit statistics and classification rules were used to determine the existence of evoked responses, and a modified Gaussian equation was used to model each evoked response.

Results

Near‐infrared spectroscopy data were recorded in 20/23 children, of whom nine showed a VEHR. No responses were seen in the baseline control data. When examining the relationship between VEHR and anesthetic agents, we noted that for 8/10 patients in whom preoperative or intraoperative fentanyl were administered and VEHRs were absent.

Conclusion

We have shown that VEHRs can be detected using NIRS in some anesthetized children. Administration of fentanyl was associated with an absence of VEHRs. The mechanism underlying this association is unclear.
Hutchinson–Gilford Progeria Syndrome Caused by an LMNA Mutation: A Case Report
Authors: Chu Yan , Xu Zi‐Gang , Xu Zhe , Ma Lin
Published: December 2014

Hutchinson–Gilford progeria syndrome is a rare genetic disorder characterized by premature aging of the skin, bones, heart, and blood vessels. We report a 6‐year‐old boy who was born at full term but presented with scleroderma‐like appearance at 1 month of age and gradually developed clinical manifestations of progeria. He had characteristic facial features of prominent eyes, scalp, and leg veins; loss of scalp hair, eyebrows, and eyelashes; stunted growth; scleroderma‐like changes of the skin; and a premature aged appearance. Metabolic investigations showed transient methylmalonic aciduria, and genetic testing of the peripheral blood identified the c.1824C>T heterozygous LMNA mutation. The present case is reported because of its rarity.
Effect of Age at Diagnosis on Chronic Quality of Life and Long‐Term Outcomes of Individuals with Psoriasis
Authors: Kim Grace E. , Seidler Elizabeth , Kimball Alexa Boer
Published: December 2014

Psoriasis is a skin disorder that frequently begins in the pediatric and young adult population but imposes physical and psychosocial burdens over a lifetime. The objective of this retrospective cohort study was to evaluate the effect of age at diagnosis on the lifetime outcomes of psoriasis patients. Individuals with psoriasis (N = 114) completed a questionnaire regarding disabilities, relationships, education, finances, and medical outcomes. Responses were compared among quartiles of age at diagnosis and regression analyses were performed. Those diagnosed at a younger age were more likely to have a greater lifetime Dermatology Life Quality Index (LT DLQI) (p < 0.001), have felt depressed (p = 0.003), believe that psoriasis had caused their depression (p < 0.001), experience lifetime sleep problems (p = 0.004), use recreational drugs (p < 0.001), hide their psoriasis over their lifetime (p < 0.001), and experience more severe lifetime discrimination in social settings (p = 0.002). Early onset psoriasis is associated with depression, social discrimination, and greater LT DLQI.
Purified Type I Collagen Wound Matrix Improves Chronic Wound Healing in Patients with Recessive Dystrophic Epidermolysis Bullosa
Authors: Gorell Emily S. , Leung Thomas H. , Khuu Phuong , Lane Alfred T.
Published: December 2014

Recessive dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa is a severe genetic blistering skin condition resulting in chronic wounds. Nonhealing wounds were treated over 8 weeks using a reconstituted natural purified type I collagen skin substitute. Chronic wounds were defined as nonhealing wounds present for longer than 6 months. For each patient, two chronic wounds were identified and randomized into a control or treatment group. Both groups received standard‐of‐care wound dressings. The treatment group received an additional type I collagen skin substitute. Wound size was measured at baseline and weeks 1, 4, and 8. Pain, pruritus, and burning and stinging were assessed. Wound cultures were obtained at baseline and thereafter as was considered clinically relevant. Ten subjects were enrolled; seven completed the study. Six subjects showed a positive response to the type I collagen skin substitute. Three subjects demonstrated full wound reepithelialization. Wounds treated using the collagen skin substitute showed statistically significantly greater improvement. Average scores for pruritus and pain decreased significantly. Reconstituted natural purified type I collagen skin substitutes improved the healing of chronic wounds and may be a valuable addition to the epidermolysis bullosa wound care arsenal.
The twisted structure of the human Achilles tendon
Authors: Edama M. , Kubo M. , Onishi H. , Takabayashi T. , Inai T. , Yokoyama E. , Hiroshi W. , Satoshi N. , Kageyama I.
Published: December 2014

The Achilles tendon (AT) consists of fascicles that originate from the medial head of the gastrocnemius (MG), lateral head of the gastrocnemius (LG), and soleus muscle (Sol). These fascicles are reported to have a twisted structure. However, there is no consensus as to the degree of torsion. The purpose of this study was to investigate the twisted structure of the AT at the level of fascicles that originate from the MG, LG, and Sol, and elucidate the morphological characteristics. Gross anatomical study of 60 Japanese cadavers (111 legs) was used. The AT fascicles originated from the MG, LG, and Sol were fused while twisting among themselves. There were three classification types depending on the degree of torsion. Further fine separation of each fascicle revealed MG ran fairly parallel in all types, whereas LG and Sol, particularly of the extreme type, were inserted onto the calcaneal tuberosity with strong torsion. In addition, the sites of Sol torsion were 3–5 cm proximal to the calcaneal insertion of the AT. These findings provide promising basic data to elucidate the functional role of the twisted structure and mechanisms for the occurrence of AT injury and other conditions.
ACL injury risk in elite female youth soccer: Changes in neuromuscular control of the knee following soccer‐specific fatigue
Authors: De Ste Croix M. B. A. , Priestley A. M. , Lloyd R. S. , Oliver J. L.
Published: December 2014

Fatigue is known to influence dynamic knee joint stability from a neuromuscular perspective, and electromechanical delay (EMD) plays an important role as the feedback activation mechanism that stabilizes the joint. The aim of this study was to investigate the influence of soccer‐specific fatigue on EMD in U13‐, U15‐, and U17‐year‐old female soccer players. Thirty‐six youth soccer players performed eccentric actions of the hamstrings in a prone position at 60, 120, and 180°/s before and after a soccer‐specific fatigue trial. Surface electromyography was used to determine EMD from the semitendinosus, biceps femoris and gastrocnemius. A time × age × muscle × velocity repeated measures analysis of variance was used to explore the influence of fatigue on EMD. A significant main effect for time (P = 0.001) indicated that EMD was significantly longer post‐ compared with pre‐fatigue (58.4% increase). A significant time × group interaction effect (P = 0.046) indicated EMD was significantly longer in the U13 age group compared with the U15 (P = 0.011) and U17 (P = 0.021) groups and greater post‐fatigue. Soccer‐specific fatigue compromised neuromuscular feedback mechanisms and the age‐related effects may represent a more compliant muscle‐tendon system in younger compared with older girls, increasing risk of injury.
Erythropoietin does not reduce plasma lactate, H+, and K+ during intense exercise
Authors: Nordsborg N. B. , Robach P. , Boushel R. , Calbet J. A. L. , Lundby C.
Published: December 2014

It is investigated if recombinant human erythropoietin (rHuEPO) treatment for 15 weeks (n = 8) reduces extracellular accumulation of metabolic stress markers such as lactate, H+, and K+ during incremental exhaustive exercise. After rHuEPO treatment, normalization of blood volume and composition by hemodilution preceded an additional incremental test. Group averages were calculated for an exercise intensity ∼80% of pre‐rHuEPO peak power output. After rHuEPO treatment, leg lactate release to the plasma compartment was similar to before (4.3 ± 1.6 vs 3.9 ± 2.5 mmol/min) and remained similar after hemodilution. Venous lactate concentration was higher (P < 0.05) after rHuEPO treatment (7.1 ± 1.6 vs 5.2 ± 2.1 mM). Leg H+ release to the plasma compartment after rHuEPO was similar to before (19.6 ± 5.4 vs 17.6 ± 6.0 mmol/min) and remained similar after hemodilution. Nevertheless, venous pH was lower (P < 0.05) after rHuEPO treatment (7.18 ± 0.04 vs 7.22 ± 0.05). Leg K+ release to the plasma compartment after rHuEPO treatment was similar to before (0.8 ± 0.5 vs 0.7 ± 0.7 mmol/min) and remained similar after hemodilution. Additionally, venous K+ concentrations were similar after vs before rHuEPO (5.3 ± 0.3 vs 5.1 ± 0.4 mM). In conclusion, rHuEPO does not reduce plasma accumulation of lactate, H+, and K+ at work rates corresponding to ∼80% of peak power output.
The effects of swimming training on bone tissue in adolescence
Authors: Gómez‐Bruton A. , González‐Agüero A. , Gómez‐Cabello A. , Matute‐Llorente A. , Casajús J.A. , Vicente‐Rodríguez G.
Published: December 2014

The aim was to analyze bone mineral content (BMC) and density (BMD) in regular swimming trained adolescents and the interaction that weigh‐bearing sports may have on these values. Bone mass was evaluated by dual energy x‐ray absorptiometry (DXA) and quantitative ultrasound (QUS) in 77 swimmers (34 females/43 males) and 52 normoactive controls (CG; 23 females/29 males) from 11 to 18 years. Swimmers who had performed or were performing other sports (OSP; 11 females/20 males) were compared with pure swimmers (PSW; 23 females/23 males). Both groups were compared with CG. Bone values were compared using analyses of covariance adjusting for height, calcium intake, subtotal lean (whole body lean minus head), and pubertal status. Male PSW showed lower BMD and BMC at several sites than male CG. However, for male OSP, only lumbar spine BMC was lower in OSP than male CG. Male PSW showed lower BMD and BMC when compared with male OSP. Female PSW showed higher arm BMD and lower leg BMC than female CG, while female OSP only presented lower leg BMC than female CG. Contrary to males, female‐PSW presented higher BMD and BMC than female OSP. No differences in QUS values were found between swimmers and CG. To summarize, although more information is needed for females, it seems that for males, swimming is associated with lower BMC and BMD.
Hemoconcentration induced by exercise: Revisiting the Dill and Costill equation
Authors: Alis R. , Sanchis‐Gomar F. , Primo‐Carrau C. , Lozano‐Calve S. , Dipalo M. , Aloe R. , Blesa J. R. , Romagnoli M. , Lippi G.
Published: December 2014

The Dill and Costill equation is used to estimate the exercise‐induced hemoconcentration. However, this calculation requires drawing an extra whole‐blood sample, which cannot be frozen and has to be analyzed with dedicate instrumentation in a relative short time. The aim of the present study was to explore the usefulness of some serum biochemical parameters to estimate hemoconcentration induced by exhaustive exercise. Fourteen healthy male subjects (19–34 years) performed a15‐min running test at 110% of anaerobic threshold speed. Hemoglobin, hematocrit, brain natriuretic peptide (BNP), creatinine, gamma‐glutamyltransferase (GGT), total‐proteins, albumin, total calcium (Ca), K+, Na+, and Cl− were determined in blood samples taken before, after exercise, and after a 30‐min recovery period. Plasma volume loss (ΔPV) was calculated by Dill and Costill equation. At post‐exercise and after recovery, the percentage increments of total‐proteins, albumin, GGT and Ca correlated significantly with ΔPV. Bland–Altman analyses showed that correcting BNP, creatinine, and K+ concentration by Ca percentage increments yield biases and limits of agreement that are acceptable when compared with Dill and Costill equation correction. Ca concentration may be used as a hemoconcentration biomarker in high‐intensity exercise, which would allow scientists and physicians avoid extra costs, facilitate in‐field research, and delayed estimation of hemoconcentration using stored serum samples.
Association of previous injury and speed with running style and stride‐to‐stride fluctuations
Authors: Mann R. , Malisoux L. , Nührenbörger C. , Urhausen A. , Meijer K. , Theisen D.
Published: December 2014

Running‐related injuries remain problematic among recreational runners. We evaluated the association between having sustained a recent running‐related injury and speed, and the strike index (a measure of footstrike pattern, SI) and spatiotemporal parameters of running. Forty‐four previously injured and 46 previously uninjured runners underwent treadmill running at 80%, 90%, 100%, 110%, and 120% of their preferred running speed. Participants wore a pressure insole device to measure SI, temporal parameters, and stride length (Slength) and stride frequency (Sfrequency) over 2‐min intervals. Coefficient of variation and detrended fluctuation analysis provided information on stride‐to‐stride variability and correlative patterns. Linear mixed models were used to compare differences between groups and changes with speed. Previously injured runners displayed significantly higher stride‐to‐stride correlations of SI than controls (P = 0.046). As speed increased, SI, contact time (Tcontact), stride time (Tstride), and duty factor (DF) decreased (P < 0.001), whereas flight time (Tflight), Slength, and Sfrequency increased (P < 0.001). Stride‐to‐stride variability decreased significantly for SI, Tcontact, Tflight, and DF (P ≤ 0.005), as did correlative patterns for Tcontact, Tstride, DF, Slength, and Sfrequency (P ≤ 0.044). Previous running‐related injury was associated with less stride‐to‐stride randomness of footstrike pattern. Overall, runners became more pronounced rearfoot strikers as running speed increased.
Beyond Neighborhoods and Crime: Expanding the Scope of Social Disorganization to Explain Occupational Deviance
Authors: Davis Jason , Holland‐Davis Lisa
Published: December 2014

This article proposes a structural explanation for the occupational deviance dimension of white collar crime. The systemic model of social disorganization theory is used as a framework for understanding organizational conditions that produce high rates of occupational deviance. The model of workplace disorganization proposed here posits parallel mechanisms can be found in communities as well as organizations. Marginalized workplaces, employee turnover, and employee heterogeneity are antecedent factors that discourage employee network formation and collective action against deviance. By refocusing on organizational factors, we offer a broader understanding of occupational deviance, one that can predict and explain the workplace conditions under which counterproductive behaviors occur.
Neoliberalism, the University, Public Goods and Agricultural Innovation
Authors: Glenna Leland , Shortall Sally , Brandl Barbara
Published: December 2014

After World War II, most industrialising nations adopted some form of welfare‐state approach to balance the economic activities of self‐interested agents and social welfare. In the realm of scientific research and innovation, this often meant that governments took primary responsibility for funding public research organisations, including research universities and government laboratories. Over the past four decades, however, the significance of private funding for agricultural research has increased, and academic scientists now often work in public‐private partnerships. We argue that this trend needs to be carefully monitored because public goods are likely to be overlooked and undervalued in such arrangements. In the interest of developing indicators to monitor the trend, we document public and private funding for agricultural research and agricultural innovation in four countries: the USA, the UK, Ireland and Germany. Our results show that although neoliberalism is evident in each country, it is not homogeneous in its application and impacts, suggesting that national and institutional contexts matter. This article is directed at stimulating debates on the relationships between university research, agricultural innovation and public goods.
50th Anniversary Article: Multiaxial Fatigue Testing of Composites: From the Pioneers to Future Directions
Authors: Quaresimin M.
Published: December 2014

This paper presents an overview on the experimental investigation of the response of composite materials under multiaxial cyclic loading, starting from the pioneering works in the early 1970s to arrive to the research activities run in these days by the scientific community and concluding with the areas still open. The experimental techniques and sample geometries are compared, illustrating advantages and drawbacks of each solution, also with reference to the outcomes of the research. The influence of the main design parameters are illustrated, taking advantage of experimental results from the extensive investigation carried out in the last years at the University of Padova. Needs of future research are eventually addressed.
Routine storage of red blood cell (RBC) units in additive solution‐3: a comprehensive investigation of the RBC metabolome
Authors: D'Alessandro Angelo , Nemkov Travis , Kelher Marguerite , West F. Bernadette , Schwindt Rani K. , Banerjee Anirban , Moore Ernest E. , Silliman Christopher C. , Hansen Kirk C.
Published: December 2014

Background

In most countries, red blood cells (RBCs) can be stored up to 42 days before transfusion. However, observational studies have suggested that storage duration might be associated with increased morbidity and mortality. While clinical trials are under way, impaired metabolism has been documented in RBCs stored in several additive solutions (ASs). Here we hypothesize that, despite reported beneficial effects, storage in AS‐3 results in metabolic impairment weeks before the end of the unit shelf life.

Study Design and Methods

Five leukofiltered AS‐3 RBC units were sampled before, during, and after leukoreduction Day 0 and then assayed on a weekly basis from storage Day 1 through Day 42. RBC extracts and supernatants were assayed using a ultra–high‐performance liquid chromatography separations coupled online with mass spectrometry detection metabolomics workflow.

Results

Blood bank storage significantly affects metabolic profiles of RBC extracts and supernatants by Day 14. In addition to energy and redox metabolism impairment, intra‐ and extracellular accumulation of amino acids was observed proportionally to storage duration, suggesting a role for glutamine and serine metabolism in aging RBCs.

Conclusion

Metabolomics of stored RBCs could drive the introduction of alternative ASs to address some of the storage‐dependent metabolic lesions herein reported, thereby increasing the quality of transfused RBCs and minimizing potential links to patient morbidity.
Strain Rate Effect on Mechanical Behavior of Metallic Honeycombs Under Out-of-Plane Dynamic Compression
Authors: Tao Yong , Chen Mingji , Pei Yongmao , Fang Daining
Published: December 2014

Although many researches on the dynamic behavior of honeycombs have been reported, the strain rate effect of parent materials was frequently neglected, giving rise to the underestimated plateau stress and energy absorption (EA). In this paper, the strain rate effect of parent materials on the out-of-plane dynamic compression and EA of metallic honeycombs is evaluated by both numerical simulation and theoretical analysis. The numerical results show that the plateau stress and the EA increase significantly if the strain rate effect is considered. To account for the strain rate effect, a new theoretical model to evaluate the dynamic compressive plateau stress of metallic honeycombs is proposed by introducing the Cowper–Symonds relation into the shock theory. Predictions of the present model agree fairly well with the numerical results and existing experimental data. Based on the present model, the plateau stress is divided into three terms, namely static term, strain rate term, and inertia term, and thus the influences of each term can be analyzed quantitatively. According to the analysis, strain rate effect is much more important than inertia effect over a very wide range of impact velocity.
Rapid Characterization of Fuel Atomizers Using an Optical Patternator
Authors: Sankar Subramanian V. , Maher Kevin E. , Robart Didier M. , Bachalo William D.
Published: December 2014

Planar laser scattering (PLS) and planar laser-induced fluorescence (PLIF) techniques are currently being used for rapid characterization of fuel sprays associated with gas turbine atomizers, Diesel injectors, and automotive fuel injectors. These techniques can be use used for qualitative, quantitative, and rapid measurement of fuel mass, spray geometry, and Sauter mean diameters in various sprays. The spatial distribution of the fuel mass can be inferred directly from the PLIF image, and the Sauter mean diameter can be measured by simultaneously recording the PLIF and PLS images, and then ratioing the two. A spray characterization system incorporating the PLS and/or PLIF techniques has been loosely termed an Optical Patternator, and in this study, it has been used to characterize both steady and pulsed sprays. The results obtained with the Optical Patternator have been directly validated using a Phase Doppler Particle Analyzer (PDPA).
Viscous Analysis of Steam Turbine Rotor Blade Aerodynamics
Authors: Amano R. S. , Lin B. , Song B.
Published: December 2014

Unsteady load predictions on steam turbine blades are needed for a better understanding of high cycle fatigue blade failures. The forced response due to rotor-stator interaction and the unsteady loads due to blade oscillatory motion are major factors for the cause of stresses. In addition, turbulence, which is generated through the stator nozzle passages of a turbine, significantly affects the flow characteristics and heat transfer of the rotor blades.

This paper presents a numerical modeling of turbulence effects of a flow around a rotor blade which was extended to demonstrate unsteady calculations due to blade oscillations. The grids were generated by employing the boundary-fitted algebraic grid generation technique. In the computations, the unsteady compressible Navier-Stokes equations were solved for the simulation of the flows in the above mentioned regions to determine mean velocity components, the turbulence energy levels, pressures, and thermodynamic properties such as temperatures and densities. The computed pressure distributions along a blade were compared with the published experimental data and the code was validated by showing reasonable agreement with the results. Some numerical examples are presented by using different turbulence models to investigate the nature of the turbulence occurring in the flow around a blade. Furthermore, the computational model was tested for its applicability to blade flutter in three vibrational modes — tangential, axial, and twist modes.
Prediction of High Pressure Axial Compressor Stage Flow Using a Circumferential Average Approach
Authors: Sreeyasunath S. , Ng E. Y. K.
Published: December 2014

A solver for compressible turbulent flow has been developed for a single stage environment. The current work presents the results of numerical simulations of ‘proposed high pressure compressor’ (HPC) using an exact geometry dimensions with full flow conditions. The flow solver is based on the Reynolds averaged Navier-Stokes (RNS) equations in which the algebraic Baldwin-Lomax model is adopted. This numerical scheme simulates the steady flow phenomena of stator-rotor interaction in single stage environment. The numerical method used in the solver serves as a basis for many CFD works in the group. The accurate numerical analysis of complex flows associated with stator/rotor configurations in turbomachinery can be very helpful for understanding the flow phenomena. A comprehensive and satisfactory theoretical prediction of the whole process of blade row interaction will only be available when viscous and mixing effects can be taken into account numerically. The current analysis is used to predict the convective heat transfer on the suction and pressure surfaces of the ‘proposed HPC’.
Turbulence Characteristics in an Axisymmetric Sudden Expansion
Authors: Ahmed Saad A. , Abidogun Kamorudeen B.
Published: December 2014

Simultaneous two-component laser Doppler velocimeter measurements were made in an axisymmetric sudden expansion to measure the flow properties of a confined, isothermal flowfield of a research dump combustor. Measurements of mean velocities, Reynolds stresses, and triple products were carried out at axial distances ranging from 0.38H (H = step height) to 18H downstream of the dump plane. Detailed experimental data are provided to help in the understanding of the behavior of turbulent transport characteristics of a confined shear layer. In addition, the data from this study will be available for upgrading / or evaluating advanced numerical codes used to predict complex turbulent flows. The turbulent kinetic energy terms: convection, diffusion, and production terms were computed directly from the experimental data using central difference, while the viscous dissipation term was obtained from balance of energy equation. The results indicate that the shear layer flow created by the sudden expansion enhances the combustor performance by serving as a turbulence generator mechanism.
A Study on Design and Test for Combustor and Fuel Nozzles of a Small Aircraft Gas Turbine
Authors: Kong C. D. , Kim S. K.
Published: December 2014

A combustor and a fuel nozzle for a small aircraft gas turbine were designed and appropriateness for design requirements were evaluated and confirmed through the cold and hot test. For the purpose of studying the flame stability of a pilot atomizer under ignition, firing tests were carried out at the various fuel supply pressures. As the results of the experiment and design revision, the optimal combination of the fuel nozzle which is suitable to the design requirement was obtained without the fuel splash phenomena and unstable flame. The combustor was designed and evaluated with detailed investigations and experiments for design requirements. As the results of the hot test, it was confirmed that the combustor in this study had proper profile and pattern factors, flammability limit, total pressure loss and combustor efficiency within design requirements.
An Experimental Facility Design to Determine Rotordynamic Coefficients due to Tip Clearance Asymmetry in Axial Turbines
Authors: Oh Seung Hyub , Song Seung Jin , Hong Yong Shik
Published: December 2014

Many liquid rocket engines for space launch vehicles use high performance turbopumps to deliver fuel and oxidizer to the thrust chamber. Such turbopumps have been plagued by rotordynamic instability caused by non-axisymmetric turbine tip clearance. Yet, there is dearth of experimental data on this phenomenon, and reliable damping data are non–existent. This paper describes a new experimental facility designed and built to obtain aerodynamic stiffness and damping forces in an unshrouded turbine with a whirling rotor.

The experimental facility consists of an air supply system, single turbine stage test section, instrumentation, and auxiliary systems. The test turbine is a 1: 1 replica of an unshrouded turbine stage used in an actual turbopump. This impulse turbine has a design flow coefficient of 0.76 and work coefficient of 5.9. To measure aerodynamic stiffness forces, the turbine casing is mounted so that it is eccentric relative to the turbine rotor which is concentric with the turbine shaft. Thus, static turbine tip clearance asymmetry is obtained. To obtain aerodynamic damping forces, the turbine casing is mounted concentric relative to the turbine shaft, and the turbine rotor is mounted eccentric relative to the shaft. Thus, synchronous forward whirling condition, or dynamic turbine lip clearance asymmetry, is simulated. Currently, the mean tip clearance is 2% of the rotor blade span, and the specified eccentricity is 1% of the rotor blade span. This test rig facilitates acquisition of both stiffness and damping rotordynamic forces due to turbine aerodynamics. In contrast, past experiment designs required two separate drives — one for rotation and second for whirling motion — to simulate whirling turbine. Therefore, the new facility offers a comparably inexpensive and reliable alternative testing method.

Instrumentation consists of pilot static probes, thermocouples, and optical encoder (tachometer) to monitor turbine operating conditions. Proximity probes are used to measure tip clearance. Steady pressure data are obtained through a set of static pressure taps on the casing. Dynamic pressure data are obtained through flush-mounted, Kulita unsteady pressure transducers. Finally, steady and dynamic velocity data are acquired via 2–D hot wire probes. Thus, steady and unsteady flow fields in turbines with statically offset rotor and whirling rotor, respectively, can be measured.
An Evaluation of a Partial Oxidation Concept for Combustion Turbine Power Systems
Authors: Newby R. A. , Yang W. C. , Bannister R. L.
Published: December 2014

In the partial oxidation concept, a high pressure, low-heating-value fuel gas is generated by partially combusting fuel with air. This fuel gas is expanded in a high-pressure turbine prior to being burned in a second-stage, conventional combustion turbine. This process reduces the specific air requirements of the power system and increases the power output. The performance, practicality, and cost of a heavy duty combustion turbine power system incorporating partial oxidation (PO) of natural gas has been estimated to assess the potential merits of this technology. Compared to conventional combustion turbine power cycles, the PO power cycle shows the potential for significant plant heat rate and cost-of-electricity improvements. However, significant development remains to verify and commercialize PO for combustion turbine power systems.
Crack Identification in a Cantilever Beam Using Coupled Response Measurements
Authors: Sekhar A. S. , Prasad P. Balaji
Published: December 2014

Identification of crack location and magnitude through measurement in changes in system characteristics, such as modal measurements has been studied by various researchers. In the present work based on the new method proposed by Gounaris et al (1996) for crack detection through coupled response measurements, experiments were carried out on a cracked cantilever beam for eigenfrequencies, bending and axial response measurements. It has been observed that the rate of change of direct response (bending) is much less at small cracks while that of the coupled response (axial) changes, substantially allowing diagnoses of smaller cracks.