bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Strategic Action Field Framework for Policy Implementation Research
Authors: Moulton Stephanie , Sandfort Jodi R.
Published: January 2016

Drawing upon the theories of social skill and strategic action fields (SAFs), this article presents a SAF Framework for Implementation Research. In the framework, policy implementation systems are conceptualized as multilevel SAFs that form around a public service intervention. Within this context, socially skilled actors leverage diverse sources of authority—including but not limited to political authority—to enable change or stability to a public service intervention. While the framework has underpinnings in field theory, it is able to encompass multiple theoretical perspectives, including complexity theories, organizational theories, economic theories, and theories of human behavior. Importantly, the SAF Framework allows for the integration of results relevant to both management and policy—change in implementation systems, and change in the behavior or conditions of an external target group.
Rise of the Regulatory Welfare State? Social Regulation in Utilities in Israel
Authors: Haber Hanan
Published: January 2016

This article explores the relation between economic liberalization, regulation and welfare. It asks how the state regulates, delays or prevents service disconnection due to debt and arrears, and what this kind of policy implies regarding the use of regulation as a form of social policy. This is done through a comparative study of the electricity and water sectors in Israel after liberalization. It finds that after initial economic reform, both sectors saw a growth in regulation intended to compensate for the social effects of reform, in what may be termed the ‘regulatory welfare state’. However, this form of social protection has been residual and incoherent. The article argues that trying to separate economic reform from its social consequences is unrealistic and may lead to adverse social and economic results. Second, findings raise concerns regarding the potential of the regulatory welfare state to deliver effective and fair social policy.
The use of alum to decrease phosphorus loss from dairy farm laneways in southern New Zealand
Authors: Smith L. C. , McDowell R. W.
Published: January 2016

Dairy farm laneways are sources of enriched P loss. Aluminium sulphate (alum) has been shown to decrease P loss when applied to land; our hypothesis was that alum may serve as a cost‐effective strategy to mitigate P loss from laneways connected to streams. A 4‐month field study, over the milking period when cows regularly used the laneway, showed that alum (25 and 50 kg/Al/ha) initially lowered FRP losses for four events, over 60 days, following application. If connected to a stream, the cost‐effectiveness of alum use on dairy farm laneways (51–75 USD per kg P retained) was high compared to other strategies on a grazed dairy farm.
Mechanisms underlying red‐cell alloimmunization in sickle‐cell disease
Authors: Pirenne F. , Vingert B.
Published: January 2016

Red blood cell transfusion is a life‐sustaining therapy that has decreased morbidity and mortality in sickle‐cell disease (SCD). The major immunological risk of transfusion is erythrocyte alloimmunization, which can lead to severe complications, such as delayed haemolytic transfusion reactions (DHTR) and problems finding compatible units, delaying transfusion. In this review, we discuss the known mechanisms of alloimmunization in sickle‐cell disease and the extent to which findings from mouse models of immunization can be extrapolated to the setting of transfusion in humans with SCD. We also consider preventive treatments, such as B‐lymphocyte depletion therapy.
Use of and reactions to fresh frozen plasma in the UK
Authors: Bolton‐Maggs P. H. B. , New H. V. , Tinegate H.
Published: January 2016

Haemovigilance has contributed to recognition of risks and dangers associated with transfusion of blood and its components. The UK scheme, Serious Hazards of Transfusion, as been in place since 1996. Review of data from fresh frozen plasma transfusions and other components demonstrated that transfusion‐related acute lung injury was more frequent with plasma‐rich components, particularly from female donors. This resulted in a change to male donors only for Fresh frozen plasma (FFP) and consequent reduction in cases of transfusion‐related acute lung injury in the UK. Acute allergic transfusion reactions may be severe and anaphylaxis should be treated with adrenaline. As the type of FFP is specified in reporting, data for pathogen‐inactivated FFP have been analysed to see whether the reaction rates differ from standard FFP. Solvent detergent FFP has a lower rate of reactions, and examination of the data on methylene‐blue FFP did not show an increase in reactions, useful information at a time when this product was withdrawn in France. There is no doubt that FFP is transfused unnecessarily and this needs further study, particularly to define when it is indicated in liver dis
Alternative strategies to platelet transfusion
Authors: Lozano M. , Cid J.
Published: January 2016

Although platelet transfusions continue to be the mainstay in the management of patients suffering from qualitative and quantitative disorders, several strategies might be considered when trying to reduce or avoid platelet transfusions. Those include assuring a higher haemoglobin level and pharmacological interventions. Several studiesin vitroandin vivosuggest that higher haematocrit decreases bleeding time in anaemic patients. This effect might be due to the haemorheological effect of red blood cells that expel platelets towards the wall optimizing the interaction of circulating platelets with the injured subendothelium. Several drugs have shown the capacity for improving the haemostasis and decreasing the bleeding diathesis in patients suffering from thrombocytopathies and/or thrombocytopenias, although the evidence is scarce and sometimes contradictory. Among antifibrinolytic drugs, two synthetic derivates are available, epsilon aminocaproic acid and tranexamic acid, although the latter one is the preferred for most of indications, given its higher and more sustained antifibrinolytic activity in tissues and lower and less frequent dosing. A few reports have shown the efficacy of desmopressin in treating patients with quantitative platelet disorders and Bernard–Soulier syndrome. Patients with Glanzmann thrombasthenia do not respond to desmopressin. Recombinant activated factorVIIis currently approved in the European Union for treating patients with Glanzmann thrombasthenia refractory to platelet transfusions due to antibodies toGPIIb‐IIIa and/orHLA. Currently, we have available two thrombopoietin analogues (romiplostim and eltrombopag) that have been used in patients with quantitative and/or qualitative platelet disorders. Several platelet substitutes are currently under development and one is being tested in healthy volunteers, but none is available yet in the market.
The role of the transfusion safety coordinator in Australia
Authors: Bielby L. , Akers C. , Francis S. , Darby S. , Campbell L. , Hollis L. , Quested B. , Hogan C.
Published: January 2016

Transfusion safety coordinators (TSCs) are an integral part of the transfusion process, which involves many interlinking chains of events and a multidisciplinary group of health professionals. In Australia, individual hospital‐based TSCs have been in place for several decades, with state‐based collaboratives commencing in 2002. The role has expanded across the country and currently there are 113 dedicated TSC positions and many more staff involved as blood/transfusion champions. There are also 12 transfusion nurse (TN) positions within the Australian Red Cross Blood Service. Over time both TSC and TN roles have evolved to meet the changes within the Australian blood sector. The primary focus of safety and appropriateness has now evolved to be more patient‐centred by incorporating patient blood management (PBM) initiatives. National PBM guidelines, statements, strategies, criteria and healthcare standards specifically focused on all aspects of transfusion have influenced this evolution. TSCs undertake diverse roles and activities that vary significantly between health services and within each jurisdiction. Effective communication and change management skills are integral to the success of the role. Conclusion: The TSCs are highly recognised within the transfusion team and the role continues to evolve with the changes in the Australian blood sector. The term Transfusion Safety Coordinators (TSCs) has been used to describe roles such as transfusion nurse/trainer/practitioner/safety officer/clinical nurse consultant and PBM nurses.
Mesenchymal stem/stromal cell‐derived extracellular vesicles as a new approach in stem cell therapy
Authors: Börger V. , Bremer M. , Görgens A. , Giebel B.
Published: January 2016

Mesenchymal stem or stromal cells (MSCs) are widely applied in regenerative and immune modulating therapies. Initially, it was assumed that administered MSCs integrate into damaged tissues to exert their clinical functions. However, in recent years accumulating evidence has been provided that MSCs rather act in a paracrine than a cellular manner. To this end, extracellular vesicles (EVs), which are secreted by MSCs in vivo and in vitro, seem to exert the MSCs’ therapeutic effects. So far, MSC‐EVs have been shown to improve functional recoveries following ischemic events, such as stroke and myocardial infarction, and to suppress symptoms in inflammatory diseases, such as in Graft‐versus‐Host disease (GvHD). Here, we summarize and discuss some current aspects regarding the therapeutic potential of MSC‐EVs.
Coping with Ebola crisis in transfusion services in West Africa
Authors: Tapko J. B. , Tcheumagam Kamno K.
Published: January 2016

Background Availability and accessibility to safe blood is challenging in Africa. The 2014 report of the World Health Organization (WHO) Regional Office indicates that in 2010, 43 African countries with a population of 813,806,984 collected only 3, 486, 192 units of blood. In West African Countries, home of 340,000,000 inhabitants, the donation rate ranges from 2·4‰ to 7·2‰. Only few countries have well established national blood systems. It is in this context that the Ebola Viral Disease (EVD) outbreak started in March 2014. Aim The aim of this study was to describe the status of blood transfusion services (BTSs) in West Africa in general and particularly in Ebola affected countries, and to analyze their capacity to respond to blood needs during the crisis. Methods Publications, reports and updates posted on websites were reviewed and analyzed to determine whether blood services were equipped to face EVD outbreak. Results Overall, EVD cases were diagnosed in Guinea, Liberia, Mali, Nigeria, Senegal and Sierra Leone. The number of cases increased dramatically to reach 27,952 reported confirmed, probable and suspected cases, with 11,284 reported deaths by 12 August 2015. Of 16 West African countries, only 6 had well established BTSs. The three most affected countries lacked basic infrastructures, equipment and staff. With the EVD crisis BTSs were disrupted with substantial drop in blood donations Conclusions BTSs in West Africa and particularly in the three Ebola‐affected countries were poorly equipped, uncoordinated and unable to provide safe blood to respond effectively and in timely manner to emergency situations, and to provide Convalescent Plasma for clinical trials.
Sickle‐cell disease in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Noubouossie D. , Tayou Tagny C. , Chetcha B. , Ngo Balogog P. , Mbanya D. N.
Published: January 2016

Background and Objectives

Sickle‐cell disease, over a century since its discovery, remains a great challenge in sub‐Saharan Africa, where the burden of the disease is highest and where resources for managing its various complications are scarce. This paper is a general review of sickle‐cell disease and, especially in Africa, focusing on its manifestations, complications and the management strategies in place.

Materials and Methods

Data for this review were collected from published articles, books, and internet websites and from personal experiences.

Results

The findings highlight the major clinical manifestations, the diagnostic methods and management strategies used in sub‐Saharan Africa as well as some of the challenges encountered.

Conclusions

Better organisation with co‐ordinated multidisciplinary teams as well as government commitment is indispensable for optimal sickle‐cell disease care in sub‐Saharan Africa.
Choosing the right blood products for transplant patients
Authors: Gabriel C.
Published: January 2016

Improving transfusion safety is a one corner stone for continuous improvements in haematopoietic stem cell and solid‐organ transplantation. In this setting, additional selection and methods are applied to blood products to ensure a sophisticated transfusion practice to support patients with high risk of bleeding as well as patients in chronic demand. Furthermore, transfusion product selection for solid‐organ and stem cell transplantation is very similar if focused on the avoidance of viral infections and adverse immune reactions.
Tools and challenges in creating a biobank in a modern blood bank: experience from the Danish Blood Donor Study (DBDS)
Authors: Rigas A. S. , Pedersen O. B. , Burgdorf K. S. , Bruun M. T. , Sørensen E. , Erikstrup C. , Ullum H.
Published: January 2016

Blood banks are in a unique position to create biobanks and general health studies since existing infrastructure can readily be reemployed. The available tools for creating biobanks include access to potential study participants (blood donors), handling and storage of biological repositories, and collection facilities with experienced staff. The needed tools not readily available are automated high throughput research analysers with data capture possibilities and freezing facilities. Lastly, designated information platforms e.g. a study webpage should be constructed to facilitate information to participants. The challenges encountered when creating a biobank in a blood bank are many. First, motivation for staff members are potentially needed because extra work may be put upon them in order to include blood donors in research biobanks. Second, in order to accommodate future possible health research projects it is recommended to acquire a broad informed consent for these type of studies. A broad informed consent warrants a clear policy on return of research findings to the study participants. Lastly, the collection of outcome variables must be planned. In Denmark national health registries on admission and diseases are of great value for follow‐up data. Otherwise, each subsequent donation after enrollment may serve as a potential way to collect follow‐up data or follow‐up data may be collected through mailed out questionnaires. Experience from the Danish Blood Donor Study (DBDS) has shown the feasibility of establishing a research biobank within a blood bank by using the existing infrastructure.
Comparison of the allelopathic effects and uptake of Fallopia japonica phytochemicals by Raphanus sativus
Authors: Tucker Serniak L
Published: January 2016

Fallopia japonica (Japanese Knotweed) is a prolific invader possessing several potentially allelopathic chemicals. The aim of this study was to determine whether four of these compounds inhibit the germination and growth of radish (Raphanus sativus) seedlings. Seeds were planted in potting soil and grown under glasshouse conditions for 2 weeks and the phytochemicals were gradually added to the soil over the course of the study. For all phytochemicals, there was no significant reduction in germination, plant heights, leaf widths or leaf lengths. However, plants treated with resveratrol, emodin and (–)‐epicatechin had significantly shorter root lengths than the control. Seedlings were dried and extracts were prepared with methanol. Extracts were tested via fluorescence spectrophotometry for uptake of the chemicals. Polydatin was detected at the highest concentration, with resveratrol and emodin detected at much lower concentrations. (–)‐Epicatechin was below the limits of detection. These results suggest that F. japonica may negatively impact the growth of other species and that multiple chemicals work together to give the plant a competitive advantage.
An Evidence‐Based Approach to Scoping Reviews
Authors: Khalil Hanan , Peters Micah , Godfrey Christina M. , McInerney Patricia , Soares Cassia Baldini , Parker Deborah
Published: January 2016

Objective

Scoping reviews are used to assess the extent of a body of literature on a particular topic, and often to ensure that further research in that area is a beneficial addition to world knowledge. The aim of this paper reports upon the development of a methodology for scoping reviews based upon the Arksey and O'Malley framework, the Levac, Colquhoun, and O'Brien, and the Joanna Briggs Institute methods of evidence synthesis.

Methods

A working group consisting of members of the Joanna Briggs collaborating organizations met to discuss the proposed framework for the methodology and develop a draft for the scoping review methodology based on the Arksey and O'Malley framework and the work of Levac et al. This was followed by a workshop attended by other members of the organizations consisting of 30 international researchers to discuss the proposed methodology. Further refinement of the methodology was undertaken as a result of the feedback received from the workshop.

Results

The development of the methodology focused on five stages of the protocol and review development. These were identifying the research question by clarifying and linking the purpose and research question, identifying the relevant studies using a three‐step literature search in order to balance feasibility with breadth and comprehensiveness, careful selection of the studies to using a team approach, charting the data and collating the results to identify the implications of the study findings for policy, practice, or research.

Linking Evidence to Action

The current methodology recommends including both quantitative and qualitative research, as well as evidence from economic and expert opinion sources to answer questions of effectiveness, appropriateness, meaningfulness and feasibility of health practices and delivery methods. The proposed framework has the potential to provide options when faced with complex concepts or broad research questions.
Genetic variation and evolutionary origins of parthenogenetic Artemia (Crustacea: Anostraca) with different ploidies
Authors: Asem Alireza , Eimanifar Amin , Sun Shi‐Chun
Published: January 2016

Using two nuclear (ITS1 and Na+/K+ ATPase) and three mitochondrial (COI, 16S and 12S) markers, we determined the genetic variation and evolutionary relationship of parthenogenetic and bisexual Artemia. Our analyses revealed that mitochondrial genes had higher genetic variation than nuclear genes and that the 16S showed more variety than the other mitochondrial genes in parthenogenetic populations. Triploid parthenogens showed lower genetic variation than diploid ones, whereas the tetra‐ and pentaploids had greater genetic distance than diploid parthenogens. No shared haplotype was found between individuals of parthenogenetic populations and Asian bisexual species with the exception of Na+/K+ ATPase (Artemia tibetiana). Only mitochondrial markers can demonstrate phylogenetic relationships, and showed that the parthenogenetic Artemia is a polyphyletic group in which the diploid lineages share a common ancestor with Artemia urmiana while tetraploids are closely related to Artemia sinica. The triploid and pentaploid linages are likely to be directly derived from diploid and tetraploid parthenogens, respectively. Subsequently, west Asia is origin for di‐/triploids, and tetra‐/pentaploids rose from East Asia.
Dual T‐type and L‐type calcium channel blocker exerts beneficial effects in attenuating cardiovascular dysfunction in iron‐overloaded thalassaemic mice
Authors: Kumfu Sirinart , Chattipakorn Siriporn C. , Fucharoen Suthat , Chattipakorn Nipon
Published: January 2016

New Findings

What is the central question of this study?

Head‐to‐head comparison of the therapeutic efficacy among commercial iron chelators and a dual T‐ (TTCC) and L‐type calcium channel (LTCC) blocker on cardiac function, mitochondrial function and the protein expression of cardiac iron transporters in thalassaemic mice in iron‐overloaded conditions has not been assessed.

What is the main finding and its importance?

The dual TTCC and LTCC blocker efonidipine could provide broad beneficial effects in the heart, liver, plasma and mitochondria in both wild‐type and thalassaemic mice in iron‐overloaded conditions. Its beneficial effects are of the same degree as the three commercial iron chelators currently used clinically. It is possible that efonidipine could be an alternative choice in patients unable to take iron chelators for the treatment of iron‐overload conditions.

Iron chelation therapy is a standard treatment in thalassaemia patients; however, its poor cardioprotective efficacy and serious side‐effects are a cause for concern. Previous studies have shown that treatment with L‐type calcium channel (LTCC) blockers or dual T‐type calcium channel (TTCC) and LTCC blockers decreases cardiac iron and improves cardiac dysfunction in an iron‐overloaded rodent model. Currently, the head‐to‐head comparison of therapeutic efficacy among commercial iron chelators, a dual TTCC and LTCC blocker and an LTCC blocker on cardiac function, mitochondrial function and the protein expression of cardiac iron transporters in thalassaemic mice in an iron‐overloaded state has never been investigated. An iron‐overloaded state was induced in β‐thalassaemic and wild‐type mice. Cardiac iron overload was induced to a greater extent than in a previous study by feeding the mice with an iron‐enriched diet for 4 months. Then, an LTCC blocker (amlodipine) or a dual TTCC and LTCC blocker (efonidipine) or one of the commercial iron chelators (deferoxamine, deferasirox or deferiprone) was administered for 1 month with continuous iron feeding. All treatments reduced cardiac iron deposition and improved mitochondrial and cardiac dysfunction in both types of mice. Only efonidipine and the iron chelators reduced liver iron accumulation, liver malondialdehyde and plasma malondialdehyde in these mice. Although all pharmacological interventions reduced cardiac iron deposition, they did not alter the protein expression levels of cardiac iron transporter. These findings indicated that efonidipine provided all benefits to the same degree as the three commercial iron chelators. These findings indicate that a dual TTCC and LTCC blocker could be beneficial for treatment of an iron‐overloaded state.
Secure fixation of femoral bone plug with a suspensory button in anatomical anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction with bone-patellar tendon-bone graft
Authors: Taketomi Shuji , Inui Hiroshi , Nakamura Kensuke , Yamagami Ryota , Tahara Keitaro , Sanada Takaki , Masuda Hironari , Tanaka Sakae , Nakagawa Takumi
Published: January 2016

Purpose: the efficacy and safety of using a suspensory button for femoral fixation in anatomical anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction with bonepatellar tendon-bone (BPTB) graft have not been established. The purpose of the current study was to evaluate bone plug integration onto the femoral socket and migration of the bone plug and the EndoButton (EB) (Smith & Nephew, Andover, MA, USA) after rectangular tunnel ACL reconstruction with BPTB autograft.

Methods: thirty-four patients who underwent anatomical rectangular ACL reconstruction with BPTB graft using EB for femoral fixation and in whom three-dimensional (3D) computed tomography (CT) was performed one week and one year after surgery were included in this study. Bone plug integration onto the femoral socket, bone plug migration, soft tissue interposition, EB migration and EB rotation were evaluated on 3D CT. The clinical outcome was also assessed and correlated with the imaging outcomes.

Results: the bone plug was integrated onto the femoral socket in all cases. The incidence of bone plug migration, soft tissue interposition, EB migration and EB rotation was 15, 15, 9 and 56%, respectively. No significant association was observed between the imaging outcomes. The postoperative mean Lysholm score was 97.1 ± 5.0 points. The postoperative side-to-side difference, evaluated using a KT-2000 arthrometer, averaged 0.5 ± 1.3 mm. There were no complications associated with EB use. Imaging outcomes did not affect the postoperative KT side-to-side difference.

Conclusions: the EB is considered a reliable device for femoral fixation in anatomical rectangular tunnel ACL reconstruction with BPTB autograft.

Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic case series.
Use of the KineSpring system in the treatment of medial knee osteoarthritis: preliminary results
Authors: Madonna Vincenzo , Condello Vincenzo , Piovan Gianluca , Screpis Daniele , Zorzi Claudio
Published: January 2016

Purpose: the purpose of this study was to analyze our preliminary results obtained with the KineSpring system in patients suffering from medial compartment knee osteoarthritis (OA).

Methods: between September 2012 and May 2014, 53 patients underwent treatment with the KineSpring system. Patient self-assessment was performed preoperatively and at 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively, and included the KOOS, Tegner activity score, Lysholm functional knee score, VAS knee pain score, and IKDC score. Device- and procedure-related adverse events were recorded.

Results: mean KOOS subscales, except for the Sport/Recreation subscale at six months, improved over time. Mean WOMAC Pain and Function domains, Lysholm score, IKDC score and VAS knee pain score improved over the follow-up period and were significantly improved at 3, 6 and 12 months postoperatively compared to baseline. Mean Tegner score improved slightly over time. In 5 of the 53 (9.4%) patients re-operation was necessary. In 3 patients the device was removed due to infection (one case) or persistent knee pain (two cases). Surgical arthrolysis was performed in two patients.

Conclusions: in our preliminary experience, the KineSpring system gave good short-term clinical results.

Level of evidence: Level IV, therapeutic case series.
A new hydrogel for the conservative treatment of meniscal lesions: a randomized controlled study
Authors: Zorzi Claudio , Rigotti Stefano , Screpis Daniele , Giordan Nicola , Piovan Gianluca
Published: January 2016

Purpose:this study aimed to investigate the efficacy of intra-articular (IA) administration of a hydrogel formulation obtained from a hyaluronic acid (HA) derivative (HYADD4®) in the management of meniscal tears and in meniscal tear repair.

Methods: fifty subjects with degenerative meniscal tears were enrolled into this single-site, observer-blind, parallel-group study. Clinical evaluations were performed at baseline and after 14, 30 and 60 days. Clinical outcomes included: pain reduction (Visual Analog Scale), improvement of knee functionality (WOMAC questionnaire), reduction in length and depth of the meniscal lesion (MRI-confirmed) and SF-36 questionnaire scores. Local tolerability and safety were also investigated.

Results: a significant reduction in VAS pain (p<0.001) in favor of HYADD4® was recorded at day 14 and maintained at all the follow-up assessments. Data on knee functionality were in line with the VAS pain assessment results. A significant reduction in length and depth of the meniscal lesion, assessed using MRI, was found in the HYADD4® group compared to the control group (p<0.001).

Conclusions: the results of this study may indicate a new treatment option in the conservative management of patients complaining of pain due to meniscal tears. The MRI data suggest that the hydrogel formulation of HA used in this study may also play a role in the healing process of the lesion.

Level of evidence: Level I, prospective randomized clinical trial.
Postoperative pectoral swelling after shoulder arthroscopy
Authors: Ercin Ersin , Bilgili Mustafa , Ones Halil , Kural Cemal
Published: January 2016

Fluid extravasation is possibly the most common complication of shoulder arthroscopy. Shoulder arthroscopy can lead to major increases in the compartment pressure of adjacent muscles and this phenomenon is significant when an infusion pump is used. This article describes a case of pectoral swelling due to fluid extravasation after shoulder arthroscopy. A 24-year-old male underwent an arthroscopic Bankart repair for recurrent shoulder dislocation. The surgery was performed in the beach chair position and lasted two hours. At the end of the procedure, the patient was found to have left pectoral swelling. A chest radiography showed no abnormality. Pectoral swelling due to fluid extravasation after shoulder arthroscopy has not previously been documented.
The
Challenge of Energy Storage in Europe: Focus on Power to
Fuel
Authors: Koytsoumpa Efthymia Ioanna , Bergins Christian , Buddenberg Torsten , Wu Song , Sigurbjörnsson Ómar , Tran K. C. , Kakaras Emmanouil
Published: January 2016

The energy sector in the European market has been changing significantly over the last years. European Union (EU) energy strategy includes the EU low-carbon roadmap milestone, which indicates for 2020, a 20% reduction in carbon emissions, and a 20% EU-wide share for renewables, and by 2030 a 40% reduction in carbon emissions and 30% EU-wide share for renewables. The increased renewable energy sources (RES) penetration and their intermittent energy production have led to the emerging need for energy storage technologies. Especially in the European energy market, large-scale energy balancing with sustainable technologies with product flexibility and cost-effective operation are being investigated. The carbon capture and utilization (CCU) concept, as a means for low-carbon sustainable industries, is integrated in the energy storage technologies. The present paper addresses the integration of power to fuel concept in the energy storage sector with simultaneous emission reduction. Grid management, the scale, and the efficient operation of electrolyzers are the basis for the implementation of Power to Fuel technology. The use of surplus and/or low-cost electricity via water electrolysis to commute captured CO2 from industrial plants to versatile energy carriers such as methane and methanol is being investigated in the present paper. Shadow operation of fossil fuel power plants under minimum load conditions leads to optimized energy dispatch of the power plants and provides product flexibility in terms of electricity, grid services, and chemical production. The produced fuels can be used in highly efficient and well-established power systems and further used in the transportation sector or for covering heat demands. The energy efficiency of the different processes is presented and a comparison is made in terms of cost effective energy storage solutions via the simultaneous grid management optimization, the reduction of carbon dioxide, and the production of valuable chemicals. The cross-sectorial concept of the Power to Fuel is presented for Steel and Power industry for the case of methane and methanol production. A review of the U.S. and European markets is made for the application of Power to Fuel.
Efficient Particle Swarm Optimization of Well Placement to Enhance Oil Recovery Using a Novel Streamline-Based Objective Function
Authors: Siavashi Majid , Tehrani Mohammad Rasoul , Nakhaee Ali
Published: January 2016

One of the main reservoir development plans is to find optimal locations for drilling new wells in order to optimize cumulative oil recovery. Reservoir simulation is a necessary tool to study different configurations of well locations to investigate the future of the reservoir and determine the optimal places for well drilling. Conventional well-known numerical methods require modern hardware for the simulation and optimization of large reservoirs. Simulation of such heterogeneous reservoirs with complex geological structures with the streamline-based simulation method is more efficient than the common simulation techniques. Also, this method by calculation of a new parameter called “time-of-flight” (TOF) offers a very useful tool to engineers. In the present study, TOF and distribution of streamlines are used to define a novel function which can be used as the objective function in an optimization problem to determine the optimal locations of injectors and producers in waterflooding projects. This new function which is called “well location assessment based on TOF” (WATOF) has this advantage that can be computed without full time simulation, in contrast with the cumulative oil production (COP) function. WATOF is employed for optimal well placement using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) approach, and its results are compared with those of the same problem with COP function, which leads to satisfactory outcomes. Then, WATOF function is used in a hybrid approach to initialize PSO algorithm to maximize COP in order to find optimal locations of water injectors and oil producers. This method is tested and validated in different 2D problems, and finally, the 3D heterogeneous SPE-10 reservoir model is considered to search locations of wells. By using the new objective function and employing the hybrid method with the streamline simulator, optimal well placement projects can be improved remarkably.
Thermal Conductivity of Turbostratic Carbon Nanofiber Networks
Authors: Bauer Matthew L. , Saltonstall Christopher B. , Leseman Zayd C. , Beechem Thomas E. , Hopkins Patrick E. , Norris Pamela M.
Published: January 2016

Composite material systems composed of a matrix of nanomaterials can achieve combinations of mechanical and thermophysical properties outside the range of traditional systems. The microstructure of the system dictates the rate, in which heat moves through the material. In this work, air/carbon nanofiber networks are studied to elucidate the system parameters influencing thermal transport. Thermal properties are measured with varying initial carbon fiber fill fraction, environment pressure, loading pressure, and heat treatment temperature (HTT) through a bidirectional modification of the 3ω technique. The nanostructure of the individual fibers is characterized with small angle X-ray scattering and Raman spectroscopy providing insight to individual fiber thermal conductivity. Measured thermal conductivity of the carbon nanofiber networks varied from 0.010 W/(m K) to 0.070 W/(m K). An understanding of the intrinsic properties of the individual fibers and the interactions of the two-phase composite is used to reconcile low measured thermal conductivities with predictive modeling. Accounting for fiber-to-fiber interactions and the nuanced changes in the composite as pressure is applied is necessary to successfully model thermal transport in system.
Cooling Optimization Theory—Part II: Optimum Internal Heat Transfer Coefficient Distribution
Authors: Kirollos Benjamin , Povey Thomas
Published: January 2016

Gas turbine cooling system design is constrained by a maximum allowable wall temperature (dictated by the material, the life requirements of the component, and a given stress distribution), the desire to minimize coolant mass flow rate (requirement to minimize cycle-efficiency cost), and the requirement to achieve as close to uniform wall temperature as possible (to reduce thermal gradients, and stress). These three design requirements form the basis of an iterative design process. The relationship between the requirements has received little discussion in the literature, despite being of interest from both a theoretical and a practical viewpoint. In Part I, we show analytically that the coolant mass flow rate is minimized when the wall temperature is uniform and equal to the maximum allowable wall temperature. In this paper, we show that designs optimized for uniform wall temperature have a corresponding optimum internal heat transfer coefficient (HTC) distribution. In this paper, analytical expressions for the optimum internal HTC distribution are derived for a number of cooling systems, with and without thermal barrier coating (TBC). Most cooling systems can be modeled as a combination of these representative systems. The optimum internal HTC distribution is evaluated for a number of engine-realistic systems: long plate systems (e.g., combustors, afterburners), the suction-side (SS) of a high pressure nozzle guide vane (HPNGV), and a radial serpentine cooling passage. For some systems, a uniform wall temperature is unachievable; the coolant penalty associated with this temperature nonuniformity is estimated. A framework for predicting the optimum internal HTC for systems with any distribution of external HTC, wall properties, and film effectiveness is outlined.
Mechanistic Modeling For Size-Selective Removal of Fines or Crystals From Thin Beds
Authors: Toma Peter , Kuru Ergun
Published: January 2016

Recently developed laboratory and numerical techniques reveal that the very thin, near-wall (assumed) “laminar” fluid layer, an essential feature of all turbulent flow conditions, houses a world of identifiable jetlike structures including bursts generated from the near-wall regions and lumps of fluids projected back onto the wall zones. This activity, identified as “coherent structures” (CS), is recognized as an important mechanism for radial mass transport and energy dissipation, particularly in near-wall or fluid–bed zones. Buoyancy-, adhesion-, hydrodynamic-, and CS-related updraft forces act on particles positioned in the fluid–bed interface zone. Depending on the particle nature, bulk fluid properties, and transport velocity, three pairs of forces were identified corresponding to the equilibrium condition of deposit particles in each of the three size ranges with respect to the onset of entrainment into the bulk flow. This mechanistic approach using a set of force equilibrium equations to assess the potential entrainment of particles was first suggested in 1980 by Phillips and was later (2006) applied by Toma and a research team from ARC and PETRONAS to explain the aging of wall-deposit layer occurring during waxy crude transportation as an effect of size-selective removal of paraffin crystals formed from a mixture of crystalized alkanes. The merit of this paper, regarded as an extension of the 2006 publication, is to introduce a more general selective extraction rate function that enables calculations of both the rate of paraffin aging and size alteration of any fine, polydisperse particulate matter exposed to bulk turbulent flow, gas or liquid. Without any adjustment of the process or physical constants, the modeling results presented in this paper compared satisfactorily with the experimental results obtained independently by the Texaco Research (aging of waxy crude) and laboratory data from the University of Alberta on the effect of size-selective extraction of fine sand or glass beads (GB) initially deposited on the bottom of a pipe and exposed to a turbulent bulk flow of water. An overarching objective of this paper is to stir interest in mechanistic modeling and prediction of size-selective radial transport and separation for a broad range of industrial and environmental applications and studies and specifically in the recognition and use of burst-sweep CS structures for calculating radial transport of small particle sizes, particularly in near-interface zones exposed to turbulent flow conditions.
Morphological and microstructural stability of N-polar InAlN thin films grown on free-standing GaN substrates by molecular beam epitaxy
Authors: Hardy Matthew T. , McConkie Thomas O. , Smith David J. , Storm David F. , Downey Brian P. , Katzer D. Scott , Meyer David J. , Nepal Neeraj
Published: January 2016

The sensitivity of the surface morphology and microstructure of N-polar-oriented InAlN to variations in composition, temperature, and layer thickness for thin films grown by plasma-assisted molecular beam epitaxy (PAMBE) has been investigated. Lateral compositional inhomogeneity is present in N-rich InAlN films grown at low temperature, and phase segregation is exacerbated with increasing InN fraction. A smooth, step-flow surface morphology and elimination of compositional inhomogeneity can be achieved at a growth temperature 50 °C above the onset of In evaporation (650 °C). A GaN/AlN/GaN/200-nm InAlN heterostructure had a sheet charge density of 1.7 × 1013 cm−2 and no degradation in mobility (1760 cm2/V s) relative to 15-nm-thick InAlN layers. Demonstration of thick-barrier high-electron-mobility transistors with good direct-current characteristics shows that device quality, thick InAlN layers can be successfully grown by PAMBE.
The maternal interleukin-17a pathway in mice promotes autism-like phenotypes in offspring
Authors: Choi Gloria B. , Yim Yeong S. , Wong Helen , Kim Sangdoo , Kim Hyunju , Kim Sangwon V. , Hoeffer Charles A. , Littman Dan R. , Huh Jun R.
Published: January 2016

A T cell cause for autism?

The causes of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) are complex and not entirely clear. Alterations in the mother's immune system during pregnancy, especially during key early periods of fetal neurodevelopment, may play a role. Choi
et al.
provided infectious or inflammatory stimuli to pregnant mice, which resulted in of spring exhibiting behaviors reminiscent of ASD (see the Perspective by Estes and McAllister). A subset of T helper cells that make the cytokine interleukin-17a in the mothers caused cortical defects and associated ASD behaviors in offspring. Therapeutic targeting of interleukin-17a during gestation reduced ASD symptoms in offspring.

Science
, this issue p.
933
; see also p.
919
Complete Genome Sequence and Methylome of Salmonella enterica subsp.
enterica
Cerro, a Frequent Dairy Cow Serovar
Authors: Haley Bradd J. , Pirone Cary , Muruvanda Tim , Brown Eric , Allard Marc , Karns Jeffrey S. , Van Kessel Jo Ann S.
Published: January 2016

Salmonella enterica
subsp.
enterica
serovar Cerro is an infrequent pathogen of humans and other mammals but is frequently isolated from the hindgut of asymptomatic cattle in the United States. To further understand the genomic determinants of
S
. Cerro specificity for the bovine hindgut, the genome of isolate CFSAN001588 was fully sequenced and deposited in the GenBank database.
Complete Genome Sequence of
Rehmannia Mosaic Virus
Infecting
Rehmannia glutinosa
in South Korea
Authors: Lim Seungmo , Zhao Fumei , Yoo Ran Hee , Igori Davaajargal , Jeong Jae Cheol , Lee Haeng-Soon , Kwak Sang-Soo , Moon Jae Sun
Published: January 2016

The complete genome sequence of a South Korean isolate of
Rehmannia mosaic virus
(ReMV) infecting
Rehmannia glutinosa
was determined through next-generation sequencing and Sanger sequencing. To our knowledge, this is the first report of a natural infection of
R. glutinosa
by ReMV in South Korea.
Complete Genomic Sequence of an Avian Pathogenic Escherichia coli Strain of Serotype O7:HNT
Authors: Maluta Renato P. , Nicholson Bryon , Logue Catherine M. , Nolan Lisa K. , Rojas Thaís C. G. , Dias da Silveira Wanderley
Published: January 2016

Avian pathogenic
Escherichia coli
(APEC) is associated with colibacillosis in poultry. Here, we present the first complete sequence of an APEC strain of the O7:HNT serotype and ST73 sequence type, isolated from a broiler with cellulitis. Complete genomes of APEC with distinct genetic backgrounds may be useful for comparative analysis.
Draft Genome Sequence of Klebsiella pneumoniae KGM-IMP216 Harboring
bla
CTX-M-15
,
bla
DHA-1
,
bla
TEM-1B
,
bla
NDM-1
,
bla
SHV-28
, and
bla
OXA-1
, Isolated from a Patient in Lebanon
Authors: Tokajian Sima , Eisen Jonathan A. , Jospin Guillaume , Matar Ghassan , Araj George F. , Coil David A.
Published: January 2016

We present the draft genome of highly drug-resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
KGM-IMP216, isolated from a urine sample collected from a patient in Lebanon. The draft genome sequence consisted of 77 contigs, including a combined 5,731,500 bases with 57% G+C content.
Complete Genome Sequence of the Exopolysaccharide-Producing Burkholderia caribensis Type Strain MWAP64
Authors: Pan Yanling , Kong Ka Fai , Tsang Jimmy S. H.
Published: January 2016

We report the complete genome sequence of
Burkholderia caribensis
MWAP64 (LMG 18531), which was isolated from soil for its proficiency in producing large amounts of exopolysaccharide that help form microaggregates in a vertisol. There are four replicons with a total size of 9,032,119 bp.
Complete Genome Sequence of Novel Pseudorabies Virus Strain HNB Isolated in China
Authors: Yu Teng , Chen Fangzhou , Ku Xugang , Zhu Yinxing , Ma Hailong , Li Subei , He Qigai
Published: January 2016

The complete genome sequence of a novel pseudorabies virus, strain HNB, isolated from a dead weaned pig in China, was determined using next-generation sequencing. The viral genome sequence of HNB shared 90.6% nucleotide similarity with that of the traditional vaccine strain, the Bartha strain.
Complete Genome Sequence of Human Norovirus GII.4_2006b, a Variant of Minerva 2006
Authors: Yang Zhihui , Mammel Mark K. , Kulka Michael
Published: January 2016

In 2006, the National Calicivirus Laboratory at the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) confirmed multistate outbreaks of norovirus infection and identified two new GII.4 norovirus strains (Minerva and Laurens) through partial sequencing of the major capsid (VP1) gene. Here, we report the first complete genome sequence of the GII.4 Minerva isolate.
Draft Genome Sequence of a Potential Nitrate-Dependent Fe(II)-Oxidizing Bacterium, Aquabacterium parvum B6
Authors: Zhang Xiaoxin , Ma Fang , Szewzyk Ulrich
Published: January 2016

Aquabacterium parvum
B6 is a potential nitrate-dependent Fe(II)-oxidizing bacterium. The genes related to its denitrifying mechanism and iron metabolisms were unknown. We present the draft genome of
Aquabacterium parvum
B6, which could provide further insight into the nitrate-dependent Fe(II)-oxidizing mechanism of strain B6.