bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
New multiproxy record of the Jenkyns Event (also known as the Toarcian Oceanic Anoxic Event) from the Mecsek Mountains (Hungary): Differences, duration and drivers
Authors: Müller Tamás , Price Gregory D. , Bajnai Dávid , Nyerges Anita , Kesjár Dóra , Raucsik Béla , Varga Andrea , Judik Katalin , Fekete József , May Zoltán , Pálfy József
Published: October 2016

The oceanic anoxic event in the Early Toarcian, often referred to as the ‘Torcian Oceanic Anoxic Event’, led to widespread deposition of organic‐rich black shales and geochemical anomalies in elemental distribution and multiple isotope systems in the Early Jurassic ocean. Best characterized by its hallmark carbon isotope anomaly, the event is widely regarded as a prime example of rapid greenhouse warming‐related changes in the Mesozoic Earth system. However, despite numerous studies, details of its forcing mechanisms, exact duration and the role of regional effects remain debated. This article presents new data (high‐resolution organic carbon isotope, calcareous nannofossil and elemental geochemical analyses) from the black shale‐bearing Lower Toarcian section in the Réka Valley, Hungary, with the aim of assessing any regional differences in the sedimentary and geochemical record and their bearing on the underlying oceanographic and climatic processes. Following a short segment with a positive trend at the base of the section, values of the carbon isotope data here are turning to a negative trend with a steep, stepwise drop in two negative shifts, reaching their minimum before a positive trend with oscillations characterizing the top part of the section examined. The shape of the curve and nannoplankton biostratigraphy (recognition of zones NJ5b, NJ6 and NJ7) allow reliable correlation of these data with the global carbon isotope perturbation recorded elsewhere in the Early Toarcian. It is proposed here that it would be fitting to rename the Torcian Oceanic Anoxic Event as the ‘Jenkyns Event’, to honour the seminal contributions of Hugh Jenkyns. The cyclostratigraphic analysis in this study suggests that the duration of the negative isotope excursion at Réka Valley is 200 kyr, 350 kyr or 1 Myr, depending on which astronomical forcing parameter controls the most prominent cyclicity. Spectroscopic analyses suggest that the source of the organic matter, marine algae according to previous studies, did not change considerably during the main negative carbon isotope excursion. The variability observed in major element concentrations and enrichments relative to the average shale in the Réka Valley black shales can be regarded as mixtures of terrigenous aluminosilicates and calcium carbonate as two endmembers. Consequently, the terrigenous compositional endmember of the studied black shales consists of a mixture of an illitic/smectitic and a kaolinitic clay, which supports previous suggestions of increased weathering under extremely humid climate in the hinterland during the Jenkyns Event.
The use and modification of injury prevention exercises by professional youth soccer teams
Authors: O'Brien J. , Young W. , Finch C. F.
Published: October 2016

The efficacy of injury prevention exercise programs (IPEPs) for amateur youth soccer has been established, but little is known about their adaptability to other soccer populations. This study aimed to assess the use of individual injury prevention exercises by professional youth soccer teams, against the industry‐standard, FIFA 11+ program. Four teams' chosen IPEPs were observed across one season and documented on a standardized form. The use of each FIFA 11+ exercise was coded as “performed”, “performed modified” or “not performed”. The proportion of the 160 observed sessions containing each individual exercise was calculated. Staff provided reasons for their use and modification of FIFA 11+ exercises. On average, individual FIFA 11+ exercises were conducted in original form in 12% of the sessions (range 0–33%), and in modified form in 28% of sessions (range 2–62%). The five most frequently observed exercises, in either original or modified form, were “bench” (72%), “squats” (69%), “running straight” (68%), “single‐leg stance” (66%), and “sideways bench” (64%). Staff modified exercises to add variation, progression, and individualization, and to align with specific training formats and goals. Professional youth soccer teams often use injury prevention exercises similar to those in the FIFA 11+, but tailor them considerably to fit their implementation context.
Scaling waist girth for differences in body size reveals a new improved index associated with cardiometabolic risk
Authors: Nevill A. M. , Duncan M. J. , Lahart I. M. , Sandercock G. R.
Published: October 2016

Our aim was to examine whether a new ratio, waist divided by height0.5 (WHT.5R), is both independent of stature and a stronger predictor of cardiometabolic risk (CMR) than other anthropometric indices. Subjects (4117 men and 646 women), aged 20–69 years, were assessed for stature (cm), mass (kg), waist, and hip girths (cm) from which body mass index (BMI), waist‐to‐hip ratio (WHR), waist‐to‐height ratio (WHTR), and two new indices, a body shape index (ABSI) and WHT.5R, were determined. We used the allometric power law, W = a.HTb, to obtain a simple body shape index for waist girth (W) to be independent of stature (HT). Physical activity was determined using self‐report, and physical fitness was determined using the Bruce protocol. Glucose, total cholesterol, low‐density lipoprotein, high‐density lipoprotein, triglycerides, and TC/HDL ratio were determined from fasting venous blood samples. A single CMR composite score was derived from log‐transformed z‐scores of Triglycerides + average blood pressure ((diastolic + systolic)/2) + glucose + HDL (*−1). Results confirmed WHT.5R to be independent of stature and the strongest predictor of CMR, compared with BMI, WC, WHR, ABSI, and WHTR. We also found that CMR scores decline significantly with increasing fitness and physical activity, confirming that being fit and active can compensate for the adverse effects of being fat as measured by all other anthropometric indices. In conclusion, WHT.5R was the best anthropometric index associated with CMR, and being both physically fit and active has a protective effect on CMR, irrespective of weight status.
Sulphide formation from granulite‐facies S‐rich scapolite breakdown
Authors: Porter J.K. , Austrheim Håkon
Published: October 2016

Scapolite in granulite facies terranes provides a reservoir for volatile components such as sulphur and carbon in rocks that are otherwise considered ‘dry’. Formed at lower crustal conditions, the high‐S end‐member of scapolite, silvialite, is a major host of sulphur in granulites. Compositional and textural changes involving scapolite reveal that S‐rich scapolite becomes unstable during hydration and deformation at amphibolite facies conditions. Either scapolite changes composition, whereby SO42− is exchanged for CO32− or Cl− in its structure, or scapolite is replaced by amphibole and/or epidote. Sulphur that is released from silvialite is deposited as sulphides within the original silvialite grain boundaries and can remain relatively immobile in undeformed anorthosites. However, increased sulphide mobility is evident in areas of increased deformation and hydration. Reactions involving S‐bearing scapolite not only have important implications for sulphide deposition and the S‐cycle, but may also influence conductivity variation in the lower crust.
Implementation of a transfusion bundle reduces inappropriate red blood cell transfusions in intensive care – a before and after study
Authors: Borgert M. , Binnekade J. , Paulus F. , Vroom M. , Vlaar A. , Goossens A. , Dongelmans D.
Published: October 2016

Background

Restrictive red blood cell (RBC) transfusion has been widely described in transfusion guidelines. However, compliance with these guidelines is often poor. Therefore, we developed a care bundle for the transfusion of RBCs in intensive care. We investigated the effect of the application of the transfusion bundle on transfusion practice, hypothesising that the implementation of the transfusion bundle would lead to a reduction of inappropriate RBC transfusions.

Study Design and Methods

We conducted a before and after study between January and December 2014 in a medical–surgical intensive care unit (ICU) of a university hospital in Amsterdam, the Netherlands. The primary outcome was the percentage of appropriate transfusions, referring to those transfusions that were in accordance to the patients' individual preset haemoglobin threshold.

Results

The mean pre‐transfusion haemoglobin level was 7·3 g dL−1 [standard deviation (SD) = 1·15] during baseline and significantly decreased to 7·1 g dL−1 (SD = 1·04) after transfusion bundle implementation; 95% confidence interval (CI): 0·009–0·308, P‐value = 0·04. The number of inappropriate transfusions significantly decreased from 25% (111/439) during baseline to 15% (42/280) during implementation, a difference of 10%; 95% CI: −0·164 to −0·0416, P‐value 0·001. This further decreased to 12% (45/370) in the post‐implementation phase. A logistic regression analysis showed that the chance to find an appropriate transfusion is approximately twice as high after transfusion bundle implementation.

Conclusions

Introduction of a transfusion bundle results in a significant reduction of the number of inappropriate RBC transfusions in the medical–surgical ICU. Our results show that the introduction of a transfusion care bundle helps to improve compliance with transfusion guidelines in daily practice.
Measurement of haemolysis markers following transfusion of uncrossmatched, low‐titre, group O+ whole blood in civilian trauma patients: initial experience at a level 1 trauma centre
Authors: Seheult J. N. , Triulzi D. J. , Alarcon L. H. , Sperry J. L. , Murdock A. , Yazer M. H.
Published: October 2016

Background/Objectives

The safety of administering uncrossmatched, group O, cold‐stored, whole blood (cWB) during civilian trauma resuscitation was evaluated.

Methods/Materials

Male trauma patients with haemorrhage‐induced hypotension who received leuko‐reduced uncrossmatched group O+, low titre (<50) anti‐A and ‐B, platelet‐replete cWB during initial resuscitation were included. The biochemical markers of haemolysis (lactate dehydrogenase, total bilirubin, haptoglobin, creatinine, serum potassium) were measured on the day of cWB receipt (day 0), and over the next 2 days, reports of transfusion reactions and total blood product administration in first 24 h of admission were recorded.

Results

There were 27 non‐group O and 17 group O cWB recipients. The median number of cWB units transfused was 1 [interquartile range (IQR): 1–2] in both groups. The median day 0 post‐transfusion serum total bilirubin concentration, although still in the normal range, was higher in the non‐group O versus group O recipients (1·4 versus 0·5 mg/dL, P < 0·01). There were no significant differences in any of the other biochemical parameters at any other time point. Non‐group O recipients received a median of 3 times more red blood cell (RBC) units compared with group O recipients (P = 0·01 RBCs), likely explaining the bilirubin difference on day 0. The median volume of ABO‐incompatible plasma transfused to non‐group O recipients was 600 mL (IQR: 300–1140 mL). There were no reports of adverse events related to the cWB transfusion in either group.

Conclusions

Administration of ≤2 units of cWB in civilian trauma resuscitation was not associated with clinically significant changes in laboratory haemolysis markers. Efficacy will be determined when larger quantities are transfused.
Genetic variation of growth dynamics in maize (Zea mays L.) revealed through automated non‐invasive phenotyping
Authors: Muraya Moses M. , Chu Jianting , Zhao Yusheng , Junker Astrid , Klukas Christian , Reif Jochen C. , Altmann Thomas
Published: October 2016

Hitherto, most quantitative trait loci of maize growth and biomass yield have been identified for a single time point, usually the final harvest stage. Through this approach cumulative effects are detected, without considering genetic factors causing phase‐specific differences in growth rates. To assess the genetics of growth dynamics, we employed automated non‐invasive phenotyping to monitor the plant sizes of 252 diverse maize inbred lines at 11 different developmental time points; 50 k SNP array genotype data were used for genome‐wide association mapping and genomic selection. The heritability of biomass was estimated to be over 71%, and the average prediction accuracy amounted to 0.39. Using the individual time point data, 12 main effect marker‐trait associations (MTAs) and six pairs of epistatic interactions were detected that displayed different patterns of expression at various developmental time points. A subset of them also showed significant effects on relative growth rates in different intervals. The detected MTAs jointly explained up to 12% of the total phenotypic variation, decreasing with developmental progression. Using non‐parametric functional mapping and multivariate mapping approaches, four additional marker loci affecting growth dynamics were detected. Our results demonstrate that plant biomass accumulation is a complex trait governed by many small effect loci, most of which act at certain restricted developmental phases. This highlights the need for investigation of stage‐specific growth affecting genes to elucidate important processes operating at different developmental phases.
Microbe‐inducible trafficking pathways that control Toll‐like receptor signaling
Authors: Tan Yunhao , Kagan Jonathan C.
Published: October 2016

The receptors of the mammalian innate immune system are designed for rapid microbial detection, and are located in organelles that are conducive to serve these needs. However, emerging evidence indicates that the sites of microbial detection are not the sites of innate immune signal transduction. Rather, microbial detection triggers the movement of receptors to regions of the cell where factors called sorting adaptors detect active receptors and promote downstream inflammatory responses. These findings highlight the critical role that membrane trafficking pathways play in the initiation of innate immunity to infection. In this review, we describe pathways that promote the microbe‐inducible endocytosis of Toll‐like receptors (TLRs), and the microbe‐inducible movement of TLRs between intracellular compartments. We highlight a new class of proteins called Transporters Associated with the eXecution of Inflammation (TAXI), which have the unique ability to transport TLRs and their microbial ligands to signaling‐competent regions of the cell, and we discuss the means by which the subcellular sites of signal transduction are defined.
COMPARISON BETWEEN PROTON MAGNETIC RESONANCE SPECTROSCOPY FINDINGS IN DOGS WITH TICK‐BORNE ENCEPHALITIS AND CLINICALLY NORMAL DOGS
Authors: Sievert Christine , Richter Henning , Beckmann Katrin , Kircher Patrick R. , Carrera Ines
Published: October 2016

In vivo diagnosis of tick‐borne encephalitis is difficult due to high seroprevalence and rapid viral clearance, limiting detection of antibodies in blood and cerebrospinal fluid. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) characteristics of tick‐borne encephalitis have been reported, however MRI studies can also be negative despite the presence of neurologic signs. Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H MRS) is an imaging method that provides additional information about the metabolic characteristics of brain tissues. The purpose of this retrospective cross‐sectional study was to describe brain metabolites using short echo time single‐voxel 1H MRS in dogs with confirmed tick‐borne encephalitis and compare them with healthy dogs. Inclusion criteria for the affected dogs were neurological symptoms suggestive of tick‐borne encephalitis, previous endemic stay and tick‐bite, diagnostic quality brain MRI and 1H MRS studies, and positive antibody titers or confirmation of tick‐borne encephalitis with necropsy. Control dogs were 10, clinically normal beagles that had been used in a previous study. A total of six affected dogs met inclusion criteria. All dogs affected with tick‐borne encephalitis had 1H MRS metabolite concentration alterations versus control dogs. These changes included mild to moderate decreases in N‐acetyl aspartate and creatine peaks, and mild increases in glutamate/glutamine peaks. No lactate or lipid signal was detected in any dog. Myoinositol and choline signals did not differ between affected and control dogs. In conclusion, findings supported the use of 1H MRS as an adjunctive imaging method for dogs with suspected tick‐borne encephalitis and inconclusive conventional MRI findings.
Effects of Firocoxib, Flunixin Meglumine, and Phenylbutazone on Platelet Function and Thromboxane Synthesis in Healthy Horses
Authors: Burkett Brenna N. , Thomason John M. , Hurdle Holly M. , Wills Robert W. , Fontenot Robin L.
Published: October 2016

Objective

Determine the effects of nonsteroidal anti‐inflammatory drugs (NSAID) on platelet function and thromboxane synthesis immediately after drug administration and following 5 days of NSAID administration in healthy horses.

Study Design

Randomized cross‐over study.

Animals

Healthy adult horses (n=9; 6 geldings and 3 mares).

Methods

Horses received either flunixin meglumine (1.1 mg/kg IV every 12 hours), phenylbutazone (2.2 mg/kg IV every 12 hours), or firocoxib (loading dose of 0.27 mg/kg IV on day 1, then 0.09 mg/kg IV every 24 hours for 4 days) for a total of 5 days. Blood samples were collected prior to drug administration (day 0), 1 hour after initial NSAID administration (day 1), and then 1 hour post‐NSAID administration on day 5. Platelet function was assessed using turbidimetric aggregometry and a platelet function analyzer. Serum thromboxane B2 concentrations were determined by commercial ELISA kit. A minimum 14 day washout period occurred between trials.

Results

At 1 hour and 5 days postadministration of firocoxib, flunixin meglumine, or phenylbutazone, there was no significant effect on platelet aggregation or function using turbidimetric aggregometry or a platelet function analyzer. There was, however, a significant decrease in thromboxane synthesis at 1 hour and 5 days postadministration of flunixin meglumine and phenylbutazone that was not seen with firocoxib.

Conclusion

Preoperative administration of flunixin meglumine, phenylbutazone, or firocoxib should not inhibit platelet function based on our model. The clinical implications of decreased thromboxane B2 synthesis following flunixin meglumine and phenylbutazone administration are undetermined.
Thoracoscopy with Concurrent Esophagoscopy for Persistent Right Aortic Arch in 9 Dogs
Authors: Townsend Sarah , Oblak Michelle L. , Singh Ameet , Steffey Michele A. , Runge Jeffrey J.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To report the diagnosis, treatment, and short‐term outcome in dogs with suspected persistent right aortic arch (PRAA) undergoing thoracoscopy with concurrent esophagoscopy.

Study Design

Multi‐institutional retrospective case series.

Animals

Dogs with suspected PRAA (n=9).

Methods

Medical records were reviewed from 2012 to 2016. Dogs undergoing thoracoscopy for PRAA at 3 referral hospitals were included. Signalment, clinical signs, diagnostic imaging, anesthesia protocol (including the use of one‐lung ventilation), surgical approach, complications, and short‐term outcome were recorded. Dogs underwent a left‐sided intercostal thoracoscopic approach with concurrent intraoperative esophagoscopy. The ligamentum arteriosum (LA) and constricting fibers were divided using a vessel‐sealing device using a 3 or 4 port thoracoscopy technique. Visualization and dissection of the LA was aided by transesophageal illumination by esophagoscopy.

Results

Thoracoscopy confirmed PRAA in 9 dogs, with an aberrant left subclavian artery (LS) identified in 5 dogs. Major complications occurred in 2 dogs: postoperative hemorrhage from the LS and esophageal perforation, which resulted in euthanasia. Median follow‐up was 250 days (range, 56–1,595). Regurgitation resolved in 4 of 8 surviving dogs. One dog had recurrence of regurgitation 1,450 days postoperatively, esophageal compression by the LS was identified, and regurgitation resolved following LS transection.

Conclusion

Esophagoscopy aided identification and dissection of the LA in all cases. Due to the potential for the LS to cause clinical esophageal constriction postoperatively, a recommendation for LS transection may be warranted. Vascular clips can also be considered as an alternative for vessel ligation to avoid complications associated with vessel‐sealing device use.
Transnasal, Endoscopically Guided Skull‐Based Surgery by Pharyngotomy for Mass Removal from the Sphenopalatine Sinus in a Horse
Authors: Radcliffe Rolfe M. , Messiaen Yasmine , Irby Nita L. , Divers Thomas J. , Dewey Curtis W. , Mitchell Katharyn J. , Schnabel Lauren V. , Bezuidenhout Abraham J. , Scrivani Peter V. , Ducharme Norm G.
Published: October 2016

Objective

To report a transnasal, endoscopically guided ventral surgical approach for accessing the cranial and caudal segments of the sphenopalatine sinus for mass removal in a horse.

Study Design

Case report.

Animal

Adult horse with acute onset blindness referable to a soft tissue mass within the sphenopalatine sinus.

Clinical Report

A 7‐year‐old Warmblood gelding presented with a history of running into a fence and falling. No neurologic signs were identified at initial examination but acute blindness was noted 3 weeks later. On computed tomography (CT) the sphenopalatine sinus was filled with a large homogeneous mass with poor contrast enhancement that extended dorsally with thinning to the dorsal cortex of the sphenoid bone, just rostral to the entrance of the optic canals into the cranial cavity. Surgical access to the sphenopalatine sinus was achieved using a transnasal, endoscopically guided ventral pharyngotomy approach and the mass lesion was removed. A presumptive diagnosis of chondroma was made based on histopathology. The horse recovered well from surgery, and although it has not regained vision as of 6.5 years postoperatively, the disease has not progressed.

Conclusion

Transnasal, endoscopically‐guided ventral surgical access to the sphenopalatine sinus is possible in horses and may improve access in horses with disease extending caudally beyond the palatine portion of the sinus. Use of smaller diameter or specialized instruments, such as various endoscopic bone cutting instruments, and CT image guidance may improve sinus access by this route.
Calcaneal Fractures in Non‐Racing Dogs and Cats: Complications, Outcome, and Associated Risk Factors
Authors: Perry Karen L. , Adams Robert J. , Woods Samantha , Bruce Mieghan
Published: October 2016

Objective

To estimate the prevalence of complications and describe the outcome associated with calcaneal fractures in non‐racing dogs and in cats.

Study Design

Retrospective multicenter clinical cohort study.

Animals

Medical records of client‐owned dogs and cats (2004–2013).

Methods

Medical records were searched and 50 animals with calcaneal fractures were included for analysis. Complications were recorded and an outcome score applied to each fracture. Associations between putative risk factors and both major complications, and final outcome scores were explored.

Results

Complications occurred in 27/50 fractures (61%) including 23 major and 4 minor complications. At final follow‐up, 4 animals (10%) were sound, 27 (64%) had either intermittent or consistent mild weight‐bearing lameness, 7 (17%) had moderate weight‐bearing lameness, and 1 (2%) had severe weight‐bearing lameness. Fractures managed using plates and screws had a lower risk of complications than fractures managed using pin and tension band wire, lag or positional screws or a combination of these techniques (Relative risk 0.16, 95% CI 0.02–1.02, P=.052). Non‐sighthounds had reduced odds of a poorer outcome score than sighthounds (Odds ratio 0.11, 95% CI 0.02–0.50, P=.005) and fractures with major complications had 13 times the odds of a poorer outcome score (Odds ratio 13.4, 95% CI 3.6–59.5, P<.001).

Conclusion

This study reports a high occurrence of complications associated with calcaneal fracture stabilization in non‐racing dogs and in cats, and a poorer outcome score was more likely in animals with complications. A more guarded prognosis should be given to owners of non‐racing dogs or cats with calcaneal fractures than previously applied to racing Greyhounds with calcaneal fractures.
Cropping systems modify soil biota effects on wheat (Triticum aestivum) growth and competitive ability
Authors: Johnson S P , Miller Z J , Lehnhoff E A , Miller P R , Menalled F D
Published: October 2016

Plants alter soil biota which subsequently modifies plant growth, plant–plant interactions and plant community dynamics. While much research has been conducted on the magnitude and importance of soil biota effects (SBEs) in natural systems, little is known in agro‐ecosystems. We investigated whether agricultural management systems could affect SBEs impacts on crop growth and crop–weed competition. Utilising soil collected from eight paired farms, we evaluated the extent to which SBEs differed between conventional and organic farming systems. Soils were conditioned by growing two common annual weeds: Amaranthus retroflexus (redroot pigweed) or Avena fatua (wild oat). Soil biota effects were measured in wheat (Triticum aestivum) growth and crop–weed competition, with SBEs calculated as the natural log of plant biomass in pots inoculated with living soil divided by the plant biomass in pots inoculated with sterilised soil. SBEs were generally more positive when soil inoculum was collected from organic farms compared with conventional farms, suggesting that cropping systems modify the relative abundance of mutualistic and pathogenic organisms responsible for the observed SBEs. Also, as feedbacks became more positive, crop–weed competition decreased and facilitation increased. In annual cropping systems, SBEs can alter plant growth and crop–weed competition. By identifying the management practices that promote positive SBEs, producers can minimise the impacts of crop–weed competition and decrease their reliance on off‐farm chemical and mechanical inputs to control weeds, enhancing agroecosystem sustainability.
Multistate Outbreak of Human Salmonella Typhimurium Infections Linked to Pet Hedgehogs – United States, 2011–2013
Authors: Anderson T. C. , Marsden‐Haug N. , Morris J. F. , Culpepper W. , Bessette N. , Adams J. K. , Bidol S. , Meyer S. , Schmitz J. , Erdman M. M. , Gomez T. M. , Barton Behravesh C.
Published: October 2016

Zoonotic Salmonella infections cause approximately 130 000 illnesses annually in the United States. Of 72.9 million US households owning at least one pet, five million own small mammals; 3000 hedgehogs were documented by USDA in USDA‐licensed breeding facilities and pet stores in 2012. State health department collaborators and PulseNet, the national bacterial subtyping network, identified human infections of a Salmonella Typhimurium outbreak strain, which were investigated by CDC, USDA‐APHIS and state public and animal health officials. A case was defined as an illness in a person infected with the outbreak strain identified between 1 December 2011 and 3 June 2013. Investigators collected information on patient exposures, cultured animal and environmental specimens for Salmonella, and conducted traceback investigations of USDA‐licensed hedgehog facilities. There were 26 cases in 12 states. Illness onset dates ranged from 26 December 2011 to 8 April 2013. The median patient age was 15 years (range = <1–91 years); 58% were female. Among 23 persons with available information, 8 (35%) were hospitalized and one outbreak strain‐associated death was reported. Of 25 patients with available information, 20 (80%) reported pet hedgehog contact in the week before illness onset. The outbreak strain was isolated from animal and environmental samples collected from three ill persons’ homes in three states. Hedgehogs were purchased in geographically distant states from USDA‐licensed breeders (10/17, 59%); a USDA‐licensed pet store (1/17, 6%); unlicensed or unknown status breeders (3/17, 18%); and private individuals (3/17, 18%). Traceback investigations of USDA‐licensed facilities did not reveal a single source of infection. Public and animal health collaboration linked pet hedgehog contact to human infections of Salmonella Typhimurium, highlighting the importance of a One Health investigative approach to zoonotic salmonellosis outbreaks. More efforts are needed to increase awareness among multiple stakeholders on the risk of illness associated with pet hedgehogs.
Uncertainty Analysis of the Core Body Temperature Under Thermal and Physical Stress Using a Three-Dimensional Whole Body Model
Authors: Kalathil Robins T. , D'Souza Gavin A. , Bhattacharya Amit , Banerjee Rupak K.
Published: October 2016

Heat stress experienced by firefighters is a common consequence of extreme firefighting activity. In order to avoid the adverse health conditions due to uncompensable heat stress, the prediction and monitoring of the thermal response of firefighters is critical. Tissue properties, among other parameters, are known to vary between individuals and influence the prediction of thermal response. Further, measurement of tissue properties of each firefighter is not practical. Therefore, in this study, we developed a whole body computational model to evaluate the effect of variability (uncertainty) in tissue parameters on the thermal response of a firefighter during firefighting. Modifications were made to an existing human whole body computational model, developed in our lab, for conducting transient thermal analysis for a firefighting scenario. In conjunction with nominal (baseline) tissue parameters obtained from literature, and physiologic conditions from a firefighting drill, the Pennes' bioheat and energy balance equations were solved to obtain the core body temperature of a firefighter. Subsequently, the uncertainty in core body temperature due to variability in the tissue parameters (input parameters), metabolic rate, specific heat, density, and thermal conductivity was computed using the sensitivity coefficient method. On comparing the individual effect of tissue parameters on the uncertainty in core body temperature, the metabolic rate had the highest contribution (within ±0.20 °C) followed by specific heat (within ±0.10 °C), density (within ±0.07 °C), and finally thermal conductivity (within ±0.01 °C). A maximum overall uncertainty of ±0.23 °C in the core body temperature was observed due to the combined uncertainty in the tissue parameters. Thus, the model results can be used to effectively predict a realistic range of thermal response of the firefighters during firefighting or similar activities.
Rotordynamic Computational and Experimental Characterization of a Convergent Honeycomb Seal Tested With Negative Preswirl, High Pressure With Static Eccentricity and Angular Misalignment
Authors: Vannini Giuseppe , Mazzali Carlo , Underbakke Harald
Published: October 2016

Hole-pattern or honeycomb seals have been commonly used for many years in the Oil & Gas industry as damper seals for turbomachinery. The main motivation has been to introduce additional damping to improve the shaft rotordynamic stability operating under high-pressure conditions. Experience has shown that the dynamic and even static characteristics of those seals are very sensitive to the operating clearance profile as well as the installation tolerances. Rotordynamic stability is related not only to the seal effective damping but to the effective stiffness as well. In fact, for this kind of seal, the effective stiffness can be high enough to alter the rotor system's natural frequency. The seal stiffness is strictly related to the tapering contour: if the clearance profile changes from divergent to convergent, the effective stiffness may change from a strong negative to a strong positive magnitude, thus avoiding the rotor natural frequency drop as it is detrimental for the stability. Unfortunately, the effective damping is reduced at the same time but this effect can be mitigated using proper devices to keep the preswirl low or even negative (e.g., swirl brakes and shunt holes). This paper presents the results from an extended test campaign performed in a high-speed rotor test rig equipped with active magnetic bearings (AMBs) working under high pressure (14 krpm, 200 bar gas inlet pressure), with the aim to validate the rotordynamic characteristics of a negative preswirl, convergent honeycomb seal and demonstrate its ability to effectively act as a gas bearing as well as a seal. The test plan included variations of inlet pressure, differential pressure (given the same inlet pressure), as well as rotational speed in order to fully validate the seal behavior. This kind of test was performed in a “dynamic mode” that is to say exciting the spinning test rotor through a pair of AMBs along linear orbits. Additionally, the impact of the seal to rotor static eccentricity and the seal to rotor angular misalignment were both experimentally investigated and compared to relevant computational fluid dynamics (CFD) simulations. This kind of test was performed in a “static mode,” that is to say imposing through the AMBs the required eccentricity/angular misalignment and then measuring the forces needed to keep the rotor in the original position. Dynamic mode test was also performed in order to check the impact of the seal static eccentricity on its dynamic behavior. Finally, the test results were compared with predictions from a state of the art bulk-flow code in order to check the predictability level for future design applications.
An Innovative Method for the Evaluation of Particle Deposition Accounting for Rotor/Stator Interaction
Authors: Aldi Nicola , Morini Mirko , Pinelli Michele , Spina Pier Ruggero , Suman Alessio
Published: October 2016

Solid particle ingestion is one of the principal degradation mechanisms in the compressor and turbine sections of gas turbines. In particular, in industrial applications, the microparticles not captured by the air filtration system can cause deposits on blading and, consequently, result in a decrease in the compressor performance. This paper presents three-dimensional numerical simulations of the microparticle ingestion (0.15–1.50 μm) in a transonic axial compressor stage, carried out by means of a commercial computational fluid dynamic code. Particles of this size can follow the main air flow with relatively little slip, while being impacted by the flow turbulence. It is of great interest to the industry to determine which zones of the compressor blades are impacted by these small particles. Particle trajectory simulations use a stochastic Lagrangian tracking method that solves the equations of motion separately from the continuous phase. A particular computational strategy is adopted in order to take into account the presence of two subsequent annular cascades (rotor and stator) in the case of particle ingestion. The proposed strategy allows the evaluation of particle deposition in an axial compressor stage, thanks to its capability of accounting for rotor/stator interaction. NASA Stage 37 is used as a case study for the numerical investigation. The compressor stage numerical model and the discrete phase model are set up and validated against the experimental and numerical data available in the literature. The blade zones affected by the particle impact and the kinematic characteristics of the impact of micrometric and submicrometric particles with the blade surface are shown. Both blade zones affected by the particle impact and deposition are analyzed. The particle deposition is established by using the quantity called sticking probability, adopted from the literature. The sticking probability links the kinematic characteristics of particle impact on the blade with fouling phenomenon. The results show that microparticles tend to follow the flow by impacting at full span with a higher impact concentration on the pressure side of rotor blade and stator vane. Both the rotor blade and stator vane suction side are only affected by the impact of smaller particles (up to 1 μm). Particular fluid dynamic phenomena, such as separation, shock waves, and tip leakage vortex, strongly influence the impact location of the particles. The kinematic analysis shows a high tendency of particle adhesion on the suction side of the rotor blade, especially for particles with a diameter equal to 0.15 μm.
Development of a multi-category psychometric function to model categorical loudness measurements
Authors: Trevino Andrea C. , Jesteadt Walt , Neely Stephen T.
Published: October 2016

A multi-category psychometric function (MCPF) is introduced for modeling the stimulus-level dependence of perceptual categorical probability distributions. The MCPF is described in the context of individual-listener categorical loudness scaling (CLS) data. During a CLS task, listeners select the loudness category that best corresponds to their perception of the presented stimulus. In this study, CLS MCPF results are reported for 37 listeners (15 normal hearing, 22 with hearing loss). Individual-listener MCPFs were parameterized, and a principal component analysis (PCA) was used to identify sources of inter-subject variability and reduce the dimensionality of the data. A representative “catalog” of potential listener MCPFs was created from the PCA results. A method is introduced for using the MCPF catalog and maximum-likelihood estimation, together, to derive CLS functions for additional participants; this technique improved the accuracy of the CLS results and provided a MCPF model for each listener. Such a technique is particularly beneficial when a relatively low number of measurements are available (e.g., International Standards Organization adaptive-level CLS testing). In general, the MCPF is a flexible tool that can characterize any type of ordinal, level-dependent categorical data. For CLS, the MCPF quantifies the suprathreshold variability across listeners and provides a model for probability-based analyses and methods.
Drive-by large-region acoustic noise-source mapping via sparse beamforming tomography
Authors: Tuna Cagdas , Zhao Shengkui , Nguyen Thi Ngoc Tho , Jones Douglas L.
Published: October 2016

Environmental noise is a risk factor for human physical and mental health, demanding an efficient large-scale noise-monitoring scheme. The current technology, however, involves extensive sound pressure level (SPL) measurements at a dense grid of locations, making it impractical on a city-wide scale. This paper presents an alternative approach using a microphone array mounted on a moving vehicle to generate two-dimensional acoustic tomographic maps that yield the locations and SPLs of the noise-sources sparsely distributed in the neighborhood traveled by the vehicle. The far-field frequency-domain delay-and-sum beamforming output power values computed at multiple locations as the vehicle drives by are used as tomographic measurements. The proposed method is tested with acoustic data collected by driving an electric vehicle with a rooftop-mounted microphone array along a straight road next to a large open field, on which various pre-recorded noise-sources were produced by a loudspeaker at different locations. The accuracy of the tomographic imaging results demonstrates the promise of this approach for rapid, low-cost environmental noise-monitoring.
Scientific Progress or Regress in Sports Physiology?
Authors: Böning Dieter
Published: October 2016

In modern societies there is strong belief in scientific progress, but, unfortunately, a parallel partial regress occurs because of often avoidable mistakes. Mistakes are mainly forgetting, erroneous theories, errors in experiments and manuscripts, prejudice, selected publication of “positive” results, and fraud. An example of forgetting is that methods introduced decades ago are used without knowing the underlying theories: Basic articles are no longer read or cited. This omission may cause incorrect interpretation of results. For instance, false use of actual base excess instead of standard base excess for calculation of the number of hydrogen ions leaving the muscles raised the idea that an unknown fixed acid is produced in addition to lactic acid during exercise. An erroneous theory led to the conclusion that lactate is not the anion of a strong acid but a buffer. Mistakes occur after incorrect application of a method, after exclusion of unwelcome values, during evaluation of measurements by false calculations, or during preparation of manuscripts. Co-authors, as well as reviewers, do not always carefully read papers before publication. Peer reviewers might be biased against a hypothesis or an author. A general problem is selected publication of positive results. An example of fraud in sports medicine is the presence of doped subjects in groups of investigated athletes. To reduce regress, it is important that investigators search both original and recent articles on a topic and conscientiously examine the data. All co-authors and reviewers should read the text thoroughly and inspect all tables and figures in a manuscript.
Acute Effects of Foam Rolling, Static Stretching, and Dynamic Stretching During Warm-ups on Muscular Flexibility and Strength in Young Adults
Authors: Su Hsuan , Chang Nai-Jen , Wu Wen-Lan , Guo Lan-Yuen , Chu I-Hua
Published: October 2016

Context:

Foam rolling has been proposed to improve muscle function, performance, and joint range of motion (ROM). However, whether a foam rolling protocol can be adopted as a warm-up to improve flexibility and muscle strength is unclear.

Objectives:

To examine and compare the acute effects of foam rolling, static stretching, and dynamic stretching used as part of a warm-up on flexibility and muscle strength of knee flexion and extension.

Design:

Crossover study.

Setting:

University research laboratory.

Participants:

15 male and 15 female college students (age 21.43 ± 1.48 y, weight 65.13 ± 12.29 kg, height 166.90 ± 6.99 cm).

Main Outcome Measures:

Isokinetic peak torque was measured during knee extension and flexion at an angular velocity of 60°/second. Flexibility of the quadriceps was assessed by the modified Thomas test, while flexibility of the hamstrings was assessed using the sit-and-reach test. The 3 interventions were performed by all participants in random order on 3 days separated by 48–72 hours.

Results:

The flexibility test scores improved significantly more after foam rolling as compared with static and dynamic stretching. With regard to muscle strength, only knee extension peak torque (pre vs. postintervention) improved significantly after the dynamic stretching and foam rolling, but not after static stretching. Knee flexion peak torque remained unchanged.

Conclusions:

Foam rolling is more effective than static and dynamic stretching in acutely increasing flexibility of the quadriceps and hamstrings without hampering muscle strength, and may be recommended as part of a warm-up in healthy young adults.
Comparative cranial morphology in living and extinct platypuses: Feeding behavior, electroreception, and loss of teeth
Authors: Asahara Masakazu , Koizumi Masahiro , Macrini Thomas E. , Hand Suzanne J. , Archer Michael
Published: October 2016

Comparative morphology in living and extinct platypuses revealed that there was a shift in feeding behavior and sensory efficiency.
Spy agencies team up with National Academies
Authors: Mervis Jeffrey
Published: October 2016

Expanded ties include new board, first-ever survey of social sciences and security
A microbial route from coal to gas
Authors: Welte Cornelia U.
Published: October 2016

Microbes isolated from an oil reservoir directly convert coal to methane
Young phosphorylation is functionally silent
Authors: Matalon Or , Dubreuil Benjamin , Levy Emmanuel D.
Published: October 2016

Phosphorylation sites younger than 18 million years prevail in numbers, but not in function
Multisite phosphorylation by MAPK
Authors: Whitmarsh Alan J. , Davis Roger J.
Published: October 2016

Progressive phosphorylation controls the activity of a transcription factor
Business backs the basics
Authors: Suresh Subra , Bradway Robert A.
Published: October 2016

Earlier this year, a number of leaders from major U.S. corporations gathered at Sunnylands in California to discuss the critical importance of basic scientific research. For decades, the private sector has withdrawn from some areas of basic research, as accelerating market pressures, the speed of innovation, and the need to protect intellectual property in a global marketplace made a Bell Labs–style, in-house model of discovery and development hard to sustain. However, the leaders who gathered for the “CEOs and Leaders for Science” retreat
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(which we convened) agreed that basic research will make or break corporations in the long term. Why?
The Spl Serine Proteases Modulate Staphylococcus aureus Protein Production and Virulence in a Rabbit Model of Pneumonia
Authors: Paharik Alexandra E. , Salgado-Pabon Wilmara , Meyerholz David K. , White Mark J. , Schlievert Patrick M. , Horswill Alexander R.
Published: October 2016

Staphylococcus aureusis a versatile human pathogen that produces an array of virulence factors, including several proteases. Of these, six proteases called the Spls are the least characterized. Previous evidence suggests that the Spls are expressed during human infection; however, their function is unknown. Our study shows that the Spls are required forS. aureusto cause disseminated lung damage during pneumonia. Further, we present the first example of a human protein cut by an Spl protease. Although the Spls were predicted not to cut staphylococcal proteins, we also show that ansplmutant has altered abundance of both secreted and surface-associated proteins. This work provides novel insight into the function of Spls during infection and their potential ability to degrade both staphylococcal and human proteins.
Repeated enrichment of trace metals and organic carbon on an Eocene high-energy shelf caused by anoxia and reworking
Authors: März Christian , Wagner T. , Aqleh S. , Al-Alaween M. , van den Boorn S. , Podlaha O.G. , Kolonic S. , Poulton S.W. , Schnetger B. , Brumsack H.-J.
Published: October 2016

Petroleum source rocks are strongly enriched in organic carbon (OC), and their trace metal (TM) contents often reach low-grade ore levels. The mechanisms leading to these coenrichments are important for understanding how extreme environmental conditions support the formation of natural resources. We therefore studied organic-rich Eocene marls and limestones (oil shale) from the central Jordan Amzaq-Hazra subbasin, part of a Cretaceous–Paleogene shelf system along the southern Neo-Tethys margin. Geochemical analyses on two cores show highly dynamic depositional conditions, consistent with sedimentological and micropaleontological observations. Maximum and average contents, respectively, in OC (∼26 and ∼10 wt%), sulfur (∼7 and ∼2.4 wt%), phosphorus (∼10 and ∼2 wt%), molybdenum (>400 and ∼130 ppm), chromium (>500 and ∼350 ppm), vanadium (>1600 and ∼550 ppm) and zinc (>3800 and ∼900 ppm) are exceptional, in particular without any indication of hydrothermal or epigenetic processes. We propose a combination of two processes: physical reworking of OC- and metal-rich material from locally exposed Cretaceous–Paleogene sediments (as supported by reworked nannofossils), and high marine productivity fueled by chemical remobilization of nutrients and metals on land that sustained anoxic-sulfidic conditions. Burial of high-quality organic matter (hydrogen index 600–700 mgHC/gOC) was related to strongly reducing conditions, punctuated by only short-lived oxygenation events, and to excess H2S, promoting organic matter sulfurization. These processes likely caused the OC and TM coenrichments in a high-energy shallow-marine setting that contradicts common models for black shale formation, but may explain similar geochemical patterns in other black shales.