bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intraoperative Bleeding in Dogs from Grenada Seroreactive to Anaplasma platys and Ehrlichia canis
Authors: Lanza‐Perea M. , Zieger U. , Qurollo B.A. , Hegarty B.C. , Pultorak E.L. , Kumthekar S. , Bruhl‐Day R. , Breitschwerdt E.B.
Published: October 2014

Background

Frequent exposure of Grenadian dogs to Rhipicephalus sanguineus results in Anaplasma platys, and Ehrlichia canis seroreactivity. During elective surgeries, substantial intraoperative hemorrhage occurs in some seroreactive dogs.

Objectives

To assess hemostatic parameters and bleeding tendencies as well as prevalence of PCR positivity in apparently healthy A. platys and E. canis seroreactive and seronegative free‐roaming dogs from Grenada.

Animals

Forty‐seven elective surgery dogs allocated to 4 groups: Seronegative control (n = 12), A. platys (n = 10), E. canis (n = 14) and A. platys, and E. canis (n = 11) seroreactive.

Methods

Preoperatively, hemostasis was assessed by platelet count, prothrombin time, activated partial thromboplastin time, and buccal mucosal bleeding time. Intra‐ and postoperative bleeding scores were subjectively assigned. Blood, spleen, bone marrow, and lymph node aspirates were tested by PCR.

Results

Bleeding scores in dogs coseroreactive for A. platys and E. canis were higher (P = .015) than those of seronegative dogs. A. platys DNA was amplified from 7/21 (33%) A. platys seroreactive dogs and from 1 E. canis seroreactive dog; E. canis DNA was amplified from 21/25 (84%) E. canis seroreactive dogs. E. canis DNA was amplified most often from blood, whereas A. platys DNA was amplified most often from bone marrow.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

Apparently healthy, free‐roaming dogs coseropositive for A. platys and E. canis may have increased intraoperative bleeding tendencies despite normal hemostatic parameters. Future investigations should explore the potential for vascular injury as a cause for bleeding in these dogs. Improved tick control is needed for dogs in Grenada.
Pituitary Dwarfism in Saarloos and Czechoslovakian Wolfdogs is Associated with a Mutation in LHX3
Authors: Voorbij A.M.W.Y. , Leegwater P.A. , Kooistra H.S.
Published: October 2014

Background

Pituitary dwarfism in German Shepherd Dogs is associated with autosomal recessive inheritance and a mutation inLHX3, resulting in combined pituitary hormone deficiency. Congenital dwarfism also is encountered in breeds related to German Shepherd Dogs, such as Saarloos and Czechoslovakian wolfdogs.

Objectives

To investigate whether Saarloos and Czechoslovakian wolfdog dwarfs have the sameLHX3mutation as do Germans Shepherd Dog dwarfs. A specific aim was to determine the carrier frequency among Saarloos and Czechoslovakian wolfdogs used for breeding.

Animals

Two client‐owned Saarloos wolfdogs and 4 client‐owned Czechoslovakian wolfdogs with pituitary dwarfism, 239 clinically healthy client‐owned Saarloos wolfdogs, and 200 client‐owned clinically healthy Czechoslovakian wolfdogs.

Methods

GenomicDNAwas amplified using polymerase chain reaction (PCR). In the Saarloos and Czechoslovakian wolfdog dwarfs,PCRproducts were analyzed by sequencing.DNAfragment length analysis was performed on the samples from the clinically healthy dogs.

Results

Saarloos and Czechoslovakian wolfdog dwarfs have the same 7 bp deletion in intron 5 ofLHX3as do German Shepherd Dog dwarfs. The frequency of carriers of this mutation among clinically healthy Saarloos and Czechoslovakian wolfdogs used for breeding was 31% and 21%, respectively.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

AnLHX3mutation is associated with pituitary dwarfism in Saarloos and Czechoslovakian wolfdogs. The rather high frequency of carriers of the mutated gene in the 2 breeds emphasizes the need for screening before breeding. If all breeding animals were genetically tested for the presence of theLHX3mutation and a correct breeding policy would be implemented, this disease could be eradicated completely.
Serum Lipoprotein Changes in Dogs with Renal Disease
Authors: Behling‐Kelly E.
Published: October 2014

Background

People with renal disease develop a dyslipidemia that contributes to progression of renal injury and development of cardiovascular disease. Lipoproteins in dogs with renal disease have not been investigated.

Hypothesis

Dogs with chronic kidney disease (CKD) have dyslipidemia characterized by increased lower density lipoproteins and decreased high‐density lipoproteins (HDLs). The degree of dyslipidemia is positively correlated with severity of disease, as reflected by serum creatinine concentration.

Animals

Prospective study of client‐owned dogs presented to the Cornell University Hospital for Animals: 29 dogs with confirmed CKD, 5 dogs with nephrotic syndrome (NS), and 12 healthy control dogs presented for routine vaccinations, dental cleaning, or owned by students.

Methods

Lipoprotein electrophoresis was used to quantify relative proportions of the 3 main classes of lipoproteins in canine serum: low‐density lipoproteins (LDL), very low‐density lipoproteins (VLDL), and HDL. Serum cholesterol and creatinine concentrations; urinalysis and urine protein‐to‐creatinine ratio were measured by standard methods.

Results

Dyslipidemia was consistently found in dogs with CKD and NS and was characterized by a decrease in HDL and variable increases in LDL and VLDL. Dogs with NS had a proportionately greater increase in the VLDL fraction, as compared with dogs with CKD.

Conclusion and Clinical Importance

Dyslipidemia similar to that documented in people with renal disease occurs in dogs with CKD, despite serum cholesterol concentrations often being within the reference interval. The contribution of altered lipoproteins to the pathogenesis of renal disease in dogs warrants additional study.
Investigating the Link between Particulate Exposure and Airway Inflammation in the Horse
Authors: Ivester K.M. , Couëtil L.L. , Zimmerman N.J.
Published: October 2014

Inhalant exposure to airborne irritants commonly encountered in horse stables is implicated in the pathogenesis of inflammatory airway disease (IAD) and recurrent airway obstruction (RAO), non‐infectious, inflammatory pulmonary disorders that impact the health and performance of horses across all equine disciplines.IADandRAOhave overlapping clinical, cytological, and functional manifestations of the pulmonary response to organic dust and noxious gases encountered in the barn environment. Study of these diseases has provided important but incomplete understanding of the effect of air quality upon the respiratory health of horses. In this review, the principles of particulate exposure assessment, including health‐related aerosol size fractions and size‐selective sampling, the factors influencing air quality in equine environments, and the effect of air quality on the equine respiratory tract are discussed. The objective of this review is to provide the reader with a summary of the most common chronic inflammatory airway diseases in the horse and the principles of air sampling that are essential to the planning, interpretation, and assessment of equine respiratory health‐related exposure studies.
Computed Tomographic Angiography under Sedation in the Diagnosis of Suspected Canine Pancreatitis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Adrian A.M. , Twedt D.C. , Kraft S.L. , Marolf A.J.
Published: October 2014

Background

Computed tomography (CT) is highly accurate for diagnosing pancreatitis in humans. The diagnosis of pancreatitis in dogs is based on clinical signs, laboratory findings, and ultrasonographic (US) changes. There are, however, inherent limitations in relying on laboratory and ultrasound findings for the clinical diagnosis of pancreatitis in dogs.

Hypothesis/Objectives

We hypothesized thatCTangiography would be a rapid and reliable method to confirm pancreatitis in dogs compared to ultrasonography. The aim was to describe theCTcharacteristics and compare them to ultrasound findings and correlate theCTappearance to the severity of the patients' clinical course.

Animals

A prospective pilot case series; 10 dogs with pancreatitis were enrolled if the history, clinical signs, laboratory, and ultrasonographic findings were indicative of pancreatitis.

Methods

A 3‐phase angiographic CT was performed under sedation. Afterward, each dog had US‐guided aspirates of the pancreas collected and blood drawn forcPLi assay. Images were evaluated for portion of visible pancreas, pancreatic size and margin, pancreatic parenchyma, presence of peripancreatic changes and contrast enhancement pattern. The results were compared with outcome.

Results

An enlarged, homogeneously to heterogeneously attenuating and contrast‐enhancing pancreas with ill‐defined borders was identified in all dogs.CTidentified more features characterizing pancreatic abnormalities compared toUS. Thrombi were found in 3/10 dogs. Three dogs with heterogeneous contrast enhancement had an overall poorer outcome than those with homogenous enhancement.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance

CTangiography under sedation was used in dogs to confirm clinically suspected pancreatitis and identified clinically relevant and potentially prognostic features of pancreatitis in dogs.
Pharmacokinetics of metronidazole in foals: influence of age within the neonatal period
Authors: Swain E. A. , Magdesian K. G. , Kass P. H. , Edman J. E. , Knych H. K.
Published: October 2014

Neonatal foals have unique pharmacokinetics, which may lead to accumulation of certain drugs when adult horse dosage regimens are used. Given its lipophilic nature and requirement for hepatic metabolism, metronidazole may be one of these drugs. The purpose of this study was to determine the pharmacokinetic profiles of metronidazole in twelve healthy foals at 1–2.5 days of age when administered as a single intravenous (IV) and intragastric (IG) dose of 15 mg/kg. Foals in the intravenous group were studied a second time at 10–12 days of age to evaluate the influence of age on pharmacokinetics within the neonatal period. Blood samples were collected at serial time points after metronidazole administration. Metronidazole concentration in plasma was measured usingLC‐MS. Pharmacokinetic parameters were determined using noncompartmental analysis and compared between age groups. At 1–2.5 days of age, the mean peak plasma concentration after IV infusion was 18.79 ± 1.46 μg/mL, elimination half‐life was 11.8 ± 1.77 h, clearance was 0.84 ± 0.13 mL/min/kg and the volume of distribution (steady‐state) was 0.87 ± 0.07 L/kg. At 10–12 days of age, the mean peak plasma concentration after IV infusion was 18.17 ± 1.42 μg/mL, elimination half‐life was 9.07 ± 2.84 h, clearance was 1.14 ± 0.21 mL/min/kg and the volume of distribution (steady‐state) was 0.88 ± 0.06 L/kg. Oral approximated bioavailability was 100%. Cmax andTmaxafter oral dosing were 14.85 ± 0.54 μg/mL and 1.75 (1–4) h, respectively. The elimination half‐life was longer and clearance was reduced in neonatal foals at 1–2.5 days as compared to 10–12 days of age (P = 0.006,P = 0.001, respectively). This study warrants consideration for altered dosing recommendations in foals, especially a longer interval (12 h).
Pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in mature swine after intravenous and oral administration
Authors: Pairis‐Garcia M. D. , Johnson A. K. , KuKanich B. , Wulf L. , Millman S. T. , Stalder K. J. , Karriker L. A. , Coetzee J. F.
Published: October 2014

The purpose of this study was to compare the pharmacokinetics of meloxicam in mature swine after intravenous (i.v.) and oral (p.o.) administration. Six mature sows (mean bodyweight ± standard deviation = 217.3 ± 65.68 kg) were administered an i.v. or p.o. dose of meloxicam at a target dose of 0.5 mg/kg in a cross‐over design. Plasma samples collected up to 48 h postadministration were analyzed by high‐pressure liquid chromatography and mass spectrometry (HPLC‐MS) followed by noncompartmental pharmacokinetic analysis. Mean peak plasma concentration (CMAX) after p.o. administration was 1070 ng/mL (645–1749 ng/mL). TMAX was recorded at 2.40 h (0.50–12.00 h) after p.o. administration. Half‐life (T½ λz) for i.v. and p.o. administration was 6.15 h (4.39–7.79 h) and 6.83 h (5.18–9.63 h), respectively. The bioavailability (F) for p.o. administration was 87% (39–351%). The results of this study suggest that meloxicam is well absorbed after oral administration.
Pharmacokinetics of oral transmucosal and intramuscular dexmedetomidine combined with buprenorphine in cats
Authors: Porters N. , de Rooster H. , Bosmans T. , Baert K. , Cherlet M. , Croubels S. , De Backer P. , Polis I.
Published: October 2014

Plasma concentrations and pharmacokinetics of dexmedetomidine and buprenorphine after oral transmucosal (OTM) and intramuscular (i.m.) administration of their combination in healthy adult cats were compared. According to a crossover protocol (1‐month washout), a combination of dexmedetomidine (40 μg/kg) and buprenorphine (20 μg/kg) was given OTM (buccal cavity) or i.m. (quadriceps muscle) in six female neutered cats. Plasma samples were collected through a jugular catheter during a 24‐h period. Plasma dexmedetomidine and buprenorphine concentrations were determined by liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry. Plasma concentration–time data were fitted to compartmental models. For dexmedetomidine and buprenorphine, the area under the plasma concentration–time curve (AUC) and the maximum plasma concentrations (Cmax) were significantly lower following OTM than following i.m. administration. For buprenorphine, time to reach Cmax was also significantly longer after OTM administration than after i.m. injection. Data suggested that dexmedetomidine (40 μg/kg) combined with buprenorphine (20 μg/kg) is not as well absorbed from the buccal mucosa site as from the intramuscular injection site.
The effects of vessel approaches on the New Zealand fur seal (Arctocephalus forsteri) in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand
Authors: Cowling Mary , Kirkwood Roger , Boren Laura , Sutherland Duncan , Scarpaci Carol
Published: October 2014

Animals that establish new sites near the edge of the species' range may be vulnerable to disturbance as they are low in numbers and are not tied to the sites. Pinniped distributions world‐wide are changing as many species are recolonizing areas of their former ranges and establishing new colonies. Little research is available on the impact that vessel presence may pose on pinnipeds at such sites. This study documents responses of New Zealand fur seals to vessels in the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand, at a recently established breeding colony. Fur seal behavior at the breeding location was recorded in the presence of vessels. GLMM and GAM analyses revealed that fur seal responses varied with month, time of day, duration of vessel exposure, and the distance to the vessel. Age and sex of the seals, and the number of seals present also influenced fur seal response. Fur seals at this site became disturbed when vessels approached to the 10–20 m distance category, and a precautionary minimum approach distance of 50 m has been suggested. This research provides direction for monitoring and minimizing impacts of vessels on fur seals, especially where new sites are being colonized.
Hypertrophic pachymeningitis and encephalitis in a patient with relapsing polychondritis
Authors: Nakamura Ken , Sugaya Keizo , Nakata Yasuhiro , Shima Sayuri , Mutoh Tatsuro , Nakano Imaharu
Published: October 2014

Relapsing polychondritis is a rare autoimmune multisystem disease characterized by the inflammation of cartilaginous tissues. Neurological complications with relapsing polychondritis are extremely rare. We report an 81‐year‐old woman with relapsing polychondritis who subsequently developed encephalitis and cognitive impairment. Brain magnetic resonance imaging showed slightly high signal intensity in the bilateral frontal dura mater using fluid‐attenuated inversion recovery. T1‐weighted images with contrast enhancement showed abnormal enhancement of the dura mater, indicating hypertrophic pachymeningitis. To our knowledge, this is the first case report of relapsing polychondritis complicated by both hypertrophic pachymeningitis and encephalitis in the absence of other recognizable autoimmune diseases.
Performance obstacles of nurses in intensive care units of Greek National Health System hospitals
Authors: Aletras Vassilis H , Kallianidou Kyriaki
Published: October 2014

Background

Nurses in intensive care units confront various challenges and problems during their everyday work that adversely affect performance and patient safety. Despite their importance, performance obstacles have been studied extensively only in the USA, with no validated instrument being available in the Greek setting for their measurement.

Aims and objectives

To develop a questionnaire that quantifies the obstacles nurses of intensive care units (ICUs) of Greek hospitals might be facing and examine its properties; to assess if such obstacles existed in selected Greek National Health System hospitals.

Methods

A questionnaire was developed and administered to nurses who were working in intensive care units in Thessaloniki. Exploratory factor analysis was applied, and the reliability, validity and ceiling and floor effects of the constructed scales were evaluated. The potential influence of socio‐demographic characteristics on scale scores was assessed by independent sample t‐tests and analysis of variance (ANOVA). Summated mean and median scores were computed.

Results

Two hundred and five nurses participated with a response rate of 65·3%. Resulting scales were ‘Space Adequacy’, ‘Staff Collaboration’, ‘Materials’ Suitability', ‘Time Inefficiencies’ and ‘Psychological Aggravation’. Cronbach's alpha values ranged between 0·67 and 0·86. Multi‐trait analysis confirmed construct validity. Ceiling effects were reasonable, whereas floor effects took acceptable values with the exception of the ‘Materials’ Suitability' scale. The medians of the scales ranged from 1·50 to 3·33. In terms of the measurement of performance obstacles per se, we found that considerable problems exist in the ICUs in all dimensions. Specifically, the suitability of hospital materials, the lack of appropriate spaces and facilities design and psychological distress were recorded as the most serious.

Conclusions

The questionnaire is a promising tool that can be exploited in the health care system to assess the obstacles faced by intensive care nursing staff. In fact, there is considerable room for performance improvement in hospitals in Northern Greece.

Recommendations

Nursing administrators and health care policy makers should administer the questionnaire in all Greek hospitals in order to quantify performance obstacles and identify potential managerial remedies.
Weaning from mechanical ventilation: factors that influence intensive care nurses' decision‐making
Authors: Tingsvik Catarina , Johansson Karin , Mårtensson Jan
Published: October 2014

Aim

The aim of the study was to describe the factors that influence intensive care nurses' decision‐making when weaning patients from mechanical ventilation.

Background

Patients with failing vital function may require respiratory support. Weaning from mechanical ventilation is a process in which the intensive care nurse participates in both planning and implementation.

Design and method

A qualitative approach was used. The data were collected by means of semi‐structured interviews with 22 intensive care nurses. The interviews were transcribed and analysed using qualitative content analysis.

Findings

One theme emerged: ‘A complex nursing situation where the patient receives attention and which is influenced by the current care culture’. There was consensus that the overall assessment of the patient made by the intensive care nurse was the main factor that influenced the decision‐making process. This assessment was a continuous process consisting of three factors: the patient's perspective as well as her/his physical and mental state. On the other hand, there was a lack of consensus about what other factors influenced the decision‐making process. These factors included the care culture constituted by the characteristics of the team, the intensive care nurses' professional skills, personalities and ability to be present.

Conclusions and relevance to clinical practice

The individual overall assessment of the patient enabled nursing care from a holistic perspective. Furthermore, the weaning process can be more effective and potential suffering reduced by creating awareness of the care culture's impact on the decision‐making process.
Profile Identification Via Weighted Related Metric Scaling: An Application to Dependent Spanish Children
Authors: Albarrán Irene , Alonso Pablo , Grané Aurea
Published: October 2014

Disability and dependence (lack of autonomy in performing common everyday actions) affect health status and quality of life; therefore they are significant public health issues. The main purpose of this study is to use classical multi-dimensional scaling techniques to design dependence profiles for Spanish children between 3 and 6 years old. The data come from the Survey about Disabilities, Personal Autonomy and Dependence Situations, 2008. Two distance (or dissimilarity) functions between individuals are considered: the classical approach using Gower's similarity coefficient and weighted related metric scaling. Both approaches can cope with different types of information (quantitative, multistate categorical and binary variables). However, the Euclidean configurations that are obtained via weighted related metric scaling present a higher percentage of explained variability and higher stability.
Development of an Instrument to Assess Attitudes Toward Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM)
Authors: Guzey S. Selcen , Harwell Michael , Moore Tamara
Published: October 2014

There is a need for more students to be interested in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) careers to advance U.S. competitiveness and economic growth. A consensus exists that improving STEM education is necessary for motivating more students to pursue STEM careers. In this study, a survey to measure student (grades 4–6) attitudes toward STEM and STEM careers was developed and administered to 662 students from two STEM‐focused and three comprehensive (non‐STEM‐focused) schools. Cronbach's alphas for the whole survey and subscales indicated a high internal consistency. Statistically significant difference in means between students attending the STEM‐focused and comprehensive schools on the two subscales of the survey and the overall survey were found. However, the explained variance for these results was approximately 1%. The survey is a useful tool to assess efficacy of STEM education programs on student attitudes toward STEM and STEM careers.
Predicting the Permanent Deformation After the Impact of a Rod With a Flat Surface
Authors: Ghaednia Hamid , Marghitu Dan B. , Jackson Robert L.
Published: October 2014

In this study, a new expression for the permanent deformation after the impact of a rod with a flat surface is given. Both flat and the surface have been considered elastoplastic. The contact has been considered frictionless and has been divided into three phases, the elastic, the elastoplastic, and the unloading phase. For the normal impact force in the loading phase, we considered a nonlinear expression that satisfies the effect of deformation on both objects by using a finite element model. For the unloading phase, the contact force has been considered to follow the Hertz theory. The simulation and experimental results were conducted for different initial impact velocities of the rod. Permanent deformation after the impact and the motion of the rod has been measured accurately in the experiments. Based on the simulation and experimental results an expression for the permanent deformation has been developed. Finally, the model has been verified and compared with previous contact models in terms of the coefficient of restitution.
A Novel Global Optimization Algorithm and Its Application to Airfoil Optimization
Authors: Yang B. , Xu Q. , He L. , Zhao L. H. , Gu Ch. G. , Ren P.
Published: October 2014

In this paper, a novel global optimization algorithm has been developed, which is named as particle swarm optimization combined with particle generator (PSO–PG). In PSO–PG, a PG was introduced to iteratively generate the initial particles for PSO. Based on a series of comparable numerical experiments, it was convinced that the calculation accuracy of the new algorithm as well as its optimization efficiency was greatly improved in comparison with those of the standard PSO. It was also observed that the optimization results obtained from PSO–PG were almost independent of some critical coefficients employed in the algorithm. Additionally, the novel optimization algorithm was adopted in the airfoil optimization. A special fitness function was designed and its elements were carefully selected for the low-velocity airfoil. To testify the accuracy of the optimization method, the comparative experiments were also carried out to illustrate the difference of the aerodynamic performance between the optimized and its initial airfoil.
Stabilizing a 46 MW Multistage Utility Steam Turbine Using Integral Squeeze Film Bearing Support Dampers
Authors: Ertas Bugra , Cerny Vaclav , Kim Jongsoo , Polreich Vaclav
Published: October 2014

A 46 MW 5500 rpm multistage single casing utility steam turbine experienced strong subsynchronous rotordynamic vibration of the first rotor mode; preventing full load operation of the unit. The root cause of the vibration stemmed from steam whirl forces generated at secondary sealing locations in combination with a flexible rotor-bearing system. Several attempts were made to eliminate the subsynchronous vibration by modifying bearing geometry and clearances, which came short of enabling full load operation. The following paper presents experimental tests and analytical results focused on stabilizing a 46 MW 6230 kg utility steam turbine experiencing subsynchronous rotordynamic instability. The paper advances an integral squeeze film damper (ISFD) solution, which was implemented to resolve the subsynchronous vibration and allow full load and full speed operation of the machine. The present work addresses the bearing-damper analysis, rotordynamic analysis, and experimental validation through waterfall plots, and synchronous vibration data of the steam turbine rotor. Analytical and experimental results show that using ISFD improved the stability margin by a factor of 12 eliminating the subsynchronous instability and significantly reducing critical speed amplification factors. Additionally, by using ISFD the analysis showed significant reduction in interstage clearance closures during critical speed transitions in comparison to the hard mounted tilting pad bearing configuration.
A New DROS-Extreme Learning Machine With Differential Vector-KPCA Approach for Real-Time Fault Recognition of Nonlinear Processes
Authors: Xu Yuan , Ye Liang-Liang , Zhu Qun-Xiong
Published: October 2014

In this paper, a new dynamic recurrent online sequential-extreme learning machine (DROS-ELM) OS-ELM with differential vector-kernel based principal component analysis (DV-KPCA) fault recognition approach is proposed to reconstruct the process feature and detect the process faults for real-time nonlinear system. Toward this end, the differential vector plus KPCA is first proposed to reduce the dimension of process data and enlarge the feature difference. In DV-KPCA, the differential vector is the difference between the input sample and the common sample, which is obtained from the historical data and represents the common invariant properties of the class. The optimal feature vectors of input sample and the common sample are obtained by KPCA procedure for the difference vectors. Through the differential operation between the input vectors and the common vectors, the reconstructed feature is derived by calculating the two-norm distance for the result of differential operation. The reconstructed features are then utilized to detect the process faults that may occur. In order to enhance the accuracy of fault recognition, a new DROS-ELM is developed by adding a self-feedback unit from the output of hidden layer to the input of hidden layer to record the sequential information. In the DROS-ELM, the output weight of feedback layer is updated dynamically by the change rate of output of the hidden layer. The DV-KPCA for feature reconstruction is exemplified using UCI handwriting (UCI handwriting recognition data: Database, using “Pen-Based Recognition of Handwritten Digits” produced in the Department of Computer Engineering Bogazici University, Istanbul 80815, Turkey, 1998), which the classification accuracy is obviously enhanced. Meanwhile, the DROS-ELM for process prediction is tested by the sunspot data from 1700 to 1987, which also shows better prediction accuracy than common methods. Finally, the new joint DROS-ELM with DV-KPCA method is exemplified in the complicated Tennessee Eastman (TE) benchmark process to illustrate the efficiencies. The results show that the DROS-ELM with DV-KPCA shows superiority not only in detection sensitivity and stability but also in timely fault recognition.
Aeromechanical Modeling of Rotating Fan Blades to Investigate High-Cycle and Low-Cycle Fatigue Interaction
Authors: Dhopade Priyanka , Neely Andrew J.
Published: October 2014

Gas turbine engine components are subject to both low-cycle fatigue (LCF) and high-cycle fatigue (HCF) loads. To improve engine reliability, durability and maintenance, it is necessary to understand the interaction of LCF and HCF in these components, which can adversely affect the overall life of the engine while they are occurring simultaneously during a flight cycle. A fully coupled aeromechanical fluid–structure interaction (FSI) analysis in conjunction with a fracture mechanics analysis was numerically performed to predict the effect of representative fluctuating loads on the fatigue life of blisk fan blades. This was achieved by comparing an isolated rotor (IR) to a rotor in the presence of upstream inlet guide vanes (IGVs). A fracture mechanics analysis was used to combine the HCF loading spectrum with an LCF loading spectrum from a simplified engine flight cycle in order to determine the extent of the fatigue life reduction due to the interaction of the HCF and LCF loads occurring simultaneously. The results demonstrate the reduced fatigue life of the blades predicted by a combined loading of HCF and LCF cycles from a crack growth analysis, as compared to the effect of the individual cycles. In addition, the HCF aerodynamic forcing from the IGVs excited a higher natural frequency of vibration of the rotor blade, which was shown to have a detrimental effect on the fatigue life. The findings suggest that FSI, blade–row interaction and HCF/LCF interaction are important considerations when predicting blade life at the design stage of the engine. The lack of available experimental data to validate this problem emphasizes the utility of a numerical approach to first examine the physics of the problem and second to help establish the need for these complex experiments.
Temperature dependent effective process blur and its impact on exposure latitude and lithographic targets using e-beam simulation and proximity effect correction
Authors: Eichfeld Chad M. , Lopez Gerald G.
Published: October 2014

It is well known that cold development yields higher contrast and improved exposure latitude particularly for ZEP520 from Zeon Chemicals. In this paper, the authors quantify the effective process blur as a function of temperature. The effective process blur for our development process conditions were found to be 10, 42, and 71 nm for developer temperatures at −12, 21, and 30 °C, respectively. Knowledge of how to tune the process blur can be used in a unique application. Instead of using the best possible process blur, exposure latitude is traded for improved exposure time. Optimizing the e-beam exposure time is always desired while maintaining a target critical dimension and desired shape at the wafer. In particular, the exposure time can be dominated by shape overhead delays stemming from the over digitization of curved shapes within a pattern. As such, it is better to expose a pattern with the least number of shapes as possible while obtaining the desired shape at the wafer. The authors demonstrate how e-beam simulation can be used to determine the optimal effective process blur to obtain a target desired shape while minimizing the fractured shape count to ultimately reduce overall exposure time.
Complex dark‐field contrast and its retrieval in x‐ray phase contrast imaging implemented with Talbot interferometry
Authors: Yang Yi , Tang Xiangyang
Published: October 2014

Purpose:

Under the existing theoretical framework of x‐ray phase contrast imaging methods implemented with Talbot interferometry, the dark‐field contrast refers to the reduction in interference fringe visibility due to small‐angle x‐ray scattering of the subpixel microstructures of an object to be imaged. This study investigates how an object's subpixel microstructures can also affect the phase of the intensity oscillations.

Methods:

Instead of assuming that the object's subpixel microstructures distribute in space randomly, the authors’ theoretical derivation starts by assuming that an object's attenuation projection and phase shift vary at a characteristic size that is not smaller than the period of analyzer grating G2 and a characteristic length dc. Based on the paraxial Fresnel–Kirchhoff theory, the analytic formulae to characterize the zeroth‐ and first‐order Fourier coefficients of the x‐ray irradiance recorded at each detector cell are derived. Then the concept of complex dark‐field contrast is introduced to quantify the influence of the object's microstructures on both the interference fringe visibility and the phase of intensity oscillations. A method based on the phase‐attenuation duality that holds for soft tissues and high x‐ray energies is proposed to retrieve the imaginary part of the complex dark‐field contrast for imaging. Through computer simulation study with a specially designed numerical phantom, they evaluate and validate the derived analytic formulae and the proposed retrieval method.

Results:

Both theoretical analysis and computer simulation study show that the effect of an object's subpixel microstructures on x‐ray phase contrast imaging method implemented with Talbot interferometry can be fully characterized by a complex dark‐field contrast. The imaginary part of complex dark‐field contrast quantifies the influence of the object's subpixel microstructures on the phase of intensity oscillations. Furthermore, at relatively high energies, for soft tissues it can be retrieved for imaging with a method based on the phase‐attenuation duality.

Conclusions:

The analytic formulae derived in this work to characterize the complex dark‐field contrast in x‐ray phase contrast imaging method implemented with Talbot interferometry are of significance, which may initiate more activities in the research and development of x‐ray differential phase contrast imaging for extensive biomedical applications.
Opening Up Clinical Study Design to the Long Tail
Authors: Sablinski Tomasz
Published: October 2014

Clinical trials—and human health—can benefit from crowdsourcing and digital-monitoring technologies used successfully in other business sectors.
Synthetic Lethality: Drug Repurposing with a Difference
Authors: Bhardwaj Anshu
Published: October 2014

Gene-compound synthetic lethality can be used to determine genetic determinants of antibiotic resistance in
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
.
Clostridium ramosum Promotes High-Fat Diet-Induced Obesity in Gnotobiotic Mouse Models
Authors: Woting Anni , Pfeiffer Nora , Loh Gunnar , Klaus Susanne , Blaut Michael
Published: October 2014

The intestines of obese humans and mice are enriched with
Erysipelotrichi
, a class within the
Firmicutes
.
Clostridium ramosum
, a member of the
Erysipelotrichi
, is associated with symptoms of the metabolic syndrome in humans. To clarify the possible obesogenic potential of this bacterial species and to unravel the underlying mechanism, we investigated the role of
C. ramosum
in obesity development in gnotobiotic mice. Mice were associated with a simplified human intestinal (SIHUMI) microbiota of eight bacterial species, including
C. ramosum
, with the SIHUMI microbiota except
C. ramosum
(SIHUMIw/oCra), or with
C. ramosum
only (Cra) and fed a high-fat diet (HFD) or a low-fat diet (LFD). Parameters related to the development of obesity and metabolic diseases were compared. After 4 weeks of HFD feeding, the mouse groups did not differ in energy intake, diet digestibility, gut permeability, and parameters of low-grade inflammation. However, SIHUMI and Cra mice fed the HFD gained significantly more body weight and body fat and displayed higher food efficiency than SIHUMIw/oCra mice fed the HFD. Gene expression of glucose transporter 2 (
Glut2
) in jejunal mucosa and of fatty acid translocase (
CD36
) in ileal mucosa was significantly increased in the obese SIHUMI and Cra mice compared with the less obese SIHUMIw/oCra mice. The data demonstrate that the presence of
C. ramosum
in SIHUMI and Cra mice enhanced diet-induced obesity. Upregulation of small intestinal glucose and fat transporters in these animals may contribute to their increased body fat deposition.

IMPORTANCE
Obesity is a growing health problem worldwide. Changes in the proportions of
Bacteroidetes
and
Firmicutes
, the two dominant phyla in the human and the murine intestinal tract, link the intestinal microbiota to obesity.
Erysipelotrichi
, a class within the
Firmicutes
, increase in response to high-fat feeding in mice.
Clostridium ramosum
, a member of the
Erysipelotrichi
, has been linked to symptoms of the metabolic syndrome. We hypothesized that
C. ramosum
promotes obesity development and related pathologies. Our experiments in gnotobiotic mice show that
C. ramosum
promoted diet-induced obesity, probably by enhancing nutrient absorption. Identification of obesogenic bacteria and understanding their mode of action enable the development of novel strategies for the treatment of this epidemic disease. Pharmaceuticals that target obesogenic bacteria or their metabolism could help to prevent and treat obesity and related disorders in the future.
Genomic Evidence for a Globally Distributed, Bimodal Population in the Ovine Footrot Pathogen Dichelobacter nodosus
Authors: Kennan Ruth M. , Gilhuus Marianne , Frosth Sara , Seemann Torsten , Dhungyel Om P. , Whittington Richard J. , Boyce John D. , Powell David R. , Aspán Anna , Jørgensen Hannah J. , Bulach Dieter M. , Rood Julian I.
Published: October 2014

Footrot is a contagious, debilitating disease of sheep, causing major economic losses in most sheep-producing countries. The causative agent is the Gram-negative anaerobe
Dichelobacter nodosus
. Depending on the virulence of the infective bacterial strain, clinical signs vary from a mild interdigital dermatitis (benign footrot) to severe underrunning of the horn of the hoof (virulent footrot). The aim of this study was to investigate the genetic relationship between
D. nodosus
strains of different phenotypic virulences and between isolates from different geographic regions. Genome sequencing was performed on 103
D. nodosus
isolates from eight different countries. Comparison of these genome sequences revealed that they were highly conserved, with >95% sequence identity. However, single nucleotide polymorphism analysis of the 31,627 nucleotides that were found to differ in one or more of the 103 sequenced isolates divided them into two distinct clades. Remarkably, this division correlated with known virulent and benign phenotypes, as well as with the single amino acid difference between the AprV2 and AprB2 proteases, which are produced by virulent and benign strains, respectively. This division was irrespective of the geographic origin of the isolates. However, within one of these clades, isolates from different geographic regions generally belonged to separate clusters. In summary, we have shown that
D. nodosus
has a bimodal population structure that is globally conserved and provide evidence that virulent and benign isolates represent two distinct forms of
D. nodosus
strains. These data have the potential to improve the diagnosis and targeted control of this economically significant disease.

IMPORTANCE
The Gram-negative anaerobic bacterium
Dichelobacter nodosus
is the causative agent of ovine footrot, a disease of major importance to the worldwide sheep industry. The known
D. nodosus
virulence factors are its type IV fimbriae and extracellular serine proteases.
D. nodosus
strains are designated virulent or benign based on the type of disease caused under optimal climatic conditions. These isolates have similar fimbriae but distinct extracellular proteases. To determine the relationship between virulent and benign isolates and the relationship of isolates from different geographical regions, a genomic study that involved the sequencing and subsequent analysis of 103
D. nodosus
isolates was undertaken. The results showed that
D. nodosus
isolates are highly conserved at the genomic level but that they can be divided into two distinct clades that correlate with their disease phenotypes and with a single amino acid substitution in one of the extracellular proteases.
Identification and Evaluation of Improved 4′-
O
-(Alkyl) 4,5-Disubstituted 2-Deoxystreptamines as Next-Generation Aminoglycoside Antibiotics
Authors: Duscha Stefan , Boukari Heithem , Shcherbakov Dimitri , Salian Sumantha , Silva Sandrina , Kendall Ann , Kato Takayuki , Akbergenov Rashid , Perez-Fernandez Deborah , Bernet Bruno , Vaddi Swapna , Thommes Pia , Schacht Jochen , Crich David , Vasella Andrea , Böttger Erik C.
Published: October 2014

The emerging epidemic of drug resistance places the development of efficacious and safe antibiotics in the spotlight of current research. Here, we report the design of next-generation aminoglycosides. Discovery efforts were driven by rational synthesis focusing on 4′ alkylations of the aminoglycoside paromomycin, with the goal to alleviate the most severe and disabling side effect of aminoglycosides—irreversible hearing loss. Compounds were evaluated for target activity in
in vitro
ribosomal translation assays, antibacterial potency against selected pathogens, cytotoxicity against mammalian cells, and
in vivo
ototoxicity. The results of this study produced potent compounds with excellent selectivity at the ribosomal target, promising antibacterial activity, and little, if any, ototoxicity upon chronic administration. The favorable biocompatibility profile combined with the promising antibacterial activity emphasizes the potential of next-generation aminoglycosides in the treatment of infectious diseases without the risk of ototoxicity.

IMPORTANCE
The ever-widening epidemic of multidrug-resistant infectious diseases and the paucity of novel antibacterial agents emerging from modern screening platforms mandate the reinvestigation of established drugs with an emphasis on improved biocompatibility and overcoming resistance mechanisms. Here, we describe the preparation and evaluation of derivatives of the established aminoglycoside antibiotic paromomycin that effectively remove its biggest deficiency, ototoxicity, and overcome certain bacterial resistance mechanisms.
Clinical Characteristics and Outcomes of Prosthetic Joint Infection Caused by Small Colony Variant Staphylococci
Authors: Tande Aaron J. , Osmon Douglas R. , Greenwood-Quaintance Kerryl E. , Mabry Tad M. , Hanssen Arlen D. , Patel Robin
Published: October 2014

Small colony variants (SCVs) are naturally occurring subpopulations of bacteria. The clinical characteristics and treatment outcomes of patients with prosthetic joint infection (PJI) caused by staphylococcal SCVs are unknown. This study was a retrospective series of 113 patients with staphylococcal PJI, with prospective testing of archived sonicate fluid samples. SCVs were defined using two-investigator review. Treatment failure was defined as (i) subsequent revision surgery for any reason, (ii) PJI after the index surgery, (iii) prosthesis nonreimplantation due to ongoing infection, or (iv) amputation of the affected limb. There were 38 subjects (34%) with SCVs and 75 (66%) with only normal-phenotype (NP) bacteria. Subjects with SCVs were more likely to have been on chronic antimicrobials prior to surgery (
P
= 0.048), have had prior surgery for PJI (
P
= 0.03), have had a longer duration of symptoms (
P
= 0.0003), and have had a longer time since joint implantation (
P
= 0.007), compared to those with only NP bacteria. Over a median follow-up of 30.6 months, 9 subjects (24%) with SCVs and 23 (32%) with only NP bacteria experienced treatment failure (
P
= 0.51). Subjects infected with
Staphylococcus aureus
were more likely to fail than were those infected with
Staphylococcus epidermidis
(hazard ratio [HR], 4.03; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.80 to 9.04). While frequently identified in subjects with PJI and associated with several potential predisposing factors, SCVs were not associated with excess treatment failure compared to NP infections in this study, where they were primarily managed with two-stage arthroplasty exchange.

IMPORTANCE
Bacteria with the small colony variant (SCV) phenotype are described in small case series as causing persistent or relapsing infection, but there are insufficient data to suggest that they should be managed differently than infection with normal-phenotype bacteria. In an effort to investigate the clinical importance of this phenotype, we determined whether SCVs were present in biofilms dislodged from the surfaces of arthroplasties of patients with staphylococcal prosthetic joint infection and assessed the clinical outcomes associated with detection of SCVs. We found that prosthetic joint infection caused by SCV staphylococci was associated with a longer duration of symptoms and more prior treatment for infection but not with an increased rate of treatment failure, compared to infection caused by normal-phenotype staphylococci.
Risk Factors Associated with Adverse Events of Acupuncture: A Prospective Study
Authors: Chung Ka-Fai , Yeung Wing-Fai , Kwok Chi-Wa , Yu Yee-Man
Published: October 2014

Objective

Mild adverse events (AEs) are common with acupuncture, but the risk factors remain unclear. A prospective study using a standardised AE assessment and acupuncture protocol was undertaken to address the question.

Methods

A 20-item AE report form investigated local and systemic AEs in 150 adults with insomnia randomised to receive traditional, minimal and non-invasive sham acupuncture. Sociodemographic, clinical and psychological variables at baseline and past history and perceived credibility of acupuncture were assessed.

Results

The incidence of any AEs per patient was 42.4% with traditional acupuncture, 40.7% with minimal acupuncture and 16.7% with non-invasive sham acupuncture. Traditional and minimal acupuncture were associated with a greater number of local AEs, while the presence of a chronic medical condition was predictive of fewer local and systemic AEs. Greater severity of insomnia, anxiety, depression, somatic symptoms and pain catastrophising thoughts were associated with lower risk, but most of the significant correlations disappeared after logistic regression. Divorce and widowhood were the only significant sociodemographic variables, while previous acupuncture treatment and perceived credibility of acupuncture were found to be unrelated. The risk of any AEs was higher in participants receiving traditional acupuncture (OR 4.26) and minimal acupuncture (OR 4.27) and in those without medical comorbidity (OR 3.39).

Conclusions

The prevalence of AEs was higher than usual, probably due to the low threshold in our definition of AEs and the systematic collection from the patients’ perspective. Baseline variables were largely unable to predict AEs associated with acupuncture. Further studies should explore the roles of practitioners, patients’ anxiety during treatment and patient–practitioner interactions.

Trial Registration Number

NCT01707706.