bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
JET diagnostic enhancements in preparation for DT operations
Authors: Figueiredo J. , Murari A. , Perez Von Thun C. , Marocco D. , Tardocchi M. , Belli F. , García Muñoz M. , Silva A. , Soare S. , Craciunescu T. , Santala M. , Blanchard P. , Balboa I. , Hawkes N. ,   JET Contributors
Published: October 2016

In order to complete the exploitation of the JET ITER-like Wall and to take full benefit from deuterium-tritium experiments on JET, a set of diagnostic system refurbishments or upgrades is in progress. These diagnostic enhancements focus mainly on neutron, gamma, fast ions, instabilities, and operations support. These efforts intend to provide better spatial, temporal, and energy resolution while increasing measurement coverage. Also previously non-existing capabilities, such as Doppler reflectometry is now available for scientific exploitation. Guaranteeing diagnostic reliability and consistency during the expected DT conditions is also a critical objective of the work and systems being implemented. An overview of status and scope of the ongoing projects is presented.
A universal feature in the optical absorption spectrum associated with hydrogenated amorphous silicon: A dimensionless joint density of states analysis
Authors: Thevaril Jasmin J. , O'Leary Stephen K.
Published: October 2016

Using a dimensionless joint density of states formalism for the quantitative characterization of the optical response associated with hydrogenated amorphous silicon, a critical comparative analysis of a large number of different optical absorption data sets is considered. When these data sets are cast into this dimensionless framework, we observe a trend that is almost completely coincident for all of the data sets considered. This suggests that there is a universal feature associated with the optical absorption spectrum of hydrogenated amorphous silicon.
Flow and dispersion in anisotropic porous media: A lattice-Boltzmann study
Authors: Maggiolo D. , Picano F. , Guarnieri M.
Published: October 2016

Given their capability of spreading active chemical species and collecting electricity, porous media made of carbon fibers are extensively used as diffusion layers in energy storage systems, such as redox flow batteries. In spite of this, the dispersion dynamics of species inside porous media is still not well understood and often lends itself to different interpretations. Actually, the microscopic design of efficient porous media, which can potentially and effectively improve the performances of flow batteries, is still an open challenge. The present study aims to investigate the effect of fibrous media micro-structure on dispersion, in particular the effect of fiber orientation on drag and dispersion dynamics. Several lattice-Boltzmann simulations of flows through differently oriented fibrous media coupled with Lagrangian simulations of particle tracers have been performed. Results show that orienting fibers preferentially along the streamwise direction minimizes the drag and maximizes the dispersion, which is the most desirable condition for diffusion layers in flow batteries’ applications.
Spatial Laplace transform for complex wavenumber recovery and its application to the analysis of attenuation in acoustic systems
Authors: Geslain A. , Raetz S. , Hiraiwa M. , Abi Ghanem M. , Wallen S. P. , Khanolkar A. , Boechler N. , Laurent J. , Prada C. , Duclos A. , Leclaire P. , Groby J.-P.
Published: October 2016

We present a method for the recovery of complex wavenumber information via spatial Laplace transforms of spatiotemporal wave propagation measurements. The method aids in the analysis of acoustic attenuation phenomena and is applied in three different scenarios: (i) Lamb-like modes in air-saturated porous materials in the low kHz regime, where the method enables the recovery of viscoelastic parameters; (ii) Lamb modes in a Duralumin plate in the MHz regime, where the method demonstrates the effect of leakage on the splitting of the forward S1 and backward S2 modes around the Zero-Group Velocity point; and (iii) surface acoustic waves in a two-dimensional microscale granular crystal adhered to a substrate near 100 MHz, where the method reveals the complex wavenumbers for an out-of-plane translational and two in-plane translational-rotational resonances. This method provides physical insight into each system and serves as a unique tool for analyzing spatiotemporal measurements of propagating waves.
The structural validity of various thermodynamical models of supercooled water
Authors: Pathak H. , Palmer J. C. , Schlesinger D. , Wikfeldt K. T. , Sellberg J. A. , Pettersson L. G. M. , Nilsson A.
Published: October 2016

The thermodynamic response functions of water exhibit an anomalous increase upon cooling that becomes strongly amplified in the deeply supercooled regime due to structural fluctuations between disordered and tetrahedral local structures. Here, we compare structural data from recent x-ray laser scattering measurements of water at 1 bar and temperatures down to 227 K with structural properties computed for several different water models using molecular dynamics simulations. Based on this comparison, we critically evaluate four different thermodynamic scenarios that have been invoked to explain the unusual behavior of water. The critical point-free model predicts small variations in the tetrahedrality with decreasing temperature, followed by a stepwise change at the liquid-liquid transition around 228 K at ambient pressure. This scenario is not consistent with the experimental data that instead show a smooth and accelerated variation in structure from 320 to 227 K. Both the singularity-free model and ice coarsening hypothesis give trends that indirectly indicate an increase in tetrahedral structure with temperature that is too weak to be consistent with experiment. A model that includes an apparent divergent point (ADP) at high positive pressure, however, predicts structural development consistent with our experimental measurements. The terminology ADP, instead of the commonly used liquid-liquid critical point, is more general in that it focuses on the growing fluctuations, whether or not they result in true criticality. Extrapolating this model beyond the experimental data, we estimate that an ADP in real water may lie around 1500 ± 250 bars and 190 ± 6 K.
The excited-state structure, vibrations, lifetimes, and nonradiative dynamics of jet-cooled 1-methylcytosine
Authors: Trachsel Maria A. , Wiedmer Timo , Blaser Susan , Frey Hans-Martin , Li Quansong , Ruiz-Barragan Sergi , Blancafort Lluís , Leutwyler Samuel
Published: October 2016

We have investigated the S0 → S1 UV vibronic spectrum and time-resolved S1 state dynamics of jet-cooled amino-keto 1-methylcytosine (1MCyt) using two-color resonant two-photon ionization, UV/UV holeburning and depletion spectroscopies, as well as nanosecond and picosecond time-resolved pump/delayed ionization measurements. The experimental study is complemented with spin-component-scaled second-order coupled-cluster and multistate complete active space second order perturbation ab initio calculations. Above the weak electronic origin of 1MCyt at 31 852 cm−1 about 20 intense vibronic bands are observed. These are interpreted as methyl group torsional transitions coupled to out-of-plane ring vibrations, in agreement with the methyl group rotation and out-of-plane distortions upon 1ππ∗ excitation predicted by the calculations. The methyl torsion and ν1′ (butterfly) vibrations are strongly coupled, in the S1 state. The S0 → S1 vibronic spectrum breaks off at a vibrational excess energy Eexc ∼ 500 cm−1, indicating that a barrier in front of the ethylene-type S1⇝S0 conical intersection is exceeded, which is calculated to lie at Eexc = 366 cm−1. The S1⇝S0 internal conversion rate constant increases from kIC = 2 ⋅ 109 s−1 near the S1(v = 0) level to 1 ⋅ 1011 s−1 at Eexc = 516 cm−1. The 1ππ∗ state of 1MCyt also relaxes into the lower-lying triplet T1 (3ππ∗) state by intersystem crossing (ISC); the calculated spin-orbit coupling (SOC) value is 2.4 cm−1. The ISC rate constant is 10–100 times lower than kIC; it increases from kISC = 2 ⋅ 108 s−1 near S1(v = 0) to kISC = 2 ⋅ 109 s−1 at Eexc = 516 cm−1. The T1 state energy is determined from the onset of the time-delayed photoionization efficiency curve as 25 600 ± 500 cm−1. The T2 (3nπ∗) state lies >1500 cm−1 above S1(v = 0), so S1⇝T2 ISC cannot occur, despite the large SOC parameter of 10.6 cm−1. An upper limit to the adiabatic ionization energy of 1MCyt is determined as 8.41 ± 0.02 eV. Compared to cytosine, methyl substitution at N1 lowers the adiabatic ionization energy by ≥0.32 eV and leads to a much higher density of vibronic bands in the S0 → S1 spectrum. The effect of methylation on the radiationless decay to S0 and ISC to T1 is small, as shown by the similar break-off of the spectrum and the similar computed mechanisms.
Laboratory von Hámos X-ray spectroscopy for routine sample characterization
Authors: Németh Zoltán , Szlachetko Jakub , Bajnóczi Éva G. , Vankó György
Published: October 2016

High energy resolution, hard X-ray spectroscopies are powerful element selective probes of the electronic and local structure of matter, with diverse applications in chemistry, physics, biology, and materials science. The routine application of these techniques is hindered by the complicated and slow access to synchrotron radiation facilities. Here we propose a new, economic, easily operated laboratory high resolution von Hámos type X-ray spectrometer, which offers rapid transmission experiments for X-ray absorption and is also capable of recording X-ray emission spectra. The use of a cylindrical analyzer crystal and a position sensitive detector enabled us to build a robust, flexible setup with low operational costs, while delivering synchrotron grade signal to noise measurements in reasonable acquisition times. We demonstrate the proof of principle and give examples for both measurement types. Finally, tracking of a several day long chemical transformation, a case better suited for laboratory than synchrotron investigation, is also presented.
DFT simulations of inter-graphene-layer coupling with rotationally misaligned hBN tunnel barriers in graphene/hBN/graphene tunnel FETs
Authors: Valsaraj Amithraj , Register Leonard F. , Tutuc Emanuel , Banerjee Sanjay K.
Published: October 2016

Van der Waal's heterostructures allow for novel devices such as two-dimensional-to-two-dimensional tunnel devices, exemplified by interlayer tunnel FETs. These devices employ channel/tunnel-barrier/channel geometries. However, during layer-by-layer exfoliation of these multi-layer materials, rotational misalignment is the norm and may substantially affect device characteristics. In this work, by using density functional theory methods, we consider a reduction in tunneling due to weakened coupling across the rotationally misaligned interface between the channel layers and the tunnel barrier. As a prototypical system, we simulate the effects of rotational misalignment of the tunnel barrier layer between aligned channel layers in a graphene/hBN/graphene system. We find that the rotational misalignment between the channel layers and the tunnel barrier in this van der Waal's heterostructure can significantly reduce coupling between the channels by reducing, specifically, coupling across the interface between the channels and the tunnel barrier. This weakened coupling in graphene/hBN/graphene with hBN misalignment may be relevant to all such van der Waal's heterostructures.
Memory effects in nanoparticle dynamics and transport
Authors: Sanghi Tarun , Bhadauria Ravi , Aluru N. R.
Published: October 2016

In this work, we use the generalized Langevin equation (GLE) to characterize and understand memory effects in nanoparticle dynamics and transport. Using the GLE formulation, we compute the memory function and investigate its scaling with the mass, shape, and size of the nanoparticle. It is observed that changing the mass of the nanoparticle leads to a rescaling of the memory function with the reduced mass of the system. Further, we show that for different mass nanoparticles it is the initial value of the memory function and not its relaxation time that determines the “memory” or “memoryless” dynamics. The size and the shape of the nanoparticle are found to influence both the functional-form and the initial value of the memory function. For a fixed mass nanoparticle, increasing its size enhances the memory effects. Using GLE simulations we also investigate and highlight the role of memory in nanoparticle dynamics and transport.
Efficiency in nonequilibrium molecular dynamics Monte Carlo simulations
Authors: Radak Brian K. , Roux Benoît
Published: October 2016

Hybrid algorithms combining nonequilibrium molecular dynamics and Monte Carlo (neMD/MC) offer a powerful avenue for improving the sampling efficiency of computer simulations of complex systems. These neMD/MC algorithms are also increasingly finding use in applications where conventional approaches are impractical, such as constant-pH simulations with explicit solvent. However, selecting an optimal nonequilibrium protocol for maximum efficiency often represents a non-trivial challenge. This work evaluates the efficiency of a broad class of neMD/MC algorithms and protocols within the theoretical framework of linear response theory. The approximations are validated against constant pH-MD simulations and shown to provide accurate predictions of neMD/MC performance. An assessment of a large set of protocols confirms (both theoretically and empirically) that a linear work protocol gives the best neMD/MC performance. Finally, a well-defined criterion for optimizing the time parameters of the protocol is proposed and demonstrated with an adaptive algorithm that improves the performance on-the-fly with minimal cost.
Numerical study of the interaction of a helium atmospheric pressure plasma jet with a dielectric material
Authors: Wang Lijun , Zheng Yashuang , Jia Shenli
Published: October 2016

This is a computational modeling study of a cold atmospheric pressure helium plasma jet impinging on a dielectric surface placed normal to the jet axis. This study provides insights into the propagation mechanism of the plasma jet, the electrical properties, and the total accumulated charge density at the dielectric surface. For the radial streamer propagation along the dielectric surface, Penning ionization and the electron impact ionization of helium atoms are the major ionization reactions in the streamer head, while Penning ionization is the only dominant contributor along the streamer body. In addition, the plasma bullet velocity along the dielectric surface is 10–100 times lower than that in the plasma column. Increasing tube radius or helium flow rate lowers air entrainment in the plasma jet, leading to a decrease of the radial electric field and the accumulated charge density at the dielectric surface. Furthermore, the tube radius has weaker influence on the plasma properties as tube radius increases. For a target dielectric with lower relative permittivity, a higher radial electric field penetrates into the material, and the surface ionization wave along the dielectric surface extends farther. Higher relative permittivity of the treated dielectric results in more charging at the dielectric surface and more electron density in the plasma column.
Growth rates of dry thermal oxidation of 4H-silicon carbide
Authors: Šimonka V. , Hössinger A. , Weinbub J. , Selberherr S.
Published: October 2016

We provide a full set of growth rate coefficients to enable high-accuracy two- and three-dimensional simulations of dry thermal oxidation of 4H-silicon carbide. The available models are insufficient for the simulation of complex multi-dimensional structures, as they are unable to predict oxidation for arbitrary crystal directions because of the insufficient growth rate coefficients. By investigating time-dependent dry thermal oxidation kinetics, we obtain temperature-dependent growth rate coefficients for surfaces with different crystal orientations. We fit experimental data using an empirical relation to obtain the oxidation growth rate parameters. Time-dependent oxide thicknesses at various temperatures are taken from published experimental findings. We discuss the oxidation rate parameters in terms of surface orientation and oxidation temperature. Additionally, we fit the obtained temperature-dependent growth rate coefficients using the Arrhenius equation to obtain activation energies and pre-exponential factors for the four crystal orientations. The thereby obtained parameters are essential for enabling high-accuracy simulations of dry thermal oxidation and can be directly used to augment multi-dimensional process simulations.
Maresin conjugates in tissue regeneration biosynthesis enzymes in human macrophages
Authors: Dalli Jesmond , Vlasakov Iliyan , Riley Ian R. , Rodriguez Ana R. , Spur Bernd W. , Petasis Nicos A. , Chiang Nan , Serhan Charles N.
Published: October 2016

Significance

We recently uncovered a family of macrophage-derived molecules, coined maresin conjugates in tissue regeneration, that regulate the system’s ability to clear bacteria as well as repair and regenerate damaged tissues. In the present study, we identified enzymes involved in the formation of these potent molecules in human macrophages. These enzymes were shared with the classic cysteinyl leukotrienes, underscoring the presence of conserved biosynthetic motifs in these two functionally distinct lipid mediator families. Inhibition of these pathways upregulated the formation of several specialized proresolving mediator (SPM) families including D- and E-series resolvins. Thus, these illustrate the dynamic nature of the SPM biosynthetic pathways and provide new targets in the resolution of inflammation and regulation of tissue repair and regeneration.
Central role for melanocortin-4 receptors in offspring hypertension arising from maternal obesity
Authors: Samuelsson Anne-Maj S. , Mullier Amandine , Maicas Nuria , Oosterhuis Nynke R. , Eun Bae Sung , Novoselova Tatiana V. , Chan Li F. , Pombo Joaquim M. , Taylor Paul D. , Joles Jaap A. , Coen Clive W. , Balthasar Nina , Poston Lucilla
Published: October 2016

Significance

Obesity is increasing in pregnant women worldwide. Independent associations have been reported between maternal obesity and metabolic cardiorenal disorders in the offspring, including hypertension. In this study, using genetically modified mice, we have identified a role for the hypothalamic paraventricular nucleus (PVH) melanocortin system in the etiology of hypertension. We show that maternal obesity permanently resets the responsiveness of the central sympathetic nervous system via this pathway. We conclude that neonatal leptin exposure is the primary mediator, because exogenous neonatal leptin administration to pups of lean mice leads to the same phenotype mediated by PVH melanocortin-4 receptors. Thus, primary hypertension of sympathetic origin can result from early-life exposure to maternal obesity, and the melanocortin pathway presents a target for intervention.
Evidence from mixed hydrate nucleation for a funnel model of crystallization
Authors: Hall Kyle Wm. , Carpendale Sheelagh , Kusalik Peter G.
Published: October 2016

Significance

Molecular crystallization, and its promotion and inhibition, is important across a broad range of fields. Previous work has asserted, although not substantiated, that crystallization and protein folding are somehow similar processes. Here, through detailed analysis of gas hydrate nucleation, we demonstrate that hydrate nucleation involves funnel-shaped potential energy landscapes, and put forth a funnel model of crystallization. This funnel model of crystallization provides a lens for exploring and understanding crystallization and potentially other ordering processes. We show that the phenomenological similarities between crystallization and protein folding result from underlying similarities between essential features of these microscopic ordering processes. This work thus provides a key connection between these two important but disparate research domains, thereby enabling knowledge advancement in both.
Identification of the SNARE complex mediating the exocytosis of NMDA receptors
Authors: Gu Yi , Huganir Richard L.
Published: October 2016

Significance

NMDA receptors are ionotropic glutamate receptors and crucial for excitatory synaptic transmissions in the brain. We studied the regulation of the exocytosis of NMDA receptors by directly visualizing their exocytic events in rat hippocampal neurons by using total internal reflection florescence microscopy (TIRFM). We characterized the constitutive exocytic events of NMDA receptors and identified the Rab proteins involved in the exocytosis. Moreover, combining the TIRFM and immunocytochemistry methods, we found that the SNAP25–VAMP1–syntaxin4 complex mediated the constitutive exocytosis of NMDA receptor and maintained the expression of NMDA receptors at both extrasynaptic and synaptic surfaces. These results suggest that the SNAP25–VAMP1–syntaxin4 complex is important for neural functions by mediating the delivery of NMDA receptors to the plasma membrane.
Protest music, populism, politics and authenticity
Authors: Way Lyndon C.S.
Published: October 2016

Political discourses are found not only in speeches and newspapers, but also in cultural artefacts such as architecture, art and music. Turkey’s June 2013 protests saw an explosion of music videos distributed on the internet. This paper uses these videos as a case study to examine the limits and potential of popular music’s articulation of popular and populist politics. Though both terms encompass what is “widely favoured”, populism includes discourses which construct “the people” pitted against “an elite”. Past research has shown how popular music can articulate subversive politics, though these do not detail what that subversion means and how it is articulated. This paper uses specific examples to demonstrate how musical sounds, lyrics and images articulate populist and popular politics. From a corpus of over 100 videos, a typical example is analysed employing social semiotics. It is found that popular music has the potential to contribute to the public sphere, though its limits are also exposed.
Arbuscular mycorrhizal associations in plant nutrition and health.
Authors: Rintoul N. L. J.
Published: October 2016

Plants and arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi have co-evolved over a period of at least 450 million years. This fungal-plant association involves the transfer of carbon to the obligate biotropic fungus, in return for a wide range of beneficial functions. Although this is usually a mutualistic relationship, it can become parasitic to the plant under adverse conditions. Here, the research examining mechanisms by which mycorrhizal associations improve plant fitness is reviewed. Although there is strong evidence that a number of beneficial functions are performed by mycorrhizae, the mechanisms behind these are often not clear. There are numerous factors which influence these mechanisms and their outcomes, one or more of which can be affecting the association simultaneously. The knowledge we have on arbusular mycorrhizal associations with plants could be applied to various land management practices in order to improve soil degradation brought about by anthropogenic activities. These include erosion, drought, nutrient stress and salinization, and are often a result of poor land management. In order to use mycorrhizal fungi as a biomanagement tool, more research is required, particularly in mature field communities over long timescales. There is a need to invest in the development of sustainable agroecological management methods and to design future policy and legislation that encourages large organizations to incorporate more sustainable practices whilst protecting small-scale farmers.
Demographic Characteristics of an Adfluvial Bull Trout Population in Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho
Authors: McCubbins Jonathan L. , Hansen Michael J. , DosSantos Joseph M. , Dux Andrew M.
Published: October 2016

Introductions of nonnative species, habitat loss, and stream fragmentation have caused the Bull Trout Salvelinus confluentus to decline throughout much of its native distribution. Consequently, in June 1998, the Bull Trout was listed under the U.S. Endangered Species Act as threatened. The Bull Trout has existed in Lake Pend Oreille and its surrounding tributaries since the last ice age, and the lake once supported a world-renowned Bull Trout fishery. To quantify the current status of the Bull Trout population in Lake Pend Oreille, Idaho, we compared the mean age, growth, maturity, and abundance with reports in a study conducted one decade earlier. Abundance was estimated by mark–recapture for Bull Trout caught in trap nets and gill nets set in Lake Pend Oreille during ongoing suppression netting of Lake Trout S. namaycush in 2007–2008. Bull Trout sampled in 2006–2008 were used to estimate age structure, survival, growth, and maturity. Estimated Bull Trout abundance was similar to that estimated one decade earlier in Lake Pend Oreille. Bull Trout residing in Lake Pend Oreille between 2006 and 2008 were between ages 4 and 14 years; their growth was fastest between ages 1 and 2 and slowed thereafter. Male and female Bull Trout matured at a similar age, but females grew faster than males, thereby maturing at a larger size. Our findings suggest that management has effectively addressed current threats to increase the likelihood of long-term persistence of the Bull Trout population in Lake Pend Oreille.

Received November 13, 2015; accepted June 29, 2016 Published online October 7, 2016
X-ray and infrared diagnostics of nearby active galactic nuclei with MAXI and AKARI
Authors: Isobe Naoki , Kawamuro Taiki , Oyabu Shinki , Nakagawa Takao , Baba Shunsuke , Yano Kenichi , Ueda Yoshihiro , Toba Yoshiki
Published: October 2016

Nearby active galactic nuclei were diagnosed in the X-ray and mid-to-far infrared wavelengths with Monitor of All-sky X-ray Image (MAXI) and the Japanese infrared observatory AKARI, respectively. One hundred of the X-ray sources listed in the second release of the MAXI all-sky X-ray source catalog are currently identified as non-blazar-type active galactic nuclei. These include 95 Seyfert galaxies and 5 quasars, and they are composed of 73 type-1 and 27 type-2 objects. The AKARI all-sky survey point source catalog was searched for their mid- and far-infrared counterparts at 9, 18, and 90 μm. As a result, 69 Seyfert galaxies in the MAXI catalog (48 type-1 and 21 type-2) were found to be detected with AKARI. The X-ray (3–4 keV and 4–10 keV) and infrared luminosities of these objects were investigated, together with their color information. Adopting the canonical photon index, Γ = 1.9, of the intrinsic X-ray spectrum of the Seyfert galaxies, the X-ray hardness ratio between the 3–4 and 4–10 keV ranges derived with MAXI was roughly converted into the absorption column density. After the X-ray luminosity was corrected for absorption from the estimated column density, the well-known X-ray-to-infrared luminosity correlation was confirmed, at least in the Compton-thin regime. In contrast, NGC 1365, the only Compton-thick object in the MAXI catalog, was found to deviate from the correlation toward a significantly lower X-ray luminosity by nearly an order of magnitude. It was verified that the relation between the X-ray hardness below 10 keV and X-ray-to-infrared color acts as an effective tool to pick up Compton-thick objects. The difference in the infrared colors between the type-1 and type-2 Seyfert galaxies and its physical implication on the classification and unification of active galactic nuclei are briefly discussed.
Regulation of fixLJ by Hfq Controls Symbiotically Important Genes in Sinorhizobium meliloti
Authors: Gao Mengsheng , Nguyen Hahn , Salas González Isai , Teplitski Max
Published: October 2016

The RNA-binding chaperone Hfq plays critical roles in the establishment and functionality of the symbiosis between Sinorhizobium meliloti and its legume hosts. A mutation in hfq reduces symbiotic efficiency resulting in a Fix− phenotype, characterized by the inability of the bacterium to fix nitrogen. At least in part, this is due to the ability of Hfq to regulate the fixLJ operon, which encodes a sensor kinase–response regulator pair that controls expression of the nitrogenase genes. The ability of Hfq to bind fixLJ in vitro and in planta was demonstrated with gel shift and coimmunoprecipitation experiments. Two (ARN)2 motifs in the fixLJ message were the likely sites through which Hfq exerted its posttranscriptional control. Consistent with the regulatory effects of Hfq, downstream genes controlled by FixLJ (such as nifK, noeB) were also subject to Hfq regulation in planta.
Carotid Artery Mycotic Pseudoaneurysm Associated with Campylobacter fetus Bacteremia in an Immunocompromised Host
Authors: Hannah William B. , Rali Aniket S. , Etesami Maryam , Salata Robert A.
Published: October 2016

This report outlines the course of a patient with Campylobacter fetus bacteremia complicated by carotid artery pseudoaneurysm after exposure to ill cattle. This is the first report of C. fetus–associated carotid artery pseudoaneurysm. Furthermore, there is concurrence of a renal artery aneurysm, and concurrent aneurysms in individuals with C. fetus bacteremia have been reported only a small number of times. The unusual exposures of this patient and the vascular manifestations give insight into the natural history of individuals with C. fetus bacteremia. This case report emphasizes the importance of a low threshold for imaging in patients with C. fetus bacteremia who have localizing symptoms and the importance of imaging sites with common cardiovascular involvement. As C. fetus bacteremia is better characterized, it is critical that clinicians are aware of the expanding spectrum of disease.
Pain Relief in Depressive Disorders
Authors: Gebhardt Stefan , Heinzel-Gutenbrunner Monika , König Udo
Published: October 2016

Background

Pain is a common symptom in patients with depressive disorders, which, if present, worsens the prognosis. However, there is little empirical knowledge of the therapeutic effects of antidepressants on painful physical symptoms of patients with depressive disorders. Furthermore, tricyclic/tetracyclic antidepressants (TCAs) have not yet been included in existing meta-analyses.

Methods

A broad, systematic search of PubMed literature on antidepressant drug treatment of patients with depressive disorders with comorbid pain symptoms was carried out. A random-effects meta-analysis has been performed among 3 different groups of drugs for the 2 end points: pain and depression.

Results

Fourteen placebo-controlled studies with selective serotonin-noradrenaline reuptake inhibitors (SSNRIs) could be included, with 3 of them also investigating selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs). Three further placebo-controlled SSRI studies were identified, but only 2 placebo-controlled TCA studies.

Both SSNRIs and SSRIs, but not TCAs, were significantly superior to placebo as regards their analgesic effects. However, all effects were small. For SSNRIs, there was a strong positive correlation between their effectiveness for pain relief and their positive effect on the mood of the patients.

Discussion

The analgesic effects of SSNRIs and SSRIs in patients with primary depressive disorders can be interpreted as largely equivalent. Because of a lack of placebo-controlled TCA studies, the results for TCAs would be comparable only to those of SSRIs and SSNRIs, if non–placebo-controlled TCA studies were included. The positive correlation found indicates a close relationship of pain relief and antidepressant treatment effects. These results refer merely to patients with primary depressive disorders, not to patients with primary pain disorders. Further studies comparing the effects of different types of antidepressant drugs on pain in depressive patients are warranted.
Decision-Making Process Regarding Fertility Among Reproductive-Age Women With Cancer in Taiwan
Authors: Huang Sheng-Miauh , Hsieh Pei-Ling , Hsiung Yvonne , Tseng Ling-Ming , Chen Ping-Ho , Hung Chia Tai
Published: October 2016

Background:

Previous studies indicate that women with cancer experience infertility after cancer-related treatment. With the rapid progress in fertility science, women face diverse and uncertain choices regarding pregnancy.

Objective:

The aim of this study is to understand the decision-making process regarding fertility choices among reproductive-age women with cancer in Taiwan.

Methods:

Grounded theory methodology guided data collection using in-depth interviews with 18 women diagnosed and treated for cancer. Verbatim transcriptions were analyzed using constant comparative analysis and open, axial, and selective coding.

Results:

The core category that describes the decision-making process regarding fertility among reproductive-age women with cancer is “searching for balance in life and creating value in life.” The decision process was divided into 3 phases: needing to have children before treatment, struggling with self-living during cancer treatment, and returning to life after treatment. The style of cancer participants' decision making in pregnancy was divided into 3 patterns: action taking, hesitation, and persistence.

Conclusions:

Decision making regarding fertility among women with cancer was affected by the need for children before treatment and their experience during treatment.

Implications for Practice:

Health providers should be aware of and understand the needs of women with cancer to balance their need for children with their perception of their cancer prognosis and its effects on fertility, and help them with pregnancy planning if desired.
Navigating DNP Student Needs
Authors: Hande Karen , Beuscher Linda , Allison Terri , Phillippi Julia
Published: October 2016

Doctor of nursing practice (DNP) faculty advisers help students navigate academic challenges, professional development, and leadership opportunities while earning a DNP degree. Student needs during DNP education are unique from other programs and require careful advising to address common challenges. This article links student needs with advising competencies and presents strategies for faculty development and support.
The Effect of the Z-Track Technique on Pain and Drug Leakage in Intramuscular Injections
Authors: Yilmaz Dilek , Khorshid Leyla , Dedeoğlu Yasemin
Published: October 2016

Purpose/Aims:

The aim of this study was to investigate the effects of the Z-track technique in the administration of intramuscular diclofenac, a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, on pain and drug leakage.

Design:

This is a semiexperimental and randomized controlled study.

Methods:

It was felt necessary to conduct this study to compare the effects on pain and drug leakage of the standard intramuscular injection method and the “Z-track technique,” which is claimed to be helpful in this regard. The study was conducted in a government hospital in the Marmara region of Turkey. The research sample consisted of 60 patients, 26 female and 34 male, whose ages varied from 18 to 65 years. Sixty patients were randomly divided into 2 equal groups—the experimental group and the control group. The Z-track technique was used for intramuscular injection with the experimental group, whereas, with the control group, the standard technique of intramuscular injection was used. The patients of both groups were injected with 3-mL diclofenac sodium as prescribed by their doctor. Immediately after the procedure was finished and the needle was withdrawn, a different researcher used a 7 × 7-cm pre-prepared and sterilized standard drying paper to press on the needle entry point. The diameter of leakage was measured with a millimetric ruler and recorded on a data collection form. During this procedure, another nurse who was blind to the injection technique assessed the pain felt during the injection by means of the Visual Analog Scale.

Results:

In the experimental group, mean pain severity was found to be 28.30 ± 23.0, and mean drug leakage was 6.93 ± 4.62 mm, whereas, in the control group, these values were 36.40 ± 28.40 and 10.03 ± 3.69 mm, respectively.

Conclusions:

Drug leakage was reduced when administering intramuscular diclofenac sodium by the Z technique, but pain severity was not significantly reduced.
The Effects of Bundles on Catheter-Associated Urinary Tract Infections in the Pediatric Intensive Care Unit
Authors: Sönmez Düzkaya Duygu , Bozkurt Gülçin , Uysal Gülzade , Yakut Tülay
Published: October 2016

Background:

There are few studies in the literature from developing countries regarding the rates of catheter-associated urinary tract infection (CAUTI), which is frequently encountered in pediatric intensive care units (PICUs).

Aim:

The aim of this study is to evaluate the 2-year rates of CAUTI in a PICU where a CAUTI Prevention Bundle was implemented.

Design:

This was an interventional prospective study.

Methods:

The study was conducted with 390 patients in the PICU of Istanbul Faculty of Medicine, Turkey, from July 2013 to July 2015. The patients were selected based on the diagnostic criteria of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Results:

Urinary colonization occurred in 8 (2.2%) patients in the prebundle group and 3 (0.8%) patients in the postbundle group, and contamination occurred in 10 (2.8%) patients in the prebundle group and 6 (1.5%) patients in the postbundle group. The CAUTI incidence and rates were 5.8% and 6.1 per 1000 urinary catheter days and 1.5% and 1.8 per 1000 urinary catheter days prebundle and postbundle, respectively. There was a statistically significant difference between the prebundle and postbundle CAUTI rates.

Conclusion:

Our findings support that clinical nurse specialists in developing countries should consider the use of CAUTI bundles to prevent CAUTIs.
Using Pleth Variability as a Triage Tool for Children With Obstructive Airway Disease in a Pediatric Emergency Department
Authors: Brandwein Ariel , Patel Kavita , Kline Myriam , Silver Peter , Gangadharan Sandeep
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Patients with obstructive airway disease have varying degrees of pulsus paradoxus that correlate with illness severity. Pulsus paradoxus can be measured using plethysmography. We investigated whether plethysmograph (pleth) variability on admission to the pediatric emergency department (ED) could predict patient disposition. We hypothesized that patients with a larger pleth variability would have a higher likelihood of being admitted to a general pediatrics unit or the intensive care unit (ICU).

Methods

We conducted a prospective single-center study of children aged 1 to 18 years who presented to a pediatric ED with a diagnosis of asthma or reactive airway disease. The pleth variability index (PVI) was calculated from their initial plethysmography tracing. Disposition from the ED was recorded as discharge, admission to the floor, or admission to the ICU.

Results

A total of 117 patients were included in our study. Forty-eight patients were discharged home, 61 were admitted to the floor, and 8 were admitted to the ICU. The median PVI for each of these groups was 0.27 (interquartile range [IQR], 0.19–0.39) for discharges, 0.29 (IQR, 0.20–0.44) for patients admitted to the floor, and 0.56 (IQR, 0.35–0.70) for patients admitted to the ICU. A Kruskal-Wallis test demonstrated a significant difference in the PVI between each of the groups (P = 0.0087).

Conclusions

Our results suggest that PVI may be a useful tool in the triage of children who present to the ED with obstructive airway disease. Further studies should aim to assess the validity of PVI in predicting the response to bronchodilator therapy during the course of a patient's hospitalization.
A Prospective Evaluation of the Accuracy of Weight Estimation Using the Broselow Tape in Overweight and Obese Pediatric Patients in the Emergency Department
Authors: Tanner Dennis , Negaard Ashley , Huang Rong , Evans Neil , Hennes Halim
Published: October 2016

Objectives

The aims of the study were to examine the predictive accuracy of Broselow tape (BT) weight estimation and body mass index–based weight categorization in overweight and obese pediatric patients and to develop an adjustment factor that improves the BT weight estimate in overweight and obese pediatric patients.

Methods

A prospective observational study was conducted. We enrolled noncritical pediatric patients presenting to a tertiary care pediatric emergency department with nonurgent complaints. Patients had their weights, heights, abdominal circumferences, and actual BT measurements documented by research staff.

Results

One hundred seventy-eight patients aged 2 to 18 years were enrolled. Using the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's definition of body mass index classification, 71 patients (39.89%) had normal BMI, 43 patients (24.16%) were overweight, and 64 patients (35.96%) were obese. The accuracy of the BT-estimated weight range, compared with the actual weight, is 40.5% in our study population. When stratified by BMI classification, the accuracy proportions were the following: 71.8% for normal, 41.9% for overweight, and 4.7% for obese patients. The adjustment formula ([0.014 × waistline in cm + 0.3] × BT weight) improved overall weight estimation from 40.5% to 65.2%. The greatest improvement was noted in obese children, where the BT accuracy improved from 4.7% to 59.4%.

Conclusions

The growing pediatric obesity epidemic has challenged the BT's ability to accurately estimate the weights in overweight and obese pediatric patients. Our study demonstrated inverse relationship between the accuracy of BT and body weight. An adjustment factor significantly improved BT accuracy in obese children.
Useful Plain Radiographic Findings in Diagnosis of Pediatric Olecranon Fracture Complicated With Proximal Radial Fracture
Authors: Fujihara Yuki , Tatebe Masahiro , Fujihara Nasa , Tanaka Hiromasa , Hirata Hitoshi
Published: October 2016

Objective

The aim of this study was to verify the use of initial plain radiographs, specifically the presence of a longitudinal crack on the olecranon, for diagnosing olecranon occult fractures in children.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed all patients younger than 16 years who were diagnosed with proximal radial fractures treated at our hospital between April 1, 2006 and September 31, 2014. We included 22 patients (9 boys and 13 girls) with a mean age of 8.5 years. Three hand surgeons were blinded to each other's results after examining all the initial radiographs of the injured elbows. To diagnose the fracture, we evaluated computed tomography scans in 9 cases and follow-up radiographs in the other 13 cases. Finally, we classified the fractured olecranon into 3 types: medial crack, posterior flat, and posterior crack.

Results

Twelve cases (54.5%) had associated olecranon fractures. According to the fracture type of the olecranon, 3 cases were a medial crack, 5 were a posterior flat, and 3 were a posterior crack. Each type of fracture had characteristic findings on plain radiographs. The mean value for sensitivity was 97.2% (range, 91.7%–100%), and the specificity was 90.0% (90.0%).

Conclusions

Our data indicated that this easy, noninvasive use of plain radiographs for checking whether a longitudinal crack exists on the olecranon benefits the patient by preventing missed diagnoses of pediatric olecranon fractures.
Severely Altered-Consciousness Status and Profuse Vomiting in Infants
Authors: Barasche Judith , Stollar Fabiola , Bergmann Marcel M. , Caubet Jean-Christoph
Published: October 2016

In infants, the causes of acute repetitive vomiting and severely altered-consciousness status include a broad differential diagnosis, that is, primarly sepsis, infectious gastroenteritis, head injury, and intoxication, as well as neurologic, metabolic, and cardiologic condition diseases. In patients developing such symptoms, allergy as an etiological cause is often not considered by primary care physicians. With this case report, we aim to draw the attention of general pediatricians, emergency physicians, and intensivists to the fact that non–immunoglobulin E–mediated food allergic gastrointestinal disorders such as food protein–induced enterocolitis syndrome should be considered in patients with sepsis-like symptoms.
The Use of Extracorporeal Membrane Oxygenation-Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation in Prolonged Cardiac Arrest in Pediatric Patients
Authors: Absi Mohammed , Kumar Susheel TK , Sandhu Hitesh
Published: October 2016

Extracorporeal membrane oxygenation was instituted as an aid to in-hospital cardiopulmonary resuscitation (E-CPR) nearly 23 years ago, this led to remarkable improvement in survival considering the mortality rate associated with conventional cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). Given this success, one begins to wonder whether the time has come for expanding the use of E-CPR to outside hospital cardiac arrests especially in the light of development of newer extracorporeal life support devices that are small, mobile, and easy to assemble. This editorial will review recent studies on this subject and address some key guidelines and limitations of this evolving and promising technology.
Is Serum Bicarbonate Level Associated With Negative Outcomes in Pediatric Patients?
Authors: Poonai Naveen , Mainprize David , Travers Carolyn , Vivas Lilian Lee Yan , Tryphonopoulos Peter , Sangha Gurinder , Arbeau Ryan , Seabrook Jamie , Miller Michael , Sarpal Amrita , Lim Rodrick
Published: October 2016

Objectives

Early identification of children at risk for adverse outcomes is important. Serum bicarbonate is easily collected and widely available. We described the relationship between bicarbonate and adverse outcomes in children presenting to the emergency department (ED).

Methods

We conducted a retrospective cohort study of children aged 0 to 17 years from January 1, 2007, to December 31, 2011, who had a serum bicarbonate measured in the ED. Primary outcome was the predictive ability of bicarbonate for the individual components of the composite outcome that included at least one of the following: intensive care unit admission, assisted ventilation, inotropic support, cardiopulmonary resuscitation, or death. Secondary outcome was the relationship between bicarbonate level of greater and less than 13 mEq/L and the composite outcome.

Results

We reviewed 16,989 charts, of which 432 had an adverse outcome. Receiver operating characteristic curve analysis showed that a bicarbonate level of less than 18.5 mEq/L predicted inotropic support with an area under the curve of 0.69 (95% confidence interval [CI], 0.60–0.77; P < 0.001) and death with an area under the curve of 0.75 (CI, 0.66–0.85; P < 0.001). Significantly more patients with bicarbonate level of less than 13 mEq/L had at least 1 adverse outcome compared with those with bicarbonate level of greater than 13 mEq/L (4.4% vs 2.5%, P = 0.001), odds ratio 1.96 (95% CI, 1.3–2.97).

Conclusions

Among children presenting to the ED, bicarbonate level of 18.5 mEq/L had fair specificity in predicting inotropic support and death. Negative outcomes are significantly associated with bicarbonate level of less than 13 mEq/L. Bicarbonate should routinely be measured in children at risk of clinical deterioration.