bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Interplay between cytoskeletal polymerization and the chondrogenic phenotype in chondrocytes passaged in monolayer culture
Authors: Parreno Justin , Nabavi Niaki Mortah , Andrejevic Katarina , Jiang Amy , Wu Po‐han , Kandel Rita A.
Published: November 2016

Tubulin and actin exist as monomeric units that polymerize to form either microtubules or filamentous actin. As the polymerization status (monomeric/polymeric ratio) of tubulin and/or actin have been shown to be important in regulating gene expression and phenotype in non‐chondrocyte cells, the objective of this study was to examine the role of cytoskeletal polymerization on the chondrocyte phenotype. We hypothesized that actin and/or tubulin polymerization status modulates the chondrocyte phenotype during monolayer culture as well as in 3D culture during redifferentiation. To test this hypothesis, articular chondrocytes were grown and passaged in 2D monolayer culture. Cell phenotype was investigated by assessing cell morphology (area and circularity), actin/tubulin content, organization and polymerization status, as well as by determination of proliferation, fibroblast and cartilage matrix gene expression with passage number. Bovine chondrocytes became larger, more elongated, and had significantly (P < 0.05) increased gene expression of proliferation‐associated molecules (cyclin D1 and ki67), as well as significantly (P < 0.05) decreased cartilage matrix (type II collagen and aggrecan) and increased fibroblast‐like matrix, type I collagen (COL1), gene expression by passage 2 (P2). Although tubulin polymerization status was not significantly (P > 0.05) modulated, actin polymerization was increased in bovine P2 cells. Actin depolymerization, but not tubulin depolymerization, promoted the chondrocyte phenotype by inducing cell rounding, increasing aggrecan and reducing COL1 expression. Knockdown of actin depolymerization factor, cofilin, in these cells induced further P2 cell actin polymerization and increased COL1 gene expression. To confirm that actin status regulated COL1 gene expression in human P2 chondrocytes, human P2 chondrocytes were exposed to cytochalasin D. Cytochalasin D decreased COL1 gene expression in human passaged chondrocytes. Furthermore, culture of bovine P2 chondrocytes in 3D culture on porous bone substitute resulted in actin depolymerization, which correlated with decreased expression of COL1 and proliferation molecules. In 3D cultures, aggrecan gene expression was increased by cytochalasin D treatment and COL1 was further decreased. These results reveal that actin polymerization status regulates chondrocyte dedifferentiation. Reorganization of the cytoskeleton by actin depolymerization appears to be an active regulatory mechanism for redifferentiation of passaged chondrocytes.
Intensive care bereavement practices across New Zealand and Australian intensive care units: a qualitative content analysis
Authors: Coombs Maureen , Mitchell Marion , James Stephen , Wetzig Krista
Published: November 2016

Background

End‐of‐life and bereavement care is an important consideration in intensive care. This study describes the type of bereavement care provided in intensive care units across Australia and New Zealand.

Design

Inductive qualitative content analysis was conducted on free‐text responses to a web‐based survey exploring unit‐based bereavement practice distributed to nurse managers in 229 intensive care units in New Zealand and Australia.

Results

A total of 153 (67%) surveys were returned with 68 respondents making free‐text responses. Respondents were mainly Australian (n = 54, 85·3%), from the public sector (n = 51, 75%) and holding Nurse Unit Managers/Charge Nurse roles (n = 39, 52·9%). From the 124 free‐text responses, a total of 187 individual codes were identified focussing on bereavement care practices (n = 145, 77·5%), educational provision to support staff (n = 15, 8%) and organisational challenges (n = 27, 14·4%). Bereavement care practices described use of memory boxes, cultural specificity, annual memorial services and use of community support services. Educational provision identified local in‐service programmes, and national bereavement courses for specialist bereavement nurse coordinators. Organisational challenges focussed on lack of funding, especially for provision of bereavement follow‐up.

Conclusions

This is the first Australasian‐wide survey, and one of the few international studies, describing bereavement practices within intensive care, an important aspect of nursing practice. However, with funding for new bereavement services and education for staff lacking, there are continued challenges in developing bereavement care. Given knowledge about the impact of these areas of care on bereaved family members, this requires review.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurses remain committed to supporting bereaved families during and following death in intensive care. With limited resource to support bereavement care, intensive care nurses undertake a range of bereavement care practices at time of death, and after death through family bereavement follow‐up.
If the State Decertified Gender, What Might Happen to its Meaning and Value?
Authors: Cooper Davina , Renz Flora
Published: November 2016

As jurisdictions reform gender identity laws to accommodate transgender and intersex people, this article speculatively explores a more fundamental shift: eliminating state law's role in determining and assigning gender status altogether. Adopting a feminist perspective, we explore what the meaning and effects of comprehensively reforming legal gender might be upon gender's constitution as a socio‐legal property, differentially recognized and protected by diverse but unequal bodies. Our discussion proceeds along two intersecting paths. The first concerns the different classificatory methods which could enable state law, without assigning gender, to continue to regulate gender identity decisions, thereby allowing state law to remain involved in tackling gender discrimination. The second concerns the changing form gender might take in conditions where state law withdraws its allocative function. These paths converge in a final discussion which considers what legal and political effects might follow from gender becoming a property that is individually and collectively cultivated.
Political Reliability and the Chinese Bar Exam
Authors: Stern Rachel E.
Published: November 2016

This article uses the case of contemporary China to explore an understudied type of political socialization: the bar exam. Content analysis of 3,996 exam questions from 2002–2014 shows a turning point in the mid‐2000s, when the test became explicitly political. The newly political exam is now a site of political learning where tomorrow's lawyers, judges, and prosecutors perform loyalty by exchanging politically correct answers for points. Viewed from this perspective, the Chinese bar exam has much in common with demands for public displays of correct behaviour in other authoritarian states. This adds a fresh, political layer to our understanding of whose interests bar exams serve, and why they take the form they do.
Morphological and genetic diversity of Beaufort Sea diatoms with high contributions from theChaetoceros neogracilisspecies complex
Authors: Balzano Sergio , Percopo Isabella , Siano Raffaele , Gourvil Priscillia , Chanoine Mélanie , Marie Dominique , Vaulot Daniel , Sarno Diana
Published: November 2016

Seventy‐five diatom strains isolated from the Beaufort Sea (Canadian Arctic) in the summer of 2009 were characterized by light and electron microscopy (SEMandTEM), as well as 18S and 28SrRNAgene sequencing. These strains group into 20 genotypes and 17 morphotypes and are affiliated with the generaArcocellulus,Attheya,Chaetoceros,Cylindrotheca,Eucampia,Nitzschia,Porosira,Pseudo‐nitzschia,Shionodiscus,Thalassiosira, andSynedropsis. Most of the species have a distribution confined to the northern/polar area.Chaetoceros neogracilisandChaetoceros geliduswere the most represented taxa. Strains ofC. neograciliswere morphologically similar and shared identical 18SrRNAgene sequences, but belonged to four distinct genetic clades based on 28SrRNA,ITS‐1 andITS‐2 phylogenies. Secondary structure prediction revealed that these four clades differ in hemi‐compensatory base changes (HCBCs) in paired positions of theITS‐2, suggesting their inability to interbreed. Reproductively isolatedC. neogracilisgenotypes can thus co‐occur in summer phytoplankton communities in the Beaufort Sea.C. neogracilisgenerally occurred as single cells but also formed short colonies. It is phylogenetically distinct from an Antarctic species, erroneously identified in some previous studies asC. neogracilis, but named here asChaetocerossp. This work provides taxonomically validated sequences for 20 Arctic diatom taxa, which will facilitate future metabarcoding studies on phytoplankton in this region.
Effect of sodium oxybate on disrupted nighttime sleep in patients with narcolepsy
Authors: Roth Thomas , Dauvilliers Yves , Guinta Diane , Alvarez‐Horine Sarah , Dynin Efim , Black Jed
Published: November 2016

This post hoc analysis evaluated the dose‐related effects of sodium oxybate on sleep continuity and nocturnal sleep quality in patients with narcolepsy–cataplexy. Polysomnography data, including shifts to Stage N1/Wake, were from a randomized, placebo‐controlled trial of sodium oxybate. Patients were ≥16 years old with a diagnosis of narcolepsy including symptoms of cataplexy and excessive daytime sleepiness. Treatment was for 8 weeks with placebo or sodium oxybate 4.5, 6 or 9 g administered as two equally divided nightly doses. Relative to baseline, significant dose‐dependent reductions in the number of shifts per hour from Stages N2/3/rapid eye movement and Stages N2/3 to Stage N1/Wake were observed at week 8 with sodium oxybate (P < 0.05); sodium oxybate 6‐ and 9‐g doses also resulted in similar reductions in shifts per hour of rapid eye movement to Stage N1/Wake (both P < 0.05). Across all shift categories, the shift reductions with sodium oxybate 9 g were significantly greater than those observed with placebo (P < 0.05). Improvements from baseline in reported sleep quality were significantly greater with sodium oxybate 4.5 and 9 g at week 8 (P < 0.05). Correlations between change from baseline in number of shifts per hour to Stage N1/Wake and cataplexy frequency, patient‐reported nocturnal sleep quality, and excessive daytime sleepiness assessed using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale were numerically highest for the sodium oxybate 9‐g dose across all sleep stage shift categories. In these patients with narcolepsy, sodium oxybate showed improvements in the sleep continuity and nocturnal sleep quality that are characteristic of disrupted nighttime sleep (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier NCT00049803).
The Organizational Consequences of Politics: A Research Agenda for the Study of Bureaucratic Politics in Latin America
Authors: Polga-Hecimovich John , Trelles Alejandro
Published: November 2016

The study of the bureaucracy in Latin America, within the study of politics, has long been little more than an afterthought. It is assumed to lie in the realm of public administration, distinct from other regional subfields that have increasingly gained the attention of political scientists. As a result, scholars' understanding of Latin American bureaucratic politics is limited. Here, we conduct a comprehensive survey of peer-reviewed articles to evaluate the state of this subfield. We find a thematically, analytically, and methodologically splintered discipline, but a prime one for exploitation and new avenues of research. This article summarizes salient trends in the literature, describes advances in the study of bureaucracy in Latin America, and discusses limitations in this scholarship. It suggests a roadmap for scholars by proposing a series of research questions and recommends a series of analytical and methodological approaches to address those questions.
Mangrove habitat use by fishes in Southeastern Brazil: are there temporal changes in the structure of the community?
Authors: de Azevedo Márcia C. C. , da Cruz‐Filho Antonio G. , Araújo Francisco G.
Published: November 2016

We compared fish community structure in Guaratiba Mangrove, SE Brazil, among three seasons of the hydrological cycle [(i) spring, increasing temperature and rainfall, decreasing salinity; (ii) summer/early fall, high temperature and rainfall, intermediate salinity; (iii) late fall/winter, low temperature and rainfall, high salinity] and between the years 2002–2003 and 2008–2009. The aim was to test the hypothesis that the fish community structure changes seasonally, associated with seasonal changes in environmental conditions, and that changes occurred between the two yearly periods because of increased anthropogenic activities. The sampling protocol for the two surveys was identical. A total of 63 species was recorded, with 38 species occurring in 2002–2003, and 53 species in 2008–2009. The main changes in the mangrove's fish assemblage between 2002–2003 and 2008–2009 were (i) an increase in species richness, fish density and total biomass; and (ii) an increase in the zoobenthivorous species of gerreids Eucinostomus argenteus, Diapterus rhombeus and Ulaema lefroyi, and a decrease in the planktivorous clupeid Harengula clupeola. Other abundant species, such as the opportunistic atherinopsid. Atherinella brasiliensis, the detritivorous mullet Mugil liza and the zoobenthivorous pufferfish Sphoeroides testudineus did not differ in abundance between the two yearly periods. Ten species occurred only in 2002–2003, and 23 species only in 2008–2009, indicating significant changes in community structure over the 6‐year period. Seasonal changes in community structure were more conspicuous in 2008–2009, when species abundance and richness were greatest. The highest fish abundance was recorded in spring and in summer/early fall, and the lowest in late fall/winter. The increased abundance and richness over time may be at least partially attributable to protection policies because of the effective implementation of a biological reserve in the area.
Puzzling Global Stochastic Trends in Growth, Interest and Inflation and the Volcker Disinflation
Authors: Heinlein Reinhold , Krolzig Hans‐Martin
Published: November 2016

This paper aims to identify the stable long‐run relationships as well as unstable driving forces of the world economy using a small aggregated cointegrated VAR model encompassing quarterly US, UK, Japanese and Euro Area data for the post‐Bretton‐Woods era. Three stable long‐run relationships are found: output growth, the term spread and the inflation climate. The common stochastic trend of the global macro economy is dominated by the cumulated real short‐term interest rate shocks, reflecting the strong increase of global real rates during the Volcker disinflation period, one of the dominating events of the last 40 years of macro history.
Clinical Significance of Nonsustained Ventricular Tachycardia on Stored Electrograms in Permanent Pacemaker Patients
Authors: GABRIELS JAMES , WU MICHAEL , ROSEN LISA , PATEL APOOR , GOLDNER BRUCE
Published: November 2016

Background

Permanent pacemaker electrograms record a variety of arrhythmias, including nonsustained ventricular tachycardia (NSVT). Little has been reported regarding incidence and clinical significance of NSVT in pacemaker patients after long‐term monitoring.

Methods

Records from all patients implanted with Medtronic pacemakers (Medtronic, Minneapolis, MN, USA) at a single institution from January 1, 2009 to February 27, 2012 were reviewed. Demographic characteristics, imaging studies, pacemaker interrogations, and the Social Security Death Index were examined in patients older than 18 years of age who had ≥ 2 follow‐up device interrogations.

Results

A total of 262 patients with an ejection fraction (EF) >40% were included in the final analysis with a mean follow‐up of 29.2 months. Of these patients, 83.2% (n = 218) had hypertension (HTN) and 45.4% (n = 119) had NSVT. Among patients with an EF ≥ 55%, hypertensive patients had a NSVT burden 2.46 times greater than normotensive patients (incidence rate ratio: 2.46, 95% confidence interval: 1.10–5.50; P < 0.028). NSVT was not associated with increased mortality (P < 0.1229).

Conclusion

In this cohort of patients, there was a high prevalence of HTN and while hypertensive subjects had a significantly higher NSVT burden, NSVT was not associated with an increased mortality.
Estimated cognitive decline in patients with schizophrenia: A multicenter study
Authors: Fujino Haruo , Sumiyoshi Chika , Yasuda Yuka , Yamamori Hidenaga , Fujimoto Michiko , Fukunaga Masaki , Miura Kenichiro , Takebayashi Yuto , Okada Naohiro , Isomura Shuichi , Kawano Naoko , Toyomaki Atsuhito , Kuga Hironori , Isobe Masanori , Oya Kazuto , Okahisa Yuko , Takaki Manabu , Hashimoto Naoki , Kato Masaki , Onitsuka Toshiaki , Ueno Takefumi , Ohnuma Tohru , Kasai Kiyoto , Ozaki Norio , Sumiyoshi Tomiki , Imura Osamu , Hashimoto Ryota ,   for COCORO
Published: November 2016

Aim

Studies have reported that cognitive decline occurs after the onset of schizophrenia despite heterogeneity in cognitive function among patients. The aim of this study was to investigate the degree of estimated cognitive decline in patients with schizophrenia by comparing estimated premorbid intellectual functioning and current intellectual functioning.

Methods

A total of 446 patients with schizophrenia (228 male, 218 female), consisting of three sample sets obtained from 11 psychiatric facilities, and 686 healthy controls participated in this study. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale‐III (WAIS‐III) was used to measure the participants’ current full‐scale IQ (FSIQ). The premorbid IQ was estimated using the Japanese Adult Reading Test‐25. Estimated cognitive decline (difference score) was defined as the difference between the estimated premorbid IQ and the current FSIQ.

Results

Patients with schizophrenia showed greater estimated cognitive decline, a lower FSIQ, and a lower premorbid IQ compared with the healthy controls. The mean difference score, FSIQ, and estimated premorbid IQ were −16.3, 84.2, and 100.5, respectively, in patients with schizophrenia. Furthermore, 39.7% of the patients had a difference score of 20 points or greater decline. A discriminant analysis showed that the difference score accurately predicted 81.6% of the patients and healthy controls.

Conclusion

These results show the distribution of difference score in patients with schizophrenia. These findings may contribute to assessing the severity of estimated cognitive decline and identifying patients with schizophrenia who suffer from cognitive decline.
Development of the Barr & Stroud ZD Range of Topographical Stereoscopes for Mapping Applications
Authors: Petrie Gordon , Nolan Michael
Published: November 2016

This paper presents an account of the development of the range of stereoscopes produced by Barr & Stroud (Glasgow, UK) during the period between the two World Wars of the 20th century. These instruments were critical to the adoption of simple graphical procedures (such as the Arundel method) for the rapid production of huge numbers of military topographic maps from aerial photography during the Second World War, since they allowed elevation and contour data to be incorporated into these maps without the need for complex and expensive photogrammetric instrumentation. The pivotal roles played in this development by Professor Barr and the young Lieutenant Hotine are highlighted.
Deciphering the mechanisms involving cenexin, ninein and centriolin in sperm maturation during epididymal transit in the domestic cat
Authors: Rowlison T , Ottinger MA , Comizzoli P
Published: November 2016

Contents

The sperm centrosome is an essential organelle with a key role in organizing the sperm aster for proper syngamy and formation of the first mitotic spindle. The sperm cell acquires the functional capability during epididymal transit by incorporation of key factors. The objective of the study was to identify these key maturation proteins, such as ninein and centriolin as well as cenexin—a scaffold protein that serves to bind ninein and centriolin. Epididymal samples were dissected from 17 adult cat testes (>1 year old) and spermatozoa were extracted from the different regions, including rete testis, caput, corpus, cauda and vas deferens. Tissue samples and sperm cells were fixed separately in 4% paraformaldehyde before immunostaining with anticenexin, ninein or centriolin antibodies. Results showed that the proportion of sperm cells with cenexin localized at the centrosome progressively increased along the tract with the lowest percentage of stained cells in the testis (mean = 45%) and highest in the cauda (mean = 81%). Although not significant, the intensity of cenexin immunofluorescence in positive cells increased twofold from the testis to vas deferens. There was no significant difference in the proportion of sperm labelled with centriolin or ninein (ranges of 21%–26% and 33%–48% between segments, respectively) or the intensity (±58% and ±63% change as compared to testis, respectively). Cenexin may serve as a scaffold protein for centriolin and ninein, as the vast majority of spermatozoa only displayed colocalization of these proteins when cenexin was also present (mean = 85% and 91% colocalization, respectively). In summary, these results could be applied to future efforts to create an in vitro culture system capable of rescuing the impaired centrosome of an infertile male, with particular potential for wild felid conservation.
Canine pyometra: What is new?
Authors: Hagman R
Published: November 2016

Contents

Pyometra is a common disease in countries where elective spaying is not routinely performed. Hormonal and bacterial factors are fundamental in the pathogenesis of the disease, which manifests itself as a potentially life‐threatening bacterial infection of the uterus. Surgical ovariohysterectomy is the safest and most effective treatment for pyometra, and it has recently been shown that laparoscopically assisted methods for surgical treatment are feasible to use in selected cases. New protocols for improved medical treatment alternatives have also been tested with promising results. To be able to predict outcome and presence of complications early would be valuable in clinical practice for optimizing therapy and increasing survival. Results of commonly investigated clinical and laboratory investigations have been shown to be useful as predictive markers, with leucopenia being associated with increased risk of peritonitis as well as prolonged post‐operative hospitalization after surgical treatment. A cage‐side rapid and cost‐effective diagnostic test would be highly valuable in clinical practice, and detection of pyometra‐specific upregulated genes in the uterus and the corresponding products is a potential start in identifying novel markers suitable for such as test. The focus of the present review is to highlight recent findings on pathogenesis, prediction of outcome, diagnosis and treatment. Additionally, central research questions and suggestions for future investigations about several aspects of canine pyometra will be addressed.
Uterine haemodynamic, vascularization and blood pressure changes along the oestrous cycle in bitches
Authors: Nogueira IB , Almeida LL , Angrimani DSR , Brito MM , Abreu RA , Vannucchi CI
Published: November 2016

Contents

Characterization of the bitch's reproductive physiology is of utmost importance for the development of new reproductive techniques and the diagnosis of reproductive diseases. In this respect, uterine B‐mode ultrasonography has been employed in several studies; however, the focus on haemodynamic changes along the oestrous cycle is yet to be described. Thus, the aim of this study was to characterize haemodynamic changes (uterine vascularization, systemic arterial blood pressure and heart rate) throughout the oestrous cycle in bitches. For this purpose, ten Golden Retriever bitches were evaluated during an entire oestrous cycle, twice during each stage of the cycle. Uterine artery blood flow, velocity wave forms, haemodynamic parameters and vascularization were analysed by Doppler ultrasonography. Furthermore, uterine diameter, arterial blood pressure and heart rate were measured. Uterine artery pulsatility index at early prooestrus was significantly lower in comparison with early oestrus, mid‐ and late anoestrus. Uterine artery resistance index was higher at early oestrus when compared to late oestrus and uterine diameter was significantly higher during late prooestrus. Furthermore, mean arterial blood pressure was lower and heart rate was higher during late prooestrus in comparison with the other oestrous cycle stages. In conclusion, haemodynamic changes in the uterine artery, uterine diameter, systemic blood pressure and heart rate occur during the canine oestrous cycle. Specifically, there is an increase in uterine artery perfusion, uterine diameter and mean arterial blood pressure during prooestrus, while uterine blood flow diminishes during oestrus and anoestrus.
A Machine Learning Approach to Identifying the Thought Markers of Suicidal Subjects: A Prospective Multicenter Trial
Authors: Pestian John P. , Sorter Michael , Connolly Brian , Bretonnel Cohen Kevin , McCullumsmith Cheryl , Gee Jeffry T. , Morency Louis‐Philippe , Scherer Stefan , Rohlfs Lesley ,   the STM Research Group
Published: November 2016

Death by suicide demonstrates profound personal suffering and societal failure. While basic sciences provide the opportunity to understand biological markers related to suicide, computer science provides opportunities to understand suicide thought markers. In this novel prospective, multimodal, multicenter, mixed demographic study, we used machine learning to measure and fuse two classes of suicidal thought markers: verbal and nonverbal. Machine learning algorithms were used with the subjects’ words and vocal characteristics to classify 379 subjects recruited from two academic medical centers and a rural community hospital into one of three groups: suicidal, mentally ill but not suicidal, or controls. By combining linguistic and acoustic characteristics, subjects could be classified into one of the three groups with up to 85% accuracy. The results provide insight into how advanced technology can be used for suicide assessment and prevention.
Interpersonal influences on goals: Current and future directions for goal contagion research
Authors: Laurin Kristin
Published: November 2016

A growing body of research documents goal contagion, a phenomenon whereby people are likely to catch—to adopt and pursue for themselves—the goals they see others pursuing. Here, I situate goal contagion relative to other ideas about where goals come from and then review existing scholarship on the phenomenon itself and the processes that underlie it. I then point to four larger questions that goal contagion researchers must answer in the years to come. The first two of these questions (what levels of the self‐regulatory hierarchy are subject to contagion and what role goal contagion affords for consciousness and intention) delve deeper into the process of the phenomenon, while the second two (how goal contagion affects social relationships and how it plays into goal pursuit more broadly) highlight how researchers have largely ignored the question of how goal contagion might influence people's broader lives.
Barriers to forgiveness
Authors: Raj Medha , Wiltermuth Scott S.
Published: November 2016

Society generally encourages individuals to forgive their transgressors because forgiveness can yield many psychological, physiological, and social benefits (Exline & Baumeister, ). Nevertheless, victims face barriers to forgiving others, and other people face obstacles that prevent them from encouraging victims to forgive. We aim to provide insight into the various barriers that deter forgiveness by examining the role of the various parties involved—victims, transgressors, and uninvolved third parties—in creating barriers to forgiveness. We contend that beliefs held by these various parties significantly reduce the likelihood that victims will forgive their transgressors. By identifying how these beliefs impede forgiveness, we can begin to understand more fully why convincing victims to forgive is often a challenge. In our discussion, we also suggest ways by which victims, transgressors, and third parties can overcome these barriers to forgiveness.
Diversity of killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor genes in Drung Chinese
Authors: Jiang L. , Su P. , Yang T. , Zhu X. , Yao F. , Che Z. , Ma H. , Wang J. , Chen Q.
Published: November 2016

Killer cell immunoglobulin‐like receptor (KIR) genes are variably distributed among populations from distinct geographic areas and ethnic origins. We describe, for the first time, KIR gene diversity in 152 unrelated and healthy Drung individuals, as measured by sequence‐specific polymerase chain reaction. All 16 known KIR genes were detected. Of these, the framework genes KIR2DL4, 3DL2, 3DL3, and 3DP1 were present in all individuals as expected, along with the non‐framework genes KIR2DL1, 2DL3, and 2DP1. In contrast, KIR2DL2, 2DS2, and 2DS5 were unusually rare, suggesting that KIR gene distribution was relatively concentrated. Ten different KIR genotypes were found, of which the most common consisted of nine genes (KIR2DL1, 2DL3, 2DL4, 2DS4, 3DL1, 3DL2, 3DL3, 2DP1, and 3DP1) and accounted for 66.4% of participants. There were eight different haplotypes present, of which the A haplotype was the most common (81.9%). Principal components and dendrogram analysis confirmed that the Drung Chinese are most closely related to the Japanese, the Zhejiang Han, and the Yunnan Han. In conclusion, distinctive frequencies of KIR genes, haplotypes, and genotypes are observed in Chinese Drung.
A frame shift due to a two‐nucleotide insertion results in the an HLA‐B null allele, B*39:97N
Authors: Wang W. , Zhang W. , He J. , Xu J. , Zhu F.‐M.
Published: November 2016

HLA‐B*39:97N differs from HLA‐B*39:01:01 by a two nucleotide insertion at position 604–605.
Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria: a difficult diagnosis in adult patients
Authors: Zeller Michelle P. , Arnold Donald M. , Al Habsi Khalid , Cserti‐Gazdewich Christine , Delage Gilles , Lebrun Andres , Heddle Nancy M.
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Paroxysmal cold hemoglobinuria (PCH) is a rare form of autoimmune hemolytic anemia caused by a biphasic (Donath‐Landsteiner [DL]) immunoglobulin G autoantibody. Estimates of disease frequency after syphilis are lacking and the diagnostic yield of testing for PCH is uncertain. The objectives of this study were: 1) to describe DL testing practices in Canada, 2) to determine how often a biphasic RBC antibody is detected in adults and children, and 3) to evaluate inter‐rater reliability of interpretations of positive DL test results in adults.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

We performed a national survey of reference laboratories, chart review of all test‐positive cases, and independent panel adjudication.

RESULTS

Of 18 reference laboratories invited, 14 participated in the survey. In a representative year, 52 DL tests were requested across 14 centers, a region that serves more than 60% of Canada's population. In 124 cumulative testing‐years, three positive tests were reported in adults and 14 positive tests were reported in children. There was poor agreement on interpretation of the three positive test results in adults among a panel of four experts (Fleiss κ = −0.1852; standard error, 0.1309; 95% confidence interval, −0.4418 to 0.0715). At a large academic center, 34 samples from 27 patients were sent for DL testing from 2006 to 2013 with 97% (33/34) reported as negative, inconclusive, or unacceptable samples.

CONCLUSION

Positive DL test results are rare and occur more commonly in children than adults. There was poor agreement among experts on the interpretation of a positive DL test in adults. These observations highlight the difficulties in establishing the diagnosis of PCH in adults and calls for scrutiny of current laboratory practice.
The effect of a standard whole blood donation on oxygen uptake and exercise capacity: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Van Remoortel Hans , De Buck Emmy , Compernolle Veerle , Deldicque Louise , Vandekerckhove Philippe
Published: November 2016

BACKGROUND

Blood is a life‐saving product for many people worldwide. Voluntary blood donation serves the demand for blood but there are concerns among potential donors about the impact of blood loss on exercise performance. This systematic review aimed to collect the best available evidence of the effect of a standard whole blood donation on aerobic exercise performance.

STUDY DESIGN AND METHODS

Studies from six databases dealing with a standard whole blood donation (400‐500 mL) followed by (sub)maximal exercise were retained. The outcomes included exercise‐related blood variables (hemoglobin [Hb] concentration, hematocrit, and red blood cell count) and endurance exercise variables ((sub)maximal oxygen uptake, peak work rate, and time to exhaustion). Overall effects at different time points postdonation were investigated by performing meta‐analyses and calculating mean differences (and 95% confidence intervals). The GRADE methodology (Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation) was used to assess the quality of evidence.

RESULTS

We identified 6237 references and finally included 18 before–after studies of low quality. Twenty‐four to 48 hours after a blood donation, 1) Hb concentration was reduced (7% decrease) until 14 days after the blood donation (4% decrease), 2) maximal oxygen uptake (VO2max) was lower (7% decrease), and 3) a reduction in maximal exercise capacity (10% decrease) was present.

CONCLUSION

The best available evidence indicates that a standard whole blood donation (400‐500 mL) leads to small but potentially physiologically important reductions in Hb levels, VO2max, and maximal exercise capacity in the first 2 days after the blood donation.
Nonprismatic Air-Breathing Fuel Cells—Concept, Theory, Design, and Manufacturing
Authors: Praneeth Isanaka Sriram , Liou Frank F. , Newkirk Joseph W.
Published: November 2016

This paper details the research into axis symmetric architecture (ASA) proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells possessing nonprismatic cylindrical architecture. Advantages of the ASA include improved fuel flow, reduced sealing area and weight, and increased power densities. Numerical and analytical studies will show improvements to flow characteristics. The ASA design facilitates natural convective flow to promote improved reactant availability and the prototypes created also show the ease of manufacture and assembly. ASA designs, unlike traditional fuel cells, do not require clamping plates and fastening mechanisms and lead to prototypes with reduced size, weight, and cost.
Enhanced Toolbox for the Combined Analysis of Fluid- and Structure-Borne Noise of Hydraulic Systems
Authors: Waitschat Arne , Nordmann Lennard , Thielecke Frank , Pommier-Budinger Valérie
Published: November 2016

Today’s available software packages that feature dedicated hydraulic system noise analysis capabilities focus on the Fluid-Borne Noise (FBN) prediction in frequency or time domain. However, some noise sensitive hydraulic installation areas, like light weight structures in aviation, drive the development of an extended toolbox that also covers the prediction of Structure-Borne Noise (SBN) and Fluid-Structure-Interaction (FSI) in hydraulic systems.

This conference contribution presents the concept and design of such a toolbox. It is implemented in a Matlab Simulink/ Simscape environment by FBN-, SBN- and FSI- model libraries. For a given study case a simulation model is generated using elements from these libraries. The simulation results are experimentally validated using a dedicated hydraulic system noise test rig. It features a rotary valve as FBN source and a pipe system equipped with dynamic pressure transducers for FBN detection and acceleration sensors for SBN detection.

The analysis capabilities of such a toolbox are considered beneficial in particular for future (pre-/re-) design projects in the aviation environment, which hold challenging application constraints for efficient hydraulic system noise reduction devices: Besides obligatory strong limits on component weight and size, the high safety and reliability standards demand simple and maintenance-free onboard devices. Hence solutions with minimum hardware efforts are preferred. In this context, the proposed toolbox can be used for a combined tuning of type and location of standard/simple FBN silencers together with type and location of SBN effecting pipe clamps in order to optimize the overall system noise pattern towards an increased equipment durability and passenger comfort.
Modal Analysis of Fluid-Structure Interaction in a Bent Pipeline
Authors: Mikota Gudrun , Haas Rainer , Lukachev Evgeny
Published: November 2016

Fluid-structure interaction in a bent pipeline is investigated by modal methods. Measured frequency response functions between flow rate excitation and pressure response indicate a coupling effect near the third pipeline resonance. Using modal coordinates for the hydraulic and the mechanical subsystems, a two-degrees-of-freedom study of resonance coupling is carried out. An experimental modal analysis of the coupled hydraulic-mechanical system confirms the predicted resonance splitting; it illustrates the coupling mechanism and shows the relevant mechanical part. An analytical fluid-structure interaction model succeeds in reproducing the measured coupling effect. This model is also used for modification prediction; it demonstrates that an appropriate assembly of mass and damping on the pipeline can help to reduce hydraulic resonance amplitudes.
Active Pneumatic Pulsation Damper for Peristaltic Pump Flow Loops
Authors: Liermann Matthias
Published: November 2016

A novel concept of an active pulsation damper is described that cancels parasitic flow pulsatility of peristaltic pumps and is able to inject desired pulsatility signatures such as physiological heart beat. Peristaltic pumps avoid contact between the moving parts of a pump and the operating fluid. They are used for clean or sterile fluids as well as for highly aggressive fluids, whenever it is important to isolate the fluid from the environment. The background application for the proposed active pulsation damper is the simulation of hemodynamic flow.

The paper presents a novel pulse damper concept that allows the use of roller or peristaltic pumps as primary pumps for hemodynamic flow loops. The problem with peristaltic pumps is that they exhibit a high parasitic pulsatility that needs to be canceled before a desired pulsatility can be injected. The active pulsation damper does this and is also used to superpose a desired flow pattern that resembles measured heart flow rate profiles. The nonlinear dynamic equations of a test system with active pulsation dampers are established and linearized to allow a first analysis of the achievable bandwidth. Simulation results of the closed loop system are presented based on the non-linear equations.
Design and Control of Supporting Arm for Reducing Factory Worker Load With Desired Support Force and Stiffness Characteristics
Authors: Miyazaki Tetsuro , Iijima Takuya , Sanada Kazushi
Published: November 2016

This paper proposes a design and control method of a supporting arm which reduces factory worker load. The supporting arm is a robot manipulator, which is driven by pneumatic cylinders, and is attached to the worker’s hip. In some situation, the factory worker is forced to work with an uncomfortable posture. By using the supporting arm, the worker leg loads are relaxed, and the worker posture is stabilized. To support 50 % weight of the worker, the link system of the supporting arm is designed, and the pneumatic cylinders for actuation are selected. There are two required specifications: (i) support force is sufficient for supporting target load, and (ii) desired stiffness characteristics in the hip height direction can be obtained. The support force is controlled by a two degrees of freedom control system to satisfy the required specifications. An experimental system of the supporting arm was developed, and its performance was evaluated by experiments. As a result, the experimental system shows capability of supporting the target weight and controllability of stiffness.
An Energy Audit for a Three-Function Hydraulic Control System: A Consideration of Pump Arrangements
Authors: Manring Noah D. , Mehta Viral S.
Published: November 2016

When designing a hydraulic circuit, there are a number of ways to power each hydraulic function in the circuit. For instance, a single hydraulic function may be powered by its own dedicated pump; or, a hydraulic function may share a pump with additional functions in the circuit. The design question is this: “What is the optimal arrangement of pumps for a given circuit that will result in the lowest energy consumption and the smallest machine size?” This research documents an example study in which a duty cycle from the typical wheel loader is used to study the five possible pump-combinations that exist for powering the lift, tilt, and steering functions of the machine. It is shown that the lowest efficiency for the machine is observed when all three functions are powered by a single pump, and that a 15% efficiency increase may be realized over the single-pump design by giving each function its own dedicated pump. In order to achieve this efficiency increase, the original single pump is replaced by the following pump combination: 1) a pump 69% the size of the original pump for the Lift function, 2) a pump 86% the size of the original pump for the Tilt function, and 3) a pump 31% the size of the original pump for the Steering function. This solution increases the overall pump volume on the machine by 86%, nearly doubling the pump volume on the machine.
Co-Simulation ADAMS-Simulink for Analysis of Passive Four-Point Leveling System of the Hydraulic Press
Authors: Sun Chungeng , Wei Jianhua , Fang Jinhui , Huang Chengzhang , Li Mingjie
Published: November 2016

The four-point leveling hydraulic system (FLHS) is a key component of high-precision hydraulic press. To meet the development trend of leveling system of hydraulic press, such as large stroke, anti-bias load ability, big leveling torque, principle of passive FLHS with four axis synchronous controlling has been proposed, using four high-precision displacement sensors and four high-response servo-proportional valves (HSPV). Because the HSPV has a certain predictive opening, during the process of passive leveling operating, linearization of the mathematic model at operating point is necessary. In this paper, a simulation model of the system, which uses the average type synchronous control strategy, is built with ADAMS and MATLAB / Simulink, as well as the operational parameters of the model. The result of the simulation shows that the system using the average type synchronous control strategy is able to ensure the synchronization error among the four axis of the leveling system. It also suggests that the proposed leveling and the control strategy are reasonable, effective and feasible.
Characteristics Analysis of Pneumatic Booster Valve With Energy Recovery
Authors: Yang Fan , Tadano Kotaro , Li Gangyan , Kagawa Toshiharu
Published: November 2016

Pneumatic booster valve is widely used in local pressure boost circuit for energy saving, a new booster valve with energy recovery (short for BVER) was proposed in this paper in order to further improve the energy efficiency. Firstly, the principle of BVER was introduced by comparing with the traditional booster. Based on flow-rate characteristics equation, gas state equation, energy conservation equation, etc., the mathematics model of BVER was established, and the flow-rate characteristics, boost ratio, pressure in tank and energy efficiency were systematically analyzed by simulation. Lastly, the model was verified by experiments. This study shows that: firstly, the pressure decreased sharply with the flow-rate’s increasing, and the pressure in tank is much lower than in BVER. Secondly, the boost ratio was affected by supply pressure, regulator coefficient and the diameter of recovery chamber. Thirdly, the pressure fluctuation in tank decreases with the tank volume increasing, and the pressure fluctuation is less than 1% when tank volume is larger than 10L. Lastly, the energy efficiency will increase 5∼10 percent with the boost ratio increases 15∼25 percent under different supply pressure. This study proves that BVER has better performance than VBA for its high boost ratio and high energy efficiency, and it provides a reference for booster valve’s design and energy saving.
Research on the Stability of a System Consisting of a Water Hydraulic Control Valve and Cylinder
Authors: Yoshida Futoshi , Miyakawa Shimpei , Iio Shouichiro
Published: November 2016

Water hydraulic system using tap water as working fluid is a new driving method which provides high speed, high-output control, while providing safety, hygiene, and ecofriendliness. Its applicable markets widely range from food, health, pharmaceuticals, cosmetics, semiconductors, beverages, to energy industries. Applications of the water hydraulic technology differ from those of its oil counterpart in heavy industries.

This paper is aimed at analytically considering the stability of systems that use tap water as the working fluid. We studied a comprehensive system, including a water hydraulic control valve, a cylinder, and piping for connecting these components, to determine the transfer function of the entire system that has three elements: a control valve; piping and cylinder; and a compensation circuit. Based on the determined function, we reviewed the relationship among natural frequencies of the system, including the control valve and piping, and examined the effect of the control valve and cylinder on the stability of the entire system according to the Hurwitz stability criterion. This gave us a design guideline about the compensation circuit that stabilizes the system by adjusting the natural frequency of the water hydraulic proportional control valve according to the natural frequencies of the piping and cylinder.
Boom Potential Energy Regeneration Scheme for Hydraulic Excavators
Authors: Kim Young-Bum , Kim Pan-Young , Murrenhoff Hubertus
Published: November 2016

When hydraulic excavators lower their boom or brake the rotating upper structure, recoverable potential or kinetic energy is available. In recent years electric and hydraulic hybrid excavators have been developed to recover this energy that is lost through usually the throttle or relief valve. Although boom lowering motion occurs frequently, most commercial hybrid excavators only recover the swing braking energy. Some hybrid architectures to recover the boom potential energy have also been introduced, however, much of this energy is still lost as throttling losses when they save the energy into a storage device by using a recuperation scheme or they need many additional electric components.

This paper introduces a new regeneration scheme to recover the boom potential energy for hydraulic excavators. By directly connecting the head chambers of the boom cylinders to a variable displacement hydraulic motor installed on the engine shaft, the boom potential energy could be used to support the torque required to be delivered by the engine. The speed of boom lowering is controlled by adjusting the motor displacement. Also bypass into a tank is implemented to limit the size of the recovery motor. The simulation results show the average fuel consumption in leveling and 90deg truck loading tasks can be reduced by 10% and 7%, respectively.