bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Micro‐ribonucleic acid‐binding site variants of type 2 diabetes candidate loci predispose to gestational diabetes mellitus in Chinese Han women
Authors: Wang Xiaojing , Li Wei , Ma Liangkun , Ping Fan , Liu Juntao , Wu Xueyan , Mao Jiangfeng , Wang Xi , Nie Min
Published: January 2018

Aims/Introduction

Emerging evidence has suggested that the genetic background of gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM) was analogous to type 2 diabetes mellitus. In contrast to type 2 diabetes mellitus, the genetic studies for GDM were limited. Accordingly, the aim of the present study was to extensively explore the influence of micro‐ribonucleic acid‐binding single‐nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) in type 2 diabetes mellitus candidate loci on GDM susceptibility in Chinese.

Materials and Methods

A total of 839 GDM patients and 900 controls were enrolled. Six micro‐ribonucleic acid‐binding SNPs were selected from 30 type 2 diabetes mellitus susceptibility loci and genotyped using TaqMan allelic discrimination assays.

Results

The minor allele of three SNPs, PAX4 rs712699 (OR 1.366, 95% confidence interval 1.021–1.828, P = 0.036), KCNB1 rs1051295 (OR 1.579, 95% confidence interval 1.172–2.128, P = 0.003) and MFN2 rs1042842 (OR 1.398, 95% confidence interval 1.050–1.862, P = 0.022) were identified to significantly confer higher a risk of GDM in the additive model. The association between rs1051295 and increased fasting plasma glucose (b = 0.006, P = 0.008), 3‐h oral glucose tolerance test plasma glucose (b = 0.058, P = 0.025) and homeostatic model assessment of insulin resistance (b = 0.065, P = 0.017) was also shown. Rs1042842 was correlated with higher 3‐h oral glucose tolerance test plasma glucose (b = 0.056, P = 0.028). However, no significant correlation between the other included SNPs (LPIN1 rs1050800, VPS26A rs1802295 and NLRP3 rs10802502) and GDM susceptibility were observed.

Conclusions

The present findings showed that micro‐ribonucleic acid‐binding SNPs in type 2 diabetes mellitus candidate loci were also associated with GDM susceptibility, which further highlighted the similar genetic basis underlying GDM and type 2 diabetes mellitus.
Singing in the rain: Valuing the economic benefits of avoiding insecurity from urban flooding
Authors: Torgersen G. , Navrud S.
Published: January 2018

Avoiding households’ fear of urban flooding damages during heavy rain is a benefit component often overlooked in cost–benefit analysis (CBA) of measures preventing these damages. A contingent valuation (CV) survey shows that the monetary value of the welfare gain to Norwegian households from avoiding this insecurity, can be substantial. Households who feel exposed and live close to areas with previous urban flooding, have higher willingness‐to‐pay in terms of increased municipal charges, to avoid insecurity than those that live further away. We discuss how such measures of “closeness to flooding” can be used in future CBAs of measures preventing urban flooding. Adding the benefits of reduced insecurity in CBAs could justify higher investment in urban flood prevention.
Identifying the Stance of Monetary Policy at the Zero Lower Bound: A Markov‐Switching Estimation Exploiting Monetary‐Fiscal Policy Interdependence
Authors: GONZALEZ‐ASTUDILLO MANUEL
Published: January 2018

In this paper, I propose an econometric technique to estimate a Markov‐switching Taylor rule subject to the zero lower bound of interest rates. I show that linking the switching of the Taylor rule coefficients to the switching of the coefficients of an auxiliary uncensored Markov‐switching regression improves the identification of an otherwise unidentifiable prevalent monetary regime because of the presence of the zero lower bound. Using a Markov‐switching fiscal policy rule as the auxiliary regression, I apply the estimation technique to U.S. data. Results show evidence of monetary and fiscal policy comovements, with monetary policy reacting weakly to inflation when fiscal policy is focused on real activity as opposed to debt stabilization, and vice versa.
Doxorubicin, mesenchymal stem cell toxicity and antitumour activity: implications for clinical use
Authors: Baxter-Holland Mia , Dass Crispin R
Published: January 2018

Objectives

The use of doxorubicin, an antineoplastic medication used for the treatment of cancers via mechanisms that prevent replication of cells or lead to their death, can result in damage to healthy cells as well as malignant. Among the affected cells are mesenchymal stem cells (MSCs), which are involved in the maintenance and repair of tissues in the body. This review explores the mechanisms of biological effects and damage attributed to doxorubicin on MSCs. The PubMed database was used as a source of literature for this review.

Key findings

Doxorubicin has the potential to lead to significant and irreversible damage to the human bone marrow environment, including MSCs. The primary known mechanism of these changes is through free radical damage and activation of apoptotic pathways. The presence of MSCs in culture or in vivo appears to either suppress or promote tumour growth. Interactions between doxorubicin and MSCs have the potential to increase chemotherapy resistance.

Doxorubicin-induced damage to MSCs is of concern clinically. However, MSCs also have been associated with resistance of tumour cells to drugs including doxorubicin. Further studies, particularly in vivo, are needed to provide consistent results of how the doxorubicin-induced changes to MSCs affect treatment and patient health.
Amoxicillin—current use in swine medicine
Authors: Burch D. G. S. , Sperling D.
Published: January 2018

Amoxicillin has become a major antimicrobial substance in pig medicine for the treatment and control of severe, systemic infections such as Streptococcus suis. The minimum inhibitory concentration 90% (MIC 90) is 0.06 μg amoxicillin/ml, and the proposed epidemiological cut‐off value (ECOFF) is 0.5 μg/ml, giving only 0.7% of isolates above the ECOFF or of reduced susceptibility. Clinical breakpoints have not been set for amoxicillin against porcine pathogens yet, hence the use of ECOFFs. It has also been successfully used for bacterial respiratory infections caused by Actinobacillus pleuropneumoniae and Pasteurella multocida. The ECOFF for amoxicillin against A. pleuropneumoniae is also 0.5 μg/ml demonstrating only a reduced susceptibility in 11.3% of isolates. Similarly, P. multocida had an ECOFF of 1.0 μg/ml and a reduced susceptibility in only 2.6% of isolates. This reduced susceptibility disappears when combined with the beta‐lactamase inhibitor, clavulanic acid, demonstrating that it is primarily associated with beta‐lactamase production. In contrast, amoxicillin is active against Escherichia coli and Salmonella species but using ECOFFs of 8.0 and 4.0 μg/ml, respectively, reduced susceptibility can be seen in 70.9% and 67.7% of isolates. These high levels of reduced susceptibility are primarily due to beta‐lactamase production also, and most of this resistance can be overcome by the combination of amoxicillin with clavulanic acid. Currently, amoxicillin alone is considered an extremely valuable antimicrobial in both human and animal medicine and remains in the critically important category of antibiotics alongside the fluoroquinolones and macrolides by the World Health Organization as well as the third‐ and fourth‐generation cephalosporins, but these cephalosporins show marked resistance to basic beta‐lactamase production and are only destroyed by the extended‐spectrum beta‐lactamases. Amoxicillin alone and in combination with clavulanic acid are currently classed together in Category 2 in the European Union. By reviewing the pharmacodynamic data and comparing this with pharmacokinetic data from healthy and infected animals and clinical trial data, it can be seen that the product has a good efficacy against S. suis and A. pleuropneumoniae, in spite of usage over many years. However, it may be much less efficacious on its own against E. coli, due to reduced susceptibility and resistance associated with beta‐lactamase production, which is largely overcome by the use of clavulanic acid. It is felt that this differentiation may be useful in future classification of amoxicillin alone, in comparison with its combined use with clavulanic acid and thereby preserve the use of the more critically important antibiotics in veterinary medicine and reducing the risk of their resistance being transmitted to human.
Pharmacokinetic profiles of the active metamizole metabolites after four different routes of administration in healthy dogs
Authors: Giorgi M. , Łebkowska‐Wieruszewska B. , Lisowski A. , Owen H. , Poapolathep A. , Kim T. W. , De Vito V.
Published: January 2018

Metamizole (MT), an analgesic and antipyretic drug, is rapidly hydrolyzed to the active primary metabolite 4‐methylaminoantipyrine (MAA) and relatively active secondary metabolite 4‐aminoantipyrine (AA). The aim of this study was to assess the pharmacokinetic profiles of MAA and AA after dose of 25 mg/kg MT by intravenous (i.v.), intramuscular (i.m.), oral (p.o.), and rectal (RC) routes in dogs. Six dogs were randomly allocated to an open, single‐dose, four‐treatment, four‐phase, unpaired, crossover study design. Blood was collected at predetermined times within 24 hr, and plasma was analyzed by a validated HPLC‐UV method. Plasma concentrations of MAA and AA after i.v., i.m., p.o., and RC administrations of MT were detectable from 5 (i.v. and i.m.) or 30 (p.o. and RC) min to 24 hr in all dogs. The highest concentrations of MAA were found in the i.v., then i.m., p.o., and RC groups. Plasma concentrations of AA were similar for i.v., i.m., and RC, and the concentrations were approximately double those in the PO groups. The AUCEV/IV ratio for MAA was 0.75 ± 0.11, 0.59 ± 0.08, and 0.32 ± 0.05, for i.m., p.o., and RC, respectively. The AUCEV/IV ratio for AA was 1.21 ± 0.33, 2.17 ± 0.62, and 1.08 ± 0.19, for i.m., p.o., and RC, respectively. Although further studies are needed, rectal administration seems to be the least suitable route of administration for MT in the dog.
Tolerance of fen mosses to submergence, and the influence on moss community composition and ecosystem resilience
Authors: Borkenhagen Andrea , Cooper David J.
Published: January 2018

Question

Flood disturbance in peatlands can create temporary or permanently submerged areas where tolerant species may persist and replace intolerant species over time. Fen moss species and communities occur along a hummock–hollow gradient in natural ecosystems, but their resistance and resilience to different durations of submergence has yet to be tested. We asked what are the short‐ and long‐term effects of submergence duration on four common boreal fen moss species and the implications for ecosystem resilience?

Location

Rich fen near Fort McMurray, Alberta, Canada.

Methods

To examine the effect of submergence duration on fen moss species and communities, we harvested and submerged monoculture plugs dominated byHamatocaulis vernicosus,Sphagnum warnstorfii, Tomentypnum nitensandAulacomnium palustrein the field under rich fen water for 1–8 weeks. After submergence, we planted the plugs in bare peat at the same site to evaluate the short‐ and long‐term responses of each species and changes in moss community composition over time.

Results

We found that moss species response to duration of submergence is not strictly related to their occurrence along a hummock–hollow gradient and that tolerant species maintain or restore moss cover.H. vernicosuswas most tolerant to submergence of all durations, whereasS. warnstorfiiwas nearly eliminated by submergence. Over the long term, more tolerant species replaced less tolerant species, increasing diversity and moss community resilience. Overall, moss communities withoutS. warnstorfiiwere resilient to 4 weeks of submergence becauseT. nitensandH. vernicosusmaintained dominance or established where the cover of less resilient species was limited.

Conclusions

We show that moss species varied in their responses to submergence duration, resulting in shifts in community composition and long‐term effects on community resilience with longer durations of submergence. This provides insight into how moss communities provide stability to peatlands in response to disturbance through shifts in community composition that support tolerant dominant species.
Trophic niche, capture efficiency and venom profiles of six sympatric ant‐eating spider species (Araneae: Zodariidae)
Authors: Pekár Stano , Petráková Lenka , Šedo Ondrej , Korenko Stanislav , Zdráhal Zbyněk
Published: January 2018

The arms race between specialist predators and their prey has resulted in the evolution of a variety of specific adaptations. In venomous predators, this can include venom composition, particularly if predators are specialized on dangerous prey. Here, we performed an integrative study using six species of highly specialized ant‐eating spiders of the genus Zodarion to investigate their phylogeny, realized trophic niche, efficacy in the capture of various ant species and venom composition. Data on natural diet obtained by next‐generation sequencing and field observations showed that the six Zodarion species exploit different ant species. Their phylogeny, based on mitochondrial and nuclear genes, correlated with the composition of their natural prey, indicating that closely related Zodarion species specialize on similar ant species. Prey‐capture parameters differed among Zodarion species suggesting prey‐specific efficacy. Similarly, the venom profiles of both low and high molecular compounds differed among species. Only the profiles of low molecular compounds were correlated with capture efficacy parameters, suggesting that the venom of Zodarion spiders contains prey‐specific components. Our study suggests that Iberian Zodarion spiders are specialized on particular ant species.
Development of paradoxical cerebral embolism during lymphatic draining massage: A case report
Authors: Oomura Masahiro , Fujioka Teppei , Usami Toshihiko , Wakami Kazuaki , Mizuno Masayuki , Matsukawa Noriyuki
Published: January 2018

A 62‐year‐old woman presented with left hemiparesis just after finishing lymphatic draining massage involving the four extremities. Diffusion‐weighted magnetic resonance imaging showed an acute infarct in the right precentral gyrus. The diagnosis of paradoxical cerebral embolism was established on the findings of transesophageal echocardiography and detected thrombi in the leg veins. Movement of extant thrombi in the legs to the right atrium, in association with massage, is considered to have contributed to the stroke onset.
The Impact of Degree Duration on Higher Education Participation: Evidence from a Large‐scale Natural Experiment
Authors: Bondonio Daniele , Berton Fabio
Published: January 2018

This paper investigates the effects on enrolment, retention rate and on‐time graduation of a nationwide Bologna Process reform introduced in Italy to establish BAs with a duration of three years, followed by optional second‐tier degrees of two years, in place of single‐tier degrees of four or five years. The analysis exploits exogenous delay of treatment conditions and the unique availability of microdata that cover the universe of the departments. We estimate that the reform boosted first‐year enrolments by 14.5–17.3 percentage points, compared to a counterfactual status of no reform. This enrolment shift was due to participation gains rather than substitution effects, and it is likely to have persisted in the longer term. Moreover, no trade‐off between increased participation and deteriorated retention and on‐time graduation emerged.
Persistent pain following common outpatient surgeries in children: A multicenter study in Italy
Authors: Mossetti Valeria , Boretsky Karen , Astuto Marinella , Locatelli Bruno G. , Zurakowski David , Lio Rodolfo , Nicoletti Roberta , Sonzogni Valter , Maffioletti Micol , Vicchio Noemi , Ivani Giorgio
Published: January 2018

Introduction

The prevalence of persistent postsurgical pain in children is over 20% after major surgeries; however, data are scarce on the prevalence, character, and risk factors among children undergoing common ambulatory surgeries. The primary aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence of persistent pain following pediatric ambulatory surgery at 1, 3, and 6 months. Secondary aims were to identify risk factors and characterize the pain and consequences of persistent postsurgical pain.

Methods

ASA I‐II, ages 1 month to 16 years old, undergoing elective hypospadias repair, herniorraphy, orchiopexy, and orthopedic surgery were enrolled in a prospective, longitudinal, observational study at 3 pediatric centers in Italy. All patients received general plus regional anesthesia. Postoperative pain was evaluated using age appropriate pain scales at 1 and 3 hours. At 1, 3, and 6 months, pain scores were obtained and Parent's Postoperative Pain Measures (<8 yo) and Child Activity Limitations Interview (>8 yo) surveys were administered.

Results

About 350 patients completed the study. The prevalence of pain at 1, 3, and 6 months was 24% (84/350), 6.0% (21/350), and 4.0% (14/350), respectively. Inguinal herniorraphy patients experienced significantly higher pain at all 3‐time points; 35.6%, 14.9%, and 9.2%. There was no significant association between mean pain scores >4 in PACU and persistent pain. Pain persisting at 6 months had neuropathic characteristics and frequently interfered with daily activities and sleep.

Conclusion

Our data support the presence of persistent pain in pediatric patients after common surgeries. Most patients who developed persistent pain at 6 months had pain at 1 month. We recommend questioning at follow‐up visit about persistent pain and functional impairment with follow‐up until resolution.
Rice copine genes OsBON1 and OsBON3 function as suppressors of broad‐spectrum disease resistance
Authors: Yin Xin , Zou Baohong , Hong Xuexue , Gao Mingjun , Yang Weibing , Zhong Xiangbin , He Yang , Kuai Peng , Lou Yonggen , Huang Jirong , Hua Jian , He Zuhua
Published: January 2018

Breeding for disease resistance is the most effective strategy to control diseases, particularly with broad‐spectrum disease resistance in many crops. However, knowledge on genes and mechanism of broad‐spectrum resistance and trade‐off between defence and growth in crops is limited. Here, we show that the rice copine genes OsBON1 and OsBON3 are critical suppressors of immunity. Both OsBON1 and OsBON3 changed their protein subcellular localization upon pathogen challenge. Knockdown of OsBON1 and dominant negative mutant of OsBON3 each enhanced resistance to rice bacterial and fungal pathogens with either hemibiotrophic or necrotrophic lifestyles. The defence activation in OsBON1 knockdown mutants was associated with reduced growth, both of which were largely suppressed under high temperature. In contrast, overexpression of OsBON1 or OsBON3 decreased disease resistance and promoted plant growth. However, neither OsBON1 nor OsBON3 could rescue the dwarf phenotype of the Arabidopsis BON1 knockout mutant, suggesting a divergence of the rice and Arabidopsis copine genes. Our study therefore shows that the rice copine genes play a negative role in regulating disease resistance and their expression level and protein location likely have a large impact on the balance between immunity and agronomic traits.
Picturing Primates and Looking at Monkeys: Why 21st Century Primatology Needs Wittgenstein
Authors: Barrett Louise
Published: January 2018

The Social Intelligence or Social Brain Hypothesis is an influential theory that aims to explain the evolution of brain size and cognitive complexity among the primates. This has shaped work in both primate behavioural ecology and comparative psychology in deep and far‐reaching ways. Yet, it not only perpetuates many of the conceptual confusions that have plagued psychology since its inception, but amplifies them, generating an overly intellectual view of what it means to be a competent and successful social primate. Here, I present an analysis of the Social Intelligence/Brain hypothesis highlighting how its anthropocentric origins have led us to be held captive by a picture of what social life involves and the kind of mind needed to navigate the social landscape. I go on to consider how experimental work in this vein either does not test what it claims to be testing, or introduces impossible problems regarding animal minds that cannot be solved, but only dissolved. What we need, in other words, is the application of “Wittgenstein's razor” and the reinvention of primatology along his enactivist lines.
A sticky end for gastrointestinal helminths; the role of the mucus barrier
Authors: Sharpe C. , Thornton D. J. , Grencis R. K.
Published: January 2018

Gastrointestinal (GI) nematodes are a group of successful multicellular parasites that have evolved to coexist within the intestinal niche of multiple species. It is estimated that over 10% of the world's population are chronically infected by GI nematodes, making this group of parasitic nematodes a major burden to global health. Despite the large number of affected individuals, there are few effective treatments to eradicate these infections. Research into GI nematode infections has primarily focused on defining the immunological and pathological consequences on host protection. One important but neglected aspect of host protection is mucus, and the concept that mucus is just a simple barrier is no longer tenable. In fact, mucus is a highly regulated and dynamic‐secreted matrix, underpinned by a physical hydrated network of highly glycosylated mucins, which is increasingly recognized to have a key protective role against GI nematode infections. Unravelling the complex interplay between mucins, the underlying epithelium and immune cells during infection are a major challenge and are required to fully define the protective role of the mucus barrier. This review summarizes the current state of knowledge on mucins and the mucus barrier during GI nematode infections, with particular focus on murine models of infection.
Hallucinations, neuroplasticity, and prediction errors in schizophrenia
Authors: McCleery Amanda , Wynn Jonathan K. , Green Michael F.
Published: January 2018

Auditory hallucinations, a hallmark symptom of psychosis, are experienced by most people with a diagnosis of schizophrenia at some point in their illness. Auditory hallucinations can be understood as a failure in predictive coding, whereby abnormalities in sensory/perceptual processing combine with biased cognitive processes to result in a dampening of normal prediction error signaling. In this paper, we used a roving mismatch negativity (MMN) paradigm to optimize evaluation of prediction error signaling and short‐term neuroplasticity in 30 people with schizophrenia (n = 16 with and n = 14 without recent auditory hallucinations) and 20 healthy comparison participants. The recent hallucinations group exhibited an abnormal roving MMN profile [F(2,27) = 3.98, p = 0.03], significantly reduced prediction error signaling [t(28) = –2.25, p = 0.03], and a trend for diminished short‐term neuroplasticity [t(28) = 1.80, p = 0.08]. There were no statistically significant differences between the healthy comparison group and the combined schizophrenia group on any of the roving MMN indices. These findings are consistent with a predictive coding account of hallucinations in schizophrenia, which posits reduced prediction error signaling in those who are prone to hallucinations. These results also suggest that plasticity‐mediated formation and online updating of predictive coding models may also be disrupted in individuals with recent hallucinations.
The research evidence for schizophrenia as a neurodevelopmental disorder
Authors: Rund Bjorn Rishovd
Published: January 2018

Schizophrenia is a neurodevelopmental disorder that starts very early. In this review we describe the empirical evidence for the neurodevelopmental model. First, by outlining the roots of psychological research that laid the foundation of the model. Thereafter, describing cognitive dysfunction observed in schizophrenia, and the course of cognitive functioning in the illness. Then, research findings that speak for and studies that speak against the view that schizophrenia is a degenerative process is discussed. We find that there is ample evidence that cognitive disturbance is a core element in schizophrenia. However, we have limited understanding of what initiates the abnormal development. This the paper ends with pointing out some of the factors that may trigger the deviant neurocognitive development in schizophrenia.
Eryptosis and hemorheological responses to maximal exercise in athletes: Comparison between running and cycling
Authors: Nader E. , Guillot N. , Lavorel L. , Hancco I. , Fort R. , Stauffer E. , Renoux C. , Joly P. , Germain M. , Connes P.
Published: January 2018

We compared the effects of cycling and running exercise on hemorheological and hematological properties, as well as eryptosis markers. Seven endurance‐trained subjects randomly performed a progressive and maximal exercise test on a cycle ergometer and a treadmill. Blood was sampled at rest and at the end of the exercise to analyze hematological and blood rheological parameters including hematocrit (Hct), red blood cell (RBC) deformability, aggregation, and blood viscosity. Hemoglobin saturation (SpO2), blood lactate, and glucose levels were also monitored. Red blood cell oxidative stress, calcium content, and phosphatidylserine exposure were determined by flow cytometry to assess eryptosis level. Cycling exercise increased blood viscosity and RBC aggregation whereas it had no significant effect on RBC deformability. In contrast, blood viscosity remained unchanged and RBC deformability increased with running. The increase in Hct, lactate, and glucose concentrations and the loss of weight at the end of exercise were not different between running and cycling. Eryptosis markers were not affected by exercise. A significant drop in SpO2 was noted during running but not during cycling. Our study showed that a progressive and maximal exercise test conducted on a cycle ergometer increased blood viscosity while the same test conducted on a treadmill did not change this parameter because of different RBC rheological behavior between the 2 tests. We also demonstrated that a short maximal exercise does not alter RBC physiology in trained athletes. We suspect that exercise‐induced hypoxemia occurring during running could be at the origin of the RBC rheological behavior differences with cycling.
On The Word Order Of Numeral Quantifier Constructions
Authors: An Duk‐Ho
Published: January 2018

In this paper, I examine the numeral quantifier construction in Korean and propose novel generalizations about the order of four key elements, i.e., numeral, quantifier, noun, and case marker, to the effect that (i) numerals always precede quantifiers and (ii) nouns always precede case markers. I show that the interplay between these two properties correctly yields all and only the attested orders in numeral quantifier constructions in the language. To account for the various word order possibilities in the construction in question, I propose a uniform analysis which employs layers of functional categories and iterated applications of movement, essentially following Cinque () and Watanabe (,).
A Restriction on Recursion
Authors: den Dikken Marcel , Dékány Éva
Published: January 2018

Universal Grammar places a restriction on self‐embedding recursion structures created through External Merge: A phasal category of type α can be embedded in a phasal category of the same type where there is a c‐command relation between the heads of the two instances of α only if the two instances of α are separated by a phase head. This restriction (the exact counterpart of the familiar c‐command cum phasemate requirement that is imposed on identical copies of a single category under Internal Merge) explains a variety of hitherto poorly understood properties of the noun phrase. The set of elements that are eligible to serve as nondative possessors in Hungarian possessive DPs is shown to fall out from the recursion restriction: all and only those possessors that are not as large as DP can be placed in the caseless possessor position in the immediate c‐command domain of the D head of the possessive noun phrase; dative possessors are in the specifier position of the possessive DP, not c‐commanded by its D head and hence immune to the recursion restriction. The recursion restriction sheds new light on the syntax of the possessive noun phrase, the nature of possessor drop, and the structure and distribution of demonstratives. The analysis also presents an empirical case for labeling of XP–YP structures via ϕ‐feature sharing.
Identification of a novel HLA‐C*12 allele, HLA‐C*12:221
Authors: Huo M.‐R. , Yu Y. , Xi B. , Li D.
Published: January 2018

HLA‐C*12:221 differs from C*12:02:03 by a single nucleotide substitution at position 367 of exon 3.
A new HLA‐C*05 allele, HLA‐C*05:156, characterized by full‐length hemizygous sequencing
Authors: Montanic S. , Voorter C. E. M. , Tilanus M. G. J. , Vidan‐Jeras B.
Published: January 2018

HLA‐C*05:156 allele differs from C*05:01:01:02 by a nucleotide change in exon 2 at codon 9.
Decreased superficial surgical site infections, shortened hospital stay, and improved quality of life due to incisional negative pressure wound therapy after reversal of double loop ileostomy
Authors: Poehnert Daniel , Hadeler Nils , Schrem Harald , Kaltenborn Alexander , Klempnauer Juergen , Winny Markus
Published: January 2018

This single‐center prospective, controlled observational study investigates the impact of incisional negative pressure wound therapy on wound healing processes and its potency to prevent superficial surgical site infections (SSSI) after reversal of a double loop ileostomy. Furthermore, this study gains insight in socioeconomic aspects, like duration of hospital stay and, for the first time, patient's quality of life during the incisional negative pressure wound treatment. To address this question, an interventional group of 24 patients treated with incisional negative pressure wound therapy (Prevena incisional wound management system, KCI, Germany) and a respective control cohort of 25 patients treated with a standard sterile dressing were observed for 30 days in the postoperative course. Postoperative incisional negative pressure wound therapy resulted in statistically significant decreasing duration of hospital stay (6 days vs. 9 days, p = 0.019) and lower rates of SSSIs (12.5% vs. 20.0%, p = 0.478) in accordance with a not statistically significant decreased necessity of postoperative antibiotic therapy (12.5% vs. 36%, p = 0.051). To survey subjective items of well‐being and quality of life, all patients were asked to answer a questionnaire. Patients of both groups noticed increasing quality of life after reversal of their ileostomy. However, patients treated with an incisional negative pressure wound therapy had a superior improvement of a variety of subjective items, resulting in an overall much better satisfaction with the course of wound healing. Our findings suggest, that incisional negative pressure wound therapy seems to be a reasonable therapeutic option to reduce incidence of SSSIs and to have a beneficial impact to patient's quality of life, as well as, socio‐economic aspects.
Developing a Kinematically Similar Master Device for Extensible Continuum Robot Manipulators
Authors: Frazelle Chase G. , Kapadia Apoorva , Walker Ian
Published: January 2018

We introduce a novel input device for the teleoperation of extensible continuum robots. As opposed to previous works limited by kinematically dissimilar master devices or restricted degrees-of-freedom (DoF), a kinematically similar input device capable of 9DoF is designed and used. The device is capable of achieving configurations identical to a three-section continuum robot and simplifies the teleoperation of such manipulators. In this paper, we outline the design of the input device and its construction. Implementation of the new master device and its effectiveness in regulating a physical system is also discussed.
Numerical Investigation of Laminar Natural Convection in a Square Cavity With Wavy Wall and Horizontal Fin Attached to the Hot Wall
Authors: Kadari Ahmed , Sad Chemloul Nord-Eddine , Mekroussi Said
Published: January 2018

Laminar natural convection in differentially heated square cavity with right cold wavy wall and horizontal conducting fin attached to its left hot wall has been investigated numerically. The vertical walls are maintained at different isothermal temperatures, while the horizontal walls are insulated. The fluid that filled the cavity is air with Prandtl number of 0.71. The investigation has been performed for Rayleigh number in the range of 103–106, the thermal conductivity ratio was varied from 10 to 105, three fin lengths and positions have been examined (0.25, 0.5, and 0.75), and three numbers of undulation were tested (one, two, and three undulations). The wave amplitude and the fin thickness were kept constant at 0.05 and 0.04, respectively. The results obtained show that increasing the fin thermal conductivity or the Rayleigh number increases the average Nusselt number especially when the fin length increases. It was also found that the fin position enhances the heat transfer when the fin is placed opposite to the crest of the wavy wall. The trend of the local Nusselt number is wavy. The effect of undulations number appears when the fin length is greater than 0.5. The average Nusselt number enhanced when a conducting fin is added to the cavity with wavy wall and without fin by 51.23% and 56.85% for one and three undulations, respectively, when the Rayleigh number is 105 and the fin length is 0.75.
Integral Pumping Devices for Dual Mechanical Seals: Hydraulic Performance Generalization Using Dimensional Analysis
Authors: Warda Hassan A. , Adam Ihab G. , Rashad Ahmed B. , Gamal-Aldin Muhannad W.
Published: January 2018

An experimental study is carried out investigating hydraulic performance for various designs of dual-mechanical-seal cartridges with integral pumping-rings. The tested devices are classified into two main families: radial-flow and axial-flow. The radial-flow family utilizes the modified-paddle-wheel (MPW) pumping ring with either a radial or a tangential oriented cartridge outlet port, while the axial-flow family utilizes the pumping scroll (PS) pumping ring in the following cartridge-geometries: single-pumping-scroll (SS) and double-pumping-scroll (DS); as both types can be of either a radial or a tangential outlet port; and of an internal clearance value complying with American Petroleum Institute (API) 682 standard or smaller clearance. An experimental setup is constructed, and appropriate instrumentation is employed to measure inlet pressure, outlet pressure, rotational speed, and barrier fluid flow rate acquiring flow-head characteristic curves. Moreover, empirical generalized characteristic curves are deduced from experimental observations obtained from the present study and previous companion work. The generalized curves can be employed in estimating pumping ring performance for a different size or other operation conditions such as varying rotational speed or fluid type. They can be also utilized to validate numerical simulations for geometrically similar designs.
Overall Efficiency Evaluation of a Hydraulic Pump With External Drainage Through Temperature Measurements
Authors: Casoli Paolo , Campanini Federico , Bedotti Andrea , Pastori Mirko , Lettini Antonio
Published: January 2018

In the recent years, industries have been working on the online condition monitoring of systems and components in order to definitely abandon the time-based maintenance and switch efficiently to a condition-based maintenance. Therefore, the research field related to prognostics and health management (PHM) has been gaining more and more importance. In the field of hydraulic pumps and motors, the overall efficiency is an important parameter to monitor and the thermodynamic method has historically been proposed for the online evaluation of this parameter for hydraulic machines without external drainage. Indeed, for this kind of machines, the thermodynamic method allows the evaluation of the overall efficiency by measuring only the temperatures and the pressures at the suction and the delivery ports, thus avoiding the use of cumbersome and expensive sensors, such as flow meters and torque sensors. This paper investigates the use of the thermodynamic method for hydraulic machines with external drainage. The case study of a swash-plate type axial-piston pump is considered. In this first part of the project, the objective was to validate the proposed thermodynamic method by comparing its results with the ones obtained through the mechanical, therefore an extensive experimental activity was carried out and two flow meters were used to measure the drainage and the delivery flow rates. The pump was tested in different operating conditions and the uncertainty related to the overall efficiency was calculated accurately in order to compare the two approaches properly.
Solution of the Extended Graetz–Nusselt Problem for Liquid Flow Over Isothermal Parallel Ridges
Authors: Karamanis Georgios , Hodes Marc , Kirk Toby , Papageorgiou Demetrios T.
Published: January 2018

We consider convective heat transfer for laminar flow of liquid between parallel plates. The configurations analyzed are both plates textured with symmetrically aligned isothermal ridges oriented parallel to the flow, and one plate textured as such and the other one smooth and adiabatic. The liquid is assumed to be in the Cassie state on the textured surface(s) to which a mixed boundary condition of no-slip on the ridges and no-shear along flat menisci applies. The thermal energy equation is subjected to a mixed isothermal-ridge and adiabatic-meniscus boundary condition on the textured surface(s). We solve for the developing three-dimensional temperature profile resulting from a step change of the ridge temperature in the streamwise direction assuming a hydrodynamically developed flow. Axial conduction is accounted for, i.e., we consider the extended Graetz–Nusselt problem; therefore, the domain is of infinite length. The effects of viscous dissipation and (uniform) volumetric heat generation are also captured. Using the method of separation of variables, the homogeneous part of the thermal problem is reduced to a nonlinear eigenvalue problem in the transverse coordinates which is solved numerically. Expressions derived for the local and the fully developed Nusselt number along the ridge and that averaged over the composite interface in terms of the eigenvalues, eigenfunctions, Brinkman number, and dimensionless volumetric heat generation rate. Estimates are provided for the streamwise location where viscous dissipation effects become important.
An Automatic Wall Treatment for Spalart–Allmaras Turbulence Model
Authors: Assam Ashwani , Narayan Kalkote Nikhil , Sharma Vatsalya , Eswaran Vinayak
Published: January 2018

The Spalart–Allmaras (SA) is one of the most popular turbulence models in the aerospace computational fluid dynamics (CFD) community. In its original (low-Reynolds number) formulation, it requires a very tight grid spacing near the wall to resolve the high flow gradients. However, the use of wall functions with an automatic feature of switching from the wall function to the low-Reynolds number approach is an effective solution to this problem. In this work, we extend Menter's automatic wall treatment (AWT), devised for the k–ω-shear stress transport (SST), to the SA model in our in-house developed three-dimensional unstructured grid density-based CFD solver. It is shown, for both momentum and energy equations, that the formulation gives excellent predictions with low sensitivity to the grid spacing near the wall and allows the first grid point to be placed at y+ as high as 150 without loss of accuracy, even for the curved walls. In practical terms, this means a near-wall grid 10–30 times as coarse as that required in the original model would be sufficient for the computations.
Francis-Type Reversible Turbine Field Investigation During Fast Closure of Wicket Gates
Authors: Xiuli Mao , Giorgio Pavesi , Yuan Zheng
Published: January 2018

Flexible electricity demand and variability of the electricity produced by wind turbines and photovoltaic affect the stable operations of power grids. Pump-turbines are used to stabilize the power grid by maintaining a real-time electricity demand. Consistently, the machines experience transient conditions during the course of operation, such as start-up, load acceptance, load rejection, and shutdown, which induce high amplitude pressure pulsations and affect operating lifespan of the components. During the closure of the wicket gates, the transient flow characteristics is analyzed for a Francis-type reversible pump-turbine in generating mode by three-dimensional (3D) numerical simulation with a moving mesh technique and using detached eddy simulation (DES) turbulent model. Mesh motion is carried out in the region of wicket gates during the load rejection by a moving, sliding mesh, which makes dynamic flow simulation available, instead of building various steady models with different guide vanes angles. The transient flow characteristics are illustrated by analyzing the flow, torque, and pressure fluctuations signals by frequency and time–frequency analyses. The flow field analysis includes the onset and strengthening of unsteady phenomena during the turbine load reduction. The flow pattern in return channel maintained a quite stable flow field, whereas the flow pattern in the runner and draft tube emphasized its instability with the flow rate decreased. Influence of 3D unsteady flow structures on runner is determined, and its evolution is characterized spectrally during fast closure of wicket gates.
Role of a Liquid Accumulator in a Passive Two-Phase Liquid Cooling System for Electronics: Experimental Analysis
Authors: Lamaison Nicolas , Amalfi Raffaele L. , Salamon Todd , Marcinichen Jackson B. , Thome John R.
Published: January 2018

Gravity-driven two-phase liquid cooling systems using flow boiling within microscale evaporators are becoming a game-changing solution for electronics cooling. The optimization of the system's filling ratio (FR) can however become a challenging problem for a system operating over a wide range of cooling capacities and temperature ranges. The benefits of a liquid accumulator (LA) to overcome this difficulty are evaluated in the present paper. An experimental thermosyphon cooling system was built to cool multiple electronic components up to a power dissipation of 1800 W. A double-ended cylinder with a volume of 150 cm3 is evaluated as the LA for two different system volumes (associated with two different condensers). Results demonstrated that the LA provided robust thermal performance as a function of FR for the entire range of heat loads tested. In addition, the present LA was more effective for a small volume system, 599 cm3, than for a large volume system, 1169 cm3, in which the relative size of the LA increased from 12.8% to 25% of the total system's volume.
Acoustic radiation force on a parametrically distorted bubble
Authors: Maksimov A. O. , Leighton T. G.
Published: January 2018

The subject of acoustic radiation pressure on a gas bubble is important in many applications because it controls how bubbles are moved by acoustic fields to target locations, and often how they act upon the target. Previous theoretical treatments assume a spherical bubble undergoing linear pulsations, but some (such as cleaning using Faraday waves on the bubble wall) require that the bubble be aspherical. Therefore, this paper derives ways to calculate the variation in the radiation pressure due to the non-spherical bubble oscillations. The magnitude and direction of the radiation force are determined by two factors: the amplitude of volume oscillations, Vm, and the phase relationship between those oscillations and the acoustic field which drives them. There are two key findings that correct for the predictions of a model accounting for only linear pulsations. First, the growth of the radiation force slows down as Vm ceases to increase linearly with increasing amplitude of the acoustic wave above the threshold. Second, although both models show that the direction of the force relative of the standing wave antinode can be attractive or repulsive depending on frequency, when distortion modes are included the frequency at which this force changes its sign is shifted.
Magnetosensitive e-skins with directional perception for augmented reality
Authors: Cañón Bermúdez Gilbert Santiago , Karnaushenko Dmitriy D. , Karnaushenko Daniil , Lebanov Ana , Bischoff Lothar , Kaltenbrunner Martin , Fassbender Jürgen , Schmidt Oliver G. , Makarov Denys
Published: January 2018

We demonstrate magnetosensitive e-skins for magnetic cognition, body position tracking, and touchless object manipulation.
Computational discovery of extremal microstructure families
Authors: Chen Desai , Skouras Mélina , Zhu Bo , Matusik Wojciech
Published: January 2018

We report the first fully automatic method for discovering microstructure families with extremal physical properties.
Verwey-type charge ordering transition in an open-shell
p
-electron compound
Authors: Adler Peter , Jeglič Peter , Reehuis Manfred , Geiß Matthias , Merz Patrick , Knaflič Tilen , Komelj Matej , Hoser Andreas , Sans Annette , Janek Jürgen , Arčon Denis , Jansen Martin , Felser Claudia
Published: January 2018

The open-shell
p
-electron compound Cs
4
O
6
features anionic charge ordering with a concomitant jump in electronic conductivity.
Thin films of topological Kondo insulator candidate SmB
6
: Strong spin-orbit torque without exclusive surface conduction
Authors: Li Yufan , Ma Qinli , Huang S. X. , Chien C. L.
Published: January 2018

An electrical current applied in Kondo insulator SmB
6
could induce the magnetization of an adjacent ferromagnet to switch.
Evaluation of Two DNA Extraction Methods for Detection of Strongyloides stercoralis Infection
Authors: Barda Beatrice , Wampfler Rahel , Sayasone Somphou , Phongluxa Khampheng , Xayavong Syda , Keoduangsy Khonsavanh , Schindler Christian , Keiser Jennifer
Published: January 2018

Strongyloides stercoralis
is present worldwide, but its prevalence is still uncertain, mainly due to the lack of sensitivity of diagnostic methods. Molecular techniques are under development, but a standardized protocol is still unavailable. We compared the sensitivity of real-time PCR, using two extraction protocols, with that of the Baermann technique. Samples were collected in the framework of the baseline screening of a randomized clinical trial evaluating moxidectin against
S. stercoralis
in Lao People's Democratic Republic. Two stool samples from each participant were processed by the Baermann method, and one subsample was processed by PCR. DNA was extracted using the QIAamp DNA stool minikit based on the standard protocol for the QIAamp DNA minikit (QIA) and using a modification of the QIA procedure (POL). Subsequently, all extracted samples were analyzed by real-time PCR. Overall, 95 samples were analyzed by the three diagnostic methods. Sixty-nine (72.6%) samples were positive according to the Baermann method, 25 (26.3%) by the QIA method, and 62 (65.3%) by the POL method. The sensitivities were 86% (95% confidence interval [CI], 76.7 to 92.9), 31.0% (95% CI, 21.3 to 42.6), and 78.0% (95% CI, 66.8 to 86.1) for the Baermann, QIA, and POL methods, respectively. The sensitivities calculated for each day of the Baermann method separately were 60% (48.4 to 70.8%) and 64% (52.2 to 74.2%) for days 1 and 2, respectively. In conclusion, the POL method revealed a good performance and was comparable to the Baermann test performed on two stool samples and superior to the Baermann method performed on one stool sample. Additional studies are needed to standardize a PCR protocol for
S. stercoralis
diagnosis.