bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ceramic Components for High-Temperature Vehicular Gas Turbines: State of the Art of the German Ceramic Program
Authors: Hagemeister K. , Tiefenbacher E. , Walzer P.
Published: April 2015

In 1974 in Germany a research program was initiated under sponsorship of the Ministry of Research and Technology for developing ceramic components for vehicular gas turbines. Participants were Daimler-Benz, Motoren- and Turbinen-Union and Volkswagen and a number of ceramic companies and research institutes.

The paper gives the achieved development-status of the following components: combustion-chamber, nozzles and two types of rotors. Furtheron some results of investigations in regard of durability of silicon nitride and silicon carbide are presented.
A Three-Dimensional Model for the Prediction of Shock Losses in Compressor Blade Rows
Authors: Wennerstrom Arthur J. , Puterbaugh Steven L.
Published: April 2015

A design trend evident in newly evolving aircraft turbine engines is a reduction in the aspect ratio of blading employed in fans, compressors, and turbines. As aspect ratio is reduced, various three-dimensional flow effects become significant which at higher aspect ratios could safely be neglected. This paper presents a new model for predicting the shock loss through a transonic or supersonic compressor blade row operating at peak efficiency. It differs from the classical Miller-Lewis-Hartmann normal shock model by taking into account the spanwise obliquity of the shock surface due to leading-edge sweep, blade twist, and solidity variation. The model is evaluated in combination with two test cases. Each was a low-aspect-ratio transonic stage which had exceeded its efficiency goals. Use of the revised shock loss model contributed 2.11 points to the efficiency of the first test case and 1.08 points to the efficiency of the second.
New Radial Engine Technology From Kongsburg
Authors: Mowill R. J. , Strom S.
Published: April 2015

The first engine of a new family of high performance, rugged radial turbines is presented.

The new single shaft 1500 kW site rated KG3 is built upon extensive experience from the field proven KG2 of the same nominal power.

The KG3 is being developed both as a simple cycle and recuperated engine providing specific fuel consumptions in the range of 0.29 to 0.19 kg/kW·hr (0.47 to 0.32 lbs/hp·hr).

The new Kongsberg engine makes use of a high specific speed high pressure ratio centrifugal compressor combined with a very high tip speed uncooled radial turbine to obtain optimized aerodynamic matching.

Several novel design features are described.
Propulsion System Integration as Applied to Business Jet Aircraft
Authors: Suggs J. P. , Burley G. W.
Published: April 2015

The process of integrating an engine into a new or existing airframe is characterized by three major phases. The first phase comprises the preliminary design, and includes all aspects of model testing, engine inlet compatibility, matching studies, and the aircraft performance determinations that are necessary to ensure an economically viable product.

This phase is followed by a detailed design of the nacelle and interface systems, and a mockup evaluation period, at which time the installation interface requirements are incorporated. The final phase consists of ground and flight tests resulting in FAA certification. This phase includes the demonstration of the aircraft and propulsion system performance and system compatibility. The role of Garrett Turbine Engine Company (GTEC) in this phase is to support the Original Equipment Manufacturers by sharing its detailed installation experience to ensure an optimum engine installation.

The many aspects involved in the above are examined relative to the two-, three-, and four-engine configurations used by all general aviation aircraft. Factors unique to some of the existing configurations are included as reference data.
Distributed Microprocessor-Based Control Systems for Industrial Turbine Applications
Authors: Malcolm G. E. , Panayi P. N.
Published: April 2015

The use of powerful 16-bit microprocessors and associated components, together with control and sequencing orientated high level languages has enabled flexible and economical turbine control systems to be developed.

This paper describes the architecture, hardware, software and programming methods of a system designed specifically for the control of a range of gas turbines and associated plant.
Progress in Net Shape Fabrication of Alpha SiC Turbine Components
Authors: Storm R. S. , Naum R. G.
Published: April 2015

An update on the status of ceramic component development in the AGT and CATE Programs will be presented. Activity on the DDA AGT Program has focused on injection molded rotors in addition to static components. Fabrication of components for the Garrett AGT Program emphasized the very large injection molded turbine shroud and injection molded interchangeable segmented stator as well as slip cast and isopressed components. The fabrication aspect of the CATE Turbine Blade Optimization Program will also be reviewed.
Economic Aspects of Advanced Coal-Fired Gas Turbine Locomotives
Authors: Liddle S. G. , Bonzo B. B. , Houser B. C.
Published: April 2015

While the gas turbine is not new to the railroads, there are none in freight service at this time. Increases in fuel prices, particularly Diesel No. 2, and advances in turbine technology have made it necessary to re-examine the use of gas turbine locomotives. A recently completed study by the Jet Propulsion Laboratory for the Department of Energy has shown that a coal-fired locomotive is attractive from the fuel supply, fuel cost, and overall economic standpoints. The turbine technology appears to be adequate, but the use of coal in turbines appears to be the key problem. Advances in coal technology in the last ten years indicates that a clean, efficient coal-fired gas turbine electric locomotive is technically feasible.
The Corrosive Environment in the Fluidized-Bed Heat-Exchanger for CCGT Service
Authors: Rocazella M. A. , Wright I. G. , Holt C. F.
Published: April 2015

Corrosion and combustion diagnostic data were gathered in Battelle’s 0.6m diameter coal-fired atmospheric fluidized-bed combustor (AFBC). Corrosion probes, constructed from ring specimens of candidate heat-exchanger alloys, were exposed to the fluidized-bed environment during three different combustion experiments (50%, 20% and 0% excess air). An in-situ oxygen probe was used to monitor the oxygen partial pressure at the exposure locations.

Two different mechanisms of material degradation were identified, i.e., both corrosion and erosion. An adherent deposit of bed material formed on all areas of the corrosion probes. The corrosion behavior of the alloys beneath the deposit, and the corresponding corrosion product morphologies, appeared to correlate well with predictions based on the oxygen partial pressure measurements from the exposure location. The results suggest the oxygen probe may be a useful diagnostic tool for locating regions with high corrosive potentials. However, the upstream faces of the corrosion probes were subjected to enhanced mechanical damage, and this periodic removal of both the deposit and corrosion products resulted in significantly more metal degradation. Also, this corrosion/erosion process may locally deplete the alloy in chromium, leaving it susceptible to severe sulfidation and/or accelerated oxidation. It was suggested that these locations would be the first to experience heat-exchanger tube failure, and the coupled corrosion/erosion process would be the failure mechanism.
Combustion Experiments With a New Burner Air Distribution Concept
Authors: Markowski Stanley J. , Johnson Bruce V. , Marshall Richard L.
Published: April 2015

Experiments were conducted with a JT8D-engine sized can combustor which had all the combustion and dilution air entering through the burner front face. The primary and secondary/dilution air inlet geometries the primary fuel injection configuration, the air inlet conditions and the fuel flow rates for the combustor were varied in a series of parametric low power combustion experiments. Measurements included exit plane emissions, total pressure and total temperature distributions and burner liner temperature distributions. Attractive emission levels, temperature pattern factors and wall temperatures were achieved with low burner pressure losses for the good combinations of geometry and flow conditions.
A Simple Method for Designing Optimum Annular Diffusers
Authors: Adkins R. C.
Published: April 2015

Presented here is a simple method for designing optimum annular diffusers which enables the attainment of maximum static pressure recovery within a specified length. It is explained how the method can be adapted to account for compressible (but subsonic) flow.
A Compact Diffuser System for Annular Combustors
Authors: Adkins R. C. , Yost J. O.
Published: April 2015

Airflow tests have been conducted on an aerodynamic simulation of a combustor with pre-diffuser of compact configuration. The inlet Mach number throughout the tests was 0.35. The configuration was successful because of the attainment of a high pressure recovery, (Cp = 0.80), coupled with an exceptionally low total pressure loss (λ = 0.04). A useful analytical relationship is derived between the aerodynamic performance of combustor, compressor exit Mach number and diffuser performance.
Heat Transfer Experiments in High Aspect Ratio Rectangular Channel With Epoxied Short Pin Fins
Authors: Arora S. C. , Abdel Messeh W.
Published: April 2015

In an attempt to reduce the cost of testing many configurations of short pin fins in a rectangular channel, a technique has been identified whereby the pins are epoxied to the end wall and can be easily removed to form a new configuration at the end of a test. Analytical and experimental results indicate that the temperature drop across a thin layer of epoxy (∼.005–.006 cm) (K = 22.5 W/m°C) with copper pin and endwalls was less than 1% of the heat transfer surface temperature.

The technique was then used to test 4 pin fin configurations of height to diameter ratio of about unity. The heat transfer results showed excellent agreement with earlier published data, thus confirming the validity of this technique.
Test Experience With Turbine-End Foil Bearing Equipped Gas Turbine Engines
Authors: Suriano F. J. , Dayton R. D. , Woessner Fred G.
Published: April 2015

The Garrett Turbine Engine Company, a Division of the Garrett Corporation, authorized under Air Force Contract F33615-78-C-2044 and Navy Contract N00140-79-C-1294, has been conducting development work on the application of gas-lubricated hydrodynamic journal foil bearings to the turbine end of gas turbine engines. Program efforts are directed at providing the technology base necessary to utilize high-temperature foil bearings in future gas turbine engines. The main thrust of these programs was to incorporate the designed bearings, developed in test rigs, into test engines for evaluation of bearing and rotor system performance. The engine test programs included a full range of operational tests; engine thermal environment, endurance, start/stops, attitude, environmental temperatures and pressures, and simulated maneuver bearing loadings.

An 88.9 mm (3.5-inch) diameter journal foil bearing, operating at 4063 RAD/SEC (38,800 rpm), has undergone test in a Garrett GTCP165 auxiliary power unit. A 44.4 mm (1.75-inch) diameter journal foil bearing, operating at 6545 RAD/SEC (62,500 rpm) has undergone test in the gas generator of the Garrett Model JFS190. This paper describes the engine test experience with these bearings.
Improved Stress Simulation With Simple Finite Element Meshes
Authors: Harvey John W.
Published: April 2015

Polygonal finite elements displaying linear displacement on specified edges and quadratic displacement elsewhere are formed. Models composed of these elements identified with simple quadrilateral meshes produce marked improvement in stress simulation with the same global degrees of freedom used in conventional models. The polygonal elements are constructed of quadratic triangular subelements with appropriate sides constrained to displace linearly. Compatible mesh refinement capability is shown.
A7E/TF41 Engine Monitoring System (EMS)
Authors: DeMott Larry R.
Published: April 2015

The A7E/TF41 Engine Monitoring System (EMS) is a derivation of the Inflight Engine Condition Monitoring System (IECMS). The IECMS program was initiated in 1971 under US Navy contract to monitor the Detroit Diesel Allison TF41 engine installed in the US Navy A7E attack aircraft. EMS represents the application of an on-board microprocessor-based system to continuously monitor engine health and output appropriate information. The current EMS configuration is the culmination of several phases of system development and evaluation. Full retrofit of the A7E fleet is planned beginning in 1984. This paper describes the present EMS configuration and discusses program development and accomplishments since the system concept was initiated.
Finite Element Analysis of Three-Dimensional Flow Through a Turbocharger Compressor Wheel
Authors: Ecer A. , Akay H. U. , Mattai S.
Published: April 2015

Analysis of three-dimensional, transonic, potential flow through a compressor rotor is investigated using the finite element method. The formulation of the equations and the generation of the corresponding finite element grid are presented. A constant-coefficient solution scheme is applied for the efficient solution of these equations. Numerical results are obtained for the flow through a 5.0” diameter turbocharger compressor wheel. Four different mass flow rates are considered including a transonic, near-choked flow case. Accuracy of the numerical results are tested by comparing with experimental measurements.
An Investigation of the Establishment of a Recirculation Zone by Swirling Flows Within a Conical Duct
Authors: Mohan P. Rama , Prasad C. M. Vara
Published: April 2015

This paper reports an investigation carried out on the recirculation zones established in conical chambers with radial vaned inlet swirlers. The boundaries of the recirculation zones established in various conical chambers of different cone angles are presented for different inlet swirl numbers and an optimum cone angle which gives a reasonably short length of the recirculation zone with maximum pressure recovery is suggested. The inlet swirl number is also optimized for a fairly high swirl strength within the recirculation zone and the inlet swirl number for which the recirculation completely disappears is also estimated. In addition to this, an equation is curve-fit to the experimental data which correlates the length of the recirculation zone for any given cone angle and inlet swirl number.
Effect of Particle Presence on the Incompressible Inviscid Flow Through a Two Dimensional Compressor Cascade
Authors: Balan C. , Tabakoff W.
Published: April 2015

A computational model for calculating the flow field, in the presence of solid particles, through a two dimensional compressor cascade is presented. The method treats the particle phase in the Lagrangian system and the fluid phase in the Eulerian system. The equations of momentum of the fluid phase are modified to account for the momentum exchange between the two phases. The resulting modified momentum and continuity equations are reduced to the conventional stream function-vorticity formulation.

The fluid phase is treated as incompressible and inviscid. Averaging of the particle phase properties, based on the trajectory analysis, over the control volume yields the fluid-particle momentum exchange at every grid point, where the flow field solution is desired. The inelastic rebound of the particles on impact of the airfoil surface is accounted for in the trajectory analysis.

The fluid phase stream function-vorticity equations are solved by a novel method. The computation is performed in a transformed plane where one of the transformed coordinates is the streamline itself. The transformed vorticity equation is solved by the space marching technique.

The analysis yields the change in the blade surface pressure distribution, the total pressure and velocity distributions. Based on this, it is possible to predict the decrease in compressor performance under the presence of particles.
The Use of High Order Languages in High Integrity Certifiable Software
Authors: Young N. J. B.
Published: April 2015

The use of high order languages for writing software for high integrity control applications is aimed to overcome the problems of slow development, lack of visibility and machine dependence in low order languages, assembly codes and machine codes.

But the use of high order languages has failed to overcome the problem of visibility especially on short word-length machines because of difficulties in identifying undesirable characteristics of the machine code generated from the high order language. These characteristics may be due to faults in complex compilers which are intrinsically error-prone; or may be properties of the “correct” operation of a compiler which generates code which may permit unchecked arithmetic overflows or excessive loss of numerical accuracy. Further, these characteristics may change between issues of a compiler and between versions for different processors. This all slows down software development and makes certification difficult.

This paper discusses techniques for overcoming these problems while maintaining the familiarity and visibility of high order languages. A language designed around these techniques and capable of intrinsically safe software development and modification is discussed.
A Fault Tolerant Digital Control System for Turbo Machinery
Authors: Shetler Terry A.
Published: April 2015

There are several major factors influencing the development of modern turbomachinery control systems. First, the demand for fuel efficient engines with low emissions creates complex control requirements. Second, unmanned sites or plants where downtime is exceedingly expensive demand controls with high reliability and availability. In addition, there is a desire for controls to be programmable and to have the ability to communicate with data gathering and logging systems.

This paper describes the development and application of a digital control system which answers the above needs.
Photoresponse of an oxide semiconductor photosensor
Authors: Ahn Seung-Eon , Park Sungho , Kim Taeho , Park Junghak , Jeon Sanghun
Published: April 2015

The authors investigated the photoresponse of a double-layer oxide semiconductor (GaInZnO–InZnO) thin-film transistor (TFT) under illumination, where the photocurrent in the negative gate bias region increased significantly without a negative shift in the threshold voltage. In particular, in the forward gate bias sweep direction (from −VG to +VG), the hysteresis of the transfer curves of the photosensor TFT became pronounced when the negative gate bias and its duration were increased. Additionally, the photocurrent level of the TFT remained almost the same as the level measured using a DC reverse gate bias sweep mode (from +VG to −VG). An analysis of the transfer curves, capacitance–voltage curves, and energy band diagrams indicates that the hysteresis characteristics can be explained by the competing effects of electrical-stress-induced defect generation and the screening of the negative gate bias by doubly positively charged oxygen vacancies depending on the gate bias polarity. In particular, the origin of the photoresponse of the photosensor TFT under illumination was studied intensively by qualitative analysis.
Nanocrystalline SnO2 thin films prepared by anodization of sputtered Sn thin films
Authors: Li Jianhua , Wang Jian , Zhang Letao , Zhang Shengdong
Published: April 2015

Thin films of SnO2 are prepared by anodic oxidation of Sn on glass substrates. The surface topography of the anodic films is consistent with the original Sn films, indicating that the oxidation process primarily takes place perpendicularly along the Sn particles. As-prepared anodic SnO2 thin films possess an amorphous SnO2 phase at the surface, followed by an unoxidized thin layer of Sn between the SnO2 film and the substrate. With increasing annealing temperature, the residual Sn layer decreases until it disappears at 400 °C, and the amorphous SnO2 becomes nanocrystalline. The mobility of the as-prepared anodic SnO2 films is less than 0.1 cm2/(V s), but the annealed films have a mobility range of 1.6–2.2 cm2/(V s).
Active control of excessive sound emission on a mobile device
Authors: Jeon Se-Woon , Youn Dae Hee , Park Young-cheol , Lee Gun-Woo
Published: April 2015

During a phone conversation, loud vocal emission from the far-end to the near-end space can disturb nearby people. In this paper, the possibility of actively controlling such unwanted sound emission using a control source placed on the mobile device is investigated. Two different approaches are tested: Global control, minimizing the potential energy measured along a volumetric space surface, and local control, minimizing the squared sound pressure at a discrete point on the phone. From the test results, both approaches can reduce the unwanted sound emission by more than 6 dB in the frequency range up to 2 kHz.
Contribution of Leg-Muscle Forces to Paddle Force and Kayak Speed During Maximal-Effort Flat-Water Paddling
Authors: Nilsson Johnny E. , Rosdahl Hans G.
Published: April 2015

The purpose was to investigate the contribution of leg-muscle-generated forces to paddle force and kayak speed during maximaleffort flat-water paddling. Five elite male kayakers at national and international level participated. The participants warmed up at progressively increasing speeds and then performed a maximal-effort, nonrestricted paddling sequence. This was followed after 5 min rest by a maximal-effort paddling sequence with the leg action restricted—the knee joints “locked.” Left- and rightside foot-bar and paddle forces were recorded with specially designed force devices. In addition, knee angular displacement of the right and left knees was recorded with electrogoniometric technique, and the kayak speed was calculated from GPS signals sampled at 5 Hz. The results showed that reduction in both push and pull foot-bar forces resulted in a reduction of 21% and 16% in mean paddle-stroke force and mean kayak speed, respectively. Thus, the contribution of foot-bar force from lower-limb action significantly contributes to kayakers’ paddling performance.
Relationship Between Fatigue and Changes in Swim Technique During an Exhaustive Swim Exercise
Authors: Bassan Natália M. , César Tadeu E.A.S. , Denadai Benedito S. , Greco Camila C.
Published: April 2015

Purpose:

To analyze the relationship between the responses of isometric peak torque (IPT) and maximal rate of force development (RFDmax) with the changes in stroking parameters in an exhaustive exercise performed in front crawl.

Methods:

Fifteen male swimmers performed, on different days, the following protocols: maximal 400-m trial, strength tests before and after an exhaustive test at 100% of the mean speed obtained during the 400-m test, and the same procedures on day 2.

Results:

The IPT of elbow flexors (79.9 ± 19.4 and 66.7 ± 20.0 N·m) and elbow extensors (95.1 ± 28.0 N·m and 85.8 ± 30.5 N·m) was decreased after the swim test, as was RFDmax (521.8 ± 198.6 and 426.0 ± 229.9 N·m/s; 420.6 ± 168.2 and 384.0 ± 143.5 N·m/s, respectively). Stroke length decreased during the swim test (1.96 ± 0.22 and 1.68 ± 0.29 m/stroke), while stroke rate increased (37.2 ± 3.14 and 41.3 ± 4.32 strokes/min). The propulsive phases increased while the nonpropulsive phases decreased during the test. Significant correlation was found between the changes in IPT and stroke length, stroke rate and recovery (elbow flexors), and entry and catch phase (elbow extensors). In addition, significant correlation was found between the changes in RFDmax of elbow flexors with the changes in pull and recovery phases.

Conclusion:

Changes in swim technique during an exhaustive test can be, at least in part, associated with fatigue of the arm muscles.
A Comparison of the Perceptual and Technical Demands of Tennis Training, Simulated Match Play, and Competitive Tournaments
Authors: Murphy Alistair P. , Duffield Rob , Kellett Aaron , Reid Machar
Published: April 2015

Purpose:

High-performance tennis environments aim to prepare athletes for competitive demands through simulated-match scenarios and drills. With a dearth of direct comparisons between training and tournament demands, the current investigation compared the perceptual and technical characteristics of training drills, simulated match play, and tournament matches.

Methods:

Data were collected from 18 high-performance junior tennis players (gender: 10 male, 8 female; age 16 ± 1.1 y) during 6 ± 2 drill-based training sessions, 5 ± 2 simulated match-play sessions, and 5 ± 3 tournament matches from each participant. Tournament matches were further distinguished by win or loss and against seeded or nonseeded opponents. Notational analysis of stroke and error rates, winners, and serves, along with rating of perceived physical exertion (RPE) and mental exertion was measured postsession.

Results:

Repeated-measures analyses of variance and effect-size analysis revealed that training sessions were significantly shorter in duration than tournament matches (P < .05, d = 1.18). RPEs during training and simulated matchplay sessions were lower than in tournaments (P > .05; d = 1.26, d = 1.05, respectively). Mental exertion in training was lower than in both simulated match play and tournaments (P > .05; d = 1.10, d = 0.86, respectively). Stroke rates during tournaments exceeded those observed in training (P < .05, d = 3.41) and simulated-match-play (P < .05, d = 1.22) sessions. Furthermore, the serve was used more during tournaments than simulated match play (P < .05, d = 4.28), while errors and winners were similar independent of setting (P > .05, d < 0.80).

Conclusions:

Training in the form of drills or simulated match play appeared to inadequately replicate tournament demands in this cohort of players. Coaches should be mindful of match demands to best prescribe sessions of relevant duration, as well as internal (RPE) and technical (stroke rate) load, to aid tournament preparation.
Neuromuscular Fatigue and Muscle Damage After a Women’s Rugby Sevens Tournament
Authors: Clarke Anthea C. , Anson Judith M. , Pyne David B.
Published: April 2015

Purpose:

To examine relationships between on-field game movement patterns and changes in markers of neuromuscular fatigue and muscle damage during a 2-d women’s rugby sevens tournament.

Methods:

Female national (mean ± SD n = 12, 22.3 ± 2.5 y, 1.67 ± 0.04 m, 65.8 ± 4.6 kg) and state (n = 10, 24.4 ± 4.3 y, 1.67 ± 0.03 m, 66.1 ± 7.9 kg) representative players completed baseline testing for lower-body neuromuscular function (countermovement-jump [CMJ] test), muscle damage (capillary creatine kinase [CK]), perceived soreness, and perceived recovery. Testing was repeated after games on days 1 and 2 of the tournament. GPS (5-Hz) data were collected throughout the tournament (4−6 games/player).

Results:

National players were involved in greater on-field movements for total time, distance, high-speed running (>5 m/s), and impacts >10 g (effect size [ES] = 0.55−0.97) and displayed a smaller decrement in performance from day 1 to day 2. Despite this, state players had a much greater 4-fold increase (ΔCK = 737 U/L) in CK compared with the 2-fold increase (ΔCK = 502 U/L) in national players (ES = 0.73). Both groups had similar perceived soreness and recovery while CMJ performance was unchanged. High-speed running and impacts >10 g were largely correlated (r = .66−.91) with ΔCK for both groups.

Conclusion:

A 2-day women’s rugby sevens tournament elicits substantial muscle damage; however, there was little change in lower-body neuromuscular function. Modest increases in CK can largely be attributed to high-speed running and impacts >10 g that players typically endure.
Quantitative mass spectrometry of posttranslational modifications: Keys to confidence
Authors: Hennrich Marco Leo , Gavin Anne-Claude
Published: April 2015

Differences in equipment, sample preparation, and data analysis make reproducibility in mass spectrometry data of the proteome challenging.
Good practices for building dynamical models in systems biology
Authors: Azeloglu Evren U. , Iyengar Ravi
Published: April 2015

Spherical cows may result if dynamic modeling of signaling is not done correctly.
Criteria for biological reproducibility: What does “
n
” mean?
Authors: Naegle Kristen , Gough Nancy R. , Yaffe Michael B.
Published: April 2015

Biological reproducibility leads to discoveries about biological processes that constitute a fundamental truth about nature.
Etest Cannot Be Recommended for
In Vitro
Susceptibility Testing of Mucorales
Authors: Caramalho Rita , Maurer Elisabeth , Binder Ulrike , Araújo Ricardo , Dolatabadi Somayeh , Lass-Flörl Cornelia , Lackner Michaela
Published: April 2015

Amphotericin B and posaconazole susceptibility patterns were determined for the most prevalent Mucorales, following EUCAST (European Committee on Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing) broth microdilution guidelines. In parallel, Etest was performed and evaluated against EUCAST. The overall agreement of MICs gained with Etest and EUCAST was 75.1%; therefore, Etest cannot be recommended for antifungal susceptibility testing of Mucorales. Amphotericin B was the most active drug against Mucorales species
in vitro
, while the activities of posaconazole were more restricted.
Pharmacokinetics of Dolutegravir in a Premature Neonate after HIV Treatment Intensification during Pregnancy
Authors: Pain J. B. , Lê M. P. , Caseris M. , Amiel C. , Lassel L. , Charpentier C. , Desnoyer A. , Farnoux C. , Pialoux G. , Descamps D. , Peytavin G.
Published: April 2015

We describe the pharmacokinetics of dolutegravir (DTG) in a premature neonate after maternal intensification of an antiretroviral (ARV) regimen by adding DTG. During the last 2 weeks of pregnancy, the ARV was tenofovir-emtricitabine, atazanavir-ritonavir, and DTG (50 mg once daily). From the interaction between atazanavir and DTG via CYP3A4 and UGT1A1 and placental efflux transporter inhibition and considering the infant's probable enzymatic immaturity, the DTG elimination half-life was estimated to be 4-fold longer in neonates than in adults.
In Vivo
Pharmacokinetic/Pharmacodynamic Profiles of Valnemulin in an Experimental Intratracheal Mycoplasma gallisepticum Infection Model
Authors: Xiao Xia , Sun Jian , Yang Tao , Fang Xi , Wu Dong , Xiong Yan Q. , Cheng Jie , Chen Yi , Shi Wei , Liu Ya-Hong
Published: April 2015

Valnemulin, a semisynthetic pleuromutilin antibiotic derivative, is greatly active against
Mycoplasma
. The objective of our study was to evaluate the effectiveness of valnemulin against
Mycoplasma gallisepticum
in a neutropenic intratracheal model in chickens using a pharmacokinetic/pharmacodynamic (PK-PD) method. The PK of valnemulin after intramuscular (i.m.) administration at doses of 1, 10, and 20 mg/kg of body weight in
M. gallisepticum
-infected neutropenic chickens was evaluated by liquid chromatography-tandem mass spectrometry (LC-MS/MS). Real-time PCR (RT-PCR) was used for quantitative detection of
M. gallisepticum
. The ratio of the 24-h area under the concentration-time curve divided by the MIC (AUC
24
/MIC) correlated well with the
in vivo
antibacterial effectiveness of valnemulin (
R
2
= 0.9669). The AUC
24
/MIC ratios for mycoplasmastasis (a reduction of 0 log
10
color-changing unit [CCU] equivalents/ml), a reduction of 1 log
10
CCU equivalents/ml, and a reduction of 2.5 log
10
CCU equivalents/ml are 28,820, 38,030, and 56,256, respectively. In addition, we demonstrated that valnemulin at a dose of 6.5 mg/kg resulted in a reduction of 2.5 log
10
CCU equivalents/ml. These investigations provide a solid foundation for the usage of valnemulin in poultry with
M. gallisepticum
infections.
Homology Modeling of NAD
+
-Dependent DNA Ligase of the Wolbachia Endosymbiont of Brugia malayi and Its Drug Target Potential Using Dispiro-Cycloalkanones
Authors: Shrivastava Nidhi , Nag Jeetendra K. , Pandey Jyoti , Tripathi Rama Pati , Shah Priyanka , Siddiqi Mohammad Imran , Misra-Bhattacharya Shailja
Published: April 2015

Lymphatic filarial nematodes maintain a mutualistic relationship with the endosymbiont
Wolbachia
. Depletion of
Wolbachia
produces profound defects in nematode development, fertility, and viability and thus has great promise as a novel approach for treating filarial diseases. NAD
+
-dependent DNA ligase is an essential enzyme of DNA replication, repair, and recombination. Therefore, in the present study, the antifilarial drug target potential of the NAD
+
-dependent DNA ligase of the
Wolbachia
symbiont of
Brugia malayi
(
w
Bm-LigA) was investigated using dispiro-cycloalkanone compounds. Dispiro-cycloalkanone specifically inhibited the nick-closing and cohesive-end ligation activities of the enzyme without inhibiting human or T4 DNA ligase. The mode of inhibition was competitive with the NAD
+
cofactor. Docking studies also revealed the interaction of these compounds with the active site of the target enzyme. The adverse effects of these inhibitors were observed on adult and microfilarial stages of
B. malayi
in vitro
, and the most active compounds were further monitored
in vivo
in jirds and mastomys rodent models. Compounds 1, 2, and 5 had severe adverse effects
in vitro
on the motility of both adult worms and microfilariae at low concentrations. Compound 2 was the best inhibitor, with the lowest 50% inhibitory concentration (IC
50
) (1.02 μM), followed by compound 5 (IC
50
, 2.3 μM) and compound 1 (IC
50
, 2.9 μM). These compounds also exhibited the same adverse effect on adult worms and microfilariae
in vivo
(
P
< 0.05). These compounds also tremendously reduced the wolbachial load, as evident by quantitative real-time PCR (
P
< 0.05).
w
Bm-LigA thus shows great promise as an antifilarial drug target, and dispiro-cycloalkanone compounds show great promise as antifilarial lead candidates.
Praziquantel in a Clay Nanoformulation Shows More Bioavailability and Higher Efficacy against Murine Schistosoma mansoni Infection
Authors: El-Feky Gina S. , Mohamed Wael S. , Nasr Hanaa E. , El-Lakkany Naglaa M. , Seif el-Din Sayed H. , Botros Sanaa S.
Published: April 2015

Consideration of existing compounds always simplifies and shortens the long and difficult process of discovering new drugs specifically for diseases of developing countries, an approach that may add to the significant potential cost savings. This study focused on improving the biological characteristics of the already-existing antischistosomal praziquantel (PZQ) by incorporating it into montmorillonite (MMT) clay as a delivery carrier to overcome its known bioavailability drawbacks. The oral bioavailability of a PZQ-MMT clay nanoformulation and its
in vivo
efficacy against
Schistosoma mansoni
were investigated. The PZQ-MMT clay nanoformulation provided a preparation with a controlled release rate, a decrease in crystallinity, and an appreciable reduction in particle size. Uninfected and infected mice treated with PZQ-MMT clay showed 3.61- and 1.96-fold and 2.16- and 1.94-fold increases, respectively, in area under the concentration-time curve from 0 to 8 h (AUC
0–8
) and maximum concentration of drug in serum (
C
max
), with a decrease in elimination rate constant (
k
el
) by 2.84- and 1.35-fold and increases in the absorption rate constant (

k
a

) and half-life (
t

1/2
e

) by 2.11- and 1.51-fold and 2.86- and 1.34-fold, respectively, versus the corresponding conventional PZQ-treated groups. This improved bioavailability has been expressed in higher efficacy of the drug, where the dose necessary to kill 50% of the worms was reduced by >3-fold (PZQ 50% effective dose [ED
50
] was 20.25 mg/kg of body weight for PZQ-MMT clay compared to 74.07 mg/kg for conventional PZQ), with significant reduction in total tissue egg load and increase in total immature, mature, and dead eggs in most of the drug-treated groups. This formulation showed better bioavailability, enhanced antischistosomal efficacy, and a safer profile despite the longer period of residence in the systemic circulation. Although the conventional drug's toxicity was not examined, animal mortality rates were not different between groups receiving the test PZQ-clay nanoformulation and conventional PZQ.
Ibuprofen Potentiates the
In Vivo
Antifungal Activity of Fluconazole against Candida albicans Murine Infection
Authors: Costa-de-Oliveira Sofia , Miranda Isabel M. , Silva-Dias Ana , Silva Ana P. , Rodrigues Acácio G. , Pina-Vaz Cidália
Published: April 2015

Candida albicans
is the most prevalent cause of fungemia worldwide. Its ability to develop resistance in patients receiving azole antifungal therapy is well documented. In a murine model of systemic infection, we show that ibuprofen potentiates fluconazole antifungal activity against a fluconazole-resistant strain, drastically reducing the fungal burden and morbidity. The therapeutic combination of fluconazole with ibuprofen may constitute a new approach for the management of antifungal therapeutics to reverse the resistance conferred by efflux pump overexpression.
Complete Genome Sequence of Bifidobacterium longum subsp. infantis Strain CECT 7210, a Probiotic Strain Active against Rotavirus Infections
Authors: Chenoll Empar , Rivero Montserrat , Codoñer Francisco M. , Martinez-Blanch Juan F. , Ramón Daniel , Genovés Salvador , Moreno Muñoz Jose Antonio
Published: April 2015

Bifidobacterium longum
subsp. infantis CECT 7210 is a probiotic strain able to inhibit rotavirus
in vitro
and protect against viral infection in both cell cultures and mice. Here, we report its complete genome sequence, as deciphered by PacBio single-molecule real-time (SMRT) technology. An analysis of the sequence may provide insights into its functional activity.
Draft Genome Sequence of Clostridium botulinum Strain 277-00 Type B2
Authors: Mazuet Christelle , Bouchier Christiane , Popoff Michel-Robert
Published: April 2015

We report the draft genome sequence of
Clostridium botulinum
strain 277-00, which encodes a botulinum neurotoxin B2 associated with a
ha
gene locus. Strain 277-00 was isolated from a cheese responsible for an outbreak of botulism in Iran in 1997. This strain is closed to the bivalent B2/FA strain IBCA10-7060.
Draft Genome Sequence of Pseudomonas toyotomiensis KF710, a Polychlorinated Biphenyl-Degrading Bacterium Isolated from Biphenyl-Contaminated Soil
Authors: Watanabe Takahito , Yamazoe Atsushi , Hosoyama Akira , Fujihara Hidehiko , Suenaga Hikaru , Hirose Jun , Futagami Taiki , Goto Masatoshi , Kimura Nobutada , Furukawa Kensuke
Published: April 2015

Pseudomonas toyotomiensis
KF710 utilizes biphenyl and degrades polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs). Here, we report the genome sequence of the KF710 strain, consisting of 5,596,721 bp with 5,155 coding sequences. The biphenyl catabolic genes were almost identical to those of
Pseudomonas pseudoalcaligenes
KF707, one of the most well-characterized biphenyl-utilizing strains.
Draft Genome Sequence of Aneurinibacillus migulanus Strain Nagano
Authors: Alenezi Faizah N. , Weitz Hedda J. , Belbahri Lassaad , Ben Rebah Hassen , Luptakova Lenka , Jaspars Marcel , Woodward Stephen
Published: April 2015

Aneurinibacillus migulanus
is characterized by inhibition of growth of a range of plant-pathogenic bacteria and fungi. Here, we report the high-quality draft genome sequences of A. migulanus Nagano.
Genome Sequence of Bacillus mycoides B38V, a Growth-Promoting Bacterium of Sunflower
Authors: Ambrosini Adriana , Sant’Anna Fernando Hayashi , de Souza Rocheli , Tadra-Sfeir Michele , Faoro Helisson , Alvarenga Samuel M. , Pedrosa Fabio Oliveira , Souza Emanuel Maltempi , Passaglia Luciane M. P.
Published: April 2015

Bacillus mycoides
B38V is a bacterium isolated from the sunflower rhizosphere that is able to promote plant growth and N uptake. The genome of the isolate has approximately 5.80 Mb and presents sequence codifiers for plant growth-promoting characteristics, such as nitrate reduction and ammonification and iron-siderophore uptake.
MULTIFRACTAL FORMALISM OF OSCILLATING SINGULARITIES FOR RANDOM WAVELET SERIES
Authors: BEN SLIMANE MOURAD , HALOUANI BORHEN
Published: April 2015

The oscillating multifractal formalism is a formula conjectured by Jaffard expected to yield the spectrum d(h, β) of oscillating singularity exponents from a scaling function ζ(p, s'), for p > 0 and s' ∈ ℝ, based on wavelet leaders of fractional primitives f-s'of f. In this paper, using some results from Jaffard et al., we first show that ζ(p, s') can be extended on p ∈ ℝ to a function that is concave with respect to p ∈ ℝ and independent on orthonormal wavelet bases in the Schwartz class. We also establish its concavity with respect to s' when p > 0. Then, we prove that, under some assumptions, the extended scaling function ζ(p, s') is the Legendre transform of the wavelet leaders density of f-s'. Finally, as an application, we study the validity of the extended oscillating multifractal formalism for random wavelet series (under the assumption of independence and laws depending only on the scale).
HYDRODYNAMIC AND HEMOLYSIS ANALYSIS ON DISTANCE AND CLEARANCE BETWEEN IMPELLER AND DIFFUSER OF AXIAL BLOOD PUMP
Authors: YU JIAJIA , ZHANG XIWEN
Published: April 2015

Low hemolysis and hydraulic performance are important factors for an axial blood pump, which have been transplanted in patients with heart failure (HF). The distance and clearance between impeller and diffuser play a key role in hemolytic properties and hydraulic performances of axial blood pumps that were developed by our group inspired by the design features of HeartMate II. In the present study, we aimed to investigate the appropriate distance and clearance between impellers and diffusers of axial blood pumps, which contains the best low hemolytic property and hydraulic performance using the computational fluid dynamics (CFDs) approach. Specially, the hemolysis of the pump was calculated by using two different empirical power-law hemolytic blood damage models with two sets of parameters. The two hemolytic blood damage models with two sets of parameters were analyzed and compared. Further, the different distances and clearances between impellers and diffusers that affect hemolytic and hydraulic characteristics were also analyzed. The results showed that the pump with distance of 2[Formula: see text]mm and clearance of 0.2[Formula: see text]mm between impeller and diffuser exhibited the best hemolytic property and better hydraulic performance.
Next-Generation Sequencing: Targeting Targeted Therapies
Authors: McCutcheon Justine N. , Giaccone Giuseppe
Published: April 2015

Next-generation sequencing (NGS) has given new perspective in oncology. With the ongoing development of targeted therapies, NGS is evolving molecular diagnostics by providing comprehensive interrogation of clinically actionable genomic aberrations in tumors. Having this assay as the primary testing method produces clinically beneficial results. Clin Cancer Res; 21(16); 3584–5. ©2015 AACR.

See related article by Drilon et al., p. 3631
Hypoxia-Independent Upregulation of Placental Hypoxia Inducible Factor-1α Gene Expression Contributes to the Pathogenesis of Preeclampsia
Authors: Iriyama Takayuki , Wang Wei , Parchim Nicholas F. , Song Anren , Blackwell Sean C. , Sibai Baha M. , Kellems Rodney E. , Xia Yang
Published: April 2015

Accumulation of hypoxia inducible factor-1α (HIF-1α) is commonly an acute and beneficial response to hypoxia, whereas chronically elevated HIF-1α is associated with multiple disease conditions, including preeclampsia, a serious hypertensive disease of pregnancy. However, the molecular basis underlying the persistent elevation of placental HIF-1α in preeclampsia and its role in the pathogenesis of preeclampsia are poorly understood. Here we report that
Hif-1α
mRNA and HIF-1α protein were elevated in the placentas of pregnant mice infused with angiotensin II type I receptor agonistic autoantibody, a pathogenic factor in preeclampsia. Knockdown of placental
Hif-1α
mRNA by specific siRNA significantly attenuated hallmark features of preeclampsia induced by angiotensin II type I receptor agonistic autoantibody in pregnant mice, including hypertension, proteinuria, kidney damage, impaired placental vasculature, and elevated maternal circulating soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 levels. Next, we discovered that
Hif-1α
mRNA levels and HIF-1α protein levels were induced in an independent preeclampsia model with infusion of the inflammatory cytokine tumor necrosis factor superfamily member 14 (LIGHT). SiRNA knockdown experiments also demonstrated that elevated HIF-1α contributed to LIGHT-induced preeclampsia features. Translational studies with human placentas showed that angiotensin II type I receptor agonistic autoantibody or LIGHT is capable of inducing HIF-1α in a hypoxia-independent manner. Moreover, increased HIF-1α was found to be responsible for angiotensin II type I receptor agonistic autoantibody or LIGHT-induced elevation of
Flt-1
gene expression and production of soluble fms-like tyrosine kinase-1 in human villous explants. Overall, we demonstrated that hypoxia-independent stimulation of
HIF-1α
gene expression in the placenta is a common pathogenic mechanism promoting disease progression. Our findings reveal new insight to preeclampsia and highlight novel therapeutic possibilities for the disease.
Multivariate fMRI and Eye Tracking Reveal Differential Effects of Visual Interference on Recognition Memory Judgments for Objects and Scenes
Authors: O'Neil Edward B. , Watson Hilary C. , Dhillon Sonya , Lobaugh Nancy J. , Lee Andy C. H.
Published: April 2015

Recent work has demonstrated that the perirhinal cortex (PRC) supports conjunctive object representations that aid object recognition memory following visual object interference. It is unclear, however, how these representations interact with other brain regions implicated in mnemonic retrieval and how congruent and incongruent interference influences the processing of targets and foils during object recognition. To address this, multivariate partial least squares was applied to fMRI data acquired during an interference match-to-sample task, in which participants made object or scene recognition judgments after object or scene interference. This revealed a pattern of activity sensitive to object recognition following congruent (i.e., object) interference that included PRC, prefrontal, and parietal regions. Moreover, functional connectivity analysis revealed a common pattern of PRC connectivity across interference and recognition conditions. Examination of eye movements during the same task in a separate study revealed that participants gazed more at targets than foils during correct object recognition decisions, regardless of interference congruency. By contrast, participants viewed foils more than targets for incorrect object memory judgments, but only after congruent interference. Our findings suggest that congruent interference makes object foils appear familiar and that a network of regions, including PRC, is recruited to overcome the effects of interference.
The Benefit of Expanding the Cultural, Scientific and Religious Frontiers of Historical Jesus Research
Authors: Fabbro Franco
Published: April 2015

This article reviews Gesù il ‘Nazareno’. Indagine storica (Jesus the Nazarene: A Historical Investigation) by Rinaldo Fabris. It compares this volume with the main studies of the historical Jesus that have been published in the past fifteen years. A brief description of each of its thirteen chapters is accompanied by a discussion of the main strengths and weaknesses of the book.