bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Expression of steroidogenic enzymes and steroid receptors in foetal gonads of domestic cat—Sex similarities and differences
Authors: Braun BC , Jewgenow K
Published: November 2016

Contents

Foetal gonads already produce steroid hormones and by this influence the further development of external and internal genitalia as well as of the brain. Beside this, foetal gonads themselves can be influenced by foetal or maternal hormones. The time course of foetal gonadal development can differ between species. As knowledge on processes in domestic cats is very limited, the steroidogenic enzyme expressions as well as these of steroid receptors were analysed in foetal gonads of domestic cats. We investigated a period from beginning of the second half of pregnancy to the beginning of the third trimester; a phase, where also gonadal development proceeds. The mRNA expression of most of the steroidogenic enzymes was remarkably higher in male gonads compared to female ones on all analysed days. The enzyme mRNA expression in female gonads shows a tendency for an increase towards the beginning of the third trimester, except that of aromatase gene CYP19A1—it shows the opposite trend. CYP19A1 was detectable just in female gonads, indicating that only female foetal gonads are capable of producing oestrogens. Gene expressions of genomically and non‐genomically acting steroid receptors for progesterone, androgen and oestrogen reception were observed in gonads of both genders. Slightly higher expressions of some receptors were detected in female compared to male gonads; only for the non‐genomically oestrogen receptor GPER, we observed the opposite. The protein staining for progesterone receptor membrane component 1 (PGRMC1) exposed a potential function of it on steroid‐producing cell and/or cells that suppose early oogenesis.
Research on reproduction is essential for captive breeding of endangered carnivore species
Authors: Jewgenow K , Braun BC , Dehnhard M , Zahmel J , Goeritz F
Published: November 2016

Contents

Assisted reproductive technology (ART) has great potential for conservation, but its successful application in captive breeding programmes of endangered species is often compromised by limited background on species' biology. Although carnivore species benefit from knowledge obtained in domesticated species (dogs, cats and ferrets), the focus of research is different. In pet animals, research in reproduction has mainly been focused on ovarian function and contraception, although substantial progress has also been made in the field of in vitro embryo production, transgenic embryos and cloning to aid relevant medical models. In endangered species, however, research should focus on characterizing reproductive traits (cyclicity and seasonality) to unravel species‐specific endocrine principles of reproduction physiology. Based on this knowledge, it is crucial to enhance the ability to manipulate female reproductive cycles, especially those of embryo recipients. Furthermore, research conducted on molecular and cellular mechanisms of gamete and embryo development, as well as on cryopreservation protocols of gametes and embryos, is required for successful implementation of advanced ART to wild carnivores. This review will provide a summary on the state of the art with focus on ART contributing to conservation breeding of endangered carnivores.
Effect of testicular tissue lysate on developmental competence of porcine oocytes matured and fertilized in vitro
Authors: Singh AK , Naskar S , Saikia B , Vashi Y , Gupta S , Banik S , Tamuli MK , Pande V , Sarma DK , Dhara SK
Published: November 2016

Contents

The objective of the present study was to investigate the effect of testicular tissue lysate (TTL) on developmental competence of germinal vesicle (GV) stage porcine oocytes. Two types of TTL were prepared through repeated freeze–thaw in liquid nitrogen, one from whole testicular tissue (wTTL) and other from either of four different sections of testes, namely just beneath the tunica albuginea (TA), from the transitional area between the seminiferous cord/tubules and the mediastinum testis (TR) and from the intermediate area (parenchymal tissue origin) and CE (cauda epididymis origin). The whole or section‐wise TTL treatments were given for 44 hr during in vitro maturation (IVM). Oocyte maturation was done in either of the two media, namely defined (high‐performance basic medium for porcine oocyte maturation, commercially available) and serum containing (TCM199). After maturation, oocytes were co‐incubated with fresh spermatozoa for 6 hr and then transferred to embryo culture media. Treatment of GV stage oocytes with wTTL (1 mg/ml) increased the cleavage and morula percentage rate (69.23 ± 6.23 and 48.15 ± 6.77, respectively) than that of their control (58.33 ± 8.08 and 32.54 ± 5.53, respectively) in defined media, and in serum‐containing media, cleavage and morula percentage rate were almost equal in both treatment (54.56 ± 7.79 and 34.70 ± 6.78, respectively) and control (59.52 ± 8.21 and 38.52 ± 6.54, respectively). However, effect of wTTL was not significant. In case of section‐wise TTL supplements, TR section significantly (p < .01) improved cleavage and morula rate (58.43 ± 7.98 and 36.14 ± 6.89, respectively) followed by TA. In conclusion, present study indicates that IVM, in vitro fertilization and in vitro culture of embryo are improved in the presence of TTL, particularly its TR section. Further study is expected to reveal the principal components of TTL which may prove useful for IVM.
Nasal immunization with inhibin DNA vaccine delivered by attenuated Salmonella choleraesuis for improving ovarian responses and fertility in cross‐bred buffaloes
Authors: Liu Q , Rehman ZU , Liu JJ , Han L , Liu XR , Yang LG
Published: November 2016

Contents

This study was conducted to determine the effect of immunization with inhibin DNA vaccine delivered by attenuated Salmonella choleraesuis on ovarian responses and fertility in cross‐bred buffaloes. A total of 134 cross‐bred buffaloes were divided into four groups: groups T1 (n = 34), T2 (n = 35) and T3 (n = 31) were nasal immunized twice a day with 10 ml of 1 × 1010 CFU/ml of the C501 (pVAX‐asd‐IS) vaccine for 5, 3 and 1 day, respectively. Group C (n = 34) was nasal immunized with 10 ml PBS for 5 days. All animals were immunized twice with an interval of 14 days and administered with 200 μg of a GnRH analogue on day 28, 0.5 mg PGF2α on day 35 and 200 μg of the same GnRH analogue on day 37. TAI was performed at 18 and 24 hr after the second GnRH treatment. Fourteen days after primary immunization, C501 (pVAX‐asd‐IS) elicited significant immune responses, and anti‐inhibin IgG antibody titres in group T1 were significantly higher (p < .01) than groups T3 and C. After the second GnRH treatment, the growth speed of the dominant follicles in group T1 was significantly faster (p < .05) than groups T3 and C. The number and diameter of large follicles (≥10 mm) as well as ovulatory follicles in group T1 were the greatest in all groups, resulting in a greater conception rate in buffaloes with positive anti‐inhibin antibodies. These results demonstrate that immunization with the C501 (pVAX‐asd‐IS) vaccine, coupled with the Ovsynch protocol, could be used as an alternative approach to improve reproductive performance in cross‐bred buffaloes.
Patterns of treatment expectation and the physician–patient relationship perceived by women receiving traditional Chinese medicine treatment for menstrual symptoms: a Q‐methodology study
Authors: Guo Jong‐Long , Tu Ku Hsin‐Yi , Yang Fu‐Chi , Hsu Hsiao‐Pei , Lin Yun‐Hsuan , Huang Chiu‐Mieh
Published: November 2016

Background

The recurrence of menstrual symptoms markedly interferes with the daily life, social functioning, work disability and quality of life of women. Patient perception of healthcare services is underexplored but crucial for understanding how to efficiently develop healthcare practices.

Aims

To identify and describe the different patterns of treatment expectation and physician–patient relationships perceived by women receiving traditional Chinese medicine treatment for menstrual symptoms.

Methods

A two‐stage data collection design was used. In the first stage, in‐depth interviews with 40 participants were conducted; the interview data were used for content analysis. Q statements were developed on the basis of the content analysis results. In the second stage, a series of Q sorts was performed by 60 other participants to subjectively rank the Q statements.

Results

The results of factor analysis revealed that four factors retained in the final model accounted for 56% of total variance. Women associated with Factor 1 had experienced few negative physician–patient interactions; these women were relatively young (31.6 years) and had mild perimenstrual mood discomfort (6.4). Women who loaded on Factor 2 preferred physician guidance and encountered few barriers to adherence; these participants were older (38.6 years) and had the most severe perimenstrual mood discomfort (9.5) among the four groups. The women in agreement with Factor 3 tended to patiently wait for treatment effects; these participants had the highest scores for both cyclic pelvic pain (4.9) and perimenstrual physical discomfort (8.8). The women associated with Factor 4 demanded effective treatment and had the lowest scores for both cyclic pelvic pain (3.8) and perimenstrual physical discomfort (6.8).

Conclusions

The exploration of clustering patients according to their perspectives could influence healthcare providers to acknowledge patient expectations and enable effective communication between physicians and patients.
Viewing oneself as a capable person – experiences of professionals working with older Finnish immigrants
Authors: Arola Lea Annikki , Mårtensson Lena , Häggblom Kronlöf Greta
Published: November 2016

The proportion of older immigrants in the population is expected to increase in Sweden. Research indicates that older immigrants face the double burden of frailty, caused by a weaker health status, and the immigration process. Health promotion interventions can be used to prevent frailty and support healthy ageing in this population. Healthcare professionals are a crucial part of health promotion and the present study aimed to explore healthcare professionals’ experiences of health in context of daily life among older immigrants to and provide a basis for the development of a health promotion intervention targeted at older immigrants. Four focus group discussions were conducted with professionals who worked with home‐dwelling older people from Finland, currently living in Sweden. Participants represented a variety of healthcare professions. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis. The healthcare professionals perceived that health in daily life was (i) connected to the view of oneself as a capable person and (ii) participants strove to maintain their own origin. The findings highlighted that when planning for health promotion interventions for older immigrants, the point of departure should be to recognise the person as a person and the background of immigration is not the first issue to address. Therefore, a person‐centred health promotion intervention is recommended to open a dialogue between healthcare professionals and older immigrants, so that a common view of the intervention can be reached.
The stratigraphic record and processes of turbidity current transformation across deep‐marine lobes
Authors: Kane Ian A. , Pontén Anna S. M. , Vangdal Brita , Eggenhuisen Joris T. , Hodgson David M. , Spychala Yvonne T.
Published: November 2016

Sedimentary facies in the distal parts of deep‐marine lobes can diverge significantly from those predicted by classical turbidite models, and sedimentological processes in these environments are poorly understood. This gap may be bridged using outcrop studies and theoretical models. In the Skoorsteenberg Formation (South Africa), a downstream transition from thickly bedded turbidite sandstones to argillaceous, internally layered hybrid beds, is observed. The hybrid beds have a characteristic stratigraphic and spatial distribution, being associated with bed successions which generally coarsen and thicken‐upward reflecting deposition on the fringes of lobes in a dominantly progradational system. Using a detailed characterization of bed types, including grain size, grain‐fabric and mineralogical analyses, a process‐model for flow evolution is developed. This is explored using a numerical suspension capacity model for radially spreading and decelerating turbidity currents. The new model shows how decelerating sediment suspensions can reach a critical suspension capacity threshold beyond which grains are not supported by fluid turbulence. Sand and silt particles, settling together with flocculated clay, may form low yield strength cohesive flows; development of these higher concentration lower boundary layer flows inhibits transfer of turbulent kinetic energy into the upper parts of the flow ultimately resulting in catastrophic loss of turbulence and collapse of the upper part of the flow. Advection distances of the now transitional to laminar flow are relatively long (several kilometres) suggesting relatively slow dewatering (several hours) of the low yield strength flows. The catastrophic loss of turbulence accounts for the presence of such beds in other fine‐grained systems without invoking external controls or large‐scale flow partitioning and also explains the abrupt pinch‐out of all divisions of these sandstones. Estimation of the point of flow transformation is a useful tool in the prediction of heterogeneity distribution in subsurface systems.
Territorial Neutrality and Cultural Pluralism in American Federalism: Is the United States the Archenemy of Peripheral Nationalism?
Authors: Kincaid John
Published: November 2016

This study examines accommodations of ‘national’ minorities in the context of territorial neutrality and territorial democracy in American federalism and critiques Kymlicka's criticism of the United States as the foe of peripheral nationalism. Aside from the imagined nationalism of the white American South, peripheral nationalism has not been politically viable in the United States. Territorial democracy permitted territorially based cultural pluralism that facilitated immigrant assimilation while asymmetrical territorial governance arrangements accommodated ‘national’ minorities not necessarily desiring statehood. Secession, therefore, is not a credible threat in American federalism.
Identification of a novel HLA‐C*06 variant allele, HLA‐C*06:166, by sequence‐based typing in a Chinese individual
Authors: Wang J. , Zhang Y. , Li Q. , Ru K. , Wang X.
Published: November 2016

HLA‐C*06:166 differs from HLA‐C*06:02:01:01 (146T → C, exon 2, V25A).
Cytomegalovirus and cancer after kidney transplantation: Role of the human leukocyte antigen system?
Authors: Wong Germaine , Chakera Aron , Chapman Jeremy R. , Chadban Steve C. , Pilmore Helen , Craig Jonathan C. , Lim Wai H.
Published: November 2016

Background

The role of cytomegalovirus (CMV) in cancer development after transplantation remains uncertain. We aimed to determine the association between donor and recipient CMV serological status and the risk of cancer development after kidney transplantation.

Methods

Using data from the Australian and New Zealand Dialysis and Transplant (ANZDATA) Registry, we assessed the association between CMV donor/recipient (D/R) serological status and the risk of solid organ cancers in primary adult deceased‐donor kidney transplant patients between 1990 and 2012.

Results

Of 8140 recipients, a total of 895 (11%) recipients developed incident cancers during a follow‐up time of 51 555 person‐years. Human leukocyte antigen (HLA) mismatches was an effect modifier between CMV serological status and cancer (P=.03 for interaction). In recipients who have received 0‐2 HLA‐ABDR mismatched kidneys, the adjusted hazard ratios for cancer incidence among those with CMV D−/R−, CMV D−/R+, and CMV D+/R− were 0.47 (95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.24‐0.91), 1.42 (95% CI: 0.97‐2.07), and 1.02 (95% CI: 0.67‐1.57), respectively compared with the reference of CMV D+/R+. A similar association was not observed in those with >2 HLA‐ABDR mismatches.

Conclusion

CMV D−/R− status was associated with a reduced risk of cancer in kidney transplant recipients who have received well‐matched renal allografts, suggesting a potential role of HLA matching in cancer development.
Finding a scientific voice: performing science, space and speech in the 19th century
Authors: Finnegan Diarmid A
Published: November 2016

Taking as a point of departure recent scholarly interest in the geographies of spoken communication, this paper situates the cultivation of a scientific voice in a range of 19th‐century contexts and locations. An examination of two of the century's most celebrated science lecturers, Michael Faraday and Thomas Henry Huxley, offers a basis for more general claims about historical relations between science, speech and space. The paper begins with a survey of the geography of Victorian oratory in which advocates of science sought to carve out an effective niche. It then turns to a reconstruction of the varying and variously interpreted assumptions about authoritative and authentic speech that shaped how the platform performances of Faraday and Huxley were constructed, contested and re‐mediated in print. Particular attention is paid to sometimes clashing ideals of vocal performance and paralinguistic communication and to the ways in which these were inflected by convictions about gender and class. This signals an interest in the performative dimensions of science lectures rather more than their specific cognitive content. In exploring these concerns, the paper argues that ‘finding a scientific voice’ was a fundamentally geographical enterprise driven by attempts to make science resonate with a wider oratorical culture without losing distinctive appeal and special authority.
Epidemiology of ocular disorders presumed to be inherited in three large Italian dog breeds in Italy
Authors: Guandalini Adolfo , Di Girolamo Nicola , Santillo Daniele , Andreani Valentina , Corvi Roberta , Bandini Marina , Peruccio Claudio
Published: November 2016

Objective

To describe the epidemiology and the types of eye disorders that are presumed to be inherited (PIED) in three large Italian dog breeds.

Animals

Three large Italian dog breeds: Neapolitan Mastiff (FCI code: 197), Maremma Sheepdog (FCI code: 201), and Italian Corso dog (FCI code: 343).

Procedures

All dogs that underwent a complete ophthalmic examination between 1992 and 2012 were included in this prospective observational study. The prevalence of eye disorders with 95% confidence intervals was reported for presumed healthy dogs and for dogs referred to a veterinary center for an ophthalmic consultation. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression techniques were used to generate odds ratios.

Results

Of 605 dogs examined during the study period, 351 dogs were affected by at least one PIED (58%; 95% CI: 54–62%). The prevalence of PIED was significantly lower in dogs presented for ophthalmic examination (53.8%) as compared to presumed healthy dogs (62.2%)(OR: 1.4; 95% CI: 1.02–1.9; P = 0.037). Also after multivariate adjustment for the period of observation, the odds of Neapolitan Mastiff (92.1%; OR: 21.4; 95% CI: 11.1–41.4) and of Cane Corso (57.7%; OR: 2.5; 95% CI: 1.7–3.6) suffering a PIED were greater than the Maremma Sheepdog (35.4%). The most common PIED in each breed were entropion (24.3% of all the PIED) in the Neapolitan Mastiff, ectropion (36.6%) in the Corso dog, and cataract (27.9%) in the Maremma Sheepdog.

Conclusions

Clinicians should be aware that three large Italian dog breeds frequently suffer PIED. Breed standards should be reconsidered, and breeding programs should be directed at limiting such disorders.
Effectiveness of a red cell antigen‐matching transfusion protocol in sickle cell disease patients
Authors: Dezan M. R. , Oliveira V. B. , Bianchi J. V. S. , Rodrigues V. , Solano J. H. , Gomes F. C. , Bonifácio S. L. , Levi J. E. , Guallandro S. F. M. , Krieger J. E. , Pereira A. C. , Sabino E. C. , Mendrone‐Júnior A. , Dinardo C. L.
Published: November 2016

Background and objectives

To date, it is unclear whether antigen matching is effective in reducing antibody development and whether transfusing blood from non‐Caucasian donors reduces alloimmunization in sickle cell disease patients (SCP). This study was designed to evaluate the effectiveness of an antigen‐matching strategy supplied by a mixed donor population, in reducing alloimmunization in SCPs.

Methods

Eighty SCPs transfused with C‐, E‐ and K‐matched units and 2000 donors were genotyped for the most relevant RBC antigens, and resulting genotypic frequencies were compared. Also, alloantibodies specificity and clinical complications were evaluated in SCPs.

Results

A high alloimmunization rate was observed despite the prophylaxis protocol (62·1%). The main cause underlying lack of effectiveness was transfusion of non‐matched units in external hospitals. Even though our donor population was ethnically mixed, it still exhibited antigenic differences in relation to SCPs (C and Fya). Frequency of clinical complications was similar between alloimmunized and non‐alloimmunized patients.

Conclusions

Prospective antigen matching is an unattractive alloimmunization prophylaxis for SCPs if not associated with strategies to minimize the hazards related to transfusions at non‐index hospitals. Even in a highly mixed donor population, antigenic discrepancies in SCPs are high, increasing the risk of antibody development.
BK polyomavirus‐neutralizing activity of intravenous immunoglobulin products derived from donated blood in Japan
Authors: Urayama T. , Takahashi K. , Ideno S. , Yunoki M. , Saito M. , Numakura K. , Inoue T. , Satoh S. , Sakai K.
Published: November 2016

Background and Objectives

BK polyomavirus (BKV) causes BKV‐associated nephropathy and haemorrhagic cystitis, subsequent to BKV reactivation. Intravenous immunoglobulin products (IVIg), manufactured from the plasma of over ten thousand donors, may contain antibodies against BKV. However, the antibody titres and batch‐to‐batch variations in IVIg across the manufacturing year are unknown. This study aims to determine the BKV‐neutralizing activity of IVIg from donated blood in Japan and its trend over the past several years.

Materials and Methods

A reliable measurement method was established to quantitatively determine neutralizing activity using the human lung (carcinoma) cell line, A549 and the Gardner strain of BKV. Six lots of IVIg and four lots of pooled plasma were used as the source material for this study.

Results

The mean neutralizing titre against BKV in pooled plasma was 3·4 ± 0·1 log10 and that in IVIg was 4·1 ± 0·1 log10. The titres of IVIg lots manufactured from 1999 to 2010 were stable.

Conclusion

IVIg derived from donated blood in Japan demonstrated high neutralizing activity against BKV, and its titre was maintained over the duration of 10 years, suggesting high prevalence of BKV among the donor population in Japan. Further studies are required to clarify the clinical implications of this neutralizing activity in IVIg.
Immune regulation of sickle cell alloimmunization
Authors: Yazdanbakhsh K. , Shaz B. H. , Hillyer C. D.
Published: November 2016

Red blood cell (RBC) transfusion remains an important treatment for patients with sickle cell disease (SCD), and the majority of patients receive transfusions by adulthood. However, patients with SCD are at a high risk of alloimmunization, which can cause life‐threatening complications. The high rate of alloimmunization can in part be explained by chronic inflammatory condition in SCD characterized by significant immune and inflammatory activation. Heightened immune effector cell responses and/or impaired regulatory networks are likely to drive alloantibody production in alloimmunized SCD patients. In support of this, altered T‐cell immunoregulation, known to control antibody responses, has been reported in alloimmunized SCD patients. In addition, stronger follicular helper T‐cell responses that help antibody production by B cells were described in alloimmunized as compared to non‐alloimmunized SCD patients. Furthermore, several innate immune abnormalities have been identified in alloimmunized SCD patients, including a compromised anti‐inflammatory response against extracellular cell‐free haeme. The data support a model in which alloimmunized SCD patients are unable to switch off their proinflammatory state in response to the ongoing haemolytic state characteristic of SCD, placing this patient subset at a higher risk to develop a strong immune response against allogeneic determinants on transfused RBCs, thus increasing the risk of further alloimmunization. A detailed mechanistic understanding of innate immune abnormalities that can contribute to pathogenic T‐cell responses in alloimmunized SCD patients will lay the foundation for identification of biomarkers of alloimmunization with the goal that this information will ultimately help guide therapy in these patients.
Aiming for quality and accreditation in the hospital blood bank
Authors: Flanagan P.
Published: November 2016

Hospital blood banks play a key role in the overall transfusion process and form an important link between the Blood Establishment and clinical users of blood products. The implementation of a quality system will assist in ensuring that patients receive safe and effective products in a timely manner. A number of quality and technical standards exist which can assist the development of an appropriate quality system. Accreditation of a hospital blood bank provides external evidence that effective systems are in place. Many countries require hospital blood banks to be accredited and specify the standards that need to be achieved. In other countries, voluntary accreditation is often used as an independent demonstration that appropriate standards are being maintained.
In vitro evaluation of the haemostatic capacity of cryopreserved platelets and platelet substitutes
Authors: Lozano M. , Cid J. , Escolar G.
Published: November 2016

The short shelf life of platelet concentrates (PCs) presents logistic problems in providing timely PC transfusions for patients highly alloimmunized by HLA/HPA antibodies, and when long or major transportation barriers exist (e.g. rural care settings, severe weather, military operations). Several strategies have been tried to circumvent the limited storage time of PC. Among them, the cryopreservation of human platelets using dimethyl sulfoxide, the freeze‐drying of outdated human platelets and even the manufacture of artificial phospholipids that might act as artificial platelets. Several in vitro techniques are currently available to characterize the structure and function of those products. Among other we can use, complete blood count, flow cytometry combined to monoclonal antibodies, platelet aggregation, studies under flow conditions and thromboelastography/thromboelastometry. The combined use of those in vitro techniques provides valuable information about the structure and functional haemostatic capacities of those platelet components. Depending on the results, the decision can be made if the product can be or cannot be tested on human volunteers and patients. As for instance was the case of artificial phospholipids that after observing a very high procoagulant activity in vitro, this approach has not gone further in its development.
Isolation of Campylobacter spp. from Client‐Owned Dogs and Cats, and Retail Raw Meat Pet Food in the Manawatu, New Zealand
Authors: Bojanić K. , Midwinter A. C. , Marshall J. C. , Rogers L. E. , Biggs P. J. , Acke E.
Published: November 2016

Campylobacter causes acute gastroenteritis in people worldwide and is frequently isolated from food, animals and the environment. The disease is predominately food‐borne but many routes of transmission and sources of infection have been described, including contact with pets. The prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in dogs and cats varies widely, and data on New Zealand pets are limited. This study aimed to investigate the prevalence of Campylobacter spp. in dogs, cats and retail raw meat pet food products in New Zealand and to characterize Campylobacter jejuni isolates using multilocus sequence typing (MLST). Ninety dogs and 110 cats examined at the Massey University Veterinary Teaching Hospital for elective procedures, and fifty locally purchased retail raw meat pet diets were sampled. Two culture protocols combining Bolton broth enrichment and mCCDA and CAT agars in a microaerobic atmosphere at 42°C and 37°C with species identification using PCR were performed. The prevalence of Campylobacter spp., C. jejuni, Campylobacter upsaliensis and Campylobacter helveticus was 36%, 13%, 23% and 1% in dogs and 16%, 5%, 5% and 7% in cats, respectively. One dog had Campylobacter lari confirmed, and three dogs and one cat had multiple Campylobacter spp. detected. Significantly more animals tested positive using CAT than mCCDA agar (P < 0.001). Being neutered, vaccinated for Bordetella bronchiseptica, fed dry diets and brought in for neutering were protective factors for dogs, whereas attendance for dental treatment was a risk factor for cats. Campylobacter spp. were isolated from 28%, C. jejuni 22%, C. lari 6% and Campylobacter coli 6% of food samples. Six isolates positive by Campylobacter genus PCR were identified as Arcobacter butzleri. Poultry meat was more likely to be positive than non‐poultry meat (P = 0.006). Of the 13 C. jejuni pet isolates with full MLST profiles, eight were of different sequence types (ST) and all nine food isolates were of different STs.
Influence of Index of Refraction and Particle Size Distribution on Radiative Heat Transfer in a Pulverized Coal Combustion Furnace
Authors: Johansson Robert , Gronarz Tim , Kneer Reinhold
Published: November 2016

In this work, the influence of the radiative properties of coal and ash particles on radiative heat transfer in combustion environments is investigated. Emphasis is placed on the impact on the impact of the complex index of refraction and the particle size on particle absorption and scattering efficiencies. Different data of the complex index of refraction available in the literature are compared, and their influence on predictions of the radiative wall flux and radiative source term in conditions relevant for pulverized coal combustion is investigated. The heat transfer calculations are performed with detailed spectral models. Particle radiative properties are obtained from Mie theory, and a narrow band model is applied for the gas radiation. The results show that, for the calculation of particle efficiencies, particle size is a more important parameter than the complex index of refraction. The influence of reported differences in the complex index of refraction of coal particles on radiative heat transfer is small for particle sizes and conditions of interest for pulverized coal combustion. For ash, the influence of variations in the literature data on the complex index of refraction is larger, here, differences between 10% and 40% are seen in the radiative source term and radiative heat fluxes to the walls. It is also shown that approximating a particle size distribution with a surface area weighted mean diameter, D32, for calculation of the particle efficiencies has a small influence on the radiative heat transfer.
Experimental Characterization of the Vane Heat Flux Under Pulsating Trailing-Edge Blowing
Authors: Saavedra J. , Paniagua G. , Saracoglu B. H.
Published: November 2016

The steady improvement of aircraft engine performance has led toward more compact engine cores with increased structural loads. Compact single-stage high-pressure turbines allow high power extraction, operating in the low supersonic range. The shock waves formed at the airfoil trailing edge contribute substantially to turbine losses, mainly due to the shock-boundary layer interactions as well as high-frequency forces on the rotor. We propose to control the vane trailing edge shock interaction with the downstream rotor, using a pulsating vane-trailing-edge-coolant at the rotor passing frequency. A linear cascade of transonic vanes was investigated at different Mach numbers, ranging from subsonic to supersonic regimes (0.8, 1.1) at two engine representative Reynolds numbers (4 × 106 and 6 × 106). The steady and unsteady heat flux was retrieved using thin-film two-layered gauges. The complexity of the tests required the development of an original heat transfer postprocessing approach. In a single test, monitoring the heat flux data and the wall temperature we obtained the adiabatic wall temperature and the convective heat transfer coefficient. The right-running trailing edge shock wave impacts on the neighboring vane suction side. The impact of the shock wave on the boundary layer creates a separation bubble, which is very sensitive to the intensity and angle of the shock wave. Increasing the coolant blowing rate induces the shock to be less oblique, moving the separation bubble upstream. A similar effect is caused by the pulsations of the coolant
Wrench Accuracy for Parallel Manipulators and Interval Dependency
Authors: Notash Leila
Published: November 2016

In this paper, the wrench accuracy for parallel manipulators is examined under variations in parameters and data. The solution sets of actuator forces/torques are investigated utilizing interval arithmetic (IA). Implementation issues of interval arithmetic to analyze the performance of manipulators are addressed, including the consideration of dependencies in parameters and the design of input vectors to generate the required wrench. Specifically, the effect of the dependency within and among the entries of the Jacobian matrix is studied, and methodologies for reducing and/or eliminating the overestimation of solution set are presented. In addition, the subset of solution set that produces platform wrenches within the required lower and upper bounds is modeled. Furthermore, the formulation of solutions that provide any platform wrench within the defined interval is examined. Intersection of these two sets, if any, results in the given interval platform wrench. Implementation of the methods to identify the solution for actuator forces/torques is presented on example parallel manipulators.
Minimization of Risk Assessments' Variability in Technology Qualification Processes
Authors: Samindi M. K. Samarakoon S. M. , Chandima Ratnayake R. M.
Published: November 2016

Technology qualification (TQ) centers on establishing an acceptable level of confidence in innovative aspects of new technologies that are not addressed by the normative standards and/or common certification procedures. Risk-based technology qualification aims to minimize the uncertainty and risk of potential failures in novel designs, concepts, or applications that are not covered by existing standards, industry codes, and/or best practices. The degree of success in a technology qualification process (TQP) depends on its potential for minimizing the uncertainty of a novel technology under assessment and the level of uncertainty arising from the qualification methods and basis. Due to the lack of generic reliability data, focused research and development, and in-service experience, it is necessary to employ risk-based qualification of new technology. In a risk-based TQ, the technology under consideration is decomposed into manageable elements to assess those that involve aspects of new technology and to identify the key challenges and uncertainties. The aforementioned requires risk ranking with the support of experts, who represent relevant technical disciplines and field experience in design, fabrication, installation, inspection, maintenance, and operation. Hence, it is vital to have a comprehensive approach for ranking the risk of potential failures in a TQP, especially to reduce the variability present in the risk ranking and the overall uncertainty. This paper proposes a fuzzy logic based approach, which enables the variability present in the risk ranking of a TQP to be minimized. It also demonstrates how to make risk rankings by means of an illustrative case.
Numerical Analysis of Energy Flow Paths in Exhaust Gas Turbochargers by Means of Conjugate Heat Transfer
Authors: Hoepke Bjoern , Vieweg Maximilian , Pischinger Stefan
Published: November 2016

Heat transfer effects play a significant role in assessing the performance of automotive turbochargers. Thermal effects are becoming increasingly relevant due to reduced machine sizes and increased exhaust gas temperatures. In this work, a study of the individual energy flows is conducted by simulation of a complete turbocharger comprising compressor (dC = 51 mm), turbine, and bearing housing using conjugate heat transfer. Special focus is given to the analysis of the various heat flows occurring in the machine aiming to identify the major heat transfer paths and their sensitivity with respect to varying operating conditions. Cooling of the bearing housing is shown to be a powerful thermal isolator mitigating the heat transferred to the compressor by up to 60%. Moreover, the rotating speed largely dictates the amount of heat transfer in the compressor and the direction of the heat flow: Whereas at low speeds (22% of max. speed), 117 W are introduced into the fluid and 338 W are being discharged from the fluid at maximum speed. At high speed operation, the heat transfer is shown to be insignificant compared to the aerodynamic work. At low speeds, however, it can reach up to 35% of the aerodynamic work. While the turbine inlet temperature largely governs the overall heat that is lost from the exhaust gas passing the turbine (from 630 W at 300 °C up to 3.72 kW at 1050 °C), only a minor effect on the compressor heat transfer is detected.
Swirl Flame Response to Simultaneous Axial and Transverse Velocity Fluctuations
Authors: Saurabh Aditya , Moeck Jonas P. , Paschereit Christian Oliver
Published: November 2016

In this experimental study, we investigate the impact of transverse acoustic velocity fluctuations on flame response to axial velocity fluctuations. Such a scenario where a flame is under the influence of a 2D acoustic field occurs in annular gas turbine combustors during thermoacoustic instability. A generic premixed swirl flame is exposed to simultaneous transverse and axial acoustic forcing. The amplitude of axial forcing was kept constant, while the amplitude and relative phase (with respect to axial forcing) of the transverse forcing was systematically varied. Results obtained indicate that transverse velocity affects flame response, and that both the magnitude of transverse velocity and its phase with respect to axial forcing are important factors.
FLOvane: A New Approach for High-Pressure Vane Design
Authors: Wang Dingxi , Ornano Francesco , Sheng Li Yan , Wells Roger , Hjalmarsson Christer , Hedlund Lars , Povey Thomas
Published: November 2016

This paper presents a new unconventional philosophy for high-pressure (HP) vane design. It is proposed that the most natural design starting point for admitting and accelerating flow with minimum loss and secondary flow is a trumpet-shaped flow-path which gradually turns to the desired angle. Multiple trumpet-shaped inlets are seamlessly blended into the (annular or partitioned) combustor walls resulting in a highly lofted flow-path, rather than a traditional flow-path defined by distinct airfoil and endwall surfaces. We call this trumped-shaped inlet the fully lofted oval vane (FLOvane). The purpose of this paper is to describe the FLOvane concept and to present back-to-back CFD analyses of two current industrial gas turbines with conventional and FLOvane-modified designs. The resulting designs diverge significantly from conventional designs in terms of both process and final geometric form. Computational fluid dynamic predictions for the FLOvane-modified designs show improved aerodynamic performance characteristics, reduced heat load, improved cooling performance, improved thermal–mechanical life, and improved stage/engine efficiency. The mechanisms for improved performance include reduction of secondary flows, reduced mixing of coolant flow with the mainstream flow, reduced skin friction, and improved coolant distribution. In the two current industrial gas turbine engines, the absolute (percentage point) improvement in stage isentropic efficiency when the FLOvane design was included was estimated at 0.33% points and 0.40% points without cooling flow reduction, and 1.5% points in one case and much more is expected for the other case when cooling flow reductions were accounted for.
Global Output Feedback Finite-Time Regulation of Robot Manipulators Under Actuator Constraints
Authors: Wang Haihong , Su Yuxin , Zhang Liyin
Published: November 2016

In this paper, the finite-time regulation problem of robot manipulators under saturated actuator inputs with position measurements only is addressed. A simple saturated finite-time proportional-derivative (PD) plus gravity compensation (PD+) controller is presented, in which the joint velocity is estimated by constructing a simple nonlinear filter. Global finite-time stability is shown by using Lyapunov stability theory and geometric homogeneity technique. The benefits of this design are that the proposed control can be easily implemented and ensures global finite-time stability with bounded control by selecting control gains a priori. Simulations and experimental results illustrate the expected performance of the proposed approach.
Constrained Robust Control for Spacecraft Attitude Stabilization Under Actuator Delays and Faults
Authors: Safa Alireza , Baradarannia Mahdi , Kharrati Hamed , Khanmohammadi Sohrab
Published: November 2016

This paper deals with the attitude stabilizing control problem for a rigid spacecraft in the presence of model uncertainties, external disturbances, and actuator faults when delay effects and control input constraints are taken into consideration. First, a backstepping method is introduced in the control design for compensating unknown delays in inputs. Then, a disturbance observer is investigated for estimating model uncertainties, external disturbances, and actuator fault effects. The backstepping controller is augmented with the reconstructed information provided by the disturbance observer to make the closed-loop system insensitive to disturbances and faults. Next, the proposed observer–controller structure is redesigned to deal with control constraints. Rigorous proofs show that the developed control under simple sufficient conditions can render the system globally input-to-state stable (ISS). Numerical simulations are presented to illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed controllers.
Results From Nigeria’s 2016 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth
Authors: Adeniyi Ade F. , Odukoya Olukemi O. , Oyeyemi Adewale L. , Adedoyin Rufus A. , Ojo Olatunde S. , Metseagharun Edirin , Akinroye Kingsley K.
Published: November 2016

Background:

The Nigerian Report card on Physical Activity (PA) in Children and Youth was first developed in 2013 to inform practice and policy on healthy living and prevention of noncommunicable diseases among Nigerian children and youth. This article summarizes the results of the 2016 report card and provides updated evidence on the current situation in Nigeria.

Methods:

A comprehensive review of literature was undertaken by the Report Card Working Group. Grades were assigned to 10 PA indicators based on the criteria used for the 2013 edition.

Results:

Grades assigned to the indicators were Overall PA, D; Active Play and Leisure, C; Active Transportation, B; Sedentary Behaviors (screen-based, F and nonscreen-based, D); Overweight and Obesity, A; PA in Schools, C-; Government/Nongovernment Organizations/Private Sector/Policy, B. The following indicators were graded as Incomplete: Organized Sport and PA, Community and Built Environment, and Family and Peers.

Conclusions:

The overall PA levels of Nigerian children and youth seemed to be declining compared with the 2013 Report card but with slight improvement in active play and leisure, and PA in school settings. A substantial number of Nigerian children and youth still have high sedentary behaviors, overweight and obesity. Efforts are needed to promote PA among them.
Results From Sweden’s 2016 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth
Authors: Nyström Christine Delisle , Larsson Christel , Ehrenblad Bettina , Eneroth Hanna , Eriksson Ulf , Friberg Marita , Hagströmer Maria , Lindroos Anna Karin , Reilly John J. , Löf Marie
Published: November 2016

Background:

The 2016 Swedish Report Card on Physical Activity (PA) for Children and Youth is a unique compilation of the existing physical and health related data in Sweden. The aim of this article is to summarize the procedure and results from the report card.

Methods:

Nationally representative surveys and individual studies published between 2005–2015 were included. Eleven PA and health indicators were graded using the Active Healthy Kids Canada grading system. Grades were assigned based on the percentage of children/youth meeting a defined benchmark (A: 81% to 100%, B: 61% to 80%, C: 41% to 60%, D: 21% to 40%, F: 0% to 20%, or incomplete (INC).

Results:

The assigned grades were Overall Physical Activity, D; Organized Sport Participation, B+; Active Play, INC; Active Transportation, C+; Sedentary Behaviors, C; Family and Peers, INC; School, C+; Community and the Built Environment, B; Government Strategies and Investments, B; Diet, C-; and Obesity, D.

Conclusions:

The included data provides some support that overall PA is too low and sedentary behavior is too high for almost all age groups in Sweden, even with the many national policies as well as an environment that is favorable to the promotion of PA.
Results From India’s 2016 Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth
Authors: Katapally Tarun Reddy , Goenka Shifalika , Bhawra Jasmin , Mani Subha , Krishnaveni Ghattu V , Kehoe Sarah Helen , Lamkang Anjana Sankhil , Raj Manu , McNutt Kathleen
Published: November 2016

Background:

Physical inactivity in children and youth in India is a major public health problem. The 2016 Indian Report Card on Physical Activity for Children and Youth has been conceptualized to highlight this epidemic by appraising behaviors, contexts, strategies, and investments related to physical activity of Indian children and youth.

Methods:

An international research collaboration resulted in the formation of a Research Working Group (RWG). RWG determined key indicators; identified, synthesized, and analyzed existing evidence; developed criteria for assigning grades; and, finally, assigned grades to indicators based on consensus.

Results:

Overall Physical Activity Levels were assigned a grade of C-. Active Transportation and Sedentary Behaviors were both assigned a grade of C. Government Strategies and Investments was assigned a grade of D. Six other indicators, including the country-specific indicator Physical Fitness, were graded as INC (incomplete) due to the lack of nationally representative evidence.

Conclusions:

Based on existing evidence, it appears that most Indian children do not achieve recommended levels of physical activity and spend most of their day in sedentary pursuits. The report card identifies gaps in both investments and research that need to be addressed before understanding the complete picture of active living in children and youth in India.