bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A novel hydroxyapatite film coated with ionic silver via inositol hexaphosphate chelation prevents implant-associated infection
Authors: Funao Haruki , Nagai Shigenori , Sasaki Aya , Hoshikawa Tomoyuki , Tsuji Takashi , Okada Yasunori , Koyasu Shigeo , Toyama Yoshiaki , Nakamura Masaya , Aizawa Mamoru , Matsumoto Morio , Ishii Ken
Published: March 2016

Various silver-coated implants have been developed to prevent implant-associated infections and have shown dramatic effects in vitro. However, the in vivo results have been inconsistent. Recent in vitro studies showed that silver exerts antibacterial activity by mediating the generation of reactive oxygen species in the presence of oxygen. To maintain its antibacterial activity in vivo, the silver should remain in an ionic state and be stably bound to the implant surface. Here, we developed a novel bacteria-resistant hydroxyapatite film in which ionic silver is immobilized via inositol hexaphosphate chelation using a low-heat immersion process. This bacteria-resistant coating demonstrated significant antibacterial activity both in vitro and in vivo. In a murine bioluminescent osteomyelitis model, no bacteria were detectable 21 days after inoculation with S. aureus and placement of this implant. Serum interleukin-6 was elevated in the acute phase in this model, but it was significantly lower in the ionic-silver group than the control group on day 2. Serum C-reactive protein remained significantly higher in the control group than the ionic-silver group on day 14. Because this coating is produced by a low-heat immersion process, it can be applied to complex structures of various materials, to provide significant protection against implant-associated infections.
Accurate and precise quantification of Cu,Zn-SOD in human red blood cells using species-specific double and triple IDMS
Authors: Gleitzmann Julia , Raab Andrea , Schulze Dirk , Wätzig Hermann , Feldmann Jörg , Swart Claudia
Published: March 2016

Species-specific double and triple isotope dilution mass spectrometry (IDMS) was applied for the precise quantification of Cu,Zn-SOD in human erythrocytes.
Corrosion resistance of a tungsten modified AISI 430 stainless steel bipolar plate for proton exchange membrane fuel cells
Authors: Cui Jinlong , Yao Zhendong , Cheng Fupeng , Cui Yongfu , Wang Guanqin , Wang Lixia , Sun Hongliang , Li Song , Wen Zhongsheng , Sun Juncai
Published: March 2016

A W-modified layer is prepared on 430 SS via plasma surface diffusion alloying to improve its corrosion resistance in marine PEMFCs.
The role of the internal molecular free volume in defining organic porous copolymer properties: tunable porosity and highly selective CO2 adsorption
Authors: Zhang Yindong , Zhu Yunlong , Guo Jun , Gu Shuai , Wang Yuanyuan , Fu Yu , Chen Dongyang , Lin Yijun , Yu Guipeng , Pan Chunyue
Published: March 2016

This paper presents novel azo-connected copolymerized networks derived from triptycene and spirobifluorene for high carbon dioxide selective capture.
C–H activation of ethers by pyridine tethered PCsp3P-type iridium complexes
Authors: Cui Peng , Babbini Dominic C. , Iluc Vlad M.
Published: March 2016

An iridium complex supported by a PCPyP ligand featuring an internal pyridine tether showed selective mono-C–H activation of ethers, which represent intermediates in the synthesis of the corresponding Fischer carbenes.
Synthesis of the molecular amalgam [{AuHg2(o-C6F4)3}{Hg3(o-C6F4)3}]−: a rare example of a heterometallic homoleptic metallacycle
Authors: Lasanta Tania , López-de-Luzuriaga José M. , Monge Miguel , Olmos M. Elena , Pascual David
Published: March 2016

The formation of [Au(PMe3)2][{AuHg2(o-C6F4)3}{Hg3(o-C6F4)3}] by a gold mercury transmetalation mechanism is reported. The complex shows very short Au(i)–Hg(ii) contacts. Theoretical calculations indicate an extremely strong metallophilic interaction.
Blue honeysuckle fruit (Lonicera caerulea L.) from eastern Russia: phenolic composition, nutritional value and biological activities of its polar extracts
Authors: Caprioli Giovanni , Iannarelli Romilde , Innocenti Marzia , Bellumori Maria , Fiorini Dennis , Sagratini Gianni , Vittori Sauro , Buccioni Michela , Santinelli Claudia , Bramucci Massimo , Quassinti Luana , Lupidi Giulio , Vitali Luca A. , Petrelli Dezemona , Beghelli Daniela , Cavallucci Clarita , Bistoni Onelia , Trivisonno Angelo , Maggi Filippo
Published: March 2016

We conducted a chemical and biological investigation of blue honeysuckle growing in eastern Russia.
Microstructure and properties of bromo-isobutylene–isoprene rubber/polyamide 12 thermoplastic vulcanizate toward recyclable inner liners for green tires
Authors: Yao Pengjun , Wu Hanguang , Ning Nanying , Zhang Liqun , Tian Hongchi , Wu Youping , Hu Guo-Hua , Chan Tung W. , Tian Ming
Published: March 2016

Bromo-isobutylene–isoprene rubber (BIIR)/polyamide 12 (PA 12) thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPV) were prepared by dynamic vulcanization (DV) and the microstructure and properties of BIIR/PA 12 TPV toward recyclable green inner liners were studied.
Highly efficient synthesis of carbon nanocoils on alumina spheres
Authors: Cui Ruixue , Pan Lujun , Ma He , Wang Peng , Asif Muhammad
Published: March 2016

Carbon nanocoils (CNCs) and carbon nanotubes (CNTs) can be selectively synthesized on the surfaces of alumina spheres using an Fe2(SO4)3/SnCl2catalyst with different molar ratios of Fe to Sn by a thermal chemical vapor deposition method.
VIS and VUV spectroscopy of 12C17O and deperturbation analysis of the A1Π, υ = 1–5 levels
Authors: Hakalla R. , Niu M. L. , Field R. W. , Salumbides E. J. , Heays A. N. , Stark G. , Lyons J. R. , Eidelsberg M. , Lemaire J. L. , Federman S. R. , Zachwieja M. , Szajna W. , Kolek P. , Piotrowska I. , Ostrowska-Kopeć M. , Kępa R. , de Oliveira N. , Ubachs W.
Published: March 2016

The reduced T(J) − BAJ(J + 1) + DAJ2(J + 1)2 term values for the 12C17O A1Π (υ = 5) level and for the hypothetical unperturbed crossing rovibronic levels of the perturbers.
Green synthesis of folic acid-conjugated gold nanoparticles with pectin as reducing/stabilizing agent for cancer theranostics
Authors: Devendiran Raja Modhugoor , Chinnaiyan Senthil kumar , Yadav Narra Kishore , Moorthy Ganesh Kumar , Ramanathan Giriprasath , Singaravelu Sivakumar , Sivagnanam Uma Tirichurapalli , Perumal Paramasivan Thirumalai
Published: March 2016

The one pot aqueous green synthesis of gold nanoparticles (GNPs) decorated with folic acid and loaded with doxorubicin suitable for anti-cancer drug delivery was potentially promising as a new therapeutic system for cancer treatment.
Graphene based nanoassembly for simultaneous detection and degradation of harmful organic contaminants from aqueous solution
Authors: Rakkesh R. Ajay , Durgalakshmi D. , Balakumar S.
Published: March 2016

Graphene based nanoassemblies that can simultaneously detect and degrade harmful organic contaminants from water are important for conquering the risk of hazardous chemicals.
Effect of ultrasonication on Ni–Mo coatings produced by DC electroformation
Authors: Feng Chenqi , Qian Wei , Liu Jinbao , Han Sheng , Fu Ning , Ye Fengying , Lin Hualin , Jiang Jibo
Published: March 2016

The effect of the ultrasound-assisted method on Ni–Mo alloy coatings by direct current (DC) electroformation in a sulphate–citrate bath was investigated.
Monoclinic C2/m-20 carbon: a novel superhard sp3carbon allotrope
Authors: Xing M. J. , Li B. H. , Yu Z. T. , Chen Q.
Published: March 2016

Based on the first-principles calculations method with the ultrasoft pseudopotential scheme, the structural, mechanical, and electronic properties ofC2/m-20 carbon have been systematically investigated in this paper.
Solvent-free electrospinning of UV curable polymer microfibers
Authors: He Hong-Wei , Wang Le , Yan Xu , Zhang Li-Hua , Yu Miao , Yu Gui-Feng , Dong Rui-Hua , Xia Lin-Hua , Ramakrishna Seeram , Long Yun-Ze
Published: March 2016

Solvent-free electrospinning UV curable materials into ultrathin fibers under UV light radiation and in atmosphere of N2or air.
Hybrid user association for maximising energy efficiency in heterogeneous networks with human‐to‐human/machine‐to‐machine coexistence
Authors: Tian Hui , Xie Wei , Gan Xiaoying , Xu Youyun
Published: March 2016

In this study, a hybrid user association scheme for maximising energy efficiency is proposed in a wireless uplink heterogeneous network with human‐to‐human and machine‐to‐machine communications coexistence. Different from conventional user association algorithms, the authors consider access control protocol for both the human‐type‐communications (HTCs) users equipments’ (UEs) and machine‐type‐communications (MTCs) UEs according to their characteristics during user association phase, i.e. a contention‐free access mechanism for HTC UEs and a random access based on access class barring mechanism for MTC UEs. They formulate the user association problem as a maximisation of the overall UEs’ energy efficiency in consideration of both the HTC and MTC UEs’ quality of service (QoS) guarantees and load balance among base stations simultaneously. To solve the problem, they propose a distributed iterative algorithm which adopts both the matching theory and the dual decomposition theory, and prove its convergence. Finally, simulation results show that their proposed user association scheme not only outperforms existing schemes in terms of the load balance and the overall energy efficiency but also achieves the same performance as exhaustive search in the case of less number of UEs, while satisfying both the HTC and MTC UEs’ QoS requirements.
Autograft versus Allograft for Cervical Spinal Fusion
Authors: Tuchman Alexander , Brodke Darrel S. , Youssef Jim A. , Meisel Hans-Jörg , Dettori Joseph R. , Park Jong-Beom , Yoon S. Tim , Wang Jeffrey C.
Published: March 2016

Study Design

Systematic review.

Objective

To compare the effectiveness and safety between iliac crest bone graft (ICBG), non-ICBG autologous bone, and allograft in cervical spine fusion. To avoid problems at the donor site, various allograft materials have been used as a substitute for autograft. However, there are still questions as to the comparative effectiveness and safety of cadaver allograft compared with autologous ICBG.

Methods

A systematic search of multiple major medical reference databases was conducted to identify studies evaluating spinal fusion in patients with cervical degenerative disk disease using ICBG compared with non-ICBG autograft or allograft or non-ICBG autograft compared with allograft in the cervical spine. Radiographic fusion, patient-reported outcomes, and functional outcomes were the primary outcomes of interest. Adverse events were evaluated for safety.

Results

The search identified 13 comparative studies that met our inclusion criteria: 2 prospective cohort studies and 11 retrospective cohort studies. Twelve cohort studies compared allograft with ICBG autograft during anterior cervical fusion and demonstrated with a low evidence level of support that there are no differences in fusion percentages, pain scores, or functional results. There was insufficient evidence comparing patients receiving allograft with non-ICBG autograft for fusion, pain, revision, and functional and safety outcomes. No publications directly comparing non-ICBG autograft with ICBG were found.

Conclusion

Although the available literature suggests ICBG and allograft may have similar effectiveness in terms of fusion rates, pain scores, and functional outcomes following anterior cervical fusion, there are too many limitations in the available literature to draw any significant conclusions. No individual study provided greater than class III evidence, and when evaluating the overall body of literature, no conclusion had better than low evidence support. A prospective randomized trial with adequate sample size to compare fusion rates, efficacy measures, costs, and safety is warranted.
Study on law of negative corona discharge in microparticle-air two-phase flow media
Authors: He Bo , Li Tianwei , Xiu Yaping , Zhao Heng , Peng Zongren , Meng Yongpeng
Published: March 2016

To study the basic law of negative corona discharge in solid particle-air two-phase flow, corona discharge experiments in a needle-plate electrode system at different voltage levels and different wind speed were carried out in the wind tunnel. In this paper, the change law of average current and current waveform were analyzed, and the observed phenomena were systematically explained from the perspectives of airflow, particle charging, and particle motion with the help of PIV (particle image velocity) measurements and ultraviolet observations.
Enhancing the performance of blue GaN-based light emitting diodes with carrier concentration adjusting layer
Authors: Guo Yao , Liu Zhiqiang , Huang Yang , Yi Xiaoyan , Wang Junxi , Wang Guohong , Li Jinmin
Published: March 2016

In this work, a novel carrier concentration adjusting insertion layer for InGaN/GaN multiple quantum wells light-emitting diodes was proposed to mitigate the efficiency droop and improve optical output properties at high current density. The band diagrams and carrier distributions were investigated numerically and experimentally. The results indicate that due to the newly formed electron barrier and the adjusted built-in field near the active region, the hole injection has been improved and a better radiative recombination can be achieved. Compared to the conventional LED, the light output power of our new structure with the carrier concentration adjusting layers is enhanced by 127% at 350 mA , while the efficiency only droops to be 88.2% of its peak efficiency.
Gonadotropin Inhibitory Hormone Down-Regulates the Brain-Pituitary Reproductive Axis of Male European Sea Bass (Dicentrarchus labrax)1
Authors: Paullada-Salmerón José A. , Cowan Mairi , Aliaga-Guerrero María , Morano Francesca , Zanuy Silvia , Muñoz-Cueto José A.
Published: March 2016

Gonadotropin-inhibitory hormone (GnIH) inhibits gonadotropin synthesis and release from the pituitary of birds and mammals. However, the physiological role of orthologous GnIH peptides on the reproductive axis of fish is still uncertain, and their actions on the main neuroendocrine systems controlling reproduction (i.e., GnRHs, kisspeptins) have received little attention. In a recent study performed in the European sea bass, we cloned a cDNA encoding a precursor polypeptide that contained C-terminal MPMRFamide (sbGnIH-1) and MPQRFamide (sbGnIH-2) peptide sequences, developed a specific antiserum against sbGnIH-2, and characterized its central and pituitary GnIH projections in this species. In this study, we analyzed the effects of intracerebroventricular injection of sbGnIH-1 and sbGnIH-2 on brain and pituitary expression of reproductive hormone genes (gnrh1, gnrh2, gnrh3, kiss1, kiss2, gnih, lhbeta, fshbeta), and their receptors (gnrhr II-1a, gnrhr II-2b, kiss1r, kiss2r, and gnihr) as well as on plasma Fsh and Lh levels. In addition, we determined the effects of GnIH on pituitary somatotropin (Gh) expression. The results obtained revealed the inhibitory role of sbGnIH-2 on brain gnrh2, kiss1, kiss2, kiss1r, gnih, and gnihr transcripts and on pituitary fshbeta, lhbeta, gh, and gnrhr-II-1a expression, whereas sbGnIH-1 only down-regulated brain gnrh1 expression. However, at different doses, central administration of both sbGnIH-1 and sbGnIH-2 decreased Lh plasma levels. Our work represents the first study reporting the effects of centrally administered GnIH in fish and provides evidence of the differential actions of sbGnIH-1 and sbGnIH-2 on the reproductive axis of sea bass, the main inhibitory role being exerted by the sbGnIH-2 peptide.
The Cancer Epitope Trees of 23 Early Cervical Cancers in Chinese Women
Authors: Li Xia , Huang Hailiang , Guang Yanfang , Gong Yuhua , He Chen-Yi , Yi Xin , Qi Ming , Chen Zhi-Ying
Published: March 2016

Emerging evidences suggest the heterogeneity of cancers limits the efficacy of immunotherapy. To search for optimal therapeutic targets, we used whole-exome sequencing data from 23 early cervical tumors from Chinese women to investigate the hierarchical structure of the somatic mutations and the predicted neo-epitopes based on their strong binding with major histocompatibility complex class I molecules. We found each tumor carried 117 mutations and 61 neo-epitopes in average and displayed a unique phylogenic tree and “cancer neo-epitope tree” comprising different compositions of mutations or neo-epitopes. Conceivably, the neo-epitopes at the top of the tree shared by all cancer cells are the optimal therapeutic targets that might lead to a cure. Human papillomavirus can be used as therapeutic target in only a proportion of cases where the integrated genome exits without active infection. Therefore, the “cancer neo-epitope tree” will serve as an important source to determine of the optimal immunotherapeutic target.
Combating corruption in Pakistan
Authors: Khan Feisal
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to analyze the current state of corruption in Pakistan and evaluate attempts by the government to combat its entrenched corruption culture.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper shows that Pakistan’s legacy of British colonial rule, its ethno-linguistic conflict and alternating civilian governments and military coups have weakened institutional capabilities, hindered capacity building and allowed systemic corruption to flourish there. Pakistan’s many anti-corruption efforts failed because they were used to attack political foes instead of strengthening institutional capabilities.

Findings

– Pakistan has maintained its highly authoritarian form of governance inherited from the British in 1947. The ruling elite view the state as a milch cow for their personal enrichment and this attitude is also reflected in the performance of its bureaucracy. Existing rules of conduct and administration are not enforced as citizens encounter corruption in their dealings with officials. At the policy level, key decisions are often made to benefit the decision makers. The paper concludes that without political will no significant improvement in the state of corruption in Pakistan is likely to occur.

Originality/value

– This paper will be useful for scholars, policy-makers and anti-corruption practitioners who are interested in corruption in Pakistan and whether the apparent institutionalization of parliamentary democracy has reduced corruption there.
Towards a process of agenda setting driven by social media
Authors: Martin Sebastian , Grüb Birgit
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– This paper aims to provide an in-depth evaluation of how German and Austrian utilities use Facebook to engage stakeholders, including a look at the objectives pursued with the use of Facebook, addressed stakeholders as well as the provided information. German and Austrian utility companies are confronted with serious changes in the European energy sector. In this context, stakeholder theory emphasises the importance for utility companies to actively manage the relationships with the relevant stakeholders. Nowadays, a considerable number of these stakeholders might be addressed by using Facebook.

Design/methodology/approach

– The quantitative study includes 88 German and Austrian utility companies.

Findings

– Research findings indicate that Facebook is a common instrument in the German and Austrian energy sectors. It seems that so far, no real stakeholder dialogue has been achieved. Moreover, issues which deeply affect a wide variety of citizens are not emphasised on most Facebook accounts. Therefore, so far, the majority of utilities is not using the full potential of Facebook.

Originality/value

– By developing a process of agenda-setting driven by social media, the paper contributes to the existing literature and gives practical implications for public and private entities in the energy sector.
Transforming disagreements into opportunities to enhance learning, decision making and trust
Authors: Dmytriyev Sergiy , Freeman R. Edward , Haskins Mark E.
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– Disagreements related to processes, priorities, and purpose surface within organizations. Disagreements may be between colleagues, or between internal and external protagonists, or between managers and their direct reports. Rather than avoiding or ignoring or even trying to eradicate disagreement, this paper highlights the potential value to be extracted from disagreement and offers some ideas on how best to be in a position to do so.

Design/methodology/approach

– This paper is the result of the insights offered by one of the world’s leading ethicists and the reflective thought based on hundreds of discussions by all three authors with practicing managers combining for over 60 years of such engagement.

Findings

– Practical considerations, examples, and suggestions for extracting the benefit resident in disagreement are presented and discussed.

Practical implications

– The ideas and outcomes posed are immediately and broadly applicable.

Originality/value

– Readers are provided with an array of field-observed benefits that are potential outcomes from a conscientious engagement with disagreement. Within an organizational “climate of possibilities”, ten potential benefits from constructive engagement with disagreement are presented and discussed. In addition, ten means for enhancing the likelihood of capturing those benefits are presented.
Country profile: intellectual disability in Brazil
Authors: Carvalho Erenice Natalia Soares de , Forrester-Jones Rachel
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide a contextual overview of learning disability (LD) in Brazil.

Design/methodology/approach

– The paper uses an historical approach, providing a critical appraisal of the key theories and treatment of people with LD from the sixteenth century to the present.

Findings

– Brazil has experienced a different historical trajectory in terms of treatment and practice for people with LD compared to Europe, the UK and the USA.

Originality/value

– Brazil is one of the most rapidly developing, globally important countries with an emerging major economy. There are opportunities now for people with LD to be included in their country’s development, yet their needs should be highlighted.
Commentary on “‘I felt I deserved it’ – experiences and implications of disability hate crime”
Authors: Sin Chih Hoong
Published: March 2016

Purpose

– The purpose of this paper is to provide a commentary on “‘I felt I deserved it’ – Experiences and implications of disability hate crime”.

Design/methodology/approach

– Comparing the findings reported by Richardson and her colleagues with the wider evidence base, it is clear that there is considerable consistency. While scholarship in this area is still nascent, there is sufficient clarity around key issues that should support action to tackle hate crime against people with learning disability and/or autism.

Findings

– Interventions should not make uncritical assumptions around the vulnerability of people with learning disability and/or autism. Poor service commissioning, design and delivery can play a part in heightening risks. Hate crime is not simply a criminal justice issue, and effective intervention will rely on multi-agency working.

Originality/value

– The commentary recommends a social model approach towards understanding hate crime and how it may be tackled. It identifies the challenges confronting multi-agency working by situating the analysis against the wider context of public spending cuts and the impact of these on wider societal attitudes towards disabled people.
Multiple non‐parkinsonian rest tremors: dystonic rest tremor is the next candidate
Authors: Deuschl G.
Published: March 2016

Click here to view the accompanying paper in this issue.
Efficacy and safety of tenofovir, entecavir, and telbivudine for chronic hepatitis B in heart transplant recipients
Authors: Durante‐Mangoni E. , Vitrone M. , Parrella A. , Andini R. , Iossa D. , Ragone E. , Falco E. , Maiello C. , Utili R. , Zampino R.
Published: March 2016

Background

Treatment of chronic hepatitis B (CHB) with polymerase inhibitors is key to prevent disease flares and progression toward advanced liver disease. Efficacy and tolerability of newer agents has been reported anecdotally in transplant recipients.

Methods

In this prospective, observational study, we assessed outcomes of therapy with tenofovir (TDF), entecavir (ETV), and telbivudine (LdT) in 13 heart transplant recipients (HTR) with CHB.

Results

Most patients were hepatitis B e antigen negative, had low baseline hepatitis B virus (HBV) DNA, and normal aminotransferases. Liver biopsy showed a median fibrosis score of 1.5 (range 0–4). Glomerular filtration rate (GFR) was <50 mL/min in 7 patients (54%). Two patients were started on de novo ETV before transplant. Eleven previously treated patients were switched to TDF (n = 9) or LdT (n = 2). Median treatment duration was 33 months (range 1–71). HBV DNA remained suppressed in 6 patients and became undetectable in 5. Aminotransferases went down to the normal range in all patients, with a single flare in 1 patient. One patient lost hepatitis B surface antigen. No cases occurred of hepatic decompensation, hepatocellular carcinoma, or liver‐related death. The GFR remained largely stable, and no cases of TDF‐related hyper‐phosphaturia were observed.

Conclusions

This study indicates that newer antivirals are effective and safe in HTR with CHB.
Harmonic Convergence Estimation Through Strain Energy Superconvergence
Authors: Kaszynski Alexander A. , Beck Joseph A. , Brown Jeffrey M.
Published: March 2016

Grid convergence in finite element analysis (FEA), despite a wide variety of tools available to date, remains an elusive and challenging task. Due to the complex and time-consuming process of remeshing and solving the finite element model (FEM), convergence studies can be a part of the most arduous portion of the modeling process and can even be impossible with FEMs unassociated with CAD. Existing a posteriori methods, such as relative error in the energy norm, provide a near arbitrary indication of the model convergence for eigenfrequencies. This paper proposes a new approach to evaluate the harmonic convergence of an existing model without conducting a convergence study. Strain energy superconvergence (SES) takes advantage of superconvergence points within a FEM and accurately recovers the strain energy within the model using polyharmonic splines, thus providing a more accurate estimate of the system's eigenfrequencies without modification of the FEM. Accurate eigenfrequencies are critical for designing for airfoil resonance avoidance and mistuned rotor response prediction. Traditional error estimation strategies fail to capture harmonic convergence as effectively as SES, potentially leading to a less accurate airfoil resonance and rotor mistuning prediction.
Factors Determining Antiknocking Properties of Gaseous Fuels in Spark-Ignition Gas Engines
Authors: Tanaka Hiroki , Kobayashi Kazunobu , Sako Takahiro , Kuwahara Kazunari , Kawanabe Hiroshi , Ishiyama Takuji
Published: March 2016

The factors affecting knock resistance of fuels, including hydrogen (H2), ethane (C2H6), propane (C3H8), normal butane (n-C4H10), and iso-butane (i-C4H10), were determined using modeling and engine operation tests with spark-ignition gas engines. The results of zero-dimensional detailed chemical kinetic computations indicated that H2 had the longest ignition delay time of these gaseous fuels. Thus, H2 possessed the lowest ignitability. The results of engine operation tests indicated that H2 was the fuel most likely to result in knocking. The use of H2 as the fuel produced a temperature profile of the unburned gas compressed by the piston and flame front that was higher than that of the other fuels due to the high-specific heat ratio and burning velocity of H2. The relation between knock resistance and secondary fuel ratio in methane-based fuel blends also was investigated using methane (CH4) as the primary component, and H2, C2H6, C3H8, n-C4H10, or i-C4H10 as the secondary components. When the secondary fuel ratio was small, the CH4/H2 blend possessed the lowest knocking tendency. But as the secondary fuel ratio increased, the CH4/H2 mixture possessed a greater tendency to knock than CH4/C2H6 due to the high-specific heat ratio and burning velocity of H2. These results indicate that the knocking that can occur with gaseous fuels is not only dependent on the ignitability of the fuel but it also the specific heat ratio and burning velocity.
Reverse Engineering: A New Well Monitoring and Analysis Methodology Approaching Playing-Back Drill-Rate Tests in Real-Time for Drilling Optimization
Authors: Nascimento Andreas , Elmgerbi Asad , Roohi Abbas , Prohaska Michael , Thonhauser Gerhard , Gonçalves José Luiz , Mathias Mauro Hugo
Published: March 2016

Different researches have been developed during the past years aiming addressing challenges still faced in petroleum exploration. Rate of penetration and specific energy studies have been the main focuses in trying to boost operational efficiency. The combination of both techniques accomplished with a preoperational test (drill-rate test) may allow as a new trending tool the best side of the drillability optimization to take place. Further, by having these implemented in real-time, an interesting methodology result in seeing the penetrating processes as a step-by-step where drilling mechanics parameters can be more dynamically adjusted. Thus, the main focus of this paper is to address a combination of rate of penetration together with a specific energy formulation in parallel with a possible dynamic and real-time drill-rate test plotted graphs for sake of the drilling optimization enhancement.
Crowdsourced Data Indicate Widespread Multidrug Resistance in Skin Flora of Healthy Young Adults
Authors: Freeman Scott , Okoroafor Nnadozie O. , Gast Christopher M. , Koval Mikhail , Nowowiejski David , O’Connor Eileen , Harrington Robert D. , Parks John W. , Fang Ferric C.
Published: March 2016

In a laboratory exercise for undergraduate biology majors, students plated bacteria from swabs of their facial skin under conditions that selected for coagulase-negative
Staphylococcus
; added disks containing the antibiotics penicillin, oxacillin, tetracycline, and erythromycin; and measured zones of inhibition. Students also recorded demographic and lifestyle variables and merged this information with similar data collected from 9,000 other students who had contributed to the database from 2003 to 2011. Minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) testing performed at the Harborview Medical Center Microbiology Laboratory (Seattle, WA) indicated a high degree of accuracy for student-generated data; species identification with a matrix-assisted laser desorption ionization (MALDI) Biotyper revealed that over 88% of the cells analyzed by students were
S. epidermidis
or
S. capitus.
The overall frequency of resistant cells was high, ranging from 13.2% of sampled bacteria resistant to oxacillin to 61.7% resistant to penicillin. Stepwise logistic regressions suggested that recent antibiotic use was strongly associated with resistance to three of the four antibiotics tested (
p
= 0.0003 for penicillin,
p
<< 0.0001 for erythromycin and tetracycline), and that age, gender, use of acne medication, use of antibacterial soaps, or makeup use were associated with resistance to at least one of the four antibiotics. Furthermore, drug resistance to one antibiotic was closely linked to resistance to the other three antibiotics in every case (all
p
values << 0.0001), suggesting the involvement of multidrug–resistant strains. The data reported here suggest that citizen science could not only provide an important educational experience for undergraduates, but potentially play a role in efforts to expand antibiotic resistance (ABR) surveillance.
Creating Critical Consumers of Health and Science News: Teaching Science to the Non-Scientist Using Newsworthy Topics in the Life Sciences
Authors: Coderre Raymond W. , Uekermann Kristen A. , Choi Youngeun , Anderson William J.
Published: March 2016

Scientists constantly make groundbreaking discoveries, some of which receive attention from the press. We designed a course intended for a lay audience that provides the scientific background to appreciate these reports more fully. We discuss three topics in the life sciences: stem cells, cancer, and infectious disease. The course is structured to blend relevant scientific background and evaluation of primary literature with the coverage of these advances by the media and popular press. In short, lectures emphasize exposure to basic biological concepts and tools as a means of informing understanding of prominent biological questions of public interest. The overall goal of the course is not only to expose students to the media’s coverage of scientific progress, but also to hone their critical thinking skills to distinguish hope from hype.
Turning Participatory Microbiome Research into Usable Data: Lessons from the American Gut Project
Authors: Debelius Justine W. , Vázquez-Baeza Yoshiki , McDonald Daniel , Xu Zhenjiang , Wolfe Elaine , Knight Rob
Published: March 2016

The role of the human microbiome is the subject of continued investigation resulting in increased understanding. However, current microbiome research has only scratched the surface of the variety of healthy microbiomes. Public participation in science through crowdsourcing and crowdfunding microbiome research provides a novel opportunity for both participants and investigators. However, turning participatory science into publishable data can be challenging. Clear communication with the participant base and among researchers can ameliorate some challenges. Three major aspects need to be considered: recruitment and ongoing interaction, sample collection, and data analysis. Usable data can be maximized through diligent participant interaction, careful survey design, and maintaining an open source pipeline. While participatory science will complement rather than replace traditional avenues, it presents new opportunities for studies in the microbiome and beyond.
Equations of the End: Teaching Mathematical Modeling Using the Zombie Apocalypse
Authors: Lofgren Eric T. , Collins Kristy M. , Smith Tara C. , Cartwright Reed A.
Published: March 2016

Mathematical models of infectious diseases are a valuable tool in understanding the mechanisms and patterns of disease transmission. It is, however, a difficult subject to teach, requiring both mathematical expertise and extensive subject-matter knowledge of a variety of disease systems. In this article, we explore several uses of zombie epidemics to make mathematical modeling and infectious disease epidemiology more accessible to public health professionals, students, and the general public. We further introduce a web-based simulation, White Zed (
http://cartwrig.ht/apps/whitezed/
), that can be deployed in classrooms to allow students to explore models before implementing them. In our experience, zombie epidemics are familiar, approachable, flexible, and an ideal way to introduce basic concepts of infectious disease epidemiology.
Introducing the JMBE Themed Issue on Scientific Citizenship
Authors: Gilbert Jack A. , Klyczek Karen K. , Elliott Samantha L.
Published: March 2016

In this Editorial, the three Guest Editors for JMBE's first standalone themed issue introduce the topic of scientific citizenship and provide an overview of the current ideas and best practices contained within the issue.
Protection of Cattle against Rinderpest by Vaccination with Wild-Type but Not Attenuated Strains of Peste des Petits Ruminants Virus
Authors: Holzer Barbara , Hodgson Sophia , Logan Nicola , Willett Brian , Baron Michael D.
Published: March 2016

Although rinderpest virus (RPV) has been eradicated in the wild, efforts are still continuing to restrict the extent to which live virus is distributed in facilities around the world and to prepare for any reappearance of the disease, whether through deliberate or accidental release. In an effort to find an alternative vaccine which could be used in place of the traditional live attenuated RPV strains, we have determined whether cattle can be protected from rinderpest by inoculation with vaccine strains of the related morbillivirus, peste des petits ruminants virus (PPRV). Cattle were vaccinated with wild-type PPRV or either of two established PPRV vaccine strains, Nigeria/75/1 or Sungri/96. All animals developed antibody and T cell immune responses to the inoculated PPRV. However, only the animals given wild-type PPRV were protected from RPV challenge. Animals given PPRV/Sungri/96 were only partially protected, and animals given PPRV/Nigeria/75/1 showed no protection against RPV challenge. While sera from animals vaccinated with the vaccine strain of RPV showed cross-neutralizing ability against PPRV, none of the sera from animals vaccinated with any strain of PPRV was able to neutralize RPV although sera from animals inoculated with wild-type PPRV were able to neutralize RPV-pseudotyped vesicular stomatitis virus.

IMPORTANCERinderpest virus has been eradicated, and it is only the second virus for which this is so. Significant efforts are still required to ensure preparedness for a possible escape of RPV from a laboratory or its deliberate release. Since RPV vaccine protects sheep and goats from PPRV, it is important to determine if the reverse is true as this would provide a non-RPV vaccine for dealing with suspected RPV outbreaks. This is probably the lastin vivostudy with live RPV that will be approved.
Health professionals’ experiences of tuberculosis cohort audit in the North West of England: a qualitative study
Authors: Wallis Selina K , Jehan Kate , Woodhead Mark , Cleary Paul , Dee Katie , Farrow Stacey , McMaster Paddy , Wake Carolyn , Walker Jenny , Sloan D J , Squire S B
Published: March 2016

Objectives

Tuberculosis cohort audit (TBCA) was introduced across the North West (NW) of England in 2012 as an ongoing, multidisciplinary, systematic case review process, designed to improve clinical and public health practice. TBCA has not previously been introduced across such a large and socioeconomically diverse area in England, nor has it undergone formal, qualitative evaluation. This study explored health professionals’ experiences of the process after 1515 cases had been reviewed.

Design

Qualitative study using semistructured interviews. Respondents were purposively sampled from 3 groups involved in the NW TBCA: (1) TB nurse specialists, (2) consultant physicians and (3) public health practitioners. Data from the 26 respondents were triangulated with further interviews with key informants from the TBCA Steering Group and through observation of TBCA meetings.

Analysis

Interview transcripts were analysed thematically using the framework approach.

Results

Participants described the evolution of a valuable ‘community of practice’ where interprofessional exchange of experience and ideas has led to enhanced mutual respect between different roles and a shared sense of purpose. This multidisciplinary, regional approach to TB cohort audit has promoted local and regional team working, exchange of good practices and local initiatives to improve care. There is strong ownership of the process from public health professionals, nurses and clinicians; all groups want it to continue. TBCA is regarded as a tool for quality improvement that improves patient safety.

Conclusions

TBCA provides peer support and learning for management of a relatively rare, but important infectious disease through discussion in a no-blame atmosphere. It is seen as an effective quality improvement strategy which enhances TB care, control and patient safety. Continuing success will require increased engagement of consultant physicians and public health practitioners, a secure and ongoing funding stream and establishment of clear reporting mechanisms within the public health system.
Role and therapeutic potential of vascular stem/progenitor cells in pathological neovascularisation during chronic portal hypertension
Authors: Garcia-Pras Ester , Gallego Javier , Coch Laura , Mejias Marc , Fernandez-Miranda Gonzalo , Pardal Ricardo , Bosch Jaime , Mendez Raul , Fernandez Mercedes
Published: March 2016

Objective

Pathological neovascularisation is intimately involved in portal hypertension (PH). Here, we determined the contribution of vascular stem/progenitor cells (VSPCs) to neovessel growth in PH and whether the RNA-binding protein cytoplasmic polyadenylation element binding protein-4 (CPEB4) was behind the mechanism controlling VSPC function.

Design

To identify and monitor VSPCs in PH rats (portal vein-ligated), we used a combinatorial approach, including sphere-forming assay, assessment of self-renewal, 5-bromo-2′-desoxyuridine label retention technique, in vitro and in vivo stem/progenitor cell (SPC) differentiation and vasculogenic capability, cell sorting, as well as immunohistochemistry, immunofluorescence and confocal microscopy expression analysis. We also determined the role of CPEB4 on VSPC proliferation using genetically engineered mouse models.

Results

We demonstrated the existence in the mesenteric vascular bed of VSPCs displaying capability to form cellular spheres in suspension culture, self-renewal ability, expression of molecules commonly found in SPCs, slow-cycling features, in addition to other cardinal properties exhibited by SPCs, like capacity to differentiate into endothelial cells and pericytes with remarkable vasculogenic activity. Such VSPCs showed, after PH induction, an early switch in proliferation, and differentiated in vivo into endothelial cells and pericytes, contributing, structurally and functionally, to abnormal neovessel formation. Quantification of VSPC-dependent neovessel formation in PH further illustrated the key role played by VSPCs. We also demonstrated that CPEB4 regulates the proliferation of the activated VSPC progeny upon PH induction.

Conclusions

These findings demonstrate that VSPC-derived neovessel growth (ie, vasculogenesis) and angiogenesis cooperatively stimulate mesenteric neovascularisation in PH and identify VSPC and CPEB4 as potential therapeutic targets.
Differential diagnosis of bladder versus colorectal adenocarcinoma: keratin 7 and GATA3 positivity in nuclear ß-catenin-negative glandular tumours defines adenocarcinoma of the bladder
Authors: Broede Anna , Oll Matthias , Maurer Angela , Siegert Sabine , Stoerkel Stephan , Golz Reinhard , Schwamborn Kristina , Veeck Jürgen , Knuechel Ruth , Gaisa Nadine T
Published: March 2016

Aims

This study evaluates immunohistochemical markers for the differential diagnosis of primary bladder adenocarcinoma (BAC) from secondarily involving colorectal adenocarcinoma (CAC). Additional staining of putative precursor lesions (cystitis cystica et glandularis (CC) and intestinal metaplasia (IM)) supports insights into metaplastic cell development and aberrant differentiation in tumours.

Methods

Tissue microarray sections of formalin-fixed, paraffin-embedded tissues from clinically verified 11 BAC, 11 CAC, 18 invasive urothelial carcinomas (UCs), 22 normal urothelium samples, 25 CC and 15 IM were stained for keratin 7, 5/6, 5/14 and 20, ß-catenin, e-cadherin, cadherin 17, cdx2, uroplakin II and III, CD10, androgen receptor (AR), S100P, MUC2, MUC5AC and GATA3 expression. Data were analysed using Kruskal–Wallis/Dunn's multiple comparison test and Fisher's exact test.

Results

Significant difference (p<0.05) between all three tumour groups was observed for keratin 7 only. Further significant difference between BAC and CAC was found for GATA3 and nuclear ß-catenin staining. BAC-positive/CAC-negative markers without significance were: p63, keratin 5/6, 5/14, uroplakins II/III and AR. CC showed a urothelial phenotype (p63+, GATA3+, S100P+, uroplakin+ in single cells) with initial signs of intestinal differentiation (single cells cdx2+ or cadherin 17+). IM displayed a full intestinal phenotype (p63−, all urothelial markers-, cdx2/MUC2/MUC5AC+, cadherin17+).

Conclusions

Differential diagnosis of BAC and CAC remains difficult, but positive staining for keratin 7 in nuclear ß-catenin-negative tumours argues for BAC. Additional markers like GATA3 and p63 may be added, as positivity in some cases may be helpful. However, for reliable histological diagnosis, knowledge of comprehensive clinical data is still essential.
Suspected vagal reflex bradycardia in a calf undergoing surgical resection of an infected urachus
Authors: Scarabelli Stefania , Holman Amy Nicola , Senior Mark
Published: March 2016

A four‐week‐old Charolais heifer was referred for surgical treatment of an infected umbilicus. The heifer was sedated with intravenous xylazine, and an indwelling intravenous jugular cannula was placed. General anaesthesia was induced with intravenous ketamine and maintained with isoflurane in 100 per cent oxygen. Surgical exploration of the abdomen revealed an infected urachus originating from the apex of the bladder and bilaterally infected umbilical arteries. Anaesthesia was stable for 35 minutes until surgical traction of the urachus and umbilical arteries resulted in bradycardia and hypoventilation/apnoea, which resolved when the traction was released, but recurred as and when traction was reinitiated. Collaboration between the anaesthetist and the surgeon was necessary to progress the procedure while minimising perturbations in physiology. Towards the end of the procedure, during peritoneal lavage with sterile saline, severe bradycardia developed (heart rate <20 bpm) and was successfully treated with atropine 0.04 mg/kg intravenously. The heifer recovered uneventfully from anaesthesia.
Evaluation of a phase-feeding strategy utilizing high-lipid high-fibre byproduct pellets in diets for feedlot steers
Authors: Joy F. , Górka P. , McKinnon J.J. , Hendrick S. , Burciaga-Robles L.O. , Penner G.B.
Published: March 2016

Two studies were conducted to evaluate the provision of high-lipid high-fibre byproduct pellets when used as a partial replacement (60% in Study 1 and 30% in Study 2; HLP) for barley grain and canola meal in finishing diets (BAR). The HLP was fed for the last 49, 98, or 147 d (HLP49, HLP98, and HLP147, respectively) in Study 1, and for the last 60 or 120 d in Study 2 (HLP60 and HLP120, respectively) or the last 60 d with additional canola oil (HLP60CO). The statistical model included the fixed effects of diet, period, and the interaction. Steers fed BAR147 had the greatest average daily gain (ADG) (P < 0.01) and G:F (P = 0.01). The HLP147 had the greatest dry matter intake (DMI) during the first 49 d but least during the last 49 d of the finishing phase (treatment × period; P < 0.01). Hot carcass weight for BAR147 and HLP49 were the heaviest (P = 0.04). In Study 2, DMI and ADG were not affected (P > 0.05), but hot carcass weight was greater for BAR120 and HLP60 than HLP120 and HLP60CO. Inclusion of high-fibre high-lipid byproduct pellets in the latter part of the finishing period may improve carcass yield grade without affecting ADG and G:F.
CO455 corn inbred line
Authors: Reid Lana M. , Zhu Xiaoyang , Voloaca Constantin , Wu Jinhe , Woldemariam Tsegaye , Jindal Krishan
Published: March 2016

CO455 is a short season stiff stalk-type corn (Zea mays L.) inbred line with excellent combining ability as well as intermediate resistance to common smut, common rust, eyespot and fusarium stalk rot. Excellent hybrid yields and performance data were achieved when CO455 was combined with Iodent testers such as MBS8148.
Synchronization of spatiotemporal networks via backstepping using neighbor information
Authors: Liu Shuang , Chai Yuan , Ding Hu , Chen Li-Qun
Published: March 2016

A backstepping scheme is proposed for synchronization between two complex dynamical networks with different structures. The nodes of the networks are spatiotemporal chaotic systems. A recurrence relation containing the information from neighbors is established so that only one control input is needed to synchronize two spatiotemporal networks. The Lyapunov stability theory is applied to prove that the differences between the drive and response networks tend to zero asymptotically under the control. The proposed scheme is numerically implemented in the synchronization of two networks with the Fisher–Kolmogorov and the Burgers spatiotemporal chaotic systems as the nodes.