bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Severe events in the first 6 months of life in a cohort of HIV‐unexposed infants from South Africa: effects of low birthweight and breastfeeding status
Authors: Doherty Tanya , Jackson Debra , Swanevelder Sonja , Lombard Carl , Engebretsen Ingunn M. S. , Tylleskär Thorkild , Goga Ameena , Ekström Eva‐Charlotte , Sanders David ,   the PROMISE EBF study group
Published: July 2014

Objective

To report on risk factors for severe events (hospitalisation or infant death) within the first half of infancy amongst HIV‐unexposed infants in South Africa.

Methods

South African data from the multisite community‐based cluster‐randomised trial PROMISE EBF promoting exclusive breastfeeding in three sub‐Saharan countries from 2006 to 2008 were used. The South African sites were Paarl in the Western Cape Province, and Umlazi and Rietvlei in KwaZulu‐Natal. This analysis included 964 HIV‐negative mother–infant pairs. Data on severe events and infant feeding practices were collected at 3, 6, 12 and 24 weeks post‐partum. We used a stratified extended Cox model to examine the association between the time to the severe event and covariates including birthweight, with breastfeeding status as a time‐dependent covariate.

Results

Seventy infants (7%) experienced a severe event. The median age at first hospitalisation was 8 weeks, and the two main reasons for hospitalisation were cough and difficult breathing followed by diarrhoea. Stopping breastfeeding before 6 months (HR 2.4; 95% CI 1.2–5.1) and low birthweight (HR 2.4; 95% CI 1.3–4.3) were found to increase the risk of a severe event, whilst maternal completion of high school education was protective (HR 0.3; 95% CI 0.1–0.7).

Conclusions

A strengthened primary healthcare system incorporating promotion of breastfeeding and appropriate caring practices for low birthweight infants (such as kangaroo mother care) are critical. Given the leading reasons for hospitalisation, early administration of oral rehydration therapy and treatment of suspected pneumonia are key interventions needed to prevent hospitalisation in young infants.
Von Willebrand factor, a versatile player in gastrointestinal bleeding in left ventricular assist device recipients?
Authors: Fischer Quentin , Huisse Marie‐Geneviève , Voiriot Guillaume , Caron Claudine , Lepage Laurent , Dilly Marie‐Pierre , Nataf Patrick , Ajzenberg Nadine , Kirsch Matthias
Published: July 2014

Background

Bleeding originating in the gastrointestinal (GI) tract is one of the most common adverse events after left ventricular assist device (LVAD) implantation. In these patients, GI bleeding appears to be the consequence of altered hemostasis on the one hand and alterations of the GI microvasculature on the other.

Case Report

We report the case of a patient who suffered repeated, severe GI bleeding early after implantation of a HeartMate II continuous‐flow LVAD.

Results

After failure of conventional treatment strategies, GI bleeding was controlled using repeated transfusions of a purified von Willebrand factor (VWF) concentrate, almost devoid of Factor VIII (Wilfactin, LFB). No episodes of pump thrombosis were noted. Subsequent to VWF transfusions, we observed a progressive normalization of circulating vascular endothelial growth factor levels.

Conclusions

Our data raise the possibility that, in addition to its hemostatic properties, transfusions of VWF might have acted as an antiangiogenic factor.
Immunophenotypic characterization of canine malignant lymphoma: a retrospective study of cases diagnosed in Poland Lower Silesia, over the period 2011–2013
Authors: Pawlak A. , Rapak A. , Drynda A. , Poradowski D. , Zbyryt I. , Dzimira S. , Suchański J. , Obmińska‐Mrukowicz B.
Published: July 2014

Lymphoma is the most frequently diagnosed cancer of the canine haematopoietic system. In this study, the flow cytometry and polymerase chain reaction (PCR) analysis were used to characterize a series of canine lymphomas in detail. The aim of this study was to determine the incidence of B‐ and T‐cell high‐grade lymphomas and their immunophenotypic characterization in Lower Silesia, Poland. The results show that the frequency of each type of lymphoma is 71% for B‐cell and 17% for T‐cell lymphomas. In two cases the PCR techniques confirmed the presence of simultaneous double gene rearrangements of the BCR and TCR receptors.
Congenital ankyloblepharon in a leopard gecko (Eublepharis macularius)
Authors: Rival Franck
Published: July 2014

A 6‐month‐old leopard gecko with unilateral partially fused eyelids since birth was presented for examination. A diagnosis of congenital ankyloblepharon was made and surgical correction was performed successfully.
Current issues in donor health and safety
Authors: Lin C. K. , So B. K. L. , Leung J. N. S. , Wong H. K. , Lee C. K.
Published: July 2014

Blood donation is a rather simple procedure, and most people have done so and feel that they can make it at any time. However, it is not uncommon for the public, blood donors and blood service operators to overlook the health and safety issues that could carry impact to both donors and blood donation. In this short review, we try to present an overview of the interaction between donor health and safety and blood donation in either direction. Strategies have been developed to protect prospective donors from ineligible donation that could affect their health, minimize the risk of blood‐donation‐related adverse reaction and prevent long‐term impact on donors and blood donation.
Infectivity of HBV and screening strategy
Authors: Tadokoro K. , Satake M.
Published: July 2014

Hepatitis B virus (HBV) remains the most frequent cause of transfusion‐transmitted viral infection. HBV is highly infectious with minimal 50% chimpanzee infectious dose (CID50) of 10 copies at the pre‐acute phase of infection. However, HBV is not always infectious via transfusion. The infectivity of HBV depends on (1) viral properties such as viral load, phase of infection, genotype and genome mutations, (2) transfusion factors such as blood volume, types of components, concurrent transfusion of anti‐HBs‐positive blood, and (3) recipient factors such as extant anti‐HBs acquired either by natural infection or vaccination, immune‐competence. The risk of HBV infections remaining after HBsAg screening is associated with donations during the preseroconversion window period and of occult HBV infection. Each country needs to establish its own HBV screening strategy considering the prevalence of HBV, the residual risk of HBV transmission, the balance between blood safety and securing sufficient amounts of blood, cost‐effectiveness, and public perception of the risk of transfusion‐transmitted HBV.
Bacterial contamination
Authors: Benjamin R. J.
Published: July 2014

Background and Objectives

Blood components may be contaminated with commensal, pathogenic or environmental bacteria during collection, manufacture or storage. The outcome of transfusion is dependent on the ability of the specific strain to multiply to clinically relevant titres during storage, the pathogenicity of the strain and the patients' situation. Platelets in particular are stored in conditions conducive to bacterial growth, and septic reactions to these products are the most frequently documented infectious risk of transfusion.

Materials and Methods

This update will use recent reports and unpublished data to describe our current understanding of the role of bacteria in platelet transfusion safety.

Results

Historical data suggest that ~1:1–3000 platelet products are contaminated with bacteria, and septic transfusion reactions occurred in 1:15 000–100 000 transfusions. Clinical awareness of the danger and a 2004 AABB standard requiring blood centres ‘to limit and detect bacteria’ in platelet products have driven the development of safety systems. The last decade has seen the implementation of optimal skin disinfection techniques and sample diversion strategies to reduce contamination, and many centres have implemented either bacterial culture testing or pathogen inactivation processes. Prerelease culture testing can reduce but cannot eliminate the risk of exposure to contaminated components. Pathogen inactivation technologies show variable efficacy at killing bacteria. Alternatively, assays performed on the day of transfusion prevent the transfusion of high concentrations of bacteria that are associated with the most severe adverse reactions.

Conclusions

Bacterial contamination and sepsis remain the greatest infectious risks of transfusion. Enhanced testing or pathogen inactivation should be implemented to ensure patient safety.
How to get a paper published
Authors: Walsh Geraldine M. , Devine Dana V.
Published: July 2014

Publication of research findings and novel concepts in the biomedical literature is the mainstay of knowledge mobilization. The communication of scientific work as papers follows a well‐established framework. A clear understanding of the nature of this framework and how to assess one's own work against it is critical to successful acceptance and subsequent publication of manuscripts. This paper reviews the standard framework for scientific communication. Communicating your findings is a form of scientific storytelling. Generally, an author must capture the interest of a potential reader right at the abstract, which is sometimes the only way a reader sees the paper if they have discovered the work using a search engine. In the main body of the paper, the author must clearly explain how the study was designed and carried out with careful attention paid to any important details and to the statistical analysis, if appropriate. Results must be presented in a manner that is clear and easily interpreted by the reader. Then, the work should be discussed in the context of other work in the area, emphasizing the novel findings. This review will also address the issues of deciding where to publish and what happens to the paper after submission. Our intent is to provide general guidance for the publication of papers in the biomedical literature rather than be focused on publication in any specific journal.
The immune system as seen through the eyes of a platelet
Authors: Semple J. W.
Published: July 2014

Background and Objectives

The primary hemostatic nature of platelets closely links these cellular fragments with the immune system. Platelet aggregation and activation on damaged endothelium initiates secretion of their granule contents and expression of both pro‐ and anti‐inflammatory molecules. This review will highlight some of the major non‐hematologic functions of platelets.

Results

For example, the platelet secretome affects many local innate immune responses by, for example, attracting neutrophils to sites of inflammation. On the other hand, secretion and expression of platelet molecules such as CD40/CD40L may directly regulate adaptive immune responses. Perhaps more striking is that platelets express molecules that have no obvious hemostatic function such as Toll‐Like Receptors. This allows platelets to bind infectious agents causing both direct destruction via thrombocidins and enhanced presentation to neutrophils and other professional phagocytes for engulfment.

Conclusion

To date, there are many published reports of platelet‐immune interactions suggesting that they significantly regulate immunity. It appears that platelets play a much more active role as non‐hemostatic immune‐regulators than was previously thought.
Defining and finding the rare donor
Authors: Tanaka E. , Kusumi T. , Takahashi H. , Hirashima M. , Tanaka M. , Kimura K. , Takahashi J. , Matsukura H. , Tani Y.
Published: July 2014

Rare blood is generally defined as one that occurs at a frequency of 1:100~1000 individuals or less, and it is sometimes difficult to provide such blood types to patients because of their rarities. The Japanese Red Cross (JRC) Society lists 46 rare blood phenotypes that are divided into two categories. The rare blood types listed in Category I occur much less frequently than those listed in Category II. We screen for rare blood cells using monoclonal antibodies (MoAbs). Since 1987, our blood centre has established 93 MoAbs (32 human and 61 murine) and has provided them to the other blood centres. Many of IgG MoAbs are available on the machine by saline or bromelin method by cross‐linking with anti‐human or anti‐mouse IgG. Thus, more than 10 000 donors with rare blood phenotypes (Category I, 748; Category II, 9314) are registered in Japan. We freeze rare blood, particularly Category I types. Since 1977, a total of 576 units of rare blood with phenotypes Di(b−), D−−, Jr(a−), Ko and Lan‐, etc. have been supplied to 23 international countries. Thus, the JRC contributes to the International Panel of Donors of Rare Blood Type (IDP) which is maintained by the International Blood Group Reference Laboratory (IBGRL) in Bristol, UK. The IDP provides information on the location of rare blood donors when they cannot be found in their respective countries. We also joined the ISBT Working Party on Rare Donors which handles all matters related to rare blood. Our rare blood donor programme is successful because of international co‐operation.
Current epidemiology and clinical practice in arboviral infections – implications on blood supply inSouth‐EastAsia
Authors: Gan V. C. H. , Leo Y.‐S.
Published: July 2014

Arthropod‐borne viruses (arboviruses) are a growing threat to global health. Complex vector–virus–host interactions lead to unpredictable epidemiological patterns. Difficulties in accurate surveillance including imperfect diagnostic tools impair effective response to outbreaks. With arboviral infections causing a wide spectrum of disease severity, from asymptomatic infection to fatal neuroinvasive and haemorrhagic fevers, the potential impact on blood safety is significant. Asymptomatic or presymptomatic individuals may introduce virus into the blood supply by donation, while recipients can potentially suffer severe consequences. Dengue, West Nile and chikungunya outbreaks have led to responses by blood transfusion services which can inform future planning. Reports of transfusion‐associated transmission demonstrate the potentially fatal consequences of lack of haemovigilance. South‐East Asia remains vulnerable to arboviruses with permissive climate and high levels of endemic transmission as well as the potential for emerging and re‐emerging arboviral diseases. Resource limitations constrain the use of expensive technologies for donor screening. Continued surveillance and research will be required to manage the arboviral threat to the blood supply.
Setting up haemovigilance from the very first step. The Indian perspective
Authors: Marwaha N. , Singh S. , Bisht A.
Published: July 2014

Background and Objectives

Setting up a national haemovigilance programme requires meticulous planning, and the following issues need to be addressed: whether reporting will be voluntary or mandatory, what is to be reported and by whom, reporting formats and resources to sustain the programme. With this in view, it was aimed to set up a national haemovigilance programme in India.

Materials and Methods

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of India had launched the national Pharmacovigilance Programme (PvPI) in July 2010, with oversight by the Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission. Adverse Drug Reaction (ADR) Centres were set up in 90 medical institutes in the country, and trained staff was recruited for data collection and submission. After the successful establishment of PvPI, the haemovigilance programme was initiated as a collaborative venture between National Institute of Biologicals (NIB) and Indian Pharmacopoeia Commission with the coordinating centre at NIB. Five expert subgroups with defined responsibilities will analyse and collate data and make evidence‐based recommendations to the regulatory authorities for blood safety initiatives and their compliance.

Results

The initial focus is on reporting the adverse reactions as defined by the Working Party of the International Society of Blood Transfusion, reporting is voluntary, and a Guidance Document and the TRRF have been made available to the medical institute blood banks. The reporting is online through software, ‘Haemo‐Vigil’. Reporting commenced from February 2013 and till date 731 reports of adverse reaction have been submitted.

Conclusion

A well‐structured programme of haemovigilance has been initiated in India.
The importance of platelet antigens and antibodies in immune‐mediated thrombocytopenia
Authors: Tsuno N. H. , Matsuhashi M. , Iino J. , Nagura Y. , Okazaki H. , Santoso S.
Published: July 2014

Platelet antigens/antibodies play an important role in immune mediated‐thrombocytopenia. Here, we review the clinical conditions associated with anti‐platelet alloantibodies, giving special emphasis to the differences in human platelet antigen (HPA) frequency distribution between Caucasian and Asian populations. Also, we describe the presently available methods for the detection of anti‐platelet alloantibodies, and the activities of the International Society of Blood Transfusion (ISBT) Platelet Immunology Working Parties, which play an active role in the exchange of information and materials among the labs involved in platelet immunobiology research worldwide, and have significantly contributed for the development of this field.
Monitoring transfusion practice
Authors: Ayob Y.
Published: July 2014

Blood transfusion has become an integral part of modern health care. When it is required, it is an essential element of therapy. However, it is not without risk. Being of human tissue origin, this risk is related to its source as well as the process involved in its provision. To ensure that blood transfusion is safe and does not cause harm to patients, these risks have to be monitored, evaluated and managed appropriately. Therefore, it is essential to develop quality management system to ensure processes and procedures are controlled to prevent deviations and errors. Quality systems should be developed covering the whole transfusion chain. Policies, standards and guidelines are important tools. To ensure that the system is effective, there are various mechanisms to monitor, evaluate and analyse to bring about improvement. These include developing indicators, quality and clinical/transfusion audits, quality assessment programmes and haemovigilance programme. Guidelines whether national or international are required against which practices and performance are gauged. Haemovigilance sometimes lead to focused audits to understand deviations that occurred and to institute corrective actions. In resource limited economies, monitoring can be used effectively when a stepwise approach is adopted. The aim is to create a culture of professionalism in delivering quality of care to patient with efficient use of available resources. The benefit can be extended to influence change and improvement in health care in general. The Hospital Transfusion Committee plays an important role in implementing change.
Donor vigilance: a global update
Authors: Wiersum‐Osselton J. C. , Marijt‐van der Kreek T. , Bokhorst A. G. , de Kort W. L. A. M.
Published: July 2014

Background

Without blood donations and the availability of blood transfusion, many important therapeutic advances could not have been achieved. Donor haemovigilance is the systematic monitoring of adverse reactions and incidents in the whole chain of blood donor care, with a view to improving quality and safety for blood donors.

Method

This ‘global update’ draws on work by the International Haemovigilance Network and International Society for Blood Transfusion haemovigilance working party, experience in the Netherlands, as well as a PubMed search using terms blood donor and adverse reaction. Results are discussed for vasovagal reactions, needle‐related complications, long‐term morbidity, donor iron status and frequent apheresis.

Results and Discussion

The occurrence of vasovagal reactions is associated with young, female donors, smaller estimated blood volume, first‐time donor status. A reduction in vasovagal reactions has been documented with use of a water drink before donation, muscle tensing, social distraction and lower collection volume for donors with small estimated blood volume. Needle injury is relatively frequent as a cause in cases of long‐term morbidity; needle injury is associated with traumatic phlebotomy, and in some cases, nerve damage is documented. Repeated whole blood donations lead to reduction in body iron stores and in some cases anaemia. Some blood services adjust donation intervals to avoid or reduce this, while others have or are considering a policy of iron replacement therapy. Fewer studies on acute complications in plasma and other types of apheresis have been published. Preliminary studies of bone density and protein levels in non‐commercial frequent plasma donors have not substantiated any specific hazard despite theoretical concerns of calcium or protein depletion. International collaboration in strengthening donor vigilance definitions and data analysis may in future increase potential for study of risk factors and measures to improve donor care worldwide.

Conclusion

Donor vigilance is gaining international interest and has increased knowledge of risk factors for vasovagal reactions associated with blood donation. There remains a need of research and of developing preventive measures, including prevention and treatment of needle injury as well as possible long‐term effects of frequent donation.
Definitions in haemovigilance: guiding principles and current state of development of international reference definitions
Authors: Wiersum‐Osselton J. C. , Wood E. , Bolton‐Maggs P. H. B. , Schipperus M. R.
Published: July 2014

Background

Haemovigilance systems capture data on adverse reactions and infections in recipients of blood transfusions as well as on errors and incidents in the transfusion chain. The objective is to analyse them and make recommendations for improving transfusion safety. Many haemovigilance systems also collect data on complications in blood donors with a view to monitoring and improving blood donor safety. Standardized definitions are necessary for classifying and comparing data in all these domains and at all levels.

Method

Since 2004, at international meetings of blood transfusion professionals, members the International Haemovigilance Network (IHN) and the haemovigilance working party of the International Society for Blood Transfusion (ISBT) have collaborated in developing and validating definitions for non‐infectious transfusion complications, errors and incidents in the transfusion chain as well as adverse reactions in blood donors. From 2012, contacts with other groups including the World Health Organisation (WHO) have been put in place to ensure wide consultation as well as awareness and use of the definitions.

Results

Standardized definitions have been published for recipient adverse reactions, for complications of blood donation and for a limited number of types of incident in the transfusion chain. The ISBT haemovigilance working party and IHN are committed to ensuring that the definitions remain up‐to‐date and that revisions and improvements are conducted with wide consultation of professionals in relevant organizations worldwide. The haemovigilance working party and working party on transfusion‐transmitted infections are collaborating on the development of definitions and criteria for assessing suspected transfusion‐transmitted infections.

Conclusion

Internationally agreed definitions are available for registration and surveillance of complications of blood donation and most types of adverse reaction in patients receiving blood transfusions. For errors and incidents in the transfusion chain, further work is necessary to improve comparability of data between haemovigilance systems.
Traceability and unique identifiers
Authors: Distler P.
Published: July 2014

Critical to patient safety is the capability of rapidly tracing a medical product of human origin (MPHO) from donor to recipient and vice versa. Traceability requires that each product be uniquely identified in order to provide a clear, unambiguous path between donor and recipient. While historically an identifier was unique only to the facility that assigned it, it is becoming increasingly important that such identifiers be unique globally because some MPHO, especially cells and tissues, are distributed across national borders. This requires a coding system that supports the assignment of internationally unique identifiers. ISBT 128 is the terminology, coding and labelling system used by facilities across to world to ensure traceability. It is managed by ICCBBA, a non‐governmental organization in official relations with the World Health Organization.
Risk reduction strategies for transfusion‐transmissible arboviral infections
Authors: Seed C. R.
Published: July 2014

Background

Arthropod‐borne viruses (arboviruses) are an expanding global threat to human health. Only dengue (DENV) and West Nile virus (WNV) have both been documented to be transfusion‐transmissible although transfusion is a plausible route of infection for several others including chikungunya virus (CHIKV).

Aims

To describe possible risk management strategies to reduce the risk of transfusion‐transmissible arboviral infection.

Materials/Methods

Management strategies include geographical donor deferral, donation testing and pathogen reduction techniques (PRT), which can be applied individually or in combination. Geographical donor deferral ranges from temporary implementation of a policy deferring donors returning from outbreak areas to a ‘blanket’ deferral of all donors returning for a defined period after return from overseas. Donation testing may be ‘targeted’ testing of ‘at risk’ donors or universal donation testing.

Results

Implementing temporary deferral policies for outbreaks of WNV, dengue and CHIKV has been an effective strategy in several countries. A ‘blanket’ deferral of all donors returning for a defined period after return from overseas has been implemented in the Netherlands. Universal nucleic acid testing (NAT) for WNV has applied in North America since 2003. Targeted testing of all donations made during local outbreaks has been applied in several countries in response to CHIKV (Réunion, Italy) DENV (Puerto Rico, Madeira) and WNV (Greece, Italy). PRT has been applied in combination with targeted NAT to safeguard platelet and RBC donations during outbreaks of CHIKV and WNV.

Conclusions

Mitigation strategies for transfusion‐transmissible arboviral infection have to date been highly effective in minimizing recipient risk.
How to establish and run a cell therapy unit in a blood bank
Authors: Gabriel C.
Published: July 2014

Establishing a cell therapy unit in a blood bank is a new idea, which seemingly alleviates the current pressure to develop new therapies. However, the way Ahead is full of hurdles. Strategic planning is recommended and should be emphasized even more, as risks are high and cell therapies are costly. Especially, the mixture of staffing, designing facilities and organizational aspects are a burden. Executing the establishment in a step‐by‐step approach makes the tasks easier and has a high possibility of success.
Adopting a proactive approach to blood shortages: experience from the National Blood Centre, Malaysia
Authors: Wooi Seong K. , Raffeal V. , Ayob Y.
Published: July 2014

Background

In an effort to provide adequate and safe blood supply from voluntary non‐remunerated blood donors in the face of increasing demand and decreasing donor population, blood collection centres are also challenged with blood shortages. To provide a consistent and reliable blood supply, blood centres will have to resort to creative and innovative measures. Malaysia observes numerous national and state holidays and is not exempt from natural and man‐made disasters. These and the poor response to blood donation campaigns as a result of ‘balik kampung’ phenomenon contribute to acute seasonal blood shortages in blood collection centres around the country.

Materials and Methods

Adopting a proactive approach to blood shortages includes embracing new measures to recruit and retain blood donors, establishing a blood forecast system, developing a strong network among blood collection centres, being transparent with the blood inventory levels which will lead to greater trust and increased confidence in BTS and having a contingency plan. At NBC, the Blood Action Team was formed in 2010. It is made up of multidisciplinary team members. Meetings are held regularly, and this has greatly improved the communication interdepartmentally and has fostered a team whose members are committed to improving blood supply management and preventing blood shortages through discussion and brainstorming sessions.

Results

Since the implementation of these measures, NBC has successfully and effectively overcome the annual seasonal blood shortages for the last 3 years.

Conclusion

Seasonal blood shortages are largely preventable by adopting a proactive approach.
Haemovigilance: concepts and frameworks
Authors: Wood E. M. , Stevenson L. , Bielby L. , Wiersum‐Osselton J. C.
Published: July 2014

Background and Objectives

This article reviews the principles and objectives of haemovigilance and provides suggestions on important elements to consider in establishing a haemovigilance system.

Results

Various local, regional and national haemovigilance models exist, reflecting the diversity of health systems and blood systems in different countries. Some systems are coordinated by professional bodies, some by blood suppliers, and others by health authorities. Participation may be voluntary or mandatory, and may differ depending on whether all events or only serious ones are reportable. Some capture events with all levels of imputability, whereas others record only confirmed or highly probable cases. ‘Near miss’ events are captured by some systems, and many valuable lessons can be learned from these.

Process‐related problems are a major cause of serious transfusion complications. Human and system factors, such as lack of awareness or training, working environment, interruptions and inadequate communications between clinical teams, or between clinical teams and the transfusion laboratory, are important contributors to these events.

Investigation of transfusion reactions, incidents and events is essential to identify clinical consequences and contributing factors, and to develop and implement plans to prevent recurrence. Transfusion safety officers and similar roles in many countries are a key part of the haemovigilance team. Adequate medical and transfusion laboratory support for hospital activities is also essential. Hospital transfusion committees should oversee haemovigilance activities and reporting, and ensure that hospital senior management is aware of, and responds to, serious reactions and events, especially where systems issues are contributory.

ISBT's Working Party on Haemovigilance brings together ISBT members with an interest in haemovigilance, and works closely with the International Haemovigilance Network, a collaboration of regional or national haemovigilance programmes, for education, data sharing and benchmarking.

Conclusion

Haemovigilance reporting can identify priority areas for action and monitor the implementation of solutions. An important feature of haemovigilance is the sharing of experiences and results nationally and internationally to improve patient outcomes.
A phylogeny reconstruction of the Dendrophylliidae (Cnidaria, Scleractinia) based on molecular and micromorphological criteria, and its ecological implications
Authors: Arrigoni Roberto , Kitano Yuko F. , Stolarski Jaroslaw , Hoeksema Bert W. , Fukami Hironobu , Stefani Fabrizio , Galli Paolo , Montano Simone , Castoldi Elisa , Benzoni Francesca
Published: July 2014

Recent molecular phylogenetic studies have shown that most traditional families of zooxanthellate shallow‐water scleractinians are polyphyletic, whereas most families mainly composed of deep‐sea and azooxanthellate species are monophyletic. In this context, the family Dendrophylliidae (Cnidaria, Scleractinia) has unique features. It shows a remarkable variation of morphological and ecological traits by including species that are either colonial or solitary, zooxanthellate or azooxanthellate, and inhabiting shallow or deep water. Despite this morphological heterogeneity, recent molecular works have confirmed that this family is monophyletic. Nevertheless, what so far is known about the evolutionary relationships within this family, is predominantly based on skeleton macromorphology, while most of its species have remained unstudied from a molecular point of view. Therefore, we analysed 11 dendrophylliid genera, four of which were investigated for the first time, and 30 species at molecular, micromorphological and microstructural levels. We present a robust molecular phylogeny reconstruction based on two mitochondrial markers (COI and the intergenic spacer between COI and 16S) and one nuclear (rDNA), which is used as basis to compare micromorphogical and microstructural character states within the family. The monophyly of the Dendrophylliidae is well supported by molecular data and also by the presence of rapid accretion deposits, which are ca. 5 μm in diameter and arranged in irregular clusters, and fibres that thicken the skeleton organized in small patches of a few micrometres in diameter. However, all genera represented by at least two species are not monophyletic, Tubastraea excluded. They were defined by traditional macromorphological characters that appear affected by convergence, homoplasy and intraspecific variation. Micromorphogical and microstructural analyses do not support the distinction of clades, with the exception of the organization of thickening deposits for the Tubastraea clade.
Reduced-Order Modeling of Torque on a Vertical-Axis Wind Turbine at Varying Tip Speed Ratios
Authors: Khalid Muhammad Saif Ullah , Rabbani Tariq , Akhtar Imran , Durrani Naveed , Salman Siddiqui M.
Published: July 2014

Vertical-axis wind turbine (VAWT) has received significant attention due to its application in urban environment. Torque produced by VAWT determines its efficiency and power output. In this paper, we develop a reduced-order model of torque VAWT at different tip speed ratios (TSR). We numerically simulate both 2D and 3D flows past a three-bladed Darrieus H-type VAWT and compute overall torque acting on the turbine. We then perform higher-order spectral analysis to identify dominant frequencies and nonlinear couplings. We propose a reduced-order model of torque in the form of modified van der Pol equation with additional quadratic term to allow for even harmonics in addition to odd harmonics present in the system. Using, a perturbation approach of method of multiple scales, we solve the proposed model and compute the coefficients at different TSR. The model not only predicts torque accurately in time domain but also in spectral domain. These reduced-order models provide an accurate and computationally efficient means to predict overall performance and output of the turbine with varying free-stream conditions even in predictive setting.
Large Eddy Simulation Analysis of Fluid Temperature Fluctuations at a T-junction for Prediction of Thermal Loading
Authors: Qian Shaoxiang , Kasahara Naoto
Published: July 2014

T-junctions are widely used for fluid mixing in power and process plants. Temperature fluctuations generated by the mixing of hot and cold fluids at a T-junction can cause high cycle thermal fatigue (HCTF) failure. The existing Japanese guideline for evaluating HCTF provides margin that varies greatly depending on the case for the evaluation result. Computational fluid dynamics (CFD)/finite element analysis (FEA) coupling analysis is expected to be a useful tool for the more accurate evaluation of HCTF. Precise temperature fluctuation histories are necessary to determine the thermal loads because fatigue damage prediction requires temperature fluctuation amplitudes and their cycle numbers. The present investigation was intended to discover the accurate prediction methods of fluid temperature fluctuations, prior to performing CFD/FEA coupling analysis. Large eddy simulation (LES) turbulence models suitable for the simulation of unsteady phenomena were investigated. The LES subgrid scale (SGS) models used included the standard Smagorinsky model (SSM) and the dynamic Smagorinsky model (DSM). The effects of numerical schemes for calculating the convective term in the energy equation on the simulation results were also investigated. LES analyses of the flow and temperature fields at a T-junction were carried out using these numerical methods. For comparison, the simulation conditions were the same as the experiment in literature. All of the simulation results show the flow pattern of a wall jet with strong flow and temperature fluctuations, as observed in the experiment. The simulation results indicate the numerical schemes have a great effect on the temperature distribution and the temperature fluctuation intensity (TFI). The first-order upwind difference scheme (1UD) significantly underestimates the TFI for each LES SGS model, although it exhibits good numerical stability. However, the hybrid scheme (HS), which is mainly the second-order central difference scheme (2CD) blended with a small fraction of 1UD, can better predict the TFI for each LES SGS model. Furthermore, the DSM model gives a prediction closer to the experimental results than the SSM model, while using the same numerical scheme. As a result, it was found through the systematic investigations of various turbulence models and numerical schemes that the approach using the DSM model and the HS with a large blending factor could provide accurate predictions of the fluid temperature fluctuations. Furthermore, it is considered that this approach is also applicable to the accurate prediction of any other scalar (e.g., concentration), based on the analogy of scalar transport phenomena.
Assessment of Stiffening Type of the Cutout in Tubular Wind Turbine Towers Under Artificial Dynamic Wind Actions
Authors: Dimopoulos Christoforos A. , Koulatsou Konstantina , Petrini Francesco , Gantes Charis J.
Published: July 2014

The effectiveness of alternative stiffening types of the cutout provided near the base of tubular steel wind turbine towers is assessed, taking into account the dynamic nature of wind loading. To that effect, artificial wind load time histories are first obtained using the public domain aero-elastic code FAST. Finite element models that have been previously validated by means of comparison with experimental results, are then used to carry out fully nonlinear dynamic analyses and compare strength and overall structural performance.
Void Detection in Dielectric Films Using a Floating Network of Substrate-Embedded Electrodes
Authors: Taylor Stephen H. , Garimella Suresh V.
Published: July 2014

A sensor is developed for simple, in situ characterization of dielectric thermal interface materials (TIMs) at bond line thicknesses less than 100 μm. The working principle is based on the detection of regions of contrasting electric permittivity. An array of long, parallel electrodes is flush-mounted into each opposing substrate face of a narrow gap interface, and exposed to the gap formed between the two surfaces. Electrodes are oriented such that their lengthwise dimension in one substrate runs perpendicular to those in the other. A capacitance measurement taken between opposing electrodes is used to characterize the interface region in the vicinity of their crossing point (junction). The electric field associated with each electrode junction is numerically simulated and analyzed. Criteria are developed for the design of electrode junction geometries that localize the electric fields. The capacitances between floating-ground electrodes in the electrode sensor configuration employed give rise to a nontrivial network of interacting capacitances which strongly influence the measured response at any junction. A generalized solution for analyzing the floating network response is presented. The technique is used to experimentally detect thermal grease spots of 0.2 mm to 1.8 mm diameter within a 25 μm interface gap. It is necessary to use the generalized solution to the capacitance network developed in this work to properly delineate regions of contrasting permittivity in the interface gap region using capacitance measurements.
Tool Wear in Micro-Endmilling: Material Microstructure Effects, Modeling, and Experimental Validation
Authors: Abdelrahman Elkaseer A. M. , Dimov S. S. , Popov K. B. , Minev R. M.
Published: July 2014

This paper reports an investigation of material microstructure effects on tool wear in microscale machining of multiphase materials. A new generic approach is proposed to estimate the tool wear that utilizes empirical data about the effects of micromilling process on cutting edge radius. Experiments were conducted to study independently the influence of two main phases in steel, pearlite and ferrite, on tool wear under different cutting conditions. Based on this empirical data, two regression models were created to estimate the increase of cutting edge radius when machining single and multiphase steels. To validate the models they were applied to predict the tool wear when machining two different multiphase steel samples. The results showed a good agreement between the estimated and the actual tool wear.
Study of Wear Mechanisms of a Novel Magnesium Based Hybrid Nanocomposite
Authors: Fida Hassan S. , Al-Qutub A. M. , Tun K. S. , Gupta M.
Published: July 2014

Hybrid nanoreinforcement (yttria and copper) simultaneously increased strength and ductility of pure magnesium when synthesized using blend-press-microwave sinter powder metallurgy technique. Wear behavior of the magnesium hybrid nanocomposite containing 0.7 vol. % Y2O3 and 0.3 vol. % Cu reinforcement investigated using pin-on-disk dry sliding tests against hardened tool steel with a constant sliding speed of 1 m/s under a range of loads from 5 to 30 N for sliding distance up to 1000 m. Scanning electron microscopy identified abrasion and delamination as primary wear mechanisms in the hybrid nanocomposite. Limited thermal softening was observed at relatively higher test load. Adhesive wear, a common mechanism for magnesium composite, was absent in this hybrid nanocomposite wear process under the sliding condition used in this study.
The Effect of Weak Crossflow on the Heat Transfer Characteristics of Short-Distance Impinging Cooling
Authors: Zhang Chuanjie , Xu Guoqiang , Li Haiwang , Sun Jining , Cai Na
Published: July 2014

This paper numerically and experimentally investigated the effect of weak crossflow on the heat transfer characteristics of a short-distance impinging jet. The Reynolds number of the impinging jet ranged from 6000 to 15,000, and the mass velocity ratio (M) between the crossflow and the jet varied from 0 to 0.15. The separation distance (H) between the exit of the jet nozzle and the impingement surface equals to the exit diameter (D) of the impinging jet. In the experiments, the temperature distribution on the impingement target surface was measured using a transient liquid crystal method. In the numerical simulation, a multiblock hexahedral mesh was applied to discrete the computational domain, and a commercial CFD package (Ansys cfx-12.0) with a standard k-ɛ turbulence model was used for computation. It was found that compared to the impinging cooling without crossflow, the heat transfer characteristics near the impinging stagnation point remained almost constant. At the same time, the presence of crossflow decreased the heat transfer rate in the upstream region of the impinging stagnation point, while increased that in the downstream of the impinging stagnation point. Taken together, crossflow has a complex influence on the impinging cooling, which is highly dependent on the mass velocity ratio between the crossflow and the jet.
Accuracy analysis for triangulation and tracking based on time‐multiplexed structured light
Authors: Wagner Benjamin , Stüber Patrick , Wissel Tobias , Bruder Ralf , Schweikard Achim , Ernst Floris
Published: July 2014

Purpose:

The authors’ research group is currently developing a new optical head tracking system for intracranial radiosurgery. This tracking system utilizes infrared laser light to measure features of the soft tissue on the patient's forehead. These features are intended to offer highly accurate registration with respect to the rigid skull structure by means of compensating for the soft tissue. In this context, the system also has to be able to quickly generate accurate reconstructions of the skin surface. For this purpose, the authors have developed a laser scanning device which uses time‐multiplexed structured light to triangulate surface points.

Methods:

The accuracy of the authors’ laser scanning device is analyzed and compared for different triangulation methods. These methods are given by the Linear‐Eigen method and a nonlinear least squares method. Since Microsoft's Kinect camera represents an alternative for fast surface reconstruction, the authors' results are also compared to the triangulation accuracy of the Kinect device. Moreover, the authors' laser scanning device was used for tracking of a rigid object to determine how this process is influenced by the remaining triangulation errors. For this experiment, the scanning device was mounted to the end‐effector of a robot to be able to calculate a ground truth for the tracking.

Results:

The analysis of the triangulation accuracy of the authors' laser scanning device revealed a root mean square (RMS) error of 0.16 mm. In comparison, the analysis of the triangulation accuracy of the Kinect device revealed a RMS error of 0.89 mm. It turned out that the remaining triangulation errors only cause small inaccuracies for the tracking of a rigid object. Here, the tracking accuracy was given by a RMS translational error of 0.33 mm and a RMS rotational error of 0.12°.

Conclusions:

This paper shows that time‐multiplexed structured light can be used to generate highly accurate reconstructions of surfaces. Furthermore, the reconstructed point sets can be used for high‐accuracy tracking of objects, meeting the strict requirements of intracranial radiosurgery.
Could the heat sink effect of blood flow inside large vessels protect the vessel wall from thermal damage during RF‐assisted surgical resection?
Authors: González‐Suárez Ana , Trujillo Macarena , Burdío Fernando , Andaluz Anna , Berjano Enrique
Published: July 2014

Purpose:

To assess by means of computer simulations whether the heat sink effect inside a large vessel (portal vein) could protect the vessel wall from thermal damage close to an internally cooled electrode during radiofrequency (RF)‐assisted resection.

Methods:

First,in vivo experiments were conducted to validate the computational model by comparing the experimental and computational thermal lesion shapes created around the vessels. Computer simulations were then carried out to study the effect of different factors such as device‐tissue contact, vessel position, and vessel‐device distance on temperature distributions and thermal lesion shapes near a large vessel, specifically the portal vein.

Results:

The geometries of thermal lesions around the vessels in thein vivo experiments were in agreement with the computer results. The thermal lesion shape created around the portal vein was significantly modified by the heat sink effect in all the cases considered. Thermal damage to the portal vein wall was inversely related to the vessel‐device distance. It was also more pronounced when the device‐tissue contact surface was reduced or when the vessel was parallel to the device or perpendicular to its distal end (blade zone), the vessel wall being damaged at distances less than 4.25 mm.

Conclusions:

The computational findings suggest that the heat sink effect could protect the portal vein wall for distances equal to or greater than 5 mm, regardless of its position and distance with respect to the RF‐based device.