bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Predictable anthropogenic food subsidies, density‐dependence and socio‐economic factors influence breeding investment in a generalist seabird
Authors: Real Enric , Oro Daniel , Martínez‐Abraín Alejandro , Igual José Manuel , Bertolero Albert , Bosch Marc , Tavecchia Giacomo
Published: August 2017

Recent European policies on the ban of fishing discards and the closure of open‐air landfills are expected to reduce predictable and abundant food resources for generalist seabirds. In order to forecast the consequences of this reduction on seabird breeding investment it is important to understand whether diverse anthropogenic foraging resources act synergistically or not and whether their influence is mediated by density‐dependent mechanisms. To assess these effects at large spatio‐temporal scale, we measured mean egg volume as a proxy of breeding investment in ca 5000 three‐egg clutches of the yellow‐legged gull Larus michahellis from 20 colonies of the Western Mediterranean, located both along European and African coasts. In European gull colonies, egg volume increased with the availability of fishing discards and landfills in the vicinity of the colony. However, the landfill effect was weaker than the effect of fishing discards, probably due to the lower quality of waste as food for gulls. In contrast, none of the anthropogenic food subsidies influenced egg volume in African colonies, likely due to socio‐economic differences (i.e. a much lower availability and predictability of both discards and waste food. Finally, results showed that the positive association between fishing discards and open‐air landfills on egg volume was mediated by negative density‐dependent mechanisms probably related to an increase in competition for food.
Conserving threatened riparian ecosystems in the American West: Precipitation gradients and river networks drive genetic connectivity and diversity in a foundation riparian tree (Populus angustifolia)
Authors: Bothwell Helen M. , Cushman Samuel A. , Woolbright Scott A. , Hersch‐Green Erika I. , Evans Luke M. , Whitham Thomas G. , Allan Gerard J.
Published: August 2017

Gene flow is an evolutionary process that supports genetic connectivity and contributes to the capacity of species to adapt to environmental change. Yet, for most species, little is known about the specific environmental factors that influence genetic connectivity, or their effects on genetic diversity and differentiation. We used a landscape genetic approach to understand how geography and climate influence genetic connectivity in a foundation riparian tree (Populus angustifolia), and their relationships with specieswide patterns of genetic diversity and differentiation. Using multivariate restricted optimization in a reciprocal causal modelling framework, we quantified the relative contributions of riparian network connectivity, terrestrial upland resistance and climate gradients on genetic connectivity. We found that (i) all riparian corridors, regardless of river order, equally facilitated connectivity, while terrestrial uplands provided 2.5× more resistance to gene flow than riparian corridors. (ii) Cumulative differences in precipitation seasonality and precipitation of the warmest quarter were the primary climatic factors driving genetic differentiation; furthermore, maximum climate resistance was 45× greater than riparian resistance. (iii) Genetic diversity was positively correlated with connectivity (R2 = 0.3744,p = .0019), illustrating the utility of resistance models for identifying landscape conditions that can support a species' ability to adapt to environmental change. From these results, we present a map highlighting key genetic connectivity corridors acrossP. angustifolia'srange that if disrupted could have long‐term ecological and evolutionary consequences. Our findings provide recommendations for conservation and restoration management of threatened riparian ecosystems throughout the westernUSAand the high biodiversity they support.
Dynamic localization of HmpF regulates type IV pilus activity and directional motility in the filamentous cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme
Authors: Cho Ye Won , Gonzales Alfonso , Harwood Thomas V. , Huynh Jessica , Hwang Yeji , Park Jun Sang , Trieu Anthony Q. , Italia Parth , Pallipuram Vivek K. , Risser Douglas D.
Published: August 2017

Many cyanobacteria exhibit surface motility powered by type 4 pili (T4P). In the model filamentous cyanobacterium Nostoc punctiforme, the T4P systems are arrayed in static, bipolar rings in each cell. The chemotaxis‐like Hmp system is essential for motility and the coordinated polar accumulation of PilA on cells in motile filaments, while the Ptx system controls positive phototaxis. Using transposon mutagenesis, a gene, designated hmpF, was identified as involved in motility. Synteny among filamentous cyanobacteria and the similar expression patterns for hmpF and hmpD imply that HmpF is part of the Hmp system. Deletion of hmpF produced a phenotype distinct from other hmp genes, but indistinguishable from pilB or pilQ. Both an HmpF‐GFPuv fusion protein, and PilA, as assessed by in situ immunofluorescence, displayed coordinated, unipolar localization at the leading pole of each cell. Reversals were modulated by changes in light intensity and preceded by the migration of HmpF‐GFPuv to the lagging cell poles. These results are consistent with a model where direct interaction between HmpF and the T4P system activates pilus extension, the Hmp system facilitates coordinated polarity of HmpF to establish motility, and the Ptx system modulates HmpF localization to initiate reversals in response to changes in light intensity.
Patient‐reported outcome measures in recurrent aphthous stomatitis: A critical assessment of quality properties
Authors: Wiriyakijja P , Fedele S , Porter S , Mercadante V , Ni Riordain R
Published: August 2017

Objectives

To analyse the range of existing patient‐reported outcome measures (PROMs) used in studies of recurrent aphthous stomatitis (RAS) and to evaluate their quality properties via the assessment of psychometric properties and interpretability.

Materials and Methods

Electronic databases were searched to identify relevant publications related to PROMs used in RAS. Publications were selected based on predefined criteria. All identified PROMs were then classified by measuring concepts and assessed for instrument characteristics and evidence for quality properties for RAS patients.

Results

Twenty‐eight PROMs were used in studies of RAS patients. Instruments focused upon oral symptoms (n = 4), psychosocial status (n = 15) and quality of life (n = 9). Five PROMs (Oral Health‐related Quality of Life‐UK, Chronic Oral Mucosal Disease Questionnaire, Oral Health Impact Profile‐14, Medical Outcome Study Short Form‐36 and Mumcu's composite index) were found to have some evidence of psychometric performance. No PROMs showed evidence for interpretability of their scores in RAS patients.

Conclusion

There was a wide range of PROMs used in clinical studies of RAS. The majority of these PROMs lack evidence of measurement properties and interpretability for RAS patients. Further studies are required to confirm whether these instruments are suitable and useful for this patient group.
Phenotypic effects of the nurse Thylacospermum caespitosum on dependent plant species along regional climate stress gradients
Authors: Jiang Xingpei , Michalet Richard , Chen Shuyan , Zhao Liang , Wang Xiangtai , Wang Chenyue , An Lizhe , Xiao Sa
Published: August 2017

Contrasting phenotypes of alpine cushion species have been recurrently described in several mountain ranges along small‐scale topography gradients, with tight competitive phenotypes in stressful convex topography and loose facilitative phenotypes in sheltered concave topography. The consistency of phenotypic effects along large‐scale climate stress gradients have been proposed as a test of the likely genetic bases of the differences observed at small‐scale. Inversely, plastic phenotypic effects are more likely to vanish at some points along climate stress gradients. We tested this hypothesis for two phenotypes of the alpine cushion species Thylacospermum caespitosum at four points along regional gradients of cold and drought stress in northwest China. We measured the traits of the two cushion phenotypes and quantified their associated plant communities and environmental variables along the regional temperature and aridity gradients. Cushion height, convexity and stem density overall showed significant effect of phenotypes. Difference in tightness of cushions between phenotypes was consistent across climate conditions, whereas differences in cushion convexity and height between phenotypes increased with increasing cold stress. Phenotypic effects on species richness and abundance were consistent along both climate gradients but not effects on species composition, while there were no phenotypic effects on environmental variables. Additionally, RII (relative interaction index) curves were linear along the drought gradient but unimodal along the temperature gradient, likely due to the occurrence of contrasting species pools at the different sites. We conclude that the consistency of phenotypic effects of T. caespitosum was high for species richness and abundance and mainly explained by differences in interference mediated by likely heritable differences in cushion tightness. Additionally, our study shows that the shapes of the relationship between plant responses to neighbours and environmental stresses are not necessarily driven by niche‐based deterministic factors.
Vaccination and allergy: EAACI position paper, practical aspects
Authors: Nilsson Lennart , Brockow Knut , Alm Johan , Cardona Victoria , Caubet Jean‐Christoph , Gomes Eva , Jenmalm Maria C. , Lau Susanne , Netterlid Eva , Schwarze Jürgen , Sheikh Aziz , Storsaeter Jann , Skevaki Chrysanthi , Terreehorst Ingrid , Zanoni Giovanna
Published: August 2017

Immunization is highly effective in preventing infectious diseases and therefore an indispensable public health measure. Allergic patients deserve access to the same publicly recommended immunizations as non‐allergic patients unless risks associated with vaccination outweigh the gains. Whereas the number of reported possible allergic reactions to vaccines is high, confirmed vaccine‐triggered allergic reactions are rare. Anaphylaxis following vaccination is rare, affecting <1/100 000, but can occur in any patient. Some patient groups, notably those with a previous allergic reaction to a vaccine or its components, are at heightened risk of allergic reaction and require special precautions. Allergic reactions, however, may occur in patients without known risk factors and cannot be predicted by currently available tools. Unwarranted fear and uncertainty can result in incomplete vaccination coverage for children and adults with or without allergy. In addition to concerns about an allergic reaction to the vaccine itself, there is fear that routine childhood immunization may promote the development of allergic sensitization and disease. Thus, although there is no evidence that routine childhood immunization increases the risk of allergy development, such risks need to be discussed.
Cucurbit extrafascicular phloem has strong negative impacts on aphids and is not a preferred feeding site
Authors: Kanvil Sadia , Pham Jasmine , Lopez‐Cobollo Rosa , Selby Martin , Bennett Mark , Beckingham Christopher , Powell Glen , Turnbull Colin
Published: August 2017

Cucurbits have long been known to possess two types of phloem: fascicular (FP) within vascular bundles and extrafascicular phloem (EFP) surrounding vascular bundles and scattered through the cortex. Recently, their divergent composition was revealed, with FP having high sugar content consistent with conventional phloem, but EFP having much lower sugar levels and a very different proteome. However, the evolutionary advantages of possessing both FP and EFP have remained unclear. Here, we present four lines of quantitative evidence that together support the hypothesis that FP represents a typical phloem and is an attractive diet for aphids, whereas aphids avoid feeding on EFP. First, aphid stylet track endings were more abundant near the abaxial FP element of minor veins, suggesting a feeding preference for FP over EFP. Second, sugar profiles from stylet exudates were wholly consistent with FP origins, further supporting preference for FP and avoidance of EFP. Third, supplementation of EFP exudate into artificial diets confirmed an aversion to EFP in choice experiments. Finally, EFP exudate had negative effects on aphid performance. On the basis of aphids' inability to thrive on EFP, we conclude that EFP is atypical and perhaps should not be classed as a phloem system.
Serotype replacement of Streptococcus pneumoniae due to seven‐valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine in Japan
Authors: Sakata Hiroshi , Sato Yoshitake , Toyonaga Yoshikiyo , Hanaki Hideaki ,   Drug‐Resistant Pathogen Surveillance Group in Pediatric Infectious Disease
Published: August 2017

Background

This study examined the trends for the serotypes of S. pneumoniae that have caused infections before (2010) and after (2012) the introduction of PCV‐7 in Japan.

Methods

We examined 458 strains of Streptococcus pneumoniae obtained from 22 pediatric institutions throughout Japan from January to June 2010 (immediately after the introduction of the seven‐valent pneumococcal conjugate vaccine [PCV‐7]), and 370 strains obtained from 19 institutions from January to June 2012 (after PCV‐7 became widely used). The samples were collected from children aged 0–14 years with conditions such as respiratory tract infections (upper airway inflammation, bronchitis, and pneumonia), meningitis, and sepsis.

Results

The most frequent serotype in the 2010 strains was 19F (17.3%), followed by 6B (16.8%), and 23F (15.1%). The most frequent serotype in the 2012 strains was 6C (10.0%), followed by 19F (9.7%), 15A (8.9%) and 15B (8.9%), indicating a significant change in the distribution. The serotypes contained in PCV‐7 were detected in 280 strains (61.1%) in 2010 and in 81 strains (21.9%) in 2012 (P < 0.01). The serotypes contained in PCV‐13 were detected in 356 strains (77.7%) in 2010 and in 146 strains (39.5%) in 2012 (P < 0.01). A total of 129 subjects who had not been vaccinated with PCV‐7 and 127 subjects who had been vaccinated with PCV‐7 at least once, were compared with regard to the 2012 strains. The serotypes contained in PCV‐7 were found in 21 strains (16.5%) in those who had been vaccinated and in 37 strains (28.7%) in those who had not been vaccinated (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

The increased use of PCV‐7 led to decreases in the serotypes contained in PCV‐13 and increases in the serotypes not contained in PCV‐13, suggesting serotype replacement.
Adrenal insufficiency in non‐transfusion‐dependent α‐thalassemia
Authors: Joradol Nipapan , Supornsilchai Vichit , Tongmeesee Somlak , Tanyong Benjamas , Aphikulchatkit Yodkwan , Sosothikul Darintr
Published: August 2017

Background

Very few studies about adrenal insufficiency (AI) have been published with regard to non‐transfusion‐dependent (NTD) thalassemia, and none of those studies involved α‐thalassemia patients. The aim of this study was therefore to determine the prevalence of AI in patients with NTD α‐thalassemia, and to identify factors that predict the development of AI in this thalassemia subpopulation.

Methods

This cross‐sectional descriptive study was conducted in NTD α‐thalassemic children at three referral hospitals in Thailand in 2015–2016. Preliminary screening for AI was done using the 1 μg adrenocorticotropic hormone (ACTH) stimulation test. Suspected AI was then confirmed on insulin tolerance test (ITT). AI was defined as peak cortisol <18 μg/dL. AI was categorized as either primary or secondary AI according to peak ACTH.

Results

Thirty patients with NTD α‐thalassemia were included in this study. Ten of 25 patients (40%) had abnormal initial screening. Eight of nine (88.9%) who underwent ITT were confirmed as having AI. No patients diagnosed with AI had any clinical symptoms of AI. The percentage of primary and secondary AI (n = 8) was 25% and 75%, respectively. Mean age and mean hemoglobin level showed a trend toward being associated with AI (P = 0.98).

Conclusion

The prevalence of biochemical AI in α‐thalassemia patients was similar to rates previously reported for NTD β‐thalassemia. Annual screening for AI in α‐thalassemia patients is recommended, and glucocorticoid replacement should be considered in NTD α‐thalassemia patients with AI during critical illness.
Regional differences in antibiotic‐resistant pathogens in patients with pneumonia: Implications for clinicians
Authors: Shindo Yuichiro , Hasegawa Yoshinori
Published: August 2017

ABSTRACT

Antibiotic resistance is of great concern for both infection control and the treatment of infectious diseases. Previous studies reported that the occurrence of drug‐resistant pathogens (DRPs)—for instance, methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), Pseudomonas aeruginosa and extended‐spectrum β‐lactamase (ESBL)‐producing Enterobacteriaceae—were associated with inappropriate antibiotic treatment that resulted in adverse outcomes. In addition, unnecessary use of broad‐spectrum antibiotics for patients with non‐DRPs increased mortality. Therefore, the assessment of risk for DRPs at diagnosis is critical to avoid patients’ adverse events. In the present review, we discuss regional differences in the prevalence of DRPs, which ranged from 6% to 45%, in patients with community‐onset pneumonia, including both community‐acquired and healthcare‐associated pneumonia. We then introduce the reported risk factors for DRPs in those patients, and present proposed prediction models for identifying patients with DRPs at diagnosis. Physicians should be aware that some of the risk factors for DRPs (e.g. prior antibiotic use and prior hospitalization) were common between regions; however, others may be different or the weighting of the risks may vary, even for the same risk factors. Therefore, a specific evaluation of risk factors for DRPs is recommended for each region and institution. Furthermore, we present a possible strategy for initial antibiotic selection in patients with community‐onset pneumonia, considering DRPs risk. We also discuss future directions for the study of DRPs in community‐onset, hospital‐acquired and ventilator‐associated pneumonia to improve the management of patients with pneumonia.
Identification of Performance Requirements for Design of Smartphones Based on Analysis of the Collected Operating Data
Authors: Zhang Lei , Chu Xuening , Chen Hansi , Xue Deyi
Published: August 2017

In order to overcome the problems due to subjective judgments in the traditional product requirement acquisition techniques based on the “users’ voices,” a new data-based approach is developed in this research to identify the performance requirements for design of smartphones. The operating data are collected from smartphones and curve fitting method is used to obtain the performance distributions. The sigmoidlike function is employed to construct nonlinear customer satisfaction function (CSF) based on the performance distributions. From the CSF, customer required performance with a target satisfaction degree can be obtained. The cost-effective point for satisfaction improvement is determined to get a reasonable degree of satisfaction. A case study is conducted to identify the customer requirements on CPU performance based on the collected CPU utilization data.
Reliability and Risk Controlled by the Simultaneous Presence of Random Events on a Time Interval
Authors: Todinov M. T.
Published: August 2017

The paper treats the important problem related to risk controlled by the simultaneous presence of critical events, randomly appearing on a time interval and shows that the expected time fraction of simultaneously present events does not depend on the distribution of events durations. In addition, the paper shows that the probability of simultaneous presence of critical events is practically insensitive to the distribution of the events durations. These counter-intuitive results provide the powerful opportunity to evaluate the risk of overlapping of random events through the mean duration times of the events only, without requiring the distributions of the events durations or their variance. A closed-form expression for the expected fraction of unsatisfied demand for random demands following a homogeneous Poisson process in a time interval is introduced for the first time. In addition, a closed-form expression related to the expected time fraction of unsatisfied demand, for a fixed number of consumers initiating random demands with a specified probability, is also introduced for the first time. The concepts stochastic separation of random events based on the probability of overlapping and the average overlapped fraction are also introduced. Methods for providing stochastic separation and optimal stochastic separation achieving balance between risk and cost of risk reduction are presented.
A Relatively Simple Integral Method for Turbulent Flow Over Rough Surfaces
Authors: Sucec James
Published: August 2017

The integral form of the equation for x momentum is solved for the skin friction coefficient, in external thin boundary layer flow, on surfaces whose technical roughness elements' size is given. This is done by using a “roughness depression function” in the law of the wall and wake which serves as the needed velocity profile. The method uses the equivalent sand grain size concept in its calculations. Predictions are made of the friction coefficient, Cf, as a function of momentum thickness Reynolds number and also, of Cf's dependence on the ratio of momentum thickness to the size of the technical (actual) roughness elements. In addition, boundary layer thicknesses and velocity profiles on rough surfaces are calculated and, when available, comparisons are made with the experimental data from a number of sources in the literature. Also, comparisons are made with the results of another major predictive scheme which does not use the equivalent sand grain concept.
Effect of Shot Peening Process on the Fatigue Life of Shot Peened Low Alloy Steel
Authors: Trung Pham Quang , Khun Nay Win , Butler David Lee
Published: August 2017

Shot peening is well known as a surface deformation process which can induce compressive residual stresses into the subsurface of materials in order to improve the fatigue life. In this paper, the effects of the process conditions for both single and double shot peening on the fatigue life of AISI 4340 low alloy steel is investigated. The fatigue tests revealed that the shot peening process could significantly enhance the fatigue life of the treated components. However, a side effect of the process was an increase in surface roughness which was more prevalent under higher peening pressures and led to a reduction in the fatigue life. Therefore, to maximize the performance of the process, the peening parameters need to be carefully selected. Microstructure analysis of the shot peened parts indicated that the nucleation cracks or initiation cracks occurred in the subsurface at depths of 10–20 μm in the case of as-received samples but moved up to the free surface for the shot peened parts.
Coupled Dynamics of a Flexible Horizontal Axis Wind Turbine With Damaged Blades: Experimental and Numerical Validations
Authors: Ben Hassena M. A. , Najar F. , Choura S. , Ghorbel F. H.
Published: August 2017

In this paper, we propose a new coupled dynamical model of a horizontal axis wind turbine (HAWT). The proposed model takes into consideration the dynamic coupling of the flexible tower with both bending and torsion of the flexible blades. This model also accounts for the dynamics of an additional point mass located in one of the blades to simulate a crack. In addition, a finite element model (FEM) analysis along with an experimental study is conducted in this research to validate the modal analysis of a HAWT prototype. Data from the analytical, numerical, and experimental investigations were collected and showed comparable findings. Using the analytical model, the modal analysis and the steady-state response of the HAWT prototype are performed for two configurations: with and without a crack. In this paper, we also propose a new model-based technique for the detection of cracks in the HAWT.
Electrical Contact Resistance Estimation With Application to Electric Vehicle Charging Cable
Authors: Sabatier Jocelyn , Chevrié Mathieu , Farges Christophe , Guillemard Franck , Pradere Laetitia
Published: August 2017

The paper proposes a method to estimate the contact resistance inside the outlet between a charging cable and an electric vehicle. First, an electrothermal model of some components close to the contact area inside the vehicle outlet (in the female part of the outlet) and of the harness inside the vehicle is proposed. The charging cable and the associated components are the male parts of the outlet and are not modeled as these components are not identical for each charging. They also depend on the mode and the charging infrastructure used. It is only supposed that the charging cable evacuates an unknown thermal heat rate. A linear approximation of the electrothermal model is then obtained and used to design a closed-loop estimator of the total heat rate at the contact area. Using this information, a least square method is used to estimate the contact resistance that can be deduced from the first values of the total heat rate after a step variation of the current in the charging cable.
Activated Charcoal Modified Graphite Felts Using for Positive Electrodes of Vanadium Redox Flow Battery
Authors: Yang Haitao , Fan Chuanlin , Zhu Qingshan
Published: August 2017

In the present paper, a composite electrode material was developed for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFBs). Activated charcoal particles were evenly immobilized on the graphite felt (GF) via a sucrose pyrolysis process for the first time. The in site formed pyrolytic carbon is used as the binder, because it is essentially carbon material as well as GF and activated charcoal, which has a natural tendency to realize good adhesion and low contact resistance. The activated charcoal decorated GF electrode (abbreviated as the composite electrode) possesses larger surface area (13.8 m2 g−1), more than two times as GF (6.3 m2 g−1). The oxygen content of composite electrode is also higher (7.0%) than that of GF (4.8%). The composite electrode was demonstrated to lower polarization and increase the reversibility toward the VO2+/VO2+ redox couple according to the cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) measurements. The charge–discharge cycling test was conducted with a single VRFB cell. The results indicate that the cell with composite electrode presents higher charge–discharge capacity, larger electrolyte utilization efficiency (EU), and higher energy conversion efficiency (79.1%) compared with that using GF electrode. The increasing electrochemical performances of composite electrodes are mainly ascribed to the high electrochemical activity of activated charcoal particles and increasing superficial area.
Prototype Reynolds Number Vortex-Induced Vibration Tests on a Full-Scale Rigid Riser
Authors: Yin Decao , Lie Halvor , Baarholm Rolf J.
Published: August 2017

Slender offshore structures in deep water subjected to currents may experience vortex-induced vibrations (VIV), which can cause significant fatigue damage. Extensive experimental researches have been conducted to study the VIV in the past several decades. However, most of the experimental works have small-scale models and relatively low Reynolds number (Re)—“subcritical” or even lower Reynolds number regime. There is a lack of full understanding of the VIV in prototype Re flow regime. Applying the results with low Re to a full-scale riser with prototype Re might have uncertainties due to the scaling effects. In addition, the surface roughness of the riser is also an important parameter, especially in critical Re regime, which is the case for prototype risers. In the present study, two full-scale rigid riser models with different surface roughness ratios were tested in the towing tank of MARINTEK in 2014. Stationary tests, pure crossflow (CF) free oscillation tests, and forced/controlled motion tests were carried out. Several conclusions could be made: The drag coefficient is dependent on the Re number and surface roughness ratio. At critical and supercritical flow regimes, the displacement amplitude ratio is less sensitive to Re than that at lower Re. The displacement amplitude ratio in subcritical flow regime is significantly larger than that in critical and supercritical flow regimes. Two excitation regions for the ‘smooth riser’ and one excitation region for the “rough riser” are identified.
Model Study on the Oil Stiction of a Discharge Reed Valve in Compressors
Authors: Yoshizumi Fumitaka , Kondoh Yasuhiro , Moroi Takahiro , Tamano Shinji , Morinishi Yohei
Published: August 2017

In a discharge reed valve for compressors, the oil stiction by the oil film between the reed and the valve seat is investigated experimentally, and a simulation model is developed. Through a model experiment, the initial oil film thickness is measured by an interferometry method, and the valve displacement and the bore pressure are measured from the stiction to the valve opening. The opening delay time together with the initial oil film thickness is measured while changing the contact area and the oil species. In the simulation model, the deformation of the reed and the pressure of the oil film as a result of cavitation are coupled. In order to take into account the tensile stress in the oil film, a cavitation model directly simulating the expansion of cavitation bubbles is developed (herein, dynamic cavitation model). In the experiment, a smaller contact area, a larger initial film thickness, and a smaller oil viscosity yield a shorter delay. In the simulation, the dynamic cavitation model is advantageous in representing the experimental delay time. In particular, with respect to the relationship between the initial film thickness and the delay time, the dynamic cavitation model with an initial bubble radius that depends on the oil film thickness yields results similar to the experimental results.
Transient Two-Dimensional Heat Conduction Problem With Partial Heating Near Corners
Authors: McMasters Robert L. , de Monte Filippo , Beck James V. , Amos Donald E.
Published: August 2017

This paper provides a solution for two-dimensional (2D) heating over a rectangular region on a homogeneous plate. It has application to verification of numerical conduction codes as well as direct application for heating and cooling of electronic equipment. Additionally, it can be applied as a direct solution for the inverse heat conduction problem, most notably used in thermal protection systems for re-entry vehicles. The solutions used in this work are generated using Green's functions (GFs). Two approaches are used, which provide solutions for either semi-infinite plates or finite plates with isothermal conditions, which are located a long distance from the heating. The methods are both efficient numerically and have extreme accuracy, which can be used to provide additional solution verification. The solutions have components that are shown to have physical significance. The procedure involves the derivation of previously unknown simpler forms for the summations, in some cases by virtue of the use of algebraic components. Also, a mathematical identity given in this paper can be used for a variety of related problems.
Transport of Spherical Particles Through Fibrous Media and a Row of Parallel Cylinders: Applications to Glomerular Filtration
Authors: Punyaratabandhu Numpong , Kongoup Pimkhwan , Dechadilok Panadda , Katavetin Pisut , Triampo Wannapong
Published: August 2017

Viewed in renal physiology as a refined filtration device, the glomerulus filters large volumes of blood plasma while keeping proteins within blood circulation. Effects of macromolecule size and macromolecule hydrodynamic interaction with the nanostructure of the cellular layers of the glomerular capillary wall on the glomerular size selectivity are investigated through a mathematical simulation based on an ultrastructural model. The epithelial slit, a planar arrangement of fibers connecting the epithelial podocytes, is represented as a row of parallel cylinders with nonuniform spacing between adjacent fibers. The mean and standard deviation of gap half-width between its fibers are based on values recently reported from electron microscopy. The glomerular basement membrane (GBM) is represented as a fibrous medium containing fibers of two different sizes: the size of type IV collagens and that of glycosaminoglycans (GAGs). The endothelial cell layer is modeled as a layer full of fenestrae that are much larger than solute size and filled with GAGs. The calculated total sieving coefficient agrees well with the sieving coefficients of ficolls obtained from in vivo urinalysis in humans, whereas the computed glomerular hydraulic permeability also falls within the range estimated from human glomerular filtration rate (GFR). Our result indicates that the endothelial cell layer and GBM significantly contribute to solute and fluid restriction of the glomerular barrier, whereas, based on the structure of the epithelial slit obtained from electron microscopy, the contribution of the epithelial slit could be smaller than previously believed.
Size-Dependent Flexoelectric Response of a Truncated Cone and the Consequent Ramifications for the Experimental Measurement of Flexoelectric Properties
Authors: Deng Qian
Published: August 2017

The flexoelectric effect is an electromechanical phenomenon that is universally present in all dielectrics and exhibits a strong size-dependency. Through a judicious exploitation of scale effects and symmetry, flexoelectricity has been used to design novel types of structures and materials including piezoelectric materials without using piezoelectric. Flexoelectricity links electric polarization with strain gradients and is rather difficult to estimate experimentally. One well-acknowledged approach is to fabricate truncated pyramids and/or cones and examine their electrical response. A theoretical model is then used to relate the measured experimental response to estimate the flexoelectric properties. In this work, we revisit the typical model that is used in the literature and solve the problem of a truncated cone under compression or tension. We obtained closed-form analytical solutions to this problem and examine the size and shape effects of flexoelectric response of the aforementioned structure. In particular, we emphasize the regime in which the existing models are likely to incur significant error.
Confining metal-halide perovskites in nanoporous thin films
Authors: Demchyshyn Stepan , Roemer Janina Melanie , Groiß Heiko , Heilbrunner Herwig , Ulbricht Christoph , Apaydin Dogukan , Böhm Anton , Rütt Uta , Bertram Florian , Hesser Günter , Scharber Markus Clark , Sariciftci Niyazi Serdar , Nickel Bert , Bauer Siegfried , Głowacki Eric Daniel , Kaltenbrunner Martin
Published: August 2017

In situ perovskite nanocrystal formation within nanoporous thin films allows emission color tuning in optoelectronic devices.
A conformational checkpoint between DNA binding and cleavage by CRISPR-Cas9
Authors: Dagdas Yavuz S. , Chen Janice S. , Sternberg Samuel H. , Doudna Jennifer A. , Yildiz Ahmet
Published: August 2017

A conformational checkpoint of Cas9 enables on-target cleavage while blocking access to the active state at off-target sites.
New Lager Brewery Strains Obtained by Crossing Techniques Using
Cachaça
(Brazilian Spirit) Yeasts
Authors: Figueiredo Bruna Inez Carvalho , Saraiva Margarete Alice Fontes , de Souza Pimenta Paloma Patrick , de Souza Testasicca Miriam Conceição , Sampaio Geraldo Magela Santos , da Cunha Aureliano Claret , Afonso Luis Carlos Crocco , Vieira de Queiroz Marisa , de Miranda Castro Ieso , Brandão Rogelio Lopes
Published: August 2017

The development of hybrids has been an effective approach to generate novel yeast strains with optimal technological profile for use in beer production. This study describes the generation of a new yeast strain for lager beer production by direct mating between two
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
strains isolated from
cachaça
distilleries: one that was strongly flocculent, and the other with higher production of acetate esters. The first step in this procedure was to analyze the sporulation ability and reproductive cycle of strains belonging to a specific collection of yeasts isolated from
cachaça
fermentation vats. Most strains showed high rates of sporulation, spore viability, and homothallic behavior. In order to obtain new yeast strains with desirable properties useful for lager beer production, we compare haploid-to-haploid and diploid-to-diploid mating procedures. Moreover, an assessment of parental phenotype traits showed that the segregant diploid C2-1d generated from a diploid-to-diploid mating experiment showed good fermentation performance at low temperature, high flocculation capacity, and desirable production of acetate esters that was significantly better than that of one type lager strain. Therefore, strain C2-1d might be an important candidate for the production of lager beer, with distinct fruit traces and originating using a non-genetically modified organism (GMO) approach.

IMPORTANCE
Recent work has suggested the utilization of hybridization techniques for the generation of novel non-genetically modified brewing yeast strains with combined properties not commonly found in a unique yeast strain. We have observed remarkable traits, especially low temperature tolerance, maltotriose utilization, flocculation ability, and production of volatile aroma compounds, among a collection of
Saccharomyces cerevisiae
strains isolated from
cachaça
distilleries, which allow their utilization in the production of beer. The significance of our research is in the use of breeding/hybridization techniques to generate yeast strains that would be appropriate for producing new lager beers by exploring the capacity of
cachaça
yeast strains to flocculate and to ferment maltose at low temperature, with the concomitant production of flavoring compounds.
Pachychoroid pigment epitheliopathy in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Ersoz M Giray , Karacorlu Murat , Arf Serra , Hocaoglu Mumin , Sayman Muslubas Isil
Published: August 2017

Aims

To investigate the prevalence of pachychoroid pigment epitheliopathy (PPE) in fellow eyes of patients with unilateral central serous chorioretinopathy (CSC) and to determine differences between patients with PPE, uncomplicated pachychoroid (UCP) and normal fellow eyes.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed 536 patients with CSC. Demographic and medical data, spectral domain optical coherence tomography scans with enhanced depth imaging mode, infrared reflectance images and fundus autofluorescence images were obtained from the patients’ medical records.

Results

254 (47.4%) of 536 patients had bilateral CSC. The female to male ratio was 1/2.8 in all patients with CSC. In patients with unilateral CSC (282 patients), 61% of fellow eyes had PPE, 30.8% had UCP and 8.2% were normal. There were no significant differences between patients with PPE, UCP and normal eyes in age, duration of disease, sex, presence of systemic hypertension, steroid use, psychopharmacological medication use, refractive error or central foveal thickness. Eyes with PPE and UCP did not differ regarding subfoveal choroidal thickness. In eyes with PPE (172 eyes), 77.3% had retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) bumps and 43% had pigment epithelium detachment.

Conclusion

PPE is common in fellow eyes of patients with CSC. There is no difference between PPE and UCP regarding demographic characteristics and medical features.
Short-term vision gains at 12 weeks correlate with long-term vision gains at 2 years: results from the BEVORDEX randomised clinical trial of bevacizumab versus dexamethasone implants for diabetic macular oedema
Authors: Mehta Hemal , Fraser-Bell Samantha , Nguyen Vuong , Lim Lyndell L , Gillies Mark C
Published: August 2017

Aim

To determine whether early vision gains predict long-term visual outcomes in the BEVORDEX randomised clinical trial of bevacizumab or dexamethasone implants for diabetic macular oedema.

Methods

Post hoc analysis of 68 study eyes (77%) that completed 2 years follow-up of the BEVORDEX multicentre randomised clinical trial set in Australia (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01298076). Study eyes from both groups were combined and stratified by visual acuity (VA) change in the first 12 weeks in to three groups: (a) suboptimal gain: <5 letters gain (includes VA loss), (b) moderate gain: 5–9 letters gain, (c) pronounced gain: ≥10 letters gain. This was correlated with VA outcome at 104 weeks taking into account treatment allocation and baseline lens status.

Results

The change in VA in the first 12 weeks was significantly correlated with VA change at 104 weeks (p<0.001). This was independent of treatment allocation (p=0.353) and lens status at baseline (p=0.593). The change in central macular thickness at 12 weeks did not correlate with VA gain at 104 weeks (p=0.847).

Conclusion

Short-term visual gain at 12 weeks was strongly correlated with long-term vision improvement independent of treatment allocation or baseline lens status. Early improvement in central macular thickness was not predictive of long-term visual outcomes.

Trial registration number

NCT01298076, Post-results.
Randomised masked trial of the clinical safety and tolerability of MGO Manuka Honey eye cream for the management of blepharitis
Authors: Craig Jennifer P , Wang Michael T M , Ganesalingam Kalaivarny , Rupenthal Ilva D , Swift Simon , Loh Chee Seang , Te Weehi Leah , Cheung Isabella M Y , Watters Grant A
Published: August 2017

Objective

To assess the clinical safety and tolerability of a novel MGO Manuka Honey microemulsion (MHME) eye cream for the management of blepharitis in human subjects.

Methods and analysis

Twenty-five healthy subjects were enrolled in a prospective, randomised, paired-eye, investigator-masked trial. The MHME eye cream (Manuka Health New Zealand) was applied to the closed eyelids of one eye (randomised) overnight for 2 weeks. LogMAR visual acuity, eyelid irritation symptoms, ocular surface characteristics and tear film parameters were assessed at baseline, day 7 and day 14. Expression of markers of ocular surface inflammation (matrix metalloproteinase-9 and interleukin-6) and goblet cell function (MUC5AC) were quantified using impression cytology at baseline and day 14.

Results

There were no significant changes in visual acuity, eyelid irritation symptoms, ocular surface characteristics, tear film parameters and inflammatory marker expression during the 2-week treatment period in treated and control eyes (all p>0.05), and measurements did not differ significantly between eyes (all p>0.05). No major adverse events were reported. Two subjects experienced transient ocular stinging, presumably due to migration of the product into the eye, which resolved following aqueous irrigation.

Conclusion

The MHME eye cream application was found to be well tolerated in healthy human subjects and was not associated with changes in visual acuity, ocular surface characteristics, tear film parameters, expression of markers of inflammation or goblet cell function. The findings support future clinical efficacy trials in patients with blepharitis.

Trial registration number

ACTRN12616000540415
Nuclear orphan receptor NR2F6 as a safeguard against experimental murine colitis
Authors: Klepsch Victoria , Gerner Romana R , Klepsch Sebastian , Olson William J , Tilg Herbert , Moschen Alexander R , Baier Gottfried , Hermann-Kleiter Natascha
Published: August 2017

Objective

Nuclear receptors are known to regulate both immune and barrier functions in the GI tract. The nuclear orphan receptor NR2F6 has been shown to suppress the expression of proinflammatory cytokines in T lymphocytes. NR2F6 gene expression is reduced in patients with IBS or UC, but its functional role and tissue dependency in healthy and inflamed gut have not yet been investigated.

Design

Intestinal inflammation was induced in wild-type, Nr2f6-deficient, Rag1-deficient or bone marrow-reconstituted mice by administration of chemical (dextran sodium sulfate (DSS)) and immunogenic (T cell transfer) triggers. Disease phenotypes were investigated by survival, body weight, colon length and analysis of immune cell infiltrates. Additionally, histology, intestinal permeability, tight junction proteins, bacterial fluorescence in situ hybridisation, apoptosis, cell proliferation and mucus production were investigated.

Results

Nr2f6-deficient mice were highly susceptible to DSS-induced colitis characterised by enhanced weight loss, increased colonic tissue destruction and immune cell infiltration together with enhanced intestinal permeability and reduced Muc2 expression. T cell transfer colitis and bone marrow reconstitution experiments demonstrated that disease susceptibility was not dependent on the expression of Nr2f6 in the immune compartment but on the protective role of NR2F6 in the intestinal epithelium. Mechanistically, we show that NR2F6 binds to a consensus sequence at −2 kb of the Muc2 promoter and transactivates Muc2 expression. Loss of NR2F6 alters intestinal permeability and results in spontaneous late-onset colitis in Nr2f6-deficient mice.

Conclusion

We have for the first time identified a fundamental and non-redundant role of NR2F6 in protecting gut barrier homeostasis.
Oral sex and human papilloma virus-related head and neck squamous cell cancer: a review of the literature
Authors: Shah Ankit , Malik Akshat , Garg Apurva , Mair Manish , Nair Sudhir , Chaturvedi Pankaj
Published: August 2017

Head neck squamous cell carcinomas (HNSCCs) are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality all around the world. Just like tobacco and alcohol, Human papilloma virus (HPV) infection is now recognized to play a role in the pathogenesis of a subset of HNSCCs. Unprotected sexual behaviours with the HPV carrier plays an important role in transmission of this virus. The global incidence of head and neck cancers is declining, but the incidence of HPV related head and neck cancers is rapidly increasing over the last few decades. However, most institutions do not mandate documentation of sexual history or counselling of patients regarding sexual practices like they do for tobacco and alcohol addictions in HNSCC patients. The aim of this review of literature is to analyse if there is a strong evidence to correlate oral sex with HPV related HNSCC and counsel the patient’s regarding sexual behaviours.
Cardiac troponin: more than meets the eye
Authors: Abela Mark , Sammut Luke
Published: August 2017

Exercise is known to have a vast array of health benefits. It may however confer delirious effects on most body systems, with the cardiovascular system taking particular prominence. Athletes in particular are known to be at a higher risk for sudden cardiac death as a result of several cardiac adaptations which take place. Myocardial damage as a result of extreme exertional activities is thought to play a very important role in this risk. Cardiac troponin I is widely known to be an excellent diagnostic marker which is used in patients suspected of having acute coronary syndrome. Its release during exercise has been routinely studied, with many hypotheses currently being proposed as to its role and potential complications once released. Whether or not it implies that myocardial damage is taking place as a result of exercise is debatable, but its release might have some role in the development of cardiotoxic states which predisposes athletes to significant cardiac risk. This review aims to discuss the proposed mechanisms in exercise-induced troponin release, while also goes into its clinical relevance and potential early and late sequelae.