bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Minimally invasive treatment of sino‐nasal aspergillosis in dogs
Authors: Ballber Clara , Hill Tracy L. , Bommer Nick X.
Published: October 2018

Background:Sino‐nasal aspergillosis is a common nasal disease in dogs. Recommended treatment protocols typically involve trephination of the frontal sinuses or the use of an antifungal solution instilled into the frontal sinus under anesthesia, both of which have associated morbidity and complications.

Objectives: To assess a minimally‐invasive topical treatment protocol for sino‐nasal aspergillosis in dogs.

Animals:Twelve client‐owned dogs diagnosed with sino‐nasal aspergillosis that completed recommended treatment.

Methods:Medical records were retrospectively reviewed to identify dogs with sino‐nasal aspergillosis that received treatment. Fungal plaques were manually debrided and irrigated via frontal sinuscopy in 12 dogs that then were treated topically with 1% topical clotrimazole cream. Irrigation and topical medication application was achieved using a catheter placed retrograde directly into the frontal sinuses using the Seldinger technique over a guidewire, thereby avoiding the need for frontal sinus trephination. Invasion into the calvarium was recorded before treatment but was not considered a criterion for exclusion. Debridement and cream deposition was repeated every 2 weeks as needed until negative culture and histopathologic findings were obtained.

Results:All dogs were cured (negative results forAspergilluson endoscopy, fungal culture, and histopathology) with a median of 2 treatments. Treatments were well tolerated, with minimal adverse effects reported. Three dogs had evidence of erosion into the calvarium on computed tomography imaging.

Conclusions and Clinical Importance:This protocol appears to be an effective and well‐tolerated minimally invasive treatment for sino‐nasal aspergillosis, including in dogs with erosion into the calvarium. Only mild adverse effects were noted.
Coordinated regulation of nitrogen fixation and molybdate transport by molybdenum
Authors: Demtröder Lisa , Narberhaus Franz , Masepohl Bernd
Published: October 2018

Biological nitrogen fixation, the reduction of chemically inert dinitrogen to bioavailable ammonia, is a central process in the global nitrogen cycle highly relevant for life on earth. N2 reduction to NH3 is catalyzed by nitrogenases exclusively synthesized by diazotrophic prokaryotes. All diazotrophs have a molybdenum nitrogenase containing the unique iron‐molybdenum cofactor FeMoco. In addition, some diazotrophs encode one or two alternative Mo‐free nitrogenases that are less efficient at reducing N2 than Mo‐nitrogenase. To permit biogenesis of Mo‐nitrogenase and other molybdoenzymes when Mo is scarce, bacteria synthesize the high‐affinity molybdate transporter ModABC. Generally, Mo supports expression of Mo‐nitrogenase genes, while it represses production of Mo‐free nitrogenases and ModABC. Since all three nitrogenases and ModABC can reach very high levels at suitable Mo concentrations, tight Mo‐mediated control saves considerable resources and energy. This review outlines the similarities and differences in Mo‐responsive regulation of nitrogen fixation and molybdate transport in diverse diazotrophs.
Exploring Connections Between First and Second Language Fluency: A Mixed Methods Approach
Authors: PELTONEN PAULIINA
Published: October 2018

Many factors influencing second language (L2) speech fluency have been widely studied, but the effects of first language (L1) fluency on L2 speech fluency are still relatively poorly understood. In contrast to mostly quantitative previous studies, the present study adopted a mixed methods approach to examining the connections between L1 fluency and L2 fluency. Monologue speech samples in L1 and L2 were obtained from 42 Finnish learners of English at 2 school levels (9th grade and upper secondary school). The samples were examined for 13 measures capturing different aspects of fluency: temporal fluency, including speed and pausing, and stalling mechanisms. The results indicated positive correlations between the majority of temporal L1 and L2 fluency measures. Regression analyses further demonstrated that most temporal L2 fluency measures could be predicted from L1 fluency measures to a certain extent, although the predictive power varied across the measures. Regarding stalling mechanisms, a complementary qualitative analysis provided insights to idiosyncratic patterns in their use in L1 and L2. Together, the findings suggest that L1 fluency is an important factor in explaining L2 fluency and should be more widely acknowledged in L2 fluency research, assessment, and teaching.
Review: Challenges in the histopathological classification of ganglioglioma and DNT: microscopic agreement studies and a preliminary genotype‐phenotype analysis
Authors: Blümcke I. , Coras R. , Wefers A. K. , Capper D. , Aronica E. , Becker A. , Honavar M. , Stone T. J. , Jacques T. S. , Miyata H. , Mühlebner A. , Pimentel J. , Söylemezoğlu F. , Thom M.
Published: October 2018

Low‐grade epilepsy‐associated brain tumours (LEAT) are the second most common cause for drug‐resistant, focal epilepsy, that is ganglioglioma (GG) and dysembryoplastic neuroepithelial tumours (DNT). However, molecular pathogenesis, risk factors for malignant progression and their frequent association with drug‐resistant focal seizures remain poorly understood. This contrasts recent progress in understanding the molecular‐genetic basis and targeted treatment options in diffuse gliomas. The Neuropathology Task Force of the International League Against Epilepsy examined available literature to identify common obstacles in diagnosis and research ofLEAT. Analysis of 10 published tumour series from epilepsy surgery pointed to poor inter‐rater agreement for the histopathology diagnosis. The Task Force tested this hypothesis using a web‐based microscopy agreement study. In a series of 30LEAT, 25 raters from 18 countries agreed in only 40% of cases. Highest discordance in microscopic diagnosis occurred betweenGGandDNTvariants, when oligodendroglial‐like cell patterns prevail, or ganglion cells were difficult to discriminate from pre‐existing neurons. Suggesting new terminology or major histopathological criteria did not satisfactorily increase the yield of histopathology agreement in four consecutive trials. To this end, the Task Force applied theWHO2016 strategy of integrating phenotype analysis with molecular‐genetic data obtained from panel sequencing and 450k methylation arrays. This strategy was helpful to distinguishDNTfromGGvariants in all cases. The Task Force recommends, therefore, to further develop diagnostic panels for the integration of phenotype‐genotype analysis in order to reliably classify the spectrum ofLEAT, carefully characterize clinically meaningful entities and make better use of published literature.
Do nurse‐led critical care outreach services impact inpatient mortality rates?
Authors: Garry Louise , Rohan Niamh , O'Connor Tom , Patton Declan , Moore Zena
Published: October 2018

Background

Previous systematic reviews have assessed the effect of critical care outreach services, but none have focused solely on nurse‐led services.

Aim

To perform a systematic review examining the impact of nurse‐led critical care outreach services on inpatient mortality rates as the primary outcome. Secondary outcomes include arrest call rates and patient length of stay.

Methods

A comprehensive search of several electronic databases was carried out, including the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and Medline. Non‐catalogued literature was searched, and contact was made by e‐mail with expert authors. All studies were in the English language, and although heterogeneous in design, only quantitative data were extracted for analysis. All included studies were assessed for quality using recognized quality appraisal tools. Meta‐analysis was not possible because of heterogeneity.

Results

Ten studies involving almost 72 000 participants were identified. The reduction in mortality rates with nurse‐led critical care outreach services was reported to be 80%, but the statistical significance was low – four studies showed reductions ranging from 0·1% to 0·22%. Greater statistical significance was reported in arrest call rates, with two studies claiming decreased rates of 58·7% and 29·6%. Two studies reported a decrease in patient length of stay – the findings of a third study were equivocal. Half of the included studies scored poorly in terms of quality and validity, and all were single‐centre studies, thereby limiting generalisability.

Conclusion

Nurse‐led critical care outreach services demonstrate benefits in terms of patient care and reduction in adverse events. Higher‐quality research, including multicentre randomized controlled trials, with meta‐analysis is recommended.

Relevance to clinical practice

Nurse‐led critical care outreach services have the potential to improve patient outcomes. Uniformity of team composition and nomenclature would benefit data collection and reporting.
ABA signalling is regulated by the circadian clock component LHY
Authors: Belbin Fiona E. , Dodd Antony N.
Published: October 2018

This article is a Commentary on Adams et al., 220: 893–907.
The limits of proceduralism: Critical remarks on the rise of ‘throughput legitimacy’
Authors: Steffek Jens
Published: October 2018

‘Throughput legitimacy’ is among the most successful conceptual innovations that scholars of public policy and administration have produced in recent years. I argue that this new understanding of legitimacy needs to be seen in the context of an increasing proceduralism in political science and public administration. Throughput legitimacy attracted so much attention because it is the perfect normative companion to the analytical concept of governance. Governance is procedure, and throughput legitimacy tells us what good procedures are. In my critical discussion of this innovation I examine the analytical value of the concept, as well as its normative and practical implications. I argue that, regarding concept formation, throughput legitimacy may enrich existing typologies of legitimacy but at the same time has a severe problem of fuzzy borders. Politically, throughput legitimacy lends itself to apologetic uses when it is applied as a tailor‐made normative standard for technocratic, non‐majoritarian institutions.
Couplings in cell differentiation kinetics mitigate air temperature influence on conifer wood anatomy
Authors: Cuny Henri E. , Fonti Patrick , Rathgeber Cyrille B.K. , von Arx Georg , Peters Richard L. , Frank David C.
Published: October 2018

Conifer trees possess a typical anatomical tree‐ring structure characterized by a transition from large and thin‐walled earlywood tracheids to narrow and thick‐walled latewood tracheids. However, little is known on how this characteristic structure is maintained across contrasting environmental conditions, due to its crucial role to ensure sap ascent and mechanical support. In this study, we monitored weekly wood cell formation for up to 7 years in two temperate conifer species (i.e., Picea abies (L.) Karst and Larix decidua Mill.) across an 8°C thermal gradient from 800 to 2,200 m a.s.l. in central Europe to investigate the impact of air temperature on rate and duration of wood cell formation. Results indicated that towards colder sites, forming tracheids compensate a decreased rate of differentiation (cell enlarging and wall thickening) by an extended duration, except for the last cells of the latewood in the wall‐thickening phase. This compensation allows conifer trees to mitigate the influence of air temperature on the final tree‐ring structure, with important implications for the functioning and resilience of the xylem to varying environmental conditions. The disappearing compensation in the thickening latewood cells might also explain the higher climatic sensitivity usually found in maximum latewood density.
Clinical efficacy of intrauterine cephapirin benzathine administration on clearance of uterine bacteria and subclinical endometritis in postpartum buffaloes
Authors: Nehru Dawoud A. , Dhaliwal Gurcharan. S. , Jan Mustafa. H. , Cheema Ranjna S. , Kumar Sanjay
Published: October 2018

Contents

This study examined the effect of single IU administration of cephapirin on clinical recovery, clearance of uterine bacteria and reproductive performance of postpartum buffaloes with subclinical endometritis (SCE). Buffaloes (n = 86) at 35 days postpartum (DPP) with >10% polymorphonuclear (PMN) cells in endometrial cytosmears were designated as positive (SCEP,n = 29), and buffaloes with ≤10% PMN cell were designated as negative (SCEN,n = 57) for SCE. Out of 29 positive buffaloes, 15 were administered a single intrauterine dose of cephapirin benzathine on 40 DPP (SCEP‐CB), while the remaining 14 animals were kept as untreated control (SCEP‐C). All animals were observed regularly for oestrous signs and were again subjected to cytobrush sampling on the first postpartum (FPP) oestrus. Buffaloes positive for SCE at 35 DPP were later considered “recovered” if their PMN cells dropped to ≤5% on the FPP oestrus. Presence ofEscherichia coli, Arcanobacterium pyogenesandFusobacterium necrophorumin uterus was detected based upon PCR amplification of genes related to bacteria‐specific virulence factors. A total of 66.7% of SCEP‐CB group buffaloes recovered as compared to 28.6% in SCEP‐C (χ2 = 4.21;p < 0.05). Rate of bacterial clearance did not differ between treated (38.5%) and untreated buffaloes (8.3%) (χ2 = 1.67;p > 0.05). The median days to first service did not differ significantly (p > 0.05) among the three groups, whereas cephapirin administration reduced (p < 0.05) the days open by 14 days in SCEP‐CB compared to SCEP‐C buffaloes. SCEP‐CB buffaloes were as likely to conceive as SCEN, whereas SCEP‐C had 0.28 hazard ratio for pregnancy. In conclusion, a single treatment with cephapirin benzathine at 40 DPP improved the reproductive performance of buffaloes with subclinical endometritis.
Towards a refined definition of combined pulmonary fibrosis and emphysema
Authors: Swigris Jeffrey J.
Published: October 2018

See related Article
Creating a shared past: The representation of Medici–Habsburg relations in the wedding celebrations for Eleonora de Toledo and Cosimo I de’ Medici
Authors: Baker Nicholas Scott
Published: October 2018

In the summer of 1539, an elaborate, ephemeral programme of decoration was constructed in Florence to celebrate the wedding of Cosimo I de' Medici and Eleonora Álvarez de Toledo. Through an interplay of painting, sculpture, heraldry, and classical allusions, the programme constructed a narrative of the marriage as the culmination of a history of mutual support between the Medici family and the Spanish monarchy. In so doing, this article argues, it revealed the dynamic by which the network of political alliances and exchanges that made Spanish hegemony on the Italian peninsula possible operated. The narrative re‐presented the distant and recent history of Medici–Spanish relations and re‐created Florence as a middle ground between Spanish imperialism and Italian resistance and autonomy. It revealed the way in which Spanish Habsburg hegemony in Italy relied on dialogue, accommodation, mutual reciprocity, and a creative interpretation of the past and present.
Value Chain Development and the Agrarian Question: Actor Perspectives on Native Potato Production in the Highlands of Peru
Authors: Tobin Daniel , Glenna Leland
Published: October 2018

Value chain development seeks to integrate smallholder farmers into competitive markets to promote economic and social development. This article, conceptually based on the agrarian question, considers how the perspectives of various value chain actors, with particular focus on smallholders, have important implications for the outcomes of these market‐oriented initiatives. Utilizing Long’s concept of social interface, we present a mixed‐methods case study that analyzes how smallholders, an NGO, and agrifood corporations, including PepsiCo, partnered to establish value chains for native potatoes in the Peruvian highlands. We find that a thorough understanding of the various perspectives held by value chain actors provides important insight into why value chain initiatives have divergent trajectories. Based on the findings, we conclude that accounting for how actors are responding to development initiatives and one another helps explain development outcomes and that therefore the agrarian question remains relevant in current agricultural development discourse and practice.
Nonlinear modal analysis via non‐parametric machine learning tools
Authors: Dervilis Nikolaos , Simpson Thomas E. , Wagg David J. , Worden Keith
Published: October 2018

Modal analysis is an important tool in the structural dynamics community; it is widely utilised to understand and investigate the dynamical characteristics oflinearstructures. Many methods have been proposed in recent years regarding the extension to nonlinear analysis, such as nonlinear normal modes or the method of normal forms, with the main objective being to formulate a mathematical model of a nonlinear dynamical structure based on observations of input/output data from the dynamical system. In fact, for the majority of structures where the effect of nonlinearity becomes significant, nonlinear modal analysis is anecessity.

The objective of the current paper is to demonstrate a machine learning approach to output‐only nonlinear modal decomposition using kernel independent component analysis and locally linear‐embedding analysis. The key element is to demonstrate a pattern recognition approach which exploits the idea of independence of principal components from the linear theory by learning the nonlinear manifold between the variables. In this work, the importance of output‐only modal analysis via “blind source” separation tools is highlighted as the excitation input/force is not needed and the method can be implemented directly via experimental data signals without worrying about the presence or not of specific nonlinearities in the structure.
Does laser therapy improve the wound healing process after tooth extraction? A systematic review
Authors: Lemes Carmen Helena Jacques , da Rosa Wellington Luiz de Oliveira , Sonego Camila Leal , Lemes Bianca Jacques , Moraes Rafael Ratto , da Silva Adriana Fernandes
Published: October 2018

Laser therapy could amplify the oral wound healing process by stimulating cell regeneration after injury, attenuating pain, and modulating the immune system. The purpose of this systematic review was to evaluate whether the application of laser therapy improved alveolar healing after tooth extractions. Eight electronic databases were screened: MedLine (PubMed), The Cochrane Library, Web of Science, Scopus, Lilacs, Ibecs, Scielo, and BBO. Three reviewers independently assessed the title and abstracts of potentially relevant studies. Only clinical trials and animal experiments that evaluated the wound healing effect of laser therapy after tooth extraction were included. A total of 16 studies fulfilled all criteria, thus 8 animal experiments and 8 clinical trials were included. Different types of laser were evaluated, such as CO2, GaAlAs, Nd:YAG, Diode Laser, HeNe, and High‐frequency Pulsed Diode Laser. Although HF, Diode and GaAs lasers were able to enhance wound healing process in clinical studies, four trials and one animal experiment showed no improvement in wound healing with laser therapy after tooth extractions. In general, the current available evidence in the literature showed that laser therapy improved the wound healing process, but these findings were limited to the type of laser applied and its specific settings. Further well‐designed and randomized controlled trials are needed to support a benefit effect of using laser therapy after tooth extraction. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42014007509 (2014).
Development of the cerebral cortex and the effect of the intrauterine environment
Authors: Quezada Sebastian , Castillo‐Melendez Margie , Walker David W , Tolcos Mary
Published: October 2018

The human brain is one of the most complex structures currently under study. Its external shape is highly convoluted, with folds and valleys over the entire surface of the cortex. Disruption of the normal pattern of folding is associated with a number of abnormal neurological outcomes, some serious for the individual. Most of our knowledge of the normal development and folding of the cerebral cortex (gyrification) focuses on the internal, biological (i.e. genetically driven) mechanisms of the brain that drive gyrification. However, the impact of an adverse intrauterine and maternal physiological environment on cortical folding during fetal development has been understudied. Accumulating evidence suggests that the state of the intrauterine and maternal environment can have a significant impact on gyrification of the fetal cerebral cortex. This review summarises our current knowledge of how development in a suboptimal intrauterine and maternal environment can affect the normal development of the folded cerebral cortex.
Heat Transfer Modeling of a High-Temperature Porous-Medium Filled Solar Thermochemical Reactor for Hydrogen and Synthesis Gas Production
Authors: Pan Ruming , Lougou Bachirou Guene , Shuai Yong , Zhang Guohua , Zhang Hao
Published: October 2018

In this paper, heat transfer modeling of a high-temperature porous-medium filled solar thermochemical reactor for hydrogen and synthesis gas production is investigated. The numerical simulation is performed using a three-dimensional (3D) numerical model and surface-to-surface radiation model coupled to Rosseland approximation for radiation heat transfer. The effects of operating conditions and the porous structural parameters on the reactor thermal performance were investigated significantly. It was found that large axial temperature gradient and high-temperature distribution throughout the reactor were strongly dependent on the operating conditions. The inlet gas temperature has remarkable effects on the temperature distribution. The thermal performance of porous-medium filled solar thermochemical reactor could be improved by preheating the inlet gas up to 393.15 K. Moreover, a correlation was established between the protective gas inlet velocity and the porosity of porous media. The temperature difference decreased with the increase in the porosity of the inner cavity of the reactor. In contrast to the front and back parts of the inner cavity of the reactor, higher temperature distribution could be obtained in the porous region by increasing the average cell diameters of porous media.
Interference-Fit Effect on Improving Bearing Strength and Fatigue Life in a Pin-Loaded Woven Carbon Fiber-Reinforced Plastic Laminate
Authors: Kim Sang-Young , Kim Dave
Published: October 2018

This paper presents an experimental investigation on the effect of interference-fit on the bearing strength and fatigue life of pin-loaded plain-woven and cross ply carbon fiber-reinforced plastic laminate (CFRP). Stainless steel pins are installed to five different sized holes on the CFRP specimens to achieve transition-fit and four interference-fits (0.2%, 0.4%, 0.6%, and 1.0%). The quasi-static and fatigue (R = 0.1) properties of the pin-loaded CFRP are then compared to each other. From the experimental results, it is demonstrated that the interference-fit can improve the joint stiffness per unit bearing area, or the joint stiffness, under both the static and dynamic bearing load conditions. The ultimate bearing strength, fatigue life, and joint stiffness of interference-fit samples are higher than those of the transition-fit samples and they are maximized at an interference-fit percentage of 0.4%. Regardless of interference-fit percentage, the fatigue life of a pin-loaded CFRP specimen tends to be proportional to its joint stiffness in the beginning of a fatigue test. During fatigue testing, the joint stiffness of pin-loaded CFRP gradually decreases to the range of 18.8 GPa/mm to 18.6 GPa/mm when bearing failure occurs. The increased joint stiffness by interference-fit delays CFRP hole damage growth by reducing pin displacement under fatigue cycles.
A Nondestructive Evaluation Approach to Characterize Tennis Balls
Authors: Nasrollahi Amir , Orak Mehmet Sefa , James Andrew , Weighardt Laura , Rizzo Piervincenzo
Published: October 2018

Sometimes, nondestructive evaluation (NDE) or structural health monitoring methods commonly used in engineering structures are used for the betterment of consumer goods. A classic example is the use of sensor systems to monitor the pressure and the quality of car tires. In this paper, we present a nondestructive method to characterize tennis balls. The International Tennis Federation (ITF) specifies which characteristics a tennis ball must have in order to be commercialized. One of these characteristics is bounciness and the standardized method to measure it is the rebound test, where a ball is released from 2.54 m onto a smooth rigid surface and, in order to be approved, the ball must bounce within a certain range. This test can be staged by manufacturers and testing authorities but the equipment necessary to perform it is not readily available to the average consumer. In the study presented in this paper, an empirical method based on the propagation of highly nonlinear solitary waves (HNSWs) is proposed to establish whether a given ball conforms the specifications set by the ITF in terms of bounciness and allowed deformation. The experiments conducted in this study aim to discover a correlation between some features of the waves and the values obtained with the rebound test and the compression test in which the deformation of the ball under a known load is measured. The presence of such correlations could represent a viable alternative to establish the conformity of tennis balls. Based on the empirical evidences collected in this study, a possible new standard is suggested.
Structural Safety Analyses for Offshore Platforms Under Explosion Loadings
Authors: Ryu Yonghee , Burgan Bassam , Choi Jaewoong , Lee Heesung
Published: October 2018

A gas explosion in an offshore platform may result in loss of life, pollution, and critical damage to facilities. Safety critical structural elements of these facilities have to be designed to withstand high explosion loads. The present study discusses methodologies for explosion risk assessment (ERA) of safety critical structural elements and introduces a coupled Eulerian–Lagrangian (CEL) method to improve the accuracy of the dynamic structural response under explosion loading. The design accidental load is defined by explosion risk analyses in terms of drag pressure, differential pressure, and overpressure. In current practice, an explosion pressure-time history is simplified into a triangular shape and uniformly applied to the surface of the impacted structures. This approach cannot account for the interaction between elastic waves (normally solved by the Lagrangian method) in the structure and compression waves (normally solved by the Eulerian method) in air. The CEL method which accounts for fluid–structure interaction has been experimentally validated and leads to more realistic predictions of the dynamic response of structures when compared to other analysis methods. The plastic strains derived from the CEL analysis can be approximately 50% lower than those predicted by Lagrangian analysis. Therefore, significant potential weight reduction can be achieved using the CEL method for gas explosion analysis.
Improving Refrigeration Performance by Using Pressure Exchange Characteristic of Wave Rotor
Authors: Hu Dapeng , Yu Yang , Liu Peiqi , Wu Xiaolin , Zhao Yiming
Published: October 2018

Wave rotor with pressure exchange function can be attempted to improve refrigeration performance. The objective of this paper is to verify the feasibility of the method by thermodynamic and experimental analysis. First, a refrigeration process which contains wave rotor pressurization was established. Then, a thermodynamic model which reflects the refrigeration process was designed. The thermal performance was researched under various key parameters. Finally, based on the novel wave rotor refrigeration platform, the experimental work was carried out, and the effects of main parameters of the device were systematically studied. The results showed that it was feasible to enhance the coefficient of performance (COP) by using pressure exchange characteristic of wave rotor. The COP could be improved substantially at relatively small expansion ratio. Under the design point, more than half of the pressure energy could be restored. The performance curve of the novel equipment was also obtained. Enhancing the isentropic efficiency of expansion is the effective means to improve the COP and σ of the system. This paper was designed in a way that contained a novel equipment to enhance the COP of wave rotor refrigeration.
Investigation of Subsystems for Combination into a SOFC-Based CCHP System
Authors: Weinlaender Christof , Albert Johannes , Gaber Christian , Hauth Martin , Rieberer René , Hochenauer Christoph
Published: October 2018

This paper presents the development of the subsystems for stationary biogas powered solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)-based combined cooling, heat and power (CCHP). For certain applications, such as buildings, a heat-driven operation mode leads to low operating hours per year for conventional combined heat and power (CHP) systems due to the low heat demand during the summer season. The objectives of this study are the evaluation of an adsorber, a steam reformer, a SOFC, and an absorption chiller (AC). Biogas, however, contains impurities in the form of hydrogen sulfide (H2S), hydrogen chloride (HCl), and siloxanes in different concentrations, which have a negative effect on the performance and durability of the SOFC and, in the case of H2S, also on the catalyst of the steam reformer. This paper describes different experimental sections: (i) the biogas treatment with its main focus on H2S separation and steam reforming, (ii) the setup and start-up of a 10 cell SOFC stack, and (iii) test runs with an AC using a mixture of NH3 (ammonia)/H2O (water). The components required for the engineering process of the subsystem's structure are described in detail and possible options for system design are explained. The evaluation is the basis to reveal the improvement potentials, which have to be considered in future product developments. This paper aims at comparing experimental data of the test rigs to develop an understanding of the requirements for a stable and continuous operation of a SOFC-based CCHP operated by biogas.
Dynamics of the Blade Channel of an Inducer Under Cavitation-Induced Instabilities
Authors: Pasini Angelo , Hadavandi Ruzbeh , Valentini Dario , Pace Giovanni , d'Agostino Luca
Published: October 2018

A high-head three-bladed inducer has been equipped with pressure taps on the hub along the blade channels with the aim of more closely investigating the dynamics of cavitation-induced instabilities developing in the impeller flow. Spectral analysis of the pressure signals obtained from two sets of transducers mounted both in the stationary and rotating frames has allowed to characterize the nature, intensity, and interactions of the main flow instabilities detected in the experiments: subsynchronous rotating cavitation (RC), cavitation surge (CS), and a high-order axial surge oscillation. A dynamic model of the unsteady flow in the blade channels has been developed based on experimental data and on suitable descriptions of the mean flow and the oscillations of the cavitating volume. The model has been used for estimating at the inducer operating conditions of interest the intensity of the flow oscillations associated with the occurrence of the CS mode generated by RC in the inducer inlet.
Bone-conducted sound in a dolphin's mandible: Experimental investigation of elastic waves mediating information on sound source position
Authors: Reinwald Michael , Grimal Quentin , Marchal Jacques , Catheline Stefan , Boschi Lapo
Published: October 2018

Mammals use binaural or monaural (spectral) cues to localize acoustic sources. While the sensitivity of terrestrial mammals to changes in source elevation is relatively poor, the accuracy achieved by the odontocete cetaceans' biosonar is high, independently of where the source is. Binaural/spectral cues are unlikely to account for this remarkable skill. In this paper, bone-conducted sound in a dolphin's mandible is studied, investigating its possible contribution to sound localization. Experiments are conducted in a water tank by deploying, on the horizontal and median planes of the skull, ultrasound sources that emit synthetic clicks between 45 and 55 kHz. Elastic waves propagating through the mandible are measured at the pan bones and used to localize source positions via either binaural cues or a correlation-based full-waveform algorithm. Exploiting the full waveforms and, most importantly, reverberated coda, it is possible to enhance the accuracy of source localization in the vertical plane and achieve similar resolution of horizontal- vs vertical-plane sources. The results noted in this paper need to be substantiated by further experimental work, accounting for soft tissues and making sure that the data are correctly mediated to the internal ear. If confirmed, the results would favor the idea that dolphin's echolocation skills rely on the capability to analyze the coda of biosonar echoes.
On modified wavenumber filters for rail contribution estimations
Authors: Zea Elias , Lopez Arteaga Ines
Published: October 2018

This brief communication exposes an overview of various wavenumber filters to separate the rail contribution to pass-by noise via the wave signature extraction method [Zea, Manzari, Squicciarini, Feng, Thompson, and Lopez Arteaga, J. Sound Vib. 409, 24–42 (2017)]. It has been found that the originally proposed filters underestimate the rail noise at frequencies above 1.6 kHz due to the presence of higher-order wave families that is unaccounted for. The goal of this letter is thus to propose and examine different filter functions that can capture such waves, and to assess whether the rail contribution estimations can be improved.
Biased antagonism of CXCR4 avoids antagonist tolerance
Authors: Hitchinson Ben , Eby Jonathan M. , Gao Xianlong , Guite-Vinet Francois , Ziarek Joshua J. , Abdelkarim Hazem , Lee Youngshim , Okamoto Yukari , Shikano Sojin , Majetschak Matthias , Heveker Nikolaus , Volkman Brian F. , Tarasova Nadya I. , Gaponenko Vadim
Published: October 2018

Selectively blocking G protein signaling but not GPCR internalization may provide therapeutic benefit.
New connections: VEGF beyond the vasculature
Authors: Ferrarelli Leslie K.
Published: October 2018

The growth factor VEGF promotes cancer-associated stem cell biology and pain, as well as angiogenesis.
Activity of Meropenem-Vaborbactam against Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Acinetobacter baumannii in a Neutropenic Mouse Thigh Infection Model
Authors: Sabet Mojgan , Tarazi Ziad , Griffith David C.
Published: October 2018

We have evaluated the activity of meropenem-vaborbactam against clinical isolates of
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
and
Acinetobacter baumannii
in a neutropenic mouse thigh infection model. Data show that meropenem-vaborbactam regimens equivalent to 3-h infusions every 8 h with 2 g meropenem and 2 g vaborbactam produced bacterial killing against strains with MICs of 2 to 16 mg/liter and suggests that this combination may have utility in the treatment of infections caused by
P. aeruginosa
and
A. baumannii
.
ARGONAUT-I: Activity of Cefiderocol (S-649266), a Siderophore Cephalosporin, against Gram-Negative Bacteria, Including Carbapenem-Resistant Nonfermenters and
Enterobacteriaceae
with Defined Extended-Spectrum β-Lactamases and Carbapenemases
Authors: Jacobs Michael R. , Abdelhamed Ayman M. , Good Caryn E. , Rhoads Daniel D. , Hujer Kristine M. , Hujer Andrea M. , Domitrovic T. Nicholas , Rudin Susan D. , Richter Sandra S. , van Duin David , Kreiswirth Barry N. , Greco Chris , Fouts Derrick E. , Bonomo Robert A.
Published: October 2018

The activity of the siderophore cephalosporin cefiderocol is targeted against carbapenem-resistant Gram-negative bacteria. In this study, the activity of cefiderocol against characterized carbapenem-resistant
Acinetobacter baumannii
complex,
Stenotrophomonas maltophilia
,
Pseudomonas aeruginosa
, and
Enterobacteriaceae
strains was determined by microdilution in iron-depleted Mueller-Hinton broth.
Mutations in Peptidoglycan Synthesis Gene
ponA
Improve Electrotransformation Efficiency of
Corynebacterium glutamicum
ATCC 13869
Authors: Liu Jiao , Wang Yu , Lu Yujiao , Ni Xiaomeng , Guo Xuan , Zhao Jing , Chen Jiuzhou , Dele-Osibanjo Taiwo , Zheng Ping , Sun Jibin , Ma Yanhe
Published: October 2018

Metabolic engineering and synthetic biology are now the key enabling technologies for manipulating microorganisms to suit the practical outcomes desired by humankind. The introduction of exogenous DNA into cells is an indispensable step for this purpose. However, some microorganisms, including the important industrial workhorse
Corynebacterium glutamicum
, possess a complex cell wall structure to shield cells against exogenous DNA. Although genes responsible for cell wall synthesis in
C. glutamicum
are known, engineering of related genes to improve cell competency has not been explored yet. In this study, we demonstrate that mutations in cell wall synthesis genes can significantly improve the electrotransformation efficiency of
C. glutamicum
. Notably, the Y489C mutation in bifunctional peptidoglycan glycosyltransferase/peptidoglycan
dd
-transpeptidase PonA increased electrotransformation efficiency by 19.25-fold by affecting peptidoglycan synthesis.
Increased Mortality in Mice following Immunoprophylaxis Therapy with High Dosage of Nicotinamide in
Burkholderia
Persistent Infections
Authors: Micheva-Viteva Sofiya N. , Ross Brittany N. , Gao Jun , Adikari Samantha , Zhang Pengfei , Mourant Judith R. , Wu Terry H. , Werner James H. , Torres Alfredo G. , Hong-Geller Elizabeth
Published: October 2018

Bacterial persistence, known as noninherited antibacterial resistance, is a factor contributing to the establishment of long-lasting chronic bacterial infections. In this study, we examined the ability of nicotinamide (NA) to potentiate the activity of different classes of antibiotics against
Burkholderia thailandensis
persister cells.
Substrate Proteins Take Shape at an Improved Bacterial Translocon
Authors: Oliver Donald
Published: October 2018

Characterization of Sec-dependent bacterial protein transport has often relied on an
in vitro
protein translocation system comprised in part of
Escherichia coli
inverted inner membrane vesicles or, more recently, purified SecYEG translocons reconstituted into liposomes using mostly a single substrate (proOmpA). A paper published in this issue (P.
European Recommendations for good practice in addition to an evidence-based guidelines programme: rationale and method of development
Authors: Vermeulen Nathalie , Le Clef Nathalie , Veleva Zdravka , D’Angelo Arianna , Tilleman Kelly
Published: October 2018

The evidence-based approach is considered the gold standard of medical guidance. However, for some topics, it may be inappropriate to address them in an evidence-based guideline, as evidence for most of their aspects is absent or limited. Other topics may require only technical recommendations on how to perform a procedure, which are generally not covered in the published literature.

In addition to an existing guideline programme, the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology has recently developed a manual for the development of (consensus-based) recommendations for good practice. The manual sets out a standardised methodology based on universal guideline principles with the aim of framing and improving the methodological quality of recommendations for good practice documents. The current paper outlines the relevance of recommendations for good practice, the methodology for developing these documents, and the differences and similarities with evidence-based guidelines.
Prevalence and risk factors of physical inactivity among middle-aged and older Chinese in Shenzhen: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Zhou Yanfeng , Wu Jiang , Zhang Shenchao , Yan Shijiao , He Liping , Mkandawire Naomie , Song Xinyue , Gan Yong , Li Wenzhen , Yang Tingting , Li Jing , Zeng Xiaozhou , Wang Zhihong , Lu Zuxun
Published: October 2018

Objective

Investigations on physical inactivity are common around the world; however, little is known about the status of physical inactivity in mainland China. The aim of this study was to examine the prevalence and risk factors associated with physical inactivity in Shenzhen in Southern China.

Design

A community-based, cross-sectional study.

Setting

A multistage-stratified, random cluster survey was conducted in Xixiang Street, Bao’an District of Shenzhen in Southeast China.

Participants

3920 adults aged 40 years or more were recruited to the study and completed the International Physical Activity Questionnaire Short Form between 1 March 2015 and 30 July 2016.

Main outcome measures

Physical inactivity was defined as engaging in physical activity levels insufficient to reach the current guidelines. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were undertaken to assess the prevalence and risk factors associated with physical inactivity.

Results

The prevalence of physical inactivity was 63.1% for all participants, 63.9% for women and 61.9% for men, respectively. Participants who were older (OR=1.31, 95% CI 1.11 to 1.54), who were female (OR=1.22, 95% CI 1.04 to 1.43), who had higher education experience (OR=1.38, 95% CI 1.19 to 1.61), who are under economic pressure (OR=2.17, 95% CI 1.48 to 3.17), who ever smoked a cigarette (OR=1.44, 95% CI 1.13 to 1.82) and drank alcohol (OR=1.42, 95% CI 1.14 to 1.77), and participants in the lowest body mass index category (OR=1.40, 95% CI 1.03 to 1.89), were more likely to report physical inactivity.

Conclusions

These findings indicate that physical inactivity is prevalent in Southern China. Interventions and programmes aimed at increasing physical activity among middle-aged and older Chinese adults may also be tailored to participants under economic pressure and those with unhealthy behaviours such as smoking and drinking.
Diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic evidence in obstetrics for the implementation of patient blood management: a systematic review protocol
Authors: Abraha Iosief , Montedori Alessandro , Di Renzo Gian Carlo , Angelozzi Patrizio , Micheli Marta , Carloni Danilo , Germani Antonella , Palmieri Gianluca , Casali Marta , Nenz Chiara Maria Grazia , Gargano Elisabetta , Pazzaglia Michela , Berchicci Laura , Tesoro Simonetta , Epicoco Giorgio , Giovannini Gianni , Marchesi Mauro
Published: October 2018

Introduction

Patientblood management (PBM) is defined as the application of evidence-based diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic approaches designed to maintain haemoglobin concentration, optimise haemostasis and minimise blood loss in an effort to improve patient outcome. We propose a protocol for the assessment of the evidence of diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic approaches for the management of relevant outcomes in obstetrics with the aim to create a framework for PBM implementation.

Methods and analysis

Diagnostic, preventive and therapeutic tools will be considered in the gynaecological conditions and obstetrics setting (antenatal care, peripartum care and maternity care). For each condition, (1) clinical questions based on prioritised outcomes will be developed; (2) evidence will be retrieved systematically from electronic medical literature (MEDLINE, EMBASE, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and CINAHL); (3) quality of the reviews will be assessed using the AMSTAR (A Measurement Tool to Assess Systematic Reviews) checklist; quality of primary intervention studies will be assessed using the risk of bias tool (Cochrane method); quality of diagnostic primary studies will be assessed using QUADAS-2 (Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies); (4) the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation method will be applied to rate the quality of the evidence and to develop recommendations.

Ethics and dissemination

For each diagnostic, preventive or therapeutic intervention evaluated, a manuscript comprising the evidence retrieved and the recommendation produced will be provided and published in peer-reviewed journals. Ethical approval is not required.
Factors influencing rapid progress in child health in post-conflict Liberia: a mixed methods country case study on progress in child survival, 2000–2013
Authors: Brault Marie A , Kennedy Stephen B , Haley Connie A , Clarke Adolphus T , Duworko Musu C , Habimana Phanuel , Vermund Sten H , Kipp Aaron M , Mwinga Kasonde
Published: October 2018

Objectives

Only 12 countries in the WHO’s African region met Millennium Development Goal 4 (MDG 4) to reduce under-five mortality by two-thirds by 2015. Given the variability across the African region, a four-country mixed methods study was undertaken to examine barriers and facilitators of child survival prior to 2015. Liberia was selected for an in-depth case study due to its success in reducing under-five mortality by 73% and thus successfully meeting MDG 4. Liberia’s success was particularly notable given the civil war that ended in 2003. We examined some factors contributing to their reductions in under-five mortality.

Design

A case study mixed methods approach drawing on data from quantitative indicators, national documents and qualitative interviews was used to describe factors that enabled Liberia to rebuild their maternal, neonatal and child health (MNCH) programmes and reduce under-five mortality following the country’s civil war.

Setting

The interviews were conducted in Monrovia (Montserrado County) and the areas in and around Gbarnga, Liberia (Bong County, North Central region).

Participants

Key informant interviews were conducted with Ministry of Health officials, donor organisations, community-based organisations involved in MNCH and healthcare workers. Focus group discussions were conducted with women who have experience accessing MNCH services.

Results

Three prominent factors contributed to the reduction in under-five mortality: national prioritisation of MNCH after the civil war; implementation of integrated packages of services that expanded access to key interventions and promoted intersectoral collaborations; and use of outreach campaigns, community health workers and trained traditional midwives to expand access to care and improve referrals.

Conclusions

Although Liberia experiences continued challenges related to limited resources, Liberia’s effective strategies and rapid progress may provide insights for reducing under-five mortality in other post-conflict settings.