bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Precambrian–Cambrian boundary interval occurrence and form of the enigmatic tubular body fossil Shaanxilithes ningqiangensis from the Lesser Himalaya of India
Authors: Tarhan Lidya G. , Hughes Nigel C. , Myrow Paul M. , Bhargava Om N. , Ahluwalia Arun D. , Kudryavtsev Anatoliy B.
Published: July 2013

The affinity of the Ediacaran fossil Shaanxilithes ningqiangensis and putatively related forms has long been enigmatic; over the past few decades, interpretations ranging from trace fossils to algae to metazoans of uncertain phylogenetic placement have been proposed. Combined morphological and geochemical evidence from a new occurrence of S. ningqiangensis in the Krol and Tal groups of the Lesser Himalaya of India indicates that S. ningqiangensis is not a trace fossil, but rather an organic‐walled tubular body fossil of unknown taxonomic affinity. Specimens consist of compressed organic cylindrical structures, characterized by extended, overlapping or fragmented iterated units. Where specimens intersect, overlapping rather than branching or intraplanar crossing is observed. Lithologic comparisons and sequence stratigraphic data all suggest a late Ediacaran age for the uppermost Krol Group and basalmost Tal Group. By extending the biogeographical distribution of S. ningqiangensis, hitherto confined to the Ediacaran of China and potentially Siberia, to the Precambrian–Cambrian boundary interval of India, this new occurrence of S. ningqiangensis expands the biostratigraphic utility of this enigmatic fossil to the inter‐regional and intercontinental scale. Moreover, study of these new and exceptionally preserved samples may help to significantly constrain the long‐debated problem of Shaanxilithes' affinity, elucidating its ‘problematic’ status and shedding new light upon the ecology and taphonomy of one of the most significant intervals in early life history.
Patient Characteristics of Neonatal Eosinophilic Pustulosis
Authors: Finelt Nika , Kristal Leonard
Published: July 2013

A 10‐week old preterm infant boy presented with a pustular eruption of the face and blood eosinophilia. Histology demonstrated eosinophils without predominant follicular involvement. The lesions healed without intervention within 2 months. The presentation was consistent with neonatal eosinophilic pustulosis. We discuss the similarities between cases described in the literature and suggest that this entity affects a unique patient population of preterm infants.
Guanfacine‐Induced Lichenoid Drug Eruption in a Child with Autism and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder
Authors: Romanelli Mark , Rhodes Arthur
Published: July 2013

Lichenoid drug eruptions (LDEs) have a variety of medication causes. We report a case of a 5‐year‐old boy with autism and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder treated with guanfacine who developed pruritic lesions consistent with LDEs. Rechallenge was not attempted. There are several clinical and histopathologic clues that may distinguish LDEs from lichen planus.
Prospective associations between marital adjustment and life satisfaction
Authors: BE DANIEL , WHISMAN MARK A. , UEBELACKER LISA A.
Published: July 2013

Actor and partner effects for the 2‐year longitudinal associations between marital adjustment and life satisfaction were evaluated in a population‐based sample of middle‐aged and older adults (N = 1,385 couples). Results showed that (a) higher marital adjustment at baseline predicted higher life satisfaction at follow‐up, (b) higher life satisfaction at baseline predicted higher marital adjustment at follow‐up, (c) marital adjustment more strongly predicted life satisfaction than life satisfaction predicted marital adjustment for women, and (d) higher partner marital adjustment at baseline predicted higher life satisfaction at follow‐up. Results suggest that marital adjustment and life satisfaction influence one another in a bidirectional fashion and that the direction is predominantly from marital adjustment to life satisfaction in women.
Solar UV Exposure of Seafarers along Subtropical and Tropical Shipping Routes
Authors: Feister Uwe , Meyer Gabriele , Kirst Ulrich
Published: July 2013

Seafarers working on decks of vessels at low latitudes are exposed to extremely high solar UV radiation. Their risk of developing skin cancer may be enhanced. Solar erythemal UV irradiance and exposure were measured for the first time on merchant vessels going along typical international routes at low latitudes. The measurements taken at horizontal incidence on the observation deck, and on different parts of the seaman (head, shoulder, chest and back) doing typical outdoor work show the highest portion (40–80% of horizontal exposure) incident on the head. 2 years of measurements of solar UV and VIS/NIR irradiance taken on the mast top of the Research Vessel METEOR were added to the data base. Radiative transfer model calculations were performed along all the routes with satellite‐based input data of ozone and aerosol for clear sky health‐effective radiation including vitamin D3 (VD3). Measured data show extremely high noontime UV index values up to 19 with clear sky, and up to 22 due to cloud scattering. Eight hours erythemal exposure values are more than double of typical midlatitude summer values. Based on the results, an algorithm is presented to derive a seafarer's personal erythemal exposure according to his/her personal record of sea service.
Growth responses and ion accumulation in the halophytic legume Prosopis strombulifera are determined by Na2SO4 and NaCl
Authors: Reginato M. , Sosa L. , Llanes A. , Hampp E. , Vettorazzi N. , Reinoso H. , Luna V.
Published: July 2013

Halophytes are potential gene sources for genetic manipulation of economically important crop species. This study addresses the physiological responses of a widespread halophyte, Prosopis strombulifera (Lam.) Benth to salinity. We hypothesised that increasing concentrations of the two major salts present in soils of central Argentina (Na2SO4, NaCl, or their iso‐osmotic mixture) would produce distinct physiological responses. We used hydroponically grown P. strombulifera to test this hypothesis, analysing growth parameters, water relations, photosynthetic pigments, cations and anions. These plants showed a halophytic response to NaCl, but strong general inhibition of growth in response to iso‐osmotic solutions containing Na2SO4. The explanation for the adaptive success of P. strombulifera in high NaCl conditions seems to be related to a delicate balance between Na+ accumulation (and its use for osmotic adjustment) and efficient compartmentalisation in vacuoles, the ability of the whole plant to ensure sufficient K+ supply by maintaining high K+/Na+ discrimination, and maintenance of normal Ca2+ levels in leaves. The three salt treatments had different effects on the accumulation of ions. Findings in bi‐saline‐treated plants were of particular interest, where most of the physiological parameters studied showed partial alleviation of SO42−‐induced toxicity by Cl−. Thus, discussions on physiological responses to salinity could be further expanded in a way that more closely mimics natural salt environments.
Adult root structure of mediterranean shrubs: relationship with post‐fire regenerative syndrome
Authors: Saura‐Mas S. , Lloret F.
Published: July 2013

Life‐history attributes can impose differences on root system structures and properties related to nutrient and water uptake. Here, we assess whether plants with different post‐fire regenerative strategies (resprouters, seeders and seeder–resprouters) differ in the topological and morphological properties of their root systems (external path, altitude, magnitude, topological index, specific root length, root length, root‐to‐shoot biomass ratio, length of the main axis of the root system and link length). To achieve these objectives, we sampled individuals from eight woody species in a shrubland located in the western Mediterranean Basin. We sampled the adult root systems using manual field excavation with the aid of an air compressor. The results indicate that resprouters have a higher root‐to‐shoot ratio, confirming their higher ability to store water, starch and nutrients and to invest in the belowground biomass. Moreover, this pattern would allow them to explore deeper parts of the soil layers. Seeder species would benefit from a higher specific root length, pointing to increased relative root growth and water uptake rates. This study confirms that seeders and resprouters may differ in nutrient and water uptake ability according to the characteristics of their root system. Species that can both resprout and establish seedlings after fire had different patterns of root system structure; in particular, root:shoot ratio was more similar to resprouters and specific root length was closer to seeders, supporting the distinct functional performance of this type of species.
Cytosolic calcium, hydrogen peroxide and related gene expression and protein modulation in Arabidopsis thaliana cell cultures respond immediately to altered gravitation: parabolic flight data
Authors: Hausmann N. , Fengler S. , Hennig A. , Franz‐Wachtel M. , Hampp R. , Neef M.
Published: July 2013

Callus cell cultures of Arabidopsis thaliana (cv. Columbia) were exposed to parabolic flights in order to assess molecular, short‐term responses to altered gravity fields. Using transgenic cell lines, hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) and cytosolic Ca2+ were continuously monitored. In parallel, the metabolism of samples was chemically quenched (RNAlater, Ambion for RNA; acid/base for NADPH, NADP) at typical stages of a parabola [1 g before pull up; end of pull up (1.8 g), end of microgravity (20 s) and end of pull out (1.8 g)]. Cells exhibited an increase in both Ca2+ and H2O2 with the onset of microgravity, and a decline thereafter. This behaviour was accompanied by a decrease of the NADPH/NADP redox ratio, indicating Ca2+‐dependent activation of a NADPH oxidase. Microarray analyses revealed concomitant expression profiles. At the end of the microgravity phase, 396 transcripts were specifically up‐, while 485 were down‐regulated. Up‐regulation was dominated by Ca2+‐ and ROS‐related gene products. The same material was also used for analysis of phosphopeptides with 2‐D SDS PAGE. Relevant spots were identified by liquid chromatography–MS. With the exception of a chaperone (HSP 70‐3), hypergravity (1.8 g) and microgravity modified different sets of proteins. These are partly involved in primary metabolism (glycolysis, gluconeogenesis, citrate cycle) and detoxification of ROS. Taken together, these data show that both gene expression and protein modulation jointly respond within seconds to alterations in the gravity field, with a focus on metabolic adaptation, signalling and control of ROS.
Conservation agriculture cropping system to limit blast disease in upland rainfed rice
Authors: Sester M. , Raveloson H. , Tharreau D. , Dusserre J.
Published: July 2013

In response to the extensive development of upland rice on the hillsides of the Madagascan highlands, alternative cropping systems based on conservation agriculture have been recommended to halt declining soil fertility and to limit erosion. To assess the efficiency of these cropping systems in limiting rice blast disease and to measure their yield performance, an experiment was set up in 2003 at Andranomanelatra (1640 m a.s.l.) in the Madagascan highlands. The rice crop was planted every second year following oat (Avena sativa) after common bean (Phaseolus vulgaris), with both conventional tillage and no tillage. For each cropping system, two levels of fertilization were used: (i) organic and (ii) organic + mineral fertilization. The level of blast epidemic was measured on two different cultivars over a 5‐year period. Disease severity was significantly lower in the no‐tillage cropping system than in the conventional tillage system. Mineral fertilization increased the level of blast. A significant interaction between cropping system and fertilization indicated that the impact of fertilization differed with the cropping system. When the level of blast was low, yield was higher in the conventional cropping system but as soon as blast level increased, yield was better in the no‐tillage cropping system. Possible interactions between cropping system and blast epidemics are explained and the problem of high performance but risky cropping systems is discussed.
Resistance to Oculimacula yallundae and Oculimacula acuformis is conferred by Pch2 in wheat
Authors: Esvelt Klos K. L. , Wetzel H. C. , Murray T. D.
Published: July 2013

The recent report of a differential response of wheat lines containing the Pch2 gene to infection with the eyespot pathogens Oculimacula yallundae and O. acuformis has prompted this re‐examination of the response to these fungi by the recombinant lines used to map Pch2. Homozygous recombinant substitution lines (RSL) derived from the hybridization of Chinese Spring (CS) and the CS chromosome substitution line Cappelle Desprez 7A (CS/CD7A), previously evaluated for response to glucuronidase (GUS)‐transformed O. yallundae, were evaluated for response to infection with GUS‐transformed O. acuformis. Based on visual scores and on GUS expression level, which reflects fungal colonization of seedling plants, evidence of a quantitative trait locus (QTL) conferring resistance to O. acuformis was found in two separate growth chamber experiments (logarithm of the odds, LOD, = 2·7 and 6·7 at 305 and 289 cM, respectively) that was equivalent in location to that for resistance to O. yallundae (LOD = 13·2 and 11·4 at 289 and 304 cM, respectively). These results confirm that Pch2 confers some degree of resistance against both O. yallundae and O. acuformis under these conditions.
Disowning Fukushima: Managing the credibility of nuclear reliability assessment in the wake of disaster
Authors: Downer John
Published: July 2013

This paper reflects on the credibility of nuclear risk assessment in the wake of the 2011 Fukushima meltdowns. In democratic states, policymaking around nuclear energy has long been premised on an understanding that experts can objectively and accurately calculate the probability of catastrophic accidents. Yet the Fukushima disaster lends credence to the substantial body of social science research that suggests such calculations are fundamentally unworkable. Nevertheless, the credibility of these assessments appears to have survived the disaster, just as it has resisted the evidence of previous nuclear accidents. This paper looks at why. It argues that public narratives of the Fukushima disaster invariably frame it in ways that allow risk‐assessment experts to “disown” it. It concludes that although these narratives are both rhetorically compelling and highly consequential to the governance of nuclear power, they are not entirely credible.
Transnational business governance interactions: Conceptualization and framework for analysis
Authors: Eberlein Burkard , Abbott Kenneth W. , Black Julia , Meidinger Errol , Wood Stepan
Published: July 2013

This special issue demonstrates the importance ofinteractionsin transnational business governance. The number of schemes applying non‐state authority to govern business conduct across borders has vastly expanded in numerous issue areas. As these initiatives proliferate, they increasingly interact with one another and with state‐based regimes. The key challenge is to understand the implications of these interactions for regulatory capacity and performance, and ultimately for social and environmental impact. In this introduction, we propose an analytical framework for the study of transnational business governance interactions. The framework disaggregates the regulatory process to identify potential points of interaction, and suggests analytical questions that probe the key features of interactions at each point.
Lung function and plasma fibrinogen concentrations in the Newcastle Thousand Families birth cohort between age 49 and 51 years
Authors: Pearce Mark S , Hancox Robert J , Parker Louise , Gibson G John
Published: July 2013

Background and objective

A number of studies have suggested inverse associations between lung function and inflammatory markers, including fibrinogen. In this study, we used data from the Newcastle Thousand Families birth cohort to assess the association between contemporaneous markers of lung function and fibrinogen while adjusting for potential confounding factors throughout life.

Methods

At age 49–51 years, complete data on lung function and plasma fibrinogen were available for 380 study members. These data were analysed in relation to each other, adjusted for sex and height, with further adjustment for potential confounders within linear regression models using robust estimates.

Results

Forced expiratory volume in 1 s was significantly inversely associated with plasma fibrinogen concentration after initial adjustments for sex and height (beta = −0.12, P = 0.011) and remained so after further adjustments for pack‐years of cigarettes smoked and current smoking status. On further adjustment for standardized birthweight and duration breast‐fed, the association approached statistical significance (P = 0.051). Adjusting for body mass index (BMI) resulted in a loss of significance (P = 0.09), but an unchanged regression coefficient, while, after adjustment for percent body fat, rather than BMI, the association was no longer significant (P = 0.20) and the coefficient reduced.

Conclusions

The association between lung function and fibrinogen remains after adjustment for potential early‐life confounders and smoking. However, it is not independent of contemporaneous measures of adiposity, with evidence of confounding by percent body fat. Further studies, with measures of adiposity, are required to confirm whether associations between markers of inflammation and lung function are due to residual confounding by adiposity.
Systems Resilience for Multihazard Environments: Definition, Metrics, and Valuation for Decision Making
Authors: Ayyub Bilal M.
Published: July 2013

The United Nations Office for Disaster Risk Reduction reported that the 2011 natural disasters, including the earthquake and tsunami that struck Japan, resulted in $366 billion in direct damages and 29,782 fatalities worldwide. Storms and floods accounted for up to 70% of the 302 natural disasters worldwide in 2011, with earthquakes producing the greatest number of fatalities. Average annual losses in the United States amount to about $55 billion. Enhancing community and system resilience could lead to massive savings through risk reduction and expeditious recovery. The rational management of such reduction and recovery is facilitated by an appropriate definition of resilience and associated metrics. In this article, a resilience definition is provided that meets a set of requirements with clear relationships to the metrics of the relevant abstract notions of reliability and risk. Those metrics also meet logically consistent requirements drawn from measure theory, and provide a sound basis for the development of effective decision‐making tools for multihazard environments. Improving the resiliency of a system to meet target levels requires the examination of system enhancement alternatives in economic terms, within a decision‐making framework. Relevant decision analysis methods would typically require the examination of resilience based on its valuation by society at large. The article provides methods for valuation and benefit‐cost analysis based on concepts from risk analysis and management.
Gerontological nurses' perceptions of their rights in Finland
Authors: Kangasniemi Mari , Utriainen Kati , Pietilä Anna‐Maija
Published: July 2013

Background

These are challenging times for gerontological nurses, due to the increasing need for older people care services and nursing expertise and to the burdensome nature of older people care. These changes also challenge professional ethics. Traditionally, literature has focused more on nurses' duties and responsibilities, rather than on their rights.

Aim

The aim was to explore the concept of nurses' rights from the perspective of nurses in gerontological care.

Methods

A qualitative study conducted among gerontological nurses (n = 29) in the older people care of two publicly provided municipal older people care organisations in two mid‐range towns in Finland. Participation in the study was voluntary, and the participants were recruited in collaboration with a nurse executive. The data, collected in 11 interviews (1–4 participants in each) using open‐ended interview method, were analysed by inductive content analysis.

Findings

Based on our findings, nurses' rights are an integral part of everyday nursing. As professionals, nurses pointed out that their rights are based on legislation and ethics, and their rights involve colleagues, managers, organisation, and patients and relatives. Their rights were connected to nurses' professional expertise and their well‐being at work, but at the end, they were a factor to improving quality of older people care. This required that nurses' rights were taken as visible and elementary part of management.

Conclusion

On the basis of our findings, especially in very demanding areas of nursing, like older people care, nurses' rights deserve major visibility and should be taken into consideration when planning care.
Assessment of psoriatic plaquein vivowith correlation mapping optical coherence tomography
Authors: Zafar H. , Enfield J. , O'Connell M. ‐L. , Ramsay B. , Lynch M. , Leahy M. J.
Published: July 2013

Background/Purpose

Vascular abnormalities play an acute role in the pathogenesis of psoriasis. In order to characterize vascular involvement in psoriasis and its regular clinical assessmentin vivo, non‐invasive high speed imaging with high resolution and high sensitivity is needed.

Methods

The correlation mapping optical coherence tomography (cmOCT) technique was used forin vivomicrocirculation imaging of human forearm under normal and psoriatic conditions. The cmOCTtechnique developed by our group uses dense scanningOCTimage acquisition and post‐processing software based on correlation statistics. The frequency domainOCTsystem was used for imaging which acquires a 3D volume of 1024 × 1024 A‐scans, each of 512 pixels deep in approximately 70 s. The cmOCTtechnique processes the resultingOCTvolume within 116 s using a 7 × 7 kernel.

Results

3D structural and functional (microcirculation) maps of the healthy tissue and the psoriatic plaque were obtained using the cmOCTtechnique. The presented results indicate that cmOCTallows not only the identification of the microvessels, but also produces more detailed microvascular networks showing how the blood vessels relate to each other in healthy tissue and within the plaque. The microcirculation pattern within the plaque is totally different from the healthy tissue. The distinct changes are also observed in vessel density, tortuosity, and orientation.

Conclusion

The cmOCTprovides high sensitivity and imaging speed forin vivomicrocirculation imaging within the human skin under normal and diseased conditions.
Community attitudes to remunerated blood donation in Australia: results from a national telephone survey
Authors: Bambrick Hilary , Gallego Gisselle
Published: July 2013

Background

Blood in Australia is sourced through voluntary, non‐remunerated donations. With periodic shortages in supply, increasing demand for blood products and a donor base that is perceived to be unsustainable, remuneration has been proposed as a means to improve donation rates.

Objective

To examine community attitudes to remunerated blood donation in Australia.

Method

A national random telephone survey of Australian adults age 18–70 was conducted (n = 1024). Associations were tested using a chi‐square (χ2) test for linear distribution.

Results

Reimbursement for the cost of travel to donate blood was supported by more respondents (46%) than reimbursement for time (19%). Non‐donors were more likely to support a payment compared to donors (P = 0·002). Twelve per cent of respondents thought they would be more likely to donate if remunerated while 10% thought they would be less likely. The majority (76%) thought that a payment would not change whether or not they would donate, while 85% thought that it would make other people more likely to donate. The average amount considered to be reasonable reimbursement was AU$30.

Conclusion

Despite the common perception that other people would be motivated to donate blood with the introduction of a financial incentive, remuneration may provide minimal incentive in Australia and is unlikely to increase donor participation for the time being.
Comprehensive analyses of microRNA gene evolution in paleopolyploid soybean genome
Authors: Zhou Zhengkui , Wang Zheng , Li Weiyu , Fang Chao , Shen Yanting , Li Congcong , Wu Yunshuai , Tian Zhixi
Published: July 2013

miRNA genes are thought to undergo quick birth and death processes in genomes and the emergence of a MIRNA‐like hairpin provides the base for functional miRNA gene formation. However, the factors affecting the formation of an active miRNA gene from a MIRNA‐like hairpin within a genome remain unclear. We performed a genome‐wide investigation of MIRNA‐like hairpin accumulation, expression, structural changes and relationships with annotated genomic features in the paleopolyploid soybean genome. Our results showed that adjacent gene and transposable element content, rates of genetic recombination at location of emergence, along with its own gene structure divergence greatly affected miRNA gene evolution. Further investigation suggested that miRNA genes from different duplication sources followed distinct evolutionary trajectories and that the accumulation of MIRNA‐like hairpins might be an important factor in causing long terminal repeat retrotransposons to lose activity during genome evolution.
In vitro measures of membrane changes reveal differences between red blood cells stored in saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol and AS‐1 additive solutions: a paired study
Authors: Sparrow Rosemary L. , Sran Amrita , Healey Geraldine , Veale Margaret F. , Norris Philip J.
Published: July 2013

Background

Saline‐adenine‐glucose‐mannitol (SAGM) and a variant solution, AS‐1, have been used for more than 30 years to preserve red blood cells (RBCs). Reputedly these RBC components have similar quality, although no paired study has been reported. To determine whether differences exist, a paired study of SAGM RBCs and AS‐1 RBCs was conducted to identify membrane changes, including microparticle (MP) quantitation and in vitro RBC–endothelial cell (EC) interaction.

Study Design and Methods

Two whole blood packs were pooled and split and RBCs were prepared (n = 6 pairs). One pack was suspended in SAGM and one in AS‐1. Samples were collected during 42 days of refrigerated storage. RBC shape and size and glycophorin A (GPA)+ and phosphatidylserine (PS)+ MPs were measured by flow cytometry. RBC adhesion to ECs was determined by an in vitro flow perfusion assay. Routine variables (pH, hemolysis) were also measured.

Results

Compared to SAGM RBCs, AS‐1 RBCs had lower hemolysis (p < 0.04), lower GPA+ MPs (p < 0.03), and lower PS+ MPs (p < 0.03) from Day 14 onward. AS‐1 RBCs had higher (p < 0.02) side scatter from Day 28 onward compared to SAGM RBCs. SAGM RBCs were more adherent to ECs on Day 28 of storage compared to AS‐1 RBCs (p = 0.04), but reversed on Day 42 (p = 0.02).

Conclusion

SAGM RBCs lose more membrane during storage. SAGM RBCs had increased adherence to ECs on Day 28 of storage, while AS‐1 RBCs were more adherent on Day 42. The effect of these differences on the function and survival of SAGM RBCs and AS‐1 RBCs after transfusion remains to be determined.
Iron status and dietary iron intake of female blood donors
Authors: Booth Alison O. , Lim Karen , Capper Hugh , Irving David , Fisher Jenny , McNaughton Sarah A. , Riddell Lynn , Keller Anthony , Nowson Caryl A.
Published: July 2013

Background

The aim was to assess iron status and dietary iron intake in a sample of premenopausal female regular and new blood donors.

Study Design and Methods

Premenopausal women blood donors were invited to participate. Blood samples were analyzed for serum ferritin and hemoglobin. An iron checklist assessed dietary iron intake. Donors were classified as regular donors or new donors.

Results

Twenty‐one new donors (mean [SD] age, 28.6 [6.0] years; body mass index [BMI], 25.6 [4.5] kg/m2) and 172 regular donors (mean age, 29.4 [5.5] years; BMI, 24.7 [3.8] kg/m2) participated. Fifty percent of regular donors and 24% of new donors had depleted iron stores (serum ferritin <15 μg/L; difference p = 0.036). Dietary iron intake was higher in regular donors (mean [SE], 12.6 [0.7] mg/day) compared to new donors (9.9 [0.4] mg/day; p = 0.006). Eighty‐five percent of regular donors and 79% of new donors met the estimated average requirement for iron.

Conclusions

Despite the fact that most of these donors had an adequate dietary iron intake, more than half of the blood donors had depleted iron stores. Increasing dietary iron intake through supplements and/or dietary means is expected to be necessary to maintain adequate iron status in this group.
Utility and cost of low‐vacuum reinfusion drains in patients undergoing surgery for subcapital hip fracture repair. A before and after cohort study
Authors: Muñoz M. , Iglesias D. , Garcia‐Erce J. A. , Cuenca J. , Herrera A. , Martin‐Montañez E. , Pavia J.
Published: July 2013

Background

Postoperative blood loss may be a risk factor for allogeneic blood transfusion (ABT) in patients undergoing subcapital hip fracture (SHF) repair. We investigated the utility and costs of using a low‐vacuum reinfusion drain (Bellovac ABT) within a blood management protocol for reducing ABT requirements in consecutive SHF.

Methods

The blood management protocol consisted of the application of a restrictive transfusion trigger (Hb < 8 g/dl), the peri‐operative administration of IV iron sucrose (3 × 200 mg/48 h) ± recombinant erythropoietin (1 × 40 000 IU sc) and the use of Bellovac ABT (Group 2, n = 117). An immediate previous SHF series managed without Bellovac ABT served as control (Group 1, n = 138).

Results

Overall, 72 out of 255 (28%) received at least one ABT unit (2·1 ± 1·0 U/transfused patient) without differences between groups. However, in the subgroup of patients with admission Hb < 13 g/dl, the use of Bellovac ABT reduced postoperative ABT rates (16% vs. 46%, for groups 2 and 1, respectively; P = 0·001), although only 3 were reinfused, and was cost‐saving. The use of Bellovac ABT also resulted in fewer wound bleeding complications, but there were no differences in Hb at postoperative days 7 and 30 between groups.

Conclusions

In SHF patients with admission Hb < 13 g/dl and managed with peri‐operative IV iron ± recombinant erythropoietin plus restrictive transfusion indication, the use of Bellovac ABT was associated with reduced ABT requirements, without increasing postoperative complications, and cost‐savings.
The Effect of Transforming Care at the Bedside Initiative on Healthcare Teams’ Work Environments
Authors: Lavoie‐Tremblay Mélanie , O'Conner Patricia , Harripaul Anastasia , Biron Alain , Ritchie Judith , Lavigne Genevieve L. , Baillargeon Sophie , Ringer Justin , MacGibbon Brenda , Taylor‐Ducharme Sharon , Sourdif Jacynthe
Published: July 2013

Background

Different initiatives have been implemented in healthcare organizations to improve efficiency, such as transforming care at the bedside (TCAB). However, there are important gaps in understanding the effect of TCAB on healthcare teams’ work environments.

Aim

The specific aim of the study is to describe findings regarding the TCAB initiative effects on healthcare teams’ work environments.

Methods

A pretest and posttest study design was used for this study. The TCAB initiative was implemented in fall 2010 in a university health center in Montreal, Canada. The sample consisted of healthcare workers from four different care units.

Results

Statistically significant improvement was observed with the communicating specific information subscale from the measure of processes of care variable, and a significant difference was found between the support from colleagues variable, which was higher at baseline than postprogram. The differences for psychological demand, decisional latitude, and effort–reward were not significant.

Conclusions

TCAB is an intervention that allows healthcare teams to implement change to improve patients’ and families’ outcomes. Ongoing energy should focus on how to improve communication among all members of the team and ensure their support.
Relaxation of Spatially Advancing Coherent Structures in a Turbulent Curved Channel Flow
Authors: Matsubara Koji , Ohishi Tomoya , Shida Keisuke , Miura Takahiro
Published: July 2013

A direct numerical simulation is made for the incompressible turbulent flow in the 180 deg curved channel with a long straight portion connected to its exit port. An examination is made for how the organized coherent vortex grows and decays in the curved channel: the radius ratio of 0.92, the aspect ratio of 7.2, and the succeeding straight section length of 75 times the channel half width. The 1552 × 91 × 128 ( = 18,427,136) grids are allocated to the computational domain. The frictional-velocity-based Reynolds number is kept at 150 to resolve the long domain including curved and straight regions. In contrast to that the coherent vortex grows along the concave wall, the vortex remains strong in the convex-wall side after the curvature accompanying a tail of the small-scale turbulence near the convex wall. The dissimilarity between the onset and disappearing of the coherent vortex essentially comes from the mean pressure gradient, which aids or averts the near-wall fluid oppositely between the curvature inlet and the exit. The mean flow is decelerated near the inlet of the convex wall to destabilize the flow and to trigger the onset of the coherent vortex. Contrary, the mean flow is accelerated near the exit of the convex wall to weaken the coherent vortex, and is decelerated near the exit of the concave wall to enhance the turbulence. Therefore, the turbulence enhancement and attenuation occurs oppositely between the inlet and exit of the curvature, and the coherent vortex draws a wake in the convex-side rather than the concave-side where it starts.
Developing Large High-Resolution Display Visualizations of High-Fidelity Terrain Data
Authors: Chung Haeyong , North Chris , Ferris John
Published: July 2013

The vehicle terrain measurement system (VTMS) allows highly detailed terrain modeling and vehicle simulations. Visualization of large-scale terrain datasets taken from VTMS provides better insights into the characteristics of the pavement or road surface. However, the resolution of these terrain datasets greatly exceeds the capability of traditional graphics displays and computer systems. Large high-resolution displays (LHRDs) enable visualization of large-scale VTMS datasets with high resolution, large physical size, scalable rendering performance, advanced interaction methods, and collaboration. This paper investigates beneficial factors, implementation issues, and case study applications of LHRDs for visualizing large, high-fidelity, terrain datasets from VTMS. Two prototype visualizations are designed and evaluated with automotive and pavement engineers to demonstrate effectiveness of LHRDs for multiscale tasks that involve understanding pavement surface details within the overall context of the terrain.
A Distributed Pool Architecture for Highly Constrained Optimization Problems in Complex Systems Design
Authors: Pandey Vijitashwa , Mourelatos Zissimos P.
Published: July 2013

Optimal design of complex engineering systems is challenging because numerous design variables and constraints are present. Dynamic changes in design requirements and lack of complete knowledge of subsystem requirements add to the complexity. We propose an enhanced distributed pool architecture to aid distributed solving of design optimization problems. The approach not only saves solution time but is also resilient against failures of some processors. It is best suited to handle highly constrained design problems, with dynamically changing constraints, where finding even a feasible solution (FS) is challenging. In our work, this task is distributed among many processors. Constraints can be easily added or removed without having to restart the solution process. We demonstrate the efficacy of our method in terms of computational savings and resistance to partial failures of some processors, using two mixed integer nonlinear programming (MINLP)-class mechanical design optimization problems.
Flow Field and Turbulence Characterization of a Counter Impinging Jet Reactor Using Particle Image Velocimetry
Authors: Miller Victor A. , Gamba Mirko
Published: July 2013

We characterize the three dimensional structure and quantify turbulence quantities in a counter-impinging jet reactor with trapezoidal cross-section to test the feasibility of achieving stratified mixing. Dye flow-visualization and particle image velocimetry (PIV) velocity field measurements are made in the inlet section of the reactor. Two-component velocity measurements are made on three sets of orthogonal planes for Rej = 1000, 1800, 2600, and 3700; the overall structure of the flow field is found to be qualitatively similar for the Reynolds numbers studied, but the precise trajectory of the mean flow is found to be sensitive to inflow boundary conditions. Reynolds stresses and anisotropic invariants are calculated; the turbulent kinetic energy decreases linearly with increasing distance downstream in the reactor and it decreases at the same relative rate for all Reynolds numbers studied; anisotropic invariants and Reynolds stress maps indicate a turbulent stress state that tends toward isotropy downstream of the inlets. Turbulent stress maps indicate that the Reynolds stress components are stratified in the reactor channel, becoming uniform as a function of z by y/Dh = 4.
Development of the CellFlux Storage Concept for Sensible Heat
Authors: Steinmann Wolf-Dieter , Laing Doerte , Odenthal Christian
Published: July 2013

Two tank storage systems using molten salt represent today's state of the art in energy storage for concentrating solar power (CSP) plants. This concept shows a limited potential for further cost reductions, since the capital costs are dominated by the expenses for the salt inventory. The application of solid storage materials represents a promising approach to reduce capital costs. While this approach avoids also the risk of freezing and lessens corrosion problems, the efficiency of the heat transfer between the heat transfer fluid (HTF) and the solid storage medium is crucial. This paper introduces the CellFlux concept, which uses an intermediate closed air loop to transfer energy between the HTF and the solid storage material. A modular concept is chosen to optimize the size of the air flow channels. An initial project will provide the fundamentals needed to design a CellFlux storage unit. The feasibility will be proven by a 100 kW/500 kWh pilot storage module.
Numerical Modelling of Nanofluid Heat Transfer Inside a Microchannel Heat Sink
Authors: Rimbault Benjamin , Nguyen Cong Tam , Galanis Nicolas
Published: July 2013

The problem of laminar flow and heat transfer of water-based nanofluids inside a 3D-microchannel heat sink was numerically investigated, considering temperature-dependent fluids properties. Results, obtained for the 250–2000 Reynolds number range, show that an important enhancement of surface convective heat transfer coefficient can be achieved by increasing the particle volume fraction. For given Reynolds number and particle fraction, a highest heat transfer enhancement is obtained using CuO-water nanofluid. However, the use of nanofluids considerably increases the wall friction and consequently the pumping power. The ‘heat transferred to fluid/pumping power’ ratio was calculated for nanofluids. For given Reynolds number and particle volume fraction, such a ratio was found lowest for CuO-water nanofluid, while alumina-water nanofluids provide similar results.
Thermal Transpiration Flow in Annular Microchannels
Authors: Taheri Peyman , Bahrami Majid
Published: July 2013

Thermal transpiration flows of rarefied gases in annular channels are considered, where the driving force for the flow is a temperature gradient applied in the channel walls. The influence of gas rarefaction, aspect ratio of the annulus, and surface accommodation coefficient on mass and heat transfer in the process are investigated. For this, the linearized Navier–Stokes–Fourier (NSF) and regularized 13-moment (R13) equations are solved analytically, and a closed-form expression for Knudsen boundary layers is obtained. The results are compared to available solutions of the Boltzmann equation to highlight the advantages of the R13 over the NSF equations in describing rarefaction effects in this particular thermally-driven flow. Through comparisons with kinetic data it is shown that R13 equations are valid for moderate Knudsen numbers, i.e., Kn < 0.5, where NSF equations fail to describe the flow fields properly.
Development of Plasma Textile for Nanoparticle Filtration and Bacterial Deactivation
Authors: Kuznetsov Ivan A. , Jasper Warren , Rasipuram Srinivasan , Kuznetsov Andrey V. , Brown Alan , Saveliev Alexei V.
Published: July 2013

A novel woven textile material capable of generating stable low temperature plasma was created. This resulted in enhancing the capture efficiency of nanoparticles when the material was used as a filter as well as exhibiting anti-bacterial properties. The primary supposition of the study is that a micro-plasma array can be embedded into a textile fabric to induce a plasma sheath that filters and deactivates bacterial pathogens coming into contact with the fabric. The work proceeded through a series of steps: (1) determining the optimal type of plasma discharge; (2) finding the ideal wire electrode material, radii and placement to achieve stable uniform generation of non-thermal plasmas; (3) modeling the electric field surrounding the electrodes to evaluate the impact of an insulating textile on the electrode system; (4) testing various polymers and developing a plasma textile based on electrode geometries found in experimentation; (5) measuring the filtration efficiencies of the plasmas using a differential mobility and a condensation particle counter; and (6) testing the textile fabric’s ability to deactivate bacteria. The work confirmed the existence of sustainable, uniform plasma on the surface of the developed fabric capable of capturing over 98% of bacteria-sized particles and deactivating tested bacteria.
Forced Convection in Micro-Channel With Synthetic Jet: Effect of Operating Frequency
Authors: Lee Ann , Timchenko Victoria , Yeoh Guan H. , Reizes John A.
Published: July 2013

A three-dimensional computational model has been developed to investigate the cooling effect on the microchip of synthetic jet interacting with a cross-flow in a micro-channel. The conjugate problem is solved by determining the temperature distributions in a heated solid and the fluid flowing in the micro-channel which cools it, thereby simulating the application to a microchip. A parametric study was performed on a fixed geometry by using 1 MWm−2 heat flux at the surface of the silicon wafer to investigate the effect of frequency of the jet at a constant Reynolds number, that is the amplitude is reduced in proportion to the increase in frequency. The hot region in the silicon wafer resulting from the use fluid flowing undisturbed in a micro-channel, are removed when the synthetic jet is switched on thereby significantly lowering the maximum temperature in the wafer. Contrary to the two-dimensional case, there is little difference in the cooling performance when the jet was driven at different frequencies in three-dimensional configuration. This is illustrated by the fact in the end of the simulations at a jet Reynolds number of 40, the maximum temperature in the substrate was 0.5 K lower at 1120 Hz than at 560 Hz and 1 K lower than at 280 Hz.
Laminar Forced Convection Mass Transfer to Ordered and Disordered Single Layer Arrays of Micro-Spheres
Authors: Ambesi D. , Kleijn C. R.
Published: July 2013

We study laminar forced convection mass transfer to single layer arrays of equidistantly and non-equidistantly spaced micro-spheres. We report average Sherwood numbers as a function of geometry and flow conditions, for open frontal area fractions between 0.04 and 0.95, Schmidt numbers between 0.7 and 10, and Reynolds numbers (based on micro-sphere diameter and the free stream velocity) between 0.1 and 100. For equidistantly spaced arrays of micro-spheres we propose a general analytical expression for the average Sherwood number as a function of the Reynolds number, Schmidt number and the open frontal area fraction, as well as asymptotic scaling rules for small and large Reynolds. For all studied Schmidt numbers, equidistant arrays exhibit decreasing average Sherwood numbers for decreasing open frontal area fractions at low Reynolds numbers. For high Reynolds numbers, the Sherwood number approaches that of a single spheres in cross-flow, independent of the open frontal area fraction. For equal open frontal area fractions, the Sherwood number in non-equidistant arrays is lower than in equidistant arrays for intermediate Reynolds numbers. For very low and high Reynolds numbers, non-uniformity does not influence mass transfer.
Flow Boiling Heat Transfer of R134a in a Microchannel Heat Sink
Authors: do Nascimento Francisco J. , Leão Hugo L. S. L. , Ribatski Gherhardt
Published: July 2013

In the present study, the thermal performance of a micro heat spreader based on flow boiling mechanism was evaluated. The heat spreader under study has a foot print area of 15 × 15 mm2 and is composed by 50 channels with width of 100 μm and depth of 500 μm. Experiments were performed for R134a, heat fluxes up to 310 kW/m2 (based on the foot print area), mass velocities from 400 to 1500 kg/m2s, saturation temperatures of approximately 25°C and liquid subcoolings of 5 and 15°C. Heat-sink averaged heat transfer coefficients based on the effective heat transfer area up to 9 kW/m2K were obtained. From the analyses of the experimental results, for a fixed heat-spreader averaged wall superheating, it was found that the dissipated heat flux increases with decreasing the mass velocity and liquid subcooling. Moreover, the trend with varying mass velocity of the difference between the heat spreader averaged superheating for the onset of nucleate boiling (ONB) and the respective value under boiling conditions is not clear, however it seems that its value increases with increasing the liquid subcooling. The wall superheating excess necessary for the onset of nucleate boiling becomes negligible for mass velocities higher than 1000 kg/m2s.