bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Participating Medium Radiation and Nano-Fluidic Behaviour of Atmospheric Aerosol on Natural Convection of Industrial Dusty Air
Authors: Jena Sofen K. , Mahapatra Swarup K.
Published: July 2018

The current study is focused on thermal radiation interaction with the natural convection of atmospheric brown cloud (ABC). The current study puts emphasis on ultra fine carbon-black particle suspension of several nano meter range along with some pollutant gas mixture with atmospheric air. The numerical simulation of double diffusive thermo-gravitational convection of ABC is done with Hide and Mason laboratory model for atmosphere. The effect of flow circulation is simulated by setting different value of buoyancy ratios. The effect of participating media radiation has been investigated for various values of optical depth. The governing equations, describing circulation of ABC are solved using modified Marker and Cell method. Gradient dependent consistent hybrid upwind scheme of second order is used for discretization of the convective terms. Discrete ordinate method, with S8 approximation is used to solve radiative transport equation. Comprehensive studies on controlling parameters that affect the flow and heat transfer characteristics have been addressed. The results are provided in graphical and tabular form to delineate the flow behavior and heat transfer characteristics.
Latest Technological Developments in Offshore Deep Mixing for Piled Oil and Gas Platforms
Authors: Spagnoli Giovanni , Doherty Paul , Bellato Diego , Weixler Leonhard
Published: July 2018

This paper presents some recent technological developments in deep mixing for the offshore sector. Deep mixing methods comprise in-situ soil treatment technologies where binding materials are added and blended with the original soils in order to improve their mechanical properties. The MIxed Drilled Offshore Steel (MIDOS) pile is introduced in this paper, which takes advantage of such deep mixing technologies. The comparison between the API approach and CPT-based methods for the prediction of the pile capacity are provided to validate the capability of the MIDOS pile as a foundational element for oil&gas structures in different geological conditions. The theoretical calculations are intended for initial estimation of pile sizing only and are not intended as a detailed design method.
Strain Accumulation Procedure During Staged Cyclic Loading of Carbonate Sediments
Authors: Boukpeti Nathalie , Lehane Barry , Carraro J. Antonio H.
Published: July 2018

Design of offshore foundation systems requires assessment of the effects of cyclic loading on the soil strength. This paper investigates the applicability of the strain accumulation procedure, which is used to assess the effects of wave loading on the soil strength. Staged undrained cyclic simple shear tests were conducted on a carbonate sediment from the North West shelf of Australia, with varying shear stress amplitude in each stage. The shear strain mobilised at the end of the staged tests is compared with the value predicted by the strain accumulation procedure, using shear strain contours constructed from the results of single amplitude undrained cyclic simple shear tests. It was found that the strain accumulation procedure gives adequate prediction for normalised cyclic shear stress less or equal to 0.3, but largely underestimates the cyclic shear strain for normalised cyclic shear stress greater than 0.3 (the cyclic shear stress being normalised by the effective vertical stress at the end of consolidation).
Pile-Soil Interaction Under Cyclic Loadings for Offshore Wind Monopiles
Authors: Shin Yunsup , Saue Morten , Langford Thomas , Petter Hans , Cho Kyunghwan , Park Jongheon
Published: July 2018

Offshore wind structures are subjected to cyclic loadings from wind, wave and current which must be accounted for when designing foundations. The effects of cyclic loadings can govern the dimension of the foundations. However, less standard and calculation procedure for designing foundations under cyclic loadings is generally accepted in practical design.

A parametric study at the generic clay profiles were carried out by using the conventional beam column approach and the finite element analysis. In addition, a monopile foundation at the layered soil profiles in Korean West Sea were designed taking into cyclic loading effect account.

Both design results show that the bending moments and shear forces along the pile by using beam column approach are larger than the results from the FE analysis. The FE analysis gives less pile displacement and rotation than the beam column approach. The reason for these differences can be partially explained by the soil reactions in the upper soil profiles. For the clay layers the lateral soil resistance is generally higher in the FE analyses compared to the cyclic p-y curves. However the lateral resistance in the silt sand layers is greater by using the standard cyclic p-y curves with a drained friction angle than using the constitutive models applying cyclic properties.

Based on the results, a practical approach of monopile design for the specific offshore location can be recommended by calibrating and simplifying cyclic p-y curves from the results of FE analyses taking into account the cyclic stress-stain response of the soil.
Design of Direct On-Seabed Sliding Foundations
Authors: Deeks Andrew , Zhou Hongjie , Krisdani Henry , Bransby Fraser , Watson Phil
Published: July 2018

This paper describes a new framework for the geotechnical design of pipeline-related foundations (e.g. foundations for PLETs and Tees) designed to slide directly over the seabed during pipeline operation. This approach can present considerable savings in terms of fabrication and construction costs because of reduced foundation sizes.

Over the design life, a pipeline is likely to endure many thermal/ pressure load cycles due to product and flow rate variations during operation. These cycles result in the foundation sliding back and forth across the seabed within a footprint. These loads and corresponding motions impose cyclic shear stresses on the soil that can (i) degrade foundation bearing capacity and (ii) cause additional foundation settlement.

Often the key design consideration is whether or not the cumulative settlements will eventually compromise the integrity of the pipeline system to which the PLET and its associated foundation are attached. In addition to consolidation and creep, two key mechanisms are shown to control cyclic foundation settlement: (i) bearing mechanism induced burial and (ii) cyclic shear stress driven soil volume reduction. Their relative significance depends on the soil conditions (soil state) and input pipeline movements.

The paper presents key aspects required for the design of direct on-seabed sliding foundations, including the soil parameters and associated testing required. Validation of the design approach is illustrated by comparison to laboratory model tests performed on carbonate soils.

The impact of soil properties on potential foundation performance is illustrated with a design example and the importance of conducting site specific soil testing and settlement analyses is emphasised.

It is also illustrated that close integration of the pipeline, structural and geotechnical analysis is necessary to reliably quantify system performance of these novel foundations.
Dynamic Stresses in a Driven Pile During Installation-Classical Wave Equation Model Solution Using Partial Differential Equations
Authors: Jafri Syed Muhammad Mohsin , Takkabutr Phayak
Published: July 2018

This paper derives and solves the governing dynamic wave equation of motion of a driven pile during the installation phase, when the driven pile is subjected to hammer blows. The pile is assumed as an elastic solid body. The equation of motion is a partial differential equation in space (axial coordinate) and time. The governing partial differential equation of motion is solved for installation boundary conditions, and simplified soil resistance models. The solution of the governing equation yields important design parameters, such as stress variation at any cross-section along the pile length with respect to time, and propagating wave speed. The resulting closed-form solution can be easily implemented using a standard spreadsheet or an engineering calculation program. This approach is compared with conventional wave equation analysis (WEAP) used in industry practice. The conventional wave equation analysis is based on discretization of the pile into mass-spring-damper elements (lumped parameter approach), rather than continuous modeling. The models and solutions from these two approaches are compared.
Comparison of mechanical properties and composition of magnetron sputter and plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition aluminum nitride films
Authors: Sippola Perttu , Pyymaki Perros Alexander , Ylivaara Oili M. E. , Ronkainen Helena , Julin Jaakko , Liu Xuwen , Sajavaara Timo , Etula Jarkko , Lipsanen Harri , Puurunen Riikka L.
Published: July 2018

A comparative study of mechanical properties and elemental and structural composition was made for aluminum nitride thin films deposited with reactive magnetron sputtering and plasma enhanced atomic layer deposition (PEALD). The sputtered films were deposited on Si (100), Mo (110), and Al (111) oriented substrates to study the effect of substrate texture on film properties. For the PEALD trimethylaluminum–ammonia films, the effects of process parameters, such as temperature, bias voltage, and plasma gas (ammonia versus N2/H2), on the AlN properties were studied. All the AlN films had a nominal thickness of 100 nm. Time-of-flight elastic recoil detection analysis showed the sputtered films to have lower impurity concentration with an Al/N ratio of 0.95, while the Al/N ratio for the PEALD films was 0.81–0.90. The mass densities were ∼3.10 and ∼2.70 g/cm3 for sputtered and PEALD AlN, respectively. The sputtered films were found to have higher degrees of preferential crystallinity, whereas the PEALD films were more polycrystalline as determined by x-ray diffraction. Nanoindentation experiments showed the elastic modulus and hardness to be 250 and 22 GPa, respectively, for sputtered AlN on the (110) substrate, whereas with PEALD AlN, values of 180 and 19 GPa, respectively, were obtained. The sputtered films were under tensile residual stress (61–421 MPa), whereas the PEALD films had a residual stress ranging from tensile to compressive (846 to −47 MPa), and high plasma bias resulted in compressive films. The adhesion of both films was good on Si, although sputtered films showed more inconsistent critical load behavior. Also, the substrate underneath the sputtered AlN did not withstand high wear forces as with the PEALD AlN. The coefficient of friction was determined to be ∼0.2 for both AlN types, and their wear characteristics were almost identical.
Contribution of a Multifunctional Polymerase Region of Foot-and-Mouth Disease Virus to Lethal Mutagenesis
Authors: de la Higuera Ignacio , Ferrer-Orta Cristina , Moreno Elena , de Ávila Ana Isabel , Soria María Eugenia , Singh Kamalendra , Caridi Flavia , Sobrino Francisco , Sarafianos Stefan G. , Perales Celia , Verdaguer Nuria , Domingo Esteban
Published: July 2018

The nuclear localization signal (NLS) of the foot-and-mouth disease virus (FMDV) polymerase includes residues that modulate the sensitivity to mutagenic agents. Here we have described a viable NLS mutant with an amino acid replacement that facilitates virus extinction by ribavirin. The corresponding polymerase shows increased incorporation of ribavirin triphosphate and local structural modifications that implicate the template entry channel. Specifically, comparison of the structures of ribavirin-sensitive and ribavirin-resistant FMDV polymerases has identified loop β9-α11 conformation as a determinant of sensitivity to ribavirin mutagenesis.
Volume–outcome relationship in transcatheter aortic valve implantations in Germany 2008–2014: a secondary data analysis of electronic health records
Authors: Kaier Klaus , Oettinger Vera , Reinecke Holger , Schmoor Claudia , Frankenstein Lutz , Vach Werner , Hehn Philip , von zur Mühlen Constantin , Bode Christoph , Zehender Manfred , Reinöhl Jochen
Published: July 2018

Objectives

We examine the volume–outcome relationship in isolated transcatheter aortic valve implantations (TAVI). Our interest was whether the volume–outcome relationship for TAVI exists on the centre level, whether it occurs equally for different outcomes and how it develops over time.

Design

Secondary data analysis of electronic health records. The comprehensive German Federal Bureau of Statistics Diagnosis Related Groups database was queried for data on all isolated TAVI procedures performed in Germany between 2008 and 2014. Logistic and linear regression analyses were carried out. Risk adjustment was applied using a predefined set of patient characteristics to account for differences in the risk factor composition of the patient populations between centres and over time. Centres performing TAVI were stratified into groups performing <50, 50–99 and ≥100 procedures per year.

Setting

Germany 2008–2014.

Participants

All patients undergoing isolated TAVI in the observation period.

Interventions

None.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

In-hospital mortality, bleeding, stroke, probability of ventilation >48 hours, length of hospital stay and reimbursement.

Results

Between 2008 and 2014, a total of 43 996 TAVI procedures were performed in 113 different centres in Germany with a total of 2532 cases of in-hospital mortality. Risk-adjusted in-hospital mortality decreases over the years and is lower the higher the annual procedure volume at the centre is. The magnitude of the latter effect declines over the observation period. Our results indicate a ceiling effect in the volume–outcome relationship: the volume–outcome relationship is eminent in circumstances of relatively unfavourable outcomes. Alongside improving outcomes, however, the volume–outcome relationship decreases. Also, a volume–outcome relationship seems to be absent in circumstances of constantly low event rates.

Conclusions

The hypothesised volume–outcome relationship for TAVI exists but diminishes and may disappear over time. This should be taken into account when considering mandatory minimum thresholds.
Probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics for chronic kidney disease: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Pei Ming , Wei Lijuan , Hu Shouci , Yang Bo , Si Jinhua , Yang Hongtao , Zhai Jingbo
Published: July 2018

Introduction

There is a growing interest in probiotic, prebiotic and synbiotic supplements for patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD). However, a systematic review and evaluation is lacking. The purpose of the present study is to assess the efficacy and safety of probiotics, prebiotics and synbiotics for non-dialysis or non-renal transplant patients with CKD.

Methods and analysis

An extensive literature search will be undertaken to identify potentially eligible studies from electronic databases including PubMed (1946 to present), EMBASE (1974 to present), Web of Science (1900 to present) and the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL, all years). No language restriction will be applied to the search. Both parallel and crossover randomised controlled trials will be included. The risk of bias of each included study will be assessed using the Cochrane Risk of Bias Tool. The primary outcome measures are uraemic toxins. Secondary outcomes include kidney function, adverse cardiovascular events, all-cause mortality, cause-specific death, progression to end-stage kidney disease, quality of life, gastrointestinal function and adverse events. Data will be synthesised using appropriate statistical methods. The quality of evidence for each outcome will be assessed using the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach.

Ethics and dissemination

No ethical approval is required as no primary data will be collected. We will publish findings from this systematic review in a peer-reviewed scientific journal, and the data set will be made freely available.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42017079177.
Cross-sectional study of the association between healthcare professionals’ empathy and burnout and the number of annual primary care visits per patient under their care in Spain
Authors: Yuguero Oriol , Melnick Edward R , Marsal Josep R. , Esquerda Montserrat , Soler-Gonzalez Jorge
Published: July 2018

Objective

The aim of this study was to evaluate the association between physician and nurse self-reported empathy and burnout and the number of annual primary care visits per patient under their care.

Methods

Design: A cross-sectional survey study was conducted from January 2013 to July 2014. Site: The 22 primary care centres of the Lleida Health Region in Spain. Main outcome measures: The Jefferson Scale of Physician Empathy and the Maslach Burnout Inventory were used to measure empathy and burnout, respectively. The number of visits and the number of diagnoses coded per visit were obtained through the Region’s electronic health record.

Results

Two hundred and sixty-seven healthcare professionals (physicians and nurses, 52.6% participation of the total in the region) with 301 657 patients under their care. Healthcare professionals’ degree of burnout and empathy was associated with the number of annual visits per patient under their care. Burned out nurses and physicians received fewer visits (4.5vs3.7 in nurses and 18.1vs18.9 in physicians), whereas more empathic physicians received more visits per patient (19.4vs17.2, p<0.05) and documented more diagnoses per visit (10.2vs9.7, p=0.001). Less burned out and less empathic nurses documented more diagnoses per visit (10.2vs10.0 and 8.2vs9.9, p<0.05).

Conclusions

The number of annual primary care visits per patient that healthcare professionals receive is closely associated with healthcare professionals’ empathy and burnout. These results should serve to promote empathic skills and establish organisational changes that promote efficiency in the practice and, in turn, reduce the degree of burnout of healthcare professionals.
Effectiveness of drug interventions to prevent sudden cardiac death in patients with heart failure and reduced ejection fraction: an overview of systematic reviews
Authors: Al-Gobari Muaamar , Al-Aqeel Sinaa , Gueyffier François , Burnand Bernard
Published: July 2018

Objectives

To summarise and synthesise the current evidence regarding the effectiveness of drug interventions to prevent sudden cardiac death (SCD) and all-cause mortality in patients with heart failure with reduced ejection fraction (HFrEF).

Design

Overview of systematic reviews.

Data sources

MEDLINE, Embase, ISI Web of Science and Cochrane Library from inception to May 2017; manual search of references of included studies for potentially relevant reviews.

Eligibility criteria for study selection

We reviewed the effectiveness of drug interventions for SCD and all-cause mortality prevention in patients with HFrEF. We included overviews, systematic reviews and meta-analyses of randomised controlled trials of beta-blockers, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitors (ACE-i), angiotensin receptor blockers (ARBs), antialdosterones or mineralocorticoid-receptor antagonists, amiodarone, other antiarrhythmic drugs, combined ARB/neprilysin inhibitors, statins and fish oil supplementation.

Review methods

Two independent reviewers extracted data and assessed the methodological quality of the reviews and the quality of evidence for the primary studies for each drug intervention, using Assessing the Methodological Quality of Systematic Reviews (AMSTAR) and Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation(GRADE), respectively.

Results

We identified 41 reviews. Beta-blockers, antialdosterones and combined ARB/neprilysin inhibitors appeared effective to prevent SCD and all-cause mortality. ACE-i significantly reduced all-cause mortality but not SCD events. ARBs and statins were ineffective where antiarrhythmic drugs and omega-3 fatty acids had unclear evidence of effectiveness for prevention of SCD and all-cause mortality.

Conclusions

This comprehensive overview of systematic reviews confirms that beta-blockers, antialdosterone agents and combined ARB/neprilysin inhibitors are effective on SCD prevention but not ACE-i or ARBs. In patients with high risk of SCD, an alternative therapeutic strategy should be explored in future research.

Systematic review registration

PROSPERO 2017: CRD42017067442.
Does early intervention improve outcomes in the physiotherapy management of lumbar radicular syndrome? Results of the POLAR pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Reddington Michael , Walters Stephen J , Cohen Judith , Baxter Susan K , Cole Ashley
Published: July 2018

Objective

To investigate the feasibility of undertaking a definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT).

Setting

This was a pilot, pragmatic superiority RCT with a qualitative element, recruiting from 14 general practitioner (GP) practices in England.

Participants

Patients over 18 years of age presenting to their GP with unilateral lumbar radicular syndrome (LRS), defined as radicular pain and/or neurological symptoms originating from lumbar nerve roots, were eligible to participate in the study, those who did not have a clear understanding of the English language or had comorbidities preventing rehabilitation were ineligible.

Interventions

Participants were randomised into early intervention physiotherapy or usual care with the former receiving their treatment within 2 weeks after randomisation and the latter 6 weeks postrandomisation. Both groups received a patient-centred, goal-orientated physiotherapy programme specific to their needs. Participants received up to six treatment sessions over an 8-week period.

Outcome measures

Process outcomes to determine the feasibility of the study and an exploratory analysis of patient-reported outcomes, including self-rated disability, pain and general health, these were collected at baseline, 6, 12 and 26 weeks postrandomisation.

Results

80 participants were recruited in 10 GP practices over 34 weeks and randomised to (early intervention physiotherapy n=42, usual care n=38). Follow-up rates at 26 weeks were 32 (84%) in the usual care and 36 (86%) in the early intervention physiotherapy group. The mean area under the curve (larger values indicating more disability) for the Oswestry Disability Index over the 26 weeks was 16.6 (SD 11.4) in the usual care group and 16.0 (SD 14.0) in the intervention group. A difference of −0.6 (95% CI −0.68 to 5.6) in favour of the intervention group.

Conclusions

The results of the study suggest a full RCT is feasible and will provide evidence as to the optimal timing of physiotherapy for patients with LRS.

Trial registration number

NCT02618278,ISRCTN25018352.
Using home sensing technology to assess outcome and recovery after hip and knee replacement in the UK: the HEmiSPHERE study protocol
Authors: Grant Sabrina , Blom A W , Whitehouse Michael R , Craddock Ian , Judge Andrew , Tonkin Emma L , Gooberman-Hill Rachael
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Over 160 000 people with severe hip or knee pain caused by osteoarthritis undergo total hip (THR) or knee replacement (TKR) surgery each year in the UK within the National Health Service (NHS), and this number is expected to increase. Innovative approaches to evaluating surgical outcomes will be needed to respond to the increasing burden of joint replacement surgery. The Sensor Platform for Healthcare in a Residential Environment, Interdisciplinary Research Collaboration (SPHERE-IRC) have developed a system of sensors that can monitor the health-related behaviours of people living at home. The system includes sensors for the home environment (measuring temperature, humidity, room occupancy, water and electricity usage), a wristband body-worn activity monitor and silhouette (body outline) sensors. The aim of HEmiSPHERE (Hip and knEe study of a Sensor Platform of HEalthcare in a Residential Environment) is to (1) determine the accuracy and feasibility of the sensory data as it compares with conventional assessment of health outcomes after surgery using patient self-reported questionnaires, and (2) to explore how the SPHERE system is useful for everyday clinical decision-making.

Methods and analysis

A feasibility study recruiting and installing the SPHERE system in the homes of up to 30 NHS adult patients as they undergo a THR or TKR. Through a mixed-methods design, the SPHERE system will monitor and record continuous measurements of daily behaviour. Main outcomes will assess the relationships between environmental, behavioural and movement data and the parameters of interest from the standard clinical assessments measuring patient outcomes over time. Patient interviews and focus groups with consultant orthopaedic surgeons will provide in-depth understanding of the acceptability, feasibility and accuracy of the data.

Ethics and dissemination

We aim to disseminate the findings through regional talks and seminars, international conferences and peer-reviewed journals and social media.
Study protocol for a single-centre, prospective, non-blinded, randomised, 12-month, parallel-group superiority study to compare the efficacy of pharmacist intervention versus usual care for elderly patients hospitalised in orthopaedic wards
Authors: Komagamine Junpei , Sugawara Kenichi , Kaminaga Miho , Tatsumi Shinpei
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Given that polypharmacy and potentially inappropriate prescribing are common in elderly orthopaedic patients, pharmacist interventions to improve medication practices among this population are important. However, past studies have reported mixed results regarding the effectiveness of pharmacist-led interventions in inpatient elderly care. Furthermore, few randomised controlled trials have evaluated patient-relevant outcomes as a primary endpoint. Therefore, we will evaluate whether a pharmacist-led intervention could reduce readmission of hospitalised elderly orthopaedic patients with polypharmacy or potentially inappropriate prescribing.

Methods and analysis

This is an ongoing single-centre, prospective, non-blinded, randomised controlled trial designed to evaluate the superiority of a pharmacist-led intervention for hospitalised elderly patients compared with usual care. The trial will include newly admitted orthopaedic patients 70 years of age and older with polypharmacy or at least one potentially inappropriate prescription, as identified by the screening tool of older people’s prescriptions (STOPP) criteria. Usual care includes medication reconciliation, patient education and monitoring, as well as providing information about discharge medications. Pharmacist interventions, in addition to usual care, include advising the patient’s physician to stop unnecessary or inappropriate medications and start necessary medications. The primary outcome is the 1-year readmission rate. Secondary outcomes are the proportion of patients who undergo emergency department visits and the occurrences of all-cause death, a new fracture, myocardial infarction and ischaemic stroke. The study started in November 2017, and up to approximately 220 patients will be enrolled.

Ethics and dissemination

The protocol was approved by the Medical Ethics Committee of the National Hospital Organization Tochigi Medical Center (No. 29–22). The trial was registered at the University Hospital Medical Information Network (UMIN) clinical registry. The results of this trial will be submitted for publication in a peer-reviewed journal.

Trial registration number

UMIN000029404.
Randomised, open-label, multicentre trial comparing haemodialysis plus haemoperfusion versus haemodialysis alone in adult patients with end-stage renal disease (HD/HP vs HD): study protocol
Authors: Lu Wei , Jiang Geng-Ru
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Haemodialysis (HD) is the cornerstone treatment for patients with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). However, highly protein bound or large molecular weight uremic toxins such as phenolic and indolic compounds and homocysteine, which are associated with adverse outcomes such as cardiovascular disease of patients with ESRD, are difficult to remove via HD but can be effectively eliminates by haemoperfusion (HP). The proposed trial (referred to as HD/HP vs HD below) is a randomised, open-label, multicentre trial comparing HD plus HP versus HD alone in adult patients with ESRD. The primary endpoint measure is all-cause mortality.

Methods and analysis

We plan to enrol 1364 maintenance HD patients from 11 medical centres in Shanghai. Participants will be randomised to receive HD plus HP or HD alone at a 1:1 ratio after 1-month run-in period. In both arms, patients will receive low-flux HD at a frequency of two times a week and haemodiafiltration at a frequency of once a week. In the intervention group, subjects also received HP once every 2 weeks. Follow-up is scheduled at 3, 6, 12, 18 and 24 months after randomisation, and will consist the following: routine physical examinations, standard lab panels (blood routine, liver/residual kidney functions, tests of the coagulation system, etc), dialysis adequacy (standard Kt/V), chest X-ray, ECG, echocardiography, heart function rating. Adverse events will be assessed according to the international conference on harmonisation guidelines. The primary outcome is 24-month all-cause mortality. Secondary outcomes will include cardiovascular-related mortality, the occurrence of major cardiovascular events and the quality of life.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol has been approved by the Ethical Committees of all 11 participating centres. Clinical Research Unit of Xin Hua Hospital will oversee the study. The results will be presented at national and international academic meetings, and submitted to peer-reviewed journals for publications.

Trial registration number

NCT03227770; Pre-results.
Evaluation of exposure to effervescent drugs in a large health check-up population in France: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Perrin Germain , Berdot Sarah , Thomas Frédérique , Pannier Bruno , Danchin Nicolas , Durieux Pierre , Sabatier Brigitte
Published: July 2018

Objectives

The relationship between high dietary sodium intake and hypertension is well established. Some drugs are associated with high-sodium content, particularly effervescent tablets (ETs). Despite a possible cardiovascular risk associated with the use of such drugs, observational data describing exposure to ETs in ambulatory subjects are lacking.

This study aims to estimate the prevalence of exposure to ETs and to highlight factors associated with this exposure in a large French health check-up population.

Design

This was a cross-sectional study.

Setting and participants

Participants were French individuals who underwent medical check-ups at the Investigations Préventives et Cliniques centre between April and June 2017.

Results

In total, 1043 subjects were included in the study. The prevalence of exposure to ETs in the last 30 days was 26.9% (95% CI 24.2% to 29.6%). Exposure was frequent (ie, two ETs per week or more in the last 30 days) for 7.3% of subjects. Self-medication was the major source of exposure (93.8%). Paracetamol, aspirin, vitamins and betaine accounted for 95.3% of the ETs used. The factors associated with this exposure by multivariate analysis were: male gender, Overseas French origin, depression and body mass index ≥25 kg/m2. A diagnosis of hypertension or treatment with diuretics were not protective factors against exposure to ETs.

Conclusion

Exposure to ETs is frequent in the general population, particularly through self-medication. Clinical conditions associated with low-salt requirements were not associated with lower exposure to ETs, suggesting a lack of awareness by practitioners and patients about this iatrogenic issue.
Binge drinking in young people: protocol for a systematic review of neuropsychological, neurophysiological and neuroimaging studies
Authors: Lees Briana , Mewton Louise , Stapinski Lexine , Squeglia Lindsay M , Rae Caroline , Teesson Maree
Published: July 2018

Introduction

Binge drinking is the most common pattern of alcohol use among young people in Western countries. Adolescence and young adulthood is a vulnerable developmental period and binge drinking during this time has a higher potential for neurotoxicity and interference with ongoing neural and cognitive development. The purpose of this systematic review will be to assess and integrate evidence of the impact of binge drinking on cognition, brain structure and function in youth aged 10–24 years. Cross-sectional studies will synthesise the aberrations associated with binge drinking, while longitudinal studies will distinguish the cognitive and neural antecedents from the cognitive and neural effects that are a consequence of binge drinking.

Methods and analysis

A total of five peer-reviewed databases (PubMed, EMBASE, Medline, PsychINFO, ProQuest) will be systematically searched and the search period will include all studies published prior to 1 April 2018. The search terms will be a combination of MeSH keywords that are based on previous relevant reviews. Study selection will follow the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines and study quality will be assessed using The Grades of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation approach. All studies will be screened against eligibility criteria designed to synthesise studies that examined a young binge drinking sample and used neuropsychological, neurophysiological or neuroimaging assessment techniques. Studies will be excluded if participants were significantly involved in other substances or if they had been clinically diagnosed with an alcohol use disorder, or any psychiatric, neurological or pharmacological condition. If available data permits, a meta-analysis will be conducted.

Ethics and dissemination

Formal ethics approval is not required as primary data will not be collected. The results will be disseminated through a peer-reviewed publication, conference presentations and social media.

Trial registration number

International Prospective Register for Systematic Reviews (PROSPERO) number: CRD42018086856.
Unemployment, intragenerational social mobility and mortality in Finland: heterogeneity by age and economic context
Authors: Uggla Caroline , Billingsley Sunnee
Published: July 2018

Background

We explore how mortality is related to unemployment and intragenerational social mobility in Finland. Unemployment and social mobility are two labour market experiences that are largely studied separately, despite the fact that selection processes into unemployment and downward mobility are intertwined. Because both causal and health selection mechanisms may vary depending on the timing of these experiences, we consider heterogeneity by age and economic context.

Methods

We run discrete time event history analysis for death (at age 30–75 years) in two periods (economic recession and growth) and analyse younger and older individuals and men and women separately.

Results

The odds of mortality were particularly high for individuals experiencing unemployment and when unemployment occurred during economic growth (OR ranging between 1.39 and 2.77). Younger men had high odds of mortality following unemployment (OR 1.86–2.77). In contrast, downward mobility was associated with higher odds of mortality only among older men and women and only during economic growth. The benefits of upward mobility were experienced mainly by younger men (OR ranging between 0.86 and 0.87) and were not experienced by women at all.

Conclusion

Results show that when in an individual’s life and the economic cycle unemployment and social mobility occur matters for whether these experiences are associated with mortality.
Whole-genome sequencing analysis of CNV using low-coverage and paired-end strategies is efficient and outperforms array-based CNV analysis
Authors: Zhou Bo , Ho Steve S , Zhang Xianglong , Pattni Reenal , Haraksingh Rajini R , Urban Alexander E
Published: July 2018

Background

Copy number variation (CNV) analysis is an integral component of the study of human genomes in both research and clinical settings. Array-based CNV analysis is the current first-tier approach in clinical cytogenetics. Decreasing costs in high-throughput sequencing and cloud computing have opened doors for the development of sequencing-based CNV analysis pipelines with fast turnaround times. We carry out a systematic and quantitative comparative analysis for several low-coverage whole-genome sequencing (WGS) strategies to detect CNV in the human genome.

Methods

We compared the CNV detection capabilities of WGS strategies (short insert, 3 kb insert mate pair and 5 kb insert mate pair) each at 1×, 3× and 5× coverages relative to each other and to 17 currently used high-density oligonucleotide arrays. For benchmarking, we used a set of gold standard (GS) CNVs generated for the 1000 Genomes Project CEU subject NA12878.

Results

Overall, low-coverage WGS strategies detect drastically more GS CNVs compared with arrays and are accompanied with smaller percentages of CNV calls without validation. Furthermore, we show that WGS (at ≥1× coverage) is able to detect all seven GS deletion CNVs >100 kb in NA12878, whereas only one is detected by most arrays. Lastly, we show that the much larger 15 Mbp Cri du chat deletion can be readily detected with short-insert paired-end WGS at even just 1× coverage.

Conclusions

CNV analysis using low-coverage WGS is efficient and outperforms the array-based analysis that is currently used for clinical cytogenetics.
Could recent overfishing of New England groundfish have been prevented? A retrospective evaluation of alternative management strategies
Authors: Wiedenmann John , Jensen Olaf P.
Published: July 2018

We conducted a retrospective evaluation of alternative management strategies for stocks in the New England groundfish complex that have had recent history of target catches being set above the level that defines overfishing. In many cases the original target catches were unsustainable and would have resulted in stock collapses if the target catch had been removed. We evaluated (i) alternative harvest control rules, (ii) whether or not to do projections, (iii) whether the inputs to the projections (starting abundance and future recruitments) should be modified, and (iv) whether the target catches should be smoothed to prevent large changes from year to year. The greatest reductions in target catches resulted when no projections were done and the target catch was fixed over the period between assessments. Large reductions in target catches also occurred when a downward adjustment was made to the starting abundance in the projections based on the retrospective pattern. Neither approach alone was sufficient to prevent overfishing for most stocks, but when used in conjunction with one another or with an alternative control rule that reduced the target harvest rate as biomass fell below the target, the magnitude and frequency of overfishing was greatly reduced for most stocks. Attempts to adjust recruitment based on perceived changes over time were also effective for a few stocks, while attempts to smooth the target catches over often resulted in increases in the target catches.
LRS Bianchi type V perfect fluid cosmological model in f(R, T) theory
Authors: Nath A. , Sahu S.K.
Published: July 2018

This article deals with the study of Bianchi type V cosmological model filled with perfect fluid in the context of f(R, T) gravity. R and T represent the Ricci scalar and trace of the energy–momentum tensor, respectively. The modified Einstein’s field equations are solved under the consideration of hybrid exponential law for two cases of f(R, T). The presented models are shear free.
Hamiltonian formulation of the pilot-wave theory
Authors: Vollick Dan N.
Published: July 2018

In the pilot-wave theory of quantum mechanics particles have definite positions and velocities and the system evolves deterministically. The velocity of a particle is determined by the wave function of the system (the guidance equation) and the wave function evolves according to Schrödinger’s equation. In this paper I first construct a Hamiltonian that gives Schrödinger’s equation and the guidance equation for the particle. I then find the Hamiltonian for a relativistic particle in Dirac’s theory and for a quantum scalar field.
Synthesis, characterization, investigation of biological activity, docking studies, and spectroscopic properties of hydrazone compounds containing different substituents
Authors: Yilmaz Engin , Cukurovali Alaaddin
Published: July 2018

To assess electronic absorption spectra, molecular docking, and antibacterial activity, 12 new hydrazone compounds that have different substituents and in different positions were synthesized and characterized. HOMO–LUMO energies and theoretical electronic spectra of synthesized compounds were computed via Gaussian 09 software. Global reactivity descriptors were computed from HOMO–LUMO energies. In addition, 1JXA protein was used for molecular docking studies structure. Staphylococcus aureus ATCC 29213 and Enterococcus faecalis ATCC 29212 (as negative bacteria), Escherichia coli ATCC 25922, and Pseudomonas aeruginosa ATCC 27853 (as gram positive) was selected. Compound 3 was observed to be the most effective against propagations of E. Coli. Similarly, compounds 7 and 9 were found to be the most effective against the reproduction of P. aeroginosa. The most powerful compound against the growth of E. faecalis was ascertained to be compound 7.
Exaggerated expectations in ancient starch research and the need for new taphonomic and authenticity criteria
Authors: Mercader Julio , Akeju Tolutope , Brown Melisa , Bundala Mariam , Collins Matthew J. , Copeland Les , Crowther Alison , Dunfield Peter , Henry Amanda , Inwood Jamie , Itambu Makarius , Kim Joong-Jae , Larter Steve , Longo Laura , Oldenburg Thomas , Patalano Robert , Sammynaiken Ramaswami , Soto María , Tyler Robert , Xhauflair Hermine
Published: July 2018

Ancient starch research illuminates aspects of human ecology and economic botany that drove human evolution and cultural complexity over time, with a special emphasis on past technology, diet, health, and adaptation to changing environments and socio-economic systems. However, lapses in prevailing starch research demonstrate the exaggerated expectations for the field that have been generated over the last few decades. This includes an absence of explanation for the millennial-scale survivability of a biochemically degradable polymer, and difficulties in establishing authenticity and taxonomic identification. This paper outlines new taphonomic and authenticity criteria to guide future work toward designing research programs that fully exploit the potential of ancient starch while considering growing demands from readers, editors, and reviewers that look for objective compositional identification of putatively ancient starch granules.
On unrolled Hopf algebras
Authors: Andruskiewitsch Nicolás , Schweigert Christoph
Published: July 2018

We show that the definition of unrolled Hopf algebras can be naturally extended to the Nichols algebra [Formula: see text] of a Yetter–Drinfeld module [Formula: see text] on which a Lie algebra [Formula: see text] acts by biderivations. As a special case, we find unrolled versions of the small quantum group.
In situ
spatial distribution mapping of radionuclides in minerals by nanoSIMS
Authors: Rollog Mark , Cook Nigel J. , Guagliardo Paul , Ehrig Kathy , Kilburn Matt
Published: July 2018

The nanoSIMS (nanometre-resolution secondary ion mass spectrometry) microanalytical platform is used, for the first time, for direct
in situ
visualization of medium half-life radionuclide (RN) distributions (
226
Ra – 1602y;
210
Pb – 22.3y) in copper sulphide-bearing ore and copper sulphide flotation concentrate samples. More than 200 grains have been mapped, all with an Hyperion (H200) RF plasma oxygen ion source. Sufficient counts for masses of interest allowed the generation of maps that stand as a proof of concept for further detailed work to address the physical locations of radionuclides of main interest. The issue of potential isobaric interfering masses has been addressed and partially resolved. The distribution of the studied radionuclides, both in relation to host minerals and in relation to each other, is logical and clearly supported by well-established theories of deportment, diffusion, and redistribution. Isotope maps for
210
RN (
210
Pb,
210
Po and
210
Bi) and
226
Ra maps tended to show RN distribution either within minerals (evenly distributed or zoned), as ‘hot spots’ on grain surfaces/mineral boundaries, or between cleavage planes of micaceous minerals. NanoSIMS element mapping of radionuclides may have widespread application for the disposal and long-term storage of nuclear waste, radioisotope monitoring, forensic science, nuclear and materials science, nuclear medicine, minerals engineering, and isotope geochemistry.
Hybrid Network‐on‐Chip: An Application‐Aware Framework for Big Data
Authors: Fang Juan , Liu Sitong , Liu Shijian , Cheng Yanjin , Yu Lu
Published: July 2018

Burst growing IoT and cloud computing demand exascale computing systems with high performance and low power consumption to process massive amounts of data. Modern system platforms based on fundamental requirements encounter a performance gap in chasing exponential growth in data speed and amount. To narrow the gap, a heterogamous design gives us a hint. A network‐on‐chip (NoC) introduces a packet‐switched fabric for on‐chip communication and becomes the de facto many‐core interconnection mechanism; it refers to a vital shared resource for multifarious applications which will notably affect system energy efficiency. Among all the challenges in NoC, unaware application behaviors bring about considerable congestion, which wastes huge amounts of bandwidth and power consumption on the chip. In this paper, we propose a hybrid NoC framework, combining buffered and bufferless NoCs, to make the NoC framework aware of applications’ performance demands. An optimized congestion control scheme is also devised to satisfy the requirement in energy efficiency and the fairness of big data applications. We use a trace‐driven simulator to model big data applications. Compared with the classical buffered NoC, the proposed hybrid NoC is able to significantly improve the performance of mixed applications by 17% on average and 24% at the most, decrease the power consumption by 38%, and improve the fairness by 13.3%.
Using Two‐Way Prestressed Semicircular Steel Plate for Construction of Reinforced Concrete Cylinder Column
Authors: Ren Zhenhua , Zeng Xiantao , Sun Junbo
Published: July 2018

A concrete column has a significant influence on constructions because the component withstands the major weight of the whole structure. However, the ordinary concrete column has limited capacity to resist to multiaxial loadings. Since steel plate is one of the most common materials used in construction, concrete reinforced with steel plates based on prestressing reinforcement technology would be a directly applicable solution to the enhancement of mechanical property. In this study, a new reinforcement method upon concrete cylinder column used a two‐way prestressed semicircular steel plate, which has already been patented. The study firstly analyzed the stress‐bearing situation of the short concrete column reinforced by a two‐way prestressed semicircular steel plate. The considerable substitution effect of vertical prestressing force on the concrete column was explored. The multiple restriction effects of horizontal prestressing force, semicircular steel plate, and stirrup were examined. Thereby, the calculation model was derived for the prestressed structure. Secondly, the formula was verified by experiments with close agreements. The result indicated that a unified strength theory was applicable to the theoretical calculation for short concrete column reinforced with a prestressed semicircular steel plate under axial compression, providing the foundation for analytical computation of prestressed semicircular steel plate‐reinforced concrete column structures.