bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Tick bite frequency, prevention practices and Lyme disease diagnoses among U.S. Hispanic survey respondents
Authors: Beck Alyssa , Solomon Julia , Hinckley Alison F. , Nelson Christina A.
Published: June 2021

Tick bite prevention practices, knowledge of Lyme disease (LD) symptoms and transmission, and patterns of LD diagnoses among Hispanic persons have been reported but not comprehensively evaluated. In 2014, CDC examined questions from a prospective nationwide survey of U.S. Hispanic adults conducted via the Offerwise QueOpinas panel regarding ticks and LD. From October to November, a total of 2,649 surveys were released and 1,006 completed surveys returned. Overall, 44% of respondents reported routinely practising at least one form of personal protection against tick bites, and wearing repellent was the most commonly reported method (29%). Approximately 6% of respondents reported a tick bite for either themselves or someone in their household during the previous 12 months. An individual or household diagnosis of LD in the previous year was reported by 2% of respondents, with the highest proportion of diagnoses reported by respondents from high LD incidence states. The annual incidence of healthcare provider‐diagnosed LD in the survey population was higher than national surveillance estimates for reported LD among U.S. Hispanic persons during 2000–2013. As annual incidence of LD continues to increase, it is important to ensure equitable access to information about LD, including disease transmission, manifestations, and prevention recommendations. Results from this survey can help inform public health outreach focused on effective tick bite prevention methods and early recognition of LD.
Transient and Residual Stresses in Heat-Treated Cylinders
Authors: Weiner J. H. , Huddleston J. V.
Published: June 2021

General equations for the computation of stress rates in solid and hollow cylinders subjected to transient temperature distributions are developed, based on the assumptions of an elastic, perfectly plastic material obeying the Tresca yield condition with Poisson ratio of one half. For most temperature distributions, it appears that these equations can be integrated only by numerical means. However, for one particular temperature distribution, equivalent to a phase transformation which occurs at a fixed temperature, it is found possible to integrate them analytically, and expressions for the transient and residual stresses are obtained in closed form. The latter results are compared with experiment and qualitative agreement noted.
A Theorem of Maximum Strain Energy
Authors: Brown E. H.
Published: June 2021

A new theorem for elastic structures obeying Hooke’s law is proved and enunciated as follows: If the strain energy can be expressed in terms of given external loads and the positions of points constrained to have no displacement, then the expression will have a maximum value when the positions are such as make the constraining forces zero. The theorem is generalized to allow a wider class of constraint, such as the attachment of a second, rigid structure to the elastic structure under analysis, in such a way that the two have certain displacement components in common. The principle has been applied by E. H. Mansfield to certain problems in the bending of plates.
On Supersonic Wind Tunnels With Low Free-Stream Disturbances
Authors: Morkovin M. V.
Published: June 2021

Measurements in supersonic wind tunnels have become almost routine in the last decade and yet little is known about the free-stream disturbances, which are present, and about the means of minimizing them. The present note outlines the problems of minimizing the mean as well as the unsteady variations of velocity and temperature and gives guidance where the trends are clear. It is found that in many wind tunnels the free-stream fluctuations are likely to be dominated by aerodynamic sound in the sense of Lighthill and by shivering Mach waves. Only conjectures can be offered on the means of minimizing the resulting sound intensity at the present time.
A Perturbation Solution of the Equations of Motion of a Gyroscope
Authors: Goodstein Robert
Published: June 2021

A perturbation method of solution is outlined for the nonlinear equations of motion of free and forced vibration of a two-gimbal gyro. Results are given for the term displayed in the solution which indicates that the outer gimbal of the gyro will not oscillate about its initial center position, but will acquire a steady rate of change of position.
On the Natural Modes and Their Stability in Nonlinear Two-Degree-of-Freedom Systems
Authors: Rosenberg R. M. , Atkinson C. P.
Published: June 2021

The natural modes of free vibrations of a symmetrical two-degree-of-freedom system are analyzed theoretically and experimentally. This system has two natural modes, one in-phase and the other out-of-phase. In contradistinction to the comparable single-degree-of-freedom system where the free vibrations are always orbitally stable, the natural modes of the symmetrical two-degree-of-freedom system are frequently unstable. The stability properties depend on two parameters and are easily deduced from a stability chart. For sufficiently small amplitudes both modes are, in general, stable. When the coupling spring is linear, both modes are always stable at all amplitudes. For other conditions, either mode may become unstable at certain amplitudes. In particular, if there is a single value of frequency and amplitude at which the system can vibrate in either mode, the out-of-phase mode experiences a change of stability. The experimental investigation has generally confirmed the theoretical predictions.
Analysis of Plane Stress in Polar Co-ordinates and With Varying Thickness
Authors: Conway H. D.
Published: June 2021

The biharmonic stress-function equation for plane stress in polar co-ordinates is generalized by assuming that the thickness varies with the radius. In order to make this equation tractable, the thickness is assumed to be proportional to an arbitrary power of the radius. Michell’s general solution for the constant-thickness case is then generalized for this variation of thickness. As a numerical example, the solution is given for the problem of a segmental plate bent by end couples, the constant-thickness version of this well-known problem being due to Golovin.
Yield Point Load of an Annular Plate
Authors: Hodge Philip G.
Published: June 2021

The yield point load is computed for an annular plate, simply supported at its inner and outer edges and subjected to a uniform load. A previously published solution is shown to be incorrect.
Coupled Torsional and Longitudinal Vibrations of a Thin Bar
Authors: Di Prima R. C.
Published: June 2021

The effect of pretwist on the natural frequencies of coupled torsional-longitudinal oscillations of thin bars is studied. It is found that the natural frequencies of oscillations which consist primarily of torsional motion may be considerably increased depending upon the thinness of the bar, and the amount of pretwist. The natural frequencies of oscillations which consist primarily of longitudinal motion are not significantly altered.
On the Accuracy of Some Shell Solutions
Authors: Galletly G. D. , Radok J. R. M.
Published: June 2021

R. B. Dingle’s method [1] for finding asymptotic solutions of ordinary differential equations of a type such as occur in the bending theory of thin shells of revolution is presented in outline. This method leads to the same results as R. E. Langer’s method [2], recently used for problems of this kind, and permits a simple analytical and less formal interpretation of the asymptotic treatment of such equations. A comparison is given of edge influence coefficients due to bending loads, obtained by use of these asymptotic solutions and numerical integration of the equilibrium equations, respectively. The particular shells investigated are of the open-crown, ellipsoidal, and negative-curvature toroidal types. The results indicate that the agreement between these solutions is satisfactory. In the presence of uniform pressure, the use of the membrane solutions for the determination of the particular integrals appears to lead to acceptable results in the case of ellipsoidal shells. However, in the case of toroidal shells, the membrane and the numerical solutions disagree significantly.
The Free Vibrations of Grillages
Authors: Ellington J. P. , McCallion H.
Published: June 2021

Frequency equations and modal shapes are derived for the transverse vibrations of beam grillages consisting of two sets of equally spaced uniform beams, the mass of the beams and associated plating being taken as lumped at the nodes.
A Photoelastic Approach to Transient Stress Problems Employing Low-Modulus Materials
Authors: Dally J. W. , Riley W. F. , Durelli A. J.
Published: June 2021

The objective of the program discussed in this paper was to develop a method, using photoelasticity and low-modulus materials, for studying dynamic stress distributions. Early in the program a number of low-modulus materials were studied and Hysol 8705 (a urethane-rubber compound) was selected as the most promising. A complete study of its mechanical and optical properties was made under static and dynamic loadings. It was established, that Poisson’s ratio ν is independent of rate of loading, the stress fringe value fσ is independent of rate of loading for strain rates greater than 8 in/in/ sec, and both the modulus of elasticity E and the strain fringe value fϵ were dependent oil the rate of loading. The specific energy loss for the material was about 10 per cent for the stress ranges associated with photoelastic determinations. Experimental observations of photoelastic fringe patterns in a rectangular strut subjected to axial impact were made to illustrate the potential of the method. Three different end conditions were imposed on the unloaded end of the strut: (a) A free end normal to the axis; (b) a fixed end normal to the axis; and (c) a free end inclined 45 deg to the axis. For the cases where the ends were normal to the axis it was found that the fringes followed the same law of reflection as the law for stresses given by elementary wave theory.
A Heat Transfer Model for Graphene Deposition on Ni and Cu Foils in a Roll-to-Roll Plasma Chemical Vapor Deposition System
Authors: Alrefae Majed A. , Fisher Timothy S.
Published: June 2021

High-throughput production is a major bottleneck for integration of graphene-based technologies in existing and future applications. Here, a semi-empirical heat transfer model is developed to optimize large-scale deposition of graphene on Ni and Cu foils in a roll-to-roll (R2R) plasma chemical vapor deposition (CVD) system. Temperature distributions in Ni and Cu foils during deposition are recorded with in situ temperature measurements using near-IR optical emission spectroscopy. The model indicates that foil movement significantly affects the temperature distribution and the cooling rate of the foil. Consequently, graphene growth on Cu is limited to lower web speeds for which the foil temperature is higher, and the residence time in the plasma is longer. On the other hand, graphene can be deposited on Ni at relatively higher web speeds due to moderately high diffusion rate of carbon in Ni and increased cooling rates up to 20 K/s with higher web speed. Critical limitations in the production rates of graphene using R2R CVD process exist due to significant effects of web speed on the temperature distribution of the substrate. The thermal analysis approach reported here is expected to aid in enhancing the throughput of graphene production in R2R CVD systems.
Investigation of Fiber-Driven Mechanical Behavior of Human and Porcine Bladder Tissue Tested Under Identical Conditions
Authors: Tuttle Tyler G. , Morhardt Duncan R. , Poli Andrea A. , Park John M. , Arruda Ellen M. , Roccabianca Sara
Published: June 2021

The urinary bladder is a highly dynamic organ that undergoes large deformations several times per day. Mechanical characteristics of the tissue are crucial in determining the function and dysfunction of the organ. Yet, literature reporting on the mechanical properties of human bladder tissue is scarce and, at times, contradictory. In this study, we focused on mechanically testing tissue from both human and pig bladders using identical protocols to validate the use of pigs as a model for the human bladder. Furthermore, we tested the effect of two treatments on tissue mechanical properties. Namely, elastase to digest elastin fibers, and oxybutynin to reduce smooth muscle cell spasticity. Additionally, mechanical properties based on the anatomical direction of testing were evaluated. We implemented two different material models to aid in the interpretation of the experimental results. We found that human tissue behaves similarly to pig tissue at high deformations (collagen-dominated behavior) while we detected differences between the species at low deformations (amorphous matrix-dominated behavior). Our results also suggest that elastin could play a role in determining the behavior of the fiber network. Finally, we confirmed the anisotropy of the tissue, which reached higher stresses in the transverse direction when compared to the longitudinal direction.
Simulation of a Simplified Aeroengine Bearing Chamber Using a Fully Coupled Two-Way Eulerian Thin Film/Discrete Phase Approach Part II: Droplet Behavior in the Chamber
Authors: Nicoli Andrew , Johnson Kathy , Jefferson-Loveday Richard
Published: June 2021

Within aeroengines, bearing chambers exhibit a highly complex two-phase environment as a result of the complex air/oil interactions. The desire to operate at both higher temperatures and shaft speeds requires a sufficient understanding of these systems for design optimization. Typically, bearings are used to support the radial and axial loads transmitted by the shafts and require oil for lubrication and cooling. These bearings are housed in bearing chambers that are sealed using airblown seals. Efficient scavenging systems ensure that the oil is collected and returned to the tank avoiding any unnecessary working of the oil. Previous work at the Gas Turbine and Transmissions Research Center (G2TRC) has highlighted the need for an adequate computational model which can appropriately model the oil shedding behavior from such bearings. Oil can breakup forming droplets and ligaments, subsequently forming thin and thick films driven by both gravity and shear. The objective of this paper is to explore the modeling capability of fully two-way coupled Eulerian thin film/discrete phase models (ETFM-DPM) applied to our simplified bearing chamber configuration. The models are created using openfoam and two-way coupling is employed, enabling Lagrangian droplets to either impinge on the film surface or be removed through effects such as film stripping, splashing, or edge separation. This paper focuses on the droplets, presenting statistics relating to size, velocity, impingement, and residence time, and provides insight into solution sensitivity to operational parameters including shaft speed and oil flow rate. This extends upon our previously published work and improves bearing chamber modeling capability.
Intelligibility of chimeric locally time-reversed speech: Relative contribution of four frequency bands
Authors: Ueda Kazuo , Matsuo Ikuo
Published: June 2021

Intelligibility of four-band speech stimuli was investigated (n = 18), such that only one of the frequency bands was preserved, whereas other bands were locally time-reversed (segment duration: 75–300 ms), or vice versa. Intelligibility was best retained (82% at 75 ms) when the second lowest band (540–1700 Hz) was preserved. When the same band was degraded, the largest drop (10% at 300 ms) occurred. The lowest and second highest bands contributed similarly less strongly to intelligibility. The highest frequency band contributed least. A close connection between the second lowest frequency band and sonority was suggested.
Progressive Visual Occlusion and Postural Control Responses in Individuals With and Without Chronic Ankle Instability
Authors: VanDeMark Lilly H. , Vander Vegt Christina B. , Ford Cassie B. , Mihalik Jason P. , Wikstrom Erik A.
Published: June 2021

Context: Prophylactic and rehabilitative balance training is needed to maximize postural control and develop appropriate sensory organization strategies. Partially occluding vision during functional exercise may promote appropriate sensory organization strategies, but little is known about the influence of partially occluded vision on postural control in those with and without a history of musculoskeletal injury. Objective: To determine the effect of increasing levels of visual occlusion on postural control in a heterogeneous sample of those with and without chronic ankle instability (CAI). The secondary objective was to explore postural control responses to increasing levels of visual occlusion among those with unilateral and bilateral CAI relative to uninjured controls. Design: Cross-sectional. Setting: Sports medicine research laboratory. Patients or Other Participants: Twenty-five participants with unilateral CAI, 10 with bilateral CAI, and 16 participants with no history of lower extremity injury. Main Outcome Measures: All participants completed four 3-minute postural control assessments in double-limb stance under the following 4 visual conditions: (1) eyes open, (2) low occlusion, (3) high occlusion, and (4) eyes closed. Low- and high-occlusion conditions were produced using stroboscopic eyewear. Postural control outcomes included time-to-boundary minima means in the anteroposterior (TTB-AP) and mediolateral directions (TTB-ML). Repeated-measures analysis of variances tested the effects of visual condition on TTB-AP and TTB-ML. Results: Postural control under the eyes-open condition was significantly better (ie, higher) than the limited visual occlusion and eyes-closed conditions (P < .001) for TTB-AP and TTB-ML. For TTB-AP only, partially occluded vision resulted in better postural control than the eyes-closed condition (P ≤ .003). Conclusions: Partial and complete visual occlusion impaired postural control during dual-limb stance in a heterogeneous sample of those with and without CAI. Stroboscopic eyewear appears to induce postural control impairments to the same extent as complete visual occlusion in the mediolateral direction.
Community factors associated with local epidemic timing of respiratory syncytial virus: A spatiotemporal modeling study
Authors: Zheng Zhe , Pitzer Virginia E. , Warren Joshua L. , Weinberger Daniel M.
Published: June 2021

RSV epidemic dynamics are influenced by local community characteristics and spatial spread.
Anti-inflammatory nanoparticles significantly improve muscle function in a murine model of advanced muscular dystrophy
Authors: Raimondo Theresa M. , Mooney David J.
Published: June 2021

IL-4 NPs dampen T cell inflammation and increase dystrophic muscle strength; such treatment may benefit diverse dystrophies.
A retroviral oncogene, akt, encoding a serine-threonine kinase containing an SH2-like region
Authors: Bellacosa A , Testa  , Staal SP , Tsichlis PN
Published: June 2021

The v-akt oncogene codes for a 105-kilodalton fusion phosphoprotein containing Gag sequences at its amino terminus. Sequence analysis of v-akt and biochemical characterization of its product revealed that it codes for a protein kinase C-related serine-threonine kinase whose cellular homolog is expressed in most tissues, with the highest amount found in thymus. Although Akt is a serine-threonine kinase, part of its regulatory region is similar to the Src homology-2 domain, a structural motif characteristic of cytoplasmic tyrosine kinases that functions in protein-protein interactions. This suggests that Akt may form a functional link between tyrosine and serine-threonine phosphorylation pathways.
Cell cycle dependence of laminar determination in developing neocortex
Authors: McConnell SK , Kaznowski CE
Published: June 2021

The neocortex is patterned in layers of neurons that are generated in an orderly sequence during development. This correlation between cell birthday and laminar fate prompted an examination of how neuronal phenotypes are determined in the developing cortex. At various times after labeling with [3H]thymidine, embryonic progenitor cells were transplanted into older host brains. The laminar fate of transplanted neurons correlates with the position of their progenitors in the cell cycle at the time of transplantation. Daughters of cells transplanted in S-phase migrate to layer 2/3, as do host neurons. Progenitors transplanted later in the cell cycle, however, produce daughters that are committed to their normal, deep-layer fates. Thus, environmental factors are important determinants of laminar fate, but embryonic progenitors undergo cyclical changes in their ability to respond to such cues.
An autonomous drone for search and rescue in forests using airborne optical sectioning
Authors: Schedl D. C. , Kurmi I. , Bimber O.
Published: June 2021

A prototype drone is presented that finds people in densely occluded forests fully autonomously.
Seeing through the forest and the trees with drones
Authors: Birk Andreas
Published: June 2021

Signal processing of thermal images that are autonomously collected by a drone detects people in densely occluded forests.
Differential Responses of Arbuscular Mycorrhizal Fungal Communities to Long-Term Fertilization in the Wheat Rhizosphere and Root Endosphere
Authors: Ma Yuying , Zhang Huanchao , Wang Daozhong , Guo Xisheng , Yang Teng , Xiang Xingjia , Walder Florian , Chu Haiyan
Published: June 2021

Arbuscular mycorrhizal fungi are an integral component of rhizospheres, bridging the soil and plant systems and are highly sensitive to fertilization. However, surprisingly little is known about how the response differs between the roots and the surrounding soil.
Mining the Factors Driving the Evolution of the Pit Mud Microbiome under the Impact of Long-Term Production of Strong-Flavor Baijiu
Authors: Chai Li-Juan , Qian Wei , Zhong Xiao-Zhong , Zhang Xiao-Juan , Lu Zhen-Ming , Zhang Su-Yi , Wang Song-Tao , Shen Cai-Hong , Shi Jin-Song , Xu Zheng-Hong
Published: June 2021

The solid-state anaerobic fermentation in a mud cellar is the most typical feature of strong-flavor baijiu (SFB). Metabolites produced by microbes inhabiting pit mud are crucial to create the unique flavor of SFB.
Sea-Ice Bacteria
Halomonas
sp. Strain 363 and
Paracoccus
sp. Strain 392 Produce Multiple Types of Poly-3-Hydroxyalkaonoic Acid (PHA) Storage Polymers at Low Temperature
Authors: Eronen-Rasimus E. , Hultman J. , Hai T. , Pessi I. S. , Collins E. , Wright S. , Laine P. , Viitamäki S. , Lyra C. , Thomas D. N. , Golyshin P. N. , Luhtanen A.-M. , Kuosa H. , Kaartokallio H.
Published: June 2021

Plastic pollution is one of the most topical threats to the health of the oceans and seas. One recognized way to alleviate the problem is to use degradable bioplastic materials in high-risk applications.
Preferential Selection and Contribution of Non-Structural Protein 1 (NS1) to the Efficient Transmission of Panzootic Avian Influenza H5N8 Virus Clades 2.3.4.4A and B in Chickens and Ducks
Authors: Blaurock Claudia , Breithaupt Angele , Scheibner David , Bagato Ola , Karger Axel , Mettenleiter Thomas C. , Abdelwhab Elsayed M.
Published: June 2021

The panzootic H5N8 highly pathogenic avian influenza viruses of clade 2.3.4.4A and 2.3.4.4B devastated the poultry industry globally. Clade 2.3.4.4A was predominant in 2014/2015 while clade 2.3.4.4B was widely spread in 2016/2017.
Hepatitis C Virus Evades Interferon Signaling by Suppressing Long Noncoding RNA Linc-Pint Involving C/EBP-β
Authors: Khatun Mousumi , Zhang Jinsong , Ray Ranjit , Ray Ratna B.
Published: June 2021

The mechanism by which lncRNA regulates the host immune response during HCV infection is poorly understood. We observed that Linc-Pint was transcriptionally downregulated by HCV.
Draft Genome Sequences of Local Clinical Isolates of Drug-Resistant and Drug-Sensitive Mycobacterium tuberculosis
Authors: Zainal Abidin Norzuliana , Noorizhab Mohd Nur Fakhruzzaman , Teh Lay Kek , Lim Wai Feng , Mohd Noordin Noorliza , Aziz Zirwatul Adilah , Abu Bakar Zamzurina , Ismail Ahmad Izuanuddin , Mohd Nor Norazmi , Salleh Mohd Zaki
Published: June 2021

In the battle against tuberculosis (TB), plasticity of the
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
genome is believed to contribute to the pathogen’s virulence and drug resistance. Here, we report 10 draft genome sequences of clinical
M. tuberculosis
isolated in Malaysia as the basis for understanding the genome plasticity of the
M. tuberculosis
isolates.
Amplicon Sequencing of Rock-Inhabiting Microbial Communities from Joshua Tree National Park, USA
Authors: Coleine Claudia , Selbmann Laura , Pombubpa Nuttapon , Stajich Jason E.
Published: June 2021

Endolithic microorganisms have been reported to date in hot and cold drylands worldwide, where they represent the prevailing life forms ensuring ecosystem functionality, playing a paramount role in global biogeochemical processes. We report here an amplicon sequencing characterization of rocks collected from Joshua Tree National Park (JTNP), USA.
Risk Factors for Klebsiella Infections among Hospitalized Patients with Preexisting Colonization
Authors: Rao Krishna , Patel Alieysa , Sun Yuang , Vornhagen Jay , Motyka Jonathan , Collingwood Abigail , Teodorescu Alexandra , Baang Ji Hoon , Zhao Lili , Kaye Keith S. , Bachman Michael A.
Published: June 2021

Klebsiella
is a leading cause of health care-associated infections. Patients who are intestinally colonized with
Klebsiella
are at a significantly increased risk of subsequent infection, but only a subset of colonized patients progress to disease.
Reversing Antibiotic Resistance Caused by Mobile Resistance Genes of High Fitness Cost
Authors: Wu Jinyong , Dong Xiaohong , Zhang Lihua , Lin Yufei , Yang Kun
Published: June 2021

The dissemination of bacterial antibiotic resistance is a serious threat to human health. The development of new antibiotics faces both economic and technological challenges.
Candida auris Cell Wall Mannosylation Contributes to Neutrophil Evasion through Pathways Divergent from Candida albicans and Candida glabrata
Authors: Horton Mark V. , Johnson Chad J. , Zarnowski Robert , Andes Brody D. , Schoen Taylor J. , Kernien John F. , Lowman Douglas , Kruppa Michael D. , Ma Zuchao , Williams David L. , Huttenlocher Anna , Nett Jeniel E.
Published: June 2021

The emerging fungal pathogen
Candida auris
presents a global public health threat. Therapeutic options are often limited for this frequently drug-resistant pathogen, and mortality rates for invasive disease are high.
mSphere of Influence: Forgotten Questions
Authors: McCall Laura-Isobel
Published: June 2021

Laura-Isobel McCall studies the relationship between location and disease pathogenesis, with a focus on infectious diseases and neglected diseases of poverty.
Supplemental Material: Initiation of Clockwise Rotation and Eastward Transport of Southeastern Tibet Inferred from Deflected Fault Traces and GPS Observations
Authors: Gan Weijun , al. et
Published: June 2021

Table S1: GPS velocity data in a Eurasian-fixed Reference Frame (velocity in mm/yr); Table S2: GPS velocity data in a South China Block-fixed Reference Frame (velocity in mm/yr); Table S3: GPS stations in the South China Block used to define the Euler Vector for transformation of reference frame (velocity in mm/yr); Table S4: Interpolated velocities of the points on current fault trace and extension line of undeflected fault segment, and the averages of each pair of corresponding points (velocity in mm/yr); Table S5: Position and backward velocity of points on current fault trace (velocity in mm/yr); Table S6: Points inferred from the best estimate of duration time; Table S7: Points on smoothed original fault trace.
Supplemental Material: Eocene thickening without extra heat in a collisional orogenic belt: A record from Eocene metamorphism in mafic dike swarms within the Tethyan Himalaya, southern Tibet
Authors: Wang Yuhua , al. et
Published: June 2021

Table S1: EPMA data of minerals compositions for garnet amphibolite; Table S2: Zircon U-Pb SHRIMP data for garnet amphibolite T0526; Table S3: Major and trace element compositions of garnet amphibolites.
Influence of Heating Modes of Compacted Samples from Nickel Powders with Nanosized Particles on Their Interaction with Air
Authors: Alymov M. I. , Seplyarskii B. S. , Vadchenko S. G. , Zelensky V. A. , Rubtsov N. M. , Kochetkov R. A. , Shchukin A. S. , Kovalev I. D.
Published: June 2021

In this paper, we study compact samples of pyrophoric nickel powders with the average particle size of 85 nm, obtained by the chemical-metallurgical method. For the first time, it is experimentally shown that it is possible to passivate compact samples with a diameter of 3 mm from pyrophoric nickel powders with nanosized particles in air. For a relative density of 0.4 to 0.5, the passivation time is only 3–5 s. According to the X-ray phase analysis data, only the Ni phase is observed in passivated samples. It is found that passivated samples retain their thermal stability in air upon slow (<10 deg/s) heating to ~200°C, which is an important parameter for fire safety when handling nanopowders. The electron microscopic analysis of the passivated samples did not reveal traces of sintering of nickel nanoparticles, including after checking for thermal stability. The uniform distribution of oxygen over the passivated samples according to the data of energy dispersive analysis (the standard deviation is 0.9 at %) indicates the volumetric nature of the interaction of the samples with air during passivation. For the obtained passivated samples, the critical heating conditions were determined, under which self-ignition occurs, which is in agreement with N.N. Semyonov’s classical theory of thermal explosion.
Medically managed prosthetic valve endocarditis caused bySalmonella enteritidis
Authors: Connolly Gavin , Kale Mita , Ustianowski Andrew
Published: June 2021

Infective endocarditis is associated with morbidity and mortality even when appropriately treated. It can be more complicated to treat when prosthetic material is present, often necessitating surgical revision as well as antimicrobial therapy. Endocarditis caused by gram-negative bacilli is a rare occurrence, with some literature and expert opinion suggesting superior outcomes with combined surgery and antibiotics when a prosthetic valve is involved. In cases where the prosthetic valve is well-functioning and undamaged, or cardiothoracic surgery represents a significant operative risk, it can be unclear how best to proceed. This report documents a case ofSalmonella entericasubspeciesentericaserovarenteritidisendocarditis of a mechanical mitral valve. The patient was managed with 6 weeks of intravenous antibiotics followed by suppressive oral antibiotic therapy. They remain in good health at 24 months.
Black stone poisoning with a unique complication of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES)
Authors: Akhlaq Safia , Aziz Adil
Published: June 2021

A 25-year-old woman presented to the emergency department with difficulty in breathing, within 12 hours of intentional black stone ingestion, that is, para-phenylenediamine (p-PD), a chemical component of hair dye. Video laryngoscopy was done which showed laryngeal oedema and got intubated immediately to prevent respiratory failure. She got admitted to the intensive care unit and rigorous fluid resuscitation was done due to acute kidney injury secondary to rhabdomyolysis. On the 5th day, she got extubated after a successful spontaneous breathing trial, and step down to the high dependency unit, where she had four episodes of seizures in a day. After antiepileptic medication initiation, seizures were settled, brain imaging done to rule out stroke showed a finding suggestive of posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome. Adequate intravenous fluid resuscitation was performed and blood pressure monitored closely. She remained vitally stable and clinically better hence discharge home with clinic follow-up on the 9th day of hospitalisation.
Intravascular lymphoma presenting with hypoxaemia, platypnoea and lactic acidosis
Authors: Englert Pierre , Levy Sophie , Vekemans Marc , De Wilde Virginie
Published: June 2021

Intravascular large B-cell lymphoma (IVLBCL) is an aggressive and rare type of diffuse extranodal B-cell lymphoma. Diagnosis and treatment are challenging and clinical presentation is variable. Physicians should be aware of this rare but life-threatening lymphoma without adenopathy and treatment should be promptly started. We describe the case of a 70-year-old woman who presented with general malaise, acute dyspnoea, platypnoea and lactic acidosis. Echocardiography revealed an extracardiac shunt, the cause of her orthodeoxia. The patient developed rapid liver failure and underwent liver biopsy. Anatomopathological findings suggested IVLBCL, non-germinal center type. She achieved complete remission after rituximab, cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, methylprednisolone chemotherapy but relapsed 1 year after initial presentation with multiple organ involvement. The patient’s relapsed disease was treated with rituximab, iphosphamide, carboplatin, etoposide and she is still in complete remission 2 years later.
Extraperitoneal parastomal metastasis of malignant peritoneal mesothelioma
Authors: Hoff Jai , Castrisos George , Ho Yiu Ming , Ruhnke Monika
Published: June 2021

A 75-year-old man was referred to surgical outpatient department with what was thought to be a parastomal hernia. Through further investigations with CT and biopsy, it was identified that the parastomal mass was metastatic peritoneal mesothelioma in the abdominal wall and subcutaneous tissue. The patient had a significant surgical history including a previous abdominoperineal resection with end colostomy 9 years prior and a right hemicolectomy for small bowel obstruction the previous year which diagnosed peritoneal mesothelioma. Peritoneal mesothelioma often spreads throughout the abdominal cavity and rarely spreads outside the peritoneum, with this being the first case describing parastomal metastasis. Given the patient’s surgical background, this is possible to have contributed to seeding the spread of peritoneal mesothelioma.
A mesenteric defect causing internal herniation and ischaemia of both the ascending and sigmoid colons, treated with a bowel preserving surgery
Authors: Al-Saadi Nina , Devani Pooja , Hunter David I , Bowrey David J
Published: June 2021

Internal hernias due to mesenteric defects are a rare cause of bowel obstruction, but once present their complications are associated with a high morbidity and mortality. We present the case of a 24-year-old patient who presented to the emergency department with a 6-hour history of abdominal pain. Initial surgical review, taking into consideration the patient’s clinical, biochemical and radiological findings, led to the patient being taken for immediate surgical exploration. Operative findings included a very mobile caecum and proximal ascending colon which had herniated through a defect in the small bowel mesentery, the sigmoid colon had subsequently become incarcerated by the caecum and small bowel too. Both the ascending and sigmoid colon had become ischaemic. Due to the early decision for surgical intervention, we were able to consider a number of surgical strategies, and the surgery led to a positive outcome for our patient.
Overconsumption of fluids during labour leading to water intoxication and a tonic–clonic seizure in a healthy labourer
Authors: Shanmugharaj Yogita , Schut Viktorie , Syed Rifat , Zakaryan Anahit
Published: June 2021

A 33-year-old woman in her first pregnancy with no significant medical history had a tonic–clonic seizure one hour after delivery due to acute hyponatraemia caused by excess intake of fluids. She was admitted to a birthing centre as a low-risk labourer where she spent 19 hours including 4 hours in the second stage of labour. Throughout the labour, she was encouraged to drink as per her own initiative and thirst. However, there was no monitoring of fluid intake. In spite of initial confusion about the cause of the seizure, a multidisciplinary approach helped with diagnosis of an underlying pathology and allowed timely treatment to avoid adverse outcomes in this patient. We would like to increase awareness of a possibility, however rare, of water intoxication due to fluid overconsumption by patients in labour and encourage production of information guidance for monitoring of fluid intake of women in labour.
Cost-effectiveness of a self-management and comprehensive training intervention in patients with type 2 diabetes up to 5 years of diagnosis in a specialized hospital in Mexico City
Authors: Hernández-Jiménez Sergio , García-Ulloa Ana Cristina , Anaya Pablo , Gasca-Pineda Ricardo , Sánchez-Trujillo Luis Arturo , Peña Baca Héctor , González-Pier Eduardo , Graue-Hernández Enrique O , Aguilar-Salinas Carlos Alberto , Gómez-Pérez Franciso Javier , Kershenobich-Stalnikowitz David
Published: June 2021

Introduction

To assess the cost-effectiveness of a multidisciplinary and comprehensive innovative diabetes care program (CAIPaDi) versus usual treatment in public health institutions.

Research design and methods

Using a cost-effectiveness analysis, we compared the CAIPaDi program versus usual treatment given in Mexican public health institutions. The analysis was based on the IQVIA Core Diabetes Model, a validated simulation model used to estimate long-term clinical outcomes. Data were prospectively obtained from the CAIPaDi program and from public databases and published papers. Health outcomes were expressed in terms of life-years gained and quality-adjusted life years (QALYs). Health and economic outcomes were estimated from a public perspective and discounted at 5% per year over a 20-year horizon. Costs are reported in US dollars (US$) of 2019. A probabilistic sensitivity analysis was performed using life-years gained and QALYs.

Results

The CAIPaDi costs on average US$559 (95% CI: −$879 to −$239) less than the usual treatment (95% CI: −$879 to −$239) and produced a difference in mean life-years gained (0.48, 95% CI: 0.45 to 0.52) and mean QALYs (1.43, 95% CI: 1.40 to 1.46). The cost-effectiveness ratio resulted in a saving per life-year gained of −US$1155 (95% CI: −$1962 to −$460). Mean differences in QALYs resulted in a saving per QALY of −US$735 (95% CI: −$1193 to −$305). Probabilistic sensitivity analysis proved the results are robust on both life-years gained and QALYs.

Conclusions

CAIPaDi has a better cost-effectiveness ratio than the usual therapy in Mexican public health institutions.
Depression and anxiety symptoms to COVID-19 outbreak among the public, medical staff and patients during the initial phase of the pandemic: an online questionnaire survey by a WeChat Mini Program
Authors: Wang Xianglan , Tao Jiong , Zhu Qi , Wu Xiuhua , Li Tong , Zhao Chongbang , Yang Weirui , Wang Xiaoying , Zhang Jinbei , Guan Nianhong
Published: June 2021

Objectives

To survey anxiety and depression symptoms to COVID-19 outbreak in the public, medical staff and patients during the initial phase of the pandemic.

Design

Cross-sectional online survey administered through WeChat Mini Program using Chinese versions of Zung Self-rating Depression Scale and Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale.

Setting

Guangzhou, China.

Participants

47 378 public, 1512 medical staff and 125 patients with COVID-19.

Results

Higher rates of depression (47.8%) and anxiety symptoms (48.7%) were shown by patients who were screened positive compared with those of the public (35.6%, 25.7%) or medical staff (15.4%, 13.3%). The professional identity of a nurse, conditions of ‘with an infected family member’ and ‘working at the frontline’ were risk factors to depression or anxiety symptoms for the medical staff. Younger age, lower educational level, female and not having adequate masks were the risk factors for the public.

Conclusion

The COVID-19 outbreak increased people’s depression or anxiety emotion responses, which varied extensively among the patients, public and medical staff.
Timing, delays and pathways to diagnosis of endometriosis: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Cromeens Martha Grace , Carey Erin T. , Robinson Whitney R. , Knafl Kathleen , Thoyre Suzanne
Published: June 2021

Introduction

Pathways to diagnosis for women with endometriosis are frequently characterised with delays. Internationally, women face significant barriers and times to diagnosis. The prolonged time without a diagnosis may result in treatment delay, with clinical implications of chronic pain and an unknown effect on fertility outcomes. As delays in diagnosis extend, those suffering from endometriosis incur more cost and frequently experience a reduction in quality of life. The scoping review described in this protocol will (1) map current international scientific peer-reviewed and grey literature investigating pathways, timing, and delay of diagnosis of endometriosis, (2) define common concepts used in the literature, and (3) identify gaps for future examination and intervention development.

Methods and analysis

This protocol outlines a scoping review to investigate the current research focused on pathways, timing, and delays in endometriosis diagnosis. The scoping review uses the Joanna Briggs Institute Methodology. The researchers applied the Population, Concept, Context approach to form the research questions. A search string of key terms and Medical Subject Headings will be used to systematically search the PubMed, CINAHL, EMBASE, Web of Science, and Cochrane databases. We will also search ClinicalTrials.gov and grey literature sources. The original search was performed in July 2020, and it will be rerun prior to the manuscript submission. Finally, the reference lists of included works will be reviewed for additional studies. The search results will be screened and reviewed according to predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. Data will be extracted from the studies identified for final inclusion using a predetermined tool. The resulting data will be analysed to report the state of the science.

Ethics and dissemination

The proposed scoping review does not require review or approval by an ethical board. The researchers will disseminate the study results via conference presentations and publication in a peer-reviewed journal.
Intimacy for older adults in long-term care: a need, a right, a privilege—or a kind of care?
Authors: Schouten Vanessa , Henrickson Mark , Cook Catherine M , McDonald Sandra , Atefi Nilo
Published: June 2021

Background

To investigate attitudes of staff, residents and family members in long-term care towards sex and intimacy among older adults, specifically the extent to which they conceptualise sex and intimacy as a need, a right, a privilege or as a component of overall well-being.

Methods

The present study was a part of a two-arm mixed-methods cross-sectional study using a concurrent triangulation design. A validated survey tool was developed; 433 staff surveys were collected from 35 facilities across the country. Interviews were conducted with 75 staff, residents and family members.

Results

It was common for staff, residents and family members to talk about intimacy and sexuality in terms of rights and needs. As well as using the language of needs and rights, it was common for participants to use terms related to well-being, such as fun, happiness or being miserable. One participant in particular (a staff member) described receiving intimate touch as a ‘kind of care’—a particularly useful way of framing the conversation.

Conclusion

While staff, residents and family frequently used the familiar language of needs and rights to discuss access to intimate touch, they also used the language of well-being and care. Reframing the conversation in this way serves a useful purpose: it shifts the focus from simply meeting minimum obligations to a salutogenic approach—one that focuses on caring for the whole person in order to improve overall well-being and quality of life.
Farming, pesticide exposure and respiratory health: a cross-sectional study in Thailand
Authors: Ratanachina Jate , Amaral Andre , De Matteis Sara , Cullinan Paul , Burney Peter
Published: June 2021

Objective

To assess the association of lung function and respiratory symptoms with farming, particularly pesticide use, in an agricultural province in Thailand.

Methods

We undertook a cross-sectional survey of adults aged 40–65 in Nan province, Thailand, between May and August 2019. We randomly recruited 345 villagers and enriched the sample with 82 government employees. All participants performed post-bronchodilator spirometry and completed a questionnaire covering information on respiratory symptoms, farming activities, pesticide use and known risk factors for respiratory disease. Associations of respiratory outcomes with farming and pesticide exposures were examined by multivariable regression analysis.

Results

The response rate was 94%. The prevalence of chronic airflow obstruction among villagers was 5.5%. Villagers had, on average, a lower percent predicted post-bronchodilator forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) than government employees (98.3% vs 100.3%; p=0.04). There was no evidence of association of lung function with farming activities, the use of specific herbicides (glyphosate and paraquat), insecticides (organophosphates and pyrethroids) or fungicides. The exceptions were poultry farming, associated with chronic cough and an increase of FEV1/FVC, and atrazine, for which duration (p-trend <0.01), intensity (p-trend <0.01) and cumulative hours (p-trend=0.01) of use were all associated with higher FEV1/FVC in an exposure–response manner. Cumulative hours (−280 mL/hour), low duration (−270 mL/year) and intensity (−270 mL/hour/year) of atrazine use were associated with lower FVC.

Conclusions

Chronic airflow obstruction is uncommon among villagers of an agricultural province in Nan, Thailand. Farming and pesticide use are unlikely to be major causes of respiratory problems there.
Ab initio study of structural, opto-electronic, elastic, and thermal properties of KZnF3
Authors: Erum Nazia , Iqbal Muhammad Azhar
Published: June 2021

In the present study, a theoretical model of potassium-based zinc perovskite (KZnF3) is investigated via structural, electronic, elastic, mechanical, optical, and thermal properties. In addition, lattice dynamics and effect of pressure variation on structural and electronic properties have also been observed. All said calculations are done within the framework of density functional theory (DFT). To authenticate our work we use several exchange correlation functionals. The calculated structural parameters, including cohesive energy, are in accordance with previous experimental and available theoretical studies. The decrease in lattice constant as well as bond lengths is noted with increase in pressure from 0 to 50 GPa. Electronic properties reveal that this material possess an indirect (R–Γ) bandgap while increase in pressure reveals widening of the bandgap. The elastic and mechanical properties show that (KZnF3) is mechanically stable in the cubic phase with predominantly ionic character. The evaluated optical responses of the KZnF3 compound are studied in terms of imaginary and the real parts of the dielectric function ε(ω), refractive index n(ω), reflectivity R(ω), and absorption coefficient α(ω). All of the optical parameters are in good accordance with electronic aspects. Finally, several thermal parameters are calculated, such as unit cell volume, entropy, and heat capacity (Cv) using the quasi-harmonic Debye model.