bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Pomalidomide plus dexamethasone for patients with relapsed or refractory multiple myeloma: Final results of the non‐interventional study POSEIDON and comparison with the pivotal phase 3 clinical trials
Authors: Dechow Tobias , Aldaoud Ali , Behlendorf Timo , Knauf Wolfgang , Eschenburg Henning , Groschek Matthias , Hansen Richard , Söling Ulrike , Grebhardt Sina , Siebenbach Hans Ulrich , Vannier Corinne , Potthoff Karin
Published: October 2021

Background

Prognosis of patients with multiple myeloma (MM) who have relapsed on or become refractory to immunomodulators and bortezomib is poor, and treatment options are limited. While pomalidomide plus low‐dose dexamethasone (POM/DEX) has demonstrated efficacy in clinical trials, real‐world evidence is scarce.

Patients and Methods

POSEIDON was a prospective non‐interventional study designed to evaluate effectiveness, safety and quality of life (QoL) of POM/DEX in patients with relapsed or refractory MM (R/RMM) pretreated with at least two prior therapy lines including both lenalidomide and bortezomib in real world in Germany. Patients received POM/DEX according to physicians’ choice. Data were analyzed descriptively.

Results

Between 2014 and 2017, 151 patients were enrolled, 144 patients with a median of three prior therapy lines qualified for effectiveness analysis. Median age was 73.2 years. Median progression‐free and overall survival were 6.3 months [95% confidence interval (CI) 5.2, 8.6] and 12.9 months [95% CI 10.6, 15.1]. Most frequent grade 3/4 adverse events were leukopenia (8.2%), pneumonia (7.5%) and anemia (5.5%). QoL was maintained after start of POM/DEX.

Conclusion

The results of POSEIDON support the effectiveness and safety of POM/DEX in R/RMM patients pretreated with lenalidomide and bortezomib and highlight the clinical value of the POM/DEX regimen in the real‐world setting.

Registered at clinicaltrials.gov (NCT02075996).
How to build a game for empirical bioethics research: The case of ‘Tracing Tomorrow’
Authors: Lyreskog David M. , Pavarini Gabriela , Lorimer Jessica , Jacobs Edward , Bennett Vanessa , Singh Ilina
Published: October 2021

It is becoming increasingly clear that the field of empirical bioethics requires methodological innovations that can keep up with the scale and pace of contemporary research in health and medicine. With that in mind, we have recently argued for Design Bioethics—the use of purpose‐built, engineered research tools that allow researchers to investigate moral decision‐making in ways that are embodied and contextualized. In this paper, we outline the development, testing and implementation of a novel prototype tool in the Design Bioethics Workshop—with each step illustrated with collected data. Titled ‘Tracing Tomorrow’ (www.tracingtomorrow.org), the tool is a narrative game to investigate young people's values and preferences in the context of digital phenotyping for mental health. The process involved (1) Working with young people to discover, validate and define the morally relevant cases or problems, (2) Building and testing the game concept in collaboration with relevant groups and game developers, (3) Developing prototypes that were tested and iterated in partnership with groups of young people and game developers and (4) Disseminating the game to young people to collect data to investigate research questions. We argue that Design Bioethics yields tools that are relevant, representative and meaningful to target populations and provide improved data for bioethics analysis.

Patient or Public Contribution

In planning and conducting this study, we consulted with young people from a diverse range of backgrounds, including the NeurOX Young People's Advisory Group, the What Lies Ahead Junior Researchers Team, Censuswide youth participants and young people from the Livity Youth Network.
Diving into the mechanism of action of tumor immunotherapies with intravital imaging*
Authors: Bousso Philippe
Published: October 2021

The clinical successes and tremendous hopes raised by tumor immunotherapies such as tumor‐targeting monoclonal antibodies, immune checkpoint blockers, or CAR T cells demand that we better understand how these treatments precisely act in the patient body. Such a detailed knowledge is indeed essential to optimize therapeutical efficacy and maximize the number of cancer patients that could benefit from these therapies. This review aims to illustrate that intravital two‐photon imaging is providing unique insights into the mode of action of tumor immunotherapies and is helping identify their critical bottlenecks in vivo. Moreover, this article discusses how spatiotemporal observations of immune cells, tumor subclones, and cytokine dynamics in the tumor microenvironment may contribute to the emergence of new concepts in anti‐tumor immune responses.
Training responsiveness of cardiorespiratory fitness and arterial stiffness following moderate‐intensity continuous training and high‐intensity interval training in adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities
Authors: Melo X. , Pinto R. , Angarten V. , Coimbra M. , Correia D. , Roque M. , Reis J. , Santos V. , Fernhall B. , Santa‐Clara H.
Published: October 2021

Background

Cardiorespiratory fitness (CRF) prompts antiatherogenic adaptations in vascular function and structure. However, there is an extraordinary interindividual variability in response to a standard dose of exercise, wherein a substantial number of adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) do not improve CRF. We (1) evaluated the effects of 12‐month of moderate‐intensity continuous training (MICT) on CRF and arterial stiffness and (2) tested whether an additional 3‐month of high‐intensity interval training (HIIT) would add to improvements in CRF responsiveness and arterial stiffness.

Methods

Fifteen adults with mild‐to‐moderate IDD (male adults = 9, 30.1 ± 7.5 years old) met 3 days per week for 30 min MICT for 12 months, after which the incidence of CRF responsiveness was calculated (≥5.0% change in absolute peak VO2). Thereafter, responders and non‐responders started HIIT for 3 months with identical daily training load/frequency. Peak VO2, local and regional indices of arterial stiffness were assessed prior to and after each period.

Results

Sixty per cent of the participants were non‐responders following MICT, but the incidence dropped to 20% following HIIT (P = 0.03). Absolute peak VO2 values reached significant difference from pre‐intervention (+0.38 ± 0.08 L min−1, P = 0.001) only when HIIT was added. Lower limb pulse wave velocity (PWV) decreased following MICT (−0.8 ± 1.1 m s−1, P = 0.049), whereas central PWV only decreased following HIIT (−0.8 ± 0.9 m s−1, P = 0.013).

Conclusions

Cardiorespiratory fitness responsiveness and reductions in PWV to a 12‐month MICT period in adults with IDD improved following a period of HIIT programme inducing higher metabolic stress.
Are you laughing with me or at me? Psychopathic traits and the ability to distinguish between affiliation and dominance laughter cues
Authors: Plate Rista C. , Zhao Sylvia , Katz Chloe , Graber Edie , Daley Grace , Corbett Natalie , All Katherine , Neumann Craig S. , Waller Rebecca
Published: October 2021

Objective

Laughter conveys important information that supports social communication and bonding. Research suggests that unique acoustic properties distinguish laughter that promotes affiliation from laughter that conveys dominance, but little is known about potential individual differences in laughter interpretation or contagion based on these specified social functions of laughter. Psychopathy is associated with both affiliative deficits (e.g., lack of empathy and impaired social bonding) and behaviors that assert social dominance (e.g., manipulativeness). Thus, relationships between psychopathic traits and impaired laughter interpretation or contagion could give insight into etiological pathways to psychopathy.

Method

In two studies conducted with four independent samples (total N = 770), participants categorized laughter clips that varied in the degree of affiliation or dominance conveyed.

Results

Participants overall drew rich and accurate social inferences from dominant and affiliative laughter and modulated their interest in joining in with laughter based on the type and degree of affiliation and dominance conveyed. However, individuals higher in psychopathic traits failed to distinguish between laughter types and did not modulate their level of engagement based on laughter features.

Conclusions

The results suggest a potential mechanism that underlies the broader social difficulties associated with psychopathic traits.
Experiences and views of carers regarding the physical health care of people with severe mental illness: An integrative thematic review of qualitative research
Authors: Ho Lok‐Lam , Li Yan , Gray Richard , Ho Grace W. K. , Bressington Daniel
Published: October 2021

Accessible summary

What is known on the subject?

People with severe mental illness (SMI) have high rates of physical illnesses, and carers are core partners in managing their physical health.

Qualitative research on carers' views/experiences of physical health care is limited, and there is no published systematic review that synthesizes the current evidence.

What the paper adds to existing knowledge?

Carers' views from seven articles were synthesised into nine themes and six subthemes describing their perceived facilitators, barriers and roles regarding the physical health care of people with SMI.

Carers' voiced similar concerns to those previously identified by professionals and service users, particularly in relation to poor service access/responsiveness and communication difficulties with healthcare professionals.

What are the implications for practice?

Mental health nurses should be aware of the risk of diagnostic overshadowing and ensure they are both responsive and sensitive to carers concerns about the physical health of people with SMI.

It is essential for mental health nurses to actively involve carers in managing physical health, especially in formulating physical healthcare plans and providing clear practical advice/information.

Introduction

People with severe mental illness (SMI) have high rates of physical illnesses. Informal carers are core partners in addressing these issues, however research on their views/experiences is limited and there is no systematic review published on the topic.

Aim

This integrative thematic review explored the experiences and views of carers on physical health care in SMI by synthesizing the existing qualitative research findings.

Methods

Six databases were searched from 2000 to 2021. Data were extracted and synthesised using thematic integrative analysis. The quality of included studies was assessed with the JBI Critical Appraisal Checklist.

Results

Five studies were included. Nine themes were identified conceptualising carers' perceived facilitators, barriers and roles regarding physical health care for people with SMI.

Discussion

Carers felt that receiving practical help and a specialised role for mental health nurses would facilitate better physical health care. Lack of coordination/communication and poor service access/responsiveness were common barriers, often compounded by diagnostic overshadowing. Carers are involved in promoting healthy lifestyles, monitoring physical health and supporting access to services.

Implications for Practice

Mental health nurses should ensure they are responsive to carers' concerns and proactively support them to promote the physical health of people with SMI.
Longitudinal placements for trainee pharmacists: Learning whilst improving patient care
Authors: Kinsey Hannah , Sokhi Jeremy , Christou Maria , Wright David
Published: October 2021

Introduction

Longitudinal Integrated Clerkships (LICs) have demonstrated benefits for students' learning and development in medical education globally. The model emphasises importance with respect to continuity and time in the workplace for learners. There is a need to explore how LICs become a viable training model for learners. An amalgamative LIC model was drawn upon to inform the design of a placement for trainee pharmacists on a hospital ward. This study sought to determine the local viability of a longitudinal placement for trainee pharmacists, using communities of practice learning theory to interpret findings.

Methods

A design‐based research approach informed study design. A longitudinal placement was implemented on two hospital wards for 13 weeks. Trainees (n = 3) were interviewed four times over a 14‐week period. Ward staff (n = 14) were interviewed at week 14. Interviews were transcribed verbatim. Qualitative longitudinal analysis, using the trajectory approach, was conducted using abductive analysis. The coded data were organised into a framework and subthemes were created.

Results

Trainees acquired membership within the multi‐disciplinary ward team over time. This led to an enriched learning experience and the trainee's professional development improved as they attained more responsibilities. This enabled them to make a greater contribution to patient care; more medication consultations occurred, and discharge times improved.

Discussion

The local viability of the longitudinal placement appears to be linked to the trainee's ability to acquire membership within the ward community of practice. Membership gave trainee's access to learning opportunities, supporting their development, and they earnt the trust of staff, leading to more responsibilities for providing patient care. Further research into developing longitudinal placements that support trainee healthcare professionals to acquire membership within communities of practice is warranted.
Discursive Enactment of Agency in Study‐Abroad Interviews
Authors: FERNÁNDEZ JULIETA , McGREGOR JANICE , YULDASHEV AZIZ
Published: October 2021

In this article, we examine how meta‐agentive discourse was enacted and linguistically encoded with constructed dialog. We analyze interviews with 4 American undergraduate students who expressed their interest in study abroad (SA) and submitted applications but later withdrew them. The analysis centers on the ways agency was assigned to different actors in participants’ decision‐making processes as mediated by discourses of SA. We demonstrate that in their interviews, the participants primarily assigned agency to (a) themselves by way of self‐reports, (b) a ‘collective’ author by way of vague referents, and (c) SA programs and leadership by way of hypothetical constructed dialog. Notably, discourses about SA were often repurposed in divergent ways within the same interview by multiple participants. We urge scholars examining agency to closely consider the trajectorial and situated nature of meta‐agentive discourse in applied linguistics research.
Inappropriate rate response in a leadless pacemaker due to automatic rate profile optimization
Authors: Lau Chu‐Pak , Lee Kathy Lai‐Fun , Tse Hung‐Fat
Published: October 2021

A three‐axis accelerometer sensor is incorporated in a leadless pacemaker (MicraTM, MedtronicInc) for rate adaptation. Three sensor setpoints at lower rate (LR), activity of daily living rate (ADLR), and upper rate (UR) are used to convert detected acceleration to a desired rate response. We describe inappropriate rate acceleration at rest and during chest physiotherapy in a sedentary elderly patient with leadless pacemaker. The underlying mechanism and various programming options are discussed.
Auxin‐mediated regulation of arbuscular mycorrhizal symbiosis: A role of SlGH3.4 in tomato
Authors: Chen Xiao , Chen Jiadong , Liao Dehua , Ye Hanghang , Li Cai , Luo Zhenzhen , Yan Anning , Zhao Qingchun , Xie Kun , Li Yiting , Wang Dongsheng , Chen Jun , Chen Aiqun , Xu Guohua
Published: October 2021

Most land plants can establish symbiosis with arbuscular mycorrhizal (AM) fungi to increase fitness to environmental challenges. The development of AM symbiosis is controlled by intricate procedures involving all phytohormones. However, the mechanisms underlying the auxin‐mediated regulation of AM symbiosis remains largely unknown. Here, we report that AM colonisation promotes auxin response and indole‐3‐acetic acid (IAA) accumulation, but downregulates IAA biosynthesis genes in tomato (Solanum lycopersicum). External IAA application modulates the AM symbiosis by promoting arbuscule formation at low concentrations but repressing it at high concentrations. An AM‐induced GH3 gene, SlGH3.4, encoding a putative IAA‐amido synthetase, negatively regulates mycorrhization via maintaining cellular auxin homoeostasis. Loss of SlGH3.4 function increased free IAA content and arbuscule incidence, while constitutively overexpressing SlGH3.4 in either tomato or rice resulted in decreased IAA content, total colonisation level and arbuscule abundance in mycorrhizal roots. Several auxin‐inducible expansin genes involved in AM formation or resistance to pathogen infection were upregulated in slgh3.4 mycorrhizal roots but downregulated in the SlGH3.4‐overexpressing plants. Taken together, our results highlight a positive correlation between the endogenous IAA content and mycorrhization level, particularly arbuscule incidence, and suggest that the SlGH3.4‐mediated auxin homoeostasis and regulation of expansin genes is involved in finely tuning the AM development.
Pine defense against eggs of an herbivorous sawfly is elicited by an annexin‐like protein present in egg‐associated secretion
Authors: Hundacker Janik , Bittner Norbert , Weise Christoph , Bröhan Gunnar , Varama Martti , Hilker Monika
Published: October 2021

Known elicitors of plant defenses against eggs of herbivorous insects are low‐molecular‐weight organic compounds associated with the eggs. However, previous studies provided evidence that also proteinaceous compounds present in secretion associated with eggs of the herbivorous sawfly Diprion pini can elicit defensive responses in  Pinus sylvestris. Pine responses induced by the proteinaceous secretion are known to result in enhanced emission of (E)‐β‐farnesene, which attracts egg parasitoids killing the eggs. Here, we aimed to identify the defense‐eliciting protein and elucidate its function. After isolating the defense‐eliciting protein from D. pini egg‐associated secretion by ultrafiltration and gel electrophoresis, we identified it by MALDI‐TOF mass spectrometry as an annexin‐like protein, which we named ‘diprionin’. Further GC‐MS analyses showed that pine needles treated with heterologously expressed diprionin released enhanced quantities of (E)‐β‐farnesene. Our bioassays confirmed attractiveness of diprionin‐treated pine to egg parasitoids. Expression of several pine candidate genes involved in terpene biosynthesis and regulation of ROS homeostasis was similarly affected by diprionin and natural sawfly egg deposition. However, the two treatments had different effects on expression of pathogenesis‐related genes (PR1, PR5). Diprionin is the first egg‐associated proteinaceous elicitor of indirect plant defense against insect eggs described so far.
Psoriasiform dermatitis following intravenous immunoglobulin therapy: A case series
Authors: Willenbrink Tyler J. , Robinson India S. , Connett Jessica S. , Wine Lee Lara
Published: October 2021

Intravenous immunoglobulin (IVIg) is a frequently used treatment modality in the pediatric inpatient population for acute diseases such as Kawasaki disease and Stevens‐Johnson syndrome. There are few reported cutaneous adverse events after IVIg in the pediatric population. Here, we present two patients with psoriasiform dermatitis appearing after IVIg treatment for two different disease processes, Kawasaki disease and mycoplasma‐associated mucositis, suggesting an association with the treatment instead of the disease process.
Neonatal pemphigoid gestationis: An atypical presentation of a rare disease
Authors: Jimenez Amber , Blain Kimberly , Khalighi Mazdak , Clarke Jennie T. , Snook Jeremy , Cipriano Sarah D.
Published: October 2021

Bullous pemphigoid (BP) is an autoimmune blistering disease characterized by urticarial plaques and/or vesicles and tense bullae. A unique presentation of BP can occur during pregnancy, the postpartum period after delivery, or with the initiation of contraception, in which case it is referred to as pemphigoid gestationis (PG). In rare instances, newborns born to mothers with PG may also present with blisters due to transplacental passage of maternal anti‐bullous pemphigoid 180 (BP180) or 230 (BP230) immunoglobulin G (IgG). In this report, we present an unusual case of neonatal PG in an infant born to an asymptomatic mother without a previous diagnosis of PG.
Fluorescence‐advanced videodermatoscopy (FAV) for the differential diagnosis of suspicious facial lesions: A single‐centre experience with pattern analysis and histopathological correlation
Authors: Scarfì Federica , Trane Luciana , Maio Vincenza , Silvestri Flavia , Venturi Federico , Zuccaro Biancamaria , Massi Daniela , De Giorgi Vincenzo
Published: October 2021

Background

Fluorescence‐advanced videodermatoscopy (FAV) is a new non‐invasive high‐resolution skin imaging technique to assess pigmented lesions in conjunction with the clinical examination and dermatoscopy.

Objectives

This is the first prospective study to identify morphologic descriptors and standardized terminology to examine facial pigmented lesions using FAV. The objectives were to identify FAV indicators, which can assist physicians in diagnosing suspicious flat facial pigmented lesions.

Methods

Consecutive equivocal pigmented lesions were retrospective analysed. Histopathological examination was performed for all the lesions. The main cytomorphological and cytoarchitectural FAV features were described and correlated with histopathological characteristics.

Results

From January to October 2020, 21 consecutive clinically suspected pigmented lesions in 20 patients were analysed using dermatoscopy and FAV and then surgically excised. Histopathological examination identified lentigo maligna (LM), lentigo maligna melanoma (LMM), solar lentigo (SL), flat seborrheic keratosis (SK) and pigmented actinic keratosis (PAK). Thirteen malignant melanocytic lesions were removed (11 LM, 2 LMM), two were diagnosed as PAK, and the remaining six pigmented lesions were SL‐SKs. With FAV, large ovoid pleomorphic and dendritic cells arranged in the intrafollicular disposition, are typical of most malignant melanocytic lesions (12/13, 92.3%). No benign lesions displayed these features. In dermatoscopy, this folliculotropism corresponded to the presence of an annular‐granular pattern with slate grey dots that were aggregated asymmetrically around follicular openings.

Conclusions

FAV features can provide an improved diagnostic approach in the differential diagnosis of flat pigmented facial lesions.
Molecular detection and quantification of Colletotrichum abscissum in sweet orange propagative material
Authors: Ciampi‐Guillardi Maisa , Muñoz Vanessa N. V. , Silva‐Junior Geraldo José , Massola Júnior Nelson S.
Published: October 2021

Postbloom fruit drop disease (PFD) has caused serious impacts on citrus production in the Americas, occurring sporadically and suddenly during rain in the flowering period. In São Paulo State, Brazil, Colletotrichum abscissum is the causal agent responsible for over 80% of the disease incidence. Pathogen dispersal over long distances and the origin of primary inoculum are still unclear for PFD epidemics. We tested the hypothesis that citrus propagation material can harbour C. abscissum DNA by quantifying it in leaves of budwood increase block trees (BIB) and young citrus plants (YP) using multiplex quantitative PCR (qPCR). C. abscissum DNA was detected in all citrus nurseries, regardless of the type of propagative material, the sweet orange variety, or the nursery location. Overall, 73.4% of all samples from citrus nurseries have DNA from the pathogen, with a detection limit of 10 conidia. The average of 155 conidia found in YP was higher than the conidia observed on leaf samples from BIB (p = 0.03), although leaf samples from cultivars Valencia and Pera did not differ significantly, with means around 127 and 118 conidia, respectively (p = 0.75). This is the first molecular detection of C. abscissum in citrus propagative material. The multiplex qPCR assay may be used as a protocol for an accurate diagnosis of C. abscissum in citrus propagative material, may assist a better understanding of the pathogen dispersal over long distances, and may be used for further studies involving the quantification of C. abscissum in citrus orchards.
Moving from a bad to a good pricing regime: The South African private health care market
Authors: Picard Eric , Zimper Alexander
Published: October 2021

The South African private health care market combines a highly concentrated demand side with expensive medical services. This combination suggests that medical insurance schemes are not using their full market power. To explain this puzzle, we construct a delegated bargaining model in which agency costs give rise to two different pricing regimes. In the ‘good’ pricing regime, the scheme incentivises its administrator towards aggressive bargaining behaviour with health care providers. The ‘bad’ pricing regime results when the scheme decides against such incentivation. Policy measures that push the number of providers above some critical threshold can force a change from the ‘bad’ to the ‘good’ pricing regime.
Archipiélago juvenil: jóvenes indígenas y cultura digital
Authors: Meneses Cárdenas Jorge Alberto
Published: October 2021

El artículo se enfoca en la cultura digital de jóvenes universitarios indígenas en México y Colombia. A través de una etnografía digital multisituada, presento un mosaico de prácticas y saberes juveniles derivadas de sus experiencias sociodigitales. El tránsito por distintas islas de socialidad me permitió conocer sus saberes, tanto en sus intercambios cara a cara como en la plataforma Facebook. Lejos de pensar que la vida digital está aislada de los microcontextos, los distintos flujos de sentido y las prácticas son resultado de la imbricación entre lo presencial y la copresencia digital. Por esa razón, utilicé herramientas híbridas con el objetivo de ubicar los flujos de sus culturas digitales. Metafóricamente, se puede afirmar que los jóvenes habitan un archipiélago juvenil desde donde se conectan a sus muros para alojar y dinamizar hipernarrativas. Precisamente, los resultados muestran trayectorias biográficas desiguales, y repertorios y prácticas sociodigitales con saberes multirreferenciales.
Algebraic Method for Exact Synthesis of One-Degree-of-Freedom Linkages With Arbitrarily Prescribed Constant Velocity Ratios
Authors: Liu Kai , Yu Jingjun
Published: October 2021

This paper addresses the synthesis of one degree-of-freedom (1DOF) linkages that can exactly transmit angular motion between coplanar axes (i.e., parallel axes or intersectant axes) with arbitrarily prescribed constant velocity ratios. According to motion polynomials over dual quaternions and pure rolling models between two circles, an algebraic approach is presented to precisely synthesize new 1DOF linkages with arbitrarily prescribed constant velocity ratios. The approach includes four steps: (a) formulate a characteristic curve occurred by the pure rolling, (b) compute the motion polynomial of the minimal degree that can generate the curve, (c) deal with the factorization of the motion polynomial to construct an open chain, and (d) convert the open chain to a 1DOF linkage. Using this approach, several 1DOF planar, spherical, and spatial linkages for angular motion transmission between parallel axes or intersectant ones are constructed by designating various velocity ratios. Taking the planar and spherical linkages with a constant 1:2 velocity ratio as examples, kinematics analysis is implemented to prove their motion characteristics. The result shows that the generated linkages indeed can transmit angular motion between two coplanar axes with constant velocity ratios. Meanwhile, three-dimensional (3D)-printed prototypes of these linkages also demonstrate such a conclusion. This work provides a framework for synthesizing linkages that have great application potential to transmit motion in robotic systems that require low inertia to achieve reciprocating motion with high speed and accuracy.
Research on the Orientation Error of the Translational Cable-Driven Parallel Robots
Authors: Xie Guangqiang , Zhang Zhaokun , Shao Zhufeng , Wang Liping
Published: October 2021

Parallel cables are widely used in cable-driven parallel robots (CDPR) to provide constraints to the end-effector and to realize translational degrees-of-freedom(DOFs). However, when there are structural errors, parallel cables become no longer parallel and will cause orientation errors of the end-effector, which cannot be compensated by kinematic calibration. In this paper, the orientation assurance method is studied considering a 3DOFs translational CDPR. First, the kinematic model and error mapping model of the CDPR are established by using the closed-loop method, considering the pulley radius. Second, the influence of the structural parameters errors on the error of the end-effector is analyzed with the sensitivity index, which establishes a theoretical basis for the simplification of the accuracy synthesis process. Third, the design tolerances of the cable connection points are determined through accuracy synthesis, which is implemented with the genetic algorithm considering the optimal manufacturing cost and the orientation constraints of the end-effector. Finally, to reduce the influence of cable length error, the method of adjusting the initial pose was proposed and studied, which is verified as an effective approach to reduce the orientation error.
A Virtual Work Model for the Design and Parameter Identification of Cylindrical Pressure-Driven Soft Actuators
Authors: Lamping Frederik , de Payrebrune Kristin M.
Published: October 2021

In this paper, we derive a model based on the principle of virtual work to describe the deformations of cylindrical pressure-driven soft actuators with four types of fiber reinforcement and with externally applied forces. Such cylindrical actuators are often used as the basis for multi-chamber soft robotic systems, for example, bending actuators. In the virtual work model, each type of reinforcement leads to particular geometric constraints; the energy of the stretched material is determined by the Yeoh material model. Finally, the stretch of the actuator is solved numerically by a minimization problem. The virtual work model yielded only little deviations of the predicted stretch relative to finite element simulations in abaqus. The key contribution of the virtual work model is improved parameter identification for the modeling of cylindrical soft actuators, as it illustrates the possibility to distinguish between material-dependent behavior and geometry-dependent behavior of these actuators. Also, the virtual work model is applicable in the design process of the investigated actuators. We demonstrate that an optimization of the actuator’s inner and outer radii and of its fiber angle, respectively, is possible and we derive design rules including criteria for the choice of fiber reinforcement.
A Novel Scientific Approach to Compare the Effectiveness of Well Stimulation and Artificial Lifting
Authors: Abbaspour Mitra , Mahdiyar Hojjat , Kazemzadeh Yousef , Eskroochi Mehdi , Nasrabadi Mohsen
Published: October 2021

Production rate decline is one of the most common challenges in production engineering. Obviously, the first step to overcome this challenge is to understand its main reason. In this article, a new approach is developed which can be used to compare the effectiveness of artificial lifting and well stimulation. The method is based on a couple of charts that summarize the results of integrated simulation of formation and well-column. In the first graph, called the flow productivity index curve, the production rate is drawn as a function of the productivity index. Some important points are also specified on this diagram which are current state, production rate at maximum possible productivity index, and production rate when the well is equipped with a pump or gas lifting. In the second graph, derivatives of the production rate of different wells are drawn as a function of the productivity index. The analysis of three actual wells with conventional inflow performance relationship-tubing performance relationship (IPR-TPR) curves and also our suggested curves are discussed in this paper. It is seen that the introduced approach can be used as a powerful tool to predict the effectiveness of well stimulation and artificial lifting and make a clear comparison between them.
Three-Dimensional Simulation Analysis of the Effect of Hydrous Ethanol and Exhaust Gas Recirculation on Gasoline Direct Injection Engine Combustion and Emissions
Authors: Shi Xiuyong , Jiang Yixiao , Wang Qiwei , Qian Weiwei , Huang Rong , Ni Jimin
Published: October 2021

To analyze the influence of hydrous ethanol on the performance of the direct-injection engine, the three-dimensional simulation is carried out by using converge software coupled with the combustion mechanism of hydrous ethanol gasoline and the soot model. The combustion and soot generation characteristics of a direct-injection gasoline engine burning hydrous ethanol gasoline using exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) technology are investigated. It is found that the increase of the blending ratio of the hydrous ethanol can accelerate the flame propagation speed, shorten the combustion duration, and improve the combustion isovolumetric. The nucleation and growth of soot are jointly controlled by polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and the small molecular components such as C2H2. The oxygen content properties and high reactive OH of the hydrous ethanol-containing gasoline inhibit soot formation. Compared with pure gasoline, the carbon soot precursor mass is reduced by 60%, 54.5%, 73.3%, and 52.4% for 20% anhydrous ethanol blended with gasoline, A1, A2, A3, and A4, respectively, and the carbon soot mass is reduced by 63.6% and the carbon soot volume density is reduced by 40%. The introduction of EGR exhaust reduces the burning rate and leads to an increase in the production of carbon monoxide, hydrocarbon, and soot. However, the combination of EGR with hydrous ethanol gasoline can significantly improve the engine combustion environment and significantly reduce soot and PAHs concentrations. The impact of EGR also includes the ability to reduce combustion chamber temperatures and reduce NOx emissions from hydrous ethanol gasoline by 75%.
A Numerical Study of the Hydrodynamics of an Offshore Fish Farm Using REEF3D
Authors: Wang Gang , Martin Tobias , Huang Liuyi , Bihs Hans
Published: October 2021

In this article, the hydrodynamics of and nonlinear interaction between the large offshore fish farm “ShenLan 1” and regular waves are investigated using the open-source computational fluid dynamics (CFD) toolbox REEF3D. The framework consists of a rigid body dynamics solver for the frame structure coupled to a fluid solver including the shielding effects of the nets. The solver and grid independence are validated using a 2D numerical wave tank, a free decay test, and a study of the wave loads on a rigid net panel. Then, the effects of regular wave parameters, the thickness of the vertical outer columns of the structure, and the variations of the aspect ratios on the loads, responses, and maximum mooring tension forces are studied. It is concluded that the response motion is sensitive to the wave period rather than the wave height due to the longer duration of unidirectional wave loads acting on the frame. The frequent events of partial submersions and wave overtopping in rather steep waves are confirmed through the capturing of the free surface. The net system accounts for about 30% of the total drag but does not influence the structural response to a larger extend. The effect of the aspect ratio on the hydrodynamics is more distinct than that of the frame thickness. As a result of the study, the first step toward a systemic evaluation of the importance of different structural parts of an offshore fish cage for the expected responses is provided.
Fretting Wear Behavior of Micro-Arc Oxidation Coating Fabricated on AZ91 Magnesium Alloy
Authors: Zhang Fei , Yin Meigui , Li Qiang
Published: October 2021

In this study, the effect mechanisms between the fretting wear behavior and properties of micro-arc oxidation (MAO) coatings fabricated by different anodic voltages (AVs) on AZ91 magnesium alloy were investigated. The microstructure and macroscopic mechanical properties of the MAO coatings were analyzed by various characterization means. The evolution rule of fretting wear behaviors was carried out through sliding fretting wear experiment under different test parameters. The results showed that the increase in AV increased the MAO coating surface roughness and elastic modulus. The fretting wear resistance of magnesium alloy also enhanced after treatment by MAO, and the improvement effect was positively correlated to AV. Further studies revealed that the wear mechanisms of AZ91 magnesium alloy were oxidation wear and fatigue spalling, and that of MAO coating was mixed abrasive wear and fatigue spalling.
Nonlinear Behavior of Helmholtz Resonator With a Compliant Wall for Low-Frequency, Broadband Noise Control
Authors: Pishvar Maya , Harne Ryan L.
Published: October 2021

Low-frequency sound attenuation is often pursued using Helmholtz resonators (HRs). The introduction of a compliant wall around the acoustic cavity results in a two degrees-of-freedom (2DOF) system capable of more broadband sound absorption. In this study, we report the amplitude-dependent dynamic response of a compliant-walled HR and investigate the effectiveness of wall compliance to improve the absorption of sound in linear and nonlinear regimes. The acoustic-structure interactions between the conventional HR and the compliant wall result in non-intuitive responses when acted on by nonlinear amplitudes of excitation pressure. This paper formulates and studies a reduced order model to characterize the nonlinear dynamic response of the 2DOF HR with a compliant wall compared to that of a conventional rigid HR. Validated by experimental evidence, the modeling framework facilitates an investigation of strategies to achieve broadband sound attenuation, including by selection of wall material, wall thickness, geometry of the HR, and other parameters readily tuned by system design. The results open up new avenues for the development of efficient acoustic resonators exploiting the deflection of a compliant wall for suppression of extreme noise amplitudes.
The mechanosensitive Piezo1 channel controls endosome trafficking for an efficient cytokinetic abscission
Authors: Carrillo-Garcia Julia , Herrera-Fernández Víctor , Serra Selma A. , Rubio-Moscardo Fanny , Vogel-Gonzalez Marina , Doñate-Macian Pablo , Hevia Covadonga F. , Pujades Cristina , Valverde Miguel A.
Published: October 2021

Piezo1 transduces mechanical forces at the intercellular bridge to coordinate the machinery necessary to split dividing cells.
Teaching during the COVID-19 Pandemic: Sharing Results and Data Obtained from the Ames Test
Authors: Blanco Valentina , Davyt Marcos , García-Alonso Javier , Piccini Claudia , Zunino Pablo , Rodríguez Eliana
Published: October 2021

We present a resource for instructors that contains results and data sets from the Ames test. Our aim is to share the results we have collected in previous semesters with other instructors, so they will be able to “conduct” the Ames test without the need to set foot in a laboratory classroom.
An Active Learning Intervention Based on Evaluating Alternative Hypotheses Increases Scientific Literacy of Controlled Experiments in Introductory Biology
Authors: Kreher Scott A. , Pavlova Iglika V. , Nelms April
Published: October 2021

Scientific education provides a set of tools to make sense of a complex world by teasing out complicated cause-and-effect relationships, such as the elimination of effects of confounding factors in controlled experiments. There is evidence that depth of understanding of controlled experiments is lacking among undergraduate science students despite exposure to controlled experiments in courses.
Short-lived intra-oceanic arc-trench system in the North Qaidam belt (NW China) reveals complex evolution of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean
Authors: Fu Changlei , Yan Zhen , Aitchison Jonathan C. , Xiao Wenjiao , Buckman Solomon , Wang Bingzhang , Zhai Qingguo , Cao Bo
Published: October 2021

Recognition of any intra-oceanic arc-trench system (IOAS) could provide invaluable information on the tectonic framework and geodynamic evolution of the vanished ocean basin. The Tanjianshan Complex and mafic-ultramafic rocks along the North Qaidam ultra-high pressure metamorphic belt in NW China record the subduction process of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean. Four lithotectonic units, including island arc, ophiolite, forearc basin, and accretionary complex, are recognized based on detailed field investigation. They rest on the northern margin of the Qaidam block and occur as allochthons in fault contact with underlying high-grade metamorphic rocks. The ophiolite unit mainly consists of ultramafic rocks, 527–506 Ma gabbro, 515–506 Ma plagiogranite, dolerite, and massive lava. High-Cr spinels in serpentinite, dolerite with forearc basalt affinity, and boninitic lava collectively indicate a forearc setting. The accretionary complex, exposed to the south of the ophiolite complex and island arc, is highly disrupted and contains repeated slices of basalt, 495–486 Ma tuff, chert, limestone, and mélange. Tuffs with positive zircon εHf(t) values indicate derivation from a nearby juvenile island arc. These lithotectonic units, as well as the back-arc basin, are interpreted to constitute a Cambrian IOAS that formed during the northward subduction of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean. Combined with regional geology, we propose a new geodynamic model involving short-lived Mariana-type subduction and prolonged Andean-type subduction to account for the complex evolution of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean. The reconstruction of a relatively complete IOAS from the North Qaidam belt not only reveals a systematic evolution of intra-oceanic subduction but also advances our understanding of the subduction and accretion history of the Proto-Tethyan Ocean.
Supplemental Material: Identifying crystal accumulation and melt extraction during formation of high-silica granite
Authors: Lu Tian-Yu , He Zhen-Yu , al. et
Published: October 2021

Analytical methods, modeling setup for magmatic evolution, and data.
Impact of intrapartum antibiotics on the infant gastrointestinal microbiome: a narrative review
Authors: Diamond Laura , Wine Rachel , Morris Shaun K
Published: October 2021

Background

The composition of the infant gastrointestinal (GI) microbiome has been linked to adverse long-term health outcomes and neonatal sepsis. Several factors are known to impact the composition of the microbiome, including mode of delivery, gestational age, feeding method and exposure to antibiotics. The impact of intrapartum antibiotics (IPAs) on the infant microbiome requires further research.

Objective

We aimed to evaluate the impact of IPAs on the infant GI microbiome.

Methods

We searched Ovid MEDLINE and Embase Classic+Embase for articles in English reporting on the microbiome of infants exposed to IPAs from the date of inception to 3 January 2021. Primary outcomes included abundance and colonisation ofBifidobacteriumandLactobacillus, as well as alpha and beta diversity.

Results

30 papers were included in this review. In the first year of life, following exposure to IPAs, 30% (6/20) of infant cohorts displayed significantly reducedBifidobacterium, 89% (17/19) did not display any significant differences inLactobacilluscolonisation, 21% (7/34) displayed significantly reduced alpha diversity and 35% (12/34) displayed alterations in beta diversity. Results were further stratified by delivery, gestational age (preterm or full term) and feeding method.

Conclusions

IPAs impact the composition of the infant GI microbiome, resulting in possible reductionsBifidobacteriumand alpha diversity, and possible alterations in beta diversity. Our findings may have implications for maternal and neonatal health, including interventions to prevent reductions in health-promoting bacteria (eg, probiotics) and IPA class selection.
Undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma of liver with macroaneurysms and arteriovenous shunt
Authors: Israrahmed Amrin , Ahmad Sarfraz , Prasad Pallavi , Yadav Rajanikant R
Published: October 2021

Undifferentiated embryonal sarcoma (UES) is an uncommon primary hepatic tumour of childhood. The mass usually shows paradoxical features of being cystic on CT and solid on ultrasound. These lesions are usually hypovascular. Very rarely they may present as hypervascular liver masses with macroaneurysms and arteriovenous (AV) shunt, with only less than six cases reported in literature. We report a case of an 11-year-old child who presented with progressive abdominal distention, and CT revealed a large exophytic hypervascular mass of liver with multiple macroaneurysms, pooling of contrast and a high-flow AV shunt. Histopathology, along with immunohistochemistry, revealed the mass to be UES. The child underwent neoadjuvant chemotherapy followed by successful surgery. The prognosis of this tumour depends on prompt diagnosis and early intervention. We present this case to highlight the atypical presentation of UES, which will encourage radiologists to keep this differential in relevant clinical settings.
Socioeconomic factors and outcomes from exercise-related sudden cardiac arrest in high school student-athletes in the USA
Authors: Schattenkerk Jared , Kucera Kristen , Peterson Danielle F , Huggins Robert A , Drezner Jonathan A
Published: October 2021

Objective

Minority student-athletes have a lower survival rate from sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) than non-minority student-athletes. This study examined the relationship between high school indicators of socioeconomic status (SES) and survival in student-athletes with exercise-related SCA.

Methods

High school student-athletes in the USA with exercise-related SCA on school campuses were prospectively identified from 1 July 2014 to 30 June 2018 by the National Center for Catastrophic Sports Injury Research. High school indicators of SES included the following: median household and family income, proportion of students on free/reduced lunch and percent minority students. Resuscitation details included witnessed arrest, presence of an athletic trainer, bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation and use of an on-site automated external defibrillator (AED). The primary outcome was survival to hospital discharge. Differences in survival were analysed using risk ratios (RR) and univariate general log-binomial regression models.

Results

Of 111 cases identified (mean age 15.8 years, 88% male, 49% white non-Hispanic), 75 (68%) survived. Minority student-athletes had a lower survival rate compared with white non-Hispanic student-athletes (51.1% vs 75.9%; RR 0.67, 95% CI 0.49 to 0.92). A non-significant monotonic increase in survival was observed with increasing median household or family income and with decreasing percent minority students or proportion on free/reduced lunch. The survival rate was 83% if an athletic trainer was on-site at the time of SCA and 85% if an on-site AED was used.

Conclusions

Minority student-athletes with exercise-related SCA on high school campuses have lower survival rates than white non-Hispanic athletes, but this difference is not fully explained by SES markers of the school.