bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An exploratory study of the relationship between postoperative nausea and vomiting and postdischarge nausea and vomiting in children undergoing ambulatory surgery
Authors: Chandrakantan Arvind , Reinsel Ruth A. , Jasiewicz Ronald , Jacob Zvi C. , Seidman Peggy A.
Published: February 2019

Background

The factors contributing to postoperative nausea and vomiting in children have been identified, but there have been no reported studies that have studied pediatric postdischarge nausea and vomiting.

Aims

This preliminary study aimed to identify  the factors affecting postdischarge nausea and vomiting in ambulatory children, specifically whether postoperative nausea and vomiting factors are contributory.

Methods

One hundred and twenty‐two pediatric patients aged 5‐10 years undergoing elective ambulatory surgery participated in this institution‐approved study. After obtaining written parental consent and patient assent when indicated, child self‐ratings of nausea and pain were completed preoperatively and at discharge, and for 3 days postdischarge. Questionnaires were returned by mail, with a 64% return rate. Using stepwise logistic regression with backward elimination, three separate analyses were undertaken to predict the following outcomes: nausea present in recovery, nausea present on postoperative day 1, and emesis on day of surgery.

Results

Nearly half (47%) of our cohort experienced nausea at the time of discharge; 11% had emesis on day of surgery. On postoperative day 1, there was a 15% incidence of nausea with a 3% incidence of emesis. In the multiple logistic regression analyses, nausea at discharge was predicted by male gender (odds ratio 2.5, 95% CI: 1.0‐6.2) and the presence of pain on discharge (odds ratio 3.0, 95% CI: 1.0‐9.2). Emesis on day of surgery was predicted by the presence of nausea at discharge (odds ratio 16.9, 95% CI: 1.8‐159.3) and having a family history of nausea/vomiting (odds ratio 8.3, 95% CI: 1.6‐43.4). The presence of nausea on postoperative day 1 was predicted only by the presence of nausea on discharge (odds ratio 3.7, 95% CI: 1.2‐11.1).

Conclusion

Our preliminary data indicate that postoperative nausea and vomiting may persist into the postdischarge period and pain may be a contributing factor.
A CGE Framework for Modeling the Economics of Flooding and Recovery in a Major Urban Area
Authors: Gertz Aaron B. , Davies James B. , Black Samantha L.
Published: February 2019

Coastal cities around the world have experienced large costs from major flooding events in recent years. Climate change is predicted to bring an increased likelihood of flooding due to sea level rise and more frequent severe storms. In order to plan future development and adaptation, cities must know the magnitude of losses associated with these events, and how they can be reduced. Often losses are calculated from insurance claims or surveying flood victims. However, this largely neglects the loss due to the disruption of economic activity. We use a forward‐looking dynamic computable general equilibrium model to study how a local economy responds to a flood, focusing on the subsequent recovery/reconstruction. Initial damage is modeled as a shock to the capital stock and recovery requires rebuilding that stock. We apply the model to Vancouver, British Columbia by considering a flood scenario causing total capital damage of $14.6 billion spread across five municipalities. GDP loss relative to a no‐flood scenario is relatively long‐lasting. It is 2.0% ($2.2 billion) in the first year after the flood, 1.7% ($1.9 billion) in the second year, and 1.2% ($1.4 billion) in the fifth year.
An Emergency Department‐Initiated Intervention to Lower Relapse Risk after Attempted Suicide
Authors: Martínez‐Alés Gonzalo , Jiménez‐Sola Eduardo , Román‐Mazuecos Eva , Sánchez‐Castro María Pilar , de Dios Consuelo , Rodríguez‐Vega Beatriz , Bravo‐Ortiz María Fe
Published: February 2019

Objective

According to randomized trials, contact after a suicide attempt lowers relapse risk. However, effectiveness studies based on real clinical data can provide additional external validity.

Method

We conducted an observational study to determine if an emergency department (ED)‐initiated intervention for suicide attempt risk reduction, consisting on scheduling a single added appointment within 7 days after discharge following a suicide attempt, can reduce the risk of relapse. The study included 1,775 patients who had been treated at a general hospital ED due to a suicide attempt. The principal outcome measure was ED return after a new attempt. We obtained Kaplan‐Meier survival functions and used Cox proportional hazard regression models to estimate unadjusted and adjusted risks of relapse by treatment phase. Covariates included: age, gender, history of suicide attempts, history of psychiatric disorders, concurrent alcohol/drug abuse, number of attempts during follow‐up, admission as an inpatient and family support.

Results

A total of 497 (22.5%) attempts were followed by a relapse. Subjects exposed to the studied intervention had a lower risk of relapse after a suicide attempt, with a 24% adjusted risk reduction estimate.

Conclusion

Our real‐world results suggest that an additional early appointment, scheduled before discharging suicide attempters, reduces suicide reattempt risk.
Muscle activity and vibration transmissibility during whole‐body vibration in chronic stroke
Authors: Huang Meizhen , Pang Marco Y. C.
Published: February 2019

Purpose

This study aimed to investigate the influence of whole‐body vibration (WBV) frequency, amplitude, and body posture on lower limb muscle activation among people with chronic stroke, and whether the EMG response to vibration stimulus differed between paretic and non‐paretic side. The relationship between muscle activation and WBV transmission was also examined.

Method

Thirty‐two participants with chronic stroke performed three different exercises on the WBV platform with different vibration conditions (frequency: 20 Hz, 30 Hz, 40 Hz; amplitude: 0.8 mm, 1.5 mm), or without vibration. Muscle activity in bilateral vastus medialis (VM), medial hamstrings (MH), tibialis anterior (TA), and medial gastrocnemius (MG) was measured by surface electromyography. Acceleration at the platform and bilateral hips and knees was measured by tri‐axial accelerometers.

Results

Significantly greater muscle activity was observed in the bilateral MG (P < 0.001), TA (P < 0.001), and MH (P < 0.001), but not VM, compared with the same exercises without WBV. WBV with higher amplitude or higher frequency led to greater augmentation of muscle activation (P < 0.05). Body posture significantly affected leg muscle activation (P < 0.001). WBV‐induced muscle activation was largely similar between paretic and non‐paretic sides, except the TA. Greater WBV‐induced leg muscle activation was associated with lower WBV transmissibility measured at the more proximal joints (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Adding WBV to exercise significantly increased muscle activation in the MG, TA, and MH on both the paretic and non‐paretic sides of chronic stroke survivors, and the increase was dependent on the WBV amplitude, frequency, and body posture.
Transparency and Unmasking Issues in Ethnographic Crime Research: Methodological Considerations
Authors: Contreras Randol
Published: February 2019

A transparency movement has begun urging researchers to publicize their data in order to ease replication and accountability. Some ethnographers have also begun arguing that researchers should unmask, or fully disclose, field sites and participant identities in order to replicate studies, verify accounts, and monitor social phenomena over time. However, for ethnographers studying violence and crime, full transparency or unmasking can get an ethnographer harmed. Thus, I broaden the unmasking/masking discussion by arguing for partial disclosures in dangerous research. To do so, I provide examples from my previous drug market ethnography and my ongoing gang research. I then propose safer ways to disclose field sites and participants, mainly through the following: semibiographical disclosure, where the ethnographer strategically omits some data in otherwise rich biographical portraits; through partial spatial disclosures, where the ethnographer reveals the field site's general area; and through invitational disclosure, where the ethnographer invites outsiders to meet participants in the field.
Evaluation of human electroencephalogram change for sensory effects of fragrance
Authors: Park Keun Hyung , Kim Hyun Joo , Oh Bobae , Seo Minji , Lee Eunyoung , Ha Jaehyoun
Published: February 2019

Background

The stabilizing effect of lavender and the arousal effect of peppermint essential oils are acknowledged and used widely in aromatherapy and the cosmetics industry. However, no evaluation method confirms the effects of essential oils through quantitative and objective electroencephalogram (EEG) results; instead, only a psychological and subjective method exists. Therefore, this study aims to create a new emotional cosmetic evaluation paradigm using EEG values. Moreover, it enables quantitative interpretation of the results in addition to the subjective survey outcomes.

Methods

For this study, 12 healthy female Korean participants were recruited and three fragrances were used. The EEG results were collected for 3 minutes (1 minute each before, during, and after inhalation of every fragrance).

Results

The quantitative EEG outcomes indicate changes in the participant's brainwaves before and after inhalation. Significant changes in the EEG were observed. Based on the results, the effects of fragrances were confirmed to be stabilizing for lavender, and arousing for peppermint and coffee aroma. Furthermore, the subjective questionnaire results indicate similar tendency as that of the quantitative EEG results.

Conclusion

In addition to psychological and subjective assessments, our emotional evaluation method can verify the cosmetic fragrance effects through quantitative and objective results.
Peer‐coaching as a component of a professional development model for biology teachers
Authors: Pearce Erin , de la Fuente Yohanis , Hartweg Beau , Weinburgh Molly
Published: February 2019

To increase the likelihood for continuous growth and improvement, professional development for high school biology teachers should include long‐term, targeted instruction with an accompanying peer‐coaching component. This study examined the views of biology teachers who were engaged in a two‐year professional development program, which included a strong peer‐coaching component. With an overall goal of enhancing the teachers’ instructional practices, the peer‐coaches and teachers collaborated to increase the amount of inquiry in the science classroom. Data were collected using focus groups and researcher notes. Emergent themes included the significance of relationships, importance of teacher commitment, and resulting change and growth in educators.
Value for money in self‐regulated procedural simulation
Authors: Lafleur Alexandre , Demchuk Gabriel , Tremblay Marie‐Laurence , Simard Caroline , Rivière Étienne
Published: February 2019

Background

In self‐regulated procedural simulation, learners practise on many simulators (e.g. paracentesis), self‐regulating their choice of simulators, time and goals. Current needs assessments cannot predict the number of simulators needed to plan cost‐effective self‐regulated simulation. Knowing the ratios of simulators and participants would allow for better‐informed purchase decisions to be made.

Methods

We designed 90‐minute sessions of self‐regulated procedural simulation for internal medicine residents. In Phase 1, 51 participants (8.5 per group) could use 22 simulators (US$69 925): ultrasound‐guided central (n = 6) and peripheral (n = 2) venous catheterisation; thoracocentesis (n = 2); paracentesis (n = 2); lumbar puncture (n = 6); and arthrocentesis (n = 4). We calculated minimal numbers of simulators based on the time that participants used each simulator in order to design a resource‐effective Phase 2, with 24 participants (with 12 per group) using 14 simulators (US$48 720) to meet their needs.

Results

Calculated from time of use (83 minutes in total), the optimal ratios of simulators expressed for 10 participants were 9.2: 3.7 for jugular and subclavian venous catheterisation (33 minutes); 1.5 for thoracocentesis (13 minutes), 1.0 for femoral venous catheterisation (9 minutes), 1.0 for lumbar puncture (9 minutes), 0.8 for peripheral venous catheterisation (8 minutes), 0.7 for paracentesis (6 minutes) and 0.5 for arthrocentesis (5 minutes). In Phase 2, the usage rate of simulators increased from 35.5% to 76.6%, maintaining the total time of use at 80.4 minutes.

Conclusions

We present a replicable method for the cost‐effective planning of self‐regulated simulation by measuring the use of simulators. Expressed as ratios of simulators per participant, this information can support purchase decisions and be shared with similar programmes.
Competitividad en las organizaciones de productores de aguacate en Sucre, Colombia
Authors: Ramírez García Adán Guillermo , Perez Peralta Claudia Milena
Published: February 2019

La competitividad de las organizaciones de productores campesinos de aguacate en los municipios de Ovejas, Colosó y Chalán, del departamento de Sucre en Colombia, desde el análisis de la competitividad organizacional, fue evaluada en este trabajo. El objetivo fue alcanzado a partir de un estudio descriptivo correlacional, una metodología cuantitativa y un método inductivo analítico, cuya fuente de información fue un cuestionario realizado en las cuatro organizaciones estudiadas. Los resultados indican que las organizaciones productoras de aguacate estudiadas en Sucre tienen bajos niveles de competitividad, lo que imposibilita su entrada al mercado internacional.
Recursos naturales y diversificación productiva en cuatro localidades rurales del Estado de Oaxaca, México
Authors: Perevochtchikova Maria , Hernández Flores José Alvaro , Avila-Foucat Veronique Sophie
Published: February 2019

En el trabajo se analiza la relación entre la diversificación productiva, incluyendo el ecoturismo, y el uso y la importancia de los recursos naturales, en cuatro localidades rurales de Oaxaca, México. Para ello se utilizan los resultados de una encuesta aplicada en 2014 a 209 hogares, de la cual se seleccionaron 16 variables de interés. Las etapas del estudio contemplan la descripción de las características socioeconómicas y ambientales de las localidades y el análisis en relación con la diversificación. Se confirma que, bajo condiciones similares, la diversificación y el aprovechamiento sustentable de recursos naturales constituyen prácticas cruciales en las estrategias de vida de los hogares.
Tensiones entre conservación de ecosistemas y desarrollo territorial: hacia un abordaje socioecológico en las Ciencias Agropecuarias
Authors: Easdale Marcos Horacio , López Dardo R , Aguiar Martín R
Published: February 2019

Las ciencias agropecuarias constituyen un vínculo académico entre sociología y ecología. Actualmente, existe la predominancia de una perspectiva tecnocrática orientada a aumentar la productividad y la eficiencia, con una impronta muy operativa e instrumental en el abordaje de muchos problemas complejos, relegando a segundo plano muchos otros aspectos que debieran abordarse en relación con la sustentabilidad y el desarrollo rural. El objetivo de este artículo es discutir el papel de las ciencias agropecuarias como nexo académico para abordar problemáticas socioambientales y la tensión que enfrenta la conservación de los ecosistemas rurales y el desarrollo territorial.
Características de los programas de prevención primaria para el control del VIH en la región del suroeste antioqueño, 2014
Authors: Lopera Medina Mónica  María  , Betancur Montoya Tatiana
Published: February 2019

Introducción: la prevención primaria (PP) del VIH/Sida es una obligación estatal para el control de la epidemia y el cumplimiento de los objetivos sanitarios, pero existe escasa evidencia sobre su funcionamiento. Objetivo: identificar algunas características de contexto, estructura, proceso y resultados de los programas de PP del VIH/Sida en el suroeste antioqueño. Método: estudio transversal, con análisis estadístico descriptivo, utilizando fuentes epidemiológicas y sociodemográficas oficiales y encuestas a 21/23 coordinadores de programa. Resultados: la incidencia, prevalencia y mortalidad del VIH/Sida fue de 10 casos por cada 100 000 habitantes, 73 casos por cada 100 000 habitantes y 22 casos por cada 100 000 habitantes. La disponibilidad de servicios fue limitada. La densidad profesional fue de 3 médicos/enfermeras/10 000 habitantes, coberturas de PP < 25 %, focalizadas en actividades informativas, dirigidas principalmente a la población general, indígena y materna. Los coordinadores percibieron logros no cuantificados relacionados con disminución de transmisión madre-hijo, mayor uso de condón, pero también limitaciones económicas, de intersectorialidad y estigma. Conclusión: pese al impacto epidemiológico y a factores de riesgo contextuales, la estructura, los procesos y los resultados de PP requieren mejoramiento.
La política pública de seguridad y salud en el trabajo: el caso colombiano
Authors: Álvarez Torres Sonia Helena , Riaño Casallas Martha Isabel
Published: February 2019

Se espera que el trabajo proporcione riqueza y bienestar al ser humano, pero toda actividad laboral incluye fatalidades, accidentes y enfermedades ocupacionales que afectan la productividad laboral y el desarrollo sostenible. La seguridad y la salud buscan construir una cultura de entornos laborales saludables, trabajo seguro y decente, y para ello el Estado colombiano promueve políticas públicas de seguridad a partir de recomendaciones de organismos internacionales, algunas de ellas enmarcadas en los retos del milenio. El objetivo de esta revisión es presentar como ha sido el desarrollo de la política pública colombiana en seguridad y salud en el trabajo, para lo cual se mostrarán las directrices internacionales postuladas por la OIT y la OMS, su despliegue en estrategias iberoamericanas y la aplicación de la política pública en los programas nacionales de seguridad y salud en el trabajo.
An Incremental Harmonic Balance Method With a General Formula of Jacobian Matrix and a Direct Construction Method in Stability Analysis of Periodic Responses of General Nonlinear Delay Differential Equations
Authors: Wang Xuefeng , Zhu Weidong , Zhao Xi
Published: February 2019

A general formula of Jacobian matrix is derived in an incremental harmonic balance (IHB) method for general nonlinear delay differential equations (DDEs) with multiple discrete delays, where the fast Fourier transform is used to calculate Fourier coefficients of partial derivatives of residuals. It can be efficiently and automatically implemented in a computer program, and the only manual work is to derive the partial derivatives, which can be a much easier task than derivation of Jacobian matrix. An advantage of the IHB method in stability analysis is also revealed here. A direct construction method is developed for stability analysis of nonlinear differential equations with use of a relationship between Jacobian matrix in the IHB method and the system matrix of linearized equations. Toeplitz form of the system matrix can be directly constructed, and Hill’s method is used to calculate Floquet multipliers for stability analysis. Efficiency of stability analysis can be improved since no integration is needed to calculate the system matrix. Period-doubling bifurcations and period-p solutions of a delayed Mathieu–Duffing equation are studied to demonstrate use of the general formula of Jacobian matrix in the IHB method and the direct construction method in stability analysis. Its solution is the same as that from the numerical integration method using the spectral element method in the DDE toolbox in matlab, and it has a high convergence rate for solving a delayed Van der Pol equation.
Roles of Nanofluids, Temperature of Base Fluids, and Pressure Gradient on Heat Transfer Enhancement From a Cylinder: Uniformly Heated/Heat Flux
Authors: Maiti Dilip K. , Sharma Swati
Published: February 2019

Heat transfer from a cylinder of square cross section (either dissipating constant heat flux (qW) or maintaining at a constant temperature (TW)) placed near a plane wall under the incidence of nonuniform linear/nonlinear velocity profile is studied numerically (finite volume method (FVM), quadratic upstream interpolation for convective kinematics (QUICK), and SIMPLE). The conventional fluids are chosen as water, and ethylene glycol–water mixture. The nanoparticles are selected as Al2O3 and CuO. Roles of pressure gradient P (at the inlet), temperature of base fluids, thermal conditions (TW or qW), and nanofluids' parameters (nanoparticle concentrations (ϕ), diameter, materials, and base fluids) on the heat transfer (Nusselt number (Nu¯M)) of the cylinder are investigated here. Nu¯M enhancement from the cylinder together with its drag coefficient reduction/increment due to addition of nanomaterials in both fluids at two different temperatures is assessed under the Couette flow. Classical fluid dynamics relationship among Nu¯M, Reynolds number (Re), and Prandtl number is discussed through Colburn j–factor, and hence the utility of proposed correlation between j–factor and Re toward engineering problems is also explored. The graphical observations of dependency of Nu¯M on the aforesaid parameters are reconfirmed by proposed functional forms of Nu¯M=Nu¯M(P), Nu¯M=Nu¯M(ϕ) and hence Nu¯M=Nu¯M(P,ϕ). An effort is made to examine the effectiveness of the aforementioned parameters on the heat transfer enhancement rate.
Automatic Enumeration of Feasible Configuration for the Dedicated Hybrid Transmission With Multi-Degree-of-Freedom and Multiplanetary Gear Set
Authors: Xu Xiangyang , Sun Hanqiao , Liu Yanfang , Dong Peng
Published: February 2019

This paper presents a novel design approach to systematically synthesize available configurations for dedicated hybrid transmission (DHT) systems subject to design constraints and required operation modes by using simple planetary gear sets (PGSs). The configuration synthesis process includes two main steps. The first step is the synthesis of the PGSs by synthesizing all the components to a simple PGS subject to the design constraints. The second step is to combine the structural and shift elements into all configurations and detect those meeting the requirements with the mechanical and operation mode constraints. By applying the proposed design approach, the configurations of the Toyota’s hybrid systems (THSs) and Voltec-II prove the feasibility of the method. Furthermore, several new DHT configurations are synthesized under the new design conditions. The proposed design approach is capable of systematically synthesizing new DHT systems with multiple PGSs, variable design constraints, and expected modes.
A New 4-DOF Fully Parallel Robot With Decoupled Rotation for Five-Axis Micromachining Applications
Authors: Stepanenko Oleksandr , Bonev Ilian A. , Zlatanov Dimiter
Published: February 2019

We present a novel 4-DOF (degrees of freedom) parallel robot designed for five-axis micromachining applications. Two of its five telescoping legs operate simultaneously, thus acting as an extensible parallelogram linkage, and in conjunction with two other legs control the position of the tooltip. The fifth leg controls the tilt of the end-effector (a spindle), while a turntable fixed at the base of the robot controls the swivel of the workpiece. The robot is capable of tilting its end-effector up to 90 deg, for any tooltip position. In this paper, we study the mobility of the new parallel kinematic machine (PKM), describe its inverse and direct kinematic models, then study its singularities, and analyze its workspace. Finally, we propose a potential mechanical design for this PKM utilizing telescopic actuators as well as the procedure for optimizing it. In addition, we discuss the possibility of using constant-length legs and base-mounted linear actuators in order to increase the volume of the workspace.
A Study on Natural Convection in a Cold Square Enclosure With Two Vertical Eccentric Square Heat Sources Using the IB–LBM Scheme
Authors: Dash S. M. , Sahoo S.
Published: February 2019

In this article, the natural convection process in a two-dimensional cold square enclosure is numerically investigated in the presence of two inline square heat sources. Two different heat source boundary conditions are analyzed, namely, case 1 (when one heat source is hot) and case 2 (when two heat sources are hot), using the in-house developed flexible forcing immersed boundary–thermal lattice Boltzmann model. The isotherms, streamlines, local, and surface-averaged Nusselt number distributions are analyzed at ten different vertical eccentric locations of the heat sources for Rayleigh number between 103 and 106. Distinct flow regimes including primary, secondary, tertiary, quaternary, and Rayleigh–Benard cells are observed when the mode of heat transfer is changed from conduction to convection and heat sources eccentricity is varied. For Rayleigh number up to 104, the heat transfer from the enclosure is symmetric for the upward and downward eccentricity of the heat sources. At Rayleigh number greater than 104, the heat transfer from the enclosure is better for downward eccentricity cases that attain a maximum when the heat sources are near the bottom enclosure wall. Moreover, the heat transfer rate from the enclosure in case 2 is nearly twice that of case 1 at all Rayleigh numbers and eccentric locations. The correlations for heat transfer are developed by relating Nusselt number, Rayleigh number, and eccentricity of the heat sources.
Thermal Cycling of Calcium Chloride Hexahydrate With Strontium Chloride as a Phase Change Material for Latent Heat Thermal Energy Storage Applications in a Nondifferential Scanning Calorimeter Set-Up
Authors: Kumar Navin , Banerjee Debjyoti
Published: February 2019

Calcium chloride hexahydrate (CaCl2·6H2O) is an attractive candidate as a phase change material for supplemental cooling in air-cooled thermal power-plant since it has a low-phase transition temperature of 29.3 °C and a relatively large volumetric energy storage density of 289 MJ/m3. The volumetric energy storage density is approximately double the energy densities of comparable paraffins with similar melting points. However, calcium chloride hexahydrate often requires high degree of supercooling to initiate solidification and long-term thermal stability has impeded the adoption of calcium chloride hexahydrate in the latent heat thermal energy storage system. There are only a few literatures which report on long-term stability of pure calcium chloride hexahydrate accurately. In this paper, the effects of sodium chloride and strontium chloride in mitigating supercooling in calcium chloride hexahydrate over 1000 melt–freeze cycles and thermal stability at elevated temperatures were studied in large sample size. Since there is not much data available on calcium chloride hexahydrate with nucleating additives, the current data available do not provide an insight into the effects of thermal cycling on supercooling. Therefore, this study also aims to measure the reliability of calcium chloride hexahydrate and report it, in terms of variations in melting temperature, supercooling, energy storage density, and change in mass over 1000 melt–freeze cycles. The results have shown that strontium chloride as heterogenous nucleators reduces supercooling by 2.5 °C and survived up to 1000 melt–freeze cycles (i.e., 2.7 years).
A Model for Bainite Formation at Isothermal Heat Treatment Conditions
Authors: Sidhu Gaganpreet , Srinivasan Seshasai , Bhole Sanjiwan
Published: February 2019

An improved model is presented for the formation of bainitic structures during isothermal heat treatment conditions. The model based on displacive mechanism consists of a new expression for the volume fraction of bainite as a function of time, incorporating a temperature and chemical composition-based expression for the number density of initial nucleation sites and limiting the volume fraction of bainite. The model has been validated with respect to experimental data of high- as well as low-carbon steels. It has been found that the isothermal transformation kinetics is well predicted for all steels.
Effect of Underloads on Plasticity-Induced Crack Closure: A Numerical Analysis
Authors: Antunes F. V. , Paiva L. , Branco R. , Borrego L. P.
Published: February 2019

The effect of underloads is mostly quantified by the averaged effect on the fatigue crack growth rate, and the transient behavior is rarely investigated. The objective of this paper is to study the mechanisms behind the effect of underloads, periodic underloads, and underloads combined with overloads. A single underload smashes the material around the crack tip, producing a depression on crack flank and a local reduction of contact forces at the minimum load. The reduction of plastic elongation behind the crack tip has an immediate effect on crack opening level, which rapidly disappears with crack propagation. The smashing associated with the compressive force occurs mainly behind the crack tip position where the underload was applied. The effect of the underload is intimately linked to reversed plastic deformation, which explains its enhanced effect for kinematic hardening. The decrease of load below the minimum baseline load is the main loading parameter. The application of periodic underloads extends the effect of a single underload. The effect of the underload is enhanced by the presence of obstacles in the form of residual plastic deformation, which explains the great effect of underloads applied after overloads.
Deriving the onset and offset times of planning units from acoustic and articulatory measurements
Authors: Rodd Joe , Bosker Hans Rutger , ten Bosch Louis , Ernestus Mirjam
Published: February 2019

Many psycholinguistic models of speech sequence planning make claims about the onset and offset times of planning units, such as words, syllables, and phonemes. These predictions typically go untested, however, since psycholinguists have assumed that the temporal dynamics of the speech signal is a poor index of the temporal dynamics of the underlying speech planning process. This article argues that this problem is tractable, and presents and validates two simple metrics that derive planning unit onset and offset times from the acoustic signal and articulatographic data.
No-touch measurements of vital signs in small conscious animals
Authors: Hui Xiaonan , Kan Edwin C.
Published: February 2019

Vital signs of small conscious animals are acquired in a civilized way without touching or interfering.
A new painkiller nanomedicine to bypass the blood-brain barrier and the use of morphine
Authors: Feng Jiao , Lepetre-Mouelhi Sinda , Gautier Anne , Mura Simona , Cailleau Catherine , Coudore François , Hamon Michel , Couvreur Patrick
Published: February 2019

A novel painkiller nanomedicine triggers the specific delivery of enkephalin neuropeptide into inflamed tissues.
AntBot: A six-legged walking robot able to home like desert ants in outdoor environments
Authors: Dupeyroux Julien , Serres Julien R. , Viollet Stéphane
Published: February 2019

Our ant-inspired robot returned home outdoors with a mean error of only 6.5 cm after covering distances between 5 and 14 m.
Future farms without farmers
Authors: Asseng Senthold , Asche Frank
Published: February 2019

A robotic revolution will allow the world to produce much more food more sustainably.
Human tumor-associated monocytes/macrophages and their regulation of T cell responses in early-stage lung cancer
Authors: Singhal Sunil , Stadanlick Jason , Annunziata Michael J. , Rao Abhishek S. , Bhojnagarwala Pratik S. , O’Brien Shaun , Moon Edmund K. , Cantu Edward , Danet-Desnoyers Gwenn , Ra Hyun-Jeong , Litzky Leslie , Akimova Tatiana , Beier Ulf H. , Hancock Wayne W. , Albelda Steven M. , Eruslanov Evgeniy B.
Published: February 2019

PD-L1
+
tumor cells, but not macrophages, are likely responsible for inhibiting tumor-specific T cells in early-stage human lung tumors.
One step solution for fighting bacteria and growing bone
Authors: Holloway Julianne L.
Published: February 2019

The delivery of copper ions from collagen-bioactive glass composite scaffolds offers a promising one-step approach to treating bone infections while also promoting new bone and blood vessel formation.
Transgenerational cycle of diabetes
Authors: Page Kathleen A.
Published: February 2019

Diabetes risk is shaped at birth.
The
Edwardsiella piscicida
Type III Translocon Protein EseC Inhibits Biofilm Formation by Sequestering EseE
Authors: Liu Ying Li , He Tian Tian , Liu Lu Yi , Yi Jia , Nie Pin , Yu Hong Bing , Xie Hai Xia
Published: February 2019

Edwardsiella piscicida
, previously known as
Edwardsiella tarda
, is a Gram-negative intracellular pathogen that mainly infects fish. The type III secretion system (T3SS) plays a pivotal role in its pathogenesis. The T3SS translocon protein EseB is required for the assembly of filamentous appendages on the surface of
E. piscicida
. The interactions between the appendages facilitate autoaggregation and biofilm formation. In this study, we explored the role of the other two translocon proteins, EseC and EseD, in biofilm formation. We have demonstrated that EseC, but not EseD, inhibits the autoaggregation and biofilm formation of
E. piscicida
, providing new insights into the regulatory mechanism involved in
E. piscicida
biofilm formation.
Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome due to hypercalcaemia: a rare cause
Authors: Bolanthakodi Nandakrishna , Vidyasagar Sudha , Varma Muralidhar , Holla Avinash
Published: February 2019

Posterior reversible encephalopathy syndrome (PRES) is a clinico-radiological entity described by Hincheyet alin late 90’s, characterised by variable associations of seizure activity, consciousness impairment ranging from confusion to coma, headaches, visual abnormalities, nausea/vomiting and focal neurological signs. Common causes are accelerated hypertension, eclampsia, preeclampsia, cytotoxic drug use and autoimmune diseases like systemic lupus erythematosus.

We report a case of PRES in a 62-year-old female patient due to hypercalcemia secondary to vitamin D toxicity on treatment with calcium supplements and vitamin D for secondary hypoparathyroidism. She had seizures and visual defects on presentation which recovered completely with treatment of hypercalcemia.
Hydrochlorothizide-induced acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis presenting with bilateral periorbital impetigo
Authors: Reap Leo E , Rodd Cassandra , Larios Jose , Marshall Michael
Published: February 2019

Acute generalised exanthematous pustulosis (AGEP) is a severe cutaneous adverse reaction characterised by the appearance of erythematous plaques and papules with overlying non-follicular pinpoint pustules. Drugs are the cause of AGEP in approximately 90% of cases. The most common causes include anti-infective agents (aminopenicillins, quinolones, antibacterial sulfonamides and terbinafine), antimalarials and diltiazem. To the best of our knowledge, to date there has only been one report of hydrochlorothiazide-induced AGEP. There has never been a case report of losartan-induced AGEP. Here, we present a case of AGEP that is the second case purportedly caused by hydrochlorothiazide.
‘When you hear hooves, think zebras, not horses’; two challenging cases of interstitial lung disease (ILD)
Authors: O’Callaghan Marissa , Fabre Aurelie , Keane Michael , McDonnell Timothy J
Published: February 2019

Our case series describes two siblings with complex fibrosing lung diseases. The first patient was initially given a diagnosis of sarcoidosis based on imaging and exclusion of alternative diagnoses. A number of years after diagnosis, he had rapid deterioration of his disease and following surgical lung biopsy, his lung fibrosis was re-classified as chronic hypersensitivity pneumonitis (cHP) with a usual interstitial pneumonia pattern. He subsequently underwent successful lung transplantation. The second patient presented with rapidly progressing exertional dyspnoea. His bloods, imaging, bronchoalveolar lavage and histology were discussed at our multidisciplinary team meeting. His histology was most in keeping with subacute on cHP with overlapping imaging features between the two siblings. He was treated accordingly but unfortunately succumbed to his illness shortly after diagnosis. These cases highlight the difficulties differentiating between the various interstitial lung disease (ILD) subtypes and the challenges in management while also increasing awareness of familial ILD.
One aneurysm and two pseudoaneurysms, same patient
Authors: Carvalho Daniela , Mimoso Jorge , de Jesus Ilídio , Fragata José
Published: February 2019

Ventricular pseudoaneurysms are rare pathological entities that mainly arise in the context of myocardial infarction or post-cardiac surgery. The clinical presentation is usually non-specific, and at times patients are asymptomatic. Mortality is high even with timely surgical intervention.

The authors present a case of postoperative recurrence of a left ventricular pseudoaneurysm superimposed on an ischaemic true aneurysm.
Isolated superior petrosal sinus dural arteriovenous fistula treated with selective sinus packing using a quadriaxial catheter system
Authors: Okuma Yu , Hirotsune Nobuyuki , Muraoka Kenichiro , Nishino Shigeki
Published: February 2019

A 67-year-old patient presented with a headache, vertigo and nausea, followed by a disturbance of consciousness. CT and MRI showed venous ectasia at the left cerebellopontine angle and extensive oedema in the left cerebellum. Angiography demonstrated a dural arteriovenous fistula that appeared at the left superior petrosal sinus–cavernous sinus) junction. After the evaluation of the shunt point, occluded areas were recanalised via the femoral vein with a quadriaxial catheter system using a 6-Fr guiding sheath, 6-Fr guiding catheter, 4.2-Fr catheter and microcatheter. Selective coil embolisation was performed, resulting in shunt removal.
Spontaneous simultaneous bilateral patellar tendon rupture
Authors: Foley James , Elhelali Rawan , Moiloa Dineo
Published: February 2019

Bilateral patellar tendon rupture is an extremely rare occurrence, especially in otherwise healthy individuals without systemic disease. The authors report the case of a man who presented with simultaneous, spontaneous bilateral rupture of his patellar tendons. He had a history of unilateral patellar tendinopathy but no other predisposing risk factors such as steroid or fluoroquinolone use. He underwent surgical repair and following intensive rehabilitation, he returned to baseline physical activity 6 months post injury.
Laparoscopic management of epidermoid cyst in an unusual location
Authors: Kesavan Sindhuja , Parthasarathi Ramakrishnan , Gupta Prakhar , Palanivelu Chinnusamy
Published: February 2019

The pararectal space or presacral space is a potential site for various cysts and tumours because it consists of many types of embryonic tissues. Although epidermoid cyst is a well-known entity, encountering a pararectal epidermoid cyst is relatively rare. The incidence of cystic tumours in the pararectal space has been reported to be 1 in 40 000 to 63 000 patients. Most of the tumours are asymptomatic and are incidentally discovered during routine imaging studies. Herein, we report a case of pararectal epidermoid cyst in a 51-year-old woman which was managed laparoscopically in a gastroenterology institute in South India.
Atypical anaplastic astrocytoma with unique molecular features and diffuse leptomeningeal spread in a child with long-term survival
Authors: Aghajan Yasmin , Malicki Denise M , Levy Michael L , Crawford John Ross
Published: February 2019

Paediatric high-grade gliomas, including glioblastoma and anaplastic astrocytoma, make up 8%–12% of paediatric central nervous system tumours1and have poor prognosis, with 2-year survival less than 30%2and overall survival less than 10%. The only known prognostic factors in this population include extent of resection and tumour histological grade. We present the case of a 9-year-old boy with disseminated anaplastic astrocytoma treated with subtotal resection, craniospinal radiation and temozolomide, with 8-year survival despite metastatic disease at presentation and subtotal resection. Next generation cancer gene panel sequencing revealed an usual pattern of 12 amplifications and four mutations not previously described.
Atypical presentation of IgG4sclerosing cholangitis
Authors: Roocroft Harrison , Sambaiah Prashantha , Monier Ahmed
Published: February 2019

IgG4sclerosing cholangitis (ISC) is a rare disease which usually presents in patients in their 60’s or above. Patients often present with obstructive jaundice as the first symptom, especially when associated with autoimmune pancreatitis. We report the case of a 20-year-old man who presented with acute abdominal pain, which was subsequently diagnosed as ISC in addition to autoimmune pancreatitis following magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography (MRCP). The patient was thus treated with steroids.
Head Injury in Soccer: From Science to the Field; summary of the head injury summit held in April 2017 in New York City, New York
Authors: Putukian Margot , Echemendia Ruben J , Chiampas George , Dvorak Jiri , Mandelbaum Bert , Lemak Lawrence J , Kirkendall Don
Published: February 2019

There has been an increased focus and awareness of head injury and sport-related concussion (SRC) across all sports from the medical and scientific communities, sports organisations, legislators, the media and the general population. Soccer, in particular, has been a focus of attention due to the popularity of the game, the frequency of SRC and the hypothesised effects of repetitive heading of the ball. Major League Soccer, US Soccer and the National Women’s Soccer League jointly hosted a conference entitled, ‘Head Injury in Soccer: From Science to the Field’, on 21–22 April 2017 in New York City, New York. The mission of this conference was to identify, discuss and disseminate evidence-based science related to the findings and conclusions of the fifth International Conference on Concussion in Sport held by the Concussion in Sport Group and apply them to the sport of soccer. In addition, we reviewed information regarding the epidemiology and mechanism of head injuries in soccer at all levels of play, data regarding the biomechanics and effects of repetitive head impacts and other soccer-specific considerations. We discussed how to release the information raised during the summit to key stakeholders including athletes, parents, coaches and healthcare providers. We identified future areas for research and collaboration to enhance the health and safety of soccer (football) players.
Brain natriuretic peptide to predict successful liberation from mechanical ventilation in critically ill patients: protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Deschamps Jean , Webber Jordan , Featherstone Robin , Sebastianski Meghan , Vandermeer Ben , Senaratne Janek , Bagshaw Sean M
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Predicting successful liberation from mechanical ventilation (MV) among critically ill patients receiving MV can be challenging. The current parameters used to predict successful extubation have shown variable predictive value. Brain natriuretic peptide (BNP) has been proposed as a novel biomarker to help guide decision-making in readiness for liberation of MV following a spontaneous breathing trial (SBT). Current evidence on the predictive ability of BNP has been uncertain, and BNP has not been integrated into clinical practice guidelines.

Methods and analysis

We will perform a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the value of BNP during SBT to predict success of liberation from MV. A search strategy will be developed in collaboration with a research librarian, and electronic databases (MEDLINE, EMBASE, Cochrane Library, Web of Science) and additional sources will be searched. Search themes will include: (1) BNP and (2) weaning, extubation and/or liberation from MV. Citation screening, selection, quality assessment and data abstraction will be performed in duplicate. The primary outcome will be liberation from MV; secondary outcomes will include time to reintubation, mortality, MV duration, total and postextubation intensive care unit (ICU) stay, hospitalisation duration, tracheostomy rate, ICU-acquired weakness rate and ventilator-free days. Primary statistical analysis will include predictive value of BNP by receiver operating characteristic curve, sensitivity/specificity and likelihood ratios for combination of BNP and SBT parameters for failure of liberation from MV. Secondary statistical analysis will be performed on individual and combinations of extracted metrics.

Ethics and dissemination

Our review will add knowledge by mapping the current body of evidence on the value of BNP testing for prediction of successful liberation from MV, and describe knowledge gaps and research priorities. Our findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication, presentation at a scientific congress, through regional/national organisations and social media. Research ethics approval is not required.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018087474.
Treatment of multiple brain metastases using gadolinium nanoparticles and radiotherapy: NANO-RAD, a phase I study protocol
Authors: Verry Camille , Sancey Lucie , Dufort Sandrine , Le Duc Geraldine , Mendoza Christophe , Lux François , Grand Sylvie , Arnaud Josiane , Quesada Jean Louis , Villa Julie , Tillement Olivier , Balosso Jacques
Published: February 2019

Introduction

Occurrence of multiple brain metastases is a critical evolution of many cancers with significant neurological and overall survival consequences, despite new targeted therapy and standard whole brain radiotherapy (WBRT). A gadolinium-based nanoparticle, AGuIX, has recently demonstrated its effectiveness as theranostic and radiosensitiser agent in preclinical studies. The favourable toxicity profile in animals and its administration as a simple intravenous injection has motivated its use in patients with this first in human study.

Methods and analysis

The NANO-RAD study is a phase I, first in human injection, monocentric, open-label, dose-escalation study to investigate the safety, the tolerability and the spectrum of side effects of AGuIX in combination with WBRT (30 Gy, 10 fractions of 3 Gy) for patients with multiple brain metastases. Five dose escalation cohorts are planned: 15, 30, 50, 75 and 100 mg/kg. A total of 15–18 patients will be recruited into this trial. The primary objective is to determine the maximum-tolerated dose of AGuIX nanoparticles combined with WBRT for the treatment of multiple brain metastases. Toxicity will be assessed using the National Cancer Institute Common Toxicity Criteria V.4.03. Secondary objectives are pharmacokinetic profile, distribution of AGuIX in metastases and surrounding healthy tissue visualised by MRI, intracranial progression-free survival and overall survival. Intracranial response will be determined according to Response Evaluation Criteria in Solid Tumour Criteria V.1.1 comparing MRI performed prior to treatment and at each follow-up visits.

Ethics and dissemination

Approval was obtained from the ethics committee Sud Est V, France (Reference number 15-CHUG-48). The study was approved by the French National Agency for the Safety of Medicines and Health Products (ANSM) (Reference number 151519A-12). The results will be published in peer-reviewed journals or disseminated through national and international conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT02820454; Pre-results.