bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ultrasonographic measurement of kidney‐to‐aorta parameters in Whippets
Authors: Costanza Dario , Pasolini Maria Pia , Greco Adelaide , Mennonna Giuseppina , Auletta Luigi , Lamagna Francesco , Meomartino Leonardo
Published: February 2021

In a previous study, an ultrasonographic method to assess kidney size in dogs as a ratio of kidney length to aortic luminal diameter (KL/AoD ratio) was proposed. The main limitation of this method was the wide range of normal values (5.5‐9.1), which resulted in poor sensitivity and specificity. The aim of this prospective, observational, reference interval study was to determine whether the KL/AoD normal cut‐off values in a single breed (Whippets) would have a narrower range than the previously reported normal reference ranges. The influence of sex, age, weight, and side on kidney length (KL) and of sex, age, weight, and scanning plane (longitudinal vs transversal) on aortic luminal diameter (AoD) were also investigated. Thirty‐six clinically healthy Whippets (16 males, 20 females) without ultrasonographic renal lesions were included in this study. The 95% confidence interval of mean KL/AoD was found to be narrower than the previously reported range (ie, 6.3‐6.9 versus 5.5‐9.1). This was considered to be especially notable in that the KL in this breed exhibits marked sexual dimorphism. The KL/AoD ratio did not differ between right versus left sides or male versus female sexes in Whippets (P > .05). Findings from the current study provided KL/AoD ratio normal reference range cut‐off values for future use in Whippets and supported the use of breed‐specific KL/AoD ratio values for characterizing abnormal renal size in other canine breeds.
Convergent evolution: A new subfamily for bipaliin‐like Chilean land planarians (platyhelminthes)
Authors: Almeida Ana Laura , Francoy Tiago Maurício , Álvarez‐Presas Marta , Carbayo Fernando
Published: February 2021

The monotypic genus of land planariansTimyma(Rhynchodeminae, Geoplanidae) has been suggested to be a relict that could reflect a pre‐Tertiary Antarctic connection between South America and Australia and New Zealand. Two species belonging to this genus,Timyma juliaeE. M. Froehlich, 1978 andTimyma olmuensisAlmeida & Carbayo sp. n., are (re)described herein. Both species present ventral testes and a semilunate headplate, the same as the members of the Oriental subfamily Bipaliinae.Timyma olmuensisAlmeida & Carbayo sp. n. is studied by means of an integrative approach. Two nuclear gene fragments (28S, EF) and a mitochondrial gene fragment (COI) were sequenced. Phylogenetic analyses pointed out thatTimymais the sister–group of the Neotropical Geoplaninae and is phylogenetically distant from Bipaliinae, contradicting the hypothesis ofTimymaas a South American relict of a Gondwanan taxon. These results indicate that the headplate evolved independently inTimymaand Bipaliinae. Morphological data reinforce this view. Accordingly, Timyminae subfam. n. is proposed forTimymaand a new diagnosis for the genus is proposed.
Neonatal Spinal Cord Transection Decreases Hindlimb Weight-Bearing and Affects Formation of Achilles and Tail Tendons
Authors: Theodossiou Sophia K. , Pancheri Nicholas M. , Martes Alleyna C. , Bozeman Aimee L. , Brumley Michele R. , Raveling Abigail R. , Courtright Jeffrey M. , Schiele Nathan R.
Published: February 2021

Mechanical loading may be required for proper tendon formation. However, it is not well understood how tendon formation is impacted by the development of weight-bearing locomotor activity in the neonate. This study assessed tendon mechanical properties, and concomitant changes in weight-bearing locomotion, in neonatal rats subjected to a low thoracic spinal cord transection or a sham surgery at postnatal day (P)1. On P10, spontaneous locomotion was evaluated in spinal cord transected and sham controls to determine impacts on weight-bearing hindlimb movement. The mechanical properties of P10 Achilles tendons (ATs), as representative energy-storing, weight-bearing tendons, and tail tendons (TTs), as representative positional, non-weight-bearing tendons were evaluated. Non- and partial weight-bearing hindlimb activity decreased in spinal cord transected rats compared to sham controls. No spinal cord transected rats showed full weight-bearing locomotion. ATs from spinal cord transected rats had increased elastic modulus, while cross-sectional area trended lower compared to sham rats. TTs from spinal cord transected rats had higher stiffness and cross-sectional area. Collagen structure of ATs and TTs did not appear impacted by surgery condition, and no significant differences were detected in the collagen crimp pattern. Our findings suggest that mechanical loading from weight-bearing locomotor activity during development regulates neonatal AT lateral expansion and maintains tendon compliance, and that TTs may be differentially regulated. The onset and gradual increase of weight-bearing movement in the neonate may provide the mechanical loading needed to direct functional postnatal tendon formation.
Study on Performance Enhancement of a Flapping Foil Energy Harvester Using Circulation Control
Authors: Shi Fangrui , Sun Xiaojing
Published: February 2021

Oscillating motion, an effective way to harvest energy, has gradually become a hotspot in bionic motion research in recent years. Means of improving the energy-extraction efficiency of a flapping foil harvester have long been a focus of researchers. This paper proposes a new flapping foil harvester with circulation control and explores the effects of different parameters on its energy-extraction capacity to improve efficiency and achieve lowest cost. Setting the injection ports on the upper and lower surfaces near the trailing edge of the foil and implementing injection control during motion, the effects of the location of the injection port, pitching amplitude, momentum coefficient, reduced frequency, and jet mode on the circulation control flapping foil are systematically investigated under the condition of a Reynolds number of 13,800. The results show that circulation control can enhance the energy-extraction efficiency of a flapping foil across a wide range of parameters, in which the location of the injection port and momentum coefficient have the most obvious influence on efficiency, followed by pitching amplitude and reduced frequency. In addition, the jet mode is a crucial factor affecting net efficiency. Relative to the constant mode, the triangular mode of circulation control has the lowest energy consumption, and the net energy-extraction efficiency reaches up to 38.77% under a reduced frequency of 0.12, which is 22.24% higher than that of the plain flapping foil.
A Sensor Simulation Framework for Training and Testing Robots and Autonomous Vehicles
Authors: Elmquist Asher , Serban Radu , Negrut Dan
Published: February 2021

Computer simulation can be a useful tool when designing robots expected to operate independently in unstructured environments. In this context, one needs to simulate the dynamics of the robot’s mechanical system, the environment in which the robot operates, and the sensors which facilitate the robot’s perception of the environment. Herein, we focus on the sensing simulation task by presenting a virtual sensing framework built alongside an open-source, multi-physics simulation platform called Chrono. This framework supports camera, lidar, GPS, and IMU simulation. We discuss their modeling as well as the noise and distortion implemented to increase the realism of the synthetic sensor data. We close with two examples that show the sensing simulation framework at work: one pertains to a reduced scale autonomous vehicle and the second is related to a vehicle driven in a digital replica of a Madison neighborhood.
Influence of Mean Strain on Fatigue Life of Stainless Steel in Pressurized Water Reactor Water Environment
Authors: Kamaya Masayuki
Published: February 2021

The Influence of application of the mean strain on the fatigue life was investigated for Type 316 stainless steel in the simulated pressurized water reactor (PWR) primary water environment. Low-cycle fatigue tests were conducted for a constant mean strain by controlling the strain range to be 1.2%. The applied strain rates were 0.4%/s, 0.004%/s, or 0.001%/s. The applied mean strain was 15% in nominal strain. In addition, cold worked specimens were also used for the tests without applying the mean strain. The cold working simulated the application of mean strain without an increase in surface roughness due to the application of plastic deformation. By inducing the cold working at low temperature, the influence of martensitic phase on the fatigue life was also examined. The PWR water environment reduced the fatigue life and the degree of the fatigue life reduction was consistent with the prediction model of the code issued by the Japan Society of Mechanical Engineers (JSME) and NUREG/CR-6909 Rev. 1. Increases in the maximum peak stress and stress range caused by cold working did not cause any apparent change in the fatigue life. It was revealed that the 10.5 wt% martensitic phase and the increase in the surface roughness caused by the application of 15% mean strain did not bring about further fatigue life reduction. The current JSME and NUREG/CR-6909 models were applicable for predicting the fatigue in the PWR water environment even when the mean strain or cold working was applied.
Deformation Behavior of Single Prismatic Battery Cell Cases and Cell Assemblies Loaded by Internal Pressure
Authors: Nguyen T. D. , Deng J. , Robert B. , Chen W. , Siegmund T.
Published: February 2021

The safety of electrochemical energy storage system depends on the structural integrity of the call containment. Nominal values of cell case dimensions and material properties are the standard inputs for the mechanical analysis of prismatic lithium-ion batteries. However, such data usually do not account for any considerations on the influence of the manufacturing processes of the cell case. This study investigates the effects of the cell wall thickness and elastic modulus, resulting from deep-drawing process, on the cell and cell assembly response. It is found that the deep-drawing process degrades Young’s modulus relative to standard values and leads to a spatial variation in the wall thickness of the cell case. The use of actual cell case material properties and cell wall thickness values is required to obtain validated finite element models of the battery cell case. Using experiments on internal pressure loaded single battery cells and finite element computations, it is demonstrated that the use of nominal cell casing characteristics significantly underestimates the resistance provided by the cell case to counter swelling of the active battery components.
A Parametric Level Set Method for Topology Optimization Based on Deep Neural Network
Authors: Deng Hao , To Albert C.
Published: February 2021

This paper proposes a new parametric level set method for topology optimization based on deep neural network (DNN). In this method, the fully connected DNN is incorporated into the conventional level set methods to construct an effective approach for structural topology optimization. The implicit function of level set is described by fully connected DNNs. A DNN-based level set optimization method is proposed, where the Hamilton–Jacobi partial differential equations (PDEs) are transformed into parametrized ordinary differential equations (ODEs). The zero-level set of implicit function is updated through updating the weights and biases of networks. The parametrized reinitialization is applied periodically to prevent the implicit function from being too steep or too flat in the vicinity of its zero-level set. The proposed method is implemented in the framework of minimum compliance, which is a well-known benchmark for topology optimization. In practice, designers desire to have multiple design options, where they can choose a better conceptual design base on their design experience. One of the major advantages of the DNN-based level set method is capable to generate diverse and competitive designs with different network architectures. Several numerical examples are presented to verify the effectiveness of the proposed DNN-based level set method.
Decision-Making Under Uncertainty for a Digital Thread-Enabled Design Process
Authors: Singh Victor , Willcox Karen E.
Published: February 2021

Digital thread is a data-driven architecture that links together information from all stages of the product lifecycle. Despite increasing application in manufacturing, maintenance/operations, and design related tasks, a principled formulation of analyzing the decision-making problem under uncertainty for the digital thread remains absent. The contribution of this article is to present a formulation using Bayesian statistics and decision theory. First, we address how uncertainty propagates in the product lifecycle and how the digital thread evolves based on the decisions we make and the data we collect. By using these mechanics, we explore designing over multiple product generations or iterations and provide an algorithm to solve the underlying multistage decision problem. We illustrate our method on an example structural design problem where our method can quantify and optimize different types and sequences of decisions, ranging from experimentation, manufacturing, and sensor placement/selection, to minimize total accrued costs.
A Real-Time Laser-Based Detection System for Measurement of Delineations of Moving Vehicles
Authors: Cheng Harry H. , Shaw Benjamin D. , Palen Joe , Larson Jonathan E. , Hu Xudong , Van Katwyk Kirk
Published: February 2021

In current practice, quantitative traffic data are most commonly acquired from inductive loops. In addition, video-image processing or time-of-flight laser systems can be used. These methods all have problems associated with them. We have developed a non-intrusive laser-based detection system for measurement of vehicle travel time. The basic detector unit consists of a fan angle laser and a photodetector array positioned above the plane of detection. This detection system is able to determine the length and width of moving objects in real time with high resolution. This information is used to differentiate similar objects and can be used later for re-identification of individual objects or object groups, providing a real measure of travel time between detection sites.
Design FMEA for Mechatronic Systems Using Bayesian Network Causal Models
Authors: Lee Burton Hoyt
Published: February 2021

This paper presents the use of Bayesian networks as a methodology for eliciting and encoding Failure Modes and Effects Analysis (BN-FMEA) models of mechatronic systems. The method uses probabilistic directed acyclic graphs to construct causal dependency structures between functional, behavioral and structural random variables of the physical system. Default apriori probabilities and conditional probability tables are generated and attached to the graph structure for post-design evaluation by diagnostic engineers. BN-FMEA provides a language for design teams to articulate — with less ambiguity and greater precision — component failure cause-effect relationships across sub-systems. An example of an inkjet printer illustrates how BN-FMEA can be applied. The approach supports traditional FMEA objectives — identification of system failure modes, provides improved knowledge representation and inferencing power over spreadsheets, and is generally applicable to the class of industry- and government-standard FMEA spreadsheets and tables in use today. Finally, BN-FMEA is presented as a basis for improved integration of design and diagnostic modeling of mechatronic systems.
Orientation Workspace Analysis of 6-DOF Parallel Manipulators
Authors: Bonev Ilian A. , Ryu Jeha
Published: February 2021

This paper presents a new discretization method for the computation of the orientation workspace of 6-rDOF parallel manipulators, defined as the set of all attainable orientations of the mobile platform about a fixed point. The method is based on the use of a modified set of Euler angles and a particular representation of the orientation workspace. In addition, a direct method is suggested for the computation of the projected orientation workspace, defined as the set of all possible directions of the approach vector of the mobile platform. Alternative ways of computing these two types of workspaces are also discussed with typical examples.
Experimental Investigation of Factors Influential for the Flexible Blade Based Prototyping Process
Authors: de Smit Bram , Broek Johan J. , Horváth Imre
Published: February 2021

Due to the need for large numbers of layers and size limitations, current layered manufacturing technologies are not suitable for the fabrication of large sized free-form objects. For this purpose a novel technology of thick layered object manufacturing is being developed, based on higher order approximation of the initial geometry, and the application of a flexible curved cutting tool. The method allows us to produce physical prototypes with less or without any finishing. The technology of cutting foams by means of a heated flexible blade in polystyrene foam offers new possibilities. However to achieve the optimum output, optimization of the process parameters is needed. In this paper a closer look is taken into the process characteristics and the influential factors which are decisive for productive cutting. The authors summarize the results of the executed experimental tests. In these experiments the values of the most influential parameters were systematically changed and the effects were carefully investigated. The first results indicate that the cutting technology is practically feasible, but further research is needed in order to achieve a balanced optimization of the technology from all aspects.
Genetic Algorithms in Fuzzy Engineering Design
Authors: Schleiffer Ralf , Sebastian Hans-Jürgen , Antonsson Erik K.
Published: February 2021

Problems in the field of engineering design represent an important class of real world problems that typically require a fuzzy and imprecise representation. This article presents and discusses a new approach to model this type of problem, by incorporating linguistic descriptions together with a variety of user-defined trade-off strategies. An interactive computer application is introduced, using stochastic optimization to solve the design task by producing a specially desired output under the given environmental conditions which are partly caused by the personal preferences of the engineer and by the expectations of the customer. It utilizes a randomized evolutionary technique, made suitable for the class of problems at hand, to generate and to optimize design solutions that are later identified by a clustering algorithm. Moreover test problems that were solved by the application are considered. In all cases the good solutions were obtained by evaluating only an extremely small fraction of all possible designs.
Facilitating Tacit Knowledge Capture and Reuse in Conceptual Design Activities
Authors: Yen Samuel J. , Fruchter Renate , Leifer Larry J.
Published: February 2021

This paper discusses the approach and analysis of an empirical study that supports the hypothesis that concept generation and development occur most frequently in informal media where design capture tools are the weakest. This statement has strong implications for the capture and reuse of design knowledge because conceptual design generates the majority of initial ideas and directions that guide the course of the project. Many important decisions are made along with rationales that support these decisions, but since these rationales are expressed in design activities such as brainstorming sessions and conversations, the design rationale is rarely captured and the knowledge is lost. While traditional product documentation captures explicit knowledge such as requirements, specifications, and design decisions, often the contextual or tacit knowledge of the design group is lost. The paper concludes with a description of a computer-mediated system, called “Recall”, that addresses the results of our findings by providing a means of capturing and indexing informal media to facilitate design reuse.
Modeling the Vibratory Drilling Process
Authors: Batzer Stephen A. , Gouskov Alexander M. , Voronov Sergey A.
Published: February 2021

The dynamic behavior of deep-hole vibratory drilling is analyzed. The mathematical model presented allows the determination of axial tool and workpiece displacements and cutting forces for significant dynamic system behavior such as the entrance of the cutting tool into workpiece material and exit. Model parameters include the actual rigidity of the tool and workpiece, time-varying chip thickness, time lag for chip formation due to tool rotation and possible disengagement of drill cutting edges from the workpiece due to tool and/or workpiece axial vibrations. The main features of this model are its nonlinearity and inclusion of time lag differential equations which require numeric solutions. The specific cutting conditions (feed, tool rotational velocity, amplitude and frequency of forced vibrations) necessary to obtain discontinuous chips and reliable removal are determined. The stability conditions of excited vibrations are also investigated. Calculated bifurcation diagrams make it possible to derive the domain of system parameters along with the determination of optimal cutting conditions.
Tools for quantum network design
Authors: Azuma Koji , Bäuml Stefan , Coopmans Tim , Elkouss David , Li Boxi
Published: February 2021

Quantum networks will enable the implementation of communication tasks with qualitative advantages with respect to the communication networks known today. While it is expected that the first demonstrations of small scale quantum networks will take place in the near term, many challenges remain to scale them. To compare different solutions, optimize over parameter space, and inform experiments, it is necessary to evaluate the performance of concrete quantum network scenarios. Here, the authors review the state-of-the-art of tools for evaluating the performance of quantum networks. The authors present them from three different angles: information-theoretic benchmarks, analytical tools, and simulation.
Highly crystalline methylammonium lead iodide films: Phase transition from tetragonal to cubic structure by thermal annealing
Authors: Thankaraj salammal Shyju , Panneerselvam Vengatesh , Chinnakutti Karthik Kumar , Manidurai Paulraj , Parasuraman Kuppusami
Published: February 2021

Herein, a very simple, solvent free, scalable, and single-step approach to prepare organometal halide perovskite powders via mechanochemical synthesis followed by the deposition of perovskite films by spin coating is reported. This work particularly deals with various parameters that influence the crystallization process and morphology (hyperbranched) of methylammonium lead iodide films. Moreover, the influence of growth temperature on the morphology and the transition from tetragonal to cubic structure are investigated. The mechanosynthesized perovskite provides hyperbranched morphology and crystalline films in a hexagonal shape and serves as a better precursor for the absorber layer in perovskite solar cells.
Drag-induced directionality switching of kinesin-5 Cin8 revealed by cluster-motility analysis
Authors: Pandey Himanshu , Reithmann Emanuel , Goldstein-Levitin Alina , Al-Bassam Jawdat , Frey Erwin , Gheber Larisa
Published: February 2021

Directionality switching of the mitotic kinesin-5 Cin8 motor is caused by an asymmetric response of its active movement to drag.
Targeting oncoproteins with a positive selection assay for protein degraders
Authors: Koduri Vidyasagar , Duplaquet Leslie , Lampson Benjamin L. , Wang Adam C. , Sabet Amin H. , Ishoey Mette , Paulk Joshiawa , Teng Mingxing , Harris Isaac S. , Endress Jennifer E. , Liu Xiaoxi , Dasilva Ethan , Paulo Joao A. , Briggs Kimberly J. , Doench John G. , Ott Christopher J. , Zhang Tinghu , Donovan Katherine A. , Fischer Eric S. , Gygi Steven P. , Gray Nathanael S. , Bradner James , Medin Jeffrey A. , Buhrlage Sara J. , Oser Matthew G. , Kaelin William G.
Published: February 2021

A new positive selection assay could enhance the discovery of compounds that degrade previously undruggable proteins.
In Vitro
and
In Vivo
Activities of TP0480066, a Novel Topoisomerase Inhibitor, against Neisseria gonorrhoeae
Authors: Masuko Aiko , Takata Iichiro , Fujita Kiyoko , Okumura Hirotoshi , Ushiyama Fumihito , Amada Hideaki , Sugiyama Hiroyuki
Published: February 2021

Gonorrhea is a common, sexually transmitted disease caused by
Neisseria gonorrhoeae
. Multidrug-resistant
N. gonorrhoeae
is an urgent threat, and the development of a new antimicrobial agent that functions via a new mechanism is strongly desired.
HIV-Infected Macrophages Are Infected and Killed by the Interferon-Sensitive Rhabdovirus MG1
Authors: Sandstrom Teslin S. , Ranganath Nischal , Burke Schinkel Stephanie C. , Salahuddin Syim , Meziane Oussama , Côté Sandra C. , Costiniuk Cecilia T. , Jenabian Mohammad-Ali , Angel Jonathan B.
Published: February 2021

Human immunodeficiency virus type 1 (HIV-1) remains a treatable, but incurable, viral infection. The establishment of viral reservoirs containing latently infected cells remains the main obstacle in the search for a cure.
Competition Sensing Changes Antibiotic Production in
Streptomyces
Authors: Westhoff Sanne , Kloosterman Alexander M. , van Hoesel Stephan F. A. , van Wezel Gilles P. , Rozen Daniel E.
Published: February 2021

Bacteria secrete antibiotics to inhibit their competitors, but the presence of competitors can determine whether these toxins are produced. Here, we study the role of the competitive and resource environment on antibiotic production in
Streptomyces
, bacteria renowned for their production of antibiotics.
Partial Prion Cross-Seeding between Fungal and Mammalian Amyloid Signaling Motifs
Authors: Bardin Thierry , Daskalov Asen , Barrouilhet Sophie , Granger-Farbos Alexandra , Salin Bénédicte , Blancard Corinne , Kauffmann Brice , Saupe Sven J. , Coustou Virginie
Published: February 2021

Amyloids are β-sheet-rich protein polymers that can be pathological or display a variety of biological roles. In filamentous fungi, specific immune receptors activate programmed cell death execution proteins through a process of amyloid templating akin to prion propagation.
Cytoplasmic Incompatibility Variations in Relation with
Wolbachia cid
Genes Divergence in Culex pipiens
Authors: Sicard Mathieu , Namias Alice , Perriat-Sanguinet Marco , Carron Eric , Unal Sandra , Altinli Mine , Landmann Frederic , Weill Mylène
Published: February 2021

Culex pipiens
mosquitoes are infected with
w
Pip. These endosymbionts induce a conditional sterility called CI resulting from embryonic deaths, which constitutes a cornerstone for
Wolbachia
antivectorial methods.
A Novel Trichomonas vaginalis Surface Protein Modulates Parasite Attachment via Protein:Host Cell Proteoglycan Interaction
Authors: Molgora Brenda M. , Rai Anand Kumar , Sweredoski Michael J. , Moradian Annie , Hess Sonja , Johnson Patricia J.
Published: February 2021

The ability of the sexually transmitted parasite
Trichomonas vaginalis
to adhere to its human host is critical for establishing and maintaining an infection. Yet how parasites adhere to host cells is poorly understood.
Phytotoxic Tryptoquialanines Produced
In Vivo
by
Penicillium digitatum
Are Exported in Extracellular Vesicles
Authors: Costa Jonas Henrique , Bazioli Jaqueline Moraes , Barbosa Luidy Darllan , dos Santos Júnior Pedro Luis Theodoro , Reis Flavia C. G. , Klimeck Tabata , Crnkovic Camila Manoel , Berlinck Roberto G. S. , Sussulini Alessandra , Rodrigues Marcio L. , Fill Taícia Pacheco
Published: February 2021

During the postharvest period, citrus fruits can be affected by phytopathogens such as
Penicillium digitatum
, which causes green mold disease and is responsible for up to 90% of total citrus losses. Chemical fungicides are widely used to prevent green mold disease, leading to concerns about environmental and health risks.
Resistance to a Nucleoside Analog Antiviral Drug from More Rapid Extension of Drug-Containing Primers
Authors: Chen Han , Lawler Jessica L. , Filman David J. , Hogle James M. , Coen Donald M.
Published: February 2021

While resistance to antiviral drugs can hinder their clinical use, understanding resistance mechanisms can illuminate how these drugs and their targets act. We studied a substitution in the human cytomegalovirus (HCMV) DNA polymerase that confers resistance to a leading anti-HCMV drug, ganciclovir.
A tale of five enclaves: Mineral perspectives on origins of mafic enclaves in the Tuolumne Intrusive Complex
Authors: Barnes C.G. , Werts K. , Memeti V. , Paterson S.R. , Bremer R.
Published: February 2021

The widespread occurrence of mafic magmatic enclaves (mme) in arc volcanic rocks attests to hybridization of mafic-intermediate magmas with felsic ones. Typically, mme and their hosts differ in mineral assemblage and the compositions of phenocrysts and matrix glass. In contrast, in many arc plutons, the mineral assemblages in mme are the same as in their host granitic rocks, and major-element mineral compositions are similar or identical. These similarities lead to difficulties in identifying mixing end members except through the use of bulk-rock compositions, which themselves may reflect various degrees of hybridization and potentially melt loss. This work describes the variety of enclave types and occurrences in the equigranular Half Dome unit (eHD) of the Tuolumne Intrusive Complex and then focuses on textural and mineral composition data on five porphyritic mme from the eHD. Specifically, major- and trace-element compositions and zoning patterns of plagioclase and hornblende were measured in the mme and their adjacent host granitic rocks. In each case, the majority of plagioclase phenocrysts in the mme (i.e., large crystals) were derived from a rhyolitic end member. The trace-element compositions and zoning patterns in these plagioclase phenocrysts indicate that each mme formed by hybridization with a distinct rhyolitic magma. In some cases, hybridization involved a single mixing event, whereas in others, evidence for at least two mixing events is preserved. In contrast, some hornblende phenocrysts grew from the enclave magma, and others were derived from the rhyolitic end member. Moreover, the composition of hornblende in the immediately adjacent host rock is distinct from hornblende typically observed in the eHD. Although primary basaltic magmas are thought to be parental to the mme, little or no evidence of such parents is preserved in the enclaves. Instead, the data indicate that hybridization of already hybrid andesitic enclave magmas with rhyolitic magmas in the eHD involved multiple andesitic and rhyolitic end members, which in turn is consistent with the eHD representing an amalgamation of numerous, compositionally distinct magma reservoirs. This conclusion applies to enclaves sampled <30 m from one another. Moreover, during amalgamation of various rhyolitic reservoirs, some mme were evidently disrupted from a surrounding mush and thus carried remnants of that mush as their immediately adjacent host. We suggest that detailed study of mineral compositions and zoning in plutonic mme provides a means to identify magmatic processes that cannot be deciphered from bulk-rock analysis.
Comparison of rectal and axillary temperature measurements in preterm newborns
Authors: McCarthy Lisa K , O’Donnell Colm Patrick Finbarr
Published: February 2021

Objective

To compare rectal and axillary temperatures in preterm newborns on admission to the neonatal intensive care unit (NICU).

Design

Secondary analysis of data collected in a randomised controlled trial (RCT).

Setting

Maternity hospital, level 3 NICU.

Patients

Seventy-two newborns <31 weeks who were enrolled in the BAMBINO RCT (A randomised trial of exothermic mattresses to prevent heat loss in preterm infants at birth, ISRCTN31707342).

Interventions

Newborns were placed in polyethylene bags and were randomised to placement on exothermic mattresses, or not in the delivery room. All infants had rectal and axillary temperatures measured in immediate succession using a digital thermometer on NICU admission.

Outcome measures

Admission rectal and axillary temperatures.

Results

Mean (SD) gestational age was 28 (2) weeks and birth weight was 1138 (374) g. Mean rectal-axillary temperature difference was 0.1 (0.5°C) (range −1.4°C to +1.5°C). Rectal and axillary temperatures differed by ≥0.5°C in 18/72 (25%) infants; axillary temperature was higher than rectal in 6 (8%) and lower in 12 (17%). There was a positive linear relationship between rectal and axillary measurements (Pearson’s correlation R=0.84). Applying the Bland-Altman technique, the width of 95% prediction interval was 1.8°C (−0.8°C to 1.0°C) implying that rectal and axillary measurements may vary by up to 1.0°C. Axillary temperature had a sensitivity of 65% when used to detect rectal hyperthermia and 100% sensitivity for hypothermia.

Conclusion

Paired rectal and axillary temperature measurements in preterm newborns on NICU admission vary significantly. Axillary temperature was sensitive at detecting rectal hypothermia but not hyperthermia. Axillary temperature may not be an accurate proxy for rectal temperature measurement in all preterm newborns on NICU admission.
Integrating rights and evidence: a technical advance in abortion guideline development
Authors: de Londras Fiona , Cleeve Amanda , Rodriguez Maria Isabel , Lavelanet Antonella
Published: February 2021

As part of its core work, the WHO generates, translates and disseminates knowledge, including through guideline development. In recent years, substantial work has been undertaken to revise the Evidence to Decision framework in order to fully integrate inter alia human rights. This paper describes an innovative methodological approach taken by the authors to inform law and policy recommendations for the forthcoming third edition of the Safe Abortion: Technical and Policy Guidance for Health Systems. The methodology described here effectively integrates human rights protection and enjoyment as part of health outcomes and analysis, ensuring that subsequent recommendations are consistent with international human rights standards. This will allow guideline users to make informed decisions on interventions, including legal and policy reform, to fulfil relevant human rights including the right to health.
Effect of critical illness insurance on the medical expenditures of rural patients in China: an interrupted time series study for universal health insurance coverage
Authors: Zhong Zhengdong , Jiang Junnan , Chen Shanquan , Li Lu , Xiang Li
Published: February 2021

Objective

The objective of this study is to determine if critical illness insurance (CII) promotes the universal health coverage to reduce out-of-pocket (OOP) medical expenditures and improve the effective reimbursement rate (ERR) in rural China.

Study design

The 5-year monthly hospitalisation data, starting 2 years before the CII (ie, the ‘intervention’) began, were collected. Interrupted time series analysis models were used to evaluate the immediate and gradual effects of CII on OOP payment and ERR.

Setting

The study was conducted in Xiantao County, Hubei Province, China.

Participants

A total of 511 221 inpatients within 5 years were included in the analysis.

Results

In 2016, 100 288 patients received in-patient services, among which 4137 benefited from CII. After the implementation of CII, OOP expenses increased 32.2% (95% CI 24.8% to 39.5%, p<0.001). Compared with the preintervention periods, the trend changes decline at a rate of 0.7% per month after the implementation of CII. Similarly, a significant decrease was observed in log ERR after the intervention started. The rate of level change is 16% change (95% CI −20.0% to −12.1%, p<0.001).

Conclusion

CII did not decrease the OOP payments of rural inpatients in 2011–2016 periods. The limited extents of population coverage and financing resources can be attributed to these results. Therefore, the Chinese government must urgently raise the funds of CII and improve the CII policy reimbursement rate.
Absolute cardiovascular disease risk score and pharmacotherapy at the time of admission in patients presenting with acute coronary syndrome due to coronary artery disease in a single Australian tertiary centre: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Bailey Amy , Korda Rosemary , Agostino Jason , Stanton Tony , Kelly Gabriela , Richman Tuppence , Greaves K
Published: February 2021

Objectives

To describe (1) absolute cardiovascular disease risk (ACVDR) scores in patients presenting to hospital with acute coronary syndrome (ACS) and (2) proportions of these patients on guideline-recommended pharmacotherapy according to their ACVDR score.

Design

Cross-sectional study.

Setting

Single-site tertiary centre hospital, Queensland, Australia over a 12-month period.

Participants

Patients >18 years of age presenting to hospital with ACS due to coronary artery disease (CAD) confirmed by angiography.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Proportion of patients without prior history of CVD with a high ACVDR score, and of patients with a prior history of CVD, who are on guideline-recommended pharmacotherapy.

Results

527 ACS patients were included of whom the mean age was 63 years and 75% were male. Overall, 66% (350) had no prior CVD and 34% (177) patients had prior CVD.

In patients with no prior CVD, the proportions of patients with low, intermediate and high CVD risk scores were 41%, 24% and 36%. In the no prior CVD, high-risk patient group, 48% were on no preventative pharmacotherapy, 32% on single pharmacotherapy and 20% patients on complete guideline-recommended pharmacotherapy. In the prior CVD group, 7% patients were on no pharmacotherapy, 40% on incomplete pharmacotherapy and 53% were on complete guideline-recommended pharmacotherapy.

Conclusion

This study adds to the evidence on implementation gaps in guideline-recommended management of ACVDR, showing that a large proportion of patients presenting with ACS due to CAD were at high risk of developing CVD prior to the event and most were not on guideline-recommended treatment. A significant proportion of these events are likely to have been preventable, and therefore, increased assessment and appropriate treatment of ACVDR in primary care is needed to reduce the incidence of CVD events in the population.
Piperacillin–tazobactam versus meropenem for treatment of bloodstream infections caused by third-generation cephalosporin-resistant Enterobacteriaceae: a study protocol for a non-inferiority open-label randomised controlled trial (PeterPen)
Authors: Bitterman Roni , Koppel Fidi , Mussini Cristina , Geffen Yuval , Chowers Michal , Rahav Galia , Nesher Lior , Ben-Ami Ronen , Turjeman Adi , Huberman Samuel Maayan , Cheng Matthew P , Lee Todd C , Leibovici Leonard , Yahav Dafna , Paul Mical
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The optimal treatment for extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL)-producing Enterobacteriaceae bloodstream infections has yet to be defined. Retrospective studies have shown conflicting results, with most data suggesting the non-inferiority of beta-lactam–beta-lactamase inhibitor combinations compared with carbapenems. However, the recently published MERINO trial failed to demonstrate the non-inferiority of piperacillin–tazobactam to meropenem. The potential implications of the MERINO trial are profound, as widespread adoption of carbapenem treatment will have detrimental effects on antimicrobial stewardship in areas endemic for ESBL and carbapenem-resistant bacteria. Therefore, we believe that it is justified to re-examine the comparison in a second randomised controlled trial prior to changing clinical practice.

Methods and analysis

PeterPen is a multicentre, investigator-initiated, open-label, randomised controlled non-inferiority trial, comparing piperacillin–tazobactam with meropenem for third-generation cephalosporin-resistantEscherichia coliandKlebsiellabloodstream infections. The study is currently being conducted in six centres in Israel and one in Canada with other centres from Israel, Italy and Canada expected to join. The two primary outcomes are all-cause mortality at day 30 from enrolment and treatment failure at day seven (death, fever above 38°C in the last 48 hours, continuous symptoms, increasing Sequential Organ Failure Assessment Score or persistent blood cultures with the index pathogen). A sample size of 1084 patients was calculated for the mortality endpoint assuming a 12.5% mortality rate in the control group with a 5% non-inferiority margin and assuming 100% follow-up for this outcome.

Ethics and dissemination

The study is approved by local and national ethics committees as required. Results will be published, and trial data will be made available.

Trial registration numbers

ClinicalTrials.gov Registry (NCT03671967); Israeli Ministry of Health Trials Registry (MOH_2018-12-25_004857).
Outcomes of hyperglycaemia in pregnancy in Africa: systematic review study protocol
Authors: Musa Ezekiel , Chivese Tawanda , Werfalli Mahmoud , Matjila Mushi , Norris Shane A , Levitt Naomi
Published: February 2021

Introduction

The prevalence of diabetes mellitus globally has increased considerably over the past decades with a resultant increase in the incidence of diabetes-complicated pregnancies. Hyperglycaemia in pregnancy is the most common metabolic complication encountered during pregnancy and is associated with adverse maternal and fetal outcomes. This systematic review aims to examine maternal, fetal, neonatal, childhood and long-term maternal outcomes of hyperglycaemia in pregnancy in Africa.

Methods and analysis

A systematic review of all studies that investigated hyperglycaemia in pregnancy outcomes, carried out in Africa from 1998 to 2019. A comprehensive search of all published articles indexed in PubMed-MEDLINE, Cochrane Library, Scopus, CINAHL (EBSCOhost), Embase and Web of Science databases will be performed. Studies will be screened for eligibility by title, abstract and full text in duplicate by two independent reviewers. For data where meta-analysis is not possible, narrative analysis will be carried out using themes from data. For data where meta-analysis is possible, random effects meta-analysis will be conducted. This systematic review will be reported according to the Meta-analyses of Observational Studies in Epidemiology.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval is not required for this study considering this is a systematic review protocol that uses only published data. The findings of this study will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and conference presentations.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020184573.
Evaluation of eight-style Tai chi on cognitive function in patients with cognitive impairment of cerebral small vessel disease: study protocol for a randomised controlled trial
Authors: Zhong Xiaoyong , Yan Xinghui , Liang Hui , Xia Rui , Chen Bin , Zhao Hong-Jia
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD) is a critical factor that causes cognitive decline and progresses to vascular dementia and acute cerebrovascular events. Tai chi has been proven to improve nerve plasticity formation and directly improve cognitive function compared with other sports therapy, which has shown its unique advantages. However, more medical evidence needs to be collected in order to verify that Tai chi exercises can improve cognitive impairment due to CSVD. The main purposes of this study are to investigate the effect of Tai chi exercise on neuropsychological outcomes of patients with cognitive impairment related to CSVD and to explore its mechanism of action with neuroimaging, including functional MRI (fMRI) and event-related potential (P300).

Methods and analysis

The design of this study is a randomised controlled trial with two parallel groups in a 1:1 allocation ratio with allocation concealment and assessor blinding. A total of 106 participants will be enrolled and randomised to the 24-week Tai chi exercise intervention group and 24-week health education control group. Global cognitive function and the specific domains of cognition (memory, processing speed, executive function, attention and verbal learning and memory) will be assessed at baseline and 12 and 24 weeks after randomisation. At the same time, fMRI and P300 will be measured the structure and function of brain regions related to cognitive function at baseline and 24 weeks after randomisation. Recruitment is currently ongoing (recruitment began on 9 November 2020). The approximate completion date for recruitment is in April 2021, and we anticipate to complete the study by December 2021.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethics approval was given by the Medical Ethics Committee of the Affiliated People’s Hospital of Fujian University of Traditional Chinese Medicine (approval number: 2019-058-04). The findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications and at scientific conferences.

Trial registration number

ChiCTR2000033176; Pre-results.
Lifestyle Intervention in Chronic Ischaemic Heart Disease and Type 2 Diabetes (the LeIKD study): study protocol of a prospective, multicentre, randomised, controlled trial
Authors: von Korn Pia , Sydow Hanna , Neubauer Sarah , Duvinage André , Mocek Anja , Dinges Sophia , Hackenberg Bjoern , Weichenberger Mario , Schoenfeld Julia , Amelung Volker , Mueller Stephan , Halle Martin
Published: February 2021

Introduction

Guidelines recommend lifestyle intervention in chronic ischaemic heart disease (CIHD) and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). However, evidence from randomised controlled trials is scarce in patients with combined entities.

Methods and analysis

The Lifestyle Intervention in Chronic Ischaemic Heart Disease and Type 2 Diabetes (LeIKD) trial is a prospective, multicentre study that will randomise (1:1) patients with CIHD (ICD-10: I20-I25) and T2DM (ICD-10: E11) from one health insurance company into a lifestyle intervention (LS) or usual care (UC). Active LS consists of an individual combined exercise programme of strength and endurance training and nutritional counselling with regular feedback for 6 months. Intervention is supported by telemedicine. Follow-up without individualised feedback will continue for 6 months. The study aims to investigate whether an individualised telemedical supported LS intervention is superior to UC in improving cardiovascular risk factors, physical activity, quality of life, health literacy, major cardiovascular events and health economics in patients with both CIHD and T2DM. Primary endpoint is the change in HbA1cfrom baseline to 6 months.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been approved by the ethics committee of the Technical University of Munich (registration number: 144/18-S) and at each study site. The study will be conducted according to the World Medical Association Declaration of Helsinki, and results will be published in articles and reports. It is funded by the Federal Joint Committee (www.innovationsfonds.g-ba.de), reference number 01NVF17015, which has no impact on data collection, analysis or interpretation. Dissemination is independent of the funding source.

Trial registration number

Clinical trials.gov identifier:NCT03835923. German registry for clinical studies (DRKS): DRKS00015140.