bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effects of 2 preparation methods and long‐term storage on structural integrity and bacterial loads of equine amnion
Authors: McCoy Annette M. , Smith Rebecca L. , Secor Erica J. , Roady Patrick J.
Published: December 2018

Objective

To determine the influence of tissue preparation and long‐term storage methods on structural integrity and risk of bacterial contamination of equine amnion.

Study design

Prospective experimental investigation

Sample population

Amniotic membranes from 8 healthy mares (n = 440 tested samples).

Methods

Samples for baseline bacteriology and histology were taken after removal of debris. The remaining tissue was divided and processed with 0.05% chlorhexidine or 2% iodine/0.25% acetic acid. Processed amnion samples were assigned to 1 of 9 combinations of storage media (saline, chlorhexidine, acetic acid) and temperature (4 °C, −20 °C, −80 °C). Samples were submitted for quantitative bacteriology and histopathology at 1 week, 4 weeks, and 3, 6, 9, and 12 months.

Results

Baseline bacterial levels ranged from <200 to > 150 000 colony‐forming units (cfu)/mL. None of the potentially pathogenic bacteria in baseline samples were subsequently cultured throughout the study. Nonpathogenic bacteria (median 20 cfu/mL), most commonlyBacillussp, were cultured sporadically across storage conditions. Tissue architecture was minimally affected histologically by processing protocol, storage temperature, or storage duration.

Conclusion

The 2 processing protocols tested here resulted in minimal bacterial contamination or loss of structural integrity of equine amnion stored for up to 12 months at 4 °C, −20 °C, or −80 °C.

Clinical significance

Amnion collected during the foaling season may be stored for up to 12 months without significant bacterial contamination or structural alterations.
Regulation of cardiomyocyte maturation during critical perinatal window
Authors: Kannan Suraj , Kwon Chulan
Published: December 2018

A primary limitation in the use of pluripotent stem cell‐derived cardiomyocytes (PSC‐CMs) for both patient health and scientific investigation is the failure of these cells to achieve full functional maturity. In vivo, cardiomyocytes undergo numerous adaptive structural, functional and metabolic changes during maturation. By contrast, PSC‐CMs fail to fully undergo these developmental processes, instead remaining arrested at an embryonic stage of maturation. There is thus a significant need to understand the biological processes underlying proper CM maturation in vivo. Here, we discuss what is known regarding the initiation and coordination of CM maturation. We postulate that there is a critical perinatal window, ranging from embryonic day 18.5 to postnatal day 14 in mice, in which the maturation process is exquisitely sensitive to perturbation. While the initiation mechanisms of this process are unknown, it is increasingly clear that maturation proceeds through interconnected regulatory circuits that feed into one another to coordinate concomitant structural, functional and metabolic CM maturation. We highlight PGC1α, SRF and the MEF2 family as transcription factors that may potentially mediate this cross‐talk. We lastly discuss several emerging technologies that will facilitate future studies into the mechanisms of CM maturation. Further study will not only produce a better understanding of its key processes, but provide practical insights into developing a robust strategy to produce mature PSC‐CMs.
The Effect of Surgical Alignment in Adult Scoliotic Spines on Axial Cyclic Vibration: A Finite Element Study
Authors: Xu Ming , Yang James , Lieberman Isador , Haddas Ram
Published: December 2018

Finite element analysis was used to investigate the responses of five adult degenerative scoliosis (ADS) subjects to cyclic vibration before and after surgical alignment (SA). The dynamic responses of the healthy and presurgical scoliotic spines to the sinusoidal cyclic vibrations have been investigated in previous studies by computational and experimental approaches. However, no computational or experimental results were available for the pre- and postsurgical scoliosis subjects. The effect of the SA on the vibrational response of the postsurgical scoliosis subjects remained unknown. The objective of this study was to compare differences of the dynamic responses to the cyclic vibration input among the scoliotic spines for pre- and post-SA. Previous studies suggested that untreated scoliotic spines especially at the apical vertebrae are more sensitive to the vibration than spinal segments with normal anatomies. Results of this study showed that the SA was able to reduce the vibrational response of the scoliotic spines to the whole body vibrations (WBV) at the fused level while not significantly increase the response at the superior adjacent level, which suggested that SA is able to reduce the risk of further degeneration in the scoliotic spines.
Representation of Graded Materials and Structures to Support Tolerance Specification for Additive Manufacturing Application
Authors: Ameta G. , Witherell P.
Published: December 2018

Additive manufacturing (AM) has enabled control over heterogeneous materials and structures in ways that were not previously possible, including functionally graded materials and structures. This paper presents a novel method for representing and communicating heterogeneous materials and structures that include tolerancing of geometry and material together. The aim of this paper is to propose a means to specify nominal materials, nominal structures and allowable material variations in parts, including (a) explicit material and structural transitions (implying abrupt changes) and (b) functional transitions to support single and multiple material and structural behaviors (implying designed function-based gradients). The transition region combines bounded regions (volumes and surfaces) and material distribution and structural variation equations. Tolerancing is defined at two levels, that of the geometry including bounded regions and that of the materials. Material tolerances are defined as allowable material variations from nominal material fractions within a unit volume at a given location computed using material distribution equations. The method is described thorough several case studies of abrupt transitions, lattice-based transitions, and multimaterial and structural transitions.
The Effect of the Liquid Layer Around the Spherical and Cylindrical Nanoparticles in Enhancing Thermal Conductivity of Nanofluids
Authors: Loulijat Hamid , Zerradi Hicham
Published: December 2018

In this work, the equilibrium molecular dynamics (MD) simulation combined with the Green–Kubo method is employed to calculate the thermal conductivity and investigate the impact of the liquid layer around the solid nanoparticle (NP) in enhancing thermal conductivity of nanofluid (argon–copper), which contains the liquid argon as a base fluid surrounding the spherical or cylindrical NPs of copper. First, the thermal conductivity is calculated at temperatures 85, 85.5, 86, and 86.5 K and for different volume fractions ranging from 4.33% to 11.35%. Second, the number ΔN of argon atoms is counted in the liquid layer formed at the solid–liquid interface with the thickness of Δr = 0.3 nm around the NP. Finally, the number density n of argon atoms in this layer formed is calculated in all cases. Also, the results for spherical and cylindrical NPs are compared with one another. It is observed that the thermal conductivity of the nanofluid increased with the increasing volume fraction and the number ΔN. Likewise, the thermal conductivity of nanofluid containing spherical NPs is higher than that of nanofluid containing cylindrical NPs. Furthermore, the number density n of argon atoms near the surface of spherical NPs is higher than that of argon atoms attached in the curved surface of cylindrical NPs. As a result, the liquid layer around the solid NP has been considered one of the mechanisms responsible contributing to the thermal conductivity enhancement in nanofluids.
Improvement of Correlative Approaches for Mixed Convective Flow Through a Horizontal Vent
Authors: Varrall Kevin , Pretrel Hugues , Vaux Samuel , Vauquelin Olivier
Published: December 2018

This study deals with the mixed convection flow through a shallow horizontal vent linking two compartments (one over the other). Depending on the temperature difference of gas as well as the ventilation flow rate between the two compartments, the flow through the vent can be bi- or uni-directional. A literature survey highlights that three correlations are used in safety engineering to calculate these upward and downward mixed convection flow rates. Unfortunately, for the same conditions, these correlations give very different results and, to date, there is no common agreement in the scientific community to identify quantitatively the most accurate model. This study proposes a new assessment of these correlations based on new experimental data obtained from the laboratory facility as well from the industrial apparatus. In addition, an improvement of the best model is proposed which better reproduced the experimental results.
The Economies and Dimensionality of Design Prototyping: Value, Time, Cost, and Fidelity
Authors: Tiong Edward , Seow Olivia , Camburn Bradley , Teo Kenneth , Silva Arlindo , Wood Kristin L. , Jensen Daniel D. , Yang Maria C.
Published: December 2018

Economic use of early-stage prototyping is of paramount importance to companies engaged in the development of innovative products, services, and systems because it directly impacts their bottom line. There is likewise a need to understand the dimensions, and lenses that make up an economic profile of prototypes. Yet, there is little reliable understanding of how resources expended and views of dimensionality across prototyping translate into value. To help practitioners, designers, and researchers leverage prototyping most economically, we seek to understand the tradeoff between design information gained through prototyping and the resources expended prototyping. We investigate this topic by conducting an inductive study on industry projects across disciplines and knowledge domains while collecting and analyzing empirical data on their prototype creation and test processes. Our research explores ways of quantifying prototyping value and reinforcing the asymptotic relationship between value and fidelity. Most intriguingly, the research reveals insightful heuristics that practitioners can exploit to generate high value from low and high fidelity prototypes alike.
An Engineering Review of the Farm Tractor's Evolution to a Dominant Design
Authors: Díaz Lankenau Guillermo F. , Winter Amos G.
Published: December 2018

This paper explains the origin and merits of the dominant farm tractor design, which has endured since the 1940s. Understanding the origins and rationale for this dominant design enables engineers to appreciate its merits, and understand its drawbacks, which could be addressed in future designs. Additionally, the methods used in this paper to study tractor evolution are applicable to the study of other products with a longstanding dominant design. Two themes are covered in this paper: first, the historical context that directed the farm tractor's design evolution is presented; and second, a terramechanics-based tractor model is used to analyze why the dominant design is conducive to good performance. The prominent characteristics of the dominant tractor design are its weight distribution, wheel layout, tool location, and construction. Its weight distribution maximizes drawbar pull by placing 70 to 80% of the total vehicle weight on the rear wheels. Shifting the weight forward reduces pulling force while shifting it backward produces a negligible increase in pulling capacity while dangerously increasing the risk of upending the tractor. The tractor has four wheels arranged in a rectangular pattern—the rear wheels are driven while the front ones are usually idle. Rear wheels are of large diameter to increase ground clearance and tractive efficiency. Front wheels are of small diameter to allow for a large steering angle despite a narrow track width. A narrow track width reduces the space required for making a U-turn at field ends and improves access to farm spaces. Inline front and rear wheels are desirable for ease of driving between rows and to best harness soil compaction. Attaching implements behind the rear axle leverages tillage forces to increase maximum drawbar pull and enables using large tools. The tractor's crankcase and transmission housing are structural components—this reduces mass and manufacturing complexity.
An Analysis of Modularity as a Design Rule Using Network Theory
Authors: Walsh Hannah S. , Dong Andy , Tumer Irem Y.
Published: December 2018

Increasing the modularity of system architectures is generally accepted as a good design principle in engineering. In this paper, we explore whether modularity comes at the expense of robustness. To that end, we model three engineering systems as networks and measure the relation between modularity and robustness to random failures. We produced four types of network models of systems—component-component, component-function, component-parameter, and function-parameter—to further test the relation of robustness to the type of system representation, architectural or behavioral. The results show that higher modularity is correlated with lower robustness (p < 0.001) and that the estimated modularity of the system can depend on the type of system representation. The implication is that there is a tradeoff between modularity and robustness, meaning that increasing modularity might not be appropriate for systems for which robustness is critical and modularity estimates differ significantly between the types of system representation.
Active Disturbance Rejection Control for Handling Slip in Tracked Vehicle Locomotion
Authors: Sebastian Bijo , Ben-Tzvi Pinhas
Published: December 2018

This paper describes the use of an active disturbance rejection controller (ADRC) to estimate and compensate for the effect of slip in an online manner to improve the path tracking performance of autonomous ground vehicles (AGVs). AGVs with skid-steer locomotion mode are extensively used for robotic applications in the fields of agriculture, transportation, construction, warehouse maintenance, and mining. Majority of these applications such as performing reconnaissance and rescue operations in rough terrain or autonomous package delivery in urban scenarios, require the system to follow a path predetermined by a high-level planner or based on a predefined task. In the absence of effective slip estimation and compensation, the AGVs, especially tracked vehicles, can fail to follow the path as given out by the high-level planner. The proposed ADRC architecture uses a generic mathematical model that can account for the scaling and shift in the states of the system due to the effects of slip through augmented parameters. An extended Kalman filter (EKF) observer is used to estimate the varying slip parameters online. The estimated parameters are then used to compensate for the effects of slip at each iteration by modifying the control actions given by a low-level path tracking controller. The proposed approach is validated through experiments over flat and uneven terrain conditions including asphalt, vinyl flooring, artificial turf, grass, and gravel using a tracked skid-steer mobile robot. A detailed discussion on the results and directions for future research is also presented.
Sliding Filament Joint Mechanism: Biomimetic Artificial Joint Mechanism for Artificial Skeletal Muscles
Authors: Cho Kyeong Ho , Jung Ho Sang , Yang Sang Yul , Kim Youngeun , Rodrigue Hugo , Moon Hyungpil , Koo Ja Choon , Choi Hyouk Ryeol
Published: December 2018

Soft linear actuators (SLAs) make linear displacement by shrinkage and relaxation like skeletal muscles, so they can be called as artificial skeletal muscles (ASMs). They deform their body to create displacement. However, the restoring force generated by the deformation of their soft body reduces the force available from the SLA. This actuation structure is a critical drawback in the application of SLAs. In a living body, skeletal muscle is the main actuator to make movement. In order to make meaningful movements, skeletal muscles of a living body require bones and joints. Thus, as well as ASMs, artificial joints are surely required for developing robotic applications such as robotic prosthetics and bionic body parts. This paper introduces a biomimetic artificial joint mechanism that can improve the drawback of SLA. The basic performance and usefulness of the joint mechanism was confirmed by using shape-memory-alloy actuators (called SMA in general). In addition, the joint control strategy of the joint mechanism by adopting the joint control principle of a living body was proposed and its performance was experimentally validated.
Experimental Study of the Incidence of Changing a Synthetic Jet Orifice in Heat Transfer Using a Taguchi Method Approach
Authors: Cano Juan Sebastian , Cordova Gustavo David , Narvaez Christian , Segura Luis , Carrion Luis
Published: December 2018

The current study allows the recognition of the most optimal combination of excitation frequency, kind of orifice, and synthetic jet-to-surface spacing in order to obtain the fastest cooling time using a Taguchi experimental design. To this end, the heat transfer and synthetic jet velocity behavior using different kinds of orifices are obtained experimentally. A piezoelectric diaphragm has been selected as a vibrating actuator. Four kinds of orifices have been studied: circular, rectangular, triangular, and square. First, the study consists of recognizing the excitation frequency in which each orifice produces the highest flow velocity. A hotwire anemometer has been used in order to measure the synthetic jet velocity. Additionally, a steel plate has been heated and then cooled using the synthetic jet set at the excitation frequency in which the jet velocity was the largest for each orifice. For the statistical analysis, the input study variables are the type of orifice and jet-to-surface spacing. The output variable has been the cooling time. The results show that using a combination of a rectangle orifice, 20 mm of jet-to-surface spacing and an excitation frequency of 2000 Hz, it is obtained the fastest cooling time. In addition, using these parameters, a mean heat transfer coefficient of 11.05 (W/m2K) with a coefficient of performance (COP) of 49.21 has been obtained. Finally, for each kind of orifice, there is the presence of two resonant frequencies, the Helmholtz (acoustic resonance) frequency and piezoelectric diaphragm natural frequency.
Velocity and Power–Load Association of Bench-Press Exercise in Wheelchair Basketball Players and their Relationships With Field-Test Performance
Authors: Iturricastillo Aitor , Granados Cristina , Reina Raúl , Sarabia José Manuel , Romarate Ander , Yanci Javier
Published: December 2018

Purpose: To analyze the relationship between mean propulsive velocity (MPV) of the bar and relative load (percentage of the 1-repetition maximum [%1RM]) in the bench-press (BP) exercise and to determine the relationship of power variables (ie, mean concentric power [MP], mean propulsive power [MPP], and peak power [PP]) in change-of-direction ability, linear sprint, and repeated-sprint ability. Methods: A total of 9 Spanish First Division wheelchair basketball players participated in the study. All participants performed an isoinertial BP test in free execution mode, a 505 change-of-direction ability test, linear sprint test (20 m), and repeated-sprint ability test. Results: A nearly perfect and inverse relationship was observed for the BP exercise between the %1RM and MPV (r = −.97, R2 = .945, P < .001). The maximum loads for MP, MPP, and PP were obtained between 48.1% and 59.4% of the 1RM. However, no significant correlations were observed between strength and wheelchair performance. Conclusions: Wheelchair basketball players with different functional impairments showed a nearly perfect and inverse relationship for the BP exercise between the %1RM and MPV; thus the MPV could be used to estimate the %1RM. This finding has important practical applications for velocity-based resistance training in that coaches would be able to prescribe and monitor training load. Conversely, the absence of association between BP performance and field tests might be due to other factors such as the wheelchair–user interface, trunk-muscle activity, or propulsion technique, apart from strength variables.
Repeated-Sprint Training in Hypoxia in International Rugby Union Players
Authors: Beard Adam , Ashby John , Chambers Ryan , Brocherie Franck , Millet Grégoire P.
Published: December 2018

Purpose: To investigate the effects of repeated-sprint training in hypoxia vs in normoxia on world-level male rugby union players’ repeated-sprint ability (RSA) during an international competition period. Methods: A total of 19 players belonging to an international rugby union senior male national team performed 4 sessions of cycling repeated sprints (consisting of 3 × eight 10-s sprints with 20 s passive recovery) either in normobaric hypoxia (RSH, 3000 m; n = 10) or in normoxia (RSN, 300 m; n = 9) over a 2-wk period. Before and after the training intervention, RSA was evaluated using a cycling repeated-sprint test (6 × 10-s maximal sprint and 20-s passive recovery) performed in normoxia. Results: Significant interaction effects (all P < .05, ) between condition and time were found for RSA-related parameters. Compared with Pre, maximal power significantly improved at Post in RSH (12.84 [0.83] vs 13.63 [1.03] W·kg−1, P < .01, ) but not in RSN (13.17 [0.89] vs 13.00 [1.01] W·kg−1, P = .45, ). Mean power was also significantly enhanced from Pre to Post in RSH (11.15 [0.58] vs 11.86 [0.63] W·kg−1, P < .001, ), whereas it remained unchanged in RSN (11.54 [0.61] vs 11.75 [0.65] W·kg−1, P = .23, ). Conclusion: As few as 4 dedicated specific RSH sessions were beneficial to enhance repeated power production in world-level rugby union players. Although the improvement from RSA to game behavior remains unclear, this finding appears to be of practical relevance as only a short preparation window is available prior to international rugby union games.
Preconditioning Strategy in Rugby-7s Players: Beneficial or Detrimental?
Authors: Marrier Bruno , Durguerian Alexandre , Robineau Julien , Chennaoui Mounir , Sauvet Fabien , Servonnet Aurélie , Piscione Julien , Mathieu Bertrand , Peeters Alexis , Lacome Mathieu , Morin Jean-Benoit , Le Meur Yann
Published: December 2018

Purpose: Preconditioning strategies are considered opportunities to optimize performance on competition day. Although investigations conducted in rugby players on the effects of a morning preconditioning session have been done, additional work is warranted. The aim of this study was to monitor changes in physical and psychophysiological indicators among international Rugby-7s players after a priming exercise. Methods: In a randomized crossover design, 14 under-18 international Rugby-7s players completed, at 8:00 AM, a preconditioning session consisting of a warm-up followed by small-sided games, accelerations, and 2 × 50-m maximal sprints (Experimental), or no preloading session (Control). After a 2-h break, the players performed a set of six 30-m sprints and a Rugby-7s match. Recovery–stress state and salivary stress-marker levels were assessed before the preloading session (Pre), immediately after the preloading session (Post 1), before the testing session (Post 2), and after the testing session (Post 3). Results: Experimental–Control differences in performance across a repeated-sprint test consisting of six 30-m sprints were very likely trivial (+0.2, ±0.7%, 3/97/1%). During the match, the total distance covered and the frequency of decelerations were possibly lower (small) in Experimental compared with Control. Differences observed in the other parameters were unclear or possibly trivial. At Post 2, the perceived recovery–stress state was improved (small difference) in Experimental compared with Control. No difference in salivary cortisol response was observed, while the preconditioning session induced a higher stimulation of salivary testosterone and α-amylase. Conclusions: The players’ ability to repeat sprints and physical activity in match play did not improve, but their psychophysiological state was positively affected after the present preconditioning session.
The Effect of Maximal Speed Ability, Pacing Strategy, and Technique on the Finish Sprint of a Sprint Cross-Country Skiing Competition
Authors: Haugnes Pål , Torvik Per-Øyvind , Ettema Gertjan , Kocbach Jan , Sandbakk Øyvind
Published: December 2018

Purpose:To investigate the contribution from maximal speed (Vmax) and %Vmaxto the finish sprint speed obtained in a cross-country sprint in the classical and skating style, as well as the coinciding changes in kinematic patterns and the effect of pacing strategy on the %Vmax.Methods:Twelve elite male cross-country skiers performed two 80-m Vmaxtests on flat terrain using the classical double-poling and skating G3 techniques, followed by 4 simulated 1.4-km sprint time trials, performed with conservative (controlled start) and positive (hard start) pacing strategies in both styles with a randomized order. In all cases, these time trials were finalized by sprinting maximally over the last 80 m (the Vmaxsection).Results:Approximately 85% of Vmaxwas obtained in the finish sprint of the 1.4-km competitions, with Vmaxand %Vmaxcontributing similarly (R2 = 51–78%) to explain the overall variance in finish sprint speed in all 4 cases (P < .05). The changes in kinematic pattern from the Vmaxto the finish sprint included 11–22% reduced cycle rate in both styles (P < .01), without any changes in cycle length. A 3.6% faster finish sprint speed, explained by higher cycle rate, was found by conservative pacing in classic style (P < .001), whereas no difference was seen in skating.Conclusions:Vmaxability and %Vmaxcontributed similarly to explain the finish sprint speed, both in the classic and skating styles, and independent of pacing strategy. Therefore, sprint cross-country skiers should concurrently develop both these capacities and employ technical strategies where a high cycle rate can be sustained when fatigue occurs.
Maturational Development as a Key Aspect in Physiological Performance and National-Team Selection in Elite Male Basketball Players
Authors: Arede Jorge , Ferreira António Paulo , Gonzalo-Skok Oliver , Leite Nuno
Published: December 2018

Purpose: To determine the discriminators as variables to select the under-16 national-team players and to examine the influence of biological age on physical/technical parameters among young basketball players. Methods: Thirty-four under-15 male basketball players performed several anthropometrical (height, wingspan, body mass, and fingers length) and physical (jumping, sprinting, throwing, flexibility, change-of-direction speed, and aerobic fitness) tests during the under-15 male national-team training camp. Maturity offset, lower-limb asymmetry index, and power outputs for jumping and sprinting were also computed. In addition, game performance was taken into consideration using game-related statistics (assists, turnovers, steals, rebounds, blocks, and points) of 5 games of during the previous regional tournament (April 2016). Cluster analysis was used to analyze the between-maturation status (prepubertal, pubertal, and postpubertal) differences in physical parameters. Results: The postpubertals showed a significantly better performance in power outputs (jumping and sprinting), throwing abilities, and blocks, whereas prepubertal performed significantly better in aerobic fitness and assists. Receiver-operating-characteristic curve confirmed maturational status (area under the curve [AUC] = 0.804; P < .05) and training experience (AUC = 0.789; P < .05) as the most important attributes in predicting under-16 national-team selection. Players with more than 5.5 years of training experience and less than 1.4 y to the age at peak height velocity were most likely to be selected. Conclusion: Maturational status seems to be a key variable that increases the probability of selection for the Portuguese under-16 national team.
Modeling the Prediction of the Session Rating of Perceived Exertion in Soccer: Unraveling the Puzzle of Predictive Indicators
Authors: Geurkink Youri , Vandewiele Gilles , Lievens Maarten , de Turck Filip , Ongenae Femke , Matthys Stijn P.J. , Boone Jan , Bourgois Jan G.
Published: December 2018

Purpose: To predict the session rating of perceived exertion (sRPE) in soccer and determine its main predictive indicators. Methods: A total of 70 external-load indicators (ELIs), internal-load indicators, individual characteristics, and supplementary variables were used to build a predictive model. Results: The analysis using gradient-boosting machines showed a mean absolute error of 0.67 (0.09) arbitrary units (AU) and a root-mean-square error of 0.93 (0.16) AU. ELIs were found to be the strongest predictors of the sRPE, accounting for 61.5% of the total normalized importance (NI), with total distance as the strongest predictor. The included internal-load indicators and individual characteristics accounted only for 1.0% and 4.5%, respectively, of the total NI. Predictive accuracy improved when including supplementary variables such as group-based sRPE predictions (10.5% of NI), individual deviation variables (5.8% of NI), and individual player markers (17.0% of NI). Conclusions: The results showed that the sRPE can be predicted quite accurately using only a relatively limited number of training observations. ELIs are the strongest predictors of the sRPE. However, it is useful to include a broad range of variables other than ELIs, because the accumulated importance of these variables accounts for a reasonable component of the total NI. Applications resulting from predictive modeling of the sRPE can help coaching staff plan, monitor, and evaluate both the external and internal training load.
Successful Pacing Profiles of Olympic and IAAF World Championship Middle-Distance Runners Across Qualifying Rounds and Finals
Authors: Hanley Brian , Stellingwerff Trent , Hettinga Florentina J.
Published: December 2018

Purpose: This was the first study to analyze high-resolution pacing data from multiple global championships, allowing for deeper and rigorous analysis of pacing and tactical profiles in elite-standard middle-distance racing. The aim of this study was to analyze successful and unsuccessful middle-distance pacing profiles and variability across qualifying rounds and finals. Methods: Finishing and 100-m-split speeds and season’s best times were collected for 265 men and 218 women competing in 800- and 1500-m races, with pace variability expressed using coefficient of variation. Results: In both events, successful athletes generally separated themselves from slower athletes in the final 200 m, not by speeding up but by avoiding slowing compared with competitors. This was despite different pacing profiles between events in the earlier part of the race preceding the end spurt. Approximately 10% of athletes ran season’s best times, showing a tactical approach to elite-standard middle-distance racing and possible fatigue across rounds. Men’s and women’s pacing profiles were remarkably similar within each event, but the previously undescribed seahorse-shaped profile in the 800-m (predominantly positive pacing) differed from the J-shaped negative pacing of the 1500-m. Pacing variability was high compared with world records, especially in the finals (coefficient of variation: 5.2–9.1%), showing that athletes need to be able to vary pace and cope with surges. Conclusions: The best athletes had the physiological capacity to vary pace and respond to surges through successive competition rounds. In competition-specific training, coaches should incorporate several sessions in which pace changes frequently and sometimes unexpectedly.
A Review of the Sport-Injury and -Rehabilitation Literature: From Abstraction to Application
Authors: Hess Courtney W. , Gnacinski Stacy L. , Meyer Barbara B.
Published: December 2018

Despite advancements in sport-injury rehabilitation theory and intervention design, return-to-play outcomes remain suboptimal. To explore the current knowledge base in sport-injury rehabilitation, the authors use an existing framework to review and outline gaps in the sport-injury evidence base. Through the lens of this framework they highlight the dearth of literature exploringhowprofessionals approach rehabilitation, which may be one of several factors contributing to persistently poor rehabilitation outcomes. To begin addressing the identified gap in practice, the authors hypothetically apply 3 established team-based approaches from other rehabilitation domains to a single sport-injury case study to provide concrete examples of how team-based practice approaches can be effectively used in the sport domain. Professional-practice implications are discussed alongside areas for future research.
Phase coherence between precipitation in South America and Rossby waves
Authors: Gelbrecht Maximilian , Boers Niklas , Kurths Jürgen
Published: December 2018

Rainfall in South America follows a dipole-like pattern that is driven by atmospheric waves associated with the jet stream.
Soft wall-climbing robots
Authors: Gu Guoying , Zou Jiang , Zhao Ruike , Zhao Xuanhe , Zhu Xiangyang
Published: December 2018

A soft wall-climbing robot was designed by integrating and synchronizing dielectric-elastomer muscles and electroadhesive feet.
Inverted and vertical climbing of a quadrupedal microrobot using electroadhesion
Authors: de Rivaz Sébastien D. , Goldberg Benjamin , Doshi Neel , Jayaram Kaushik , Zhou Jack , Wood Robert J.
Published: December 2018

A legged microrobot can climb inverted and vertical surfaces by using voltage-controlled electroadhesion and a newly designed gait.
Meropenem-Vaborbactam as Salvage Therapy for Ceftazidime-Avibactam-Resistant
Klebsiella pneumoniae
Bacteremia and Abscess in a Liver Transplant Recipient
Authors: Athans Vasilios , Neuner Elizabeth A. , Hassouna Habiba , Richter Sandra S. , Keller George , Castanheira Mariana , Brizendine Kyle D. , Mathers Amy J.
Published: December 2018

We report a case of a 24-year-old liver transplant recipient who developed hepatic artery thrombosis and graft failure, which was complicated by subphrenic abscess and persistent
Klebsiella pneumoniae
carbapenemase (KPC)-producing
K. pneumoniae
bacteremia. Ceftazidime-avibactam treatment led to emergence of resistance, and alternative combination therapy failed due to persistent infection and toxicity.
Effect of Moxifloxacin plus Pretomanid against
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
in Log Phase, Acid Phase, and Nonreplicating-Persister Phase in an
In Vitro
Assay
Authors: de Miranda Silva Carolina , Hajihosseini Amirhossein , Myrick Jenny , Nole Jocelyn , Louie Arnold , Schmidt Stephan , Drusano George L.
Published: December 2018

Combination therapy is a successful approach to treat tuberculosis in patients with susceptible strains of
Mycobacterium tuberculosis
. However, the emergence of resistant strains requires identification of new, effective therapies.
Azole Resistance Reduces Susceptibility to the Tetrazole Antifungal VT-1161
Authors: Monk Brian C. , Keniya Mikhail V. , Sabherwal Manya , Wilson Rajni K. , Graham Danyon O. , Hassan Harith F. , Chen Danni , Tyndall Joel D. A.
Published: December 2018

Tetrazole antifungals designed to target fungal lanosterol 14α-demethylase (LDM) appear to be effective against a range of fungal pathogens. In addition, a crystal structure of the catalytic domain of
Candida albicans
LDM in complex with the tetrazole VT-1161 has been obtained.
Glycoprotein K8.1A of Kaposi's Sarcoma-Associated Herpesvirus Is a Critical B Cell Tropism Determinant Independent of Its Heparan Sulfate Binding Activity
Authors: Dollery Stephen J. , Santiago-Crespo Rey J. , Chatterjee Deboeeta , Berger Edward A.
Published: December 2018

Elucidating the molecular mechanisms by which KSHV infects B lymphocytes is critical for understanding how the virus establishes lifelong persistence in infected people, in whom it can cause life-threatening B cell lymphoproliferative disease. Here, we show that K8.1A, a KSHV-encoded glycoprotein on the surfaces of the virus particles, is critical for infection of B cells. This finding stands in marked contrast to previous studies with non-B lymphoid cell types, for which K8.1A is known to be dispensable. We also show that the required function of K8.1A in B cell infection does not involve its binding to cell surface heparan sulfate, the only known biochemical activity of the glycoprotein. The discovery of this critical role of K8.1A in KSHV B cell tropism opens promising new avenues to unravel the complex mechanisms underlying infection and disease caused by this viral human pathogen.
Pseudo-Wellens’ syndrome in pulmonary embolism
Authors: Sedhai Yub Raj , Basnyat Soney , Bhattacharya Priyanka T
Published: December 2018

Wellens’ syndrome is described as characteristic biphasic or symmetrical T-wave inversion with normal precordial R-wave progression and the absence of Q waves in the right precordial leads. It is seen during chest pain-free interval in a subset of patients with unstable angina. Wellens’ syndrome is associated with critical stenosis of proximal left anterior descending (LAD) coronary artery. Similar characteristic ECG changes associated with causes other than LAD stenosis have been described as pseudo-Wellens’ syndrome. In this case report, we present a young 22-year-old man who presented with characteristic Wellens’ ECG changes in the setting of pulmonary embolism with right ventricular strain. T-wave inversion in right precordial leads is a well-recognised ECG manifestation of right ventricular strain; however, biphasic T waves in the setting of pulmonary embolism are rare. Pulmonary embolism was seen in our patient a week after starting risperidone. There is a reported association between antipsychotic drugs and increased risk of thromboembolism. Risperidone could have potentially contributed to the pulmonary embolism in our patient given the temporal association and absence of risk factors.
Age-related changes in baseline reading acuity and speed as measured using RADNER Reading Charts in healthy eyes with best corrected ETDRS distance acuity
Authors: Radner Wolfgang , Benesch Thomas
Published: December 2018

Purpose

To assess age-related differences in baseline measures of reading performance obtained from the RADNER Reading Charts in healthy eyes with best corrected (ETDRS) distance acuity.

Methods

Cross-sectional study of participants (n=200) aged 25–74 years (n=20 per 5 years age group). Best corrected distance visual acuity was measured monocularly with ETDRS 2000 Charts. Reading performance was evaluated binocularly with the RADNER Reading Charts. Reading acuity (RA), reading acuity score (RA score), mean reading speed (MEAN-RS), maximum reading speed, reading speed with a long paragraph, critical print size (CPS) and the logMAR/logRAD ratio were analysed.

Results

RA, RA score, CPS-1 (last logRAD with normal reading speed) and ETDRS acuity did not change significantly between age 25 and 54 years. Overall, the mean RA was −0.091±0.07 logRAD, and the RA score was −0.069±0.07 logRAD. The mean difference between the RA and best ETDRS acuity was 0.0603±0.055 logMAR (r=0.62; p<0.05). The logMAR/logRAD ratio was 87.75%±11.23%. The MEAN-RS ranged from 189±21.9 words per minute (wpm) for the group aged 70–74 years to 236±22.5 wpm for the group aged 40–44 years and correlated well with the long paragraph results (r=0.87).

Conclusion

Best corrected RA, reading speed and ETDRS distance acuity were constant until the age of 54 years. An age-related break point was found between the groups aged 50–54 years and 55–59 years; for reading speed, the break point can be assumed to be within the age range of 50–54 years.
Management strategies for chronic rhinosinusitis: a qualitative study of GP and ENT specialist views of current practice in the UK
Authors: Vennik Jane , Eyles Caroline , Thomas Mike , Hopkins Claire , Little Paul , Blackshaw Helen , Schilder Anne , Boardman Jim , Philpott Carl M
Published: December 2018

Objectives

To explore general practitioner (GP) and ears, nose and throat (ENT) specialist perspectives of current treatment strategies for chronic rhinosinusitis (CRS) and care pathways through primary and secondary care.

Design

Semi-structured qualitative telephone interviews as part of the MACRO programme (Defining best Management for Adults with Chronic Rhinosinusitis)

Setting

Primary care and secondary care ENT outpatient clinics in the UK.

Participants

Twelve GPs and 9 ENT specialists consented to in-depth telephone interviews. Transcribed recordings were managed using NVivo software and analysed using inductive thematic analysis.

Main outcome measures

Healthcare professional views of management options and care pathways for CRS.

Results

GPs describe themselves as confident in recognising CRS, with the exception of assessing nasal polyps. In contrast, specialists report common missed diagnoses (eg, allergy; chronic headache) when patients are referred to ENT clinics, and attribute this to the limited ENT training of GPs. Steroid nasal sprays provide the foundation of treatment in primary care, although local prescribing restrictions can affect treatment choice and poor adherence is perceived to be the causes of inadequate symptom control. Symptom severity, poor response to medical treatment and patient pressure drive referral, although there is uncertainty about optimal timing. Treatment decisions in secondary care are based on disease severity, polyp status, prior medical treatment and patient choice, but there is major uncertainty about the place of longer courses of antibiotics and the use of oral steroids. Surgery is regarded as an important treatment option for patients with severe symptoms or with nasal polyps, although timing of surgery remains unclear, and the uncertainty about net long-term benefits of surgery makes balancing of benefits and risks more difficult.

Conclusions

Clinicians are uncertain about best management of patients with CRS in both primary and secondary care and practice is varied. An integrated care pathway for CRS is needed to improve patient management and timely referral.
Influenza-associated hospitalisation, vaccine uptake and socioeconomic deprivation in an English city region: an ecological study
Authors: Hungerford Daniel , Ibarz-Pavon Ana , Cleary Paul , French Neil
Published: December 2018

Objectives

Every year, influenza poses a significant burden on the National Health Service in England. Influenza vaccination is an effective measure to prevent severe disease, hence, maximising vaccine coverage in the most vulnerable is a priority. We aimed to identify the extent to which socioeconomic status is associated with influenza-associated illness (IAI) and influenza vaccine coverage.

Design

Retrospective observational study using hospital episode statistics.

Setting

Merseyside, North-West of England, including the city of Liverpool.

Participants

Residents of Merseyside hospitalised with IAI between April 2004 and March 2016, and Merseyside general practice registered patients eligible for influenza vaccination in 2014/2015 and 2015/2016 influenza seasons.

Exposures

Socioeconomic deprivation based on lower super output area English Indices of Deprivation scores.

Primary and secondary outcome measures

Incidence and risk of IAI hospitalisation, and vaccine uptake.

Results

There were 89 058 hospitalisations related to IAI among Merseyside residents (mean yearly rate=4.9 per 1000 population). Hospitalisations for IAI were more frequent in the most socioeconomically deprived areas compared with the least deprived in adults aged 15–39 years (incidence rate ratio (IRR) 2.08;95% CI 1.76 to 2.45; p<0.001), 60–64 years (IRR 2.65; 95% CI 2.35 to 2.99; p<0.001) and 65+ years (IRR 1.90; 95% CI 1.73 to 2.10; p<0.001), whereas rates in children were more homogeneous across deprivation strata. Vaccine uptake was lower than the nationally set targets in most neighbourhoods. The odds of vaccine uptake were 30% lower (OR 0.70; 95% CI 0.66 to 0.74; p<0.001) and 10% lower (OR 0.90; 95% CI 0.88 to 0.92; p<0.001) in the most socioeconomically deprived quintile compared with the least deprived, among children aged 24–59 months and 65+ years, respectively.

Conclusions

Higher rates of IAI hospitalisations and lower vaccine uptake in the most socioeconomically deprived populations suggest that health promotion policies and interventions that target these populations should be a priority.
Real-world adherence to oral anticoagulants in atrial fibrillation patients: a study protocol for a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Rodríguez-Bernal Clara L , García-Sempere Aníbal , Hurtado Isabel , Santa-Ana Yared , Peiró Salvador , Sanfélix-Gimeno Gabriel
Published: December 2018

Introduction

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is one of the leading causes of cerebrovascular mortality and morbidity. Oral anticoagulants (OACs) have been shown to reduce the incidence of cardioembolic stroke in patients with AF, adherence to treatment being an essential element for their effectiveness. Since the release of the first non-vitamin K antagonist oral anticoagulant, several observational studies have been carried out to estimate OAC adherence in the real world using pharmacy claim databases or AF registers. This systematic review aims to describe secondary adherence to OACs, to compare adherence between OACs and to analyse potential biases in OAC secondary adherence studies using databases.

Methods and analysis

We searched on PubMed, SCOPUS and Web of Science databases (completed in 26 September 2018) to identify longitudinal observational studies reporting days’ supply adherence measures with OAC in patients with AF from refill databases or AF registers. The main study endpoint will be the percentage of patients exceeding the 80% threshold in proportion of days covered or the medication possession ratio. Two reviewers will independently screen potential studies and will extract data in a structured format. A random-effects meta-analysis will be carried out to pool study estimates. The risk of bias will be assessed using the Newcastle-Ottawa Scale for observational studies and we will also assess some study characteristics that could affect days’ supply adherence estimates.

Ethics and dissemination

This systematic review using published aggregated data does not require ethics approval according to Spanish law and international regulations. The final results will be published in a peer-review journal and different social stakeholders, non-academic audiences and patients will be incorporated into the diffusion activities.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42018095646.