bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Application of circular anti slide pile with plum blossom arrangement in Expressway Engineering
Authors: Peng Wu Kun , Ying Sun , Ming Xing Zhu 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
By using the finite element numerical simulation method, the simplified Bishop method and strength reduction method are used to analyze the stability of a high slope which is protected and treated by anti slide pile combined with prestressed anchor cable grading scheme in Guangdong Province, and the similarities and differences between rectangular pile and plum shaped circular pile in slope treatment effect are compared. Through calculation and analysis of field measured data, it is proved that the circular anti slide pile with plum shaped layout has similar effect with the traditional rectangular anti slide pile, and has the advantages of high degree of mechanization construction and low construction safety risk, so it can be used as the alternative scheme of rectangular pile
The invulnerability assessment of two-layer railway network under the uncertain environmental hazard risk
Authors: Zhang Hanqing , Ma Xiaoping , Jia Limin , Zhao Ruhao , Tian Yin 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
The failure of the railway station or line will cause the reduction of the railway network efficiency and bring travel inconvenience to the passengers, especially for the key stations and tracks. Reasonable invulnerability assessment is beneficial to maintain the system operation ability and prevent passengers from abandoning railway when the uncertain environmental hazard risk is appeared. At present, larger numbers of research about the railway network invulnerability assessment are purely based on complex network theory, while ignored the nature of railways. In this paper, the Railway Network Invulnerability Model (RNIM) is introduced from the perspective of infrastructure network and service network, and the efficiency of the proposed RNIM is verified according to compare the structural connectively and functional accessibility using different attack strategies. Furthermore, the RNIM framework is applied on the China high-speed railway network, and the results show the validity of the proposed model for the invulnerability of railway network assessment in accurately and efficiently. Finally, some protection suggestions are proposed to reduce the negative effects after the inevitable disruptions emerged.
Experimental study of wave force on large steel plate cylinder structure
Authors: Lv Yingxue , Sun Yunjia 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Steel plate cylinder is more and more widely used as breakwater and revetment structure, but the existing design codes related to breakwater lack the distribution of wave force on the outside of steel plate cylinder under the action of waves. In this paper, the 2-D wave physical model experiment is used to test the pressure distribution of large diameter steel plate cylinder structure under wave action. The results show the wave distributions along different cross sections of the facing side during the crest and trough action. It provides the necessary theoretical basis and technical support for the design of large diameter steel plate cylinder.
Research method of comprehensive geophysical exploration for urban covered karst
Authors: Yin Xiansong , Luo Xiaojie , Zhang Sanding 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
During engineering investigation of covered karst in cities via conventional drilling and geophysical exploration techniques, detection accuracy is highly affected by environmental conditions. In this paper, a karst investigation on an important municipal project in Wuhan is taken as example and the clue to study geophysical exploration of municipal covered karst is proposed: engineering investigation - choose of proper geophysical exploration method - geophysical exploration - drilling confirmation. In this clue, previous geotechnical investigation data should be fully used and based on the geological conditions, petro physical parameters and investigation purpose, comparison experiment was carried out among many geophysical exploration methods and then effective geophysical exploration method was selected to reduce unnecessary work load. Moreover, drilling holes were randomly chosen for verification. It proves that the result of karst study done by geophysical exploration method from experiment comparison is relatively in accordance with the actual karst development situation. The result can provide accurate and reliable basis for engineering designs.
Effect of particle size on the microstructure and tensile property of the Al-28.5Si alloy prepared by continuous powder extrusion
Authors: Yin Jiancheng , Li Yanfei , Niu Yingshuo , Zhang Zitan , Song Dan , Chen Yegao , Liu Yingli , Zhong Yi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Continuous powder extrusion, a new powder consolidation technology, is used to process alloy powders that are difficult to form. In the paper, Al-28.5Si alloys were successfully prepared by continuous powder extrusion, and the influences of particle size on the microstructure and tensile property have been investigated. In the as-extruded rods, the primary Si phase is dispersed in the α-Al matrix. As the powder size reduces from more than 75 μm to less than 25 μm, the equivalent diameter of the primary Si particles consecutively decreases, but the shape factor increases. Comparing the Si particles in the alloy rod and the powder, it is found that the eutectic Si phase disappears during continuous extrusion. Primary Si particles change from coarse and irregular to round. Specifically, the ultimate tensile strength and elongation at break of the powder-extruded alloy further increase from 211 MPa to 266 MPa and 0.99% to 2.21%. Moreover, the fracture mechanism of alloy rods is the brittle fracture.
Prediction of Cardiovascular Disease Risk Accounting for Future Initiation of Statin Treatment
Authors: Xu Zhe , Arnold Matthew , Stevens David , Kaptoge Stephen , Pennells Lisa , Sweeting Michael J , Barrett Jessica , Di Angelantonio Emanuele , Wood Angela M 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Cardiovascular disease (CVD) risk-prediction models are used to identify high-risk individuals and guide statin initiation. However, these models are usually derived from individuals who might initiate statins during follow-up. We present a simple approach to address statin initiation to predict “statin-naive” CVD risk. We analyzed primary care data (2004–2017) from the UK Clinical Practice Research Datalink for 1,678,727 individuals (aged 40–85 years) without CVD or statin treatment history at study entry. We derived age- and sex-specific prediction models including conventional risk factors and a time-dependent effect of statin initiation constrained to 25% risk reduction (from trial results). We compared predictive performance and measures of public-health impact (e.g., number needed to screen to prevent 1 event) against models ignoring statin initiation. During a median follow-up of 8.9 years, 103,163 individuals developed CVD. In models accounting for (versus ignoring) statin initiation, 10-year CVD risk predictions were slightly higher; predictive performance was moderately improved. However, few individuals were reclassified to a high-risk threshold, resulting in negligible improvements in number needed to screen to prevent 1 event. In conclusion, incorporating statin effects from trial results into risk-prediction models enables statin-naive CVD risk estimation and provides moderate gains in predictive ability but had a limited impact on treatment decision-making under current guidelines in this population.
Alcohol Reduction to Reduce Relapse in Acute Alcoholic Pancreatitis—Missed Opportunities
Authors: Sissingh Noor J , Umans Devica S , Goudriaan Anna E , Sijbom Martijn , Verdonk Robert C , van Hooft Jeanin E ,   for the Dutch Pancreatitis Study Group
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Aim
Resuming drinking is a main contributant to recurrence in alcoholic pancreatitis. We assessed current clinical practice in the Netherlands regarding alcohol in managing patients with a first episode of acute alcoholic pancreatitis.

Methods
A survey was distributed to 35 hospitals affiliated with the Dutch Pancreatitis Study Group. We evaluated current support based on various components of brief interventions, the participation of psychosocial healthcare providers, the cooperation with the primary care physicians and the presence of a protocol and its implementation.

Results
The response rate was 100% (n = 35). Psychoeducation is the most frequently performed intervention in current support treatment (97% of hospitals). In 17% of hospitals, healthcare providers with a psychosocial background routinely participate in current support treatment; 37% of hospitals create an individual treatment plan in which goals regarding alcohol cessation are specified and only 46% of hospitals provide the primary care physician with specific discharge information; 31% of hospitals indicate that the treatment is uniformly performed within their division of Gastroenterology. Protocols are available in 3% of the hospitals surveyed. Opportunities to involve the patient’s social network were not given sufficient priority.

Conclusion
Among Dutch hospitals, there is no routine management strategy with regard to enhancing treatment for heavy alcohol use in alcoholic pancreatitis patients. There is a need to test a validated support program in randomized studies. Meanwhile, possible opportunities for effecting change are often missed.
Welding Fume Exposure and Health Risk Assessment in a Cohort of Apprentice Welders
Authors: Dueck Meghan E , Rafiee Ata , Mino James , Nair Sindhu G , Kamravaei Samineh , Pei Lei , Quémerais Bernadette 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Welding fumes vary in composition depending on the materials and processes used, and while health outcomes in full-time welders have been widely studied, limited research on apprentices exists. Besides, few data are available for metals such as vanadium and antimony. This study aimed to look at individual metals present in welding fumes in the learning environment of apprentice welders. Forty-three welders and 41 controls were chosen from trade programmes at the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology. Ambient and personal air samples were collected at days 0, 1, 7, and 50 of their training and analysed for mass and metal concentrations using Inductively Coupled Plasma Mass Spectrometry. Results showed increases in particle and metal concentrations as apprentices progressed throughout their education and that concentrations at day 50 were similar to levels found in the literature for professional welders. Variable concentrations indicate that some individuals may not properly use the local exhaust ventilation system. Other possible explanation for variations are the position of the sampler on the shoulder, the time spent welding and in each welding position, and the skills of the welders. Strong relationships were observed between particle and metal concentrations, suggesting that these relationships could be used to estimate metal exposure in welders from particle exposure. Welding processes were the most important determinant of exposure in apprentice welders, with Metal Core Arc Welding producing the largest particle concentrations followed by oxyacetylene cutting, and Gas Metal Arc Welding. Health risk assessment showed that welder apprentices are at risk for overexposure to manganese, which suggests that professional welders should be monitored for manganese as they are exposed more than apprentices. Training in proper positioning of local exhaust ventilation system and proper use of respirators are recommended in training facilities.
One tree, many colonies: colony structure, breeding system and colonization events of host trees in tunnellingMelissotarsusants
Authors: Eyer Pierre-André , Vargo Edward L , Peeters Christian 
Published: February 2021

AbstractAnts exhibit a striking variety of lifestyles, including highly specialist or mutualist species. The minute blind workers of the African genus Melissotarsus chew tunnels in live trees to accommodate their obligate partner scale insects. Their modified legs are adapted for tunnelling, but are unsuited for walking outside, confining these ants to their initial host tree. Here, we investigated whether this unique lifestyle results in complex patterns of genetic diversity at different scales, from the same tree to different populations. Using 19 microsatellite markers, we assessed their mating strategy and colony structure among and across populations in South Africa. We showed that only one queen reproduces within a colony, mated with up to three males. However, several inseminated dealate queens are present in colonies; one probably replaces the older queen as the colony ages. The reproduction of a single queen per colony at a given time results in genetic differences between colonies, even those located on the same tree. We discuss how the slow process of colony digging under the bark and the lack of workers patrolling above the bark might result in reduced competition between colonies and allow several secluded colonies to cohabit the cramped space on a single tree.
‘Just Get on with It’: A Qualitative of Study of Social Workers’ Experiences during the Political Conflict in Northern Ireland
Authors: Campbell Jim , Duffy Joe , Tosone Carol , Falls David 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
This article reports on a retrospective study of social workers experiences and perception of practice during the height of the political conflict in Northern Ireland (1969–1988). The article describes the qualitative research methodology used to access the sample, design of interview schedule and data collection. Data were analysed using an iterative process to highlight emergent themes. Interviews were carried out with twenty-eight social workers who were employed in a range of agencies. The findings explore how social workers routinely had to negotiate access to communities in the midst of this violence, sometimes through paramilitary organisations. Respondents identified a range of coping mechanisms that they had used to make the ‘abnormal normal’. This included adopting apolitical, neutral stances, yet taking risks in the everyday tasks of meeting the needs of individuals and families. There was, however, limited evidence of employers providing support for practitioners, with peer support most prevalent and purposive forms of education and training during this period. The authors argue for greater attention to the skills and knowledge required for interventions with victims and survivors of the conflict and a more holistic approach to the analysis of social work and political conflict across international contexts.
Six Decades of Human Adenovirus Type 4 Infections Reviewed: Increasing Infections Among Civilians Are a Matter of Concern
Authors: Coleman Kristen K , Robie Emily R , Abdelgadir Anfal , Kozhumam Arthi S , Binder Raquel A , Gray Gregory C 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
Human adenovirus type 4 (HAdV-E4) frequently causes epidemics among military and civilian populations. We conducted a systematic review of 144 peer-reviewed articles reporting HAdV-E4 infections, published during the years 1960–2020. More than 24 500 HAdV-E4 infections, including 27 associated deaths, were documented. HAdV-E4 infections were reported from all geographic regions of the world except Central America and the Caribbean. The number of publications reporting civilian infections tripled in the last decade, with a steady increase in reported civilian infections over time. Infections commonly caused respiratory and ocular disease. North America reported the most infections, followed by Asia and Europe. The majority of deaths were reported in the United States, followed by China and Singapore. Civilians seem to increasingly suffer HAdV-E4 disease, with recent epidemics among US college students. Public health officials should consider seeking emergency use authorization for the adenovirus vaccine such that it might be available to mitigate civilian epidemics.
Effect of Body Weight and Age on the Pharmacokinetics of Dihydroartemisinin: Food and Drug Administration Basis for Dose Determination of Artesunate for Injection in Pediatric Patients With Severe Malaria
Authors: Kitabi Eliford , Bensman Timothy J , Earp Justin C , Chilukuri Dakshina M , Smith Heidi , Ball Leslie , O’Shaughnessy Elizabeth , Yasinskaya Yuliya , Colangelo Philip M , Reynolds Kellie S 
Published: February 2021

Abstract
For treatment of severe malaria, the World Health Organization recommends 3 mg/kg intravenous artesunate in pediatric patients weighing less than 20 kg. Here we describe the Food and Drug Administration’s rationale for selecting 2.4 mg/kg in pediatric patients weighing less than 20 kg based on literature review and independent analyses.
Regenerative potential of epicardium-derived extracellular vesicles mediated by conserved miRNA transfer
Authors: del Campo Cristina Villa , Liaw Norman Y , Gunadasa-Rohling Mala , Matthaei Moritz , Braga Luca , Kennedy Tahnee , Salinas Gabriela , Voigt Niels , Giacca Mauro , Zimmermann Wolfram-Hubertus , Riley Paul Richard 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Aims
After a myocardial infarction, the adult human heart lacks sufficient regenerative capacity to restore lost tissue, leading to heart failure progression. Finding novel ways to reprogram adult cardiomyocytes into a regenerative state is a major therapeutic goal. The epicardium, the outermost layer of the heart, contributes cardiovascular cell types to the forming heart and is a source of trophic signals to promote heart muscle growth during embryonic development. The epicardium is also essential for heart regeneration in zebrafish and neonatal mice and can be reactivated after injury in adult hearts to improve outcome. A recently identified mechanism of cell–cell communication and signalling is that mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs). Here, we aimed to investigate epicardial signalling via EV release in response to cardiac injury and as a means to optimize cardiac repair and regeneration.

Methods and results
We isolated epicardial EVs from mouse and human sources and targeted the cardiomyocyte population. Epicardial EVs enhanced proliferation in H9C2 cells and in primary neonatal murine cardiomyocytes in vitro and promoted cell cycle re-entry when injected into the injured area of infarcted neonatal hearts. These EVs also enhanced regeneration in cryoinjured engineered human myocardium (EHM) as a novel model of human myocardial injury. Deep RNA-sequencing of epicardial EV cargo revealed conserved microRNAs (miRs) between human and mouse epicardial-derived exosomes, and the effects on cell cycle re-entry were recapitulated by administration of cargo miR-30a, miR-100, miR-27a, and miR-30e to human stem cell-derived cardiomyocytes and cryoinjured EHM constructs.

Conclusion
Here, we describe the first characterization of epicardial EV secretion, which can signal to promote proliferation of cardiomyocytes in infarcted mouse hearts and in a human model of myocardial injury, resulting in enhanced contractile function. Analysis of exosome cargo in mouse and human identified conserved pro-regenerative miRs, which in combination recapitulated the therapeutic effects of promoting cardiomyocyte proliferation.
Severity of GERD and disease progression
Authors: Fuchs K H , DeMeester T R , Otte F , Broderick R C , Breithaupt W , Varga G , Musial F 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

Background
Many factors may play a role in the severity and progression of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) since pathophysiology is multifactorial. Data regarding the progression of GERD are controversial: some reports of increased esophageal acid exposure (EAE) and mucosal damage were considered as evidence for a stable disease course, while others interprete these findings as disease progression. The aim of this study is to analyze a large patient-population with persisting symptoms indicative of GERD under protonpumpinhibitor-therapy and identify components characterizing disease severity and progression.

Methods
Patients with symptoms indicative of GERD were included in the study in a tertiary referral center (Frankfurt, Germany). All selected patients were under long-term protonpumpinhibitor-therapy with persistant symptoms. All patients underwent investigations to collect data on their physical status, EAE, severity of esophagitis, anatomical changes, and esophageal functional defects as well as their relation to the duration of the disease. Incidence over time was plotted as survival curves and tested with Log-rank tests for the four main disease markers. Multivariate modeling with COX-regression model was used to estimate the general impact of the four main disease markers on the time course of the disease. In order to elucidate possible causal relationships over time, a path analysis (structural equation model) was calculated.

Results
From the database with 1480 data sets, 972 patients were evaluated (542 males, 430 females). The mean age was 50.5 years (range18–89). The mean body mass index was 27.2(19–48). The mean time between the onset of symptoms and the diagnostic investigations was 8.2 years (1–50). A longer disease history for GERD was significantly associated with a higher risk for LES-incompetence. The mean duration from symptom onset to the time of clinical investigation was 9 years for patients with LES-incompetence (n = 563), compared to a mean of 6 years for those with mechanically intact LES (n = 95). A longer period from symptom onset to diagnostics was significantly associated with higher acid exposure. The pathway analysis was significant for the following model: ‘history’ (P &lt; 0.001➔LES-incompetence & Hiatal Hernia➔(p &lt; 0,001)➔pH-score (P &lt; 0.001).
Conclusion: LES-incompetence, the functional deterioration of the LES, and the anatomical alteration at the esophagogastric junction (Hiatal Hernia) as well as an increased EAE were associated with a long history of suffering from GERD. Path modeling suggests a causal sequence overtime of the main disease-parameters, tentatively allowing for a prediction of the course of the disease.
Prediction for future occurrence of type A aortic dissection using computational fluid dynamics
Authors: Hohri Yu , Numata Satoshi , Itatani Keiichi , Kanda Keiichi , Yamazaki Sachiko , Inoue Tomoya , Yaku Hitoshi 
Published: February 2021

Abstract

OBJECTIVES
The actual underlying mechanisms of acute type A aortic dissection (AAAD) are not well understood. The present study aimed to elucidate the mechanism of AAAD using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) analysis.

METHODS
We performed CFD analysis using patient-specific computed tomography imaging in 3 healthy control cases and 3 patients with AAAD. From computed tomography images, we made a healthy control model or pre-dissection model for CFD analysis. Pulsatile cardiac flow during one cardiac cycle was simulated, and a three-dimensional flow streamline was visualized to evaluate flow velocity, wall shear stress and oscillatory shear index (OSI).

RESULTS
In healthy controls, the transvalvular aortic flow was parallel to the ascending aorta. There was no spotty high OSI area at the ascending aorta. In pre-dissection patients, accelerated transvalvular aortic flow was towards the posterolateral ascending aorta. The vortex flow was observed on the side of the lesser curvature in mid-systole and expanded throughout the entire ascending aorta during diastole. Systolic wall shear stress was high due to the accelerated aortic blood flow on the side of the greater curvature of the ascending aorta. On the side of the lesser curvature, high OSI areas were observed around the vortex flow. In all pre-dissection cases, a spotty high OSI area was in close proximity to the actual primary entry site of the future AAAD.

CONCLUSIONS
The pre-onset high OSI area with vortex flow is closely associated with the future primary entry site. Therefore, we can elucidate the mechanism of AAAD with CFD analysis.