First-Trimester Abdominal Circumference (Versus Crown Rump Length) Improves Precision in Inter- and Intraobserver Variability.

Objectives: The aim of this study was to evaluate inter- and intraobserver variability of first-trimester biometric measurements and crown-rump length (CRL) and to compare the accuracy and precision of CRL with these biometric measurements used in the interpretation of first-trimester nuchal translucency (NT).

Methods: Women presenting for a first trimester ultrasound were recruited. Both a sonographer, and a maternal fetal medicine specialist individually examined each participant.

Interaction of delaminations and matrix cracks in a CFRP plate, Part II: Simulation using an enriched shell finite element model.

Numerical simulations are presented of a recently developed test which creates multiple delaminations in a CFRP laminate specimen that grow and interact via transverse matrix cracks [1]. A novel shell element enriched with the Floating Node Method, and a damage algorithm based on the Virtual Crack Closure Technique, were used to successfully simulate the tests. Additionally, a 3D high mesh fidelity model based on cohesive zones and continuum damage mechanics was used to simulate the tests and act as a representative of other similar state-of-the-art high mesh fidelity modeling techniques to compare to the enriched shell element.

Characterisation of the mechanical and fracture properties of a uni-weave carbon fibre/epoxy non-crimp fabric composite.

A complete database of the mechanical properties of an epoxy polymer reinforced with uni-weave carbon fibre non-crimp fabric (NCF) is established. In-plane and through-the-thickness tests were performed on unidirectional laminates under normal loading and shear loading. The response under cyclic shear loading was also measured.

Factors associated with gastroschisis outcomes.

Objective: To identify perinatal variables associated with adverse outcomes in neonates prenatally diagnosed with gastroschisis.

Methods: A retrospective review was conducted of all inborn pregnancies complicated by gastroschisis within the five institutions of the University of California Fetal Consortium from 2007 to 2012. The primary outcome was a composite adverse neonatal outcome comprising death, reoperation, gastrostomy, and necrotizing enterocolitis.

On longitudinal compressive failure of carbon-fibre-reinforced polymer: from unidirectional to woven, and from virgin to recycled.

Modelling the longitudinal compressive failure of carbon-fibre-reinforced composites has been attempted for decades. Despite many developments, no single model has surfaced to provide simultaneously a definitive explanation for the micromechanics of failure as well as validated predictions for a generic stress state. This paper explores the reasons for this, by presenting experimental data (including scanning electron microscopic observations of loaded kink bands during propagation, and brittle shear fracture at 45° to the fibres) and reviewing previously proposed micromechanical analytical and numerical models.