bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Usability of sustainable materials on bacteria-based self-healing in cementitious systems
Authors: Yazici Şemsi , Güller Canberk , Ayekin Burcu , Mardani Ali , Akkaya Alper
Published: March 2023

Damage and loss of strength resulting from deterioration in concrete structures are extremely expensive and time-consuming processes that require improvement. Therefore, special concrete demand to respond to crack formation with its self-healing action leads to microbial concrete research and development. In this study, the effects of bacterial utilization on both mechanical/physical properties of the recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) containing mortar mixtures and the crack-healing were investigated. Bacillus subtilis bacteria were cultivated on three different nutrient media, Tryptic Soy Broth, Modify Luria-Bertani, and urea-calcium phosphate, and then encapsulated in RCA with these nutrient media. Twenty-one different mortar mixtures were prepared by partially replacement of bacterial RCA with the limestone one. The compressive and flexural strengths as well as ultrasonic pulse velocity of mortar mixtures were determined. Also, physical properties of the mortar mixtures such water absorption, capillarity and total void ratio were obtained. It was observed that the physical and mechanical properties of the mortar mixtures containing less than 30% RCA are significantly healed by CaCO3 precipitated by bacteria. The results showed that that urea and Ca2+ in the nutrient media increase the CaCO3 precipitation efficiency of bacteria, but glucose in the media causes foaming in the mixtures and creates a hollow structure. The study also indicated that microorganisms had a positive role not only in the concrete strength increasing but also in facilitating the self-healing of cracks. It was observed that the cracks formed up to 0.3 mm in the bacterial mortar mixtures were mostly closed in 7 days.
Spiritual Distress in Patients with Dyspnea: A Review of Measurement Tools
Authors: Klug Leah McCann
Published: March 2023

Spiritual care specialists on the palliative care team are uniquely trained in performing spiritual assessments, a skillset necessary for identifying and treating spiritual distress (SD). While the importance of addressing SD as part of whole-person care has been explored in patients with diagnoses such as cancer and heart failure, the prevalence and treatment of SD in patients with dyspnea are not present in the literature. Using valid and reliable measurement tools to assess SD in severe dyspnea could improve patient-centered care at end-of-life, referring patients to spiritual care specialists and incorporating identified needs into the overall care plan. This paper reviews three tools designed to measure SD in patients with dyspnea. One tool, the Spiritual Distress Scale, has the greatest specificity and lowest patient burden. Recommendations for future research include creating and validating a shorter version of the tool to further reduce the burden on dyspneic patients.
The Impact of State Fiscal Preemption on Local Taxing Authorities: A Case of Michigan
Authors: Wang Shu
Published: March 2023

This study investigates the impact of state fiscal preemption on local governance structure. Specifically, it focuses on state-imposed tax and expenditure limits (TELs), which constrain local governments’ ability to raise property tax revenues. Using a unique data set on millage rates levied by all local governments in Michigan from 2011 to 2017, the study examines how the state-imposed limitation on local property taxable values affects local taxing efforts. The findings show that the assessment limit results in higher taxing power by cities and special districts. It also indicates local residents’ preferences to be drivers for the greater taxing efforts.
The prevalence of internet gaming disorders and the associated psychosocial risk factors among adolescents in Malaysian secondary schools
Authors: Mohamed Nor Firdous , Ab Manan Norhafizah , Muhammad Firdaus Chan Muhd Fadlin , Rahmatullah Bahbibi , Abd Wahab Rasidah , Baharudin Siti Nor Amira , Govindasamy Priyalatha , Abdulla Kahar
Published: March 2023

Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) has been placed under the conditions for further study segment in DSM-5. The purpose of the current study was to develop a preliminary psychosocial model as a reference for providing appropriate intervention, particularly for adolescents with IGD. A total of 5290 adolescents from secondary schools in seven states in Malaysia were recruited by using proportionate random sampling. A standardized set of validated questionnaires such as DASS-21, BIS-11, and IGDS9-SF were distributed to participants that fulfilled the inclusion criteria. The prevalence of IGD among Malaysian adolescents was 3.5%. The bivariate analysis summarized that factors such as stress, impulsivity, gender, time spent using the internet, and relationship with parents and friends; have statistically significant associations with IGD. The logistic regression model revealed that adolescents with IGD were 9 times more likely to experience extremely severe stress ( p < 0.001). Several psychosocial factors were associated strongly with IGD in the current study, however, mental health shows the most significant issues among adolescents with IGD. Immediate intervention through a psychological approach to internet gaming is needed from parents, schools, and also respective stakeholders. IGD may become one of the addictions diseases that cause deterioration in many aspects of an adolescent’s future life without serious intervention.
An applied model of cultural competence in child protection practice
Authors: Laird Siobhan , Williams Cath
Published: March 2023

This empirical qualitative study explores the application of a model of cultural competence in child protection practice with families from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds in the United Kingdom. Data were collected through audio-recorded and transcribed semi-structured interviews with a sample of 17 social workers and family support workers across two local government children's social care agencies. The interview route explored practitioners’ experiences of professional work with children and families from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds. They were asked to describe good practices in relation to cultural competence around the initial contact, assessment and care planning. Transcripts of these interviews were uploaded to Nvivo12 software and coded in two stages, initially for emergent themes and subsequently in relation to the ASKED model of cultural competence.

Data analysis revealed multiple examples of good practice which were analysed employing the five dimensions of the ASKED model, namely, cultural awareness, cultural skill, cultural knowledge, cultural encounter, and cultural desire. By mapping the approaches developed and employed by practitioners onto the five ASKED dimensions, these became discernible and therefore potentially transferable learning for others.

The ASKED model of cultural competence is a means of capturing good practice in a systematic and detailed way, making it sharable with other child protection professionals. ASKED is also a framework for moving beyond anti-oppressive theory to practical implementable antioppressive practices with families from Black, Asian and minority ethnic backgrounds
Effects of Processing Variables on the Powder Impregnation Technique for Continuous Fibre Composite Materials
Authors: Wei C.Y. , Miller A. , Gibson A.G.
Published: March 2023

Prepregs of continuous glass fibre reinforced thermoplastics were produced, applying different processing variables of the powder impregnation process. The investigation was concerned with the effects of tow tension, line speed and temperature. A recently developed process model was employed to interpret the effects of temperature and fibre volume fraction on void content. An equation was derived to calculate fibre volume fraction according to the width of a spread fibre tow. Experimental results demonstrate that the process variables greatly affect the fibre content and the void content of the prepregs. The unidirectional prepregs of polyphenylene sulphide were laminated by hot-pressing. The flexural and shear strengths of the laminates are disproportionate to the void content of the prepregs, and the laminates.
The Development and Appraisal of 3D Fully Integrated Woven Structures for Textile Reinforced Composites
Authors: Hill B.J. , McIlhagger R.
Published: March 2023

A method of estimating the proportions of fibre in three mutually perpendicular directions in 3D fully integrated woven structures is described. This is based on simple geometrical relationships. This method is validated using woven structures in glass yarns. The areal density, thickness and fibre proportions are predicted within acceptable limits (viz. + 29% to -13%) which in turn assists with the prediction of composite performance.
Synthesis of Polyarylates with Allylic Side Groups. Part 3. Polyarylates Based on 1,3-bis(3-allyl-4-hydroxybenzylidene) Acetone
Authors: Zadrozna I. , Brzozowski Z.K. , Noniewicz K. , Dyrda M.
Published: March 2023

Several UV-sensitive polyarylates based on 1,3-bis(3-allyl-4-hydroxybenzylidene)acetone were obtained by interfacial poly-condensation foruse as potential photo-sensitive polymers. The structures of the UV-sensitive monomers and polymers obtained were confirmed using 1R, 1HNMR and UV spectroscopies. Their physical, chemical and mechanical properties were determined.

The investigations show that some of the new polymers possessing allylic groups as photosensitive side chains conjugated with bisbenzylideneketone groups exhibit different behaviour under UV light exposure from polyarylates based only on bisbenzylideneketone bisphenols presented in our previous work.
Representation of Local Stiffness Variation in Textile Composites
Authors: Weissenbach G. , Limmer L. , Brown D.
Published: March 2023

The high degree of heterogeneity in fabric composite materials is identified as a major problem in their structural analysis. A procedure is proposed to represent the material stiffness variation as a function of the spatial coordinates by using splines. The stiffness variations are exemplified using a plain weave composite. The role of this stiffness function is to facilitate the calculation of the averaged material stiffness tensor for arbitrary domains in the form of finite elements. Once this exercise has been completed for a meshed part, a finite element analysis can be performed in order to obtain information on a local level. The facility with which the averaged material stiffness tensor over an element can be calculated is not only important in terms of underpinning mesh refinement and adaptive meshing, but, more importantly, to conduct a more correct and precise, i.e. material adaptive, stress analysis.
Poly(amido-imide)s Based on Amino Terminated Oligoimides
Authors: Patel Hasmukh S. , Patel Nilesh P.
Published: March 2023

An ammo-terminated oligoimide was prepared by the Michael addition reaction of ethylene bismaleimide (EBM) and 4,4′-diamino diphenyl methane (DDM) at an EBM:DDM molar ratio of 1:2. The poly(amido-imide)s (PAI)s were prepared by condensation of this EBM:DDM oligoimide with various aliphatic bisesters. The resultant PAIs were characterized by elejnental analysis, IR spectral studies, and the number average molecular weight ([Formula: see text]n) estimated by non-aqueous conductometric titration and thermogravimetry. The curing-reaction of an epoxy resin (a diglycidyl ether of bisphenol-A (DGEBA)) with PAI was monitored by Differential Scanning Calorimetry (D.S.C.). Glass and carbon fibre reinforced laminates of PAI-epoxy resin were also prepared and characterized.
A Numerical Study of the Buckling and Failure Characteristics of Laminated Composites with Elliptical Holes
Authors: Kang Tae Jin , Yoo Jae Heung
Published: March 2023

An investigation of the buckling and failure characteristics of laminated composites with elliptical holes has been conducted. To predict critical buckling load and first ply failure load, we performed a three-dimensional finite element analysis. The critical buckling load and corresponding buckling modes were predicted by solving an eigen-value problem. After the buckling modes were calculated, the failure analysis was performed to estimate the first ply failure load as a post buckling response. To predict the first ply failure load, we used Tsai-Hill's failure criterion. All these numerical analyses were performed using the three dimensional finite element code “CompAna3D” developed in this research. Using CompAna3D, the effects of hole size, hole aspect ratio, and hole distance on the buckling and failure responses were evaluated numerically in thin laminated plates under compressive loading
Reactive Compatibilisation of Polymer Blends of Poly(butylene terephthalate) and Poly(ε-caprolactam): Effect of the Addition of 4,4′-Biphenol
Authors: Xiaochuan Zhu , Shibata Mitsuhiro , Yosomiya Ryutoku
Published: March 2023

Improvements in the compatibility and mechanical properties of blends of poly(butylene terephthalate) (PBT) and poly(ε-caprolactam) (PA6) were sought by the addition of 4,4′-biphenol as a reactive compatibiliser. As a result, when 4,4′-biphenol 6 phr was added to the PBT/PA6 (weight ratio: 60/40) blend, its compatibility and flexural strength and modulus were considerably improved. Electron spectroscopic for chemical analysis of the PBT/PA6/4,4′-biphenol blend suggested the reaction of the amide group of the PA6 with the biphenol.
The Use of CFD to Predict the Effect of Defects in Dies
Authors: Davis J.B.
Published: March 2023

An example is given of the use of Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) to predict the flow of molten polymer in one channel within an annular coextrusion die used for the manufacture of orientated polypropylene packaging film. The flow of polymer in the ‘as-designed’ channel geometry is compared with the flow when the geometry is modified to simulate what could be actual machining or assembly imperfections. The results give a quantitative measure of the effect of such defects on the circumferential uniformity of the extrudate and provide guidance regarding design changes needed for the further improvement in the quality of the finished film.
Insert Moulding - Automatic Manufacturing of Rubber-to-Metal and Rubber-to-Plastic Moulded Components
Authors: Arning Manfred
Published: March 2023

This report describes recent developments in automated manufacturing of engineering plastics components involving rubber-to-metal and rubber-to-plastic bonded parts. Examples are based on Engel machinery and experience. Specific features mentioned include tiebarless machines, software for cure time prediction, automated work cells, and microprocessor control systems. Specific examples of automated parts manufacturing are given.
New Phosphorescence Probes for Monitoring the Kinetics of Thermal and Photochemical Polymerization
Authors: Lees Alistair J.
Published: March 2023

Several organometallic complexes have recently been demonstrated to act as spectroscopic probes of kinetic changes taking place on polymer network formation. This review summarizes the recent development of these phosphorescence probe molecules in both thermal polymerization and photo-initiated processes. Polymers based on epoxy and aromatic cyanate ester thermosetting materials and epoxy and acrylate photosensitive resins are discussed. Most attention is focused on fac-ClRe(CO)3(where 4,7-Ph2-phen) (4,7-Ph2-phen = 4,7-diphenyl-1,10-phenanthroline), and on closely related complexes, as they are strongly luminescent in the visible region and appear to offer considerable promise in probe applications. These spectroscopic probes are shown to be sensitive to viscosity changes of over five orders of magnitude within the polymer network. The luminescence features of these organometallic probe complexes are compared to that of other organic probe molecules.
Stress Corrosion Cracking in Fibreglass Composite Structures - A Case Study
Authors: Frankle Robert S.
Published: March 2023

One failure mechanism experienced by fibreglass composite structures is stress corrosion cracking, which occurs in structures under load in a corrosive environment. Over time, stress corrosion cracking attacks the glass fibres, which weakens the structure and can lead to premature failure. Stress corrosion cracking failure is characterized by flat fracture surfaces perpendicular to the fibres at both the macroscopic and microscopic levels. Prevention of stress corrosion cracking includes proper selection of fibre and resin, and use of a protective layer between the glass fibres and the environment. Fibreglass structures that have failed due to stress corrosion cracking include chemical tanks, sewer pipe and pressure vessels.

This paper describes the phenomenon of stress corrosion cracking in fibreglass composite structures. It also presents, as a case study, the investigation of the failure of a fibreglass overwrapped compressed air cylinder, used in a self-contained breathing apparatus. The failure was attributed to stress corrosion cracking following exposure to a highly acidic cleaning fluid.

The cause of the failure was determined based on the results of fractography, chemical analysis, and stress corrosion tests performed on samples of the accident cylinder.
Birefringence and Shrinkage during Thermal Reversion of Oriented Polymers
Authors: Bornarel A-C. , White J.R.
Published: March 2023

Thermally-induced changes in shrinkage and birefringence in oriented polycarbonate have been studied using video recordings. It was found that the decrease in birefringence was not in phase with the development of shrinkage except in a narrow temperature range near to Tg. It is evident that these two phenomena are controlled by different aspects of molecular orientation. In another set of experiments the development of birefringence in thick polystyrene mouldings could not be explained either by residual stresses nor by frozen-in flow orientation. It is believed that these two observations are related and that thermal stresses due to the temperature gradients present during cooling are responsible for the introduction of localized orientation of molecule segments that is largely independent of main chain orientation. Related ideas are found in the literature on the changes in birefringence caused by stresses applied to glassy polymers for extended periods and these are compared with the observations presented here and discussed.
Mechanical Performance of Glass Woven Fabric Laminates: Effect of Hybrid Layers with Different Silane Coupling Agents
Authors: Sham Man-Lung , Kim Jang-Kyo , Hamada Hiroyuki
Published: March 2023

An attempt is made to fabricate glass woven fabric composite laminates containing layers of different fibre surface treatments, based on the so-called ‘hybrid interface’ concept. Mechanical properties of hybrid laminates, including strength and elastic moduii in uniaxial tension and three-point bending, and Mode I interlaminar fracture toughness, are characterized and compared with those for non-hybrid laminates. The results showed some improvements in tensile and bending strengths when the laminates consisted of hybrid layers containing low and high silane concentrations. Improvements in crack growth stability in Mode I interlaminar fracture were also highlighted for similar combinations of hybrid layers.
Effect of Particle Shape on the Mechanical Properties of Particle-Filled PVC
Authors: Nakamura Yoshinobu , Okabe Seiji , Yoshimoto Norihisa , Iida Takeo
Published: March 2023

The effects of particle volume fraction, size and shape on the yield stress of a particle-filled ductile polymer were investigated. For this purpose, 10–50 parts of glass beads ranging in size from about 50 to 200 μm were mixed with 100 parts of poly(vinyl chloride) (PVC) as a ductile matrix using a mixing roll, and tensile tests were carried out. The yield stress decreased considerably with an increase in filler content, but only decreased slightly with an increase in particle size. To clarify the effect of particle shape, agglomerates of the glass beads were prepared by treating them with poly(vinyl alcohol), which has poor compatibility with the PVC matrix. It was confirmed by scanning electron microscopy that the agglomerates, consisting of a few beads on the average, were dispersed in the matrix. The decrease in the yield stress was smaller in the agglomerate-filled resin than in the original bead-filled resin. The shape of the particles seems to be important in moderating the decrease in the yield stress of particle-filled ductile polymers.

The authors are grateful to Mr. Toshiki Takamatsu, New Metals and Chemicals Co., Ltd., Tokyo, Japan for measuring the particle size distributions and for his useful suggestions, and also to Bihoku Funka Kogyo Co., Ltd., Okayama, Japan for the CaCO3 particles.
Drawing and Rolling of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Sheets Prepared from Used PET Bottles
Authors: Qi K. , Nakayama K.
Published: March 2023

Initially amorphous PET sheets were prepared from recycled flake made from post-consumer PET bottles. Drawing and/or rolling of the sheets were performed at 80°C using a draw ratio up to 4.2. The influence of draw ratio on the structure, molecular orientation, and mechanical properties of drawn sheet was investigated. Not only was the tensile strength at yield stronger, but the modulus of the deformed sheets was much higher than that of as- extruded sheets. This was attributed to the enhanced chain orientation and crystallinity of PET with increasing draw ratio. In this work, no particular inferiority in the mechanical properties of PET sheets recycled from used PET bottles (compared with the fresh virgin bottle grade resin) could be seen.
Crystallization and Thermal Properties of Thermoplastic Elastomeric Reactive Blends of Polyamide-6 and Acrylate Rubber
Authors: Jha Abhijit , Bhowmick Anil K.
Published: March 2023

The structural characterization of thermoplastic elastomeric blends of polyamide-6 and acrylate rubber (ACM) has been carried out by wide angle X-ray diffraction analysis (WAXD) and by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). WAXD results suggest a reduction in the crystallite size as well as an increase in the unit cell dimensions of polyamide-6 crystals in the presence of ACM. DSC results showed a drop in both Tm and the crystallinity of the polyamide-6 phase with the addition of rubber in the blends. The Tg of ACM in the blends was higher than that of pure ACM homopolymer. The elevation of Tg of ACM, coupled with the depression of Tm of polyamide-6, indicates the kinetic restriction of the crystallization process of polyamide-6 in the blends, which is ascribed to the grafting of ACM chains onto the polyamide-6 matrix during the melt blending operation.
“Does It Really Get Better After Dad Leaves?” Children’s Experiences With Domestic Violence: A Qualitative Systematic Review
Authors: Shorey Shefaly , Baladram Sara
Published: March 2023

Domestic violence (DV) can persist and escalate post-separation. However, little focus has been given to children exposed to DV during this period. This review aims to consolidate the available evidence on children’s post-separation experiences with DV caused by their fathers. A qualitative systematic review was carried out. Six electronic databases were searched from the inception of each database until July 2022. Qualitative studies of children aged below 24 years, with biological fathers that committed DV, of which each had experienced parental separation were selected. Twenty studies were included in this review after screening according to the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guideline. Using Sandelowski and Barroso’s analysis method, a meta-summary and a meta-synthesis were conducted. Three major themes with eight subthemes were identified: (1) continued abuse post-separation, (2) child’s wavering mind of their fathers, and (3) wrangling between past and present. Overall, the findings highlighted that the experience of DV persisted post-separation through various forms of abuse. Children also struggled with mixed feelings and thoughts toward their fathers. They found it hard to trust their fathers and were cautious about their fathers’ intentions regarding love and interest. Some children had difficulty interacting with their fathers and were exploited by them. Different stakeholders such as healthcare professionals and court officials can play a significant role in supporting and protecting children exposed to DV and schools can play a significant role in empowering children against DV.
Iatrogenic Abdominal Aortic Rupture During Transpedicular Bone Grafting for Thoracolumbar Burst Fractures Successfully Treated by Endovascular Stent Implantation
Authors: Tang Shenghui , Zhang Haonan , Zuo Junhua , Liang Biru , Zhang Hongda , Wu Songsong
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

Vascular injury resulting from transpedicular bone grafting in the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures has not been reported but can be lethal. The management of patients with iatrogenic aortic injury remains a difficult clinical problem. This study describes a case of iatrogenic abdominal aortic rupture at the level of L2 during transpedicular bone grafting for the first time.

Case Report:

A 55 year-old male patient suffered from a T12 vertebral body mild compression fracture and an L2 vertebral body burst fracture due to falling. This patient was treated with posterior open reduction and pedicle screw fixation combined with transpedicular bone grafting in the L2 vertebrae using a paravertebral approach. Unfortunately, during transpedicular bone grafting, the abdominal aorta was punctured by the tip of the graft funnel. The use of endovascular stent implantation successfully averted a clinical catastrophe. The patient had a good clinical outcome, and no complications associated with vascular trauma were apparent at a 1-year follow-up examination.

Conclusion:

For the repair of vascular injury caused by transpedicular bone grafting, endovascular techniques can provide a safe, minimally invasive, and effective treatment option.

Clinical Impact

Surgeons should carefully evaluate the specificity of the patient’s anatomical structures preoperatively and be more cautious during transpedicular bone grafting in the treatment of thoracolumbar burst fractures.
Quantitative Techniques of Ultrasonography in the Assessment of Femoropopliteal Atherosclerotic Lesions Using Peak Systolic Velocity Ratio: Results From the TURN-UP Study
Authors: Hayashi Aiko , Takahara Mitsuyoshi , Fujihara Masahiko , Komiya Yumiko , Aoki Shun , Enoki Mina , Miyauchi Takamitsu , Tanimoto Rika , Fujisaki Jun , Ishida Keisuke , Yamasaki Masayuki , Waratani Naoto , Kawaguchi Harumi , Yamaoka Terutoshi
Published: March 2023

Purpose:

Duplex ultrasound (DUS)-measured peak systolic velocity ratios (PSVRs) are commonly used to evaluate arterial stenosis in lower extremity artery disease (LEAD). However, these measurement methods have not yet been standardized. This study aimed to reveal the influence of measuring methods on PSVR values.

Methods:

A 132 femoropopliteal lesions with PSVR ranging from 1.5 to 3.5 evaluated using method A (angle correction 60°, the direction of blood flow, the no or few atherosclerotic changes closest to the lesion proximal side was defined as the nonstenotic area) were included. The following 4 different methods were then compared with method A: method B, angle correction 45°; method C, angle correction 60° measured along the vessel wall; D, angle correction 60°, with the nonstenotic area the lowest peak systolic velocity area; and E, angle correction 60°, with the reference point fixed at 2 cm proximal to the target lesion area. The difference in PSVR values was analyzed using the Bland-Altman method.

Results:

The mean PSVR value measured by method A was 2.27±0.51, those measured by methods B, C, D, and E were 2.21±0.55, 2.31±0.66, 2.34±0.63, and 2.11±0.63, respectively. The 95% prediction intervals of the differences in PSVR measurements versus A were -0.64 to +0.53 for method B, −0.59 to +0.68 for method C, −0.77 to +0.91 for method D, and −1.12 to +0.79 for method E.

Conclusion:

PSVR values considerably differed between measuring methods. PSVR values by DUS are largely dependent on the measurement methods, which could considerably affect the judgment of LEAD.

Clinical Impact:

Due to differences in several DUS measurement methods, the PSVR results could be changed. Therefore, to need further investigations and unification of measurement method.
Entry Site Is Associated With Aortic Enlargement After Pre-emptive Endovascular Repair for Uncomplicated Type B Aortic Dissection
Authors: Cho Tomoki , Uchida Keiji , Yasuda Shota , Izubuchi Ryo , Kaneko Shotaro , Matsumoto Atsushi , Ikematsu Makoto , Kakuta Sho
Published: March 2023

Objectives:

We aimed to examine the mid-term results corresponding to the entry site in patients who underwent pre-emptive thoracic endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (TEVAR) for uncomplicated type B aortic dissection (TBAD).

Methods:

We included 27 patients who underwent pre-emptive TEVAR for uncomplicated TBAD between September 2014 and December 2019. We divided the patients into 2 groups depending on the proximal landing zone (zone 2 group, zone ≥3 group) and retrospectively analyzed the risk of all-cause and aorta-related mortality, aortic events (rupture, open conversion, and secondary intervention), and aortic enlargement (≥5 mm).

Results:

The median age of the patients was 53 (47–65) years. The median duration from the onset of uncomplicated TBAD to TEVAR was 43 (30–99) days, and the median follow-up duration was 48 (36–57) months. The maximum preoperative diameter of the dissected aorta was 40 mm in the zone 2 group and 35 mm in the zone ≥3 group (p=0.134). There was no case of hospital death or spinal cord ischemia; however, there was 1 (3.7%) case of perioperative stroke in the zone 2 group. Multivariate analysis of the risk factors for aortic enlargement following pre-emptive TEVAR for uncomplicated TBAD revealed that only zone 2 landing was an independent risk factor. The estimated Kaplan-Meier curve showed a higher rate of aortic enlargement in the zone 2 group at 4 years after pre-emptive TEVAR (46.4% vs 0%, log-rank test; p=0.011).

Conclusions:

In this study on TBAD, we found that zone 2 landing was associated with aortic enlargement after pre-emptive TEVAR. In cases where the distance from the left subclavian artery to a major entry point was short, there were more cases of aortic dilatation.

Clinical Impact

The effectiveness of entry closure for type B aortic dissection was demonstrated in the INSTEAD XL trial. The cause of aortic enlargement after pre-emptive endovascular treatment for type B aortic dissection remains controversial. In the present study, zone 2 landing was a risk factor for aortic enlargement after pre-emptive thoracic endovascular aortic aneurysm repair (TEVAR) for uncomplicated type B dissection. Patients with zone 2 landing should be closely followed up after pre-emptive TEVAR.
Powder Struggle: How a Contaminated Rare Book Collection Led to a New Paradigm of Collaboration at Harvard
Authors: Avedian John , Bernier Brenda
Published: March 2023

In 2015 staff in Harvard University’s Widener Library discovered an unidentified white powder in a few early twentieth-century books in Persian and Urdu languages that had been acquired four years previously from a rare book dealer in Pakistan. The powder was positively identified as the insecticides Dichlorodiphenyltrichloroethane(DDT), Coumaphos, and several derivatives. Later it became evident that these volumes were part of a large collection and that potentially thousands of volumes were contaminated. Various exposure assessments were followed by cleaning and reassessment which revealed that risks to persons were infinitely small. However, a bioassay revealed that the pesticide residues were still biologically active. The transparency of communication and demonstrated collaboration between Safety, Facilities, and Library personnel generated trust among staff that their health and safety were paramount. This trust was key to subsequent incidents of contaminated collections and our response to the COVID-19 pandemic.
A Questionnaire Survey on Chinese Translation and Interpreting Scholars’ Publication Pressure and Its Impact on Research Quality and Publishing Ethics
Authors: Cui Ying , Liu Xiao
Published: March 2023

The issue of publishing ethics has been drawing attention from scholars of various fields, and this study focuses on the situation in translation and interpreting (T&I) studies. It surveys Chinese T&I researchers’ publication pressure and its impact on their research quality and publishing ethics via an online questionnaire and follow-up telephone interviews. Altogether, 124 respondents filled out the questionnaire, and 14 of them took part in the interviews. Data analyses reveal that the pressure caused by the limited number of T&I journals is the highest, there is significant correlation between this type of pressure and publishing ethics, and there is also significant association between publication pressure and research quality. The follow-up interviews confirmed the findings, and the discussions with interviewees suggest that using alternative evaluation methods such as the representative work method might be a way out of the current publishing dilemma.
A case of symptomatic intramesenteric accessory spleen: The diagnostic role of contrast-enhanced ultrasound
Authors: Lepore Federica , Di Sabatino Antonio , Maconi Giovanni
Published: March 2023

Introduction:

Accessory spleen is a congenital defect characterised by a separated ectopic splenic parenchyma usually located in the splenic hilum and the tail of the pancreas. It is present in about 10%–30% of the population and, generally, does not cause any symptoms.

Case report:

We report an interesting case of a woman with symptomatic intramesenteric accessory spleen detected and characterised by contrast-enhanced ultrasound. The patient experienced a long history of intermittent pain in the left upper abdomen. The diagnosis was confirmed by post-operative pathology examination.

Discussion:

Accessory spleen usually appears as a well-circumscribed ovoid mass, 1–3 cm in diameter, infrequently located in the mesentery. It may rarely become symptomatic because of complications. Diagnosis of this condition as a cause of abdominal is difficult and rarely has been made pre-operatively. Computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging might help, but they should be performed with intravenous contrast injection, and they cannot provide direct evidence between the pain of the patient and the lesion. Conversely, real-time ultrasound can assess and diagnose the lesion showing the exact correspondence with abdominal pain of the patient. Furthermore, ultrasound and contrast-enhanced ultrasound are widely available, safe and relatively inexpensive.

Conclusion:

Apart from the rarity of this condition, this case report demonstrates the ability of ultrasound to localise the intramesenteric accessory spleen, assess the relationship between the lesion and the symptoms of the patient, and characterise the lesion.
Rape myth acceptance among Croatian and Cypriot police officers
Authors: Constantinou Angelo G , Butorac Ksenija
Published: March 2023

This article draws on a survey involving 390 police officers from Croatia and Cyprus, where the officers’ views on rape and rape myths are measured via the updated Illinois Rape Myth Acceptance Scale. In all, the findings stress that police officers do not buy-in the full array of the rape mythology, but only a part of it. Also, female officers, as opposed to male, appear to be more sensitive towards victimhood resulting from rape. Furthermore, the overall study findings complement findings recorded overseas, in other police organizations, attached to and influenced by different backgrounds and forces at work.
A direct numerical simulation analysis of localised forced ignition in turbulent slot jets of CH4/CO2 blends
Authors: Turquand d’Auzay Charles , Chakraborty Nilanjan
Published: March 2023

The early stages of flame evolution following successful localised forced ignition of different CH[Formula: see text]/CO[Formula: see text] blends in a slot jet configuration have been analysed using three-dimensional direct numerical simulations. The simulations have been conducted for three different concentration levels of CO[Formula: see text] in the fuel blend composed of CH[Formula: see text] and CO[Formula: see text] (ranging from 0% to 20% by volume). The effects of CO[Formula: see text] concentration have been analysed based on five different energy deposition scenarios which include situations where the mean mixture composition at the ignitor varies, but not its location in space, whereas other cases represent the scenarios where the mean mixture composition within the energy deposition region remains constant, but its spatial location changes with CO[Formula: see text] concentration. The most favourable region for successful flame development following thermal runaway, from the mixture composition standpoint (i.e. the highest flammability factor), has been found to be displaced close to the nozzle with an increase in CO[Formula: see text] concentration. The flame development following thermal runaway exhibits initial growth of hot gas kernel followed by downstream advection and eventual flame propagation along with radial expansion with a possibility of flame stabilisation irrespective of the level of CO[Formula: see text] concentration. The triple flame propagation has been found to play a key role in the upstream flame propagation and eventual stabilisation. The orientation of the local flame normal plays a key role in the flame stabilisation. The lift off height has been found to increase with increasing CO[Formula: see text] concentration which also adversely affect flame stabilisation for high levels of CO[Formula: see text] concentration.
Social Media Usage and Its Effects on the Psychological Health of Adolescents
Authors: Perry Julie , Devore Sherah K. , Pellegrino Caroline , Salce Arleigh J.
Published: March 2023

Social media usage is ubiquitous among adolescents. Although social media may appeal to adolescents due to the ability to connect with peers and develop relationships, many teens also report feelings of exclusion or victimization associated with their social media use. High usage of social media may act as a forum for negative behaviors and psychological detriments. Awareness and understanding of how social media affects adolescents’ psychological well-being will help parents and school staff better support teenagers and develop programs to improve coping skills and self-regulation of social media for adolescents.
Reforming healthcare in the Netherlands: practical population health management and the Plot model: A questionnaire survey and focus group study to assess the willingness and readiness of six regions in the Netherlands
Authors: Minderhout Rosa Naomi , van Ede Annefrans FTM , Voragen Leonie , Verheijen Carl , Vos Hedwig MM , Numans Mattijs E , Stein K Viktoria , Bruijnzeels Marc A
Published: March 2023

Objective:

As in many other countries, the Netherlands is facing challenges in the provision of healthcare to its population. To ensure the population remains in good health in coming decades, an integrative approach to the many factors that influence health and health outcomes is needed. Population health management is gaining interest as a strategic framework for systems change in healthcare organisations. Based on population health management, the Dutch HealthKIC has developed the ‘Plot model’, which takes a regional perspective. The aim of this study was to detail the extent to which six prospective regions in the Netherlands were ready and willing to implement population health management using the Plot model, guided by the Five Lenses Model.

Methods:

Using an exploratory focus group reporting study, we involved stakeholders from six regions in the Netherlands. Thematic analysis followed the five predesigned dimensions of a validated cooperation model.

Results:

The study uncovered the potential for realisation of model aims, as assessed by an expert team, regarding shared ambition, mutual gains, relationship dynamics, organisational dynamics and process management. The exploratory questionnaire suggested that organisational dynamics is the least integrated topic in all areas, followed by process management, a finding confirmed in focus groups.

Conclusion:

The building themes of the Five Lenses Model all represent preconditions for the success of integration in the prospective regions. The present study showed that while some themes were reasonably represented in prospective regions, no region was satisfactory for all themes.
An Error Analysis on Tense and Aspect Shifts in Students’ Chinese-English Translation
Authors: Tsai Pei-Shu
Published: March 2023

Translation of scientific texts has been regarded as having the least freedom and variety in rendition; however, inconsistencies occur when translators work with two language systems that differ in reference to time, such as between Chinese and English. Tense is one of the core components of English grammar, but such information is not apparent in Chinese because the Chinese language tends to express time with lexical items in context instead of adding morphological changes to the verbs. The present study collected Chinese-English translated texts from graduate students on topics in the popular science domain. Analyses were conducted by comparing the tense information in the source text and the tense rendered in the target text on a sentence-by-sentence basis. The results showed that while the source text in Chinese stayed in the present tense, the students tended to switch from the present tense to the future or past tense during translation. In particular, the Chinese word “hui” has a habitual meaning that usually describes facts instead of presenting a future tense in scientific texts, but the students tended to interpret it as a future tense word, thus producing inappropriate tense shifts during translation. The pedagogical implication of such findings on inconsistent tenses between the source and target texts suggests that in the teaching of translation, analysis of the tense structure of the Chinese text and the consistency of tense information rendered in English should be emphasized.
Educational videos about dyspareunia and the assessment of their quality and reliability: An observational study
Authors: Lopez-Brull Aida , Perez-Dominguez Borja , Plaza-Carrasco Maria , Casaña Jose
Published: March 2023

Objective:

The aim of this study was to analyze the characteristics, availability, quality and reliability of the information found in educational videos about dyspareunia.

Methods:

A systematic search was carried out on YouTube searching for educational videos about dyspareunia. Video quality scores were assessed with the DISCERN instrument, Global Quality Scale (GQS) and QUEST tool. Video popularity was evaluated with the Video Power Index (VPI). Interobserver agreement and statistical correlations of the assessment scores were also carried out.

Results:

The first 150 videos that appeared were selected. The mean number of views was 35,513.1 views (SD 71,443.9), the mean video length was 05:39 (SD 04:38), the mean days online was 1,396.3 days (SD 706), the mean view ratio was 29.8 (SD 68.1), the mean Like count was 333 likes (SD 1000.6), the mean Dislike count was 13 dislikes (SD 25.3) and the mean VPI Index was 92.1% (SD 16.4%). The mean values for the DISCERN instrument were for Observer-1 40.9 points (SD 9.9) and for Observer-2 39.3 points (SD 8.5). Mean values for the GQS score were for Observer-1 3.1 points (SD 0.9) and for Observer-2 3.0 points (SD 0.8). Finally, mean values for the QUEST tool were for Observer-1 13.3 points (SD 4.1) and for Observer-2 13.1 points (SD 4.2).

Conclusions:

The quality of the videos found on YouTube about dyspareunia, according to DISCERN, GQS, and QUEST scores, are average. Videos with high quality scores were produced by Academic Institutions, despite having lower frequency visit rates.
Monkeypox epidemiology, clinical presentation, and transmission: a systematic review
Authors: Sharma Ashima , Prasad Hari , Kaeley Nidhi , Bondalapati Aparna , Edara Lokesh , Kumar Y. Ajay
Published: March 2023

Background

The new zoonotic viral infection, monkeypox, is a global health issue. Our study aimed at studying the epidemiology, clinical presentation, complications, case fatality rate, and transmission among the present cases of monkeypox infection.

Methods

Articles were searched in PubMed, Google Scholar, and Science Direct databases using the keywords “Monkeypox” [MeSH] or “Monkeypox virus” (MeSH). Narrative reviews, conference abstracts, commentaries, and articles in languages other than English were excluded.

Results

From three databases, 1442 studies were identified. Seven hundred ten articles were excluded because they included data before 2022, leaving 732 items for screening. After filtering 320 data due to data duplication, 412 remained. Due to the inclusion of systematic reviews, meta-analyses, reviews, comments, and articles in languages other than English, 257 were excluded. Eligibility based on full-text review was applied to the remaining 155, excluding 129. So, the study covered a total of remaining 26 articles. We studied 2352 confirmed cases from published literature, accounting for approximately 4% of infected cases worldwide. Around 81.71% of patients have a bisexual or men having sex with men (MSM) preference. Approximately 30.18% of confirmed cases were HIV positive. Male sex was also identified as a risk factor in our review.

Conclusion

Monkeypox human-to-human and human-to-animal transmission are rising. Thus, it is essential to do research on the prevention, clinicodemographic trends, and treatment of monkeypox. Understanding this will enable us to treat monkeypox patients with a targeted and focused approach.