bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Hertzian crack propagation in graded glass/ceramic composites
Authors: Arslan Onur
Published: March 2023

In literature, the concept of material gradation is shown to inhibit surface crack initiation in glass/ceramic composites subjected to Hertzian indentation. However, surface cracks could yet initiate due to relatively higher loadings or in the presence of surface flaws/defects. Hence, characterization of graded composites concerning the resistance against Hertzian crack initiation and propagation manifests itself as a prominent matter. In this study, axisymmetric Hertzian cracks evolving in graded glass/ceramic composites propelled by a rigid cylindrical punch are investigated employing a novel recursive method, called the stacked‐node propagation procedure. Crack trajectories and their propagation susceptibilities are predicted via the minimum strain energy density (MSED) criterion regarding the crack growth resistance (R‐curve) of ceramics. The stress trajectory approach is also considered for a homogeneous glass to reveal the reliance and effectiveness of the MSED criterion in the present crack problems. The Mori–Tanaka relations are adopted to model the elastic modulus and Poisson's ratio variations through the composites, which are implemented on the simulations via the homogeneous finite element approach. Hertzian crack problem of a practically producible graded composite comprised of oxynitride glass and a fine‐grained silicon nitride ceramics (Si3N4) is treated as a case study. The degree of material gradation is assessed for the mitigation of surface crack initiation and propagation risks.
Patients' experiences and reasons for unplanned return visits to the emergency department: A qualitative study
Authors: Hutchinson Claire , Curtis Kate , McCloughen Andrea
Published: March 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to explore the reasons for and experiences of patients who make an unplanned return visit to the emergency department.

Design

This study forms the qualitative phase of a larger explanatory sequential mixed methods study and is informed by interpretive description. The paper was prepared using the consolidated criteria for reporting qualitative research.

Methods

Semi‐structured patient interviews were conducted over a 3‐month period (July–September 2021). Data were analysed using reflexive thematic analysis.

Results

Interviews from 13 participants generated findings related to experiences at and following their initial visit that contributed to their decision to return to the emergency department. Four themes were developed: (1) Patients experience barriers to feeling heard and having their concerns addressed; (2) Patients have little choice but to place their trust in clinicians; (3) Patients unexpectedly experience persistent symptoms which cannot be managed at home; and (4) Patients develop a sense of urgency about having their condition treated.

Conclusion

A negative experience at the initial ED visit may have dual conflicting impacts. It can contribute to patients' perceived need for a return visit because they are ill‐equipped to manage their condition at home, and it can also contribute to their initial reluctance to return to the ED when symptoms persist. Nurses and other clinicians working in ED need to actively build patient's experiential trust through clear communication, timely consultation and shared decision‐making at discharge, which in turn can increase patient's confidence and capability to self‐manage their condition. This study adds to the current body of literature about return visits by highlighting that a more positive experience of ED may assist patients to make better‐informed decisions about when and how to seek treatment and minimize unnecessary and unplanned return visits. Whilst not an intended topic for exploration in this study, the COVID‐19 pandemic influenced patients' experiences at both initial and return ED visits and limited their ability to access primary healthcare options. These experiences contributed to patients' decisions to make a return visit.
Addressing the challenges of early career rural nursing to improve job satisfaction and retention: Strategies new nurses think would help
Authors: Rose Heidi , Skaczkowski Gemma , Gunn Kate M.
Published: March 2023

Aims

To (a) explore the experiences of early career registered nurses in rural hospitals in Australia and (b) identify strategies they believe would help increase job satisfaction and retention.

Design

Qualitative descriptive design.

Methods

Thirteen registered nurses located in outer regional, remote or very remote (herein ‘rural’) Australian hospitals participated in semi‐structured interviews. Participants had graduated from a Bachelor of Nursing program in 2018–2020. Data were analyzed using thematic analysis and an essentialist, bottom‐up approach.

Results

Seven themes related to the experiences of rural early career nursing: (1) appreciate diverse scope of practice; (2) rewarding sense of community and opportunity to give back; (3) staff support determines the quality of experience; (4) feeling underprepared and the need for ongoing education; (5) diverse views on the optimal length of rotation and level of input into choice of clinical area; (6) difficulty maintaining work/life balance due to work hours and rostering; and (7) lack of staff and resources. Strategies to improve nurses' experiences included: (1) assistance with accommodation and transport; (2) social gatherings to enhance connection; (3) sufficient orientation and supernumerary time; (4) increased frequency of contact with clinical facilitators and multiple mentors; (5) prioritizing clinical education across diverse topics; (6) greater involvement in choice of rotations and clinical areas; and (7) desire for more flexible work hours and rostering.

Conclusions

This study highlighted the experiences of rural nurses and explored their suggestions for how to overcome challenges in their roles. Greater consideration of early career registered nurses' needs and preferences is vital to improving and maintaining a satisfied, dedicated and sustainable rural nursing workforce.

Impact

Many of the strategies for improving job retention identified by nurses in this study could be actioned at a local level, with little financial or time investment.

Patient or Public Contribution

No Patient or Public Contribution.
Multiple origins of mountain biodiversity in New Zealand's largest plant radiation
Authors: Thomas Anne , Meudt Heidi M. , Larcombe Matthew J. , Igea Javier , Lee William G. , Antonelli Alexandre , Tanentzap Andrew J.
Published: March 2023

Aim

How mountains accumulate species diversity remains poorly understood, particularly the relative role of in situ cladogenesis compared with colonization from lower elevations. Here, we estimated the contributions of in situ cladogenesis and colonization in generating biodiversity of a large mountain plant radiation and determined the importance of niche adaptation and divergence in these processes. We expected cladogenesis would accompany novel habitats formed by mountain uplift, but colonization would become more important with time as dispersal opportunities accrue.

Location

New Zealand, Southern Alps.

Taxon

Veronica sect. Hebe (Plantaginaceae).

Methods

We estimated the most complete time‐calibrated phylogeny to date for Veronica sect. Hebe to quantify rates of in situ cladogenesis and colonization of mountain habitat based on historical biogeographical models. We used environmental niche modelling to quantify species' climate niches and estimate niche disparity and divergence over time.

Results

In situ cladogenesis generated more species in the mountains than colonization from lowlands. Whereas cladogenesis slowed over time, colonization increased, especially in the alpine zone. Both adaptive ecological speciation along climate niche axes and non‐adaptive, vicariant speciation contributed to cladogenesis. However, climate niche disparity through time became saturated, suggesting competition for niche space was important. Colonization brought more divergent species into mountain niches.

Main Conclusions

We suggest mountain diversity accumulates through three main stages: high cladogenesis after initial colonization, decreasing cladogenesis with increasing competition and increasing colonization after niches saturate, likely promoted by niche divergence. Combining lineage and mountain uplift trajectories, these stages provide a conceptual model to understand how diversity accumulates elsewhere. Assuming these deep‐time findings apply to anthropogenic conditions, alpine specialists could struggle to outcompete colonizers facilitated by climate change, especially from generalist clades. Considering novel competitive interactions alongside niche traits and biogeographical processes will be crucial for predicting the fate of alpine biodiversity in a changing world.
Habitat heterogeneity determines species richness on small habitat islands in a fragmented landscape
Authors: Yan Yongzhi , Jarvie Scott , Zhang Qing , Han Peng , Liu Qingfu , Zhang Shuangshuang , Liu Pengtao
Published: March 2023

Aim

The small‐island effect (SIE), as an exception to the species–area relationship, has received much attention in true island systems. However, the prevalence and related patterns of the SIE have not been well evaluated in habitat island systems. Here, we aimed to identify the existence of SIE for habitat islands in fragmented landscapes and determine the key factors influencing species richness on small habitat islands.

Location

Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, China.

Taxon

Vascular plants.

Methods

Based on 78 grassland fragments in fragmented landscapes of the agro‐pastoral ecotone of northern China, we used piecewise regression, path analysis and null models to investigate the SIE of the species–area relationship. We then used a multi‐model selection to evaluate the impacts of four influencing factors (instability, isolation, habitat heterogeneity and surrounding productivity) on species richness (including habitat specialists and generalists) on small habitat islands within the range of SIE.

Results

We found an obvious threshold of 5.1 ha in the species–area relationship, below which habitat island area had no direct and indirect effects on species richness. Small habitat islands (<5.1 ha) host a lower percentage of habitat specialists and a higher percentage of generalists. On small habitat islands, species richness was positively affected by habitat heterogeneity while negatively affected by instability and isolation. Habitat heterogeneity had the strongest effect on species richness, positively affecting specialist richness while negatively affecting generalist richness.

Main Conclusions

There is an SIE in fragmented landscapes of the agro‐pastoral ecotone of northern China, which should be considered in biodiversity conservation. Habitat heterogeneity had a key role in determining the pattern of species richness, especially for small islands. Habitat specialists and generalists had different SIE‐related patterns. Our study highlights the importance of considering different ecological groups of species to improve our understanding of the SIE in fragmented habitats.
Internalized Weight Bias, Weight‐Related Experiences, And Peripartum Weight
Authors: Sharp Meghan , Ward L.G. , Solar Chelsey , Shea Chelsea , Carels Robert A. , Dolbier Christyn
Published: March 2023

Introduction

The purpose of this study was to investigate internalized weight bias (IWB) and its relationship with pregnancy‐related weight changes and postpartum depression. IWB is defined as the internalization of negative attitudes and beliefs about people due to their weight. Although IWB has been linked with weight change and depression in other samples, it has never been investigated in the postpartum period.

Methods

We used a cross‐sectional survey design. Participants were 251 women recruited via social media who were living in the United States and 6 to 12 months postpartum. We calculated percentage of body weight gained during pregnancy and percentage of that weight that was retained postpartum from self‐reported weights. Participants completed self‐report measures of IWB (modified version of the Weight Bias Internalization Scale) and postpartum depression (Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale).

Results

Gestational weight gain was not significantly associated with IWB or depression. Postpartum retention of gestational weight was significantly positively associated with both IWB and depressive symptoms. Furthermore, IWB mediated the relationship between postpartum weight retention and depressive symptoms.

Discussion

Postpartum retention of weight gained during pregnancy, but not weight gain itself, was related to both IWB and depressive symptoms. The relationship between pregnancy‐related weight changes and psychological distress is complex. Sociocultural pressures to return to a prepregnancy physical state swiftly after giving birth may increase risk for IWB during a time in life when stress is already likely to be high, posing additional psychological risk. IWB existing prepregnancy may also worsen postpartum self‐concept, contributing to depression. This is the first study, to our knowledge, to directly assess associations among gestational weight change, IWB, and postpartum depression. In addition to discussing weight in pregnancy, perinatal care providers could improve postpartum health by helping women set realistic, body‐positive goals postpartum.
Genetic autopsy and genetic counseling for a case of fatal oligohydramnios due to de novo 17q12 deletion syndrome
Authors: Hiromoto Kana , Morisada Naoya , Tairaku Shinya , Nozu Kandai , Iijima Kazumoto , Funakoshi Toru
Published: March 2023

We report here a fatal oligohydramnios case, which was suspected due to autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease at first, but genetic analysis using chorionic tissue and umbilical cord after stillbirth led to the diagnosis of 17q12 deletion syndrome. Subsequent genetic analysis of the parents showed no 17q12 deletion. In this case, if the fetus had autosomal recessive polycystic kidney disease, the recurrence rate in the next pregnancy was suspected to be 25%, but since it was a de novo autosomal dominant disorder, the recurrence rate is extremely low. When a fetal dysmorphic abnormality is detected, a genetic autopsy not only helps to understand the cause but also provides information about the recurrence rate. This information is important for the next pregnancy. A genetic autopsy is useful in cases of fetal deaths or abortions resulting from fetal dysmorphic abnormalities.
Evaluation of temporomandibular joint dysfunction in traumatic brain injury patients
Authors: Karpuz Savaş , Yılmaz Ramazan , Yılmaz Halim
Published: March 2023

Background

The aim of this study was to evaluate the frequency of temporomandibular joint dysfunction and related factors in patients with traumatic brain injury.

Methods

A total of 60 participants, 30 patients with traumatic brain injury and 30 healthy volunteers of similar age, have been included in this study, which was designed as a hospital‐based cross sectional study. Fonseca questionnaire was used to evaluate and classify the temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Temporomandibular joint range of motion was evaluated with a digital calliper, and masticatory muscles pressure pain threshold was evaluated with an algometer. Labial commissure angle measurement was used to evaluate the severity of facial paralysis. Complications related to traumatic brain injury were recorded in patients with traumatic brain injury.

Results

According to Fonseca questionnaire score, 80% of traumatic brain injury patients and 16.7% of the control group had temporomandibular dysfunction (p < .001). In the intergroup comparison, a significant decrease was found in all temporomandibular range of motion and masticatory muscles pressure pain threshold parameters in favour of the traumatic brain injury group (p < .001). Labial commissure angle and Fonseca questionnaire scores were higher in the traumatic brain injury group (p < .001). The frequency of temporomandibular dysfunction was more common in traumatic brain injury patients with headache than in those without headache, as shown by the results of the Fonseca questionnaire (p = .044).

Conclusion

Compared to healthy controls, patients with traumatic brain injury experienced issues with the temporomandibular joint more frequently. Additionally, TBI patients with headaches had a greater frequency of temporomandibular joint dysfunction. Therefore, it is advised to check for temporomandibular joint dysfunction in traumatic brain injury patients during follow‐up. In addition, the presence of headache in traumatic brain injury patients may be a stimulant for temporomandibular joint dysfunction.
Paradoxes of implementing digital manufacturing systems: A longitudinal study of digital innovation projects for disruptive change
Authors: Moschko Lukas , Blazevic Vera , Piller Frank T.
Published: March 2023

Digital manufacturing technologies offer many opportunities for established companies to innovate. They promote data‐driven gains in operational efficiency and enable the transformation of current business models or the creation of entirely new differentiation opportunities. However, many digital innovation projects in manufacturing fall short of their initial ambitions and result in incremental improvements to an existing manufacturing system, if at all. To understand the reasons for the discrepancy between initial ambitions and achieved outcomes, we conduct a longitudinal qualitative study based on a collaborative research project with eight companies and additional expert interviews. Applying a paradox lens, we identify three tensional knots that reveal interrelated, multiple tensions of digital innovation management projects in established manufacturing firms: (1) amalgamating physical and digital assets, (2) innovating in an existing modus operandi, and (3) integrating internal and external stakeholders. These tensions result in the simultaneous occurrence of dynamic and conflicting forces that turn digital innovation projects in manufacturing away from their high initial ambitions. Our findings explain why digitizing the manufacturing system is a non‐trivial endeavor for established firms, which need to balance the complexities inherent in digitization efforts and manage conflicting goals. For managers, the findings provide ways to manage the interrelated tensions in their digital innovation efforts, enabling them to better capitalize on disruptive innovation ambitions.
Examining the associations between attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder, sleep problems, and other mental health conditions in adolescents
Authors: Loram George , Silk Tim , Ling Mathew , Sciberras Emma
Published: March 2023

Adolescents with attention‐deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) often experience greater sleep difficulties compared to those without. However, findings are mixed, and other mental health conditions are often overlooked. This study aimed to examine the relationship between sleep problems, ADHD, and other mental health conditions in a sample of adolescents. Data from 373 adolescents aged 10–19 years was used as part of the wider ‘Healthy Brain Network’ study, which targets children and adolescents experiencing mental health and neurodevelopmental difficulties. Mental health conditions were assessed via a comprehensive assessment. Sleep was measured by self‐ and parent‐report, as well as via up to a month of actigraphy data. Actigraphy data were analysed using mixed‐methods modelling, while subjective sleep data were analysed using multiple regression. Subjectively‐reported sleep was generally worse in adolescents who had ADHD and other mental health conditions compared to those with ADHD but no other conditions. There were no associations between ADHD status and objective sleep measures or self‐reported measures, but a significant association was found between ADHD status and parent‐reported sleep difficulties, even when accounting for other conditions. Parent‐reported sleep problems were associated not only with ADHD, but also with anxiety, depression, and externalising disorders. The strength of association between ADHD and sleep problems is potentially not as strong as previously thought when considering the role of other mental health conditions. Clinicians should consider the role of other mental health conditions when sleep problems are present, and vice versa. The study also highlights the importance of comprehensive, multi‐informant assessment of mental health conditions, including sleep.
The impact of periodic interviews on unemployment duration: Evidence from the 2017 Finnish reform
Authors: Huuskonen Jussi
Published: March 2023

In 2017, a Finnish policy reform intensified the Public Employment Services' practice of periodically interviewing unemployed jobseekers. This study used high‐quality administrative data to analyse the effect of interviews on unemployment duration. We used a difference‐in‐differences approach that exploited regional variations in treatment intensity. Our results show that a 10 percentage point increase in interview probability increased the monthly hazard rate of employment by 3.1 per cent, with the effect being strongest among jobseekers aged 25–34 and jobseekers with a low education level. Also, our results demonstrate a strong effect on participation in active labour market programmes.
When Do Interest Groups Lobby Legislators in Strong Presidential Systems?
Authors: Dockendorff Andrés , Lodato Simón
Published: March 2023

When do interest groups target legislators to approach or lobby under strong presidentialism? This article explores two hypotheses. First, interest groups and lobbyists seek to access committee chairs with gatekeeping power, even in those jurisdictions where the executive holds (most) exclusivity to initiate legislation (Gatekeeping Hypothesis). Second, interest groups and lobbyists target legislators who introduce more bills on issues that concern them but only on policy areas outside the executive's exclusive sphere (Legislative Activity Hypothesis). We test these hypotheses with evidence from the Chilean Chamber of Deputies. We have coded and analysed 6479 lobbying audiences and over 2300 bills.
A remedy for discontinuity? Advocating for patient advocacy in undergraduate medical education
Authors: Dodsworth Alastair , Hirsh David A. , Alberti Hugh , Paes Paul , Illing Jan
Published: March 2023

The authors explain how patient advocacy can be a reparative force to address fragmentation in healthcare systems through advances in the design of clinical education, national frameworks and clinical assessment.
Association between mean arterial pressure and sublingual microcirculation during major non‐cardiac surgery: Post hoc analysis of a prospective cohort
Authors: Laou Eleni , Papagiannakis Nikolaos , Michou Anastasia , Ntalarizou Nicoleta , Ragias Dimitrios , Angelopoulou Zacharoula , Sessler Daniel I. , Chalkias Athanasios
Published: March 2023

Objective

To test the hypothesis that there is an association between mean arterial pressure (MAP) and sublingual perfusion during major surgery, and perhaps an identifiable harm threshold.

Methods

This post hoc analysis of a prospective cohort included patients who had elective major non‐cardiac surgery with a duration of ≥2 h under general anesthesia. We assessed sublingual microcirculation every 30 min using SDF+ imaging and determined the De Backer score, Consensus Proportion of Perfused Vessels (Consensus PPV), and the Consensus PPV (small). Our primary outcome was the relationship between MAP and sublingual perfusion which was evaluated with linear mixed effects modeling.

Results

A total of 100 patients were included, with MAP ranging between 65 mmHg and 120 mmHg during anesthesia and surgery. Over a range of intraoperative MAPs between 65 and 120 mmHg, there were no meaningful associations between blood pressure and various measures of sublingual perfusion. There were also no meaningful changes in microcirculatory flow over 4.5 h of surgery.

Conclusions

In patients having elective major non‐cardiac surgery with general anesthesia, sublingual microcirculation is well maintained when MAP ranges between 65 and 120 mmHg. It remains possible that sublingual perfusion will be a useful marker of tissue perfusion when MAP is lower than 65 mmHg.
A theoretically based STEM talent development program that bridges excellence gaps
Authors: Assouline Susan G. , Mahatmya Duhita , Ihrig Lori M. , Lynch Stephanie , Karakis Nesibe
Published: March 2023

The pipeline of highly trained STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) professionals has narrowed in recent decades, forcing society to re‐examine how schools are discovering and developing STEM talent. Of particular concern is the finding that rural students attend post‐secondary schools at lower rates than their urban counterparts, and when they do attend, they are less likely to graduate from STEM programs. One reason may be that they are not prepared for advanced STEM coursework because they lack access to essential STEM talent‐development programs in middle or high school. This creates excellence gaps, which exacerbate the narrowing STEM pipeline to the workforce. To address this, we formed a university–school partnership to develop an outside‐of‐school STEM talent development program, called STEM Excellence, for rural middle‐school students who attend under‐resourced schools. The aim of STEM Excellence was to increase students’ achievement and aspirations while empowering their teachers to develop local STEM programs grounded in developmental psychology theories. STEM Excellence integrated the Talent Development Megamodel Principles
of ability, domains of talent, opportunity, and psychosocial variables. STEM Excellence also recognized the interplay of multiple person–environment systems as presented in the Bioecological Systems Model.
Skeletal and dental effects of serial extractions performed with or without maxillary expansion—A retrospective controlled study
Authors: Quinzi Vincenzo , Salvati Simone Ettore , Lerda Fabrizio , Compri Matilde , Rosa Marco , Primozic Jasmina
Published: March 2023

Objectives

The study aimed to compare severe crowding treatment's skeletal and dental effects by serial extractions or maxillary expansion and serial extractions in the mixed dentition phase.

Setting and Sample Population

The retrospective controlled study included lateral cephalograms of 78 subjects aged 8.5 ± 1.4 years, 52 consecutively treated because of severe crowding, and 26 untreated controls matched for baseline age and observational period.

Methods

Subjects were clustered according to the treatment modality, either serial extraction (EX) or expansion and extraction (EXP‐EX) group. Sagittal and vertical skeletal as well as dental cephalometric parameters were assessed at baseline and after the eruption of all permanent posterior teeth, and group comparisons were performed.

Results

Both treatment modalities significantly affected the vertical skeletal parameters in terms of decreasing the mandibular and occlusal plane inclination and increasing the facial height index. A distinct treatment effect on the gonial angle was observed, with a significant decrease in its superior part observed in both extraction groups. The annualized changes in the superior part of the gonial angle significantly differ (P = .036) between the Control (−0.04 ± 0.6), EX (−0.44 ± 0.6) and EXP‐EX (−0.34 ± 0.5) groups. Upper and lower incisor inclination did not change significantly in any of the groups; however, the interincisal angle at follow‐up was significantly smaller in the Control compared with both treated groups.

Conclusions

Serial extractions and a combination of maxillary expansion and serial extractions have similar significant skeletal effects, mainly affecting vertical cephalometric parameters if performed during the pre‐pubertal growth phase.
Arthroscopic Autologous Coracoacromial Ligament Augment Technique for Particle Thickness of Rotator Cuff with at Least Two Years Follow‐Up
Authors: Zhang Yuanhao , Zhou Min , Hou Jingyi , Zhang Jinming , Zhou Chuanhai , Long Yi , Ke Meng , Tang Yiyong , Yang Rui
Published: March 2023

Objective

Patch technology has been the new technique in the treatment of partial thickness of the rotator cuff tear (PTRCTs) to address the limitation of traditional techniques. Compared with allogeneic patches and artificial materials, coracoacromial ligament is obviously closer to their own biology. The purpose of the study was to evaluate the functional and radiographic outcomes following arthroscopic autologous coracoacromial ligament augment technique for treatment of PTRCTs.

Method

This study included three female patients with PTRCTs who underwent arthroscopy operation in 2017 with an average age of 51 years (range from 50 to 52 years). The coracoacromial ligament implant was attached to the bursal side surface of the tendon. The clinical results were evaluated by American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score, Simple Shoulder Test (SST), acromiohumeral distance (AHD) and muscle strength before and 12 months after operation. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) was performed 24 months after operation to assess the integrity of the anatomical structure of the original tear site.

Result

The average ASES score improved significantly from 57.3 preoperatively to 95.0 at 1‐year follow‐up. The strength improved significantly from grade 3 preoperatively to grade 5 at 1 year. Two of three patients underwent the MRI at 2‐year follow‐up. Radiographic released the complete healing of rotator cuff tear. No implant‐related serious adverse events were reported.

Conclusion

The new technique of using autogenous coracoacromial ligament patch augment provides good clinical results on patients with PTRCTs.
Emotions in ancient Egypt—An overview
Authors: Eicke Sven
Published: March 2023

The aim of the article is to present essential aspects of five emotions (joy,fear,love,sadness,anger) on the basis of written sources from ancient Egypt. Through selective analyses of the Egyptian emotion vocabulary, including metaphors and descriptions of physical states and reactions, some elementary concepts will be explained. In addition, it is a concern to point out some of the difficulties that can be associated with the investigation of emotions in ancient Egyptian texts. Therefore, brief references are given to current Egyptological studies that have been devoted to the topic adopting new methods.
Risk communication in multistakeholder engagement: A novel spatial econometric model
Authors: Liu Shun Jia , Li Jianping , Wu Dengsheng , Zhu Xiaoqian , Xu Xin Long
Published: March 2023

Existing studies on the environmental Kuznets curve (EKC) neglect the inverse effect of pollution transfer from environmental regulation interactions on pollution reduction from a risk analysis perspective. Based on the regional differentiated attitudes on the environmental regulation reached in risk communication by the risk awareness biases of multiple interest groups, this article clarifies the causality between risk communication and risk transfer based on multistakeholder engagement processes; furthermore, the article incorporates the simultaneous action of the technological innovation effect and pollution risk transfer effect to construct a spatial environmental hyperbolic model with a bidirectional correlation between pollution emissions and economic growth in different regions. To verify our model, we select the pollution from agricultural watersheds in China as a sample to examine the two inverse effects. The results demonstrate that (1) agricultural watershed pollution and economic growth show an inverted U‐shaped relation and a U‐shaped relation in the local region and adjacent regions, respectively; (2) the pollution reduction assessment of the classical EKC model can be largely attributed to pollution risk transfer behavior; and (3) the turning point of the U‐shaped curve appears earlier than that of the inverted U‐shaped curve in the spatial hyperbola model. The findings suggest that stakeholders should consider the risk awareness bias caused by the imbalance of regional economic development and the scenarios that provide a “haven” for pollution risk transfer. Moreover, our study expands the theoretical connotation of the classical EKC hypothesis and is more suitable for pollution reduction scenarios in developing countries.
Facilitating the application of systems‐theoretic process analysis in healthcare: Creating control structures using process maps
Authors: Wong Lawrence , Pawlicki Todd
Published: March 2023

Systems‐theoretic process analysis (STPA) is a prospective safety assessment tool increasingly applied in healthcare. A problem hampering STPA proliferation is the difficulty of modeling systems for analysis by creating control structures. In this work, a method is proposed to use existing process maps—commonly available in healthcare—when creating a control structure. The proposed method entails (1) extract information from the process map, (2) determine the modeling boundary of the control structure, (3) transfer the extracted information to the control structure, (4) add additional information to complete the control structure. Two case studies were conducted: (1) ambulance patient offloading in the emergency department and (2) ischemic stroke care with intravenous thrombolysis. The amount of process map‐derived information in the control structures was quantified. On average, 68% of the information in the final control structures was derived from the process map. Additional control actions and feedback were added from nonprocess map sources for management and frontline controllers. Despite the differences between process maps and control structures, much of the information in a process map can be used when creating a control structure. The method enables the creation of a control structure from a process map to be done in a structured fashion.
The challenges of detecting Taenia solium and neurocysticercosis in low and middle‐income countries: A scoping review of Lao People's Democratic Republic
Authors: Larkins Andrew , Keatley Sarah , Insisiengmay Bounnaloth , Phetsouvanh Rattanaxay , Bruce Mieghan , Ash Amanda
Published: March 2023

Objective

Taenia solium is a tapeworm of global importance due to the burden of disease associated with human epilepsy caused by neurocysticercosis. Unfortunately, diagnostic challenges impede control efforts in many low and middle‐income countries. This review examines publications concerning Taenia species in the Lao PDR with a focus on T. solium to inform future research and control programmes.

Methods

PubMed and Scopus databases were primary sources of evidence. Publications must have reported taeniasis or T. solium results from Lao PDR. Publications repeating results or samples were combined into unique projects.

Results

A total of 64 publications were included and summarised into 46 projects. The majority of projects applied faecal microscopy as their only diagnostic technique. As a result, the specific species of Taenia was often not determined. Only five projects used molecular techniques to identify the species observed. Only case report of neurocysticercosis has been published. The northern region was included in half the number of projects compared to the south, despite being a high‐risk area T. solium.

Conclusions

The diagnostic challenge of determining the species of Taenia present in a faecal sample presents a significant limitation to the control of T. solium in Lao PDR and is an experience that is relevant to many other low and middle‐income countries. There must be an improved understanding of the distribution and frequency of T. solium if disease control efforts are to be intensified to reduce the burden of neurocysticercosis, as encouraged by WHO and others. It is hoped that this can be achieved through non‐biological risk mapping tools and the more frequent application of molecular tools to routine sample collection. Diagnostic tools that are applicable to low resource settings should be a priority area of research for T. solium.
Prenatal genomic testing for ultrasound‐detected fetal structural anomalies
Authors: Reilly Kelly , McKenna Caoimhe , McCullough Simon , McKee Shane , Mone Fionnuala
Published: March 2023

Key content

In the presence of a fetal structural anomaly, fetal DNA can be obtained through invasive testing (e.g. amniocentesis and chorionic villus sampling) in order to undertake genomic testing to attempt to uncover a unifying genetic diagnosis.

There are number of traditional and more novel genomic tests available, which can identify aneuploidy, chromosomal structural variation and/or sequence variants within genes.

The cumulative diagnostic yield of such technologies is approximately 25%, 6% and up to 80% in some cohorts for QF‐PCR/G‐banding karyotype, chromosome microarray and exome sequencing, respectively.

Learning objectives

To understand the technical basis and clinical indications for QF‐PCR, G‐banding karyotype, chromosome microarray and exome sequencing.

To appreciate the potential benefits and challenges associated with exome sequencing.

To gain awareness of modern technologies that may be utilised to address recurrence risk, e.g. preimplantation genetic diagnosis and non‐invasive prenatal diagnosis.

Ethical issues

Not all technologies are currently available across all four nations of the UK, hence challenges are raised regarding healthcare equity.

There can be uncertainty around the interpretation of prenatal genomic test results, which can have implications in counselling, particularly regarding termination of pregnancy.

Incidental findings may be revealed, which can have implications for counselling and the future health of the fetus and the parents.
The animal's microbiome and cancer: A translational perspective
Authors: Aluai‐Cunha Catarina Sofia , Pinto Catarina Alves , Correia Isabel Alexandra Duarte Ferreira Lopes , dos Reis Serra Cláudia Alexandra , Santos Andreia Alexandra Ferreira
Published: March 2023

Cancer is a substantial global health problem both in humans and animals with a consistent increase in mortality and incidence rate. The commensal microbiota has been involved in the regulation of several physiological and pathological processes, both within the gastrointestinal system and at distant tissue locations. Cancer is not an exception, and different aspects of the microbiome have been described to have anti‐ or pro‐tumour effects. Using new techniques, for example high‐throughput DNA sequencing, microbial populations of the human body have been largely described and, in the last years, studies more focused on companions' animals have emerged. In general, the recent investigations of faecal microbial phylogeny and functional capacity of the canine and feline gut have shown similarities with human gut. In this translational study we will review and summarize the relation between the microbiota and cancer, in humans and companion animals, and compare their resemblance in the type of neoplasms already studied in veterinary medicine: multicentric and intestinal lymphoma, colorectal tumours, nasal neoplasia and mast cell tumours. In the context of One Health, microbiota and microbiome integrative studies may contribute to the understanding of the tumourigenesis process, besides offering an opportunity to develop new diagnostics and therapeutic biomarkers both for veterinary and human oncology.
Seasonal temperature‐related variation of humus tank settlement efficiency
Authors: Pearce Pete , Yang Gong
Published: March 2023

This study uses several years of effluent quality data from 43 sites where online monitoring has been operational for many years resulting in the accumulation of high‐resolution data sets. The data show a highly repeatable, seasonal dependence of effluent turbidity on temperature. This has been modelled with simple techniques producing a generic model that is neither data hungry nor requires site calibration. Viscosity‐based mechanisms are proposed and discussed. These mechanisms differ from conventional assumptions of suspended solids peaks being solely flow related and or ascribed to ‘spring sloughing’. The proposal is that the organic loading of the filter and the physical temperature effects on settlement velocity are both as influential as hydraulic loading in determining effluent suspended solids concentration. Application of the models enables improved design for new/upgraded units and more accurate capacity assessment of trickling filters and humus tanks enabling improved operational risk management of compliance failure.
Consistent application of compression: An under‐considered variable in the prevention of venous leg ulcers
Authors: Shawa Harrison J. , Dahle Sara E. , Isseroff Roslyn Rivkah
Published: March 2023

Venous leg ulcers, the most common leg ulcer, occur in patients with chronic venous insufficiency due to venous hypertension. Evidence supports the conservative treatment with lower extremity compression, ideally between 30–40 mm Hg. Pressures in this range provide enough force to partially collapse lower extremity veins without restricting arterial flow in patients without peripheral arterial disease. There are many options for applying such compression, and those who apply these devices have varying levels of training and backgrounds. In this quality improvement project, a single observer utilised a reusable pressure monitor to compare pressures applied using different devices by individuals in wound clinics with diverse training from specialties of dermatology, podiatry, and general surgery. Average compression was higher in the dermatology wound clinic (n = 153) compared to the general surgery clinic (n = 53) (35.7 ± 13.3 and 27.2 ± 8.0 mm Hg, respectively, p < 0.0001), and wraps applied by clinic staff (n = 194) were nearly twice as likely as a self‐applied wrap (n = 71) to have pressures greater than 40 mm Hg (relative risk: 2.2, 95% confidence interval: 1.136–4.423, p = 0.02). Pressures were also dependent upon the specific compression device used, with CircAid®s (35.5 mm Hg, SD: 12.0 mm Hg, n = 159) providing higher average pressures than Sigvaris Compreflex (29.5 mm Hg, SD: 7.7 mm Hg, n = 53, p = 0.009) and Sigvaris Coolflex (25.2 mm Hg, SD: 8.0 mm Hg, n = 32, p < 0.0001). These results indicate that the device‐provided pressure may be dependent on both the compression device and the background and training of the applicator. We propose that standardisation in the training of compression application and increased use of a point‐of‐care pressure monitor may improve the consistency of applied compression, thus improving adherence to treatment and outcomes in patients with chronic venous insufficiency.
Experimental Investigation of Liquid Metal Droplet on the Heat Transfer Performance in an Oscillating Heat Pipe
Authors: Owoola Mark , Ismael Laith , Aviles Adalberto , Mohammadian Shahabeddin K. , Ma Hongbin
Published: March 2023

An oscillating heat pipe (OHP) charged with a hybrid fluid is investigated. This hybrid fluid uses an emulsion-based mixture of liquid metal gallium microdroplets suspended in an ethanol solution. The gallium microdroplets are fabricated using an ultrasonication technique. The OHP is fabricated from a copper plate and contains a six-turn channel with a 3 × 3 mm2 cross section. The heat transfer performance of the OHP was investigated experimentally with different concentrations of gallium at a 50% filling ratio. Steady-state oscillating motion was achieved with weight concentrations of gallium up to 20%. The experimental results show that using gallium-in-ethanol hybrid fluid emulsion as the working fluid can increase the heat transfer performance of the OHP by up to 7.8% over pure ethanol at 300 W. The mass of gallium needed to achieve this magnitude of heat transfer improvement is drastically reduced compared to previous research.
Embedded Linear-Motion Developable Mechanisms on Cylindrical Surfaces
Authors: Sheffield Jacob L. , Sargent Brandon , Howell Larry L.
Published: March 2023

This study introduces methods for developing embedded straight-line and linear-motion mechanisms on right circular cylinders. Developable surfaces, particularly right circular cylinders, are the manufactured embodiment of many products. Functional linkages are traditionally not geometrically constrained to a body and often dictate the final shape of the housing they reside. This work explores mapping straight-line and linear-motion mechanisms onto cylinders for practical design. Potential applications for when an embedded cylindrical developable mechanism capable of deployment and generation of linear motion would be useful are discussed. An in vivo wiper mechanism to clean obstructed laparoscope lenses during surgery is investigated to physically demonstrate the concepts introduced in the article and to illustrate an example application.
Ultra-sparse near-perfect sound absorbers
Authors: Ji Jun , Li Junfei , Cummer Steven A. , Jing Yun
Published: March 2023

There is a trade-off between the sparseness of an absorber array and its sound absorption imposed by wave physics. Here, near-perfect absorption (99% absorption) is demonstrated when the spatial period of monopole-dipole resonators is close to one working wavelength (95% of the wavelength). The condition for perfect absorption is to render degenerate monopole-dipole resonators critically coupled. Frequency domain simulations, eigenfrequency simulations, and the coupled mode theory are utilized to demonstrate the acoustic performances and the underlying physics. The sparse-resonator-based sound absorber could greatly benefit noise control with air flow and this study could also have implications for electromagnetic wave absorbers.
A Synthetic SARS-CoV-2-Derived T-Cell and B-Cell Peptide Cocktail Elicits Full Protection against Lethal Omicron BA.1 Infection in H11-K18-hACE2 Mice
Authors: Song Yang , Hu Hongqiao , Xiao Kang , Huang Xinghu , Guo Hong , Shi Yuqing , Zhao Jiannan , Zhu Shuangli , Ji Tianjiao , Xia Baicheng , Jiang Jie , Cao Lei , Zhang Yong , Zhang Yan , Xu Wenbo
Published: March 2023

Current vaccines based on production of neutralizing antibodies fail to prevent the infection and transmission of SARS-CoV-2 Omicron and its subvariants. Understanding the critical factors and avoiding the disadvantages of vaccine strategies are essential for developing a safe and effective COVID-19 vaccine, which would include a more effective and durable cellular response, minimal effects of viral mutations, rapid production against emerging variants, and good safety.
Adar-associated Aicardi Goutières syndrome in a child with bilateral striatal necrosis and recurrent episodes of transaminitis
Authors: van Toorn Ronald , Niekerk Magriet van , Moosa Shahida , Goussard Pierre , Solomons Regan
Published: March 2023

Aicardi-Goutières syndrome (AGS) refers to a group of genetic diseases characterised by severe inflammatory encephalopathy that usually present within the first year of life, resulting in progressive loss of cognition, spasticity, dystonia and motor disability. Pathogenic variants in the adenosine deaminase acting on RNA (Adar) enzyme have been linked to AGS type 6 (AGS6, Online Mendelian Inheritance in Man (OMIM) 615010). In knockout mouse models, loss ofAdaractivates the interferon (IFN) pathway and causes autoimmune pathogenesis in the brain or liver. Bilateral striatal necrosis (BSN) has previously been reported in case series of children with biallelic pathogenic variants inAdar. We describe a unique, previously unreported case of a child with AGS6, with clinical manifestations of BSN and recurrent transient episodes of transaminitis. The case highlights the importance ofAdarin protecting the brain and liver from IFN-induced inflammation.Adar-related disease should therefore be considered in the differential diagnosis of BSN accompanied by recurrent episodes of transaminitis.