bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Effect of Fungicide Distribution in Wood on the Rate of Diffusion in and from Wood
Authors: Rabai Y. Ait , Vergnaud J.M.
Published: April 2023

Pentachlorophenol is one of the oldest chemicals used for protecting wood against fungi. A drawback for this chemical is its potential release in water when the treated wood is in contact with water. A method of impregnation of wood is described, leading to a low amount of PCP in the wood, and with a non uniform concentration throughout the wood and high concentration on the wood surface. The release of PCP in water from wood samples treated in this new way is studied. When these treated samples are in contact with water, two PCP transports are observed: the one with the usual release in the external water, the other with the diffusion inside the wood from the usual surface. In spite of the low amount of PCP in the wood, protection against fungi may be effective, as the release of PCP is thus low. Modelling and experiments are used for treating the problem.
Preparation and Characterisation of Polyacrylic Acid Leucaena Gum as a Thickener in Reactive Dye Printing Pastes
Authors: Kantouch F. , Ragheb A.
Published: April 2023

Polyacrylic acid-leucaena gum was prepared by the polymerisation of acrylic acid on leucaena gum using potassium persulphate as initiator. The rheological properties of the gums and their utilisation as thickening agents in printing cotton fabrics with reactive dyes were investigated.

It was found that polyacrylic acid-leucaena gum pastes are characterised by a non-Newtonian pseudoplastic behaviour. The apparent viscosity depends on the amount of acrylic acid. Cotton fabric samples printed with cibacron blue 3R acquire soft handle and colour fastness properties nearly identical with those printed using sodium alginate paste; the highest colour strength was obtained using a mixture of polyacrylic acid/leucaena gum with sodium alginate at a ratio of 1:3 w/w.
In-Situ Observation of Thermal Residual Strains in Carbon/Thermoplastic Microcomposites Using Raman Spectroscopy
Authors: Nielsen Anders S. , Pyrz Ryszard
Published: April 2023

Thermal residual strains in carbon/thermoplastic microcomposites have been measured in-situ using micro Raman spectroscopy. This experimental method provides quantitative information of the relation between the level of residual strains and the temperature history. Two different microcomposites have been investigated; carbon fibre/ polycarbonate and carbon fibre/polypropylene. The observed strain-temperature profile exhibits two characteristic nonlinear zones for both composite systems. It is shown that the linear thermoelastic solution strongly overestimates residual thermal strains. In order to overcome this deficiency the thermorheologically simple model is applied to predict residual strains. The results indicate that the model correctly estimates the level of residual strains in thermoplastic microcomposites, but fails to describe the two nonlinear characteristic zones. This leads to the conclusion that a more complex constitutive model of the matrix phase must be considered.
Mechanical and Impact Properties of Composite Laminates Reinforced with Kevlar Multiaxial Warp Knit Fabrics
Authors: Kang Tae Jin , Kim Cheol
Published: April 2023

The mechanical and impact properties of multiaxial warp knit fabric reinforced composite laminates have been studied. Kevlar® fibre was used to fabricate the multiaxial warp knit structure for unidirectional reinforcing as well as stitching yarns. Tensile, flexural, short beam shear, and impact properties have been compared with those of woven laminated composites.

The results showed that increased interlaminar shear strength is the main characteristic feature of the multiaxial warp knit composite compared with plain woven laminates. The interlaminar shear strength of multiaxial warp knit composites showed up to 52% increase compared with that of woven laminates composites. Also the delamination was retarded due to the increase in interlaminar shear strength of the multiaxial warp knit composites. It is shown that the through-the-thickness reinforcing loops resist any delamination. The tensile strength of the multiaxial warp knit composites increased by about 5–12% compared with the theoretical values computed from classical lamination theory.

It is generally accepted that impact induced delamination area increases with the increase in the total absorbed impact energy in collisions with foreign objects. But the multiaxial warp knit composites showed that the total absorbed impact energy decreased with the increase in through-the-thickness reinforcement fibres. The multiaxial warp knit composites showed reduced vertical deformations compared with woven laminates, as the reinforcing loop density increased.
Effect of Dyeing Process on Optical Anisotropy of Polyester Fibres
Authors: Fouda I.M. , Sherif M. El , Bayoumi O.A.
Published: April 2023

A two beam interferometric technique using a pluta polarizing interference microscope has been used for the determination of the refractive index profiles and the birefringence of undyed and dyed polyester fibres with single and mixture colorants. Diameters and cross-sectional shapes of these fibres were determined from the diffraction pattern of a He-Ne laser beam, incident perpendicular to the fibre axis.
Radiation Induced Graft Polymerisation of Methyl acrylate and 4-Vinyl Pyridine onto Gelatin
Authors: Kaur Inderjeet , Chauhan G.S. , Misra B.N. , Gupta Anita
Published: April 2023

Grafting of methyl acrylate and 4-vinyl pyridine onto Gelatin has been studied in air in aqueous media by the mutual method. Optimum conditions for maximum grafting have been evaluated. Rate of grafting (Rg) was determined as a function of initial monomer concentration. Graft copolymers were characterized by infra red spectroscopic and thermogravimetric analysis. Grafted samples showed a slight improvement in thermal stability. Methyl acrylate was found to be more reactive than 4-vinyl pyridine towards grafting.
Average Deviations in Electrical Conductivity of Poly aniline-Poly (ethylene- co-Vinyl Acetate) Composites as a Novel Characterisation Method
Authors: Tsanov Tihomir , Mokreva Pavlina , Terlemezyan Levon
Published: April 2023

It is well known that a slight deviation of experimental conditions during preparation and during conductivity measurements of films, such as conditions of drying, temperature, moisture, etc., may affect the fundamental property of both conducting polymers and their composites, namely their conductivity, resulting in approximate conductivity values and variations in conductivity. In this paper the problem of variations of the conductivity of poly(aniline) - poly(ethylene-co-vinyl acetate) (PANI-EVA) composites was investigated. Three average conductivities (σ̅1, σ̅2, σ̅t) were determined and various average deviations (Δ̅σ1, Δ̅σ2, Δ̅σ1,2, Δ̅σt, G) were also estimated. Changes during the storage of PANI-EVA composites were studied by using both the average conductivities and the average deviations from conductivity. As a result of structural changes in the composites the electrical conductivity of the films increased, i.e. the conductive pathways became more exact, after four months storage of the composites. It was clearly shown that the existence of variations in conductivity is a characteristic feature of PANI- EVA composites studied and describes their evolution. The new method can be helpful and applicable to the structural characterization of other conductive polymer composites as well.
Cure Kinetics and Properties of Oligoether Maleate-Acrylate Coatings I. IR Spectroscopic Study
Authors: Neskorozhennaya G.D. , Zubar G.P. , Kramarenko V.Yu. , Privalko V.P.
Published: April 2023

The cure kinetics of oligoether maleate-acrylate coatings was studied by IR spectroscopy at 413, 433 and 453 K. The efficiency of cure was increased significantly by chemical modification of the oligoether maleate with monocarboxylic fatty acids. The resulting formulations were recommended for use as fast-drying, ecologically pure coatings.
The Use of CFD to Predict the Effect of Defects in Dies
Authors: Davis J.B.
Published: April 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.
The Effect of Micro-Structure Variations on the Permeability of Preform Materials
Authors: Ranganathan Sridhar , Easterling Robert G. , Advani Suresh G. , Phelan Frederick R.
Published: April 2023

Most efforts at modelling the permeability of preform materials are based on unit cell approaches in which it is assumed that the medium consists of a regular array of structures of uniform size, shape and position. However, the microstructure of real materials almost always has some degree of dimensional fluctuation about a mean. These variations from uniformity have an effect on the overall permeability, which in general cannot be adequately accounted for in model calculations by defining unit cells based on average geometric properties. In this study, a method for incorporating the effect of variations in microstructure into model-based calculations of the permeability of an idealized preform structure is developed. The method is used to model the permeability of a unidirectional material. It is shown that the inherent variation in the material microstructure leads to large deviations in the “local” values of the permeability. These variations are quantified using statistical analysis to obtain an expected value and standard deviation for the permeability. Use of the method leads to a consistent comparison of experimentally measured and numerically computed permeability values.
Reactivity of Silane Coupling Agent with Surface of Silica Particles
Authors: Yamaguchi Miho , Nakamura Yoshinobu , Iida Takeo
Published: April 2023

The surface treatment of silica particles with silane coupling agents was carried out by a dry treatment method in which the silane coupling agent was added to the particles and mixed using a mixer, and the reactivity with the particle surface was investigated. Both irregular-shaped and spherical amorphous silica particles were employed. γ-glycidoxypropyl trimethoxysilane and γ-aminopropyl triethoxysilane were used as silane coupling agents. The bonding to the particle surface was determined by a carbon analysis of unwashed and methanol-washed particles. This result shows that the amount of silane coupling agent added, the standing time after mixing, the heat treatment, the kind of the functional group of silane coupling agent, and the preparation method of silica particles all exerted an effect on the degree of bonding.
Yarn Compaction and Migration in Woven Composites
Authors: Dunn Matthew W. , Pastore Christopher M. , Saeys Ania
Published: April 2023

The geometry of a woven fabric is predicted accounting for process information. The processing information includes basic weave configurations as well as applied transverse compressive displacement during liquid moulding operations and yarn-yarn interaction within the fabric. The compaction and migration of individual yarns within the woven structure are modelled. To consider the usefulness of the developed model, the predicted geometries are used as input to a stiffness prediction model and the results are compared with experimental data on a range of woven composites - plain weave, orthogonally woven, and angle-interlock.
New Phosphorescence Probes for Monitoring the Kinetics of Thermal and Photochemical Polymerization
Authors: Lees Alistair J.
Published: April 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.
Chemical Modification of Starch-Poly (Vinyl Acetate) Materials
Authors: Waly A. , Abdel-Mohdy F.A. , Hebeish A.
Published: April 2023

Starch-poly (vinyl acetate) materials were prepared through polymerization of vinyl acetate with starch using a ferrous ammonium sulphate-hydrogen peroxide redox system. Carboxymethylation through reaction with monochloroacetic acid in presence of alkali and graft polymerization with acrylamide and acrylonitrile of a material having 23% graft and 43% homopolymer were studied. Carboxymethylation occurs during the saponification process of starch-poly (vinyl acetate) in the alkaline medium of sodium monochloroacetate through reaction of the latter with the hydroxyl groups of starch and PVA. On the other hand, grafting seems to proceed via starch macroradicals which are created through the attack of the decomposition products of the redox system on the starch hydroxyl. Carboxymethylation of starch-poly (vinyl acetate) gives polyblended materials which exhibit 100% solubility at 100°C. The same holds true with starch-poly (vinyl acetate) grafted with acrylamide after saponification. Replacement of acrylamide with acrylonitrile results in polyblended material, the solubility of which never exceeds 20% after saponification.
Deep Drawing of Fabric Reinforced Thermoplastics: Maximum Drawing Depth and Mechanism of Wrinkle Formation
Authors: Nowacki J. , Fujiwara J. , Mitschang P. , Neitzel M.
Published: April 2023

Sheet forming technologies have recently evolved for continuous fibre reinforced thermoplastic materials. Stamp forming is gaining in importance. Because of very low cycle times this method is very suitable for the production of simple parts. Although the advantages of stamp forming are obvious, the main characteristics have not been investigated sufficiently yet. In this report a deep drawing tool is described, which enables a standardized investigation of the maximum drawing depth of any chosen material. The deep drawing of fabric reinforced thermoplastic sheets has been examined using various geometrical moulds, punch radii and drawing depths. The results of these investigations, and of others concerned with wrinkle formation, are presented in this paper.
An Experimental Study of Polymer Blend Mixing in Twin-Screw Extruders
Authors: Papathanasiou T.D. , Higgins J.S. , Soontaranum W.
Published: April 2023

The performance of a laboratory-scale, fully-intermeshing twin-screw extruder for the production of well-mixed (PSAN/PMMA) (polystyrene-acrylonitrile/polymethyl-methacrylate) blends from commercial grade PSAN and PMMA pellets was investigated. We were interested in determining whether the composition of the extruded material reflected the composition of the mixture fed into the extruder as well as whether any polymer degradation occurred under the chosen operating conditions. This is of interest since twin-screw mixing is a popular and convenient technique for the production of blend samples for rheological analysis. Blends of PSAN and PMMA are of particular interest since, being partially miscible, they are useful in the study of the effect of flow on polymer blend thermodynamics. The uniformity of the extruded material was analyzed using infra-red spectrophotometry on samples taken at various locations along a strand extruded from a cylindrical die. We observed small fluctuations of local concentration around an average; this average coincides with the composition of the material fed to the extruder. The possibility of degradation was investigated through gel permeation chromatography, carried out on the same samples. The results indicated that under the chosen operating conditions no degradation was observed.
Diffusion and Transport of Aromatic Solvents through Prevulcanised Natural Rubber/Styrene Butadiene Rubber Latex Blends
Authors: Varkey Jyothi T. , Thomas Sabu , Rao S. Someswara
Published: April 2023

Molecular transport of aromatic hydrocarbons through crosslinked NR/SBR blends prepared by latex blending has been studied in the temperature range of 28–60°C. NR/SBR blends were vulcanised by conventional and more efficient vulcanising systems. The more efficient system showed higher uptakes than the conventional system. This is due to the difference in crosslink density. The sorption behaviour of the blends was analysed in three different solvents i.e., benzene, toluene and xylene. The effects of various parameters (blend composition, vulcanising systems, temperature and penetrant size) on the sorption parameters were studied. The mechanism of diffusion showed an anomalous behaviour. The entropy, enthalpy and first order kinetic rate constant have been evaluated. Theoretical and experimental results were correlated. The molecular weight between crosslinks ([Formula: see text]c) was calculated from the diffusion data. The experimentally calculated [Formula: see text]c values were very close to the affine model. The mechanical properties of the swollen samples were evaluated and found to be lower than those for the unswollen state.
Influence of Block Molecular Weight on the Dielectric Properties of Segmented Polyamides
Authors: Ghosh Subiman , Khastgir D. , Bhowmick Anil K.
Published: April 2023

Dielectric measurements of segmented polyamides consisting of polyether and polyamide structural units have been carried out over a wide range of temperatures and frequencies. The polymers exhibit different peaks - α, β and γ in the log (tan 8) temperature curves. With decreasing hard block molecular weight, the α and β transitions shift to lower temperatures, but the γ transition remains unaltered. The a transition becomes weaker, while the γ transition shifts to higher temperatures when the soft segment molecular weight is increased. The dielectric constant at 100°C at a frequency of 1000 Hz decreases with decreasing hard segment molecular weight. However, the variation of dielectric constant with soft segment molecular weight is irregular. The results of dielectric studies are explained with the help of the segmented structure of the polyether-ester-amides.
PA-6/PET Interpolymers: Their Mechanochemical Synthesis and its Effect on Properties of Polyblends
Authors: Kuleznev V.N. , Ushakova O.B. , Turiachumura B. , Berestneva G.L.
Published: April 2023

Interpolymers of PA-6 and PET were synthesized in the presence of oligocarbodiimides having a degree of polymerisation of 5 and 20. The synthesis was carried out by blending PA-6 with PET in the melt at 280°C. IR-spectroscopy and selective extraction experiments demonstrated the main features of the chemical structure of the reaction products, which can be considered as interpolymer concentrates. A significant increase in Charpy impact strength occurred when at least 2 parts per hundred by weight of interpolymer concentrate was introduced into a PA-6/PET polyblend.
Drawing and Rolling of Poly(ethylene terephthalate) Sheets Prepared from Used PET Bottles
Authors: Qi K. , Nakayama K.
Published: April 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.
Reinforcement of CFRP Structures by Tailored Fibre Placement
Authors: Breuer U.P.
Published: April 2023

By Tailored Fibre Placement (TFP), a new process based on embroidery technology, it becomes possible to reinforce composite parts very efficiently by stitching additional fibres with defined alignments to a given textile preform locally at highly loaded areas. The attachment of large CFRP aircraft structures is often achieved by shear pin couplings, applying bolt bearing pressure to the composite around the loaded hole. In this study, the potential of TFP to improve material strength of CFRP couplings was investigated by conducting pin loaded bearing tests with samples made of multi-axial warp knitted fabric (MWF) impregnated with Hexcel-RTM6 resin. Samples stitched with different fibre patterns to reinforce the loaded hole were compared to samples with a simple planar thickening in this critical area by additional layers of fabric. TFP was efficient (comparing the additional strength to additional structural mass) regarding bearing strength. However, the best results for the improvement of ultimate bearing strength (failure load) were achieved by increasing the part thickness locally with fabric patches.
Introduction to Special Issue on Implementation Science
Authors: Coffey Jennifer
Published: April 2023

Despite federal support for evidence-based practices, practitioners have often used practices that lacked research support. In addition, when research-based practices were selected, they were often not implemented with fidelity. Designing the bridge between research and practice continues to be complex now that the research to practice gap is discerned as an implementation gap, not just as a marketing challenge. We have the architectural plans to build the bridge between research and practice, but we must be willing to follow those plans and thoughtfully support them with our resources—not an inexpensive or easy endeavor. However, wasting time and resources on efforts that do not have a meaningful impact and are not sustained is an expense that can no longer be supported. This introduction to the special issue provides the foundation for exploring the use of implementation science to improve outcomes for students with disabilities.
Current Treatment of Potentially Resectable Pancreatic Ductal Adenocarcinoma: A Medical Oncologist’s Perspective
Authors: de Jesus Victor Hugo Fonseca , Riechelmann Rachel P.
Published: April 2023

Pancreatic cancer has traditionally been associated with a dismal prognosis, even in early stages of the disease. In recent years, the introduction of newer generation chemotherapy regimens in the adjuvant setting has improved the survival of patients treated with upfront resection. However, there are multiple theoretical advantages to deliver early systemic therapy in patients with localized pancreatic cancer. So far, the evidence supports the use of neoadjuvant therapy for patients with borderline resectable pancreatic cancer. The benefit of this treatment sequence for patients with resectable disease remains elusive. In this review, we summarize the data on adjuvant therapy for pancreatic cancer and describe which evidence backs the use of neoadjuvant therapy. Additionally, we address important issues faced in clinical practice when treating patients with localized pancreatic cancer.
Improving soundproof characteristics of an FG-CNT–reinforced composite structure by adding a coating magneto-electro-elastic layer
Authors: Ghassabi M , Motaharifar F , Talebitooti R
Published: April 2023

This paper deals with sound propagation through a two-layer sandwich plate in which the carbon nanotubes with functionally graded (FG) distribution are coated by a thin layer of magneto-electro-elastic (MEE) materials. Firstly, the derivation of governing equations for each layer of the sandwich plate is followed according to the three-dimensional elasticity theory. In this regard, the relationship between the equations of motion for the layer, made of MEE materials, and the electric and magnetic potentials is established. Additionally, the effective properties of the nanocomposite layer are extracted by employing the rule of mixture. Afterward, the solution is finalized by employing the approximate layer and transfer matrix technique, in accordance with the definition of state space and sound transmission loss. In the next stage, to confirm the reliability of the derived relationships, three configurations of the panel are examined. Firstly, according to the obtained results, it is evident that adding a thin coating layer of triple-phase MEE materials effectively improves the sound insulation in the sandwich plate. Secondly, considering the electromagnetic boundary conditions can lead to a noticeable enhancement in the STL in the stiffness region. Moreover, the magnetic potential, compared to the electric one, is seen to be more effective on the acoustic radiation of the sandwich panel.
Impact of initiating oral anticancer agents for leukemia on adherence to medications for multiple chronic conditions
Authors: Gatwood Justin , Dashputre Ankur , Rajpurohit Abhijeet , Gatwood Katie , Mackler Emily , Wallace Leah , Farris Karen , Rizvi-Toner Amna , Farley Joel
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Increased use of oral anticancer agents (OAAs) has empowered adults with chronic lymphocytic leukemia (CLL) and chronic myelogenous leukemia (CML) to manage their therapy, but this shift may complicate medication use, particularly among adults with multiple chronic conditions (MCC).

Methods

This retrospective cohort study used 2013–2018 commercial and Medicare claims data to assess medication use in adults with CML or CLL. To be included, patients must have been at least 18 years old, diagnosed with and had 2+ claims for an OAA indicated for either CML or CLL, continuously enrolled 12 months before and after OAA initiation, and treated for (2+ fills) at least two select chronic conditions. Proportion of days covered (PDC) determined medication adherence and was compared for 12 months before and after OAA initiation by Wilcoxon signed-rank tests, McNemar's tests, and difference-in-differences models.

Results

Among CLL patients, mean OAA adherence in the first year of therapy was 79.8% (SD: 21.1) and 74.7% (SD: 24.9) for commercial and Medicare patients, respectively; mean adherence for CML patients was 84.5% (SD: 15.8) and 80.1% (SD: 20.1) for commercial and Medicare patients, respectively. Adherence and the proportion adherent (PDC ≥ 80%) to comorbid therapies was generally unchanged following OAA initiation. Consistently unremarkable changes in MCC adherence were observed in 12-month difference-in-differences models, but significant decline was observed in MCC adherence after 6 months of OAA use.

Conclusions

OAA initiation among adults with CML or CLL was not associated with significant, initial changes to adherence to medications for chronic diseases.
Toxicology Certification: The Need, the Value, and an Evolving Landscape
Authors: Donahue Douglas A. , Burns-Naas Leigh Ann
Published: April 2023

Certification in toxicology remains a subject of interest to those in the field, as evidenced by the number of presentations at major meetings and publications in the past decade. In 2009, Brock and colleagues summarized the certifications available in the field of toxicology and provided an international perspective of the pros and cons of gaining certification. Though that article has been viewed thousands of times, the certification processes have evolved over the past decade. Therefore, the purpose of the article is to build upon the prior work and present current information for toxicologists seeking certification with the American Board of Toxicology (DABT), Academy of Toxicological Sciences (ATS), as a European Registered Toxicologist (ERT), as a Diplomate, Japanese Society of Toxicology (DJSOT), and as a Diplomate of the Chinese Society of Toxicology (DCST). In addition, other certifications are presented, but available details are limited.
Understanding the theoretical underpinnings of preventative early parenting interventions: A theory-based evaluation
Authors: Hickey Gráinne , McGilloway Sinead , Leckey Yvonne , Bywater Tracey , Donnelly Michael
Published: April 2023

Early parenting programmes which promote nurturing care for children aged 0–3 years are popular in community-based primary health care settings. However, little research has explored the causal and theoretical assumptions underpinning these programmes. This paper outlines a programme theory evaluation which was conducted to explore the change principles inherent in a complex early parenting intervention, the parent and infant programme, which aims to support parents and infants aged 0–2 years. A documentary analysis and qualitative interviews ( n = 19) with key stakeholders were undertaken to describe programme components, outline intervention objectives and identify the mechanisms assumed to be important to programme success. The interpretation of the findings was informed by the Consolidated Framework for Implementation Research, within which we explore and describe the theoretical perspectives that underpin the programme and guide its operationalisation and delivery. The importance of attending to the causal mechanisms underlying early parenting interventions is outlined.
Lipid and glucose abnormalities and associated factors among children living with HIV in Asia
Authors: Suwanlerk Tulathip , Rupasinghe Dhanushi , Jantarabenjakul Watsamon , An Vu T , Ross Jeremy L , Kariminia Azar , Van Lam Nguyen , Kinikar Aarti , Ounchanum Pradthana , Puthanakit Thanyawee , Nik Yusoff Nik K , Lumbiganon Pagakrong , Chokephaibulkit Kulkanya , Viet Do C , Sudjaritruk Tavitiya , Moy Fong S , Wati Dewi K , Mohamed Thahira J , Nallusamy Revathy , Kumarasamy Nagalingeswaran , Khol Vohith , Khanh Truong H , Kurniati Nia ,   on behalf of the TREAT Asia pediatric HIV Observational Database (TApHOD)
Published: April 2023

Background

Children living with HIV (CLHIV) on prolonged antiretroviral therapy (ART) are at risk for lipid and glucose abnormalities. Prevalence and associated factors were assessed in a multicentre, Asian longitudinal paediatric cohort.

Methods

CLHIV were considered to have lipid or glucose abnormalities if they had total cholesterol ≥200 mg/dL, high-density lipoprotein (HDL) ≤35 mg/dL, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) ≥100 mg/dL, triglycerides (TG) ≥110 mg/dL, or fasting glucose >110 mg/dL. Factors associated with lipid and glucose abnormalities were assessed by logistic regression.

Results

Of 951 CLHIV, 52% were male with a median age of 8.0 (interquartile range [IQR] 5.0–12.0) years at ART start and 15.0 (IQR 12.0–18.0) years at their last clinic visit. 89% acquired HIV perinatally, and 30% had ever used protease inhibitors (PIs). Overall, 225 (24%) had hypercholesterolemia, 105 (27%) low HDL, 213 (58%) high LDL, 369 (54%) hypertriglyceridemia, and 130 (17%) hyperglycemia. Hypercholesterolemia was more likely among females (versus males, aOR 1.93, 95% CI 1.40–2.67). Current PIs use was associated with hypercholesterolemia (current use: aOR 1.54, 95% CI 1.09–2.20); low HDL (current use: aOR 3.16, 95% CI 1.94–5.15; prior use: aOR 10.55, 95% CI 2.53–43.95); hypertriglyceridemia (current use: aOR 3.90, 95% CI 2.65–5.74; prior use: aOR 2.89, 95% CI 1.31–6.39); high LDL (current use: aOR 1.74, 95% CI 1.09–2.76); and hyperglycemia (prior use: aOR 2.43, 95% CI 1.42–4.18).

Conclusion

More than half and one-fifth of CLHIV have dyslipidemia and hyperglycemia, respectively. Routine paediatric HIV care should include metabolic monitoring. The association between PIs use and dyslipidemia emphasizes the importance of rapidly transitioning to integrase inhibitor-containing regimens.
Content-specific vocabulary in CLIL: Exploring L2 learning outcomes in a primary education programme in Catalonia
Authors: Vraciu Alexandra , Marsol Anna
Published: April 2023

The present study seeks to explore the effects of participating in a content and language integrated learning (CLIL) programme in terms of second language (L2) content-specific vocabulary learning in a primary education school. CLIL instruction has been found to benefit the development of English L2 vocabulary, more receptive than productive. Nonetheless, little is known on content-specific vocabulary learning in CLIL and how it is supported through classroom input with young learners. We explore the impact of a 4-week CLIL programme implemented in a Catalan primary education school with a group of 16 Catalan/Spanish first language (L1) children, aged 10–11 years. Vocabulary learning was measured by means of ad hoc tests, designed on the basis of the input from the CLIL materials and targeting vocabulary depth and breadth. The results indicate that CLIL instruction positively impacted children’s depth and breadth of content-specific vocabulary knowledge. More specifically, the children experienced a significant improvement both in their receptive and productive knowledge of word meaning and form with regard to content-specific lexis. Moreover, with regard to children’s productive vocabulary knowledge as elicited through a written content task, statistical improvement was found in terms of lexical diversity and sophistication, but not lexical density. We argue for the need to use input profiled assessment instruments to appraise L2 vocabulary gains in CLIL.
Capturing eudaimonic feelings in tourism experience: A construct proposal and preliminary empirical evidence
Authors: Medeiros Sandro Alves de , Campos Ana Cláudia , Freitas Lara Brunelle Almeida , Mondo Tiago Savi , Sthapit Erose
Published: April 2023

Despite the increasing interest in eudaimonic tourism experiences in recent years, research in tourism studies is fragmented. In addition, studies most often lack conceptualization, not clarifying whether the construct refers to state or trait level and what psychological mechanism is analysed, whether experience, functioning, behaviour or motivation. This pilot study aims to contribute to a better understanding of eudaimonia in tourism experiences by proposing the construct of Eudaimonic Feelings as a proxy for eudaimonia. Eudaimonic Feelings is considered a state-level construct defined as the cognitive-affective appraisals towards self-fulfilment, authenticity, truthful social interactions, and personal meaningfulness concerning a tourism experience. Adopting a multi-item approach, items found in prior research were adapted to explore and measure Eudaimonic Feelings through a survey using a convenience sample. Results support data unidimensionality, items’ reliability, and construct robustness and replicability.
Literate matterings: young artists creating and talking about photography and meaning
Authors: Smith Amanda R
Published: April 2023

In this visual essay, both photographs and talk are presented as four teenage artists from the northeastern United States study their engagement with texts in their everyday lives. What emerges is a representation of the young artists’ metaliteracies as they come to understand not only what their literacies are like but how they might matter.
Studying and Learning Psychology During the COVID-19 Pandemic: A Mixed-Methods Approach on Students’ Perspectives of Psychological Well-being and Adjustment to Studying Online
Authors: Cena Elida , Toner Paul , McParland Aideen , Burns Stephanie , Dudgeon Katrin
Published: April 2023

Background: The challenges presented by coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) in higher education pressured learners and instructors to incorporate online emergent learning which presented several well-being and academic challenges to students. Objective: The purpose of this study is to examine the impact of studying online to students’ well-being. Methods: A mixed methods approach was followed for this study. Eighty students completed an online survey that measured their stress level of studying online, and 13 semistructured interviews were conducted at Queen's University Belfast. Results: Findings suggest that online learning under such circumstances increased students’ level of stress due to a number of perceived factors. Our findings also reveal the journey of student adjustment to online learning, reflecting the flexibility of blended learning as a long-term pedagogical strategy in universities, necessary for University's survival. Conclusion: As demonstrated in this study, after the initial difficulties of moving to online learning which had negative impacts on students learning and well-being, students subsequently adjusted to the online learning environment documenting students’ adaptability to a new learning environment and highlighting student resilience.
Pseudomonas putida bacteremia secondary to a soft tissue wound: A case report
Authors: El Hasbani Georges , Applewhite Andres , Demarais Zachariah , Vargas Jose , Mensah Edward
Published: April 2023

Pseudomonas putida is an uncommon cause of bacteremia, that usually seeds from multiple sources including soft tissues. Immunocompromised states predispose patients to fulminant infections, and sometimes death. Broad-spectrum antibiotics, such as fourth-generation cephalosporins, are usually indicated for treatment. Herein, we present a 71-year-old gentleman with fever and left leg swelling, found to have P. putida bacteremia. Intravenous (IV) ceftazidime was initiated, yielding clearance of blood cultures and clinical improvement.
Self care and wellbeing in the face of COVID-19: Multidisciplinary perspectives and interprofessional experiences
Authors: Wheater Kitty , Montgomery Catherine , Clark Rowena , Nimmo Graham
Published: April 2023

The human toll which has resulted from the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic is clearly recognised. No single event in recent times has had such profound effects on health services and their staff wellbeing around the world. Policy making has been led by the requirement for confinement and surveillance to limit spread of the disease, and in clinical settings the impact of the necessity for the use of personal protective measures has caused huge strains on practice clinically and professionally. In this paper we share experiences from the pandemic, explore the social and organisational factors at stake and make some suggestions for both personal wellbeing practice and a systems response to the ongoing staff wellbeing challenges of the pandemic.
The Ethical Cringe, or the Dated Film as Revelatory Genre
Authors: Baron Jaimie
Published: April 2023

In this essay, I propose both a definition and a pragmatic reclamation of the dated text—and specifically the dated film—not as endorsement or nostalgia or camp, but as embodied temporal revelation. In particular, I seek to reappropriate the (now) racist, sexist, homophobic, and otherwise ethically compromised film as a means of seeing ideology, of perceiving societal change, of re-cognizing the contingency of every historical moment, including our own. Indeed, I define the dated film here as one that provokes the embodied experience of contemporary ethics as such. Presentist critiques of the past, however well-intentioned, inadvertently reify the present and its ideologies. They erroneously imply, like Francis Fukuyama, that we have reached the “end of history,” that our values now are (and should be) eternal. The dated film, then, serves as an antidote to the hubris of the present and opens onto greater possibilities for the future.
Universally Designed Accommodations on a Reading Comprehension Test: What Do They Accomplish?
Authors: Dembitzer Leah , Kettler Ryan J.
Published: April 2023

To investigate the impact of universal testing accommodations on a computer-based reading comprehension test, accessibility, reliability, and validity were evaluated. Tests with and without accommodations were administered to 131 twelfth-grade students in three U.S. schools. Scores on Curriculum-Based Measurement probes determined groups of students without functional impairment ( n = 83) and students with functional impairment ( n = 44) in the access skill of reading fluency. Results indicated that ability in access skills is associated with use of accommodations, and that high accessibility can assist in removing the impact of construct-irrelevant skill. No score boost or differential boost was found; validity evaluation offered meaningful results. No reliability change was found. The results of this study support child study team members individualizing accommodations to target deficits in access skills, selecting accommodations on criteria other than differential boost, and offering appropriate accommodations more universally.
Two Thumbs Down: A 10-Year Analysis of Crossbow-Related Hand and Digit Injuries in the United States
Authors: Oleck Nicholas C. , Pyfer Bryan J. , Morris Miranda X. , Mithani Suhail K.
Published: April 2023

Background:

Modern crossbow is a popular weapon used throughout the United States for outdoor recreation. Crossbow mechanics place the hand and digits at significant risk of injury while shooting or handling these weapons; however, injury patterns have been poorly documented. In this study, the authors use a national database to assess patterns of crossbow-related injuries of the hand and digits.

Methods:

A retrospective review of the National Electronic Injury Surveillance System database was conducted to identify crossbow-related hand and digit injuries over the past 10 years. Demographic data, injury timing, anatomical injury location, specific injury diagnosis, and disposition data were collected.

Results:

A total of 15 460 crossbow-related hand injuries were identified between 2011 and 2021. A strong temporal relationship was identified, with 89% of injuries occurring between the months of August and December. Male patients sustained most injuries (>85%). Body areas injured were the digits (93.2%) and the hand (5.7%). The most common injuries were laceration (n = 7520, 48.6%), fracture (n = 4442, 28.7%), amputation (n = 1341, 8.7%), and contusion/abrasion (n = 957, 6.2%). More than 50% of cases involved injury to the thumb, with approximately 750 thumb amputations recorded during the time period examined.

Conclusions:

This study is the first to document the patterns of hand and digit injuries associated with crossbow use on a national scale. These findings have important implications for public health awareness campaigns targeting hunters and support the designation of crossbow “safety wings” as a mandatory feature of crossbow design.
Transradial access with Simmons guiding catheter for carotid artery stenting: Feasibility and procedural complications in a single-center experience
Authors: Muszynski P , Richard S , Finitsis S , Humbertjean L , Audibert G , Mione G , Harsan O , Derelle AL , Liao L , Zhu F , Olivot JM , Anxionnat R , Calvet D , Gory Benjamin
Published: April 2023

Background

There is an increasing number of transradial approach (TRA) for carotid artery stenting (CAS), however, similar techniques and materials as for femoral access are used. We report the results of TRA lower profile technique for CAS using a 7 F Simmons guiding catheter, especially in terms of feasibility and procedural safety in a single center.

Materials and Methods

We retrospectively analyzed 68 consecutive patients with symptomatic extracranial carotid stenoses who underwent 75 CAS between January 2018 and December 2021. The success and crossover rate, procedural time, fluoroscopy, clinical outcomes, technical considerations, and procedural complications were analyzed.

Results

TRA CAS with Simmons guiding catheter was successful in 67/75 (89.3%) cases, with a 7 (9.3%) crossover rate. Fluoroscopy mean time was 15.8 minutes. Two forearm hematomas were described. No ischemic or surgical site complications were reported.

Conclusions

In our experience frontline TRA with a 7 F Simmons guiding catheter is feasible with high procedural success and a low rate of access site complications.
The IN-FAKT Study Protocol: Investigating the Experiences and Management of Individuals With Failing Kidney Transplants
Authors: Bailey Pippa , Selman Lucy , Exley Catherine , Griffin Sian , Hancock Alan , Maxted Paul , Noyes Jane
Published: April 2023

Background: In the UK 1500 kidney transplants fail each year. 2% of living-donor transplants and 5% of deceased-donor transplants fail within a year of transplantation. Many decisions need to be made when a kidney transplant fails, including whether the transplant should be removed, and which immunosuppression medication should be stopped. There is limited evidence on which to base these decisions. We do not understand how decisions are made in the absence of good evidence, and there is national variation in practice. Aims: The overall aim is to develop a theory of patient and clinician transplant failure behaviours and decisions that will inform the design of a Randomised Controlled Trial (RCT) to evaluate treatments to optimise the management of transplant failure and improve outcomes for patients and their families. Methods: In a UK setting, we will develop a Constructivist Grounded theory using in-depth interviews with people over 18 years who are or have experienced kidney transplant failure, their families/close friends, and renal healthcare professional. Iterative purposive sampling of patients from different hospitals will be undertaken to achieve diversity with respect to age, sex, ethnicity, socioeconomic position, transplant type, and cause of transplant failure. Subsequent sampling will be theoretical, to test and develop hypotheses and theories being constructed. The sample size will be determined by reaching theoretical theme saturation with an anticipated minimum of 25–30 patients, 25–30 family members/close friends and 10–15 renal healthcare professionals. The research team will take a reflexive approach to make any influences or potential biases transparent. This knowledge will be used to develop the programme theory and design an RCT to evaluate treatments delivered at the right time in a patient’s journey, to improve experiences and outcomes for people with failing kidney transplants.
Operating characteristics of supercritical carbon dioxide high speed tilting pad bearings considering inertia effect
Authors: Yi Shuxiang , Wang Xiaojing , Chen Sheng , Yuan Weimin
Published: April 2023

Some degree of inertia effect on the bearing film is inevitable for high density supercritical carbon dioxide (S-CO2) working as a lubricant in high speed rotor operating conditions. This paper aims to reveal the influence of inertia effect on static and dynamic performances of the S-CO2 tilting pad bearings. Numerical results demonstrate that inertia effect on the lubricating film of the top pad is more pronounced. The peak pressure of all pads is increased at a high reduced Reynolds number compared with the inertialess condition, while the influence of inertia effect on the dynamic coefficient is weak. The theoretical model including inertia effect presented in this study can more accurately evaluate the performance of high speed S-CO2 tilting pad bearings.
Precision medicine patent prosecution at the USPTO: What can be expected?
Authors: Prebyl Benjamin S
Published: April 2023

This paper examines some of the intricacies and challenges relating to Restriction Practice and Subject Matter Eligibility that can be encountered while on the road to obtaining U.S. patent protection for precision medicine inventions. Because of the complex and often inconsistent application of the relevant patent law to precision medicine inventions, IP counsel should be consulted on how to best protect these discoveries.