bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Phase‐Field Modeling of Fracture Under Compression and Confinement in Anisotropic Geomaterials
Authors: Hakimzadeh Maryam , Mora‐Corral Carlos , Walkington Noel , Buscarnera Giuseppe , Dayal Kaushik 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTStrongly anisotropic geomaterials, such as layered shales, have been observed to undergo fracture under compressive loading. This paper applies a phase‐field fracture model to study this fracture process. While phase‐field fracture models have several advantages—primarily that the fracture path is not predetermined but arises naturally from the evolution of a smooth non‐singular damage field—they provide unphysical predictions when the stress state is complex and includes compression that can cause crack faces to contact.Building on a recently developed phase‐field model that accounts for compressive traction across the crack face, this paper extends the model to the setting of anisotropic fracture. The key features of the model include the following: (1) a homogenized anisotropic elastic response and strongly anisotropic model for the work to fracture; (2) an effective damage response that accounts consistently for compressive traction across the crack face, that is derived from the anisotropic elastic response; (3) a regularized crack normal field that overcomes the shortcomings of the isotropic setting, and enables the correct crack response, both across and transverse to the crack face.To test the model, we first compare the predictions to phase‐field fracture evolution calculations in a fully resolved layered specimen with spatial inhomogeneity, and show that it captures the overall patterns of crack growth. We then apply the model to previously reported experimental observations of fracture evolution in laboratory specimens of shales under compression with confinement, and find that it predicts well the observed crack patterns in a broad range of loading conditions. We further apply the model to predict the growth of wing cracks under compression and confinement. Prior approaches to simulate wing cracks have treated the initial cracks as an external boundary, which makes them difficult to apply to general settings. Here, the effective crack response model enables us to treat the initial crack simply as a nonsingular damaged zone within the computational domain, thereby allowing for easy and general computations.
A Thermo‐Flow‐Mechanics‐Fracture Model Coupling a Phase‐Field Interface Approach and Thermo‐Fluid‐Structure Interaction
Authors: Lee Sanghyun , von Wahl Henry , Wick Thomas 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTThis work proposes a novel approach for coupling non‐isothermal fluid dynamics with fracture mechanics to capture thermal effects within fluid‐filled fractures accurately. This method addresses critical aspects of calculating fracture width in enhanced geothermal systems, where the temperature effects of fractures are crucial. The proposed algorithm features an iterative coupling between an interface‐capturing phase‐field fracture method and interface‐tracking thermo‐fluid‐structure interaction using arbitrary Lagrangian–Eulerian coordinates. We use a phase‐field approach to represent fractures and reconstruct the geometry to frame a thermo‐fluid‐structure interaction problem, resulting in pressure and temperature fields that drive fracture propagation. We developed a novel phase‐field interface model accounting for thermal effects, enabling the coupling of quantities specific to the fluid‐filled fracture with the phase‐field model through the interface between the fracture and the intact solid domain. We provide several numerical examples to demonstrate the capabilities of the proposed algorithm. In particular, we analyze mesh convergence of our phase‐field interface model, investigate the effects of temperature on crack width and volume in a static regime, and highlight the method's potential for modeling slowly propagating fractures.
Construction of an Index System of the Biosafety Incident Response Capability for Nursing Staff: A Delphi Study
Authors: Wu Chao , Hu Mengyi , Zhang Xinyan , Fu Mimi , Li Lu , Xu Qiang , Guo Xiaolan , Lang Hongjuan 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTAimThis study was to establish a scientific and sensitive index system of the biosafety incident response competence for clinical nursing staff to provide a reference for the evaluation of nurses' biosafety incident response competence.DesignA modified recommendation for the conducting and reporting of Delphi studies was used to guide this study.MethodsAccording to the literature review, preliminary biosafety incident response competence indicators for nursing staff were established, and an expert survey questionnaire was designed. The evaluation system for clinical nurses' biosafety incident response competence indicators was determined using the Delphi method.ResultsAfter two‐round Delphi survey, 28 nursing specialists from six provinces and cities around China, with expertise in three prevention research, epidemiology, military health service and biosafety incident rescue, established the index system of the biosafety incident response competence for nursing staff from April to May 2023. The final index system of the biosafety incident response competence was composed of four primary indicators, namely, biosafety incident preparedness, monitoring competence, protection ability and nursing disposal abilities; 10 secondary indicators and 49 tertiary indicators. The effective recovery rates of the two rounds of expert survey questionnaires were 93.33% and 100%, respectively. The authority coefficient, judgement coefficient and familiarity degree of Delphi experts were 0.877, 0.911 and 0.843, respectively. The Kendall's harmony coefficients of the two rounds of expert consultation were 0.301–0.384 and 0.401–0.424, respectively, with statistical significance (p < 0.05).ConclusionThe index system of the biosafety incident response competence for nursing staff is scientific and reliable. The authors have provided a more reliable and comprehensive basis for evaluating nurses' biosafety incident response competence in the future.Conclusion and Implications for NursingIt is helpful for nursing staff to perform better in biosafety incident by clarifying the specific items of biosafety response competence. Nursing staff can use the index system as the evaluation tool and training references to enhance their biosafety incident response competence.Patient or Public ContributionNo patient or public contribution.
Characteristics of Patients With Community‐Acquired Pressure Injuries
Authors: Nagano Midori , Kubo Yoshiko , Egawa Akiko , Kobayashi Masayo , Sato Masami 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTAim(1) To classify patients with community‐acquired pressure injury (CAPI) according to the risk factors of PI and to assess validity of the classified groups. (2) To clarify characteristics of each group for CAPI prevention and care.DesignThis study is designed to classify CAPI patients into clusters based on a retrospective study of medical records, followed by cluster analysis and description of each cluster's characteristics.MethodsRisk factors and status of CAPI, as well as discharge destination, were investigated based on 1 year's worth of medical records of patients with CAPI on hospital admission during 2018–2019. After calculating descriptive statistics, cluster analysis was conducted by Ward's method of Euclidean distance referring to risk factors of PI. Lastly, each of the defined clusters underwent multiple comparisons.ResultsFrom 324 patients with CAPI, 272 patients were selected as the study subjects, due to availability of sufficient information regarding risk factors of PI. After classification into three groups, data were interpreted by Euclidean distance and comparison between ‘attribute and risk factors of PI’ and ‘PI and destinations after discharge’.Patient or Public ContributionPatients with CAPI were classified into three clusters and validity of the classification was assessed. Patients who had ‘maintained ADL’, as well as cognitive status, were expected to be capable of self‐care and self‐management. Patients with ‘low ADL’ were characterised by insufficient self‐care or home care resulting in having CAPI and would require aged care service. Patients who were at ‘very high risk’ of having PI were characterised by incurring significant burden on caregivers and need of medical services that prospects terminal care.
Pediatric Acute Otitis Media Clinical Trials: An Analysis of Diversity
Authors: Iqbal Iman S. , Puyo Elizabeth M. , Carnino Jonathan M. , Tiwana Hardeep , Levi Jessica R. 
Published: December 2024

AbstractObjectiveThis study aims to assess the diversity and equity of pediatric acute otitis media (AOM) trials using ClinicalTrials.gov, focusing on participant demographics and representation to identify gaps in inclusivity and inform strategies for promoting diversity in future pediatric AOM studies.Study DesignRetrospective analysis.SettingClinicalTrials.gov.MethodsA retrospective analysis was performed on completed clinical trials enrolling pediatric patients with AOM, registered to ClinicalTrials.gov. Only trials that reported results were included. There were 48 trials, excluding duplicates, that matched these criteria. These trials were analyzed for data including study demographics (age, sex, race, ethnicity) and trial characteristics (location, sponsor/funder).ResultsThe analysis revealed that of the 48 trials, a significant portion underreported race and ethnicity, with 43.7% of trials reporting race and 25% reporting ethnicity. A majority of the participants identified as white (69.9%), showcasing notable disparities in representation. Domestic trials were more likely to report on race (50%) and ethnicity (30%) compared to international trials (22.3% and 0%, respectively). Privately funded trials reported at higher rates (53.3%) compared to publicly funded ones (38.9%), while the reporting of ethnicity was comparably low between both (20% and 33.3%, respectively).ConclusionThe study highlights the urgent need for more inclusive representation in pediatric clinical research, particularly in AOM trials. Despite guidelines aimed at improving demographic reporting, significant gaps remain. Future research efforts must prioritize the inclusion of diverse populations to ensure clinical trials are generalizable and equitable, thereby advancing toward developing more effective and universally applicable health care solutions for pediatric AOM.
Thermographic Evaluation of Skin Reaction in a Maxillary Gingival Cancer Patient Undergoing Radiotherapy: A Case Report
Authors: Kameta Ayako , Sasaki Yoshihiko , Ogura Ichiro 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTBackgroundSkin reactions are one of the most common side effects of radiotherapy. We report a case of maxillary gingival cancer in which skin reactions during radiotherapy were evaluated using thermography and compared with subjective skin symptoms.Case PresentationA 68‐year‐old woman with squamous cell carcinoma of the left maxillary gingiva underwent chemoradiotherapy. Thermography was taken throughout the radiotherapy session. The temperature difference between the irradiated and control area (ΔT) increased during radiotherapy and was associated with severity of subjective symptoms.ConclusionThermography seems to be useful to evaluate and predict skin reactions in oral cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy.
One threshold doesn't fit all: Tailoring machine learning predictions of consumer default for lower‐income areas
Authors: Meursault Vitaly , Moulton Daniel , Santucci Larry , Schor Nathan 
Published: December 2024

AbstractImproving fairness across policy domains often comes at a cost. However, as machine learning (ML) advances lead to more accurate predictive models in fields like lending, education, healthcare, and criminal justice, policymakers may find themselves better positioned to implement effective fairness measures. Using credit bureau data and ML, we show that setting different lending thresholds for low‐ and moderate‐income (LMI) neighborhoods relative to non‐LMI neighborhoods can equalize the rate at which equally creditworthy borrowers receive credit. ML models alone better identify creditworthy individuals in all groups but remain more accurate for the majority group. A policy that equalizes access via separate thresholds imposes a cost on lenders, but this cost is outweighed by the substantial gains from ML. This approach aligns with the motivation behind existing laws such as the Community Reinvestment Act, which encourages lenders to meet the credit needs of underserved communities. Targeted Special Purpose Credit Programs could provide the opportunity to prototype and test these ideas in the field.
A Uniaxial Hysteretic Superelastic Constitutive Model Applied to Additive Manufactured Lattices
Authors: Schasching Marius M. , Červinek Ondrej , Koutný Daniel , Pettermann Heinz E. , Todt Melanie 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTLattice materials with superelastic properties offer great potential for engineering applications, as they are able to undergo large deformations while ensuring the reversibility of the deformations due to stress‐induced phase transformation. Adequate prediction of the mechanical response of lattice materials requires models that properly capture the deformation mechanisms of the internal architecture and the material response of the parent material. To analyze large‐scale lattices by means of the finite element method, numerical efficiency becomes crucial. For this purpose, we propose a simple approach relying on beam‐based modeling in combination with a uniaxial superelastic constitutive material model. The latter is based on polynomial functions, which make it easy to take customer‐based material data into account being especially important for additive manufactured materials. To verify our constitutive model, a comparison with a well‐established standard model is performed. The capabilities of the beam‐based model to predict the mechanical response of lattice materials are evaluated by the comparison to high‐fidelity models using continuum elements. We show that beam‐based modeling is able to capture the governing deformation mechanisms of the investigated lattices and that our constitutive model is able to capture the smooth stress–strain response of the experimental data that are not available to the standard model.
Mapping Shear Transformation Zones in Silica Network Glass
Authors: Alshabab Somar Shekh , Wu Zhao , Markert Bernd , Bamer Franz 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTUnderstanding nanoscale behavior in glasses is challenging due to their inherent long‐range disorder and the absence of clearly defined defect regions. However, shear transformation zone theory suggests that certain “soft spots,” which are prone to plastic rearrangements, can be identified even in stress‐free configurations. Various predictive methods, such as energy approximations and local structural indicators, have been proposed with varying success. The local yield stress (LYS) method, however, has demonstrated strong potential by identifying these soft spots based on local mechanical properties. In this study, we use the LYS method to analyze the distribution of soft spots in 2D silica network glass, where the local critical stresses are probed using mechanical simulations. Samples with different heterogeneities are generated through a Monte Carlo bond‐switching algorithm and subjected to shear via an athermal quasistatic (AQS) deformation protocol. Our results reveal a high correlation between regions with low critical stresses and the locations of rearrangement events, especially for events that happen early in the shear simulations, though this correlation decreases as the system approaches failure. These findings highlight the method's effectiveness in predicting plastic activity in structural glasses, and confirming that soft spots can be identified from the initial configuration. Additionally, we optimized the probing length scale for different levels of heterogeneity and analyzed the resulting statistical distributions of the local critical stresses, which are essential for accurate macroscopic modeling of silica glass.
Biodegradable composites filled with agro‐industrial waste and fertilizers for filament production and application in active manufacturing
Authors: de Farias Braz Cristiano José , de Oliveira Dias Alisson Rodrigues , Figueiredo Samuel Nogueira , dos Santos Rosa Ana Carolina Ferreira , de Sousa Barros Iagho , Alves Albaniza Tavares , de Lima Silva Suédina Maria , de Carvalho Laura Hecker , Barbosa Renata , Alves Tatianny Soares 
Published: December 2024

AbstractOne of the challenges to prioritizing a circular economy is the development of composites made with renewable polymer matrices and using agro‐industrial residues such as plant fibers. Aiming to follow the paths of a circular economy, this research aims to develop composites based on a blend of poly(butylene adipate‐co‐terephthalate) and polylactic acid filled with three plant residues: peanut shell, soybean shell, corn husk, and nitrogen–phosphorus–potassium fertilizer. For this, filaments of systems containing vegetable fiber (5 wt%) and fertilizer (3 wt%) were processed in a single‐screw extruder. The filaments were characterized by Fourier transfer infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), thermogravimetry, differential scanning calorimetry, surface morphological analysis, and mechanical behavior. The FTIR indicated changes in the blend's characteristic bands, suggesting an interaction between the polymer matrix and the fillers. The fertilizer altered the systems' thermal properties and thermal stability. The fertilizer significantly affected (p < 0.05) the mechanical properties in a particular way in each system. Finally, the presence of surface agglomerates were confirmed in the morphological analysis. Additionally, these composites can be applied as raw materials to produce filaments for active manufacturing in the agricultural sector, adding value to the available natural residues while adhering to a circular economy.Highlights
Poly(butylene adipate co‐terephthalate) (PBAT)/poly(lactic acid) (PLA) composites filaments were produced using agro‐industrial waste;
Mineral compound fertilizer was incorporated into PBAT/PLA composites;
Agro‐industrial waste in composites adds value to filler and promotes the circular economy.
Enhanced durability of Viton seals: Carbon nanotube‐rubber co‐interlinked network improves thermal conductivity
Authors: Cheng Wenjia , Zhang Ming , Ma Zenghua , Meng Lingkun , Zhang Qinglong 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe thermal conductivity of fluoroelastomer is a critical factor influencing the stability and lifespan of Viton seals utilized in harsh environments characterized by high temperatures and pressures. While the incorporation of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) into fluoroelastomers presents a promising solution, their tendency to agglomerate has hindered enhancements in thermal conductivity. To address this issue, a uniform thermal conductivity network was developed by incorporating modified carbon nanotubes into the Viton matrix. This innovation facilitated rapid heat transfer within Viton products, preventing potential failures caused by uneven internal heat distribution. After modification, carbon nanotubes with amino functional groups were uniformly dispersed within the fluorine rubber, overcoming agglomeration. They were also involved in crosslinking with the rubber, resulting in a network that improved the composite material's thermal conductivity efficiency by 42% and mechanical strength by 14%. Viton seals, designed with modified carbon nanotubes incorporated as a network, exhibited good thermal conductivity, offering a viable solution for extending the lifetime of Viton seals under harsh conditions.Highlights
Hybridization modification of carbon nanotubes.
Amino‐functionalized modification of CNTs.
Establishment of CNTs‐fluoroelastomer co‐crosslinked networks.
Excellent thermal conductivity of Viton seals.
Long service life of Viton seals.
Personal portable self‐powered drinking water treatment device
Authors: Maghami Saeid , Tavakol Moslem 
Published: December 2024

AbstractThe presence of pathogenic microorganisms and excessive amounts of magnesium, nitrate and nitrite ions and also heavy metals in surface and underground water sources such as rivers and wells affect human health when used as drinking water. In this research, by combining membrane and adsorption processes, a personal drinking water treatment system was designed and built without the need for electrical energy. The performance of the designed system was evaluated with different samples of surface and underground water. The results showed that the number of Escherichia coli (E. coli) in the purified water by polypropylene hollow fiber membranes with pore sizes of 30–200 nm is zero. Moreover, the physical properties of the water, such as pH, total hardness (TH), total dissolved solids (TDS), as well as the concentration of nitrate, nitrite and sulfate ions are compatible with national and World Health Organization (WHO) standards after passing through an adsorbent bed of ion‐exchange resins regenerated with NaCl and NH4HCO3. The results revealed that the designed system can treat water up to 100 times the volume of the resin used, in accordance with the national standards 1053, 1011, and WHO.Highlights
A personal self‐powered drinking water treatment device was fabricated.
The E. coli count in the treated water is zero.
The physical properties of the treated water are compatible with WHO.
The device can treat water up to 100 times the volume of the resin used.
Six Versus Three Doses of Intrapleural Streptokinase in Childhood Empyema: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Thakur Chirag , Mathew Joseph L. , Saxena Akshay K. , Angrup Archana , Samujh Ram 
Published: December 2024

ABSTRACTObjectiveTo compare the efficacy and safety of administering six doses of intrapleural streptokinase (SK) versus the conventional three doses, in children with empyema.Study DesignIn this open label, placebo‐controlled, randomized trial, we enrolled 53 children with empyema, who received three doses of intrapleural SK. Thereafter, those without clinical improvement (n = 34) and those showing clinical improvement but having persistent pleural fluid width > 10 mm on chest ultrasonography (n = 13), were randomized to receive three additional doses of SK, or three doses of placebo (normal saline). The remaining 6 children improved clinically and radiologically, hence were not randomized. The outcomes recorded were cumulative volume of pleural fluid drained, total duration of intercostal drainage, time taken for clinical improvement, duration of hospitalization, proportion of children with treatment failure requiring surgery, and adverse events. Spirometry, 6‐min walk test, chest X‐ray and ultrasonography were done 3 months following discharge. We analyzed by intention‐to‐treat.ResultsThe baseline characteristics of children who received six versus three doses SK were comparable. There was no statistically significant difference in the cumulative volume of fluid drained; median (IQR): 810.0 (330.0, 1630.0) [95% CI: 505, 1463] mL versus 530.0 (255.2, 1325.0) [95% CI: 325, 1131] mL, p 0.46. There were no significant inter‐group differences in the total duration of intercostal drainage, time taken for clinical improvement, duration of hospitalization, treatment failure, surgical decortication and adverse events.ConclusionIn children with empyema, intrapleural therapy with six doses of SK is not superior to three doses, although it is safe.