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Summary The instant controlled pressure drop (DIC) technology represents a highly efficient and eco‐friendly process that enhances the texture of food matrices. In this study, oleaster flour (OF) was subjected to DIC treatment at varying pressures (200 and 500 kPa) and processing times (30, 60, and 120 s) for the purpose of analysing its techno‐functional, chemical, concentration of bioactive components, and structural properties. The results demonstrated statistically significant differences between the untreated and DIC‐treated OF samples (P < 0.05). The application of DIC treatment resulted in a notable enhancement in the water activity, fat, ash, SDF, bound phenolic content, and antioxidant capacity of the OF (P < 0.05). The mineral content and structural properties were analysed in two samples of OF (DIC‐treated at 200 and 500 kPa for 60 s), which were selected for their superior bioactive components in comparison to the untreated OF. The 200 and 500‐kPa 60‐s DIC treatment also enhanced the mineral (Cu, Na, Mn, Mg, P, Ca, Fe, and K) and structural properties of OF, thereby rendering it a more functional flour. The utilisation of the DIC method enhances the overall quality of the end product, resulting in a visually acceptable appearance, an extended shelf life and heightened nutritional content, thereby rendering the product more practical and convenient. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, the suitability of digital image correlation (DIC) technology in evaluating the flexural behaviour of as-built and carbon-fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) strengthened reinforced concrete beams was verified by conducting a four-point bending test on four large-size beams. The DIC data obtained during the tests were compared to the results measured using traditional techniques such as displacement sensors and electrical strain gauges, as well as the findings derived from finite element (FE) numerical simulations. A good agreement was achieved between the local displacement and strain measurements and the data from DIC as a function of the applied load. Moreover, the crack patterns generated by the FE modelling were validated by the corresponding patterns derived from DIC. This suitability study is expected to contribute to the future field implementation of DIC technology to monitor the CFRP-strengthened members of critical structures such as bridges. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies on spontaneous rupture mechanisms are limited because using existing experimental apparatuses is difficult to accurately observe parameters related to the rupture (e.g., slip history and frictional properties of fault). This study proposes multiple diagnostic systems combined with a biaxial loading device to study the rupture mechanism. Two isosceles right triangle PMMA plates are held together to form a fault model. The spontaneous rupture is achieved under various friction angles through different combinations of the x-axis and y-axis loading forces. A digital image correlation (DIC) method is systematically used to measure displacement and stress fields along the fault during rupture, thus accurately quantifying rupture velocity and stress distribution. Accelerometers are used to measure seismic waves. In this experiment, the supershear rupture can be detected, and the potential energy and the energy consumed are discussed. Typical results prove the feasibility and flexibility of the proposed system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated for the first time the corrosion effect of Al 2 O 3 -MgAl 2 O 4 refractory by steel ladle slag using a DIC-coupled Brazilian test at 1200 °C. Three types of alumina-spinel materials were used in the test, namely, original non-infiltrated refractory, slag-infiltrated at 1450 °C as well as postmortem refractory after 69 cycles of work in the sidewalls of steel ladle. Lab infiltration was conducted at 1450 °C using CaO-Al 2 O 3 -SiO 2 -based ladle slag and its analog enriched with manganese (10 % MnO). The tensile strength of postmortem material at 1200 °C was the highest at 10.7 MPa, and it was 52 % and 70 % higher than for reference and MnO-enriched slag, respectively, and 80 % higher than for original refractory. The significantly raised tensile strength of slag-infiltrated materials vs. original non-infiltrated brick was directly related to the densification of microstructure by corrosion products (mainly CA 6 , CA 2 , Fe) which caused the infiltrated materials to be stiffer and with a more brittle nature to fracture. • DIC-coupled Brazilian test at 1200 °C of corroded material was tested for the first time. • Original, lab-infiltrated and post-mortem Al 2 O 3 -MgAl 2 O 4 refractory was tested. • Post-mortem brick had almost 80 % higher tensile strength than the original brick. • Corroded materials were revealed to fracture more brittle than the original brick. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine parvoviral enteritis remains one of the commonest causes of death in young dogs. This study aimed to determine serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidant status (TOS) levels in dogs with canine parvoviral enteritis (CPV) and reveal the risk factors of DIC formation. Thirty dogs were included in the study. The dogs were divided into two groups; the first group consisted of 20 dogs diagnosed with CPV (study group) and the other group consisted of 10 healthy dogs aged 0-12 months (control group). The mean TAC value was 0.354±0.018 mmol Trolox equiv./L in the control group and 0.295±0.007 mmol Trolox equiv./L in the study group. The mean TOS level was determined as 6.539±0.154 µmol H2O2/L in the control group and 7.934±0.364 µmol H2O2/L in the study group. The mean nitric oxide (NO) concentration was 18.613±0.856 µmol/L in the control group and 21.781±0.913 µmol/L in the study group. D-dimer levels were found to be 0.170±0.070 mg/dL in the control group and 2.585±0.584 mg/dL in the study group. As a result, it was demonstrated that it is essential to consider that oxidative stress increases and antioxidant capacity decreases in dogs with CPV and that disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) may develop in dogs with CPV. It is thought that considering oxidative stress and DIC during the treatment may contribute positively to prognosis and survival. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extrusion-based printing of cementitious materials represents an innovative technology in civil engineering. The additive manufacturing process significantly influences the material properties in the hardened state, leading to anisotropic behaviour in terms of stiffness and strength compared to conventionally cast concrete. This experimental study aims to deepen the understanding of the mechanical behaviour of hardened printed concrete. Beam-like specimens with varying printing patterns, loading orientations and lengths are investigated within three-point bending tests (3PBT) and uniaxial compression tests (UCT). Homogenized material parameters such as Young's modulus, compressive and flexural tensile strength and density are statistically evaluated using optically measured displacement and strain fields on the specimen surface. The qualitative and quantitative results demonstrate a strong dependency of material properties and failure mechanisms on the printing pattern. The interfilamental and interlayer areas with weak adhesion are identified as the main reason for anisotropy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Bleeding in neonates is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in the neonatal period. The early identification of bleeding and its cause (bleeding or clotting disorder) is very important for the appropriate management and for prognostication. Material & Methods: After obtaining institutional ethics committee approval, 21 patients with diagnosis of onset of hemorrhagic disorder were recruited from 550 patients admitted to the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) after obtaining written informed consent from their parents/guardians. A detailed history including family history, maternal history and perinatal history was recorded. Thorough assessment and relevant investigations were done for all 21 patients diagnosed with bleeding disorder out of 550 patients. Duration of hospital stay and immediate outcome i.e.-Morbidity and mortality in such neonates were noted. Results: The incidence of bleeding in neonates was 3.8%. Thrombocytopenia was major cause for bleeding [8(38.1%)] followed by VKDB [5 (24%)]. VLBW babies (19.04%) and preterm babies (11.1%) had a statistically significant risk of bleeding. 71.4% (15/21) of neonates had bleeding in the first week of life. 14.3% (3/21) of NICU deaths were in the neonates with bleeding which indicates that bleeding constituted a significant risk factor for mortality in NICU. The outcome in the VKDB was dismal (67% mortality and 33% neurologic sequelae) A statistically significant correlation was found between maternal factors such as Gestational Age<34 weeks, History of Instrumental delivery, history of maternal fever and Anaemia Conclusion: Early and prompt diagnosis of hemorrhagic disease of the newborn can alleviate the devastating consequences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives: To evaluate characteristics, indications, complications and outcome of obstetric patients admitted to ICU of tertiary care hospital in KPK, Pakistan. Methods: This descriptive study was conducted in department of OBGYN of Lady Reading Hospital, Peshawar from January 2021 till December 2021. A total of 62 patients were enrolled into the study using nonprobability consecutive sampling technique. Their data were collected on a proforma. All patients were followed till their death or discharge home from hospital. Results: The mean duration of ICU stay of patients, was 6.85±4.82 days. Out of 62 patients 17 (27.41%) expired in ICU, while 45 (72.58%) patients survived and were discharged. Pre-eclampsia and Eclampsia was the commonest primary diagnosis, accounting for 28 cases (45.2%) with a case fatality rate of 25%, followed by 13 cases (21%) of primary postpartum hemorrhage (PPH) as the second commonest reason for ICU admission and a case fatality rate of 38%. The underlying primary diagnosis had no statistically significant association with outcome of the patient. Acute Renal failure had statistically significant association with outcome of the patient with adjusted OR 4.79, CI:1.17-19.66, p-0.02. Similar positive association with mortality existed for patients having DIC (aOR:6.59; CI:1.34-32.34, p-0.02). Conclusion: Pre-eclampsia/Eclampsia is the commonest reason for intensive care admission, however PPH has the highest case fatality rate. The outcome of critically ill obstetric patients is dependent on complications and not primary underlying diagnosis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

An energy-based analytical model is proposed here to investigate the mechanical behavior of adhesively bonded simple-lap and stepped-lap joints (SLJ) with carbon fiber-reinforced polymer (CFRP) adherends subjected to tensile loading. In this study, the CFRP uni-directional (UD) adherends of [ 0 ] 16 and quasi-isotropic (QI) layup sequence of [ 45 / - 45 / 0 / 90 ] 2 s are considered to be joined. The governing differential equations (GDEs) of equilibrium are derived for the adhesively bonded adherends in stepped lap joint configuration following an energy-based approach. Additionally, this model is reduced for GDEs of the simple-lap joint configuration. The finite difference scheme is employed to obtain the numerical solution of the proposed analytical model. The field distributions of strain and displacement over the specimen surfaces are captured in the experimental investigation using the full field technique of 2D digital image correlation (DIC). The analytical model generates the load–displacement curve, validated against experimental and finite element (FE) predictions. Additionally, a sensitivity analysis is conducted to assess the influence of the design parameters of the adhesive joint, including the thickness of the adhesive layer, length of overlap region, and elastic modulus. Finally, the analytical model prediction of the peak load for damage in adhesively bonded joints under shear loading is compared with experimental results. The developed analytical model provides an understanding of the mechanical behavior, including possible failure/critical locations of the adhesive joints from the design perspective. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The investigation of strain hardening in metals is complex, with the outcome depending on experimental conditions, that may involve microstructural history, temperature and loading rate. Hardening is commonly measured, after mechanical processing, through controlled mechanical testing, in ways that either distinguish elastic (stress) from total deformation measurements, or by identifying plastic slip contributions. In this paper, we conjecture that hardening effects can be unraveled through statistical analysis of total strain fluctuations during the evolution sequence of profiles, measured in-situ, through digital image correlation. In particular, we hypothesize that the work hardening exponent is related, through a power-law relationship, to a particular exponent arising from principal component analysis. We demonstrate a scaling analysis for synthetic data produced by widely applicable crystal plasticity models for polycrystalline solids. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The interfacial cohesion between precast normal concrete (NC) and cast‐in‐place ultra‐high performance concrete (UHPC) is an important index to evaluate their interfacial bond strength, which is of great importance for the application of UHPC as a connection material for precast structural bridges. Interfacial cohesion is related to several influencing factors. However, there needs to be more research on the interrelationship model between multiple influencing factors and interfacial cohesion. This study took the UHPC wet joint in a precast concrete structure as the object. First, the relationship between the interface cohesion of UHPC wet joint and substrate strength, UHPC age, interfacial roughness, interfacial moisture content, and curing method was studied; The result shows that the key factors affecting interfacial cohesion include UHPC age, interface roughness, and substrate strength, with interfacial moisture content potentially playing a secondary role. Second, the failure types of the interface zone surface by using digital image correlation (DIC) are divided into three categories. Finally, the quantitative mathematical model of interfacial cohesion under the coupling effect of multiple factors was established based on the above four factors. The model is in good agreement with the experimental data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The objective of this paper is to conduct a comprehensive investigation into the buckling and post-buckling behavior of hyperelastic beams through both computational and experimental means. Natural rubber is used in the construction of a beam with a square cross-section. To determine the mechanical properties of natural rubber, a uniaxial tensile test is performed in accordance with ASTM D412. In finite element modeling (FEM), the nonlinear behavior of rubber is modeled using hyperelastic theory and the Yeoh strain energy function. The Static-Riks method is also implemented using Abaqus for the analysis of nonlinear buckling. To validate the present investigation results with FEM, an experimental test of digital image correlation (DIC) is conducted. The critical buckling force obtained via numerical methods exhibits an error of nearly 5% when compared to the corresponding results obtained from experimental testing. In order to ascertain the impact of various design parameters on the buckling behavior of the system, a comprehensive parametric analysis has been conducted. The parameters studied include the cross-sectional thickness, length of the structure, eccentric loads, as well as the mechanical properties of the materials used in the system. Consistent with the FEM outcomes, the critical buckling force exhibited by the hyperelastic beam demonstrates a positive correlation with increasing levels of hardness, cross-sectional thickness, and eccentric loads. The buckling behavior of the system is adversely affected by increasing its length. To ultimately validate the precision and reliability of the model, a supervised neural network (NN) learning method is employed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We extended current knowledge by examining the performance of several Bayesian model fit and comparison indices through a simulation study using the confirmatory factor analysis. Our goal was to determine whether commonly implemented Bayesian indices can detect specification errors. Specifically, we wanted to uncover any differences in detecting under-fitting or over-fitting a model. We examined a conventional Bayesian fit index (the posterior predictive p-value), approximate Bayesian fit indices (Bayesian RMSEA, CFI, and TLI), and model comparison indices (BIC and DIC). We varied the type and severity of model mis-specification, sample size, and priors. We focused on the ability of these indices to detect model under- or over-fitting. We provide practical advice for applied researchers regarding how to assess and compare models using these common indices implemented in the Bayesian framework. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Full-field optical techniques provide valuable information for the analysis of mode shapes thanks to their high density of measurement points, providing very detailed maps, in a non-invasive way that avoids alterations of the dynamic behaviour of the specimen. Digital image correlation and thermoelastic stress analysis are two of the most interesting ones. The first provides displacement fields that can be three-dimensional if a calibrated stereoscopic system is used. The second uses a thermographic camera to determine the stress invariant. Given the complementary nature of these magnitudes, this study deals with the integration of the displacement and stress fields by means of a calibrated set of a stereoscopic system and a thermographic camera which, through spatial triangulation, allow the association of the measurements to the same spatial point on the specimen. For this purpose, typical laboratory setups have been carried out for the characterisation of operational modal shapes of resonances. The integration has allowed a more accurate interpretation of the behaviour of the specimen, identifying the regions with the highest mechanical stress. This shows the advantages of integration compared to the isolated analysis of displacement and/or stress measurements that are usually carried out and proves the potential for the development of optical techniques at a scientific and industrial level, opening up new avenues of study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study analyzes the molecular composition of dissolved organic matter (DOM) in Prydz Bay by Fourier Transform Ion Cyclotron Resonance mass spectrometry to probe the carbon sequestration capacity in the continental shelf system. Concentrations of particulate organic carbon (POC), particulate nitrogen and dissolved organic carbon (DOC) with water depth show that POC could be mainly decomposed into DOC and/or microbially degraded. Highly labile DOC is further degraded and remineralized by microorganisms within the upper 200 m, as evidenced by a downward enrichment of 13CPOC and increases in the average molecular weight, oxygen atom number (O) and double bond equivalents of DOM molecules, indicating that biodegradation is the main driver for particulate organic matter and DOM evolution with water depth. Semi‐quantitative calculation demonstrates that ∼83% of POC was transformed to DOC as well as dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC), and ∼30% of DOC further to DIC via microbial degradation within the upper 200 m in summer, resulting in a relatively low total organic carbon content in sediments of Prydz Bay. The newly transformed DIC and residue DOC can be preserved in the deep layer due to the formation of well stratified and stable water body in summer of Prydz Bay, ultimately entering the regional circulation system instead of being released back into the atmosphere. This could be one of the most important processes determining the atmosphere CO2 uptake in the continental shelf system of Southern Ocean. Plain Language Summary: The continental shelf system in the Southern Ocean, especially with the development of polynyas, plays a critical role in the global carbon cycle and disproportionally accounts for almost half of the anthropogenic CO2 uptake by the biological pump, with ensuing deep‐sea sequestration by the form of particulate and dissolved organic carbon, and even CO2 due to microbial degradation of primary productivity. However, complex interactions between physical, chemical and biological processes significantly affect the fate of organic carbon through the water column, resulting in an uncertainty of vertical carbon export. In this study, we conduct an investigation on the dissolved organic matter sources and evolution with water depth in summer of Prydz Bay, a typical polynya‐developed continental shelf system in the East Antarctica. The results clearly show that biodegradation is the main factor controlling organic carbon mineralization and mainly occurs within the upper 200 m of water column, with a transformation into dissolved organic carbon (DOC) and dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC). Integrated with regional circulation system and hydrological characteristics, our study further indicates that newly formed DIC and DOC can be preserved in the deep layer of Prydz Bay, then into the regional circulation system rather back to the atmosphere. Key Points: Novel evidence at molecular level shows the vital role of biodegradation during carbon sink in Prydz BayThe conversion of POC into DOC/DIC mainly occurs within the upper 200 m of water columnHighlighting regional circulation's contribution to carbon transport and sequestration in the Southern Ocean [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: D-dimer, a specific product of cross-linked fibrin degradation, is of great clinical value in the early diagnosis of thrombotic diseases and in monitoring the efficacy of thrombolysis; therefore, the accuracy of D-dimer test results is crucial. Methods: This article reports a case of a patient with disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) who experienced a false decrease in D-dimer due to the hook effect. Results: The three D-dimer test results for DIC patients were 1.09 mg/L, 0.93 mg/L, and 1.43 mg/L. After sample dilution, the results were: first time (1:128) 842.24 mg/L, second time (1:128) 1,505.28 mg/L, third time (1:32) 415.68 mg/L. There was a significant difference in the three test results before and after dilution, because the D-dimer concentration was too high, exceeding the detection range and causing the hook effect, which falsely lowered the D-dimer value. Conclusions: When the D-dimer value of DIC patients does not match the clinical situation, the possibility of the hook effect should be considered, and the false decrease can be ruled out by the sample dilution method. In this way, accurate clinical results can be obtained to avoid delaying the diagnosis and treatment of DIC patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Canine parvoviral enteritis remains one of the commonest causes of death in young dogs. This study aimed to determine serum total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and total oxidant status (TOS) levels in dogs with canine parvoviral enteritis (CPV) and reveal the risk factors of DIC formation. Thirty dogs were included in the study. The dogs were divided into two groups; the first group consisted of 20 dogs diagnosed with CPV (study group) and the other group consisted of 10 healthy dogs aged 012 months (control group). The mean TAC value was 0.354±0.018 mmol Trolox equiv./L in the control group and 0.295±0.007 mmol Trolox equiv./L in the study group. The mean TOS level was deter-mined as 6.539±0.154 μmol H2O2/L in the control group and 7.934±0.364 μmol H2O2/L in the study group. The mean nitric oxide (NO) concentration was 18.613±0.856 μmol/L in the control group and 21.781±0.913 μmol/L in the study group. D-dimer levels were found to be 0.170±0.070 mg/dL in the control group and 2.585±0.584 mg/dL in the study group. As a result, it was demonstrated that it is essential to consider that oxidative stress increases and antioxidant capacity decreases in dogs with CPV and that disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) may develop in dogs with CPV. It is thought that considering oxidative stress and DIC during the treatment may contribute positively to prognosis and survival.

Focusing on the 3060 Goal, China builds a large energy base in Inner Mongolia. The steel structure facilities are subjected to long-term impacts from hard particles in the desert environment. Damage to the surface coatings of the steel structures resulted in reduced durability, and safety. The impact test of polyurethane coating was carried out by using an automatic ball impactor, the strain field of PU coating under impact load was collected by combining with Digital Image Correlation, the damage degree of PU coating was investigated by using Laser Scanning Confocal Microscopy, and elastic-plastic properties of PU coating were also studied. The results show that at the same impact height, the indentation depth of the substrate was Steel substrate > PU coating-steel substrate bilayer system, indicating that the PU coating played a better role in protecting the steel substrate. The compressive strain area at the impact contact point of the PU coating-steel substrate bilayer system increased with the increase of impact height, and the surface of the coating appeared to have different degrees of cracks and spalling. The dynamic hardness increases and then decreases with the increase of impact height, and the dynamic hardness value is the largest when the impact height is 30 cm. HIGHLIGHTS: The strain field distribution of polyurethane coatings under impact loading was studied in combination with DIC, and the crack extension of polyurethane coatings was analyzed using LSCM. The elastic-plastic characteristics of polyurethane coatings were investigated The research results provide a basis for the preparation of protective coatings for steel structures in special environments [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a composite consisting mainly of industrial waste bound by a hydraulic binder. The composite consists of unburnt coal-mining slate, shredded rubber waste (SRW), fly ash and CEM I cement. The purpose of using the above components was to protect the unburnt coal-mining slate from the negative effects of water, which causes degradation of the aggregate grain size and significantly affects the load-bearing capacity of the aggregate. This was achieved through the use of a binder consisting of shredded waste rubber, fly ash and cement, which imparts hydrophobic properties to the composite. The composite is to be used in road pavement construction and earthworks as a substitute for standard materials. This paper focuses on testing the effects of 5, 10 and 15% additions of shredded rubber waste (SRW) on the physical and mechanical parameters of the composite, mainly compressive strength, water absorption by mass, capillary rise and deformability under cyclic loading. The composite was tested under cyclic loading conditions using a measurement system based on digital image correlation (DIC), with which the deformations occurring on the surface of the test specimens were determined. The results obtained showed the influence of shredded rubber waste additives on the decrease in compression strength (after 7 and 28 days of specimen care), mass water absorption and capillary rise, as well as an increase in the deformability of the composite under destructive loading and cyclic loading.

To investigate the dynamic tensile mechanical properties of red sandstone under varying impact pulse widths and amplitudes, we employed the response surface methodology to examine the dynamic response characteristics of sandstone under different bullet lengths and impact velocities. Subsequently, a dynamic damage constitutive model for sandstone was developed. Macroscopic and microscopic features of sandstone were analyzed through digital image correlation (DIC) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM) experiments. Additionally, ANSYS software was utilized to analyze stress wave characteristics under controlled shock waves and the impact of geological factors on rock fracturing effects. The findings revealed the following. First, the length and impact velocity of bullets exhibit an interactive effect on the tensile response characteristics of sandstone. Peak load, energy consumption rate, and energy density display a positive correlation with bullet velocity. Second, according to the DIC results, the fractal dimension of the crack is negatively correlated with the length of the bullet during equal energy impacts. Third, microscopic failure modes included fractures along particle cementation and through particles, with section roughness decreasing as bullet length increased under equivalent energy impacts. Fourth, a dynamic damage constitutive model (R2 ≥ 0.84) was established based on the Zhu-Wang-Tang (Z-W-T) model and Drucker-Prager (D-P) criterion, clarifying model parameters and influence rules. Fifth, under controlled shock waves, the pulse width facilitates crack propagation, while the pulse amplitude initiates crack formation. Optimal rock breaking efficiency is achieved when stress waves exhibit a large pulse width and low radiation values, meeting specific threshold conditions.

Background: Neonatal disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a rare disease with a poor outcome. However, data on the incidence, treatment, and outcome of neonatal DIC are scarce. Thus, this study investigated the status of neonatal DIC in Japan. Methods: We sent a retrospective questionnaire-based survey regarding the status of diagnosis and treatment of neonatal DIC from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2018, to 30 hospitals in Kyushu with a neonatal-perinatal medicine division. The data collected by the questionnaire survey included information about the patients diagnosed with neonatal DIC. Results: Among the 13,582 neonates surveyed, 120 (0.9 %) were diagnosed with DIC. Of them, clinical data were available for 105 cases. There were 11 deaths (mortality rate: 10.4 %), with the most common underlying condition being infection (n = 9), followed by neonatal asphyxia and hematologic disease (both, n = 1). Compared with the survival group, the death group had more infections, as well as a higher rate of bleeding symptoms and organ dysfunction. Conclusions: Neonatal DIC associated with infectious diseases has a poor outcome. Therefore, it is necessary to formulate diagnostic and treatment guidelines for early intervention in such cases.

In contrast to ordinary portland cement (PC), the manufacturing process of high belite cement (HBC) boasts superior resource utilization, reduced energy consumption, and diminished greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, HBC exhibits notable strengths in terms of durability and mechanical properties. This study delves into the thermal characteristics of hydration, mechanical behaviour, and failure mechanisms of HBC materials, both with and without fiber admixtures, employing a multifaceted approach encompassing hydration heat experiments, uniaxial compression tests, Brazilian tensile tests, alongside advanced techniques such as acoustic emission (AE) and digital image correlation (DIC). The results indicate that HBC has lower hydration heat release, contributing to a reduction in hydration temperature rise, offering advantages in large-scale structural construction. In terms of strength development, HBC exhibits compressive and tensile strengths similar to PC, while the strength of basalt fiber-reinforced HBC is notably lower than both. In terms of failure modes, both HBC and PC undergo shear failure in uniaxial compression tests, whereas basalt fiber-reinforced HBC experiences splitting failure. In Brazilian tensile tests, HBC and PC exhibit single-direction cracking, while basalt fiber-reinforced HBC shows synchronous cracking at the top, middle, and bottom. Due to the crack-arresting effect of basalt fibers, basalt fiber-reinforced HBC displays a bimodal feature on the stress-strain curve and features a stress plateau on both the stress-strain and strain energy development curves.

This study attempts to investigate the dynamic tensile mechanical properties of sandstone under freeze-thaw cycle by using the split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB)test system to perform dynamic splitting tests on sandstone samples with freeze-thaw cycle 0, 10, 20 and 40 times at different impact speeds.Also adopting the high-speed digital image correlation (DIC), we observed the dynamic tensile failure process of the specimen, where we analyzed the strength characteristics, deformation process and failure form of frozen sandstone under dynamic tensile stress in different freeze-thaw cycles.Results show that 1)the dynamic tensile σ-t curves of frozen sandstone and ordinary sandstone exhibit similar patterns of stress variation under different freeze-thaw cycles, which can be divided into four stages: low speed growth section, high speed growth section, peak plateau section and decreasing section; 2)the peak tensile stress increases linearly with the increase of stress loading rate; 3)the peak tensile stress of frozen rock has a certain freeze-thaw cycle effect, and there is a strong correlation between the peak tensile stress and the number of freeze-thaw cycles.The dynamic tensile strength of frozen rock increases first and then decreases as the number of freeze-thaw cycles increases.Under the same impact pressure, the frozen rock specimen shows certain freeze-thaw cycle effect as the tensile strain at the center shows N=40>20>0>10 under 4 kinds of freeze-thaw cycles.

No abstract available. Manuscript truncated after 150 words. History of Present Illness: A 53-year-old man was admitted for acute onset of left hemiparesis, left facial droop and dysarthria witnessed by his wife (a nurse) while they were watching TV that evening. She reported the patient had no previous history of coronary artery disease or cerebral vascular disease, prior to an admission occurring three weeks earlier. The patient presented at that time with acute, severe left-sided chest pain that began while he was doing some heavy yardwork. While being evaluated in the emergency department (ED), he developed left-sided facial numbness, hemiparesis and dysarthria. A CT scan of the brain was normal. Neurological symptoms resolved before lytic therapy could be administered. Troponins and EKG were normal. A D-dimer was >20 mg/L, but a CTA of the chest showed no pulmonary embolism and was otherwise unrevealing. The chest pain resolved without specific therapy. Subsequent CTA of the head and neck and …

This paper shows the three-point bending strength analysis of a composite material consisting of polyamide doped with chopped carbon fiber and reinforced with continuous carbon fiber produced by means of the material extrusion (MEX) additive manufacturing technique. For a comparison, two types of specimens were produced: unreinforced and continuous fiber-reinforced (CFR) with the use of carbon fiber. The specimens were fabricated in two orientations that assure the highest strength properties. Strength analysis was supplemented by additional digital image correlation (DIC) analysis that allowed for the identification of regions with maximum strain within the specimens. The utilization of an optical microscope enabled a fractographic examination of the fracture surfaces of the specimens. The results of this study demonstrated a beneficial effect of continuous carbon fiber reinforcement on both the stiffness and strength of the material, with an increase in flexural strength from 77.34 MPa for the unreinforced composite to 147.03 MPa for the composite reinforced with continuous carbon fiber. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In human medicine, hemostatic disorders such as thrombocytopenia, hyperfibrinolysis, and disseminated intravascular coagulopathy (DIC) have been associated with many cancers. Acute hemorrhage secondary to hyperfibrinolysis has been predominantly reported with prostatic adenocarcinoma in human patients. To the author's knowledge, severe bleeding due to paraneoplastic hyperfibrinolysis has not yet been reported in veterinary medicine. The case involves an 8-year-old neutered male Border Collie who was evaluated for progressive and recurrent epistaxis, having a history of 1 year of treatment for metastatic nasal adenocarcinoma. A progressive and severe coagulopathy thought to be related to the known cancer was diagnosed. Advanced coagulation testing was consistent with a chronic DIC and secondary hyperfibrinolysis. Throughout 1 week of hospitalization, the dog was treated with multiple blood products, vitamin K1, and anti-fibrinolytic medications. While the dog was initially discharged home, the dog re-presented the following day and was humanely euthanized due to a perceived poor quality of life. Post-mortem analysis revealed a histopathologic diagnosis of disseminated adenocarcinoma. In dogs with disseminated nasal adenocarcinoma that are experiencing severe bleeding, paraneoplastic secondary hyperfibrinolysis should be considered as a differential. Knowing this association could help guide treatment recommendations for optimal patient management. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strengthening of reinforced concrete (RC) members in bridges and buildings is often required to improve flexural performance. Strengthening using fiber‐reinforced polymer (FRP) composites has become popular as FRPs offer multiple advantages compared with conventional strengthening practices like steel jacketing and concrete enlargement. External bonding (EB) using carbon FRP (CFRP) laminates/fabric has become a common strengthening practice. The effectiveness of the EB strengthened system is reduced due to possible debonding of FRP from concrete substrate. The near‐surface mounting (NSM) of FRP laminates is efficient in reducing the debonding failure, but it is not effective under dominant compression loading. Hybrid FRP (HYB) strengthening combines the advantages of both the NSM and EB techniques. HYB strengthening can enhance the performance of RC members under all loading combinations. The main objective of this study is to understand the flexural crack opening behavior of control and hybrid FRP strengthened RC column members under pure bending. The digital image correlation (DIC) analysis shows that the crack width and its propagation are significantly reduced due to hybrid FRP strengthening. The crack widths measured using the DIC are compared with the analytical predictions based on Eurocode 2 and fib bulletin 90. HYB FRP strengthening increased the strength and post‐cracking stiffness of RC elements under flexure without compromising the ductility. In addition, the HYB strengthening distributed the damage under flexural loading, unlike localized damage observed in control RC elements. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The strain gauge method and the digital image correlation (DIC) method are commonly employed for measuring strain in tested objects, including material specimens and structural elements. The optical method enables the assessment of 3D strain fields across the entire area of interest, achieved through cameras and advanced software. The study investigates both quasi-static strength tests and more advanced research of structures. It explores full-scale construction testing, featuring highly stressed components of new wagon designs. The paper reviews the benefits and challenges of using the DIC method to measure large-scale elements. Conducting full-scale object testing is characterized by significant complexity, often involving interactions between elements, complex loading conditions, and the influence of friction. Numerous factors affect the measurements. Therefore, to compare both methods, an initially standard shear by tensile test of CFRP composite was analyzed. The analysis of strain maps provides valuable visualization of deformation patterns occurring during construction loading. The strain gauge method was crucial for verifying the quality of the DIC measurements. The results obtained provide a detailed understanding of how the components behave, highlighting the versatility of digital image correlation technology. For strain values of 0.3% and above, a good match was obtained between optical and strain gauge measurements. Below this value, the results have less accuracy. The results obtained provide a detailed understanding of how the components behave, highlighting the versatility of digital image correlation technology. The error comparison and discussion between different measurement scenarios were conducted. The paper presents a developed methodology for measuring strain and displacement state in complex and crucial structural elements. The method can be applied to measurements of heavily loaded components used in the transportation industry; for example, in railways. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Fracture within the rock is one of the main factors leading to rock destabilization and has a significant effect on the stability of the project. In this study, sandstone is used as a research target, specimens with crack inclination angles of 0°, 30°, 45°, 60°, and 90° are prefabricated, and the split Hopkinson pressure bar (SHPB) impact test of sandstone with cracks is carried out based on digital image recognition technology to explore the dynamic damage characteristics of the specimens with five angles. The basic mechanical parameters of sandstone are tested to determine the RHT model intrinsic parameters, and the numerical computational RHT model of sandstone containing crack defects is established, which is verified in comparison with the test to analyze the validity of the model. Finally, the failure characteristics of the numerical model under initial stress were carried out. The study shows the following: with the increase in the fracture angle, the dynamic compressive strength and deformation modulus are distributed in a slanting V-shape, and the inclination angle of 45° is the smallest. The strain rate and energy dissipation rate are distributed in a slanting N-shape, and the inclination angle of 45° is the largest. The transmittance shows a decreasing trend, which is the opposite of the reflectivity pattern. The crack angle determines the location and direction of the initial crack, which affects the failure mode. In addition, the parameters of the RHT constitutive model suitable for sandstone are obtained, and the damage and strength patterns of the established RHT model are highly consistent with the laboratory test results. The damage range of numerical models for crack defects with different inclination angles is negatively correlated with confining pressure values and positively correlated with axial pressure values. The damage zones are symmetrically distributed approximately perpendicular to the direction of cracks, and the confining pressure has a contributing role in the peak of the element stresses; however, the axial compression has no contribution in the peak of the element stresses. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research investigates the application of plastic fiber reinforcement in pre-tensioned reinforced concrete railway sleepers, conducting an in-depth examination in both experimental and computational aspects. Utilizing 3-point bending tests and the GOM ARAMIS system for Digital Image Correlation, this study meticulously evaluates the structural responses and crack development in conventional and plastic fiber-reinforced sleepers under varying bending moments. Complementing these tests, the investigation employs ABAQUS' advanced finite element modeling to enhance the analysis, ensuring precise calibration and validation of the numerical models. This dual approach comprehensively explains the mechanical behavior differences and stresses within the examined structures. The incorporation of plastic fibers not only demonstrates a significant improvement in mechanical strength and crack resistance but paves the way for advancements in railway sleeper technology. By shedding light on the enhanced durability and performance of reinforced concrete structures, this study makes a significant contribution to civil engineering materials science, highlighting the potential for innovative material applications in the construction industry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ISO 23228:2011 proposed a testing method in which the plastic material, experimental resins or compounds for pipes and fittings, can be exposed to stress conditions that mimic internally pressurised end‐capped pipes. The stress conditions are mimicked by the use of a plaque specimen having a grooved reduced section called plane–strain grooved tensile (PSGT) specimens producing a biaxial state of stress under uniaxial loading. In this study, PSGT specimens were cut out from high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) pipes. Two shape ratios, ratio between the width and the groove thickness, were used. Both the axial and transverse displacements and strain fields were followed by a digital image correlation (DIC) camera during tensile and creep loading, both at room and high temperature; furthermore, DIC images were used to estimate the notch opening displacement. The increasing effect of the temperature in both the axial and transverse displacement and strain was highlighted. No significant effect of the width was noticed. The results have evidenced that, as the plane–strain condition in the width is assured during the tests, PSGT specimens can be used to mimic internally pressurised pipes under monotonic increasing or constant‐in‐time loading at both room and high temperature, but it must be better to use specimens with a higher shape ratio, that is, higher width. The results contribute to the 9th Sustainable Development Goal: Industry, Innovation and Infrastructure by promoting a sustainable industrialisation and fostering innovation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

For plain woven SiC/SiC composites used in aerospace thermal-structural applications, not only the pristine material properties but the open-hole performance are of critical concern for the components in service. This study investigated the influence of intrinsic pores induced during SiC matrix preparation and manufactured holes on the macro mechanical properties of plain woven SiC/SiC through experimental and numerical methods. Tensile tests at room temperature were conducted on SiC/SiC specimens with different hole apertures and configurations, and the digital image correlation (DIC) method was employed for full-field strain measurement. Moreover, micro-computed tomography (μ-CT) was utilized to characterize the internal microstructure, original defects, and failure fractures. Based on the reconstructed mesoscale model, the tensile strength and failure mechanisms of pristine and open-hole specimens were predicted and analyzed, with the models validated against the experimental results. The results showed that the inter-tow defects play an important role on the deformation and failure of pristine SiC/SiC specimens during tensile loading. The notch strength results indicated that SiC/SiC exhibits weak notch sensitivity, and the local mesoscopic deformation of the notch is affected by the combination of macroscopic stress gradients and mesoscopic structures. The mesoscale simulation results showed that the position of the hole has a significant impact on the strength of the single layer SiC/SiC composite. The more the notch invades the warp, the greater the decrease in load-bearing capacity, and the relative position of the weft mainly determines the crack propagation path. The failure mode in the simulation results is consistent with the experimental findings, indicating that the simulation model, which considers the weave architecture, can better explain the notch failure behavior of Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: In native heart tissue, functions of cardiac fibroblasts (CFs) include synthesis, remodeling, and degradation of the extracellular matrix (ECM) as well as secreting factors that regulate cardiomyocyte (CM) function. The influence of direct co-culture and CF-derived ECM on CM mechanical function are not fully understood. Methods: Here we use an engineered culture platform that provides control over ECM geometry and substrate stiffness to evaluate the influence of iPSC-CFs, and the ECM they produce, on the mechanical function of iPSC-CMs. Mechanical analysis was performed using digital image correlation to quantify maximum contractile strain, spontaneous contraction rate, and full-field organization of the contractions. Results: When cultured alone, iPSC-CFs produce and remodel the ECM into fibers following the underlying 15° chevron patterned ECM. The substrates were decellularized and confirmed to have highly aligned fibers that covered a large fraction of the pattern area before reseeding with iPSC-CMs, alone or in co-culture with iPSC-CFs. When seeded on decellularized ECM, larger maximum contractile strains were observed in the co-culture condition compared to the CM Only condition. No significant difference was found in contractile strain between the Matrigel and decellularized ECM conditions; however, the spontaneous contraction rate was lower in the decellularized ECM condition. A methodology for quantifying alignment of cell contraction across the entire field of view was developed based on trajectories approximating the cell displacements during contraction. Trajectory alignment was unaltered by changes in culture or ECM conditions. Conclusions: These combined observations highlight the important role CFs play in vivo and the need for models that enable a quantitative approach to examine interactions between the CFs and CMs, as well as the interactions of these cells with the ECM. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gross Domestic Product (GDP) known as the pulse of economy for any country depends on multiple factors like export–import, inflation rate and unemployment rate etc. Statistical assessment of GDP demands fresh concepts to explain GDP through its covariates in order to improve and strengthen the estimation process. In the present paper, a linear regression model is proposed for modelling GDP of India. Descriptive analysis for the considered data on GDP and its covariates obtained from the World Bank archives is presented through Heatmap. Identification and relevance of the possible set of covariates is established by using step-wise regression (SR). The use of SR reflects its credibility vis-à-vis Ordinary Least Squares (OLS) regression by registering a decline in Deviance Information Criterion (DIC) from − 18.30 to − 13.63, from a full model to only a few significant factor models. We propose an alternative statistical algorithm implemented under Bayesian paradigm through Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation which bridges the gap of accuracy in estimates as opposed to the frequentist OLS regression for explaining GDP of the country India. Model selection is decided from a battery of normal priors through DIC. Comparison of Bayesian and frequentist modelling results is done using several criteria such as Mean Absolute Deviation, Root Mean Square Error, and Mean Absolute Percent Error. India is one of the emerging economies, the economy of India is the 5th largest in terms of nominal gross domestic product in the world, and the 3rd largest in the terms of purchasing power parity as recorded by World Bank (2022). GDP of India for 2022 is recorded as $3.38 trillion World Bank (2022) which is in close agreement to GDP of $3.361 trillion predicted by the model proposed in the present paper. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Among the different passive and active techniques for skin friction drag reduction for turbulent boundary layers, near wall forcing through moving walls is one of the most promising techniques at low Re τ . Fewer studies have looked at the mechanism at high Re τ , closer to flight conditions, largely because, in this regime, numerical simulations become harder and experiments more challenging. To that end, there is the need of a systematic study for different surface waves and flow conditions. This work introduces a new model using a kagome lattice and an experimental setup which combines simultaneous measurements of surface displacement and velocity in the boundary layer. Here the results from a shortened version of the model at Re τ ≈ 1000 are presented to demonstrate the capability of the experimental setup which is developed in view of further investigation at higher Reynolds number. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Basalt Fiber Reactive Powder Concrete (BFRPC) semi-prefabricated composite capping beam structures can effectively improve the shortcomings of ordinary concrete capping beams' construction difficulties and insufficient bearing capacity. In this study, with the objective of analyzing the shear damage and damage characteristics of a prefabricated BFRPC capping beam formwork, structural damage tests under different levels of loading were carried out to obtain the mechanical parameters of key nodes. Acoustic emission (AE) and Digital Image Correlation (DIC) techniques were used to acoustically and visually characterize the formwork damage. The research results showed that the damage stage of the capping beam formwork was divided, and an early damage warning method was proposed based on the acoustic parameters. Using the DIC technique to identify the crack width evolution pattern during the shear process, it was found that the cracks expanded steadily as the load increased. Combining the experimental and simulation results as well as the Subdivision Superposition Theory, a half-open stirrup strength discount factor β was introduced and suggested to take a value of 0.79. The formula for calculating the shear capacity of BFRPC capping beam formwork is proposed to provide a theoretical basis for its application in prefabricated assembled structures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present two cases of patients treated at the Angiology, Arterial Hypertension and Diabetology Clinic of the Wroclaw Medical University (UMW) due to vascular malformations, where LIC (localized intravascular coagulation), DIC (disseminated intravascular coagulation) and KMS (Kasabach-Merritt syndrome) occurred. The first case involves a 14-year-old boy admitted with a diagnosis of vascular malformation of the lower limb established at the age of 3. The patient was admitted for the initiation of Sirolimus therapy. The second patient is a 33-year-old man diagnosed with a malformation of the left lower limb involving the pelvis, abdominal cavity, and chest, currently admitted due to coagulation disorders, complicated by life-threatening Kasabach-Merritt syndrome (KMS). The phenomenon occurred after a limb injury. Vascular malformations are congenital vascular anomalies resulting from a disruption in the vasculogenesis process. (1) They are congenital changes that enlarge as the child develops and do not undergo spontaneous involution. They can be classified based on the type of vessels involved (capillary, arterial, venous, lymphatic, mixed) and the nature of the vascular flow (lowflow and high-flow). The clinical presentation of vascular malformations is highly diverse, and despite being congenital, they can remain asymptomatic for a long time, complicating the diagnostic process. (1,3) The presence of malformations carries the risk of health-threatening complications. One such complication is Kasabach-Merritt syndrome, characterized by thrombocytopenia, microangiopathic hemolytic anemia, and consumptive coagulopathy in the presence of a rapidly enlarging vascular tumor. (4,5) Another threat is a coagulopathy limited to the vascular anomaly (LIC). It is characterized by elevated D-dimers and fibrin degradation products, low levels of fibrinogen, FV, FVIII, FXIII, and antithrombin, and sometimes mild to moderate thrombocytopenia. (6,7) Early implementation of anticoagulant therapy allows for the avoidance of health-threatening conditions and the development of disseminated intravascular coagulation syndrome (DIC). (8). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Neonatal disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC) is a rare disease with a poor outcome. However, data on the incidence, treatment, and outcome of neonatal DIC are scarce. Thus, this study investigated the status of neonatal DIC in Japan. We sent a retrospective questionnaire-based survey regarding the status of diagnosis and treatment of neonatal DIC from January 1, 2016, to December 31, 2018, to 30 hospitals in Kyushu with a neonatal-perinatal medicine division. The data collected by the questionnaire survey included information about the patients diagnosed with neonatal DIC. Among the 13,582 neonates surveyed, 120 (0.9 %) were diagnosed with DIC. Of them, clinical data were available for 105 cases. There were 11 deaths (mortality rate: 10.4 %), with the most common underlying condition being infection (n = 9), followed by neonatal asphyxia and hematologic disease (both, n = 1). Compared with the survival group, the death group had more infections, as well as a higher rate of bleeding symptoms and organ dysfunction. Neonatal DIC associated with infectious diseases has a poor outcome. Therefore, it is necessary to formulate diagnostic and treatment guidelines for early intervention in such cases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To quantitatively study the instability and failure characteristics of sandstone with flaws under engineering load, a method for identifying the failure characteristics of rock mass with flaws by date based on Digital image correlation (DIC) technology is proposed. The crack initiation type, corresponding action sequence, and stress level are determined. The uniaxial compression tests of sandstone with a prefabricated flaw at different angles are carried out. And the mechanical properties and deformation field characteristics, and failure characteristics of sandstone with flaws are analyzed. The results show that the peak strength and elastic modulus of sandstone increase and the damage propagation behavior decrease with the increase of flaw angle. Based on DIC technology, the whole process of crack initiation, propagation, and failure is intuitively reflected, the deformation characteristics corresponding to the stress levels of the 4 key points are clarified, and the crack propagation path and key failure areas are mastered. The flaw inclination angle affects the distribution of displacement and strain and determines the new crack initiation position. With the increase of stress value, the horizontal displacement and principal strain increase exponentially at different angles, and the vertical displacement increase linearly. When the inclination angle is 30°, 45°, and 60°, the strain distribution along the crack tip is "Butterfly". The fracture initiation modes of sandstone with a prefabricated flaw at different angles include type I and I–II mixed type. In type I–II, type II acts before type I, and the stress level is lower than type I. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The work is focused on experimental research of deformation characteristics on three grades of hot-dip galvanized steels for the automotive industry. Deformation maps were obtained using the DIC (Digital Image Correlation) method. The map documents the development of longitudinal and transverse deformations under tensile stress. In addition to uniaxial tension, the investigated specimens were subjected to eccentric tension. The stable crack growth (SCG) was evaluated using a non-contact measurement technique on CT (compact tension) specimens. The deformation of steels, which affects the resistance to stable crack growth (confirmed by the Design of Experiments—DOE method), was manifested in the first stages of eccentric loading of specimens. The notch root radius varies considerably due to the blunting of the starting fatigue crack. The resistance to stable crack growth, which represents a safety reserve during a vehicle crash, was obtained. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The elongation of the bolt hole is an important parameter for assessing the failure of bolted joints. However, direct experimental measurement using strain gauges and extensometers is difficult. This article shows that digital image correlation (DIC) can overcome the difficulties and provide important indications of the failure mechanisms of bolted joints. Hole elongation was measured using DIC in the following carbon/epoxy composite configurations: standard open-hole tensile (OHT) and filled-hole tensile (FHT), single-lap shear only-bolted (OB), and single-lap shear hybrid-bolted/bonded (HBB) joints. For each configuration, the hole-elongation changes were tracked for cross-ply (CP) and quasi-isotropic (QI) stacking sequences with two thicknesses. In the tensile load direction for OHT and FHT cases, CP showed a greater hole elongation than QI. However, the opposite trend was observed in the transverse direction. In OB joints, bypass loads contributed more to the hole elongation than bearing action. In HBB joints, it has been observed that the adhesive significantly reduces hole elongation, particularly for CP configurations. Moreover, it was found that in HBB joints, hole elongation was independent of laminate lay-up, while it was very determinative in OB joints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biaxial compression tests based on an elliptical tunnel were conducted to study the failure characteristics and the meso-crack evolution mechanism of tunnels with different cross-sections constructed in sandstone. The progressive crack propagation process around the elliptical tunnel was investigated using a real-time digital image correlation (DIC) system. Numerical simulations were performed on egg-shaped, U-shaped, and straight-walled arched tunnels based on the mesoscopic parameters of the elliptical tunnel and following the principle of an equal cross-sectional area. The meso-crack evolution and stress conditions of the four types of tunnels were compared. The results show that (1) fractures around an elliptical tunnel were mainly distributed at the end of the long axis and mainly induce slabbing failure, and the failure mode is similar to a V-shaped notch; (2) strain localization is an important characteristic of rock fracturing, which forebodes the initiation, propagation, and coalescence paths of macro-cracks; and (3) the peak loads of tunnels with egg-shaped, U-shaped, and straight-walled arched cross-sections are 98.76%, 97.56%, and 90.57% that of an elliptical cross-section. The elliptical cross-section shows the optimal bearing capacity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV), hepatitis B virus (HBV), and hepatitis C virus (HCV) are known as the most common blood-borne viral infections worldwide. Individuals referring to drop-in centers (DICs) are considered high-risk people exposed to infection with blood-borne viruses. The purpose of this study was to investigate the prevalence of HIV, HBV, and HCV infections among women referred to DICs in Lorestan Province, western Iran. During this cross-sectional study, after obtaining informed consent and completing a demographic form, two blood samples were collected from 118 women referred to Lorestan DICs to be evaluated for HIV, HBV, and HCV infections. Accordingly, the samples were first screened by using the most common serological methods and then by Real-Time polymerase chain reaction (PCR) to detect viral genomes. The results were analyzed using Chi-square statistical test and binary logistic regressions. Out of the 118 blood samples, 8 (6.8%), 4 (3.4%), and 10 (8.5%) subjects tested positive for HIV, HBV, and HCV infection, respectively. Furthermore, our study showed that 5 (4.2%) subjects were positive for HCV/HIV coinfection and 3 (2.5%) cases for HBV/HCV coinfection. Moreover, our data revealed that incarceration and STDs were the most important risk factors for HIV (odds ratio [OR]=15.27; 95% confidence interval [CI]: 3.74-62.89; P=0.01) and HBV (OR=16; 95% CI: 1.57-42.34); P=0.018) infections, respectively. Our results suggested that women referring to DICs are at risk of infection with blood-borne viruses due to risky behaviors. Thus, precise diagnostic testing and implementation of preventive methods against blood and sexually transmitted infections are urgent in these high-risk groups. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Based on the high-precision isotopic composition and concentration of dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) in the Bering Sea waters, their scopes and pathways are estimated in the Pacific sector of the Arctic Ocean. Although δ13С(DIC) and [DIC] are not classical conservative tracers, these parameters show the presence of both Atlantic and Pacific marine waters similar to the Bering Sea waters in the basin of the East Siberian Sea, which is a zone of active interaction of river and marine waters. The spatial distribution of Pacific and Atlantic and river waters is estimated using a three-component mixing model along two sections of the East Siberian Sea. The Pacific component propagates from east to west approximately to 160° E (probably, more westward) skirting Wrangel Island not only from the north but also probably from the south. The East Siberian Sea contains waters similar to the Bering Sea summer surface waters of the open sea, which are removed to the northern shelf by the circular Bering Sea Current, and to the upper intermediate waters, which can be involved in the zone of the northern sea shelf due to upwelling or active mixing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents the results of a composite consisting mainly of industrial waste bound by a hydraulic binder. The composite consists of unburnt coal-mining slate, shredded rubber waste (SRW), fly ash and CEM I cement. The purpose of using the above components was to protect the unburnt coal-mining slate from the negative effects of water, which causes degradation of the aggregate grain size and significantly affects the load-bearing capacity of the aggregate. This was achieved through the use of a binder consisting of shredded waste rubber, fly ash and cement, which imparts hydrophobic properties to the composite. The composite is to be used in road pavement construction and earthworks as a substitute for standard materials. This paper focuses on testing the effects of 5, 10 and 15% additions of shredded rubber waste (SRW) on the physical and mechanical parameters of the composite, mainly compressive strength, water absorption by mass, capillary rise and deformability under cyclic loading. The composite was tested under cyclic loading conditions using a measurement system based on digital image correlation (DIC), with which the deformations occurring on the surface of the test specimens were determined. The results obtained showed the influence of shredded rubber waste additives on the decrease in compression strength (after 7 and 28 days of specimen care), mass water absorption and capillary rise, as well as an increase in the deformability of the composite under destructive loading and cyclic loading. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Tensile response and fracture toughness of the freestanding atmospheric plasma spray 8YSZ coatings was investigated using in situ high resolution optical full-field strain measurement. The elastic properties obtained directly from the tensile experiments were employed in computing the critical mode-I stress intensity factor. Comparison between the fracture toughness values computed from specimen geometry and J-integral via displacement field around the crack tip showed small differences on single edge notched tensile (SENT) specimens to extract their intrinsic mode-I fracture toughness. Two kinds of coatings having different porosity were studied to obtain stress-strain response and compute effect of porosity on mode-I fracture toughness. The samples were fabricated by depositing the coatings on, un-notched and pre-notched substrate templates, and then carefully separating the coatings by acidic dissolution of the substrate. High resolution in situ deformation of the coatings was captured for both tensile and SENT specimens using digital image correlation method combined with an in-house designed microtensile stage. The deformation from the specimen surface was used to obtain elastic material properties under uniaxial tension, which are then used to compute the energy release rate by the path independent J-integral. The critical stress intensity factors calculated from SENT geometry for the low and high porosity coatings were found to be 1.23 ± 0.21 MPa-m0.5 and 0.67 ± 0.12 MPa-m0.5, respectively. In addition, considering the experimental observation of nucleation and propagation of a crack from the notch tip before catastrophic failure, the J-integral based calculation of the critical fracture toughness values were 1.37 ± 0.19 MPa-m0.5 and 0.5 ± 0.1 MPa-m0.5, for the low and high porosity coatings, respectively. As the crack always nucleates from the notch before complete fracture, it can be concluded that the J-integral based method is accurate and suitable for finding the fracture toughness in porous coatings. • Tensile and fracture toughness experiments on APS-8YSZ with two different porosities investigated. • Full field deformation from in situ experiments used to obtain tensile and fracture properties. • The evolution of J-integral was computed using displacement data combined with elastic properties from tensile experiments. • A stable crack growth before catastrophic propagation was observed. • The critical fracture toughness is reliably computed from J-integral and is suggested for porous coatings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, a falling weight impact test was conducted on EH690 steel specimens with V-notches using Digital Imaging Correlation (DIC). In conjunction with scanning electron microscopy (SEM), the plastic deformation and crack initiation processes were examined at the notch of the specimen under different impact energies (90 J, 120 J, 135 J and 150 J). ABAQUS was used to simulate the plastic deformation of an EH690 specimen. The results show that the strain at the notch tip experienced some elasticity and yielding as the load increased under different impact energies. The load remains unchanged or decreases slightly when a plastic hinge forms at the tip of the notch. According to the microscopic images, there are three areas on the fracture surface: a fiber area, a radiation area, and a shear lip area. With increasing deformation, a crack source forms in the middle of the V-shaped notch and propagates to the inside and outside surfaces of the sample. Cracks are primarily caused by ductile tears. The use of DIC to analyze the surface strain of EH690 steel specimens was verified by comparing DIC with finite element analysis. Both curves have the same trend and the maximum error in the load-time curve is 9.42%, the maximum error in the displacement–time curve is 5.61%, and the maximum error in the strain-time curve is 10.68%. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In order to infer the load on the component after the experimental uniaxial tensile fracture inversion model based on cross-sectional reconstruction, (FRASTA) was proposed to infer the load on the tested components. This model can combine the fracture surface characteristics of experimental specimens to reconstruct the fracture surface morphology and invert the fracture process of uniaxial tensile specimens. Based on the assumption of rectangular rod fracture, a quantitative inversion model for a unidirectional stress load based on dissipative plasticity characteristics was established, and the inversion results based on cross-sectional reconstruction were compared with the experimental measurement results. The results indicate that when only considering the unidirectional stress state, the two have a high degree of consistency, with a maximum measurement error of 5.3%, fully verifying the accuracy of the fracture surface reconstruction and inversion model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Recombinant human soluble thrombomodulin (rhTM) is commonly used in Japan to treat disseminated intravascular coagulation (DIC), but its efficacy compared with other anticoagulants is unclear. We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis to investigate this issue in DIC patients with hematological malignancies. Methods: We searched PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus for prospective and retrospective studies evaluating the efficacy and safety of rhTM in DIC patients with hematological malignancies between April 2008 and April 2023. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis evaluating recovery from DIC, hemorrhagic adverse events (AEs), and overall survival (OS). Results: We analyzed one prospective (64 patients) and seven retrospective studies (209 patients). Use of rhTM was associated with a higher rate of recovery from DIC (OR: 2.25 [1.09–4.63] and 1.98 [1.12–3.50] in prospective and retrospective studies, respectively; same order below) and fewer hemorrhagic AEs (OR: 0.83 [0.30–2.30] and 0.21 [0.08–0.57]). rhTM did not improve OS (OR: 1.06 [0.42–2.66] and 1.72 [0.87–3.39]), although the incidence of hemorrhagic death was lower in the rhTM group (0 of 94 patients). Conclusion: Use of rhTM in patients with hematological malignancy-associated DIC is strongly expected to be effective and safe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wire and Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) is particularly well suited to the fabrication of large-scale structural components. Its use for the deposition of Duplex Stainless Steel (DSS) structures is especially sought upon by the naval industry. Although additively manufactured materials usually come with heterogeneous microstructure, residual stresses, internal and surface defects that must not jeopardize the structural integrity of components. In this context, the present study aims to analyse the as-deposited microstructure of a WAAM DSS and its influence on the mechanical behaviour via mechanical field measurement using both Digital Image Correlation (DIC) and Thermoelastic Stress Analysis (TSA).