bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Suppressing vibration of structures using nonlinear single unit impact dampers via Taguchi method
Authors: Golmohammadi Mohammad , Goharimanesh Masoud , Afsharfard Aref , Gharib Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2022

This paper investigates a vibratory system that employs Hertzian contact theory in terms of free vibration. Nonlinear impact dampers are created by using a spring, mass, and viscous damper model. The model is simulated in MATLAB software using the DAS method as a proper simulation framework. The Taguchi method is used to examine the efficacy of impact dampers for controlling structural vibrations of the structure. It is demonstrated that the optimal factors obtained can effectively suppress the structure’s unwanted vibrations. The analysis of variance is also used to indicate the most influential factor of dampers to demonstrate their ability to quench vibrations.
Adaptive fractional-order fault-tolerant sliding mode control scheme of DFIG wind energy conversion system
Authors: Dong Yuchen , Wang Jie , Ding Sanbo , Li Wenfa
Published: September 2022

This article proposes an adaptive fractional-order fault-tolerant sliding mode control scheme for wind energy conversion system based on doubly-fed induction generator to achieve maximum power point tracking fault-tolerant control. An adaptive fault-tolerant sliding mode controller is designed to solve the problem of partial failure of system actuators with bounded unknown continuous disturbances. In the proposed adaptive method, the upper bound of continuous disturbances and actuator failure can be estimated in real time. It is worth mentioning that this article innovatively combines fractional-order calculation theory with adaptive fault-tolerant control, which provides more options for the parameter design of fault-tolerant control. Finally, a numerical example is given to prove the effectiveness of the proposed control scheme.
Synchronization of semi-Markovian switching complex networks with partial unknown transition rates via event-triggered control
Authors: Liu Fengyi , Yang Yongqing , Chang Qi
Published: September 2022

This article investigates the synchronization of semi-Markovian switching complex networks with partial unknown transition rates. Different from Markovian switching system, semi-Markov process is characterized by a fixed transition probability matrix and a probability density function of the sojoturn time, and the sojourn time obeys an expanded exponential distribution, which relaxes the restriction that the sojoturn time obeys memoryless exponential distribution. To realize synchronization, event-triggered control is applied which effectively reduced the control cost. It is demonstrated that the semi-Markovian switching complex networks can realize synchronization under appropriate control gain, event-triggered parameter and average sojourn time. Besides, to cope with the uncertainties that may occur during the switching process, the synchronization of the semi-Markovian switching complex networks with parameter uncertainties and external disturbances is also discussed. In the end, two simulation examples are provided to verify the feasibility of our results.
The factors influencing the trajectory of Danish abortion law: From progressive to 50 years of stagnation
Authors: Pedersen Frank H , Herrmann Janne Rothmar , Hansen Laura TD
Published: September 2022

In 1973, Denmark broke new ground when it introduced abortion as a legal right. We explore the drivers of Danish abortion law reform and demonstrate that liberalization was effectuated as the answer to a number of societal concerns. In observing the absence of autonomy as a winning argument for abortion law reform, we find that the Danish case is in alignment with the existing literature. Moreover, this article contributes to the understanding of how the historical drivers affect modern-day issues in abortion, including the fact that expansive autonomy for women is still not prioritized. Thus, we argue that liberalizing abortion regulation for reasons other than achieving reproductive autonomy comes at a price: downstream, it becomes difficult to achieve full autonomy in health law regulation because the initial reasoning behind liberalization continues to provide a certain framing even for present-day abortion issues. This observation can be of importance for those working in other jurisdictions to implement expansive autonomy in reproductive rights.
Innovation in Irrigated Fields in a Semi-arid Region: Southeastern Spain Case
Authors: Gil-Meseguer Encarnación , Bernabé-Crespo Miguel Borja , Espín José María Gómez
Published: September 2022

In Spain, in the last 25 years (1996–2020), more than a million and a half hectares of irrigated land have been modernised with irrigation systems. Almost half of this irrigated surface is immersed in a second generation of modernisation in order to be more efficient and save water and energy. This represents a strategic issue in a climate crisis scenario, to assure the quantity and quality of the productions of these irrigable areas, bases of market supply, agro-industries and sources of employment. Throughout this process, innovation was experienced (pressure irrigation, deficit irrigation, accurate irrigation, fertigation and nutrient solution, energy self-consumption, new crop varieties, hydroponic cultivation with or without substratum, etc.). The drivers of these innovations are the harvesting-exporting companies and the irrigation communities. This research is a diachronic study of regional geography; data are provided by official statistics and through extensive fieldwork and interviews with managers. The objective is to explain the irrigation innovation techniques undertaken in the semi-arid environment of Southeastern Spain, one of the driest regions in Europe.
Expressive goals for performing musicians: The case of clarinetists
Authors: Almeida Andre , Li Weicong , Schubert Emery , Smith John , Wolfe Joe
Published: September 2022

Music can convey emotions. Even in the performance of written rather than improvised music, the performer can modify the way they play particular elements of the music to convey specific emotions. Considerable research attention has been paid to the ways in which performers convey a small set of so-called basic emotions. In the current work, we investigated how musicians think they can convey a larger set of emotions in their performances by modifying musical elements and varying playing parameters. We presented 12 clarinetists trained in Western classical music with 55 pairs of expressive goals (EGs) derived from a list of 11 (e.g., to make the music sound happy, sad, or expressive), and asked them to provide similarity judgments for each pair representing how well they thought they would be able to distinguish between them when performing four excerpts of music, and how they would do it. The similarity judgments produced dissimilarity scores that were grouped using cluster analysis to form six independent, coherent clusters of EGs. Four clusters consisted of, or included, EGs representing four basic emotions: happy/ humorous; sad; angry/mad/ugly; and fearful. The other two clusters consisted of the EGs expressive/overly expressive/beautiful and deadpan. We therefore suggest that this set of six clusters could be used in future research on emotional and musical expression in music. Participants reported that to achieve specific EGs, they would vary the way they played a wider range of musical elements than in previous studies, albeit including many of the same elements. Among the playing parameters they reported, reed-bite force was mentioned most often, with consistent associations between more force and ugly or angry, and between less force and fearful and expressive EGs.
Mixed medullary and follicular cell thyroid carcinoma in a dog
Authors: Newman Shelley J. , Yanez Ryan A. , Kiupel Matti
Published: September 2022

A 12-y-old, castrated male Weimaraner dog was presented for a wellness examination. A 7-cm, firm mass was palpated on the left, ventral, mid-lateral neck. The neck mass was removed surgically and submitted for histopathology. A thyroid carcinoma was diagnosed based on microscopic examination. Immunohistochemistry for chromogranin-A, calcitonin, and thyroglobulin identified dual immunoreactivity of the latter two, and a final diagnosis was of a well-differentiated, compact, mixed medullary and follicular cell thyroid carcinoma. These neoplasms are rare in humans and have not been reported in dogs, to our knowledge.
Acceptance of Advance Care Planning Among Young Adults in Shijiazhuang, China: A Mixed-Methods Study
Authors: Shen Yongqing , Zong Yijun , Yang Yanting , Wang Yongli , Suo Tingting , Sun Jiachen , Zhang Zetao , Liu Wei , Li Dongli , Gao Rui , Xing Caiyi
Published: September 2022

Context: In the event of accidental trauma, incurable disease and public health emergencies, young adults are unable to participate in their own medical decisions, family members face the huge decision-making pressure and medical resources of the society were unevenly distributed. Objective: The purposes of this study is to investigate the Advanced Care Planning (ACP) acceptance and examine its influencing factors using sequential explanatory mixed methods in order to provide a basis for the formulation of later interventions. Methods: A cross-sectional study of young adults (N = 785) and 12 other young adults from two other communities were investigated from January 2021 to February 2022. Descriptive statistics and multiple linear regressions were conducted. Content analysis was performed on the qualitative data. Results: The primary factors that contributed to the acceptance of ACP were the natural acceptance of death, being female, having a high level of education, having a loved one diagnosed with a chronic disease, and having heard of ACP. Among young adults, the acceptance of ACP may be impeded by a fear of the unknown nature of death, a poor understanding of ACP, and family-led decision-making. Discussion: Our study found that 77.1% had not heard of ACP before participating in the study and showed potential to accept ACP-related interventions. The study highlighted the importance of implementing regular young adult education courses, promoting routine ACP knowledge, individualized education, discussing family member’s disease experiences, conducting family meetings, and identifying young adult responsibilities and roles in implement ACP for young adults in China.
The Periodontal Status of Orofacial Cleft Patients: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Sahni Vaibhav , Grover Vishakha , Sood Shaveta , Jain Ashish
Published: September 2022

Cleft lip and/or palate is the most commonly documented orofacial anomaly and may impact the status of health and disease of adjacent teeth along with their associated supporting structures. The authors performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to assess whether the presence of clefts altered the periodontal status of patients.

The study was registered in PROSPERO (CRD42020210178). A systematic search of literature was performed utilizing unique search strings for PubMed, Scopus, and GoogleScholar as databases including gray literature from April 28, 2020 to October 3, 2020.

Cross-sectional and longitudinal human studies published in the English language, providing information about periodontal disease and its association with cleft lip, alveolus, and palate.

Periodontal outcome measures such as gingival index (GI), clinical attachment level (CAL), plaque index (PI), periodontal probing depth (PPD), and bleeding on probing (BOP) were utilized as the main outcome measures.

Patients with clefts were predisposed to poorer periodontal outcomes. Subgroup analysis revealed compromised periodontal measures for clefts as compared to control sites without cleft which were statistically significant in terms of GI [ Z = 2.44, P = .01], CAL [ Z = 2.52, P = .01], PI [ Z = 2.76, P = .006] and not statistically significant for PPD [ Z = 0.27, P = .79] and BOP [ Z = 1.47, P = .14].

Within the limitations of the review, the authors conclude that the presence of orofacial clefts may predispose to periodontal compromise when compared to normal controls. The GRADE rating was moderate.
Social Determinants of Health in the Lives of Urban-Dwelling, Pregnant Puerto Rican Women and Families: Nursing Implications From a Secondary Narrative Analysis
Authors: M. Hamid Gwendolyn , Maldonado Linda , Moriarty Helene , Deatrick Janet A.
Published: September 2022

Urban-dwelling childbearing Puerto Rican women and families on the U.S. mainland face a myriad of social determinants that affect pregnancy and overall health outcomes. Historically, Puerto Ricans have poorest pregnancy outcomes of all Hispanic women. Acknowledgment of the cyclic, structural barriers faced by this patient population is essential to providing wholistic care. Here, we discuss family nursing implications derived from narrative analysis of a parent study that investigated ecological systems affecting 21 pregnant Puerto Rican women residing in an impoverished and crime-ridden neighborhood in Philadelphia. Content analysis of interviews revealed interwoven social determinants of health embedded in participant narratives. Furthermore, we present case vignettes based on integration of participant interviews that encapsulate the everyday experiences of these women and their families and provide clinicians with guidance and strategies for interacting with and advocating for this population.
Introduction to the Symposium: Redundant, Abandoned, Idled, and Neglected Infrastructure: Problems and Solutions for the 21st Century
Authors: Fisk Jonathan M. , Mayer Martin K. , Morris John C.
Published: September 2022

The Infrastructure Investment and Jobs Act of 2021 (P.L 177-58) authorized some $1.2 trillion to invest in infrastructure in the United States. The largest infrastructure investment in a generation, the bill combined funds for traditional infrastructure (roads, bridges, water, ports, etc.) with money for broadband internet, electric vehicle charging, clean energy, and other uses. However, only a small portion of the funds are available to address redundant, abandoned, idled, or neglected (RAIN) infrastructure. This article presents the broader issues associated with RAIN infrastructure, (i.e., costs and equity) and introduces the papers that comprise the RAIN symposium. We conclude that there is a significant need for further scholarly and policy attention within the U.S. and elsewhere, so that the myriad of issues relating to existing infrastructure may be adequately addressed.
Advancing Reproducibility and Accountability of Unsupervised Machine Learning in Text Mining: Importance of Transparency in Reporting Preprocessing and Algorithm Selection
Authors: Valtonen L. , Mäkinen Saku J. , Kirjavainen Johanna
Published: September 2022

Machine learning (ML) enables the analysis of large datasets for pattern discovery. ML methods and the standards for their use have recently attracted increasing attention in organizational research; recent accounts have raised awareness of the importance of transparent ML reporting practices, especially considering the influence of preprocessing and algorithm choice on analytical results. However, efforts made thus far to advance the quality of ML research have failed to consider the special methodological requirements of unsupervised machine learning (UML) separate from the more common supervised machine learning (SML). We confronted these issues by studying a common organizational research dataset of unstructured text and discovered interpretability and representativeness trade-offs between combinations of preprocessing and UML algorithm choices that jeopardize research reproducibility, accountability, and transparency. We highlight the need for contextual justifications to address such issues and offer principles for assessing the contextual suitability of UML choices in research settings.
Novel technique for late scleromalacia in a ciliary body melanoma due to brachytherapy
Authors: Relimpio-López María Isabel , Gessa-Sorroche María , Garrido-Hermosilla Antonio Manuel
Published: September 2022

Introduction

We describe a technique using an sclerocorneal endograft sewed through the cornea to solve late scleromalacia following exoresection and brachytherapy of a ciliary body melanoma.

Methods

Vitrectomy ports were placed. A perforating 400-micron trepan keratoplasty of the cornea was performed allowing the prepared donor graft to be inserted and sutured in place. Intravitreal Perfluorocarbon liquid (PFCL) was used to stabilize the pressure throughout and maintain the graft in place. Once sutured in place, the PFCL was removed and 5000cs of silicone oil introduced. An amniotic membrane was placed surrounding the scleromalacia. The cornea was closed with running sutures.

Results

At one month, the anterior segment optical coherence tomography showed successful endograft placement with no aqueous humor leakage nor hypotony. Currently, the conjunctiva is becoming slightly thicker due to light inflammation, and the eye has recovered the whiteness at the scleromalacia.

Conclusions

This internal graft technique provides advantages when dealing with poorly healing radiated tissue and reduces the risk of post-operative aqueous humor leakage. Surgeons may consider this approach in cases with a high risk of poor healing or complications resulting from lack of tissue.
A Case of Spontaneous Pneumomediastinum in Covid-19 Pneumonia
Authors: Sutton Sarah Jayne , Wolfley Graey , Canapp Sierra , Essien Francis
Published: September 2022

Spontaneous pneumomediastinum (SPM) is defined as free air in the mediastinum thought to be due to non-traumatic rupture of marginal alveoli without evidence of underlying lung disease. Secondary causes must be excluded, including perforations of the esophagus, trachea, and bronchi, due to their propensity for unfavorable outcomes. Infectious etiologies have been documented to cause pneumomediastinum, but this is most frequently observed in the setting of mechanical and noninvasive positive-pressure ventilation (NIPPV). Here we present a case of asymptomatic spontaneous pneumomediastinum in a patient with COVID-19 in absence of mechanical ventilation.
Why norms rarely die
Authors: Percy Sarah V. , Sandholtz Wayne
Published: September 2022

Significant challenges to core international norms have prompted debate over whether or not norms decay, decline, or die. We argue that claims of norm death are empirically incorrect and theoretically misleading. Norms rarely die, and the processes that happen instead are far more complex. The idea of norm death embodies two misconceptions borne out of methodological incentives in empirical constructivism; that norms are single entities that exist separately from larger structures, and that compliance is the most effective way to measure if a norm is under challenge. We argue that the literature on “norm death” epitomizes the pitfalls of this approach, and as a result neither empirically or theoretically captures what happens when norms are under challenge. Norms are fundamentally resilient and can withstand even high levels of non-compliance. We examine four cases of alleged norm death—the norms against mercenary use, unrestricted submarine warfare, and torture, and the norm requiring declarations of war—and demonstrate that in these cases norms are not disappearing, but are rather subject to processes of obsolescence, replacement, and modification. We further argue that once we recognize that norms are embedded in wider structures, and move away from the notion that compliance indicates norm strength, it is possible to see why norms are generally resilient.
Developing and Sustaining a Vibrant Regional Academic Organisation
Authors: Brodie Roderick J. , Sweeney Jillian C.
Published: September 2022

Over the past 25 years, the Australia New Zealand Marketing Academy (ANZMAC) has established itself as a vibrant organisation for marketing academics in Australia and New Zealand. We trace ANZMAC’s development, examine what has worked well and identify future challenges.
“I’m not this Person”: Racism, content moderators, and protecting and denying voice online
Authors: Jereza Rae
Published: September 2022

Much scholarship across the humanities and social sciences seek to shed light on the intersection of far-right politics and social media platforms. Yet, scholars tend to focus on racist actors and the ideological underpinnings of platform policies while the contingencies that shape the experiences of content reviewers who make decisions about racist content remain underexamined. This article fills this gap by exploring such contingencies from a linguistic anthropological perspective. Drawing on Facebook moderators’ stories, I illustrate the factors adjacent to, and beyond, ideology that animate the adjudication of racist hate speech.
Global survey to assess preferences for attending virtual orthodontic learning sessions: Pre-webinar settings
Authors: Almuzian Mohammed , Mheissen Samer , Wertheimer Mark B. , Khan Haris
Published: September 2022

Objectives:

To assess technical factors and audience preferences before attending orthodontic online learning activity, the demand for which increased dramatically in the era of the COVID-19 pandemic.

Design:

Cross-sectional study.

Setting:

Online survey.

Participants:

Global orthodontic residents and specialists.

Methods:

A validated and anonymous survey comprising 17 online questions was sent to 3000 individuals. The data were collected three months later. Descriptive statistics and non-parametric tests were applied.

Results:

The participants’ response rate was 19.9%, with almost equal gender participation. Most of the responders were based in Asia (51.4%). Almost half of the participants were aged 25–35 years with less than 5 years of clinical experience. Regardless of the age, gender or global distribution, 57.3% of respondents opted to share limited personal information with the host. One-third of the respondents preferred receiving webinar reminders via email, ideally a day and/or one hour before the webinar, especially being exportable to their calendars. Age played a major role in shaping this trend, as young participants favoured the one hour (1-h) pre-webinar reminder more than other age groups ( P=0.02). Receiving information about the speaker, learning outcomes and pre-webinar reading material (WRM) were preferable, particularly among young participants in comparison with the older age groups ( P<0.05). Male participants from Asia and Africa preferred to attend online lectures during the mid-evening on weekends compared with women who were in favour of early evening sessions ( P<0.05).

Conclusion:

It must be borne in mind during the interpretation of the results that the data were collected during the COVID-19 pandemic. It is important to take into consideration the gender, age, cultural background and level of experience while setting up virtual orthodontic learning sessions. Organisers need to tailor their events to meet the needs of the attendees.
Innovative synthetic data augmentation for dam crack detection, segmentation, and quantification
Authors: Xu Jia , Yuan Cheng , Gu Jiaxuan , Liu Jian , An Jiong , Kong Qingzhao
Published: September 2022

Although deep-learning-based approaches have demonstrated impressive performance in object detection tasks, the requirement for large datasets of annotated training images limits the feasibility of deep neural networks. For example, obtaining a large number of crack images of a dam is unlikely, particularly in the absence of open-source datasets. To address this problem, the authors have developed three synthetic data generators based on virtual scene simulation and image processing for generating large amounts of labeled dam surface crack data. These synthetic data combined with public-available images of cracks on pavement and concrete are further used to train a state-of-the-art object detection neural network, resulting in a 29.2% improvement in the overall crack detection mean average precision (mAP) compared to using only images of cracks on pavement and concrete. Furthermore, given the necessity for further analysis of some critical cracks, an image-processing-based approach for segmenting the crack in each detected bounding box and estimating its length and thickness is provided.
New approach for multidimensional prognostic of stochastic time series based on sparse-based fractional Levy quaternion extended Kalman filter
Authors: Li Qing
Published: September 2022

Multidimensional data are frequently encountered in numerous industrial systems, standard techniques regarding statistical multichannel prognostic methods naturally cannot fully exploit and capture the coupled nature and spatiotemporal relationship of the available information among channels. To alleviate a bottleneck problem, in this paper, a new approach named sparse-based fractional Levy quaternion extended Kalman filter (SFLQEKF) is formulated for the prognostic of stochastic time series. Initially, the stochastic time series is decomposed into the static component and the dynamic component resorting to the piecewise representation through a new improved sparse low-rank matrix (SLRM) approximation algorithm namely singular value penalty resonance sparse signal decomposition (SVP-RSSD). Afterward, both static component and dynamic component are predicted individually through the proposed fractional Levy quaternion extended Kalman filter (FLQEKF) method, the final time series of interest can be obtained by integrating the predicted static- and dynamic components correspondingly, in which a new predictive derivation of the proposed FLQEKF model is formulated for the first time by considering fractional-order characteristic and Levy flight process damping term, hence the issue of oscillating indeterminacy induced from classical extended Kalman filter (EFK) can be addressed. Eventually, the prognostic behavior of the proposed approach is investigated via the stochastic time series conducted from two experimental cases, the predicted results illustrate the availability and applicability of the proposed approach compared with three state-of-the-art benchmarks.
Long-term structural health monitoring for bridge based on back propagation neural network and long and short-term memory
Authors: Li Shengang , Wang Wentao , Lu Bo , Du Xi , Dong Manman , Zhang Tianbiao , Bai Zifan
Published: September 2022

Bridges are critical components of transportation infrastructure. To ensure the long-term performance of bridges and the safety of the public, regular inspections are required during their service. Structural performance assessments are subject to various conditions. Structural deterioration is caused by complex environmental and operational conditions (EOCs) including temperature changes, truckloads, chemical corrosion, etc. In this study, an in-site structural health monitoring (SHM) system is designed and deployed on the Caohekou Bridge in China with a series of sensors installed, providing continuous real-time data for 4 years. Crack width, vertical deformation, concrete strains, temperature, longitudinal displacement and acceleration are monitored and assessed. Time-history monitoring data are comprehensively analysed to advance our understanding of structural deterioration caused by time and temperature. It is very common to lose data during the monitoring process, especially in the long-term run. To overcome the challenge of missing data package and to realize early warning, methods including an SHM systems face, a back propagation neural network and a long short-term memory are proposed to predict the bridge responses under the change of EOCs. It has been proved that the performance of predicted crack widths is close to that of the measured value, and the trend of change is consistent. Such results indicate that approaches proposed that quantitatively assess in-service structure are promising. Therefore, effective and efficient maintenance decisions can be made to ensure an immediate response, long-term safety and serviceability of bridge structures.
Three-Dimensional Printing Application in a Challenging Case of Type II Endoleak
Authors: Colacchio Elda Chiara , Berton Mariagiovanna , Volpe Alessandro , Guariento Alvise , Dall’Antonia Alberto , Antonello Michele
Published: September 2022

Purpose:

To highlight the importance of 3-dimensional (3D) arterial printing in a case of type II endoleak (EL) embolization.

Case Report:

An 81-year-old patient, previously treated with endovascular aortic repair (EVAR), developed a type II EL requiring treatment. The EL’s main origin was the median sacral artery (MSA). Initial attempts in embolization via a transsealing and transarterial approach were unsuccessful owing to extremely tortuous arterial communications between the left hypogastric artery and the MSA. The construction of a clear resin 3D model of the aorta and iliolumbar arteries improved anatomy understanding and moreover allowed a preoperative simulation. The subsequent transarterial attempt in embolization was resolutive, significantly reducing total procedural time and radiation dose.

Conclusion:

Printing of clear resin 3D arterial models facilitates type II EL transarterial embolization, improving anatomy understanding and allowing simple fluoroscopy-free simulations.

Clinical Impact

The aim of our work is to highlight the additional value of three-dimensional (3D) printing during preoperative planning of challenging endovascular cases. To our best knowledge, this is the first report about 3D printing use in a case of type II endoleak (EL). We believe that realizing life-size aortic models in selected cases where a complex type II EL embolization procedure is indicated, could lead to a better understanding of arterial anatomy, thus allowing to increase procedural success and reduce operative and most importantly fluoroscopy time.
Styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene copolymer/carbon nanotubes composite fiber based strain sensor with wide sensing range and high linearity for human motion detection
Authors: Li Lele , Li Dongliang , Sun Baojie , Zhou Yanfen , Ma Jianwei , Chen Shaojuan , Jiang Liang , Zhou Feng-Lei
Published: September 2022

Flexible strain sensors have attracted extensive attention due to their potential applications in wearable electronics and health monitoring. However, it is still a challenge to obtain flexible strain sensors with both high stretchability and wide linear strain sensing range. In this study, styrene-ethylene-butadiene-styrene copolymer/carbon nanotubes (SEBS/CNTs) composite fiber which showed both electrical conductivity and high stretchability was fabricated through a scalable wet spinning method. The effect of CNTs content on the strain sensing behavior of the SEBS/CNTs fiber based strain sensor was investigated. The results showed that when the CNTs content reached 7 wt%, the SEBS/CNTs composite fiber was capable of sensing strains as high as 500.20% and showed a wide linear strain sensing range of 0-500.2% with a gauge factor (GF) of 38.57. Combining high stretchability, high linearity and reliable stability, the SEBS/CNTs composite fiber based strain sensor had the ability to monitor the activities of different human body parts including hand, wrist, elbow, shoulder and knee.
Current Status and Prospects of Clinical Treatment of Osteosarcoma
Authors: Jiang Zong-Yuan , Liu Ji-Bin , Wang Xiao-Feng , Ma Yu-Shui , Fu Da
Published: September 2022

Osteosarcoma, one of the common malignant tumors in the skeletal system, originates in mesenchymal tissue, and the most susceptible area of occurrence is the metaphysis with its abundant blood supply. Tumors are characterized by highly malignant spindle stromal cells that can produce bone-like tissue. Most of the osteosarcoma are primary, and a few are secondary. Osteosarcoma occurs primarily in children and adolescents undergoing vigorous bone growth and development. Most cases involve rapid tumor development and early blood metastasis. In recent years, research has grown in the areas of molecular biology, imaging medicine, biological materials, applied anatomy, surgical techniques, biomechanics, and comprehensive treatment of tumors. With developments in molecular biology and tissue bioengineering, treatment methods have also made great progress, especially in comprehensive limb salvage treatment, which significantly enhances the quality of life after surgery and improves the 5-year survival rate of patients with malignant tumors. This article provides a review of limb salvage, immunotherapy, gene therapy, and targeted therapy from traditional amputation to neoadjuvant chemotherapy, providing a reference for current clinical treatments for osteosarcoma.
Predictive Value of FNA-Tg and TgAb in Cervical Lymph Node Metastasis of Papillary Thyroid Carcinoma
Authors: Wu Xiaoli , Liu Yan , Li Keji , Yang Yinghong , Lai Ping , Li Jing , Kou Sen
Published: September 2022

Objectives: To analyze whether thyroglobulin (Tg) and anti-Tg antibody (TgAb) detection in fine-needle aspiration (FNA) of cervical lymph node (LN; LN-FNA-Tg and LN-FNA-TgAb) can predict LN metastasis and obtain the best cutoff value. Methods: The patients admitted to our hospital from January 2020 to March 2021 were prospectively enrolled. The LNs were sampled by FNA. All patients underwent thyroid surgery and neck dissection. LN-FNA-Tg, LN-FNA-TgAb, and blood Tg and TgAb were measured. The receiver operating characteristic curve analysis was used to determine the best cutoff points for positive LN. Results: There were 29 participants in the LN metastasis group and 42 in the nonmetastasis group. Compared with the nonmetastasis group, the participants in the metastasis group had higher LN-FNA-Tg (median: 1897 vs 7.74 ng/mL, P < .001), higher LN-FNA-TgAb (median: 15.65 vs 8.21 IU/mL, P < .001), and higher serum Tg (median: 25.4 vs 18.81 ng/mL); there were no differences in serum TgAb (median: 26.6 vs 28.6 IU/mL, P = .477). The best accuracy (87.5%) was observed with LN-FNA-Tg of >227.1 ng/mL, resulting in an area under the curve of 0.927, 84.5% sensitivity, and 89.5% specificity. LN-FNA-TgAb >10.85 IS/mL had an accuracy of 79.6%, sensitivity 64.8%, and specificity 89.5%. Serum Tg and TgAb had the lowest accuracy, with 64.2% and 57.4%, respectively, sensitivity of 53.5% and 67.6%, and specificity of 71.4% and 50.5%. Similar results were observed in first-operation participants and postoperative participants. Conclusions: LN-FNA-Tg has high accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity for detecting cervical LN in patients with papillary thyroid cancer.
Postauricular Incision Versus Modified Blair Incision in Parotidectomy: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tsao Yu-Ning , Ho Che-Fang , Hsin Li-Jen , Yang Shih-Wei , Tsai Yao-Te , Tsai Ming-Shao , Lee Yi-Chan
Published: September 2022

Objective

The mainstay of first-line treatment of parotid tumors is adequate surgical removal. The present study was conducted to compare the differences between parotidectomy with postauricular incision (PI) and modified Blair incision (MBI).

Data Sources

A systematic search of PubMed, Embase and the Cochrane Library was performed.

Methods

The data of interest and study characteristics were extracted from the included studies. Statistical analysis was performed with Comprehensive Meta-Analysis software (version 3; BioStat, Englewood, NJ). Dichotomous data and continuous data were analyzed by calculating the risk difference and the mean difference with the 95% confidence interval respectively.

Results

Four retrospective studies were included in the present meta-analysis. The pooled results revealed that the cosmetic satisfaction score was higher in the PI group (MD = 2.67; 95% CI, 2.12 to 3.23) and that intraoperative blood loss was lower in the PI group (MD =  −55.35; 95% CI, −100.33 to −10.36). The operative duration (MD  =  −5.15; 95% CI, −24.06 to 13.75), tumor size (MD  =  −.07; 95% CI, −.27 to .13) and incidences of common postoperative complications were comparable between the two groups.

Conclusions

According to these findings, the use of PI in parotidectomies may be one of the options for improving cosmetic outcomes. This technique may be considered if oncological safety can be secured.
Phytochemicals That Interfere With Drug Metabolism and Transport, Modifying Plasma Concentration in Humans and Animals
Authors: Gómez-Garduño Josefina , León-Rodríguez Renato , Alemón-Medina Radamés , Pérez-Guillé Beatriz E. , Soriano-Rosales Rosa E. , González-Ortiz Ailema , Chávez-Pacheco Juan L. , Solorio-López Edelmira , Fernandez-Pérez Paola , Rivera-Espinosa Liliana
Published: September 2022

Phytochemicals (Pch) present in fruits, vegetables and other foods, are known to inhibit or induce drug metabolism and transport. An exhaustive search was performed in five databases covering from 2000 to 2021. Twenty-one compounds from plants were found to modulate CYP3A and/or P-gp activities and modified the pharmacokinetics and the therapeutic effect of 27 different drugs. Flavonols, flavanones, flavones, stilbenes, diferuloylmethanes, tannins, protoalkaloids, flavans, hyperforin and terpenes, reduce plasma concentration of cyclosporine, simvastatin, celiprolol, midazolam, saquinavir, buspirone, everolimus, nadolol, tamoxifen, alprazolam, verapamil, quazepam, digoxin, fexofenadine, theophylline, indinavir, clopidogrel. Anthocyanins, flavonols, flavones, flavanones, flavonoid glycosides, stilbenes, diferuloylmethanes, catechin, hyperforin, alkaloids, terpenes, tannins and protoalkaloids increase of plasma concentration of buspirone, losartan, diltiazem, felodipine, midazolam, cyclosporine, triazolam, verapamil, carbamazepine, diltiazem, aripiprazole, tamoxifen, doxorubicin, paclitaxel, nicardipine. Interactions between Pchs and drugs affect the gene expression and enzymatic activity of CYP3A and P-gp transporter, which has an impact on their bioavailability; such that co-administration of drugs with food, beverages and food supplements can cause a subtherapeutic effect or overdose. Therefore, it is important for the clinician to consider these interactions to obtain a better therapeutic effect.
Radiation Response of Human Leukemia/Lymphoma Cells was Improved by 7-Geranyloxycoumarin
Authors: Bagheri Ramin , Rassouli Fatemeh B. , Gholamhosseinian Hamid , Ebrahimi Keyhan , Mahdavi Shakiba , Goudarzi Sajad , Iranshahi Mehrdad , Rafatpanah Houshang , Keramati Mohammad Reza
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Adult T-cell leukemia/lymphoma (ATLL) is a blood neoplasm with specific geographic distribution. Although radiotherapy is a palliative treatment that provides long-term local control, single use of radiation leads to complications for patients. To introduce a novel multimodal approach against ATLL, we investigated combinatorial effects of 7-geranyloxycoumarin and radiation in vitro.

Methods

Viability of MT-2 cells was determined by resazurin assay upon administration of 7-geranyloxycoumarin alone and followed by radiation. Then, apoptosis was detected by annexin V and propidium iodide, and the expression of candidate genes was analyzed by qPCR.

Results

Findings revealed significant (P<.0001) improvement in radiation effects upon 7-geranyloxycoumarin pretreatment, most notably when cells were pretreated with 5 µg/ml 7-geranyloxycoumarin for 96 h, exposed to 6 Gy radiation and recovered for 48 h. These results were confirmed by flow cytometry, as the percentage of early and late apoptotic cells was increased after combinatorial treatment. In addition, significant (P< .0001) changes in CD44, c-MYC, cFLIPL, BMI-1, NF-κB ( Rel A), and P53 expression was induced by 7-geranyloxycoumarin and radiation.

Conclusions

Current research indicated, for the first time, that combinatorial use of 7-geranyloxycoumarin and ionizing radiation could be considered as an effective therapeutic modality for ATLL.
Eye movements reveal that low confidence precedes deliberation
Authors: Purcell Zoe A , Wastell Colin A , Sweller Naomi
Published: September 2022

Contemporary dual-process models of reasoning maintain that there are two types of thinking –intuitive and deliberative –and that low confidence often leads to deliberation. Previous studies examining the confidence -deliberation relationship have been limited by (1) issues of endogeneity and between-subject comparisons, which we address in this study through debias training and (2) measures of confidence that are taken relatively late in the reasoning process, which we address by measuring confidence via real-time eye-tracking. Self-reported and eye-tracked confidence were both negatively related to deliberative thinking. This finding provides new evidence of the timecourse of the confidence -deliberation relationship and reveals that lowered confidence precedes deliberation.
Two New Abietane Diterpenes From the Stems of Clerodendrum trichotomum Thunb
Authors: Li Lin-Zhen , Zhang Yu , Chen Liang , Cen Yin-Zhi , Tu Yang-Li , Yang Xiao-Sheng , Li Yong-Jun
Published: September 2022

Two new abietane diterpenoids (4 S, 5 S, 10 S)-12-( β-D-glucopyranosyl)oxy-11-hydroxyabieta-8,11,13-triene-19-oic acid β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→6)- β-D-glucopyranosyl ester (1) and (3 S, 5 S, 10 S, 15 S)-3 β-[ β-D-glucopyranosyl-(1→6)- β-D-glucopyranosyl]oxy-12-( β-D-glucopyranosyl)oxyabieta-8,11,13-triene-11,16-diol (2), along with 5 known terpene glycosides (3–7) were isolated from the n-butanol extract of the stems of Clerodendrum trichotomum Thunb. The structures of the new compounds were determined by analysis of spectroscopic data, chemical correlations, and electronic circular dichroism calculations. Besides, all compounds were evaluated for cytotoxic activities against cultured K562, MCF-7, A549, and HepG2 cell lines. None of them showed good antitumor activities.
Effect of Agave Americana fibers content on morphology and mechanical, rheological, and thermal properties of poly(3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) biocomposites
Authors: Idres Celia , Kaci Mustapha , Dehouche Nadjet , Lainé Carole , Bruzaud Stéphane
Published: September 2022

Green biocomposites based on poly (3-hydroxybutyrate-co-3-hydroxyhexanoate) (PHBHHx) reinforced with Agave Americana fibers (AAF) were elaborated by melt compounding at various fiber content ratios, that is, 10, 20, and 30 wt.%. Morphology before and after tensile testing, rheological, viscoelastic, mechanical, and thermal properties of the biocomposite samples were investigated with respect to the AAF content. Tensile and DMA data showed a significant increase in both Young’s modulus and storage modulus of PHBHHx biocomposites with the AAF content, however, more relevant at 30 wt.%. However, a slight decrease in tensile strength and strain at break was observed, while thermal stability remained almost unchanged whatever the AAF content. The study highlighted the reinforcement effect of AAF in PHBHHx biocomposite materials, in particular at filler content of 30 wt. %.
In situ regeneration of nasal septal defects using acellular cartilage enhanced with platelet-derived growth factor
Authors: Huber Lena , Gvaramia David , Kern Johann , Jakob Yvonne , Zoellner Frank G , Hirsch Daniela , Breiter Roman , Brenner Rolf E , Rotter Nicole
Published: September 2022

Nasal septum defects can currently only be reconstructed using autologous cartilage grafts. In this study, we examine the reconstruction of septal cartilage defects in a rabbit model using porcine decellularized nasal septal cartilage (DNSC) functionalized with recombinant platelet-derived growth factor-BB (PDFG-BB). The supportive function of the transplanted DNSC was estimated by the degree of septum deviation and shrinkage using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The biocompatibility of the transplanted scaffolds was evaluated by histology according to international standards. A study group with an autologous septal transplant was used as a reference. In situ regeneration of cartilage defects was assessed by histological evaluation 4 and 16 weeks following DNSC transplantation. A study group with non-functionalized DNSC was introduced for estimation of the effects of PDFG-BB functionalization. DNSC scaffolds provided sufficient structural support to the nasal septum, with no significant shrinkage or septal deviations as evaluated by the MRI. Biocompatibility analysis after 4 weeks revealed an increased inflammatory reaction of the surrounding tissue in response to DNSC as compared to the autologous transplants. The inflammatory reaction was, however, significantly attenuated after 16 weeks in the PDGF-BB group whereas only a slight improvement of the biocompatibility score was observed in the untreated group. In situ regeneration of septal cartilage, as evidenced by the degradation of the DNSC matrix and production of neocartilage, was observed in both experimental groups after 16 weeks but was more pronounced in the PDFG-BB group. Overall, DNSC provided structural support to the nasal septum and stimulated in situ regeneration of the cartilage tissue. Furthermore, PDFG-BB augmented the regenerative potential of DNSC and enhanced the healing process, as demonstrated by reduced inflammation after 16 weeks.
Understanding ethnic minority service user experiences of being invited to and attending group pain programmes: A qualitative service evaluation
Authors: Bull Eleanor , Young Dore , Etchebarne Andre , Malpus Zoey
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Health inequalities continue to exist for individuals from an ethnic minority background who live with chronic pain. There is a growing recognition that an individual’s experience of pain is shaped by their cultural beliefs, which may influence their decisions about managing their pain.

Aims

This service evaluation aimed to (a) understand experiences of service users from a Black, Asian or other ethnic minority background of being invited to and attending a group pain programme in one secondary care pain rehabilitation service. (b) Provide recommendations to develop culturally grounded services to better meet the diverse needs of all service users living with chronic pain.

Method

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with five service users who had been offered a place on a group pain programme within the last 3 years. The interviews were recorded and transcribed verbatim. An interpretative phenomenological analysis was used to identify themes in the data.

Results

The analysis produced three themes (1) Pain, Ethnicity and Coping: Perceptions of pain and coping in relation to ethnicity and intersectional factors, alignment to a self-management approach. (2) Communication for Decisions: Experiences of ethnicity and culture in relation to health professional communication about group pain programmes, participants’ expectations and fears. (3) Feeling Included: Experiences of feeling included or excluded in group pain programme, relationships and empowerment during the group pain programme.

Discussion

The five service users shared a range of perspectives on how they felt ethnicity shaped their experience of the group pain programme. The findings suggest that adaptations to group pain programmes can make a meaningful difference for service users from ethnic minority backgrounds. 10 recommendations are suggested, including greater exploration of cultural beliefs during assessment, improving accessibility of information about the service and engaging more diverse attendees and facilitators.