bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
2021 Frank Stinchfield Award: A novel cemented hip hemiarthroplasty infection model with real-time in vivo imaging in rats
Authors: Hadden William J. , Ibrahim Mazen , Taha Mariam , Ure Kerstin , Liu Yun , Paish Adam D. M. , Holdsworth David W. , Abdelbary Hesham
Published: July 2021

Aims

The aims of this study were to develop an in vivo model of periprosthetic joint infection (PJI) in cemented hip hemiarthroplasty, and to monitor infection and biofilm formation in real-time.

Methods

Sprague-Dawley rats underwent cemented hip hemiarthroplasty via the posterior approach with pre- and postoperative gait assessments. Infection with Staphylococcus aureus Xen36 was monitored with in vivo photoluminescent imaging in real-time. Pre- and postoperative gait analyses were performed and compared. Postmortem micro (m) CT was used to assess implant integration; field emission scanning electron microscopy (FE-SEM) was used to assess biofilm formation on prosthetic surfaces.

Results

All animals tolerated surgery well, with preservation of gait mechanics and weightbearing in control individuals. Postoperative in vivo imaging demonstrated predictable evolution of infection with logarithmic signal decay coinciding with abscess formation. Postmortem mCT qualitative volumetric analysis showed high contact area and both cement-bone and cement-implant interdigitation. FE-SEM revealed biofilm formation on the prosthetic head.

Conclusion

This study demonstrates the utility of a new, high-fidelity model of in vivo PJI using cemented hip hemiarthroplasty in rats. Inoculation with bioluminescent bacteria allows for non-invasive, real-time monitoring of infection. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):9–16.
2021 Otto Aufranc Award: A simple Hip-Spine Classification for total hip arthroplasty
Authors: Vigdorchik Jonathan M. , Sharma Abhinav K. , Buckland Aaron J. , Elbuluk Ameer M. , Eftekhary Nima , Mayman David J. , Carroll Kaitlin M. , Jerabek Seth A.
Published: July 2021

Aims

Patients with spinal pathology who undergo total hip arthroplasty (THA) have an increased risk of dislocation and revision. The aim of this study was to determine if the use of the Hip-Spine Classification system in these patients would result in a decreased rate of postoperative dislocation in patients with spinal pathology.

Methods

This prospective, multicentre study evaluated 3,777 consecutive patients undergoing THA by three surgeons, between January 2014 and December 2019. They were categorized using The Hip-Spine Classification system: group 1 with normal spinal alignment; group 2 with a flatback deformity, group 2A with normal spinal mobility, and group 2B with a stiff spine. Flatback deformity was defined by a pelvic incidence minus lumbar lordosis of > 10°, and spinal stiffness was defined by < 10° change in sacral slope from standing to seated. Each category determined a patient-specific component positioning. Survivorship free of dislocation was recorded and spinopelvic measurements were compared for reliability using intraclass correlation coefficient.

Results

A total of 2,081 patients met the inclusion criteria. There were 987 group 1A, 232 group 1B, 715 group 2A, and 147 group 2B patients. A total of 70 patients had a lumbar fusion, most had L4-5 (16; 23%) or L4-S1 (12; 17%) fusions; 51 patients (73%) had one or two levels fused, and 19 (27%) had > three levels fused. Dual mobility (DM) components were used in 166 patients (8%), including all of those in group 2B and with > three level fusions. Survivorship free of dislocation at five years was 99.2% with a 0.8% dislocation rate. The correlation coefficient was 0.83 (95% confidence interval 0.89 to 0.91).

Conclusion

This is the largest series in the literature evaluating the relationship between hip-spine pathology and dislocation after THA, and guiding appropriate treatment. The Hip-Spine Classification system allows surgeons to make appropriate evaluations preoperatively, and it guides the use of DM components in patients with spinopelvic pathology in order to reduce the risk of dislocation in these high-risk patients. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):17–24.
Primary total hip arthroplasty via the direct anterior approach in the lateral decubitus position
Authors: Lawrie Charles M. , Bechtold Daniel , Schwabe Maria , Clohisy John C.
Published: July 2021

Aims

The direct anterior approach (DAA) for total hip arthroplasty (THA) has potential advantages over other approaches and is most commonly performed with the patient in the supine position. We describe a technique for DAA THA with the patient in the lateral decubitus position and report the early clinical and radiological outcomes, the characteristics of the learning curve, and perioperative complications.

Methods

All primary DAA THAs performed in the lateral position by a single surgeon over a four-year period from the surgeon’s first case using the technique were identified from a prospectively collected database. Modified Harris Hip Scores (mHHS) were collected to assess clinical outcome, and routine radiological analysis was performed. Retrospective review of the medical records identified perioperative complications, the characteristics of the learning curve, and revisions.

Results

A total of 257 patients were included in the study. Their mean age was 60 years (SD 9.0). A total of 164 (64%) were female. The mean mHHS improved significantly from 52.1 (SD 16.2) preoperatively to 94.4 (SD 11) at a follow-up of one year (p < 0.001), with 212 of 225 patients (94%) achieving a minimal clinically important difference (MCID) (> 8 points). Radiological evaluation showed a mean leg length discrepancy of 2.6 mm (SD 5.9) and a mean difference in femoral offset of 0.2 mm (SD 4.9). A total of 234/243 acetabular components (96.3%) were positioned within Lewinnek’s safe zone. Analysis of operating time, blood loss, the position of the components, and complications did not identify a learning curve. A total of 14 patients (5.4%) had a major perioperative complication and three (1.2%) required revision THA. There were no major neurovascular complications and no dislocations.

Conclusion

We have described and analyzed a surgical technique for undertaking DAA THA in the familiar lateral decubitus position using a routine operating table, positioning devices, and instrumentation, and shown that it can be performed safely and effectively under these circumstances. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):53–58.
Inhibition of PAD4 mediated neutrophil extracellular traps prevents fibrotic osseointegration failure in a tibial implant murine model
Authors: Kuyl Emile-Victor , Shu Fei , Sosa Branden R. , Lopez Juan D. , Qin Di , Pannellini Tania , Ivashkiv Lionel B. , Greenblatt Matthew B. , Bostrom Mathias P. G. , Yang Xu
Published: July 2021

Aims

Aseptic loosening is a leading cause of uncemented arthroplasty failure, often accompanied by fibrotic tissue at the bone-implant interface. A biological target, neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), was investigated as a crucial connection between the innate immune system’s response to injury, fibrotic tissue development, and proper bone healing. Prevalence of NETs in peri-implant fibrotic tissue from aseptic loosening patients was assessed. A murine model of osseointegration failure was used to test the hypothesis that inhibition (through Pad4-/- mice that display defects in peptidyl arginine deiminase 4 (PAD4), an essential protein required for NETs) or resolution (via DNase 1 treatment, an enzyme that degrades the cytotoxic DNA matrix) of NETs can prevent osseointegration failure and formation of peri-implant fibrotic tissue.

Methods

Patient peri-implant fibrotic tissue was analyzed for NETs biomarkers. To enhance osseointegration in loose implant conditions, an innate immune system pathway (NETs) was either inhibited ( Pad4-/- mice) or resolved with a pharmacological agent (DNase 1) in a murine model of osseointegration failure.

Results

NETs biomarkers were identified in peri-implant fibrotic tissue collected from aseptic loosening patients and at the bone-implant interface in a murine model of osseointegration failure. Inhibition ( Pad4-/- ) or resolution (DNase 1) of NETs improved osseointegration and reduced fibrotic tissue despite loose implant conditions in mice.

Conclusion

This study identifies a biological target (NETs) for potential noninvasive treatments of aseptic loosening by discovering a novel connection between the innate immune system and post-injury bone remodelling caused by implant loosening. By inhibiting or resolving NETs in an osseointegration failure murine model, fibrotic tissue encapsulation around an implant is reduced and osseointegration is enhanced, despite loose implant conditions. Cite this article: Bone Joint J 2021;103-B(7 Supple B):135–144.
Locked down but not shut down: what lessons can we learn from lockdown?
Authors: Rintoul-Hoad Sophie
Published: July 2021

Reflections of time spent in lockdown and quarantine, and self-isolation in the UK and Australia.
A phenomenological exploration of the lived experiences of orthopaedic surgeons during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Calder SJ , Lawson L , Calder PR
Published: July 2021

INTRODUCTION

Following the UK government ordering a hard stop of all elective operating within the NHS in March of 2020, the Royal National Orthopaedic Hospital was converted into a trauma centre serving the North Central London region and neighbouring trusts. The aim of this study was to explore the impact on the surgeons’ well-being and performance during this stressful time.

METHODOLOGY

A descriptive phenomenological approach was used for this study. Eight participants were purposefully selected and informed consent was given by each participant. Semi-structured interviews were undertaken using open questions and probes to stimulate discussion. Colaizzi’s 7 step framework for thematic analysis was used to identify codes and common themes.

RESULTS

Five main themes were identified. These included: the impact of fear, fear of using personal protective equipment, stress relating to leadership and professionalism of the surgeon, the need for peer support and response to change.

CONCLUSIONS

This study confirms common areas of concern and anxiety raised by all the surgeons interviewed. The participants developed several coping strategies, including peer support, which has previously been identified as the most important approach in dealing with difficult circumstances. Stress relating to the need for surgical leadership, demonstrated by the rapid organisation of the hospital from a purely elective site to a trauma centre is highlighted. What was apparent from the narratives of the participants was that despite the stress and anxiety felt by them, they remained humble and proud to remain as orthopaedic surgeons treating patients during this difficult time.
Telephone clinics for follow-up in hand surgery: an effective model after COVID-19?
Authors: Hendrickson SA , Witt P , Watts A
Published: July 2021

Introduction

Telephone clinics were adopted for follow-up appointments in our plastic hand surgery department during the COVID-19 pandemic. They may pose advantages in cost, efficiency and environmental impact compared with face-to-face consultations. The aim of this study was to assess the success rate of telephone clinics in hand surgery to determine benefit of continuing the practice.

Methods

A prospective cohort study of all hand surgery follow-up telephone clinics was conducted over a six-week period. The primary outcome measure was success of the consultation, defined as achieving the same outcome as could have been achieved in a face-to-face clinic. Secondary outcome measures included duration and environmental impact.

Results

During the study period, 177 consultations were scheduled. Twenty-nine patients (16%) were not contactable. Of the remaining 148 consultations, 111 (75%) had a successful outcome. The highest success rate (85%) was achieved for first postoperative consultations when the patient had already received hand therapy. On average, consultations lasted 8 minutes but required an additional 16 minutes of preparation, documentation and administrative work. An estimated 5,939km of patient travel (1.25 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions) were saved during the study period.

Conclusions

The rate of successful outcomes following telephone consultation in our cohort of patients was lower than for face-to-face clinics. However, the service was set up with little time for preparation. The success rate and duration could be improved with appropriate patient selection, especially for those who have undergone straightforward operative procedures. The duration of consultations and the ‘did not attend’ rate should reduce as administrative processes improve.
Prescribing antibiotics in an urgent dental care service during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Chandrasekara Brontё , Patel Vikash , Nathwani Shrina , Rahman Naomi , Kandiah Thayalan
Published: July 2021

Introduction

There was a notable increase in dental antibiotic prescribing during the first wave of the COVID-19 pandemic. During this time, the dental and maxillofacial department at East Surrey Hospital opened an urgent dental care service to adapt to demands placed on community services. There were also growing concerns around antimicrobial resistance, initiating an investigation of the use of antibiotics, which continues to be a vital public health issue. The aim of this audit was to assess the compliance of antibiotic prescribing with Scottish Dental Clinical Effectiveness Programme guidance as well as evaluating the adequacy of record keeping.

Methods

AData were collected retrospectively from all patients triaged by the East Surrey Hospital urgent dental care service between 8 April and 24 July 2020. The Faculty of General Dental Practice (UK) antibiotic prescribing audit tool was modified and used for data collection and analysis.

Results

A total of 335 patients were triaged while East Surrey Hospital operated the urgent dental care. During this period, 38 patients were prescribed antibiotics (which was a 17% decrease compared with the same time period during 2019). Twenty-seven of these patients had prescription records that were clearly legible and so were included in our audit. There was 74% compliance with the gold standard in appropriate antibiotic prescribing.

Conclusions

The majority of the antibiotic prescriptions authorised by East Surrey Hospital were deemed compliant with national guidance. It is reasonable to consider interventions for greater compliance with the gold standard in order to maintain high quality care for patients. Appropriate use of antibiotics is mandatory to prevent future antibiotic resistance.
Accepting the COVID-19 vaccine: supporting informed decision making
Authors: Virdee Jaspreet , Garcha Prabjot , Savla Adesh , Koshal Sonita
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The COVID-19 vaccination programme is intended to protect public health (particularly those at increased risk of developing severe disease with COVID-19) and to relieve the pressures on the National Health Service. This paper discusses the uptake and attitudes of staff working in a London teaching hospital towards receiving the COVID-19 vaccine while considering measures to support informed decision making.

Methods

An online survey was used to collect demographic information and opinions of staff across all divisions of the Royal National Ear, Nose and Throat and Eastman Dental Hospitals.

Results

Vaccine safety, long-term effects and information on social media were frequently reported concerns from staff choosing to decline a COVID-19 vaccine at this time. Addressing misinformation, conspiracy theories and inequality surrounding the pandemic should be central in supporting population groups in receiving the benefits of vaccination. Focus groups and tailored clinics to discuss vaccine concerns have provided a safe environment for staff at the trust to address these concerns.

Conclusions

Success of a vaccine programme depends on public confidence and willingness to participate. There is a need to ensure that population groups are adequately educated about the safety of approved vaccines in order to support informed decision making.
Can dental students increase oral health knowledge of the homeless population?
Authors: Chandrasekara Brontё , Carnley Annabel , Csikar Julia
Published: July 2021

Introduction

The number of homeless individuals in the UK is rising. Their oral health is poorer than that of the general population, and they have a low level of knowledge about accessing dental services and how to maintain their oral health. The aim of this study was to determine whether a dental student-led oral health intervention is feasible and acceptable, and whether it produces oral health knowledge gain in those experiencing homelessness.

Methods

Participants were recruited from St George’s Crypt Care Centre in Leeds and took part in a one-to-one evidence-based oral health promotion intervention. The participants completed questionnaires both before and after the intervention. Acceptability feedback forms were used to assess participants’ motivation regarding the intervention. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics.

Results

Data from 30 participants showed a mean knowledge gain of 37 percentage points (p<0.001). The feedback forms demonstrated that all participants found the session useful, with 29 participants (97%) planning to change their oral routine. Similarly, 26 participants (87%) were more motivated to find an NHS dentist.

Conclusions

This study demonstrates that an oral health promotion intervention led by dental students is feasible and increases the (short-term) knowledge of homeless people. It was also reported to be a motivator to find an NHS dentist. It would be useful to repeat the study on a larger scale using a variety of homeless shelters, increasing reliability and validity. Further research is required to assess longer-term intervention by dental students and the potential impact on the oral health of people experiencing homelessness as well as their health seeking behaviours.
Post-Earning Announcement Drift and Value-Glamour Anomalies in NSE Listed Firms
Authors: Gupta Pankaj Kumar , Dhusia Devendra Kumar
Published: July 2021

Purpose of the article: Of the various market anomalies, the Value-Glamour anomaly and Post-Earnings Announcement Drifts (PEAD) have consistently attracted the attention of researchers. Prior studies have established that the reaction of value stocks and glamour stocks to the earnings announcement differs significantly and there is a close relationship between the PEAD and abnormal returns arising due to earning announcement surprises. We have studied the drift patterns of various value and glamour portfolios and tested whether the direction of the earnings announcement abnormal return is opposite to that of earnings surprise in the Indian market.Methodology: We use the statistics of 100 firms listed on the NSE for a sample period of 2014–2018. We use a set of 1130 observations analysed using the expectations formation approach around earnings and evaluate the post earnings announcement drift. We use the Earnings Response Coefficients to find the association between abnormal stock returns and earnings surprises.Scientific aim: The aim of this research is to improve the knowledge of market anomalies in developing markets such as India focusing on the impact of earnings announcement on growth and value stocks.Findings: We find that a negative association of abnormal stock returns with surprise in accounting earnings announcements. The stocks, which are overvalued or undervalued, are properly priced after the earnings announcements. Our results refute the earlier studies evidencing the strong support in favour of market inefficiency in the Indian context, particularly with respect to publicly available earnings information.Conclusions: The Indian stock market tends to be efficient with respect to earnings announcements and therefore does not produce excessive returns. However, a heterogeneity with respect to earnings announcement may exist among the category of stocks depending upon liquidity position. Superior returns cannot be derived by traders and investors on a consistent basis from value-glamour anomaly.
Customer Experience Management: Underexplored Instrument for Customer Transformation
Authors: Havíř David
Published: July 2021

Purpose of the article: The purpose of this article is to identify the role the customer experience plays in the transformation of the customer and to develop a theory that brings together related concepts in order to position the phenomenon of customer experience in the macromarketing context.Methodology/methods: The grounded theory development approach is based upon the sequential search and content analysis of the research papers acquired primarily from Scopus and Web of Science databases and by the process of citation chaining.Scientific aim: The aim of this article is to identify customer experience related concepts and relationships between them to lay the foundation for empirical research in the area of customer experience and transformation management.Findings: The research points out to the significant role of the customer experience in the transformation of the customer and therefore to the necessity to approach marketing initiatives to customer experience management thoroughly to achieve the desired marketing results, but also responsibly and ethically to promote growth not the degradation of the society.Conclusions: The cycle of the customer transformation as outlined through the conceptual model contains weak spots which can provide free space for negative effects of the company’s outputs on the customer. The trend of digitisation and digital products can significantly amplify this possibility and increase the overall negative effect. From another standpoint, several problematic spots can cause difficulties for companies intentionally trying to transform the customer through their outputs, namely intent-result gap, reality-perception gap, single-part gap, and experience-memory gap.Scientific research in this area might support the effectiveness of marketing initiatives, increase transparency in the field of customer experience and transformation, and lead to increased customers’ well-being, long-term happiness, life satisfaction, and quality of life.
Efficacy and safety of platinum chain and gold weight implants for paralytic lagophthalmos: a systematic review
Authors: Irawati Yunia , Gondhowiardjo Tjahjono Darminto , Soebono Hardyanto
Published: July 2021

BACKGROUND Surgery has been proposed as a treatment of paralytic lagophthalmos. However, no consensus has been reached on the best treatment. This study was aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety between platinum chain and gold weight implants to treat paralytic lagophthalmos. METHODS This study used all randomized controlled trials or observational studies (prospective or retrospective) using platinum chain and gold weight implants for paralytic lagophthalmos surgery that were published from 1990 to 2020 in the PubMed, Cochrane, and Google Scholar databases. Efficacy was indicated by the reduction of ≥3 in lagophthalmos, and safety was measured based on complications after surgery. RESULTS The efficacy of platinum chain and gold weight implants were 60–100% and 10–93.6%, respectively. The complications of platinum chain implant were 0–2.9% of extrusion and 0–3.3% of migration. However, gold weight implant had 0–13.3% of migration. CONCLUSIONS Both platinum chain and gold weight implants have similar efficacy to treat paralytic lagophthalmos. However, gold weight implant has a higher rate of complication.
Systematics of Lutetian Larger Foraminifera and magneto-biostratigraphy from the South Pyrenean Basin (Sierras Exteriores, Spain)
Authors: Silva-Casal Roi , Serra-Kiel Josep , Rodriguez-Pintó Adriana , Pueyo Emilio L , Aurell Marcos , Payros Aitor
Published: July 2021

An extense systematic description of the Eocene larger foraminiferal faunas recorded in the South Pyrenean Basin (Sierras Exteriores) is presented herein. The large dataset provided in this work includes both Nummulites and Alveolina species, along with a variety of other porcellaneous and hyaline taxa with lesser biostratigraphic relevance, are represented. The larger foraminifera described in this work correspond mainly to the Lutetian (SBZ13 to SBZ16 biozones) interval, but late Ypresian (SBZ11, Cuisian) and Bartonian (SBZ17) shallow benthic zones have also been identified.As one of the most relevant results of this systematic analysis, a new species, Idalina osquetaensis, is described. The systematic revision of middle to late Lutetian alveolines led to a reassessment of A. fusiformis and the finding of two new precursor forms, described as affinis of their corresponding species, A. aff. fragilis and A. aff. elongata. The new forms A. aff. elongata and A. aff. fragilis fill the gap in the middle to late Lutetian alveolinid biostratigraphy. Despite not being exclusive to SBZ16, these new forms provide realiable biostratigraphic information where Nummulites are not present. This realibility lies on the correlation of Nummulites and Alveolina biomarkers in the same sections and their calibration to the global time scale through magnetostratigraphy. In fact, magnetostratigraphic calibration of all described taxa is also provided, along with an update of the SBZ calibration to the current Geologic Time Scale (Gradstein et al., 2012).
Wayward academia—Wild, Connected, and Solitary Diffractions in Everyday Praxis
Authors: Oinas Elina
Published: July 2021

In this article, I study the everyday conduct of pedagogies in the wild in contemporary academia by means of an analysis of modes of attention in random “thicker ‘moments’of spacetimemattering” (Barad, 2014, p. 169). These modes are discussed with the help of the notion of diffraction. I identify three modes of attention—the solitary, the connected, and the wild—that manifest themselves mainly as tensions between several modes. The study leads me to suggest that critical feminist scholarship explicitly aiming to disrupt and trouble normative academia often reproduces competitive, nervous practices, linear onto-epistemologies, and the commodification of both scholars and scholarship. These scholarly practices occur among students and supervisors alike, often in the name of necessity and even survival. Yet, despite the anxiety-inducing aspects of contemporary academia, diffractive moments have a powerful presence, too. In such moments, a wild and responsible otherwise is imagined and diffracted.
Conocimiento sobre Consentimiento Informado en Odontología. Una encuesta aplicada a los odontólogos de la Universidad Europea de Valencia
Authors: Gianní Manfredi , Adobes Martín Milagros , Garcovich Daniele , Pardo Monedero María Jesús , Andrés Castelló Carolina
Published: July 2021

Introducción: Conocer los aspectos fundamentales del consentimiento informado es imprescindible para una correcta practica clínica odontológica. Objetivo: Valorar el conocimiento de los odontólogos sobre el Consentimiento Informado y relacionarlo con género, edad y especialidad del odontólogo. Analizar la relación entre apreciación sobre la formación ética del odontólogo y el manejo de situaciones éticas en la consulta con género, edad y especialidad del odontólogo. Material y método: se aplicó un cuestionario online a los odontólogos que prestan servicio en la Clínica odontológica de la Universidad Europea de Valencia. Resultados: se analizaron 62 cuestionarios. Se obtuvo una nota ponderada de 4,27 ± 0,55 en conocimiento objetivo. Conclusiones: Los odontólogos suelen tener un nivel de conocimiento entre medio y bajo. No se ha encontrado ninguna diferencia estadísticamente significativa entre el nivel de conocimientos sobre consentimiento informado en Odontología y las variables edad, género y especialidad. La percepción que el odontólogo tiene sobre su formación ética no guarda ninguna diferencia estadísticamente significativa con edad, género y especialidad. El manejo de la situación clínica guarda una relación estadísticamente significativa con la especialidad de Ortodoncia con independencia de la edad y género del odontólogo. En relación a la segunda situación clínica no se ha encontrado ninguna diferencia estadísticamente significativa con respecto a edad, género y especialidad del odontólogo.
Computational framework for generating large panoramic super-resolution images from localization microscopy
Authors: Du Yue , Wang Chenze , Zhang Chen , Guo Lingyun , Chen Yanzhu , Yan Meng , Feng Qianghui , Shang Mingtao , Kuang Weibing , Wang Zhengxia , Huang Zhen-Li
Published: July 2021

Combining super-resolution localization microscopy with pathology creates new opportunities for biomedical researches. This combination requires a suitable image mosaic method for generating a panoramic image from many overlapping super-resolution images. However, current image mosaic methods are not suitable for this purpose. Here we proposed a computational framework and developed an image mosaic method called NanoStitcher. We generated ground truth datasets and defined criteria to evaluate this computational framework. We used both simulated and experimental datasets to prove that NanoStitcher exhibits better performance than two representative image mosaic methods. This study is helpful for the mature of super-resolution digital pathology.
Viewpoint-independent object recognition using reduced-dimension point cloud data
Authors: Watson Edward A.
Published: July 2021

Point cloud data offer the potential for viewpoint-independent object
recognition based solely on the geometrical information about an
object that they contain. We consider two types of one-dimensional
data products extracted from point clouds: range histograms and
point-separation histograms. We evaluate each histogram in terms of
its viewpoint independence. The Jensen-Shannon divergence is used to
show that point-separation histograms have the potential for viewpoint
independence. We demonstrate viewpoint-independent recognition
performance using lidar data sets from two vehicles and a simple
algorithm for a two-class recognition problem. We find that
point-separation histograms have good potential for
viewpoint-independent recognition over a hemisphere.
Photonic spin Hall effect in twisted bilayer graphene
Authors: Chen Zefeng , Yang Hongwei , Xiao Yihong , Pan Jintao , Xia Yu , Zhu Wenguo
Published: July 2021

Here, we investigate the photonic spin Hall effect in twisted bilayer graphene. The optical conductivities for several rotation angles of twisted bilayer graphene are calculated by first principles, based on which a theoretical framework is established to describe the light–matter interaction. To enhance the photonic spin Hall effect, twisted bilayer graphene is placed on a BK7 glass substrate and a Gaussian beam is launched near the Brewster angle. The spin splitting as well as Goos–Hänchen shifts are investigated, which are associated, respectively, with the imaginary and real parts of the surface conductivities of the twisted bilayer graphene. These findings provide a deeper understanding of the photonic spin Hall effect in two-dimensional materials and have potential application in characterizing bilayer graphene.
Terahertz emission from ultrathin bismuth layers
Authors: Devenson Jan , Norkus Ričardas , Juškėnas Remigijus , Krotkus Arūnas
Published: July 2021

Thinner than 10 nm layers of bismuth (Bi) were grown on (111) Si substrates by molecular beam epitaxy. Terahertz (THz) radiation pulses from these layers excited by tunable wavelength femtosecond optical pulses were measured. THz emission sets on when the photon energy exceeds 0.45 eV, which was explained by the semimetal-to-semiconductor transition at this Bi layer thickness. A THz signal has both isotropic and anisotropic components that could be caused by the lack of balance of lateral photocurrent components and the shift currents, respectively.
Blind zone-suppressed hybrid beam steering for solid-state Lidar
Authors: Li Chao , Cao Xianyi , Wu Kan , Qiu Gaofeng , Cai Minglu , Zhang Guangjin , Li Xinwan , Chen Jianping
Published: July 2021

We demonstrate a blind zone-suppressed and flash-emitting solid-state Lidar based on lens-assisted beam-steering technology. As a proof-of-concept demonstration, with the design of a subwavelength-gap 1D long-emitter array and multiwavelength flash beam emitting, the device was measured to have 5% blind zone suppression, 0.06°/point-deflection step, and 4.2 μs scanning speed. In time-of-flight ranging experiments, Lidar systems have a field of view of11.3°×8.1°(normal device) or0.9°×8.1°(blind-zone suppressed device), far-field number of resolved points of 192, and a detection distance of 10 m. This work demonstrates the possibility that a new integrated beam-steering technology can be implemented in a Lidar without sacrificing other performance.
Canadian contributions to research on neglected tropical diseases
Authors: Gyorkos Theresa W. , Carabin Hélène , Phillip Maneesh , Benedict Leshawn , Davis Amy , Hatcher Roberts Janet , Wasan Kishor M. , Ndao Momar , Krentel Alison
Published: July 2021

Background

The World Health Organization’s (WHO) Neglected Tropical Disease (NTD) Road Map for 2021–2030 was recently endorsed by all member states at the World Health Assembly in November 2020. Although only 3 of the 20 NTDs are endemic in Canada (i.e., echinococcosis, rabies, and scabies), the Canadian research community has contributed to advancing the knowledge base of all 20 NTDs. Previous research comprehensively detailed Canadian research on 11 NTDs between 1950 and 2010 using a network analysis approach. The specific objective of the present analysis was to update the publication record over the last decade (2010–2019) to include all 20 NTDs.

Materials and methods

A bibliometric analysis was conducted in Scopus and Web of Science databases (for English or French articles published between January 1, 2010 and December 31, 2019) using appropriate search terms for each of the 20 NTDs and where at least 1 of the authors had a Canadian institution address. A 21st search was added to include publications including multiple NTDs or a discussion of NTDs in general. Following assessment of inclusion and exclusion criteria, 2 reviewers independently screened all abstracts, with discordant observations rereviewed to arrive at an agreement. Duplicates were removed.

Results

A total of 1,790 publications were retrieved (1,738 with a disease–specific NTD focus and 52 with a general NTD focus, resulting in 1,659 unique publications), giving an average of over 160 articles per year. Over 80% were classified as full–length research articles. The top 3 journals in terms of frequency were PLOS Neglected Tropical Diseases, PLOS ONE, and the American Journal of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene. Authors’ institutions were from all Canadian provinces. While all 20 NTDs were addressed in these publications, the 5 most commonly studied were leishmaniasis, dengue fever and chikungunya, Chagas disease, soil–transmitted helminthiases, and rabies.

Conclusions

Canadian researchers across the country have contributed to the evidence base of all 20 NTDs, publishing an average of over 160 publications per year between 2010 and 2019. As WHO NTD Road Map 2021–2030 rolls out globally, the Canadian research community, in collaboration with its partners and in solidarity with people living in vulnerable circumstances in endemic regions worldwide, is well positioned to meet future research challenges so that the goal of eliminating the disease burden attributable to NTDs can be achieved.
Proxy-based model to assess the relative contribution of ballast water and biofouling’s potential propagule pressure and prioritize vessel inspections
Authors: Ceballos-Osuna Lina , Scianni Chris , Falkner Maurya , Nedelcheva Raya , Miller Whitman
Published: July 2021

Commercial shipping is the primary pathway of introduction for aquatic nonindigenous species (NIS), mainly through the mechanisms of ballast water and biofouling. In response to this threat, regulatory programs have been established across the globe to regulate and monitor commercial merchant and passenger vessels to assess compliance with local requirements to reduce the likelihood of NIS introductions. Resource limitations often determine the inspection efforts applied by these regulatory agencies to reduce NIS introductions. We present a simple and adaptable model that prioritizes vessel arrivals for inspection using proxies for potential propagule pressure (PPP), namely a ships’ wetted surface area as a proxy for the likelihood of biofouling-mediated PPP and ballast water discharge volume as a proxy for ballast water-mediated PPP. We used a California-specific dataset of vessels that arrived at California ports between 2015 and 2018 to test the proposed model and demonstrate how a finite set of inspection resources can be applied to target vessels with the greatest PPP. The proposed tool is adaptable by jurisdiction, scalable to different segments of the vessel population, adjustable based on the vector of interest, and versatile because it allows combined or separate analyses of the PPP components. The approach can be adopted in any jurisdiction across the globe, especially jurisdictions without access to, or authority to collect, risk profiling data or direct measurements for all incoming vessel arrivals.
Kinetics in lumbosacral and lower-limb joints of sprinters during barbell hip thrust compared to deadlift and back squat
Authors: Otsuka Mitsuo , Honjo Toyoyuki , Nagano Akinori , Isaka Tadao
Published: July 2021

Joint kinetic characteristics during the eccentric phase are important in resistance exercises because eccentric actions with elastic potential energy storage lead to the energy recoil with large joint moment and power generation during the subsequent concentric phase. Previous studies assessed the force production capacity in the barbell hip thrust; however, these were reported by the methodology using only surface electromyographic amplitudes recorded in the lower back and thigh muscles and did not focus on eccentric action. This study aimed to determine kinetic characteristics of lumbosacral, hip and knee joints of sprinters during the eccentric and concentric phases in a barbell hip thrust, compared to those of deadlift and back squat. Eleven well-trained male sprinters participated in this study. Each participant performed two full ranges of motion repetition using their previously determined six-repetition maximum loads. During strength exercises, reflective marker displacements attached to the body and a barbell were captured using 22 high-speed cameras, and ground reaction forces were captured using 4 force plates simultaneously. In the barbell hip thrust, as well as deadlift, the peak values of the lumbosacral and hip extension moments were generated almost immediately after the eccentric phase and were 24% and 42% larger than those in the back squat, respectively. In the knee joint, the largest was the peak extension moment in the back squat (155 ± 28 Nm), followed in order by that in the barbell hip thrust (66 ± 33 Nm) and that in the deadlift (24 ± 27 Nm). These demonstrated that a barbell hip thrust, as well as deadlift, can be a resistance exercise to strengthen the lower back and posterior thigh muscles. Thus, these resistance exercises may be able to be used separately according to their intended purposes, enabling transformations of strength training to specific dynamic motions such as sprint running.
Home-based exercise for people living with frailty and chronic kidney disease: A mixed-methods pilot randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nixon Andrew C. , Bampouras Theodoros M. , Gooch Helen J. , Young Hannah M. L. , Finlayson Kenneth W. , Pendleton Neil , Mitra Sandip , Brady Mark E. , Dhaygude Ajay P.
Published: July 2021

Background

Frailty is associated with adverse health outcomes in people with chronic kidney disease (CKD). Evidence supporting targeted interventions is needed. This pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) aimed to inform the design of a definitive RCT evaluating the effectiveness of a home-based exercise intervention for pre-frail and frail older adults with CKD.

Methods

Participants were recruited from nephrology outpatient clinics to this two-arm parallel group mixed-methods pilot RCT. Inclusion criteria were: ≥65 years old; CKD G3b-5; and Clinical Frailty Scale score ≥4. Participants categorised as pre-frail or frail using the Frailty Phenotype were randomised to a 12-week progressive multi-component home-based exercise programme or usual care. Primary outcome measures included eligibility, recruitment, adherence, outcome measure completion and participant attrition rate. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with participants to explore trial and intervention acceptability.

Results

Six hundred and sixty-five patients had an eligibility assessment with 217 (33%; 95% CI 29, 36) eligible. Thirty-five (16%; 95% CI 12, 22) participants were recruited. Six were categorised as robust and withdrawn prior to randomisation. Fifteen participants were randomised to exercise and 14 to usual care. Eleven (73%; 95% CI 45, 91) participants completed ≥2 exercise sessions/week. Retained participants completed all outcome measures (n = 21; 100%; 95% CI 81, 100). Eight (28%; 95% CI 13, 47) participants were withdrawn. Fifteen participated in interviews. Decision to participate/withdraw was influenced by perceived risk of exercise worsening symptoms. Participant perceived benefits included improved fitness, balance, strength, well-being, energy levels and confidence.

Conclusions

This pilot RCT demonstrates that progression to definitive RCT is possible provided recruitment and retention challenges are addressed. It has also provided preliminary evidence that home-based exercise may be beneficial for people living with frailty and CKD.

Trial registration

ISRCTN87708989;https://clinicaltrials.gov/.
Determinants of hazardous alcohol use among pregnant women attending antenatal care at public health facilities in Gondar town, Northwest Ethiopia: A nested case-control study
Authors: Addila Alemu Earsido , Azale Telake , Gete Yigzaw Kebede , Yitayal Mezgebu
Published: July 2021

Background

Alcohol use during pregnancy has a potential negative impact on the health of women and children. Binge or hazardous drinking may do greater alcohol-related damage to the developing fetus than drinking a comparable amount spread over several days or weeks. This study aimed to identify determinants of hazardous alcohol use among pregnant women attending antenatal care at Gondar town public health facilities, Northwest Ethiopia.

Methods

An unmatched facility-based nested case-control study was carried out to identify the determinants of hazardous alcohol use among pregnant women within a prospective cohort study from 29 October 2019 to 7 May 2020. A two-stage random sampling technique was used to select 455 (113 cases and 342 controls) pregnant women. Data collection was performed using the AUDIT-C standardized and pretested questionnaire. Bivariable and multivariable logistic regression analyses were computed to identify the predictors of alcohol consumption using the odds ratio, 95% CI, and p-value < 0.05.

Results

Multivariable logistic regression model revealed that no formal education of the husbands [AOR = 2.79; 95%CI: 1.24, 6.29], being housewife[AOR = 2.43; 95%CI: 1.12, 5.26], poor household wealth index[AOR = 2.65; 95%CI: 1.07, 6.54], unplanned pregnancy [AOR = 4.36;95%CI: 2.44, 7.79], poor social support [AOR = 4.9;95%CI: 2.4, 10.04], depression[AOR = 3.84;95%CI: 2.16, 6.82], and not ever heard the risk of alcohol drinking during pregnancy [AOR = 1.97; 95%CI: 1.08, 3.58] were significantly associated with hazardous alcohol use.

Conclusions

Routine alcohol screening during ANC visits creates an appropriate referral system for clinical management and provides an opportunity for healthcare workers to offer information on the potential risks associated with alcohol use in pregnancy. Antenatal care providers have a special role to play in assuring that women receive adequate advice about alcohol use and care to manage the problems especially for pregnant women with depression, poor social support, unplanned pregnancy, low socioeconomic status, and for housewives during the antenatal visits. The warning marks on alcoholic beverages including an ongoing message about the risks of alcohol use during pregnancy could be public health good strategies to minimize preventable harms attributed to alcohol consumption during pregnancy.
Deterioration characteristics of cement-improved loess under dry–wet and freeze–thaw cycles
Authors: Jiang Ying-jun , Ni Chen-yang , Sha Hong-wei , Li Zong-hua , Cai Lu-yao
Published: July 2021

The effects of cement dosage, compaction coefficient, molding method (vertical vibration method and static pressure method), and dry–wet and freeze–thaw cycles on the mechanical strength of cement-improved loess (CIL) were studied to reveal its strength degradation law under dry–wet and freeze–thaw cycles. Results show that when using the vertical vibration molding method, the strength degradation effect of CIL can be improved by increasing the cement dosage and compaction coefficient; however, it is not obvious. Under the action of dry–wet cycle, damages, such as voids and cracks of CIL, develop continuously. Further, the strength deteriorates continuously and does not decrease after more than 15 dry–wet cycles. Therefore, the dry–wet cycle degradation system is selected by considering the most unfavorable conditions. In the process of freeze–thaw alternation, the pores and fissures of CIL develop and evolve continuously and the strength deteriorates continuously under the joint influence of water and low temperature. The strength tends to become stable after more than 12 freeze–thaw cycles. According to the safety principle, the deterioration coefficient of the freeze–thaw cycles is 0.3.
Robust determinants of income distribution across and within countries
Authors: Shao Liang Frank
Published: July 2021

Multicollinearity widely exists in empirical studies, which leads to imprecise estimation and even endogeneity when omitted variables are correlated with any regressors. We apply an innovative strategy, different from the usual tools (instrumental variable, ridge regression, and least absolute shrinkage and selection operator), to estimate the robust determinants of income distribution. We transform panel data into (quasi-) cross-sectional data by removing country and time effects from the data so that all variables become zero mean and orthogonal to the country dummies and time variable, and multicollinearity becomes very low or even disappears with the quasi-cross sectional data in any specifications regardless of country dummies and time variable being included or not. Our contribution is threefold. First, we build a general method to address the multicollinearity issue in panel data, which is to isolate the common contents of correlated variables and ensures robust estimates in different specifications (dynamic or static specifications) and estimators (within- or between-effects estimators). Second, we find no evidence for the Kuznets hypothesis within and across countries; investment is economically and statistically the most robust determinant of income inequality; meanwhile, labor income share shows robustly and consistently positive effects on income inequality, which challenges the related literature. Last, simulations with our estimates show that the total marginal effects of development (regarding GDP, capital stock and investment) on income inequality are very likely to be positive within and between countries except that the impacts on middle-60% and top-quintile income shares are not so likely to increase income inequality across countries.