bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Modeling and control of cable-driven continuum robot used for minimally invasive surgery
Authors: Wei Xiaoyong , Ju Feng , Guo Hao , Chen Bai , Wu Hongtao
Published: December 2022

Continuum robot has great advantages in minimally invasive surgery (MIS) due to the slenderness and dexterity. But the friction and backlash result in the low trajectory tracking accuracy. This paper aims to study the transmission process of the driving force and the error compensation method. The statics is performed considering the frictional transmission process, and the variation of friction force with driving force is revealed by the model. The hysteresis effect of the tip trajectory is revealed. Then the relationship between the load history and the robot shape is studied, next, the deflection of the robot subject to the different loading forces can be predicted. The correctness of the mechanical model is verified by numerical simulation and experiments. Furthermore, the control methods according to the cable length and the driving force are compared respectively, and a method of error compensation according to the cable length is worked out considering the mechanical model. The rationality of the compensation method is validated by experiment. The results show that the compensation method based on cable length greatly improves the control accuracy, and the maximum deviation is 1.08 mm. The established model and compensation method create conditions for clinical application of the proposed continuum robot.
MR conditional prostate intervention systems and actuations review
Authors: Liang Haipeng , Tse Zion Tsz Ho
Published: December 2022

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has the ability to provide high-resolution images of soft tissues without the use of radiation. So much research has been focused on the development of actuators and robotic devices that can be used in the MRI environment so “real-time” images can be obtained during surgeries. With real-time guidance from MRI, robots can perform surgical procedures with high accuracy and through less invasive routes. This technique can also significantly reduce the operation time and simplify pre-surgical procedures. Therefore, research on robot-assisted MRI-guided prostate intervention has attracted a great deal of interest, and several successful clinical trials have been published in recent years, pointing to the great potential of this technology. However, the development of MRI-guided robots is still in the primary stage, and collaboration between researchers and commercial suppliers is still needed to improve such robot systems. This review presents an overview of MRI-guided prostate intervention devices and actuators. Additionally, the expected technical challenges and future advances in this field are discussed.
The role of information and communication technologies in achieving hydropower sustainability: Evidence from European Union economies
Authors: Wang Xiaohui , Alsaleh Mohd , Abdul-Rahim Abdul Samad
Published: December 2022

This study aims to investigate the impacts of information, communication, and technology (ICT) factors and economic growth on the hydropower output in the European Union (EU) states from 1990 to 2021. Adopting the autoregressive distributed lag, findings from this study revealed that there could be a significant increase in the hydropower industry growth in EU14 emerging economies using ICT factors than in EU13 emerging economies. It was also discovered that economic growth makes more of a significant contribution to hydropower growth in EU13 emerging economies than in EU14 emerging economies. Findings from this study further revealed that there could be a significant decrease in the carbon dioxide emissions among the EU14 emerged economies using hydropower output than in EU13 emerging economies. This points to the fact that hydropower growth in EU region countries could significantly be enhanced by increasing the level of ICT determinants to achieve Energy Union aims by 2030. This will as well be effective in minimizing or reducing the risk effect of climate change and environmental pollution. Using the pooled mean group, mean group, and dynamic fixed effect methods, the projected calculations are observed to be valid and this study recommended that EU nations should intensify the use of ICT in achieving sustainable environmental and societal goals. The sustainability and security of hydropower production could also be enhanced through legislation. Lawmakers should become active in the green ICT aspects.
The protective effects of red ginseng and amifostine against renal damage caused by ionizing radiation
Authors: Yilmaz Hamit , Karakoc Yunus , Tumkaya Levent , Mercantepe Tolga , Sevinc Hacer , Yilmaz Adnan , Yılmaz Rakıcı Sema
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to elucidate the effects of amifostine (ethyol) (AM), a synthetic radioprotector, and red ginseng (RG), a natural radioprotective agent, against the toxic effect of ionizing radiation (IR) on kidney tissues through changes in biochemical and histopathological parameters in addition to contributions to the use of amifostine and RG in clinical studies . Five groups were established: Group I (control, receiving only saline by gavage), Group II (IR only), and Group III (IR+AM, 200 mg/kg intraperitoneally (i.p.). Group IV (IR + RG, 200 mg/kg orally once a day for 4 weeks), and Group V (IR+RG+AM, 200 mg/kg orally once/day for 4 weeks before IR and 200 mg/kg AM administered (i.p.) 30 min before IR). All groups, except for the control group, were subject to 6-Gy whole-body IR in a single fraction. 24 h after irradiation, all animals were sacrificed under anesthesia. IR enhanced MDA, 8-OHdG, and caspase-3 expression while decreasing renal tissue GSH levels ( p < .05). Significant numbers of necrotic tubules together with diffuse vacuolization in proximal and distal tubule epithelial cells were also observed. The examination also revealed substantial brush boundary loss in proximal tubules as well as relatively unusual glomerular structures. While GSH levels significantly increased in the AM, RG, and AM+RG groups, a decrease in KHDS, MDA, 8-OHdG, and caspase-3 expression was observed, compared to the group subject to IR only ( p < .05). Therefore, reactive oxygen species-scavenging antioxidants may represent a promising treatment for avoiding kidney damage in patients receiving radiation.
Geographical Variations of Livelihood Capital and Associated Effects in Rarh Region of West Bengal, India
Authors: Satpati Sandip , Sharma Kaushal Kumar , Ghosh Palash
Published: December 2022

Although natural resources play a central role in rural livelihoods across the globe, little research has explored how different livelihood capital is distributed over a broad geographical and political region and its associated effects on the human population. This study aims to analyze the geographical variations of livelihood capital in the Rarh region of West Bengal and its associated effects on the overall population. Secondary data from 121 community development (CD) blocks have been used for the study. GIS methods have been used for mapping purposes and generating more micro-level data. The study found that the pattern shows a significant increase in livelihood capital from the western to the region’s eastern part. Higher proximate natural resources are associated with more significant financial, human, and social capital. Population residing in the eastern part of the region have, on average, more significant financial, physical, human, and social capital than the western part. The research highlighted the importance of providing credit to households located in the western portion of the region and access to improved crop varieties (particularly those linked to dry farming), rural governmental infrastructure, and time-bound targeted resource allocations. The research has relevance beyond the immediate context to other areas like the South-Asian developing countries.
Modified scarf osteotomy for hallux valgus: From a finite element model to clinical results
Authors: Li Yan , Wang Yue , Tang Kanglai , Tao Xu
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Finite element (FE) analysis and clinical follow-up were used to evaluate the efficacy of modified scarf osteotomy for moderate-to-severe hallux valgus (HV).

Method

We retrospectively evaluated 42 patients (44 feet) who underwent modified rotational scarf osteotomy for moderate-to-severe HV at our institution between January 2010 and January 2019. Radiological indicators and subjective scores were recorded at different time points. To compare the results and elemental characteristics, a FE model of the metatarsophalangeal (MTP) joint that included anatomically realistic geometrical and structural characteristics was built. The biomechanical features and correction differences in dynamic loads as well as the incidence of troughing were estimated.

Results

Both the hallux valgus angle (HVA) and intermetatarsal angle (IMA) showed significant improvement 6 weeks postoperatively ( p < 0.05); additionally, the HVA increased from 6 weeks postoperatively to the last follow-up, while the IMA showed no significant changes ( p > 0.05). The subjective scores significantly improved from the preoperative period to the last follow-up. The percentages of troughing and recurrence were remarkably low in our pilot study because of the innate stability of the modified rotated fixation.

Conclusion

Our preliminary findings suggest that modified rotational scarf osteotomy offers sufficient stability, correct HV deformity effectively, and good clinical outcomes for moderate to severe HV.
Digital Gaming Trends of Middle-Aged and Older Adults: A Sample from Turkey
Authors: Seçer İlmiye , Us Elif Öykü
Published: December 2022

Background

Although the gaming habits of children, adolescents, and younger adults have been investigated in Turkey there has been less emphasis on the gaming patterns of middle-aged and older adults. The current study therefore investigated middle-aged and older adults' digital gaming habits, the aspects of digital games that they believe are enjoyable and any perceived psychological and cognitive advantages.

Methods

Of the 177 middle-aged and older adults aged between 55 and 85 years ( M = 62) living in Turkey who partook in the study, data from 140 participants were analyzed. Participants completed the ‘Demographic Information Form’ and Engagement with Digital Games Questionnaire’ via a Qualtrics link that was distributed on social media platforms and using the convenience and snowball sampling technique.

Results

Findings of this study showed that out of the 57 digital game players, the majority ( N = 34) reported to play puzzle games such as Candy Crush. Moreover, gamers indicated that they believed digital games had psychological and cognitive benefits.

Conclusion

Overall, the findings of the current study revealed that middle-aged and older adults enjoy playing digital games for fun, stress relief, and as a mental exercise regime.
From Bedside to Bench and Back: Advancing Our Understanding of the Pathophysiology of Cleft Palate and Implications for the Future
Authors: Stanton Eloise , Sheridan Samuel , Urata Mark , Chai Yang
Published: December 2022

Objective

To provide a comprehensive understanding of the pathophysiology of cleft palate (CP) and future perspectives.

Design

Literature review.

Setting

Setting varied across studies by level of care and geographical locations.

Interventions

No interventions were performed.

Main Outcome Measure(s)

Primary outcome measures were to summarize our current understanding of palatogenesis in humans and animal models, the pathophysiology of CP, and potential future treatment modalities.

Results

Animal research has provided considerable insight into the pathophysiology, molecular and cellular mechanisms of CP that have allowed for the development of novel treatment strategies. However, much work has yet to be done to connect our mouse model investigations and discoveries to CP in humans. The success of innovative strategies for tissue regeneration in mice provides promise for an exciting new avenue for improved and more targeted management of cleft care with precision medicine in patients. However, significant barriers to clinical translation remain. Among the most notable challenges include the differences in some aspects of palatogenesis and tissue repair between mice and humans, suggesting that potential therapies that have worked in animal models may not provide similar benefits to humans.

Conclusions

Increased translation of pathophysiological and tissue regeneration studies to clinical trials will bridge a wide gap in knowledge between animal models and human disease. By enhancing interaction between basic scientists and clinicians, and employing our animal model findings of disease mechanisms in concert with what we glean in the clinic, we can generate a more targeted and improved treatment algorithm for patients with CP.
Polymorphisms in IL-17A Gene and Susceptibility of Colorectal Cancer in Bangladeshi Population: A Case-Control Analysis
Authors: Islam Md. Robiul , Aziz Md. Abdul , Shahriar Mohammad , Islam Mohammad Safiqul
Published: December 2022

Objective

Interleukin-17A ( IL-17A) genetic polymorphisms are associated with multiple cancer types, including colorectal cancer (CRC). However, no previous study was performed in the Bangladeshi population to evaluate the association. Our study aimed to find the association between two IL-17A variants (rs10484879 C/A and rs3748067 G/A) and susceptibility of CRC.

Methods and Materials

This retrospective case-control study comprised 292 CRC patients and 288 age, sex, and BMI matched healthy volunteers. Genotyping of both variants was done by the tetra-primer ARMS-PCR method, and the results were analyzed by the SPSS software package (version-25.0).

Results

Logistic regression analysis indicated that in case of IL-17A rs10484879 polymorphism, AC and AA genotype carriers showed 2.44- and 3.27-times significantly increased risk for CRC development (OR = 2.44, P = .0008 and OR = 3.27, P = .0133, individually). A significant association was also observed for AC + AA genotype (OR = 2.58, P = .0001). Again, over-dominant and allelic model revealed statistically significant link to CRC risk (OR = 2.13, P = .0035 and OR = 2.22, P = .001). For rs3748067 polymorphism, AG and AA genotype carriers showed 2.30- and 2.45-times enhanced risk for CRC (OR = 2.30, P = .005 and OR = 2.45, P = .031). A statistically significant association was also observed for AG + AA genotype (OR = 2.35, P = .001), over-dominant model (OR = 2.05, P = .014), and allelic model (OR = 2.11, P = .0004).

Conclusion

This study highlights that IL-17A rs10484879 and rs3748067 polymorphisms may be associated with CRC development. However, further functional research with larger samples may reveal more statistically significant outcomes.
Safe administration of temozolomide in end-stage renal disease patients
Authors: Hundal Jasmin , Singh Aditi , Pereira Megan K , Vredenburg James
Published: December 2022

Introduction

Glioblastoma multiforme is the most common and aggressive type of central nervous system tumor. We present a novel case of the challenges of dosing temozolomide in a patient with end stage renal disease on peritoneal hemodialysis with unpredictable clearance and toxicities.

Case report

In this case, a 60-year-old male with a past medical history of hypertension and Stage V chronic kidney disease presented with worsening confusion and word-finding difficulty in the emergency department. Magnetic resonance imaging demonstrated a large intra-axial mass within the posterior left frontal lobe measuring 4.5 × 4.1 × 3.5 cm with irregularly, predominant peripheral tumoral enhancement.

Management and outcome

The patient underwent a surgical resection which confirmed the diagnosis of glioblastoma (grade 4). The standard treatment for glioblastoma is 6 weeks of radiation therapy and daily temozolomide. Given his history of renal dysfunction and limited data on the safety of temozolomide in patients on hemodialysis (HD), the patient was administered dose-reduced temozolomide and closely monitored for toxicities. Temozolomide was successfully up-titrated to the full dose.

Discussion

Renal replacement therapy is a life-saving treatment for end-stage kidney disease patients. A stepwise increase in the dosage of temozolomide did not increase the risk of toxicity with HD. There are no studies with patients on temozolomide and peritoneal dialysis. Our case transitioned to peritoneal dialysis from HD without significant toxicity from temozolomide. As a more substantial proportion of the population becomes dialysis-dependent in the coming years, we need further studies to understand the safety profiles of chemotherapeutic agents in this complex subset of patients.
Limit analysis of strut nets
Authors: Amendola Ada , Fortunato Antonio , Fraternali Fernando , Mattei Ornella , Milton Graeme W , Seppecher Pierre
Published: December 2022

Truss structures composed of members that work exclusively in tension or in compression appear in several problems of science and engineering, e.g., in the study of the resisting mechanisms of masonry structures, as well as in the design of spider web-inspired web structures. This work generalizes previous results on the existence of cable webs that are able to support assigned sets of nodal forces under tension. We extend such a problem to the limit analysis of compression-only “strut nets” subjected to fixed and variable nodal loads. These systems provide discrete element models of masonry bodies, which lie inside the polygon/polyhedron with vertices at the points of application of the given forces (“underlying masonry structures”). It is assumed that fixed nodal forces are combined with variable forces growing proportionally to a scalar multiplier (load multiplier), and that the supporting strut net is subjected to kinematic constraints at given nodal positions.
A Mixed-Methods Study to Examine Dietary Intake of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Parental Perspectives on Nutrition in Florida
Authors: Gray Heewon L. , Buro Acadia W. , Robinson Chantell , Slye Nicole , Wang Wei , Sinha Sweta , Kirby Russell S. , Berkman Karen , Agazzi Heather , Shaffer-Hudkins Emily , Marshall Jennifer
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to examine dietary nutrient intake and parental perspectives on nutrition in a diverse sample (e.g., age, ethnicity) of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) in the U.S. state of Florida. Forty-one parents of children with ASD (ages 2–17 years) completed a food record, and 25 of these parents participated in semi-structured focus groups. Children with ASD were significantly less likely to meet the recommendation for calcium compared with children in the general population (66.7% vs. 53.1%, odds ratio [OR] = 3.1; p = .002). Riboflavin and vitamin B12 intakes were significantly lower among children with ASD ( p < .001). Focus group results indicated parental concerns on children’s diet and mealtime behaviors. Parents discussed the quality of existing nutrition information to be a concern, reported wanting intervention content on effective feeding strategies and healthy eating specific to children with ASD, and wanted to receive a nutrition intervention in multiple delivery formats. These findings will be utilized in developing a nutrition education intervention.
Optical coherence tomography angiography in Bietti crystalline dystrophy
Authors: Montemagni Marina , Arrigo Alessandro , Battaglia Parodi Maurizio , Bianco Lorenzo , Antropoli Alessio , Malegori Angela , Bandello Francesco , Tranfa Fausto , Costagliola Ciro
Published: December 2022

Purpose

Bietti crystalline dystrophy (BCD) is a rare autosomal recessive retinal dystrophy caused by pathogenic variants of CYP4V2 gene and characterized by shiny yellow deposits in the retina and progressive atrophy of the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) and choriocapillaris. The main aim of the present study is to describe the optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA) characteristics of a patient affected by BCD.

Methods

A 59-years-old female with genetically confirmed BCD underwent an ophthalmological examination complete of OCTA performed in the atrophic retina, the junctional zone and the apparently normal retina. The area of choriocapillaris (CC) atrophy was compared to the area of RPE atrophy on fundus autofluorescence (FAF) imaging.

Results

A severe vessel density (VD) deficit at the level of superficial and deep capillary plexa as well as CC was registered in atrophic areas, which resulted deeper with respect to the junctional area, whereas the apparently preserved retina revealed VD values similar to that of control eyes. The area of RPE atrophy on FAF was larger (55.90 mm2 in right eye and 48.76 mm2 in left eye) than the area of CC atrophy on OCTA imaging (51.86 mm2 and 42.44 mm2 respectively in right and left eye).

Conclusions

Our findings suggest that VD impairment of retinal plexa and CC follows the degeneration of RPE as demonstrated by the greater size of the area of RPE atrophy compared to CC atrophy. Further investigations based on OCTA imaging are necessary to enhance our knowledge of this rare disease.
Management’s collusion in poverty? Archetypes, conceits, and performative neophytism
Authors: Kumar Arun , Cooke Bill
Published: December 2022

Mainstream management studies’ arm’s length engagement with poverty exemplifies its performative neophytism as field. It is enabled by its problematic archetypes of the poor and their poverty: (a) that the poor are deficient; and (b) conceptualizing poverty as distance. They make way for mainstream management studies’ conceits: (a) that it is separate from poverty and dispossession it causes, and (b) that it possesses the resources to ‘solve’ poverty. These conceits safeguard the field and legitimizes its scholars’ inventions and interventions, many of which evidence suggests do little for poverty alleviation. It is time for management studies to cease its performative neophytism.
Value creation in wine tourism – an exploration through deep neural networks
Authors: Gao Daniel , Xia Haiyang , Deng Weiling , Muskat Birgit , Li Gang , Law Rob
Published: December 2022

The aim of this paper is to explore what aspects create experiential value for wine tourists. We synthesize the extant literature into four dimensions for wine tourism value creation, namely, product-related aspects; sensory and affective experiential aspects; cognitive, educational experiential aspects; and social-relational experiential value-creating aspects. So far, most studies merely discuss product-related aspects whilst insights on experiential value are less known. Using online review data from wine tourists in Australia, we develop a novel deep neural network-based framework using an innovative AI-based exploratory design. Results of the case study reveal that in addition to product-related aspects, sensory-and education-related experiential aspects are also highly important for value creation in wine tourism. Theoretical and practical implications, as well as ideas for future research are discussed.
Vibro-acoustic characteristics of gear-rotor-bearing coupled system under multi-source excitation
Authors: Wang Shengnan , Zhou Jianxing , Xieeryazidan Adayi
Published: December 2022

With the development of machinery toward high speed, high power, and high reliability, the vibration and noise problems of gearboxes become more prominent. The vibro-acoustic characteristics of gear-rotor-bearing coupled system are difficult to be characterized by the simple gear transmission system. This paper concentrated on modeling an improved dynamic model of gear-rotor-bearing system under multi-source excitation. The initial bending of shaft, precession effect, and gear eccentricity were included in the model to calculate the dynamic response. An extended computational method for predicting the radiation noise of a gearbox was developed. The distribution of the sound pressure around the gearbox was obtained by combining the finite element vibration analysis and boundary element noise analysis. Experimental vibration and noise measurements from a simplified gearbox confirmed the simulation results. The influences of precession effect on dynamic response and radiated noise of the gearbox were investigated. Results show that with the increase of input speed, the peak speeds of the system dynamic load increase and the resonance region shifts. The resonance regions of each field point of the gearbox are enlarged, and the noise is enhanced obviously. The results provide a theoretical basis for the further development of high-quality silent gearboxes.
Refusal of transplant organs for non-medical reasons including COVID-19 status
Authors: Yeturu Sai Kaushik , Lerner Susan M. , Appel Jacob M.
Published: December 2022

Transplant centers and physicians in the United States have limited guidance on the information which they can and cannot provide to transplant candidates regarding donors of potential organs. Patients may refuse organs for a variety of reasons ranging from pernicious requests including racism to misinformation about emerging medicine as with the COVID-19 vaccine and infection. Patient autonomy, organ stewardship, and equity are often at odds in these cases, but precedent indeed exists to help address these challenges. This work uses such cases to highlight the urgent need for uniform, national policy prohibiting informational requests unrelated to well-established risks.
The Use and Effectiveness of the Whole School Approach in School-Based Interventions Addressing Gender-Based Violence in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Systematic Review
Authors: Nyoni Thabani , Steiner Jordan J. , Okumu Moses , Orwenyo Evalyne , Tonui Betty C. , Lipsey Kim , Mengo Cecilia
Published: December 2022

Adolescents and young people in sub-Saharan Africa (SSA) experience high rates of gender-based violence (GBV). The whole school approach (WSA) is an established benchmark of effective school-based interventions to address this issue. We conducted a systematic review of peer-reviewed literature using PubMed/Medline, EMBASE, Scopus, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, Clinicaltrials.gov, and Google Scholar (1) to determine the characteristics, measured outcomes, and effectiveness of school-based GBV interventions and (2) to examine each papers’ alignment with WSA and methodological quality. We developed a comprehensive intervention characteristics form for data extraction and analyzed the selected studies’ quality using the modified Methodological Quality Rating Scale. To measure alignment with WSA implementation standards, we expanded the application of the WSA by creating the Whole School Approach Rating Scale (WSARS) for assessing school-based GBV interventions. Most interventions ( n = 14/16) we reviewed effectively addressed at least one of the three outcomes of interest (i.e., sexual violence, physical violence, and GBV-related knowledge/attitudes). Over half ( n = 9/16) of the studies were rated high on the WSARS. However, we observed no significant differences in effectiveness between studies rated high and those rated low on the WSARS. Our results indicate that school-based GBV interventions could be an effective and sustainable strategy for addressing GBV in and around schools.
Particle Image Velocimetry Evaluation of Hemodynamics Proximal to the Kissing Stent Configuration in the Aorto-Iliac Bifurcation
Authors: Williamson Petra N. , Docherty Paul D. , Khanafer Adib , Yazdi Sina G. , Jermy Mark , Kabaliuk Natalia , Murton Benjamin
Published: December 2022

Purpose:

The kissing stent (KS) method is low-risk compared with open surgery techniques. It is often used to treat aorto-iliac occlusive disease (AIOD). Deployment of the KS geometry has a high technical success rate. However, stent patency reduces in the first 5 years potentially due to deleterious flow behavior. Potentially harmful hemodynamics due to the KS were investigated in vitro.

Methodology:

A compliant phantom of the aorto-iliac bifurcation was manufactured. Two surrogate stent-grafts were deployed into the phantom in the KS configuration to investigate effects of the presence of the stents, including the compliance mismatch they cause, on the hemodynamics proximal and distal to the KS. The investigation used pulsatile flow through a flow circuit to simulate abdominal aortic flow. Particle image velocimetry (PIV) was used to quantify the hemodynamics.

Results:

PIV identified peak proximal and distal velocity in vitro was 0.71 and 1.40m·s−1, respectively, which were within physiological ranges. Throughout systole, flow appeared normal and undisturbed. A lumen wall collapse in the sagittal plane formed during late systole and continued to early diastole proximal to the aorto-iliac bifurcation, distal to the inlet stent position. The wall collapse led to disturbed flow proximal to the stented region in early diastole producing potential recirculation zones and abnormal flow patterns.

Conclusion:

The normal systolic flow behavior indicates the KS configuration is unlikely to cause an inflammatory response of the arterial walls. The collapse has not been previously identified and may potentially cause long-term patency reduction. It requires further investigation.

Clinical Impact

The role of this article is to provide further insight into the haemodynamic behavior through a stented aorto-iliac artery. The results of this investigation will improve the understanding of the effects that using the kissing stent method may have on a patient and help to identify high risk regions that may require more detailed monitoring. This paper also develops the in vitro modelling techniques that will enable further research that cannot be carried out within patients.
Investigation of moisture vapor permeability and thermal comfort properties of ceramic embedded fabrics for protective clothing
Authors: Kim HyunAh
Published: December 2022

This study examined the water and moisture vapor permeable and thermal wear comfort of different ceramic imbedded fabrics for workwear protective clothing, and the results are discussed in terms of the thermal radiation and the emissivity characteristics of these fabrics. The water and moisture vapor permeable and thermal wear comfort properties of the ceramic-imbedded fabrics incorporating aluminum oxide (Al2O3)/graphite, zinc oxide (ZnO)/zirconium carbide (ZrC) and ZnO/antimony tin oxide (ATO) were superior to those of the regular polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabrics due to the greater heat emission of the ceramic-imbedded fabrics. Of three ceramic imbedded fabrics, ZnO/ATO-imbedded fabric exhibited poorer water absorbing and drying properties than those of the Al2O3/graphite and ZnO/ZrC ceramic-imbedded fabrics. The heat retention rate and breathability were also inferior to those of the Al2O3/graphite and ZnO/ZrC ceramic-imbedded fabrics, which were due to the lower far-infrared (FIR) emissivity of the ZnO/ATO-imbedded fabrics. Summarizing the water and moisture vapor permeable and thermal wear comfort properties with heat release characteristics of the different ceramic imbedded PET fabrics, Al2O3 and ZrC ceramic particles imparted a good wear comfort characteristics with superior heat release property, whereas, the ZnO and ATO ceramic particles imbedded fabrics exhibited inferior water and moisture vapor permeable and thermal wear comfort due to the lower heat release of ZnO particles and the heat shielding effect of ATO particles, which is supposed to impart an uncomfortable feeling while wearing workwear protective clothing in cold/dry environments in cold weather regions. These findings suggest that ZnO and ATO particles need to be mixed with ZrC and Al2O3 particles in the yarns to enhance wear comfort of workwear protective clothing.
May Dual Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Enhance the Efficacy of Robot-Assisted Therapy for Promoting Upper Limb Recovery in Chronic Stroke?
Authors: Morone Giovanni , Capone Fioravante , Iosa Marco , Cruciani Alessandro , Paolucci Matteo , Martino Cinnera Alex , Musumeci Gabriella , Brunelli Nicoletta , Costa Carmelina , Paolucci Stefano , Di Lazzaro Vincenzo
Published: December 2022

Objective

To assess whether dual transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may enhance the efficacy of exoskeleton robotic training on upper limb motor functions in patients with chronic stroke.

Methods

A prospective, bi-center, double-blind, randomized clinical trial study was performed. Patients with moderate-to-severe stroke (according to The National Institute of Health Stroke Scale) were randomly assigned to receive dual or sham tDCS immediately before robotic therapy (10 sessions, 2 weeks). The primary outcome was the Fugl–Meyer for Upper Extremity, assessed before, after, and at the 12-week follow-up. Neurophysiological evaluation of corticospinal projections to upper limb muscles was performed by recording motor evoked potentials (MEPs). ClinicalTrials.gov-NCT03026712.

Results

Two hundred and sixty individuals were tested for eligibility, of which 80 were enrolled and agreed to participate. Excluding 14 dropouts, 66 patients were randomly assigned into the 2 groups. Results showed that chronic patients were stable before treatment and significantly improved after that. The records within subject improvements were not significantly different between the 2 groups. However, a post-hoc analysis subdividing patients in 2 subgroups based on the presence or absence of MEPs at the baseline showed a significantly higher effect of real tDCS in patients without MEPs when compared to patients with MEPs ( F = 4.6, P = .007).

Conclusion

The adjunction of dual tDCS to robotic arm training did not further enhance recovery in the treated sample of patients with chronic stroke. However, a significant improvement in the subgroup of patients with a severe corticospinal dysfunction (as suggested by the absence of MEPs) suggests that they could benefit from such a treatment combination.
Risk Factors for Heart Disease in Working Railwaymen
Authors: Zhidkova Elena A. , Shlipakov Sergey V. , Zaborova Victoria A. , Krikheli Natella I. , Drapkina Oxana M. , Barnard Ross T. , Gurevich Konstantin G.
Published: December 2022

Heart diseases are the most common non-communicable diseases worldwide. We examined the prevalence of risk factors for heart disease among a sub-population of working men. In total, 11,059 railway crew workers of the Russian Railways Company were included in the study. We also asked participants to answer several questions based on the WHO STEPwise approach to surveillance (STEPS) translated into Russian. Only 30% of drivers had normal body mass index (BMI), whereas 70% were overweight or obese. In 12% of subjects, total cholesterol was higher than 5 mmol/L. In 15% of participants, glucose level was higher than 5.5 mmol/L. 38% of drivers reported smoking. Physical inactivity was registered in 54% of persons. Only 29% ate according to the key principles of good diet quality. 24% of respondents had a family history of heart disease. MANOVA demonstrated that BMI was determined by age, profession, smoking, physical inactivity, and diet quality. As age increased, the number of people with normal cholesterol levels decreased. It was demonstrated that a correlation existed between glucose levels and BMI. In the total group, the correlation was 0.46 ( p < .05). The correlation between those parameters increased due to age, from 0.33 in the <30 years of age group up to 0.52 in the >50 years of age group. This study demonstrated that there is a high prevalence of risk factors for heart disease in train drivers in the Russian Federation.
Comparative analysis of experimental results and finite element simulation results of ballistic impact on 3D woven reinforced composites
Authors: Qian Fei , Zhao Lei , Zhang Shengzhong , Yao Guixiang , Liu Yuankun
Published: December 2022

In this work, the finite element software (ABAQUS) was used to build a single-cell model based on three-dimensional woven reinforced composite and investigate the propagation of stress waves in the composite. The experimental results of the edge part of the bullet after impact with the results of simulations were compared, and the final damage pattern of three-dimensional woven reinforced composite with commonly used laminates were also comparatively studied. The results indicated that the peak stress of the bullet in the three-dimensional woven reinforced composite increased with increasing incident velocity and was reflected back and forth. The fracture of the reinforcement yarn was rougher after the bullet was ejected from the lower surface of the three-dimensional woven reinforced composite than from the incident upper surface. Delamination did not occur within the three-dimensional woven reinforced composite, and the observed damage holes were generally consistent with the graphs simulated using finite element software. The research in this paper provides a design method for the application of three-dimensional orthogonal hybrid woven reinforced composites in ballistic protection. The experimental results and corresponding calculation methods can guide the design of high-performance protective armor.
PREDICT: Precise deployment of Silk Vista Baby in confined territory: A technical note
Authors: Kishore Kislay , Bodani Vivek , Olatunji Richard B , Spears Julian , Marotta Thomas R , Pereira Vitor Mendes
Published: December 2022

Flow diverters (FD) have become increasingly useful in treating complex intracranial aneurysms, particularly wide-necked and recurrent aneurysms. Their use has progressively expanded to smaller vessels beyond the circle of Willis (CoW), and Silk Vista Baby (SVB) is one such low-profile FD which stands out because of deliverability through a 0.017″ microcatheter and smoother navigability. Precise deployment of SVB, specifically, the proximal end, can be challenging in certain anatomical locations when the proximal landing zone is very short, limited by vessel bifurcation or important branches arising from the artery or its geometry. We present our series to describe our technique and rule to ‘PREDICT’ the final deployment of SVB in real time, and discuss the nuances, exceptions and bail-out strategies. Using this technique, we were able to precisely deploy SVB in distal intracranial vessels with a mean proximal landing zone as short as 2.6 mm in 80% instances, requiring bail-out strategies in only 20% cases. This rule can be reliably followed in treating complex intracranial aneurysms with SVB FD within a confined territory, until validated software-based real-time planning tools are developed.
Clinical Psychologists as T-Shaped Professionals
Authors: Vriesman Michael , Dhuga Jasmine , LaLonde Leah , Orkopoulou Efthymia , Lucy Caroline , Teeple Tatum , Good Jessica , Maragakis Alexandros
Published: December 2022

The modern world is becoming increasingly integrated, and disciplines are frequently collaborating with each other. Following this trend, clinical psychologists are also often working within multidisciplinary teams and in settings outside of traditional mental health. To be competent and effective in these contexts, clinical psychologists could benefit from skills outside of psychology. The current psychology training model provides depth of training in psychology but could be improved by providing the breadth of training required of modern clinical psychologists working in these contexts. Other disciplines, such as engineering, business, and social work, have improved their breadth of training through the adoption of the T-shaped model. This model of training allows individuals to simultaneously acquire the depth of knowledge required for their discipline and the breadth required to work effectively in multidisciplinary contexts. This article discusses areas in which clinical psychologists could benefit from broad training and recommendations to implement the T-shaped model.
The forensic implications of food hypersensitivity – a review of cases in United Kingdom courts: January 2014–February 2020
Authors: Gowland MH , Walker MJ
Published: December 2022

Aims:

Food allergy is a major public health concern. Failures of food allergen avoidance and the consequences for those with food hypersensitivity (allergies, intolerances and coeliac disease) have a forensic context. The aim of this study was to collate and analyse the use of action in the United Kingdom (UK) courts as redress following adverse food allergy reactions or failures of allergen management.

Methods:

Details of prosecutions during the study period (1 January 2014 to 31 January 2020) were recorded from regular key word Internet searches. National and local news reports were primary sources, along with commentary from enforcement and regulatory professionals. Information was also collected from coroners’ inquests by attending hearings and direct contact with coroners and participants in the hearings. Freedom of Information requests were made to local authority enforcement departments. In several cases, the authors had direct involvement in investigations.

Results:

From 2014 to 2020, there was an increase in reports. Seventy prosecutions were recorded as well as two associated appeals and two applications for Hygiene Emergency Prohibition Notice. This resulted in 68 convictions; seven individuals received custodial sentences, three of which were suspended although one individual had a tagged curfew imposed. Fines ranged from £50 to £93,000. Details of the law applied and the evidence gathering processes are reported.

Conclusion:

Legal action, including landmark prosecutions for Gross Negligence Manslaughter and Preventing Future Deaths reports from coroners, with salience of criminal penalties, has led to changes in labelling law and improved allergen management practices better to protect the interests of patients with food hypersensitivities. A central system of collation of such data, and on ‘near misses’, will enable more focused root cause analysis to further improve allergen management and reduce patient risk.
Gender Imbalance in the Media: Time Lag or Hysteresis?—French Newspapers, Gender Parity Shocks, and the Long and Winding Road to the Demasculinization of Political Reporting (1990–2020)
Authors: Bastin Gilles
Published: December 2022

A large corpus of scientific literature details how the media generates an imbalance in their portrayal of society and thus contributes to the reproduction of extant power structures, particularly gender. However, there has been scant attention paid to understanding how the media adapt to changes in the social environment, especially with power structures modified by exogenous shocks such as new laws requiring gender parity in politics. This study examines how such shocks affected gender imbalance in the coverage of politics in France between 1990 and 2020. It highlights the shortcomings of an overly linear approach to the time lag effect in understanding the parameters and substance of gender imbalance in political news and advocates instead for utilizing the concept of gender imbalance hysteresis to understand why media stories do not demasculinize as quickly as the gender composition of Parliament.
Sport-related Structural Brain Injury in High School and College American Football Athletes, 2002-2020: Effect of Lystedt Law
Authors: Boden Barry P. , Brown Isaiah D.J. , Huckleby Jeremy M. , Ahmed Anwar E. , Anderson Scott A.
Published: December 2022

Background:

A previous report revealed an average of 7.2 (0.67 per 100,000 participants) sport-related structural brain injuries (SRSBIs) with macroscopic lesions per year in high school (HS) and college football players. The Lystedt law and other rule changes have been implemented with intent to reduce the risk of brain injury in football.

Hypothesis:

To update the profile of SRSBIs in HS and college football players and evaluate the efficacy of legislation intended to reduce brain injuries.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study.

Level of Evidence:

Level 4.

Methods:

We retrospectively reviewed 18 academic years (July 2002 through June 2020) of SRSBIs catalogued by the National Registry of Catastrophic Sports Injuries. The incidence of SRSBIs was assessed at the HS level during the pre (July 2002 through June 2009), transitional (July 2009 through June 2014), and post (July 2014 through June 2020) universal adoption time periods of the Lystedt law. In addition, the incidence of SRSBIs during the second half of the study (2011-2012 through 2019-2020) was compared with the first half of the study (2002-2003 through 2010-2011).

Results:

During the study period, there was a total of 228 SRSBIs (12.7 per year, 1.01 per 100,000 participants): 212 (93%, 11.8 per year, 1.00 per 100,000) in HS athletes and 16 (7%, 0.89 per year, 1.17 per 100,000) in college athletes. There were 52 fatalities (2.9 per year, 0.22 per 100,000 participants) with 46 (2.56 per year, 0.22 per 100,000) in HS athletes and 6 (0.33 per year, 0.43/100,000) in college athletes. There was no significant difference in risk of HS total SRSBIs or fatalities during the 3 Lystedt periods. The risk of combined SRSBI cases [relative risk (RR) = 1.22, P = 0.13] and fatalities (RR = 1.20, P = 0.52) was similar in the second half of the study compared with the first half of the study.

Conclusion:

Despite implementation of rule changes intended to reduce head injury, in particular the Lystedt law, the incidence of SRSBIs has remained unchanged. Further research is necessary to develop effective prevention programs for SRSBIs.

Clinical Relevance:

SRSBIs remain a persistent problem in HS and college American football. The recent head injury rule changes have not been effective at reducing SRSBIs.
Understanding the Links Between Perceiving Gratitude and Romantic Relationship Satisfaction Using an Accuracy and Bias Framework
Authors: Tissera Hasagani , Visserman Mariko L. , Impett Emily A. , Muise Amy , Lydon John E.
Published: December 2022

Perceiving a partner’s gratitude has several benefits for romantic relationships. We aimed to better understand these associations by decomposing perceptions into accuracy and bias. Specifically, we examined whether accuracy and bias in perceiving a partner’s experience (Study 1: Ndyads= 205) and expression (Study 2: Ndyads= 309) of gratitude were associated with romantic relationship satisfaction. Using the Truth and Bias Model of Judgment, we found that perceivers generally underestimated their partner’s gratitude, and lower perceptions of gratitude were related to lower perceiver satisfaction. Perceivers reported greater satisfaction when they assumed their partner’s gratitude was similar to their own. Partners reported greater satisfaction when perceivers accurately gauged their partners’ gratitude experience (but not expression) and lower satisfaction when perceivers underestimated their gratitude expression (but not experience). Overall, by decomposing gratitude perceptions into accuracy and bias, we provide insight into how these components differentially relate to relationship satisfaction.