bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
COST-EFFECTIVENESS AND PATIENT SATISFACTION OUTCOMES OF SINGLE-STAGE VERSUS TWO-STAGE REVISION SHOULDER ARTHROPLASTY
Authors: Gupta A. , Launay M. , Maharaj J. , Salhi A. , Hollman F. , Tok A. , Gilliland L. , Pather S. , Cutbush K.
Published: February 2023

Complications such as implant loosening, infection, periprosthetic fracture or instability may lead to revision arthroplasty procedures. There is limited literature comparing single-stage and two-stage revision shoulder arthroplasty. This study aims to compare clinical outcomes and cost benefit between single-stage and two-stage revision procedures.

Thirty-one revision procedures (mean age 72+/-7, 15 males and 16 females) performed between 2016 and 2021 were included (27 revision RSA, 2 revision TSA, 2 failed ORIFs). Two-stage procedures were carried out 4-6 weeks apart. Single-stage procedures included debridement, implant removal and washout, followed by re-prep, re-drape and reconstruction with new instrumentations. Clinical parameters including length of stay, VAS, patient satisfaction was recorded preoperatively and at mean 12-months follow up. Cost benefit analysis were performed.

Seven revisions were two-stage procedures and 24 were single-stage procedures. There were 5 infections in the two-stage group vs 14 in the single-stage group. We noted two cases of unstable RSA and 8 other causes for single-stage revision. Majority of the revisions were complex procedures requiring significant glenoid and/or humeral allografts and tendon transfers to compensate for soft tissue loss. No custom implants were used in our series.

Hospital stay was reduced from 41+/-29 days for 2-stage procedures to 16+/-13 days for single-stage (p<0.05). VAS improved from 9+/-1 to 2+/-4 for two-stage procedures and from 5+/-3 to 1+/-2 for single-stages. The average total cost of hospital and patient was reduced by two-thirds. Patient satisfaction in the single-stage group was 43% which was comparable to the two-stage group.

All infections were successfully treated with no recurrence of infection in our cohort of 31 patients. There was no instability postoperatively. 3 patients had postoperative neural symptoms which resolved within 6 months.

Single-stage procedures for revision shoulder arthroplasty significantly decrease hospital stay, improve patients’ satisfaction, and reduced surgical costs.
STEPPING BEYOND COUNTS, FEASIBILITY OF PASSIVELY COLLECTED QUALITATIVE GAIT METRICS USING A SMARTPHONE-BASED CARE MANAGEMENT PLATFORM FOLLOWING TOTAL JOINT ARTHROPLASTY
Authors: Fary C. , Abshagen S. , Van Andel D. , Ren A.N. , Anderson M.B. , Klar B.
Published: February 2023

Advances in algorithms developed with sensor data from smart phones demonstrates the capacity to passively collect qualitative gait metrics. The purpose of this feasibility study was to assess the recovery of these metrics following joint reconstruction. A secondary data analysis of an ethics approved global, multicenter, prospective longitudinal study evaluating gait quality data before and after primary total knee arthroplasty (TKA, n=476), partial knee arthroplasty (PKA, n=139), and total hip arthroplasty (THA, n=395). A minimum 24 week follow-up was required (mean 45±12, range 24 - 78). Gait bouts and gait quality metrics (walking speed, step length, timing asymmetry, and double support percentage) were collected from a standardized smartphone operating system. Pre- and post-operative values were compared using paired-samples t-tests (p<0.05).

A total of 595 females and 415 males with a mean age of 61.9±9.3 years and mean BMI of 30.2±6.1 kg/m2 were reviewed. Walking speeds were lowest at post-operative week two (all, p<.001). Speeds exceeded pre-operative means consistently by week 21 (p=0.015) for PKA, and week 13 (p=0.007) for THA. The average weekly step length was lowest in post-operative week two (all, p<0.001). PKA and THA cases achieved pre-operative step lengths by week seven (p=0.064) and week 9 (p=0.081), respectively. The average weekly gait asymmetry peaked at week two post-operatively (all, p <0.001). Return to pre-operative baseline asymmetry was achieved by week 11 (p=0.371) for TKA, week six (p=0.541) for PKA, and week eight (p=.886) for THA. Double limb support percentages peaked at week two (all, p<0.001) and returned to pre-operative levels by week 24 (p=0.089) for TKA, week 12 (p=0.156) for PKA, and week 10 (p=0.143) for THA.

Monitoring gait quality in real-world settings following joint reconstruction using smartphones is feasible, and may provide the advantage of removing the Hawthorne effect related to typical gait assessments and in-clinic observations.
GERIATRIC ANKLE TRAUMA: EXPERIENCE OF THE ACUTE HINDFOOT NAIL
Authors: Ramage D. , Burgess A.G. , Powell A. , Tangrood Z.J.
Published: February 2023

Ankle fractures represent the third most common fragility fracture seen in elderly patients following hip and distal radius fractures. Non-operative management of these see complication rates as high as 70%. Open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) has complication rates of up to 40%. With either option, patients tend to be managed with a non-weight bearing period of six weeks or longer. An alternative is the use of a tibiotalocalcaneal (TTC) nail. This provides a percutaneous treatment that enables the patient to mobilise immediately. This case-series explores the efficacy of this device in a broad population, including the highly comorbid and cognitively impaired.

We reviewed patients treated with TTC nail for acute ankle fractures between 2019 and 2022. Baseline and surgical data were collected. Clinical records were reviewed to record any post-operative complication, and post-operative mobility status and domicile. 24 patients had their ankle fracture managed with TTC nailing. No intra-operative complications were noted. There were six (27%) post-operative complications; four patients had loosening of a distal locking screw, one significant wound infection necessitating exchange of nail, and one pressure area from an underlying displaced fracture fragment. All except three patients returned to their previous domicile. Just over two thirds of patients returned to their baseline level of mobility.

This case-series is one of the largest and is also one of the first to include cognitively impaired patients. Our results are consistent with other case-series with a favourable complication rate when compared with ORIF in similar patient groups. The use of a TTC nail in the context of acute, geriatric ankle trauma is a simple and effective treatment modality. This series shows acceptable complication rates and the majority of patients are able to return to their baseline level of mobility and domicile.
TESTING IN VEIN: ARE ROUTINE BLOOD TESTS REQUIRED FOR UNCOMPLICATED ARTHROPLASTY? A RETROSPECTIVE COHORT STUDY
Authors: Kioa G. , Hunter S. , Blackett J.
Published: February 2023

Routine post-operative bloods following all elective arthroplasty may be unnecessary. This retrospective cohort study aims to define the proportion of post-operative tests altering clinical management.

Clinical coding identified all elective hip or knee joint replacement under Hawkes Bay District Health Board contract between September 2019-December 2020 (N=373). Uni-compartmental and bilateral replacements, procedures performed for cancer, and those with insufficient data were excluded. Demographics, perioperative technique, and medical complication data was collected. Pre- and post-operative blood tests were assessed. Outcome measures included clinical intervention for abnormal post-operative sodium (Na), creatinine (Cr), haemoglobin (Hb), or potassium (K) levels. A cost-benefit analysis assessed unnecessary testing.

350 patients were Included. Median age was 71 (range 34-92), with 46.9% male. Only 26 abnormal post-operative results required intervention (7.1%). 11 interventions were for low Na, 4 for low K, and 4 for elevated Cr. Only 7 patients were transfused blood products. Older age (p=0.009) and higher ASA (p=0.02) were associated with intervention of any kind. Abnormal preoperative results significantly predicted intervention for Na (p<0.05) and Cr (p<0.05). All patients requiring treatment for K used diuretic medication. Preoperative Hb level was not associated with need for transfusion. Overall, there were 1027 unnecessary investigations resulting in $18,307 excess expenditure.

Our study identified that the majority of elective arthroplasty patients do not require routine postoperative blood testing. We recommend investigations for patients with preoperative electrolyte abnormality, those taking diuretics, and patients with significant blood loss noted intra-operatively. In future, a larger, randomised controlled trial would be useful to confirm these factors.
EFFICACY AND SAFETY OF DIFFERENT TRAPEZIUM IMPLANTS FOR TRAPEZIOMETACARPAL JOINT OSTEOARTHRITIS: A SYSTEMATIC REVIEW AND META-ANALYSIS
Authors: Seth I. , Bulloch G. , Seth N. , Fogg Q. , Hunter-Smith D.J. , Rozen W.M.
Published: February 2023

The trapeziometacarpal joint (TMCJ) is the most common hand joint affected by osteoarthritis (OA), and trapezium implant arthroplasty is a potential treatment for recalcitrant OA. This meta-analysis aimed to investigate the efficacy and safety of various trapezium implants as an interventional option for TMCJ OA. Web of Science, PubMed, Scopus, Google Scholar, and Cochrane library databases were searched for relevant studies up to May 2022. Preferred Reported Items for Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis guidelines were adhered to and registered on PROSPERO. The methodological quality was assessed by National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute tools for observational studies and the Cochrane risk of bias tool. Subgroup analyses were performed on different replacement implants, the analysis was done via Open Meta-Analyst software and P values < 0.05 were considered statistically significant.

A total of 123 studies comprising 5752 patients were included. Total joint replacement (TJR) implants demonstrate greater significant improvements in visual analogue scale pain scores postoperatively. Interposition with partial trapezial resection implants was associated with the highest grip strength and highest reduction in the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score. Revision rates were highest in TJR (12.3%), and lowest in interposition with partial trapezial resection (6.2%).

Total joint replacement and interposition with partial trapezial resection implants improve pain, grip strength, and DASH scores more than other implant options. Future studies should focus on high-quality randomized clinical trials comparing different implants to accumulate higher quality evidence and more reliable conclusions.
ONE- AND TWO-YEAR RESULTS OF A NOVEL CERAMIC-ON-CERAMIC HIP RESURFACING IMPLANT IN AUSTRALIA
Authors: Lin D. , Xu J. , Weinrauch P. , Yates P. , Young D. , Walter W.
Published: February 2023

Hip resurfacing arthroplasty (HRA) is a bone conserving alternative to total hip arthroplasty. We present the early 1 and 2-year clinical and radiographical follow-up of a novel ceramic-on-ceramic (CoC) HRA in a multi-centric Australian cohort.

Patient undergoing HRA between September 2018 and April 2021 were prospectively included. Patient-reported outcome measures (PROMS) in the form of the Forgotten Joint Score (FJS), HOOS Jr, WOMAC, Oxford Hip Score (OHS) and UCLA Activity Score were collected preoperatively and at 1- and 2-years post-operation. Serial radiographs were assessed for migration, component alignment, evidence of osteolysis/loosening and heterotopic ossification formation.

209 patients were identified of which 106 reached 2-year follow-up. Of these, 187 completed PROMS at 1 year and 90 at 2 years. There was significant improvement in HOOS (p< 0.001) and OHS (p< 0.001) between the pre-operative, 1-year and 2-years outcomes. Patients also reported improved pain (p<0.001), function (p<0.001) and reduced stiffness (p<0.001) as measured by the WOMAC score. Patients had improved activity scores on the UCLA Active Score (p<0.001) with 53% reporting return to impact activity at 2 years. FJS at 1 and 2-years were not significantly different (p=0.38). There was no migration, osteolysis or loosening of any of the implants. The mean acetabular cup inclination angle was 41.3° and the femoral component shaft angle was 137°. No fractures were reported over the 2-year follow-up with only 1 patient reporting a sciatic nerve palsy.

There was early return to impact activities in more than half our patients at 2 years with no early clinical or radiological complications related to the implant. Longer term follow-up with increased patient numbers are required to restore surgeon confidence in HRA and expand the use of this novel product.

In conclusion, CoC resurfacing at 2-years post-operation demonstrate promising results with satisfactory outcomes in all recorded PROMS.
COST AND OUTCOME ANALYSIS OF DISTAL INTERPHALANGEAL JOINT ARTHRODESIS BETWEEN K-WIRES AND HEADLESS COMPRESSION SCREWS
Authors: Kim K. , Wang A. , Coomarasamy C. , Foster M.
Published: February 2023

Distal interphalangeal joint (DIPJ) fusion using a k-wire has been the gold standard treatment for DIPJ arthritis. Recent studies have shown similar patient outcomes with the headless compression screws (HCS), however there has been no cost analysis to compare the two. Therefore, this study aims to 1) review the cost of DIPJ fusion between k-wire and HCS 2) compare functional outcome and patient satisfaction between the two groups.

A retrospective review was performed over a nine-year period from 2012-2021 in Counties Manukau. Cost analysis was performed between patients who underwent DIPJ fusion with either HCS or k-wire. Costs included were surgical cost, repeat operations and follow-up clinic costs. The difference in pre-operative and post-operative functional and pain scores were also compared using the patient rate wrist/hand evaluation (PRWHE).

Of the 85 eligible patients, 49 underwent fusion with k-wires and 36 had HCS. The overall cost was significantly lower in the HCS group which was 6554 New Zealand Dollars (NZD), whereas this was 10408 NZD in the k-wire group (p<0.0001). The adjusted relative risk of 1.3 indicate that the cost of k-wires is 1.3 times more than HCS (P=0.0053). The patients’ post-operative PRWHE pain (−22 vs −18, p<0.0001) and functional scores (−38 vs −36, p<0.0001) improved significantly in HCS group compared to the k-wire group.

Literatures have shown similar DIPJ fusion outcomes between k-wire and HCS. K-wires often need to be removed post-operatively due to the metalware irritation. This leads to more surgical procedures and clinic follow-ups, which overall increases the cost of DIPJ fusion with k-wires.

DIPJ fusion with HCS is a more cost-effective with a lower surgical and follow-up costs compared to the k-wiring technique. Patients with HCS also tend to have a significant improvement in post-operative pain and functional scores.
WHAT IMAGING IS REQUIRED TO PLAN TKA? A COMPARISON BETWEEN EOS AND CT SCAN TO ASSESS CORONAL ALIGNMENT
Authors: Sundaraj K , Corbett J , Yong Yau Tai J , Salmon L , Roe J
Published: February 2023

The emergence of patient specific instrumentation has seen an expansion from simple radiographs to plan total knee arthroplasty (TKA) with modern systems using computed tomography (CT) or magnetic resonance imaging scans. Concerns have emerged regarding accuracy of these non-weight bearing modalities to assess true mechanical axis. The aim of our study was to compare coronal alignment on full length standing AP imaging generated by the EOS acquisition system with the CT coronal scout image.

Eligible patients underwent unilateral or bilateral primary TKA for osteoarthritis under the care of investigating surgeon between 2017 and 2022, with both EOS X-Ray Imaging Acquisition System and CT scans performed preoperatively. Coronal mechanical alignment was measured on the supine coronal scout CT scan and the standing HKA EOS.

Pre-operative lower limb coronal alignment was assessed on 96 knees prior to TKA on the supine coronal scout CT scan and the standing HKA EOS. There were 56 males (56%), and 44 right knees (44%). The mean age was 68 years (range 53-90). The mean coronal alignment was 4.7 degrees (SD 5.3) on CT scan and 4.6 degrees (SD 6.2) on EOS (p=0.70). There was a strong positive correlation of coronal alignment on CT scan and EOS (pearson

0.927, p=0.001). The mean difference between EOS and CT scan was 0.9 degrees (SD 2.4). Less than 3 degrees variation between measures was observed in 87% of knees. On linear regression for every 1° varus increase in CT HKA alignment, the EOS HKA alignment increased by 0.93° in varus orientation. The model explained 86% of the variability.

CT demonstrates excellent reliability for assessing coronal lower limb alignment compared to EOS in osteoarthritic knees. This supports the routine use of CT to plan TKA without further weight bearing imaging in routine cases.
Free Vibration Analysis of Functionally Graded Carbon Nanotube-Reinforced Higher Order Refined Composite Beams Using Differential Quadrature Finite Element Method
Authors: Houalef Ihab Eddine , Bensaid Ismail , Saimi Ahmed , Cheikh Abdelmadjid
Published: February 2023

Present paper deals on the free vibration investigation of carbon nanotube-reinforced composite (CNTs) beams, based on refined third order shear deformation finite element beam theory. The particularity of this model is that, it can capture shear deformation effect without using of any shear correction factor by satisfying shear stress free at free edges. The carbon nanotubes are supposed to be immersed in a polymeric matrix with functionally graded pattern across the thickness direction of the beam, and their material properties are evaluated using the rule of mixture. The differential equations of motion and related boundary conditions are extracted using Lagrange’s principle and solved employing a robust numerical tool called, Differential Quadrature Finite Element Method (DQFEM) for the first time, with high convergence speed, fast calculus performance as well as a good numerical stability. The obtained results have been validated with those available in literature, in order to show the correctness of the present model. Afterwards, a deep parametric study is performed to examine the effects of various geometrical and material parameters on the vibration behavior of FG-CNTs beams.
Total Hip Arthroplasty for Ochronosis: A Report of Three Cases
Authors: Arasu J Arul Durai , Prasanna A Arul
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Ochronosis is a rare metabolic disorder, characterized by accumulation of homogentisic acid in the connective tissues due to the lack of the enzyme homogentisic acid oxidase. The musculoskeletal manifestation of alkaptonuria is black pigmentation of cartilage of the knee and the hip leading to arthropathy. Case Report: In this article, we report three patients with involvement of hip, knee, and spine, but with more severe involvement of the hips. Bilateral hip arthroplasty was done in one out of the three patients. Conclusion: Being a rare disorder and often missed, the functional outcome of hip arthroplasty in these patients is similar to primary osteoarthritis. The importance lies in correct diagnosis and anticipation of intraoperative difficulties. Keywords: Ochronosis, arthroplasty, arthropathy, metabolic arthropathy, alkaptonuria.
Bilateral Dega and Varus Derotational Osteotomies for Painful Hip Subluxation in Acute Flaccid Myelitis: A Case Report
Authors: Xu Amy L , Dean Janet M , Margalit Adam , Sponseller Paul D , Sadowsky Cristina L
Published: February 2023

Introduction: Acute flaccid myelitis (AFM) is a recently described diagnosis that primarily impacts the pediatric population. It is characterized by profound proximal muscle weakness with resultant orthopedic manifestations similar to well-known neuromuscular conditions. While the incidence of AFM has been rising, management outcomes are understudied. Here, we describe the first known case of hip reconstruction in AFM. Case Report: A 5-year-old female presented with painful bilateral hip subluxations 2 years after being diagnosed with AFM. Imaging confirmed substantial uncovering of the femoral heads, right greater than left, with reduction on abduction views. Given the extent of her hip pathology and symptoms, she underwent bilateral Dega and varus derotational osteotomies with adductor lengthening, achieving a 35° correction in femoral neck angle and 30° reduction in femoral anteversion bilaterally. At 2 years postoperatively, she was asymptomatic without recurrence of hip displacement. Conclusion:Reconstructive femoral osteotomies can be effective for achieving painless, reduced hips in patients with AFM. Thus, surgeons may reasonably extrapolate current concepts utilized for other low-tone neuromuscular conditions to inform approach to AFM. Keywords: Acute flaccid myelitis, hip displacement, hip reconstruction, varus derotational osteotomy, Dega osteotomy, neuromuscular.
Absolute Grüneisen parameter measurement in deep tissue based on X-ray-induced acoustic computed tomography
Authors: Chen Feng , Sun Mingli , Chen Ruimin , Li Chiye , Shi Junhui
Published: February 2023

The Grüneisen parameter is a primary parameter of the initial sound pressure signal in the photoacoustic effect, which can provide unique biological information and is related to the temperature change information of an object. The accurate measurement of this parameter is of great significance in biomedical research. Combining X-ray-induced acoustic tomography and conventional X-ray computed tomography, we proposed a method to obtain the absolute Grüneisen parameter. The theory development, numerical simulation, and biomedical application scenarios are discussed. The results reveal that our method not only can determine the Grüneisen parameter but can also obtain the body internal temperature distribution, presenting its potential in the diagnosis of a broad range of diseases.
UV-VIS-NIR broadband flexible photodetector based on layered lead-free organic-inorganic hybrid perovskite
Authors: Xu Yanming , Wang Fan , Xu Jinlong , Lv Xinjie , Zhao Gang , Sun Zhihua , Xie Zhenda , Zhu Shining
Published: February 2023

The flexible photodetector is viewed as a research hotspot for numerous advanced optoelectronic applications. Recent progress has manifested that lead-free layered organic-inorganic hybrid perovskites (OIHPs) are highly attractive to engineering flexible photodetectors due to the effective overlapping of several unique properties, including efficient optoelectronic characteristics, exceptional structural flexibility, and the absence of Pb toxicity to humans and the environment. The narrow spectral response of most flexible photodetectors with lead-free perovskites is still a big challenge to practical applications. In this work, we demonstrate the flexible photodetector based on a novel (to our knowledge) narrow-bandgap OIHP of (BA)2(MA)Sn2I7, with achieving a broadband response across an ultraviolet-visible-near infrared (UV-VIS-NIR) region as 365-1064 nm. The high responsivities of 28.4 and 2.0 × 10−2 A/W are obtained at 365 and 1064 nm, respectively, corresponding to detectives of 2.3 × 1010 and 1.8 × 107 Jones. This device also shows remarkable photocurrent stability after 1000 bending cycles. Our work indicates the huge application prospect of Sn-based lead-free perovskites in high-performance and eco-friendly flexible devices.
Multi-modal imaging using a cascaded microscope design
Authors: Yang Xi , Harfouche Mark , Zhou Kevin C. , Kreiss Lucas , Xu Shiqi , Chandra Konda Pavan , Kim Kanghyun , Horstmeyer Roarke
Published: February 2023

We present a multi-modal fiber array snapshot technique (M-FAST) based on an array of 96 compact cameras placed behind a primary objective lens and a fiber bundle array. Our technique is capable of large-area, high-resolution, multi-channel video acquisition. The proposed design provides two key improvements to prior cascaded imaging system approaches: a novel optical arrangement that accommodates the use of planar camera arrays, and a new ability to acquire multi-modal image data acquisition. M-FAST is a multi-modal, scalable imaging system that can acquire snapshot dual-channel fluorescence images as well as differential phase contrast measurements over a large 6.59 mm × 9.74 mm field-of-view at 2.2-μm center full-pitch resolution.
Phase retrieval via nonlocal complex-domain sparsity
Authors: Bian Liheng , Wang Xin , Chang Xuyang , Gao Zhijie , Qin Tong
Published: February 2023

Phase retrieval is indispensable for a number of coherent imaging systems. Owing to limited exposure, it is a challenge for traditional phase retrieval algorithms to reconstruct fine details in the presence of noise. In this Letter, we report an iterative framework for noise-robust phase retrieval with high fidelity. In the framework, we investigate nonlocal structural sparsity in the complex domain by low-rank regularization, which effectively suppresses artifacts caused by measurement noise. The joint optimization of sparsity regularization and data fidelity with forward models enables satisfying detail recovery. To further improve computational efficiency, we develop an adaptive iteration strategy that automatically adjusts matching frequency. The effectiveness of the reported technique has been validated for coherent diffraction imaging and Fourier ptychography, with ≈7 dB higher peak SNR (PSNR) on average, compared with conventional alternating projection reconstruction.
Non-linear dynamics of multimode semiconductor lasers: dispersion-based phase instability and route to single-frequency operation
Authors: Chomet Baptiste , Vigne Nathan , Beaudoin Grégoire , Pantzas Konstantinos , Blin Stéphane , Sagnes Isabelle , Denet Stéphane , Garnache Arnaud
Published: February 2023

Emission dynamics of a multimode broadband interband semiconductor laser have been investigated experimentally and theoretically. Non-linear dynamics of a III–V semiconductor quantum well surface-emitting laser reveal the existence of a modulational instability, observed in the anomalous dispersion regime. An additional unstable region arises in the normal dispersion regime, owing to carrier dynamics, and has no analogy in systems with fast gain recovery. The interplay between cavity dispersion and phase sensitive non-linearities is shown to affect the character of laser emission with phase turbulence, leading to regular self-excited oscillations of mode intensity, self-mode locking, and single-frequency emission stabilized by spectral symmetry breaking. Such physical behavior is a general phenomenon for any laser with a slow gain medium relative to the round trip time, in the absence of spatial inhomogeneities.
Photon approach to diffraction, interference, optical coherence, and image formation
Authors: Tavassoly Mohammad , Siavashani M. Jafari , Moradi Ali-Reza
Published: February 2023

When a parallel beam of light illuminates an aperture, the uncertainty principles require associating probability amplitude to a photon at each point of the aperture. Superposition of the amplitudes at the observation point behind the aperture, determines the probability that the photon strikes the point. In this report, we show that this “photon approach” explains several optical concepts. The approach is applied to study the diffraction from a single slit, double slit, and transmission phase step. Then, we apply it to explain the diffraction from a bi-prism and a Michelson’s interferometer, and show that the photon approach to the appearance of the interference fringes is more reasonable than the wave approach. We deduce the coherence behavior of light from the uncertainty principles, and finally, we use the photon approach to extract the ray optics laws and image formation formulae.
An adversarial collaboration protocol for testing contrasting predictions of global neuronal workspace and integrated information theory
Authors: Melloni Lucia , Mudrik Liad , Pitts Michael , Bendtz Katarina , Ferrante Oscar , Gorska Urszula , Hirschhorn Rony , Khalaf Aya , Kozma Csaba , Lepauvre Alex , Liu Ling , Mazumder David , Richter David , Zhou Hao , Blumenfeld Hal , Boly Melanie , Chalmers David J. , Devore Sasha , Fallon Francis , de Lange Floris P. , Jensen Ole , Kreiman Gabriel , Luo Huan , Panagiotaropoulos Theofanis I. , Dehaene Stanislas , Koch Christof , Tononi Giulio
Published: February 2023

The relationship between conscious experience and brain activity has intrigued scientists and philosophers for centuries. In the last decades, several theories have suggested different accounts for these relationships. These theories have developed in parallel, with little to no cross-talk among them. To advance research on consciousness, we established an adversarial collaboration between proponents of two of the major theories in the field, Global Neuronal Workspace and Integrated Information Theory. Together, we devised and preregistered two experiments that test contrasting predictions of these theories concerning the location and timing of correlates of visual consciousness, which have been endorsed by the theories’ proponents. Predicted outcomes should either support, refute, or challenge these theories. Six theory-impartial laboratories will follow the study protocol specified here, using three complementary methods: Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI), Magneto-Electroencephalography (M-EEG), and intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG). The study protocol will include built-in replications, both between labs and within datasets. Through this ambitious undertaking, we hope to provide decisive evidence in favor or against the two theories and clarify the footprints of conscious visual perception in the human brain, while also providing an innovative model of large-scale, collaborative, and open science practice.
Modifications in the piperazine ring of nucleozin affect anti-influenza activity
Authors: Correa-Padilla Erick , Hernández-Cano Alejandro , Cuevas Gabriel , Acevedo-Betancur Yunuen , Esquivel-Guadarrama Fernando , Martinez-Mayorga Karina
Published: February 2023

The infection caused by the influenza virus is a latent tret. The limited access to vaccines and approved drugs highlights the need for additional antiviral agents. Nucleozin and its analogs have gain attention for their promising anti-influenza activity. To contribute to the advancement of the discovery and design of nucleozin analogs, we analyzed piperazine-modified nucleozin analogs to increase conformational freedom. Also, we describe a new synthetic strategy to obtain nucleozin and its analogues, three molecules were synthesized and two of them were biologically evaluated in vitro. Although the analogues were less active than nucleozin, the loss of activity highlights the need for the piperazine ring to maintain the activity of nucleozin analogs. Interestingly, this result agrees with the prediction of anti-influenza activity made with a QSAR model presented in this work. The proposed model and the synthetic route will be useful for the further development of nucleozin analogs with antiviral activity.
Women experiencing homelessness and mental illness in a Housing First multi-site trial: Looking beyond housing to social outcomes and well-being
Authors: O’Campo Patricia , Nisenbaum Rosane , Crocker Anne G. , Nicholls Tonia , Eiboff Faith , Adair Carol E.
Published: February 2023

Objective

There is scant research on the effectiveness of permanent supportive housing for homeless women with mental illness. This study examines the effectiveness of Housing First with an unprecedentedly large sample of homeless women from five Canadian cities, and explore baseline risk factors that predict social, health and well-being outcomes over a 24 month-period.

Methods

The At Home/Chez Soi multi-site randomized controlled Housing First trial recruited over 600 women between October 2009 and July 2011. This is a post-hoc subgroup exploratory analysis of self-identified women with at least one follow-up interview who were randomized to Housing First (HF) (n = 374) or treatment-as-usual (TAU) (n = 279) and had at least one follow-up interview. Linear mixed models and generalized estimating equations were used after multiple imputation was applied to address missing data.

Results

At the end of follow-up, the mean percentage of days spent stably housed was higher for women in the intervention 74.8% (95%CI = 71.7%–77.8%) compared with women in the treatment-as-usual group, 37.9% (95%CI = 34.4%–41.3%), p<0.001. With few exceptions, social and mental health outcomes were similar for both groups at 6-, 12-, 18- and 24-months post-enrollment. Suicidality was a consistent predictor of increased mental health symptoms (beta = 2.85, 95% CI 1.59–4.11, p<0.001), decreased quality of life (beta = -3.99, 95% CI -6.49 to -1.49, p<0.001), decreased community functioning (beta = -1.16, 95% CI -2.10 to -0.22, p = 0.015) and more emergency department visits (rate ratio = 1.44, 95% CI 1.10–1.87, p<0.001) over the study period. Lower education was a predictor of lower community functioning (beta = -1.32, 95% CI -2.27 to -0.37, p = 0.006) and higher substance use problems (rate ratio = 1.27, 95% CI 1.06–1.52, p = 0.009) during the study.

Conclusions

Housing First interventions ensured that women experiencing homelessness are quickly and consistently stably housed. However, they did not differentially impact health and social measures compared to treatment as usual. Ensuring positive health and social outcomes may require greater supports at enrolment for subgroups such as those with low educational attainment, and additional attention to severity of baseline mental health challenges, such as suicidality.

Trial registration

International Standard Randomized Control Trial Number Register Identifier: ISRCTN42520374.
Matching degree of embodied carbon trade and value-added trade among Chinese provinces (regions)
Authors: Li Xia , Lu Fengying , Deng Guangyao
Published: February 2023

This paper constructs a matching index model to research the matching degree of embodied carbon trade and value-added trade among eight regions and 31 provinces in China in 2012 and 2015. The study finds that (1) At the regional level, a mismatch is shown between embodied carbon trade and value-added trade among regions, for example, in 2015, the northwest region has output embodied carbon to the north coast, while input the value-added trades from the north coast. (2) At the provincial level, a mismatch is displayed between embodied carbon transaction and value-added trade, for example, Beijing had a net shift of embodied carbon from Xinjiang in 2015, but Xinjiang had a net transfer of added value from Beijing. Therefore, the Chinese government needs to establish an ecological compensation mechanism to improve the mismatch between embodied carbon trade and value-added trade among Chinese regions (provinces).
Knowledge, attitudes and practices on household solid waste management and associated factors in Gelemso town, Ethiopia
Authors: Eshete Hailu , Desalegn Asnake , Tigu Fitsum
Published: February 2023

Improper solid waste management in urban and semi-urban cities of developing countries is the source of environmental pollution and public health concern. This study aimed to assess the households’ knowledge, attitudes and practices of solid waste management and associated factors in Gelemso town. A community-based cross-sectional study design was used to assess the households’ KAP of SWM in Gelemso town. A systematic random sampling technique was used to recruit 390 households from Gelemso town and data was collected using a structured questionnaire. Data analysis was carried out using SPSS version 22.0 software. Bivariate and multivariate analyses were used to predict the improper SWM practices. From 390 households included in the study, 61.3% of them were females. Generally, most households had correct knowledge and positive attitudes towards SWM but poor practice was observed in the study area. About 96% of the households considered solid waste as a source of environmental pollution and close to 92% of them replied that solid waste can be used for compost preparation. Majority (87.4%) of the households “strongly agreed” about the potential risk associated with improper solid waste disposal and nearly 80% of them also “strongly agreed” that proper SWM is crucial to create a healthy environment in the community. Nearly 80% had practiced improper SWM. Logistic regression analyses indicated that lack of experience in sorting solid waste, ways of removal, knowledge about reduce, reuse and recycle, absence of adequate solid waste landfills, and lack of door-to-door waste collections services were identified as the major contributing factors for the improper SWM practice in Gelemso town. In conclusion, the majority of the households had practiced improper SWM, such as disposing of solid waste in the backyard, along the roadsides, in gully and burned. These malpractices can significantly affect the environment and public health of the residents.
Financial development, technological innovation and urban-rural income gap: Time series evidence from China
Authors: Wang Li-Min , Wu Xiang-Li , Chu Nan-Chen
Published: February 2023

The main purpose of the paper is to investigate the relationship between technological innovation and income inequality for China based on the financial Kuznets curve (FKC) hypothesis. The study uses time-series data from 1985 to 2019. We employ the Johansen cointegration, ARDL model and VECM Granger causality techniques to analyze the links between the variables. We also use the DOLS, FMOLS and CCR mechanisms to estimate the long-run parameters. The paper finds that the FKC is valid for China’s economy in the long run. Technological innovation positively affects the urban-rural income gap, while there is an inverted-U shaped between financial development and the urban-rural income gap. The relationship between financial development and the urban-rural income gap is bi-directional causality. Technological innovation and the urban-rural income gap cause each other. Empirical results suggest a twofold policy meaning: i) to further the financial system and ii) to eliminate the adverse impacts of technological innovations on income distribution.
Physical body experiences questionnaire simplified for active aging (PBE-QAG): Rasch validation
Authors: Deng Wei , Carpentier Sydney , Van de Winckel Ann
Published: February 2023

Purpose

To validate the Physical Body Experiences Questionnaire simplified for Active aGing (PBE-QAG) with Rasch Measurement Theory. PBE-QAG measures body awareness during physical activity.

Methods

Community-dwelling adults were recruited at the Minnesota State Fair, Highland Fest, and in the Brain Body Mind Lab (University of Minnesota). They completed demographic, clinical, and behavioral questionnaires and the PBE-QAG, which has 12 items, with scoring options ranging between 0 (totally true) and 4 (totally false). A lower total PBE-QAG score on reflects better body awareness. We validated the structural validity of PBE-QAG in community-dwelling older adults, and in community-dwelling adults (18–99 years of age). We also performed a pilot structural validity in community-dwelling adults with chronic stroke. We evaluated item and person fit, targeting, unidimensionality, person separation reliability, differential item functioning for demographic and clinical characteristics, principal component of residuals, and local item dependence.

Results

We obtained unidimensionality and item fit after deleting and rescoring items in older adults (n = 133), adults (n = 530), and adults with chronic stroke (n = 36). In community-dwelling adults, 7 participants did not fit the model (1.13%). There was minimal floor (5.28%), no ceiling effect (0.00%), and no local item dependence or differential item functioning. The person mean location was -1.77±1.22 logits.

Conclusions

PBE-QAG demonstrated good item and person fit, but the targeting is off. Therefore, the current version of PBE-QAG is not recommended for use in community-dwelling adults. We encourage further validation of PBE-QAG by adding more difficult items. We also recommend evaluating the PBE-QAG in a larger group of adults with stroke.
Factors associated with elder abuse and neglect in rural Uganda: A cross-sectional study of community older adults attending an outpatient clinic
Authors: Atim Letizia Maria , Kaggwa Mark Mohan , Mamum Mohammed A. , Kule Moses , Ashaba Scholastic , Maling Samuel
Published: February 2023

Background

Elderlies are vulnerable to abuse, and evidence suggests that one in three elderlies experience abuse. Abuse can impact the well-being of older persons, decreasing their quality of life, leading to mental health challenges, and increasing morbidity and mortality rates. Evidence on older person/elder abuse and neglect is vital to facilitate initiatives, but there are fewer studies on elder abuse and neglect in Africa, particularly in Uganda. Thus, this study aimed to determine the prevalence of different types of abuse and neglect, and their associated factors among older persons (aged 60 years and above) attending an outpatient clinic.

Methods

In this cross-sectional study, information on sociodemographic characteristics, functional impairment using the Barthel Index, and elder abuse severity using the Hwalek-Sengstock Elder Abuse Screening Test were collected. In addition, types of abuse were assessed using questions adapted from the US National Research Council on elder mistreatment monograph. Linear and logistic regression analyses were used to determine the factors associated with elder abuse severity and the different types of abuse, respectively.

Results

Overall, the prevalence of elder abuse was 89.0%. Neglect was the most common type of elder abuse (86%), followed by emotional abuse (49%), financial abuse (46.8%), physical mistreatment (25%), and sexual abuse (6.8%). About 30.4% of the abused elders experienced at least two forms of abuse. Factors associated with elder abuse severity were having a secondary level of education and physical impairment. Moderate to severe functional dependence was associated with almost all forms of abuse. Individuals who reported the presence of a perpetrator were likely to experience neglect, emotional, and physical mistreatment. However, those who reported their perpetrators to the police had a higher likelihood of experiencing emotional abuse but were less likely to experience financial abuse. Emotional abuse was also associated with age above 80 years and attaining education (primary and secondary). Physical impairment and chronic medical conditions reduced the likelihood of experiencing neglect and financial abuse, and physical abuse, respectively.

Conclusions

Uganda has a high prevalence of elder abuse and neglect. There is a need to design interventions for older adults at risk to prevent elder abuse from escalating further, where the present findings can be worthy of help.
Real-world utilization of SARS-CoV-2 serological testing in RNA positive patients across the United States
Authors: Rodriguez-Watson Carla V. , Sheils Natalie E. , Louder Anthony M. , Eldridge Elizabeth H. , Lin Nancy D. , Pollock Benjamin D. , Gatz Jennifer L. , Grannis Shaun J. , Vashisht Rohit , Ghauri Kanwal , Valo Gina , Chakravarty Aloka G. , Lasky Tamar , Jung Mary , Lovell Stephen L. , Major Jacqueline M. , Kabelac Carly , Knepper Camille , Leonard Sandy , Embi Peter J. , Jenkinson William G. , Klesh Reyna , Garner Omai B. , Patel Ayan , Dahm Lisa , Barin Aiden , Cooper Dan M. , Andriola Tom , Byington Carrie L. , Crews Bridgit O. , Butte Atul J. , Allen Jeff
Published: February 2023

Background

As diagnostic tests for COVID-19 were broadly deployed under Emergency Use Authorization, there emerged a need to understand the real-world utilization and performance of serological testing across the United States.

Methods

Six health systems contributed electronic health records and/or claims data, jointly developed a master protocol, and used it to execute the analysis in parallel. We used descriptive statistics to examine demographic, clinical, and geographic characteristics of serology testing among patients with RNA positive for SARS-CoV-2.

Results

Across datasets, we observed 930,669 individuals with positive RNA for SARS-CoV-2. Of these, 35,806 (4%) were serotested within 90 days; 15% of which occurred <14 days from the RNA positive test. The proportion of people with a history of cardiovascular disease, obesity, chronic lung, or kidney disease; or presenting with shortness of breath or pneumonia appeared higher among those serotested compared to those who were not. Even in a population of people with active infection, race/ethnicity data were largely missing (>30%) in some datasets—limiting our ability to examine differences in serological testing by race. In datasets where race/ethnicity information was available, we observed a greater distribution of White individuals among those serotested; however, the time between RNA and serology tests appeared shorter in Black compared to White individuals. Test manufacturer data was available in half of the datasets contributing to the analysis.

Conclusion

Our results inform the underlying context of serotesting during the first year of the COVID-19 pandemic and differences observed between claims and EHR data sources–a critical first step to understanding the real-world accuracy of serological tests. Incomplete reporting of race/ethnicity data and a limited ability to link test manufacturer data, lab results, and clinical data challenge the ability to assess the real-world performance of SARS-CoV-2 tests in different contexts and the overall U.S. response to current and future disease pandemics.