bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
WAFER trial: a study protocol for a feasibility randomised controlled trial comparing wide-awake local anaesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT) to general and regional anaesthesia with tourniquet for flexor tendon repair
Authors: Kanapathy Muholan , Faderani Ryan , Bray Juliette , Dehbi Hakim-Moulay , Panca Monica , Vindrola-Padros Cecilia , Prasad Anjana , Burr Nicola , Williams Norman R , Al-Ajam Yazan , Bhat Waseem , Wong Jason , Mosahebi Afshin , Nikkhah Dariush
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Flexor tendons are traditionally repaired under either general anaesthesia (GA) or regional anaesthesia (RA), allowing for the use of an arm tourniquet to minimise blood loss and establish a bloodless surgical field. However, the use of tourniquets exposes the patient to certain risks, including skin, muscle and nerve injuries. A recent advancement in anaesthesia delivery involves the use of a wide-awake approach where no sedation nor tourniquets are used (wide-awake local anaesthesia no tourniquet (WALANT)). WALANT uses local anaesthetic with epinephrine to provide pain relief and vasoconstriction, reducing operative bleeding. Several studies revealed potential benefits for WALANT compared with GA or RA. However, there remains a paucity of high-quality evidence to support the use of WALANT. As a result of this uncertainty, the clinical practice varies considerably. We aim to evaluate the feasibility of WALANT as an alternative to GA and RA in patients undergoing surgical repair of flexor tendon injuries. This involves addressing factors such as clinician and patient support for a trial, clinical equipoise, trial recruitment and dropout and the most relevant outcomes measures for a future definitive trial.

Methods and analysis

WAFER is a multicentre, single-blinded, parallel group, randomised controlled trial (RCT) to assess the feasibility of WALANT versus RA and GA. The target population is patients with acute traumatic flexor tendon injuries, across 3 major hand surgery units in England involving a total of 60 participants. Outcome assessors will be blinded. The primary outcome will be the ability to recruit patients into the trial, while secondary outcomes include difference in functional outcome, patient-reported outcome measures, health-related quality of life, cost-effectiveness and complication rates.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the London—City and East Research Ethics Committee (22/PR/1197). Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publication, conferences, patient information websites and social media networks.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN identifier: 15052559.
Extended safety and tolerability of subcutaneous CAP256V2LS and VRC07-523LS in HIV-negative women: study protocol for the randomised, placebo-controlled double-blinded, phase 2 CAPRISA 012C trial
Authors: Mahomed Sharana , Garrett Nigel , Potloane Disebo , Sikazwe Izukanji T , Capparelli Edmund , Harkoo Ishana , Gengiah Tanuja Narayansamy , Zuma Nonhlanhla Yende , Osman Farzana , Mansoor Leila , Archary Derseree , Myeni Nqobile , Radebe Precious , Samsunder Natasha , Rose Nicole Doria , Carlton Kevin , Gama Lucio , Koup Richard A , Narpala Sandeep , Serebryannyy Leonid , Moore Penny , Williamson Carolyn , Pozzetto Bruno , Hankins Catherine , Morris Lynn , Karim Quarraisha Abdool , Abdool Karim Salim
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Women-controlled HIV prevention technologies that overcome adherence challenges of available daily oral pre-exposure prophylaxis and give women a choice of options are urgently needed. Broadly neutralising monoclonal antibodies (bnAbs) administered passively may offer a valuable non-antiretroviral biological intervention for HIV prevention. Animal and human studies have demonstrated that bnAbs which neutralise HIV can prevent infection. The optimal plasma antibody concentrations to confer protection against HIV infection in humans is under intense study. The Centre for the AIDS Programme of Research in South Africa (CAPRISA) 012C trial will evaluate extended safety and pharmacokinetics of CAP256V2LS and VRC07-523LS among young HIV-negative South African and Zambian women. The study design also allows for an evaluation of a signal of HIV prevention efficacy.

Methods and analysis

CAPRISA 012 is a series of trials with three distinct protocols. The completed CAPRISA 012A and 012B phase 1 trials provided critical data for the CAPRISA 012C trial, which is divided into parts A and B. In part A, 90 participants were randomised to receive both CAP256V2LS and VRC07-523LS at 20 mg/kg or placebo, subcutaneously every 16 or 24 weeks. Part B will enrol 900 participants in South Africa and Zambia who will be randomised in a 1:1 ratio and receive an initial loading dose of 1.2 g of CAP256V2LS and VRC07-523LS or placebo followed by 600 mg of CAP256V2LS and 1.2 g of VRC07-523LS or placebo subcutaneously every 6 months. Safety will be assessed by frequency and severity of reactogenicity and other related adverse events. Pharmacokinetics of both antibodies will be measured in systemic and mucosal compartments over time, while participants will be monitored for breakthrough HIV infections.

Ethics and dissemination of study findings

The University of KwaZulu-Natal Biomedical Research Ethics Committee and South African Health Products Regulatory Authority have approved the trial (BREC/00002492/2021, SAHPRA20210317). Results will be disseminated through conference presentations, peer-reviewed publications and the clinical trial registry.

Trial registration number

PACTR202112683307570.
Silver Trauma Review Clinic: a novel model of care to manage non-operative injuries in older patients
Authors: Smyth Hannah , Breslin Deirdre , Mullany Lorcán , Ramiah Vinny , Riches Roisin , Laguna Rico , Morgan Paula , Byrne Colm
Published: August 2023

Background

Increasing numbers of older patients are presenting to the ED following trauma. These patients require multidisciplinary care that the traditional trauma model fails to provide. A Silver Trauma Review Clinic (STRC) was developed in conjunction with the geriatric ED and multidisciplinary services to improve the post-discharge care of patients with non-operative traumatic injuries.

We aimed to assess the STRC by reviewing the journey and outcomes of patients who attended the clinic.

Methods

A retrospective review of electronic chart data was performed on all patients who attended the clinic over the initial 1-year period. Data were collected on patient demographics, medical history, medications, timelines, trauma assessments and further investigations, fracture types, occult injuries, geriatric assessments (Comprehensive Geriatric Assessment, Clinical Frailty Scale, bone health, falls, Orthostatic Hypotension (OH), cognitive screening, mobility), number of reviews and discharge destination.

Results

137 patients were reviewed with a median age of 80 years (IQR 74–86) and 69% were female. The median Clinical Frailty Scale was 3 with a median time from the patient’s initial ED presentation to clinic of 15 days (IQR 9.75–21) and median time from initial review to discharge 20 days (IQR 1–35). 71% of presentations were as a result of falls under 2 m. Tertiary survey in the STRC identified previously unrecognised injuries in 24 patients (18%). In total, 56 patients were reviewed with vertebral fractures. 87% of these patients (n=49) were further investigated with a CT or MRI and 95% of patients (n=53) were referred for physiotherapy. Patients attending the STRC had a comprehensive geriatric assessment with abnormal Mini-Cog assessments found in 29%, a new diagnosis of osteoporosis in 43% and orthostatic hypotension diagnosed in 13% of patients. 61% were discharged to primary care and 19% linked into a specialist geriatric clinic.

Conclusion

The STRC is a novel approach allowing timely, patient-focused, comprehensive and collaborative trauma care of older patients following non-operative injuries.
A bibliometric review of stakeholders' participation in sustainable forest management
Authors: Ciccarino Irene Dobarrio Machado , Fernandes Maria Eduarda da Silva Teixeira
Published: August 2023

Although stakeholders' participation in forest management helps overcome problems and conflicts that prevent sustainable solutions, different approaches and nomenclature for similar contents in the literature hinder theoretical progress on the topic. This study organises existing information through a bibliometric analysis of scientific papers from the last 30 years (1991–2021) on sustainable forest management, focusing on the stakeholders' participation. Results demonstrate that stakeholders' participation in sustainable forest management gained relevance from 2017 onwards. Case studies are predominant (66%) and six major trends were identified. The first emphasises a systemic approach to participation. The second updates the community management discussion. The third studies historical problems related to the use of resources, rights, and services. The fourth focuses on regional assessments and studies. The fifth concerns assessment, decision-making, and planning, including issues related to certifications and policies. The sixth discusses innovation related to adaptation, climate change, equity, and resilience. The studies included in this last classification are problem-solving-oriented and seek new forest management. Although important, the role of innovation in stakeholders' participation in sustainable forest management is overlooked, which constitutes an avenue for future research.
Vortex dynamics of a three-dimensional dipolar Bose–Einstein condensate
Authors: Wang Yuansheng
Published: August 2023

By numerically solving the Gross–Pitaevskii equation with phenomenological dissipation term, we study the vortex formation properties of a three-dimensional dipolar Bose–Einstein condensate of 164Dy atoms. We studied the influence of the contact interaction between atoms on the formation mechanism of vortices. We also study how the dipole orientation affects the vortex formation properties and the number of vortices. We find that enhancing the interaction of short-range repulsion interaction or dipolar repulsion interaction can shorten the time to form a stable vortex structure and increase the number of vortices.
Computational analysis of preheating cylindrical lithium-ion batteries with fin-assisted phase change material
Authors: Joshi Anand K. , Kakati Pallabi , Dandotiya Devendra , Pandiyan Prashanth Soundra , Patil Naveen G. , Panchal Satyam
Published: August 2023

The existing conventional vehicle transportation landscape in India is grappling with challenges stemming from extensive air pollution, health risks, surging oil prices, limited fossil fuel resources, substantial oil import expenses and energy volatility. To counter these issues, Electric Vehicles (EVs) are progressively replacing internal combustion engines, offering a promising route toward decarbonization and mitigating climate concerns. EVs rely on electric motors powered by batteries, predominantly Lithium-ion batteries (LIBs), known for their superior attributes such as low self-discharge, high energy density and extended life cycle. Nevertheless, LIB performance is significantly influenced by operating temperatures, with suboptimal conditions leading to decreased efficiency, power loss and faster aging. Addressing this, an effective Battery Thermal Management System (BTMS) becomes crucial to maintain batteries at optimal temperatures, enhancing their efficiency and safety. This study focuses on a computational analysis of passive heating systems employing Fins and Phase Change Materials (PCM) for 18650 Li-ion battery thermal management at low temperatures, with specific attention to battery module analysis. Numerical analysis using ANSYS FLUENT investigates the influence of varying PCM thickness on heat transfer, predicting temperature distribution and discussing its impact on battery output performance.
Rotational and inverse-square potential effects on harmonic oscillator confined by flux field in a space–time with screw dislocation
Authors: Ahmed Faizuddin , Aounallah Houcine , Rudra Prabir
Published: August 2023

This research paper delves into the study of a nonrelativistic quantum system, considering the interplay of noninertial effects induced by a rotating frame and confinement by the Aharonov–Bohm (AB) flux field with potential in the backdrop of topological defects, specifically a screw dislocation. We first focus on the harmonic oscillator problem, incorporating an inverse-square repulsive potential. Notably, it becomes evident that the energy eigenvalues and wave functions are intricately influenced by multiple factors: the topological defect parameter [Formula: see text] (representing the screw dislocation), the presence of a rotating frame engaged in constant angular motion with speed [Formula: see text] and the external potential. Then we study the quantum behavior of nonrelativistic particles, engaging in interactions governed by an inverse-square potential, all while taking into account the effects of the rotating frame. In both scenarios, a significant observation is made: the quantum flux field’s existence brings about a shift in the energy spectrum. This phenomenon bears a resemblance to the electromagnetic Aharonov–Bohm effect.
CNTFET and RRAM Based Low Power Design of Unbalanced Ternary Logic Gates and Arithmetic Circuits
Authors: Khurshid Tabassum , Singh Vikram
Published: August 2023

The advent of multi-valued logic (MVL) systems provides considerable improvements in energy consumption and computational efficiency compared to binary logic systems. Using resistive random-access memory (RRAM) and carbon nanotube field effect transistors (CNTFETs), this manuscript presents a new design method for ternary logic gates (standard ternary inverter (STI), ternary NOR, and ternary NAND) and some arithmetic circuit applications are implemented based on the proposed ternary logic gates. The simulations of the proposed circuits are carried out in Synopsis HSPICE software by employing 32-nm Stanford CNTFET technology along with the Stanford RRAM model. The robustness of the designed CNTFET-RRAM STI circuit is investigated for variations in process parameters. Simulation results verify that the proposed designs outperform other CNTFET based ternary logic circuits in terms of number of components, power consumption, delay and power delay product (PDP). Furthermore, a reduced change is perceived with respect to power consumption and PDP of the presented logic gates with process deviation, and variations in supply voltage, temperature, capacitance and frequency. The presented STI, TNAND, TNOR, ternary half adder (THA) and ternary multiplier (TMUL) circuits exhibit an improvement in PDP with less transistor count as compared to the other existing designs in the literature.
A Business-Oriented Methodology to Evaluate the Security of Software Architecture Quantitatively
Authors: Chen Hao , Zhou Shengyang , Chen Chen , Dai Zheng , Li Bixin
Published: August 2023

Software architecture security design is a key stage in developing business-oriented system, such as business-critical system, ICT system and AI system. Many typical accidents also remind us that the security of software architecture even plays a more important role than the code security in most software systems. However, there are very few researches which focus on the security of software architecture. Especially, we don’t find a systematic and feasible quantitative method to evaluate the security of software architecture. To fill this gap, we launched a research project focusing on software architecture security since 2019 and try to provide a series of quantitative methods for evaluating the security of software architecture. In this paper, a business-oriented quantitative method was proposed to evaluate the security of software architecture from the view of business-critical security insurance. In our method, both business dependency graph (BDG) and multi-hierarchical dependency graph (MHDG) are defined and constructed first for describing businesses and their relationships, and system components and their relationships; then, attack points and business key-points are identified and labeled on BDG and MHDG; and further, all potential attack paths and effective attack paths in the system based on MHDG are detected; and finally, a set of security indicators is defined and used to evaluate the security of software architecture quantitatively. For more effective experiments, we use software architectures with different styles and different evolution versions. Experimental results show that our method can reflect effectively the security characteristics of software architecture with different styles, can find the security changes of different architecture evolution versions for the same system, and can perform quantitative evaluation of software architecture security efficiently.
Effect of Traveling Waves on Seismic Behavior of Fault-Crossing Transmission Tower-Line Systems
Authors: Tian Li , Ma Zhen , Dong Xu , Zhang Yu , Yang Meng
Published: August 2023

Ultra high voltage (UHV) transmission tower-lines systems (TTLSs) are responsible for the crucial function of transmitting and distributing electrical power over long distances, which inevitably traverse active tectonic faults when passing through seismic areas. This paper investigates the seismic behaviors of the fault-crossing UHV TTLSs, taking into account the traveling wave effects of fault-crossing ground motions. Furthermore, three scenarios (i.e. the fault located at the midspan, the side span, and the one side) according to the location of the faults relative to the TTLSs, are designated to investigate the effects of fault-crossing locations on the seismic behaviors of the fault-crossing TTLSs. The results indicate that the traveling wave effects may amplify or weaken the seismic responses and collapse of the near-fault and fault-crossing TTLSs, and the effects on the longitudinal displacement responses of the TTLS are significantly greater than those in the transverse direction, but they do not affect the distribution of the collapse weak position of the TTLSs across the fault. Besides, the effect of traveling waves on the seismic behaviors of the transmission tower further away from the fault is greater than that relatively closer to the fault. This study of the impact of the traveling wave effects and fault-crossing locations on the TTLSs serves as a valuable reference for seismic behaviors of the UHV TTLSs crossing faults.
The question of Arnold on classification of co-artin subalgebras in singularity theory
Authors: Bavula V. V.
Published: August 2023

In [V. I. Arnold, Simple singularities of curves, Proc. Steklov Inst. Math. 226(3) (1999) 20–28, Sec. 5, p. 32], Arnold writes: ‘Classification of singularities of curves can be interpreted in dual terms as a description of “co-artin” subalgebras of finite co-dimension in the algebra of formal series in a single variable (up to isomorphism of the algebra of formal series)’. In the paper, such a description is obtained but up to isomorphism of algebraic curves (i.e. this description is finer).

Let [Formula: see text] be an algebraically closed field of arbitrary characteristic. The aim of the paper is to give a classification (up to isomorphism) of the set of subalgebras [Formula: see text] of the polynomial algebra [Formula: see text] that contains the ideal [Formula: see text] for some [Formula: see text]. It is proven that the set [Formula: see text] is a disjoint union of affine algebraic varieties (where [Formula: see text] is the semigroup of the singularity and [Formula: see text] is the Frobenius number). It is proven that each set [Formula: see text] is an affine algebraic variety and explicit generators and defining relations are given for the algebra of regular functions on [Formula: see text]. An isomorphism criterion is given for the algebras in [Formula: see text]. For each algebra [Formula: see text], explicit sets of generators and defining relations are given and the automorphism group [Formula: see text] is explicitly described. The automorphism group of the algebra [Formula: see text] is finite if and only if the algebra [Formula: see text] is not isomorphic to a monomial algebra, and in this case [Formula: see text] where [Formula: see text] is the conductor of [Formula: see text]. The set of orders of the automorphism groups of the algebras in [Formula: see text] is explicitly described.
Global dynamics of a hybrid Cholera model with phage–bacteria interaction
Authors: Hu Zhenxiang , Nie Linfei
Published: August 2023

We propose, in this paper, a hybrid Cholera transmission model with phage to simulate the interaction between Vibrio cholerae and phages in the host population and environment, which is coupled with some reaction–diffusion equations and first-order partial differential equations. The precise formulation of basic reproduction number ([Formula: see text]) is deduced, which characterizes the elimination or prevalence of this disease. Specifically, the disease-free steady state is globally asymptotically stable for [Formula: see text] but unstable for [Formula: see text]. Further, the phage invasion reproduction number [Formula: see text] is also obtained, which portrays the impact of phages on Vibrio cholerae in the environment. That is, for [Formula: see text], the phage-free endemic steady state is globally asymptotically stable if [Formula: see text], and the phage-present endemic steady state is globally asymptotically stable if [Formula: see text]. Numerical simulations are introduced for the purpose of verifying the main results.
Typical Benchmark Specifications for Designing Stable Variable Filters Using Novel Unity-Bounded Functions
Authors: Deng Tian-Bo
Published: August 2023

This paper first presents six (6) types of benchmark amplitude design specifications, including variable low-pass specification, variable high-pass specification, variable bandpass specification, variable bandstop specification, variable notch-frequency specification, and variable notch-width specification. The design specifications can be taken as typical benchmark specifications targeted at testing as well as validating the effectiveness of various newly developed algorithms for designing various typical variable filters (VFs). Then, the paper provides a novel unity-bounded (UB) function developed for ensuring the stability of those VFs with recursive structures. Finally, a wide variety of simulation results are included for validating the design performance as well as the assured stability by using both the benchmark design specifications and the novel UB function.
Practicing Complexity Through Natural Simplicity
Authors: Goldenberg Lea
Published: August 2023

The efficiency of complex industrialized farming systems are compared to that of natural environmental systems while taking into account economic and environmental benefit as well as the needs of farmers and cattle.
Hybrid-MPET: An Open-Source Simulation Software for Hybrid Electrode Batteries
Authors: Liang Qiaohao , Bazant Martin Z.
Published: August 2023

As the design of single-component battery electrodes has matured, the battery industry has turned to hybrid electrodes with blends of two or more active materials to enhance battery performance. Leveraging the best properties of each material while mitigating their drawbacks, multi-component hybrid electrodes open a vast new design space that could be most efficiently explored through simulations. In this article, we introduce a mathematical modeling framework and open-source battery simulation software package for Hybrid Multiphase Porous Electrode Theory (Hybrid-MPET), capable of accounting for the parallel reactions, phase transformations and multiscale heterogeneities in hybrid porous electrodes. Hybrid-MPET models can simulate both solid solution and multiphase active materials in hybrid electrodes at intra-particle and inter-particle scales. Its modular design also allows the combination of different active materials at any capacity fraction. To illustrate the novel features of Hybrid-MPET, we present experimentally validated models of silicon-graphite (Si-Gr) anodes used in electric vehicle batteries and carbon monofluoride (CFx) - silver vanadium oxide (SVO) cathodes used in implantable medical device batteries. The results demonstrate the potential of Hybrid-MPET models to accelerate the development of hybrid electrode batteries by providing fast predictions of their performance over a wide range of design parameters and operating protocols.
Rare Image of Epidural Catheter Fracture in Lumbar Analgesia
Authors: Jiménez-Ponce Fiacro , Ramírez-Tapia Ylián , Ariñez-Barahona Erick , Nava-López Jorge A. , Alla Sai Naveen
Published: August 2023

Objective. Accidental fracture of epidural analgesia catheters has a very low incidence of 2.5 per 100,000 anesthesia. A rare image of the fracture is reported. Methods. A 42-year-old female patient was attending a cesarean section eight years earlier to her consult. In the cesarean section, she received regional epidural anesthesia, and the main complaint was low back pain, specifically between the spinous processes L2 and L3. The somatic pain had been presenting intermittently for eight years. The sagittal section of magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine showed a “golf club” image from the midline to the laminae of L2 and L3 with the subcutaneous tissue. Results. A small right hemilaminectomy was performed to remove the complete catheter, which did not adhere, but was coiled in the S-shape. The catheter was trapped between the left facets of L2 and L3 laterally than through the midline. Several risk factors and therapeutic procedures have been proposed. Conclusion. In a systematic review, 24 articles were reported on this specific issue. No surgical procedure and follow-up were informed by 8 authors. Surgical remotion by laminectomy was used in 9 articles, surgical explanation by skin incision was reported by 4 authors, and remotion by endoscopy was reported in 1 article. Two articles not reported solution.
Data from Tumor Dynamic Model-Based Decision Support for Phase Ib/II Combination Studies: A Retrospective Assessment Based on Resampling of the Phase III Study IMpower150
Authors: Bruno René , Marchand Mathilde , Yoshida Kenta , Chan Phyllis , Li Haocheng , Zou Wei , Mercier Francois , Chanu Pascal , Wu Benjamin , Lee Anthony , Li Chunze , Jin Jin Y. , Maitland Michael L. , Reck Martin , Socinski Mark A.
Published: August 2023

Purpose:
Model-based tumor growth inhibition (TGI) metrics are increasingly incorporated into go/no-go decisions in early clinical studies. To apply this methodology to new investigational combinations requires independent evaluation of TGI metrics in recently completed Phase III trials of effective immunotherapy.
Patients and Methods:
Data were extracted from IMpower150, a positive, randomized, Phase III study of first-line therapy in 1,202 patients with non–small cell lung cancer. We resampled baseline characteristics and longitudinal sum of longest diameters of tumor lesions of patients from both arms, atezolizumab+ bevacizumab+chemotherapy (ABCP) versus BCP, to mimic Phase Ib/II studies of 15 to 40 patients/arm with 6 to 24 weeks follow-up. TGI metrics were estimated using a bi-exponential TGI model. Effect sizes were calculated as TGI metrics ratio of medians (MedR), objective response rate (ORR) difference (d), and progression-free survival (PFS), hazard ratio (HR) between arms. Correct and incorrect go decisions were evaluated as the probability to achieve desired effect sizes in ABCP versus BCP and BCP versus BCP, respectively, across 500 replicated subsamples for each design.
Results:
For 40 patients/24 weeks follow-up, correct go decisions based on probability tumor growth rate (KG) MedR <0.90, dORR >0.10, and PFS HR <0.70 were 83%, 69%, and 58% with incorrect go decision rates of 4%, 12%, and 11%, respectively. For other designs, the ranking did not change with TGI metrics consistently overperforming RECIST endpoints. The predicted overall survival (OS) HR was around 0.80 in most of the scenarios investigated.
Conclusions:
Model-based estimate of KG MedR is an exploratory endpoint that informs early clinical decisions for combination studies.
Biliary Parasitic Diseases Associated with Hepatobiliary Carcinoma
Authors: Hata Taigo , Hiromichi Ito
Published: August 2023

Background: Despite long-term preventative efforts by local public health authorities, the prevalence of fluke infection remains high in specific areas in eastern and southeastern Asia. Recently increasing travel or migration activities have led to the transfer and spread of such infections from endemic areas to other regions. Summary: The epidemiology, clinical signs, and symptoms for three common blood and liver flukes, namely Schistosoma japonicum, Clonorchis sinensis, and Opisthorchis viverrini, are described in this review, and their current diagnosis and management strategy are reviewed. These flukes are considered clinically important because of the increased risk of liver or biliary cancer. Key Messages: Early treatment and prevention of disease spread can reduce the incidence of related hepatobiliary cancer. Recognition of these fluke infection is essential for a correct diagnosis and early treatment to prevent the development of deadly cancers.
Extracranial Carotid Plaque Calcification and Cerebrovascular Ischemia: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Homssi Moayad , Saha Atin , Delgado Diana , RoyChoudhury Arindam , Thomas Charlene , Lin Matthew , Baradaran Hediyeh , Kamel Hooman , Gupta Ajay
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND:

Although coronary calcification quantification is an established approach for cardiovascular risk assessment, the value of quantifying carotid calcification is less clear. As a result, we performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the association between extracranial carotid artery plaque calcification burden and ipsilateral cerebrovascular ischemic events.

METHODS:

A comprehensive literature search was performed in the following databases: Ovid MEDLINE(R) 1946 to July 6, 2022; OVID Embase 1974 to July 6, 2022; and The Cochrane Library (Wiley). We performed meta-analyses including studies in which investigators performed a computed tomography assessment of calcification volume, percentage, or other total calcium burden summarizable in a single continuous imaging biomarker and determined the association of these features with the occurrence of ipsilateral stroke or transient ischemic attack.

RESULTS:

Our overall meta-analysis consisted of 2239 carotid arteries and 9 studies. The presence of calcification in carotid arteries ipsilateral to ischemic stroke or in stroke patients compared with asymptomatic patients did not demonstrate a significant association with ischemic cerebrovascular events (relative risk of 0.75 [95% CI, 0.44–1.28];
P
=0.29). When restricted to studies of significant carotid artery stenosis (>50%), the presence of calcification was associated with a reduced risk of ischemic stroke (relative risk of 0.56 [95% CI, 0.38–0.85];
P
=0.006). When the analysis was limited to studies of patients with mainly nonstenotic plaques, there was an increased relative risk of ipsilateral ischemic stroke of 1.72 ([95% CI, 1.01–2.91];
P
=0.04). Subgroup meta-analyses of total calcium burden and morphological features of calcium showed wide variability in their strength of association with ischemic stroke and demonstrated significant heterogeneity.

CONCLUSIONS:

The presence of calcification in carotid plaque confers a reduced association with ipsilateral ischemic events, although these results seem to be limited among carotid arteries with higher degrees of stenosis. Adoption of carotid calcification measures in clinical decision-making will require additional studies providing more reproducible and standardized methods of calcium characterization and testing these imaging strategies in prospective studies.
Blurring the limits of anaxyelid subfamilies: a new genus and species (Hymenoptera: Anaxyelidae) from the Albian of the Republic of Korea
Authors: ROSSE-GUILLEVIC SIMON , KOPYLOV DMITRY S. , RASNITSYN ALEXANDR P. , NAM GI-SOO , KWON SEUNG-HYUK , JOUAULT CORENTIN
Published: August 2023

Hanguksyntexis haeretica gen. et sp. nov. is the first Anaxyelidae described and illustrated from the early Albian Jinju Formation (Republic of Korea). This new taxon is attributed to the subfamily Syntexinae because of its forewing venation (i.e., 1-Rs+M forking at 1m-cu level), but differs from all other syntexines genera because of its peculiar shape and length of 2r cell (ca. twice as long as wide, not distinctly widened apically nor basally) and by its vein 6-Rs strongly curved distally towards wing margin. The discovery of this new genus challenges the clear differentiation between Anaxyelinae and Syntexinae, prompting a thorough discussion on the diagnostic value of the wing venation characters that were previously used to distinguish the two subfamilies. Consequently, the genus Cretosyntexis Rasnitsyn & Martínez-Delclòs, 2000 is transferred to Anaxyelinae.
Overview of the current status of Charipinae (Hymenoptera, Cynipoidea, Figitidae): taxonomy, distribution, and diversity
Authors: FERRER-SUAY MAR , PUJADE-VILLAR JULI , SELFA JESÚS
Published: August 2023

The subfamily Charipinae (Hymenoptera: Cynipoidea: Figitidae) has had a problematic taxonomic history as many species have been described without comprehensive revisions being undertaken. Reliably identifying these species based on morphological assessment has been almost impossible. Recently, the types of all species have been re-examined and photographed, resulting in numerous taxonomic corrections that have been published elsewhere. Consequently, a summary checklist of all species that have ever been described within the Charipinae is provided with their current accepted status, including all associated references dealing with the historical nomenclatural changes and synonymy. We also provide up-to-date information on the diversity and distribution patterns of Charipinae to assist researchers working on these species in aphid biological control programs.
Six new epigean species of the genus Falcileptoneta Komatsu, 1970 (Araneae: Leptonetidae) from South Korea
Authors: OH JONG-HWA , LEE SEUNGHWAN
Published: August 2023

Six new leptonetid species belonging to Falcileptoneta Komatsu, 1970 are described from South Korea: F. alboclavata sp. nov., F. decemspina sp. nov., F. innuta sp. nov., F. jindoensis sp. nov., F. stilla sp. nov., and F. triformis sp. nov. All newly described species were sampled from epigean habitats (e.g. leaf litter or under the stone). Based on both male and female (except F. jindoensis sp. nov.), diagnostic characteristics, microscopic images of adult specimens and reproductive structures, and distribution records are provided. Additionally, morphological details to diagnose Falcileptoneta is also discussed.
One good thing, one day at a time: A conversation with Rebecka Peterson
Authors: Vail Kathleen
Published: August 2023

The 2023 National Teacher of the Year Rebecka Peterson is a high school math teacher in Tulsa, Oklahoma. Union High School serves more than 3,000 students, 72% of whom qualify for free and reduced-price lunch, and 62 languages are represented. Peterson, an immigrant to the U.S. whose parents were medical missionaries, builds trust in her classroom through stories—her stories and those of her students. During her first year of teaching, she discovered the “One Good Thing” blog founded by math teachers. It encouraged teachers to post their own stories of good things that happened during the day. The practice of scanning her day for one good thing that had occurred changed her mindset, allowing her to see more good things and finally persuading her to be the “one good thing” for her students each day.
Assisted Desistance in Correctional Centers: From Theory to Practice
Authors: de Vel-Palumbo Melissa , Halsey Mark , Day Andrew
Published: August 2023

A key issue for policy makers and practitioners is finding a way to identify what constitutes a rehabilitative prison. In this study, aspects of a carceral experience that successfully ignite desistance journeys, or that “assist” desistance are identified and measured. We report the findings of a measure to do this, the Macquarie Assisted Desistance Instrument (MADI), which was co-designed with staff and residents in two correctional centers in New South Wales, Australia. Analysis of data from both prison staff and residents ( N = 604) revealed that the measure was generally coherent (unidimensional), internally consistent, and stable across time. In addition, those who felt their desistance journeys were being more strongly assisted reported a greater sense of self-efficacy, providing support for the idea that custodial experiences can lead to better rehabilitative outcomes. Suggestions for how to improve prison practice and more meaningfully to assist people to desist from crime are proposed.
Dual-phase-lag thermoelastic damping analysis of a functionally graded sandwich micro-beam resonators incorporating double nonlocal effects
Authors: Wang Tengjie , Peng Wei , He Tianhu
Published: August 2023

Functionally graded sandwich micro/nano-structures have attracted great attention due to the capability to resist high noise and thermal stress in a non-isothermal environment. Additionally, the design of high quality-factor micro/nano-resonators requires accurate estimation of their thermoelastic damping. However, the classical thermoelastic damping models fail at the micro/nano-scale due to the influences of the size-dependent effects related to heat transfer and elastic deformation. This work aims to investigate the influences of the size-dependent effects on the thermoelastic damping of functionally graded sandwich micro-beam resonators by combining the nonlocal dual-phase-lag heat conduction model and the nonlocal elasticity model. It is assumed that the functionally graded sandwich micro-beam resonators consist of a ceramic core and functionally graded surfaces. The energy equation and the transverse motion equation are derived. The analytical expression of thermoelastic damping is obtained by complex frequency method. Numerical results are analyzed for the effects of the thermal nonlocal parameter, the elastic nonlocal parameter, the power-law index, and the vibration modes on the thermoelastic damping of functionally graded sandwich micro-beam resonators. The results show that the thermoelastic damping of functionally graded sandwich micro-beam resonators can be adjusted by the suitably modified parameters, which strongly depends on the double nonlocal effects and the power-law index.
Coastal Community Valorization through Patuakhali Science and Technology University: Policy Support and Way Forwards
Authors: Siddik Md. Abubakkor , Hasan Md. Kamrul , Islam Abu Reza Md. Towfiqul , Islam Md. Sohakul
Published: August 2023

This study examined Patuakhali Science and Technology University’s impact on its neighboring rural communities. A five-point Likert-type scale survey was undertaken among university employees and community dwellers from December 2021 to June 2022. Results revealed that the university could affect its host neighborhood. Both survey groups highly agreed on improving education, eco-cultural development, and infrastructure in the host neighborhood. Female respondents perceived fewer impacts than male respondents ( p < .05). People perceived fewer impacts as their age, family size, and family income increased ( p < .05). Findings might help the university administration and policymakers set their strategies for developing rural coastal communities.
The Landscape of Rural and Remote Radiology in Canada: Opportunities and Challenges
Authors: Davidson Malcolm , Kielar Ania , Tonseth R.Petter , Seland Karen , Harvie Sarah , Hanneman Kate
Published: August 2023

Diagnostic and interventional radiology play a crucial role in healthcare, facilitating diagnosis of disease, treatment planning, interventional therapies, and assessment for response to treatment. However, many rural and remote regions are disproportionately limited in accessing high-quality radiological services. Challenges include limited imaging infrastructure in these communities, geographic isolation, and workforce shortages impacting provision of interventional image-guided procedures and subspecialty imaging in particular. However, a career in rural or remote radiology also presents unique opportunities including a deep sense of community, broad scope of practice, and immense benefit to patient care. This review aims to explore the landscape of rural and remote radiology with a focus on Canada, including opportunities, challenges, and potential strategies. Some of the challenges are shared by both rural and remote communities while others are distinct. Factors that have contributed to challenges in recruitment and retention of rural and remote radiologists include workload burden, inadequate or suboptimal imaging and interventional equipment, and limited exposure during training. Additionally, strategies to improve the provision of radiology services in rural and remote communities are highlighted, addressing both the workforce shortage and the lack of essential equipment and other resources.
A retrospective clinical and economic analysis of an assisted automated peritoneal dialysis programme in Western Australia
Authors: Nel Henco , Debbie Fortnum , Narelle Hawkins , Sean Randall , Aron Chakera
Published: August 2023

Background:

Assisted peritoneal dialysis (aPD) represents an alternative kidney replacement therapy for dialysis-dependent patients whose only other options are prolonged hospitalisations or transfer to in-centre haemodialysis (HD). Most programmes have not examined the role of temporary aPD, and there is limited data surrounding the economic implications of temporary aPD programmes. The main aim of this study was to describe the cost-effectiveness of an assisted automated peritoneal dialysis (aAPD) programme, for patients whose only reason to stay in hospital was the temporary inability to independently perform PD at home.

Methods:

Retrospective, single-centre analysis of 45 referrals for aAPD from November 2015 to May 2021. Two groups of patients were enrolled in the study: respite patients already established on PD (to facilitate discharge or prevent admission) and new patients who were not yet trained (to facilitate discharge). To calculate the cost differential, patients were allocated to either staying in hospital or transferring to centre-based HD with comparison to costs on aAPD. Costs were calculated using a healthcare system perspective over the duration of aAPD assistance. Clinical outcomes including peritonitis rate, hospitalisation and mortality were also assessed.

Results:

Overall, 1349 episodes of aAPD care were delivered. One thousand forty-two episodes (77%) were for respite patients and 307 episodes (23%) were for new patients awaiting training. The mean duration of assistance was 18 days for pretraining patients and 37 days for respite patients. Overall, the mean length of stay on the programme was 30 days with a range of 1–263 days (SD 43) and 73% of patients graduated to self-care PD. The cost of the aAPD programme was $242 per visit, with an average cost $7260 per patient-episode. The aAPD programme was significantly cheaper than the alternatives, with average hospitalization costs $46,170 per episode, and in-centre HD costs of $9667. $1.497 million was saved over the course of the study. Eleven hospitalisations occurred and the peritonitis rate was 0.8 episodes per patient-year. Two patients died while on aAPD.

Conclusion:

This study provides the first detailed description of an aAPD respite programme in Australia. We conclude that the implementation of a temporary aAPD programme could lead to a significant reduction in healthcare costs, however peritonitis rates were high.
Adaptive gravity-balancing mechanism using adjustable spring for a 6-DoF serial cooperative manipulator
Authors: Liu Xu , Chen Zhijun , Gao Feng
Published: August 2023

Cumbersome high-power joint actuators are not suitable for lightweight cooperative manipulators, which require flexibility and high energy efficiency while maintaining moderate payload capacity. Thus, gravity compensation is proposed in this work to drive cooperative manipulators by small joint actuators. Most existing gravity compensation methods are focused on fixed load (i.e. dead-weight), while in this study, a variable-payload balanced 6-DoF (degrees of freedom) serial manipulator is realized by adaptive gravity-balancing mechanism. Since joint actuators can be small enough to withstand only joint friction and inertia, this manipulator is inherently safe for man-robot interaction. The adaptive gravity-balancing mechanism is composed of ZFL (zero-free length) springs with adjustable endpoints, which are actively adjusted by cable after payload changes. Three advantages of the proposed manipulator include: Firstly, balancing all joints affected by gravity by only one additional balancing motor; Secondly, the balancing mechanism can actively adapt to variable payloads; Finally, the adjustment of the balancing mechanism is independent of the manipulator’s pose. Through simulation, these three advantages have been verified, which provides a new scheme for the design of safe-interaction and energy-saving cooperative manipulators.
Investigation on the effect of strain rate on standard involute and asymmetric polymer gears using the newly design fixture for single tooth testing method
Authors: Jain Mohit , Patil Santosh
Published: August 2023

Effect of strain rate on the single tooth strength of nylon-based gear has been investigated using a newly designed testing fixture. An adjustable single tooth testing fixture has been designed and developed for the purposed of single tooth loading test which is able to accommodate the gear with varying thickness. Injection molded nylon-6 and SLS (selective laser sintering) printed glass filled nylon-6 standard involute and asymmetric gear tooth have been investigated for their single tooth loading test at three different strain rates of 0.0003, 0.003, and 0.01 per sec. Single tooth strength for both injection and printed gear is found to increase with the increase in strain rate. Injection molded single gear tooth undergone bending failure whereas SLS printed gear tooth shows fracture failure. Resistance to single tooth deflection at higher strain rate has drastically increased for injection molded standard involute (IS) gear tooth by 23% whereas, asymmetric gear tooth IA20 followed by IA34 shows slight increment. SLS printed asymmetric gear tooth PAG20/34 exhibits maximum single tooth strength among all three types of printed gears at all the three strain rates. At higher strain rate of 0.01 per sec, single tooth strength dominates by tooth profile geometry whereas, at lower strain rate of 0.0003 per sec, it dominates by tooth profile geometry and microstructure.
Book review: Jelle J. P. Wouters (Ed.), Vernacular Politics in Northeast India: Democracy, Ethnicity, and Indigeneity
Authors: Joshi Vibha
Published: August 2023

Jelle J. P. Wouters (Ed.), Vernacular Politics in Northeast India: Democracy, Ethnicity, and Indigeneity (Oxford: Oxford University Press, 2022), 413 pp. ₹1,795, ISBN: 978-0-19-286346-1 (Hardback).