bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Partial Discharge Detection Method of Electrical Equipment Based on UHF Method
Authors: Guo Xirong
Published: March 2024

Partial discharge is an early symptom of insulation defects. In the field application, the detection method can not accurately identify those noise signals mixed in the partial discharge signal, which limits the detection to a certain extent. Based on UHF method, a partial discharge detection method for electrical equipment is designed. When partial discharge occurs, the exchange between charges, the radiation of electromagnetic waves and the consumption of energy will occur at the discharge position, causing the change of electrode potential. For the phase distribution spectrum, the signal characteristics produced by partial discharge are extracted from three aspects: statistical information, time domain information and frequency domain information. During detection, UHF sensor is placed on the basin insulator, and then UHF signal is received. Insulation defects are identified according to various differential discharge patterns formed by the discharge characteristics of different defects. Test results show that the signal spectrum detected by UHF partial discharge roughly matches the typical discharge spectrum, and it is determined that there is partial discharge in this area. This method has high positioning accuracy and meets the detection requirements of electrical equipment.
A Robust Controller Deployment Algorithm under Multiple Constraints for SDON
Authors: Zhang Tao , Liu Guqing , Ran Jinzhi , Guo Chaoping , Xie Qingsong , Liang Zhenhua , Ding Deqiang
Published: March 2024

The deployment of controller for SDON (Software Defined Optical Networks) is an NP-hard multi-objective optimization problem, and it is difficult to find an optimal solution that satisfies all objectives. Therefore, to improve the performance of control plane, the model we proposed is constructed based on three constraints on the survivability, delay, and control redundancy, which has three advantages. first, the survivability is improved by not sharing the risk between the main control channel and the protection control channel, which also improves the utilization of network resources. Second, the accuracy of delay calculation is improved by using a delay optimization model, and a threshold value is set to constrain the delay. Finally, the greedy strategy idea is used to achieve the full network coverage of the control range and improve the convergence speed. Simulation results show that the algorithm improves the fault recovery probability by an average of 15% compared with the algorithm of KSP computed routing. In addition, the algorithm in this paper achieves the same survivability as the C-MPC algorithm while using an average 11.1% reduction in the number of controllers.
Operation Fault Detection of Electrical and Mechanical Equipment Based on Kalman Filter
Authors: Nie Qiong
Published: March 2024

In order to realize the remote collaborative diagnosis of electromechanical equipment fault in integrated energy system, a design method of remote collaborative diagnosis system of electromechanical equipment fault in integrated energy system based on Kalman filter is proposed. The hardware of the diagnosis system designed in this paper includes main control module, fault information parameter identification module, dynamic sensor acquisition module, fault signal filtering and detection module, adaptive control module, output interface module and so on. The collected fault information of electromechanical equipment in the system is fused by multi-source sensors, the fault information feature extraction is completed by Kalman filter, the information clustering processing is completed, and the algorithm design of electromechanical equipment operation fault diagnosis is realized. The fault diagnosis algorithm based on Kalman filter is loaded into the main control module of the motor equipment fault diagnosis system to realize the identification of motor equipment fault parameters and complete the development and design of the diagnosis system. The test results show that the text diagnosis system has good adaptability, high reliability and accuracy.
Improved Kalman Filter Based Accurate Pseudo-Range Positioning Method for BeiDou
Authors: Cui Wendong , Luo Xueyu , Zhou Zilong , Cheng Sijin , Zhao Guanglu , Qi Entie
Published: March 2024

In response to the issue of poor performance in traditional Beidou pseudorange positioning, this paper proposes a Beidou pseudorange precise positioning method that combines weighted least squares and adaptive Kalman filtering based on moving window covariance estimation. This method utilizes the fast convergence speed of the weighted least squares and the high accuracy of Kalman filtering. On this basis, the Kalman filter is modified with a moving window to ensure the accuracy and global convergence of the positioning process. Through experimental simulation and comparison, the effectiveness of this algorithm is demonstrated, showing its ability to improve positioning accuracy and meet certain positioning requirements.
Monitoring method for power equipment operation condition based on data warehouse
Authors: Chen Anxin , Li Xiaoqing , Yin Linlin
Published: March 2024

in the process of monitoring the operation state of power equipment, it is easy to be affected by the external environment, resulting in a large amount of data of the operation state of power equipment and the monitoring effect. A monitoring method of power equipment operation condition based on data warehouse is proposed. By analyzing the constraints of power equipment operation condition monitoring, a data warehouse is established; The transition probability and stability probability are determined by Markov chain model, and the characteristic values of operation state level variables are obtained by calculating the comprehensive correlation value and sensitivity; The entropy weight coefficient method calculates the weight of each performance index of the monitoring object, constructs the operation state monitoring model of power equipment, and realizes the monitoring of the operation state of power equipment. The experimental results show that the improved method can effectively improve the monitoring efficiency and shorten the monitoring time.
Magnetic biocomposite scaffold based on decellularized tendon ECM and MNP-deposited halloysite nanotubes: physicochemical, thermal, rheological, mechanical and in vitro biological evaluations
Authors: Koç-Demir Aysel , Elçin Ayşe Eser , Elçin Yaşar Murat
Published: March 2024

The development of new three-dimensional biomaterials with advanced versatile properties is critical to the success of tissue engineering (TE) applications. Here, (a) bioactive decellularized tendon extracellular matrix (dECM) with a sol-gel transition feature at physiological temperature, (b) halloysite nanotubes (HNT) with known mechanical properties and bioactivity, and (c) magnetic nanoparticles (MNP) with superparamagnetic and osteogenic properties were combined to develop a new scaffold that could be used in prospective bone TE applications. Deposition of MNPs on HNTs resulted in magnetic nanostructures without agglomeration of MNPs. A completely cell-free, collagen- and glycosaminoglycan- rich dECM was obtained and characterized. dECM-based scaffolds incorporated with 1%, 2% and 4% MNP-HNT were analysed for their physical, chemical, and in vitro biological properties. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy, x-ray powder diffractometry and vibrating sample magnetometry analyses confirmed the presence of dECM, HNT and MNP in all scaffold types. The capacity to form apatite layer upon incubation in simulated body fluid revealed that dECM-MNP-HNT is a bioactive material. Combining dECM with MNP-HNT improved the thermal stability and compressive strength of the macroporous scaffolds upto 2% MNP-HNT. In vitro cytotoxicity and hemolysis experiments showed that the scaffolds were essentially biocompatible. Human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells adhered and proliferated well on the macroporous constructs containing 1% and 2% MNP-HNT; and remained metabolically active for at least 21 d in vitro. Collectively, the findings support the idea that magnetic nanocomposite dECM scaffolds containing MNP-HNT could be a potential template for TE applications.
Enhancing osteoblast proliferation and bone regeneration by poly (amino acid)/selenium-doped hydroxyapatite
Authors: Wei Xiaobo , Zhang Ziyue , Wang Lei , Yan Lin , Yan Yonggang , Wang Cheng , Peng Haitao , Fan Xiaoxia
Published: March 2024

Among various biomaterials employed for bone repair, composites with good biocompatibility and osteogenic ability had received increasing attention from biomedical applications. In this study, we doped selenium (Se) into hydroxyapatite (Se-HA) by the precipitation method, and prepared different amounts of Se-HA-loaded poly (amino acid)/Se-HA (PAA/Se-HA) composites (0, 10 wt%, 20 wt%, 30 wt%) by in-situ melting polycondensation. The physical and chemical properties of PAA/Se-HA composites were characterized by x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR), differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and their mechanical properties. XRD and FT-IR results showed that PAA/Se-HA composites contained characteristic peaks of PAA and Se-HA with amide linkage and HA structures. DSC and TGA results specified the PAA/Se-HA30 composite crystallization, melting, and maximum weight loss temperatures at 203.33 °C, 162.54 °C, and 468.92 °C, respectively, which implied good thermal stability. SEM results showed that Se-HA was uniformly dispersed in PAA. The mechanical properties of PAA/Se-HA30 composites included bending, compressive, and yield strengths at 83.07 ± 0.57, 106.56 ± 0.46, and 99.17 ± 1.11 MPa, respectively. The cellular responses of PAA/Se-HA composites in vitro were studied using bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) by cell counting kit-8 assay, and results showed that PAA/Se-HA30 composites significantly promoted the proliferation of BMSCs at the concentration of 2 mg ml−1. The alkaline phosphatase activity (ALP) and alizarin red staining results showed that the introduction of Se-HA into PAA enhanced ALP activity and formation of calcium nodule. Western blotting and Real-time polymerase chain reaction results showed that the introduction of Se-HA into PAA could promoted the expression of osteogenic-related proteins and mRNA (integrin-binding sialoprotein, osteopontin, runt-related transcription factor 2 and Osterix) in BMSCs. A muscle defect at the back and a bone defect at the femoral condyle of New Zealand white rabbits were introduced for evaluating the enhancement of bone regeneration of PAA and PAA/Se-HA30 composites. The implantation of muscle tissue revealed good biocompatibility of PAA and PAA/Se-HA30 composites. The implantation of bone defect showed that PAA/Se-HA30 composites enhanced bone formation at the defect site (8 weeks), exhibiting good bone conductivity. Therefore, the PAA-based composite was a promising candidate material for bone tissue regeneration.
Exploring the bounds of methane catalysis in the context of atmospheric methane removal
Authors: Tsopelakou Aliki Marina , Stallard Joe , Archibald Alexander T , Fitzgerald Shaun , Boies Adam M
Published: March 2024

Methane, a potent greenhouse gas, is a significant contributor to global warming, with future increases in its abundance potentially leading to an increase of more than 1∘C by 2050 beyond other greenhouse gases if left unaddressed. To remain within the crucial target of limiting global warming to 1.5 ∘C, it is imperative to evaluate the potential of methane removal techniques. This study presents a scoping analysis of different catalytic technologies (thermal, photochemical and electrochemical) and materials to evaluate potential limitations and energy requirements. An analysis of mass transport and reaction rates is conducted for atmospheric methane conversion system configurations. For the vast majority of catalytic technologies, the reaction rates limit the conversion which motivates future efforts for catalyst development. An analysis of energy requirements for atmospheric methane conversion shows minimum energy configurations for various catalytic technologies within classic tube or parallel plate architectures that have analogs to ventilation and industrial fins. Methane concentrations ranging from 2 ppm (ambient) to 1000 ppm (sources, such as wetlands, fossil-fuel extraction sites, landfills etc) are examined. The study finds that electrocatalysis offers the most energy efficient approach (∼0.2 GJ tonne−1 CO2e) for new installations in turbulent ducts, with a total energy intensity

<

1 GJ tonne−1 CO2e. Photocatalytic methane removal catalysts are moderately more energy intensive (∼2 GJ tonne−1 CO2e), but could derive much of their energy input from ‘free’ solar energy sources. Thermal systems are shown to be excessively energy intensive (

>

100 GJ tonne−1), while combining photovoltaics with electrochemical catalysts (∼1 GJ tonne−1 CO2e) have comparable energy intensity to photocatalytic methane removal catalysts.
Random-matrix model for thermalization
Authors: Weidenmüller Hans A
Published: March 2024

We show that for a system governed by a random-matrix Hamiltonian (a member of the time-reversal invariant Gaussian Orthogonal Ensemble (GOE) of random matrices of dimension N), all functions

Tr
(
A
ρ
(
t
)
)

in the ensemble thermalize: For

N
→
∞

every such function tends to the value

Tr
(
A

ρ
eq

(
∞
)
)
+
Tr
(
A
ρ
(
0
)
)

g
2

(
t
)

. Here

ρ
(
t
)

is the time-dependent density matrix of the system, A is a Hermitean operator standing for an observable, and

ρ
eq

(
∞
)

is the equilibrium density matrix at infinite temperature. The oscillatory function g(t) is the Fourier transform of the average GOE level density and falls off as

1

/

|

t

|

3

/

2

for large t. With

g
(
t
)
=
g
(
−
t
)

, thermalization is symmetric in time. Analogous results, including the symmetry in time of thermalization, are derived for the time-reversal non-invariant Gaussian Unitary Ensemble of random matrices. Comparison with the ‘eigenstate thermalization hypothesis’ of (Srednicki 1999 J. Phys. A: Math. Gen.
32 1163) shows overall agreement but raises significant questions.
Thermalization of closed chaotic many-body quantum systems
Authors: Weidenmüller Hans A
Published: March 2024

We investigate thermalization of a closed chaotic many-body quantum system by combining the Hartree–Fock approach with the Bohigas–Giannoni–Schmit conjecture. The conjecture implies that locally, the residual interaction causes the statistics of eigenvalues and eigenfunctions of the full Hamiltonian to agree with random-matrix predictions. The agreement is confined to an interval Δ (the correlation width). The results are used to calculate

Tr

(
A
ρ
(
t
)
)

. Here

ρ
(
t
)

is the time-dependent density matrix of the system, and A represents an observable. In the semiclassical regime, the average

⟨

Tr

(
A
ρ
(
t
)
)
⟩

decays on the time scale

ℏ

/

Δ

toward an asymptotic value. If the energy spread of the system is of order Δ, that value is given by

Tr

(
A

ρ

eq

)

where

ρ

eq

is the density matrix of statistical equilibrium. The correlation width Δ is the central parameter of our approach. We argue that Δ occurs generically in chaotic quantum systems and plays the same central role.
Digital noise spectroscopy with a quantum sensor
Authors: Wang (王国庆) Guoqing , Zhu Yuan , Li Boning , Li Changhao , Viola Lorenza , Cooper Alexandre , Cappellaro Paola
Published: March 2024

We introduce and experimentally demonstrate a quantum sensing protocol to sample and reconstruct the autocorrelation of a noise process using a single-qubit sensor under digital control modulation. This Walsh noise spectroscopy method exploits simple sequences of spin-flip pulses to generate a complete basis of digital filters that directly sample the power spectrum of the target noise in the sequency domain, from which the autocorrelation function in the time domain, as well as the power spectrum in the frequency domain, can be reconstructed using linear transformations. Our method, which can also be seen as an implementation of frame-based noise spectroscopy, solves the fundamental difficulty in sampling continuous functions with digital filters by introducing a transformation that relates the arithmetic and logical time domains. In comparison to standard, frequency-based dynamical-decoupling noise spectroscopy protocols, the accuracy of our method is only limited by sampling and discretization in the time domain and can be easily improved, even under limited evolution time due to decoherence and hardware limitations. Finally, we experimentally reconstruct the autocorrelation function of the effective magnetic field produced by the nuclear-spin bath on the electronic spin of a single nitrogen-vacancy center in diamond, discuss practical limitations of the method, and avenues to further improve the reconstruction accuracy.
A review on buckling of the laminated composite panel under in-plane load
Authors: Kumar Shashi , Kant Lakshmi , Poddar Manoj Kumar , Yadav Chandra Bhushan Kumar , Kumar Sumit
Published: March 2024

The review paper deals with a literature review on buckling analysis by different methods of laminated plates with different types of stiffeners which has been conducted in recent years. Analytical studies, experimental studies, finite element analysis, and other computational methods have been implemented by researchers on the stiffened panels under compression and shear for determination of the buckling behavior of the panel with I-type, blade-type, T-type, and hat-stiffeners. Some literature has been found on the panel with the influence of variation of the stiffener depth for the determination of buckling capacity. Very few literatures, non-linear finite element (FE) have been implemented for the determination of the effect of debonding damage between plate-stiffener of the panel but have not been reported parametric data about the effect of cohesive parameters of plate-stiffener and delamination of plies of the composites stiffened panel for post-buckling analysis. This paper also provides a literature survey based on the buckling performance of the plates with the application of different shapes of stiffeners.
Comparative assessment of fault detection methods in transmission line during power swing: analyzing single and hybrid networks for the southern Kerala grid
Authors: K Sabeena Beevi , Ramesh Adith , Das Gokul , Girish Sanjay P , Siano Pierluigi
Published: March 2024

The blocking function of power oscillation is a highly effective feature found in distance relays. Its purpose is to prevent unintentional tripping of transmission lines. It is crucial to accurately differentiate between faults and power oscillations to minimise the occurrence of widespread power outages and monetary losses. Therefore, the detection and classification of faults arising from power swings are critical challenges in ensuring the smooth operation and overall health of transmission lines, particularly in extra-high-voltage (EHV) and ultra-high-voltage (UHV) power systems. Modern methods rely on machine learning methods which are in their infancy. The paper proposes to identify various fault conditions in transmission lines during power swing by using a hybrid Neural Network architecture. In this research, different designs such as 2-D convolution neural network (2D-CNN), 1-D convolution neural network (1D-CNN), long short-term memory (LSTM), and CNN-LSTM hybrid networks are investigated to understand the effect of various deep learning approaches. Along with the southern Kerala grid, the standard 9-bus system is selected as a test case to examine various fault circumstances of the system during power swing. Multiple tests were conducted to determine the optimal deep learning architecture, including model parameters and configurations, for accurate fault detection. For the 9 bus system, the 1D CNN network performs better with an accuracy of 98.70%, and for the Kerala grid, both networks are competitive, but the CNN-LSTM Hybrid method slightly outperforms the 1D CNN with an accuracy of 92.40%.
Mapping stress-responsive signaling pathways induced by mitochondrial proteostasis perturbations
Authors: Madrazo Nicole , Khattar Zinia , Powers Evan T. , Rosarda Jessica D. , Wiseman R. Luke
Published: March 2024

Imbalances in mitochondrial proteostasis are associated with pathologic mitochondrial dysfunction implicated in etiologically diverse diseases. This has led to considerable interest in defining the mechanisms responsible for regulating mitochondria in response to mitochondrial stress. Numerous stress-responsive signaling pathways have been suggested to regulate mitochondria in response to proteotoxic stress. These include the integrated stress response (ISR), the heat shock response (HSR), and the oxidative stress response (OSR). Here, we define the stress signaling pathways activated in response to chronic mitochondrial proteostasis perturbations by monitoring the expression of sets of genes regulated downstream of each of these signaling pathways in published Perturb-seq datasets from K562 cells CRISPRi-depleted of mitochondrial proteostasis factors. Interestingly, we find that the ISR is preferentially activated in response to chronic, genetically-induced mitochondrial proteostasis stress, with no other pathway showing significant activation. Further, we demonstrate that CRISPRi depletion of other mitochondria-localized proteins similarly shows preferential activation of the ISR relative to other stress-responsive signaling pathways. These results both establish our gene set profiling approach as a viable strategy to probe stress responsive signaling pathways induced by perturbations to specific organelles and identify the ISR as the predominant stress-responsive signaling pathway activated in response to chronic disruption of mitochondrial proteostasis.
Biobehavioral Research in Dentistry: Some Directions for the 1990s
Authors: McGlynn F. Dudley , Gale Elliot N. , Glaros Alan G. , LeResche Linda , Massoth Donna L. , Weiffenbach James M.
Published: March 2024

Literatures related to five promising areas of biobehavioral research in dentistry are overviewed: etiology and treatment of temporomandibular disorders and of bruxism, assessment of facial and other pain with measures of facial expression, the connection between stress and periodontal disease, and taste sensory function and dysfunction. In each case, the current status of the literature is described and some directions for continued research are offered. The biopsychosocial perspective on illness and health is favored as an organizing framework for these and similar efforts.
Breaking the Worldwide Cycle of Pain, Fear, and Avoidance: Uncovering Risk Factors and Promoting Prevention for Children
Authors: Weinstein Philip
Published: March 2024

Recent research indicates that dental fear may be a universal barrier to oral health and that culture determines the mode of expression of dental fear. This fear of dental treatment appears to be a major problem in studies of the Japanese with Japanese samples reporting four times as much pain at their last appointment as the American sample. It appears that a “cycle of fear” may exist for developing nations and for our own emergency-based dental care delivery systems. Pathology unchecked by preventive services leads to painful dental treatment; this results in fear and subsequent avoidance. Knowledge of etiologic factors is incomplete; however a study of conditioning, expectation and latent inhibition appears promising. Particular attention to developmental factors is needed. A primary prevention program with children that includes creation of a safe environment, careful positive exposure and choice of non-invasive procedures is recommended. Secondary and tertiary preventive procedures for fearful children are also discussed.
Weight Management and Hypertension
Authors: Jeffery Robert W.
Published: March 2024

A convergence of epidemiologic, laboratory, and clinical research clearly implicates obesity in the etiology of essential hypertension. Cross-culturally, the prevalence of hypertension varies directly with the prevalence of obesity; cross-sectionally, body weight is positively associated with blood pressure; and longitudinally, both absolute weight and weight gain predict future development of hypertension. Weight loss trials, although fewer in number, suggest that weight loss is the single most effective nonpharmacologic approach to the management and prevention of hypertension. Treatment of obesity remains difficult. Current intervention approaches that combine diet, exercise, and multicomponent behavioral strategies can reliably produce clinically significant weight loss in most obese clients. Long-term maintenance, however, has generally been disappointing, which reduces the potential of weight control counseling in the practical management of hypertension. The implications of these findings for the treatment of hypertension as well as future research needs are discussed.
Compliance With Antihypertensive Regimen: A Review of the Research in the 1980s
Authors: Dunbar-Jacob Jacqueline , Dwyer Kathleen , Dunning E. Jean
Published: March 2024

Over the past two decades, the health care community and the National Institutes of Health have focused attention toward the control of hypertension. Although considerable research has been undertaken which contributes to our understanding of compliance, little has been achieved in improved self-care by patients. This review highlights the past decade of published research related to compliance with hypertension regimens. The focus of the review is on the extent of the problem of noncompliance, setting differences in compliance rates, measurement influences on compliance rates, research on compliance measurement methods, medication compliance, and intervention strategies to improve patient compliance. At the close of the 1970s, it was noted that determinants of compliance were complex and poorly understood. Continuing research efforts on the extent of noncompliance suggest that improvements have not been made in the 1980s; however, the research does suggest directions for a better understanding of compliance and its modifications. The research suggests that differences exist in compliance rates between treatment settings, and that compliance can be enhanced by support networks. Studies of noncompliance, however, have generally not yielded new insights. The research suggests that the inclusion of cognitive constructions of illness may strengthen the effect of behavioral interventions. Research has also progressed on the validation of measures of compliance. Continued research emphasizing the development of measures with enhanced reliability and accuracy would advance the field. The research of the past decade suggests there are a number of promising avenues yet to be explored.
Does Social Support Aid in Weight Loss and Smoking Interventions? Reply from a Family Systems Perspective
Authors: Lassner Jason B.
Published: March 2024

This article suggests that the inconsistent ability of social support interventions to enhance treatment outcomes in weight loss and smoking cessation studies is a result of inadequate theoretical conceptualization and operational definition of social support. Family systems theory is proposed as a theoretical framework which capitalizes on the salience of patient-partner interactions in producing long-term behavior change. A model is presented which outlines how this alternative conceptualization of social support would alter previous interventions. Preliminary evidence in favor of the proposed model is presented in the form of retrospective analysis of previous studies. Based on a desire to resolve the inconsistency of previous research, a call is made for the consideration of systems theory in future social support intervention studies.
Women and Aerobic Exercise: Directions for Research Development
Authors: Lee Christina
Published: March 2024

Women in Western societies participate in exercise to a much lesser extent than men of similar educational level and social class. This difference tends to increase with age. This article reviews studies examining the physiological and psychological effects of exercise programs, and concludes that middle-aged and older women have the potential to benefit from exercise to much the same degree as men. However, it also identifies a number of limitations to the research reviewed and suggests the need for more systematic programs of investigation. A clearer understanding of the types of exercise which are most appropriate and beneficial to women of various age groups and initial fitness levels would provide a factual basis for the promotion of safe and healthy exercise for women at all stages of the life cycle.
The Importance of Skeletal Muscle Strength to Physical Function in Older Adults
Authors: Buchner David M. , de Lateur Barbara J.
Published: March 2024

It is intuitive that strength is a determinant of physical function, and hence, logical to ask whether age-related decline in strength is an important cause of functional impairment in older adults. Interestingly, the few studies which address this question report inconsistent results and often fail to find a strong relationship between strength and function. It appears that several theoretical issues about the relationship between strength and function are not widely appreciated: (a) the relationship between strength and function is specific for physical function; (b) relative strength is more closely related to function than absolute strength; (c) the relationship should be curvilinear and involves a threshold; and (d) the threshold strength required for good function is activity-specific. Analysis of existing data supported the importance of these concepts. However, whether strength training can improve functional status in older adults is unclear. Rigorously designed randomized controlled trials are needed that address whether long-term effects of exercise on functional status are possible, and how best to promote adherence to exercise in older adults.
Life Stress and Illness: The Question of Specificity
Authors: Harris Tirril
Published: March 2024

The hypothesis that specific disorders arise from specific psychosocial circumstances has received little attention in the last couple of decades. Recently developed measurements of stress, specifically the Life Events and Difficulties Schedule (LEDS), allow a more focused perspective on the differing psychosocial pathways to psychiatric and physical disorder. This is the result of the level of measurement employed by the LEDS, whereby specific qualities of distress, such as losses, dangers, frustrations, and so on, can be distinguished from each other within the overall category of distressing/unpleasant experience. Studies of depression, anxiety, schizophrenia, abdominal pain, appendectomy, menorrhagia, secondary amenorrhea, and myocardial infarction using the LEDS suggest that the specific qualities of the stressors involved in the onset of each condition may parallel similar predisposing vulnerabilities in the personalities of those becoming ill, and corresponding psychiatric conditions between stressor and somatic onset. An overall framework is outlined within which disorders are typified as more or less disengaged/overengaged, and suggestions are offered for future research.
Self-Monitoring of Blood Glucose: Impact and Adherence During Diabetic Pregnancy
Authors: Zayfert Claudia , Goetsch Virginia L.
Published: March 2024

A review of the literature reveals that the issue of patient self regulation has been sorely neglected in regard to diabetes in pregnancy. The impact of self management of blood glucose (particularly self monitoring of blood glucose) cannot be conclusively determined because most studies have not used appropriate comparison groups and have failed to adequately assess patient adherence. A substantial but as yet undefined, portion of women with diabetes do not follow their diabetic treatment protocol during pregnancy. This presents a risk to maternal health and fetal well-being. Factors pertinent to adherence by pregnant women are outlined and directions for research are suggested.
Daily Stress and Stress-Related Disorders
Authors: Brantley Phillip J. , Jones Glenn N.
Published: March 2024

This review examines literature linking minor stress to disorders commonly presumed to be stress-related. The development of the Daily Stress Inventory, an instrument designed to explore this association, is presented. Investigations of the association between daily minor stress and the selected stress-related disorders of asthma, headache, inflammatory bowel disease, and diabetes are reviewed. In all of these disorders there is evidence of varying quality that daily minor stress may be associated with exacerbation. The nature of this association remains unclear in most cases. Further, there is evidence suggesting the strength of the association varies greatly across individuals. Diagnostic implications are discussed, as are the implications for assessment and treatment studies.
Obesity and Related Eating and Exercise Behaviors in Women
Authors: Wing Rena R.
Published: March 2024

Obesity is an important health problem for women, affecting 30% of middle-aged Caucasian women and 60% of middle-aged African—American women. Consequently, this article reviews recent research findings related to the problem of obesity and its health implications. The major focus of the article is on new directions in the treatment and prevention of obesity. The implications of the recent research on obesity for clinical practice are discussed, and recommendations are made for future research and clinical practice.
Of Mice and Men: Behavioral Medicine in the Study of Type II Diabetes
Authors: Surwit Richard S.
Published: March 2024

The development of a research program in behavioral medicine is reviewed from an historical perspective. Initial studies dealing with the effects of stress management on diabetes control are summarized. Questions raised by these studies led to a switch from human to animal studies. Results from these animal studies suggested that glucose responses to stress are characteristic of individuals predisposed to developing Type II diabetes. This hypothesis was then tested in humans. These studies led to the hypothesis that, while stress responsivity may be a marker for the development of diabetes, dietary effects on the sympathetic nervous system may be responsible for eventual appearance of the disease. Additionally, the development of a new animal model of Type II diabetes allowed new insights into the relationship of obesity and insulin resistance with the development of the disease itself. The evolution of this research program from one focused on behavioral variables to one with a more basic biological orientation is emphasized.
Prognostic Significance of Silent Myocardial Ischemia
Authors: Trauner Michael A. , Jiang Wei , Blumenthal James A.
Published: March 2024

Transient myocardial ischemia (TMI), a condition in which blood flow to the heart is temporarily restricted, has been recognized as an important measure of cardiovascular disease activity. Episodes of TMI are associated with an increased risk of adverse cardiac events, are relatively common in patients with coronary artery disease, and are predominantly asymptomatic. These asymptomatic episodes of TMI, which may be triggered by strenuous physical activity or by daily activities involving little physical effort, represent a condition known as silent myocardial ischemia (SMI). Although the unfavorable prognosis associated with symptom-related TMI, commonly referred to as angina pectoris (AP), has been well studied, the independent prognostic value of SMI has not been adequately addressed. Some studies have reported that SMI has independent prognostic significance, while other studies have concluded that the prognostic significance of TMI is the same whether it is SMI or AP. Methodological limitations of past research, including poorly defined patient characteristics, inadequately defined TMI, and insufficient follow-up periods, have contributed to conflicting results. This review examines the prognostic importance of TMI and specifically addresses the independent contribution of SMI over and above that of AP.
Family Influences on the Course of Chronic Illness: a Cognitive-Behavioral Transactional Model
Authors: Kerns Robert D. , Weiss Laura H.
Published: March 2024

Refinements in a social learning perspective on the role of the family in the adaptation and adjustment of chronically ill individuals have been proposed and empirical tests of the validity of the model are beginning to be described. This article will describe an integrative cognitive-behavioral transactional model of family functioning that informs research on the influence of the family on the course of chronic disease. A rapidly evolving literature in the area of chronic pain is offered as an example of work based in part on this model. Suggestions for generalization of the model across the chronic illness domain are made.
The Impact of Chronic Illness on Families: a Family Systems Perspective
Authors: Patterson Joan M. , Garwick Ann W.
Published: March 2024

In this article, a family systems theoretical framework is described for understanding the reciprocal relationships between chronic illness in a family member and the structure and functioning of the family system. The reciprocal impacts between the illness, individual development, and family functioning continue dynamically in a circular pattern of effects over time. Well-adapted families are able to achieve balanced functioning by developing and maintaining their capabilities (resources and coping behaviors) for meeting the continually changing demands (stressors, strains, hassles, chronic illness hardships) they face. This effort to achieve balance is influenced by the meanings families attribute to their situation, as well as to their own identity as a family unit, and to their view of the world. Successful adaptation to chronic illness can best be promoted by focusing on the family system as the unit of intervention. When the family is healthy, the person with chronic illness does better. Families should be encouraged to balance illness needs with other family needs using a style of functioning that is consistent with their existing lifestyle and values.
Personality and Breast Cancer Screening Behaviors
Authors: Siegler Ilene C. , Costa Paul T.
Published: March 2024

This review examines findings on the relationship between personality and breast cancer screening behaviors. Because the literature is limited, data from the University of North Carolina Alumni Heart Study (UNCAHS) are presented showing the associations between personality measured by the NEO Personality Inventory (NEO-PI) and mammography and breast self-examination.
Meta-Analysis of the Associations between Social Support and Health Outcomes
Authors: Smith Carol E. , Fernengel Karen , Holcroft Carolyn , Gerald Ken , Marien Lydia
Published: March 2024

The purpose of this review was to determine the effect of different types of social support on physical, psychological, and stress-related health outcomes. Meta-analysis was used to aggregate research findings across sixty published and seven unpublished studies with 11 to 3,725 subjects per study. Study results were grouped according to operationally defined categories of social support and types of health outcomes. Data from these studies were then standardized, weighted by sample size, and effect size calculated. Effect size results of the grouped studies of social support and types of health outcomes ranged from –.02 to .22. Effect size results were equivalent when comparing studies grouped by gender of subjects, longitudinal versus cross-sectional design, and high or low quality (as rated on internal and external design validity). These effect size results between social support and the health outcomes measured indicate small amounts of shared variance that may not be considered significant nor generalizable. Conceptual and methodological issues that may have contributed to small effect size results are described herein. These findings counter the generally held assumptions that social support is associated with improved health outcomes. The need for continued research into the negative aspects of social support and suggestions for further refinement of a situation-specific support paradigm are offered.
Safety and quality of parenteral nutrition: Areas for improvement and future perspectives
Authors: Monczka Jessica , Ayers Phil , Berger Mette M , Wischmeyer Paul E
Published: March 2024

Purpose

This article is based on presentations and discussions held at the International Safety and Quality of Parenteral Nutrition (PN) Summit (held November 8-10, 2021, at Charleston, SC, and Bad Homburg, Germany) and aims to raise awareness concerning unresolved issues associated with the PN process and potential future directions, including a greater emphasis on patients’ perspectives and the role of patient support.

Ensuring that every patient in need receives adequate PN support remains challenging. It is important to have a standardized approach to identify nutritional risk and requirements using validated nutritional screening and assessment tools. Gaps between optimal and actual clinical practices need to be identified and closed, and responsibilities in the nutrition support team clarified. Use of modern technology opens up opportunities to decrease workloads or liberate resources, allowing a more personalized care approach. Patient-centered care has gained in importance and is an emerging topic within clinical nutrition, in part because patients often have different priorities and concerns than healthcare professionals. Regular assessment of health-related quality of life, functional outcomes, and/or overall patient well-being should all be performed for PN patients. This will generate patient-centric data, which should be integrated into care plans. Finally, communication and patient education are prerequisites for patients’ commitment to health and for fostering adherence to PN regimes.

Conclusion

Moving closer to optimal nutritional care requires input from healthcare professionals and patients. Patient-centered care and greater emphasis on patient perspectives and priorities within clinical nutrition are essential to help further improve clinical nutrition.
V—Wise Trust
Authors: Jones Karen
Published: March 2024

Justified trust is rationally permitted trust; wise trust is excellent trust. Excellent (dis)trust is always justified (dis)trust, but the reverse is not true. You can be justified in distrusting someone and yet it be wise for you to trust. Contrary to folk saying, wisdom does not favour distrust ahead of trust. This paper explores what it takes to be wise in entering, maintaining, modifying and exiting trust relations. Wisdom is socially scaffolded, including by distributed networks of distrust that make local trust wise.
The shape of the Sun
Authors: Hudson Hugh , Emslie Gordon
Published: March 2024

Are you in the path of the total solar eclipse on 8 April 2024? You are? Great! We need your help! And, er, don't forget to bring your smartphone…
Pulsating massive stars
Authors: Bowman Dominic
Published: March 2024

Asteroseismologist Dominic Bowman has made a career out of reading the rhythms and music of the stars. So what instruments make up the stellar symphony?
Cheadle Moon
Authors: Bird Sarah , Kilburn Kevin
Published: March 2024

She scarcely left her home town, but her work put her on the Moon. Here's our celebration of a singular RAS Fellow: Mary Adela Blagg
Systematic review of targeted axillary dissection in node-positive breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant systemic therapy: variation in type of marker and timing of placement
Authors: de Wild Sabine R , Koppert Linetta B , van Nijnatten Thiemo J A , Kooreman Loes F S , Vrancken Peeters Marie-Jeanne T F D , Smidt Marjolein L , Simons Janine M
Published: March 2024

Background

In node-positive (cN+) breast cancer treated with neoadjuvant systemic therapy, combining sentinel lymph node biopsy and targeted lymph node excision, that is targeted axillary dissection, increases accuracy. Targeted axillary dissection procedures differ in terms of the targeted lymph node excision technique. This systematic review aimed to provide an overview of targeted axillary dissection procedures regarding definitive marker type and timing of placement: before neoadjuvant systemic therapy (1-step procedure) or after neoadjuvant systemic therapy adjacent to a clip placed before the neoadjuvant therapy (2-step procedure).

Methods

PubMed and Embase were searched, to 4 July 2023, for RCTs, cohort studies, and case–control studies with at least 25 patients. Studies of targeted lymph node excision only (without sentinel lymph node biopsy), or where intraoperative localization of the targeted lymph node was not attempted, were excluded. For qualitative synthesis, studies were grouped by definitive marker and timing of placement. The targeted lymph node identification rate was reported. Study quality was assessed using a National Institutes of Health quality assessment tool.

Results

Of 277 unique records, 51 studies with a total of 4512 patients were included. Six definitive markers were identified: wire, 125I-labelled seed, 99mTc, (electro)magnetic/radiofrequency markers, black ink, and a clip. Fifteen studies evaluated one-step procedures, with the identification rate of the targeted lymph node at surgery varying from 8 of 13 to 47 of 47. Forty-one studies evaluated two-step procedures, with the identification rate of the clipped targeted lymph node on imaging after neoadjuvant systemic therapy varying from 49 to 100%, and the identification rate of the targeted lymph node at surgery from 17 of 24 to 100%. Most studies (40 of 51) were rated as being of fair quality.

Conclusion

Various targeted axillary dissection procedures are used in clinical practice. Owing to study heterogeneity, the optimal targeted lymph node excision technique in terms of identification rate and feasibility could not be determined. Two-step procedures are at risk of not identifying the clipped targeted lymph node on imaging after neoadjuvant systemic therapy.