bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neuropathic pain in cats: mechanisms and multimodal management
Authors: Rusbridge Clare
Published: May 2024

Practical relevance:

Chronic pain is a significant welfare concern in cats, and neuropathic pain, which arises from aberrant processing of sensory signals within the nervous system, is a subcategory of this type of pain. To comprehend this condition and how multimodal pharmacotherapy plays a central role in alleviating discomfort, it is crucial to delve into the anatomy of nociception and pain perception. In addition, there is an intricate interplay between emotional health and chronic pain in cats, and understanding and addressing the emotional factors that contribute to pain perception, and vice versa, is essential for comprehensive care. Clinical approach: Neuropathic pain is suspected if there is abnormal sensation in the area of the distribution of pain, together with a positive response to trial treatment with drugs effective for neuropathic pain. Ideally, this clinical suspicion would be supported by confirmation of a lesion at this neurolocalisation using diagnostic modalities such as MRI and neuroelectrophysiology. Alternatively, there may be a history of known trauma at that site. A variety of therapies, including analgesic, anti-inflammatory and adjuvant drugs, and neuromodulation (eg, TENS or acupuncture), can be employed to address different facets of pain pathways. Aim: This review article, aimed at primary care/ general practitioners, focuses on the identification and management of neuropathic pain in cats. Three case vignettes are included and a structured treatment algorithm is presented to guide veterinarians in tailoring interventions. Evidence base: The review draws on current literature, where available, along with the author's extensive experience and research.
The influence of near-infrared therapy on arteriovenous fistula patency in haemodialysis patients: A multicentre, randomised, controlled clinical trial
Authors: Chunyan Feng , Zhenbin Jiang , Weiyi Jin , Haiyan Men , Jinrong Zhu , Yue Wang , Song Wang , Chunyan Su
Published: May 2024

Background:

Arteriovenous fistula (AVF) is the preferred vascular access for patients undergoing haemodialysis (HD). AVF malfunction remains a major clinical problem and is a significant independent risk factor for death. Although far-infrared (FIR) therapy has been shown to reduce complications and improve the patency rate of AVFs in various studies, it has been cautiously recommended by the Kidney Disease Outcome Quality Initiative (KDOQI) guidelines for AVF care due to insufficient evidence. Therefore, it is necessary to identify more effective methods for preventing AVF dysfunction. Many in vitro studies and few clinical studies have examined the effects of near-infrared (NIR) therapy on the vasculature. This study will examine the effects of NIR therapy on AVF.

Methods:

A randomised, controlled, open-label, multicentre trial will compare the effect of NIR on AVF patency after 1 year of therapy with that of a control group of patients with existing AVF. One group of patients received NIR treatment above their AVFs, whereas the control group received regular care. The primary outcome is the primary fistula patency rate within 12 months. In addition, acute changes in inflammatory, vasodilatory and haemodynamic parameters after a single treatment in the first 40 participants will be examined. This study was registered in the Clinical Trials Registry (ChiCTR2300071305) at https://register.clinicaltrials.gov/ .

Discussions:

This study will explore the long-term and acute effects of NIR on AVFs. The study findings will provide information that can be used to develop new technical support for the prevention of AVF dysfunction in patients undergoing haemodialysis.
Femoral to abdomen tunneling at the bedside for medium/long term venous access
Authors: Ostroff Matt , Elzomor Hossam , Weite Toni Anne , Garcia Daniel , Ahn Jane , Stanko Olena , Anderson Kirsten , Winborne April , Alexandrou Evan
Published: May 2024

Background:

Femoral to abdomen tunneling of small-bore central venous catheters is a bedside technique for patients with contraindications to a thoracic approach, or as an alternative to a lower extremity catheter exit site.

Method:

A femoral to abdomen tunneling technique was implemented for patients receiving medium and long-term intravenous treatments with contraindications to the thoracic venous approach or as an alternative to a lower extremity catheter exit site. All venous access devices were inserted with ultrasound guidance under local anesthesia, and catheter tip placement assessed by post procedural radiography.

Results:

In this case series, from January 2020 to January 2023, a total of eight FTA-tunneled venous access devices were inserted. There were seven ambulatory patients and one bedbound patient. The median length of the subcutaneous tunnel was 20 cm, ranging from 15 to 27 cm. The median length of the intravenous catheter to the terminal tip was 31 cm, ranging from 23 to 40 cm. Tip location was confirmed by post-procedural abdominal radiograph. The catheter tip locations were interpreted to be at the level of T8-T9 (2), T12 (1), L4 (2), L2 (2), L1(1). No insertion or post insertion related complication was reported. Six patients completed the scheduled intravenous treatment. One patient was unable to be tracked due to transfer to an outside facility. One catheter initially demonstrated to be coiled over the left common iliac vessel was repositioned using a high flow flush technique. There was one reported catheter dislodgment by the nurse providing care and maintenance. The overall implant days were 961, with a median dwell time of 125 days ranging from 20 to 399 days.

Conclusion:

Femoral to abdomen tunneling provides an alternative exit site useful in select patients with complex intravenous access. The data of this small retrospective review suggests this a safe and minimally invasive bedside procedure.
From progression to progress: The future of multiple sclerosis
Authors: Oh Jiwon , Giacomini Paul S. , Yong V. Wee , Costello Fiona , Blanchette François , Freedman Mark S.
Published: May 2024

Significant advances have been made in the diagnosis and treatment of multiple sclerosis in recent years yet challenges remain. The current classification of MS phenotypes according to disease activity and progression, for example, does not adequately reflect the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that may be acting in an individual with MS at different time points. Thus, there is a need for clinicians to transition to a management approach based on the underlying pathophysiological mechanisms that drive disability in MS. A Canadian expert panel convened in January 2023 to discuss priorities for clinical discovery and scientific exploration that would help advance the field. Five key areas of focus included: identifying a mechanism-based disease classification system; developing biomarkers (imaging, fluid, digital) to identify pathologic processes; implementing a data-driven approach to integrate genetic/environmental risk factors, clinical findings, imaging and biomarker data, and patient-reported outcomes to better characterize the many factors associated with disability progression; utilizing precision-based treatment strategies to target different disease processes; and potentially preventing disease through Epstein-Barr virus (EBV) vaccination, counselling about environmental risk factors (e.g. obesity, exercise, vitamin D/sun exposure, smoking) and other measures. Many of the tools needed to meet these needs are currently available. Further work is required to validate emerging biomarkers and tailor treatment strategies to the needs of individual patients. The hope is that a more complete view of the individual’s pathobiology will enable clinicians to usher in an era of truly personalized medicine, in which more informed treatment decisions throughout the disease course achieve better long-term outcomes.
Some reflections on technical and allocative inefficiency modeling
Authors: Kumbhakar Subal C
Published: May 2024

This paper offers a concise overview of the existing literature on efficiency and productivity, focusing on stochastic frontier models. The emphasis is placed on technical inefficiency (TI), defined as the failure to produce the maximum output given inputs, and allocative inefficiency (AI), arising from non-optimal input utilization. The primary objective of this brief survey is to assist readers in grasping the fundamental concepts of modelling TI and AI within single and/or multiple output production technologies. Additionally, attention is given to the challenges associated with computing the cost of AI (CAI) in primal-based models, as well as modelling CAI within dual cost and profit functions.
T-shaped craft researchers’ contribution in transdisciplinary research projects
Authors: Groth Camilla , Høgseth Harald Bentz , Melin Karl-Magnus , Leijonhufvud Fredrik
Published: May 2024

Transdisciplinary project groups are promoted as a way for coping with the growing complexity of research environments. In the context of archaeology and conservation, the knowhow of practitioner-researchers in crafts has potential in supporting the reconstruction of past events as well as the material and technical background factors. As education in the arts and crafts have gradually moved from the workshops into academic institutions, artisans enter higher education and can pursue research careers. In cases where an artisan with longitudinal craft experience conducts research training in a related area, such as archaeology or conservation, we can speak of T-shaped practitioners. In this article, we will present three examples of research conducted by Scandinavian practitioner-researchers who are professional crafts practitioners in wood, but also archaeologists / conservators. We discuss the potentials of practitioner-researchers in craft for facilitating experiential knowledge transfer between project members of different disciplines.
Exploring English learning motivation among Chinese older adults
Authors: Wei Rining , Wang Rong , Wang Jing
Published: May 2024

With increasing attention paid to the effects of learning a foreign language (FL) on older adults in the currently ageing world, psychological individual difference (ID) variables (e.g. learning motivation) remain much under-investigated, compared with cognitive IDs. This exploratory study examined older adults’ English learning motivation in the Chinese context of English as a foreign language (EFL) by conducting a web-based survey ( n = 510) and semi-structured interviews ( n = 21). Results showed that (1) the selected sociobiographical variables influenced older adults’ English learning motivation to different degrees, among which education, use frequency of English and socioeconomic status (SES) emerged as very important predictors; and (2) four motivators for English learning by older adults emerged as traveling or visiting relatives abroad, keeping the brain in shape, supporting inter-generational communication, and having general interest in the target FL. As one of the first systematic attempts to explore English learning motivation among Chinese older adults, the present study (1) contributes to a further understanding of English learning motivation among older adults in the Chinese EFL context, and (2) provides pedagogical and policy implications for English language teaching targeting older adults.
Synchrotron EDXRD strain-temperature measurement during laser welding
Authors: Mäde Konrad , Reisgen Uwe , Sharma Rahul , Akyel Fatma , Olschok Simon , Gamerdinger Maximilian , Evers Timm , Krishna Murthy Karthik Ravi , Olesch Mirco , Kellerwessel Johannes , Faria Guilherme Abreu , Dovzhenko Gleb
Published: May 2024

Localised heat input, as it occurs in welding with moving heat sources, induces residual stresses and distortion in materials. The quantitative determination of residual stress evolution is difficult. Despite existing models, residual stress build-up with temperature progression is not fully understood. High-flux density X-rays from a synchrotron source allow the measurement of local strains in materials and improve the resolution of stress gradients as it permits small measurement volumes (Gibmeier et al., 2014). A laser beam welding process was used to perform linear bead-on-plate welds on bar steel samples. The X-ray diffraction system recorded the transient strain evolution. Multiple repetitions at different locations in the specimen were combined to develop a map of the strains present within the specimen. The temperature was measured locally at the surface of the sample. As the strain was determined within a measurement volume inside the sample, the temperature history over time had to be obtained as well. A numerical model was employed to determine the temperature inside the measurement volume. This model was calibrated using the transient surface temperatures and metallographic cross-sections. The result was a representation of the local strain superimposed on the temperature distribution. Analysis of this data correlation showed that a strain maximum occurs as a function of time and distance from the heat source, which is likely to coincide with the austenite-ferrite phase transformation temperature.
Concept and simulation of a novel dual-layer linear ion trap mass analyzer for micro-electromechanical systems mass spectrometry
Authors: Cheng Yupeng , Liu Youjiang , Wu Zhangxu , Shen Chen , Li Shan , Wang Han , Chen Chilai
Published: May 2024

This paper proposed a dual-layer linear ion trap mass analyzer (dLIT) based on micro-electromechanical systems (MEMS) technology and stacked-layer structure for the development of MEMS mass spectrometry. Its basic performance and potential capabilities were explored by ion trajectory simulations. The theoretical formulas were modified by implementing multipole expansion. The simulation results were confirmed to be highly consistent with theoretical calculations in multiple aspects, including stability diagram, secular frequencies, and mass linearity, with only a deviation of 1–2%. In the boundary ejection mode, close to 100% ejection was achieved in a single dimension by applying extra quadrupole DC voltage. Preliminary simulation results showed that dLIT can achieve a peak width of ∼2 mass units (full width at half maximum, FWHM) for m/z 60 ions even at pressures as high as 50 Pa. Furthermore, the application of AC frequency scanning mode in dLIT was also evaluated, and preliminary simulation results yield a peak width of 0.3–0.4 mass units (FWHM). The dLIT offered several advantages, including high-precision fabrication at the sub-millimeter scale, excellent high-pressure performance, and a clear physical model. It preliminarily proved to be an ideal mass analyzer for MEMS mass spectrometry.
Stereoscopic imaging of volatile organic compounds distribution in the region and tracing emission sources of volatile organic compounds using a novel movable single-photon ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometer
Authors: Xie Chunguang , Zhang Jiyang , Zhu Hui , Xie Shuguang , Cheng Ping
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a newly developed high-performance mobile single-photon ionization time-of-flight mass spectrometry (M-SPI-TOFMS) system for on-line analysis and stereoscopic monitoring of complex gas mixtures. The system is designed for stereoscopic imaging to map the distribution of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) and trace their emission sources in urban areas and industrial parks. It mainly consists of a SPI-TOFMS instrument, a customized commercial vehicle, a meteorological five-parameter monitor with GPS, a high-power generator, and an uninterruptible power supply. The SPI technique, using a 118 nm VUV lamp, can ionize compounds with an ionization potential below 10.78 eV. Mass spectra obtained using this technique show the profiles of various VOCs and some inorganic compounds. The VOCs composition information and mobile location data are simultaneously sent to the GIS software. In GIS software, this data is used for real-time stereoscopic imaging of VOC distribution and precise tracking of VOC movement. The system can achieve a spatial data resolution of 0.69 mm at 25 km/h due to the microsecond detection speed of the M-SPI-TOFMS instrument. The laboratory test provides a rapid overview characterization of benzene, toluene, and xylene. The M-SPI-TOFMS has limits of detection and mass resolution of 33.7 pptv and 1060, respectively. Several field applications were carried out using M-SPI-TOFMS at various locations to identify VOC sources near different factories. The M-SPI-TOFMS system has a navigation monitoring speed of 25 km/h with a time resolution of 1 s. The widespread use of this system will provide accurate data to support environmental management departments in formulating VOCs pollution control policies and improving control efficiency.
Facing cancer: metaphors in medical animation films
Authors: Gebraad Nina , Forceville Charles
Published: May 2024

Conceptual Metaphor Theory claims that metaphors are a key instrument for making abstract and complex phenomena comprehensible. Cancer, one of the deadliest diseases in the world, is one such complex phenomenon. Hitherto, metaphors pertaining to the nature and treatment of cancer, and to coping with it, have been analysed almost exclusively in verbal communication. Cancer metaphors, however, are also often audio-visualized in animations. In this article, the authors analyse the metaphors in 30 short medical animation films. Their purpose is twofold: (1) to assess whether these animations feature the same metaphors as those prevailing in the verbal texts analysed in earlier research; and (2) to show how animation provides medium-specific ways to present metaphors related to ‘dealing with cancer’. They end the article with reflections on challenges with respect to the identification and categorization of metaphors in animated films to help future researchers, and with some cautious recommendations for possible practical uses of understanding cancer metaphors in animations.
The political theory of techno-colonialism
Authors: Hughes Tristan
Published: May 2024

This paper examines an ideology I call techno-colonialism. I argue that techno-colonialism represents an attempt to selectively reproduce settler colonial practices adjusted to twenty-first century realities. This argument has implications for contemporary settler colonialism, the radical right, and climate change politics. In what follows, I discuss the techno-colonial doctrines of Nick Land, Curtis Yarvin, Peter Thiel, and Patri Friedman. These figures articulate a political theory about exploiting new technologies to escape the state and found new societies. To explore techno-colonial ideology, I focus on Seasteading—the practice of creating floating city-states to colonize the ocean––as an attempted realization of techno-colonial ideals. As I claim, techno-colonialism attempts to humanize the politics of settlement. But I argue that techno-colonialism's ambitions fail, and techno-colonialism fails to create a harmless politics of settlement. I conclude that we should be attentive to the relations of political and economic power in which such exit projects are embedded. Moreover, this paper also promotes our understanding of climate change and the radical right's politics. While scholars most naturally associate the radical right with climate change denialism, the techno-colonists illustrate another possibility. They welcome catastrophe, and see rising-sea levels as an opportunity to start society afresh.
Grit and Self-Identity: A Contextual Inquiry Into Academic Performance
Authors: Waldrop Jessica Schmitz , Lewis Gabriella , Tawse Alex
Published: May 2024

Research suggests that noncognitive factors are valuable constructs to further understand student performance in higher education. Grit is one such noncognitive factor to garner significant attention, but questions remain regarding its practical utilization. This study furthers the understanding of how grit can be leveraged in such environments in two key ways. First, it compares the model fit of global and school-specific grit assessments. Grit is typically evaluated as a global, rather than domain-specific, construct; this is based on an unexplored assumption that grit does not vary as a function of context. Second, it explores the extent to which student self-conceptualizations within and outside of the classroom facilitate the relationship between grit and academic performance. Implications of this research provide insight regarding the validity of measuring grit in higher education, as well as explore a novel framework to underpin the development of future institutional-level interventions.
Unintended Exchange of Target Vessels for Celiac Trunk and Superior Mesenteric Artery Branches in Complex Endovascular Aortic Repair
Authors: Enzmann Florian K. , Grandi Alessandro , Panuccio Giuseppe , Torrealba José Ignacio , Kluckner Michaela , Nana Petroula , Rohlffs Fiona , Kölbel Tilo
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

The treatment of thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms (TAAAs) using branched endovascular aortic repair (BEVAR) is safe and effective. During deployment, the superior mesenteric artery (SMA) branch can unintentionally open into the celiac trunk (CT) ostium and switched catheterization of the SMA from the CT branch and the CT from the SMA branch can be used as an alternative technique in these cases. This study aimed to investigate the outcome of exchanging the intended target vessels (TVs) for the CT and SMA branches during BEVAR.

Materials and Methods:

A single-center retrospective analysis of patients with TAAAs who underwent BEVAR, using off-the-shelf or custom-made devices (CMDs), with an unintended exchange of TVs for the CT and SMA branches was performed.

Results:

Between 2014 and 2023, 397 patients were treated with BEVAR for TAAA. Eighteen (4.5%) of those patients were treated with an exchange of TVs for the CT and SMA branches. T-branch was used in 9 cases (50%) and the remaining patients were treated with CMDs. Twelve patients were treated electively, 3 were symptomatic and 3 presented with rupture. Of 36 mesenteric TVs in those 18 patients, 34 (94%) were catheterized successfully, including all 18 SMAs and 16 of the 18 CTs. No branch stenosis or occlusion of the switched mesenteric TVs was detected during follow-up. During 30-day follow-up, 3 patients died and during a median follow-up of 3 (interquartile range [IQR]: 1–15) months 3 more patients died. None of the deaths or the 2 unintended reinterventions was induced by the mesenteric TV exchange. The median hospital stay was 14 (IQR: 9–22) days with a median of 4 (IQR: 2–11) days at the intensive care unit.

Conclusion:

The exchange of the mesenteric TVs for the CT and SMA branches during BEVAR with off-the-shelf and CMD endografts is feasible with good TV patency and freedom from TV-related reinterventions. This alternative technique should be considered in selected cases when direct catheterization via the intended branch is deemed more time-consuming or not feasible.

Clinical Impact

This is the first description of using an exchange of target vessels for the celiac trunk and the superior mesenteric artery branches in patients with thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms undergoing BEVAR, using off-the-shelf or custom-made devices. The high success rate as well as the good clinical results without any branch stenosis or occlusion during follow-up highlight the feasibility of this alternative technique. It could help in challenging cases when catheterization of the intended target vessels is not possible or too time consuming, resulting in higher success rates of BEVAR and better clinical results.
Costs Saved by Visiting a Nurse-Led Primary Care Facility Comparison of Primary Care Models
Authors: Wagner, PhD Loren P. , Zabler, PhD, RN Bev
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Nurse-led primary care is a relatively rare model for primary care, but given nurses more holistic approach to medicine, can prove effective in both reducing costs and disparities in access and outcomes. The present study compares cost adjusted quality of care between a nurse-led primary care facility and the standard primary care.

Design

To compare the cost adjusted quality of care between the standard primary care model and a nurse led primary care model the outcomes from a population of patients that visited each (control and experimental, respectively) are compared with respect to three complications of hypertension (stroke, heart attack, and coronary heart disease).

Method

The number of three complications (stroke, heart attack, and coronary artery disease) from hypertension for the experimental population is estimated using time-to-event distributions estimated from the control population. Costs are estimated using the control population data.

Results

It is found that the population that visited the nurse-led primary care facility had better cost adjusted outcomes than the population that visited the physician led facilities. We can attribute, at least, $3.7 million in costs not realized due to the quality of care provided by the nursing center.

Conclusion

Nurse-led primary care is one way that the U.S. healthcare system could reduce costs while providing consistent quality of care.
“You Guys Are Smaller!”: “Talking Back” to Microaggressions Through Poetic Inquiry
Authors: Zhang Kuo
Published: May 2024

This article examines collective dialogues surrounding the confrontation of microaggressions through a unique combination of autoethnographic poetry and found poetry. Focused on my personal encounters as an Asian woman in academia, a mother of three young children, and an international employee residing in the United States, the autoethnographic poems serve as a platform for shared reflection and exploration. Following the sharing of these poems to undergraduate students, I invited their anonymous responses via a Padlet page, from which I crafted found poetry. By juxtaposing these two forms of poetic inquiry, this study aims to challenge dominant narratives, restore agency, and underscore the humanity and dignity of marginalized individuals. Furthermore, this article delves into methodological insights regarding the use of poetic inquiry as a catalyst for collective dialogic healing and transformative action. I seek to foster empathy, understanding, healing, and actionable change in the face of microaggressions.
A Single-Arm Multi-Center Phase II Clinical Trial of Cadonilimab (anti-PD-1/CTLA-4) in Combination with or without Conventional Second-Line Treatment for Patients with Extensive Stage Small Cell Lung Cancer
Authors: Chen Can , Chen Minjun , Bai Yuju , Li Yajun , Peng Jie , Yao Biao , Feng Jiangping , Zhou Jian-Guo , Ma Hu
Published: May 2024

Background

Cadonilimab (AK104) is a bispecific IgG-single-chain Fv fragment (ScFv) antibody that binds to PD-1 and CTLA-4. Cadonilimab has shown encouraging anti-tumour activity and a favourable safety profile in several tumour types. In second-line treatment, there is no defined standard of care for patients with extensive-stage small-cell lung cancer (ES-SCLC). Cadonilimab is expected to show substantial clinical efficacy.

Objective

To assess the antitumor activity and safety of cadonilimab monotherapy or combination with conventional therapy in ES-SCLC patients who failed first-line treatment.

Methods

In this multicenter, open-label, phase II study, ES-SCLC patients who had failed first-line treatment, also aged 18 years to 70 years with histologically or cytologically confirmed ES-SCLC, and an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) of 0–2 were eligible. Patients will receive cadonilimab 10 mg/kg every three weeks (Q3 W) among 24 months until progressive disease (PD) or adverse events (AE) discovery. The primary endpoint is progression-free survival (PFS).

Trial registration

NCT05901584.
Molecular Mechanisms Associated with the Inhibitory Role of Long Chain n-3 PUFA in Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Jayathilake Abilasha Gayani , Luwor Rodney Brain , Nurgali Kulmira , Su Xiao Qun
Published: May 2024

Colorectal cancer (CRC) is the third leading cause of cancer-related death in the world. Multiple evidence suggests that there is an association between excess fat consumption and the risk of CRC. The long chain n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids (LC n-3 PUFA), especially eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) and docosahexaenoic acid (DHA), are essential for human health, and both in vitro and in vivo studies have shown that these fatty acids can prevent CRC development through various molecular mechanisms. These include the modulation of arachidonic acid (AA) derived prostaglandin synthesis, alteration of growth signaling pathways, arrest of the cell cycle, induction of cell apoptosis, suppression of angiogenesis and modulation of inflammatory response. Human clinical studies found that LC n-3 PUFA combined with chemotherapeutic agents can improve the efficacy of treatment and reduce the dosage of chemotherapy and associated side effects. In this review, we discuss comprehensively the anti-cancer effects of LC n-3 PUFA on CRC, with a main focus on the underlying molecular mechanisms.
Chemogenetic Seizure Control: Keeping the Horses in the BARN(I)
Authors: Drake Austin W. , Danzer Steve C.
Published: May 2024

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Return-to-Sport Testing in Young Athletes After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Patel Snehal , Marrone William , Vignona Patrick
Published: May 2024

Implementing return-to-sport (RTS) testing should be an integral component of rehabilitation for young athletes who have undergone anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction, but there are no universally accepted standards for such testing. In this article, we highlight our institution’s use of a structured and evidence-based approach to guide RTS decision-making for athletes, coaches, surgeons, therapists, and parents, with an emphasis on reducing the likelihood of reinjury after ACL reconstruction surgery.
Environmental-structure-perception-based adaptive pose fusion method for LiDAR-visual-inertial odometry
Authors: Zhao Zixu , Liu Chang , Yu Wenyao , Shi Jinglin , Zhang Dalin
Published: May 2024

Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR)-visual-inertial odometry can provide accurate poses for the localization of unmanned vehicles working in unknown environments in the absence of Global Positioning System (GPS). Since the quality of poses estimated by different sensors in environments with different structures fluctuates greatly, existing pose fusion models cannot guarantee stable performance of pose estimations in these environments, which brings great challenges to the pose fusion of LiDAR-visual-inertial odometry. This article proposes a novel environmental structure perception-based adaptive pose fusion method, which achieves the online optimization of the parameters in the pose fusion model of LiDAR-visual-inertial odometry by analyzing the complexity of environmental structure. Firstly, a novel quantitative perception method of environmental structure is proposed, and the visual bag-of-words vector and point cloud feature histogram are constructed to calculate the quantitative indicators describing the structural complexity of visual image and LiDAR point cloud of the surroundings, which can be used to predict and evaluate the pose quality from LiDAR/visual measurement models of poses. Then, based on the complexity of the environmental structure, two pose fusion strategies for two mainstream pose fusion models (Kalman filter and factor graph optimization) are proposed, which can adaptively fuse the poses estimated by LiDAR and vision online. Two state-of-the-art LiDAR-visual-inertial odometry systems are selected to deploy the proposed environmental structure perception-based adaptive pose fusion method, and extensive experiments are carried out on both open-source data sets and self-gathered data sets. The experimental results show that environmental structure perception-based adaptive pose fusion method can effectively perceive the changes in environmental structure and execute adaptive pose fusion, improving the accuracy of pose estimation of LiDAR-visual-inertial odometry in environments with changing structures.
Perceived authority gradients among anaesthetic teams in Malta
Authors: Attard Montalto Andrew , Mifsud Stephanie , Deguara Justin , Attard Cortis Petramay
Published: May 2024

Over the decades, cases like those of Elaine Bromiley, who passed away after a ‘cannot intubate, cannot ventilate’ scenario, have prompted deeper analyses of team dynamics and authority gradients. It is thought that a steep authority gradient may have impeded lifesaving communication between members of the anaesthetic team, leading to her death. Using an online questionnaire, we carried out a cross-sectional observational study exploring the perceived authority gradients within anaesthetic teams in the main operating theatres at Mater Dei Hospital, Malta. Nurses were found to experience a steeper authority gradient than anaesthetists. They were less comfortable making suggestions to and also felt like the suggestions they made were less listened to by lead anaesthetists. To a lesser extent, females also experienced a steeper authority gradient. Increasing age and grade were associated with a flatter authority gradient. Further research needs to be carried out to identify the underlying reasons behind the steeper perceived authority gradient affecting nurses. Interventions are being planned to attempt to decrease the perceived authority gradient.
Mechanical gated ion channel Piezo1: Function, and role in macrophage inflammatory response
Authors: Xie Yafei , Hang Lihua
Published: May 2024

Macrophages are present in many mechanically active tissues and are often subjected to varying degrees of mechanical stimulation. Macrophages play a crucial role in resisting pathogen invasion and maintaining tissue homeostasis. Piezo-type mechanosensitive channel component 1 (Piezo1) is the main cation channel involved in the rapid response to mechanical stimuli in mammals. This channel plays a crucial role in controlling blood pressure and motor performance and regulates urinary osmotic pressure and epithelial cell proliferation and division. In recent years, numerous studies have shown that in macrophages, Piezo1 not only plays a role in regulating the aforementioned physiological processes but also participates in multiple pathological processes such as inflammation and cancer. In this review, we summarize the research progress on Piezo1-mediated regulation of macrophage-mediated inflammatory responses through downstream signalling pathways and the aerobic glycolysis pathway.
Prognostic value of pathological nodal burden after neoadjuvant chemotherapy in initially cN0-1 breast cancer patients: a dual-center, 10-year survival analysis
Authors: Maimaitiaili Amina , Fan Zhimin , Zhang Jingyi , Wang Yidi , Shi Bohui , Zheng Jie , Li Gefei , Zhao Yuting , Pu Shengyu , He Jianjun , Qu Fengjiang , Zhang Huimin
Published: May 2024

Background:

There is an interest in performing de-escalating axillary surgery after neoadjuvant chemotherapy (NAC). However, the significance of residual axillary node disease after NAC has not been well studied.

Objectives:

To investigate the pathological residual axillary lymph node tumor burden (ypN) of patients with initial clinical nodal stage cN0-1 breast cancer after NAC and determine its prognostic value.

Design:

Initial cN0-1 breast cancer patients who received NAC followed by axillary surgery at the First Hospital of Jilin University and the First Affiliated Hospital of Xi’an Jiaotong University between January 2011 and December 2019 were included.

Methods:

Survival outcomes were compared according to different clinical and pathological stage and nodal response to NAC. The main outcomes were disease-free survival (DFS) and overall survival (OS). Factors associated with survival were defined by Cox regression analysis.

Results:

A total of 911 patients were included, among whom 260 had cN0 and 651 had cN1 tumors. After NAC, 410 patients were ypN0, and another 501 were ypN+. The median follow-up time was 63 months. There was no significant difference in DFS or OS between the cN0 and cN1 groups in hormone receptor positive (HR+)/human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 positive (HER2+) and HR−/HER2− subtypes; instead, ypN status was significantly related to DFS and OS. In HR+/HER2− subtype, both cN and ypN stages did not show significant survival differences, but the ypN number and the nodal response to NAC showed significant prognostic value ( p < 0.05). Among HR−/HER2+ patients, all cN status, ypN status, ypN number, and nodal response were significantly associated with survival ( p < 0.05). Furthermore, tumor biology, axillary surgery, ypN status, pathological tumor size, and radiotherapy were independent prognostic factors for DFS and OS.

Conclusion:

The ypN status after NAC provide more prognostic information than the initial cN stage in cN0-1 patients, and the surgical axillary staging after NAC may have high clinical value.
Infrared Thermography Shows That a Temperature Difference of 2.2°C (4°F) or Greater Between Corresponding Sites of Neuropathic Feet Does Not Always Lead to a Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Authors: Liew Huiling , Tang Wegin , Plassmann Peter , Machin Graham , Simpson Robert , Edmonds Michael E. , Petrova Nina L.
Published: May 2024

Background:

There is emerging interest in the application of foot temperature monitoring as means of diabetic foot ulcer (DFU) prevention. However, the variability in temperature readings of neuropathic feet remains unknown. The aim of this study was to analyze the long-term consistency of foot thermograms of diabetic feet at the risk of DFU.

Methods:

A post-hoc analysis of thermal images of 15 participants who remained ulcer-free during a 12-month follow-up were unblinded at the end of the trial. Skin foot temperatures of 12 plantar, 15 dorsal, 3 lateral, and 3 medial regions of interests (ROIs) were derived on monthly thermograms. The temperature differences (∆Ts) of corresponding ROIs of both feet were calculated.

Results:

Over the 12-month study period, out of the total 2026 plantar data points, 20.3% ROIs were rated as abnormal (absolute ∆T ≥ 2.2°C). There was a significant between-visit variability in the proportion of plantar ROIs with ∆T ≥ 2.2°C (range 7.6%-30.8%, chi-square test, P = .001). The proportion of patients presenting with hotspots (ROIs with ∆T ≥ 2.2°C), abnormal plantar foot temperature (mean ∆T of 12 plantar ROIs ≥ 2.2°C), and abnormal whole foot temperature (mean ∆T of 33 ROIs ≥ 2.2°C) varied between visits and showed no pattern ( P > .05 for all comparisons). This variability was not related to the season of assessment.

Conclusions:

Despite the high rate of hotspots on monthly thermograms, all feet remained intact. This study underscores a significant between-visit inconsistency in thermal images of neuropathic feet which should be considered when planning DFU-prevention programs for self-testing and behavior modification.
Bioinformatic Analysis of Ping-Wei-San Decoction for Pulmonary Malignancy Based on UPLC-QE-Orbitrap-MS Detection
Authors: Li Ding , Ma Xiao-Qing , Yang Xue , Li Xiao-yuan , Yao Ru-yong
Published: May 2024

Background

The traditional Chinese medicine prescription Ping-Wei-San decoction (PWS) has been used historically in East Asian countries. This study aimed to investigate the ingredients of the decoction and explore its potential role in the adjuvant treatment of pulmonary malignancies.

Objectives

The primary objective was to analyze the ingredients of PWS and understand its potential in the treatment of pulmonary malignancy.

Methods

Medical records of 143 394 patients using PWS over a decade were collected from the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University. UPLC-QE-Orbitrap-MS detected 13 chemical components, including 12 known components. Lung adenocarcinoma data were obtained from the TCGA-LUAD dataset, and differential genes were screened using R studio. The EVENN website and the STRING database were used to identify drug action and disease targets.

Setting

The study was conducted at the Affiliated Hospital of Qingdao University.

Participants

The study included 3147 patients with “pulmonary malignancies.”

Intervention

PWS was used as an adjuvant treatment.

Results

Network analysis revealed 10 core targets (CCNA2, CHEK1, TOP2A, CDK1, CCNB1, CCNB2, AURKA, AURKB, KIF11, and MELK) for the treatment of lung adenocarcinoma and associated pathways.

Conclusion

PWS may offer multifunctional efficacy in the treatment of pulmonary malignancies based on constituent analysis. Further research and clinical trials are needed to explore its potential.
It’s Time!
Authors: Bussey Marcus , Humble Linnéa
Published: May 2024

This poem examines how we experience Time. It is a call for a wider palette of emotional and spiritual colours through which our thinking with Futures can be enriched. It is accomanied by a lovely illustration from Swedish illustrator Linnéa Humble.
Emergent veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation during aortic valve replacement following severe re-expansion pulmonary edema: A case report
Authors: Cavanaugh Nicholas B. , Nguyen Liem H. , Arora Lovkesh , Singhal Arun K. , Hanada Satoshi
Published: May 2024

Re-expansion pulmonary edema is defined as pulmonary edema that occurs when a chronically collapsed lung rapidly re-expands, most commonly following chest tube placement for pneumothorax, re-expansion of severe atelectasis, and evacuation of pleural effusion. Though it is very rare, the sudden onset and clinical features of re-expansion pulmonary edema make it a lethal complication that requires urgent treatment. We present a 60-year-old patient who underwent an aortic valve replacement with pre-existing large bilateral pleural effusions. Intraoperatively, upon evacuation of the pleural effusions, the patient developed worsening lung compliance, refractory hypoxemia, and hypercapnia that required emergent veno-venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation support.
Chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis as a sequela of pulmonary tuberculosis: A case report from Pakistan
Authors: Uzair Ahmed , Waseem Muhammad , Bhatti Nauman Ijaz , Toor Zoha , Ishaq Asher , Ahmad Osama
Published: May 2024

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis is a lung disorder characterized by the presence of single or multiple cavities with or without an aspergilloma or nodules on chest imaging, with mycological evidence of and/or demonstration of immunological response to Aspergillus spp. The affected patient should manifest relevant symptoms for at least 3 months. Chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis is the most common subset of chronic pulmonary aspergillosis, which is often reported in patients previously treated for pulmonary tuberculosis, having residual cavities in their lungs. We present a case of a 55-year-old male patient treated for pulmonary tuberculosis 2 years back, now presenting with fever, shortness of breath, and hemoptysis with overt radiological changes from the baseline, positive direct microscopy, and serology for Aspergillus spp. and thus meeting the criteria for chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis. Treatment with oral antifungal was initiated, but the follow-up data are unavailable due to patient noncompliance and lack of resources. We aim to emphasize the radiological and microbiological features of this condition to aid the early diagnosis and prompt treatment, as this may mimic similar pulmonary disorders and pose a significant challenge in the diagnosis and management outcomes.
Enforcement of alternative measures to detention in EU countries: The Italian situation
Authors: Cali Monica
Published: May 2024

With Framework Decision 2008/947/JHA, about the application of the ‘ principle of mutual recognition to sentences and probation decisions with a view to the supervision of probation measures and alternative sanctions’, the European legislator intervened on the matter of criminal enforcement in order to coordinate those cases in which an ‘ alternative sanction’ is issued in one country and executed in a foreign country. This regulatory act, in addition to allowing the implementation of some founding principles of the European Union – in particular the mutual recognition of judicial decisions as well as the freedom of residence and movement in the various member countries – also pursues the express aim of ‘ strengthen the possibility of social reintegration of the convicted person, allowing him to maintain, among other things, family, linguistic and cultural ties, but also to improve the control of compliance with the probation measures and alternative sanctions with the aim of preventing recidivism, taking therefore consideration to the protection of victims and to the public, generally’.
Navigating criminal justice cooperation: A French perspective on EU framework decisions
Authors: Danglades Daniel , Laudic-Baron Emmanuelle
Published: May 2024

This article provides a nuanced exploration of the implications of EU criminal justice cooperation, particularly within French probation and judicial services. Focusing on EU Framework Decisions 2008/947/JAI and 2009/829/JAI, the article delves into their impact and adaptation in France, offering insights into challenges, adaptations, and practical considerations from the French standpoint. The article contextualises the implications of EU Framework Decisions by integrating valuable insights from the French probation and judicial services. Statistical data and case analyses illustrate practical challenges and applications within the French criminal justice landscape. The article highlights specific challenges faced within the French criminal justice system, such as prison overcrowding and the treatment of foreign nationals. It emphasises enhanced communication, trust, and collaboration among stakeholders within the European criminal justice system. Addressing the adaptation of EU Framework Decisions in France, the article navigates the complexities involved in aligning European law with national legislation and the delicate balance required to maintain sovereignty while embracing cooperative legal frameworks. The nuanced cultural perspectives permeating the French criminal justice landscape are examined to comprehensively understand the unique challenges and adaptations within the French context. The article also discusses the paradox between establishing European probation standards and the challenges in building trust among probation officers and stakeholders across European nations, offering potential strategies for improvement in European criminal justice cooperation. In conclusion, this article provides valuable insights into the complexities and challenges within European criminal law, offering directives for enhanced collaboration and effectiveness within the European legal landscape. It is a pivotal analysis contributing to informed discussions and policy decision-making within European criminal justice cooperation.