bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seeking Human Help to Manage Plan Failure Risks in Semi-Autonomous Mobile Manipulation
Authors: Al-Hussaini Sarah , Dhanaraj Neel , Gregory Jason M. , Jomy Joseph Rex , Thakar Shantanu , Shah Brual C. , Marvel Jeremy A. , Gupta Satyandra K.
Published: March 2022

We present a framework for identifying, communicating, and addressing risk in shared-autonomy mobile manipulator applications. This framework is centered on the capacity of the mobile manipulator to sense its environment, interpret complex and cluttered scenes, and estimate the probability of actions and configuration states that may result in task failures, such as collision (i.e., identifying “risk”). If the threshold for acceptable risk is exceeded, a remote operator is notified and presented with timely, actionable information in which the person can quickly assess the situation and provide guidance for the robot. This framework is demonstrated with a use case in which a mobile manipulator performs machine tending and material handling tasks.
Fluid-Driven Cracks Tunneling in Cemented Hydrocarbon Wells
Authors: Wang Zhengjin
Published: March 2022

Pressurized fluids may invade into the cement sheath of hydrocarbon wells during hydraulic fracturing and other construction operations in shale gas and oil exploitation. Excessive fluid pressure provides a driving force for small cracks to grow and tunnel through the length of the well, leading to the loss of zonal isolation and severe consequences. This work studies fluid-driven cracks tunneling in the bulk or along the interfaces of the cement sheath. We calculate the energy release rate of the tunneling crack as a function of the width of the tunnel. As long as the maximum energy release rate is below the fracture energy of the cement or the interfaces, no tunnels will form. This failsafe criterion predicts that the interfaces are much more vulnerable to tunneling cracks than the bulk of cement sheath. It is further shown that cement sheath with high Young’s modulus and high Poisson’s ratio can better resist fluid-driven cracks. The influence of casing pressure is also examined. Different loading conditions may have conflicting requirements on the properties of cement sheath. Compromises need to be made in engineering practice.
Effectiveness of Unilateral Training of the Uninjured Limb on Muscle Strength and Knee Function of Patients With Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis of Cross-Education
Authors: Cuyul-Vásquez Iván , Álvarez Eliana , Riquelme Ariel , Zimmermann Rocio , Araya-Quintanilla Felipe
Published: March 2022

Context: Unilateral training of the uninjured limb could be a useful therapeutic tool to induce cross-education in periods of immobilization, however, the effectiveness of this training in patients with anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction is unknown. Objective: To determine the effectiveness of unilateral training of the uninjured limb on muscle strength and knee function in patients with ACL reconstruction. Design: Systematic review and meta-analysis. Evidence Acquisition: An electronic search was performed in the MEDLINE, LILACS, CENTRAL, Embase, Scopus, Web of Science, CINAHL, SPORTDiscus, and PEDro databases from inception until March 2021. The authors included randomized clinical trials that evaluated the effectiveness of unilateral training of the uninjured limb on muscle strength and knee function in patients after ACL reconstruction. Evidence Synthesis: Seven clinical trials met the eligibility criteria, and for the quantitative synthesis, 5 studies were included. The standardized mean difference for isometric quadriceps strength was 0.60 at 8 to 12 weeks (95% confidence interval, 0.29 to 0.92; P = .01; I2 = 6%). There was a high quality of evidence according to the Grading of Recommendation, Assessment, Development and Evaluation rating. Four studies assessed knee function through different self-administered questionnaires at 8, 24, and 26 weeks. Only one study reported significant differences in knee function at 8 weeks, favoring the unilateral training group. Conclusions: There was a moderate to high quality of evidence, with statistical significance that the addition of unilateral training to standard rehabilitation improved the cross-education of quadriceps strength after ACL reconstruction. More research is needed to assess the consistency of these results. International Prospective Register of Systematic Reviews registration number: CRD42020199950.
Increased risk of SARS-CoV-2 reinfection associated with emergence of Omicron in South Africa
Authors: Pulliam Juliet R. C. , van Schalkwyk Cari , Govender Nevashan , von Gottberg Anne , Cohen Cheryl , Groome Michelle J. , Dushoff Jonathan , Mlisana Koleka , Moultrie Harry
Published: March 2022

We provide two methods for monitoring reinfection trends in routine surveillance data to identify signatures of changes in reinfection risk and apply these approaches to data from South Africa’s severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) epidemic to date. Although we found no evidence of increased reinfection risk associated with circulation of the Beta (B.1.351) or Delta (B.1.617.2) variants, we did find clear, population-level evidence to suggest immune evasion by the Omicron (B.1.1.529) variant in previously infected individuals in South Africa. Reinfections occurring between 1 November 2021 and 31 January 2022 were detected in individuals infected in all three previous waves, and there has been an increase in the risk of having a third infection since mid-November 2021.
Serotype-Dependent Effects on the Dynamics of Pneumococcal Colonization and Implications for Transmission
Authors: Abruzzo Annie R. , Aggarwal Surya D. , Sharp Molly E. , Bee Gavyn Chern Wei , Weiser Jeffrey N.
Published: March 2022

Capsule is the major virulence factor and surface antigen of the opportunistic respiratory pathogen
Streptococcus pneumoniae
(Spn). Strains of Spn express at least 100 structurally and immunologically distinct types (serotypes) of capsule, but for unknown reasons only a few are common.
Library Preparation and Sequencing Platform Introduce Bias in Metagenomic-Based Characterizations of Microbiomes
Authors: Poulsen Casper S. , Ekstrøm Claus T. , Aarestrup Frank M. , Pamp Sünje J.
Published: March 2022

Previous research has reported effects of sample storage conditions and DNA isolation procedures on metagenomics-based microbiome composition; however, the effect of library preparation and DNA sequencing in metagenomics has not been thoroughly assessed. Here, we provide evidence that library preparation and sequencing platform introduce systematic biases in the metagenomic-based characterization of microbial communities.
Broadband Signal Amplification Paths for Semiconductor Radiation and Particle Detectors (Review)
Authors: Puryga E. A. , Khilchenko A. D. , Kvashnin A. N. , Moiseev D. V. , Ivanenko S. V.
Published: March 2022

This study is devoted to the development of amplifying paths for plasma diagnostics, a significant part of which use semiconductor detectors as sensors that form low-intensity current signals. One feature of these diagnostics is the oscillographic form of registering sensor signals. In tandem with detectors, broadband transimpedance amplifiers that are based on operational amplifiers are used to amplify and normalize sensor signals. The principles of constructing such amplifying paths are considered taking the factors affecting their final noise and frequency characteristics into account. Practical examples of the construction of amplifying paths of corpuscular and neutron plasma diagnostics, as well as the Thomson-scattering diagnostics, that are used at the plasma installations of the Institute of Nuclear Physics (Siberian Branch, Russian Academy of Sciences) are presented.
Species Composition and Features of Fish Biology of Thermal Mineral Springs of the Arctic River Gilmimliveem (East Chukotka)
Authors: Shestakov A. V. , Grunin S. I.
Published: March 2022

The fish fauna of the Gilmimliveem River (the Bering Sea basin) includes five taxa of species and subspecies ranks: Arctic grayling Thymallus arcticus signifer, resident (landlocked) dwarf Dolly Varden trout Salvelinus malma, relict three-spined stickleback Gasterosteus cf. aculeatus, the nine-spined stickleback Pungitius pungitius, and the western slimy sculpin Cottus cognatus cognatus. Arctic grayling and nine-spined stickleback were found for the first time. Two rare Beringian subspecies are recorded (T. arcticus signifier and C. cognatus cognatus) and a local endemic of Northeast Asia (G. cf. aculeatus). A morphological description, some features of the biology and current state of populations of freshwater fish of a unique ecosystem of thermal mineral springs of the Gilmimliveem River are presented for the first time. The linear growth of these fish on the Chukchi Peninsula of the Russian Arctic (the northeastern edge of the Asian continent) is discussed.
Information for children and young people about reporting suspected adverse drug reactions
Authors: Hawcutt Daniel B , Jadeja Mitul , Bhoombla NIkita , Smith Sophie , McWilliam Stephen J
Published: March 2022

Background

When children and young people (CYP) report their own suspected adverse drug reactions (ADRs), different patterns of drugs and symptoms are noted. A new guide to reporting suspected ADRs using the Medicines and Healthcare Products Regulatory Agency (MHRA) Yellow Card scheme was developed by CYP, paediatric clinical pharmacology, Yellow Card Centres and the MHRA.

Methods

An anonymous quality improvement project to assess the guide for CYP was undertaken (September 2020–February 2021).

Results

The survey was completed by 234 CYP age 13–18 years. Within respondents, 68/226 (30.1%) were using medicines, 209/225 (92.9%) had used medicines previously, and 211/225 (93.8%) had heard of side effects. 79/225 (35.1%) believed they had experienced a side effect, with some requiring hospitalisation. Only 8/221 (3.6%) respondents were aware of the MHRA Yellow Card scheme.

Overall, 182/196 (92.9%) of CYP both understood the guide and felt more knowledgeable about how to report suspected side effects. CYP comfortable to report their own suspected ADR increased from 179/222 (80.6%) before reading guide, to 189/196 (96.4%) after reading the new CYP guide. In addition, 156/196 (79.6%) believed they would report a side effect from a medicine used in future. Over 360 free-text comments were also received, providing comments about what was good about the new guide and areas for improvement that could be made.

Conclusion

The new guide for CYP to inform them about how to report a suspected ADR to the MHRA was well received and increased the knowledge, and confidence to report, in those who responded.
Quantitative contrast sensitivity test to assess visual function in central serous chorioretinopathy
Authors: Vingopoulos Filippos , Garg Itika , Kim Esther Lee , Thomas Merina , Silverman Rebecca F , Kasetty Megan , Hassan Zakariyya Y , Yu Gina , Joltikov Katherine , Choi Eun Young , Laíns Inês , Kim Leo A , Zacks David N , Miller John B
Published: March 2022

Background

To characterise the contrast sensitivity function (CSF) in central serous chorioretinopathy (CSCR) compared with healthy controls using novel computerised contrast sensitivity (CS) testing with active learning algorithms.

Methods

Prospective observational study measuring CSF in CSCR eyes and controls using the Manifold Platform (Adaptive Sensory Technology, San Diego, California). Mixed effects multivariate regression models were used. Outcomes included area under the log CSF (AULCSF), CS thresholds at 1, 1.5, 3, 12 and 18 cycles per degree (cpd) and best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA). Associations of contrast outcomes with structural findings on optical coherence tomography (OCT) and subjective symptomatology were investigated.

Results

Forty CSCR eyes and 89 controls were included with median BCVA logarithm of median angle of resolution 0.10 (20/25) versus 0.00 (20/20), respectively (p=0.01). When accounting for age, CSCR was associated with significantly reduced median AULCSF (p=0.02, β=−0.14) and reduced CS thresholds at 6 cpd (p=0.009, β=−0.18), 12 cpd (p<0.001, β=−0.23) and 18 cpd (p=0.04, β=−0.09), versus controls. Within the CSCR group, subjectively perceived visual impairment (N=22) was associated with significantly decreased CS thresholds at all spatial frequencies and in AULCSF compared with asymptomatic CSCR eyes (N=18). Ellipsoid zone attenuation and subfoveal fluid on OCT were associated with decreased AULCSF and CS thresholds specifically at 3, 6 and 12 cpd, whereas presence of extrafoveal fluid at 1.5 and 3 cpd.

Conclusion

Contrast sensitivity is significantly reduced in CSCR, and strongly correlates with subjective visual impairment. Different structural biomarkers correlate with contrast thresholds reductions at different spatial frequencies.
Facilitators and barriers for the implementation of exercise are medicine in routine clinical care in Dutch university medical centres: a mixed methodology study on clinicians’ perceptions
Authors: Nauta Joske , van Nassau Femke , Bouma Adrie J , Krops Leonie A , van der Ploeg Hidde P , Verhagen Evert , van der Woude Lucas H V , van Keeken Helco G , Buffart L M , Diercks Ron , de Groot Vincent , de Jong Johan , Kampshoff Caroline , Stevens Martin , van den Akker-Scheek Inge , van der Leeden Marike , van Mechelen Willem , Dekker Rienk
Published: March 2022

Objectives

Despite the many proven advantages of a physically active lifestyle in patient populations, prescription of exercise is currently not widely implemented in routine clinical practice. The aims of this study were twofold: (1) to assess perceptions of clinicians on the current practice of exercise is medicine (E=M) prescription in two Dutch university medical centres and (2) to determine their perceived barriers and facilitators for the implementation of E=M in routine clinical care in Dutch university medical centres.

Design

A mixed methodologies study, using both online questionnaires and semi-structured interviews.

Setting

Dutch university medical centres.

Participants

Clinicians working within the departments of medical oncology, orthopaedics and rehabilitation medicine of two university medical centres.

Results

Forty-five clinicians (response rate of 51%) completed the questionnaire, and 19 clinicians were interviewed. The results showed that even though clinicians had a positive attitude towards prescribing E=M, only a few reported to regularly prescribe E=M to their patients. The 52 identified facilitators and barriers for implementation of E=M were categorised into four main themes: (1) beliefs toward the implementation of E=M (eg, clinicians knowledge and skills, and social support), (2) factors related to the patient perspective (eg, patient priorities or motivation), (3) factors related to the referral options (eg, knowledge of and trust in local referral options) and (4) practical considerations when implementing E=M (eg, time constraints).

Conclusions

Our study showed that even though many clinicians have a positive attitude toward an active lifestyle, many are not prescribing E=M on a regular basis. In order for clinicians to effectively implement E=M, strategies should focus on increasing clinicians E=M referral skills, improving clinicians knowledge of E=M referral options and develop a support system to ensure that E=M is high on the priority list of clinicians.
Effects of maternal education on early initiation and exclusive breastfeeding practices in sub-Saharan Africa: a secondary analysis of Demographic and Health Surveys from 2015 to 2019
Authors: Wako Wako Golicha , Wayessa Zelalem , Fikrie Anteneh
Published: March 2022

Background

Early initiation of breast feeding (EIBF) and exclusive breast feeding (EBF) are the cheapest, feasible and simplest nutritional interventions for infants. Effects of maternal education on EIBF and EBF are not consistent across studies. This study assessed the effects of maternal education on EIBF and EBF.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was done based on data collected for phase 7 Demographic and Health Surveys conducted in 16 sub-Saharan African countries from 2015 to 2019. Data of the last-born children younger than 6 (n=19 103) and 24 (n=75 293) months were analysed to assess associations between maternal education and EIBF and EBF practices, respectively. To assess the associations, X2test and logistic regression were done. Adjusted ORs (AORs) and their 95% CIs were used to declare statistical significance of the associations.

Results

After controlling for all other potentially confounding variables, mothers who completed primary school were 1.29 (95% CI AOR: 1.24 to 1.34) times more likely to initiate breast feeding within the first 1 hour of delivery compared with mothers without education. However, mothers with secondary (AOR: 1.01; 95% CI: 0.96 to 1.06) or higher (AOR: 0.96; 95% CI: 0.87 to 1.05) level of education were not significantly different from mothers without education concerning EIBF. Similarly, mothers educated to primary school were 1.37 (95% CI AOR: 1.27 to 1.48) times more likely to exclusively breast feed compared with mothers without education. However, mothers educated to secondary (AOR: 1.07; 95% CI: 0.98 to 1.17) or higher (AOR: 1.07; 95% CI: 0.89 to 1.27) level of education were not significantly different from uneducated mothers regarding EBF practices.

Conclusions

Effects of maternal education on EIBF and EBF depend on the level of educational attainment. Future studies should look for reasons for the lower rate of EIBF and EBF among mothers with higher educational status.
Qualitative research on maternal care access among Arabic-speaking refugee women in the USA: study protocol
Authors: Yeo Sarah , Magrath Priscilla , Alaofè Halimatou , Okechukwu Abidemi
Published: March 2022

Background

Refugees tend to have greater health needs and pre-existing medical conditions due to poor living conditions, lack of health services, exposure to a variety of risk factors, and a high level of stress and trauma prior to entry to a host country. Notwithstanding distinctive needs and inherent conditions, there is a paucity of literature on refugee maternal health, especially for Arabic-speaking refugee women resettled in the USA.

Methods and analysis

The paper delineates a qualitative study protocol to explore the experiences of Arabic-speaking refugee women in the USA when accessing maternal care. Informed by social cognitive theory, the study will employ two qualitative research methods; in-depth interviews and ‘go-along’ interviews with Arabic-speaking refugee women. Go-along interview will be used to elicit spatial experiences in situ to explore perceptions of environments among study participants and environmental and structural barriers. 20 refugee women who meet the inclusion criteria will be recruited through snowball sampling with support from community partners. Two researchers will code the transcription and fieldnotes using MAXQDA 2020 (VERBI Software, 2019). The analysis will involve deductive content analysis using a structured categorisation matrix based on the theory while also incorporating inductive codes that may emerge through the process.

Ethics and dissemination

The study has been reviewed and approved by the Human Subjects Protection Programme at the University of Arizona (IRB 2104716241). The study results will be condensed in a summary report, which will be shared with community partners, including refugee resettlement agencies and relevant staff at the state department. Also, community feedback will be garnered from the dissemination workshops to inform community discussions for actions and an intervention to address the identified needs.
Interruptions of biological and targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs in rheumatoid arthritis: a descriptive cohort study assessing trends in patient characteristics in Switzerland
Authors: Burkard Theresa , Vallejo-Yagüe Enriqueta , Hügle Thomas , Finckh Axel , Burden Andrea Michelle
Published: March 2022

Objectives

To identify differing patient characteristics at the time of stop and restart of biological or targeted synthetic disease-modifying antirheumatic drugs (b/tsDMARDs) in rheumatoid arthritis (RA), stratified by stop reason.

Design

Explorative descriptive cohort study.

Setting

Swiss Clinical Quality Management in Rheumatic Diseases (1999–2018).

Participants

Patients with RA who stopped their first b/tsDMARD.

Outcome measures

We assessed patient characteristics at b/tsDMARD stop and restart, stratified by stop reason (non-response, adverse event, remission, other).

Results

Among 2526 eligible patients, most patients (38%) stopped their b/tsDMARD due to non-response. At treatment stop, most characteristics did not differ by stop reason, yet some differed significantly (p<0.0001, those stopping due to remission had lowest median Health Assessment Questionnaire measurements (0.1) and were least likely to use leflunomide combination therapy (3.9%) and to have fibromyalgia (6.7%)). The majority of patients restarted b/tsDMARDs without changes in patient characteristics at restart. However, among the 48% of patients who restarted a b/tsDMARD after having previously stopped due to remission or other reasons, disease activity measurements were significantly worse compared with treatment stop date (mean disease activity score-erythrocyte sedimentation rate score of 2.0 at b/tsDMARD restart vs 3.5 at treatment stop (p<0.0001)). Furthermore, we observed non-significant trends in several patient characteristics (eg, higher proportion of women (75% at b/tsDMARD restart vs 70% at treatment stop, p=0.38), patients with seropositivity (anti-citrullinated protein antibody positive 67% vs 58%, p=0.25), with family history of rheumatic diseases (24% vs 20%, p=0.15), osteoarthritis/arthroplasty (25% vs 20%, p=0.34) and the metabolic syndrome (11% vs 6%, p=0.15).

Conclusion

Differences among patient characteristics across b/tsDMARD cessation strata were few. However, differences between stop and restart may have identified an RA phenotype that is challenging to treat. Further research on identifying the patient characteristics predictive of successful drug holidays and the optimal time to initiate and stop a drug holiday is warranted.
What do women and healthcare professionals expect of decision aids for breast cancer screening? A qualitative study in France
Authors: Amélie Aïm-Eusébi , Ruelle Yannick , Frèche Bernard , Houllemare Mélanie , Bonillo Aurélie , Bouaziz Laurie , Rat Cédric , Gocko Xavier , Cerisey Catherine , Aubin-Auger Isabelle , Ferrat Emilie
Published: March 2022

Objective

Breast cancer screening decision aids (DAs) are designed to help women decide whether or not to participate in mammography-based programmes. We aimed to explore women’s and healthcare professionals’ expectations of a breast cancer screening DA, as part of the French DEDICACES study.

Methods

This French qualitative study was based on semistructured, individual interviews with women from the general population, general practitioners (GPs), midwives, gynaecologists, radiologists and screening centre managers. Sampling was purposive and used diversification criteria. The inductive analysis was based on grounded theory.

Results

Between April 2018 and May 2019, we interviewed 40 people: 13 women, 14 GPs, 4 gynaecologists, 3 midwives, 3 radiologists and 3 screening centre managers. The women and the healthcare professionals considered that a DA could help to improve levels of knowledge, harmonise medical practice and provide reliable, comprehensive information. Overall, the interviewees wanted an easy-to-use, intuitive, graphic-rich, interactive, computer-based, patient-centred DA. Use of the DA might be limited by a lack of familiarity with shared decision-making (SDM), the risk of misuse and a preference for asymmetric positive information.

Conclusion

The present results are likely to facilitate the development of the first validated tool for SDM support in French breast cancer screening programmes.
Geographical distance and reduced access to palliative radiotherapy: systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Chand Chandini Parsan , Greenley Sarah , Macleod Una , Lind Mike , Barton Rachel , Kelly Charlotte
Published: March 2022

Background

Palliative radiotherapy (PRT) is an effective way of reducing symptoms caused by advanced incurable cancer. Several studies have investigated factors that contribute to inequalities in access to PRT; distance to a radiotherapy centre has been identified as one potential barrier.

Aim

To assess whether there is an association between distance to a radiotherapy centre and utilisation rates of PRT in adults with cancer.

Methods

A systematic review and meta-analysis protocol was registered in the PROSPERO database (CRD42020190772). MEDLINE, EMBASE, CINAHL and APA-PsycINFO were searched for relevant papers up to 28 February 2021.

Results

Twenty-one studies were included. Twelve studies focused on whether patients with incurable cancer received PRT, as part of their treatment package. Pooled results reported that living ≥50 km vs <50 km from the radiotherapy centre was associated with a reduced likelihood of receiving PRT (OR 0.84 (95%CI 0.80, 0.88)). Nine focused on distance from the radiotherapy centre and compared single-fraction (SF) versus multiple-fraction PRT, indicating that patients living further away were more likely to receive SF. Pooled results comparing ≥50 km versus <50 km showed increased odds of receiving SF for those living ≥50 km (OR 1.48 (95%CI 1.26,1.75)).

Conclusion

Patients living further away from radiotherapy centres were less likely to receive PRT and those who received PRT were more likely to receive SF PRT, providing some evidence of inequalities in access to PRT treatment based on proximity to centres providing radiotherapy. Further research is needed to understand whether these inequalities are influenced by clinical referral patterns or by patients unwilling or unable to travel longer distances.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42020190772.
Trends of Sources of Clinical Research Funding from 1990 to 2020: A Meta-Epidemiological Study
Authors: Burciaga-Jimenez Erick , Solis Ricardo Cesar , Saenz-Flores Melissa , Zuñiga-Hernandez Jorge Alberto , Zambrano-Lucio Miguel , Rodriguez-Gutierrez Rene
Published: March 2022

Evidence has raised concerns regarding the association between funding sources and doubtful data. Our main outcome was to analyze trends on funding sources in articles published from 1990 to 2020 in the more influential journals of internal and general medicine. In this meta-epidemiological study, we included peer-reviewed studies from the 10 highest impact journals in general and internal medicine published between January 1990 and February 2020 based on published original research according to the 2018 InCites Journal of Citation Reports, these consisted of the following: The New England Journal of Medicine, The Lancet, JAMA, BMJ, JAMA Internal Medicine, Annals of Internal Medicine, PLOS Medicine, Cachexia, BMC Medicine, and Mayo Clinic Proceedings. Two reviewers working in duplicate extracted data regarding year of publication, study design, and sources of funding. In total, 496 articles were found; of these, 311 (62.7%) were observational studies, 167 (33.7%) were experimental, and 16 (3.2%) were secondary analyses. Percentages of grant sources through the years were predominantly from government (60%), industry (23.83%), and non-governmental (16.06%) organizations. The percentage of industry subsidies tended to decrease, but this was not significant in a linear regression model (r=0.02, p≥0.05). Government and non-government funding sources showed a trend to decrease in the same univariate analysis with both significant associations (r=0.21, p ≤0.001 and r=0.10, p≤0.001, respectively). The main funding source in medical research has consistently been government aid. Despite previous reported data, no association was found between the source of funding and statistically significant results favoring study authors’ hypothesis.
A model for abolitionist narrative medicine pedagogy
Authors: Varman Pooja M , Mosley Marcus P , Christ Billie
Published: March 2022

To use narrative medicine as a means for action towards social justice in medical education, we need a renewal of our pedagogical methods that grapples not just with the worlds concocted within a text, but also our own world beyond the text. We propose a model for narrative medicine pedagogy that is oriented towards abolition. First, the composition of the classroom and syllabus must employ radical inclusion through recruitment of diverse voices and selection of diverse texts. After a traditional close reading is initiated, conscious expansion should take place through introduction of a text’s context and current social structures. Whenever internal and external conflicts arise, active self-interrogation should be encouraged through José Esteban Muñoz’s ‘disidentification’.

We present relevant critiques of narrative medicine, case studies from workshop experiences, and close readings of selected narrative medicine texts to unmask limitations in the standard narrative medicine workshop format and illustrate the utility of our abolitionist model. The model we propose offers methods for disrupting long-standing patterns of inclusion (and exclusion) and radically transforming the structure of spaces and ideas produced within them. When new texts are added to the syllabus, they should be accompanied by hermeneutics that can adequately attend to them. Abolitionist narrative medicine pedagogy should stimulate practitioners to examine their own role in social structures that surround the text and the setting of close reading and, ultimately, to dismantle harmful structures. We offer strategies for confronting discomfort without requiring an abandonment of identity, context or content. Instead, holding complexity works towards the long-term aim of transforming practitioners to think critically about structural violence that prevents universal and equitable access to compassionate healthcare. Using this model for abolition, we hope practitioners of narrative medicine will be equipped with more dynamic tools to engage with texts and patients within and beyond the scope of the narrative medicine workshop.
Treatment of A3.2 and A2 traumatic thoracolumbar spine compression fractures using vertebral body stenting: a 63-patient series
Authors: Salle Henri , Tran Gia van , Faure Patrick , Mounayer Charbel , Rouchaud Aymeric , Salle Laurence , Caire François
Published: March 2022

Background

Percutaneous treatments for spinal injury are underused by neuroradiologists and spine surgeons, mainly owing to a lack of data on indications.

Objective

To assess the safety and efficacy of vertebral body stenting (VBS) for post-traumatic A3.2 and A2 fractures (Magerl classification) and determine the factors that influence the improvements.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent VBS to treat a single traumatic thoracolumbar fracture from 2010 to 2019. Kyphosis, loss of vertebral body height (VBH), and clinical and functional outcomes (including the Visual Analog Scale pain score and Oswestry Disability Index) were assessed. We examined the overall effects of VBH in all patients by constructing a linear statistical model and evaluated whether the efficacy was dependent on the characteristics of the patients or fractures.

Results

We included 63 patients comprising 44 A3.2 and 19 A2 fractures. No patient had worsening neurological symptoms or wound infection. The average rates of change were 67.1% (95% CI 59.1% to 75%) for kyphosis and 88.5% (95% CI 85.6% to 91.3%) for VBH (both p<0.0001). After 1 year, the VBS treatment was more effective for kyphosis in younger patients and at the L1 level, and for VBH in younger patients and cases of Magerl A3.2 fracture.

Conclusions

This large reported series on VBS validates this surgical treatment. All patients had improved kyphosis and restored VBH. We recommend using VBS rather than open surgery for A3.2 and A2 fractures at the thoracolumbar junction and in young patients.
New concept in neurovascular navigation: technical description and preclinical experience with the Bendit 17 and Bendit 21 microcatheters in a rabbit aneurysm model
Authors: Berenstein Alejandro , Cabiri Oz , Broussalis Erasmia , Hufnagl Clemens , Killer-Oberpfalzer Monika
Published: March 2022

Background

Endovascular treatment of intracranial vascular diseases, such as aneurysms, is often challenged by unfavorable vascular anatomy. The Bendit Steerable Microcatheter (Bendit Technologies, Tel Aviv, Israel) has bending and torqueing capabilities designed to improve navigation and stability during device delivery, with or without a guidewire. We describe our preclinical experience with the Bendit 17 and Bendit 21 microcatheters in a rabbit aneurysm model.

Methods

Bifurcation and side wall aneurysms were created surgically in six New Zealand rabbits. We attempted to navigate Bendit devices through the vasculature and enter the aneurysms without a guidewire. Various positions within the aneurysm were selectively explored. Angiographic imaging was used to visualize catheterization, navigation, vascular manipulations, and placement of coils, stents, and intrasaccular devices.

Results

We successfully navigated the Bendit microcatheters to all aneurysms without a guidewire. We successfully recanalized a nearly occluded carotid artery and navigated the Bendit through a braided stent. In contrast, we were unable to navigate a comparator device with a guidewire as effectively as the Bendit. Coils were introduced at different locations within the aneurysm and could be pushed, pulled, and repositioned with the Bendit tip. Finally, we used the Bendit to deliver intrasaccular devices designed for terminal aneurysms to treat side wall aneurysms.

Conclusions

Bendit’s bending and torqueing abilities, combined with its stability in the bent position, enable quick navigation and optimal deployment of devices. Clinical studies are necessary to determine whether these navigation advantages lead to more efficient treatment of intracranial and peripheral aneurysms.
Frailty in rheumatoid arthritis and its relationship with disease activity, hospitalisation and mortality: a longitudinal analysis of the Scottish Early Rheumatoid Arthritis cohort and UK Biobank
Authors: Hanlon Peter , Morton Fraser , Siebert Stefan , Jani Bhautesh D , Nicholl Barbara I , Lewsey Jim , McAllister David , Mair Frances S
Published: March 2022

Objective

To assess the prevalence of frailty in rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and its association with baseline and longitudinal disease activity, all-cause mortality and hospitalisation.

Participants

People with RA identified from the Scottish Early Rheumatoid Arthritis (SERA) inception cohort (newly diagnosed, mean age 58.2 years) and UK Biobank (established disease identified using diagnostic codes, mean age 59 years). Frailty was quantified using the frailty index (both datasets) and frailty phenotype (UK Biobank only). Disease activity was assessed using Disease Activity Score in 28 joints (DAS28) in SERA. Associations between baseline frailty and all-cause mortality and hospitalisation was estimated after adjusting for age, sex, socioeconomic status, smoking and alcohol, plus DAS28 in SERA.

Results

Based on the frailty index, frailty was common in SERA (12% moderate, 0.2% severe) and UK Biobank (20% moderate, 3% severe). In UK Biobank, 23% were frail using frailty phenotype. Frailty index was associated with DAS28 in SERA, as well as age and female sex in both cohorts. In SERA, as DAS28 lessened over time with treatment, mean frailty index also decreased. The frailty index was associated with all-cause mortality (HR moderate/severe frailty vs robust 4.14 (95% CI 1.49 to 11.51) SERA, 1.68 (95% CI 1.26 to 2.13) UK Biobank) and unscheduled hospitalisation (incidence rate ratio 2.27 (95% CI 1.45 to 3.57) SERA 2.74 (95% CI 2.29 to 3.29) UK Biobank). In UK Biobank, frailty phenotype also associated with mortality and hospitalisation.

Conclusion

Frailty is common in early and established RA and associated with hospitalisation and mortality. Frailty in RA is dynamic and, for some, may be ameliorated through controlling disease activity in early disease.
Association between e-cigarette use and food insecurity among low-income adults
Authors: Gu Dian , Max Wendy B , Yao Tingting , Wang Yingning , Keeler Courtney , Sung Hai-Yen
Published: March 2022

Introduction

Previous research quantifying the relationship between tobacco use and food insecurity has focused on cigarette smoking. E-cigarette use has become popular in recent years. Drawing on large, population-based survey data, this study augments the previous research, considering the association of e-cigarette use with food insecurity among low-income adults.

Methods

We analysed data from the California Health Interview Survey in 2014–2019. The study sample consisted of 25 948 respondents aged 18–64 who lived in low-income (<200% of the Federal Poverty Level) households. Multivariable logistic regression models were estimated to examine the associations of e-cigarette use as well as dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes with food insecurity.

Results

Of California low-income adults, 6.4% identified as current e-cigarette users (3.0% dual users of e-cigarettes and cigarettes, and 3.4% sole e-cigarette users) and 43.0% reported food insecurity. After controlling for confounding factors, food insecurity was significantly more likely to be reported among current e-cigarette users (adjusted OR (AOR)=1.67; 95% CI 1.25 to 2.23) compared with never e-cigarette users, and among dual users (AOR=2.21; 95% CI 1.63 to 3.00), current sole e-cigarette users (AOR=1.66; 95% CI 1.15 to 2.40), and current sole cigarette smokers (AOR=1.46; 95% CI 1.22 to 1.76) compared with never tobacco users. The odds of food insecurity among dual users were significantly greater than sole cigarette smokers but not statistically different from sole e-cigarette users.

Conclusions

Using e-cigarette is an associated risk factor for food insecurity among low-income adults. Dual use of e-cigarettes and cigarettes has a significantly greater risk of food insecurity compared with smoking cigarettes alone.
Climatic drivers of limnological change in Iqallukvik Lake, Tuktoyaktuk, Northwest Territories, Canada
Authors: Gruia Sorin-Alexandru , Thienpont Joshua R. , Coleman Kristen A. , Korosi Jennifer B.
Published: March 2022

The Tuktoyaktuk coastlands contain thousands of lakes along an area of the Beaufort Sea in the rapidly changing western Arctic. These lakes may be susceptible to a range of impacts associated with climate warming, including potential increased marine influence changes associated with reduced lake ice cover and thawing permafrost. We examined a 210Pb-dated sediment core from Iqallukvik Lake to reconstruct ecosystem changes over the last several hundred years using sediment particle size analysis and diatom subfossils. Changes in sediment texture over the past ∼200 years were broadly aligned with inferred changes in regional precipitation, known to be an important driver of regional lake level in the Tuktoyaktuk coastlands. Diatoms were functionally absent at the bottom of the sediment core, but increased after ∼1850, likely in response to early warming, with further floristic changes due to accelerated warming over the last century. Diatoms throughout the core are predominantly freshwater species tolerant of broad salinity concentrations, indicating that Iqallukvik Lake is likely subject to minimal direct marine influence and has not been impacted by notable inundation over the recent past. Overall, this research suggests that climate impacts Iqallukvik Lake mainly on the length of the ice-free season.
Bidirectional electromagnetic–thermal coupling analysis for permanent magnet traction motors under complex operating conditions
Authors: Li Yong , Zhang Cheng , Xu Xing
Published: March 2022

Temperature increase has a significant effect on the performance and service life of permanent magnet in-wheel motors (PMIWMs) in the traction systems of electric vehicles under complex operating conditions. Herein, we propose a bidirectional electromagnetic–thermal coupling method for analyzing the electromagnetic loss and thermal characteristics of a PMIWM considering the effect of increased temperature on the permanent magnet. The heat dissipation coefficient and electromagnetic–thermal coupling field model of each component of the PMIWM were analyzed. The distributions of electromagnetic loss and thermal loss of the PMIWM were investigated under constant-speed plus constant-torque and variable-speed plus variable-torque conditions. An 8 kW outer rotor PMIWM was used to study the electromagnetic–thermal coupling characteristics. Simulations and experimental results showed that the thermal field of each component of the PMIWM calculated using the proposed bidirectional electromagnetic–thermal coupling method was more accurate than that of the traditional unidirectional electromagnetic–thermal coupling method under complex operating conditions. The effectiveness of the proposed bidirectional electromagnetic–thermal coupling method provides solid support for the cooling design of PMIWMs operating in harsh environments.
Thermodynamic stability and P–V criticality of nonsingular-AdS black holes endowed with clouds of strings
Authors: Sood Ashima , Kumar Arun , Singh J. K. , Ghosh Sushant G.
Published: March 2022

We investigate the extended phase space thermodynamics of nonsingular-AdS black holes minimally coupled to clouds of strings in which we consider the cosmological constant ($$\Lambda $$
Λ
) as the pressure (P) of the black holes and its conjugate variable thermodynamical volume (V) of the black holes. Owing to the background clouds of strings parameter (a), we analyse the Hawking temperature, entropy and specific heat on horizon radius for fixed-parameter k. We find that the strings clouds background does not alter small/large black hole (SBH/LBH) phase transition but occurs at a larger horizon radius, and two second-order phase transitions occur at a smaller horizon radius. Indeed, the G–T plots exhibit a swallowtail below the critical pressure, implying that the first-order phase transition is analogous to the liquid–gas phase transition at a lower temperature and lower critical pressure. To further examine the analogy between nonsingular-AdS black holes and a liquid–gas system, we derive the exact critical points and probe the effects of a cloud of strings on $$P-V$$

P
-
V

criticality to find that the isotherms undergo liquid–gas like phase transition for $${\tilde{T}}\,<\,{\tilde{T}}_c$$

T
~

<

T
~

c

at lower $${\tilde{T}}_c$$

T
~

c

. We have also calculated the critical exponents identical with Van der Walls fluid, i.e., same as those obtained before for arbitrary other AdS black holes, which implies that the background clouds of strings do not change the critical exponents.
Ensemble of the Deep Convolutional Network for Multiclass of Plant Disease Classification Using Leaf Images
Authors: Li Bo , Tang Jinhong , Zhang Yuejing , Xie Xin
Published: March 2022

Plant diseases are a major threat to agricultural production. Reduced yield due to plant diseases can lead to immeasurable economic losses. Therefore, the detection and classification of crop diseases are of great significance. Current existing classification methods based on the single convolutional neural network (CNN) are not satisfactory for plant disease classification performance in a large number of classes. In this case, a CNN-based approach named multiclass plant EnsembleNet (MCPE) is proposed to address these problems. MCFN firstly adopts a data augmentation strategy-based AutoAugment enhance dataset. Next, an EnsembleNet including four CNNs is employed to classify plant species, with a new activation function, concatenated dynamic ReLU, which has better performance than conventional ReLU in the multiclass plant disease dataset. Then, training a diseases classifier for each plant, which is used to identify the types and severity of plant diseases. Experimental results on 61 plant diseases from 10 different plant species, over 40 000 images, show that MCFN outperforms the state-of-the-art methods in multiclass plant disease recognition and achieves a good identification accuracy of 97.5%. We believe that the method described in this paper can further improve the identification efficiency of plant diseases, thus providing a basis for the identification of other plant leaf diseases.
Modern Physics Demonstrations with DIY Smartphone Spectrometers
Authors: Khandelwal Aarushi , Leong Tze Kwang , Yang Yarong , Wee Loo Kang , García Clemente Félix J. , Venkatesan T , Jani Hariom
Published: March 2022

Smartphones are widely available and used extensively by students worldwide. These phones often come equipped with high-quality cameras that can be combined with basic optical elements to build a cost-effective DIY spectrometer. Here, we discuss a series of demonstrations and pedagogical exercises, accompanied by our DIY diffractive spectrometer that uses a free web platform for instant spectral analysis. Specifically, these demonstrations can be used to encourage hands-on and inquiry-based learning of wave optics, broadband versus discrete light emission, quantization, Heisenberg’s energy-time uncertainty relation, and the use of spectroscopy in day-to-day life. Hence, these simple tools can be readily deployed in high school classrooms to communicate the practices of science.
A Primer on Path Integrals, Aharonov–Bohm Effect and the Geometric Phase
Authors: Deshmukh P. C. , Ghosh Subham , Kumar Uday , Hareesh C. , Aravind G.
Published: March 2022

This work reports an effort to introduce a few advanced concepts in quantum physics to undergraduate students who have only a minimal familiarity with wave mechanics. The geometric phase is not introduced in most introductory courses on quantum mechanics. It is of pivotal significance for the understanding of topological phase transitions which are becoming increasingly important in a large number of physical phenomena, including those that involve platforms for robust quantum computing. This article would provide a gentle introduction to the geometric phase. Toward this goal, Feynman’s path integral approach to quantum mechanics and its application in the interpretation of the wondrous Aharonov–Bohm effect is introduced in a gentle manner. A computer simulation of this interesting phenomenology is presented to help gain an early insight into some advanced concepts.
Continuous and Proactive Software Architecture Evaluation: An IoT Case
Authors: Sobhy Dalia , Minku Leandro , Bahsoon Rami , Kazman Rick
Published: March 2022

Design-time evaluation is essential to build the initial software architecture to be deployed. However, experts’ assumptions made at design-time are unlikely to remain true indefinitely in systems that are characterized by scale, hyperconnectivity, dynamism, and uncertainty in operations (e.g. IoT). Therefore, experts’ design-time decisions can be challenged at run-time. A continuous architecture evaluation that systematically assesses and intertwines design-time and run-time decisions is thus necessary. This paper proposes the first proactive approach to continuous architecture evaluation of the system leveraging the support of simulation. The approach evaluates software architectures by not only tracking their performance over time, but also forecasting their likely future performance through machine learning of
simulated
instances of the architecture. This enables architects to make cost-effective informed decisions on potential changes to the architecture. We perform an IoT case study to show how machine learning on simulated instances of architecture can fundamentally guide the continuous evaluation process and influence the outcome of architecture decisions. A series of experiments is conducted to demonstrate the applicability and effectiveness of the approach. We also provide the architect with recommendations on how to best benefit from the approach through choice of learners and input parameters, grounded on experimentation and evidence.