bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Rate Kinematics for Mobile Manipulators
Authors: Wang Chau-Chang , Sarkar Nilanjan , Kumar Vijay 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
When a serial-chain manipulator is mounted on a mobile base, the end-effector motion must be decomposed into the motion of the base and the motion of the manipulator. The problem of determining the actuator rates for a given end-effector motion is typically under constrained. A compact, analytical inverse rate kinematics solution is presented in which a weighted-norm of the joint rates is minimized. The method is capable of accomodating any type of joint as well as nonholonomic constraints. This framework allows the allocation of the end-effector motion between the manipulator and its mobile base according to user-prescribed preferences.
An Efficient Algorithm for the Graphical Representation of the Three-Dimensional Workspace of Parallel Manipulators
Authors: Gosselin Clément M. , Lavoie Eric , Toutant Pierre 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
This paper presents an algorithm for the graphical representation of the three-dimensional workspace of six-degree-of-freedom parallel manipulators. In fact, the algorithm introduced here follows from previous work on the subject (Gosselin 1990). In the latter reference, an algorithm was developed to obtain analytical expressions of the boundaries of the workspace. However, the method was applicable to two-dimensional sections of the workspace only. Therefore, a three-dimensional representation of the workspace, i.e., the set of positions attainable with a given orientation of the platform, could only be obtained by discretization. The algorithm introduced here involves the determination of analytical expressions of the boundaries of the three-dimensional workspace. Hence, it results in a very efficient procedure which can be performed interactively, in a context of CAD. The algorithm is described in detail in this paper. Examples of results that have been obtained with this algorithm are also presented.
Finite Element Analysis of Revolute Manipulators With Link and Joint Compliance by Joint-Beam Elements
Authors: Yang Zhijia , Sadler J. P. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
In this paper, a composite finite element, referred to here as a joint-beam element, is presented to facilitate finite element modeling of revolute-jointed manipulators with both link and joint compliance. This element is primarily composed of two adjacent Euler beams joined by a torsional shaft in such a way that one end of the shaft can be kinematically rotated. Also accounted for in this element are the lumped mass and inertia moment representing the mass properties for the corresponding joint actuator. Through a number of cases studied using this element along with standard beam elements, the effect of joint compliance on the overall dynamic performance for a completely flexible manipulator is investigated. In particular, the joint compliance as well as link compliance are found to have significant impact on the positioning deviation of a robot, depending upon the relative amounts of joint and link flexibility. Useful information is obtained for improved design of completely flexible manipulators to reduce dynamically induced positioning errors.
Optimal Synthesis of Four-Bar Linkages for Four-Position Rigid-Body Guidance With Selective Tolerance Specifications
Authors: Venkataraman Shankar C. , Kinzel Gary L. , Waldron Kenneth J. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
In practical rigid-body guidance problems, very often one or more of the design positions need not be generated exactly. Further, extreme accuracy at the design positions is somewhat pointless considering the inherent limitations in linkage manufacturing processes. This emphasizes the requirement of synthesis techniques to be able to handle tolerance specifications on the nominal design positions. A favorable offshoot of the tolerance incorporation would be the accompanying increase in the solution space of the synthesis problem thereby yielding better linkage solutions.
Balancing Conditions for Planar Mechanisms
Authors: Dresig Hans , Rockhausen Ludwig , Naake Steffen 
Published: March 2021

Abstract
One of the problems of the complete inertia force and moment balancing of planar mechanisms consists of the deriving from the so-called balancing conditions. In recent publications on this field these balancing conditions are seperately derived for each particular mechanism [1], [2], [3]. In the present paper a new method is presented which derives the balancing conditions for planar mechanisms with an arbitrary structure (except for mechanisms containing cam pairs) in generality. This algorithm is suitable for the application of computer algebra systems.
Common hand and wrist conditions: creation of UK research priorities defined by a James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership
Authors: Karantana Alexia , Davis Tim , Kennedy Donna , Larson Debbie , Furniss Dominic , Grindlay Douglas J , Cowan Katherine , Giddins Grey , Jain Abhilash , Trickett Ryan W 
Published: March 2021

ObjectivePrioritisation of important treatment uncertainties for ‘Common Conditions Affecting the Hand and Wrist’ via a UK-based James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership.SettingThis process was funded by a national charitable organisation and based in the UK.ParticipantsAnyone with experience of common conditions affecting the adult hand and wrist, including patients, carers and healthcare professionals. All treatment modalities delivered by a hand specialist, including therapists, surgeons or other allied professionals, were considered.InterventionsEstablished James Lind Alliance Priority Setting Partnership methods were employed.Electronic and paper questionnaires identified potential uncertainties. These were subsequently confirmed using relevant, up-to-date systematic reviews. A final list of top 10 research uncertainties was developed via a face-to-face workshop with representation from patients and clinicians. Impact of research was sought by surveying hand clinicians electronically.Outcome measuresThe survey responses and prioritisation—both survey and workshop based.ResultsThere were 889 individually submitted questions from the initial survey, refined to 59 uncertainties across 32 themes. Eight additional uncertainties were added from published literature before prioritisation by 261 participants and the workshop allowed the final top 10 list to be finalised. The top 10 has so far contributed to the award of over £3.8 million of competitively awarded funding.ConclusionsThe Common Conditions in the Hand and Wrist Priority Setting Partnership identified important research questions and has allowed research funders to identify grant applications which are important to both patients and clinicians
Maternal body mass index and oxytocin in augmentation of labour in nulliparous women: a prospective observational study
Authors: Ramö Isgren Anna , Kjölhede Preben , Carlhäll Sara , Blomberg Marie 
Published: March 2021

ObjectiveTo evaluate oxytocin use for augmentation of labour in relation to body mass index (BMI) on admission to the labour ward, focusing on cumulative oxytocin dose and maximum rate of oxytocin infusion during the first stage of labour.DesignProspective observational study.SettingSeven hospitals in Sweden.Participants1097 nulliparous women with singleton cephalic presentation pregnancy, ≥37 weeks of gestation, spontaneous onset of labour and treatment with oxytocin infusion for labour augmentation. The study population was classified into three BMI subgroups on admission to the labour ward: normal weight (18.5–24.9), overweight (25.0–29.9) and obese (≥30.0). The cumulative oxytocin dose was measured from the start of oxytocin infusion until the neonate was born.Primary outcomeCumulative oxytocin dose.Secondary outcomeMaximum rate of oxytocin infusion during the active phase of first stage of labour.ResultsThe mean cumulative oxytocin dose increased in the BMI groups (normal weight 2278 mU, overweight 3108 mU and obese 4082 mU (p<0.0001)). However, when adjusted for the confounders (cervical dilatation when oxytocin infusion was started, fetal birth weight, epidural analgesia), the significant difference was no longer seen. The maximum oxytocin infusion rate during the first stage of labour differed significantly in the BMI groups when adjusted for the confounding factors individually but not when adjusted for all three factors simultaneously. In addition, the maximum oxytocin infusion rate was significantly higher in women with emergency caesarean section compared with women with vaginal delivery.ConclusionsWomen with increasing BMI with augmentation of labour received a higher cumulative oxytocin dose and had a higher maximum oxytocin infusion rate during first stage of labour, however, when adjusted for relevant confounders, the difference was no longer seen. In the future, the guidelines for augmentation of labour with oxytocin infusion might be reconsidered and include modifications related to BMI.
In vitro evaluation of disposable transport ventilators with combination aerosol therapy
Authors: Mac Giolla Eain Marc , O'Sullivan Andrew , Joyce Mary , MacLoughlin Ronan 
Published: March 2021

BackgroundThe COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for alternative short-term, reliable means to aid in the treatment of patients requiring ventilatory support. Concurrent aerosol drug delivery is often prescribed to such patients. As such, this study examines one such short-term option, the disposable gas-powered transport ventilator to effectively deliver aerosol therapy. Factors such as aerosol generator type, patient breathing pattern, humidification and nebuliser position within the respiratory circuit were also examined.MethodsAerosol drug delivery characterisation was undertaken using two different disposable transport ventilators (DTVs). Two different nebuliser types, a closed circuit vibrating mesh nebuliser (VMN) and an open circuit jet nebuliser (JN), at different locations in a respiratory circuit, proximal and distal to an endotracheal tube (ETT), with and without passive humidification, were evaluated in simulated adult and paediatric patients.ResultsPlacement of a nebuliser proximal to the ETT (VMN: 25.19%–34.15% and JN: 3.14%–8.92%), and the addition of a heat and moisture exchange filter (VMN: 32.37%–40.43% and JN: 5.60%–9.91%) resulted in the largest potential lung dose in the adult patient model. Irrespective of nebuliser position and humidification in the respiratory circuit, use of the VMN resulted in the largest potential lung dose (%). A similar trend was recorded in the paediatric model data, where the largest potential lung dose was recorded with both nebuliser types placed proximal to the ETT (VMN: 8.12%–10.89% and JN: 2.15%–3.82%). However, the addition of a heat and moisture exchange filter had no statistically significant effect on the potential lung dose (%) a paediatric patient would receive (p>>0.05).ConclusionsThis study demonstrates that transport ventilators, such as DTVs, can be used concurrently with aerosol generators to effectively deliver aerosolised medication in both adult and paediatric patients.
Involvement of Rho-kinase/IκB-α/NF-κB activation in IL-1β-induced inflammatory response and oxidative stress in human chondrocytes
Authors: Tiftik Rukiye Nalan , Temiz-Reşitoğlu Meryem , Güden Demet Sinem , Bayrak Gülsen , Ün İsmail , Yılmaz Şakir Necat , Şahan-Fırat Seyhan 
Published: March 2021

It has been clearly indicated that osteoarthritis (OA) is an inflammatory and degenerative disease that could be promoted by Rho-kinase (ROCK); however, little is known about the role of ROCK/inhibitor κB alpha (IκB-α)/nuclear factor-κB (NF-κB) p65 pathway activation in interleukin-1β (IL-1β) induced inflammatory response and oxidative stress in primary human chondrocytes. To test this hypothesis, we focused on determining ROCK-II, IκB-α, p-IκB-α, NF-κB p65, p-NF-κB p65, IL-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha (TNF-α), cyclooxygenase-2 (COX-2), p22phox, and nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH) oxidase subtype 4 (NOX4) protein expression, ROCK-II activity, NADPH oxidase levels, and total antioxidant capacity (TAC) in the presence and absence of ROCK-inhibitor fasudil. IL-1β (2 ng·mL–1, 24 h) increased the expression of ROCK-II, p-IκB-α, NF-κB p65, p-NF-κB p65, IL-6, TNF-α, COX-2, and p22phox proteins, and decreased the expression of IκB-α, and the NOX4 protein level did not alter. ROCK activity and NADPH oxidase levels were increased, whereas the TAC was decreased by IL-1β. Fasudil (10−5–10−7 M) reversed all these changes induced by IL-1β. These results demonstrate that ROCK/IκB-α/NF-κB p65 pathway activation contributes to the IL-1β-induced inflammatory response and oxidative stress, and thus, ROCK inhibition might be a beneficial treatment option for OA patients mainly based on its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.
Clinical and Antimicrobial Evaluation of Copaifera langsdorffii Desf. Dental Varnish in Children: A Clinical Study
Authors: Valadas Lídia Audrey Rocha , Lobo Patrícia Leal Dantas , Fonseca Said Gonçalves da Cruz , Fechine Francisco Vagnaldo , Rodrigues Neto Edilson Martins , Fonteles Marta Maria de França , Aguiar Trévia Lorena Ribeiro de , Vasconcelos Hilda Lara Prado , Lima Sandra Mara da Silva , Lotif Mara Assef Leitao , Fernandes Analice Mendes Barreto , Bandeira Mary Anne Medeiros 
Published: March 2021

Background. The objective of this study was to evaluate the clinical and microbiological efficacies of (C. langsdorffii) dental varnish in children at high risk of dental caries.. Methods. This is a longitudinal, randomized, controlled clinical trial. Ninety high-risk caries-free children (ICDAS II = 0) were recruited and randomly divided into three groups: C. langsdorffii, chlorhexidine, or fluoride. The varnishes were applied on the second deciduous molars for three times: baseline (D0), after 90 days (D90), and after 180 days (D180). Saliva was collected on D0, D90, D180, and D360 to evaluate S. mutans reduction. Statistics were carried out by ANOVA, Tukey’s test, and the paired t-test. Results. Copaiba varnish demonstrated significant S. mutans reduction: D360 versus D0

p
<
0.0001

, D180 versus D0

p
<
0.001

, D360 versus D90

p
<
0.001

, D180 versus D90

p
<
0.001

, and D360 versus D180

p
<
0.05

. Chlorhexidine varnish significantly reduced S. mutans at D180 versus D0

p
<
0.05

. Fluoride reduced at D180 versus D0

p
<
0.001

. Conclusions. Three annual applications of this varnish showed substantial antimicrobial activity against S. mutans and caries prevention for up to 12 months.
Nicotinamide Mononucleotide Prevents Cisplatin-Induced Cognitive Impairments
Authors: Yoo Ki Hyun , Tang Jason J. , Rashid Mohammad Abdur , Cho Chang Hoon , Corujo-Ramirez Ana , Choi Jonghoon , Bae Mun Gyeong , Brogren Danielle , Hawse John R. , Hou Xiaonan , Weroha S. John , Oliveros Alfredo , Kirkeby Lindsey A. , Baur Joseph A. , Jang Mi-Hyeon 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Chemotherapy-induced cognitive impairment (CICI) is often reported as a neurotoxic side effect of chemotherapy. Although CICI has emerged as a significant medical problem, meaningful treatments are not currently available due to a lack of mechanistic understanding underlying CICI pathophysiology. Using the platinum-based chemotherapy cisplatin as a model for CICI, we show here that cisplatin suppresses nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide (NAD+) levels in the adult female mouse brain in vivo and in human cortical neurons derived from induced pluripotent stem cells in vitro. Increasing NAD+ levels through nicotinamide mononucleotide (NMN) administration prevented cisplatin-induced abnormalities in neural progenitor proliferation, neuronal morphogenesis, and cognitive function without affecting tumor growth and antitumor efficacy of cisplatin. Mechanistically, cisplatin inhibited expression of the NAD+ biosynthesis rate-limiting enzyme nicotinamide phosphoribosyl transferase (Nampt). Selective restoration of Nampt expression in adult-born neurons was sufficient to prevent cisplatin-induced defects in dendrite morphogenesis and memory function. Taken together, our findings suggest that aberrant Nampt-mediated NAD+ metabolic pathways may be a key contributor in cisplatin-induced neurogenic impairments, thus causally leading to memory dysfunction. Therefore, increasing NAD+ levels could represent a promising and safe therapeutic strategy for cisplatin-related neurotoxicity.

Significance:
Increasing NAD+ through NMN supplementation offers a potential therapeutic strategy to safely prevent cisplatin-induced cognitive impairments, thus providing hope for improved quality of life in cancer survivors.
Effectiveness of a Cancer Risk Prediction Tool on Lifestyle Habits: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Yuwaki Keiichi , Kuchiba Aya , Otsuki Aki , Odawara Miyuki , Okuhara Tsuyoshi , Ishikawa Hirono , Inoue Manami , Tsugane Shoichiro , Shimazu Taichi 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background:
Risk prediction models offer a promising approach to lifestyle modification. We evaluated the effect of personalized advice based on cancer risk prediction in improving five lifestyle habits (smoking, alcohol consumption, salt intake, physical activity, and body mass index) compared with standard advice without risk prediction among a Japanese general population with at least one unhealthy lifestyle habit.

Methods:
In a parallel-design, single-blind, randomized controlled trial between February 2018 and July 2019, 5984 participants aged 40–64 years with unhealthy lifestyle habits were recruited from persons covered under a life insurance policy. They were randomly assigned to an intervention or control group and received personalized or standard advice, respectively. They were also sent an invitation to participate in a lifestyle modification program aimed at improving lifestyle. Primary outcome was an improvement in lifestyle, defined as an increase in healthy lifestyle habits within 6 months.

Results:
The proportion of participants who improved their lifestyle within 6 months in the intervention group did not significantly differ from that in the control group (18.4% vs. 17.7%; P = 0.488). Among participants with low health literacy and two or fewer of five healthy habits, the proportion of participants subscribing to the lifestyle modification program was higher in the intervention group than in the control group.

Conclusions:
Compared with standardized advice, personalized advice based on cancer risk prediction had no effect on improving lifestyle.

Impact:
Provision of predicted cancer risk information did not induce change in unhealthy lifestyle.
Cost-Effectiveness of Offering Cervical Cancer Screening with HPV Self-Sampling among African-American Women in the Mississippi Delta
Authors: Campos Nicole G. , Scarinci Isabel C. , Tucker Laura , Peral Sylvia , Li Yufeng , Regan Mary Caroline , Sy Stephen , Castle Philip E. , Kim Jane J. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background:
African-American women in the United States have an elevated risk of cervical cancer incidence and mortality. In the Mississippi Delta, cervical cancer disparities are particularly stark.

Methods:
We conducted a micro-costing study alongside a group randomized trial that evaluated the efficacy of a patient-centered approach (“Choice” between self-collection at home for HPV testing or current standard of care within the public health system in Mississippi) versus the current standard of care [“Standard-of-care screening,” involving cytology (i.e., Pap) and HPV co-testing at the Health Department clinics]. The interventions in both study arms were delivered by community health workers (CHW). Using cost, screening uptake, and colposcopy adherence data from the trial, we informed a mathematical model of HPV infection and cervical carcinogenesis to conduct a cost-effectiveness analysis comparing the “Choice” and “Standard-of-care screening” interventions among un/underscreened African-American women in the Mississippi Delta.

Results:
When each intervention was simulated every 5 years from ages 25 to 65 years, the “Standard-of-care screening” strategy reduced cancer risk by 6.4% and was not an efficient strategy; “Choice” was more effective and efficient, reducing lifetime risk of cervical cancer by 14.8% and costing $62,720 per year of life saved (YLS). Screening uptake and colposcopy adherence were key drivers of intervention cost-effectiveness.

Conclusions:
Offering “Choice” to un/underscreened African-American women in the Mississippi Delta led to greater uptake than CHW-facilitated screening at the Health Department, and may be cost-effective.

Impact:
We evaluated the cost-effectiveness of an HPV self-collection intervention to reduce disparities.
Levels of Inflammation Markers Are Associated with the Risk of Recurrence and All-Cause Mortality in Patients with Colorectal Cancer
Authors: Wesselink Evertine , Balvers Michiel G.J. , Kok Dieuwertje E. , Winkels Renate M. , van Zutphen Moniek , Schrauwen Ruud W.M. , Keulen Eric T.P. , Kouwenhoven Ewout A. , Breukink Stephanie O. , Witkamp Renger F. , de Wilt Johannes H.W. , Bours Martijn J.L. , Weijenberg Matty P. , Kampman Ellen , van Duijnhoven Fränzel J.B. 
Published: March 2021

Abstract

Background:
We investigated whether preoperative and postoperative levels of inflammation markers, which have mechanistically been linked to colorectal cancer progression, were associated with recurrence and all-cause mortality in patients with colorectal cancer.

Methods:
Data of two prospective cohort studies were used. For the current analysis, patients with stage I to III colorectal cancer were considered. Data on inflammation [IL6, IL8, IL10, TNFα, high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hsCRP), and a combined inflammatory z-score] were available for 747 patients before surgery and for 614 patients after surgery. The associations between inflammation marker levels and colorectal cancer recurrence and all-cause mortality were examined using multivariable Cox proportional hazard regression models, considering patient characteristics and clinical and lifestyle factors.

Results:
Higher preoperative and postoperative hsCRP levels were associated with a higher risk of recurrence [HRper doubling (95% CI), 1.15 (1.02–1.30) and 1.34 (1.16–1.55)] and all-cause mortality [HRper doubling (95% CI) 1.13 (1.01–1.28) and 1.15 (0.98–1.35)]. A doubling in IL8 levels (preoperative levels HR = 1.23; 95% CI, 1.00–1.53 and postoperative levels HR = 1.61; 95% CI, 1.23–2.12) and a higher combined inflammatory z-score (preoperative HRper doubling = 1.39; 95% CI, 1.03–1.89 and postoperative HRper doubling = 1.56; 95% CI, 1.06–2.28) were associated with a higher risk of all-cause mortality, but not recurrence. No associations between IL6, IL10, and TNFα and recurrence or all-cause mortality were observed.

Conclusions:
Preoperative and postoperative levels of specific inflammation markers were associated with recurrence and/or all-cause mortality.

Impact:
The complex role of inflammation in cancer recurrence merits further elucidation by investigating local inflammation at the tumor site.