pinecone/core-2020-05-10-deduplication huggingface dataset:
Introducing robotic surgery into an endometrial cancer service-a prospective evaluation of clinical and economic outcomes in a UK institution

BackgroundWe have assessed how the introduction of robotics in a publicly funded endometrial cancer service affects clinical and economic outcomes. MethodsThe study included 196 women. Costs were divided into those for wards, high dependency, staffing, theatres, pharmacy, blood products, imaging, pathology and rehabilitation. Capital depreciation was included. ResultsPrior to the introduction of robotics, 78/130 (60.0%) cases were performed open, compared to 17/66 (25.8%) afterwards (p<0.0001). The median operative time increased 37 min (95% CI 17-55 min; p=0.0002); the median blood loss was 55 ml lower (95% CI 0-150 ml; p = 0.0181); the stay was 2 days shorter (95% CI 1-3; p<0.0001). Complications reduced from 64/130 (49.2%) to 19/66 (28.8%) (p=0.0045). Costs reduced from 11 476 to 10 pound 274 (p=0.0065). Conversions for 'straight stick' surgery were 18.2% (14/77) compared to 0.0% (0/24) for robotics (p=0.0164). ConclusionsIntroducing robotics resulted in fewer laparotomies, shorter stays, fewer complications and lower costs. (c) 2015 The Authors. The International Journal of Medical Robotics and Computer Assisted Surgery Published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd
An Experimental and Numerical Study on Tactile Neuroimaging: A Novel Minimally Invasive Technique for Intraoperative Brain Imaging

This is the peer reviewed version of the following article: 
Moslem Sadeghi-Goughari, Yanjun Qian, Soo Jeon, Sohrab Sadeghi and Hyock-Ju Kwon, “An Experimental and Numerical Study on Tactile Neuroimaging: A Novel Minimally Invasive Technique for Intraoperative Brain Imaging,” accepted to The International Journal of Medical Robotics and Computer Assisted Surgery which has been published in final form at: https://doi.org/10.1002/rcs.1893. This article may be used for non-commercial purposes in accordance with Wiley Terms and Conditions for Self-Archiving.Background
The success of tumor neurosurgery is highly dependent on the ability to accurately localize the operative target, which may be shifted during the operation. Performing an intraoperative brain imaging is crucial in minimally invasive neurosurgery to detect the effect of brain shift on the tumor’s location, and to maximize the efficiency of tumor resection. 
Method
The major objective of this research is to introduce the tactile neuroimaging as a novel minimally invasive technique for intraoperative brain imaging. To investigate the feasibility of the proposed method, an experimental and numerical study was first performed on silicone phantoms mimicking the brain tissue with a tumor. Then the study was extended to a clinical model with the meningioma tumor. 
Results
The stress distribution on the brain surface has high potential to intraoperatively localize the tumor.
Conclusion
Results suggest that tactile neuroimaging can be used to provide a non-invasive, and real-time intraoperative data on tumor’s features.Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council || RGPIN/2015-05273, RGPIN/2015-04118, RGPAS/354703-201
ENDOCAS NAVIGATOR PLATFORM: A COMMON PLATFORM FOR COMPUTER AND ROBOTIC ASSISTANCE IN MINIMALLY INVASIVE SURGERY.

Background: Computer-assisted surgery (CAS) systems are currently used in only a few surgical specialties: ear, nose and throat (ENT), neurosurgery and orthopaedics. Almost all of these systems have been developed as dedicated platforms and work on rigid anatomical structures. The development of augmented reality systems for intra-abdominal organs remains problematic because of the anatomical complexity of the human peritoneal cavity and especially because of the deformability of its organs. The aim of the present work was to develop and implement a highly modular platform (targeted for minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery) generally suitable for CAS, and to produce a prototype for demonstration of its potential clinical application and use in laparoscopic surgery. Methods: In this paper we outline details of a platform integrating several aspects of CAS and medical robotics into a modular open architecture: the EndoCAS navigator platform, which integrates all the functionalities necessary for provision of computer-based assistance to surgeons during all the management phases (diagnostic work-up, planning and intervention). A specific application for computer-assisted laparoscopic procedures has been developed on the basic modules of the platform. The system provides capabilities for three-dimensional (3D) surface model generation, 3D visualization, intra-operative registration, surgical guidance and robotic assistance during laparoscopic surgery. The description of specific modules and an account of the initial clinical experience with the system are reported. Results: We developed a common platform for computer assisted surgery and implemented a system for intraoperative laparoscopic navigation. The preliminary clinical trials and feedback from the surgeons on its use in laparoscopic surgery have been positive, although experience has been limited to date. Conclusions: We have successfully developed a system for computer-assisted technologies for use in laparoscopic surgery and demonstrated, by early clinical trials, that the introduction of these technologies in operative laparoscopy, even though they are not yet sufficiently accurate (from an engineering viewpoint) for surgical treatment of intra-abdominal disease, brings added benefits to the execution of interventions by surgeons and hence represents concrete on-going progress in interventional technology
Improving the electrostatic field concentration in a negative-permittivity wedge with a grounded bowtie configuration.

Two wedges, one made of negative-permittivity material (primary) and another of an ordinary dielectric (auxiliary/secondary), are posed nose-to-nose to form a “bowtie” configuration. This shape is very common and convenient for a number of real-world devices and constructions such as electron microscopes, optical superlenses, and nanotips. In all these structures, the efficient operation and functionality get strongly assisted by the increased electromagnetic power concentration in the vicinity of the edge. Such a field enhancement is attempted with proper choice of the characteristics of the dielectric wedge to increase the field intensity over the cross section of the metamaterial one. A slowly varying field assumption is adopted to formulate approximate solutions to similar structures (sharp and rounded corners). A quality factor has been defined based on the power carried by the supported modal waves, if they are excited by a suitable electric source, in the presence and in the absence of the auxiliary wedge. This quantity expresses the intensity enhancement that could be achieved and is represented in graphs with respect to the dielectric wedge parameters. The characteristics of the secondary component that lead to a maximization of the electric power into the primary one are identified and explained. In particular, periodic variations of the angular extent of the secondary wedge are observed, and the number of maxima is increased with the dielectric permittivity of the constituent material.Peer reviewe
Functional joint regeneration is achieved using reintegration mechanism in Xenopus laevis

カエルではじめて機能的な関節の再生に成功. 京都大学プレスリリース. 2015-12-22.A functional joint requires integration of multiple tissues: the apposing skeletal elements should form an interlocking structure, and muscles should insert into skeletal tissues via tendons across the joint. Whereas newts can regenerate functional joints after amputation, Xenopus laevis regenerates a cartilaginous rod without joints, a “spike.” Previously we reported that the reintegration mechanism between the remaining and regenerated tissues has a significant effect on regenerating joint morphogenesis during elbow joint regeneration in newt. Based on this insight into the importance of reintegration, we amputated frogs’ limbs at the elbow joint and found that frogs could regenerate a functional elbow joint between the remaining tissues and regenerated spike. During regeneration, the regenerating cartilage was partially connected to the remaining articular cartilage to reform the interlocking structure of the elbow joint at the proximal end of the spike. Furthermore, the muscles of the remaining part inserted into the regenerated spike cartilage via tendons. This study might open up an avenue for analyzing molecular and cellular mechanisms of joint regeneration using Xenopus
Ear wound regeneration in the African spiny mouse Acomys cahirinus

While regeneration occurs in a number of taxonomic groups across the Metazoa, there are very few reports of regeneration in mammals, which generally respond to wounding with fibrotic scarring rather than regeneration. A recent report described skin shedding, skin regeneration and extensive ear punch closure in two rodent species, Acomys kempi and Acomys percivali. We examined these striking results by testing the capacity for regeneration of a third species, Acomys cahirinus, and found a remarkable capacity to repair full thickness circular punches in the ear pinna. Four-millimeter-diameter wounds closed completely in 2 months in 100% of ear punches tested. Histology showed extensive formation of elastic cartilage, adipose tissue, dermis, epidermis and abundant hair follicles in the repaired region. Furthermore, we demonstrated abundant angiogenesis and unequivocal presence of both muscle and nerve fibers in the reconstituted region; in contrast, similar wounds in C57BL/6 mice simply healed the borders of the cut by fibrotic scarring. Our results confirm the regenerative capabilities of Acomys, and suggest this model merits further attention
Externally imposed electric field enhances plant root tip regeneration

In plants, shoot and root regeneration can be induced in the distinctive conditions of tissue culture (in vitro), but is also observed in intact individuals (in planta) recovering from tissue damage. Roots, for example, can regenerate their fully excised meristems in planta, even in mutants with impaired apical stem cell niches. Unfortunately, to date a comprehensive understanding of regeneration in plants is still missing. Here, we provide evidence that an imposed electric field can perturb apical root regeneration in Arabidopsis. Crucially, we explored both spatial and temporal competences of the stump to respond to electrical stimulation, respectively by varying the position of the cut and the time interval between excision and stimulation. Our data indicate that a brief pulse of an electric field parallel to the root is sufficient to increase by up to two-fold the probability of its regeneration, and to perturb the local distribution of the hormone auxin, as well as cell division regulation. Remarkably, the orientation of the root towards the anode or the cathode is shown to play a role
Enhancing performance of sphingobacterium spiritivorum in bioremediation phenanthrene contaminated sand

Many biodegradation studies have focused on survival of isolated bacteria to increase the bacteria population and subsequently enhance the efficiency of polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) biodegradation. However, there is limited research on enhancing the performance of isolated bacteria through reinoculation. Thus, this study was designed to evaluate the effects of reinoculation on the performance of Sphingobacterium spiritivorum in degradation of phenanthrene contaminated sand. Experiments were performed in three different reactors. Inoculation was performed once (day 0) in reactor 1. In reactor 2, inoculation was performed twice (day 0 and day 5). The bacteria was isolated from reactor 2 and inoculated into reactor 3. The study results show reactor 3 having the highest degradation rate (13.61 mg/kg/day) and percentage removal (95.36 percent). In contrast, without reinoculation in reactor 1, 68.93 percent of phenanthrene was removed. Thus, the performance of S. spiritivorum in phenanthrene degradation can be enhanced through reinoculation
Nanoremediation and international environmental restoration markets

Nanoscale zero-valent iron (nZVI) is the most commonly used nanoremediation material. While there has been a reasonable level of application of nZVI technologies for in situ remediation in the United States, its utilization across Europe has been much more limited. There has been significant uncertainty about the balance between deployment risks and benefits for nanoparticles (NPs), which has affected the regulatory position in several countries. Some member states of the European Union (EU) take a strong precautionary view of the risks from the deployment of NPs into the subsurface, preventing the adoption of the technology. This article provides a risk-benefit assessment for nZVI based on published information and describes the steps that will be taken by a major European research project (NanoRem), as part of its work to provide a basis for better informed decision making in European environmental restoration markets. A key part of this process is dialogue between practitioners and researchers. NanoRem therefore has an active process of communication with different stakeholder networks (regulators, service providers, and site owners). NanoRem hopes to stimulate a consensus on appropriate use of nanoremediation and thereby stimulate effective technology transfer to the European remediation market
Developing effective decision support for the application of “Gentle” Remediation Options: The GREENLAND Project

Gentle remediation options (GRO) are risk management strategies/technologies that result in a net gain (or at least no gross reduction) in soil function as well as risk management. They encompass a number of technologies, including the use of plant (phyto-), fungi (myco-), and/or bacteria-based methods, with or without chemical soil additives or amendments, for reducing contaminant transfer to local receptors by in situ stabilization, or extraction, transformation, or degradation of contaminants. Despite offering strong benefits in terms of risk management, deployment costs, and sustainability for a range of site problems, the application of GRO as practical on-site remedial solutions is still in its relative infancy, particularly for metal(loid)-contaminated sites. A key barrier to wider adoption of GRO relates to general uncertainties and lack of stakeholder confidence in (and indeed knowledge of) the feasibility or reliability of GRO as practical risk management solutions. The GREENLAND project has therefore developed a simple and transparent decision support framework for promoting the appropriate use of gentle remediation options and encouraging participation of stakeholders, supplemented by a set of specific design aids for use when GRO appear to be a viable option. The framework is presented as a three phased model or Decision Support Tool (DST), in the form of a Microsoft Excel-based workbook, designed to inform decisionmaking and options appraisal during the selection of remedial approaches for contaminated sites. The DST acts as a simple decision support and stakeholder engagement tool for the application of GRO, providing a context for GRO application (particularly where soft end-use of remediated land is envisaged), quick reference tables (including an economic cost calculator), and supporting information and technical guidance drawing on practical examples of effective GRO application at trace metal(loid) contaminated sites across Europe. This article introduces the decision support framework
Towards an international standard: The ISO/DIS 18504 standard on sustainable remediation

Sustainable remediation is the elimination and/or control of unacceptable risks in a safe and timely manner while optimizing the environmental, social, and economic value of the work. Forthcoming International Organization for Standardization (ISO) guidance on sustainable remediation will allow countries without the capacity to develop their own guidance to benefit from work done over the past decade by various groups around the world. The ISO standard has progressed through the committee draft (ISO/CD 18504) and draft international standard (ISO DIS 18504) stages. The risk-based approach to managing the legacy of historically contaminated soil and groundwater has been incorporated into policy, legislation, and practice around the world. It helps determine the need for remediation and the end point of such remediation. Remediation begins with an options appraisal that short lists strategies that could deliver the required reduction in risk. A remediation strategy comprises one or more remediation technologies that will deliver the safe and timely elimination and/or control of unacceptable risks. The ISO standard will help assessors identify the most sustainable among the shortlisted, valid alternative remediation strategies. Practitioners presenting case studies claiming to constitute sustainable remediation should now report how they have aligned their work with the new standard. Indicators are used to compare alternative remediation strategies. The simplest metric that allows a characteristic to act as an indicator should be chosen. Weightings indicators can become a contested exercise and should only be undertaken where there is a clear desire for it by stakeholders and a clear need for it in identifying a preferred strategy. The simplest means of ranking alternative remediation strategies should be adopted
To what extent is behaviour a problem in English schools?:Exploring the scale and prevalence of deficits in classroom climate

The working atmosphere in the classroom is an important variable in the process of education in schools, with several studies suggesting that classroom climate is an important influence on pupil attainment. There are wide differences in the extent to which classroom climate is considered to be a problem in English schools. Some ‘official’ reports suggest that behaviour in schools is ‘satisfactory or better’ in the vast majority of schools; other sources have pointed to behaviour being a serious and widespread problem. The paper details four studies conducted over the past decade which aimed to explore these disparities. The aim of the research was to gain a more accurate insight into the extent to which deficits in classroom climate limit educational attainment and equality of educational opportunity in English schools. The findings question the suggestion that behaviour is satisfactory or better in 99.7% of English schools and the concluding section suggests ways in which deficits in classroom climate might be addressed. Although the study is limited to classrooms in England, OECD studies suggest that deficits in the working atmosphere in classrooms occur in many countries. The study therefore has potential relevance for education systems in other countries
Meta-synthesis and comparative meta-analysis of education research findings : some risks and benefits.

Meta-analysis, or quantitative synthesis, is the statistical combination of research findings. It can identify whether an intervention or approach, on balance, is effective or not, and can explain variation in findings by identifying patterns associated with larger or smaller effects across studies. It is now more widely applied in medicine and psychology, even though the term was first used in education, and the underpinning statistical ideas date back 70 years or so. This review traces the development of meta-analysis in education and the history of meta-meta-analysis or ‘meta-synthesis’ in more detail, where the temptation is not just to draw conclusions about similar studies, but to aggregate findings across meta-analyses to understand the relative benefits of different approaches on educational outcomes. A final section presents the rationale for the Sutton Trust–Education Endowment Foundation Teaching and Learning Toolkit, which aims to present accurate and accessible findings from research studies which are sufficiently applicable to inform professional decision-making and action in schools, as an example of a ‘meta-synthesis’ for education
Impact of arts education on children's learning and wider outcomes.

Almost every educational system in the world regards numeracy and literacy as more important than the arts. In the UK arts interest groups and politicians have, for years, asked for arts education to be accorded the same priority arguing that arts contribute to learning and development of useful skills. It is not clear if these claims were based on evidence. The aim of this review is to examine international empirical evidence to establish whether arts participation could lead to improvements in children's learning and other wider outcomes, and to identify arts activities with the best evidence of success. A search of 11 databases identified 76,195 reports, of which 200 were included for analysis. No studies with high levels of supporting evidence were found because of serious weaknesses in design. Tentative evidence suggests that music training and integrating drama in the classroom may have beneficial effects. This finding has to be taken with caution because of weaknesses in these studies, the lack of replication and inconsistent findings across studies. More robust and rigorous evaluations are needed to test the causal links. However, if improving attainment is the aim then arts may not be the solution. Promising programmes already exist that can boost learning. Given the lack of evidence so far, perhaps we should think more broadly about the purpose of arts
The assessment of metacognition in children aged 4–16 years : a systematic review.

This article presents the results of a systematic review of methods that have been used to measure or assess metacognition in children aged 4–16 years over a 20-year period (1992–2012). It includes an overview of the types of tool and methods used linked with the ages of the participants targeted and how metacognition and associated concepts are defined. Two thousand, seven hundred and twenty-one records were identified through systematic searching; 525 articles or reports were full text screened, resulting in 149 included studies reporting 84 distinct tools or methods. Of these 84 distinct tools or methods, four were excluded from further analysis after appraisal for reliability, validity and replicability. The final number of methods and tools for metacognitive assessment included in the analysis is 80. The key findings of this review include:\ud
\ud
Self-report measures (including questionnaires, surveys and tests) comprise 61% of the included tools;\ud
Observational methods that do not rely on prompting to ‘think aloud’ (Think Aloud Protocols) have only been used with students aged 9 years and under;\ud
Information about reliability and validity is not always given or given accurately for different tools and methods;\ud
The definition of metacognition in a particular study relates directly to its assessment and therefore its outcomes: this can be misaligned