5,960 research outputs found
Nurturing constructive change that works: a critical theory-informed model for transforming health service psychologists’ views of people with disabilities
We have been developing and refining a disability training exercise for health service psychologists that is ever more effective at encouraging lasting change in the way students regard disabilities and the people who live with those disabilities. Although research suggests that simulation exercises tend to be ineffective at creating long-term attitude change in participants, quantitative and qualitative results indicate our exercise, composed of a simulation followed by debriefing and reflection, helps professionals better understand some of the challenges people with disabilities daily face, and how those challenges can affect their well being. We found this combination is more likely to yield long-term changes than any of these approaches alone. This paper is not principally the description of a pedagogical technique, but instead is an examination of how the combination of simulation, debriefing, and reflective journaling may challenge taken-for-granted assumptions about disabilities, e.g., that disabilities transform individuals into a different kind of human being (with either superhuman powers or as object of pity) instead of seeing these individuals as ordinary people facing extraordinary, and often society-created obstacles. One frequent call of Critical Theorists is to challenge those things we take for granted. Social and cultural structures create specific viewpoints and thus problematizing the apparent is necessary for understanding of, and emancipation from, potentially oppressive social structures. Inspired by this call to render the taken-for-granted as problematic, the exercise we describe creates inversions of performer/audience, professional/student, and scientist/researcher positions. In each of these inversions, the role of the objective observer is denied and the student is invited to engage in his or her own evaluative and potentially transformative experience. Through each of these inversions, different realities can be more readily utilized by thoughtful students to render problematic some of the dominant views about people with disabilities. To make this case, we utilize both qualitative and quantitative methods. The students’ own words, captured in their journals before and after the exercise, are examined in comparison with program goals and features. The weight of the evidence is impressive, indicating that the combination of simulation, debriefing and journaling reflection are effective at creating a space in which change of attitudes does occur
Arrays of Cooper Pair Boxes Coupled to a Superconducting Reservoir: `Superradiance' and `Revival.'
We consider an array of Cooper Pair Boxes, each of which is coupled to a
superconducting reservoir by a capacitive tunnel junction. We discuss two
effects that probe not just the quantum nature of the islands, but also of the
superconducting reservoir coupled to them. These are analogues to the
well-known quantum optical effects `superradiance,' and `revival.' When revival
is extended to multiple systems, we find that `entanglement revival' can also
be observed. In order to study the above effects, we utilise a highly
simplified model for these systems in which all the single-electron energy
eigenvalues are set to be the same (the strong coupling limit), as are the
charging energies of the Cooper Pair Boxes, allowing the whole system to be
represented by two large coupled quantum spins. Although this simplification is
drastic, the model retains the main features necessary to capture the phenomena
of interest. Given the progress in superconducting box experiments over recent
years, it is possible that experiments to investigate both of these interesting
quantum coherent phenomena could be performed in the forseeable future.Comment: 23 pages, 5 figures Clarifications made as recommended by refere
Should tumor VEGF expression influence decisions on combining low-dose chemotherapy with antiangiogenic therapy? Preclinical modeling in ovarian cancer
Because of its low toxicity, low-dose (LD) chemotherapy is ideally suited for combination with antiangiogenic drugs. We investigated the impact of tumor vascular endothelial growth factor A (VEGF-A) expression on the efficacy of LD paclitaxel chemotherapy and its interactions with the tyrosine kinase inhibitor SU5416 in the ID8 and ID8-Vegf models of ovarian cancer. Functional linear models using weighted penalized least squares were utilized to identify interactions between Vegf, LD paclitaxel and antiangiogenic therapy. LD paclitaxel yielded additive effects with antiangiogenic therapy against tumors with low Vegf expression, while it exhibited antagonism to antiangiogenic therapy in tumors with high Vegf expression. This is the first preclinical study that models interactions of LD paclitaxel chemotherapy with antiangiogenic therapy and tumor VEGF expression and offers important lessons for the rational design of clinical trials
Spectroscopic characterization, DFT calculations, in vitro pharmacological potentials, and molecular docking studies of N, N, O-Schiff base and its trivalent metal complexes
In this study, trivalent metal complexes of the category: [M(L)(H2O)nCly] obtained from the interaction of metal3+ ion salts with organic N, N, O-Schiff base (HL) (where: HL = 4-{(Z)-((2-{(E)-((2-hydroxyphenyl)methylidene)amino}ethyl)imino)methyl}-2-methoxyphenol; n, y = 1 or 2 and M = Ti(III), Fe(III), Ru(III), Cr(III) and Al(III)) were synthesized and characterized viz molar conductance, FT-IR, and UV–Vis spectroscopies, elemental analyses, thermal analyses (TGA and DTA), and UV–Vis spectroscopy, theoretical calculations. A distorted octahedral structure around the metal ions was proposed based on the obtained experimental and calculated data. Thermal examination of the complexes signposts the step-by-step disintegration to give the final decomposition product as metal oxides. Moreover, DFT calculations were executed utilizing the B3LYP/LANL2DZ theory level, which revealed that the synthesized metal (III) complexes were more stable than the free ligand (HL). The value of ΔE for HL is 4.60 eV while the related values for the complexes of Cr(III) (C1), Ru(III) (C2), Fe(III) (C3), Al(III) (C4), and Ti(III) (C5) are respectively 2.59, 3.68, 3.15, 1.64, and 2.75 eV. Scavenging abilities of DPPH and ABTS radicals by the test compounds revealed promising antioxidant behavior. It was observed that the compounds are proficient DPPH radical scavengers in a dose-dependent configuration. Ru(III); IC50 = 1.69 ± 2.68 µM for DPPH and Ti(III); IC50 = 8.70 ± 2.78 µM for ABTS performed best. Similarly, the complexes demonstrated higher antimicrobial activities compared to HL against the designated strains, while ciprofloxacin acted as a standard antibiotic. Furthermore, the ligand and its most effective complexes C2 and C5 were docked against the targets S. aureus DNA gyrase (2XCT), S. pneumoniae DNA gyrase (5BOD), and E. coli DNA gyrase (5L3J). The binding sites were evaluated and the docking results showed that the studied molecules bind to the targets through classical O—H…O and/or N—H…O hydrogen bonds, as well as via hydrophobic contacts
Resonant-Cavity-Induced Phase Locking and Voltage Steps in a Josephson Array
We describe a simple dynamical model for an underdamped Josephson junction
array coupled to a resonant cavity. From numerical solutions of the model in
one dimension, we find that (i) current-voltage characteristics of the array
have self-induced resonant steps (SIRS), (ii) at fixed disorder and coupling
strength, the array locks into a coherent, periodic state above a critical
number of active Josephson junctions, and (iii) when active junctions are
synchronized on an SIRS, the energy emitted into the resonant cavity is
quadratic with . All three features are in agreement with a recent
experiment [Barbara {\it et al}, Phys. Rev. Lett. {\bf 82}, 1963 (1999)]}.Comment: 4 pages, 3 eps figures included. Submitted to PRB Rapid Com
Dynamics of a Josephson Array in a Resonant Cavity
We derive dynamical equations for a Josephson array coupled to a resonant
cavity by applying the Heisenberg equations of motion to a model Hamiltonian
described by us earlier [Phys. Rev. B {\bf 63}, 144522 (2001); Phys. Rev. B
{\bf 64}, 179902 (E)]. By means of a canonical transformation, we also show
that, in the absence of an applied current and dissipation, our model reduces
to one described by Shnirman {\it et al} [Phys. Rev. Lett. {\bf 79}, 2371
(1997)] for coupled qubits, and that it corresponds to a capacitive coupling
between the array and the cavity mode. From extensive numerical solutions of
the model in one dimension, we find that the array locks into a coherent,
periodic state above a critical number of active junctions, that the
current-voltage characteristics of the array have self-induced resonant steps
(SIRS's), that when active junctions are synchronized on a SIRS, the
energy emitted into the resonant cavity is quadratic in , and that when a
fixed number of junctions is biased on a SIRS, the energy is linear in the
input power. All these results are in agreement with recent experiments. By
choosing the initial conditions carefully, we can drive the array into any of a
variety of different integer SIRS's. We tentatively identify terms in the
equations of motion which give rise to both the SIRS's and the coherence
threshold. We also find higher-order integer SIRS's and fractional SIRS's in
some simulations. We conclude that a resonant cavity can produce threshold
behavior and SIRS's even in a one-dimensional array with appropriate
experimental parameters, and that the experimental data, including the coherent
emission, can be understood from classical equations of motion.Comment: 15 pages, 10 eps figures, submitted to Phys. Rev.
Quantum state engineering with Josephson-junction devices
We review recent theoretical and experimental progress in quantum state
engineering with Josephson junction devices. The concepts of quantum computing
have stimulated an increased activity in the field. Either charges or phases
(fluxes) of the Josephson systems can be used as quantum degrees of freedom,
and their quantum state can be manipulated coherently by voltage and current
pulses. They thus can serve as qubits, and quantum logic gates can be
performed. Their phase coherence time, which is limited, e.g., by the
electromagnetic fluctuations in the control circuit, is long enough to allow a
series of these manipulations. The quantum measurement process performed by a
single-electron transistor, a SQUID, or further nanoelectronic devices is
analyzed in detail.Comment: An article prepared for Reviews of Modern Physics, 46 pages, 23
figure
Moving glass theory of driven lattices with disorder
We study periodic structures, such as vortex lattices, moving in a random
potential. As predicted in [T. Giamarchi, P. Le Doussal Phys. Rev. Lett. 76
3408 (1996)] the periodicity in the direction transverse to motion leads to a
new class of driven systems: the Moving Glasses. We analyse using several RG
techniques the properties at T=0 and : (i) decay of translational long
range order (ii) particles flow along static channels (iii) the channel pattern
is highly correlated (iv) barriers to transverse motion. We demonstrate the
existence of the ``transverse critical force'' at T=0. A ``static random
force'' is shown to be generated by motion. Displacements grow logarithmically
in and algebraically in . The persistence of quasi long range
translational order in at weak disorder, or large velocity leads to
predict a topologically ordered ``Moving Bragg Glass''. This state continues
the static Bragg glass and is stable at , with non linear transverse
response and linear asymptotic behavior. In , or in at intermediate
disorder, another moving glass exist (the Moving Transverse Glass) with smectic
quasi order in the transverse direction. A phase diagram in force and
disorder for static and moving structures is proposed. For correlated disorder
we predict a ``moving Bose glass'' state with anisotropic transverse Meissner
effect and transverse pinning. We discuss experimental consequences such as
anomalous Hall effect in Wigner crystal and transverse critical current in
vortex lattice.Comment: 74 pages, 27 figures, RevTe
Ultrathin 2 nm gold as ideal impedance-matched absorber for infrared light
Thermal detectors are a cornerstone of infrared (IR) and terahertz (THz)
technology due to their broad spectral range. These detectors call for suitable
broad spectral absorbers with minimalthermal mass. Often this is realized by
plasmonic absorbers, which ensure a high absorptivity butonly for a narrow
spectral band. Alternativly, a common approach is based on impedance-matching
the sheet resistance of a thin metallic film to half the free-space impedance.
Thereby, it is possible to achieve a wavelength-independent absorptivity of up
to 50 %, depending on the dielectric properties of the underlying substrate.
However, existing absorber films typicallyrequire a thickness of the order of
tens of nanometers, such as titanium nitride (14 nm), whichcan significantly
deteriorate the response of a thermal transducers. Here, we present the
application of ultrathin gold (2 nm) on top of a 1.2 nm copper oxide seed layer
as an effective IR absorber. An almost wavelength-independent and long-time
stable absorptivity of 47(3) %, ranging from 2 m to 20 m, could be
obtained and is further discussed. The presented gold thin-film represents
analmost ideal impedance-matched IR absorber that allows a significant
improvement of state-of-the-art thermal detector technology
A Systematic Review and Evidence Synthesis of Non-Medical Triage, Self-Referral and Direct Access Services for Patients with Musculoskeletal Pain.
Introduction
The demand for musculoskeletal (MSK) care is rising, and is a growing challenge for general practice. Direct access to physiotherapy and other healthcare services may offer appropriate care for MSK pain patients but there is uncertainty regarding the effectiveness or efficiency of this approach in practice. This study aimed to review the evidence regarding characteristics, outcomes, barriers and facilitators of MSK triage and direct access services.
Methods
A comprehensive search of eight databases (including MEDLINE, EMBASE, and Cochrane library) up to February 2018 was conducted to identify studies (trials, cohorts and qualitative evidence) on direct access services for MSK in primary care settings. Using predefined inclusion and exclusion criteria, titles, abstracts, and subsequent full texts were independently screened by reviewers. Methodological quality of eligible studies was assessed using the mixed methods appraisal tool, and extracted data regarding study characteristics and results were independently reviewed. A narrative synthesis and grading of evidence was undertaken. Approaches to MSK triage and direct access were profiled along with their respective outcomes of care relating to patient-oriented and socioeconomic outcomes. Barriers and facilitators of each model of direct access services were also highlighted.
Results
9010 unique citations were screened, of which 26 studies were eligible. Three approaches (open access, combination and service pathway models) to MSK triage and direct access shared similar goals but were heterogeneous in application. MSK patients using direct access showed largely similar characteristics (age, sex and duration of symptoms) compared to GP-led care, although they were often younger, slightly more educated and with better socio-economic status than patients seen through GP-led care. Although many studies showed limitations in design or methods, outcomes of care (patient oriented outcomes of pain, and disability) did not show large differences between direct access and GP-led care. In most studies direct access patients were reported to have lower healthcare utilisation (fewer physiotherapy or GP consultations, analgesics or muscle relaxants prescriptions, or imaging procedures) and less time off work compared to GP-led care.
Discussion
This study provides insight into the current state of evidence regarding MSK triage and direct access services and highlights potential implications for future research, healthcare services planning, resource utilisation and organising care for MSK patients in primary care. There is consistent, although limited, evidence to suggest that MSK triage and direct access services lead to comparable clinical outcomes with lower healthcare consumption, and can help to manage GP workload. However, due to the paucity of strong empirical data from methodologically robust studies, a scale up and widespread roll out of direct access services cannot as yet be assumed to result in long term health and socio-economic gains
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