Publications by authors named "A S Spiers"

Article Synopsis
  • * A new shape-changing haptic interface (Shape) was tested, showing that individuals with VI were able to locate virtual targets much faster and more efficiently using Shape compared to traditional vibration feedback.
  • * Shape received better user experience ratings than vibration feedback, and its performance matched that of natural vision, indicating potential for this technology in enhancing navigation for those with VI.
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Background: The global increase in caesarean sections (CS), currently at 21.1% of all deliveries, has led to a rise in uterine scar defects, or 'niches', at the hysterotomy site. These niches, detectable in 13%-84% of cases via transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) and 42%-84% through sonohysterography (SHG), may contribute to gynaecological complications, including abnormal uterine bleeding, chronic pain and secondary infertility.

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Endometriosis is a complex gynecologic disorder characterized primarily by symptoms of pelvic pain, infertility, and altered quality of life. National and international guidelines highlight the diagnostic difficulties and lack of conclusive diagnostic tools for endometriosis. Furthermore, guidelines are becoming questionable at an increasingly rapid rate as new diagnostic techniques emerge.

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Femicide, the killing of women, girls, and infants, is a pervasive problem affecting all global societies. Policy and research are impeded by inaccurate and missing prevalence data, gaps in understanding of femicide, especially for hard-to-reach marginalized populations, and conflicting perceptions between jurisdictions. Leveraging on a combined socio-ecologic model and Public Health approach, the paper spans the methods of a computed tomography-based injury study, an in-depth media-analysis, a legislation evaluation study, and a data barriers' study.

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Introduction: Periodontal diseases are known to be associated with polymicrobial biofilms and inflammasome activation. A deeper understanding of the subgingival cytological (micro) landscape, the role of extracellular DNA (eDNA) during periodontitis, and contribution of the host immune eDNA to inflammasome persistence, may improve our understanding of the mechanisms underlaying severe forms of periodontitis.

Methods: In this work, subgingival biolfilms developing on biologically neutral polyethylene terephthalate films placed in gingival cavities of patients with chronic periodontitis were investigated by confocal laser scanning microscopy (CLSM).

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