bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Meralgia paresthetica treated by injection, decompression, and neurectomy: a systematic review and meta-analysis of pain and operative outcomes
Authors: Lu Victor M. , Burks S. Shelby , Heath Rainya N. , Wolde Tizeta , Spinner Robert J. , Levi Allan D.
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVE

Meralgia paresthetica is caused by entrapment of the lateral femoral cutaneous nerve (LFCN) and often presents with pain. Multiple treatment options targeting the LFCN can be pursued to treat the pain should conservative measures fail, with the most common options being injection, neurolysis, and neurectomy. However, their efficacy in causing pain relief and their clinical outcomes have yet to be directly compared. The aim of this study was to interrogate the contemporary literature and quantitatively define how these options compare.

METHODS

The electronic databases Ovid Embase, PubMed, SCOPUS, and the Cochrane Library were interrogated from inception to May 2020 following the PRISMA guidelines. Candidate articles were screened against prespecified criteria. Outcome data were abstracted and pooled by random-effects meta-analysis of proportions.

RESULTS

There were 25 articles that satisfied all criteria, reporting outcomes for a total of 670 meralgia paresthetica patients, with 78 (12%) treated by injection, 496 (74%) by neurolysis, and 96 (14%) by neurectomy. The incidence of complete pain relief was 85% (95% CI 71%–96%) after neurectomy, 63% (95% CI 56%–71%) after neurolysis, and 22% (95% CI 13%–33%) after injection, which were all statistically different (p < 0.01). The incidence of revision procedures was 12% (95% CI 4%–22%) after neurolysis and 0% (95% CI 0%–2%) after neurectomy, which were significantly lower than 81% (95% CI 64%–94%) after injection (p < 0.01). The incidences of treatment complications were statistically comparable across all three treatments, ranging from 0% to 5% (p = 0.34).

CONCLUSIONS

There are multiple treatment options to target pain in meralgia paresthetica. The incidence of complete pain relief appears to be the greatest among the 3 interventions after neurectomy, accompanied by the lowest incidence of revision procedures. These findings should help inform patient preference and expectations. Greater exploration of the anatomical rationale for incomplete pain relief after surgical intervention will assist in optimizing further surgical treatment for meralgia paresthetica.
Clinical and radiological results of indirect decompression after anterior lumbar interbody fusion in central spinal canal stenosis
Authors: Lee Dong Hyun , Lee Dong-Geun , Hwang Jin Sub , Jang Jae-Won , Maeng Dae Hyeon , Park Choon Keun
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVE

Whereas the benefits of indirect decompression after lateral lumbar interbody fusion are well known, the effects of anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF) have not yet been verified. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical and radiological effects of indirect decompression after ALIF for central spinal canal stenosis. In this report, along with the many advantages of the anterior approach, the authors share cases with good outcomes that they have encountered.

METHODS

The authors performed a retrospective analysis of 64 consecutive patients who underwent ALIF for central spinal canal stenosis with instability and mixed foraminal stenosis between January 2015 and December 2018 at their hospital. Clinical assessments were performed using the visual analog scale score, the Oswestry Disability Index, and the modified Macnab criteria. The radiographic parameters were determined from pre- and postoperative cross-sectional MRI scans of the spinal canal and were compared to evaluate neural decompression after ALIF. The average follow-up period was 23.3 ± 1.3 months.

RESULTS

All clinical parameters, including the visual analog scale score, Oswestry Disability Index, and modified Macnab criteria, improved significantly. The mean operative duration was 254.8 ± 60.8 minutes, and the intraoperative bleeding volume was 179.8 ± 119.3 ml. In the radiological evaluation, radiological parameters of the cross-sections of the spinal canal showed substantial development. The spinal canal size improved by an average of 43.3% (p < 0.001) after surgery. No major complications occurred; however, aspiration guided by ultrasonography was performed in 2 patients because of a pseudocyst and fluid collection.

CONCLUSIONS

ALIF can serve as a suitable alternative to extensive posterior approaches. The authors suggest that ALIF can be used for decompression in central spinal canal stenosis as well as restoration of the foraminal dimensions, thus allowing decompression of the nerve roots.
Endoscope-assisted posterior quadrant disconnection plus corpus callosotomy: case report
Authors: LoPresti Melissa A. , Wagner Kathryn , Lam Sandi
Published: January 2021

Intractable epilepsy impacts many children. Surgically resective and palliative treatments have developed to increase seizure freedom or palliate the seizure burden in those with medically refractory epilepsy. However, surgical epilepsy treatment can confer significant morbidity and death. Endoscope-assisted surgical approaches may be helpful in reducing the morbidity related to traditional open surgical approaches while allowing for good visualization of surgical targets. Here, the authors report a case utilizing an endoscope-assisted keyhole approach to perform a posterior quadrantectomy and corpus callosotomy, achieving the surgical goals of disconnection and reducing the need for large craniotomy exposure. They present the case of a 17-year-old male with medically refractory epilepsy treated with endoscope-assisted posterior quadrantectomy and corpus callosotomy through two mini-craniotomies to achieve a functional disconnection. To the authors’ knowledge, this is the first reported case of an endoscope-assisted approach for a posterior quadrantectomy for surgical epilepsy treatment in an adult or a pediatric patient. The case is reported to highlight the technical nuances and benefits of this approach in select patients as well as the expansion of applications of endoscope-assisted epilepsy surgery.
Change in pelvic incidence between the supine and standing positions in patients with bilateral sacroiliac joint vacuum signs
Authors: Mikula Anthony L. , Fogelson Jeremy L. , Oushy Soliman , Pinter Zachariah W. , Peters Pierce A. , Abode-Iyamah Kingsley , Sebastian Arjun S. , Freedman Brett , Currier Bradford L. , Polly David W. , Elder Benjamin D.
Published: January 2021

OBJECTIVE

Pelvic incidence (PI) is a commonly utilized spinopelvic parameter in the evaluation and treatment of patients with spinal deformity and is believed to be a fixed parameter. However, a fixed PI assumes that there is no motion across the sacroiliac (SI) joint, which has been disputed in recent literature. The objective of this study was to determine if patients with SI joint vacuum sign have a change in PI between the supine and standing positions.

METHODS

A retrospective chart review identified patients with a standing radiograph, supine radiograph, and CT scan encompassing the SI joints within a 6-month period. Patients were grouped according to their SI joints having either no vacuum sign, unilateral vacuum sign, or bilateral vacuum sign. PI was measured by two independent reviewers.

RESULTS

Seventy-three patients were identified with an average age of 66 years and a BMI of 30 kg/m2. Patients with bilateral SI joint vacuum sign (n = 27) had an average absolute change in PI of 7.2° (p < 0.0001) between the standing and supine positions compared to patients with unilateral SI joint vacuum sign (n = 20) who had a change of 5.2° (p = 0.0008), and patients without an SI joint vacuum sign (n = 26) who experienced a change of 4.1° (p = 0.74). ANOVA with post hoc Tukey test showed a statistically significant difference in the change in PI between patients with the bilateral SI joint vacuum sign and those without an SI joint vacuum sign (p = 0.023). The intraclass correlation coefficient between the two reviewers was 0.97 for standing PI and 0.96 for supine PI (p < 0.0001).

CONCLUSIONS

Patients with bilateral SI joint vacuum signs had a change in PI between the standing and supine positions, suggesting there may be increasing motion across the SI joint with significant joint degeneration.
Review of: Jewish Mystical and Gnostic Pseudoepigraphs. Saint Petersburg: RKhGA Press, 2014. 302 p. ISBN 978-5-88812-585-4
Authors: Вевюрко Илья Сергеевич
Published: January 2021

Эта книга представляет собой публикацию переводов ряда псевдоэпиграфических произведений: сохранившихся частей арамейского текста Первой книги Еноха (далее 1 Ен.) и ассоциирующихся с ней фрагментов из Кумрана, Книги небесных Дворцов (она же Еврейская, или Третья книга Еноха) с вариациями некоторых глав из разных рукописных традиций в виде приложения, а также Книги Авраама (Сефер Йецира, или Книги созидания). Все эти памятники в переводе И. Р . Т антлевского сопровождены научными предисловиями и комментариями.

This book is a publication of translations of a number of pseudepigraphic works: the surviving parts of the Aramaic text of the First Book of Enoch (hereafter 1 En.) and its associated fragments from Qumran, the Book of Heavenly Palaces (aka Hebrew or Third Book of Enoch) with variations of some chapters from various manuscript traditions as an appendix, and the Book of Abraham (Sefer Yetsir, or Book of Creation). All these monuments, translated by J.R. Tantlev. Tantlevsky is accompanied by scholarly prefaces and commentaries.
Factores que limitan la práctica del tenis de campo en la ciudad de Bucaramanga
Authors:   Club Deportivo Hormigueros F.N.R., Flórez Rincón Neyder Alberto , Peinado Rincón Edwin Halley ,   Universidad Santo Tomás, Reyes Medina Nicolás ,   Universidad Santo Tomás
Published: January 2021

Introducción: El tenis es un deporte que puede ser practicado de manera individual y colectiva, de vasta complejidad, práctica que cada día cuenta con deportistas más habilidosos, por lo que se pretende conocer las limitantes que tiene este deporte en la ciudad de Bucaramanga. Objetivo: Determinar los factores sociales, económicos o institucionales que limitan la práctica deportiva del tenis de campo en Bucaramanga. Metodología: Fueron seleccionados 40 jóvenes con edades comprendidas entre los 14 y los 18 años de edad, a quienes se les aplicó una encuesta de 19 preguntas relacionadas con la práctica del tenis de campo. Resultados: Con base en las encuestas aplicadas, se halló que más del 97,5% de las personas encuestadas les gusta el deporte, pero solo el 3% practican el tenis y el fútbol predomina con un 50%; la mayoría de los encuestados están interesados en la práctica del tenis, les gustaría poder practicarlo y el lugar más adecuado, según ellos, es en clubes y directamente en la liga de tenis. Conclusiones: Las encuestas aplicadas arrojaron que una de las principales limitantes son la falta de escenarios y de recursos para la práctica del deporte, además que los entes gubernamentales encargados, no brindan suficientes auxilios para poder suplir las necesidades que se presentan en el entorno. Por otra parte, la escolaridad no incentiva desde temprana edad la práctica del tenis, siendo otra deficiencia marcada en el campo.
PENGARUH PROFITABILITAS, UKURAN PERUSAHAAN, LEVERAGE, KEPEMILIKAN MANAJERIAL DAN CAPITAL INTENSITY RATIO TERHADAP TAX AVOIDANCE
Authors: Bandaro Ledya Akmal Syaflet , Ariyanto Stefanus
Published: January 2021

This research aims to study the factors affecting Effective Tax Rate as a ratio indicates the efficiency of tax burden management by companies. The factors are Return on Assets (ROA), Ukuran Perusahaan (SIZE), Leverage (LEV), Managerial Ownership (KPM) dan Capital Intensity Ratio (CIR). Research sample were taken from the population of public manufacturing companies in Indonesia for the period 2016-2018, selected with predetermined criteria, resulting 55 companies from the population. The data is analysed using linear regression technique. This research reveals that the only variable that has significant influence towards Effective Tax Rate is Return on Assets and all the variables are simultaneously have effect towards Effective Tax Rate.

 

Keywords: Return on Assets, leverage ratio, Firm Size, Managerial Ownership, Capital intensity, tax avoidance, effective tax rate.
Indonesia PENGARUH LITERASI KEUANGAN TERHADAP INKLUSI KEUANGAN DENGAN MENGGUNAKAN SOCIAL CAPITAL SEBAGAI VARIABEL MEDIATOR
Authors: Natalia Maya Angela , KURNIASARI FLORENTINA , Hendrawaty Ernie , Oktaviani Vina Medya
Published: January 2021

Abstract-MSMEs plays an important role to support Indonesia’s economic growth. There is an urgency to increase the financial literacy and skills for MSMEs, especially in managing their fund to make their businesses alive. The government believed that the financial literacy was one way to achieve the society prosperity by taking advantage from the collectivisim culture of Indonesian. This study is to examine the effect of financial literacy on financial inclusion by using social capital mediation at MSMEs in South Tangerang City. The questionnaires were distributed to some MSME’s district in South Tangerang regency. All data collection were furthered analyzed using Structural Equation Model on AMOS 24. The research showed that financial literacy does not affect financial inclusion, financial literacy affects social capital and social capital as a mediator variable on the relationship of financial literacy affects financial inclusion in MSMEs in South Tangerang City. It can be concluded that there is an influence of social capital that connects financial literacy to financial inclusion. All the stakeholders in the financial ecosystem in Indonesia, including financial institutions and the government as regulators, will be better to use the power of social capital to increase financial literacy and financial inclusion in Indonesia.

Keywords: Financial Literacy, Financial Inclusion, Social Capital, SMEs, South Tangerang City
Porphyromonas Gingivalis May Seek the Alzheimer’s Disease Brain to Acquire Iron from Its Surplus
Authors: Olsen Ingar
Published: January 2021

Iron accumulates in the brain of subjects with Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Here it promotes the aggregation of amyloid-β plaques in which it is abundant. Iron induces amyloid-β neurotoxicity by damaging free radicals and causing oxidative stress in brain areas with neurodegeneration. It can also bind to tau in AD and enhance the toxicity of tau through co-localization with neurofibrillary tangles and induce accumulation of these tangles. Porphyromonas gingivalis is a key oral pathogen in the widespread biofilm-induced disease “chronic” periodontitis, and recently, has been suggested to have an important role in the pathogenesis of AD. P. gingivalis has an obligate requirement for iron. The current paper suggests that P. gingivalis seeks the AD brain, where it has been identified, to satisfy this need. If this is correct, iron chelators binding iron could have beneficial effects in the treatment of AD. Indeed, studies from both animal AD models and humans with AD have indicated that iron chelators, e.g., lactoferrin, can have such effects. Lactoferrin can also inhibit P. gingivalis growth and proteinases and its ability to form biofilm.
Characterisation and optimisation of foams for varicose vein sclerotherapy
Authors: Roberts T.G. , Cox S.J. , Lewis A.L. , Jones S.A.
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND: Foam sclerotherapy is the process of using an aqueous foam to deliver surfactant to a varicose vein to damage vein wall endothelial cells, causing the vein to spasm, collapse and ultimately be re-absorbed into the body. Aqueous foams are complex fluids that can exhibit a significant yield stress and high effective viscosity which depend on their composition, particularly the bubble size and liquid fraction. OBJECTIVE: To characterise the properties of foams used for varicose vein sclerotherapy and determine their effectiveness in the displacement of blood during sclerotherapy. METHODS: Foams are modelled as yield stress fluids and their flow profiles in a model vein are predicted. Values of the yield stress are determined from experimental data for three different foams using the Sauter mean of the bubble size distribution. Along with the measured liquid fraction of the foams, this information is collected into a Bingham number which entirely characterises the process of sclerotherapy. RESULTS: Polydispersity in bubble size has a strong effect on the yield stress of a foam and the Sauter mean of the size distribution better captures the effects of a few large bubbles. Reducing the polydispersity increases the yield stress, and a higher yield stress results in a larger plug region moving along the vein, which is more effective in displacing blood. The width of the plug region is proportional to the Bingham number, which also has a quadratic dependence on the liquid fraction of the foam. Assuming typical values for the rate of injection of a foam, we predict that for a vein of diameter 5 mm, the most effective foams have low liquid fraction, a narrow size distribution, and a Bingham number B ≈ 4.5. CONCLUSIONS: The Sauter mean radius provides the most appropriate measure of the bubble size for sclerotherapy and the Bingham number then provides a simple measure of the efficacy of foam sclerotherapy in a vein of a given size, and explains the ability of different foams to remove varicose veins. Foams containing small bubbles, with a narrow size distribution, and a low liquid fraction are beneficial for sclerotherapy.
Legal Analysis of Government Ships’ Immunity in the Light of Sustainable Development and Environmental Security
Authors: Samiotis G. , Grekos D. , Saviolakis P.
Published: January 2021

The immunity accorded to military ships and government ships used for non-commercial service in the high seas does not, in many cases, comply with the environmental protection measures set by the UN Convention on the Law of the Sea (UNCLOS). Both coastal and flag States attempt to balance their differing interests through UNCLOS; coastal States support the environmental protection of the high seas adjacent to their maritime zones while the flag States claim the rights of immunity and freedom of navigation. The jurisdictional immunity in the high seas accorded to government ships used only for non-commercial service will continue to raise inter-State disputes regarding the nature of permissible services and environmental protection. States should engage in a dialogue on these issues, in which they could discuss the concept of non-commercial service in the high seas, and bring into focus the potentially serious socio-economic and environmental consequences, such as accidental marine pollution caused by these ships.
On the General Position Number of Complementary Prisms
Authors: Neethu P. K. , Chandran S.V. Ullas , Changat Manoj , Klavžar Sandi
Published: January 2021

The general position number gp( G) of a graph G is the cardinality of a largest set of vertices S such that no element of S lies on a geodesic between two other elements of S. The complementary prism G[Formula: see text] of G is the graph formed from the disjoint union of G and its complement [Formula: see text] by adding the edges of a perfect matching between them. It is proved that gp( G[Formula: see text]) ≤ n( G) + 1 if G is connected and gp( G[Formula: see text]) ≤ n( G) if G is disconnected. Graphs G for which gp( G[Formula: see text]) = n( G) + 1 holds, provided that both G and [Formula: see text] are connected, are characterized. A sharp lower bound on gp( G[Formula: see text]) is proved. If G is a connected bipartite graph or a split graph then gp( G[Formula: see text]) ∈ { n( G), n( G)+1}. Connected bipartite graphs and block graphs for which gp( G[Formula: see text]) = n( G) + 1 holds are characterized. A family of block graphs is constructed in which the gp-number of their complementary prisms is arbitrary smaller than their order.
Therapeutic Strategies Targeting Amyloid-β Receptors and Transporters in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Lao Kejing , Zhang Ruisan , Luan Jing , Zhang Yuelin , Gou Xingchun
Published: January 2021

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a chronic neurodegenerative disease that has been recognized as one of the most intractable medical problems with heavy social and economic costs. Amyloid-β (Aβ) has been identified as a major factor that participates in AD progression through its neurotoxic effects. The major mechanism of Aβ-induced neurotoxicity is by interacting with membrane receptors and subsequent triggering of aberrant cellular signaling. Besides, Aβ transporters also plays an important role by affecting Aβ homeostasis. Thus, these Aβ receptors and transporters are potential targets for the development of AD therapies. Here, we summarize the reported therapeutic strategies targeting Aβ receptors and transporters to provide a molecular basis for future rational design of anti-AD agents.
Quantitative Longitudinal Predictions of Alzheimer’s Disease by Multi-Modal Predictive Learning
Authors: Prakash Mithilesh , Abdelaziz Mahmoud , Zhang Linda , Strange Bryan A. , Tohka Jussi ,   for the Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: January 2021

Background:

Quantitatively predicting the progression of Alzheimer’s disease (AD) in an individual on a continuous scale, such as the Alzheimer’s Disease Assessment Scale-cognitive (ADAS-cog) scores, is informative for a personalized approach as opposed to qualitatively classifying the individual into a broad disease category.

Objective:

To evaluate the hypothesis that the multi-modal data and predictive learning models can be employed for future predicting ADAS-cog scores.

Methods:

Unimodal and multi-modal regression models were trained on baseline data comprised of demographics, neuroimaging, and cerebrospinal fluid based markers, and genetic factors to predict future ADAS-cog scores for 12, 24, and 36 months. We subjected the prediction models to repeated cross-validation and assessed the resulting mean absolute error (MAE) and cross-validated correlation (ρ) of the model.

Results:

Prediction models trained on multi-modal data outperformed the models trained on single modal data in predicting future ADAS-cog scores (MAE12, 24 & 36 months= 4.1, 4.5, and 5.0, ρ12, 24 & 36 months= 0.88, 0.82, and 0.75). Including baseline ADAS-cog scores to prediction models improved predictive performance (MAE12, 24 & 36 months= 3.5, 3.7, and 4.6, ρ12, 24 & 36 months= 0.89, 0.87, and 0.80).

Conclusion:

Future ADAS-cog scores were predicted which could aid clinicians in identifying those at greater risk of decline and apply interventions at an earlier disease stage and inform likely future disease progression in individuals enrolled in AD clinical trials.
Improving the Diagnosis of the Frontal Variant of Alzheimer’s Disease with the DAPHNE Scale
Authors: Lehingue Elsa , Gueniat Julien , Jourdaa Sandra , Hardouin Jean BenoÎt , Pallardy Amandine , Courtemanche Hélène , Rocher Laëtitia , Etcharry-Bouyx Frédérique , Auriacombe Sophie , Mollion Hélène , Formaglio Maité , Rouaud Olivier , Bretonnière Cédric , Thomas-Antérion Catherine , Boutoleau-Bretonnière Claire
Published: January 2021

Background:

The frontal variant of Alzheimer’s disease (fAD) is poorly understood and poorly defined. The diagnosis remains challenging. The main differential diagnosis is the behavioral variant of frontotemporal degeneration (bvFTD). For fAD, there is some dissociation between the clinical frontal presentation and imaging and neuropathological studies, which do not always find a specific involvement of the frontal lobes. DAPHNE is a behavioral scale, which demonstrated excellent performance to distinguish between bvFTD and AD.

Objective:

The aim of the present study was to assess the reliability of this new tool to improve the clinical diagnosis of fAD.

Methods:

Twenty fAD patients and their caregivers were prospectively included and were compared with 36 bvFTD and 22 AD patients.

Results:

The three main behavioral disorders in the fAD patients were apathy, loss of empathy, and disinhibition. Three disorders were discriminant because they were less frequent and less severe in the fAD patients than in the bvFTD patients, namely hyperorality, neglect, and perseverations. This specific pattern of behavioral disorders was corroborated by SPECT or 18FDG PET-CT scan that showed that patients with fAD could have a medial frontal hypoperfusion, whereas in bvFTD patients the orbitofrontal cortex was the main involved region, with more diffuse hypoperfusion.

Conclusion:

We demonstrated that DAPHNE had good sensitivity and good specificity to discriminate between the three groups and in particular between fAD and bvFTD patients. DAPHNE is a quick tool that could help clinicians in memory clinics not only to differentiate bvFTD from typical AD but also from fAD.
Plasma Vitamin B12 Levels, High-Dose Vitamin B12 Treatment, and Risk of Dementia
Authors: Arendt Johan Frederik Håkonsen , Horváth-Puhó Erzsébet , Sørensen Henrik Toft , Nexø Ebba , Pedersen Lars , Ording Anne Gulbech , Henderson Victor W.
Published: January 2021

Background:

It is controversial whether B12 deficiency causes dementia or B12 treatment can prevent dementia.

Objective:

To assess associations between low plasma (P-)B12 levels, B12 treatment, and risk of Alzheimer’s disease (AD; primary outcome) and all-cause or vascular dementia (secondary outcomes).

Methods:

We conducted a population-based cohort study using Danish registry data to assess associations between low P-B12 levels, high-dose injection or oral B12 treatment, and risk of dementia (study period 2000–2013). The primary P-B12 cohort included patients with a first-time P-B12 measurement whose subsequent B12 treatment was recorded. The secondary B12 treatment cohort included patients with a first-time B12 prescription and P-B12 measurement within one year before this prescription. For both cohorts, patients with low P-B12 levels (<200 pmol/L) were propensity score-matched 1:1 with patients with normal levels (200–600 pmol/L). We used multivariable Cox regression to compute 0–15-year hazard ratios for dementia.

Results:

For low P-B12 and normal P-B12 level groups, we included 53,089 patients in the primary P-B12 cohort and 13,656 patients in the secondary B12 treatment cohort. In the P-B12 cohort, hazard ratios for AD centered around one, regardless of follow-up period or treatment during follow-up. In the B12 treatment cohort, risk of AD was unaffected by low pre-treatment P-B12 levels, follow-up period and type of B12 treatment. Findings were similar for all-cause and vascular dementia.

Conclusion:

We found no associatio1n between low P-B12 levels and dementia. Associations were unaffected by B12 treatment. Results do not support routine screening for B12 deficiency in patients with suspected dementia.
Molecular Processing of Tau Protein in Progressive Supranuclear Palsy: Neuronal and Glial Degeneration
Authors: Martínez-Maldonado Alejandra , Ontiveros-Torres Miguel Ángel , Harrington Charles R. , Montiel-Sosa José Francisco , Prandiz Raúl García-Tapia , Bocanegra-López Patricia , Sorsby-Vargas Andrew Michael , Bravo-Muñoz Marely , Florán-Garduño Benjamín , Villanueva-Fierro Ignacio , Perry George , Garcés-Ramírez Linda , de la Cruz Fidel , Martínez-Robles Sandra , Pacheco-Herrero Mar , Luna-Muñoz José
Published: January 2021

Background:

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) and progressive supranuclear palsy (PSP) are examples of neurodegenerative diseases, characterized by abnormal tau inclusions, that are called tauopathies. AD is characterized by highly insoluble paired helical filaments (PHFs) composed of tau with abnormal post-translational modifications. PSP is a neurodegenerative disease with pathological and clinical heterogeneity. There are six tau isoforms expressed in the adult human brain, with repeated microtubule-binding domains of three (3R) or four (4R) repeats. In AD, the 4R:3R ratio is 1:1. In PSP, the 4R isoform predominates. The lesions in PSP brains contain phosphorylated tau aggregates in both neurons and glial cells.

Objective:

Our objective was to evaluate and compare the processing of pathological tau in PSP and AD.

Methods:

Double and triple immunofluorescent labeling with antibodies to specific post-translational tau modifications (phosphorylation, truncation, and conformational changes) and thiazin red (TR) staining were carried out and analyzed by confocal microscopy.

Results:

Our results showed that PSP was characterized by phosphorylated tau in neurofibrillary tangles (NFTs) and glial cells. Tau truncated at either Glu391 or Asp421 was not observed. Extracellular NFTs (eNFTs) and glial cells in PSP exhibited a strong affinity for TR in the absence of intact or phosphorylated tau.

Conclusion:

Phosphorylated tau was as abundant in PSP as in AD. The development of eNFTs from both glial cells and neuronal bodies suggests that truncated tau species, different from those observed in AD, could be present in PSP. Additional studies on truncated tau within PSP lesions could improve our understanding of the pathological processing of tau and help identify a discriminatory biomarker for AD and PSP.
Obesity and White Matter Neuroinflammation Related Edema in Alzheimer’s Disease Dementia Biomarker Negative Cognitively Normal Individuals
Authors: Ly Maria , Raji Cyrus A. , Yu Gary Z. , Wang Qing , Wang Yong , Schindler Suzanne E. , An Hongyu , Samara Amjad , Eisenstein Sarah A. , Hershey Tamara , Smith Gordon , Klein Samuel , Liu Jingxia , Xiong Chengjie , Ances Beau M. , Morris John C. , Benzinger Tammie L.S.
Published: January 2021

Background:

Obesity is related to quantitative neuroimaging abnormalities including reduced gray matter volumes and impaired white matter microstructural integrity, although the underlying mechanisms are not well understood.

Objective:

We assessed influence of obesity on neuroinflammation imaging that may mediate brain morphometric changes. Establishing the role of neuroinflammation in obesity will enhance understanding of this modifiable disorder as a risk factor for Alzheimer’s disease (AD) dementia.

Methods:

We analyzed brain MRIs from 104 cognitively normal participants (CDR = 0) and biomarker negativity for CSF amyloid or tau. We classified body mass index (BMI) as normal (BMI <25, N = 62) or overweight and obese (BMI ≥25, N = 42). Blood pressure was measured. BMI and blood pressure classifications were related to neuroinflammation imaging (NII) derived edema fraction in 17 white matter tracts. This metric was also correlated to hippocampal volumes and CSF biomarkers of inflammation and neurodegeneration: YKL-40, SNAP25, VILIP, tau, and NFL.

Results:

Participants with BMI <25 had lower NII-derived edema fraction, with protective effects of normal blood pressure. Statistically significant white matter tracts included the internal capsule, external capsule, and corona radiata, FDR correc-ted for multiple comparisons to alpha = 0.05. Higher NII-derived edema fractions in the internal capsule, corpus callosum, gyrus, and superior fronto-occipital fasciculus were related with smaller hippocampal volumes only in individuals with BMI ≥25. There were no statistically significant correlations between NII-derived edema fraction and CSF biomarkers.

Conclusion:

We demonstrate statistically significant relationships between neuroinflammation, elevated BMI, and hippocampal volume, raising implications for neuroinflammation mechanisms of obesity-related brain dysfunction in cognitively normal elderly.
A Comparison of Traditional and Serious Game-Based Digital Markers of Cognition in Older Adults with Mild Cognitive Impairment and Healthy Controls
Authors: Iliadou Paraskevi , Paliokas Ioannis , Zygouris Stelios , Lazarou Eftychia , Votis Konstantinos , Tzovaras Dimitrios , Tsolaki Magdalini
Published: January 2021

Background:

Electroencephalography (EEG) has been used to assess brain activity while users are playing an immersive serious game.

Objective:

To assess differences in brain activation as measured with a non-intrusive wearable EEG device, differences in game performance and correlations between EEG power, game performance and global cognition, between cognitively impaired and non-impaired older adults, during the administration of a novel self-administered serious game-based test, the Virtual Supermarket Test (VST).

Methods:

43 older adults with subjective cognitive decline (SCD) and 33 older adults with mild cognitive impairment (MCI) were recruited from day centers for cognitive disorders. Global cognition was assessed with the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA). Brain activity was measured with a non-intrusive wearable EEG device in a resting state condition and while they were administered the VST.

Results:

During resting state condition, the MCI group showed increased alpha, beta, delta, and theta band power compared to the SCD group. During the administration of the VST, the MCI group showed increased beta and theta band power compared to the SCD group. Regarding game performance, alpha, beta, delta, and theta rhythms were positively correlated with average duration, while delta rhythm was positively correlated with mean errors. MoCA correlated with alpha, beta, delta, and theta rhythms and with average game duration and mean game errors indicating that elevated EEG rhythms in MCI may be associated with an overall cognitive decline.

Conclusion:

VST performance can be used as a digital biomarker. Cheap commercially available wearable EEG devices can be used for obtaining brain activity biomarkers.
Sensorless attitude estimation of three-degree-of-freedom actuator for image stabilization
Authors: Heya Akira , Hirata Katsuhiro
Published: January 2021

Space recognition is a crucial issue for autonomous systems such as unmanned aerial vehicles, walking robots, and autonomous cars. These systems are necessary to obtain information using a camera while moving. However, reduction in recognition accuracy and system size increase has created problems. To solve these problems, we proposed the three-degree-of-freedom (DOF) actuator for image stabilization. This paper proposes a novel initial position estimation method and sensorless attitude estimation method for the three-DOF actuator to further downsize and reduce weight. The effectiveness of the proposed methods is verified by a magnetic field analysis, using a three-dimensional finite element method and numerical simulations.
Effect of time harmonic current considering load condition on performance of canned induction motor
Authors: Li Ming , An Yuejun , Zhang Zhiheng , Deng Wenyu , Wang Guangyu , Qi Lijun , Kong Xiangling , Bi Delong , Shi Yong , Zhu Sheng
Published: January 2021

Canned induction motors fed by inverters are widely used in pharmaceutical, chemical, and nuclear fields. It is necessary to analyse the effect of time harmonic injected by the inverter on the performance of the canned induction motor. However, the existing researches are to consider the inverter and the motor separately, without analyzing the reverse effect of the induction motor as a nonlinear active load on the time harmonics of the inverter. Therefore, this paper establishes a field-circuit coupling analysis model of the canned induction motor considering the influence of load, and studies the effect of time harmonic current under different load conditions on the electromagnetic field, eddy current loss, and temperature field of the canned induction motor. The paper first uses the analysis method to determine the relationship between the time harmonic voltage of the inverter and the time harmonic current of the motor. Then, the electromagnetic field distribution, eddy current loss, and temperature field distribution of the canned induction motor under different load conditions are calculated. Besides, the laws of time harmonic current on the electromagnetic field, can loss and motor temperature distribution are found. These research results can not only provide a meaningful reference for analysis of the canned induction motor but also provide methods for design optimization and multi-physical field modeling analysis of the canned induction motor.
Gear efficiency estimation method through finite element and curve fitting
Authors: Halim Mohd Firdaus Mohd Ab , Sulaiman Erwan , Othman Raja Nor Firdaus K. Raja
Published: January 2021

The inclusion of high energy density permanent magnet (PM) in MG contributes to the high eddy current loss in magnetic gear and reduces its efficiency. There was limited research done that focused on gear efficiency behavior over a broader range of speed and in different gear ratios. In this paper, the function of gear efficiency concerning gear ratio and rotational speed is proposed. Torque and eddy current loss data were obtained through transient magnetic analysis using finite element software at several rotational ranges and gear ratios. The analytical approach through mathematical substitution was discussed to confirm the finding in the simulation. The result showed that the gear efficiency decreases as the speed increases. Nonetheless, the gear efficiency revealed improvement in efficiency as the gear ratio increases. Finally, gear efficiency behavior was modeled using the curve fitting method. Subsequently, based on the correlation study, an equation was proposed, yielding a 1% error compared to the new simulated data. With this proposed method and equation, the analysis and estimation of gear efficiency behavior over wider speed and gear ratios are simplified, thus reducing the need to perform simulation over different speeds and gear ratios.
Method of improving performance of the low-inductance PMSM drive system
Authors: Li Xiaoning , Wang Xiaoyuan , Gao Peng , Gu Yuxi
Published: January 2021

The disc coreless permanent magnet synchronous machine (PMSM) has a special coreless structure. This kind of PMSM has very low inductance, which is referred to as the low-inductance PMSM(LIPMSM) in this paper. The LIPMSM offers many advantages to drive systems. However, the current fluctuates strongly when driven by general converters, which makes the LIPMSM difficult to be popularized into modern drive systems. To tackle the above problems, a converter with output inductance is used. The influences of the inductance on the performance of the LIPMSM system are analysed, including current fluctuations, the maximum speed without flux weakening and the current response time. Based on above analyses, a method of obtaining the optimal inductance is proposed to obtain the optimal inductance simply and efficiently. The method has been verified through simulations and experiments. The system cannot work due to the huge current fluctuations when driven by the general converter. By using the converter with the optimal inductance, the current fluctuations have been reduced to 2 A. The experimental LIPMSM can reach 11000 rpm with very short response time of the current. Therefore, the LIPMSM system performance can been improved significantly and meet the requirements by using the converter with the optimal inductance.
Optimization design of magnetic gear integrated PMSG using improved bat algorithm for wave energy conversion
Authors: Fang Hong Wei , Wang Yu
Published: January 2021

The magnetic gear integrated permanent magnet synchronous generator (MG-PMSG) can reduce the acoustic noise and mechanical loss, which are caused by the mechanical gear box. It also has the merits of increasing efficiency and reducing system volume when it is used for wave energy conversion system. In this paper, an improved bat algorithm (BA) based on velocity weighting factor is proposed. The improved BA is applied for the optimization design of permanent magnet (PM) to reduce the cogging torque of MG-PMSG. The numerical model is constructed by response surface methodology (RSM). The influences of key pole shape parameters on cogging torque were investigated, including the eccentric distance, the pole-arc coefficient and the permanent magnet thickness. A global optimization design is then carried out by using the improved BA, so that the magnet dimensions corresponding to the optimal cogging torque are obtained. Finally, the performances of the MG-PMSG with the optimized permanent magnet are analyzed by finite element method. Results show that cogging torque, steady torque ripple and back electromotive force (EMF) waveform distortion of the optimized MG-PMSG are reduced.
Agents, Design, and Creativity in Moving Image Postproduction: Conditions for Collaborative Creativity in Digital Media
Authors: Swenberg Thorbjörn , Sverrisson Árni
Published: January 2021

This article analyzes how creativity in the making of films and TV shows is constrained as a consequence of the shift to digital production technology, and the resulting change in work activities for different crafts involved in the postproduction process. We adapt the concept of creative spaces in order to describe these constraints, and we introduce the term audiovisual assemblies to facilitate the analysis of collaboration. We argue that this study is well-accomplished by analyzing collections of existing media productions. We identify two contradicting practices: first, the development of new conventions which reallocate roles and resources in the making of audiovisual assemblies; and second, the high rate and broad range of incremental technological change which demand unconventional, but creative, problem-solving practices from everyone involved. Examples are provided from an innovative Swedish TV production.
Effects of Function-Based Models in Biologically Inspired Design
Authors: Liu Wei , Rosa Francesco , Cascini Gaetano , Tan Runhua
Published: January 2021

Function-Based (FB) representations of complex systems play an important role in Biologically Inspired Design (BID) by easing the knowledge interchange among biologists, engineers and designers. Many representations have been proposed by scholars over the years, but none of them has ever become a clear favorite. As a matter of fact, each model represents the system from a distinctive perspective. This paper explores the effects of these different representations as creative stimuli for students in order to obtain recommendations for fostering innovation in education and training practices. After introducing a selection of FB models for BID, the paper describes an experiment designed to allow a quantitative comparison of the outcomes of a BID design challenge among undergraduate students attending a course on methods and tools for conceptual design. An analysis of the results of the experiment is followed by the authors’ reflection on directions for educational development.
Is your physio tired? Exploring sleep deprivation in Irish physiotherapists
Authors: Whelehan Dale F. , Baily-Scanlan Maria , Ridgway Paul F.
Published: January 2021

INTRODUCTION: Health professionals have been subject to increased levels fatigue when compared to population norms. It remains unknown if physiotherapists report high levels of sleep deprivation. This paper explores levels of sleep deprivation, and its potential impact on professional performance. METHODS: A survey was distributed through the Irish Society of Chartered Physiotherapists. The survey explored work characteristics, sleep quality using the Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, daytime sleepiness using the Epworth Sleepiness Scale, and the professional and non-professional causes of sleep deprivation in the profession. Pearson correlation and independent t-tests were used on SPSS to explore relationship between variables. RESULTS: There was a total of 559 valid respondents. Females accounted for 82% and public sector employees accounted for 63% of respondents. Over half (50.1%) of respondents said they felt sleep deprivation impacted on their practice. Most physiotherapists (63.3%) of respondents said they did not feel that their practice impacted sleep. The PSQI global score was 5.6 indicating “poor” quality of sleep. The ESS global score was 6.0 indicating ‘higher normal daytime sleepiness’. Potential causes of sleep deprivation included professional issues relating to burnout and work-life balance, and non-professional reasons such as parenthood. DISCUSSION AND CONCLUSION: A mismatch exists between self-reported sleep deprivation and validated measurements of sleep indicating poor self-awareness of the impact of sleep in optimising professional performance. A work-life balance is needed to facilitate a safe and efficient workforce. Individual and organizational efforts should be made to improve sleep quantity and quality to reduce personnel fatigue and enhance physiotherapists professional performance.
Effects of sensory stimulation on level of consciousness in comatose patients after traumatic brain injury: A systematic review
Authors: Alashram Anas R. , Annino Giuseppe , Aldajah Salameh , Bani Hamad Sakher , Aliswed Besan , Padua Elvira
Published: January 2021

BACKGROUND: A coma is a prolonged unconscious state in which there is no response to various stimuli. In response, sensory stimulation was designed to stimulate brain plasticity and to promote brain regeneration. The effects of sensory stimulation intervention on comatose patients following traumatic brain injury (TBI) remain unclear. OBJECTIVES: This study aimed to examine the effects of sensory stimulation on the level of consciousness (LOC) after TBI and to identify the effective treatment dosage. METHODS: We searched PubMed, REHABDATA, EMBASE, CINAHL, MEDLINE, PEDro, SCOPUS, and Web of Science from inception to February 2020. Experimental studies investigating the influence of sensory stimulation on the LOC in the comatose patients (Glasgow coma scale < 8) following TBI were selected. The Physiotherapy Evidence Database scale (PEDro) was used to evaluate the methodological quality. RESULTS: Eleven studies met the inclusion criteria. Six were randomized controlled trials (RCTs), clinical controlled trials (CCTs) (n = 2), and pilot studies (n = 3). A total of 356 comatose patients (<8 on GCS) post-TBI were included in this study with sample sizes ranging from 5–90 patients. The sample sizes for the selected studies ranged from 5 to 90 patients. The scores on the PEDro scale ranged from three to eight, with a median score of seven. The multimodal sensory stimulation showed beneficial effects on the LOC in the comatose patients following TBI. The evidence for the effects of unimodal stimulation was limited, while the optimal treatment dosage remains unclear. CONCLUSIONS: The multimodal sensory stimulation intervention improves the LOC in patients with coma after TBI compared with unimodal stimulation. Further high-quality studies are needed to verify these findings.
Text messages to support e-cigarette use for smoking cessation: a tool for researchers
Authors: Cox Sharon , Naughton Felix , Kimber Catherine , Sideropoulos Vassilis , Vangeli Eleni , Notley Caitlin , Brown Jamie , Frings Daniel , Dawkins Lynne
Published: January 2021

E-cigarettes are now the most popular quit aid chosen by smokers in England. Mobile phone text messages have been shown to be a useful tool in facilitating smoking cessation attempts by providing behaviour change support. To date, no published examples of text messages exist specifically aimed at smokers attempting to quit with e-cigarettes (vaping). As part of a parent study, we led an online call to vapers asking what advice and information they would give, in the form of a text message, to smokers wishing to quit smoking by vaping. We received 102 initial suggestions. Alongside behaviour change and smoking cessation experts, we checked the messages for readability and scientific accuracy, removed inappropriate messages, refined and edited others, and added additional messages. Messages were also grouped by theme and relevance to the stage of quitting. 95 messages were taken forward for further evaluation by 376 smokers, ex-smokers and vapers. Here we present the full set of 95 messages along with a final set of 78 that were selected and ordered for our parent study by two members of the research team along with four vapers. We encourage engagement with this resource and further validation from researchers interested in smoking cessation with e-cigarettes.