bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Prevalence and Interrelationship of Obesity in Hypertension
Authors: Gulzar Arif , Ali Riasat , Aleem ud Din Muhammad , Ahmad Aqeel , Siddiqui M. Faheem , Arif Zoya
Published: June 2021

Aim: To evaluate recognized parameters as obese or central obese and divided into groups. Methods: The study has been conducted in OPD of Medical Department of Pak Red Crescent Medical & Dental college and hospital which is located in rural area of Punjab Pakistan. Young patients in age group of 18-40 years with hypertension were selected. Fifty three patients without any known complication of hypertension were selected .The patients groups were made and obese patients were separated from non-obese in the form of tables and the results are noted. Results: Obesity was found in large proportion of observed groups of hypertension and it was noted in 60% of cases.The obese patients were with higher BMIrange in males and females. Conclusions: The obesity with hypertension in young our rural population is an alarming situation and the international and nationalevidences showing the interrelationship of the two conditions by certain mechanisms make it a matter of national health consideration. Keywords: Obesity, hypertension, rural area
Quality of life and Social Support Among Diagnose Bipolar Patients
Authors: Adnan M , Khan T , Razzaq B , Ghaffar R , Batool S , Shehzadi I , Qayum M , Mustafa A B , Hussain F , Makhdoom B J
Published: June 2021

Aim: To ascertain the relationship between quality of life and social support in bipolar patients who have been diagnosed. STUDY DESIGN: cross-sectional research design Place and duration of the study: The research was performed impatiently on the Sheikh Zayed Medical College, Rahim Yar Khan at the Department of Psychiatry and Behavioral Sciences, which ran from January 2018 to July of 2019. Method: Data was retrieved from 100 patients, with diagnosed patients of bipolar affective disorder. Quality of life and social support were assessed by quality of life scale (QOLS) developed by Burckhardt and Berline social support scale (BSSS) developed by Berline. Results: Research claims a close relationship between the presence of such things as quality of life and social help for people with Bipolar Disorder. Conclusion: Bipolar is linked to inadequate health and quality of life and social isolation, mostly due to ineffective social skills. Social support is critical to emotional stability and quality of life. It may help patients deal with difficulties and reduce depression and help in both the recovery phase and positive results of psychiatric treatment. What is currently being sought to be learned is how social care has an impact on the level of well-being for bipolar patients. Keywords: Quality of life, bipolar, validation, generalization
Women in Punjab are in Dire Need of Awareness Initiatives Related to Cervical Cancer and its Screening Tests
Authors: Kashif Zertaj , Rehman Aman ur , Warriach Sonia Zafar , Pasha Muhammad Bilal , Khan Zoya , Bashir Sehar
Published: June 2021

Cervical cancer is the third most common cancer and the fourth dominant cause of cancer related death in women throughout the globe. Eighty percent of cases occur in the developing nations1,2. The extent of this cancer is tough to be evaluated in Pakistanbecause of differing insufficient epidemiological figures obtainable in small scale studies, dealing only reported limited number of cases which are not representative of its true burden3,4,5. As stated by World Health Organization, in 2002, the pervasiveness of cervical cancer in Pakistan was 9 in 100,000; in 2008 it jumped up to 19.5/100,000. Claimed by various studies, this cancer is among the list of first ten frequent cancers in Pakistan6,7,8,9. It is one of the most avoidable cancers nowadays and we have all the tools to eradicate it, still the number of lives lost due to cervical cancer is very high in Pakistan as it is an ignored ailment here in terms of screening, prevention and vaccination9. Economically developed countries who invested capitals for organized screening projects have made notable progress in reducing both occurrence and mortality due to this specific cancer10. The out of proportion load of cervical cancer in developing countries is largely attributable to scarcity of functional screening projects11. In our over 500 bedded teaching hospital with a well running gynecology outdoor, we do receive cervical biopsies positive for invasive malignancies but hardly receive any Pap smear tests in laboratory that prompted us to check for cervical cancer screening especially Pap smear test related awareness among our non-medical ladies.As the foundation of cervical cancer eradication is screening and prevention, each country and its regions must device an elimination plan that fits into its own culture and geographic landscape. Keywords: perception and understanding of existing screening tests, preventive measures, cervical cancer
Comparison of Various Progesterone Drugs in Reducing Miscarriages
Authors: Zubair Hina , Riaz Lubna , Zahra Fartash , Malik Sara Saeed , Javed Rabail
Published: June 2021

Background: Threatened abortion is a common complication of pregnancy. In order to prevent miscarriage progesterone in various forms is administered in patients. This is done to allow pregnancy to proceed further beyond twenty week of gestation. Aim: To compare gravibinan (injected) with utrogestan/cyclogest (intra vaginal administration) in reduction of miscarriages. Study design: Case control study Place and duration of study: Department of Obstetrics & Gynecologiy, Mohtrama Benzair Bhutto Shaheed Medical College Mirpur and Department of Pediatric, Shaikh Zayed Hospital Lahore from 1st April 2020 to 30th September 2020. Methodology: Pregnant women, who had vaginal bleeding until 20 weeks of their pregnancy, were assessed for inclusion. Participants were divided into three groups. Group A was given gravibinan, Group B was given utrogestan and Group C was given cyclogest. Results: Women infested with gravibinan had 20% those who still had miscarriage while the number of miscarriages significantly decreased to 14.2% in utrogestan group and 13.63% in cyclogest group (p<0.005). Conclusion: Cyclogest proved a better drug of choice for reducing miscarriages. Keywords: Miscarriages, progesterone, pregnancy
Lavender aromatherapy for sleep in hospitalized patients: A scoping review
Authors: Jacob Ani , White Jane H.
Published: June 2021

Background and objective: The importance of promoting sleep for hospitalized patients is vital especially because sleep has been shown to promote healing. Complementary and alternative medicine approaches for health and wellness have been widely used in the United States. However, for hospitalized patients, while aromatherapy such as lavender is often used by nurses for comfort and sleep, the evidence for specific dosage and administration methods are unclear, even though its effectiveness has been shown and published.  The purpose of this scoping review is to highlight the significant issues surrounding the evidence to date for lavender aromatherapy’s clinical use for hospitalized patients.Methods: This review utilized the PRISMA steps to identify literature important to the study’s purpose.Results: After the initial search using specific keywords yielded 588 articles, further steps in the process resulted in 8 studies whose purpose was to test the effectiveness of lavender aromatherapy for sleep in hospitalized patients. Three major categories that resulted from the review addressed the clinical evidence limitations associated with lavender’s use for sleep: the wide range of sample characteristics and counties, mixed variables for study purposes, and disparate dosage and administration methods. Most significant for clinical practice was the disparate dosages and methods of lavender aromatherapy administration across the studies reviewed for effectiveness.Conclusion and implications: Nurses should proceed with caution when using lavender aromatherapy for hospitalized patients. This review highlighted the need for nurses to conduct and disseminate findings from randomized clinical trials utilizing hospitalized general medical-surgical patients. Testing dosages and administration methods that have shown to be effective for medical surgical hospitalized patients is warranted.
Pobreza infantil, privación y desigualdad intrahogar durante la recesión económica
Authors: Lanau Alba
Published: June 2021

La pobreza se mide generalmente a nivel de hogar. Sin embargo, hay evidencia creciente de que los hogares no distribuyen recursos equitativamente. Utilizando datos del módulo de privación de material en la Encuesta de Condiciones de Vida 2014, este artículo proporciona nueva evidencia sobre la desigualdad dentro del hogar en contextos de recesión económica. Los hogares se esfuerzan por proteger a los menores de los efectos de la pobreza; pero no siempre lo consiguen.
Identifying Handsaw Tooth Shape Based on the Micro- and Macroscopic Analysis of the Kerf Floor Contour
Authors: Greathouse Heather , Chapman Erin , Maxwell Ashley , Klales Alexandra
Published: June 2021

Skeletal trauma analysis is a major facet of forensic anthropology casework and can entail interpretation of sharp force saw trauma. Hand-powered saws are commonly used in cases of dismemberment and analysis requires differentiating class characteristics. Features of the kerf walls and floor provide information utilized in identifying set, shape, size, power, and direction of sawing motion of the tool. The focus of this study is to examine validity and reliability of determining tooth shape class characteristic (rip versus crosscut) from features of the kerf floor. Two crosscut and three rip handsaws, ranging from 6 to 16 teeth per inch, were used to make 30 incomplete cuts per saw for a total of 150 cuts. Each kerf floor was analyzed macroscopically and microscopically using a digital microscope at 30 × magnification by three observers of different experience levels (expert, experienced, and novice). Profile shapes were classified as U-shaped/concave (rip) or W-shaped/convex (crosscut) by each observer for all 150 cuts. Reliability tests using Cohen’s kappa ranged from substantial in the two less experienced observers to almost perfect in pairwise comparisons with the expert. Microscopic classification accuracy was 94.0% (423/450) for all three observers and macroscopic examination increased accuracy to 99.8% (449/450). Saw wear and tooth size were not a significant determiner in correct identification of saw tooth type. Overall, tooth shape can be reliably and accurately determined from incomplete cuts.
Hybrid Reality: The Rise of Deepfakes and Diverging Truths
Authors: Meckel Miriam , Steinacker Léa
Published: June 2021

While the manipulation of media has existed as long as their creation, recent advances in Artificial Intelligence (AI) have expedited the range of tampering techniques. Pictures, sound and moving images can now be altered and even generated entirely by computation. We argue that this development contributes to a “hybrid reality”, a construct of both human perception and technologically driven fabrications. In using synthetic media involving deep learning, called deepfakes, as one manifestation,we show how this technological progress leads to a distorted marketplace of ideas and truths that necessitates a renegotiation of democratic processes. We synthesize implications and conclude with recommendations for how to reach a new consensus on the construction of reality.
On The Verge of the Hybrid Mind
Authors: Soekadar Surjo , Chandler Jennifer , Ienca Marcello , Bublitz Christoph
Published: June 2021

Recent advances in neurotechnology allow for an increasingly tight integration of the human brain and mind with artificial cognitive systems, blending persons with technologies and creating an assemblage that we call a hybrid mind. In some ways the mind has always been a hybrid, emerging from the interaction of biology, culture (including technological artifacts) and the natural environment. However, with the emergence of neurotechnologies enabling bidirectional flows of information between the brain and AI-enabled devices, integrated into mutually adaptive assemblages, we have arrived at a point where the specific examination of this new instantiation of the hybrid mind is essential. Among the critical questions raised by this development are the effects of these devices on the user’s perception of the self, and on the user’s experience of their own mental contents. Questions arise related to the boundaries of the mind and body and whether the hardware and software that are functionally integrated with the body and mind are to be viewed as parts of the person or separate artifacts subject to different legal treatment. Other questions relate to how to attribute responsibility for actions taken as a result of the operations of a hybrid mind, as well as how to settle questions of the privacy and security of information generated and retained within a hybrid mind.
The Role of Bariatric Surgery in Fatty Liver
Authors: Geerts Anja , Lefere Sander
Published: June 2021

Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a crucial health problem with a prevalence that is increasing concurrently with the obesity epidemic on a global scale. Steatosis, nonalcoholic steatohepatitis (NASH), hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), cirrhosis, and advanced fibrosis constitute the disease spectrum covered by NAFLD. NASH-related cirrhosis and HCC is currently the second most common indication for liver transplantation. Although lifestyle modifications, especially weight loss, effectively reduces the liver injury in NASH, adherence in the clinical setting is low. Potential treatments for NASH are still under investigation in phase 2–3 studies. Bariatric surgery can improve metabolic components and cause great weight loss. Therefore, bariatric surgery may reverse the pathological liver changes in NAFLD and NASH patients. However, complications such as liver failure after bariatric surgery can occur. This chapter will give an overview of the benefits and pitfalls of bariatric surgery in patients with NAFLD, liver transplant candidates and post-liver transplant patients.
General Introduction to Ferroelectrics
Authors: Iqbal Khan Muzaffar , Chandra Upadhyay Trilok
Published: June 2021

In this chapter “General introduction to ferroelectrics” we contribute the basic idea of the fundamental properties of ferroelectrics. We focus on the following properties in the chapter such as basic introduction, classification, ferroelectric phase transitions, spontaneous polarization, local field, dielectric properties, polarizability, thermodynamics of ferroelectricity and applications of ferroelectrics. Ferroelectric materials are unusual dielectric which possesses reversible spontaneous electric polarization which can be reversed by application of stress or electric field which exhibit a range of properties. These properties are widely used in the today’s scientific and industrial technology. The large number of areas due to their peculiar and interesting properties such as high permittivity capacitors, ferroelectric non-volatile FeRAM memories, pyroelectric sensors, piezoelectric and transducers, electrooptic and optoelectronic devices, etc.
Bacteriophages as Anti-Methicillin Resistant Staphylococcus aureus Agents
Authors: Ulrich Picoli Simone , Mariele Santos Röhnelt Nicole , Sfredo Schenkel Tiago
Published: June 2021

Staphylococcus aureus is a colonizing microorganism of the nasal region of both humans and animals and represents an important opportunistic pathogen. The acquisition of the mecA and mecC genes by S. aureus led to the emergence of methicillin resistance (MRSA), becoming a public health problem in both human and animal areas. In addition to resistance to β-lactam antibiotics, MRSA strains have multidrug resistance to antimicrobials, significantly limiting therapeutic options, making it crucial to have effective alternatives for treating staphylococcal infections. In this context, the use of lytic bacteriophages, which are viruses that infect and lyse bacteria, as well as the use of their by-products, such as endolysins, has shown potential in the control of S. aureus, including MRSA. Due to the specificity of bacteriophages to infect particular prokaryotic hosts, these viruses represent an antibacterial resource for the control of public health relevant microorganisms, especially antibiotic-resistant bacteria.
Development of Halogen Free Sustainable Polybenzoxazine Matrices and Composites for Flame Retardant Applications
Authors: Devaraju Subramani , Krishnadevi Krishnamoorthy , Alagar Muthukaruppan
Published: June 2021

In recent years, with the growing concern on energy crises, the development of new products from sustainable resources have been received much greater consideration owing to the environmental concerns caused by the rapid reduction of non-renewable fossil resources. The widespread utilization of polymeric materials led to a considerable increase in fire risk in our daily life due to their flammable behavior. Hence, the flame-retardant properties of polymeric materials are considered as one of the most significant criteria to use them in wide range of industrial applications. It is well known that mostly halogenated flame retardant materials are widely used for flame retardant applications. However, they release toxic gases and corrosive smoke during combustion, and consequently they contribute to serious environmental pollution. In this connection, in the present chapter we discussed the different types of non-halogen based environmentally friendly bio-based polybenzoxazine matrices developed from renewable and sustainable bio-phenolic materials viz., cardanol, eugenol, guiacol and etc., and the composites obtained by reinforcing with varying weight percentages of flame resistant reinforcements/additives and their flame retardant properties obtained from different analytical techniques.
The Ethical Concept of Responsibility in Levinas and Wojtyła
Authors: Daboin Alan ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: June 2021

In this article I examine the ethical concept of responsibility as presented by Emmanuel Levinas and Karol Wojtyła. I focus throughout on questions pertaining to the relations between identity and alterity and between heteronomy and autonomy. To do so involves looking at the contrary roles that these two authors give to selfhood and freedom when accounting for our sense of obligation and responsibility toward others and toward ourselves. I then put Levinas’s phenomenological account of responsibility into dialogue with Wojtyła’s personalist account in an examination of the question of animal ethics. Specifically, I discuss the extent to which their ideas on our responsibilities toward others can be extended to the domain of non-human animals.
The Fragility of the Ethical: Responsibility, Deflection, and the Disruption of Moral Habits
Authors: Coe Cynthia ,   Philosophy Documentation Center
Published: June 2021

I argue in this paper that habits of moral attention, such as those that sustain racism and xenophobia, should be understood as attempts to deflect responsibility as Levinas describes it. The provocation to responsibility is fragile in the face of these moral habits, which separate the morally considerable from the morally inconsiderable. But in its traumatic quality, responsibility cannot be deflected entirely—it impacts the self prior to and outside of our attempts to manage our obligations. Levinas’s description of the interaction between the conatus and responsibility should thus be read as a supplement to critical race theory, as an account that recognizes the power of moral habits but also the constant possibility of their interruption.
Possible principles of mathematical music analysis
Authors: Latinčić Dragan
Published: June 2021

The text is a summary of many years of research in the domains of micro-intervals, metric-rhythmic projection of the spectrum harmonics, and the establishment of a link with mathematics, more precisely, geometry, with a special focus on the application of the Pythagorean Theorem. Mathematical music analysis enables the establishment of methods for constructing right, obtuse, and acute musical triangles as well as projections of their edges (sides), which are recognized in trigonometry as the functions of angles: the sine, cosine, and so on; as well as the establishment of methods for constructing spectral and scalar (intonative-temporal) trigonometric unit circles with their function graphs.
What is visual intimacy?
Authors: Lobinger Katharina , Venema Rebecca , Tarnutzer Seraina , Lucchesi Federico
Published: June 2021

Intimacy is a key social goal and the fundamental basis of close social relationships. Current social relationships and the interactions through which they are created and maintained are highly visualised. This visualisation also transforms the way that intimacy is played out. Based on an interdisciplinary literature review, this paper focuses on the concepts of intimacy and visual intimacy, and maps the different roles that visuals can play in intimacy practices. It shows that the content of visuals is not always essential for creating and maintaining intimacy. Practices relating to producing, sharing, and talking about pictures, as well as practices of seeing, also need to be taken into account when discussing the overall concept of visualintimacy.
Streaming across industries
Authors: Sundet Vilde Schanke , Colbjørnsen Terje
Published: June 2021

This article explores streaming across the cultural industries, drawing on 39 interviews with CEO/top-level industry executives working in the Norwegian music, film, television, and book industries. We examine two broad questions: What dokey industry players see as the main opportunities and challenges of streaming?To what extent do industry players compare with and learn from other industries when making sense of, and seeking solutions to, the main challenges? Drawing on theories of media industry logics and industry lore, the article identifi es a collective understanding of turmoil and uncertainty. While informants across industries formsimilar notions about the impact of streaming and emphasise the need to learn from other industries, solutions to challenges are typically sought within industryspecific frames. Our findings suggest that even if streaming is a cross-industrial trend, strategies are based on industry-specific logics and notions.
Abordagens dos Fenômenos religiosos: cenários e desafios atuais
Authors: De Moraes Abimar Oliveira
Published: June 2021

O presente artigo visa apresentar um suscinto relatório sobre a contribuição que a Associação Nacional de Pós-graduação e Pesquisa em Teologia e Ciências da Religião (ANPTECRE) vem dando ao processo de construção das novas abordagens dos fenômenos religiosos, dentro do debate acerca da identidade do Ensino Religioso no Brasil. Após consideração acerca do cenário de transformação no qual nos encontramos, o estudo dedica sua atenção à contribuição dada pela ANPTECRE para a aprovação da Diretrizes Curriculares Nacionais. Por fim, ilustra a contribuição que a Pós-graduação em Ciências da Religião e Teologia vem dando para a consolidação das relações entre Ensino Religioso, Ciências da Religião e Teologia, no cenário nacional, através da articulação promovida pela Associação e seu específico Grupo de Pesquisa sobre o tema.
Bem-me-quer, Malmequer: um estudo sobre a presença do ensino religioso na Base Nacional Comum Curricular
Authors: Littig Milhomem Freitas Eliane Maura
Published: June 2021

Em 2017, o Ministério da Educação homologou a nova Base Nacional Comum Curricular (BNCC) incluindo o Ensino Religioso como área de conhecimento do Ensino Fundamental. Trata-se de um fato histórico, pois foi a primeira vez que a União, no período republicano, emitiu diretrizes curriculares definindo as unidades temáticas, os objetos de conhecimento e as habilidades concernentes ao Ensino Religioso, a serem traduzidos na forma de disciplina escolar. Este estudo analisa o debate quanto à presença do Ensino Religioso na elaboração da BNCC. Quanto à metodologia está embasada em pesquisa documental, utilizando as versões preliminares da BNCC como fonte, e na realização de entrevistas com especialistas que atuaram na redação dos documentos. Os resultados indicam debates e disputas ocorridos durante o percurso de elaboração da BNCC até a homologação da versão final, discutindo a atuação de agentes contrários e favoráveis à inclusão do Ensino Religioso no Currículo do Ensino Fundamental.
Study on physical properties and magnetism controlling of two-dimensional magnetic materials
Authors: Jiang Xiao-Hong , Qin Si-Chen , Xing Zi-Yue , Zou Xing-Yu , Deng Yi-Fan , Wang Wei , Wang Lin ,   Xi’an Key Laboratory of Biomedical Materials & Engineering, Xi’an Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics, Shanxi Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics, MIIT Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics, Xi’an Institute of Flexible Electronics, Institute of Flexible Electronics, Northwestern Polytechnical University, Xi’an 710072, China,   Key Laboratory of Flexible Electronics, Institute of Advanced Materials, Nanjing Tech University, Nanjing 211816, China
Published: June 2021

Two-dimensional (2D) materials represented by graphene and molybdenum disulfide (MoS2) have attracted much attention in recent years due to their advantages in electrical, thermal, optical and mechanical properties. As a branch of 2D materials, 2D magnetic materials have special properties such as magnetic anisotropy and single-layer magnetic order. Especially, their magnetism can also be controlled by a variety of physical fields, and it possesses various physical properties and potential applications. Therefore, they have received widespread attention of researchers gradually. In this article, we summarize the types, synthesis methods, basic characteristics and characterization methods of 2D magnetic materials in detail, and the magnetism controlling of 2D magnetic materials as well. Finally, a simple outlook on the research directions and future challenges of 2D magnetic materials is given.
Arthroscopic, Single-Incision, and Double-Incision Approaches to Flexor Hallucis Longus Tendon Transfer Following Achilles Tendon Rupture: A Literature Review
Authors: Mosseri Ashley V. , Calaj Phillip , Casciato Dominick J. , Singh Bibi N.
Published: June 2021

Achilles tendon rupture is a common athletic injury that results in a painful and antalgic gait. Flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer through arthroscopic, single-incision, or double-incision techniques is used as a treatment approach to address this rupture; however, no studies have compared postoperative complications between these three techniques. A systematic search of published articles was conducted using keywords “Achilles rupture,” “flexor hallucis tendon,” “transfer,” and “recovery.” Articles were then selected based on their title, abstract, and content following full-text review. From each article's reported surgical outcomes, a comparison was made between arthroscopic and single- and double-incision postoperative complications using a χ2 test with significance set at a value of P < .05 followed by post hoc analysis. The arthroscopic approach maintained the lowest rate of postoperative complications, followed by the single- and double-incision techniques. A significant difference in the number of postoperative complications was found between all incisional approaches. The pairwise comparisons, however, could not identify which incisional approaches significantly differed between each other. A reduction in postoperative complications places arthroscopy and the single-incision techniques as the preferred approaches for flexor hallucis longus tendon transfer following an Achilles tendon rupture. Although current literature shows arthroscopy to be superior to single- and double-incision methods, this review demonstrates the need for a greater number of published cases using arthroscopy to establish significance regarding postoperative complications.
A Novel Technique for Soft-Tissue Defect Repair After Traumatic Rupture of the Extensor Hallucis Longus Tendon
Authors: Nasser Ellianne , Clark William , Gibboney Michael
Published: June 2021

Background

Surgical repair of extensor hallucis longus (EHL) tendon rupture with a concomitant capsular defect has not been reported in the literature. This case presents a novel approach to EHL tendon rupture repair along with repair of a first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule defect.

Methods

A case study is presented of a 61-year-old man with a traumatic EHL tendon rupture and capsular defect treated with an EHL tendon turndown flap and tenodesis to the extensor hallucis brevis and capsularis tendons with autograft flap reconstruction of the first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule.

Discussion

A 61-year-old man presented with an acute traumatic EHL tendon rupture and first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule compromise after a chainsaw injury. He subsequently lost dorsiflexion of his hallux, and magnetic resonance imaging confirmed a 2.2-cm gap in the EHL tendon. He was treated with an EHL tendon turndown flap and tenodesis to the extensor hallucis brevis and capsularis tendons to reestablish dorsiflexion to the hallux. The injury was noted to infiltrate the first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule and was treated with an autograft of the first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule for a capsular defect. At 1-year follow-up the patient has regained dorsiflexion of the hallux and is back to activities such as snow skiing without pain.

Conclusions

Ruptures of the EHL tendon with first metatarsophalangeal joint capsule defects have not been reported in the literature. Herein, a novel approach was used to reestablish physiologic function to the EHL tendon and provide sufficient coverage of the first metatarsophalangeal joint.
Does QUICK TAPE Offer Comparable Support and Off-loading as Low-Dye Taping?
Authors: Song Jinsup , Lin Julie , Austin Tyler , Teter Richard , Oshiokpekhai Kevin , An Michael , Tran Heather , Palamarchuk Howard , Pettineo Steven
Published: June 2021

Background

Low-Dye taping is commonly used to manage foot pathologies and pain. Precut one-piece QUICK TAPE was designed to facilitate taping. However, no study to date has demonstrated that QUICK TAPE offers similar support and off-loading as traditional taping.

Methods

This pilot study compared the performance of QUICK TAPE and low-Dye taping in 20 healthy participants (40 feet) with moderate-to-severe pes planus. Study participants completed arch height index (AHI), dynamic plantar assessment with a plantar pressure measurement system, and subjective rating in three conditions: barefoot, low-Dye, and QUICK TAPE. The order of test conditions was randomized for each participant, and the taping was applied to both feet based on a standard method. A generalized estimating equation with an identity link function was used to examine differences across test conditions while accounting for potential dependence in bilateral data.

Results

Participants stood with a significantly greater AHI (P = .007) when either taping was applied compared with barefoot. Participants also demonstrated significantly different plantar loading when walking with both tapings versus barefoot. Both tapings yielded reduced force-time integral (FTI) in the medial and lateral forefoot and increased FTI under toes. Unlike previous studies, however, no lateralization of plantar pressure was observed with either taping. Participants ranked both tapings more supportive than barefoot. Most participants (77.8%) ranked low-Dye least comfortable, and 55.6% preferred QUICK TAPE over low-Dye.

Conclusions

Additional studies are needed to examine the clinical utility of QUICK TAPE in individuals with foot pathologies such as heel pain syndrome and metatarsalgia.
Effect of Proximal Dome and Distal Chevron Osteotomies on Plantar Pressures and Radiographic and Functional Outcomes in Hallux Valgus Surgery: A Retrospective Analysis
Authors: Yildiz Kadir Ilker , Misir Abdulhamit , Kizkapan Turan Bilge , Cukurlu Mustafa , Aydin Canan Gonen
Published: June 2021

Background

No detailed comparative studies have been performed regarding plantar pressure changes between proximal dome and distal chevron osteotomies. This study aimed to compare radiographic and plantar pressure changes after distal chevron and proximal dome osteotomies and to investigate the effect of radiographic and plantar pressure changes on clinical outcomes.

Methods

This study included 26 and 22 patients who underwent distal chevron and proximal dome osteotomies, respectively. Visual analog scale (VAS) and American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) forefoot scores were used to evaluate pain and functional outcomes. Hallux valgus angle, intermetatarsal angle, talar–first metatarsal angle, and calcaneal inclination angle were measured in the evaluation of radiographic outcomes. Preoperative and postoperative plantar pressure changes were evaluated.

Results

There were no statistically significant differences between the two groups in age, body mass index, or AOFAS forefoot and VAS scores. In the proximal dome group, the pressure measurement showed significant lateralization of the maximal anterior pressure point in the forefoot (P < .001). In addition, the postoperative calcaneal inclination angle was significantly lower (P = .004) and the talar–first metatarsal angle was significantly higher (P < .001) in the proximal dome group. Postoperative transfer metatarsalgia was observed in one patient (3.8%) in the distal chevron group and five (22.7%) in the proximal dome group (P < .05).

Conclusions

Proximal dome osteotomy led to more lateralization of the maximum anterior pressure point, decreased calcaneal inclination angle and first metatarsal elevation, and related higher transfer metatarsalgia.
Tenosynovial Giant Cell Tumor in the Forefoot: Two Case Reports and Literature Review
Authors: Córdoba-Fernández Antonio , Sánchez-Robles Luis Javier , Lobo-Martín Adrián
Published: June 2021

Tenosynovial giant cell tumor is the common term used to describe a group of soft-tissue tumors that share a common etiologic link. These tumors are relatively infrequent in the foot and ankle, and occasionally they may be the cause of destruction of the adjacent bone structures. We report the imaging appearance and pathologic findings of two patients with localized tenosynovial giant cell tumor of the forefoot. Both of these patients underwent surgical gross total resection. However, one of the patients experienced a recurrence. Their clinical, radiologic, and pathologic features, with their treatment protocol, are summarized retrospectively, and related literature is reviewed in an attempt to enhance the understanding of these tumor lesions. Clinicians should perform a careful preoperative and postoperative examination and complete tumor surgical resection with the aim of reducing local recurrence.
Circumflex Accessory Branch of the Superficial Fibular Nerve: An Unusual Cause of Nerve Entrapment
Authors: McEneaney Patrick A. , Rundell Joseph D. , Pacaccio Douglas P. , Nordquist Thomas S.
Published: June 2021

The superficial fibular (peroneal) nerve traditionally courses through the anterolateral deep leg and pierces the deep crural fascia at the lower leg to divide into its terminal branches. Entrapment of the superficial fibular nerve is most commonly documented to occur at where it pierces the deep fascia, and numerous etiologies causing entrapment are described. In this case report, we describe an unusual cause of entrapment from a tertiary branch of the superficial fibular nerve taking a circumflex course and wrapping around the secondary branch of the main nerve. This was successfully treated by surgical excision. To the best of our knowledge, this cause of entrapment has not been described in the literature at the time of this publication.
Design and analysis of statistical probability distribution and non-parametric trend analysis for reference evapotranspiration
Authors: Gul Sajid , Ren Jingli , Xiong Neal , Khan Muhammad Asif
Published: June 2021

Accurate estimates of reference evapotranspiration are critical for water-resource management strategies such as irrigation scheduling and operation. Therefore, knowledge of events such as spatial and temporal reference evapotranspiration (ETo) and their related principle of statistical probability theory plays a vital role in amplifying sustainable irrigation planning. Spatiotemporal statistical probability distribution and its associated trends have not yet has explored in Pakistan. In this study, we have two objectives: (1) to determine the most appropriate statistical probability distribution that better describes EToon mean monthly and seasons wise estimates for the design of irrigation system in Khyber Pakhtunkhwa, and (2) to check the trends in EToon a monthly, seasonal, and annual basis. To check the ETotrends, we used the modified version of the Mann-Kendall and Sen Slope. We used Bayesian Kriging for spatial interpolation and propose a practical approach to the design and study of statistical probability distributions for the irrigation system and water supplies management. Also, the scheme preeminent explains ETo, on a monthly and seasonal basis. The statistical distribution that showed the best fit EToresult occupying 58.33% and 25% performance for the design of irrigation scheme in the entire study region on the monthly level was Johnson SB and Generalized Pareto, respectively. However, according to the Anderson-Darling (AD) and Kolmogorov–Smirnov (KS) goodness of fit measure, seasonal EToestimates were preferably suited to the Burr, Johnson SB & Generalized Extreme Value. More research work must be conduct to assess the significance of this study to other fields. In conclusion, these findings might be helpful for water resource management and policymaker in future operations.
Phytocenosis biodiversity at various water levels in mesotrophic Lake Arakhley, Lake Baikal basin, Russia
Authors: Tsybekmitova Gazhit Ts. , Radnaeva Larisa D. , Tashlykova Natalya A. , Shiretorova Valentina G. , Bazarova Balgit B. , Tulokhonov Arnold K. , Matveeva Marina O.
Published: June 2021

Small lakes have lower water levels during dry years as was the case in 2000–2020. We sought to show the biodiversity of plant communities at various water levels in Lake Arakhley. Changes in moisture content are reflected in the cyclical variations of the water level in the lake, which decreased approximately 2 m in 2017–2018. These variations affect the biological diversity of the aquatic ecosystems. We present the latest data on the state of the plant communities in this mesotrophic lake located in the drainage basin of Lake Baikal. Lake Arakhley is a freshwater lake with low mineral content and a sodium hydrocarbonate chemical composition. Changes in the nutrient concentration were related to precipitation; inflow volume and organic matter were autochtonous at low water levels. The most diverse groups of phytoplankton found in the lake were Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta, and Chrysophyta. High biodiversity values indicate the complexity and richness of the lake’s phytoplankton community. A prevalence ofLindavia comtawas observed when water levels were low andAsterionella formosadominated in high-water years. The maximum growth depth of lacustrine vegetation decreased from 11.0 m to 4.0 m from 1967 to 2018. Decreasing water levels were accompanied by a reduction in the littoral zone, altering the communities of aquatic plants. The hydrophyte communities were monodominant in the dry years and were represented byCeratophyllum demersum. The vegetation cover of the lake was more diverse in high-water years and variations in the lake’s water content altered the composition of biogenic substances. These changes were reflected in the lake’s phytocenosis.
Regulation of Biochemical Markers by Soymilk and Physical Exercise on Obese Rats
Authors: Dandji M. B. S. , Zambou F. N.
Published: June 2021

Background: Obesity is an excess of body fat that cause cardiovascular risk and it prevalence in Cameroon among adults is high.

Aims: This study took place in the animal house of the Department of Biochemistry of the University of Dschang between June 2020 and February 2021 and the purpose was to evaluate the effect of the association of soymilk, diet and swimming in the prevention and treatment of obesity.

Methodology: A cross-sectional study was conducted with 80 rats of 21 days old divided into 6 groups. Thus, we calculate Lee index every two weeks, blood glucose measure and lipid parameters have been dosed in blood sera conserved at -20°C after extraction.

Results: It appears that the high amount of lipid in hyperlipidic diet induces obesity in these rats after 45 days of treatment. This is shown by the body weight gained by hyperlipidic males and females (242.66 ±6.35g and 224.39 ±7.52g), which was significantly higher than that of the standard group (203.06 ±4.9g and 186.31 ±4.04g). This is also indicated in the hyperlipidic males with a Lee index of 301.38 ±0.495, which was significantly higher compared to standard males (296.33 ±1.977). The total cholesterol which was higher in the hyperlipidic subjects decreases significantly after treatment of 3.4 % and 26.8 % respectively at 30 and 60 days. Consequently, the other lipid parameters such as HDLc, LDLc and atherosclerosis index become normal within the duration of treatment.

Conclusion: The study results reveal that obesity was significantly prevalent mostly in males. Soymilk with its richness in phytosterols, coupled with swimming a priority source of fat dissipation, can be used efficiently to fight and prevent obesity and its consequences.
A chemiluminescent probe with a Cypridina luciferin analog, 2‐methyl‐6‐phenyl‐3,7‐dihydroimidazo[1,2‐a]pyrazin‐3‐one, specific and sensitive for O2− production in phagocytizing macrophages
Authors: Sugioka Katsuaki , Nakano Minoru , Kurashige Satonori , Akuzawa Yuki , Goto Toshio
Published: July 2002

When a Cypridina luciferin analog (the title compound) was added to a macrophage suspension in Hank's balanced salt solution (control), the system emitted a weak, but detectable light, which was not altered in the presence of Superoxide dismutase. The same system, however, emitted a much stronger light, just after the addition of a trigger, opsonized zymosan. The luminescence was suppressed to the control level in the presence of superoxide dismutase, while it was only slightly influenced, if at all, by NaN3, a scavenger of singlet oxygen and an inhibitor of myeloperoxidase. Some other results obtained also indicate the participation of O2
− in the luciferin analog‐dependent luminescence in macrophages during phagocytosis.
Bile salt‐stimulated lipase in human milk
Authors: Bläckberg Lars , Hernell Olle
Published: July 2002

Human milk bile salt‐stimulated lipase ensures efficient triacylglycerol utilization in breast‐fed newborns. For activity against long‐chain triacylglycerol, primary bile salts are a prerequisite. Bile salts also protect the enzyme from inactivation by intestinal proteases. We have studied the effect of different bile salts on activation, protease protection, lipid binding, and enzyme inactivation, caused by an arginine modifying agent. Based on the results we propose a model involving two bile salt binding sites; one activation‐site specific for primary bile salt, and another, less specific, lipid binding promoting site at which also secondary bile salt binds. Binding to this latter site induces binding of enzyme to emulsified substrates but without subsequent lipolysis.
Methodological approaches to the long-term study of antidepressants
Authors: Rouillon F , Steru L , Wood S
Published: July 2002

It has long been known that most patients with bipolar disorder have a course marked by multiple recurrence of major depressive and manic episodes. More recently, many epidemiological studies have shown that at least 50% of unipolar depressive patients have one or more subsequent episodes of depression in their lifetimes. Likewise, relapse following successful short-term treatment of depression is so common that it is now recommended to prolong treatment in the form of maintenance pharmacotherapy. Interest in preventing the recurrence of depression has been stimulated by the results from long-term trials involving antidepressant drugs and lithium. However, these pharmacological studies suffer somewhat from methodological deficits, making difficult any clear and complete interpretation of their results. While some methodological recommendations have now been established to compensate for previous deficits (eg, definition of relapse and recurrence, duration of acute and maintenance treatments, statistical analysis of efficacy), unfortunately, many key points still remain to be resolved (eg, selection of patients, dosage in maintenance and prophylactic phases, maximum length of a course of treatment, etc).
Ultrafast Self‐Gelling and Wet Adhesive Powder for Acute Hemostasis and Wound Healing
Authors: Peng Xin , Xu Xiao , Deng Yingrui , Xie Xian , Xu Limei , Xu Xiayi , Yuan Weihao , Yang Boguang , Yang Xuefeng , Xia Xianfeng , Duan Li , Bian Liming
Published: June 2021

Achieving rapid and effective hemostasis on irregularly shaped, non‐compressible visceral, and high‐pressure arterial bleeding wounds remains a critical clinical challenge. Herein, an ultrafast self‐gelling and wet adhesive polyethyleneimine/polyacrylic acid/quaternized chitosan (PEI/PAA/QCS) powder is reported as the hemostatic material and wound dressing. PEI/PAA/QCS powder deposited on bleeding wounds can rapidly absorb a large amount of blood to concentrate coagulation factors. Meanwhile, the powder can form an adhesive hydrogel in situ within 4 s upon hydration to form a pressure‐resistant physical barrier. Furthermore, PEI/PAA/QCS hydrogels can aggregate blood cells and platelets to enhance hemostasis. Depositing PEI/PAA/QCS powder on various bleeding wounds, including at the liver and heart, high‐pressure femoral artery and tail vein of rats, arrests the bleeding around 10 s with no rebleeding after ten minutes. Excellent hemostasis of PEI/PAA/QCS powder is further demonstrated against massive hemorrhage in porcine spleen and liver in vivo, which are non‐compressible organs with abundant blood supply. In addition, the powder can be used as a wound dressing to promote the healing of the full‐thickness skin wounds. The advantages of PEI/PAA/QCS powder including rapid and effective hemostasis, effective wound healing, easy usage, low cost, and adaptability to fit complex target sites make it a promising biomaterial for surgical applications.