bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Acupuncture and moxibustion stimulate fibroblast proliferation and neoangiogenesis during tissue repair of experimental excisional injuries in adult female Wistar rats
Authors: Alonso Hamilton Ricardo , Kuroda Fabricio Campos , Passarini Junior José Roberto , Quispe Cabanillas Juan Guzman , Mendonça Fernanda Aparecida Sampaio , dos Santos Glaucia Maria Tech , de Aro Andrea Aparecida , do Amaral Maria Esméria Corezola , Marretto Esquisatto Marcelo Augusto
Published: March 2021

Objective:

To investigate the effects of acupuncture and moxibustion on the repair of excisional skin injuries on the back of adult female Wistar rats.

Methods:

90 animals were divided into three groups: C, control; A, acupuncture treatment (needled at traditional acupuncture points BL13, BL17 and ST36); M, moxibustion treatment (overlying same traditional acupuncture points). They were euthanased on days 7, 14 and 21 after injury for removal and preparation of tissue for analysis.

Results:

The treated groups (A and M) showed no changes regarding the structural analysis relative to the control (C) group. The total number of fibroblast cells in the A and M groups were significantly higher than those in the C group on days 14 and 21. The number of granulocytes was significantly less in the A and M groups compared with the C group on days 14 and 21. The total number of newly formed vessels increased on day 21 and was significantly higher in the A and M groups. The amount of birefringent collagen fibre detected on day 21 was significantly higher in the C group. The amount of glycosaminoglycan and hydroxyproline was similar between the groups. The amount of collagen I did not differ between the groups in any period, despite the increased amount detected over time. The amount of type III collagen did not differ between the groups but the detected amount decreased over the course of the experiment. The amount of transforming growth factor β1 (TGF-β1) and vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF) in the A and M rats was similar but inferior to C rats across all experimental periods.

Conclusions:

Acupuncture and moxibustion stimulated fibroblast proliferation and neoangiogenesis, and extended the period of collagen fibre reorganisation in the repair of excisional injuries in adult female rats.
Moxibustion at CV4 alleviates atherosclerotic lesions through activation of the LXRα/ABCA1 pathway in apolipoprotein-E-deficient mice
Authors: Cui Yingxue , Liu Juntian , Huang Chang , Zhao Baixiao
Published: March 2021

Objectives:

To investigate the anti-atherogenic effect of moxibustion and whether it is mediated through the reverse cholesterol transport process.

Methods:

8-week-old male apolipoprotein E deficient (ApoE−/− knockout) mice were randomly divided into two groups (n=10 per group): atherosclerosis (AS) and AS plus moxibustion (AS+M). C57BL/6J mice of the same background (n=10) were selected as controls. Mice in the AS+M group received indirect moxibustion with an ignited moxa stick held over CV4. Mice of the AS and control groups were restrained in the same holder with an unlit moxa stick held over CV4. All treatments were performed for 20 min per day, 6 days per week for 12 weeks. After the treatment, the mice were euthanased and their serum lipids were measured. The aortic roots and thoracic aortas were collected for haematoxylin and eosin and red oil O staining, respectively, to analyse the atherosclerotic lesions. Expression of adenosine triphosphate binding cassette (ABCA)A1/G1 and liver X receptor α (LXRα) in the thoracic aorta were examined with Western blotting.

Results:

The moxibustion-treated (AS+M) mice showed a significantly lower plaque area percentage in the aortic root and thoracic aorta, and higher expression of LXRα and ABCA1 in the thoracic aorta compared with the AS mice. No significant differences were found in average lipid area percentage in the thoracic aorta, or ABCG1 expression in the thoracic aorta, between mice in the AS+M and AS groups.

Conclusion:

Moxibustion treatment at CV4 suppressed the progression of atherosclerotic lesions in ApoE−/− mice. The anti-atherogenic effect of moxibustion may be achieved by: (1) regulation of lipid metabolism, and thus prevention of lipid accumulation; and (2) upregulation of LXRα- and ABCA1-mediated cholesterol efflux in the lesion area.
Factor analysis of electroacupuncture and selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors for major depressive disorder: an 8-week controlled clinical trial
Authors: Yang Xinjing , Gong Weijun , Ma Xuehong , Wang Sihan , Wang Xueqin , Guo Tianwei , Guo Zhuo , Sun Yang , Li Jing , Zhao Bingcong , Tu Ya
Published: March 2021

Background:

There is evidence supporting electroacupuncture (EA) for the treatment of major depressive disorder (MDD), but its characteristics have not been well investigated.

Objective:

To investigate the effectiveness and characteristics of EA in MDD.

Methods:

60 subjects were enrolled—35 in the EA group and 25 in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) group based on their preferences—in an 8-week non-randomised controlled clinical trial. The 24-item Hamilton depression rating scale (HAMD-24) and clinical global impression (CGI) were adopted for clinical assessment. The Columbia suicide severity rating scale and adverse event form were used to measure safety and tolerability. The characteristics of EA and SSRIs were compared by analysing seven factors of the HAMD-24.

Results:

There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of HAMD-24 response rate after intervention (P>0.05). Patients treated with EA demonstrated a significant reduction in CGI scores (P<0.05) with fewer adverse events compared with SSRIs (P<0.01). Although HAMD-24 factor analysis showed both EA and SSRIs could improve factor scores in cognitive impairment, diurnal variation, retardation, sleep disturbance, anxiety/somatisation and feelings of despair, EA showed greater improvement in anxiety/somatisation and feelings of despair than SSRIs (P<0.05).

Conclusions:

There was no significant difference between EA and SSRIs in the treatment of MDD with respect to our primary outcome. However, as a potential therapy for MDD, EA appeared to result in greater symptom improvement than SSRI treatment with respect to anxiety/somatisation and feelings of despair. The results of this secondary analysis should be interpreted cautiously given the inherent issues of multiple testing.
Influence of electroacupuncture stimulation on skin temperature, skin blood flow, muscle blood volume and pupil diameter
Authors: Kubota Tomoko , Mori Hidetoshi , Morisawa Tateyuki , Hanyu Kazuyo , Kuge Hiroshi , Watanabe Mayumi , Tanaka Tim H
Published: March 2021

Objective:

To examine the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) stimulation on multiple physiological indices and to evaluate both local and systemic physiological responses induced by the stimulation.

Methods:

15 healthy male college students participated in an experimental crossover study. They received two kinds of interventions: one with EA stimulation and one without EA stimulation on different days. Two disposable acupuncture needles were inserted at two traditional acupuncture points (ST36 and ST38), located along the anterior tibialis muscle. EA stimulation was administered for 10 min. Skin temperature (ST), skin blood flow (SBF) and muscle blood volume (MBV) were recorded near the stimulation sites, while the pupil diameter (PD) was measured before, during and after the interventions.

Results:

ST, SBF and MBV increased significantly following EA stimulation. PD of the right and left eyes decreased significantly following EA stimulation. There was a significant difference in ST responses between the groups (P=0.001). For SBF, MBV and PD, no significant differences were demonstrated between the groups.

Conclusions:

Our study showed that 10 min of EA stimulation increased ST, SBF and MBV, and decreased PD, compared to baseline, while no significant change was observed in the control group. This suggests that EA stimulation alters local blood flow and ST, and these responses are likely mediated via segmental spinal reflexes, supraspinal reflexes involving parasympathetic activation, and other mechanisms.
Evidence of efficacy of acupuncture in the management of low back pain: a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised placebo- or sham-controlled trials
Authors: Xiang Yan , He Jin-yuan , Tian Huan-huan , Cao Bing-yan , Li Rui
Published: March 2021

Objectives:

To assess the evidence for the efficacy of acupuncture for non-specific low back pain (NSLBP), compared with sham or placebo therapies.

Methods:

We searched Cochrane CENTRAL to December 2016, and conducted searches from 1980 to December 2016 in PubMed, MEDLINE and Embase. There were no regional restrictions applied. We included only randomised controlled trials of adults with NSLBP. Placebo/sham procedures were required of the control interventions. The trials were combined using meta-analysis when the data reported allowed for statistical pooling.

Results:

14 trials (2110 participants) were included in the review, and 9 were included in the meta-analysis. Immediately after the acupuncture treatment we found statistically significant differences in pain reduction between acupuncture and sham or placebo therapy (standardised mean difference (SMD) −0.40, 95% CI −0.54 to −0.25; I2 7%; 753 participants; 9 studies), but there were no differences in function (weighted mean difference (WMD) −1.05, 95% CI −3.61 to 1.52; I2 79%; 462 participants; 4 studies). At follow-up, there were significant differences in pain reduction (SMD −0.46, 95% CI −0.82 to −0.09; I2 67%), but not in function (WMD −0.98, 95%CI −3.36 to 1.40; I2 87%). We conducted subgroup analyses both immediately after treatment and at follow-up.

Conclusion:

There is moderate evidence of efficacy for acupuncture in terms of pain reduction immediately after treatment for NSLBP ((sub)acute and chronic) when compared to sham or placebo acupuncture.

Registration:

PROSPERO registration no. CRD42017059438.
Toll-like receptor 2 plays an essential role in electroacupuncture analgesia in a mouse model of inflammatory pain
Authors: Hsu Hsin-Cheng , Hsieh Ching-Liang , Wu Shu-Yih , Lin Yi-Wen
Published: March 2021

Background:

Inflammatory pain occurs when local tissue injury activates macrophages and neutrophils, hence increasing pro-inflammatory cytokine and chemokine levels. Toll-like receptor 2 (TLR2) antagonism reportedly suppresses neuropathic and inflammatory pain.

Aims:

In the present study, we investigated the effect of electroacupuncture (EA) on TLR2 and related signalling molecules in a complete Freund’s adjuvant (CFA)-induced mouse model of inflammatory pain to determine whether EA can attenuate inflammatory pain via the TLR2 signalling pathway.

Methods:

EA significantly reduced mechanical and thermal hyperalgesia in the animal model. A similar effect was produced by TLR2 antagonism induced by CU-CPT22 injection.

Results:

TLR2 expression in the dorsal root ganglia, spinal cord and thalamus increased following induction of inflammation. Expression levels of downstream molecules such as pPI3K, pAkt and pmTOR also increased, as did those of MAPK subfamily members such as pERK, pp38 and pJNK. Transcription factors (pCREB and pNFκB) and nociceptive ion channels (Nav1.7 and Nav1.8) were also involved.

Conclusion:

Increased expression of the above molecules was attenuated by both EA and TLR2 antagonism. Our results show that EA attenuates inflammatory pain via TLR2 signalling.
Effects of GB34 acupuncture on hyperventilation-induced carbon dioxide reactivity and cerebral blood flow velocity in the anterior and middle cerebral arteries of normal subjects
Authors: Moon Sang-Kwan , Kwon Seungwon , Cho Seung-Yeon , Park Seong-Uk , Jung Woo-Sang , Park Jung-Mi , Ko Chang-Nam , Cho Ki-Ho , Son Jeong-Hwa
Published: March 2021

Objectives:

To determine whether acupuncture at GB34 affects cerebral blood flow (CBF) via the anterior cerebral arteries (ACAs) and middle cerebral arteries (MCAs).

Methods:

This study included 10 healthy young male volunteers. CBF velocity and cerebrovascular reactivity (CVR) were measured using transcranial Doppler sonography (TCD). The changes in hyperventilation-induced carbon dioxide (CO2) reactivity and modified blood flow velocity at 40 mm Hg (CV40) were observed for both ACAs and MCAs before and after GB34 acupuncture treatment. Blood pressure and heart rate were also measured before and after GB34 acupuncture treatment.

Results:

The CO2 reactivity of the ipsilateral MCA significantly increased after GB34 acupuncture treatment, compared with that at baseline (P=0.007). In contrast, the CO2 reactivity of both ACAs and the contralateral MCA remained unchanged. The CV40 of both ACAs and MCAs did not change after GB34 acupuncture treatment and neither did the mean arterial blood pressure and heart rate.

Conclusions:

GB34 acupuncture treatment increased CO2 reactivity specifically in the ipsilateral MCA, but had no effect on either the ACAs or the contralateral MCA. These data suggest that GB34 acupuncture treatment improves the vasodilatory potential of the cerebral vasculature to compensate for fluctuations caused by changes in external conditions and could potentially be useful for the treatment of disorders of the ipsilateral MCA circulation.
Effect of acupuncture on the haemodynamic system in men
Authors: Okada Misaki , Taniguchi Hiroshi , Taniguchi Sazu , Kitakoji Hiroshi , Itoh Kazunori , Imai Kenji
Published: March 2021

Background:

Acupuncture stimulation decreases heart rate (HR) through somato-autonomic reflexes. However, the mechanisms responsible for other cardiovascular changes induced by acupuncture, such as its effects on stroke volume (SV) and blood pressure (BP), remain obscure.

Objective:

To evaluate continuously the comprehensive cardiovascular changes occurring during acupuncture.

Method:

20 healthy men participated in the study. HR, SV and BP were measured in the supine position using electrocardiogram, transthoracic impedance cardiography and continuous non-invasive finger blood pressure, respectively. Manual acupuncture stimulation using a stainless steel needle was performed at LI10 for 60 s after resting periods of approximately 15 min.

Results:

HR was reduced and SV increased, in parallel, during the period of acupuncture stimulation (P<0.01, respectively). Diastolic blood pressure (DBP) decreased in the 10 s period of acupuncture stimulation compared with the 120 s pre-stimulation period (P<0.01) and recovered close to the pre-stimulation reading instantly after the transient reduction. No change was observed in cardiac output (CO) derived from HR and SV.

Conclusions:

This study indicates that HR reduction during acupuncture does occur, as previous reports have indicated. SV increased during acupuncture stimulation in parallel with HR reduction and CO was maintained during these changes. Any reduction in DBP caused by acupuncture recovered to baseline, likely due to baroreflexes.
Unusual case of locked trigger thumb due to tophaceous infiltration of the flexor tendon over the wrist: a lesson learned
Authors: Wan Keith Hay-Man , Tse Michael Siu-Hei
Published: March 2021

We report a rare case in which intratendinous gouty tophi were found within the flexor pollicis longus tendon at the wrist, causing locked thumb, which was misdiagnosed as trigger thumb.
Replantation of amputation at the wrist: challenges of management in sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Echieh Chidiebere Peter , Ozinko Mba , Omoregbee Benjamin Irene , Okonta Kelechi Emmanuel
Published: March 2021

Amputations of the upper limb, in particular, have a major impact on patients’ lives, as loss of function can not only cause reduced autonomy in daily life but also hinder social interactions and capacity for work. Replantation at or proximal to the wrist, referred to as wrist-proximal replantation, remains a daunting challenge that presents the hand surgeon with an array of difficulties distinct from digital replantation.We present our experience with a successful replantation of a near-complete amputation at the non-dominant left wrist in a 25-year-old man managed in sub-Saharan Africa. Two years after replantation, the patient had a Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score of 40 and 2-point discrimination of 6 mm. We also discuss the peculiar challenges which have limited the development of replantation in the tropics. Environmental temperatures, manpower, expertise and technology are possible factors that limit this practice in the tropics.
Cardiac angiosarcoma in the right ventricle treated by surgical resection
Authors: Uemura Koya , Sano Hiroyuki , Takaoka Hideyuki , Okita Yutaka
Published: March 2021

Cardiac angiosarcoma is a rare malignant neoplasm, the gold standard treatment is surgical resection. Our patient, an 81-year old Japanese woman, was admitted to hospital after chest pain over a month-long period. Transthoracic echocardiography (TTE) showed a heterogeneous and irregular mass-like lesion measuring approximately 45 mm and arising from the right ventricular free wall. Transesophageal echocardiography showed the lesion had a mobile portion. Considering the possibility of malignancy and a high risk of embolism and obstruction, we performed surgical resection of the tumour. Histological and immunohistochemical findings led to diagnosis of cardiac angiosarcoma. One year after surgery, TTE and CT showed no evidence of recurrence of angiosarcoma.
Hypercalcaemia, renal failure, anaemia and osteolytic lesions (CRAB) in chronic lymphocytic leukaemia mimicking multiple myeloma
Authors: Panda Tribikram , Aggarwal Mukul , Mallick Saumyaranjan , Dass Jasmita
Published: March 2021

Classical CRAB features (hypercalcaemia, renal failure, anaemia, osteolytic lesions) have been traditionally defined in patients with plasma cell dyscrasia. But these can be rare and uncommon presentations of other chronic lymphoproliferative disorders (CLPD). The pathophysiological basis of CRAB features in other CLPD need to be explored further for better outcomes and therapeutic interventions. These can present a diagnostic dilemma and requires extensive workup to rule out coexisting malignancy and myeloma. Here, we report an unusual case of B CLPD in a middle-aged male who presented with classical CRAB features along with a brief literature review. After detailed investigations, he was diagnosed as chronic lymphocytic leukaemia, without any second malignancy and responded well to ibrutinib-based therapy.
Meigs syndrome presenting with severely elevated CA-125 level
Authors: Palmieri Alicia , ElSahwi Karim , Hicks Verda
Published: March 2021

A 64-year-old woman referred to Gynaecological Oncology secondary to the finding of pelvic mass and ascites. Imaging showed multiple pelvic masses, with the largest mass measuring 20 cm in diameter, as well as bilateral pleural effusions and abdominal ascites, suspicious for ovarian carcinoma. Laboratory findings included elevated cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) of 2124 units/mL. The patient underwent an exploratory laparotomy, total abdominal hysterectomy and bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy for pathological evaluation. Postoperatively, the patient had resolution of ascites and pleural effusion. Surgical pathology revealed a 26 cm right ovarian fibroma, confirming the diagnosis of Meigs syndrome. Despite the high suspicion for ovarian carcinoma in patients presenting with elevated CA-125 level, pelvic mass, ascites and pleural effusion, the diagnosis of Meigs syndrome cannot be excluded without pathological evaluation of mass.
Transoral approach using a tubular retractor system in the treatment of atlantoaxial Pott’s disease: a novel method of surgical decompression
Authors: Araneta Karla Teresa Saldaña , Bundoc Rafael
Published: March 2021

The use of tubular retractors in minimally invasive spine surgery has been described extensively in the literature. However, there are only select reports discussing their use specifically in a transoral approach for upper cervical pathologies such as an epidural abscess and a dystrophic os odontoideum.

We report the first use of a transtubular transoral approach in a rare case of an adult presenting with severe neck pain with progressing neurologic signs secondary to atlantoaxial Pott’s disease. Debridement and partial odontoidectomy performed using this approach allowed less trauma to surrounding soft tissues without sacrificing an excellent visualisation of the operative field. A halo vest was applied to provide temporary stability. The patient transitioned out of his halo vest after 6 months while completing medical therapy after a year without need for further intervention. The transtubular transoral approach is a suitable alternative to the conventional approach in patients with atlantoaxial Pott’s disease.
Angioedema as a predominant symptom ofBordetella pertussisinfection
Authors: Bal Christina , Baumgartner Ruth , Gompelmann Daniela , Idzko Marco
Published: March 2021

A 41-year-old woman was referred to our hospital with a 6-week history of severe angioedema, dyspnoea and coughing. Initial investigations focused on common causes of angioedema. Clinical presentation and resistance to treatment with antihistamines and steroids made histamine-mediated angioedema unlikely. Bradykinin-mediated angioedema, such as hereditary or drug-induced angioedema, was excluded by a thorough history investigation and laboratory testing for C1-esterase and C4.

In rare cases, exogen pathogens cause angioedema. After profound testing for respiratory pathogens,Bordetella pertussistoxins IgA and IgG were found to be positive, indicating recentB. pertussisinfection. Pertussis toxin may be responsible for increased vascular permeability causing angioedema. With adequate antibiotic treatment, the symptoms resolved quickly.

This case is an example of an atypical presentation ofB. pertussisinfection in an unvaccinated adult. The recent resurgence of pertussis makes early diagnosis and disease prevention by vaccination crucial.
Chronic bacterial prostatitis leading to intrascrotal abscess after transperineal prostate biopsy
Authors: Tay Jia Ying Isaac , McGrath Shannon , Perera Marlon , Anderson Paul
Published: March 2021

Transperineal biopsy is becoming more commonly used, driven by improved detection rates, better complication profile and increasing application of prostate MRI leading to guided biopsy. However, it can still lead to complications such as urinary retention, postoperative pain and erectile dysfunction. There is also a potential for adverse events such as severe infection, abscess and fistula. This article describes a case of an intrascrotal abscess post-transperineal biopsy, which required an orchidectomy.
Acute aortic dissection with highly compressed true lumen: unanticipated pitfall of point-of-care ultrasonography
Authors: Dote Hisashi , Koide Masaaki , Kobayashi Shunsuke , Atsumi Takahiro
Published: March 2021

A 46-year-old man presented with sudden onset of chest pain. He was in cardiogenic shock at arrival. Based on the results of ECG and echocardiogram, he was diagnosed with ST-segment elevation myocardial infarction. Point-of-care ultrasonography (POCUS) did not reveal acute aortic dissection (AAD). During an emergency coronary angiography, aortic dissection was detected and computed tomographic angiography (CTA) revealed Stanford type A AAD with a highly compressed true lumen. Because of this form of aortic dissection, the enlarged false lumen could be potentially misidentified as a normal aorta in POCUS. Although POCUS is useful when AAD is suspected, we should not overestimate its findings and lower the threshold for CTA.
Multimodal imaging to aid in diagnosis of uveal effusion syndrome type 3
Authors: Markan Ashish , Moharana Bruttendu , Dogra Mohit , Singh Ramandeep
Published: March 2021

A 47-year-old man presented to our retina clinic with gradual onset diminution of vision in his right eye for the last 3 months. Anterior segment evaluation was normal in both eyes. Fundus evaluation showed the presence of leopard spot appearance in the right eye with inferior exudative retinal detachment. Multimodal imaging was done to evaluate retinal pigment epithelium function, choroidal thickness, choroidal vascularity and scleral thickness. Multimodal imaging showed increased choroidal thickness, choroidal congestion on indocyanine green angiography and peripheral choroidal detachment with normal sclera thickness in our patient, thus pointing towards a diagnosis of uveal effusion syndrome type 3.
Dermoscopy of penile sclerosing granuloma
Authors: Navarrete Jorge , Cabrera Raúl , Bunker Christopher Barry , Agorio Caroline
Published: March 2021

Penile sclerosing granuloma is a foreign body reaction to the injection of material, usually for genital augmentation purposes. Patients commonly deny having had or performed these procedures on themselves, and diagnosis can be challenging. We describe the case of a 62-year-old man with a 10-year history of a growth on the penile shaft. Dermoscopic examination showed an orange background with shiny white structures, suggesting a granulomatous pathology. Guided biopsies confirmed a sclerosing lipogranuloma. The patient admitted to having self-injected motor oil. For the first time, we report the dermoscopic description of sclerosing granuloma, which will improve clinical diagnostic precision and guide biopsies. We also contribute the first description of a dermoscopic rainbow pattern in a granulomatous disorder; this could be due to a physical phenomenon called ‘dichroism’.
Pharyngeal haematoma and partial airway obstruction caused by interaction between warfarin and topical miconazole gel
Authors: Reynolds Heather
Published: March 2021

A man in his 70s on warfarin attended the emergency department three times over a 24-hour period, complaining of a sore throat, neck swelling and difficulty swallowing. He was initially diagnosed with pharyngitis, given antibiotics and discharged home, which was reconfirmed on the second attendance after an episode of haemoptysis. On the third, he was diagnosed with a pharyngeal haematoma causing partial airway obstruction and admitted to critical care. His international normalised ratio (INR) was reported initially as unreadable by the laboratory, then eventually came back as >20. After a thorough medication history, he said that he had recently been prescribed topical miconazole oromucosal gel by his dentist for oral candidiasis, which had interacted with the warfarin to cause this life-threatening haematoma.
Distal clavicle fracture malunion associated with scapular dyskinesis treated with 3D preoperative planning
Authors: Oki Satoshi , Furuhata Ryogo , Sakamoto Yusuke , Iwabu Shohei
Published: March 2021

A 44-year-old woman with distal clavicular malunion and scapular dyskinesis, causing limited shoulder elevation, underwent clavicular osteotomy 2 years postinjury. We used three-dimensional (3D) surface data from both injured and intact sides for correction of the distal clavicular shape by closing wedge osteotomy. The plate position and screw directions were decided preoperatively. Surgery was performed with reference to a 3D-printed, reduced model. Range of shoulder motion and scapular dyskinesis improved by 1 year postoperatively. Precise corrective osteotomy for distal clavicular malunion, referencing a 3D-printed, reduced model, improved scapular dyskinesis and range of shoulder motion 2 years postinjury.
Sarcoidosis-associated acro-osteolysis
Authors: Patel Vishal , Case Robert , Kalra Saminder , Patel Divya
Published: March 2021

Sarcoidosis is characterised by the formation of noncaseating granulomas classically affecting lungs, lymph nodes and skin. Osteoarticular involvement affects up to 15% of patients; however, acro-osteolysis, destruction involving distal phalanges of fingers and toes, associated with sarcoidosis, is extremely rare. A 44-year-old woman with a history of biopsy-proven sarcoidosis managed with prednisone and methotrexate presented with swelling and pain in the distal fingers of her right hand without skin manifestations. Radiographic imaging showed erosion of distal phalanges on second, third and fifth fingers and bone resorption in bilateral toes. A biopsy of the finger lesions showed noncaseating granulomas consistent with sarcoidosis. She was diagnosed with sarcoid acro-osteolysis and started on adalimumab with clinical and radiographic improvement. While most cases of osteoarticular sarcoidosis are asymptomatic and respond to standard immunosuppression, we present a case with progressive and refractory clinical course. This is the first reported case of sarcoid acro-osteolysis affecting the toes.
Reactive arthritis after COVID-19
Authors: Hønge Bo Langhoff , Hermansen Marie-Louise From , Storgaard Merete
Published: March 2021

A previously healthy 53-year-old man was hospitalised for 12 days due to COVID-19 with shortness of breath. A few days after discharge from hospital, the patient developed fever and severe pain in several joints in the lower extremities. The pain was so severe that the patient was unable to stand on his feet. Synovial fluid from the right-side knee contained a high number of polynuclear cells and a few mononuclear cells. Microscopy, culture and PCR tests for bacterial infection were all negative. Furthermore, the patient tested negative for rheumatoid factor, anti-cyclic citrullinated peptide and human leukocyte antigen (HLA)-B27. Thus, the condition was compatible with reactive arthritis. The condition improved markedly after a few days’ treatment with non-steroid anti-inflammatory drugs and prednisolone.
Birth weight modifies the relation between adulthood levels of insulin-like growth factor-1 and type 2 diabetes: a prospective cohort study
Authors: Geng Tingting , Wang Mengying , Li Xiang , Zhou Tao , Ma Hao , Fonseca Vivian A , Koh Woon-Puay , Huang Tao , Heianza Yoriko , Qi Lu
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) has been implicated in fetal and early-life growth and development of type 2 diabetes (T2D). We aimed to examine the interaction between circulating IGF-1 and birth weight in relation to risk of T2D.

Research design and methods

We included 181 090 adults, aged 39–70 years in the UK Biobank Study, who were free of diabetes or major cardiovascular diseases at baseline. Serum IGF-1 levels were determined using chemiluminescent immunoassay method. Birth weight was self-reported; a Genetic Risk Score (GRS) was calculated to define the genetically determined birth weight. The outcome was the incidence of T2D.

Results

We identified 3299 incident T2D cases over an average of 9.9 years of follow-up. Among the participants with birth weight of ≥2.5 kg, IGF-1 levels were inversely associated with T2D risk in a dose-dependent manner (p-trend<0.001). In contrast, the association was not significant among those with birth weight of <2.5 kg (p-interaction=0.001). The GRS of birth weight did not interact with IGF-1 levels on T2D risk.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that birth weight significantly modifies the relation between adulthood levels of circulating IGF-1 and the risk of T2D. Our findings highlight the importance of early-life risk factors in the development of the lifecourse prevention strategies targeting IGF-1 and T2D.
Patterns of heavy drinking behaviour over age and birth cohorts among Chinese men: a Markov model
Authors: Lee Kyueun , Salomon Joshua , Goldhaber-Fiebert Jeremy
Published: March 2021

Objectives

To estimate the age patterns and cohort trends in heavy drinking among Chinese men from 1993 to 2011 and to project the future burden of heavy drinking through 2027.

Design

We constructed a Markov cohort model that simulates age-specific heavy drinking behaviours for a series of cohorts of Chinese men born between 1922 and 1993 and fitted the model to longitudinal data on drinking patterns (1993–2015). We projected male prevalence of heavy drinking from 2015 through 2027 with and without modification of heavy drinking behaviours.

Participants

A cohort of Chinese men who were born between 1922 and 1993.

Main outcome measures

Outcomes included age-specific and birth cohort-specific rates of initiating, quitting and reinitiating heavy drinking from 1993 through 2011, projected prevalence of heavy drinking from 2015 to 2027, and total reduction in prevalence and total averted deaths with hypothetical elimination of heavy drinking behaviours.

Results

Across multiple birth cohorts, middle-aged Chinese men have consistently higher risks of starting and resuming heavy drinking and lower probabilities of quitting their current heavy drinking than men in other age groups. From 1993 to 2011, the risk of starting or resuming heavy drinking continued to decrease over generations. Our model projected that the prevalence of heavy drinking among Chinese men will decrease by 33% (95% CI 11.5% to 54.6%) between 2015 and the end of 2027. Complete elimination of or acceptance of a change in heavy drinking behaviours among Chinese men could accelerate this decrease by 12 percentage points (95% CI 7.8 to 18.2) and avert 377 000 deaths (95% CI 228 000 to 577 000) in total from 2015 to 2027.

Conclusion

Heavy drinking prevalence will continue to decrease through 2027 if current age-specific and birth cohort-specific patterns of starting, quitting and resuming heavy drinking continue. Effective mitigation policy should consider age-specific patterns in heavy drinking behaviours to further reduce the burden of heavy drinking.
Effect of vibration therapy on physical function in critically ill adults (VTICIA trial): protocol for a single-blinded randomised controlled trial
Authors: Nakanishi Nobuto , Doi Satoshi , Kawahara Yoshimi , Shiraishi Mie , Oto Jun
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Vibration therapy has been used as an additional approach in passive rehabilitation. Recently, it has been demonstrated to be feasible and safe for critically ill patients, whose muscle weakness and intensive care unit (ICU)-acquired weakness are serious problems. However, the effectiveness of vibration therapy in this population is unclear.

Methods and analysis

This study will enrol 188 adult critically ill patients who require further ICU stay after they can achieve sitting at the edge of the bed or wheelchair. The sample size calculation is based on a 15% improvement of Functional Status Score for the ICU. They will be randomised to vibration therapy coupled with protocolised mobilisation or to protocolised mobilisation alone; outcomes will be compared between the two groups. Therapy will be administered using a low-frequency vibration device (5.6–13 Hz) for 15 min/day from when the patient first achieves a sitting position and onward until discharge from the ICU. Outcome assessments will be blinded to the intervention. Primary outcome will be measured using the Functional Status Score for the ICU during discharge. Secondary outcomes will be identified as follows: delirium, Medical Research Council Score, ICU-acquired weakness, the change of biceps brachii and rectus femoris muscle mass measured by ultrasound, ICU mobility scale and ventilator-free and ICU-free days (number of free days during 28 days after admission). For safety assessment, vital signs will be monitored during the intervention.

Ethics and dissemination

This study has been approved by the Clinical Research Ethics Committee of Tokushima University Hospital. Results will be disseminated through publication in a peer-reviewed journal and presented at conferences.

Trial registration number

UMIN000039616.
Utilisation of follow-up rehabilitation services for stroke survivors: a scoping review protocol
Authors: Madombwe Jacqueline , Dlungwane Thembelihle
Published: March 2021

Introduction

Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability and has been identified as a significant public health problem. Residual functional deficits negatively affect the stroke survivor’s functional independence and quality of life. Rehabilitation is necessary for them to regain lost skills, relearn tasks and be independent again.

Methodology and analysis

A scoping review will be conducted to map available literature on factors influencing utilisation of follow-up rehabilitation services for stroke survivors. Databases including PubMed, LISTA(EBSCO), Web of Science (Clarivate), Google Scholar, Scopus and Science Direct will be searched using keyword searches for articles. The review will include studies presenting evidence on outpatient stroke rehabilitation services, studies undertaken and published in English, including grey literature. Title and abstract screening will be done simultaneously. Two reviewers will independently conduct the abstract and full-text article screening as well as pilot the data extraction form. Thematic analysis will be used to analyse the findings.

Ethics and dissemination

This scoping review is part of a larger study approved by the University of KwaZulu Natal Biomedical Research Ethics Committee (Reference no. BREC/00000660/2019). The results will be disseminated through publication.
On the development of effective field theory
Authors: Weinberg Steven
Published: March 2021

Editor’s note: One of the most important developments in theoretical particle physics at the end of the 20th century and beginning of the twenty-first century has been the development of effective field theories (EFTs). Pursuing an effective field theory approach is a methodology for constructing theories, where a set of core principles is agreed upon, such as Lorentz symmetry and unitarity, and all possible interactions consistent with them are then compulsory in the theory. The utility of this approach to particle physics (and beyond) is wide ranging and undisputed, as evidenced by the recent formation of the international seminar series All Things EFT (Talks in the series can be viewed at https://www.youtube.com/channel/UC1_KF6kdJFoDEcLgpcegwCQ (accessed 21 December 2020).) which brings together each week the worldwide community of EFT practitioners. The text below is a lightly edited version of the talk given by Prof. Weinberg on September 30, 2020, which inaugurated the series. The talk reviews some of the early history of EFTs from the perspective of its pioneer and concludes with a discussion of EFT implications for future discovery.
Global solvability and asymptotic behavior in a two-species chemotaxis system with Lotka–Volterra competitive kinetics
Authors: Ren Guoqiang , Liu Bin
Published: March 2021

In this work, we consider the two-species chemotaxis system with Lotka–Volterra competitive kinetics in a bounded domain with smooth boundary. We construct weak solutions and prove that they become smooth after some waiting time. In addition, the asymptotic behavior of the solutions is studied. Our results generalize some well-known results in the literature.
TUNING OF CRYSTALLITE SIZE, ENERGY GAP, AND MAGNETIC PROPERTY OF Mn-DOPED CoFe2O4 NANOPARTICLES
Authors: PRIYADHARSHINI P. , PUSHPANATHAN K.
Published: March 2021

This paper focuses on the synthesis and structural, optical, and magnetic characterization of Mn-doped CoFe2O4 nanoparticles synthesized by a simple chemical co-precipitation method. Synthesized magnetic nanoparticles were characterized by XRD, FTIR, UV-Vis, PL, TEM, VSM, and EPR spectroscopy. XRD analysis confirmed the significant reduction in the crystallite size from [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]nm to 10[Formula: see text]nm as the Mn content is increased from 0 to 1. UV-Vis spectra confirmed that the Co–Mn ferrite is a direct bandgap magnetic material that possesses an energy gap from 3.92[Formula: see text]eV to 4.33[Formula: see text]eV. FTIR vibrational frequency observed between 468 and 548 [Formula: see text]confirmed the existence of metal–oxygen bond at tetrahedral and octahedral sites. Photoluminescence spectra confirmed the red emission of the samples from the peak at 680[Formula: see text]nm. TEM analysis suggests that the single domain of CoFe2O4 nanoparticles may vary between 38 and 72[Formula: see text]nm. Composition analysis confirmed the homogeneous mixing of Co, Mn Fe, and O atoms in the synthesized samples. The VSM study confirmed that Mn substitution favors transition from ferromagnetic to superparamagnetic. VSM analysis also confirmed the lessening in saturation magnetization and coercivity on Mn doping. The X-band electron paramagnetic resonance spectrum recorded at room temperature conveys that the superexchange interaction is increased with the increase in Mn concentration.
Time–Frequency Random Approach for Prediction of Subway Train-Induced Tunnel and Ground Vibrations
Authors: Wang Lidong , Bu Xiumeng , Han Yan , Zhu Zhihui , Hu Peng , Cai C. S.
Published: March 2021

A time–frequency random approach is proposed in this paper for the prediction of subway train-induced tunnel and ground vibrations. This is a development of the random approach previously proposed by the authors, which takes the discrete track support, singular track defects, etc., into consideration. The proposed approach is developed using a two-step method. First, the pseudo-excitation method (PEM) and the two-dimensional multibody system/finite element method model are effectively combined to derive the track–tunnel pseudo-interaction forces by employing the power spectral density of track irregularity. Second, the random vibrations of the tunnel–soil system are obtained via the PEM in the wavenumber–frequency domain. To improve the computational efficiency, a fast-computing strategy is proposed based on the multipoint synchronous algorithm. Using numerical examples, the proposed time–frequency hybrid modeling process is verified by comparing it with the fully coupled time-dependent three-dimensional approach. Furthermore, the influence of the discrete track support on the random vibrations of the tunnel and ground is discussed by comparing the results predicted by the proposed approach with those predicted by the previously developed approach.
Factors Influencing Consumers’ Adoption of Wearable Technology: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Chiu Weisheng , Oh Ga Eun (Grace) , Cho Heetae
Published: March 2021

Echoing the increasing availability of various kinds of wearable technologies in the marketplace, a growing body of literature has examined which factors are related to consumers’ adoption of wearable devices. While previous studies have applied several major theories to explain consumers’ adoption of wearable devices, some findings are inconsistent, and the understanding of the relationships between variables has been limited due to the lack of a comprehensive framework. By reviewing 36 empirical studies on adoption intention of wearable devices, we developed the comprehensive framework for adoption intention of wearable devices and conducted a meta-analysis in order to examine 24 pairwise relationships among 18 factors. The meta-analysis reveals that most of the key variables identified have significant effect sizes in their relations to attitude and adoption intention. Also, the moderation analysis shows that the effect sizes of relationships vary depending on the culture (i.e., Eastern culture versus Western culture). Together, the findings based on the comprehensive framework provide theoretical and practical implications for how consumers’ adoption of wearable devices can be facilitated.
A Bi-Objective Simulation-Based Optimization Approach for Optimizing Price, Warranty, and Spare Part Production Decisions Under Imperfect Repair
Authors: Afsahi Mohsen , Kashan Ali Husseinzadeh , Ostadi Bakhtiar
Published: March 2021

This paper proposes an efficient methodology based on the Monte-Carlo simulation-based bi-objective optimization, to determine base-warranty (BW) and extended warranty (EW) parameters based on the product lifecycle. The first objective, which is from the manufacturer’s perspective, maximizes the profit while the second objective minimizes the expected number of failures that occurred during the out-of-warranty period. The manufacturer can rectify failed products via minimal repair, imperfect repair and perfect repair. The optimization model has decision variables including the product price, BW length, EW length, EW price, product failure rate, imperfect repair level, and spare part production rate in each time interval. The structure of the model admits the design of a hybrid method based on the multi-objective optimization search algorithm, Monte-Carlo simulation and an exact Out-Of-Kilter (OOK) algorithm. The nondominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) and the multi-objective particle swarm optimization (MOPSO) algorithm are used as search algorithms. The proposed approach consists of three stages, where in the first stage, product price, BW length, EW length, EW price, product failure rate, imperfect repair level are set by NSGA-II/MOPSO. In the second stage, the number of failed products is calculated by the Monte-Carlo simulation and in the third stage, we show that the spare part inventory control sub problem can be transformed to a minimum cost network flow problem which is optimized by the OOK algorithm to attain a unified solution. A Taguchi approach is used to find the optimum level of parameters. The performance of algorithms is compared based on three different metrics. Results on a real-world problem demonstrate that the NSGA-II-OOK algorithm is more effective than the MOPSO-OOK algorithm. Through a sensitivity analysis, we analyze how various levels of planning horizon can affect Pareto-set which indicates valuable managerial insight.
Hot spots localization in proteins by optimized short time Ramanujan Fourier transform
Authors: Yadav Yashpal , Sharma Sanjeev Narayan , Shakya Devendra Kumar , Panchal Abhishek
Published: March 2021

Specific functions in biological processes are dependent on protein–protein interactions. Hot spot residues play a key role in the determination of these interactions and have wide applications in engineering proteins and drug discovery. Experimental techniques to identify hotspots are often labor intensive and expensive. Also, most of the computational methods which have been developed are structure based and need some training. In this work, hotspots have been identified by sequence information alone using the Resonant Recognition Model (RRM). The proposed method uses characteristic period in place of traditionally used characteristic frequency by RRM-based methods. The characteristic period has been extracted from the consensus spectrum of protein families using the Ramanujan Fourier Transform (RFT). Position-period plots for proteins have been generated using Short Time RFT (ST-RFT) with a Gaussian window. Hot spots have been identified by thresholding of the signal corresponding to the protein’s characteristic period in the ST-RFT. To enhance the performance of the ST-RFT, Gaussian window shape parameter has been optimized using concentration measure as a metric. Better sensitivity of this method has been observed compared to other reported RRM-based methods. Since the method is model independent it does not requires any training and can be readily used for any protein sequence provided its interface residues and protein family are known.