bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Proximal Medial Gastrocnemius Recession for Recalcitrant Plantar Fasciitis
Authors: Slullitel Gaston A. , Martinez de Albornoz Pilar , Oller Boix Anna , Rey Cañas Roberto , Vazquez Vidosa Javier , Monteagudo de la Rosa Manuel
Published: May 2024

Background:

Recalcitrant plantar fasciitis (RPF) is characterized by its unresponsiveness to conservative treatments, and its surgical management remains controversial. Although there is some evidence to suggest that gastrocnemius recession can be an effective treatment for RPF, no large series of patients with mid- to long-term follow-up has been published. The objective of this study was to compare physical performance, as measured by the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure activities of daily living score (FAAM-ADL), and pain levels before and 1 year after undergoing proximal medial gastrocnemius recession (PMGR) as a treatment for RPF. Additionally, we aimed to assess this cohort of patients in the mid- to long-term follow-up.

Methods:

This retrospective cohort study included 167 patients who underwent PMGR to address RPF between 2009 and 2021. Patients were examined with the FAAM ADL, visual analog scale (VAS) and satisfaction scores at baseline, 1 year, and at the end of follow-up. Other variables recorded were weight, duration of symptoms until surgery, time between surgery to substantial clinical improvement, calf power and Silfverskiold test, and postoperative complications.

Results:

We observed that before surgery patients had an FAAM-ADL score of 22.5 (SD 11.1) and a VAS score of 8.6 (SD 9.3). One year after surgery, patients had an FAAM-ADL score of 89 (SD 17) and VAS of 1.33 (SD 2) ( P < .01). We also observed that the FAAM-ADL score in the long-term follow-up (>12.5 years) group had a median of 86.4 (SD 22.6), the VAS score was 1.90 (SD 2.84), and the patient satisfaction score had a median of 1 (interquartile range 0-1). Regarding complications, we observed 1 lateral gastrocnemius recession and 1 sural nerve neuritis.

Conclusion:

Our study provides substantial evidence supporting the use of PMGR as an effective treatment for RPF. The long-term follow-up and large sample size of our series contribute to the existing literature on this topic.
Assessing Implicit Theories in Sexual Offending Using Indirect Measures: Feasibility, Reliability, and Incremental Validity
Authors: Noteborn Mirthe G. C. , Sijtsema Jelle J. , Denissen Jaap J. A. , Bogaerts Stefan
Published: May 2024

This study assessed psychometric qualities of indirect measures assessing Implicit Theories (ITs) of sexual offending: Implicit Association Task (IAT), Implicit Relational Assessment Procedure (IRAP), and Relational Responding Task (RRT). For comparison reasons, aggressive behavior was also assessed. In a male sample from the general population ( N = 109), we assessed each measure’s (a) feasibility (mean latency, error rate, passing criteria), (b) internal consistency, (c) convergent and discriminant validity, and (d) incremental and predictive validity. Results indicated that no indirect measure met all criteria. Although the IAT was reasonably feasible and reliable in measuring aggression, ITs could not be reliably assessed. The RRT was feasible and somewhat reliable in assessing ITs, whereas the IRAP showed limited feasibility, high task complexity, low reliability, and the presence of a method factor. No measure had incremental predictive validity over the use of self-report measures, although we note that the power to detect such associations was limited. As none of the indirect measures performed satisfactorily on the measured criteria, the use of these measures in clinical practice seems currently unwarranted to assess ITs.
Tropical Diseases in Okinawa: Overview and Emerging Infectious Diseases
Authors: Itani Yuki , Moriyama Yuki , Ewers Evan , Samaha David , Drew Benjamin , Kotler Joshua A. , Nagata Takashi , Hughey Scott
Published: May 2024

Okinawa prefecture is at risk for emerging infectious diseases due to its subtropical climate and its location within the Indo-Pacific region. Understanding the existing vectors and infectious agents contextualizes current threats, guides treatment, and informs prevention, and may be of unique concern in the setting of complex emergencies.
State of the art: Alternative overlap syndrome—asthma and obstructive sleep apnea
Authors: Ioachimescu Octavian C.
Published: May 2024

In the general population, Bronchial Asthma (BA) and Obstructive Sleep Apnea (OSA) are among the most prevalent chronic respiratory disorders. Significant epidemiologic connections and complex pathogenetic pathways link these disorders via complex interactions at genetic, epigenetic, and environmental levels. The coexistence of BA and OSA in an individual likely represents a distinct syndrome, that is, a collection of clinical manifestations attributable to several mechanisms and pathobiological signatures. To avoid terminological confusion, this association has been named alternative overlap syndrome (vs overlap syndrome represented by the chronic obstructive pulmonary disease—OSA association). This comprehensive review summarizes the complex, often bidirectional links between the constituents of the alternative overlap syndrome. Cross-sectional, population, or clinic-based studies are unlikely to elucidate causality or directionality in these relationships. Even longitudinal epidemiological evaluations in BA cohorts developing over time OSA, or OSA cohorts developing BA during follow-up cannot exclude time factors or causal influence of other known or unknown mediators. As such, a lot of pathophysiological interactions described here have suggestive evidence, biological plausibility, potential or actual directionality. By showcasing existing evidence and current knowledge gaps, the hope is that deliberate, focused, and collaborative efforts in the near-future will be geared toward opportunities to shine light on the unknowns and accelerate discovery in this field of health, clinical care, education, research, and scholarly endeavors.
Advances in research on renal injury in paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria
Authors: Li Liyan , Fu Rong
Published: May 2024

Paroxysmal nocturnal hemoglobinuria (PNH) is an acquired clonal hematopoietic stem cell disease. Clinical manifestations include intravascular hemolysis, renal dysfunction, fatigue, jaundice, pulmonary hypertension, and so on. Renal injury, as a clinical feature of PNH, is difficult to diagnose and is one of the causes of death in patients with PNH. This article reviews the progress in research on PNH combined with renal injury to improve clinicians’ understanding of renal injury in PNH patients, define and judge staging in a timely and accurate manner, enable patients to receive timely and appropriate treatment and reduce mortality.
Xanthinuria in a familial group of Munchkin cats and an unrelated domestic shorthair cat
Authors: Pritchard Emily C , Haase Bianca , Wall Meredith J , O’Brien Carolyn R , Gowan Richard , Mizzi Kim , Kicinski Annie , Podadera Juan , Boland Lara A
Published: May 2024

Case series summary

Four confirmed cases of xanthinuria in cats, and one suspected case based on pedigree analysis, were identified. Clinical presentations varied and included haematuria, pollakiuria, dysuria, and urethral and ureteral obstruction. All cats had upper urinary tract uroliths. Diagnosis was obtained through infrared mass spectrometry of uroliths or urine. Clinical signs commenced at 3–8 months of age and reduced in all cats in the medium to long term after the introduction of a protein-restricted diet. Four cats were castrated males and one was a spayed female. Cases consisted of four Munchkin pedigree cats and one unrelated domestic shorthair cat. All four affected Munchkin pedigree cats were related, with three cases full siblings and the fourth case a half-sibling. No connection to the Munchkin pedigree could be established for the domestic shorthair cat. A candidate causative genetic variant ( XDH p.A681V) proposed for this cat was excluded in the Munchkin family.

Relevance and novel information

All affected cats presented diagnostic challenges and routine urinalysis was insufficient to obtain a diagnosis. Cases of feline xanthinuria may be underdiagnosed due to situations where uroliths cannot be retrieved for analysis and there is an inability to make a diagnosis using crystal morphology alone on routine urinalysis. Metabolic screening of urine may provide an effective mechanism to confirm xanthinuria in suspected cases where uroliths are inaccessible or absent. In this case series, male cats were more common. Their anatomy may increase the risk of lower urinary tract signs and urethral obstruction developing secondary to xanthine urolithiasis. A protein-restricted diet appears to reduce clinical signs as part of long-term management.

Plain language summary

Four closely related Munchkin cats and one domestic shorthair cat were found with a suspected genetic disease causing high levels of xanthine in their urine. The case series looks at similarities and differences in their clinical signs, as well as difficulties experienced in obtaining a correct diagnosis. All cats had upper urinary tract stones and required metabolic testing of the stones or urine to diagnose. All cats were young when their clinical signs started and were on a high-protein diet. Four cats were desexed males and one was a desexed female. A genetic variant that may have caused the disease in the domestic shorthair cat was ruled out in the Munchkin family. Cases of high xanthine levels in feline urine may be underdiagnosed as the stones may not be accessed for testing. In this case series, male cats were more common. Their anatomy may increase the risk of lower urinary tract signs. A protein-restricted diet appears to reduce clinical signs as part of long-term management.
Children born preterm or small for gestational age to mothers with multiple sclerosis: Do these children have an increased risk of infections in early life?
Authors: Andersen Mette Louise , Jølving Line Riis , Iachina Maria , Stenager Egon , Knudsen Torben , Nørgård Bente Mertz
Published: May 2024

Background:

Mothers with multiple sclerosis are at increased risk of preterm birth and small for gestational age infants. Both conditions pose a risk of morbidity, including early-life infections.

Objective:

This study aimed to assess the risk of infections in the first 3 years of life among children born preterm or small for gestational age to mothers with multiple sclerosis.

Methods:

We used Danish national health registers to establish the study cohort of all births by women with MS born from 1995 to 2023. In Cox regression models, we estimated hazard ratios (HRs) of infections in preterm or small for gestational age children.

Results:

Preterm children had an adjusted HR of 1.49 (95% confidence interval (95% CI) 1.15–1.93) for hospital-diagnosed infection and 0.88 (95% CI 0.72–1.06) for antibiotic prescriptions. Small for gestational age children had an adjusted HR of 0.81 (95% CI 0.54–1.22) for hospital-diagnosed infection and 1.07 (95% CI 0.82–1.38) for antibiotic prescriptions.

Conclusion:

Children born preterm to mothers with multiple sclerosis had an increased risk of hospital-diagnosed infections in the first 3 years of life, but not of mild-to-moderate infections evaluated on prescriptions. Children born small for gestational age did not have an increased risk of infections.
Playing with persona: Highlighting older adults’ lived experience with the digital media
Authors: Hjorth Larissa , Sheahan Jacob , Figueiredo Bernardo , Martin Diane , Reid Mike , Aleti Torgeir , Buschgens Mark
Published: May 2024

During the COVID-19 pandemic lockdowns (2020-2021), almost all facets of life were rendered digital – health, work, schooling, and logistics. In this phenomenon, not only did digital access become synonymous with social inclusion but inequalities were also amplified – particularly in the case of older adults (65 years and over). Contemporary older adults represent one of the most diverse spectrums of digital media users – spanning from technologically savvy to non-users. As the first generation of older adults to age in and through data in a data-saturated world, their understandings and experiences can teach us much about the possibilities and limitations of new media. Understanding these practices through cultural probes – like drawing, photos and writing prompts – can enable playful behaviours that not only elicit new thoughts and actions but also allow insight into some of the tacit lived experience that can support opportunities for technological use. In this paper, we ask: How can we playfully co-design through personas to enhance understandings of older adults’ lived experience of digital media? In this paper, we focus on the six co-design workshops in which we deployed personas as representations of digital experience to challenge, explore, provoke and help build nuanced tools for implementation. Through personas, speculative fiction and lived experience collide, offering some fascinating ways to rethink the digital-social dimension for older adults now and into the future.
Platform policy and online abuse: Understanding differential protections for public figures
Authors: Cover Rob , Henry Nicola , Huynh Thuc Bao , Gleave Joscelyn , Grechyn Viktor , Greenfield Sharon
Published: May 2024

Public figures are subject to high rates of online abuse than everyday users. This article presents findings from a study on digital platforms’ higher threshold for protecting public figures in contrast to everyday users. Presenting a summary of extant literature on the experience, impact and harms of online abuse of public figures, we analyse 31 platform terms of service and related policies to understand the extent to which platforms openly differentiate between public figures and other users. We focus on platforms’ use of ‘newsworthiness’ and ‘public interest’ to justify the differential threshold. Using a cultural-informed approach, we analyse platforms’ reliance on ‘newsworthiness’ and ‘public interest’ justifications to argue that these justifications are utilised without regard for the histories, risk assessment, ethics and labour-intensive processes in which the concepts of newsworthiness and public interest became familiar among more traditional media forms such as news organisations.
Health-related inequalities in out-of-pocket expenditure under universal health coverage in Taiwan: A cross-sectional decomposition analysis
Authors: Lee Miaw-Chwen , Pu Christy
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Studies have investigated income-related inequality in out-of-pocket expenditure (OOPE) on health care but less is known about health-related inequality of OOPE distribution. This study analysed the relationship between health-related inequality and OOPE and the factors contributing to OOPE inequality in Taiwan.

Methods

We developed a household OOPE questionnaire and conducted a nationally representative cross-sectional survey of households in Taiwan between January and August 2022, using two-stage probability proportional-to-size sampling based on a national address registry in Taiwan. We calculated a concentration index to determine OOPE inequality in health. We then identified factors contributing to OOPE inequality in health distribution by performing a decomposition analysis.

Results

A total of 657 people responded to the survey (81.4% response rate). The two largest categories of OOPE were spending on curative care and on medical goods and pharmaceuticals, with concentration indices of −0.265 ( p < .001), −0.272 ( p = .006) and −0.227 ( p = .003), respectively, indicating that the OOPE burden fell disproportionately on people with poor health. Socioeconomic status explained significant proportions of inequality in total, curative and medical goods and pharmaceuticals OOPE. Utilisation of health care increased the OOPE burden among people with poor health while having private health insurance worked in the opposite direction.

Conclusion

In Taiwan, people in poor health faced a disproportionately high OOPE burden, indicating that the National Health Insurance scheme may not meet their needs for health care. There is a need for policies to take account of the different factors affecting health inequalities in OOPE in order to enhance equity in Taiwan’s universal health system.
Caregivers with limited English proficiency: Satisfaction with primary pediatric healthcare
Authors: Duong Linda Thanh , Tran My-An
Published: May 2024

With a growing 25.5 million people in the United States experiencing limited-English proficiency (LEP), there is a concern over these individuals’ experiences in healthcare. Health outcomes of LEP status are well-documented for adults in hospitals; however, less is known about patient experience, pediatric populations, and primary care settings. This study investigated differences in caregiver satisfaction between families with and without LEP receiving healthcare for their child. A sample of 25,118 caregivers whose children from birth to 17 years had met with any healthcare providers in the past year was used. Analyses consisted of unpaired t-tests comparing mean satisfaction of LEP and English-proficient (EP) caregivers in the domains of how often primary healthcare providers spent enough time with the child, listened, provided specific information, demonstrated sensitivity to the family’s values, and made the respondent feel like a partner. In all aspects of caregiver satisfaction, mean satisfaction scores were significantly lower for LEP caregivers than EP caregivers. The largest drops were seen in perceived time and sensitivity. These results highlight a need to ensure LEP families receive equitable and high-quality primary care services, ultimately building trust in the healthcare system and improving children’s health and well-being.
REDCap to Epic interfaces create an efficient hybrid software solution for a public health registry
Authors: Crawford Marty , Jones Nicole , Babbage Jonathan , Edwards Morgan , Bryson Casey , Hanna-Attisha Mona
Published: May 2024

A public health registry and intervention was created in response to the Flint water crisis to identify and refer exposed individuals to public health services to ameliorate the deleterious impact of lead exposure. Traditional technology architecture domains, funded scope of work, as well as community input were considered when defining the requirements of the selected solutions. A hybrid software solution was created using Research Electronic Data Capture (REDCap) to deploy an open participant survey and bypass requirements to create user accounts, and Epic to manage deduplication and participant communication and tracking. To bridge the two software systems, REDCap to Epic unidirectional ADT and Documentation Flowsheet interfaces were built to automate creation of subject records in Epic identical to those created in REDCap and to copy key protocol-driving variables from REDCap to Epic. The interfaces were critical to deliver a successful hybrid solution in which the desired features of each software could be leveraged to satisfy specific protocol requirements and community input. Data from the start of survey administration (December 2018) through 31 December 2020 are reported to demonstrate the usefulness of the interfaces.
The great transformation: The Durkheimian sociology of religion from Émile Durkheim to Henri Hubert
Authors: Lelis Romulo
Published: May 2024

This article compares Durkheim's early sociological insights into religion with Hubert's sociological approach to religious phenomena. The goal is to shed light on the transformation that occurred in the Durkheimian sociology of religion during that period. First, it presents Durkheim's early sociological insights on religion (1886–1899) before the inception of the Année Sociologique. His approach during this period aimed to uncover the obligations behind religious acts and thoughts, viewing religion as a form of social discipline. Second, it explores the sociologie religieuse approach developed by Hubert (1902–1914) during the first series of the Année Sociologique, an approach that sought to understand the distinctiveness of religious action and ideas through sacred dramas. Finally, this article argues that Hubert's work prompted the great theoretical transformation within the Durkheimian sociology of religion from social discipline to sacred drama.
Political tribalism, meritocracy, and human capital management in Kuwait’s diverse work setting
Authors: Baroun AbdulWahab
Published: May 2024

The complicated relationship between political tribalism, meritocracy, and human capital in Kuwait emerges as an important focus in the changing landscape of modern organizations. This paper carefully examines this complex relationship, demonstrating its significant implications for human capital management. Political tribalism, which is closely associated with power systems, has a noticeable impact on core human capital processes like hiring, training, and career advancement. In addition, the fundamental idea of a meritocracy promotes unbiased hiring practices by putting competence above affiliation. An in-depth understanding of the mediating role performed by human capital practices is necessary in order to effectively address complex political elements while firmly maintaining meritocratic values. The findings presented here apply to similar organizational situations other than Kuwait. The study provides firms with invaluable insights by revealing these complex links and encourages proactive actions to develop an open, equitable human capital strategy. It attempts to create an environment that encourages the development of human capital, the maintenance of a strong meritocratic system, and the effective mitigation of the negative effects of political tribalism.
Polar coordinate-based guided wave beamforming imaging using scanning LDV
Authors: Nam Hyeonwoo , Jeon Jun Young , Park Gyuhae , Park Chan-Yik
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we propose a technique for efficiently detecting damage in plate-like structures using guided waves, polar coordinate-based beamforming imaging, and filtering techniques. The proposed technique uses a laser Doppler vibrometer and a scanning mirror-tilting device for ultrasonic wave imaging, with single-frequency excitation provided by a mounted piezoelectric transducer. Frequency-wavenumber domain filtering and directional filtering are implemented in polar coordinates for efficient detection of damage-reflected waves by removing any incident wave components. The filtered waves are then processed using a delay-and-sum beamforming algorithm within local-area laser scanning through a circular array sensing system. The polar coordinate-based laser scanning system improves the damage detection capability and processing time by removing the need for coordinate transformation in frequency-wavenumber domain filtering and directional filtering. Finally, the proposed technique is validated through experiments on composite and aluminum plates with various types of damage, where it demonstrates improved accuracy and speed when estimating the exact damage location.
Asthma and obstructive sleep apnea: Unveiling correlations and treatable traits for comprehensive care
Authors: Pardo-Manrique Verónica , Ibarra-Enríquez Ciro D , Serrano Carlos D , Sanabria Fernando , Fernandez-Trujillo Liliana
Published: May 2024

Asthma and obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) are common respiratory disorders. They share characteristics such as airway obstruction, poor sleep quality, and low quality of life. They are often present as comorbidities, along with obesity, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), and allergic rhinitis (AR), which impacts the disease’s control. In recent years, there has been discussion about the association between these conditions and their pathophysiological and clinical consequences, resulting in worse health outcomes, increased healthcare resource consumption, prolonged hospital stays, and increased morbidity and mortality. Some studies demonstrate that treatment with continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) can have a beneficial effect on both pathologies. This review summarizes the existing evidence of the association between asthma and OSA at their pathophysiological, epidemiological, clinical, and therapeutic levels. It intends to raise awareness among healthcare professionals about these conditions and the need for further research.
Carotid Disease Classification: Impact of the 2021 Intersocietal Accreditation Commission Updated Recommendations vs 2003 Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound Consensus Conference Criteria
Authors: Wooster Elizabeth M. , Williams David M. , Wooster Douglas L.
Published: May 2024

Introduction:

In 2021, the Intersocietal Accreditation Commission (IAC) introduced modified criteria for carotid duplex interpretation based on peak systolic velocity (PSV) and PSV ratio. The most significant change compared to the 2003 Society of Radiologists in Ultrasound (SRU) criteria involved re-defining the thresholds for <50 and 50% to 69% stenosis ranges. Patients identified in <50% vs 50% to 69% ranges may face different disease severity assignments, variable surveillance protocols, medical management approaches, and recommendations for intervention. Facilities may experience altered payment coverage, issues of staff re-training, and questions from referring physicians regarding patient treatment and disease management expectations. The objective of this study was to assess the impact of re-defining these stenosis ranges using the 2021 IAC criteria vs the SRU criteria.

Methods:

Anonymized patient data from carotid duplex examinations were collected as part of an internal laboratory quality improvement strategy. These data were analyzed in an electronic database using the IAC and SRU threshold criteria to determine the degree of carotid stenosis. Patients with normal arteries, unilateral studies, or complete occlusions were excluded.

Results:

Of the 1000 patients considered, 850 met the eligibility criteria. Using PSV: for the right carotid, 242 (28.5%) showed a change and 608 (71.5%) showed no change in stenosis classification; for the left carotid, 228 (27%) showed a change and 622 (73%) showed no change. All changes were a downgrading of disease to <50% stenosis. Using PSV ratio: for the right carotid, re-assignment of 53 (22% of changed, 6% of total cohort); for the left carotid, re-assignment of 48 (21% of changed, 5.6% of total cohort). All changes resulted in re-assignment to the 50% to 69% stenosis category.

Conclusions:

Implementation of the IAC criteria resulted in patients being re-assigned to lower stenosis categories (27% for PSV and 21% for PSV ratio). The impact of these changes on patient care and facility logistics needs careful consideration.
Quantitative evaluation of the effects of flow diverter treatment on aneurysm hemodynamics using time-resolved rotational angiography
Authors: Peterson Jeremy C , DiNitto Julie M , Birkhold Annette , Kahn Nickalus , Nickele Christopher , Hoit Dan , Inoa Violiza , Elijovich Lucas , Dornbos David , Arthur Adam S
Published: May 2024

Background

There have been immense advancements in the hardware and software of digital subtraction angiography systems over the last several years. These advancements continue to make progress toward the goals of offering better visualization and reducing radiation exposure. A newer advancement in this arena is presenting three-dimension data over time resulting in four-dimensional-digital subtracted angiography visualization. We have evaluated these protocols related to the evaluation of the treatment of intracranial aneurysms with pipeline flow diversion.

Methods

Four-dimensional-digital subtracted angiography imaging was acquired on an Artis Q Biplane angiographic system (Siemens Healthcare AG, Forchheim, Germany). A six second four-dimensional-digital subtracted angiography protocol was performed pre and post flow diverter placement. Pre and post reconstructed images were sent through a dedicated prototype research workstation (Syngo X-Workplace; Siemens Healthineers AG) for further flow evaluation.

Results

The treatment of an aneurysm with flow diversion led to a filling delay of 0.278 ± 0.422 s inside the aneurysms, whereas distal to the aneurysms the filling of the vessel segment occurred earlier post procedural (negative filling delay of −0.15 ± 0.31 s. The flow ratio inside the aneurysm decreased to 63.6 ± 23% of its pre-treatment value and distal to the aneurysm the flow remained substantially the same (flow ratio: 95.6 ± 0.29%). Data showed a relative filling delay of the aneurysm normalized to the distal vessel of 0.43 ± 0.36 s. The relative flow ratio of the aneurysm in comparison to the distal parent vessel was 72.2 ± 31%.

Conclusions

Analysis of a four-dimensional-digital subtracted angiography acquisition allows assessment of the effects of flow diversion treatment on aneurysm hemodynamic parameters and shows a significant decrease in flow inside the aneurysm compared to the parent vessel distal to the aneurysm.
The efficacy of atherectomy combined with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA)/drug-coated balloon (DCB) compared with PTA/DCB for infrapopliteal arterial diseases: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wang Hui , Su Zhixiang , Guo Julong , Guo Jianming , Gu Yongquan
Published: May 2024

Objectives

With the development of endovascular therapies, some studies have indicated a therapeutic potential for infrapopliteal arterial revascularization with atherectomy (AT). This study was designed to perform a meta-analysis to investigate the efficacy of AT combined with percutaneous transluminal angioplasty (PTA) or drug-coated balloon (DCB) compared with PTA or DCB for infrapopliteal arterial diseases.

Methods

This is a systematic review and meta-analysis. The Pubmed, Web of Science, and Cochrane Library were systematically searched for articles published up to November 2022, reporting using atherectomy devices for infrapopliteal arterial patients. Randomized controlled trials and retrospective studies were included, and clinical characteristic outcomes were extracted and pooled. Then, we analyzed the efficacies of the AT (AT + PTA or DCB) group and the non-AT (DCB or PTA) group for infrapopliteal arterial patients.

Results

We identified 6 studies with 1269 patients included in this meta-analysis. The risk ratios (RRs) of primary patency for patients treated with atherectomy group compared to non-atherectomy group at 6 months was 1.03 (95% confidence intervals (CIs) 0.86–1.23, p = .74), at 12 months was 1.05 (95% CIs 0.84–1.30, p = .66), in the subgroup analysis between AT combined with DCB and DCB alone, the RRs of primary patency was 1.56 (95% CIs 1.02–2.39, p = .04). The RRs of freedom from target lesion revascularization (TLR) at 6 months was 1.04 (95% CIs 0.93–1.17, p = .45), at 12 months was 1.20 (95% CIs 0.83–1.75, p = .33). The RRs of mortality at 6 months was 0.57 (95% CIs 0.29–1.11, p = .10), and at 12 months was 0.79 (95% CI 0.50–1.25, p = .31). The RRs of limb salvage at 12 months was 0.99 (95% CIs 0.92–1.07, p = .87). The standardized mean difference (SMD) of (Ankle-brachial index) ABI at 12 months was 0.16 (95% CIs 0.06–0.26, p = .001).

Conclusions

According to this systematic review and meta-analysis, no significant advantages were found with the addition of atherectomy to balloon angioplasty in the below-the-knee segment. Only in the analysis of a small subgroup of atherectomy + DCB versus DCB alone was the primary patency rate at six months significantly higher when adding atherectomy. No further significant differences were found related to 12 months of primary patency, TLR, limb salvage, and mortality among groups.
People with intellectual disability and their risk of exposure to violence: Identification and prevention – a literature review
Authors: Starke Mikaela , Larsson Anneli , Punzi Elisabeth
Published: May 2024

The aim of the literature review was to identify knowledge and knowledge gaps concerning risks of violence toward children, youth, adults and elderly with intellectual disabilities, and how risks can be identified and prevented. The research revealed that children, youths and adults labelled with intellectual disabilities are more exposed to violence than others and that the target group lack knowledge about risks of violence and what it means to be exposed to violence. It was also found that professionals who work with people with intellectual disabilities may lack knowledge about violence, and those who work with violence lack knowledge about intellectual disabilities. There is thus a need to further elaborate routines to identify exposure to violence, and to identify the target group and a need to create collaborative teams with professionals who have in-depth knowledge of violence, and those who have in-depth knowledge about the target group.
Improving ethical assurance for non-university researchers in crisis settings: an early vision based on democratic norms
Authors: Cochrane Leanne , Drummond Orla , Jordan Eliza
Published: May 2024

This article aims to open a discussion on better ethical assurance for non-university research actors drawing on democratic norms. It derives from the author’s experience of a gap in ethical assurance for social science and humanities (SSH) research that takes place outside academia, for example within international organisations, public bodies, non-governmental organisations (NGOs) and by private entities. Many of these actors commission, conduct or sub-contract research activities involving human participants on a regular basis, an activity that often increases during times of crisis where researchers in both the public and private sphere scramble to generate the new knowledge necessary to respond and prevent further harms. The ethical assurance frameworks for such research, while growing, remain limited. Discussion of research conducted by actors outside of university settings and their ethical assurance frameworks are both subjects under-interrogated within the literature. This paper seeks to open that discussion by presenting this broad non-university research context through the frame of research in crisis settings, where the ethical requirements of ‘do no harm’ and the ‘dual imperative’ possess an even heavier significance in research ethics. Furthermore, the global and diverse nature of crisis settings often gives rise to conversations concerning the positioning of the research actor and the need to empower the research participant. This paper presents an early vision of the non-university research actor and ethical assurance process based on the democratic norms of equality and inclusivity.
Modelling the impact of single vs. dual presentation on visual discrimination across resolutions
Authors: French Luke A , Tangen Jason M , Sewell David K
Published: May 2024

Visual categorisation relies on our ability to extract useful diagnostic information from complex stimuli. To do this, we can utilise both the “high-level” and “low-level” information in a stimulus; however, the extent to which changes in these properties impact the decision-making process is less clear. We manipulated participants’ access to high-level category features via gradated reductions to image resolution while exploring the impact of access to additional category features through a dual-stimulus presentation when compared with single stimulus presentation. Results showed that while increasing image resolution consistently resulted in better choice performance, no benefit was found for dual presentation over single presentation, despite responses for dual presentation being slower compared with single presentation. Applying the diffusion decision model revealed increases in drift rate as a function of resolution, but no change in drift rate for single versus dual presentation. The increase in response time for dual presentation was instead accounted for by an increase in response caution for dual presentations. These findings suggest that while increasing access to high-level features (via increased resolution) can improve participants’ categorisation performance, increasing access to both high- and low-level features (via an additional stimulus) does not.
English-medium instruction for sale: The multimodal discourse of self-perception on Japanese liberal arts faculty websites
Authors: Birtles Mark
Published: May 2024

This study both contributes to and updates the growing body of literature into the framing of English-medium instruction on institutional websites. A three-dimensional discourse analysis model is used to investigate the self-perception of three well-established liberal arts faculties in Japan. The analysis reveals distinct features in the self-perception of these universities and teases out the ingrained ideological standpoints. Firstly, the neoliberal ideological hegemony found in other university studies exists, but Japanese universities frame it differently: the explicit focus is on profit for society rather than individual gain. Secondly, there is consensus among the institutions regarding the production of ‘globalised’ individuals, but the universities are less than definitive on what the key competencies entail, or how they are applied and measured. Finally, the study underscores the explicit alignment of institutional goals with national policy objectives, reflecting the values advocated by the Japanese education ministry. As the government’s Top Global University Project approaches its conclusion, this research provides valuable insights for Japanese universities to reassess the aims and objectives of their English-language programs. By offering a nuanced understanding of institutional discourse, this study furthermore contributes to the broader literature on EMI practices and policies, guiding future developments in Japanese higher education.
Glucose Targets Using Continuous Glucose Monitoring Metrics in Older Adults With Diabetes: Are We There Yet?
Authors: Toschi Elena , O’Neal David , Munshi Medha , Jenkins Alicia
Published: May 2024

The older population is increasing worldwide and up to 30% of older adults have diabetes. Older adults with diabetes are at risk of glucose-related acute and chronic complications. Recently, mostly in type 1 diabetes (T1D), continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) devices have proven beneficial in improving time in range (TIR glucose, 70-180 mg/dL or glucose 3.9-10 mmol/L), glycated hemoglobin (HbA1c), and in lowering hypoglycemia (time below range [TBR] glucose <70 mg/dL or glucose <3.9 mmol/L). The international consensus group formulated CGM glycemic targets relating to older adults with diabetes based on very limited data. Their recommendations, based on expert opinion, were aimed at mitigating hypoglycemia in all older adults. However, older adults with diabetes are a heterogeneous group, ranging from healthy to very complex frail individuals based on chronological, biological, and functional aging. Recent clinical trial and real-world data, mostly from healthy older adults with T1D, demonstrated that older adults often achieve CGM targets, including TIR recommended for non-vulnerable groups, but less often meet the recommended TBR <1%. Existing data also support that hypoglycemia avoidance may be more strongly related to minimization of glucose variability (coefficient of variation [CV]) rather than lower TIR. Very limited data are available for glucose goals in older adults adjusted for the complexity of their health status. Herein, we review the bidirectional associations between glucose and health status in older adults with diabetes; use of diabetes technologies, and their impact on glucose control; discuss current guidelines; and propose a new set of CGM targets for older adults with insulin-treated diabetes that are individualized for health and living status.
Effects of Frying, Freezing, Boiling, and Thawing Processes on Proximate, PH and Energy Values of Fresh (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Aberoumand Ali , Abiyavi Kausar , Fardaei Fatemeh , Kouti Rania , Benafi Zainab , Ahmadi Najmeh , Hatami Mashhid , Ahmadi Reza
Published: May 2024

Objective/Background: Oncorhynchus mykiss is the most popular type of freshwater fish consumed by Iranians. It has delicious taste and high nutritional value. The purpose of processing and preserving fish is to get it to the end consumer in a good, usable condition. Methods: This study is a descriptive study that compares and determines the analysis results of proximate, protein, and fat between fresh and processed fish using the standard method of AOAC and compares the analysis of this study with that of other studies. The effect of the processing methods’ nutritional composition is determined. In addition to fresh fish, 5 treatments are used for the 5 different methods of fish processing. Results: The fresh fish and the different processed samples were analyzed by standard AOAC methods, and their pH was measured. After analyzing the macronutrient compounds of different samples, the energy values were then calculated in kcal. The moisture content ranged from 72.50% for fresh fish to 19.50% for frozen fish, while the fat content ranged from 8.09% for fresh fish to 64.47% for frozen fish. The ash contents were found to range from 4.82% to 5.82%, while the protein contents were found to range from 10.47% to 13.59%. The results showed that quick freezing of fish preserved nutrients with a high percentage of energy. This sample was recommended for consumption, followed by samples thawed in oven and in hot water. The fried and boiled samples were in the next stages of quality and energy values. Conclusions: Because the fat content of this type of fresh fish is high, and if fish feed and its nutrition are protein materials with high biological value, it will be useful to increase the percentage of meat protein for it to grow.
Acute Toxicity and Hepatoprotective Influence of Hypericum perforatum Against Thioactamid-Induced Liver Fibrosis in Rats
Authors: Jabbar Ahmed A.J. , Alamri Zaenah Zuhair
Published: May 2024

Background: Hypericum perforatum (MEHP) is a broadly used therapeutic plant exhibiting numerous bioactivities. The present study evaluates acute toxicity and hepatoprotective effects of MEHP against thioacetamide (TAA)-induced liver injury in rats. Methods: The toxicity trial included a single oral administration of 2000 and 5000 mg/kg to rats. In the hepatoprotective experiment, 30 adult rats were arbitrarily clustered into 5 groups: Normal (A) and TAA control rats (B) treated with daily distilled water; reference rats received 3 oral doses/week of 50 mg/kg silymarin; D and E, rats received daily doses of 250 and 500 mg/kg MEHP, respectively. In addition, group B-E received 3 injections of 200 mg/kg TAA in a week for 60 days. Results: The results have shown a lack of any toxic signs in rats following oral administration of up to 5000 mg/kg. The hepatoprotective evaluations revealed a noticeably lower hepatic injury in MEHP-treated rats shown by reduced liver index and hepatocyte proliferation. Histopathological evaluation (H&E and Masson trichrome stains) showed a significant inhibitory potential of MEHP on the incidence rate of hepatic lesions represented by decreased liver necrosis and lower fibrous connective tissue proliferation initiated by TAA in rats. MEHP treatment meaningfully decreased proliferating cell nuclear antigen and α-SMA (myofibroblasts) in liver parenchymal tissues as well as improved redox (up-regulated SOD, CAT, GPx, and down-regulated MDA) and inflammatory state (decreased serum TNF-α and IL-6 cytokines) compared to fibrosis control rats. In addition, MEHP treatment caused significant restoration of serum liver biomarkers (enzymes and proteins) against TAA-induced hepatotoxicity. Conclusion: The present hepatoprotectives of MEHP could be attributed to its chemical contents (hypericin, hyperforin, quercitrin, and p-coumaric acid) that may validate it as a therapeutic additive for liver fibrosis after some pharmacological evaluations.
Revision Total Ankle Arthroplasty Using a Novel Modular Fixed-Bearing Revision Ankle System
Authors: Martin Rebecca , Dean Michael , Kakwani Rajesh , Murty An , Sharpe Ian , Townshend David
Published: May 2024

Introduction

Large bone defects such as those encountered after failed total ankle replacement have previously been a relative contraindication to revision ankle replacement due to inadequate bone stock. We describe our experience and patient reported outcomes with a modular ankle replacement system with tibial and talar augments.

Methods

This is a retrospective case series analysis of patients who underwent a total ankle replacement using the INVISION system across 2 centers between 2016 and 2022. Patients completed the Manchester-Oxford Foot Questionnaire (MOXFQ), Ankle Osteoarthritis Scale (AOS), and EQ-5D pre-operatively and then post-operatively at 6 months, 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, and 5 years. Medical records were reviewed for complications and re-operations. X-rays were reviewed for lucencies and alignment.

Results

A total of 17 patients were included in the study; 14 men and 3 women with an average age at the time of surgery of 67.9 years (range 56-80 years). The average follow-up post-operatively was 40.5 months (range 7-78) at the time of this study. The indication for surgery was revision of failed total ankle replacement (TAR) in 16 and revision of failed ankle fusion in 1. An augmented tibia was used in 13, an augmented talus in 13, and both augmented tibia and talus in 9 cases. There were no early surgical complications. One patient required debridement and implant retention for late deep infection. No implants have been revised. The average MOXFQ score improved by 19.3 points at most recent follow-up. The average AOS score improved by 25.2 points.

Conclusion

The early results of a modular augmented ankle arthroplasty system have shown satisfactory patient outcomes with a low complication and re-operation rate and present another option for patients with larger bone defects. This is a small series, and a larger series with long-term follow-up would be beneficial.

Levels of Evidence:

Level IV: Case series.
I Need to See Me in It: Critical Participatory Inquiry as a Bridge Between Theory and Practice for PAR in Healthcare Organizations
Authors: Vaughn-Guy Cecilia
Published: May 2024

Critical Participatory Inquiry (CPI) is an emergent epistemological anchoring of Participatory Action Research (PAR) that grounds its users in a spectrum of participation that considers the way that social constraints including race, politics, and power dynamics influence how researchers operationalize and practice amplification of minoritized voices in their research. This article is a scholarly and reflexive perspective piece that invites scholars, practitioners, and scholar-practitioners to explore the ontology and axiology of their own ideologies and their alignment with how they show up in the world and how they manage the implicit hierarchies within healthcare research and within healthcare organizations. The author uses her own positionality to explain how she grounds and frames her research in her lived experience and personal truths. It considers the types of knowledge and the knowledge holders that are privileged in academia and compares that to the realized hierarchies and power dynamics in the healthcare setting.