bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
DEVELOPMENT AND INITIAL TESTING OF A BRIEF, GENERIC, SELF-REPORTED DISABILITY QUESTIONNAIRE: THE UNIVERSAL DISABILITY INDEX
Authors: Evans David W
Published: August 2024

Background

Disability is an important multifaceted construct. The aim of this study was to develop and evaluate a brief, generic self-reported disability questionnaire: the Universal Disability Index (UDI).

Methods

Convenience sampling was used to collect general population data via an online survey. Data were randomly divided into training and validation subsets. The dimensionality and structure of eight UDI questionnaire items were evaluated using exploratory factor analysis (EFA, training subset) followed by confirmatory factor analysis (CFA, validation subset). To assess concurrent validity, the UDI summed score from the full dataset was compared to the Groningen Activity Restriction Scale (GARS) and the Graded Chronic Pain Scale (GCPS) disability scores. Internal consistency was also assessed.

Results

403 participants enrolled; 364 completed at least one UDI item. Three single-factor versions of the UDI were assessed (8-item, 7-item, and 6-item). All versions performed well during EFA and CFA (182 cases assigned to each), but none met the RMSEA (Root Mean Square Error of Approximation) criterion (≤ 0.08). All versions of the UDI had high internal consistency (Cronbach's α > 0.90) and were strongly correlated (Pearson's r > 0.7) with both GARS and GCPS disability scores, indicating concurrent validity.

Conclusions

A brief, generic self-reported disability questionnaire was found to be valid and to possess good psychometric properties. The UDI has a single factor structure and either a 6-item, 7-item or 8-item version can be used to measure disability. For brevity and parsimony, the 6-item UDI is recommended, but further testing of all versions is warranted.

Conflicts of interest

No conflicts of interest

Sources of funding

No funding obtained
BERTOLOTTI'S SYNDROME: DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
Authors: Jenkins A. L. , Harvie C. , O'Donnell J. , Jenkins S.
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Lumbosacral transitional vertebrae (LSTV) are increasingly recognized as a common anatomical variant and is the most common congenital anomaly of the lumbosacral spine. Patients can have symptomatic LSTV, known as Bertolotti's Syndrome, where transitional anatomy can cause back, L5 distribution leg, hip, and groin pain. We propose an outline for diagnosis and treatment of Bertolotti's Syndrome.

Methods

We retrospectively reviewed over 500 patients presenting to the primary author with low back, buttock, hip, groin and/or leg pain from April 2009 through April 2024. Patients with radiographic findings of an LSTV and clinical presentation underwent diagnostic injections to confirm diagnosis of Bertolotti's syndrome. Treatment was determined based on patient's LSTV classification. 157 patients with confirmed Bertolotti's syndrome underwent surgical treatment.

Results

Over 500 patients presented with an appropriate clinical presentation and radiographic findings of an LSTV. Diagnostic injections were targeted into the transitional anatomy confirming the LSTV as the primary pain generator to make the diagnosis of Bertolotti's syndrome. The decision in the type of surgical intervention, resection or fusion, was made based on patient's LSTV anatomy. 157 patients with confirmed Bertolotti's Syndrome underwent surgical treatment (121 fusions (77%), 36 resections (23%)). The classification system and surgical outcomes, in part, have been previously published in World Neurosurgery.

Conclusion

We have outlined the best practice of diagnosis and treatment selection for Bertolotti's syndrome. We have shown significant improvement in outcomes based on this method. We hope to aid in both patient education and provide an outline on how clinicians can become knowledgeable on Bertolotti's syndrome.

Conflicts of interest

No conflicts of interest

Sources of funding

No funding obtained
“GO AND GET IT CHECKED”: EXPLORING THE DECISION TO ATTEND THE EMERGENCY DEPARTMENT FOR LOW BACK PAIN
Authors: Whitcomb H. , Roberts L.C. , Ryan C.
Published: August 2024

Purpose and background

Low back pain burdens individuals, society and services, including Emergency Departments (ED), straining services and prolonging wait times. Despite reported personal influences on deciding to attend ED, the role of third-party advice remains underexplored. Sparse guidance for clinicians and service-users highlights the need for effective back pain management strategies, to alleviate system pressure and optimise patient outcomes. This study explored how advice influences the decision to attend the ED for back pain.

Methods and Results

From a subtle realist stance, the design was a secondary analysis of qualitative data, where 47 patients (26M:21F, aged 23–79 years) with back pain were purposively sampled from four EDs (2 Northern and 2 Southern) in England between August and December 2021. Eight patients had previously visited ED for this episode of back pain. As this was during the pandemic, semi-structured interviews were conducted online, audio-recorded, transcribed verbatim and analysed using a reflective thematic analysis.

Three themes were identified as crucial in making the decision to attend ED: The Healthcare professional; Trusted others; and the Individual. Healthcare professionals often dictated decisions, leaving participants feeling powerless. Trusted others provided varying support levels, often acting as allies. Individuals grappled with anxieties around their condition and treatment expectations.

Conclusion

This study highlights the need for clinicians to provide clarity and guidance to individuals and their Trusted others, seeking advice regarding escalation to visit the ED with back pain. There was evidence that worrying about pain was a significant motivator for attending ED, resulting in malalignment with current practice guidelines.

No conflicts of interest

 

Sources of funding

Funding for primary data: Health Education England & National Institute of Health and Care Research (ICA-CDRF-2018-04-ST2-040)
DELIVERY AND DIFFERENTIATION OF A REGENERATIVE CELL SOURCE AND IMMUNOGENICITY TESTING: A BIOMATERIAL FOR INTERVERTEBRAL DISC REPAIR
Authors: Snuggs J , Ciccione C , Vernengo A , Tryfonidou M , Grad S , Vadala G , Maitre C Le
Published: August 2024

Background

Chronic low back pain is strongly linked to degeneration of the intervertebral disc (IVD), which currently lacks any targeted treatments. This study explores NPgel, a biomaterial combined with notochordal cells (NC), developmental precursor cells, as a potential solution. NCs, known for anti-catabolic effects on IVD cells, present a promising avenue for regenerating damaged IVD tissue.

Methods

Bovine IVDs underwent enzymatic degeneration before NPgel (+/- NC) injection. Degenerated bovine IVDs were cultured under biomechanical loading for 21 days. Histology and immunohistochemistry assessed NC survival, phenotype, and matrix production. Within an in vivo sheep pilot study, NPgel (+/- NC) was injected into degenerated IVDs, blood was taken, and immune cell activation was monitored via flow cytometry over three months post-injection.

Results

Within the ex vivo model, IVDs injected with NPgel (+/- NC) exhibited increased matrix expression and deposition. Viable NCs were detected post-culture, indicating survival and matrix production. In the in vivo model, NPgel injection into sheep IVDs did not significantly increase activation of immune cells compared to controls, suggesting no systemic inflammatory effects.

Conclusion

NPgel, combined with NCs, shows promise for IVD regeneration. Ex vivo findings indicate NPgel supports NC survival and matrix production. Moreover, in vivo results demonstrate the absence of systemic immunogenic responses post-NPgel injection. This suggests NPgel's potential as a carrier for NCs in IVD regeneration therapy. These findings underscore NPgel's candidacy for further investigation in addressing chronic low back pain associated with IVD degeneration. Subsequent research, including long-term efficacy and safety evaluations, is imperative for clinical translation.

Conflicts of interest

There are no conflicts of interest

Sources of funding

iPSpine, grant # 825925, Horizon 2020
GRAM-POSITIVE BACTERIA WITHIN THE INTERVERTEBRAL DISC AND THEIR POTENTIAL INFLUENCE
Authors: Nüesch A. , Kanelis E. , Alexopoulos L. , Williams F. , Geris L. , Gantenbein B. , Lacey M. , Breakwell L. , Maitre C. Le
Published: August 2024

Introduction

Multiple studies have identified Cutibacterium acnes (C.acnes) and other microbes in intervertebral disc tissue using 16S DNA Sequencing and microbial cultures. However, it remains unclear whether these bacteria are native to the discs or result from perioperative contamination. Our study aimed to detect Gram-positive bacteria in non-herniated human disc samples and explore correlations with Toll-like receptors (TLR) 2, TLR4, NLRP3, and Gasdermin D.

Methods

Immunohistochemical staining was conducted on 75 human IVD samples for Gram-positive bacteria, S. aureus, C.acnes, TLR2, TLR4, NLRP3, and Gasdermin D. Cell detection and classification were performed using QuPath. NP cells were treated with Lipopolysaccharide (LPS) and Peptidoglycan (PGN) in monolayer and alginate beads for up to 72 hours, followed by secretome analysis using Luminex. Statistical analysis included Kruskal-Wallis, Dunn's multiple comparison test, and Pearson correlation.

Results

Immunohistochemical staining revealed Gram-positive bacteria exclusively within cells, with C. acnes positivity ranging from 5–99% and correlating with patient age (r=0.41, p= 0.007). TLR2 positivity ranged from 5–99% and TLR4 from 3–72%, showing a strong correlation (r= 0.62, p= 1.5e-006). Females with mid-degenerative grades exhibited significantly decreased TLR2 expression compared to those without degeneration signs. Treatment with LPS and PGN increased catabolic cyto- and chemokines associated with IVD degeneration.

Conclusion

In conclusion, this study confirms Gram-positive bacteria presence in non-herniated human disc samples and highlights their role in triggering a catabolic response in disc cells.

No conflicts of interest

 

Sources of funding

This project is part of the Disc4All Training network to advance integrated computational simulations in translational medicine, applies to intervertebral disc degeneration and funded by Horizon 2020 (H2020-MSCA-ITN-ETN-2020 GA: 955735)
EVALUATING IMPACT OF GETUBETTER, A DIGITAL SELF-MANAGEMENT SUPPORT TOOL, DEPLOYED TO 14,500 PATIENTS ON A COMMUNITY MSK PHYSIOTHERAPY WAITING LIST
Authors: Husselbee R , Nowak I
Published: August 2024

Purpose/Background

More than 20 million UK citizens have MSK conditions, and post-pandemic the backlog awaiting access to MSK services has increased. The most prevalent MSK condition is low back pain (LBP), and getUBetter has been recommended by NICE as one of five digital health technologies for helping manage LBP. Purpose: Evaluate impact of getUBetter on a community MSK waiting list.

Methods/Results

Mixed methods approach used. All patients on community MSK waiting list sent a postal invite for getUBetter. Number of downloads and frequency of use recorded, and users emailed questionnaire exploring outcomes and satisfaction. Rate users removed themselves from the waiting list compared with non-users. Of 14,500 invitations, 657(4.5%) patients downloaded getUBetter, 395(60.1%) used it once and 138(21%) ≥3 times. Seventeen (7%) of 239 patients canvassed responded to questionnaire, 17% reported improved pain, 21% reported improved confidence and had been helped back to work. Twenty-five percent better understood their condition and 43% needed no other treatment. Seventy-five percent were critical of limited content, with chronic osteoarthritis mentioned. 69.6% of users removed themselves from the waiting list. This was 29.6% above the rate for non-users.

Conclusion

Sending postal invites for getUBetter to a MSK waiting list yielded limited uptake. However, despite some criticisms, patients using it reported improved pain, early return to usual activities, and improved confidence in self-management. Some patients recovered without the need for additional support and getUBetter shows some potential for reducing a MSK waiting list. Clearly further work is required to explore methods to increase patient uptake and maximise impact.

Conflicts of interest

None

Sources of funding

None
A REALIST EVALUATION OF A SELF-MANAGEMENT APP TO HELP PEOPLE WITH CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN
Authors: Hunter R. , Beattie M. , Zubala A. , Gorely T.
Published: August 2024

Background

Mobile apps have shown promise in helping people to self-manage conditions like chronic low back pain (CLBP). However, it is unclear who benefits most, why, and under what circumstances. This limits our understanding of how to maximize the potential of mobile app technology.

Aim

This study aimed to test and refine programme theories about how mobile apps support people to self-manage CLBP in a real-world setting. The theories were based on a previously published realist review.

Methods

A realist evaluation was conducted using one-to-one realist interviews by telephone with participants who had used the Curable app to self-manage their CLBP for three months. The interviews were guided by programme theories from the realist review. Analysis of the interviews used abductive and retroductive logic to create chains of inferences, which were then developed into context-mechanism-outcome configurations (CMOCs). These CMOCs offered causal explanations about who might benefit from a mobile app to self-manage CLBP, why and in what circumstances.

Results

Ten interviews were conducted (nine with people with CLBP who trialled the app and one with a founding member of Curable LLC). Twenty CMOCs were created that identified key mechanisms such as agency, control and reassurance that interact with contextual factors such as acceptance, internal capacity, and a biopsychosocial approach to pain management. These factors influence whether a person with CLBP will benefit from a mobile app for self-management.

Conclusions

Twenty CMOCs were created to support three programme theories centering around concepts of empowerment, burden of care, and timing.

Conflicts of interest

None

Sources of funding

R Hunter's work was supported by the Inverness and Highland City-Region Deal Studentship Award [2018].

Presented at: 13th Congress of the European Pain Federation (EFIC), September 2023, Budapest, Hungary.
COGNITIVE MUSCULAR THERAPY FOR LOW BACK PAIN
Authors: Preece S.J. , Smith J. , Brookes N. , Ghio D.
Published: August 2024

Purpose

Cognitive Muscular Therapy (CMT) is a new treatment for low back pain which integrates psychological techniques for pain management alongside training to improve postural control. Rather than focus on postural alignment or strength, CMT aims to improve the regulation of postural tone (low-level activity which supports the body against gravity). This is achieved by teaching patients an awareness of compensatory paraspinal activation, which can be triggered by overactivity of the abdominal muscles.

The aim of this study was to understand whether CMT could reduce symptoms associated with low back pain and improve paraspinal muscle activation.

Methods and results

Fifteen patients with chronic low back pain received seven weekly sessions of CMT from a physiotherapist. Clinical data was captured at baseline and two weeks after the intervention using the Roland-Morris questionnaire and the pain catastrophising scale. Activation of the erector spinae muscle during walking was also measured at baseline and after the final intervention session. Change data were analysed using paired t-tests.

There was a 75% reduction (p<0.001) in the Roland-Morris score from a mean (SD) of 9.3(2.9) to 2.3(2.6), along with a 78% reduction in pain catastrophising (p<0.002) from 16.6(13) to 3.7(4.8). Activation of the contralateral erector spinae muscles reduced by 30% (p<0.01) during the contralateral swing phase of walking.

Conclusion

In this small sample, CMT delivered large clinical improvements and reduced activation of the low back muscles during walking. Larger randomised trials are now required to confirm whether CMT could outperform existing physiotherapy treatments for chronic back pain.

Conflict of interest

No conflicts of interest

Source of funding

University of Salford
PUBLIC AND PATIENT ENGAGEMENT IN RESEARCH TO DEVELOP TECHNOLOGIES FOR PREDICTING SPINE LOADS IN VIVO
Authors: Williams J. , Meakin J.R. , Whitehead N. , Mills A. , Williams D. , Ward M.C. , Kelly E. , Shillabeer D. , Javadi A.A. , Holsgrove T.P. , Holt C.
Published: August 2024

Background

Our current research aims to develop technologies to predict spinal loads in vivo using a combination of imaging and modelling methods. To ensure the project's success and inform future applications of the technology, we sought to understand the opinions and perspectives of patients and the public.

Methods

A 90-minute public and patient involvement event was developed in collaboration with Exeter Science Centre and held on World Spine Day 2023. The event involved a brief introduction to the project goals followed by an interactive questionnaire to gauge the participants’ background knowledge and interest. The participants then discussed five topics: communication, future directions of the research, concerns about the research protocol, concerns about data, and interest in the project team and research process. A final questionnaire was used to determine their thoughts about the event.

Results

Twelve adults attended the event, many motivated by their experience or interest in back pain. A thematic analysis was used to review participant comments on the research project, identifying the need to relate the research to everyday life, present risks in various ways, and be transparent about funding and data sharing. In terms of future applications, participants felt the technology should be used to understand normal spine behaviour, prevent problems, and improve treatment. Participants agreed that they had got something positive out of engaging in the event.

Conclusion

Engagement with public and patient stakeholders is an essential activity that can generate vital information to inform and add value to technology development projects.

Conflicts of interest

No conflicts of interest

Sources of funding

EPSRC grants EP/V036602/1 (Meakin, Holsgrove & Javadi) and EP/V032275/1 (Holt & Williams).
A META-ANALYSIS COMPARING THE CLINICAL OUTCOMES OF LUMBAR FUSION AND DYNAMIC STABILIZATION
Authors: Williams R. , Evans S. , Maitre C. Le , Jones A.
Published: August 2024

Background

It has become increasingly important to conduct studies assessing clinical outcomes, reoperation rates, and revision rates to better define the indications and efficacy of lumbar spinal procedures and its association with symptomatic adjacent segment degeneration (sASD). Adjacent segment degeneration (ASD) is defined as the radiographic change in the intervertebral discs adjacent to the surgically treated spinal level. SASD represents adjacent segment degeneration which causes pain or numbness due to post-operative spinal instability or nerve compression at the same level. The most common reason for early reoperation and late operation is sASD, therefore is in our best interest to understand the causes of ASD and make steps to limit the occurrence.

Method

A comprehensive literature search was performed selecting Randomized controlled trials (RCTs) and retrospective or prospective studies published up to December 2023. Meta-analysis was performed on 38 studies that met the inclusion criteria and included data of clinical outcomes of patients who had degenerative disc disease, disc herniation, radiculopathy, and spondylolisthesis and underwent lumbar fusion or motion-preservation device surgery; and reported on the prevalence of ASD, sASD, reoperation rate, visual analogue score (VAS), and Oswestry disability index (ODI) improvement.

Results

When compared to fusion surgery, a significant reduction of ASD, sASD and reoperation was observed in the cohort of patients that underwent motion-preserving surgery.

Conclusion

Dynamic fusion constructs are treatment options that may help to prevent sASD.

Conflicts of interest

This research was funded by Paradigm Spine

Sources of funding

Paradigm Spine
VIRTUAL REALITY FOR CHRONIC LOW BACK PAIN: A MIXED-METHODS FEASIBILITY STUDY IN THE KINGDOM OF SAUDI ARABIA
Authors: Alotibi Fahad Salman , Hendrick Paul , Moffatt Fiona
Published: August 2024

Background

Immersive virtual reality (VR) demonstrates potential benefits in patients with chronic low back pain (CLBP). However, few studies have investigated the feasibility and the acceptability of introducing immersive VR for use with patients with CLBP and in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA)

Aim

To investigate immersive VR's feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability as a rehabilitation intervention for adult patients with CLBP and explore the views of relevant Health Care Practitioners (HCPs) in the KSA.

Methodology and Methods

A multi-centre, mixed-methods, explanatory sequential design was adopted to test immersive VR's feasibility, tolerability, and acceptability. An uncontrolled feasibility trial was conducted. The immersive VR intervention involved a training session followed by three sessions over one week using commercially available hardware and software. Feasibility outcomes were collected from patients immediately post-intervention. Patients and HCPs were recruited for semi-structured interviews.

Results

Thirty-three patients and three HCPs were recruited. The feasibility a priori criteria were met for recruitment, retention, dropout, completeness of questionnaire data, treatment compliance and fidelity. Adverse events included one who reported aggravation of tinnitus, whereas two experienced dizziness. Qualitative data suggested that entertainment and motivation were key enablers. Barriers included technological capability and HCPs’ perceptions that immersive VR was time-consuming.

Conclusion

The results suggested that immersive VR was feasible, acceptable, and tolerable among patients with CLBP and HCPs in clinical settings in the KSA. Further research focusing on the effectiveness is warranted in this field.

Conflicts of Interest

None.

Sources of Funding

None.

Trial registration number

ISRCTN14434517
EVALUATING THE MSK HEALTH-STATUS (MSK-HQ) AND MSK CONDITIONS AFFECTING A MINORITIZED PRISONER POPULATION ACCESSING PHYSIOTHERAPY IN A UK REMAND PRISON
Authors: Kimber D. , Husselbee R. , Brown L. , Ruffinato C.
Published: August 2024

Purpose/Background

Health inequalities are defined as unfair and avoidable differences in health across the population. People belonging to inclusion health groups are most at risk of experiencing these inequalities and tackling them is an NHS priority. Inclusion health groups include ‘people in contact with the justice system’ and BCHC NHS FT is commissioned to provide physiotherapy to prisoners at HMP Birmingham. The purpose of this study was to better understand the MSK health-status and MSK conditions affecting this minoritised patient population.

Methods/Results

The MSK service at HMP Birmingham collects the MSK-HQ PROM for all prisoners attending physiotherapy. A retrospective analysis of the electronic patient record was performed using convenience sampling, with baseline MSK-HQ scores of prisoners seen between 01/04/2023 and 01/02/2024 captured alongside the primary presenting MSK condition. Simple descriptive statistics were used to evaluate the data. A total of 129 patients attended initial physiotherapy appointments within the time-period. Baseline MSK-HQ was collected for 62 patients (48%) with a mean (SD) score of 23.08(11.38). The most common MSK condition was Back pain with a count of 12(19.35%). The mean (SD) MSK-HQ score for prisoners with back pain was 22.08(9.98).

Conclusion

This is the first known evaluation in the published literature of the baseline MSK health-status and primary MSK conditions affecting prisoners. A published evaluation of baseline MSK health-status for patients attending a community MSK service reported a mean (SD) MSK-HQ of 28.59(10.80) indicating that, a poorer MSK health-status is experienced by this minoritised group. Further work, co-produced with prisoners, is planned to explore further.

Conflicts of interest

None

Sources of funding

None
CO-PRODUCTION OF A PEER SUPPORT PROGRAMME FOR ADULTS LIVING WITH CHRONIC NON-CANCER PAIN USING INTERVENTION MAPPING
Authors: Herbert T. , Malone M. , Rhind N. , Cooper K.
Published: August 2024

Background

Chronic pain is a significant burden and represents a major issue for world healthcare systems. Interventions include medication, surgery, pain management programmes, and social support through peer support groups. These groups are often informal, providing informational, emotional, and social support to members. The aim of this project is to co-produce guidance on how to establish a peer support programme for people living with chronic, non-cancer pain that is informed by evidence, theory, and stakeholder experience.

Methods

This project is using Steps 1–4 of the Intervention Mapping (IM) approach to inform the research. Online workshops consisting of people living with chronic pain, third sector representatives, healthcare professionals, and researchers are being used to co-produce the guidance.

Results

To date, 2 of the 4 planned workshops have been conducted. These have identified the needs of people living with chronic pain, goals for the peer support programme, and expectations of how a peer support programme should be executed. Topics for inclusion in the programme and their content have been identified, with further workshops to refine this planned. The final stage of this project will identify methods of delivery, specific resources that should be developed, and the training to be provided to peer support volunteers.

Conclusion

The project has identified the diverse needs of people living with chronic pain and how these may be addressed by a peer support programme. It has identified flexible options that can be recommended to those who want to set up a programme and a variety content that may be included.

Conflicts of Interest

None

Sources of Funding

Robert Gordon University
MANUAL PATIENT HANDLING IN THE HEALTHCARE SETTING: A SCOPING REVIEW
Authors: Johnson K. , Pavlova A. , Swinton P. , Cooper K.
Published: August 2024

Purpose and background

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders, particularly back pain, are a significant issue for healthcare workers, with patient handling being the most frequently reported risk factor. Patient handling is often performed without assistive devices or equipment, which can cause healthcare staff to maintain awkward postures or experience high loads. This review aimed to comprehensively map the literature surrounding manual patient handling (without assistive devices) by healthcare practitioners to identify the current evidence-base on moving and handling of patients and explore what primary research had been conducted.

Methods and results

JBI methodology for scoping reviews and an a priori registered protocol (DOI 10.17605/OSF.IO/8PR7A) was followed and AMED, CINAHL, MEDLINE, SPORTDiscus and EMBASE databases were searched. Literature published in English between 2002 and 2021 was included.

Forty-nine records were included: 36 primary research studies, 1 systematic review and 12 ‘other’ including narrative and government reports. Primary research predominantly used observational cross-sectional designs (n = 21 studies). Most studies took place in hospitals (n = 13) and laboratories (n = 12). Nurses formed the largest population group (n = 13), with very little research on physiotherapists and other allied health professionals.

Conclusion

This scoping review comprehensively reviewed the available literature in the area. Most of the included primary research was observational. Nurses were often investigated in hospitals and laboratories. Qualitative research investigating moving and handling and further biomechanical investigation into therapeutic handling by healthcare staff were identified as areas for further research.

Conflicts of interest

None

Sources of funding

None

This work has been published in Physiotherapy: Johnson, K., Swinton, P., Pavlova, A. and Cooper, K., 2023. Manual patient handling in the healthcare setting: a scoping review. Physiotherapy. (120) 60–77 https://doi.org/10.1016/j.physio.2023.06.003
Review: Rangeland management in Tanzania: Opportunities, challenges, and prospects for sustainability
Authors: MUZZO BASHIRI IDDY , MALEKO DAVID DAWSON , THACKER ERIC , PROVENZA FRED D
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Muzzo BI, Maleko DD, Thacker E, Provenza FD. 2023. Review: Rangeland management in Tanzania: Opportunities, challenges, and prospects for sustainability. Intl J Trop Drylands 7: 83-102. Rangelands in Tanzania play a crucial role in supporting local livelihoods and the country's economic development. However, their long-term sustainability is threatened. This review paper identifies challenges and explores opportunities to ensure their continued sustainability. Opportunities include implementing dedicated policies and regulations, using expertise in range science, leveraging technological advancements, investment land for opening private ranches, ample bushes and shrub resources for small ruminants, and high market demand for milk and meat from ruminants. Major challenges include insufficient technology and limited technical know-how, low and erratic rains leading to dry season pasture scarcity, infectious diseases, and the spread of invasive species. Other challenges include conflicting interests from other land users that have led to the massive conversion of communal rangelands to croplands, areas to protect wildlife, and human settlements. These challenges can be addressed by policy enforcement, strengthening pastoral organizations, fostering the growth of experts in climate-adapted forage breeding, and embracing advanced technology. Active involvement of local communities in decision-making processes and facilitating rangeland restoration can ensure the sustainable management of rangelands in Tanzania. Another promising avenue is the strategic use of locally adapted livestock species to control invasive plants, complemented by governmental enforcement of a grading system for meat and establishing a price-based quality meat market. Incorporating these prospects into rangeland management strategies can enhance the ecological sustainability and resilience of rangelands while supporting local livelihoods. Future research should focus on evaluating and implementing these strategies to promote sustainable rangeland management practices in Tanzania and elsewhere with similar environment.
Forage yields and quality of Cenchrus ciliaris and Panicum maximum ecotypes under varied harvest intervals in a semi-arid environment in Kenya
Authors: KISAMBO BOSCO K. , WASONGA OLIVER V. , KIPCHIRCHIR OSCAR K. , KARUKU GEORGE N. , KIRWA EVERLYNE C.
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Kisambo BK, Wasonga OV, Kipchirchir OK, Karuku GN, Kirwa EC. 2023. Forage yields and quality of Cenchrus ciliaris and Panicum maximum ecotypes under varied harvest intervals in a semi-arid environment in Kenya. Intl J Trop Drylands 7: 102-111. Livestock production in Kenya typically relies on native pastures for nutrition and efforts are ongoing to develop varieties adapted to semi-arid conditions. A field experiment was conducted in a semi-arid environment to evaluate harvest intervals’ influence on the yield and nutritional attributes of selected grass ecotypes of two native grasses used in reseeding and fodder production. The grasses included buffel grass Cenchrus ciliaris Kilifi (KLF), C. ciliaris Magadi (MGD), Guinea grass Panicum maximum Isinya (ISY) and P. maximum Taveta (TVT). They were planted in a randomized-complete block design in a split-plot arrangement and maintained under rain-fed conditions. Forage harvests were performed at 3 harvest intervals i.e., 14, 28 and 84 days, simulating different utilization regimes in semi-arid Kenya. Biomass yield, forage accumulation and quality of the grasses were determined. The highest yields were obtained at 28-day harvest intervals and were 74% higher than the 14-day interval, although almost similar to the 84-day interval harvests. Forage accumulation rates varied significantly (p <0.005) between ecotypes and harvesting intervals. Crude Protein (CP) declined significantly with maturity, from a mean of 11.67% for the 14-day harvesting interval to 5.22% at the end of the season and varied among treatments. In Vitro Dry Matter Digestibility (IVDMD) increased with increasing harvest interval. However, fiber components-Nutrient Detergent Fiber (NDF), Acid Detergent Fiber (ADF) and Acid Detergent Lignin (ADL) increased with plant age. Harvest intervals had a significant (p <0.05) influence on the yield and qualitative attributes of the grass ecotypes. C. ciliaris ecotype MGD and P. maximum ecotype TVT are viable options for further performance evaluation in semi-arid environments as efforts to develop new range fodder varieties are accelerated.
Biophysical land evaluation for Cavendish banana (Musa spp.) intensification in Pulivendula Tehsil, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, India
Authors: BHASKAR BHASKARA PHANEENDRA , KUMAR SOMPURA CHENNAPPA RAMESH , RAMANAPPA RAMAMURTHY VENKATA
Published: August 2024

Abstract. Bhaskar BP, Kumar SCR, Ramanappa RV. 2024. Biophysical land evaluation for Cavendish banana (Musa spp.) intensification in Pulivendula Tehsil, Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, India. Intl J Trop Drylands 8: 1-13. The study is being conducted in Pulivendula, a drought-stricken area in the Kadapa District, Andhra Pradesh, India, to protect the agroecosystems from unpredictable seasonal rainfall and soil degradation. The study includes agro-climatic data, geopedological information, and a delineation of drip irrigation zones for bananas. Rainfall data from the past 21 years shows that the region receives an average rainfall of 650 mm per year, with seasonal droughts from June to September. The productivity statistics for bananas in the region show a compound growth rate of 3.8% per year, but it is considered a marginal zone due to the mean annual rainfall of 672.15±111.55 mm. The soil map was generated with 43 soil mapping units from twenty-five soil series classified under the subgroups of Entisols (4.1% of total area), Inceptisols (35.5%), Alfisols (4.8%), and Vertisols (23.3%). Overall, the mildly to strongly alkaline soils are grouped into five depths and eight textural groups, having high to very high cation exchange capacity, low organic carbon, and mean clay of 39.64±14.25%. The study found that 35% of the area had a high risk of soil erosion due to poor soil quality. Twenty soil mapping units in the interhill basin are evaluated as suitable for bananas, whereas they are moderately suitable for soils in colluvio-alluvial plains. Thirty-five thousand hectares of land are suitable for banana production under drip irrigation with biophysical limitations of rooting depth, topography, coarse fragments, alkalinity, and organic matter.
Towards a chronological framework for early Irish carved stone: reassessing the evidence of Latinate inscriptions
Authors: Riain Diarmuid Ó , Carragáin Tomás Ó
Published: August 2024

The Digital Atlas of Early Irish Carved Stone (DAEICS) seeks to record and map key traits of carved stone monuments of late prehistoric and early medieval date, providing fresh perspectives on stone-carving over the course of a millennium. First, however, the question of chronology must be addressed, so here we reassess the potential of Latinate inscriptions as a dating tool. Rather than a comprehensive treatment of palaeography and language, we focus, first, on the small number of monuments that commemorate historically identifiable individuals and, second, on the chronological implications of the use or non-use of formulae, proposing new termini post quem for different variations. We also show that the appearance of Gilla- compound personal names on inscriptions allows the monuments in question to be dated to after 950 CE. The implications of the inscriptions for the date-ranges of some specific cross-forms are explored, above all with respect to the singularly large collection of carved stone monuments at Clonmacnoise, which we argue was the only site in Ireland where stone-carving was sustained over several centuries. Using the dateable inscriptions, we demonstrate that there was a general increase in the average size of recumbent grave-markers between 600 and 1200 CE, a trend indicative of changing strategies of commemoration that has important implications for the chronology of these monuments, especially those that cannot readily be dated on other criteria. This refined chronology will facilitate further research on the key questions raised by these monuments, including patterns of patronage and resource investment, the varied identities of ecclesiastical communities, and networks of carvers and churches.
Low bitrate compression of bi-level holograms using INTERFERE: an STFT-based hologram codec
Authors: Muhamad Raees K. , Blinder David , Schelkens Peter
Published: August 2024

We propose a lossy compression technique for bi-level holograms by utilizing INTERFERE, an STFT-based codec in concert with the DFT’s conjugate symmetry property for real-valued signals. At high compression ratios, this framework outperforms all other known solutions.
Reflection Matrix Imaging for Refractive Index Tomography
Authors: Bureau Flavien , Barolle Victor , Balondrade Paul , Guigui Nicolas , Aubry Alexandre
Published: August 2024

This study introduces a new approach using holography to map spatial variations in the refractive index within unknown media. Beyond offering quantitative perspectives, it considerably improves digital confocal imaging. Preliminary results on a macaque cornea are presented.
Heuristic Optimal Design of Diffractive Waveguide Optical Combiner for AR Display
Authors: Park Shin-Woong , Kim Youngsub , Jeon Yoengjin , Kim Hwi
Published: August 2024

This study presents an idea for a waveguide structure that can implement holographic augmented reality (AR) and a method for optimizing output uniformity with diffractive optical elements (DOE).
Cascaded geometric parametric process in a tapered air–silica graded-like multimode microstructure fiber
Authors: Dupiol R. , Krupa K. , Tonello A. , Arosa Y. , Mansuryan T. , Fevrier S. , Fabert M. , Modotto D. , Wabnitz S. , Millot G. , Couderc V.
Published: August 2024

We experimentally study the spatial beam profile and the spectral
broadening at the output of a multimode air–silica microstructure
fiber taper, used along the direction of an increasing fiber diameter.
By using a laser pump at 1064 nm emitting 60 ps Gaussian beam pulses,
we observed a competition between Raman beam cleanup and Kerr beam
self-cleaning: the multimode frequency conversion process permits to
generate spectral sidebands with frequency detuning from the pump that
are difficult to obtain in standard graded-index multimode fibers. The
generated supercontinuum spans from 500 nm up to 2.5 µm.
Exposure to climate events and mental health: Risk and protective factors from the California Health Interview Survey
Authors: Zhao Daniel , Epel Elissa , Allen Elaine , Hwong Alison R.
Published: August 2024

There is increasing awareness of the effects of climate change on mental health, but more work on understanding risk and protective factors is needed. The 2021 California Health Interview Survey included new questions about exposure to extreme weather events and mental health responses. This study aims to identify how individual factors and neighborhood social cohesion are associated with negative mental health effects of exposure to extreme weather events. In this cross-sectional, representative study, we used data from the 2021 California Health Interview Survey to analyze the association between respondent characteristics and self-report of negative mental health effects following exposure to extreme weather events. Univariate and multivariate logistic regression models were used, adjusting for individual-level sociodemographics and measures of neighborhood social cohesion. We found that 53% of the sample reported being affected by climate events (n = 12,955), and of these, 22.8% (n = 2,955) reported a negative impact on their mental health. Respondents who were younger, White, female, college-educated, or living in a rural area were more likely to report adverse mental health effects of climate events for themselves or household members. Individuals who had experienced property damage were much more likely to report negative mental health effects due to climate events [property damage adjusted OR 3.73, 95% CI 2.82–3.76]. This study identifies subgroups that may have higher vulnerability to the mental health effects of climate change events. Future research is needed to develop targeted prevention and outreach interventions to these subgroups to build individual- and community-level resilience.
Enhancing portability of trans-ancestral polygenic risk scores through tissue-specific functional genomic data integration
Authors: Crone Bradley , Boyle Alan P.
Published: August 2024

Portability of trans-ancestral polygenic risk scores is often confounded by differences in linkage disequilibrium and genetic architecture between ancestries. Recent literature has shown that prioritizing GWAS SNPs with functional genomic evidence over strong association signals can improve model portability. We leveraged three RegulomeDB-derived functional regulatory annotations—SURF, TURF, and TLand—to construct polygenic risk models across a set of quantitative and binary traits highlighting functional mutations tagged by trait-associated tissue annotations. Tissue-specific prioritization by TURF and TLand provide a significant improvement in model accuracy over standard polygenic risk score (PRS) models across all traits. We developed the Trans-ancestral Iterative Tissue Refinement (TITR) algorithm to construct PRS models that prioritize functional mutations across multiple trait-implicated tissues. TITR-constructed PRS models show increased predictive accuracy over single tissue prioritization. This indicates our TITR approach captures a more comprehensive view of regulatory systems across implicated tissues that contribute to variance in trait expression.
The kpc-1 3′UTR facilitates dendritic transport and translation efficiency of mRNAs for dendrite arborization of a mechanosensory neuron important for male courtship
Authors: Shih Mushaine , Zou Yan , Ferreira Tarsis , Suzuki Nobuko , Kim Eunseo , Chuang Chiou-Fen , Chang Chieh
Published: August 2024

A recently reported Schizophrenia-associated genetic variant in the 3′UTR of the human furin gene, a homolog of C. elegans kpc-1, highlights an important role of the furin 3′UTR in neuronal development. We isolate three kpc-1 mutants that display abnormal dendrite arborization in PVD neurons and defective male mating behaviors. We show that the kpc-1 3′UTR participates in dendrite branching and self-avoidance. The kpc-1 3′UTR facilitates mRNA localization to branching points and contact points between sibling dendrites and promotes translation efficiency. A predicted secondary structural motif in the kpc-1 3′UTR is required for dendrite self-avoidance. Animals with over-expression of DMA-1, a PVD dendrite receptor, exhibit similar dendrite branching and self-avoidance defects that are suppressed with kpc-1 over-expression. Our results support a model in which KPC-1 proteins are synthesized at branching points and contact points to locally down-regulate DMA-1 receptors to promote dendrite branching and self-avoidance of a mechanosensory neuron important for male courtship.
Burnout among public health workers during the COVID-19 response: Results from a follow-up survey
Authors: Scales Sarah Elizabeth , Kintziger Kristina W. , Stone Kahler W. , Jagger Meredith A. , Horney Jennifer A.
Published: August 2024

The public health workforce began the response to the COVID-19 pandemic with a critical workforce deficit, losing 20% of staff between 2018 and 2019. This study assesses changes in burnout among a cohort of 80 public health workers in the U.S. who completed multiple assessments during the ongoing COVID-19 response via Qualtrics. Self-reported burnout was assessed using a 5-point, validated, non-proprietary single-item measure. A binary burnout variable (1,2 = No; 3,4,5 = Yes) was created based on responses. Burnout direction (e.g., decreased, same, increased) was derived from changes in five-level work-related burnout scores. Factors indicating work-related exhaustion was higher among individuals reporting burnout in the follow-up survey compared to those without burnout. Baseline burnout, hours worked per week, and sleep quality were significant predictors of burnout at follow-up. A higher proportion of respondents reported burnout at follow-up than at the baseline survey. The ubiquitous nature of burnout among public health workers is a threat to the wellbeing of individuals in the workforce and the population’s health at large. Investments in expanding and supporting the public health workforce are needed.
How can the pain sensitivity to be affected by maximal progressive exercise test during pregnancy?
Authors: Leźnicka Katarzyna , Gasiorowska Agata , Pawlak Maciej , Jażdżewska Aleksandra , Maciejewska-Skrendo Agnieszka , Lubkowska Anna , Szumilewicz Anna
Published: August 2024

The multidimensional etiology of pain may explain the beneficial effects of regular physical activity, as evidenced by increased pain tolerance. Physically active people find it easier to exert themselves, which enables them to increase their physical activity, which in turn leads to a reduction in pain. However, no study investigated the physical activity and exercise tests as modulators of pain sensitivity in pregnant women. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate the changes in pain perception in pregnant women during pregnancy, with a particular interest in the effects of maximal progressive exercise test (CPET) and self-performed physical activity (PA). Thirty-one women with an uncomplicated singleton pregnancy (aged 23–41 years; M = 31.29, SD = 4.18) were invited to participate in pain sensitivity measurements before and after CPET twice during pregnancy (with an 8-week break). We found that pregnant women had a significantly lower pain threshold after a maximal exercise test than before, regardless of whether the test was performed in the second or third trimester of pregnancy. This effect was most pronounced in women with low levels of physical activity. Second, women with high physical activity had higher pain tolerance than women with moderate and low physical activity. In addition, physical activity levels predicted changes in pain tolerance over the course of pregnancy, with negative changes in women with low physical activity and positive changes in women with moderate physical activity. Finally, these associations were not reflected in differences in the subjective pain experience.