bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Treatment of macular diseases: a look into the future (literature review)
Authors:   Ural State Medical University, Ekaterinburg, Bobykin E.V.
Published: February 2021

The introduction of ranibizumab into widespread ophthalmic practice in 2006 marked the beginning of a new era in the treatment of macular diseases. Despite the availability of drugs with proven efficacy and safety, significant efforts are being made to develop this area. The literature review presents current data on new anti-VEGF agents that are still being studied (brolucizumab, conbercept, abicipar pegol). Also highlighted strategies and new therapeutic options aimed to increase the duration of the therapeutic effect, alleviating the treatment burden and improving outcomes in real clinical practice: gene therapy (drugs ADVM-022, RGX-314, HMR59), slow-release formulation GB-102, slowly-clearing large molecule KSI- 301, as well as agents with new molecular targets (faricimab, OPT-302), and the continuous delivery of ranibizumab using the Port Delivery System. Key words: macular diseases; anti-VEGF therapy; efficacy; safety; treatment burden; gene therapy.
PARAMETERS OF LIGHT-TRANSMISSION AGGREGOMETRY OF PLATELETS AND TECH-POLYMER-TEST IN CHRONIC CEREBRAL ISCHEMIA WITH TRANSIENT ISCHEMIC ATTACKS
Authors: Степанова Ю.И. , Нечипуренко Н.И. , Алехнович Л.И.
Published: February 2021

Цель исследования: провести сравнительный анализ состояния системы гемостаза у пациентов с транзиторной ишемической атакой (ТИА) на фоне хронической ишемии мозга (ХИМ) для оптимизации диагностики и терапии острых ишемических цереброваскулярных заболеваний.
Материалы и методы. Обследовано 19 пациентов с ТИА (длительностью не более 24 часов) и 44 пациента с ХИМ в первые и на 8 ± 2 сутки госпитализации. Контрольную группу составили 55 практически здоровых добровольцев. Определяли параметры оптической агрегатометрии тромбоцитов (ОАТ) и Тех-Полимер-теста (ТПТ).
Результаты. Продемонстрированы статистически значимые различия состояния первичного и вторичного гемостаза у пациентов с ТИА в сравнении с данными здоровых добровольцев и лиц с ХИМ без ТИА.
Заключение. Проведение ОАТ и ТПТ в динамике острой ишемии мозга позволяет получить дополнительный диагностический инструмент для дифференциации пациентов с ТИА на фоне ХИМ и оценить эффективность антитромботической терапии.

Aim: to perform a comparative analysis of hemostasis in patients with transient ischemic attack (TIA) in chronic cerebral ischemia (CCI) for optimization of diagnostics and therapy of acute ischemic cerebrovascular diseases.
Materials and methods. We examined 19 patients with TIA (not above 24 hours) and 44 patients with CCI at the fi rst day and on 8 ± 2 days of hospitalization. The control group consisted of 55 practically healthy volunteers. The parameters of lighttransmission aggregometry (LTA) of platelets and Tech-Polymer-test (TPT) were determined.
Results. Statistically signifi cant diff erences in primary and secondary hemostasis in patients with TIA and CCI were shown in comparison with parameters of healthy persons and patients with CCI without TIA.
Conclusion. Using of LTA and TPT in dynamics of acute cerebral ischemia allows to obtain an additional diagnostic instrument for differentiating patients with TIA and CCI and to evaluate the effectiveness of antithrombotic therapy.
Controlling Exchange Pathways in Dynamic Supramolecular Polymers by Controlling Defects
Authors: de Marco Anna Lucia , Bochicchio Davide , Gardin Andrea , Doni Giovanni , Pavan Giovanni M.
Published: February 2021

Supramolecular fibers, composed of monomers that self-assemble directionally via non-covalent interactions, are ubiquitous in nature and of great interest in chemistry. In these structures, the constitutive monomers continuously exchange in-and-out the assembly according to a well-defined supramolecular equilibrium. However, unraveling the exchange pathways and their molecular determinants constitutes a non-trivial challenge. Here we combine coarse-grained modeling, enhanced sampling, and machine learning to investigate the key factors controlling the monomer exchange pathways in synthetic supramolecular polymers having an intrinsic dynamic behavior. We demonstrate how the competition of directional vs. non-directional interactions between the monomers controls the creation/annihilation of defects in the supramolecular polymers, from where monomers exchange proceeds. This competition determines the exchange pathway, dictating whether a fiber statistically swaps monomers from the tips or all along its length. Finally, thanks to their generality, our models allow the investigation of molecular approaches to control the exchange pathways in these dynamic assemblies.
Active Coacervate Droplets Are Protocells That Grow and Resist Ostwald Ripening
Authors: Nakashima Karina K. , van Haren Merlijn H. I. , André Alain A. M. , Robu Irina , Spruijt Evan
Published: February 2021

Active coacervate droplets are liquid condensates coupled to a chemical reaction that turns over their components, keeping the droplets out of equilibrium. This turnover can be used to drive active processes such as growth, and provide an insight into the chemical requirements underlying (proto)cellular behaviour. Moreover, controlled growth is a key requirement to achieve population fitness and survival. Here we present a minimal, nucleotide-based coacervate model for active droplets, and report three key findings that make these droplets into evolvable protocells. First, we show that coacervate droplets form and grow by the fuel-driven synthesis of new coacervate material. Second, we find that these droplets do not undergo Ostwald ripening, which we attribute to the attractive electrostatic interactions within complex coacervates, active or passive. Finally, we show that the droplet growth rate reflects experimental conditions such as substrate, enzyme and protein concentration, and that a different droplet composition (addition of RNA) leads to altered growth rates and droplet fitness. These findings together make active coacervate droplets a powerful platform to mimic cellular growth at a single-droplet level, and to study fitness at a population level.
Effect of Surface Roughness on Electrochemical Adsorption/Desorption of Dopamine by Carbonaceous Electrodes
Authors: Zestos Alexander , Chen Hanning
Published: February 2021

Electrochemical adsorption/desorption of dopamine by carbonaceous electrodes upon voltage variation is the key process of neurotransmitter detection through fast scan cyclic voltammetry. In the present study, ab initio molecular dynamics simulation empowered by image-charge method was applied to calculate the adsorption/desorption free energy profile of dopamine and dopamine o-quinone at fixed electrode potentials using our newly developed open-source CP2K simulation package. It was found that the activation barriers for both adsorption and desorption were substantially reduced with increasing surface roughness of the carbonaceous electrodes. For example, on the flat graphene electrode, the activation barrier for dopamine adsorption at V0=−0.4V is 1.34 kcal/mol, while its counterpart on the curved nanotube electrode drops to 0.82 kcal/mol. Moreover, the diffusion coefficient of dopamine decreases by approximately 60% when it is moving close to the graphene electrode, while its diffusion is accelerated by up to 100% when the nanotube electrode is adopted. The faster diffusion alongside the reduced activation barrier greatly facilitates the electrochemically driven adsorption/desorption of dopamine by nanotube electrodes, in consistent with experimental findings that a rougher carbonaceous surface is critical for fast scan cyclic voltammetry.
Protective Immunity Against Cryptococcus Neoformans Infection
Authors: Schop Joel
Published: February 2021

Cryptococcus neoformans, the etiological agent of cryptococcosis, is an occasional opportunistic fungal pathogen of immune competent individuals. However, it is a relatively frequent cause of life-threatening meningoencephalitis and pulmonary infections in immunosuppressed hosts and is a leading mycological cause of morbidity and mortality among patients with AIDS in most parts of the world. The lack of an effective fungicidal regimen and the development of antifungal resistant strains suggest that continued investigation is necessary to devise immunotherapeutic strategies, drug targets and/or vaccines to combat C. neoformans infections. Until recently, cryptococcal virulence factors such as its polysaccharide capsule, macrophage parasitism, and its ability to induce an ineffective antibody mediated immune (AMI) response along with a non-protective type II (Th2) cell-mediated immune response have thwarted efforts to induce complete protective immunity against a lethal cryptococcal strain in murine models. The presence of C. neoformans antibodies in adult human serum suggests that immune competent individuals have difficulty resolving an early cryptococcal infection allowing for the establishment of a subclinical chronic infection. Recent studies have shown that pro-inflammatory cytokines, specifically interferon-g (IFN-g), associated with type I (Th1) cell-mediated immunity can successfully drive cell-mediated immune (CMI) responses to produce protective immunity to a second experimental C. neoformans infection in mice. This review will evaluate the intricacies of the host-cryptococcal interaction and discuss recent developments in C.neoformans research and the potential for human vaccines and/or drug therapies.
Anorexia Nervosa: The physiological consequences of starvation and the need for primary prevention efforts.
Authors: Sidiropoulos Michael
Published: February 2021

N/A
The pathophysiology of osteoporotic hip fracture
Authors: Metcalfe David
Published: February 2021

Osteoporotic hip fractures have a profound impact on the physical health and psychosocial wellbeing of patients. In addition, osteoporosis has considerable economic implications and is projected to become an increasing burden on developed economies over the coming decades. Nevertheless, the risk factors for both osteoporosis and hip fracture are both well understood and preventable, often with only minor lifestyle changes. This narrative review explores the pathological process underlying osteoporosis and considers how each of the major risk factors contributes to the pathology of this disease. It is hoped that a greater understanding of individual risk factors will result in renewed efforts to promote increased bone density before patients present with hip fracture.
Effects of Repeatedly Heated Palm Oil on Serum Lipid Profile, Lipid Peroxidation and Homocysteine Levels in a Post-Menopausal Rat Model
Authors: Adam Siti Khadijah , Soelaiman Ima Nirwana , Umar Nor Aini , Mokhtar Norhayati , Mohamed Norazlina , Jaarin Kamsiah
Published: February 2021

Oxidized unsaturated fatty acids may contribute to the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. In the present study, we examined the effects of heated palm oil mixed with 2% cholesterol diet on serum lipid profile, homocysteine and thiobarbituric acid reactive substances (TBARS) levels in estrogen-deficient rats. Twenty-four female Sprague Dawley rats were ovariectomized and then were divided equally into four groups. The control group was given 2% cholesterol diet only throughout the study period. The three treatment groups received 2% cholesterol diet fortified with fresh, once-heated or five-times-heated palm oil,respectively. Serum TBARS, lipid profile and homocysteine levels were measured prior to ovariectomy and at the end of four months of the study. Five-times-heated palm oil caused a significant increase in TBARS and total cholesterol (TC) compared to control (F = 22.529, p < 0.05). There was a significant increase in serum homocysteine in the control as well as five-times heated palm oil group compared to fresh and once-heated palm oil groups (F = 4.432, p < 0.05). The findings suggest that repeatedly heated palm oil increase lipid peroxidation and TC. Ovariectomy increases the development of atherosclerosis as seen in this study. Feeding with fresh and once-heated palm oil does not cause any deleterious effect but repeatedly heated oil may be harmful because it causes oxidative damage thereby predisposing to atherosclerosis.
Tannin extracted from Sumac inhibits vascular smooth muscle cell migration
Authors: Zargham Hanieh , Zargham Ramin
Published: February 2021

Background – Vascular smooth muscle cell (VSMC) migration is integral in the pathogenesis of atherosclerosis. Sumac (Rhus coriaria) berries are believed to have atheroprotective effects. Therefore, Sumac, which is a rich source of tannin antioxidants, was tested for its capacity to inhibit VSMC migratory activity. Materials & Methods – Tannin was extracted and purified from ground Sumac. Cultured rat carotid VSMCs were treated with different concentrations of tannin. After 10 days of tannin treatment, VSMC migratory activity in response to platelet-derived growth factor-BB was measured by transmembrane migration assay. An equal number of VSMCs was loaded on top of the inserts and at the bottom of the wells.After fixation and staining, cells migrating through the inserts and cells seeded at the bottom of the wells were counted. Results – A significant reduction (62%) of VSMC migration was evident in tannin-treated cells. To rule out any possible toxicity and cell death, cells at the bottom of the wells were also counted. No difference between the tannin-treated group and the controls was observed in the number of cells seeded at the bottom of the wells.Conclusion – Our data suggest that tannin extracted from Sumac possesses potent antimigratory activity. Sumac may have potential for the prevention or treatment of atherosclerosis and its clinical manifestations. Further experiments, especially in vivo, are required to examine the atheroprotective effect of Sumac.
Salvage Resection for Isolated Local and/or Regional Failure of Head/Neck Cancer Following Definitive Concurrent Chemoradiotherapy Case Series and Review of the Literature
Authors: Kearney Patricia , Watkins John M , Shirai Keisuke , Wahlquist Amy E , Fortney John A , Garrett-Mayer Elizabeth , Gillepsie M. Boyd , Sharma Anand K
Published: February 2021

Background: Primary management of advanced head/neck cancers involves concurrent chemoradiotherapy . Subsequently, regional and local failures are managed with resection but there have been few reports that describe the morbidity and disease control outcomes of surgical salvage in this setting. Methods: Retrospective analysis describes complications, survival, and patterns of failure after salvage resection of isolated local and/or regional failures of head/neck cancer following definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy. Results: Sixteen patients were identified for inclusion: laryngectomy in 11 patients, oral cavity/oropharynx resection in 2 patients, and neck dissection alone in 4 patients. Ten patients required graft tissue reconstruction (6 pedicle and 4 free flap). Median post-operative hospitalization was 7 days (range 3-19), and 4 patients required hospital re-admission. At a median survivor follow-up of 15.8 months (range 4.3-34.9), 10 patients were alive (6 without evidence of disease). Seven patients experienced disease recurrence at a median 6.7 months (range 0-12.6) following salvage resection (2 with isolated distant failures). Estimated 2-year local/regional control, freedom from failure, and overall survival were 58%, 39%, and 58%, respectively. Conclusions: Surgical salvage after primary definitive concurrent chemoradiotherapy is feasible with toxicity and outcomes similar to prior radiotherapy alone or sequential chemotherapy and radiation. Local andregional recurrence remains the predominant pattern of failure.
Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on an Individual’s Ability to Learn to Control a Brain-Computer Interface
Authors: Renda Erika , Karmali Sarah Amirali , Yordanova Ivona , Schwartz Shira , Mahdid Yacine , Blain-Moraes Stefanie , Boudrias Marie-Hélène
Published: February 2021

Purpose: Brain-computer interfaces (BCI) are systems which enable direct communication between a brain and an external device by translating electrical brain activity into meaningful output. This technology can be used by individuals with motor impairments to interact and communicate with their external environment. BCIs based upon manipulating the sensorimotor rhythm (SMR) through motor imagery have lengthy learning periods, which present a significant barrier to using this technology. We hypothesize that this learning period will be significantly reduced by transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), which temporarily augments cortical excitability.Methods: Participants were assigned into two groups - the experimental group, which received tDCS, and a control group, which received sham stimulation. Following tDCS, the participants used a SMR-based BCI to move a falling ball to hit targets that appeared on the left or right side of screen. The effect of tDCS was assessed by comparing the overall task accuracy and the SMR change during motor imagery between the two groups .Results: The experimental group was significantly more accurate in controlling the BCI than the control group (p = 0.021); however, there was no significant difference between groups in the SMR change upon motor imagery (p = 0.22). Conclusions. tDCS can be used to improve the performance of healthy individuals learning to use an SMR-based BCI.
Clinical trial transparency at McGill University
Authors: Pradhan Richeek , Bonardi Olivia
Published: February 2021

Transparency in clinical trials is an issue under considerable scrutiny at present, and rightfully so, given that people's lives are both used as a resource in such research and affected by its results. Hence, the results of clinical trials conducted should be made available in both journal articles and in open access trial registries (like ClinicalTrials.gov). The latter not only make research results more accessible to the general public but are also considered essential resources in systematic reviews to avoid publication bias. Yet, up to 89% of clinical trials conducted at McGill University are not reported in clinical trial registries, and up to 37% of the trials are not published. However, since most McGill University researchers use public funding to conduct trials on human subjects, they have an obligation to make their research freely accessible. Spreading awareness regarding this issue among key stakeholders is a possible way to reduce this problem and increase the transparency of clinical research at McGill University.
Sanitation, Sanity, and (Moral) Suitability: The History of the Medical Inadmissibility of Immigrants into Canada
Authors: Fogarty Clare
Published: February 2021

Study of the history of medical inadmissibility and deportation of Canadian immigrants uncovers three important themes as criteria for immigration selection and control: sanitation, sanity, and moral suitability. As the understanding of human health changed with history, so too did the basis for exclusion and deportation of Canadian immigrants for medical purposes. Immigration policy mirrored then current notions of health and disease, growing in complexity as immigration policy increased its selectivity contemporaneous to increasing immigration rates. Immigration control developed from simple quarantine measures to prevent the transmission of infectious diseases from other continents, to physical and mental health inspections to prevent the propagation of hereditary dysfunction, to selection of morally fit immigrants resembling Canadian values for easy assimilation into society. Physical, mental, and moral health were key criteria in the first century of Canadian immigration policy, highlighting Canada’s history of anti-immigrant sentiment through the medicalization of specific ethnic groups.
Case Report: A 25-Year-Old Man with Severe Non-Hemorrhagic Intraoperative Shock
Authors: M. Doran Patrick , Aprikian Armen , Shuster Joe , Green Laurence
Published: February 2021

N/A
A 45 Year Old Woman With Progressive Dyspnea and Multiple Venous Thromboses
Authors: Saad Eduardo , Reis Carlos , Pontes Cynthia , Francisco Ricardo , Amorin Ricardo
Published: February 2021

N/A
HER2/neu Oncogene and Sensitivity to the DNA-Interactive Drug Doxorubicin
Authors: Mullin Anne , Jean-Claude Bertrand
Published: February 2021

Breast tumor cells overexpressing the proto-oncogene HER2/neu are known to be less responsive to certain DNA-binding chemotherapeutic agents. The current study specifically investigates the correlation between chemosensitivity to the DNA-binding drug doxorubicin and cellular HER2/neu protein levels in a panel of eight breast cancer cell lines (HS-578, BT-474, MDA-MB-453, MDA-MB-231, MDA-MB-175, MCF-7, ZR-75-1 and T47D). The IC50 (the drug concentration required to inhibit cell growth by 50%) values for the cell lines were determined by the sulforhodamine B assay. IC50 values were correlated with HER2/neu protein levels determined by Western blotting. An almost linear relationship between IC50 and HER2/neu protein level for seven cell lines (p = 0.02, r2 = 0.680) was found, with protein levels increasing as resistance increased. The findings suggest that overexpression of HER2/neu correlates with increased resistance to doxorubicin in seven of eight breast cancer cell lines studied. The observation that, in one cell line (MDA-MB-175), doxorubicin IC50 did not correlate with HER2/neu levels, suggests that in these cells, an as-of-yet unidentified factor contributes to resistance. If the observed correlation, which was present in seven of eight cell lines, is confirmed in a larger sample size, increased HER2/neu levels may be implemented as a predictor of breast tumor sensitivity to doxorubicin.
Screening of Burns Unit Staff of a Tertiary Care Hospital for Methicillin-Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Colonisation
Authors: Aravind Preetha , Krishnan Prabha Unny , Srinivasa Hiresave , Joseph Vijay
Published: February 2021

Staphylococcus aureus is a significant nosocomial pathogen and the development of resistance to methicillin poses a major threat to its control. This study was conducted over a three month period in a Burns Unit of a tertiary care hospital to determine the prevalance of methicillin- resistant S. aureus (MRSA) colonisation in health care workers. All health care workers were screened using swabs from the hairline, nostril, axilla, and hands. Seventeen of 34 health care workers screened were MRSA-positive; 16 people tested positive for the methicillin-sensitive strain of S. aureus, 7 of whom were also MRSA-positive at a different site. In total, over two thirds of all health care workers were colonised by S. aureus. Pus samples from patients admitted in the same unit over the three month study period were analysed and showed that 21% of patients were infected or colonised with MRSA. Although a direct causal relationship is not established by these data, it is reasonable to assume that transmission from colonised health care workers is responsible, at least in part, for the extent of infection/colonisation among patients. These findings identify the need for a well defined policy for screening health care workers and controlling the rates of colonisation with potentially dangerous pathogens given the risk of transmission to susceptible patients.
Leadership in medicine
Authors: Collins-Nakai Ruth
Published: February 2021

N/A
Potential risk of induced malaria by blood transfusion in South-eastern Nigeria
Authors: Uneke Chigozie Jesse , Ogbu Ogbonnaya , Nwojiji Vincent
Published: February 2021

Induced malaria by blood transfusion is a potential health hazard but is often neglected in many malaria endemic areas. Standard parasitological technique was used to determine the prevalence of malaria among blood donors in the South-eastern Nigeria. Of the total 325 blood donors (310 males and 15 females) screened, 133 (40.9%, CI 95%: 35.6-46.2%) were infected with malaria parasite, 78 (58.6%) had 1-10 parasites per 100 thick film fields ('+' or 4-40 parasites per mm3) while 55 (41.4%) had 11-100 parasites per 100 thick film fields ('++' or 41-400 parasites per mm3). P. falciparum was identified in all the infected cases, however 3 (2.3%) persons had mixed infection with P. malariae. Males were more infected (41.3%, CI 95%: 35.8-46.8%) than females (33.3%, CI 95%: 9.4-57.2%). The infection decreased with age with highest prevalence of 48.5% among those aged 20-25 years. The infection significantly varied with age but not with sex (P<0.05). Individuals with blood group B were slightly more infected (42.1%, 95%CI., 19.6-64.6%) than those of groups O (41.0%,CI 95%: 35.3-46.7%) and A (40.0%, CI 95%: 20.8-59.2%) but there was no significant difference (P < 0.05). Highest prevalence of infection was recorded in the month of April corresponding to the onset of the wet season. An overhaul of existing blood donation policies in many health facilities in the sub-Saharan Africa to incorporate malaria screening is advocated. Curative antimalarial drugs followed by prophylactic drugs should be given to all recipients of Parasitized blood.
Primary Prevention of Fatal Ventricular Arrhythmias With Implantable Cardioverter- Defibrillator Therapy – An Analysis of Implications Based on MADIT II Criteria
Authors: Carrim Zia I , Khan Ashraf A , Aslam Shazad
Published: February 2021

Aims: The primary aim of this retrospective study was to determine the proportion of patients with myocardial infarction (MI) who fulfil the criteria of the Multicenter Automatic Defibrillator Implantation Trial (MADIT) II and the implications of MADIT II criteria in practice. Methods: We performed a retrospective analysis of three hundred and ninety four admissions to the Coronary Care Unit (CCU) of the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh. We selected those with myocardial infarction (MI) and attempted to retrieve electronic copies of their echocardiogram reports. When available, these were used to assess requirement for primary-prevention Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD) therapy based on reported left ventricular function. Results: One hundred and ninety patients were admitted to the CCU with a diagnosis of MI. Of these, 100 patients (51.5%) had an echocardiogram. Requirement for ICD therapy was unlikely in 87 (87%), probable in 6 (6%) and necessary in 7 (7%). Since a significant number of patients in the probable category were also likely to meet MADIT II criteria, we concluded that the proportion of patients requiring primary-prevention ICD therapy would be no less than 7% and more likely to be 13%. Conclusion: In the context of a busy teaching hospital, a figure of 13% for the requirement of ICD therapy in MI patients represents annual implantation activity of at least 100 per million. This is likely to have very significant resource implications.
Sexual assault and posttraumatic stress disorder: A review of the biological, psychological and sociological factors and treatments
Authors: Chivers-Wilson Kaitlin A.
Published: February 2021

Sexual assault occurs with alarming frequency in Canada. The prevalence of Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) in assault survivors is drastically higher than the national prevalence of the disorder, which is a strong indication that the current therapies for sexual- assault-related PTSD are in need of improvement. Increasing knowledge and understanding of the pathologies associated with rape trauma in biological, psychological and sociological domains will help to develop more effective treatments for survivors. A dysregulation of the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis is observed in survivors of sexual assault and this may be a fundamental cause of the structural and functional abnormalities contributing to PTSD symptoms. Pharmacotherapies are available to treat PTSD; however, they are often inadequate or unwanted by the survivor. Psychological health is compromised following interpersonal trauma and many psychological therapies are available, but with varying efficacy. A person's cognitions have a dramatic effect on the onset, severity, and progress of PTSD following sexual assault. Sociological impacts of assault influence the development of PTSD through victim-blaming attitudes and the perpetuation of rape myths. Perceived positive regard and early social support is shown to be important to successful recovery. Education is vital in rape prevention and to foster a supportive environment for survivors. The biological, psychological and sociological impacts and treatments should not remain mutually exclusive. A better appreciation of the biopsychosocial repercussions of sexual assault will aid in developing a more holistic and individualized therapy to help alleviate the physical and emotional pain following the trauma of rape.
An approach to compare the quality of cancellous bone from the femoral necks of healthy and osteoporotic patients through compression testing and microcomputed tomography imaging
Authors: Ciarallo Anthony , Barralet Jake , Tanzer Michael , Kremer Richard
Published: February 2021

It is estimated that osteoporosis is responsible for about 300 000 hip fractures per year in the United States. Effective prevention of these fractures has been demonstrated using bisphosphonates. However, their mechanism of action has not been elucidated. Furthermore, the precise effect of bisphosphonates on the femoral neck and surrounding areas has never been studied. We are interested in establishing a protocol to analyze the bone quality of proximal femurs from patients treated with bisphosphonates. Following hip replacement surgery, the aim is to determine whether imaging and compression testing of cancellous bone from the discarded femoral necks can accurately assess the bone’s microarchitectural and biomechanical properties, respectively. To validate the technique, it was first tested on an untreated population. A bone biopsy trephine was used to extract cylindrical cores of trabecular bone from the centre of femoral necks. Densitometry, microcomputed tomography, and compression testing were used to assess the quality of bone in these samples. The compressive strength was found to be directly proportional to the modulus (i.e. stiffness) of the samples, thus reproducing previous findings. The relative porosity and, to a lesser extent, the bone mineral density were capable of predicting the quality of cancellous bone. In conclusion, a protocol to analyze the bone quality in human femoral necks using μCT and biomechanical compression testing was successfully established. It will be applied in a clinical setting to analyze bones from bisphosphonate-treated patients following total hip replacement.
Book Review: Electromyography and Neuromuscular Disorders: Clinical Electrophysiologic Correlations
Authors: Giacomini Paul S.
Published: February 2021

N/A
How many fish could be vocal? An estimation from a coral reef (Moorea Island)
Authors: Parmentier Eric , Bertucci Frédéric , Bolgan Marta , Lecchini David
Published: February 2021

A recurrent question arising in fish bioacoustics research concerns the number of vocal fish species that may exist. Although it is not possible to provide a precise globally valid number, an estimation based on recordings already collected at coral reefs (Moorea) and on morphological approaches indicates that approximately half of the fish families of this particular environment has at least one known sound-producing species. In light of this, acoustic behaviour should be fully considered in biology, ecology and management plans as it may provide information on a consistent portion of fish biodiversity. Fish bioacoustics has switched from anecdotal reports to long-term, large-scale monitoring studies, capable of providing high resolution information on fish populations’ composition and dynamics. This information is vital for successful management plans in our quickly changing seas.
Does the Movement Competency Screen Correlate with Deep Abdominals Activation and Hip Strength for Professional and Pre-professional Dancers?
Authors: Benoît-Piau Justine , Morin Mélanie , Fortin Sylvie , Guptill Christine , Gaudreault Nathaly
Published: February 2021

Background

Dancers are a unique category of athletes who are frequently injured and experience pain. The primary cause of dance injuries is overuse, which could potentially be prevented. However, literature is scarce regarding validated methods of evaluating the risk of injury in dancers. The Movement Competency Screen (MCS) could potentially fill this gap.

Hypothesis/Purpose

To investigate the validity of the Movement Competency Screen (MCS) for dancers by 1) examining the correlation between scores on this functional test and the activation of deep abdominals and hip strength; 2) investigating the correlation between MCS scores and those of the Functional Movement Screen (FMS™).

Study Design

Cross-sectional study.

Methods

A total of 77 pre-professional and professional dancers from ballet and contemporary backgrounds were evaluated. The activation of deep abdominals was evaluated using ultrasound imaging and the hip strength was evaluated using a handheld dynamometer. The FMS™, another tool evaluating fundamental movement competency, was also administered.

Results

The dancers’ MCS score was correlated with the activation of the transversus abdominis (r=0.239, p=0.036) and the strength of hip abductors (r=0.293, p=0.010), adductors (r=0.267, p=0.019) and external rotators (r=0.249, p=0.029). The MCS score was also correlated with the FMS™ score (r=0.489, p<0.001).

Conclusion

This study shows that the MCS score is correlated with deep abdominal activation and hip strength in dancers, as well as with the FMS™ score. These findings provide evidence toward the validation of the MCS in dancers.

Levels of Evidence

Level 2B.
The Influence of Mode-of-Injury on Psychological Readiness for Return-To-Sport Following Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction: A Matched-Controlled Study
Authors: Presley Jenifer , Bailey Lane , Maloney Kevin , Duncan Brian , Reid Mathew , Juneau Christopher , Lowe Walter R
Published: February 2021

Background

Self-efficacy and fear of re-injury have been documented as factors related to an athlete’s ability to return-to-sport after anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction. The purpose of this study was to compare psychological readiness between athletes injured in their primary mode of sport versus those injured outside of their primary sport following ACL reconstruction.

Hypothesis

Athletes sustaining ‘in-sport’ injuries will demonstrate poorer psychological readiness when compared their matched counterparts injured outside of their primary sport.

Study Design

Case-Control Study

Methods

A single-surgeon database of 638 patients following ACL reconstruction was used to conduct a matched case-control analysis. Psychological readiness was examined 16-weeks postoperatively using the ACL-Return to Sport after Injury (ACL-RSI) questionnaire with subgroup analyses for the ‘emotional’, ‘confidence’ and ‘injury-risk’ subscales. Subject matching was performed for baseline patient and surgical demographics. All statistical comparisons were performed using a one-way (group) analysis variance (ANOVA) at a significance level of α = .05.

Results

Ninety-two matched patients (49 ‘in-sport’ injuries, 43 ‘out-of-sport’ injuries) were included in the final analysis. The ‘in-sport’ group exhibited significantly lower total ACL-RSI scores (55.3 ±12.9 versus 60.8 ±11.6, t = 2.747, P < .001) when compared to the ‘out-of-sport’ group. Subscale comparisons indicated lower ‘emotional’ (P < .016) and higher ‘injury risk’ (P < .001) psychological constructs for ‘in-sport’ athletes versus ‘out-of-sport’ athletes. No differences were found between groups for the ‘confidence’ subscale (P = .987).

Conclusions

Athletes sustaining ‘in-sport’ ACL injuries demonstrated poorer psychological readiness when compared to athletes injured outside their primary sport when in preparation for return-to-sport activities following ACL reconstruction.

Clinical Relevance

Clinicians should consider the potential impact of mode of injury on psychological readiness when returning athletes to sport after ACL reconstruction.
Quantifying the Burden of Shoulder and Hip Pain In Water Polo Players Across Different Playing Levels
Authors: Girdwood Michael , Webster Marilyn
Published: February 2021

Background

Water polo is characterised by unique skills and movements with high demands of both the upper and lower limb. There is growing recognition of the problems of shoulder and hip/groin symptoms in this population.

Purpose

To quantify the prevalence of shoulder and hip/groin pain in water polo players, and to describe how performance and participation were impacted. Secondary aims investigated whether demographic or training variables were associated with levels of symptoms.

Design

In-season, cross-sectional questionnaire study

Methods

An online questionnaire was distributed to all adult levels of the Australian water polo community. Participants were asked about demographic and playing history, and then specific injury history at both the shoulder and hip/groin. Each respondent completed an Oslo Sports Trauma Research Centre (OSTRC) overuse injury questionnaire for the shoulder and hip/groin. Point prevalence and past history were calculated, as well as a morbidity score from OSTRC responses. Risk ratios were used to determine differences between playing levels and sex.

Results

One hundred, fifty-three respondents completed the questionnaire (57% female). High rates of shoulder pain were reported (38.1% current, 81.2% past history), as well as hip/groin pain (33.1% current, 60.4% past history). Current shoulder pain was a risk factor for hip/groin pain (RR 1.99 (95%CI 1.27-3.12), and hip/groin pain was a risk factor for shoulder pain (RR 1.70 (95%CI 1.23-2.35). Elite-level athletes had higher prevalence (RR 1.87 [95%CI 1.01-3.46]) and past history of hip/groin pain (RR 1.76 [95%CI 1.32-2.36]).

Conclusions

This is the first study to quantify high self-reported levels of hip/groin pain in water polo athletes. Such high levels may be explained by high amounts of eggbeater kick, especially during skeletal development in adolescence. Shoulder pain continues to be the most common source of injury burden in water polo. Future research should determine whether any modifiable risk factors exist that may reduce the burden of injury in this population.

Level of Evidence

2b
Descriptive Strength and Range of Motion in Youth Baseball Players
Authors: Nakaji Ross M , Ellenbecker Todd S , McClenahan Kevin M , Roberts Lianna M , Perez Chase , Dickenson Scott B
Published: February 2021

Background

There are limited studies reporting descriptive strength and range of motion in youth baseball players 12 years of age or younger.

Purpose

To establish normative data for external (ER) and internal (IR) rotation range of motion (ROM), total arc range of motion (TROM), and isometric rotator cuff strength in youth baseball players, and to compare between the dominant throwing arm (D) to the non-dominant arm (ND).

Study Design

Cross-sectional

Methods

Patient population included 50 (5 to 12-year-old) uninjured, healthy athletes. ROM measurements were performed preseason using a goniometer for IR and ER in the supine position with the shoulder in 90 degrees of abduction (abd) with scapular stabilization. Isometric strength measurements for IR and ER were collected in both neutral and 90 degrees (deg) of abduction with the use of a hand-held dynamometer and recorded in pounds (lbs) utilizing a “make” test. Descriptive statistics were obtained for all measures.

Results

All data were analyzed as a single group (average age: 9.02). No significant difference in average total arc of PROM (ER+IR=Total Arc) on the D side compared to the ND side (136.7 ± 12.7 deg vs. 134.3 ± 12.3 deg). There were statistically significant differences between ER ROM (102.2 ± 7.7 deg vs. 96.8 ± 7.4 deg) and IR ROM (34.4 ± 9.0 deg vs. 37.5 ± 9.5 deg) between D versus ND arms (p= .000, .006 respectively). Mean ER strength in neutral (13.6 ± 3.4 and 12.8 ± 3.6 lbs) and 90 deg abduction (12.3 ± 3.4 and 12.5 ± 4.3 lbs) did were not significantly different between D and ND arms, respectively. Mean IR strength in neutral (18.0 ± 6.0 and 15.7 ± 4.7 lbs) and 90 deg abd (16.4 ± 5.6 and 15.0 ± 5.7 lbs) was significantly greater in the D arm vs ND arm, respectively (p=.000, .001).

Conclusion

These data can provide descriptive information for clinicians who treat very young baseball players. These data show sport specific adaptations occur at very young ages (5-12) and are similar to prior reports on adolescent, high school and professional baseball players regarding upper extremity ROM and rotator cuff strength.

Level of Evidence

3
The Utility of Neuromotor Retraining to Augment Manual Therapy and Vestibular Rehabilitation in a Patient with Post-Concussion Syndrome: A Case Report
Authors: Teare-Ketter Andrew , LaForme Fiss Alyssa , Ebert Jeffrey
Published: February 2021

Background and Purpose

Less than half of patients discharged from the emergency department post-concussion receive patient education or follow-up care, and 10-20% of individuals will develop symptoms that last longer than six months. Current research on interventions for post-concussion syndrome (PCS) shows inconsistent results, and recommendations for effective physical therapy treatment for patients with chronic PCS are lacking. The purpose of this case report is to highlight a successful, multi-system approach to physical therapy examination and treatment of a patient with chronic PCS.

Case Description

This case describes a 21-year-old male who sustained a concussion 356 days prior to evaluation. He received no follow-up treatment and reported periods of worsening symptoms since the injury. Impairments in cervical range of motion and accessory mobility, vestibular and vestibulo-ocular function, and postural stability were identified. Both cognitive and emotional symptoms were also present. The patient attended eight, sixty-minute sessions over a five-week period in an outpatient setting. Comprehensive physical therapy interventions included manual therapy, vestibular rehabilitation, and neuromotor retraining aimed at restoring proper sensory integration and midline postural orientation.

Outcomes

Outcomes included cervical spine goniometric measurements and accessory mobility assessments. Objective measures of postural stability included the Modified Clinical Test of Sensory Interaction in Balance (m-CTSIB) and the Fukuda Step Test. The Rivermead Post-Concussion Symptoms Questionnaire (RPQ) was used to subjectively assess symptom severity. At discharge, goniometric measurements returned to within normal limits except left cervical rotation active range of motion (ROM), and both the m-CTSIB and Fukuda Step Test were within normal ranges. The RPQ score reduced from 20 to 2 demonstrating symptom resolution in all items but “headache.”

Discussion

PCS can affect multiple systems, necessitating a comprehensive approach to examination and intervention. Manual therapy was used to restore cervical spine ROM, vestibular rehabilitation was utilized to improve gaze stability and visual motion sensitivity, and neuromotor retraining was implemented to improve postural stability and sensory integration. Physical therapists have the ability to treat multiple systems impacted with PCS, with the potential to reduce the longevity and severity of impairments for patients.

Level of Evidence

Level V
MEDICIÓN DE LA EFICIENCIA TÉCNICA DE LAS ESCUELAS PROFESIONALES DE LA UNIVERSIDAD NACIONAL DEL ALTIPLANO: UNA APLICACIÓN DEL DEA
Authors: Arce Coaquira Ronald Raul
Published: February 2021

El estudio tiene como objetivo determinar el nivel de eficiencia técnica de los recursos públicos en la UNA periodo 2014-2018, se realiza un análisis en dos etapas sobre un total de 350 observaciones, correspondientes a las escuelas profesionales. En la primera etapa, se evalúa el nivel de eficiencia técnica de cada escuela profesional, utilizando la metodología no paramétrica Análisis Envolvente de Datos (DEA-CRS input, DEA-CRS output, DEA-VRS input, DEA-VRS output) propuesto inicialmente por Charnes et al. (1978). Por otra parte, en la segunda etapa, se analizan los determinantes de la eficiencia a través de un análisis de regresión truncada Tobit. Los esultados muestran en su mayoría, las escuelas profesionales de ingeniería y biomédicas son ineficientes. La ineficiencia está determinada por el número de aulas, laboratorios, bibliotecas, número de alumnos matriculados, ratio número de estudiantes por docente, número de docentes, número de docentes nombrados, ratio de docentes varones con respecto a docentes mujeres y el número de personaladministrativo.
Studi Pembuatan Nori Artifisial Daun Kelor dengan Variasi Penambahan Bahan Pengikat
Authors: Widyastuti Reza , Novita Dewi , Nugroho Muhamad Bayu , Muflihati Iffah
Published: February 2021

Nori is a traditional Japanese food made from thin sheets of Phorphyra sea algae. This study aims to determine the effect of binder in the form of agar, CMC and tapioca to the characteristics of artificial nori Moringa leaves. This study used a completely randomized design (CRD) with 3 variations of the binder used: tapioca flour, agar, and CMC with a concentration of 5%. The results of the analysis of the highest water content and ash content were the samples using CMC binder of 10.7067% and 17.2233%. The highest color analysis results on the use of CMC binder obtained the L value of 21.30, the value of a * = -4.26 and the value of b * = 57.33. The most preferred nori by panelists is nori with the addition of CMC.
Social Capital and Factors Related to Stroke Risk in Ponorogo Hospital: Structural Equation Model Application
Authors:   Masters Program in Public Health, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Rohmah Lailatul , Rahardjo Setyo Sri ,   Faculty of Medicine, Universitas Sebelas Maret, Murti Bhisma ,   Masters Program in Public Health, Universitas Sebelas Maret
Published: February 2021

Background: Stroke is a non-communicable disease that ranks the second leading cause of death in the world. As many as 17 million patients who suffered a stroke, 6.5 million died from a stroke. This disease cannot be cured but can be controlled. The increasing number of cases of non-communicable diseases is related to risk factors. This study aimed to analyze the effect of social capital and factors related to stroke risk. Subjects and Method: A case-control study was conducted at the Ponorogo District Hospital, East Java, from February to March 2020. A sample of 200 patients was taken through fixed disease sampling. The dependent variable was a stroke. The independent variables were social capital, hypertension, residence, workplace, stress, income, dietary habit, education, physical activity. The data was collected using a questionnaire. Data were analyzed using the Structural Equation Model run on Stata 13. Results: The increase in stroke was directly affected by hypertension (b= 2.90; 95% CI= 2.09 to 3.71; p <0.001). The risk of stroke was affected indirectly by social capital, hypertension, workplace, stress, income, dietary habit, education, physical activity. Trust, bonding, bridging, and linking indirectly affected stroke risk on the contribution of social capital measurement. Conclusion: Increased stroke is directly affected by hypertension. Stroke is indirectly affected by social capital, hypertension, workplace, stress, income, dietary habits, education, and physical activity. Trust, bonding, bridging, and linking indirectly affect stroke risk on the contribution of social capital measurement. Keywords:stroke, social capital, risk factors Correspondence: LailatulRohmah. Masters Program in Public Health, Universitas Sebelas Maret. Jl. Ir. Sutami 36A, Surakarta 57126, Central Java. Email: rohmalailatul156@gmail.com. Mobile: +62896- 91804847.