bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Sensory Conflict on Perceived Timing of Passive Rotation in Virtual Reality
Authors: Chung William , Barnett-Cowan Michael
Published: April 2022

Integration of incoming sensory signals from multiple modalities is central in the determination of self-motion perception. With the emergence of consumer virtual reality (VR), it is becoming increasingly common to experience a mismatch in sensory feedback regarding motion when using immersive displays. In this study, we explored whether introducing various discrepancies between the vestibular and visual motion would influence the perceived timing of self-motion. Participants performed a series of temporal-order judgements between an auditory tone and a passive whole-body rotation on a motion platform accompanied by visual feedback using a virtual environment generated through a head-mounted display. Sensory conflict was induced by altering the speed and direction by which the movement of the visual scene updated relative to the observer’s physical rotation. There were no differences in perceived timing of the rotation without vision, with congruent visual feedback and when the speed of the updating of the visual motion was slower. However, the perceived timing was significantly further from zero when the direction of the visual motion was incongruent with the rotation. These findings demonstrate the potential interaction between visual and vestibular signals in the temporal perception of self-motion. Additionally, we recorded cybersickness ratings and found that sickness severity was significantly greater when visual motion was present and incongruent with the physical motion. This supports previous research regarding cybersickness and the sensory conflict theory, where a mismatch between the visual and vestibular signals may lead to a greater likelihood for the occurrence of sickness symptoms.
Synopsis of Sida (Malvoideae, Malvaceae) in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil
Authors: GRINGS MARTIN , IOB BOLDRINI ILSI
Published: April 2022

Sida is one of the genera with the highest species richness of Malvaceae and one of the less assessed genera in terms of taxonomy in subfamily Malvoideae. Studies on the taxonomy of the genus in Brazil are scarce. In the state of Rio Grande do Sul Sida is represented by 23 species. This synopsis includes a taxonomic key, illustra­tions, informations about habitat, maps with geographical distribution, nomenclatural and taxonomic notes, general comments on the biology, ecology and conservation status for all the species. Two names are new synonyms (S. krapovickasii and S. pseudorubifolia), seven names were lectotypified (S. anarthra, S. cerradoensis, S. paradoxa, S. planicaulis, S. riedelii, S. rubifolia, S. viarum), nine species are new records for the state of Rio Grande do Sul (S. cerradoensis, S. confusa, S. cordifolia, S. glaziovii, S. lonchitis, S. nemorensis, S. ramoniana, S. reitzii, S. riedelii). For six species, photos of them in their habitat are presented for the first time, S. farroupilhensis, S. nemorensis, S. paradoxa, S. potentilloides, S. reitzii, and S. rubifolia.
Untangling nomenclatural issues of some Amazonian trees of Eperua Aubl. (Leguminosae, Detarioideae, Detariae)
Authors: FORTES ELENICE A. , MANSANO VIDAL F.
Published: April 2022

Here we present a further nomenclatural revision of the genus Eperua. We correct the author of one nomenclatural combination, update the status of seven names as illegitimate, and make three lectotypifications and one second-step lectotypification. These nomenclatural changes are made in response to the International Code of Nomenclature for algae, fungi, and plants that aims at stability of biological nomenclature. The present results show that even revised names may still need to be checked and updated.
Real-Time Probabilistic Tropical Cyclone Forecasting in the Cloud
Authors: Whitcomb Timothy R. , Arevalo Daniel J. , Moskaitis Jonathan R. , Komaromi William A. , Doyle James D. , Huang Andrew , Wodka Jay , Noon Frederick , May Margaret M. , Williamson Fred , Reinecke Patrick A.
Published: April 2022

Despite improvements in predicting the track and intensity of tropical cyclones (TCs), these storms with major societal and economic impacts continue to pose challenges for statically provisioned computational resources. The number of active storms varies from day to day, leading to regular bursts of irregular computational loads atop an already busy production schedule for weather prediction centers. The emergence of high-resolution ensemble TC prediction to quantify the uncertainty in track and intensity exacerbates this problem by requiring multiple forecasts run for each storm, each representing a possible outcome. With more than a decade of progress in the literature describing research and real-time numerical weather prediction in the cloud, we set out to evaluate if the commercial cloud environment could cope with the unique demands of TC ensemble forecasts. We describe a demonstration using a high-performance computing environment within the Microsoft Azure cloud to test dynamic resource provisioning to address time-varying resource challenges. We deployed existing operational models, implemented a combination of vendor-provided and open-source tools to orchestrate the cycling production workflows, and developed techniques for automatic error handling to keep production on schedule with minimal operator intervention. Despite challenges, our production pipeline from data ingest, forecast integration, graphics generation, and dissemination via social media was able to produce real-time forecasts of storm track and intensity with product latencies commensurate with existing operational forecasting systems.
The Use of Forced Sterilisation as a Key Component of Population Policy: Comparative Case Studies of China, India, Puerto Rico and Singapore
Authors: Rowlands Sam , Regmi Pramod R.
Published: April 2022

In the years before the UN international human rights became fundamental values of law and ethics, family planning programmes designed to control population growth were adopted by many countries. This article compares the implementation of sterilisation campaigns in four countries that have used a degree of incentivisation or coercion. For each selected country, we aimed to explore two questions: How was mass sterilisation implemented, and were human rights protected? The countries are China, India, Puerto Rico and Singapore. We suggest that sterilisation should be readily available as part of an overall sexual and reproductive health service, but people’s sexual and reproductive rights must take priority.
Implementation of multiscale mechanisms in finite element analysis of active composite structures
Authors: Micheal Amany , Bahei-El-Din Yehia A
Published: April 2022

Interrogation of composite structures for inherent damage is investigated implementing three-tier analysis scheme. The analysis starts at the structure level where a general-purpose Finite Element code ABAQUS is employed to obtain the stress field in the second level of analysis that is the composite laminate. A special material routine is prepared to propagate the local fields to the individual plies and hence to the third level of analysis which is the microstructure modelling of the composite. Through the third level of analysis, interface damage between fiber and matrix is checked implementing a certain failure criteria. The interaction between the different length scales; that are, structure, macro, and micro scales, is implemented using the non-mechanical strains caused by damage. Embedment of electrically active fibers in the laminate serves as a tool to interrogate the structure for inherent damage through the electric displacement generated due to the electro-mechanical coupling. To verify the developed multi-scale model, a comparison with the experimental results of a tube problem under combined internal pressure and axial load is presented. The results show good agreement in both the undamaged and damaged state. As an application, a plate with a hole under biaxial load is solved. The output includes not only the structure global behavior during damage but also detailed information about the location of damage within the structure, the plies that exhibit damage, type of damage and the fiber/matrix debonded length. Comparison between the electric displacement of the active fibers in the undamaged and damaged states is presented as well.
Application of Six Sigma method in optimisation design of vehicle anti-explosion components
Authors: Li Mingxing , Sun Xiaowang , Zhang Ming , Wang Xianhui , Liu Zhuang , Li Gaowei , Zhou Yunbo
Published: April 2022

With the protection requirements of armoured vehicles continuously improving, the design of anti-explosion components of vehicles is facing increasing challenges. This paper describes a Six Sigma method that is used to optimise the anti-explosion protection components of the vehicle. The thicknesses of some key components of the anti-explosion components and the distributions of the beam are selected as the deterministic design variables. This paper considers the uncertainties in the design process for the failure of the weld and the bolt of the anti-explosion components. The surrogate model generated by the design of experimental (DOE) is combined with the non-dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA-II) to execute the Six Sigma design. Six Sigma design provides the Pareto solution. Lastly, the experiments show that the design based on Six Sigma optimisation is accurate and reliability.
Fabrication of highly efficient nano core–shell structure for the development of super-hydrophobic polymeric coating on mild steel
Authors: Verma Jaya , Kumar Deepak , Sikarwar BS
Published: April 2022

This research work deals with the development of a polymeric super-hydrophobic surface involving nano silica–titania core–shell particles. This core–shell structure enhanced the properties of two different materials in a single nanoparticle in an outstanding manner; polymeric coatings containing core silica and shell titania have improved the mechanical behavior and hydrophobicity of coating surfaces, respectively. This nano core–shell was synthesized through two different methodologies which were prepared at high and low processing temperature separately, that is, called sol–gel and peptization synthesis. Further surface properties of the prepared nanoparticles were investigated individually in solvent-based emulsions and water-based emulsions. Nanocoating formulations were developed on mild steel substrate for analysis on the mechanical behavior of the coating and contact angle measurement. In the coating formulation, nano core–shell concentrations ranged from 1% (wt) to 6% (wt), and used nanoparticles were functionalized with methyl trimethoxy silane for better surface properties. Based on the results of the experiment, core–shell nanocoatings have been found mechanically robust and superhydrophobic (∼145.1° ± 2°) coating.
Overreaction, Investor Sentiment and Market Sentiment of COVID-19
Authors: Loang Ooi Kok
Published: April 2022

This study examines the impact of investor sentiment and market sentiment on overreaction in Europe and USA markets before and during COVID-19. The investor sentiment is calculated by the standard deviation, realized volatility, Parkinson’s estimator and Garman and Klass’s estimator. The market sentiment is measured by Business Confidence Index, Consumer Confidence Index, Labour Force Survey, Leading Index and Monetary Aggregates. The results of this study show that investor and market sentiments are correlated to stock return before COVID-19. Nonetheless, realized volatility is the only investor sentiment that is significant with the emergence of COVID-19. It shows that investors rely on the previous day’s stock prices to trade under market uncertainty. Market sentiment is observed to be insignificant in the pandemic. Furthermore, the existence of overreaction is detected in European portfolios but no evidence of overreaction is shown in the USA during pre-COVID-19. Surprisingly, overreaction is observed in Europe and USA markets in the pandemic. The USA market has a higher overreaction tendency than Europe. The results of this study assist academicians, practitioners and investors in understanding and creating awareness of the existence of market overreaction and its determinants before and during COVID-19.
Detection of IgA Antiphospholipid Antibodies Does not Improve Thrombotic Antiphospholipid Syndrome Classification: A two-Center Study
Authors: Su Zhenzhen , Huang Zhuochun , Zhao Jiuliang , Li Mengtao , Hu Jing , Zeng Xiaofeng , Hu Chaojun , Yang Bin
Published: April 2022

Background

Thrombotic antiphospholipid syndrome (APS) is a systemic autoimmune disease; its diagnosis requires meeting both clinical and laboratory criteria. Prevalence rates of immunoglobulin (Ig) A anticardiolipin antibodies (aCL) and IgA anti-β2 glycoprotein I antibodies (aβ2GPI) remain unknown, and the clinical value of these antibodies to APS classification remains controversial. Therefore, we aimed to examine both items in the Chinese population.

Methods

Using chemiluminescence immunoassay, antiphospholipid antibodies (aPL) were quantified in 12,582 hospital-based general population, 278 thrombotic APS patients, and 233 healthy controls.

Results

In the general population, the positive rates of IgA aCL and IgA aβ2GPI antibodies were 2.87% and 1.99%, respectively. Furthermore, isolated IgA aPL-positivity rate was 0.72% in patients with APS, which was comparable to those in the general population (0.68%, p = 1) and in healthy controls (0.43%, p = 1). Among the IgA aPL-positive individuals in the general population, isolated IgA-positive individuals had lower serum levels of IgA antibodies ( p = 0.007 for IgA aCL and p = 0.059 for IgA aβ2GPI). Regarding to APS classification, adding IgA aPL into conventional aPL assays may not improve and may even deteriorate the net reclassification index for APS; besides, no association between thrombosis and IgA aPL was observed.

Conclusions

this study assessed the prevalence of various aPL in Chinese population. IgA aPL may not enhance the classification ability of established laboratory criteria for thrombotic APS. Our data do not support the addition of IgA aPL to conventional aPL assays.
An approach to solve fractional optimal control problems via fractional-order Boubaker wavelets
Authors: Rabiei Kobra , Razzaghi Mohsen
Published: April 2022

This work is devoted to numerical solution to solve fractional optimal control problems (FOCPs). The fractional-order Boubaker wavelets (FOBWs) are introduced. By applying hypergeometric functions, an exact formula for Riemann–Liouville fractional integral operator for FOBW is obtained. By using this formula, the FOCP is reduced into a corresponding optimization problem which can be solved by applying the Lagrange multiplier method. Also, the convergence for the present method is provided. Seven numerical examples are included to demonstrate the applicability of the proposed technique. In Example 6, it will be shown that we can achieve the exact solutions which were not obtained previously in the literature. In addition, in Example 7, a practical example in a cancer model is provided.
Mana motuhake, Indigenous biopolitics and health
Authors: Hokowhitu Brendan , Oetzel John , Jackson Anne-marie , Simpson Mary , Ruru Stacey , Cameron Michael , Zhang Yingsha , Erueti Bevan , Rewi Poia , Nock Sophie , Warbrick Isaac
Published: April 2022

The majority of Indigenous health models do not directly acknowledge that health is a contested political space. Providing a Foucauldian analysis, this article suggests a function of biopower is to naturalise discourses such as the poor Māori health statistic to appear based on factual evidence and thus are apolitical. Employing Foucault’s triad of power—sovereign, disciplinary and biopower—to understand the genealogy of Māori health, this article proffers mana motuhake (Māori political self-governance) as an appropriate health analytic because it, first, identifies Indigenous health as political and, second, because it recognises the disempowering role that colonialism has played in relation to Māori biopolitical self-governance. Hence, we suggest Māori health will be enhanced by mana motuhake and that research underpinned by Indigenous agency and self-governance resists biopower. The article references two Ageing Well National Science Challenge–funded research projects because they innovatively fundamentalise mana motuhake and politics to Indigenous health.
Transformative gestures
Authors: Dahlbeck Johan
Published: April 2022

Douglas Yacek’s recent book The Transformative Classroom proposes a useful aspirational model of transformative education. In this critical commentary, I review this model and suggest that while it succeeds in overcoming some ethical shortcomings of other dominant models of transformative education, I would like to suggest that focusing on more subtle transformative gestures could have the benefit of being less dependent of the teacher’s intention to transform and of being less constrained by the expectation that transformation should take place primarily in the classroom. When transformation is conceived as an educational fiction, it may be conceived as a retroactive experience constructed around memories of the teacher's transformative gestures, thereby adding to Yacek’s aspirational model by allowing for transformation to continue beyond the walls of the classroom.
Immigration Attitudes and Positive Messaging: Evidence From the United States
Authors: Bearce David H. , Stallman Ken
Published: April 2022

This paper considers a messaging strategy to shift immigration preferences, arguing that if citizen attitudes in this issue-area build from several dimensions, then a positive message related to each dimension should move attitudes in a more favorable direction. It tests the first part using original survey data with directly comparable questions about whether immigration hurts/helps American culture/the economy/national security, providing evidence that all three dimensions currently support the preferences of voting-age citizens. It tests the second part by randomly presenting another sample with different messages about how labor immigration strengthens national security, creates new jobs, or enhances culture, finding that all three reduce anti-immigration attitudes with significant effects even within groups that are more opposed to immigration (namely, white Americans, those with less education, and partisan Republicans).
Fitting mixture models for feeling and uncertainty for rating data analysis
Authors: Cerulli Giovanni , Simone Rosaria , Di Iorio Francesca , Piccolo Domenico , Baum Christopher F.
Published: April 2022

In this article, we present the command cub, which fits ordinal rating data using combination of uniform and binomial (CUB) models, a class of finite mixture distributions accounting for both feeling and uncertainty of the response process. CUB identifies the components that define the mixture in the baseline model specification. We apply maximum likelihood methods to estimate feeling and uncertainty parameters, which are possibly explained in terms of covariates.

An extension to inflated CUB models is discussed. We also present a subcommand, scattercub, for visualization of results. We then illustrate the use of cub using a case study on students’ satisfaction for the orientation services provided by the University of Naples Federico II in Italy.
Transindividual Affect: Gilbert Simondon's Contribution to a Posthumanist Theory of Emotions
Authors: Celis Bueno Claudio , Schettini Claudia
Published: April 2022

The aim of this article is to explore how some aspects of Gilbert Simondon's philosophy of individuation may contribute to outlining a posthumanist theory of emotions. According to Simondon, the relation between affection and emotion is a key case study for examining the transindividual character of psychosocial individuation. Affection and emotion appear to him not as a binary opposition, but as an example of a transductive operation. The article suggests the concept of ‘transindividual affect’ as a way of challenging some key dualisms (rationality and emotion; the individual and the collective; emotion and affect). From this perspective, Simondon can contribute to a redefinition of the human from the non-dualistic and non-anthropocentric perspective that characterises critical posthumanism.
Comparing surgical outcomes of anterior capsular release vs circumferential release for persistent capsular stiffness
Authors: Erdogan Safiya , Sakha Seaher , Shanmugaraj Ajaykumar , Prada Carlos , Frank Rachel M , Leroux Timothy , Khan Moin
Published: April 2022

Purpose

To consolidate the existing literature evaluating anterior capsular release and circumferential capsular release in the treatment of adhesive capsulitis (AC) of the shoulder.

Methods

The electronic databases PUBMED, EMBASE, MEDLINE and CENTRAL (Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials) were searched from data inception to October 8, 2020. Data are presented descriptively where appropriate. A meta-analysis was conducted for patient-reported outcomes.

Results

Overall, there were forty-six articles included. The majority of patients underwent circumferential release compared to anterior release (80.1% vs. 19.9%). Concomitant Manipulation Under Anesthesia (MUA) was employed in 25 studies, with a higher occurrence in the anterior compared to the circumferential release group (70% vs 60%). Both groups experienced significant improvements postoperatively in range of motion (ROM) and patient-reported outcomes. Complication rates were low for both anterior release (0.67%) and 360° release (0.44%).

Conclusion

Both anterior and circumferential release are effective techniques for treating AC with low complication rates. Future studies should improve documentation of patient demographics, surgical techniques and outcomes to determine an individualized treatment protocol for patients.

Level of evidence

Level IV, Systematic Review of Level I–IV studies.
Is the modified Dunn’s procedure superior to in situ fixation? A systematic review and meta-analysis of comparative studies for management of moderate and severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis
Authors: Cheok Tim , Smith Thomas , Berman Morgan , Jennings Matthew , Williams Kanishka , Poonnoose Pradeep Mathew , Rawat Jaideep , Foster Bruce
Published: April 2022

Purpose:

The management of moderate and severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis is controversial. While in situ fixation is commonly used, the modified Dunn’s procedure is increasingly popular within high-volume centers. We compared the clinical and radiological outcomes, as well as the rates of femoral head avascular necrosis or chondrolysis in patients managed with either modified Dunn’s procedure or in situ fixation.

Methods:

A systematic search of the PubMed, Embase, The Cochrane Library, Science Direct, and Web of Science was performed in August 2021. Studies comparing outcomes and complications of modified Dunn’s procedure versus in situ fixation in patients with moderate or severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis were included.

Results:

A total of four studies were included in the final analysis. Modified Dunn’s procedure did not result in improved clinical outcomes. However, radiological outcomes as measured using Southwick angles and Alpha angles were significantly improved in the modified Dunn’s procedure group, with a mean difference of −14.68 (p < 0.00001) and −34.26 degrees (p < 0.00001), respectively, compared to in situ fixation. There was no difference in the odds of femoral head avascular necrosis or chondrolysis, with odds ratio of 0.99 (p = 0.97).

Conclusion:

Within the limits of our study, modified Dunn’s procedure did not improve clinical outcomes. There were significantly improved radiological outcomes without higher odds of femoral head avascular necrosis or chondrolysis. Further long-term studies are required to better guide management of moderate and severe slipped capital femoral epiphysis, especially in unstable slips. In the meantime, we recommend that the modified Dunn’s procedure, if done, be restricted to high-volume centers with low complication rates.

Level of evidence:

Level III—Systematic review of Level III studies.

Prospero Registration No.:

CRD42021279503.
Clinic Design for Safety During the Pandemic: Safety or Teamwork, Can We Only Pick One?
Authors: Lim Lisa , Zimring Craig M. , DuBose Jennifer R. , Fischer Gary M. , Stroebel Robert
Published: April 2022

Objective:

This article aims to illustrate the design considerations of team-based primary care clinics in response to the pandemic.

Background:

Due to COVID-19, physical distancing became a critical practice in our daily life, especially in healthcare settings where healthcare professionals must continue providing care to patients despite the manifold risks. Many healthcare facilities are implementing physical distancing in their clinic layouts, and healthcare professionals are adjusting their behaviors, so they can stay away from each other.

Methods:

A total of four team-based primary care clinics were studied to identify their lessons learned regarding safety measures and space usage during the pandemic.

Results:

The four team-based primary care clinics made changes to the clinic design (e.g., waiting areas, exam rooms, team workspaces), operational protocols (e.g., in-person huddles, social gatherings, staff work locations), and usage of spaces (e.g., outdoor spaces, utility rooms). Such changes enabled the implementation of safety measures during the pandemic. However, healthcare professionals also reported challenges regarding their team communication and coordination due to physical distancing and separation.

Conclusions:

Our findings suggest that the physical distancing may in fact contribute to less effective teamwork and patient care and negatively affect staff well-being. In this article, we ask healthcare system leaders and designers to continue supporting both safety and teamwork by paying attention to the flexibility and spatial relationships among healthcare professionals rather than fully sacrificing teamwork for safety. Also, now is the time when multidisciplinary collaborations are needed to establish and validate guidelines that can improve both factors.
Comparative Analysis of Inpatient Opioid Consumption Between Different Surgical Approaches Following Single Level Lumbar Spinal Fusion Surgery
Authors: Zabat Michelle A. , Mottole Nicole A. , Ashayeri Kimberly , Norris Zoe A. , Patel Hershil , Sissman Ethan , Balouch Eaman , Maglaras Constance , Protopsaltis Themistocles S. , Buckland Aaron J. , Fischer Charla R.
Published: April 2022

Study Design

Single-center retrospective cohort study

Objectives

To evaluate inpatient MME administration associated with different lumbar spinal fusion surgeries

Methods

Patients ≥18 years of age with a diagnosis of Grade I or II spondylolisthesis, stenosis, degenerative disc disease or pars defect who underwent one-level Transforaminal Lumbar Interbody Fusion (TLIF) or one-level Anterior Lumbar Interbody Fusion (ALIF) or Lateral Lumbar Interbody Fusion (LLIF) through traditional MIS, anterior-posterior position or single position approaches between L2-S1. Outcome measures included patient demographics, surgical procedure and approach, perioperative clinical characteristics, incidence of ileus and inpatient MME. Statistical analysis included one-way ANOVA with a post-hoc Tukey Test and Kruskal–Wallis Test with post-hoc Mann–Whitney test. MME was calculated as per the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services and previous literature. Significance set at P < .05.

Results

Mean age differed significantly between MIS TLIF (55.6 ± 12.5 years) and all other groups (Open TLIF 57.1 ± 12.5, SP ALIF/LLIF 57.9 ± 9.9, TP ALIF/LLIF 50.9 ± 12.7, Open ALIF/LLIF 58.4 ± 15.5). MIS TLIF had the shortest LOS compared to all groups except SP ALIF/LLIF. Total MME was significantly different between MIS TLIF and Open ALIF/LLIF (172.5 MME vs 261.1 MME, P = .044) as well as MIS TLIF and TP ALIF/LLIF (172.5 MME vs 245.4 MME, P = .009). There were no significant differences in MME/hour and incidence of ileus between all groups.

Conclusion

Patients undergoing MIS TLIF had lower inpatient opioid intake compared to TP and SP ALIF/LLIF, as well as shorter LOS compared to all groups except SP ALIF/LLIF. Thus, it appears that the advantages of minimally invasive surgery are seen in minimally invasive TLIFs.
The Role of Press in the Politics of Knowledge in Development: Challenges of Creating ‘Alternatives’ in Media
Authors: Sharma Tripta
Published: April 2022

Media is an integral part of any society. In modern societies where it has grown so much, it becomes very important to pay attention to the role of media in constructing the social. This article discusses how the role of press in establishing the hegemony of the modern-industrial west works through the politics of news, establishing the hierarchies in the politics of knowledge in general and therefore also in the project of development. It argues that in post-colonial societies, the latter includes a process of marginalization of already existing knowledge systems, for long and more commonly referred to as ‘traditional knowledges’. Exploring initiatives in creating counters to mainstream media, the article also invites a problematization of the category of ‘alternative media’ as a true alternative presenting peoples’ perspectives on development.
Prevalence of Cannabinoid (CBD) Use in Orthopaedic Sports Medicine Patients
Authors: Deckey David G. , Doan Matthew , Hassebrock Jeffrey D. , Patel Karan A. , Economopoulos Kostas , Tokish John M. , Bingham Joshua S. , Chhabra Anikar
Published: April 2022

Background:

Although there is some evidence that cannabinoid (CBD) products may provide a therapeutic effect for musculoskeletal pain, little is known about the usage patterns or their prevalence of use in orthopaedic sports medicine patients.

Purpose:

To report the prevalence and perceived self-efficacy of CBD products in patients evaluated in an orthopaedic sports medicine clinic.

Study Design:

Descriptive epidemiology study. Level of evidence, 2.

Methods:

The study population consisted of new patients who visited an orthopaedic surgery sports medicine clinic at a large academic center for consultation with a surgeon between August 2020 and March 2021. All patients were asked to complete a survey that assessed perceived pain and effectiveness of CBD products and other nonsurgical treatment modalities using the Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation score (range, 0-100) and the Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NRS). Descriptive factors were collected via chart review. Descriptive statistics were used to characterize the data.

Results:

Overall, 823 patients completed the survey (45.4% female; mean age, 51 years [range, 18-87 years]; mean body mass index, 28.9 [range, 17.2-58.4]). Body areas involved included 285 shoulders, 44 elbows, 76 hips, 276 knees, 58 ankles, and 77 other. Of these patients, 19% (152/823) endorsed the use of CBD products before their initial evaluation. The mean NRS for pain was significantly different between non-CBD users and CBD users (5.6 vs 6.1; P = .029). CBD users were significantly more likely to have tried other nonoperative modalities compared with nonusers, including nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (79.6% vs 69.8%; P = .032), bracing (44.7% vs 34.6%; P = .024), steroid injections (38.8% vs 21.6%; P < .001), and physical therapy (54% vs 36.1%; P < .001). In addition, 30.9% of CBD utilizers reported marijuana use compared with 2.8% of non-CBD users ( P < .001) for management of their pain.

Conclusion:

In the current study, 19% of patients had used CBD products to manage joint-related issues. Sports medicine providers should be aware of this high incidence of usage and the potential interactions CBD products may have with other treatment modalities. Further studies are needed to assess the effectiveness of CBD as a therapeutic agent and the specific interactions it has with other drugs and other forms of treatment.
Endoscopic Sciatic Neurolysis for Deep Gluteal Space Syndrome
Authors: Trasolini Nicholas A. , Rice Morgan , Paul Katlynn , Nho Shane J.
Published: April 2022

Background:

Deep gluteal syndrome (DGS) encompasses a spectrum of pathologies causing symptomatic sciatic nerve compression deep to the gluteus maximus muscle. Endoscopic sciatic neurolysis is an option for management of DGS when conservative treatment fails.

Indications:

Endoscopic sciatic neurolysis is indicated for retro-trochanteric pain, sciatica-like burning in the posterior thigh, and sitting discomfort that is reproducible on physical examination after failing conservative management.

Technical Description:

The technique presented here introduces a standard endoscopic sciatic neurolysis technique with an accessory posterolateral portal placed distally and in line with the sciatic nerve. Use of a switching stick through an accessory distal posterolateral portal can allow for in-line protection and retraction of the sciatic nerve while it is carefully released from compressive fibrous bands using an arthroscopic shaver. It is important that the accessory portal be placed under direct visualization with caution not to injure the sciatic nerve. An arthroscopic radiofrequency device can be used for hemostasis and further release of fibrous bands. At the end of the procedure, the sciatic nerve should be visualized fully released and freely mobile from the piriformis muscle to the level of the lesser trochanter.

Results:

In properly selected patients, the procedure is very successful. In a series of 35 cases, the procedure reduced sitting pain (present in 97% of patients preoperative, 17% of patients postoperative), reduced narcotic use, improved visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores, and improved modified Harris hip scores without major complications.

Discussion:

Although rare following hip arthroscopy, postoperative scarring and fibrous bands are a common cause of DGS which can be effectively treated by endoscopic sciatic nerve decompression. Results of endoscopic sciatic neurolysis have thus far been encouraging with improvements in patient reported outcome scores and high rates of satisfaction. However, complications do occur and can result in neurologic deficits. Nevertheless, with careful patient selection and meticulous sciatic nerve dissection, endoscopic sciatic neurolysis for DGS is a safe and effective technique for decompression of fibrous bands and adhesions that can lead to sciatic neuralgia.
A $${{\varvec{\Phi}}}$$ 6-m Tunnel Boring Machine Steel Arch Splicing Manipulator
Authors: He Yuanfu , Xia Yimin , Xu Zhen , Yao Jie , Ning Bo , Xiao Xuemeng
Published: April 2022

Robotic splicing of steel arches is a challenging task that is necessary to realize the grasping and docking of steel arches in a limited space. Steel arches often have a mass of more than 200 kg and length of more than 4 m. Owing to the large volume and mass of steel arches and the high requirements for accurately positioning the splicing, it is difficult for a general manipulator to meet the stiffness requirements. To enhance the structural stiffness of the steel arch splicing manipulator, a single-degree-of-freedom (DOF) closed-loop mechanism was added to the grasping structure of the manipulator. Based on the basic principle of structural synthesis, a solution model of the single-DOF closed-loop mechanism was developed, and alternative kinematic pairs of the mechanism with different input constraints and output requirements were derived. Based on this model, a design method for a single-DOF closed-loop grasping mechanism and a posture adjustment mechanism for a steel arch was devised. Combined with the same dimensional subspace equivalence principle of the graphical-type synthesis method, 12 types of steel arch splicing manipulator were constructed. By analyzing the motion/force transmission and structural complexity of the steel arch splicing manipulators, the best scheme was selected. A prototype of the steel arch splicing manipulator was manufactured. Adams software was used to obtain clearly the output trajectory of the end of the manipulator. The relative spatial positions of the upper and lower jaws under different working stages were analyzed, demonstrating that the manipulator satisfied the grasping requirements. Through a steel arch splicing experiment, the grasping effect, docking accuracy, and splicing efficiency of the manipulator met the design requirements. The steel arch splicing manipulator can replace the manual completion of the steel arch splicing operation, significantly improving the operation efficiency.
Abnormalities in resting-state EEG microstates are a vulnerability marker of migraine
Authors: Li Yansong , Chen Guoliang , Lv Jing , Hou Lei , Dong Zhao , Wang Rongfei , Su Min , Yu Shengyuan
Published: April 2022

Background

Resting-state EEG microstates are thought to reflect brief activations of several interacting components of resting-state brain networks. Surprisingly, we still know little about the role of these microstates in migraine. In the present study, we attempted to address this issue by examining EEG microstates in patients with migraine without aura (MwoA) during the interictal period and comparing them with those of a group of healthy controls (HC).

Methods

Resting-state EEG was recorded in 61 MwoA patients (50 females) and 66 HC (50 females). Microstate parameters were compared between the two groups. We computed four widely identified canonical microstate classes A-D.

Results

Microstate classes B and D displayed higher time coverage and occurrence in the MwoA patient group than in the HC group, while microstate class C exhibited significantly lower time coverage and occurrence in the MwoA patient group. Meanwhile, the mean duration of microstate class C was significantly shorter in the MwoA patient group than in the HC group. Moreover, among the MwoA patient group, the duration of microstate class C correlated negatively with clinical measures of headache-related disability as assessed by the six-item Headache Impact Test (HIT-6). Finally, microstate syntax analysis showed significant differences in transition probabilities between the two groups, primarily involving microstate classes B, C, and D.

Conclusions

By exploring EEG microstate characteristics at baseline we were able to explore the neurobiological mechanisms underlying altered cortical excitability and aberrant sensory, affective, and cognitive processing, thus deepening our understanding of migraine pathophysiology.
FKN/CX3CR1 axis facilitates migraine-Like behaviour by activating thalamic-cortical network microglia in status epilepticus model rats
Authors: Zhou Yanjie , Zhang Lily , Hao Yuyan , Yang Liu , Fan Shanghua , Xiao Zheman
Published: April 2022

Background

The incidence of migraines is higher among individuals with epilepsy than in healthy individuals, and these two diseases are thought to shared pathophysiological mechanisms. Excitation/inhibition imbalance plays an essential role in the comorbidity of epilepsy and migraine. Microglial activation is crucial for abnormal neuronal signal transmission. However, it remains unclear whether and how microglia are activated and their role in comorbidities after being activated. This study aimed to explore the characteristics and mechanism of microglial activation after seizures and their effect on migraine.

Methods

Model rats of status epilepticus (SE) induced by intraperitoneal injection of lithium chloride (LiCl)-pilocarpine and migraine induced by repeated dural injections of inflammatory soup (IS) were generated, and molecular and histopathologic evidence of the microglial activation targets of fractalkine (FKN) signalling were examined. HT22-BV2 transwell coculture assays were used to explore the interaction between neurons and microglia. LPS (a microglial agonist) and FKN stimulation of BV2 microglial cells were used to evaluate changes in BDNF levels after microglial activation.

Results

Microglia were specifically hyperplastic and activated in the temporal lobe cortex, thalamus, and spinal trigeminal nucleus caudalis (sp5c), accompanied by the upregulation of FKN and CX3CR1 four days after seizures. Moreover, SE-induced increases in nociceptive behaviour and FKN/CX3CR1 axis expression in migraine model rats. AZD8797 (a CX3CR1 inhibitor) prevented the worsening of hyperalgesia and microglial activation in migraine model rats after seizures, while FKN infusion in migraine model rats exacerbated hyperalgesia and microglial activation associated with BDNF-Trkb signalling. Furthermore, in neuron-microglia cocultures, microglial activation and FKN/CX3CR1/BDNF/iba1 expression were increased compared with those in microglial cultures alone. Activating microglia with LPS and FKN increased BDNF synthesis in BV2 microglia.

Conclusions

Our results indicated that epilepsy facilitated migraine through FKN/CX3CR1 axis-mediated microglial activation in the cortex/thalamus/sp5c, which was accompanied by BDNF release. Blocking the FKN/CX3CR1 axis and microglial activation are potential therapeutic strategies for preventing and treating migraine in patients with epilepsy.
RETRACTED ARTICLE: Long Non-coding RNA H19 Deteriorates Hypoxic-Ischemic Brain Damage by Interacting with MicroRNA-140-5p and STAT3
Authors: Lu Qian , Hou Hai Man , Li Shuo , Yuan Jing , Liu Han , Xu Yuming
Published: April 2022

Objective

Even though extensive studies have surveyed long non-coding RNA (lncRNA)-related networks in hypoxic-ischemic brain damage (HIBD), the concrete function of lncRNA H19 (H19) in HIBD is still in ambiguity. Therein, this work intends to decipher H19-related network of microRNA (miR)-140-5p and signal transducer and activator of transcription 3 (STAT3) in HIBD.

Methods

Brain microvascular endothelial cells (BMECs) from BALB/c mice were isolated and induced by oxygen glucose deprivation (OGD). OGD-induced BMECs were transfected with depleted or restored H19, miR-140-5p or STAT3, and cell apoptosis, migration and angiogenesis were examined. H19, miR-140-5p and STAT3 expression and their internal connections were tested.

Results

H19 and STAT3 were overexpressed while miR-140-5p was down-regulated in OGD-induced BMECs. H19 or STAT3 knockdown, or miR-140-5p restoration repressed apoptosis and improved migration and angiogenesis of OGD-induced BMECs. MiR-140-5p restoration negated the impacts of up-regulated H19 on OGD-induced BMECs. H19 bound to miR-140-5p to modulate STAT3 expression.

Conclusion

The work illustrates that depleting H19 or STAT3 or restoring miR-140-5p attenuates HIBD and supplies a novel perspective for HIBD management.
Transcriptome sequencing and differential expression analysis of natural and BTH-treated wound healing in potato tubers (Solanum tuberosum L.)
Authors: Jiang Hong , Li Xue , Ma Li , Ren Yingyue , Bi Yang , Prusky Dov
Published: April 2022

Background

Wound healing is a representative phenomenon of potato tubers subjected to mechanical injuries. Our previous results found that benzo-(1,2,3)-thiadiazole-7-carbothioic acid S-methyl ester (BTH) promoted the wound healing of potato tubers. However, the molecular mechanism related to inducible wound healing remains unknown.

Results

Transcriptomic evaluation of healing tissues from potato tubers at three stages, namely, 0 d (nonhealing), 5 d (wounded tubers healed for 5 d) and 5 d (BTH-treated tubers healed for 5 d) using RNA-Seq and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) analysis showed that more than 515 million high-quality reads were generated and a total of 7665 DEGs were enriched, and 16 of these DEGs were selected by qRT-PCR analysis to further confirm the RNA sequencing data. Gene ontology (GO) enrichment analysis indicated that the most highly DEGs were involved in metabolic and cellular processes, and KEGG enrichment analysis indicated that a large number of DEGs were associated with plant hormones, starch and sugar metabolism, fatty acid metabolism, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis and terpenoid skeleton biosynthesis. Furthermore, a few candidate transcription factors, including MYB, NAC and WRKY, and genes related to Ca2+-mediated signal transduction were also found to be differentially expressed during wound healing. Most of these enriched DEGs were upregulated after BTH treatment.

Conclusion

This comparative expression profile provided useful resources for studies of the molecular mechanism via these promising candidates involved in natural or elicitor-induced wound healing in potato tubers.
Correction to: Comparative transcriptome analysis of heat stress responses of Clematis lanuginosa and Clematis crassifolia
Authors: Qian Renjuan , Hu Qingdi , Ma Xiaohua , Zhang Xule , Ye Youju , Liu Hongjian , Gao Handong , Zheng Jian
Published: April 2022

An amendment to this paper has been published and can be accessed via the original article.
Pre-operative point-of-care assessment of left ventricular diastolic dysfunction, an observational study
Authors: Stenberg Ylva , Rhodin Ylva , Lindberg Anne , Aroch Roman , Hultin Magnus , Walldén Jakob , Myrberg Tomi
Published: April 2022

Background

Left ventricular (LV) diastolic dysfunction is an acknowledged peri-operative risk factor that should be identified before surgery. This study aimed to evaluate a simplified echocardiographic method using e’ and E/e’ for identification and grading of diastolic dysfunction pre-operatively.

Methods

Ninety six ambulatory surgical patients were consecutively included to this prospective observational study. Pre-operative transthoracic echocardiography was conducted prior to surgery, and diagnosis of LV diastolic dysfunction was established by comprehensive and simplified assessment, and the results were compared. The accuracy of e’-velocities in order to discriminate patients with diastolic dysfunction was established by calculating accuracy, efficiency, positive (PPV) and negative predictive (NPV) values, and area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC).

Results

Comprehensive assessment established diastolic dysfunction in 77% (74/96) of patients. Of these, 22/74 was categorized as mild dysfunction, 43/74 as moderate dysfunction and 9/74 as severe dysfunction. Using the simplified method with e’ and E/e’, diastolic dysfunction was established in 70.8% (68/96) of patients. Of these, 8/68 was categorized as mild dysfunction, 36/68 as moderate dysfunction and 24/68 as severe dysfunction. To discriminate diastolic dysfunction of any grade, e’-velocities (mean < 9 cm s− 1) had an AUROC of 0.901 (95%CI 0.840–0.962), with a PPV of 55.2%, a NPV of 90.9% and a test efficiency of 0.78.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that a simplified approach with tissue Doppler e’-velocities may be used to rule out patients with diastolic dysfunction pre-operatively, but together with E/e’ ratio the severity of diastolic dysfunction may be overestimated.

Trial registration

Clinicaltrials.gov, Identifier: NCT 03349593. Date of registration 21/11/2017. https://clinicaltrials.gov.