bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Update of Topical Interventions for Healing Diabetic Ulcers—A Systematic Review
Authors: de Sousa Geice P. , Fontenele Maria K. A. , da Rocha Rebeca B. , Cardoso Vinicius S.
Published: May 2021

There are a variety of dressings for wound healing. For this reason, research can assist in the choice and proper use of the intervention. This current view of the effectiveness of dressing on diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. This study is a systematic review of clinical trials selected in 4 databases: PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Cochrane. Studies without language restriction, published between 2009 and 2020, were included. The search resulted in the identification of 5651 articles, of which 58 met all inclusion criteria. Among these, 2 biomaterials (D-acellular dermal matrix and keratinocyte) and phenytoin were highlighted for achieving healing rates of 100% and 95.82% ± 2.22%, respectively. The literature presents several alternatives with different actions, cure rates, reduction rates, and varied cost benefits. The growth in the use of biomaterials for the treatment of DFU can be seen in this study.
Clinical Application of the Peroneal Artery Perforator Flap for Reconstruction of Lateral Malleolus Defects
Authors: Shih Yu-Jen , Wang Yen-Chun , Lin Chin-Ta , Chang Shun-Cheng , Tzeng Yuan-Sheng , Dai Niann-Tzyy , Chen Tim-Mo , Wang Chih-Hsin , Chen Shyi-Gen
Published: May 2021

The reconstruction of defects of the lateral malleolus involving the exposed fibular bone or tendon is challenging. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical application of the peroneal artery perforator flap with or without split-thickness skin grafting for soft tissue reconstruction of the bony defect of the lateral malleolus of the ankle joints. Reconstruction using a peroneal artery perforator flap with or without split-thickness skin grafting was performed for 15 patients (10 men, 5 women) between January 2007 and December 2018. The mean age was 53.7 years, and the mean size of the flaps was 40 cm2. The flaps were elevated in the form of a perforator flap, and split-thickness skin grafting was performed over the flaps and adjoining raw areas. The flaps survived in all cases; however, partial necrosis was observed in 3 cases. In cases of small-sized defects of the lateral malleolus of the ankle joints where a flap is required for the exposed bone or tendon, reconstruction using the peroneal artery perforator flap is advantageous, since the morbidity rate of the donor site is low and soft tissue is reconstructed.
Cross-Cultural Adaptation and Reliability Testing of Arabic Versions of Several Diabetic Foot Psychosocial Scales
Authors: Ababneh Anas , Finlayson Kathleen , Lazzarini Peter , Edwards Helen
Published: May 2021

The main aims of this study were cross-cultural adaptation and reliability testing of an Arabic version of Foot Care Confidence Scale (FCCS), Foot Care Outcomes Expectations Scale (FCOES), Patient Interpretation of Neuropathy Scales (PINS), Neuropathy-specific Quality of Life Scales (NQOLS), and offloading-related Visual Analog Scales (VAS). Two phases of translation and reliability testing were conducted in Jordan. Phase 1 included 2 forward and backward translations with 2 panel consensuses (translators, clinicians, and experts). In Phase 2, Cronbach’s alpha ( α) and intraclass correlation coefficient (ICC) were used to test the internal consistency and stability (test–retest) of the Arabic scales in a sample of a total of 90 Jordanian participants with diabetic foot ulcers. Phase 1 resulted in Arabic translation and cross-cultural adaptation of the study scales. Phase 2 resulted in acceptable internal consistency of the translated scales ( α = 0.74-0.91), except for the PIN “self/practitioner blame” and “acute ulcer onset” scales ( α = 0.57, 0.49, respectively). Test–retest results (ICC) were: FCCS (0.85); FCOES (0.78); PINS (0.043-0.85); NQOLS (0.76-0.90); and offloading-related VAS (0.43-0.90). This study showed evidence of cultural appropriateness and reliability of most of the translated scales, for possible future implementation for the Arabic population.
Blood Vessel Density Measured Using Dynamic Optical Coherence Tomography is a Tool for Wound Healers
Authors: Mani Rajgopal , Holmes Jon , Rerkasem Kittipan , Papanas Nikolaos
Published: May 2021

Dynamic optical coherence tomography (D-OCT) is a relatively new technique that may be used to study the substructures in the retina, in the skin and its microcirculation. Furthermore, D-OCT is a validated method of imaging blood flow in skin microcirculation. The skin around venous and mixed arterio-venous ulcers was imaged and found to have tortuous vessels assumed to be angiogenic sprouts, and classified as dots, blobs, coils, clumps, lines, and curves. When these images were analyzed and measurements of vessel density were made, it was observed that the prevalence of coils and clumps in wound borders was significantly greater compared with those at wound centers. This reinforced the belief of inward growth of vessels from wound edge toward wound center which, in turn, reposed confidence in following the wound edge to study healing. D-OCT imaging permits the structure and the function of the microcirculation to be imaged, and vessel density measured. This offers a new vista of skin microcirculation and using it, to better understand angiogenesis in chronic wounds.
The Adjunctive Effect of Acupuncture for Advanced Cancer Patients in a Collaborative Model of Palliative Care: Study Protocol for a 3-Arm Randomized Trial
Authors: Chen Haiyong , So Tsz Him , Cho William Chi-Shing , Qin Zongshi , Ma Chun Ho , Li Shi Guang , Yang Zhenjiang , Jiang Fei , Wu Junmei , Zhang Zhang Jin , Kong Feng Ming , Lao Lixing
Published: May 2021

Background:

Cancer is the second leading cause of death before the age of 70. Improved cancer survival has put increasing demands on cancer care. Palliative care is the specialized multi-disciplinary care providing relief from the pain, symptoms, and stress of serious illness. The study aims to evaluate the adjunctive effect of acupuncture for advanced cancer patients in a collaborative model of palliative care.

Methods/Design:

This is a single-blinded, randomized, sham-controlled trial. One hundred twenty advanced cancer patients undergoing palliative care will be randomized in a ratio of 2:1:1 to manual acupuncture plus standard care group (ASC), sham acupuncture plus standard care group (SSC), and standard care group (SC). Patients in ASC and SSC will receive 9 sessions of acupuncture or sham acupuncture for 3 weeks, and will be followed up for 2 months. The primary measure is the change from baseline score of the Edmonton Symptom Assessment System at 3 weeks. The secondary measures include the Brief Fatigue Inventory, Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale, Insomnia Severity Index, Numeric Rating Scale, and European Organization for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life 15 items Questionnaire for Palliative Care.

Discussion:

The finding of this trial will provide high-quality evidence on the adjunctive effect of acupuncture to standard care on advanced cancer patients undergoing palliative care.

Trial Registration:

Clinicaltrials.gov, NCT04398875 ( https://www.clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT04398875 ), Registered on 21 May 2020.
Metabolomic profiling of anaerobic and aerobic energy metabolic pathways in chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Authors: Xue Mingshan , Zeng Yifeng , Lin Runpei , Qu Hui-Qi , Zhang Teng , Zhang Xiaohua Douglas , Liang Yueting , Zhen Yingjie , Chen Hao , Huang Zhifeng , Hu Haisheng , Zheng Peiyan , Hakonarson Hakon , Zhou Luqian , Sun Baoqing
Published: May 2021

While there is no cure for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), its progressive nature and the formidable challenge to manage its symptoms warrant a more extensive study of the pathogenesis and related mechanisms. A new emphasis on COPD study is the change of energy metabolism. For the first time, this study investigated the anaerobic and aerobic energy metabolic pathways in COPD using the metabolomic approach. Metabolomic analysis was used to investigate energy metabolites in 140 COPD patients. The significance of energy metabolism in COPD was comprehensively explored by the Global Initiative for Chronic Obstructive Lung Disease–GOLD grading, acute exacerbation vs. stable phase (either clinical stability or four-week stable phase), age group, smoking index, lung function, and COPD Assessment Test (CAT) score. Through comprehensive evaluation, we found that COPD patients have a significant imbalance in the aerobic and anaerobic energy metabolisms in resting state, and a high tendency of anaerobic energy supply mechanism that correlates positively with disease progression. This study highlighted the significance of anaerobic and low-efficiency energy supply pathways in lung injury and linked it to the energy-inflammation-lung ventilatory function and the motion limitation mechanism in COPD patients, which implies a novel therapeutic direction for this devastating disease.
Quantifying the progression of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease in human biomimetic liver microphysiology systems with fluorescent protein biosensors
Authors: Saydmohammed Manush , Jha Anupma , Mahajan Vineet , Gavlock Dillon , Shun Tong Ying , DeBiasio Richard , Lefever Daniel , Li Xiang , Reese Celeste , Kershaw Erin E , Yechoor Vijay , Behari Jaideep , Soto-Gutierrez Alejandro , Vernetti Larry , Stern Andrew , Gough Albert , Miedel Mark T , Lansing Taylor D
Published: May 2021

Metabolic syndrome is a complex disease that involves multiple organ systems including a critical role for the liver. Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) is a key component of the metabolic syndrome and fatty liver is linked to a range of metabolic dysfunctions that occur in approximately 25% of the population. A panel of experts recently agreed that the acronym, NAFLD, did not properly characterize this heterogeneous disease given the associated metabolic abnormalities such as type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2D), obesity, and hypertension. Therefore, metabolic dysfunction-associated fatty liver disease (MAFLD) has been proposed as the new term to cover the heterogeneity identified in the NAFLD patient population. Although many rodent models of NAFLD/NASH have been developed, they do not recapitulate the full disease spectrum in patients. Therefore, a platform has evolved initially focused on human biomimetic liver microphysiology systems that integrates fluorescent protein biosensors along with other key metrics, the microphysiology systems database, and quantitative systems pharmacology. Quantitative systems pharmacology is being applied to investigate the mechanisms of NAFLD/MAFLD progression to select molecular targets for fluorescent protein biosensors, to integrate computational and experimental methods to predict drugs for repurposing, and to facilitate novel drug development. Fluorescent protein biosensors are critical components of the platform since they enable monitoring of the pathophysiology of disease progression by defining and quantifying the temporal and spatial dynamics of protein functions in the biosensor cells, and serve as minimally invasive biomarkers of the physiological state of the microphysiology system experimental disease models. Here, we summarize the progress in developing human microphysiology system disease models of NAFLD/MAFLD from several laboratories, developing fluorescent protein biosensors to monitor and to measure NAFLD/MAFLD disease progression and implementation of quantitative systems pharmacology with the goal of repurposing drugs and guiding the creation of novel therapeutics.
Overcoming physiological barriers by nanoparticles for intravenous drug delivery to the lymph nodes
Authors: Trac Noah , Chung Eun Ji
Published: May 2021

The lymph nodes are major sites of cancer metastasis and immune activity, and thus represent important clinical targets. Although not as well-studied compared to subcutaneous administration, intravenous drug delivery is advantageous for lymph node delivery as it is commonly practiced in the clinic and has the potential to deliver therapeutics systemically to all lymph nodes. However, rapid clearance by the mononuclear phagocyte system, tight junctions of the blood vascular endothelium, and the collagenous matrix of the interstitium can limit the efficiency of lymph node drug delivery, which has prompted research into the design of nanoparticle-based drug delivery systems. In this mini review, we describe the physiological and biological barriers to lymph node targeting, how they inform nanoparticle design, and discuss the future outlook of lymph node targeting.
Hypoxic colorectal cancer-secreted exosomes deliver miR-210-3p to normoxic tumor cells to elicit a protumoral effect
Authors: Ge Liuqing , Zhou Feng , Nie Jiayan , Wang Xiaobing , Zhao Qiu
Published: May 2021

Hypoxia, the most common feature in the tumor microenvironment, is closely related to tumor malignant progression and poor patient’s prognosis. Exosomes, initially recognized as cellular “garbage dumpsters”, are now known to be important mediums for mediating cellular communication in tumor microenvironment. However, the mechanisms of hypoxic tumor cell-derived exosomes facilitate colorectal cancer progression still need further exploration. In the present study, we found that exosomes from hypoxic colorectal cancer cells (H-Exos) promoted G1-S cycle transition and proliferation while preventing the apoptosis of colorectal cancer cells by transmitting miR-210-3p to normoxic tumor cells. Mechanistic investigation indicated that miR-210-3p from H-Exos elicited its protumoral effect via suppressing CELF2 expression. A preclinical study further confirmed that H-Exos could promote tumorigenesis in vivo. Clinically, the expression of miR-210-3p in circulating plasma exosomes was markedly upregulated in colorectal cancer patients, which were closely associated with multiple unfavorable clinicopathological features. Taken together, these results suggest that hypoxia may stimulate colorectal cancer cells to secrete miR-210-3p-enriched exosomes in tumor microenvironment, which elicit protumoral effects by inhibiting CELF2 expression. These findings provide new insights on the mechanism of colorectal cancer progression and potential therapeutic targets for colorectal cancer.
You Snooze You Seize: GABAergic Potentiation of Genetic Generalized Seizures During NREM
Authors: Kadam Shilpa D.
Published: May 2021

[Box: see text]
The Most Important Thing That Ever Happened: Big, Bad Data and the Doubling of Human Life Expectancy
Authors: Berry Stephen
Published: May 2021

The global doubling of human life expectancy between 1850 and 1950 is arguably the most important thing that ever happened, undergirding massive improvements in human life and lifestyles while also contributing to insectageddons, septic oceans, and collapsing ecosystems. The story of that global doubling is typically told as a series of medical breakthroughs—Jenner and vaccination, Lister and antisepsis, Snow and germ theory, and Fleming and penicillin—but the lion’s share of the credit belongs to urban planning based upon good data. Until we had sophisticated systems of death registration, we could not conceive of the health problems we were facing, much less solve them. Today, the greatest threat we face is not disease but data denial.
Relationships Between Household Income and Functional Independent Behavior for Children With Autism
Authors: St. John Brittany , Ausderau Karla
Published: May 2021

Children in lower income households are less likely to be diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and diagnosis is often delayed. Lack of or delayed identification of ASD minimizes a child’s ability to receive effective early intervention services that support development of functional independence skills. Research has yet to identify relationships between functional independence and household income for children with ASD. A cross-sectional national survey with 231 caregivers of children with autism aged 2–12 years was conducted. Caregivers completed a 90-min survey examining family demographics, intervention services, autism symptom severity, and children’s functional behavioral outcomes. Significant differences in functional independence behavior scores were identified for children from the highest and lowest income categories when controlling for autism symptom severity, age of diagnosis, and receipt of intervention services. This study provides preliminary evidence to support the association between income and functional independent behavior for children with ASD.
Corpus Callosum Integrity Relates to Improvement of Upper-Extremity Function Following Intensive Rehabilitation in Children With Unilateral Spastic Cerebral Palsy
Authors: Robert Maxime T. , Gutterman Jennifer , Ferre Claudio L. , Chin Karen , Brandao Marina B. , Gordon Andrew M. , Friel Kathleen
Published: May 2021

Background

The corpus callosum (CC) plays an important role in upper extremity (UE) function. The impact on UE function in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP) and improvements following intensive interventions remain unknown.

Objectives

To examine the (1) relationship between UE function and CC integrity and (2) relationship between CC integrity and changes in UE function following intensive interventions.

Methods

We retrospectively analyzed clinical and neuroimaging data from a sample of convenience of 44 participants (age 9.40 ± 3.10 years) from 2 larger trials. Participants received 90 hours of Hand-Arm Bimanual Intensive Therapy (HABIT) or Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT). Unimanual dexterity (Jebsen-Taylor Test of Hand Function [JTTHF]) and bimanual performance (Assisting Hand Assessment [AHA]) were assessed preintervention and postintervention. CC tractography was reconstructed with diffusion tensor imaging (DTI) and segmented into 3 regions (genu, midbody, splenium). Pearson correlations and regression were used to assess the relationship between outcomes and DTI parameters (ie, fractional anisotropy [FA], number of streamlines, and mean, radial, and axial diffusivity).

Results

Both groups improved in bimanual performance ( P < .01). The CIMT group improved in unimanual dexterity ( P < .01). Baseline unimanual dexterity and bimanual performance correlated with FA and number of streamlines for most CC regions ( P < .05). Following CIMT, pre-post changes in JTTHF were negatively correlated with axial and radial diffusivity of the CC, and AHA with splenium and number of streamlines for the CC, midbody, and splenium (all P < .05). Following HABIT, midbody FA was positively correlated with pre-post AHA changes ( r = 0.417; P = .042).

Conclusions

CC integrity is important for UE function in children with USCP.
Remote Ischemic Conditioning and Stroke Recovery
Authors: McDonald Matthew W. , Dykes Angela , Jeffers Matthew S. , Carter Anthony , Nevins Ralph , Ripley Allyson , Silasi Gergely , Corbett Dale
Published: May 2021

Remote ischemic conditioning (RIC) is a noninvasive procedure whereby several periods of ischemia are induced in a limb. Although there is growing interest in using RIC to improve stroke recovery, preclinical RIC research has focused exclusively on neuroprotection, using male animals and the intraluminal suture stroke model, and delivered RIC at times not relevant to either brain repair or behavioral recovery. In alignment with the Stroke Recovery and Rehabilitation Roundtable, we address these shortcomings. First, a standardized session (5-minute inflation/deflation, 4 repetitions) of RIC was delivered using a cuff on the contralesional hindlimb in both male and female Sprague-Dawley rats. Using the endothelin-1 stroke model, RIC was delivered once either prestroke (18 hours before, pre-RIC) or poststroke (4 hours after, post-RIC), and infarct volume was assessed at 24 hours poststroke using magnetic resonance imaging. RIC was delivered at these times to mimic the day before a surgery where clots are possible or as a treatment similar to tissue plasminogen activator, respectively. Pre-RIC reduced infarct volume by 41% compared with 29% with post-RIC. RIC was neuroprotective in both sexes, but males had a 46% reduction of infarct volume compared with 23% in females. After confirming the acute efficacy of RIC, we applied it chronically for 4 weeks, beginning 5 days poststroke. This delayed RIC failed to enhance poststroke behavioral recovery. Based on these findings, the most promising application of RIC is during the hyperacute and early acute phases of stroke, a time when other interventions such as exercise may be contraindicated.
Team Leadership and Team Cultural Diversity: The Moderating Effects of Leader Cultural Background and Leader Team Tenure
Authors: Raithel Katja , van Knippenberg Daan , Stam Daan
Published: May 2021

By bringing team members with different cultural backgrounds together, teams in international business can benefit from cultural diversity and reach higher levels of performance. Cultural diversity also brings challenges, however, and diversity research has identified the need to consider moderating influences in the diversity–performance relationship. Team leadership should be particularly important in this respect and drawing on a theoretical analysis that puts an understanding of cultural diversity center stage, we propose that factors that reflect leaders’ experience with cultural diversity positively moderate the relationship between cultural diversity and team performance. We identify leader cultural background (local vs. foreign to the host culture) and leader team tenure as such factors. We predict that the influence of team nationality diversity (a form of cultural diversity) on team performance is more positive with a leader who is foreign to the host country than with a local leader, and with a leader with longer team tenure. In addition, we predict that the one moderating influence substitutes for the other, such that the effect of leader cultural background is stronger for leaders with shorter tenure with the team. Results from a survey of N = 66 teams ( N = 336 individuals) from a multinational company support these hypotheses and inform our discussion of ways forward in the study of leadership and team diversity.
Playing Video Games During the COVID-19 Pandemic and Effects on Players’ Well-Being
Authors: Barr Matthew , Copeland-Stewart Alicia
Published: May 2021

The COVID-19 pandemic has affected our lives in many ways, including how we choose to spend our time and deal with unprecedented circumstances. Anecdotal reports suggest that many have turned to playing video games during the pandemic. To better understand how games are being used during the lockdown, we conducted an online survey ( N = 781) that focused on gameplay habits and effects on players’ well-being. We find that time spent playing games has increased for 71% of respondents, while 58% of respondents reported that playing games has impacted their well-being, with the overwhelming majority of responses indicating a positive impact. We identify seven ways that games have affected players, such as providing cognitive stimulation and opportunities to socialise, and a variety of benefits related to mental health, including reduced anxiety and stress. Our findings highlight the sociocultural significance of video games and the potentially positive nature of games’ effects on well-being.
Broken Games and the Perpetual Update Culture: Revising Failure With Ubisoft’s Assassin’s Creed Unity
Authors: Mertens Jacob
Published: May 2021

This article explores tensions between producers and audiences over the growing trend of broken games as developers rush error-ridden titles to market and update them after their release. Through the lens of software studies, it examines development norms among major game companies, noting important connections with contingent commodities and perpetual beta development. Focusing on the discourse surrounding Ubisoft’s notoriously broken Assassin’s Creed Unity (2014), it highlights how digital producers and audiences negotiate failure in a digital environment that increasingly relies on updates, revisions, and patches. It argues that digital industry producers foster an indefinite beta atmosphere within the context of a purchase and recontextualizes audience outrage as free labor by encouraging customers to report on faulty code. Ultimately, industry producers then engender a perpetual update culture in which digital commodities mediate failure through the rhetoric of constant improvement, and producers leverage the instability of digital distribution against its audience.
What are Important Ways of Sharing Power in Health Research Priority Setting? Perspectives From People With Lived Experience and Members of the Public
Authors: Pratt Bridget
Published: May 2021

Community engagement (patient and public involvement) is gaining prominence in health research worldwide. But there remains limited ethical guidance on how to share power with communities in health research priority setting, particularly that which has been informed by the perspectives of those being engaged. This article provides initial evidence about what they think are important ways to share power when setting health research projects’ topics and questions. Twenty-two people with lived experience, engagement practitioners, and members of the public who have been engaged in health research in the United Kingdom and Australia were interviewed. Thematic analysis identified 15 key ways to share power, many of which are relational. This study further demonstrates that tensions exist between certain ways of sharing power in health research priority setting. More research is needed to determine how to navigate those tensions.
Integrating Phylogenetic Biomarker Data and Qualitative Approaches: An Example of HIV Transmission Clusters as a Sampling Frame for Semistructured Interviews and Implications for the COVID-19 Era
Authors: Hughes Shana D. , Woods William J. , O’Keefe Kara J. , Delgado Viva , Pipkin Sharon , Scheer Susan , Truong Hong-Ha M.
Published: May 2021

Mixed methods studies of human disease that combine surveillance, biomarker, and qualitative data can help elucidate what drives epidemiological trends. Viral genetic data are rarely coupled with other types of data due to legal and ethical concerns about patient privacy. We developed a novel approach to integrate phylogenetic and qualitative methods in order to better target HIV prevention efforts. The overall aim of our mixed methods study was to characterize HIV transmission clusters. We combined surveillance data with HIV genomic data to identify cases whose viruses share enough similarities to suggest a recent common source of infection or participation in linked transmission chains. Cases were recruited through a multi-phase process to obtain consent for recruitment to semi-structured interviews. Through linkage of viral genetic sequences with epidemiological data, we identified individuals in large transmission clusters, which then served as a sampling frame for the interviews. In this article, we describe the multi-phase process and the limitations and challenges encountered. Our approach contributes to the mixed methods research field by demonstrating that phylogenetic analysis and surveillance data can be harnessed to generate a sampling frame for subsequent qualitative data collection, using an explanatory sequential design. The process we developed also respected protections of patient confidentiality. The novel method we devised may offer an opportunity to implement a sampling frame that allows for the recruitment and interview of individuals in high-transmission clusters to better understand what contributes to spread of other infectious diseases, including COVID-19.
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Protocol for Thumb Osteoarthritis: A Pilot Study
Authors: Cantero-Tellez Raquel , Naughton Nancy , Algar Lori A. , Medina-Porqueres Ivan , Cruz-Gambero Leire , Valdes Kristin A.
Published: May 2021

Background

Osteoarthritis (OA) of the thumb carpometacarpal (CMC) joint often presents with joint instability and proprioceptive deficits. Proprioception has been found to play an important role in the rehabilitative process. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of a proprioceptive training program on pain and function in individuals with early-stage thumb Carpometacarpal joint OA.

Methods

A double-blind experimental trial using a 2-group pretest/posttest design was used in this pilot study. Participants had a diagnosis of grade I and II thumb CMC joint OA in their dominant hand and a pain rating of >4/10 on Visual Analogue Scale. Participants received either standard treatment (control group) or standard treatment plus a proprioceptive training program (experimental group). Outcome measures were lateral pinch strength, pain intensity during activities, and proprioceptive response via joint position sense (JPS) testing.

Results

Twelve individuals (average age of 66.25 years) participated. Both groups had a statistically significant decrease in pain and increase in lateral pinch strength, all occurring with a large effect size but no statistically significant difference between groups. The experimental group experienced a large effect size for JPS testing, whereas the control group experienced a trivial effect size, and there was a statistically significant difference between groups for JPS testing.

Conclusions

Individuals who completed the proprioceptive training program in this study had an improvement in proprioceptive functioning. This program shows potential for routine inclusion in hand therapy for thumb CMC joint OA; however, additional high-level studies with larger sample sizes are required.
Dietary Approaches to Women’s Sexual and Reproductive Health
Authors: Kudesia Rashmi , Alexander Megan , Gulati Mahima , Kennard Anne , Tollefson Michelle
Published: May 2021

Over the course of the reproductive life span, it is common for women to experience one or more of the most common gynecologic conditions, including sexual dysfunction, polycystic ovary syndrome, fibroids, endometriosis, and infertility. Although current management guidelines often turn to the established pharmaceutical approaches for each of these diagnoses, the scientific literature also supports an evidence-based approach rooted in the paradigm of food as medicine. Achieving healthy dietary patterns is a core goal of lifestyle medicine, and a plant-forward approach akin to the Mediterranean diet holds great promise for improving many chronic gynecologic diseases. Furthermore, creating an optimal preconception environment from a nutritional standpoint may facilitate epigenetic signaling, thus improving the health of future generations. This state-of-the-art review explores the literature connecting diet with sexual and reproductive health in premenopausal women.
Loneliness and Social Isolation as Risk Factors: The Power of Social Connection in Prevention
Authors: Holt-Lunstad Julianne
Published: May 2021

Social isolation and loneliness were already pressing concerns prior to the pandemic, but recent trends suggest a potential broadening of this public health crisis. Social connections have potent influences on health and longevity, and lacking social connection qualifies as a risk factor for premature mortality. However, social factors are often overlooked in medical and healthcare practice. There is also evidence documenting effects on biomarkers and health-relevant behaviors, as well as more proximal means social connection influences physical health. A recent National Academy of Science consensus committee report provides recommendations for how this evidence can inform medical and healthcare. Clinicians play an important role in assessing, preventing, and mitigating the adverse effects of social isolation and loneliness.
A comparison between the CS-TOF and the CTA/DSA for WEB device management
Authors: Algin Oktay , Yuce Gokhan , Koc Ural , Ayberk Gıyas
Published: May 2021

Purpose

There is no study on the role of three-dimensional compressed sensing time of flight MR angiography (3D-CS-TOF) in the management of the WEB device. We evaluated the efficacy of 3-tesla 3D-CS-TOF for the management and follow-up of the WEB device implantations.

Materials and methods

Seventy-three aneurysms of 69 patients treated with the WEB device were retrospectively examined. Morphological parameters and embolization results of the aneurysms were assessed and compared on 3D-CS-TOF, CTA, and DSA images.

Results

Occluded, neck remnant, and recurrent aneurysms were observed in 61 (83.6%), 7 (9.6%), and 5 (6.8%) aneurysms, respectively. Inter- and intra-reader agreement values related to aneurysm size measurements were perfect. Aneurysms size, age, and proximal vessel tortuosity were negatively correlated with the visibility of the aneurysms and parent vessels on 3D-CS-TOF images (p = 0.043; p = 0.032; p < 0.001, respectively). Subarachnoid hemorrhage and age are associated with 3D-CS-TOF artifacts (p = 0.031; p = 0.005, respectively). 3D-CS-TOF findings are in perfect agreement with DSA or CT angiography (CTA) results (p < 0.001).

Conclusion

According to our results, 3D-CS-TOF can be an easy, fast, and reliable alternative for the management or follow-up of WEB assisted embolization.
Pipeline embolization of proximal middle cerebral artery aneurysms: A multicenter cohort study
Authors: Lauzier David C , Root Brandon K , Kayan Yasha , Almandoz Josser E Delgado , Osbun Joshua W , Chatterjee Arindam R , Whaley Kayla L , Tipps Megan E , Moran Christopher J , Kansagra Akash P
Published: May 2021

Background and purpose

Flow diversion of aneurysms located in the M1 segment and middle cerebral artery bifurcation with Pipeline embolization device is sometimes performed, but further study is needed to support its regular use in aneurysm treatment. Here, we report measures of safety and efficacy for Pipeline embolization in the proximal middle cerebral artery in a multi-center cohort.

Materials and methods

Clinical and angiographic data of eligible patients were retrospectively obtained from participating centers and assessed for key clinical and angiographic outcomes. Additional details were extracted for patients with complications.

Results

In our multi-center cohort, complete aneurysm occlusion was achieved in 71% (17/24) of treated aneurysms. There were no deaths or disabling strokes, but non-disabling ischemic strokes occurred in 8% (2/24) of patients. For aneurysms in the M1 segment, complete aneurysm occlusion was observed in 75% (12/16) of aneurysms, aneurysm volume reduction was observed in 100% (16/16) of aneurysms, and non-disabling ischemic strokes occurred in 13% (2/16) of patients. For aneurysms at the middle cerebral artery bifurcation, complete aneurysm occlusion was observed in 63% (5/8) of aneurysms, aneurysm volume reduction occurred in 88% (7/8) of aneurysms, and ischemic or hemorrhagic complications occurred in 0% (0/8) of patients.

Conclusion

Pipeline embolization of cerebral aneurysms in the M1 segment and middle cerebral artery bifurcation demonstrated a 71% rate of complete aneurysm occlusion. There were no deaths or disabling strokes, but there was an 8% rate of non-disabling ischemic strokes.
Selective transvenous embolization combined with balloon angioplasty of the occluded inferior petrosal sinus for the treatment of cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistulas
Authors: Ide Satomi , Kiyosue Hiro , Shimada Ryuichi , Hori Yuzo , Okahara Mika , Kubo Takeshi
Published: May 2021

Background and purpose

Angioplasty of the dural sinus has rarely been performed for the treatment of cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistulas. We evaluated the efficacy of selective transvenous embolization (TVE) combined with balloon angioplasty of the occluded inferior petrosal sinus (IPS) for the treatment of cavernous sinus dural arteriovenous fistulas (CSDAVFs).

Materials and methods

A total of 8 consecutive patients with CSDAVFs with occlusion of the IPS treated by selective TVE with balloon angioplasty of the IPS from July 2018 to January 2019 were retrospectively reviewed. There were 6 females and 2 males with an average age of 77.6 years. All patients showed ocular symptoms. Angiography showed cortical venous reflux in 7 cases and localized shunted pouches at the medial portion of the cavernous sinus, intercavernous sinus, or laterocavernous sinus. Selective TVE was performed via the occluded IPS with bilateral femoral venous approaches, and the occluded IPS was reconstructed by angioplasty with a 2- to 3-mm diameter balloon during or after selective TVE.

Results

CSDAVFs disappeared immediately after treatment, and the occluded IPSs were successfully reconstructed with re-establishment of normal antegrade venous flow in all cases. No complications were observed, and symptoms resolved within 2 weeks after treatment. During the 7-month mean follow-up period (range 1-12 months), no cases showed recurrence of CSDAVFs.

Conclusion

Selective TVE combined with balloon angioplasty of the occluded IPS is safe and effective for the treatment of CSDAVFs and re-establishes normal venous circulation in selected cases with localized shunted pouches.
A novel formulation of 3D Jeffery fluid flow near an irregular permeable surface having chemical reactive species
Authors: Khan Mumtaz , Rasheed Amer , Ali Shafqat , Azim Qurat-ul-Ain
Published: May 2021

The main objective of this paper is to offer a comprehensive study regarding solar radiation and MHD effects on 3D boundary layer Jeffery fluid flow over a non-uniform stretched sheet along with variable thickness, porous medium and chemical reaction of first order are assumed. The system of equations representing temperature, velocity and concentration fields are converted into dimensionless form by introducing dimensionless variables. Thereafter, the aforesaid equations are solved with the help of BVP4C in MATLAB. The numerical results obtained through this scheme are more accurate when compared with those in the existing literature. In order to have a pictorial representation, the effects of material and flow parameters on velocity, temperature and concentration profiles are presented through graphs. Moreover, the numerical values of heat and mass transfer rate and skin friction coefficient are given in tabular form. It is evident from the acquired results, that the velocity offers two fold behavior for variable thickness parameter that is, n < 1 close and away from the non-uniform surface. It is also noted that the axial and transverse velocities show an increasing behavior for Deborah number while the fluid temperature and concentration shows opposite behavior at the same time.
An analytical study on effects of viscous dissipation and suction/injection on a steady mhd natural convection couette flow of heat generating/absorbing fluid
Authors: Ajibade Abiodun O , Umar Ayuba M , Kabir Tafida M
Published: May 2021

This work concerns a theoretical investigation on the effects of suction/injection, magnetic field, permeability of porous materials and viscous dissipation on an electrically conducting incompressible fluid passes through a vertical porous channel filled with porous materials. One of the plates moves in the flow direction while the other is stationary. The governing coupled flow equations have been solved analytically using Homotopy Perturbation Method (HPM). The influences of the flow parameters on velocity and temperature were plotted on graphs while numerical values for rate of heat transfer and shear stress on the heated and cold plates were presented in tables. Excellent agreements were found when compared with the previous works. It is noteworthy to mention that the hydrodynamic and thermodynamic distributions of the fluid increase with increase in viscous dissipation [Formula: see text]. It is also found that the shear stress decreases with increase in the magnetic field [Formula: see text] while a reverse case was observed for growing the permeability of the porous materials [Formula: see text]. It is further found that the velocity and temperature distributions decrease with increase in suction [Formula: see text].
Research on residual stress field control mechanism of circular saw blade considering its body structure
Authors: An Yuan , Li Bo
Published: May 2021

In this paper, 3D roll tensioning elastoplastic model was built by finite element method and the research object was a common circular saw blade body with hole, slot, and scraper structure. The theoretical calculation results show that there are areas dominated by tangential compressive stress near slot and scraper of roll tensioned saw blade body, which is not the expected result. It is proved that residual stress of saw blade body can be regulated by combining roll tensioning and local plastic compression process in this paper. The theoretical calculation results show that the outer edge of saw blade body near slot and scraper becomes area dominated by tangential tensile stress after the improved tensioning process. The improved tensioning process has little effect on stiffness and waist strength of circular saw blade.
The association between neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and contrast-induced acute kidney injury in patients with carotid artery stenting
Authors: Ösken Altuğ , Öz Ahmet , Keskin Muhammed , Akdeniz Evliya , Şahan Hasan , Şişman Seviye Bora , Çam Neşe , Şahin Sinan
Published: May 2021

Objectives

Contrast-induced acute kidney injury (CI-AKI) is a life-threatening complication that leads to comorbidities and prolonged hospital stay lengths in the setting of peripheral interventions. The presence of some CI-AKI risk factors has already been investigated. In this study, we evaluated the predictors of CI-AKI after carotid artery stenting.

Methods

A total of 389 patients with 50% to 99% carotid artery stenosis who underwent carotid artery stenting were included in this study. Patients were grouped according to CI-AKI status.

Results

CI-AKI developed in 26 (6.6%) patients. Age, baseline creatinine level, neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio and platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio were higher and estimated glomerular filtration rate, haemoglobin and lymphocyte count were lower in CI-AKI patients. In the multivariate regression analysis, the neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio triggered a 1.39- to 2.63-fold increase in the risk of CI-AKI onset ( p < 0.001).

Conclusions

The neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio may be a significant predictor of CI-AKI in patients with carotid artery stenting and higher neutrophil-to-lymphocyte ratio values may be independently associated with CI-AKI.
Long-term patency and comparisons of venous outflow in hemodialysis forearm arteriovenous grafts
Authors: Miao Peng , Tan Zheng-Li , Tian Ran , Yao Chen-Liang , Chen Xin , Cao Fang , Chen Zhong , Yu Zheng-Ya
Published: May 2021

Introduction

This retrospective study investigated the factors and the effects of different venous outflows on forearm arteriovenous graft patency.

Methods

The venous outflow sites included basilic, cephalic, median antecubital, and deep veins. Comparisons among multiple groups were analyzed.

Findings

A total of 179 patients with forearm loop arteriovenous grafts met the inclusion criteria. Of these, 72 were basilic, 48 were cephalic, 44 were median antecubital, and 15 were deep. The median observation period was 19 months. The survival rate was 84.9% at 24 months and 78.2% at 48 months. Primary, secondary, and assisted primary patency rates for all arteriovenous grafts were 48.9%, 72.4%, and 68.4% at 12 months; 13.8%, 33.9%, and 23.6% at 24 months; and 0.6%, 4.6%, and 2.3% at 48 months, respectively. Differences in primary patency were statistically significant compared with those of secondary and assisted primary patency ( P <  0.05). Primary patency rates for cephalic, median antecubital, basilic, and deep were 47.9%, 48.6%, 47.7%, and 40.0% at 12 months and 12.5%, 13.9%, 22.7%, and 0% at 24 months, respectively. Secondary patency rates for cephalic, median antecubital, basilic, and deep were 75.0%, 69.4%, 75.0%, and 73.3% at 12 months and 39.6%, 30.6%, 38.6%, and 13.3% at 24 months, respectively. There was no significant difference in primary thrombosis among basilic, cephalic, median antecubital and deep. There were no significant differences observed in primary or secondary patency rates among all the groups. Stenoses in the venous anastomosis and outflow vein were frequently observed in all types of arteriovenous grafts. Central venous stenosis was most commonly seen in deep (26.67%). On average, 1.9 interventions per patient were performed on the graft to maintain function.

Conclusion

Different venous outflow selections were not associated with long-term patency and the occurrence of thrombosis in hemodialysis forearm loop arteriovenous grafts.
Investigation of a method for long-term preservation of the vascular allograft
Authors: He Bulang , Musk Gabrielle Christine , Ng Zi Qin , Kershaw Helen , DeBoer Bastiaan , Hamdorf Jeffrey M
Published: May 2021

Background/objective

During multiple organ procurement, blood vessels are routinely retrieved and stored in University of Wisconsin solution and then discarded after two weeks, if not used at organ transplantation owing to lack of a method for long-term preservation. Therefore, the aim of this study is to investigate a method for long-term preservation of vascular allografts in ethanol.

Methods

Aorta and vena cava allografts were retrieved and stored in 75% ethanol solution for 12 months at 4°C. Four pigs were divided into two groups. A segment of aorta was excised and replaced by insertion of preserved aorta graft (Group A) or vena cava graft (Group V). The pigs were observed for six weeks. A laparotomy was performed and the vascular graft was harvested for histopathology followed by euthanasia at the end of study.

Results

Three pigs recovered uneventfully, while one pig died from venous graft rupture in the third week after surgery. There was no aneurysmal formation or thrombosis in the grafts. Some calcification was seen over aorta allograft. On histopathology, the elastic pattern was almost normal, although the endothelial cells degenerated after preservation. After implantation, the formation of the endothelium cell-like layer was seen in both aorta and vena cava allografts.

Conclusion

Vascular allografts were functional after preservation for 12 months. The vena cava grafts had much less wall calcification than the aorta grafts. Further studies are necessary to investigate vascular graft remodelling with a longer observation period after implantation.
Point of care ankle pulse waveform: A biomarker for abdominal aortic aneurysm?
Authors: Tran Aaron , Pope Alun , Dear Anthony E
Published: May 2021

Objective

To explore the potential relationship between the presence of abdominal aortic aneurysm and point of care ankle brachial index acquired posterior tibial artery Doppler waveform to inform on a potential novel biomarker of abdominal aortic aneurysm presence.

Methods

Abdominal aortic aneurysm presence and posterior tibial artery waveform acquired at time of routine point of care ankle brachial index were determined in 182 patients from an abdominal aortic aneurysm evaluation vascular outpatient clinic. Multivariate technical random forest analysis and logistical regression analysis assessed the outcome of abdominal aortic aneurysm presence and included the independent variables of monophasic initial posterior tibial artery waveform and known abdominal aortic aneurysm risk factors.

Results

Technical random forest analysis produced a model with an accuracy of 0.59. Initial waveform phase was the most important variable included in the model. Logistical regression analysis revealed a statistically significant negative association between initial monophasic posterior tibial artery waveform and abdominal aortic aneurysm presence in patients with ankle brachial index > 0.9. Leave one out cross validation analysis produced a bias-corrected prediction error value of 0.22.

Conclusion

No robust association between abdominal aortic aneurysm and point of care ankle brachial index acquired posterior tibial artery waveform was found, suggesting that monophasic posterior tibial artery waveform alone may not be a biomarker of abdominal aortic aneurysm presence.