bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-speed train wheel set bearing fault diagnosis and prognostics: evaluation of signal processing methods under multi-source interference
Authors: Hou Dongming , Qi Hongyuan , Wang Cuiping , Peng Chang , Luo Honglin , Han Defu
Published: September 2022

Despite the numerous studies on bearing fault diagnosis based on frequency domain or time-frequency domain analyses, there is a lack of a fair assessment on which method or methods are practically effective in identifying the fault frequencies of damaged bearings in noisy environments. Most methods were developed based on experiments with simple lab test rigs equipped with bearings having manufactured artificial defects, and the signal-to-noise ratio under lab conditions is too ideal to be useful for verifying the effectiveness of a signal processing method. The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of advanced signal processing methods applied in a high-speed train operating environment with multi-source interference. In this work, the most advanced signal processing methods (including spectral kurtosis, deconvolution, and mode decomposition) are studied, and the shortcomings of each method are analyzed. Based on the characteristics of high-speed train wheel set bearings (HSTWSBs), the concept of fault characteristic signal-to-noise ratio (FCSNR) is put forward to quantitatively evaluate the fault periodicity intensity, and corresponding improved methods are proposed by combining the FCSNR with existing signal processing methods; all these methods consider the periodic characteristics and impact characteristics of the bearing fault. The simulation signal and actual signals of HSTWSB with natural defects help verify the effectiveness of the proposed methods. Finally, the advantages and disadvantages of the different signal processing methods are objectively evaluated, and the application scope of each method is analyzed and prospected. This study provides a reference and new ideas for the fault diagnosis of HSTWSB and other industrial bearings.
A novel methodology for quantitative identification of pipeline leakage and negative pressure wave velocity
Authors: Han Yang , Feng Xin , Todd Michael D
Published: September 2022

The detection of negative pressure waves (NPWs) is commonly used to localize leakage in pipeline integrity monitoring. However, the velocity of NPWs cannot always be accurately determined under complicated environmental and operational conditions, resulting in localization errors inevitably. Based on a fluid dynamics model of the pipeline, a relationship between the leakage properties and the NPW transient dynamics was established, and then a novel method was proposed to quantitatively identify the leakage location as well as the NPW velocity in the pipeline. The proposed method requires only one pair of dynamic pressure sensors to monitor the leakage between the proper distance in the pipeline. A series of experiments were conducted on a scaled model pipeline to verify the feasibility of the method. The experimental results demonstrate that the presented method can accurately identify the location and severity of the leakage without the NPW velocity in advance, which overcomes the limitations of the traditional approach. The novel method provides a promising technique of leakage detection for pipeline integrity management.
Context and how it matters: Mobilizing spaces for organization-community sustainable change
Authors: Bartunek Jean M , Balogun Julia
Published: September 2022

There are growing expectations that organizations should contribute to the sustainability of our planet. These have increased recognition of relationships between organizations and their external communities and what they might accomplish together. However, such recognition does not extend to appreciation of the contextual dynamics inherent in organization–community relationships that affect their ability to reach common ground in their joint efforts. In this essay we explore how interpretive, relational, and spatial contextual features previously addressed within organizations play roles in joint organization–community sustainability efforts. We present an example of the multi-decade development of a local foods economy in Cleveland, Ohio, USA, that has been spearheaded by multiple communities and organizations. We show how an Appreciative Inquiry Summit, one of a set of large group interventions developed by Organization Development consultants, made use of the contextual characteristics we discuss to foster shared overarching logics that enabled collaboration. We conclude with a research agenda designed to explore how relational, interpretative, and spatial contexts affect organization–community initiatives to accomplish sustainability, how planned change interventions might affect these contexts, and how such initiatives and their contexts unfold over time.
Toll-like receptor 3 signaling induces interferon-induced transmembrane protein 1 in BEAS-2B cells
Authors: Dobashi Masaki , Shiratori Toshihiro , Imaizumi Tadaatsu , Hashimoto Shun , Kawaguchi Shogo , Seya Kazuhiko , Tasaka Sadatomo
Published: September 2022

The human bronchial epithelium plays a crucial role in mediating antiviral immune reactions. When double-stranded RNA (dsRNA) binds to the receptor named Toll-like receptor (TLR) 3, activation of antiviral innate immune reactions is initiated by producing interferon (IFN) type I. Then, type I IFN promotes the transcription of IFN-stimulated genes (ISGs). Proteins encoded by ISGs reveal antiviral effects. The IFN-induced transmembrane protein 1 (IFITM1) is an ISG family member that inhibits viral infection by preventing the entry of viruses with a cell membrane. However, IFITM1 expression in human bronchial epithelium remains largely undetermined. Here, we investigated whether IFITM1 is expressed in cultured BEAS-2B bronchial epithelial cells. Polyinosinic:polycytidylic acid (poly I:C) was used for treatment of BEAS-2B as a TLR3 ligand. IFITM1 expression levels were measured using reverse transcription–quantitative PCR and Western blotting. Using RNA interference, we determined the significance of IFN-β and ISG56 on IFITM1 upregulation. Poly I:C treatment significantly upregulated IFITM1 expression in BEAS-2B cells, and it was concentration- and time-dependent. Knockdown of IFN-β or ISG56 decreased poly I:C-induced IFITM1 expression levels. Recombinant IFN-β also increased expression levels of IFITM1. In BEAS-2B cells, IFITM1 expression is upregulated by poly I:C, at least partly, via the TLR3/IFN-β/ISG56 axis. Thus, IFITM1 may contribute to antiviral innate immunity in bronchial epithelium.
Reaching a Tipping Point for Neurorehabilitation Research: Obstacles and Opportunities in Trial Design, Description, and Pooled Analysis
Authors: Savage William M. , Harel Noam Y.
Published: September 2022

The record-breaking pace of COVID-19 vaccine development and implementation depended heavily on collaboration among academic, government, and commercial stakeholders, especially through data-sharing and robust multicenter trials. Collaborative efforts have not been as fruitful in fields such as neurorehabilitation, where non-pharmacological interventions play a much larger role. Barriers to translating scientific advancements into clinical practice in neurorehabilitation include pervasively small study sizes, exacerbated by limited funding for non-pharmacological multicenter clinical trials; difficulty standardizing—and adequately describing—non-pharmacological interventions; and a lack of incentives for individual patient-level data-sharing. These barriers prevent reliable meta-analysis of non-pharmacological clinical studies in neurorehabilitation. This point-of-view will highlight these challenges as well as suggest practical steps that may be taken to improve the neurorehabilitation pipeline between evidence and implementation.
The Revolutionary Gustav Adolf Neuber: A Tribute to the Father of Aseptic Surgery
Authors: Gkagkaris Loukas , Papadakis Marios , Lytsikas-Sarlis Pavlos
Published: September 2022

Gustav Adolf Neuber was a celebrated multifaceted German surgeon, who significantly contributed to the establishment of modern surgical Antisepsis techniques as well as the modification and questioning of the use of wound drainage systems. In addition, he reformed architectural and structural concepts regrading operating rooms. In the field of plastic surgery, Gustav Adolf Neuber established a procedure for autologous fat-grafting. The lack and inadequacy of literature sources regarding Neuber´s contribution to common surgical practices and antisepsis vastly disregards the importance of his work. Aim of the current work is not only to restore his reputation as the Father of Antisepsis and autologous fat-grafting but also to make amends for the lack of relevant sources in the current literature. To the best of our knowledge there is no concrete and adequate biographical work regarding G.A. Neuber´s immense contribution in the outstanding English literature. References can only be found in writings or speeches of German Surgeons originating in the mid of the 20th century. The current work is mainly based on the opening speech delivered by Professor Dr Konjentzny (1880-1957) in a sitting ceremony of the “Deutsche Gesellschaft der Chirurgie” on the first of June in 1950 which was dedicated to commemorating Neuber as a tribute for his 100th Birthday and a historical article entitled: “Neuber und die Asepsis”.
Operative Versus Nonoperative Treatment for Closed Displaced Midshaft Clavicle Fractures
Authors: Sax Oliver C. , Monarrez Ruben , Bains Sandeep S. , Douglas Scott J. , Ingari John V.
Published: September 2022

Background:

Nonoperative treatment for clavicle fractures has historically been standard of care, but with a concomitant rise in recent operative fixation for displaced midshaft clavicle fractures (MCF), a re-evaluation of treatment modalities is necessary. The purpose of this study was to compare nonunion rates among operative and nonoperative treatment of closed displaced MCF. Specifically, we assessed the following between operative and nonoperative management: (1) 90-day to 1-year nonunion and malunion incidence; (2) 90-day medical complications; and (3) 90-day to 1-year total costs of care.

Methods:

An all-payer national database was retrospectively reviewed for closed displaced MCF from 2010 to 2020 (n = 173 188). Of these, patients undergoing operative fixation within 30 days of a displaced MCF were identified (n = 17 452). Nonoperative displaced MCF patients were matched with operative patients at a 3:1 ratio. Outcomes at 90 days and 1 year included: nonunion, total cost, and complications.

Results:

Closed displaced MCF with operative fixation resulted in significantly increased nonunion rates at 1 year compared with nonoperative treatment (3.97% vs 1.63%, odds ratio = 2.50 [2.26-2.77], P < .001). Kaplan-Meier survivorship and log-rank score demonstrated the same for a 1-year nonunion endpoint ( P < .001). As expected, the operative cohort incurred higher median total costs of care at 90 days ($3255.00 vs $1024.00, P < .001) and 1 year ($1978.00 vs $4799.50, P < .001) compared with nonoperative treatment.

Conclusion:

Our study found higher nonunion incidence after operative fixation of displaced MCF. These results may serve as a catalyst for future high-quality prospective studies comparing treatment options for closed displaced MCF.
Online cooperative airspace conflict resolution of unmanned aerial vehicles by space mapping based iterative search method
Authors: Zhao Wei , Wang Nan , Yang Jian , Wang Jianhua , Chen Shuhui
Published: September 2022

This paper presents an investigation into the locally centralized conflict resolution problem of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), in which the headings are adjustable variables. Firstly, the geometric characteristics of the conflict resolution problem in two-dimensional space are studied, and the problem is reduced into a nonlinear programing model. Secondly, the nonlinear safe separation constraint is transferred into linear style in the sine value space using the space mapping method. The feasible region of two conflict-related UAVs is transformed into a half-space in the sine value space. The minimum adjustment vector and the maximum adjustable vector are obtained in this space. Thirdly, to search for the local optimal conflict-free solution, a two-layered optimization method is given. In the first layer, feasible conflict-free solutions are obtained by iterative search in virtue of the minimum adjustment vector and the maximum adjustable vector. In the second layer, the local optimal solution is generated using the sequential quadratic programing (SQP) method. The effectiveness of the proposed method is verified by numerical simulations. Compared with the existing geometric guidance theory based methods, the proposed method could effectively generate conflict-free solutions that lead to fewer detours, through which UAVs could coordinate online in highly crowded airspace.
Finite element study of displacement controlled fretting in cylinder contact with different axis crossing angles
Authors: Guo Tieneng , Ji Ruguo , Ma Yunfei
Published: September 2022

There is inevitably an angular offset during contact of mechanical structures such as roller bearings or gears. Most of the previous contact models involve the contact between two parallel cylinders. This paper introduces the angle parameter into the model constitutive relation for the first time. A new cylindrical contact model is proposed to simulate the contact at different angles. In this paper, a cylinder contact model with different axis crossing angles is proposed. The load-displacement curves of the contact model during loading and unloading are provided via theoretical derivation of the normal and tangential contact processes of the contact model. On this basis, the hysteresis curve model of the contact model is established. Through finite element modeling and finite element analysis, the cylinder hysteresis curve models under different axis crossing angles are verified. Compared to other common models, the energy dissipation of the cylindrical model is higher. By introducing the angle parameters into the model constitutive, it provides ideas for solving the macro contact problems such as cylindrical gear contact and rolling bearing. At the same time, on the micro-contact problem, it provides a theoretical basis for the tangential contact process of the regular joint surface.
The influence of sagittal deformity of the distal radius on pronosupination: a cadaver study
Authors: Auberson Lucille , Beaulieu Jean-Yves , Athlani Lionel
Published: September 2022

We performed a cadaver study using seven fresh-frozen adult upper limbs to assess the impact of increasingly larger distal radial deformity in the sagittal plane on the range of motion in pronation/supination. Three palmar (20°, 30° and 40° angulations) and three dorsal (10°, 20° and 30° angulations) tilt deformities, without any radial shortening, were simulated by performing a radial osteotomy and using custom-made three-dimensional-printed anterior plates. We measured the maximum unconstrained pronation and supination before the osteotomy and after each induced deformation. There was a decrease in the median pronation and supination values for all palmar and dorsal tilt deformities. The pronation range was more impaired than the supination range, and dorsal tilt deformities caused the greatest loss in forearm rotation. Our results suggest that forearm rotation in both pronation and supination is reduced as soon as 10° to 20° distal radial deformity occurs in the palmar or dorsal direction.
SERI Technique for Isolated Juvenile Hallux Valgus Patients: A Retrospective Evaluation With Mid-term to Long-term Follow-up
Authors: Caravelli Silvio , Vocale Emanuele , Di Ponte Marco , Fuiano Mario , Massimi Simone , Zannoni Francesca , Zaffagnini Stefano , Mosca Massimiliano
Published: September 2022

Introduction

Many different operative procedures have been described to treat hallux valgus, but many of them are inappropriate for active, skeletally immature patients. This retrospective evaluation aimed to show the efficacy of SERI (Simple, Effective, Rapid, Inexpensive) technique in young patients affected by mild to moderate hallux valgus deformity at a mid-term to long-term follow-up.

Methods

All patients were clinically and radiographically evaluated, independently by 2 researchers, by American Orthopaedic Foot and Ankle Society (AOFAS) Hallux-Metatarsophalangeal-Interphalangeal score and radiographic examination.

Results

Twenty-nine feet, undergone SERI procedure, have been reviewed at a mean follow-up of 5 years. The mean AOFAS score was significantly improved from 59.7 preoperatively to a mean value of 90.7 at last follow-up. Mean correction degrees have been recorded for both angles (hallux valgus angle [HVA] −13.7° and intermetatarsal angle [IMA] −6.7°).

Conclusions

The SERI technique represents a powerful surgical procedure for the treatment of painful, mild to moderate, juvenile hallux valgus. Recurrence and complication rate make this surgical approach effective, repeatable, and safe.

Level of Evidence:

Level IV, Retrospective case series
Letter Writing and Critical Self-Reflection: An Insiders Account of Academic Casualisation in the Australian Neoliberal University
Authors: Murphy Jennifer Joy , Down Barry , Price Anne Elizabeth
Published: September 2022

Sharing the lived experience of academic casualisation is challenging, based on a power imbalance with many oppositional points, including cost savings versus fair wages, precarity versus security. As researcher/participant, Jennifer initially struggled with sharing experiences emotionally and academically without stripping humanity and affect from her writing. Drawing on the tradition of critical autoethnography, this article uses letter writing as a means of investigating personal-professional experience through critical self-reflection. These letters are written to a fictional colleague (Q) for the purpose of ‘wondering aloud’ about her experience of casualised labour and the difficulties of constructing a personal-professional identity within the context of the Australian neoliberal university.
Clinical utility of new bone imaging using zero-echo-time sequence in neurosurgical procedures: Can zero-echo-time be used in clinical practice in neurosurgery?
Authors: Inoue Akihiro , Watanabe Hideaki , Suehiro Satoshi , Nishida Naoya , Shiraishi Yasuhiro , Furumochi Taichi , Takimoto Yoshihiro , Ohnishi Takanori , Shigekawa Seiji , Kunieda Takeharu
Published: September 2022

Purpose

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical usefulness of zero-echo-time (ZTE)–based magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in planning the optimum surgical approach and applying ZTE for anatomical guidance during transcranial surgery.

Methods

Eleven of 26 patients who underwent transcranial surgery and carotid endarterectomy and in whom ZTE-based MRI and magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) data were obtained were analyzed by creating ZTE/MRA fusion images and 3D ZTE-based MRI models. We examined whether these images and models can be substituted for computed tomography imaging for neurosurgical procedures. Furthermore, the clinical usability of the 3D ZTE-based MRI models was evaluated by comparing them with actual surgical views.

Results

Zero-echo-time/MRA fusion images and 3D ZTE-based MRI models clearly illustrated the cranial and intracranial morphology without radiation exposure or the use of iodinated contrast medium. The models allowed determination of the optimum surgical approach to cerebral aneurysms, brain tumors near the brain surface, and cervical internal carotid artery stenosis by visualizing the relationship of lesions with adjacent bone structures. However, ZTE-based MRI did not provide useful information for surgery for skull base lesions such as vestibular schwannoma because bone structures of the skull base often include air components, which cause signal disturbance in MRI.

Conclusions

Zero-echo-time sequences on MRI allowed distinct visualization of not only bone but also vital structures around the lesion. This technology has low invasiveness for patients and was useful for preoperative planning and guidance of the optimum approach during surgery in a subset of neurosurgical diseases.
Perception of Physicians Working in Chile Toward Assisted Suicide and Euthanasia: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Picón-Jaimes Yelson Alejandro , Orozco-Chinome Javier Esteban , Lozada-Martínez Iván David , Mass-Ramirez Sandra , Higuera-Cetina Carlos Iván , Montaña-Gómez Lina María , Moscote-Salazar Luis Rafael , Narvaez-Rojas Alexis Rafael
Published: September 2022

Introduction:

Assisted suicide and euthanasia are controversial issues today and have been throughout the history of humanity, mainly because there are individuals for and against them. Currently, the legalization of these practices is being discussed in Chile, and the perception of physicians regarding this issue is unknown. Therefore, this study aimed to assess physicians’ perception of Chile’s euthanasia and assisted suicide.

Methods:

A nationwide cross-sectional study was carried out in Chile. A questionnaire of physicians’ attitudes and opinions on assisted suicide and euthanasia was used. The population was the doctors who work in Chile, and the sample was convenient with a sample calculation of 384 physicians. About 20 variables were considered and included in a form created through the Google forms option, which was distributed through social networks: LinkedIn, Facebook, Twitter, and WhatsApp. To guarantee the anonymity of the participants, the option to request and remember the participant’s email was deactivated. A generated database allowed the quantitative analysis of the variables and their expression through frequencies, percentages, and graphs. The European University of the Atlantic’s research ethics committee approved this study as stated in the document CE-55 of March 2021.

Results:

A total of 410 physicians were surveyed. 50.7% (n = 208) of the participants identified themselves as men, and 69.8% (n = 286) were Chilean. The city of Santiago was the area of residence of 72.9% (n = 299) of the participants. About 34.6% (n = 142) of participants were general practitioners, and 39.3% (n = 161) of the physicians had more than 20 years of experience. About 68.7% had favorable attitudes toward euthanasia and 54.4% toward assisted suicide; However, although the majority favored legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide, approximately 48.8% stated that they would not participate in an assisted suicide procedure.

Conclusions:

There was evidence of support for the implementation and legalization of euthanasia and assisted suicide by physicians in Chile. However, there are still professionals who have not yet decided on a definitive position on these practices.
The Utility of 24-h Ambulatory Blood Pressure Monitoring for the Diagnosis and Management of White Coat Hypertension in a Primary Care Setting
Authors: Zhu Xiaolei , Hwu Irene , Jacabacci Stephanie , Wu Shenhong
Published: September 2022

Objectives:

Twenty-four-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) is recommended in patients with white coat hypertension (HTN) by national guideline, but was poorly utilized, and is available only in very limited subspecialty clinics. We aim to examine the feasibility and utility of ABPM in a primary care setting in the diagnosis and management of white coat HTN including the implementation and modification of antihypertensive therapy.

Methods:

Patients who have elevated blood pressure in clinic office but normal blood pressure readings at home are eligible for 24-h ambulatory BP monitoring. We analyzed data from patients who were suspected to have white coat HTN in the last 2 years underwent ABPM in our practice.

Results:

Among 68 patients, 54 patients met the selection criteria. ABPM showed that 13 patients had normal BP (24%), while 41 patients (76%) had persistent HTN. Among these patients with persistent HTN, 28 patients had intervention including 24 patients prescribed with new anti-hypertensive medication or medication increase, 3 patients prescribed with additional lifestyle modification and one started CPAP.13 patients with slightly elevated BP (133/77 for average daytime BP) didn’t have medication adjustment.

Conclusion:

ABPM has substantial utility in the diagnosis and management of white coat HTN in a primary care setting.
The 8-item Modified Frailty Index Is an Effective Risk Assessment Tool in Anterior Cervical Decompression and Fusion
Authors: Momtaz David , Prabhakar Gautham , Gonuguntla Rishi , Ahmad Farhan , Ghali Abdullah , Kotzur Travis , Nagel Sarah , Chaput Christopher
Published: September 2022

Study Design

Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3.

Objective

Anterior cervical discectomy and fusion (ACDF) is one of the most common procedures for cervical diseases often with reliable outcomes. However, morbidity rates can be as high as 19.3% so appropriate patient selection and risk stratification is imperative. Our modified frailty index (MFI) predicts postoperative complications after other orthopaedic procedures. We hypothesized that this index would predict complications in a large cohort of ACDF patients.

Methods

We reviewed the American College of Surgeons National Surgical Quality Improvement Program (NSQIP) database, including patients who underwent ACDF from 2015-2020. An 8-item MFI score was calculated for each patient. We recorded 30-days postoperative complications, readmission, and reoperation rates, adjusting for baseline features using standard multivariate regression. This project was approved of by the University of Texas Health Science Center Institutional Review Board and an IRB exception was granted.

Results

We identified 17 662 ACDF cases. Patients with MFI of 5 or greater had a 37.53 times increased odds of incurring postoperative complications compared to patients with MFI of 0 ( P < .001) even when age, sex, race, and ethnicity were controlled for. Specifically, life-threatening Clavien-Dindo IV complications, as well as wound, cardiac, renal, and pulmonary complications were significantly increased in patients with an MFI of 5 or greater. Also, as MFI increased from 1-2 to 3-4 to 5 or greater, the odds of readmission increased from 1.36 to 2.31 to 5.42 times ( P < .001) and odds of reoperation from 1.19 ( P = .185) to 2.3 to 6.54 times ( P < .001). Frailty was still associated with increased complications, readmission, and reoperation after controlling for demographic data, including age, as well as operative time and length of stay.

Conclusion

Frailty is highly predictive of postoperative complications, readmission, and reoperation following ACDF. Employing a simple frailty evaluation can guide surgical decision-making and patient counseling for cervical disease.
Effect of Accelerated Rehabilitation on Early Return to Sport After Arthroscopic Ankle Lateral Ligament Repair
Authors: Teramoto Atsushi , Murahashi Yasutaka , Takahashi Katsunori , Watanabe Kota , Yamashita Toshihiko
Published: September 2022

Background:

Although the minimal invasiveness of arthroscopic ankle lateral ligament repair (ALLR) means that an early return to sporting activities can be anticipated, studies have described postoperative cast immobilization and the avoidance of weightbearing for a certain period. Accelerated rehabilitation may be helpful for an early return to sport.

Purpose:

To investigate clinical outcomes of ALLR and accelerated rehabilitation with a minimum duration of postoperative ankle immobilization and proactive early weightbearing.

Study Design:

Case series; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

This study investigated 23 ankles of 22 patients (11 men, 11 women; mean age, 38.7 years) who underwent ALLR for chronic lateral ankle instability. Postoperative management included the avoidance of weightbearing until postoperative day 3, after which full weightbearing walking with a brace was permitted. The objective was to return to competitive sport 8 weeks after surgery. The following were evaluated: pre- and postoperative instability and pain symptoms, ankle range of motion, anterior drawer distance on stress radiograph, anterior translation measured with a capacitance-type strain sensor, the Ankle-Hindfoot Scale from the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot, and the SAFE-Q (Self-Administered Foot Evaluation Questionnaire).

Results:

Two male patients dropped out and were excluded from analysis. Postoperatively, instability and pain resolved or improved in all patients. There was no significant postoperative change in range of motion. There were significant pre- to postoperative improvements in talar tilt angle (from 12.2°-5.6°, P < .01), anterior drawer distance (8.2-4.4 mm, P < .01), and anterior translation (10.5-4.6 mm, P < .01) as well as the Ankle-Hindfoot Scale score (68.8-96.8, P < .01) and all subscales of the SAFE-Q ( P ≤ .01 for all). Complete return to sport was achieved by 75% of the patients at 8 weeks postoperatively.

Conclusion:

When accelerated rehabilitation with proactive weightbearing exercises was implemented from postoperative day 3 without ankle immobilization after ALLR, there were significant improvements in objective assessments of ankle stability and clinical scores, and as many as 75% of the patients were able to make a complete return to sport within 8 weeks.
Caudal Regression Syndroma: A Rare Cause of Chronic Constipation
Authors: Diallo Ibrahima Dokal , Cherraqi Amine , Traore Wend-Yam Mohamed , El Haddad Siham , Chat Latifa , Allali Nazik
Published: September 2022

A malformative syndrome of the lower spine pole, caudal regression syndrome is a rare condition (1-5 cases/100 000 births). It usually occurs in children of diabetic mothers and includes a wide range of disorders. This case illustrates a subtype of this syndrome (type IV, group I) in a non-diabetic mother.
U.S. Immigrants Have Highly Heterogeneous Perceptions of How Selected They Are on Health
Authors: Ye Leafia Zi , Santos-Lozada Alexis R.
Published: September 2022

Measuring immigrant health selection is crucial for understanding population health in immigrant-receiving countries. Recently, studies have measured health selection using respondents’ perceptions of their health in comparison with those in their home countries. Yet we do not know how well this measure captures health selection. Using the New Immigrant Survey, the authors visualize respondents’ self-reported levels of health selection stratified by self-rated health and by sending country. The visualization indicates that immigrants from the same country who rate their health the same still give very different answers when asked to compare their health with those in their home countries. These variations were observed for immigrants from all top five sending countries and at every level of self-reported health but are much larger among those who rate their health less favorably. Overall, the present findings signal that U.S. immigrants have highly heterogeneous perceptions of how selected they are.
Ginsenoside compound K-loaded gold nanoparticles synthesized from Curtobacterium proimmune K3 exerts anti-gastric cancer effect via promoting PI3K/Akt-mediated apoptosis
Authors: Puja Aditi Mitra , Xu Xingyue , Wang Rongbo , Kim Hoon , Kim Yeon-Ju
Published: September 2022

Background

Compound K (CK) is the minor ginsenoside present in fermented Panax ginseng extract. Despite the pharmacological efficacy of CK, its industrial use has been restricted due to its low water solubility and poor permeability. To overcome this defect, our study was to synthesize gold nanoparticles from CK (CK-AuNPs) to investigate their potential as anticancer candidates.

Methods

To biologically synthesize CK-AuNPs, a novel strain, Curtobacterium proimmune K3, was isolated from fermented ginseng beverage, then combined with CK and gold salts to biosynthesize gold nanoparticles (CurtoCK-AuNPs). Their physicochemical characteristics were evaluated using UV–Vis spectrometry, FE-TEM, EDX, elemental mapping, XRD, SAED, DLS and TGA.

Results

CurtoCK-AuNPs exerted significant selective cytotoxic effects on AGS human gastric cancer cells. Fluorescence staining with Hoechst, propidium iodide, and MitoTracker demonstrated that CurtoCK-AuNPs induce apoptosis and mitochondrial damage, respectively. Quantitative real-time PCR and western blotting analyses showed that cytotoxic effect of CurtoCK-AuNPs were involved in apoptosis, based on their activation of Bax/Bcl-2, cytochrome c, caspase 9, and caspase 3, as well as their suppression of PI3K–Akt signaling.

Conclusion

Our findings provide data for understanding the molecular mechanisms of nanoparticles; thus, providing insight into the development of alternative medications based on gold nanoparticles of ginseng-derived CK.
Construction and validation of a predictive model for hepatocellular carcinoma based on serum markers
Authors: Zheng Liming , Huang Zeyu , Li Xiaoping , He Meifang , Liu Xiaoqin , Zheng Guojun , Zhou Xike , Liu Longgen
Published: September 2022

Background

Early hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) detection with non-invasive biomarkers remains an unmet clinical need. We aimed to construct a predictive model based on the pre-diagnostic levels of serum markers to predict the early-stage onset of HCC.

Methods

A total of 339 HCC patients (including 157 patients from Changzhou cohort and 182 patients from Wuxi cohort) were enrolled in our retrospective study. Levels of 25 baseline serum markers were collected. Propensity score matching (PSM) analysis was conducted to balance the distributions of patients’ gender, age, and the surveillance time between HCC group and control group. Then, Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) and Logistic regression analysis were performed to screen the independent predictive variables and construct a non-invasive predictive model. Subsequently, ROC curve and Kaplan–Meier (K–M) curve were used to evaluate the predictive values of the model. Clinical net benefit of the model was demonstrated by decision curve analysis (DCA) and clinical impact curve.

Results

Five independent predictive variables for HCC onset and two general characteristics of patients (age and gender) were incorporated into the score model. ROC and DCA curves showed that the score model had better predictive performance in discrimination and clinical net benefit compared with single variable or other score systems, with the area under the curve (AUC) of 0.890 (95% CI 0.856–0.925) in Changzhou cohort and 0.799 (95% CI 0.751–0.849) in Wuxi cohort. Meanwhile, stratification analysis indicated that the score model had good predictive values for patients with early tumor stage (AJCC stage I) or small tumors (< 2 cm). Moreover, the score of HCC patient began to increase at 30 months before clinical diagnosis and reach a peak at 6 months.

Conclusion

Based on this model, we could optimize the current risk stratification at an early stage and consider further intensive surveillance programs for high-risk patients. It could also help clinicians to evaluate the progression and predict the prognosis of HCC patients.
Symptoms of anxiety and depression predicting fall-related outcomes among older Americans: a longitudinal study
Authors: Luo Yuqian , Miyawaki Christina E. , Valimaki Maritta A. , Tang Siyuan , Sun Hongyu , Liu Minhui
Published: September 2022

Background

Anxiety and depressive symptoms are associated with fear of falling and fear of falling-related activity restrictions. However, it remains unknown whether anxiety or depressive symptoms alone could predict fear of falling and activity restrictions in older adults. We sought to determine if anxiety and depressive symptoms alone could be an independent predictor of fear of falling and activity restrictions in community-dwelling older adults.

Methods

This longitudinal analysis used waves 5 (time 1, [T1]) and 6 (time 2, [T2], 1 year from T1) data (N = 6376) from the National Health and Aging Trends Study. The Generalized Anxiety Disorder Scale 2 and Patient Health Questionnaire 2 were used to assess anxiety and depressive symptoms, respectively. Interview questions included demographics, health-related data, and fall worry levels (no fear of falling, fear of falling but no activity restrictions, and activity restrictions). Using multinomial logistic regression models, we examined whether anxiety and depressive symptoms (T1) predicted fear of falling and activity restrictions (T2).

Results

In wave 5 (T1, mean age: 78 years, 58.1% female), 10 and 13% of participants reported anxiety and depressive symptoms. About 19% of participants experienced fear of falling but not activity restrictions, and 10% of participants developed activity restrictions in wave 6 (T2), respectively. Participants with anxiety symptoms at T1 had a 1.33 times higher risk of fear of falling (95% CI = 1.02–1.72) and 1.41 times higher risk of activity restrictions (95% CI = 1.04–1.90) at T2. However, having depressive symptoms did not show any significance after adjusting for anxiety symptoms.

Conclusions

Anxiety symptoms seemed to be an independent risk factor for future fear of falling and activity restrictions, while depressive symptoms were not. To prevent future fear of falling and activity restrictions, we should pay special attention to older individuals with anxiety symptoms.
Healthcare cost expenditures associated to frailty and sarcopenia
Authors: Álvarez-Bustos Alejandro , Rodríguez-Sánchez Beatriz , Carnicero-Carreño Jose A. , Sepúlveda-Loyola Walter , Garcia-Garcia Francisco J. , Rodríguez-Mañas Leocadio
Published: September 2022

Objectives

Frailty and sarcopenia have been related with adverse events, including hospitalization. However, its combined effect with hospitalization-related outcomes, including costs, has not been previously investigated. Our purpose was to explore how frailty, sarcopenia and its interaction could impact on healthcare expenditures.

Methods

1358 community-dwelling older adults from the Toledo Study of Healthy Ageing (TSHA) were included. Sarcopenia was measured using the Foundation for the National Institutes of Health criteria fitted to our cohort. Frailty was defined according to Frailty Trait Scale 5 (FTS5) and the Frailty Index fitted to the cut-off points of TSHA population. Hospitalization costs were taken from hospital records and costs were attributed according to Diagnostic-Related Groups, using as the cost base year 2015. Two-part regression models were used to analyze the relationship between frailty and sarcopenia and hospital admission, number of hospitalizations, length of stay and hospitalization costs.

Results

Sarcopenia was associated only with the probability of being admitted to hospital. Frailty was also associated with higher hospital use, regardless of the frailty tool used, but in addition increased hospital admission costs at follow-up by 23.72% per year and by 19.73% in the full model compared with non-frail individuals. The presence of sarcopenia did not increase the costs of frailty but, by opposite, frailty significantly increased the costs in people with sarcopenia, reaching by 46–56%/patient/year at follow-up. Older adults with frailty and sarcopenia had a higher risk of hospitalization, disregarding the tool used to assess frailty, and higher hospitalization costs (FTS5) in the full model, at the cross-sectional and at the follow-up level.

Conclusions

Frailty is associated with increased hospitalization costs and accounts for the potential effects of sarcopenia.
Analysis of metabolites of fungal balls in the paranasal sinuses
Authors: Zhang Xiaoqing , Zhang Na , Huang Qian , Cui Shunjiu , Liu Lingyan , Zhou Bing
Published: September 2022

Fungal ball sinusitis is characterized by complex fungus infections with non-invasive inflammation. But no research reported fungal ball composition and metabolic-related product types currently. 12 patients with chronic rhinosinusitis who underwent surgery and 9 healthy control were enrolled in this study. Samples from both groups were analyzed for high-throughput metabolites by UPLC-MS. OsiriX software was applied to perform imaging measurements on sinus CT. 2138 and 394 metabolites were screened from cationic and anionic modes. There was a significant difference in the abundance of glycerophospholipid metabolism and sphingolipid metabolism between the two groups, with the experimental group showing an increased trend related to the sphingolipid metabolic pathway, including sphingosine 1-phosphate (S1P) and related products, diacylglycerol, sphingomyelin (SM), suggesting that its metabolites are associated with mucosal and bony inflammation. Imaging measurements showed a median sinus CT value (median (P25, P75) of 351(261.4, 385.8) HU and a median sinus wall thickness (median (P25, P75) of 2.31(1.695, 3.718) mm, which correlated with the levels of glycerophospholipid metabolites and sphingolipid metabolites (P < 0.03). Dysfunctional glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism is present in the lesion of fungal ball sinusitis. Glycerophospholipid and sphingolipid metabolism plays a significant role in the progression of mucosal and osteitis produced by fungal ball sinusitis.
Depression management and antiretroviral treatment outcome among people living with HIV in Northwest and East regions of Cameroon
Authors: Ndenkeh Jackson Jr Nforbewing , Nji Akindeh Mbuh , Yumo Habakkuk Azinyui , Rothe Camilla , Kroidl Arne
Published: September 2022

Background

Several interventions have shown benefits in improving mental health problems such as depression which is common in people living with HIV. However, there is a paucity of evidence on the effect of these interventions in improving HIV treatment outcomes. This study aimed at bridging this evidence gap and guiding the integration of depression and HIV management, particularly in rural health settings of Cameroon.

Materials and methods

We carried out a cluster-randomized intervention study targeting persons aged 13 years and above who had been on antiretroviral treatment for 6–9 months. Participants were followed up for 12 months during which those in the intervention group underwent routine screening and management of depression. Comparisons were done using the two-way ANOVA and Chi-squared test with significance set at 5%.

Results

Overall, 370 participants with a median age of 39 years (IQR: 30–49) were enrolled in this study. Of these, 42 (11.3%) were screened with moderate to severe depressive symptoms and 41 (11.1%) had poor treatment adherence. There was a significant drop in depression scores in the intervention group from 3.88 (± 3.76) to 2.29 (± 2.39) versus 4.35 (± 4.64) to 3.39 (± 3.0) in controls (p < 0.001) which was accompanied by a drop in the prevalence of moderate to severe depressive symptoms in the intervention group from 9% to 0.8% (p = 0.046). Decreased depression scores were correlated with better adherence scores with correlation coefficients of − 0.191, − 0.555, and − 0.513 at baseline, 6 months, and 12 months of follow-up respectively (p < 0.001) but there was no significant difference in adherence levels (p = 0.255) and viral suppression rates (p = 0.811) between groups.

Conclusion

The results of this study suggest that considering routine screening and management of depression as an integral component of HIV care could positively impact HIV treatment outcomes. However, there is a need for more research to identify the best combinations of context-specific and cost-effective strategies that can impactfully be integrated with HIV management.

Trial registration Trial registration Number: DRKS00027440. Name of Registry: German Clinical Trials Register. Date registration: December 10, 2021 (‘retrospectively registered’). Date of enrolment of the first participant: 05/08/2019
Understanding the relationship between social support and mental health of humanitarian migrants resettled in Australia
Authors: Doma Hemavarni , Tran Thach , Rioseco Pilar , Fisher Jane
Published: September 2022

Background

Forced migration can lead to loss of social support and increased vulnerability to psychological distress of displaced individuals. The aims were to ascertain the associations of sociodemographic characteristics and social support received by resettled adult humanitarian migrants in Australia; determine the relationship between social support and mental health at different intervals following humanitarian migration; and examine the modification effects of gender, age and migration pathway on that relationship.

Methods

A secondary analysis was conducted of data generated in Waves One (three to six months after resettlement), Three (three years after resettlement) and Five (five years after resettlement) of the Building a New Life in Australia prospective cohort study. The association between sociodemographic characteristics and mental health were examined at each timepoint using a multivariate regression model. Exploratory factor analysis was used to develop a two-factor social support scale (emotional/instrumental and informational support) from a larger set of items collected in the BNLA. Psychological distress was measured by the Kessler-6 scale. Path analysis was used to analyse the relationships between social support and psychological distress among the three time points considering socio-demographic characteristics simultaneously.

Results

A total of 2264 participants were included in the analyses. Age, gender, birth region, migration pathway, education level and English proficiency were significantly associated with both social support types. Main source of income was only significantly associated with informational support. Remoteness area was only significantly associated with emotional/instrumental support. As emotional/instrumental support increased by one standard deviation (SD) at Wave One, psychological distress at Wave Three decreased by 0.34 score [95% CI (− 0.61; − 0.08)]. As informational support at Wave Three increased by one SD, psychological distress at Wave Five decreased by 0.35 score [95% CI (− 0.69; − 0.01)]. The relationships between social support and psychological distress varied between genders, age groups and migration pathways.

Conclusion

Findings demonstrate the importance of emotional/instrumental support and informational support for the medium and long-term mental health of humanitarian migrants. This study also highlights the important of extending current social support provisions and tailoring programs to enhance support received by humanitarian migrant subgroups years after resettlement to improve mental health.