bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Rapid weight loss in visually impaired judo athletes: Prevalence, magnitude, and methods
Authors: Kons Rafael L , Gheller Rodrigo G , Costa Filipe E , Detanico Daniele
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to determine the prevalence, magnitude, and methods of rapid weight loss (RWL) in visually impaired (VI) judo athletes, and compare these aspects between males and females. Thirty VI judo athletes (20 men and 10 women) completed a validated questionnaire to assess information about the magnitude and methods of RWL. Simple frequency was used to describe the influence and methods in all athletes and according to sex. Moreover, the t test was used to compare the variables between the sexes with the significance level set at p < .05. The main results showed that most VI judo athletes (67%) lost weight to compete. Most methods included gradual dieting (40%) and increased exercise volume (33%). The judo coach/ sensei was the person who most influenced the athletes in RWL (45%). There were no significant differences between the sexes regarding the RWL magnitude and methods used. As concluded, most VI judo athletes lost weight to compete, but the interval to reduce weight seemed slightly longer than it usually occurs in RWL. Gradual dieting and increased exercise volume were the most frequently used methods to lose weight, without any differences between males and females.
The efficacy of rotational pharmaco-mechanical thrombectomy in patients with acute iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis: Is the standard treatment of deep vein thrombosis changing?
Authors: Rodoplu Orhan , Yildiz Cenk Eray , Oztas Didem Melis , Beyaz Metin Onur , Ulukan Mustafa Ozer , Unal Orcun , Conkbayir Cenk , Ugurlucan Murat
Published: October 2020

Objective

In this study, we aimed to evaluate the efficiency of rotational thrombectomy device in pharmaco-mechanical thrombolysis for symptomatic acute ilio-femoral deep vein thrombosis.

Materials and methods

Between August 2013 and May 2018,82 patients with acute deep vein thrombosis comprising the iliofemoral segment whom underwent Pharmaco-mechanical thrombolysis were evaluated retrospectively. The Cleaner thrombectomy device was used. The resolution of thrombi was examined and graded. Development of post-thrombotic syndrome was assessed with Villalta scores.

Results

75 patients (91.4%) had complete thrombus resolution. Between 50–99% resolution was noted in 6 patients (7.4%) and in one (1.2%) case less than %50 thrombus resolution was obtained. Seventy-five patients (91%) of the cohort could be treated in a single session; 7 patients (8.6%) required reintervention(s). Although improved post-thrombotic syndrome rates were lower at the short term, Villalta scores gradually increased during follow up.

Conclusions

In conclusion, Pharmaco-mechanical thrombolysis with Cleaner thrombectomy device is a safe and beneficial method for the treatment of acute iliofemoral deep vein thrombosis. Long term follow up data of large volume multicenter studies are warranted.
Efficacy of microcurrent therapy for treatment of acute knee pain: A randomized double-blinded controlled clinical trial
Authors: Lawson Daryl , Lee Kevin H , Kang Hyun Bin , Yang Nan , Llewellyn Tracy , Takamatsu Shozo
Published: October 2020

Objective:

We would like to determine whether electrotherapy, specifically microcurrent therapy, increases function and decreases pain in people who have acute knee pain.

Design:

Randomized, double-blinded, placebo-controlled clinical trial.

Setting:

University laboratory and patient home.

Subjects:

A total of 52 subjects (35 females and 17 males) with acute knee pain.

Intervention:

Treatment group ( n = 26) wore the active microcurrent therapy device at home for 3 hours per day for 4 weeks and the control group ( n = 26) wore the placebo for 3 hours per day for 4 weeks.

Main Measures:

Numeric Pain Rating Scale (NPRS) and Short Form 12 (SF-12) health scale were used to measure the pain level and the functionality of the participants. Secondary assessments included musculoskeletal ultrasound imaging (MSK US) and Lower Extremity Functional Scale (LEFS).

Results:

A total of 52 subjects completed the study; 26 in the treatment group and 26 in the control group. Microcurrent therapy significantly reduced pain over 4 weeks. Especially week three was significant ( P < 0.01) after adjusting for the family-wise error rate. The analysis on SF-12 revealed those with microcurrent therapy showed an increasing trend in the improvement of physical function score until week three.

Conclusion:

An active microcurrent therapy device decreased knee pain and increased function. Microcurrent therapy may be an alternative or used with a pharmacological approach for people with acute knee pain.
Comparison of Knowledge, Attitude, and Practice of Authorship Guidelines Among Medical and Dental Professionals
Authors: Parveen Shahistha , Mascarenhas Rohan , Vaswani Vina
Published: October 2020

Aim and Objectives:

Inappropriate authorship is a threat to the integrity of scientific publication. Although many journals have authorship guidelines, there may be a gap between knowledge of authorship criteria and practice. The purpose of this study was to assess and compare the knowledge, attitude, and practice of authorship guidelines among medical and dental professionals.

Material and Methods:

A web-based cross-sectional study was carried out using Google Survey after obtaining approval from our University Ethics Committee. The knowledge, attitude, and practice of dental and medical faculty towards authorship were assessed using a self-administered questionnaire. The corresponding authors of original articles published in 4 medical and 4 dental journals from 2014 to 2016 were sent an e-mail with a link to an electronic survey containing a questionnaire. Voluntariness, privacy, and confidentiality were ensured and mentioned in the participation information sheet (PIS). Submission of the survey was construed as informed consent. A total of 541 corresponding authors (medical [n = 275], and dental [n = 269]) were invited to the study, and 207 responded to the survey (medical [n = 104] and dental [n = 103]). Incomplete responses were eliminated (n = 5). The remaining responses (total [n = 202]; medical [n = 100], and dental [n = 102]) were analyzed.

Results:

The mean scores of knowledge, attitude, and practice of the participants regarding authorship were 6.9 ± 2.02 (scale of 11), 29.13 ± 3.66 (scale of 45) and 6.70 ± 0.08 (scale of 10), respectively. The knowledge of authorship guidelines among medical professionals was significantly higher than that among dental professionals. No statistically significant difference was observed in attitude and practice scores ( P > .05). There was a weak correlation between knowledge with attitude, and practice. There was a weak correlation between the age, gender, number of publications, and different levels of hierarchy with knowledge, attitude, and practice.

Conclusions:

• Participants had moderate knowledge of, attitude towards, and practice of authorship guidelines. • Researchers should undergo adequate training on authorship guidelines before initiation of a project.
User Experiences with Two New Wheelchair Securement Systems in Large Accessible Transit Vehicles
Authors: Choi Jimin , Maisel Jordana L. , Perez Brittany , Nguyen Don , Paquet Victor
Published: October 2020

Wheelchair securement designs for fixed route, large accessible transit vehicles (LATVs) often create difficulties for passengers who use wheelchairs and operational inefficiencies for public transit agencies. Recent innovations in wheelchair securement technology for LATVs may reduce these challenges. This field study builds on a recent lab study that used a full-scale LATV simulation apparatus to address similar knowledge gaps. The current study used a mixed-methods approach to explore the usability of two newer wheelchair securement systems currently installed in LATVs in Buffalo, NY: a 3-point, forward-facing (3P-FF) securement system and a semi-automated, rear-facing (SA-RF) securement system. Three groups of wheelchair users (manual wheelchair [MWC], power wheelchair [PWC], and scooter [SC] users; n = 40) completed a pre-study interview, four trips on the LATVs and accompanying surveys, and a final interview. Using multiple usability rating scales, findings indicated clear differences in ratings of difficulty and acceptability between securement systems by wheelchair user group, with the SA-RF outperforming the 3P-FF on most usability measures for MWC and PWC users. SC users consistently rated both securement systems as more difficult to use and the SA-RF securement as less acceptable than MWC and PWC users.
Social Class and Parenting in Mexican American Families
Authors: Rangel David , Shoji Megan N.
Published: October 2020

Parenting practices are a key mechanism in the transmission of class advantage from adults to children; however, Latinxs have not been a main focus of this work. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 17 middle-class and working-class and poor Mexican American parents, we explore social class patterns in childrearing practices and beliefs. Rather than stark-class differences found in previous work, we observed substantial similarities across social class lines. Our findings suggest that (1) Social mobility experienced by middle-class parents complicate class-based parenting beliefs. (2) Variation in parenting approaches in the same household mitigates class distinctions. (3) Mexican Americans’ shared contextual experiences and cultural values minimize social class differences in childrearing. These findings reshape the literature on class differences in parenting and show how social class and race and ethnicity impact childrearing beliefs and practices that are better illuminated when studied as a process.
Association Between Informant-Reported Sleep Disturbance and Incident Dementia: An Analysis of the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center Uniform Data Set
Authors: Lee Woojung , Gray Shelly L. , Barthold Douglas , Maust Donovan T. , Marcum Zachary A.
Published: October 2020

Informants’ reports can be useful in screening patients for future risk of dementia. We aimed to determine whether informant-reported sleep disturbance is associated with incident dementia, whether this association varies by baseline cognitive level and whether the severity of informant-reported sleep disturbance is associated with incident dementia among those with sleep disturbance. A longitudinal retrospective cohort study was conducted using the uniform data set collected by the National Alzheimer’s Coordinating Center. Older adults without dementia at baseline living with informants were included in analysis. Cox proportional hazards models showed that participants with an informant-reported sleep disturbance were more likely to develop dementia, although this association may be specific for older adults with normal cognition. In addition, older adults with more severe sleep disturbance had a higher risk of incident dementia than those with mild sleep disturbance. Informant-reported information on sleep quality may be useful for prompting cognitive screening.
Ageism, Personal and Others’ Perceptions of Age Awareness, and Their Interactive Effect on Subjective Accelerated Aging
Authors: Bergman Yoav S. , Palgi Yuval
Published: October 2020

Ageism has been associated with negative perceptions of the future and the aging process. The current study argues that this connection is affected by the relevance older adults attribute to the cognitive category of age in their own self-appraisal, as well as by how they perceive this awareness in others. Accordingly, we examined the association between ageism and subjective accelerated aging (i.e., the rate the individual feels he or she is aging) and the moderating role of self-age awareness and other-age awareness on this connection. Data were collected from 267 participants (age range = 40–95; M = 64.32, SD = 14.09), using scales assessing ageism, self/other age awareness, and subjective accelerated aging. High ageism levels were associated with increased subjective accelerated aging. Moreover, this connection was moderated by both self- and other-age awareness. The study enhances the importance of personal appraisals of one’s own and others’ behaviors as age-related in this context.
Violent Victimization and Violence Perpetration Among American Indian Adolescents
Authors: Andreescu Viviana , Overstreet Suzanne M.
Published: October 2020

In the current study, we propose an integrative approach, which will incorporate elements from the social learning and self-control theories of delinquency and crime to examine violence in an understudied, marginalized, and often discriminated subpopulation group—American Indian youth. The analysis is based on survey data collected between 2009 and 2013 from a sample of American Indian adolescents ( N = 3,380) enrolled in 27 school districts located in five regions of the United States (Northern Plains, Southwest, Upper Great Lakes, Southeast/Texas, and the Northeast). The main objective of the analysis is to identify the factors more likely to predict violent offending among American Indian adolescents, a vulnerable group that has an elevated risk of violent victimization. Results of the Tobit regression analysis indicate that in both gender groups a low level of self-control, association with delinquent friends, poor school performance, and underage alcohol consumption significantly predict violence perpetration. Nonetheless, experience with direct violent victimization has the largest effect on male and female adolescents’ violent behavior. Although living with both biological parents and childhood exposure to domestic violence do not influence significantly the adolescents’ aggressive behavior, parental monitoring does have a significant violence-deterrent effect in both gender groups. Findings suggest that more opportunities should be created for indigenous communities to control their education systems and ensure American Indian students achieve academic success, which is one of the violence protective factors identified in this study. Moreover, measures meant to prevent youth violence in American Indian communities should also focus on parents/caregivers who, directly and indirectly, have the capacity to reduce the adolescents’ risk of becoming victims and/or perpetrators of violence.
Chipped or Whole? Listening to Survivors’ Experiences With Disclosure Following Sexual Violence
Authors: Scoglio Arielle A. J. , Lincoln Alisa , Kraus Shane W. , Molnar Beth E.
Published: October 2020

Sexual violence is a prevalent crime but vastly underreported and with serious long-term health consequences for survivors. Disclosure of sexual violence represents a social experience that may offer support towards healing or further traumatization depending on the response received. Although current research suggests that process of disclosure itself is important, as are social responses, there is a dearth of research examining the perceived impact of initial responses to disclosure on healing and relationships, particularly over time. The current study used data from nine focus groups with 45 survivors to explore the impact of initial disclosure reactions on recovery, from the survivors’ perspectives. Constant comparative analysis identified several themes, including subtypes of positive and negative responses to disclosure and long-term impacts on healing and relationships. Survivors disclosed to informal and formal support persons and although many identified responses as positive or negative, some also experienced mixed responses. Survivors identified perceived long-term impacts on healing, interpersonal relationships, and social justice. Our findings suggest disclosures are a critical point for potential intervention after sexual violence. It is through the disclosure process that survivors can be supported and empowered to connect with others and move further along in their journey towards healing and recovery. Public awareness and promotion of positive responses could be designed to reach children and youth, so that the next generation is equipped with the tools to support each other in difficult times, particularly in the aftermath of sexual violence.
Numerical modelling of functionally graded adherends
Authors: dos Reis MQ , Carbas RJC , Marques EAS , da Silva LFM
Published: October 2020

The development of lighter structures and materials has been one of the main research concerns of the transportation industry during the last decade, driven by the necessity to decrease fuel consumption and emissions. Therefore, the use of several different new lightweight materials, such as special metal alloys, reinforced polymers and new advanced composite materials has been explored, leading to optimized structures which combine these novel materials. To manufacture these multi-material structures, adhesive bonding is one of best joining techniques available, as fasteners add weight to the structure and require holes to be drilled and welding is not easily applicable to reinforced plastics, composites and some high strength metal alloys. However, adhesive bonding also presents some limitations that need to be considered, such as the appearance of singularities and the resultant stress concentration at the edges of the bond line, which result in a reduction of the joint strength. In order to mitigate this effect, several techniques have been proposed, being the use of functionally graded adherends one of them. Functionally graded adherends consist in an adherend where the mechanical properties gradually change throughout the material, usually in the thickness or length direction. The present work introduces the concept of a layered functionally graded adherend, varying the flexibility of each layer through the thickness direction. Different ratios of stiffness variation, combined with different adhesive properties, were numerically evaluated for single lap joints, comparing the stress distribution of the adhesive layer and the resultant joint strength, using cohesive zone modelling. Moreover, an optimization process of typical graded material properties, where different distribution laws that consider material weight and strength are considered, is presented.
The research and verification of In-Arm Torsional Electromagnetic Active Suspension
Authors: Han Chengleng , Xu Lin , Zou Junyi , Abdelkareem Mohamed AA , Cui Enkang
Published: October 2020

This paper designs and manufactures a new type of arm suspension institution named In-Arm Torsional Electromagnetic Active Suspension (ITEAS) according to the structure and characteristic. The paper introduces the function and application scenarios of ITEAS and narrates the research value and scientific significance of the system. At first, the structure and principle of ITEAS are presented briefly, based on which the mathematical model of ITEAS suspension and height adjustment is built and analyzed. Next, the paper studies three critical components of ITEAS respectively. The mathematical solution is found to calculate the stiffness of the torsion bar. The structure and hydrodynamic model of the vane damper is researched, and the simulation model of the absorber is built in AMESim. The paper studies the theoretical principle of height adjustment and obtains the frequency characteristic of “Motor-Load” through the transfer function solved in MATLAB. Therefore, simulation models are built in AMESim in allusion to the three functions in the next chapter to verify the suspension characteristic, the height adjustment and the active displacement control of ITEAS independently. At last, several experiments are conducted on the test bench to check the feasibility of ITEAS. The results show that ITEAS is capable of being used as a vehicle suspension system and has a good impact on mitigation ability under road surface excitation, which enables us to adjust the body height and control the displacement actively according to the road condition.
Design of dental implant using design of experiment and topology optimization: A finite element analysis study
Authors: Gupta Yash , Iyer Rohit , Dommeti Vamsi Krishna , Nutu Emil , Rana Masud , Merdji Ali , Biswas Jayanta Kumar , Roy Sandipan
Published: October 2020

Ever since the introduction of topology optimization into the industrial and manufacturing fields, it has been a top priority to maximize the performance of any system by optimizing its geometrical parameters to save material while keeping its functionality unaltered. The purpose of this study is to design a dental implant macro-geometry by removing expendable material using topology optimization and to evaluate its biomechanical function. Three-dimensional finite element models were created of an implant embedded in cortical and cancellous bone. Parameters like the length and diameter of the implant and the bone quality (±20% variation in Young’s modulus, Poisson’s ratio and density for both cortical and cancellous bone) were varied to evaluate their effect on the principal stresses induced on the peri-implant bone tissues and the micromotion of the implant at 150 N applied load. Design optimization is used to select one suitable implant for each material property combination with optimum parameters that experiences the least von Mises stress and axial deformation, out of twenty implants with different length and diameter for each material property combination. Topology optimization was then used on the selected implants to remove the redundant material. The biomechanical functions of the implants with optimized parameter and volume were then evaluated. The finite element analyses estimated that a reduction of 32% to 45% in the implant volume is possible with the implant still retaining all of its functionality.
Scorpion sting: N-terminal fragment of proB-type natriuretic peptide as an early predictor of pediatric cardiotoxicity
Authors: Khalaf Mohamed AM , El-deen Mohamed A Bahaa , Hishmat Asmaa Mohammed
Published: October 2020

Aim of the work:

This prospective study was conducted to evaluate the clinical reliability of N-terminal fragment of proB-type natriuretic peptide (NT-proBNP) in identifying patients with cardiotoxicity in the early hours following scorpion sting.

Subjects and methods:

This study involved 483 children aging between 2–17 years who were admitted to Minia University Poisoning Control Center from 1st January 2010 to 31st December 2019 with a history of scorpion sting, and on clinical evaluation symptoms were manifested. All subjects were clinically examined, investigated for NT-proBNP and CPK-MB on admission, 6 h and 24 h post-envenomation; and subjected to 24 h cardiac monitoring with periodic ECG every 6 h.

Results:

Assessment of CPK-MB levels showed a significant increase in all moderate to severe cases 6 h post-envenomation. Assessment of NT-proBNP levels showed a significant increase in all moderate to severe cases on admission and 6 h post-envenomation. Moreover, there was a significant decrease in the NT-proBNP level after 24 h compared with that measured on admission. The sensitivity of NT-proBNP for the diagnosis of myocardial injury at hospital admission was significantly higher than that of CPK-MB.

Conclusion:

NT-proBNP may be a valuable and sensitive laboratory biomarker to predict cardiotoxicity of scorpion sting in the early hours.
Life post-Brexit in the Divided Realm
Authors: Hudson Ray
Published: October 2020

Following the confirmation by the UK Parliament that the UK would leave the European Union on 1 January 2021, this article analyses the likely impact of BREXIT on socio-spatial inequalities in the UK. It argues that inequalities will be further amplified, in contrast to Prime Minister Johnson’s claims that inequalities will be ‘levelled up’, drawing on the historical trajectory of capitalist development in the UK, the policy priorities of the UK state and theories of uneven and combined development
Adverse Childhood Experiences Among Licensed Social Workers
Authors: Steen Jeffrey T. , Senreich Evan , Straussner Shulamith Lala Ashenberg
Published: October 2020

Adverse childhood experiences (ACEs) are predictors of deleterious outcomes in adulthood. Studies of childhood maltreatment among various populations and professions assess the prevalence and scope of ACEs. This article presents findings from a survey of 5,540 licensed social workers in 13 states. The study found that social workers’ mean ACE score was 2.1, and more than 23.6% reported exposure to more four or more ACEs, figures that are higher than ACE scores in most populations. In addition, ACEs were negatively associated with wellness and workplace issues, including physical health, mental health, alcohol and other drugs, tobacco, sleep, and workplace stress. The need for additional exploration of ACEs among social workers and implications for social work education and practice are discussed.
Recent advances in flexible PVDF based piezoelectric polymer devices for energy harvesting applications
Authors: Sukumaran Sunija , Chatbouri Samir , Rouxel Didier , Tisserand Etienne , Thiebaud Frédéric , Ben Zineb Tarak
Published: October 2020

Energy harvesting is one of the most promising research areas to produce sustainable power sources from the ambient environment. Which found applications to attain the extensive lifetime self-powered operations of various devices such as MEMS wireless sensors, medical implants and wearable electronic devices. Piezoelectric nanogenerators can efficiently convert the vastly available mechanical energy into electrical energy to meet the requirements of low-powered electronic devices. Among the piezoelectric materials, poly (vinylidene fluoride) (PVDF) and its copolymers are extensively studied for the development of energy harvesting devices. Due to the outstanding properties such as high flexibility, ease of processing, long-term stability, biocompatibility makes them a promising candidate for piezoelectric generators. Nevertheless, compared to piezoceramic materials, PVDF based generators produce lower piezoresponse. Over the last decades, tremendous research activities have been reported to endorse the performance of PVDF based energy harvesters. This review article mainly focused on the recent progress in the performance improvement with processing methods, piezoelectric materials, different filler loading. The new developments and design structures will lead to an increase in piezoelectricity, alignment of dipoles, dielectric properties and subsequently enhance the output performance of the device. Electronic circuits play a vital role in energy harvesting to efficiently collect the developed charge from the device. Here, we have proposed a detailed description of the electronic circuits. Also, in the application part deals with the recent progress in flexible, biomedical and hybrid generators based on PVDF polymers.
Comparison of 2 Sagittal Craniosynostosis Repair Techniques: Spring-Assisted Surgery Versus Endoscope-Assisted Craniectomy With Helmet Molding Therapy
Authors: Skolnick Gary B. , Yu Jenny L. , Patel Kamlesh B. , David Lisa R. , Couture Daniel E. , Smyth Matthew D. , Woo Albert S.
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

This study compares anthropometric outcomes of 2 sagittal synostosis repair techniques: spring-assisted surgery and endoscope-assisted craniectomy with molding helmet therapy.

Methods:

Patients undergoing spring-assisted surgery (n = 27) or endoscope-assisted craniectomy with helmet therapy (n = 40) at separate institutions were retrospectively reviewed. Pre- and 1-year postoperative computed tomography (CT) or laser scans were analyzed for traditional cranial index (CI), adjusted cranial index (aCI), and cranial vault volume (CVV). Nine patient-matched scans were analyzed for measurement consistency.

Results:

The spring-assisted group was older at both time points ( P < .050) and spring-assisted group CVV was larger preoperatively and postoperatively ( P < .01). However, the change in CVV did not differ between the groups ( P = .210). There was no difference in preoperative CI (helmet vs spring: 70.1 vs 71.2, P = .368) between the groups. Postoperatively, helmet group CI (77.0 vs 74.3, P = .008) was greater. The helmet group also demonstrated a greater increase in CI (6.9 vs 3.1, P < .001). The proportion of patients achieving CI of 75 or greater was not significantly different between the groups (helmet vs spring: CI, 65% vs 52%, P = .370). There was no detectable bias in CI between matched CT and laser scans. Differences were identified between scan types in aCI and CVV measurements; subsequent analyses used corrected CVV and aCI measures for laser scan measures.

Conclusions:

Both techniques had equivalent proportions of patients achieving normal CI, comparable effects on cranial volume, and similar operative characteristics. The study suggests that there may be greater improvement in CI in the helmet group. However, further research should be performed.
Young Adults and Their Families Living With Mental Illness: Evaluation of the Usefulness of Family-Centered Support Conversations in Community Mental Health care Settings
Authors: Aass Lisbeth Kjelsrud , Skundberg-Kletthagen Hege , Schrøder Agneta , Moen Øyfrid Larsen
Published: October 2020

The aim of this study was to evaluate the usefulness of Family-Centered Support Conversations (FCSC) offered in community mental health care in Norway to young adults and their families experiencing mental illness. The FCSC is a family nursing intervention based on the Calgary Family Assessment and Intervention Models and the Illness Beliefs Model and is focused on how family members can be supportive to each other, how to identify strengths and resources of the family, and how to share and reflect on the experiences of everyday life together while living with mental illness. Interviews were conducted with young adults and their family members in Norway who had received the FCSC intervention and were analyzed using phenomenography. Two descriptive categories were identified: “Facilitating the sharing of reflections about everyday life” and “Possibility of change in everyday life.” The family nursing conversations about family structure and function in the context of mental illness allowed families to find new meanings and possibilities in everyday life. Health care professionals can play an important role in facilitating a safe environment for young adults and their families to talk openly about the experience of living with and managing mental illness.
Individualized transscleral cyclophotocoagulation as the initial surgical intervention for medically uncontrolled glaucoma after blunt trauma
Authors: Hou Xu , Wu Jing , Zhou Jian , Wang Yu-Sheng , Hu Dan
Published: October 2020

Aim:

To investigate the safety and feasibility of individualized transscleral cyclophotocoagulation (TSCPC) as the initial non-incisional surgical intervention for medically uncontrolled glaucoma after blunt trauma.

Methods:

The therapy records were reviewed of medically uncontrolled traumatic glaucoma after blunt trauma treated with TSCPC in a single hospital between January 2014 and December 2018. Thirty-one patients (31 eyes) received individualized TSCPC after ultrasound biomicroscopy and gonioscopy examination to localize and quantify the injured quadrants of the anterior chamber angle. In addition to the number of IOP lowing drugs, visual acuity (VA), IOP, inflammation and hemorrhage in the anterior chamber were analyzed at 1 day, 3 weeks and 3 months after operation, respectively. Success was defined as the IOP was not more than 21 mmHg.

Results:

Compared with the data of pre-operation, constituent ratio of VA had no significant difference at 3 weeks (χ2 = 0.56, p > 0.75). At 3 months the average IOP was 22.2 ± 6.8 mmHg, which was significantly lower than that of pre-operation (46.6 ± 5.6 mmHg) ( t = 19.818, p < 0.001). No IOP lowing drug was needed in 12 eyes, and more than three kinds of drugs were still needed in five eyes. The average number of medications decreased to 1.2 ± 1.2 (χ2 = 93.496, p < 0.001). The complete success rate was 38.7% and the relative success rate (combined with no more than two kinds of drugs) was 83.9% at 3 months.

Conclusions:

Individualized TSCPC could be applied as an initial non-incisional surgical intervention to treat traumatic glaucoma refractory to the medicine therapy.
Fascias: Methodological Propositions and Ontologies That Stretch and Slide
Authors: Weig Doerte
Published: October 2020

This commentary introduces fascia, our bodily connective tissue, as a contribution to thinking body as process beyond mind–body dualisms. Research in the field of Fascia Studies has shown that fascias’ core qualities are shifting and sliding in tensional responsiveness and that its both/and tissue- and-system features challenge clear-cut definitions. Acknowledging these characteristics of human physiology in novel ways, and in particular fascia as our largest sensory organ, becomes relevant to ontologies, alterities and research methodologies emphasizing experience and transdisciplinarity. Importantly, the notion is never to theorize fascia as model or metaphor but as quotidian processual responsive proposition.
Canagliflozin impedes ischemic hind-limb recovery in the setting of diabetes
Authors: Nalugo Margaret , Harroun Nikolai , Li Chenglong , Belaygorod Larisa , Semenkovich Clay F , Zayed Mohamed A
Published: October 2020

There is a reported increased incidence of lower extremity amputations in individuals with diabetes who are treated with canagliflozin (an SGLT2 receptor inhibitor). It is unclear whether this is an unintended consequence of therapy, or whether canagliflozin can affect peripheral limb perfusion in the setting of underling arterial malperfusion. To evaluate this we explored the effect of canagliflozin on tissue recovery following unilateral hind-limb ischemia (HLI). Adult wildtype (+/+) and diabetic (db/db) mice were maintained on 8 weeks of a regular chow diet, or a chow diet containing canagliflozin (200 mg/kg). Following HLI, hind-limb appearance, function, and Doppler perfusion were serially evaluated. Gastrocnemius muscle fiber size and microvessel density were also evaluated 21 days following HLI. We observed that db/db that received a diet containing canagliflozin had significantly worse hind-limb function and appearance scores compared to both db/db mice that received a regular diet and +/+ mice that received a canagliflozin diet. At post-HLI day 21, db/db mice that received a canagliflozin diet also had decreased Doppler perfusion, gastrocnemius muscle fiber size, and microvessel density compared to +/+ mice that received a canagliflozin diet. These findings indicate that canagliflozin appears to impede ischemic peripheral tissue recovery and warrant further clinical investigation in individuals with diabetes and a history of peripheral artery disease.
Increased risk of postoperative complications with retromuscular mesh placement in emergency incisional hernia repair: A nationwide register-based cohort study
Authors: Juul N. , Henriksen N. A. , Jensen K. K.
Published: October 2020

Introduction:

Incisional hernia is common after abdominal surgery. Watchful waiting carries the risk of incarceration and a need for emergency intervention. The aim of this study was to examine the risk of postoperative complications after emergency versus elective incisional hernia repair.

Methods:

Patients above 18 years of age undergoing open incisional hernia repair in Denmark in 2017–2018 were identified in the Danish Ventral Hernia Database. Patients were grouped according to elective or emergency hernia repair. The primary outcome was postoperative complications requiring operative intervention within 90 days, and the secondary outcome was postoperative length of stay.

Results:

We included 1050 patients, of whom 882 were admitted for elective and 168 for emergency operation. Patients undergoing emergency repair were older (64.7 years vs 59.2 years, p < 0.001), more often smokers (25.8% vs 13.6%, p = 0.003), and more often had a Charlson comorbidity score ⩾2 (26.8% vs 19.2%, p = 0.005) compared to patients undergoing elective repair. In a multivariate regression analysis, emergency compared to elective operation (OR = 2.71, 95% CI = 1.4–5.25, p = 0.003) and retromuscular compared to onlay mesh placement (OR = 2.14, 95% CI = 1.08–4.24, p = 0.013) were factors significantly associated with increased risk of postoperative complications. In a subgroup analysis including only emergency repairs, risk of complications after retromuscular mesh placement was even higher (OR = 10.12, 95% CI = 1.81–56.68, p = 0.008).

Conclusion:

Emergency incisional hernia repair was associated with increased risk of postoperative complications and this risk was accentuated with retromuscular mesh placement. The use of retromuscular mesh in the emergency setting should be avoided, and the abdominal wall could either be closed by sutures or additional onlay mesh.
Critique of podcasting as an anthropological method
Authors: Cook Ian M
Published: October 2020

Digital audio technologies have expanded the methodological possibilities for anthropological research. This article explores some of the implications of using podcasting as an anthropological method, specifically an experiment in which interlocutor interviews were regularly published as part of an exploration into digital politics in India. The article uses the reflexive insights garnered from making the series to interrogate the possibilities of interlocutor interview podcasting for anthropology. Further to this, it exploits the interlocutors’ expertise on digital practices to reverse the analytical gaze, asking what their experiences of the digitalising Indian public sphere can teach us about changing academic/anthropological practices, especially regarding the enabling (or not) of new ways of speaking, vocal performances, the possibility for immediate publishing, and celebrations of newness. Building from these critical appraisals, it is suggested that the latent promise of interlocutor interview podcasting lies in the potential to create ‘aural intimacy' and a ‘circulating copresence'.
Telling Stories About Farming: Mediated Authenticity and New Zealand’s Country Calendar
Authors: Fountaine Susan , Bulmer Sandy
Published: October 2020

Mediated authenticity in New Zealand’s Country Calendar ( CC) television program is explored from the perspective of its producers, and rural and urban audiences. Paradoxically, CC is understood as both “real” and “honest” television and a constructed, idyllic version of the rural good life in New Zealand. Techniques and devices such as a predictable narrative arc, consistent narration, invisible reporting and directing, and naturalized sound and vision contribute to the show’s predictability, ordinariness, spontaneity and im/perfection, mediating an authentic yet aspirational view of farming life. We elucidate how factual, primetime television contributes to a shared national sense of “who we are” while navigating different audience experiences and expectations. At stake is New Zealanders’ attachment to rural identity, which underpins public policy commitments to the farming sector, at a time when new agricultural politics are increasingly contested.
Circulating MicroRNAs as Diagnostic Biomarkers of Clinical Cognitive Impairment: A Meta-Analysis
Authors: Shi Dan , Han Mengyu , Liu Weilin , Tao Jing , Chen Lidian
Published: October 2020

Background:

Minimally invasive diagnostic biomarkers of neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease (AD) facilitate patient selection and cognitive progressive decline monitoring. However, the diagnostic value of circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) for early cognitive impairment and progression to dementia is currently under debate. Thus, this study aimed to assess the diagnostic performance of circulating, cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and exosomal miRNAs in the detection of clinical cognitive impairment in mild cognitive impairment (MCI), AD, and MCI-AD.

Methods:

We searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, China National Knowledge Infrastructure (CNKI), VIP Chinese Science and Technology Journals Database (CQVIP), and Chinese Medicine Premier (Wanfang) to identify potentially eligible studies related to noncoding RNAs and cognitive dysfunction biomarkers published before November 2018. The quality assessment of the studies was performed according to the Quality Assessment of Diagnostic Accuracy Studies (QUADAS-2) checklist. Meta-analysis of the literature data was performed using Stata/MP 14.0 software. The corresponding effects models were selected to calculate the summary sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative likelihood ratios (PLR and NLR), and diagnostic odds ratio (DOR) and to plot the summary receiver operating characteristic curves (SROCs) and calculate the areas under the curves (AUCs).

Results:

A total of 18 studies involving 729 patients with AD, 283 patients with MCI, and 15 patients with MCI-AD were pooled. The results revealed that the sensitivity and specificity of miRNAs in the diagnosis of AD were 0.78 and 0.79, respectively, and the area under the summary receiver operating characteristic curve (AUSROC) was 0.90. The sensitivity and specificity of miRNAs in the diagnosis of MCI were 0.89 and 0.85, respectively, and the AUSROC was 0.94. The sensitivity and specificity of microRNAs in the diagnosis of MCI-AD were 0.87 and 0.84, respectively, and the AUSROC was 0.92.

Conclusion:

Our study found that miRNAs have certain diagnostic value for cognitive impairment, with high sensitivity and specificity, especially in diagnostics with multiple miRNAs and serum-based miRNA assays.
Does competition standard and player position influence the match-play physical demands of Australian elite youth male soccer players within a single squad?
Authors: Sydney Michael G , Ball Nick , Chapman Dale , Wollin Martin , Mara Jocelyn K
Published: October 2020

The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of competition standard and player position on the physical demands of Australian elite youth male soccer players during match-play. Twenty-three elite youth male soccer players from the same Australian U17 National Centre of Excellence program were observed across 8 National Youth League (NYL) and 21 National Premier League (NPL) competition matches. Total (TD/min), low- (< 3.6 m/s), moderate- (3.6–5.0m/s) and high-speed (> 5.0 m/s) running distance, and the accelerations (Acc/min) (≥ 2.0 m/s2) and decelerations (Dec/min) (≤ −2.0 m/s2) were recorded using 15-Hz portable global positioning system tracking devices (GPSports, Canberra, Australia). An interaction was observed between competition standard and player position for TD/min ( p = 0.003), HSRD/min ( p = 0.007) and Acc/min ( p = 0.037) indicating the influence that competition standard had on these variables varied according to player position. Furthermore, we report that Central Defenders (3.1%), External Attackers (4.2%) and Central Attackers (3.8%) performed more TD/min in NYL (professional development level) compared to NPL (semi-professional) match-play. Central Defenders (24.2%) and Central Attackers (17.0%) completed more HSRD/min in NYL (professional development level) compared to NPL (semi-professional) match-play. Central Defenders (47.8%), External Defenders (20.5%), Midfielders (18.5%) and External Attackers (32.3%) all performed more Acc/min in NPL (semi-professional) when compared to NYL (professional development level) match-play. The results of this study provide scientific basis to aid the match-preparation of Australian elite youth male soccer player’s transition to higher standards of soccer.
Ventral Windowed Total Contact Casts Safely Offload Diabetic Feet and Allow Access to the Foot
Authors: Hochlenert Dirk , Fischer Claudia
Published: October 2020

Background:

Irremovable total contact casts (TCCs) are the gold standard to offload diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs) and to immobilize feet with active Charcot neuro-osteoarthropathy (CN). They do not allow checks of the foot and are contraindicated in people with peripheral arterial disease (PAD). Frequently, removable TCCs and other removable devices are used because they allow wound care, modifications of the inner surface of the cast, and checks of the foot. The authors propose TCCs with ventral windows (VW-TCCs) whenever patients with high-risk conditions show poor adherence to wearing a removable cast all the time and access to the foot is necessary.

Methods:

This retrospective study compares treatments with bivalved, removable TCCs applied prior to the introduction of the novel design (from 1 January 2016 to 1 July 2017, “ c”) to treatments in the following period ( t) with both bivalved removable TCCs and VW-TCCs in use.

Results:

Forty-five treatments after introduction (17 with the VW-TCC) showed a 52.8% lower median time to reach remission of the DFS than 41 controls (128/267 days, log-rank test P = .013). Reasons given for not using the novel design were: sufficient offloading with a removable TCC (16), patient preference (six), anatomical conditions (two), casts applied as a service for other facilities (three), and calf ulcers (one). Adverse effects from both designs were uncommon and not severe.

Conclusions:

VW-TCCs combine advantages of both removable and irremovable TCCs. Complications do not limit the use, even in patients with PAD.
Does Flipping the Tubercle for Improved Cartilage Repair Exposure Increase the Risk for Arthrofibrosis?
Authors: Merkely Gergo , Ackermann Jakob , Sheehy Emily , Gomoll Andreas H.
Published: October 2020

Objective

We sought to determine whether rates of postoperative arthrofibrosis following tibial tuberosity osteotomy (TTO) with complete mobilization of the fragment (TTO-HD) are comparable to TTOs where the hinge remained intact (TTO-HI).

Design

Patients who underwent TTO with concomitant cartilage repair procedure between January 2007 and May 2017, with at least 2 years of follow-up were included in this study. Postoperative reinterventions following TTO-HD and TTO-HI were assessed and multivariant logistic regression models were used to identify whether postoperative reinterventions can be attributed to either technique when controlled for defect size or defect number.

Results

A total of 127 patients (TTO-HD, n = 80; TTO-HI, n = 47) were included in this study. Significantly more patients in the TTO-HD group (31.2%) developed postoperative arthrofibrosis compared with TTO-HI (6.4%; P < 0.05). Multivariant logistic regression revealed that TTO-HD is an independent risk factor for predicting postoperative arthrofibrosis (OR 6.5, CI = 1.7-24.2, P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Patients who underwent TTO with distal hinge detachment and a proximally flipped tubercle for better exposure during concomitant cartilage repair were at a significantly higher risk of postoperative arthrofibrosis than patients with similar size and number of defects treated without mobilization of the tubercle. While certain procedures can benefit from larger exposure, surgeons should be aware of the increased risk of postoperative arthrofibrosis.

Level of Evidence

Level III, case-control study.