bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Intra-articular injection of monoiodoacetate induces diverse hip osteoarthritis in rats, depending on its dose
Authors: Yoh Satoshi , Kawarai Yuya , Hagiwara Shigeo , Orita Sumihisa , Nakamura Junichi , Miyamoto Shuichi , Suzuki Takane , Akazawa Tsutomu , Shiko Yuki , Kawasaki Yohei , Ohtori Seiji
Published: May 2022

Background

Monoiodoacetate (MIA)-induced arthritis models are used widely in osteoarthritis (OA) research to develop effective conservative treatments for hip OA, as an alternative to joint replacement surgery. In joint OA models, such as the MIA-induced knee OA model, various doses of MIA are utilized, depending on the purpose of the research. So far, only 2 mg of MIA has been used for MIA-induced hip OA research. We hypothesized that the amount of MIA should be adjusted according to the osteoarthritis model under investigation. We performed radiographic and histological evaluations in rats for hip OA models induced by different doses of MIA.

Methods

One hundred and eighty right hips of six-week-old, male Sprague–Dawley rats (n = 30 rats per group) were treated with either a single intra-articular injection of various doses of MIA (0.25, 0.5, 1.0, 2.0, and 4.0 mg) dissolved in 25 μl of sterile saline (MIA group), or with 25 μl of sterile saline alone (Sham group). Radiographic and histological evaluations of the hip joint were performed at one, two, four, eight, and 12 weeks after administration (n = 6 rats per group per time point).

Results

OA changes progressed from 1 week after administration in the 1.0-mg, 2.0-mg, and 4.0-mg MIA groups. The degree of OA changes increased as the dose of MIA increased. The 0.25-mg and 0.5-mg MIA groups presented fewer OA changes than the 2.0-mg and 4.0-mg MIA groups during the entire study period (up to 12 weeks). The administration of 0.25 mg and 0.5 mg of MIA-induced both radiographic and histological OA changes in a time-dependent manner, whereas more than 2 mg of MIA provoked end-stage OA at 8 weeks after injection. Absolute, dose-dependent histopathological OA changes were observed 4 weeks after MIA administration.

Conclusions

Intra-articular MIA injection to the hip joints of rats induced diverse OA changes dose-dependently. Research for developing novel conservative treatments for hip OA and intractable pain should consider the pathological condition when determining the dose of MIA to be employed.
Comparison of biological and mechanical properties of different paranasal sinus mucosa in goat
Authors: Fang Xinyu , Mi Cai , Wang Yingdi , Sun Yidan , Nie Jia , Tang Haoning , Liu Yajing , Li Yanfeng , Wang Jing , Ma Zheng , Han Yishi
Published: May 2022

Objective

The present study was designed to explore endurable pressure intensity of different paranasal sinus mucosa in goats.

Method

Mucosa commonly involved in maxillary sinus augmentation, including mucosa from maxillary sinus crest, maxillary sinus floor, and frontal sinus, were harvested in a computed tomography-guided manner. The obtained mucosa was then sectioned into square and irregular ones for maximum endurable pressure intensity determination and morphological observation, respectively.

Results

Thickness of paranasal sinus mucosa, as determined under morphological staining by an optical microscope with a graduated eyepiece, were calculated. And the results showed that the average thickness of maxillary sinus crest mucosa, floor mucosa, and frontal sinus mucosa in goats were 410.03 ± 65.97 μm, 461.33 ± 91.37 μm and 216.90 ± 46.47 μm, respectively. Significant differences between maxillary sinus crest and frontal sinus, maxillary sinus floor, and frontal sinus were observed (P < 0.05). Maximum endurable pressure intensity was determined by utilizing a self-made clamp device and the results revealed maximum endurable pressure intensity of maxillary sinus crest mucosa, floor mucosa and frontal sinus mucosa in goats were 260.08 ± 80.12Kpa, 306.90 ± 94.37Kpa and 121.72 ± 31.72Kpa, respectively. Also, a statistically significant difference was observed when comparing the endurable pressure intensity between maxillary sinus crest and frontal sinus, maxillary sinus floor, and frontal sinus (P < 0.05). Further correlation analysis also revealed a positive correlation between the thickness of mucosa of the maxillary sinus and frontal sinus and maximum endurable pressure intensity (P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Mucosal thickness and maximum endurable pressure intensity of maxillary sinus crest and floor were larger than that of frontal sinus mucosa and a positive correlation between the thickness of mucosa and endurable pressure intensity was observed. Our results thus might provide an experimental basis and guidance for mucosa-related problems involved maxillary sinus augmentation.
Effects of developing scenario learning in a fundamental nursing course: a pilot study
Authors: Baek Kyoung-Hwa , Cho Jeong-Hwa , Park Jongmin
Published: May 2022

Background

This pilot study aimed to investigate the effects of developing scenario learning (DSL) on team efficacy, systems thinking, and proactivity in problem-solving in a fundamental nursing course.

Methods

A total of 53 second-year nursing students were enrolled in the study; the DSL nursing education program was implemented for 15 weeks from March 4 to June 17, 2021. Data on team efficacy, systems thinking, and proactivity in problem-solving were measured before and after the DSL-based nursing education program. The collected data were analyzed using the IBM SPSS Statistics version 22.0.

Results

The results demonstrated that nursing students’ team efficacy (t = − 8.228, p < .001, Cohen’s d = 1.079), systems thinking (t = − 9.757, p < .001, Cohen’s d = .731), and proactivity in problem-solving (t = − 8.635, p < .001, Cohen’s d = .992) significantly increased after the program.

Conclusions

The findings of this study can contribute to the development of nursing competency in nursing students without experience in nursing practicum. The authors recommend incorporating DSL in the nursing curriculum to promote early adaptation in clinical settings.
Clinical and molecular findings in a Chinese family with a de novo mitochondrial A1555G mutation
Authors: Gu Ping , Wang Guojian , Gao Xue , Kang Dongyang , Dai Pu , Huang Shasha
Published: May 2022

Background

The mitochondrial 12S rRNA A1555G mutation is the most prevalent deafness-causing mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) mutation and is inherited maternally. Studies have suggested that A1555G mutations have multiple origins, although there is no direct evidence of this. Here, we identified a family with a de novo A1555G mutation.

Method

Based on detailed mtDNA analyses of the family members using next-generation sequencing with 1% sensitivity to mutated mtDNA, the level of heteroplasmy in terms of the A1555G mutation in blood DNA samples was quantified.

Results

An individual harbored a heterogeneous A1555G mutation, at 28.68% heteroplasmy. The individual’s son was also a heterogeneous carrier, with 7.25% heteroplasmy. The individual’s brother and mother did not carry the A1555G mutation, and both had less than 1% mitochondrial 12S rRNA A1555G heteroplasmy.

Conclusion

The A1555G mutation arose de novo in this family. This is the first report of a family with a de novo A1555G mutation, providing direct evidence of its multipoint origin. This is important for both diagnostic investigations and genetic counselling.
Factors associated with viral suppression and rebound among adult HIV patients on treatment: a retrospective study in Ghana
Authors: Opoku Stephen , Sakyi Samuel Asamoah , Ayisi-Boateng Nana Kwame , Enimil Anthony Kwame , Senu Ebenezer , Ansah Richard Owusu , Aning Bismark Dankwah , Ojuang Diana Atsieno , Wekesa Doreen Nafula , Ahmed Fatima Osman , Okeke Chidinma B. , Sarfo Ama Darkoaa
Published: May 2022

Background

Viral suppression remains the most desired outcome in the management of patients with Human Immunodeficiency Virus/Acquired Immune Deficiency Syndrome (HIV/AIDS) and this can be achieved by an effective Antiretroviral Therapy (ART). However, some patients who achieve viral suppression may experience viral rebound with dire consequence. We evaluated viral suppression and rebound and their associated factors among adult patients on ART in Kumasi, Ghana.

Methods

This hospital-based retrospective study was conducted at the Komfo Anokye Teaching Hospital in Ghana. We reviewed the medical records of 720 HIV patients on ART. Statistical analyses were performed using SPSS Version 26.0 and GraphPad prism version 8.0. p < 0.05 was considered statistically significant.

Results

Proportions of patients with viral suppression and viral rebound were 76.1% and 21.0% respectively. Being diagnosed at WHO stage I [aOR = 11.40, 95% CI (3.54–36.74), p < 0.0001], having good adherence to ART [aOR = 5.09, 95% CI (2.67–9.73), p < 0.0001], taking Nevirapine-based regimen [aOR = 4.66, 95% CI (1.20–18.04), p = 0.0260] and increasing duration of treatment (p < 0.0001) were independently associated with higher odds of viral suppression. However, being diagnosed at WHO stage II (aOR = 7.39, 95% CI 2.67–20.51; p < 0.0001) and stage III (aOR = 8.62, 95% CI 3.16–23.50; p < 0.0001), having poor adherence (aOR = 175.48, 95% CI 44.30–695.07; p < 0.0001), recording baseline suppression value of 20–49 copies/mL (aOR = 6.43, 95% CI 2.72–15.17; p < 0.0001) and being treated with Zidovudine/Lamivudine/Efavirenz (aOR = 6.49, 95% CI 1.85–22.79; p = 0.004) and Zidovudine/Lamivudine/Nevirapine (aOR = 18.68, 95% CI 1.58–220.90; p = 0.02) were independently associated with higher odds of viral rebound.

Conclusion

Approximately 76% viral suppression rate among HIV patients on ART in Kumasi falls below the WHO 95% target by the year 2030. Choice of ART combination, drug adherence, WHO clinical staging and baseline viral load are factors associated with suppression or rebound. These clinical characteristics of HIV patients must be monitored concurrently with the viral load.
Trends in burnout and psychological distress in hospital staff over 12 months of the COVID-19 pandemic: a prospective longitudinal survey
Authors: Maunder Robert G. , Heeney Natalie D. , Hunter Jonathan J. , Strudwick Gillian , Jeffs Lianne P. , Ginty Leanne , Johnstone Jennie , Kiss Alex , Loftus Carla A. , Wiesenfeld Lesley A.
Published: May 2022

Background

The mental health effects of healthcare work during the COVID-19 pandemic have been substantial, but it is not known how long they will persist. This study aimed to determine if hospital workers’ burnout and psychological distress increased monotonically over 1 year, during which waves of case numbers and hospitalizations waxed and waned, or followed some other pattern.

Methods

A prospective longitudinal survey was conducted at four time-points over 1 year in a cohort of 538 hospital workers and learners, which included validated measures of burnout (emotional exhaustion scale of Maslach Burnout Inventory) and psychological distress (K6). Repeated measures ANOVA tested changes over time and differences between subjects by occupational role, age and ethnic group. The direction and magnitude of changes over time were investigated by plotting rates of high scores (using cut-offs) at each time-point compared to case rates of COVID-19 in the city in which the study took place.

Results

There were significant effects of occupational role (F = 11.2, p < .001) and age (F = 12.8, p < .001) on emotional exhaustion. The rate of high burnout was highest in nurses, followed by other healthcare professionals, other clinical staff, and lowest in non-clinical staff. Peak rates of high burnout occurred at the second or third measurement point for each occupational group, with lower rates at the fourth measurement point. Similarly to the results for emotional exhaustion, rates of high psychological distress peaked at the spring 2021 measurement point for most occupational groups and were higher in nurses than in other healthcare professionals.

Conclusions

Neither emotional exhaustion nor psychological distress was rising monotonically. Burnout and psychological distress were consistently related to occupational role and were highest in nurses. Although emotional exhaustion improved as the case rate of COVID-19 decreased, rates of high emotional exhaustion in nurses and other healthcare professionals remained higher than was typically measured in hospital-based healthcare workers prior to the pandemic. Ongoing monitoring of healthcare workers’ mental health is warranted. Organizational and individual interventions to support healthcare workers continue to be important.
Australian guideline on wound healing interventions to enhance healing of foot ulcers: part of the 2021 Australian evidence‐based guidelines for diabetes‐related foot disease
Authors: Chen Pamela , Carville Keryln , Swanson Terry , Lazzarini Peter A. , Charles James , Cheney Jane , Prentice Jenny ,   Australian Diabetes‐related Foot Disease Guidelines & Pathways Project
Published: May 2022

Background

Diabetes‐related foot ulceration (DFU) has a substantial burden on both individuals and healthcare systems both globally and in Australia. There is a pressing need for updated guidelines on wound healing interventions to improve outcomes for people living with DFU. A national expert panel was convened to develop new Australian evidence‐based guidelines on wound healing interventions for people with DFU by adapting suitable international guidelines to the Australian context.

Methods

The panel followed National Health and Medical Research Council (NHMRC) procedures to adapt suitable international guidelines by the International Working Group of the Diabetic Foot (IWGDF) to the Australian context. The panel systematically screened, assessed and judged all IWGDF wound healing recommendations using ADAPTE and GRADE frameworks for adapting guidelines to decide which recommendations should be adopted, adapted or excluded in the Australian context. Each recommendation had their wording, quality of evidence, and strength of recommendation re‐evaluated, plus rationale, justifications and implementation considerations provided for the Australian context. This guideline underwent public consultation, further revision and approval by ten national peak bodies.

Results

Thirteen IWGDF wound healing recommendations were evaluated in this process. After screening, nine recommendations were adopted and four were adapted after full assessment. Two recommendations had their strength of recommendations downgraded, one intervention was not currently approved for use in Australia, one intervention specified the need to obtain informed consent to be acceptable in Australia, and another was reworded to clarify best standard of care. Overall, five wound healing interventions have been recommended as having the evidence‐based potential to improve wound healing in specific types of DFU when used in conjunction with other best standards of DFU care, including sucrose‐octasulfate impregnated dressing, systemic hyperbaric oxygen therapy, negative pressure wound therapy, placental‐derived products, and the autologous combined leucocyte, platelet and fibrin dressing. The six new guidelines and the full protocol can be found at: https://diabetesfeetaustralia.org/new‐guidelines/

Conclusions

The IWGDF guideline for wound healing interventions has been adapted to suit the Australian context, and in particular for geographically remote and Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander people. This new national wound healing guideline, endorsed by ten national peak bodies, also highlights important considerations for implementation, monitoring, and future research priorities in Australia.
The effects of custom-made foot orthoses on foot pain, foot function, gait function, and free-living walking activities in people with psoriatic arthritis (PsA): a pre-experimental trial
Authors: Walha Roua , Dagenais Pierre , Gaudreault Nathaly , Beaudoin-Côté Gabriel , Boissy Patrick
Published: May 2022

Introduction

Foot involvement is a significant concern in psoriatic arthritis (PsA) as it can lead to severe levels of foot pain and disability and reduced mobility and quality of life. Previous studies have shown moderate efficacy for custom-made foot orthoses (CFO) in reducing foot pain and disability in people with rheumatoid arthritis. However, evidence on the efficacy of CFO in people with PsA is lacking.

Objectives

To explore the effects of CFO on foot function, foot and lower limb pain, gait function, and free-living walking activities (FWA) in people with PsA.

Methods

A pre-experimental study including twenty participants with PsA (mean age: 54.10 ± 9.06 years and disease duration: 11.53 ± 10.22 years) was carried out. All the participants received and wore CFO for 7 weeks. Foot and lower limb pain and foot function were measured before and after the intervention using the numerical rating scale (NRS) and the foot function index (FFI). Gait function was assessed by recording spatiotemporal parameters (STPs) during a 10-m walk test using an instrumented gait analysis system (Mobility Lab). Free-living walking activities (step count, free-living cadence, time spent in different ambulatory physical activities (APA)) were recorded over 7 days using an accelerometer-instrumented sock.

Results

The FFI reported scores demonstrated severe baseline levels of foot pain (54.46 ± 14.58 %) and disability (46.65 ± 16.14%). Statistically and clinically significant improvements in foot pain and foot function and large effect sizes (Cohen’s effect size > 1, p < 0.005) were observed after the intervention period. A strong correlation (r = −0.64, p < 0.01) between the CFO wearing time and foot function was demonstrated. However, no significant changes were found for gait STP or free-living walking activities after 7 weeks of CFO use.

Conclusion

Results support the clinical and biomechanical plausibility of using CFO in people with PsA to reduce pain and improve foot function. Large-scale and controlled studies are needed to confirm these findings. Moreover, a multidisciplinary approach including the prescription of exercise therapy and physiotherapy combined with CFO could be required to improve STP and promote APA in people with PsA.

Trial registration

ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT05075343. Retrospectively registered on September 29, 2021
Accuracy and tolerability of self-sampling of capillary blood for analysis of inflammation and autoantibodies in rheumatoid arthritis patients—results from a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Knitza Johannes , Tascilar Koray , Vuillerme Nicolas , Eimer Ekaterina , Matusewicz Paul , Corte Giulia , Schuster Louis , Aubourg Timothée , Bendzuck Gerlinde , Korinth Marianne , Elling-Audersch Corinna , Kleyer Arnd , Boeltz Sebastian , Hueber Axel J. , Krönke Gerhard , Schett Georg , Simon David
Published: May 2022

Background

Rheumatoid arthritis (RA) requires early diagnosis and tight surveillance of disease activity. Remote self-collection of blood for the analysis of inflammation markers and autoantibodies could improve the monitoring of RA and facilitate the identification of individuals at-risk for RA.

Objective

Randomized, controlled trial to evaluate the accuracy, feasibility, and acceptability of an upper arm self-sampling device (UA) and finger prick-test (FP) to measure capillary blood from RA patients for C-reactive protein (CRP) levels and the presence of IgM rheumatoid factor (RF IgM) and anti-cyclic citrullinated protein antibodies (anti-CCP IgG).

Methods

RA patients were randomly assigned in a 1:1 ratio to self-collection of capillary blood via UA or FP. Venous blood sampling (VBS) was performed as a gold standard in both groups to assess the concordance of CRP levels as well as RF IgM and CCP IgG. General acceptability and pain during sampling were measured and compared between UA, FP, and VBS. The number of attempts for successful sampling, requests for assistance, volume, and duration of sample collection were also assessed.

Results

Fifty seropositive RA patients were included. 49/50 (98%) patients were able to successfully collect capillary blood. The overall agreement between capillary and venous analyses for CRP (0.992), CCP IgG (0.984), and RF IgM (0.994) were good. In both groups, 4/25 (16%) needed a second attempt and 8/25 (32%) in the UA and 7/25 (28%) in the FP group requested assistance. Mean pain scores for capillary self-sampling (1.7/10 ± 1.1 (UA) and 1.9/10 ± 1.9 (FP)) were significantly lower on a numeric rating scale compared to venous blood collection (UA: 2.8/10 ± 1.7; FP: 2.1 ± 2.0) (p=0.003). UA patients were more likely to promote the use of capillary blood sampling (net promoter score: +28% vs. −20% for FP) and were more willing to perform blood collection at home (60% vs. 32% for FP).

Conclusions

These data show that self-sampling is accurate and feasible within one attempt by the majority of patients without assistance, allowing tight monitoring of RA disease activity as well as identifying individuals at-risk for RA. RA patients seem to prefer upper arm-based self-sampling to traditional finger pricking.

Trial registration

DRKS.de Identifier: DRKS00023526. Registered on November 6, 2020.
Patterns of weight cycling in youth Olympic combat sports: a systematic review
Authors: Lakicevic Nemanja , Matthews Joseph J. , Artioli Guilherme G. , Paoli Antonio , Roklicer Roberto , Trivic Tatjana , Bianco Antonino , Drid Patrik
Published: May 2022

Background

Patterns of weight cycling in adult combat sports have been extensively studied, yet data on this matter in youth combat athletes is rather scarce.

Methods

PubMed, EBSCOhost and Web of Science were used to retrieve relevant data. Eligible studies had to record the methods used to elicit rapid weight loss (RWL) and/or record the oscillations in bodyweight during the RWL phase. Only studies conducted in the context of an official competition were considered for inclusion in the present review.

Results

RWL is highly prevalent in children and adolescent combat athletes, ranging from 25 to 94% depending on the type of combat sport, age and level of competition. These athletes regularly prompt RWL by increasing exercise frequency and intensity, decreasing fluid and food intake, training in impermeable suits and using sauna frequently. Overall, the magnitude of RWL was ranging from ~ 1% to 6.3 ± 3.7% with significant RWL variations within individual studies and individuals within those studies.

Conclusion

Acquired data indicated that RWL patterns in young combat athletes are similar to those found in their adult counterparts. Knowing that childhood and adolescence are critical periods for growth and development, RWL needs to be stringently regulated and ideally banned in this population.
Comparing emotional working memory in adolescents and young adults with and without depressive symptoms: developmental and psychopathological differences
Authors: Royuela-Colomer Estíbaliz , Wante Laura , Orue Izaskun , Braet Caroline , Mueller Sven C.
Published: May 2022

Depressive symptoms are associated with working memory impairments. Yet, comparative studies examining working memory across the developmental spectrum in depressed and non depressed cohorts are lacking. This study examined emotional working memory in 74 adolescents (mean age = 14; 21 with depressive symptoms) and 92 adults (mean age = 22; 36 with depressive symptoms). Participants completed two versions of an emotional face n-back task, and either paid attention to the valence of the emotion or the gender. Both tasks were completed at low load (0-back) and high load (2-back). In the high load condition, healthy adolescents showed a bias towards positive faces, both speeding up reaction times (RTs) when emotion was task relevant but slowing RTs when they were task irrelevant. This interaction was neither significant in adolescents with depressive symptoms nor in young adults. Depressive symptoms did not influence RTs in low load. The results indicate that adolescents with depressive symptoms might lack the bias towards positive affective material at high load WM task present in healthy adolescents.
The role of plants and fibres in modelling monumental terracruda sculptures of the Silk Roads: archaeobotanical analyses from the Buddhists sites of Tepe-Narenj and Qol-e-tut (Kabul, Afghanistan)
Authors: López-Prat Mònica , Lancelotti Carla , Campo-Francés Gema , Ray Bandyopadhyay Sudipa , Carrascosa Begoña , Noori Noor Agha , Pecci Alessandra , Simón-Cortés José , Miriello Domenico
Published: May 2022

This work presents the results of archaeobotanical examinations of fragments of monumental terracruda sculptures from the Buddhist sites of Tepe Narenj and Qol-e-tut (Kabul, Afghanistan—5th to eleventh centuries CE). The results indicate that different plants and parts of plants were intentionally added to the clay mixtures. In particular, we identified an extensive presence of bast fibres, which were not evidenced by macroscopic examinations and previous analyses. Among the fibres, we highlight the presence of ramie/nettle, whose use has been identified for the first time in this type of artworks. The determination of these herbaceous additives offer a new perspective for studying the manufacturing technique, as well as an anchor point to follow this tradition along the Silk Roads. It also provides relevant information that should be taken into account in the design of conservative interventions adapted to the specific nature of this heritage.
Percutaneous closure of accidentally subclavian artery catheterization: time to change first line approach?
Authors: Discalzi Andrea , Maglia Claudio , Ciferri Fernanda , Mancini Andrea , Gibello Lorenzo , Calandri Marco , Varetto Gianfranco , Fonio Paolo
Published: May 2022

Purpose

To present our experience and provide a literature review dissertation about the use of a suture-mediated percutaneous closure device (Perclose Proglide -PP- Abbott Vascular Inc., Santa Clara, CA, USA) to achieve hemostasis for unintended subclavian arterial catheterization during central venous line placement.

Materials & methods

Since October 2020, we have successfully treated four consecutive patients with a central venous catheter (8 to 12 French) in the subclavian artery. In each patient, we released a PP, monitoring its efficacy by performing a subclavian angiogram and placing, as a rescue strategy, an 8 mm balloon catheter near the entry point of the misplaced catheter. Primary outcome is technical and clinical success. Technical success is defined as absence of bleeding signs at completion angiography, while clinical success is a composite endpoint defined as absence of hematoma, hemoglobin loss at 12 and 24 h, and absence of procedure-related reintervention (due to vessel stenosis, pseudoaneurysm or distal embolization).

Results

Technical success was obtained in 75% of cases. In one patient a mild extravasation was resolved after 3 min of balloon catheter inflation. No early complications were observed for all patients.

Conclusions

PP showed a safe and effective therapeutic option in case of unintentional arterial cannulation. It can be considered as first-line strategy, as it does not preclude the possibility to use other endovascular approaches in case of vascular closure device failure.
Nigerian physiotherapists’ perception of physiotherapy internship: perceived expectations, experience, and outcomes
Authors: Akinpelu Aderonke O. , Oyewole Olufemi O. , Okunade Oluwagbemiga , Odunaiya Nse , Odole Adesola C. , Bamgboye Eniola A.
Published: May 2022

Background

Physiotherapy internship in Nigeria was inaugurated in 1994 to allow continuous learning in the clinical setting, connecting theoretical knowledge and workplace practice. The internship program has not been evaluated over the years. The aim of study was to assess physiotherapists’ perceptions of the internship in Nigeria in terms of expectations, experiences, and outcomes.

Methods

A mixed method design of a cross-sectional survey and focus group discussion (FGD) was utilized. An adapted questionnaire was used for the survey. Data was assessed using descriptive statistics and content thematic analysis.

Results

The mean age of the physiotherapists who participated in the survey (147 males; 116 females) and FGD (7 males; 2 females) were 27.4 ± 2.5 and 28.8 ± 2.3 years, respectively. Most participants in the survey perceived their internship experience as good (97.7%), the supervision received as adequate (76%), and the outcomes of internship in terms of usefulness as useful (76%). The overall perception of physiotherapy internship in Nigeria was rated as good by 51% and fair by 47% of participants. However, responders in the FGD reported negative experiences including inadequate or lack supervision. They also reported that they were not formally prepared for internship by their training institutions or receiving health institutions before beginning internship.

Conclusion

Physiotherapy internship in Nigeria was perceived as deficient in structural organization and supervision of the interns. The outcome of internship program was perceived as good even though the experiences were negative.
The 3D conical Radon transform for seismic signal processing
Authors: Sun Wenzhi , Li Zhenchun , Qu Yingming
Published: May 2022

Recently, the attenuation of highly aliased broadband surface waves has received significant attention as their high-frequency and low-speed components render f- k x- k y filters ineffective. As a popular tool widely used in seismic signal processing, the 3D linear Radon ([Formula: see text]) transform does not match the surface wave events in the time domain. This leads to the dispersal of energy over ellipses on the zero-intercept slice, whereas the reflected events over the ellipses are reflected on each intercept slice of the 3D linear Radon transform (LRT) domain, decreasing the resolution in slowness. We have introduced a new type of Radon transform defined on circular cones called 3D conical Radon transform (CRT) for seismic signal processing. Unlike LRT, the CRT maps seismic data to surface integrals on circular cones in the 3D seismic records. Consequently, surface wave events are focused as points on the zero-intercept slice, whereas the reflected events are points on each intercept slice of the CRT domain, which significantly improves the resolution in slowness compared with the LRT. We determine the performance of the CRT for seismic signal processing for random noise attenuation, primary and multiple separations, and surface wave attenuation. Based on a comparison with the LRT, synthetic data and field data sets validate the effectiveness of the CRT method at improving the focusing properties.
Target-oriented high-resolution elastic full-waveform inversion with an elastic redatuming method
Authors: Li Yuanyuan , Alkhalifah Tariq
Published: May 2022

Characterizing the elastic properties in deep-buried reservoirs beneath complex overburden structures remains challenging for seismic inversion. Elastic full-waveform inversion (FWI) is capable of quantitatively estimating the subsurface elastic properties with a reasonably high resolution. However, elastic FWI using high frequencies is computationally expensive because fine discretization is required to stabilize the wavefield simulation. In addition, it is challenging for elastic FWI to obtain the high-resolution inversion results of the deep targets due to complex overburden structures and limited energy illumination of the target of interest. To overcome these limitations, we propose a target-oriented high-resolution elastic FWI scheme by using the estimated elastic data for a virtual survey deployed only above a zone of interest. Specifically, we have developed an elastic redatuming approach to retrieve virtual elastic data by solving an iterative least-squares data-fitting problem. In addition to the elastic multicomponent data recorded at the acquisition surface, an estimate of the overburden model is required. A synthetic data example indicates that an overburden model estimated by elastic FWI with a low-frequency band enables our elastic redatuming approach to reconstruct the virtual elastic data representing the seismic reflection response from the target zone. We then perform regularized elastic FWI by using the redatumed elastic data to estimate the elastic properties in the target zone with reduced computational cost. In the numerical examples, the Marmousi2 synthetic data and 2D Volve field data are used to demonstrate the feasibility and practicality of the proposed method.
Diffraction separation using structure-oriented orthogonal polynomial transform
Authors: Li Chuangjian , Peng Suping , Cui Xiaoqin , Lin Peng
Published: May 2022

Diffractions possess the potential to reveal subsurface discontinuities, such as faults, collapsed columns, and the rough edges of the salt body. We have developed a novel diffraction separation method that first flattens the dominant reflections and then identifies the diffraction wavefields through an orthogonal polynomial transform (OPT). Based on the plane-wave assumption and local slope, the reflection events can be predicted and flattened using plane-wave differential equations. To enhance the stability of the flattening process, a sliding window algorithm and three finite-difference forms are adopted. As the dominant coherent event, a reflection often corresponds to low-order coefficients in the OPT. To better preserve the diffraction energy, a time-varying order threshold is used when removing the dominant reflections. Two field data applications are presented to demonstrate the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed diffraction separation strategy.
Antisense modulation of IL7R splicing to control sIL7R expression in human CD4+T cells
Authors: Galarza-Muñoz Gaddiel , Kennedy-Boone Debbie , Schott Geraldine , Bradrick Shelton S. , Garcia-Blanco Mariano A.
Published: May 2022

The interleukin 7 receptor (IL7R) is strongly associated with increased risk to develop multiple sclerosis (MS), an autoimmune disease of the central nervous system, and this association is likely driven by up-regulation of the soluble isoform of IL7R (sIL7R). Expression of sIL7R is determined by exclusion of the alternative exon 6 from IL7R transcripts, and our previous work revealed that the MS risk allele of the SNP rs6897932 within this exon enhances the expression of sIL7R by promoting exclusion of exon 6. sIL7R potentiates the activity of IL7, leading to enhanced expansion of T cells and increased disability in the experimental autoimmune encephalomyelitis (EAE) murine model of MS. This role in modulating T cell-driven immunity positions sIL7R as an attractive therapeutic target whose expression could be reduced for treatment of MS or increased for treatment of cancers. In this study, we identified novel antisense oligonucleotides (ASOs) that effectively control the inclusion (anti-sIL7R ASOs) or exclusion (pro-sIL7R ASOs) of this exon in a dose-dependent fashion. These ASOs provided excellent control of exon 6 splicing and sIL7R secretion in human primary CD4+T cells. Supporting their potential for therapeutic targeting, we showed that lead anti-sIL7R ASOs correct the enhanced exon 6 exclusion imposed by the MS risk allele of rs6897932, whereas lead pro-sIL7R ASOs phenocopy it. The data presented here form the foundation for future preclinical studies that will test the therapeutic potential of these ASOs in MS and immuno-oncology.
Μετα-ανάλυση της σχέσης μεταξύ της αυτεπάρκειας των εκπαιδευτικών και της επαγγελματικής ικανοποίησης
Authors: Κατσαντώνης Ιωάννης , Κατσαντώνης Αργύριος
Published: May 2022

Η αυτεπάρκεια αποτελεί σημαντικό παράγοντα που συμβάλλει στην ενίσχυση της επαγγελματικής ικανοποίησης και γενικότερα, της ψυχικής υγείας των εκπαιδευτικών. Επομένως, σκοπός της παρούσας έρευνας είναι να διαπιστώσει τη γενικευσιμότητα και το μέγεθος της σχέσης της αυτεπάρκειας με την επαγγελματική ικανοποίηση των εκπαιδευτικών. 49 συντελεστές συσχέτισης συλλέχθηκαν από 45 εμπειρικές μελέτες (δείγμα Ν=28573 εκπαιδευτικοί) και μετα-αναλύθηκαν. Τα αποτελέσματα της μετα-ανάλυσης τυχαίων επιδράσεων έδειξαν πως η μέση συσχέτιση μεταξύ αυτεπάρκειας και επαγγελματικής ικανοποίησης είναι μέτρια (μ=.37) και στατιστικώς σημαντική. Επιπλέον, η ανάλυση πολλαπλής μετα-παλινδρόμησης επεσήμανε πως το μέγεθος αυτής της συσχέτισης διαφέρει ανάλογα με την περιοχή προέλευσης του δείγματος, ανάλογα με το είδος δημοσίευσης της μελέτης και την εκπαιδευτική βαθμίδα, ενώ το πλήθος των ερωτημάτων, το έτος δημοσίευσης και το είδος του ερωτηματολογίου δεν διαφοροποιούν το μέγεθος της συσχέτισης. Συνοπτικά, τα ευρήματα της παρούσας μετα-αναλύσης μπορούν να φανούν ιδιαίτερα χρήσιμα για τη κατανόηση της φύσης της σχέσης μεταξύ της αυτεπάρκειας και της επαγγελματικής ικανοποίησης των εκπαιδευτικών μεταξύ κρατών.
Ensemble method for cluster number determination and algorithm selection in unsupervised learning
Authors: Zambelli Antoine
Published: May 2022

Unsupervised learning, and more specifically clustering, suffers from the need for expertise in the field to be of use. Researchers must make careful and informed decisions on which algorithm to use with which set of hyperparameters for a given dataset. Additionally, researchers may need to determine the number of clusters in the dataset, which is unfortunately itself an input to most clustering algorithms; all of this before embarking on their actual subject matter work. After quantifying the impact of algorithm and hyperparameter selection, we propose an ensemble clustering framework which can be leveraged with minimal input. It can be used to determine both the number of clusters in the dataset and a suitable choice of algorithm to use for a given dataset. A code library is included in the Conclusions for ease of integration.
Amiodarone versus beta-blockers for the prevention of postoperative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery: An updated systematic review and meta-analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Ardaya Radhyaksa , Pratita Jenni , Juliafina Nusaibah Nadia , Rahman Farhan Haidar Fazlur , Leonardo Kevin
Published: May 2022

Background: Amiodarone and beta-blockers are widely used as prophylaxis for postoperative atrial fibrillation (AF). The current recommendations from society guidelines are inconclusive, leading to differing practices among physicians. This meta-analysis aimed to compare the efficacy of both agents in preventing postoperative AF after cardiac surgery.

Methods: We explored online medical databases, such as CINAHL, CENTRAL, MEDLINE, and EMBASE for randomised controlled trials (RCTs) comparing amiodarone and beta-blocker for prevention of AF after cardiac surgery. Outcomes analysed in this study were AF number of events and duration, hospital stay, and mean ventricular rate. Heterogeneity was assessed using the I² test, and publication bias was analysed using Egger’s test. 

Results: In total, eight RCTs comprising 1370 patients met the inclusion criteria. Pooled analysis showed that patients in both groups had no significant difference in both AF episodes (RR 0.83, 95% CI 0.66 to 1.04, p=0.10) and AF duration (SMD 0.46, 95% CI -1.14 to 2.05, p=0.57). Furthermore, secondary outcome analysis on mean ventricular rate and mean hospital length of stay in both groups showed no significant difference (MD -4.48, 95% CI -14.36 to 5.39, p=0.37 and MD 0.29, 95% CI -0.06 to 0.63, p=0.11, respectively). 

Conclusions: Amiodarone and beta-blockers are equally effective in preventing postoperative atrial fibrillation after cardiac surgery, with no difference in AF episode and duration, mean ventricular rate, and hospital length of stay.
DDS: integrating data analytics transformations in task-based workflows
Authors: Mammadli Nihad , Ejarque Jorge , Alvarez Javier , Badia Rosa M.
Published: May 2022

High-performance data analytics (HPDA) is a current trend in e-science research that aims to integrate traditional HPC with recent data analytic frameworks. Most of the work done in this field has focused on improving data analytic frameworks by implementing their engines on top of HPC technologies such as Message Passing Interface. However, there is a lack of integration from an application development perspective. HPC workflows have their own parallel programming models, while data analytic (DA) algorithms are mainly implemented using data transformations and executed with frameworks like Spark. Task-based programming models (TBPMs) are a very efficient approach for implementing HPC workflows. Data analytic transformations can also be decomposed as a set of tasks and implemented with a task-based programming model.

In this paper, we present a methodology to develop HPDA applications on top of TBPMs that allow developers to combine HPC workflows and data analytic transformations seamlessly. A prototype of this approach has been implemented on top of the PyCOMPSs task-based programming model to validate two aspects: HPDA applications can be seamlessly developed and have better performance than Spark. We compare our results using different programs. Finally, we conclude with the idea of integrating DA into HPC applications and evaluation of our method against Spark.
A Four-Valued Logical Framework for Reasoning About Fiction
Authors: Peron Newton , Antunes Henrique
Published: May 2022

In view of the limitations of classical, free, and modal logics to deal with fictional names, we develop in this paper a four-valued logical framework that we see as a promising strategy for modeling contexts of reasoning in which those names occur. Specifically, we propose to evaluate statements in terms of factual and fictional truth values in such a way that, say, declaring ‘Socrates is a man’ to be true does not come down to the same thing as declaring ‘Sherlock Holmes is a man’ to be so. As a result, our framework is capable of representing reasoning involving fictional characters that avoids evaluating statements according to the same semantic standards. The framework encompasses two logics that differ according to alternative ways one may interpret the relationships among the factual and fictional truth values.
Teaching Integer Programming by Scheduling the Belgian Soccer League
Authors: Goossens Dries , Beliën Jeroen
Published: May 2022

This paper presents a didactic approach for teaching integer programming starting from a real-life case on scheduling the Belgian soccer league. We share our experiences as well as didactic resources for two teaching formats. The first format involves hands-on exercises and is more appropriate for small student groups (up to 40 students). The second format is an interactive lecture that focuses more on current research challenges and is better suited for large student groups. During the last decade, both formats have been used repeatedly with consistent, positive feedback from students. The combination of a hands-on, interactive approach that actively involves students with the particularities and experiences of solving a real-life case makes our approach unique and positively affects students’ attention.

History: This paper has been accepted for the INFORMS Transactions on Education Special Section on Cases Based on Real-World Projects from the INFORMS Journal on Applied Analytics.

Supplemental Material: The supplemental material is available at https://doi.org/10.1287/ited.2022.0269 . The spreadsheet exercises file and solution files are available at https://www.informs.org/Publications/Subscribe/Access-Restricted-Materials .
Evaluation of the impact of the MECSH programme in England: A mixed methods study
Authors: Kemp Lynn , Elcombe Emma , Sumpton Wendy , Hook Beulah , Cowley Sarah , Byrne Fiona
Published: May 2022

The Maternal Early Childhood Sustained Home-visiting (MECSH) programme is a proven, structured intervention from pregnancy or up to 8 weeks after the infant comes home until child age 2, delivered to universal partnership plus or targeted families on each health visitor's caseload. The aim of the study was to show how the MECSH programme, developed in Australia, impacts families in England. The study employed mixed methods including: client demographic data gathered by record audit; parent report data; health visitor focus group; and written testimonies from health visitors and clients. A small comparative study was conducted in one site. The programme reached a diverse range of families. Programme parent-reported measures met quality standards and were higher than in control sites. Health visitors and clients perceived multiple positive parent and child impacts. These positive results support the ongoing implementation of MECSH in England, and warrant further study in a population level trial.
Dynamic volumetric imaging and cilia beat mapping in the mouse male reproductive tract with optical coherence tomography
Authors: Umezu Kohei , Xia Tian , Larina Irina V.
Published: May 2022

Spermatozoa transport within the male reproductive tract is a highly dynamic and biologically important reproductive event. However, due to the lack of live volumetric imaging technologies and quantitative measurements, there is little information on the dynamic aspect and regulation of this process. Here, we presented ex vivo dynamic volumetric imaging of the mouse testis, efferent duct, epididymis, and vas deferens at a micro-scale spatial resolution with optical coherence tomography (OCT). Micro computed tomography imaging is presented as a reference for the proposed OCT imaging. Application of functional OCT analysis allowed for 3D mapping of the cilia beat frequency in the efferent duct, which volumetrically visualized the spatial distribution of the ciliated cells and corresponding ciliary activities. Potentially these analyses could be expanded to in vivo settings through intravital approach. In summary, this study demonstrated that OCT has a great potential to investigate the microstructure and dynamics, such as cilia beating, muscle contractions, and sperm transport, within the male reproductive tract.
Optimization of survivable filterless optical networks exploiting digital subcarrier multiplexing
Authors: Hosseini Mohammad Mohammad , Pedro João , Napoli Antonio , Costa Nelson , Prilepsky Jaroslaw E. , Turitsyn Sergei K.
Published: May 2022

In aggregation networks, the traffic patterns resemble hub-and-spoke characteristics, with a few hub nodes connecting several leaf nodes to the outside of the networks. The use of traditional point-to-point transceivers in these applications results in many low-capacity devices at the hub nodes. Optical transceivers leveraging digital subcarrier multiplexing (DSCM) have recently been proposed to support point-to-multipoint transmission in the optical domain, allowing the use of fewer high-capacity devices at these nodes, thus significantly reducing both capital expenditure and operational expenditure. A high-capacity signal comprising multiple subcarriers is transmitted/received at the hub node, while each leaf node has only to transmit/receive the subset of subcarriers that are intended for it, enabling optimization of the type of transceiver used at each node. Broadcasting the optical signal using an optical tree to reach the different leaf nodes, coupled with the possibility of supporting failure survivability, requires developing algorithms to jointly optimize transceiver deployment and the underlying optical trees. This work proposes a novel integer linear programming model for optimizing the design of resilient metro-aggregation networks using DSCM-based coherent transceivers. Results obtained over two realistic mesh networks show that transceiver expenditures can be reduced by a figure between 23% and 44%.