bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Online Exam Portal Using Machine Learning and Face Detection
Authors: Bamanikar Prof. A. A. , Patil Aniket , Singh Dheeraj , Kumbhar Mayuresh , Badhe Vaishnavi
Published: May 2023

Abstract: With the expansion of Internet and technology over the past decade, E-learning has grown exponentially day by day. Cheating in exams has been a widespread phenomenon all over the world regardless of the levels of development. Therefore, detection of traditional cheating methods may no longer be wholly successful to fully prevent cheating during examinations. Online examination is an integral and vital component of E-learning. Student’s exams in E- learning are remotely submitted without any monitoring from physical proctors. As a result of being able to easily cheat during e-exams, E-learning universities depend on an examination process in which students take a face-to-face examination in a physical place allocated at the institution premises under supervised conditions, however these conflicts with the concept of distant E-learning environment.
Designing an Efficient Master Data Management (MDM) using Cloud-based Solution
Authors: Vignesh
Published: May 2023

Abstract: Data is a valuable resource that is utilised as a deciding factor for the operations and demands of the organisation. The information is gathered from a number of different databases, rather than just one, in order to form a single cohesive whole. The occurrence of duplicate data in various forms, even when the data is the same, presents a challenge throughout the process. Issues that can be improved by the use of sound data governance. References and master information is one approach used in the management of data. This procedure may serve as the basis for developing master data management solutions on a cloud-based platform. The analysis and creation of new overall data management architectures are the main goals of this study. Consequently, provide a framework for master managing information tools for free software systems.
Facial Biometrics-Based Attendance Tracking System
Authors: C Dr. Devaraj Verma
Published: May 2023

Abstract: Facial attendance using face recognition and detection technology is a modern method of recording attendance based on facial features. This method is commonly used in automated attendance management systems and is efficient in tracking employee or student attendance without physical interaction. Face recognition has numerous applications such as security, surveillance, and human-computer interaction. This research aims to compare the performance of two popular face recognition techniques: HOG and KNN. The HOG algorithm extracts feature from an image using pixel intensity gradients while the KNN algorithm matches a test image with the most similar image in the training dataset. The study was conducted using the Labeled Faces in the Wild dataset available at https://vis-www.cs.umass.edu/lfw/. The results of the investigation show that the KNN algorithm outperforms the HOG algorithm in terms of accuracy. This research provides valuable insights into the effectiveness of different face recognition algorithms, helping researchers and developers choose the most suitable algorithm for their specific requirements.
Evaluation on Isolates of Lignochloritic Bacteria as Probiotics of Broilers
Authors: Prihartini Indah , Zalizar Lili
Published: May 2023

The research objective was to produce a product assembly and feed technology and natural additives to improve food quality and sustainable food security. The results of the first year obtained isolates of lactic acid bacteria and lignochloritic bacteria that have potential as probiotics for livestock, namely growth, high production, and enzyme activity. Isolates of lignochloritic bacteria grow well in the intestine, but lower in the gizzard and ventricles. Isolates as probiotics tend to increase feed intake, growth, the production of eggs, meat and egg protein but lower feed conversion, meat fat, and egg cholesterol.Key words: feed additive, food additive, probiotic, antibiotic, antioxidant
Pengaruh konsentrasi mimosa terhadap kadar lemak dan kekuatan tarik kulit kelinci samak
Authors: Prasannena Wisnu Teo
Published: May 2023

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui pengaruh konsentrasi mimosa terhadap kadar lemak dan kekuatan tarik kulit kelinci serta untuk mengetahui level konsentrasi bahan mimosa yang terbaik. Metode penelitian yang digunakan yaitu menggunakan Rancanagan Acak Lengkap (RAL), dengan perlakuan kosentrasi mimosa: 5%, 10%, 15%, 20%. Variabel yang diukur meliputi kadar lemak dan kuat tarik kulit kelinci samak. Hasil yang didapatkan dari pengaruh konsentrasi terhadap kadar lemak didapat nilai paling tinggi pada P1 (5%) 12,42% dan nilai terendah pada P4 (20%) 7,41%. Untuk hasil konsentrasi terhadap kekuatan tarik didapatkan nilai rata-rata paling rendah pada P1 (5%) 13,62% dan nilai tertinggi pada P4 (20%) 24,83. Kesimpulan untuk hasil penelitian ini, adalah semakin tinggi kadar mimosa yang diberikan akan menurukan kadar lemak pada kulit kelinci samak tetapi tidak berpengaruh terhadap kekuatan tarik.
Universal equilibration dynamics of the Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev model
Authors: Bandyopadhyay Soumik , Uhrich Philipp , Paviglianiti Alessio , Hauke Philipp
Published: May 2023

Equilibrium quantum many-body systems in the vicinity of phase transitions generically manifest universality. In contrast, limited knowledge has been gained on possible universal characteristics in the non-equilibrium evolution of systems in quantum critical phases. In this context, universality is generically attributed to the insensitivity of observables to the microscopic system parameters and initial conditions. Here, we present such a universal feature in the equilibration dynamics of the Sachdev-Ye-Kitaev (SYK) Hamiltonian – a paradigmatic system of disordered, all-to-all interacting fermions that has been designed as a phenomenological description of quantum critical regions. We drive the system far away from equilibrium by performing a global quench, and track how its ensemble average relaxes to a steady state. Employing state-of-the-art numerical simulations for the exact evolution, we reveal that the disorder-averaged evolution of few-body observables, including the quantum Fisher information and low-order moments of local operators, exhibit within numerical resolution a universal equilibration process. Under a straightforward rescaling, data that correspond to different initial states collapse onto a universal curve, which can be well approximated by a Gaussian throughout large parts of the evolution. To reveal the physics behind this process, we formulate a general theoretical framework based on the Novikov–Furutsu theorem. This framework extracts the disorder-averaged dynamics of a many-body system as an effective dissipative evolution, and can have applications beyond this work. The exact non-Markovian evolution of the SYK ensemble is very well captured by Bourret–Markov approximations, which contrary to common lore become justified thanks to the extreme chaoticity of the system, and universality is revealed in a spectral analysis of the corresponding Liouvillian.
‘IWADH SEBAGAI SYARAT SAH KHULU’ (Studi Analisis Keputusan Menteri Agama No. 411 Tahun 2000 Ditinjau Dari Teori Maslahah Mursalah)
Authors: Nurakmal Nurakmal , M. Yunus Saifullah
Published: May 2023

Khulu’ adalah perceraian dengan disertai sejumlah harta sebagai ‘iwadh (tebusan) yang diberikan oleh istri kepada suami untuk menebus diri agar terlepas dari ikatan perkawinan.‘iwadh adalah imbalan atau tebusan yang diberikan istri kepada suami untuk meminta khulu῾. Di Indonesia nominal uang ‘iwadh telah diatur dalam Keputusan Menteri Agama No. 411 Tahun 2000 tentang Penetapan Jumlah Uang 'iwadh dalam rangkaian sighat taklik talak bagi umat Islam sudah yang berjumlah Rp. 10.000 yang mana uang tersebuat diperuntukan untuk badan amil zakat bukan untuk suami. Apabila aturan ini dikaji dari segi hukum Islam maka dari segi jumlah dan juga sasaran dari ‘iwadh ini terdapat sebuah perbedaan yang signifikan. Adapun pertanyaan penelitian dalam skripsi ini adalah bagaimana hukum 'iwadh sebagai kompensasi khulu' menurut Maslahah Mursalah danapakah kepmenag No. 411 Tahun 2000 sesuai dengan teori Maslahah Mursalah. Dalam penelitian ini penulis menggunakan metode penelitian kualitatif dan pendekatan yuridis. Hasil dari penelitian ini menyimpulkan bahwa pertama, ulama sepakat yang bahwa ‘iwadh (tebusan) merupakan rukun yang tidak boleh ditinggalkan dalam khulu’, jika ditinjau dari segi maslahah mursalah maka baik dari pihak istri maupun dari pihak suami sama-sama mempunyai kemaslahatannya istri yang meminta cerai kepada suaminya dengan mengembalikan mahar kepada suaminya karena ia takut tidak dapat menjalankan kewajibannya sebagai seorang istri (nusyuz), maka bisa terlepas dari ikatan pernikahannya dan suami tidak merasa dirugikan karena memperoleh tebusan dari istri. Kedua, Keputusan Menteri Agama No. 411 Tahun 2000 tentang Penetapan Jumlah Uang 'iwadh dalam rangkaian sighat taklik talak bagi umat Islam termasuk maslahah mursalah karena jika aturan ini tidak diatur maka akan mengalami kesulitan bagi istri dan akan menimbulkan kesewenang-wenangan suami terhadap istri. Dalam aturan tersebut ‘iwadh akibat melanggar taklik talak diberikan kepada badan amil zakat bukan kepada suami.‘Iwadh dalam Islam harus diserahkan kepada suami.
A pauta jornalística como arma para combater preconceitos e opressões
Authors: Morais Larissa , Rocha Victor
Published: May 2023

Resenha do livro A pauta é uma arma de combate: subjetividade, prática reflexiva e posicionamento para superar um jornalismo que desumaniza, de Fabiana Moraes (2022).
Os múltiplos fluxos da imagem: o streaming e o audiovisual no cotidiano do século XXI
Authors: Freitas Cristiane , Koch Felipe , Rezende Ribeiro Renata
Published: May 2023

As imagens tocam o real. “O que vemos só vale – só vive – em nossos olhos pelo que nos toca”, afirma Didi-Huberman em O que vemos, o que nos olha (2005, p.29). Neste século XXI, de proliferação de imagens em telas difusas, como compreender a experiência que se produz e se partilha no cotidiano? Em um cenário em que a construção do dia a dia, do comum, atravessa as ambiências midiáticas, as operacionalidades de produção das imagens em fluxo contribuem para a transformação não apenas das formas de realização audiovisual, mas de sua circularidade e recepção. Na perspectiva da vida cotidiana midiatizada, a lógica do streaming e a demanda por imagens em fluxo tensionam diferentes dinâmicas, seja em relação a antigos formatos e/ou modelos, seja em relação ao mercado audiovisual e às expectativas/demandas dos usuários. Estes são as questões que balizam os artigos que constituem o Dossiê dessa edição e que apresentamos aqui, juntamente com os outros textos de mais essa publicação da RMC.
Tree nut and peanut allergy in a Portuguese pediatric cohort -- clinical characterization and anaphylaxis predictors
Authors: Brás Rita , Caldeira Leonor Esteves , Varandas Cláudia , Duarte Fátima Cabral , Costa Célia
Published: May 2023

Background: Tree nuts and peanuts (TN/P) are frequent causes of
anaphylaxis in children. Aim: to characterize a Portuguese pediatric
cohort with TN/P allergy and to assess skin tests (ST), specific IgE
(sIgE) and molecular components (mcIgE), as well as sIgE/total IgE
ratio’s utility in anaphylaxis prediction. Methods:
Retrospective study (2017-2021) of pediatric patients with TN/P allergy,
grouped according to reaction severity (anaphylaxis–G1 vs milder
reaction–G2). ST mean papule diameter (MPD), sIgE (ImmunoCAP®), mcIgE
(ISAC®) and sIgE/total IgE ratio were compared (SPSS®, p<0.05:
statistically significant). Results: 98 patients, 64% male,
88% concomitant allergic disorder, 40% allergy family history. Major
culprit nuts: peanut (63%), hazelnut (59%) and walnut (53%). Index
reaction manifestations were mostly cutaneous (46%), followed by
anaphylaxis (36%). Chestnut and cashew sensitizations were
significantly associated with anaphylaxis (OR=5.023, p=0.002; OR=2.901,
p=0.018). MPD was higher in G1 for almond, cashew and pistachio
(p<0.05). sIgE was not a good severity predictor for any TN/P,
however, a significantly higher value of sIgE/total IgE ratio was found
in G1 for walnut (p=0.023). mcIgE was obtained in 49%: peanut Ara h2
and Ara h6 were more represented in G1 (2.8 vs 0 ISU-E, p=0.042; 1.3 vs
0 ISU-E, p=0.020). Conclusion: Peanut, hazelnut and walnut were
the most frequent nuts. Anaphylaxis was the first manifestation in 36%,
significantly higher in chestnut and cashew allergic children. MPD
should be valued not only for diagnosis, but also for anaphylaxis risk
prediction in almond, cashew and pistachio allergic patients. sIgE/total
IgE ratio seems to be useful in anaphylaxis prediction.
Nucleic Acid-based Small Molecules as Targeted Transcription Therapeutics for Immunoregulation
Authors: Pandian Ganesh N. , Bai Dan , Ziadlou Reihane , Vaijayanthi Thangavel , Karthikeyan Subramani , Chinnathambi Shanmugavel , Parthasarathy Anutthaman , Cai Li , Brüggen Marie-Charlotte , Sugiyama Hiroshi
Published: May 2023

Transcription therapy is an emerging approach that centers on
identifying the factors associated with the malfunctioning gene
transcription machinery that causes diseases and controlling them with
designer agents. Until now, small molecule drugs targeting the
epigenetic enzymes and critical signaling pathways have been the primary
research focus in therapeutic gene modulation. However, nucleic
acid-based small molecules have gained popularity in recent years as
they could be pre-designed on demand to achieve operative control over
the dynamic transcription machinery that governs how the immune system
responds to diseases. Pyrrole-imidazole polyamides (PIPs) are
well-established DNA-based small molecule gene regulators that overcome
the limitations of their conventional counterparts owing to their
sequence-targeted specificity, versatile regulatory efficiency and
biocompatibility. Here, we emphasize the rational design of PIPs, their
functional mechanism and their potential as targeted transcription
therapeutics for diseases by regulating the immune response.
Furthermore, we also discuss the challenges and foresight of this
approach in personalized immunotherapy in precision medicine.
Role of macrophage cell in Lymphatic filariasis
Authors: Dhar Souvik , Dey Chiranjeeb
Published: May 2023

Lymphatic filariasis (LF) is a chronic, neglected nematode parasite that
infected filarial parasites. It is abundant in underprivileged
communities across the globe. It is belonging to the group of rare
neglected tropical diseases (NTD). After malaria, it is the leading
infectious disease. Causative organisms Wuchereria bancrofti,
Brugia malayi, and Brugia timori belong to the phylum
Nematode. It affects billions of people in India and several other
countries. They were asymptomatic, but now a day few symptoms have been
observed such as lymphedema, elephantiasis and hydrocele. This disease
shows close communication with humans by interacting with host immune
systems. They disrupt monocytes/macrophages, dendritic cells,
granulocytes, eosinophils, basophils, and Toll-like receptors. This
review demonstrated macrophage cells’ (mɸs) role and their therapeutic
approaches.
Can cellular tracers attenuate regeneration potential and wound healing ability of adipose derived stem cells?
Authors: Ostrovsky Olga , Morgan Andrew , Kelly Rebeca , Lou Johanna , Kooragayala Keshav , Sandilos Georgianna , Linden Kimberly , Zheng Andrew
Published: May 2023

As the field of stem cell-based therapies continues to evolve, the
ability to monitor the regenerative capacity of stem cell following
delivery to target tissues has become increasingly relevant. While
Bromodeoxyuridine (BrdU) and green-fluorescent protein (GFP) labeling
techniques are often used, limited knowledge exists regarding their
effects on the regeneration capacity of stem cells. In order to further
understand the impact of these techniques in a clinical scenario,
porcine adipose stem cells (ASCs) were derived, cultured and
subsequently labeled with BrdU or GFP using transfection (GFP-t) or
infection (GFP-i) by lentivirus, followed by investigation of downstream
labeling effects on ASCs proliferation, differentiation, colony
formation, secretion of regenerative cytokines, growth factors and
healing ability. Neither BrdU nor GFP labeling led to gross
morphological changes in adipose stem cells. Both groups of GFP labeled
cells maintained a high percentage of signal intensity for at least 28
days, with a decrease in cell proliferation ability in the GFP-i group.
In contrast, BrdU labelling began displaying weaker signal strength
after 7-days of experiments. Both tracers negatively affected osteogenic
and adipogenic differentiation of ASCs, causing decrease in the
secretion of the regeneration markers VEGF and TNF-α. In contrast,
in-vitro wound healing ability of labeled ASCs and secretion of
IL-8, IL-10, and TGF-β was not affected by either method. Our results
demonstrate that BrdU labelling may be more effective for short-term
in-vitro studies due to the relative ease of preparation and
shorter lifespan of the tracer signal. Contrarily, for studies with a
longer duration, GFP labeling of cells by transfection provides more
durable and stable signal. While further studies are needed, our results
indicate that labelling mode can alter regeneration capacity of stem
cells and should, therefore, be optimized prior to clinical translation
experiments.
What Women in Croatia Emphasize as Important Aspects of Care in Childbirth: a research article
Authors: Miljanić Klara , Tkalčec Iva , Majetić Stela , Rukavina Tea Vukušić , Mujkić Aida
Published: May 2023

Objective: To collect information regarding important aspects
of care during and after childbirth and to emphasize the importance of
patient-centered healthcare. Design: The study is based on data
from the Babies Born Better online survey, version 2. Setting:
The maternity care system in Croatia. Population: The study
involved 619 women who gave birth in Croatia between 2013 and 2018.
Methods: The collected data was analyzed using descriptive
statistics for closed questions and content analysis for open-ended
questions. Main outcome measures: Discussing and comparing
answers to open-ended questions. Results: This study shows that
257 (22.8%) respondents related the friendliness and attitude of
medical staff toward the mother as a positive experience related to
childbirth, while 106 (9.4%) mentioned the general quality and
expertise of health providers. These were also the reasons why the
respondents would recommend the facility where they gave birth to
others. When asked what they would change regarding childbirth, 139
(15.8%) respondents listed the lack of information during childbirth
and respect for the mother’s needs and the right to make decisions,
while 97 (11%) mentioned material conditions in the hospital, and 89
(10.1%) emphasized kindness and the attitude towards the mother.
Conclusion: This study confirmed that the overall attitude of
the medical staff is the most crucial factor in mothers’ evaluation of
their birth experience. We also found considerable dissatisfaction with
the current healthcare system and a need for change.
Seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2(Covid-19) antibody among blood donors in a tertiary care centre in South India
Authors: John Sherin , Rafi Aboobacker Mohamed , Bhaskaran Ramesh , Valsan Chithra
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION The novel severe acute respiratory syndrome virus
2 (SARS-CoV-2), which is responsible Coronavirus disease (COVID-19),
spread worldwide from China, causing a pandemic from late December 2019.
Due to the high proportion of asymptomatic or mild infections
(approximately 80%), data restricted to laboratory-confirmed cases do
not capture the true extent of the spread or burden of the virus, or its
infection-fatality ratio. Therefore, serological detection of specific
antibodies against SARS-CoV-2 can better estimate the true number of
infections. The current study aims to estimate the seroprevalence of
SARS-CoV-2 antibodies among the whole blood donors without any prior
COVID-19 history or symptoms. OBJECTIVE 1. To determine
seroprevalence of SARS-CoV-2 (COVID-19) antibody (IgG and IgM) among
asymptomatic healthy blood donors. METHODS This was a cross
sectional study conducted between March and July, 2021 among 300 blood
donors without any prior COVID-19 history or symptoms who came to a
tertiary care, multispecialty hospital in south India. Any donor who had
recently travelled abroad or donors who had received COVID-19 vaccine
are excluded from the study. 3 ml venous blood was drawn in EDTA tube
from participants and was tested by “Access SARS CoV-2 IgG assay” and
“Access SARS CoV-2 IgM assay” by UniCel DxI 800 Immunoassay analyzer
(Beckman coulter). The Access SARS CoV-2 IgG assay and the Access SARS
Cov-2 IgM assay detect antibodies to the Receptor Binding Domain (RBD)
of the Spike Protein. Result was reported as Reactive if Signal/Cut-off
(S/CO)>1.0 and non-Reactive if S/CO <1. Data was
collected and entered into excel sheets and was analyzed by using the
software SPSS version 25. RESULTS A total of 300 healthy blood
donors were included. The study reported seroprevalence of 15.3% for
IgG and 4.3% for IgM (95%CI) among asymptomatic whole blood donors. No
significant difference was observed across age groups, diet, BMI, ABO/Rh
blood type or Ayurveda/homeo immune medicine intake with respect to IgG
and IgM reactivity. CONCLUSION 15% of blood donors were
seroconverted for COVID-19 during second wave. This is a reflection of
widespread seroprevalence in the adult population. Real-time
seroprevalence studies will help to know the herd immunity among the
blood donors which will assist in knowing the COVID-19 transmission
dynamics and distribution of immunity levels at a particular point in
time. KEYWORDS COVID-19, Seroprevalence, Blood donors.
GDF15 Mediates the Effect of Skeletal Muscle Contraction on Glucose-Stimulated Insulin Secretion
Authors: Zhang Hui , Mulya Anny , Nieuwoudt Stephan , Vandanmagsar Bolormaa , McDowell Ruth , C. Heintz Elizabeth , R.M. Zunica Elizabeth , Jason Collier J. , Bozadjieva-Kramer Nadejda , J. Seeley Randy , L. Axelrod Christopher , P. Kirwan John
Published: May 2023

Exercise is a first-line treatment for type 2 diabetes and preserves β-cell function by hitherto unknown mechanisms. We postulated that proteins from contracting skeletal muscle may act as cellular signals to regulate pancreatic β-cell function. We employed electric pulse stimulation (EPS) to induce contraction in C2C12 myotubes and found that treatment of β-cells with EPS-conditioned media (EPS-CM) enhanced glucose-stimulated insulin secretion (GSIS). Transcriptomics and subsequent targeted validation revealed Growth Differentiation Factor 15 (GDF15) as a central component of the skeletal muscle secretome. Exposure to recombinant GDF15 enhanced GSIS in cells, islets, and mice. GDF15 enhanced GSIS by upregulating the insulin secretion pathway in β-cells, which was abrogated in the presence of a GDF15 neutralizing antibody. The effect of GDF15 on GSIS was also observed in islets from GFRAL-deficient mice. Circulating GDF15 was incrementally elevated in patients with pre- and type 2 diabetes and positively associated with C-peptide in humans with overweight/obesity. Six weeks of high intensity exercise training increased circulating GDF15 concentrations, which positively correlated with improvements in β-cell function in patients with type 2 diabetes. Taken together, GDF15 can function as a contraction-induced protein that enhances GSIS through activating the canonical signaling pathway in a GFRAL-independent manner. 
Activation of METTL3 promotes white adipose tissue beiging and combats obesity
Authors: Xie Renxiang , Yan Sujun , Zhou Xiaoling , Gao Yunyi , Qian Yu , Hou Jingyu , Chen Zhanghui , Lai Kairan , Gao Xiangwei , Wei Saisai
Published: May 2023

The induction of beige adipocytes in white adipose tissue, also known as WAT beiging, improves glucose and lipid metabolism. However, the regulation of WAT beiging at the posttranscriptional level remains to be studied. Here, we report that METTL3, the methyltransferase of N6-methyladenosine (m6A) mRNA modification, is induced during WAT beiging in mice. Adipose-specific depletion of Mettl3 gene undermines WAT beiging and impairs the metabolic capability of mice fed with a high-fat diet (HFD). Mechanistically, METTL3-catalyzed m6A installation on thermogenic mRNAs, including Krüppel-like factor 9 (Klf9), prevents their degradation. Activation of METTL3 complex by its chemical ligand methyl piperidine-3-carboxylate promotes WAT beiging, reduces body weight, and corrects metabolic disorders in diet-induced obese mice. These findings uncover a novel epitranscriptional mechanism in WAT beiging and identify METTL3 as a potential therapeutic target for obesity-associated diseases.
The relationships of functional capacity, pain, and isometric and isokinetic torque in osteoarthrosis of the knee
Authors: Lankhorst GJ , Van de Stadt  , Van der Korst JK
Published: May 2023

Thirty-nine patients suffering from osteoarthrosis of the knee were repeatedly measured. The relationship was studied for two groups of variables. The first group consisted of subjective assessments of functional capacity and pain and a walking test. The second group consisted of isometric knee extension torque and isokinetic knee flexion and extension torque at 30 degrees/sec, 60 degrees/sec, 120 degrees/sec and 180 degrees/sec. High correlations between each of the static and dynamic torque values were found. Multiple regression analysis showed that isometric and isokinetic torque measures are unsatisfactory predictors of functional capacity, since only 23-35% of the variation of functional capacity, pain and walking test variables was explained by the variation of torque variables. Dynamic torque measurements had very little advantage over static torque tests. It is concluded that outcome measures in studies of osteoarthrosis should be problem-oriented and include direct assessments of functional capacity, pain and walking ability.
Medico-social consequences and direct costs of stroke in a Swedish community
Authors: Terént A.
Published: May 2023

Two hundred and eighty-one patients who had sustained a stroke for the first time were investigated in the municipality of Söderhamn, Sweden, and its rural surroundings. Of these patients 226 (80%) had lived in their own homes before the insult, while the majority of the remainder had lived in old people's homes. One hundred and eighty-nine patients survived for at least 3 months. The proportion of stroke survivors who were living at home was 53% after 3 months, 65% after 1 year and 68% after 2 and 3 years. The average number of days in hospital was 65 for men and 81 for women after 1 year and 111 and 181 respectively after 3 years. Only 11% were gainfully employed before the attack. This proportion varied between 1 and 10% in the 3-year post-stroke period. About 85% were retired, while the rest were receiving sickness benefit or a disability pension (4-16%). The direct costs of stroke per stroke patient in the municipality of Söderhamn, was estimated at 129 000 Swedish kr. (25 800 US dollars); index 1980. The major part of this sum consisted of charges for hospital care (43-46%), followed by charges for nursing care in old people's homes (16-24%) and home-helps (8-16%), during the 3-year follow-up. Disability pension or sickness benefit accounted for only 5-11%, auxiliary equipment for 1-6%, medication for 1-3% and out-patient care at the medical department for 1%.(ABSTRACT TRUNCATED AT 250 WORDS)
With what degree of precision can voluntary static muscle force be repeated?
Authors: Carlsöö S.
Published: May 2023

The aim of this investigation was to get an apprehension of the capacity of repeating voluntarily exerted static forces in a row without visual feed-back in three situations viz. two-hand-lift, foot pedal press and thigh-raise. Seven subjects participated. It seems that the degree of precision is approximately a little below 10%.
Clinical and social factors in rehabilitation of patients with chronic low back pain
Authors: Sandström J.
Published: May 2023

Physical signs, medical history and social factors were analyzed and evaluated in 52 patients (17 women and 35 men) with chronic low back pain, in order to determine if any factors were predictive for return to work after rehabilitation. Factors discriminating between the working and sick-disabled groups were: Sex (only men returned to full time work), Duration of sick-leave (the older half of the study population exhibited a negative correlation between time on sick-leave and frequency of return to work), Reported need for analgesics (the working group reported less need of analgesics), Pain in the cervical and dorsal areas of the spine as well as in the lumbar region (less frequent in the working group), The patients' attitude to his own ADL-capacity (those who returned to full-time work were more positive), After work fatigue (less frequent in the working group).
Wheelchair ergometer. Development of a prototype with electronic braking
Authors: Forchheimer F , Lundberg A.
Published: May 2023

A new wheelchair ergometer is described, which compensates for the pulsating character of the work by an automatic control system. This makes it possible to maintain a constant level of power during wheelchair work. Design: An automatic control system has been integrated in an electronically braked bicycle ergometer, and a pedal unit from Rodby Electronic bicycle ergometer RE 820 has been coupled to a modified test wheelchair. With this device, the physical working capacity during submaximal circumstances can be tested in handicapped persons.
Cardiorespiratory capacity in tetra- and paraplegia shortly after injury
Authors: Hjeltnes N.
Published: May 2023

In one hundred patients (86 males, 14 females) with relatively recent spinal cord injuries the oxygen supporting system was evaluated during graded arm ergometry. The patients were assigned according to injury level to 5 subgroups with complete, and to 2 additional groups with incomplete injuries. Mean peak oxygen uptake (VO2) was found to be as low as 0. 74 l/min in males with complete tetraplegia and 1. 9 l/min in patients with conus and cauda lesions. Peak VO2 was closely correlated (r = 0. 74) to the injury level. Peak VO2 was also closely correlated to peak minute ventilation (VE) in all groups. In patients with higher injury levels most of the increase in VE during maximal exercise was due to an increase in respiratory frequency (fR). In patients with tetraplegia and high paraplegia, arm cranking revealed deficient sympathetic regulation of cardiovascular functions resulting in hypotension. In both the complete and incomplete tetraplegic patients there was a relatively low peak heart rate (fH). Peak fH and VO2 varied more in patients with incomplete tetraplegia than in those with complete tetraplegia. Peak VO2 in females with mid-level thoracic paraplegia was on the average lower than in males with corresponding injury levels (16 ml/kg/min against 22 ml/kg/min, respectively). Evaluation of cardiorespiratory functions in spinal cord injured patients during high intensity endurance work performed shortly after the injury adds diagnostic and functionally useful information for the design of rehabilitation and should be recommended as clinical routine.
Shoulder joint load and muscular activity during lifting
Authors: Arborelius UP , Ekholm J , Németh G , Svensson O , Nisell R.
Published: May 2023

The aim of this study was to investigate load on shoulder joint and muscles in healthy adults during four different ways of lifting a moderate burden (12. 8 kg) from floor to table level. The methods used were surface electrode EMG with linear envelope, and calculation of loading moments of force using a static biomechanical model. The shoulder load at the beginning of the lift was lowest for the straight knee lift. The peak load occurred in the late phase of all lifts. On completion of the lift, load and activation were considerably lower when the subject was allowed to step forward before putting the box down. The most activated shoulder muscles were the anterior and lateral parts of the deltoid, and the serratus anterior. Around 80% of the shoulder load moment was caused by the weight of the burden. Some 75% of maximum shoulder strength was required for lifting the burden.
Prolonged functional impairments after whiplash injury
Authors: Hagström Y , Carlsson J
Published: May 2023

Thirty patients with whiplash injuries were examined 1 to 55 months after the accidents. Pain had appeared on the day of the accident in 24 (80%) of the patients and with different delays in the remainder. The mean pain intensity was 43 mm (SD 26) on a visual analogue scale (VAS). All patients had pain in the neck, 17-33% had headache and 6-17% had pain in various regions of the arms. Thirteen patients (43%) suffered from constant pain, while 17 (57%) had pain-free periods. Muscle tenderness was higher at all tested sites compared with controls. The tolerance level to pressure pain in the index finger as well as grip strength and neck mobility was reduced compared with controls. The whiplash patients showed poorer mental well-being compared with a reference group representing the general population and compared with a group of tension-type headache patients.
A Comparison of the Gaits of Paretic Patients With the Gaits of Control Subjects Carrying a Load
Authors: Eke-Okoro ST , Larsson LE
Published: May 2023

The gaits of 15 patients with peripheral and central paresis were studied. They were compared both with a control group of the same age and sex and with a group of nine subjects who carried varying weights. Velocity was low in the patients and this was due to decreases of both stride length and stride frequency. Load did not significantly decrease the velocity of the control subjects, since unlike the patients, they had the ability to compensate for a low stride length by significantly increasing stride frequency. The significant lowering of stride length in both groups was a similarity between them. The patients were also similar to the loaded normal subjects in having a shortened duration of the single support and a prolonged double support. The patients with hemisymptoms also showed significant differences between the two sides for the durations of both single and double support. The results obtained from this study justify our hypothesis that a subject who is carrying a load may in certain respects be considered as a model of a subject with paresis. The remaining differences may be explained by the fact that in the experimental situation, the leg was loaded only during stance, while in paresis the legs may be considered relatively loaded during the whole stride.
HLA-B27 as a Diagnostic Screening Tool in Chronic Low Back Pain
Authors: Sandström J , Andersson GB , Rydberg L
Published: May 2023

Forty-five of 52 consecutive patients with chronic low back pain were screened for presence of HLA-B27 antigen one year after they were included in a rehabilitative program. Six (13. 3%) were positive and, when re-examined radiographically, 2 had signs of ankylosing spondylitis. The proportion of antigen-positive individuals is similar to that found in a population study of healthy Swedish blood donors, and within the range of other populations of healthy controls. It is concluded that HLA-B27 is of limited diagnostic value as a screening test for ankylosing spondylitis in a patient group with chronic low back pain.
Treatment of Patients With Chronic Low Back Pain. Comparison Between Rehabilitation Centre and Outpatient Care
Authors: Mellin G , Järvikoski A , Verkasalo M
Published: May 2023

The results of three weeks' treatment for low back pain were studied in 88 patients at a rehabilitation centre and in 63 outpatients. All the patients were male, and between 54 and 63 years of age. Physical measurements of spinal function were made before and two months after treatment; a questionnaire on back-pain symptoms was filled in before treatment and 2, 6 and 12 months after treatment. A back-pain index based on the replies to the questionnaires was used for evaluating the effects of the treatment. The average results showed that the effects of the treatment lasted six months but disappeared almost completely within a year. The material studied revealed no substantial difference between the results of the rehabilitation centre and outpatient treatment according to the physical measurements or the pain index.
Hip Joint Load and Muscular Activation During Rising Exercises
Authors: Németh G , Ekholm J , Arborelius UP , Schüldt K , Harms-Ringdahl K
Published: May 2023

The load on the hip joint and activation of the gluteus maximus, hamstrings, adductor magnus and rectus femoris muscles during rising exercises including different adaptive adjustments were investigated in nine healthy subjects. The joint load was calculated from forces recorded with a force-measuring platform and pictures on cine-film. Levels of muscular activity were recorded with rectified, low-pass filtered, time-averaged and normalized EMGs. The loading moment about the hip joint was about 45 Nm during the initial part of the rising exercise, decreasing with smaller hip angle. Increase of the backward inclination of the trunk increased the load moment, which was maintained at about the same level during the rising exercise. Two adaptive adjustments lowered the joint load: foot position further backward and reduced resistance from the device. Foot position further forward increased the joint load. The levels of muscular activity in the hip extensors were low to medium and were slightly increased by posterior foot position and increased resistance from the device. Increased backward trunk inclination increased the activity in the final part of the rising exercise.
Functional Consequences of Joint Impairment at Age 79
Authors: Bergström G , Aniansson A , Bjelle A , Grimby G , Lundgren-Lindquist B , Svanborg A
Published: May 2023

A study of functional ability--in relation to joint impairment and disability--in 79-year-olds was performed on representative subsamples by interview (n = 134) and physical examination of joints (n = 89) as well as interview and functional tests regarding activities of daily living (ADL) (n = 84). Joint complaints of the lower extremities were more frequent than complaints of the upper extremities. Restricted knee motion had the highest correlation to disability of entering public transports. Previous sedentary workers were more disabled in ADL functions than those with a previous strenuous physical work. Correlation was found between low physical activity in the leisure time and impaired ADL functions. Low physical activity in the group with no definable disease was also correlated with greater social assistance. The reasons for commitment to institutional care were usually complex and, generally, not caused by joint impairment. Although disability had increased within the sample since age 70, at age 79 sixty per cent of the probands could still manage household tasks and personal care, and 69% did not require walking aids. The 79-year-olds thus display a high degree of musculoskeletal ability.
Early Rehabilitation Following Osteosynthesis With the Sliding Hip Screw for Trochanteric Fractures
Authors: Nue Møller B , Lucht U , Grymer F , Bartholdy NJ
Published: May 2023

A prospective study of 104 patients with throchanteric hip fractures was undertaken with particular regard to postoperative complications and rehabilitation at the follow-up 3 months later. The mortality was 20%, depended more on the social function prior to the fracture than on the patient's age. Osteosynthesis was performed with the Richards sliding screw-plate system. The most frequent clinical complications were of a cardiovascular and pulmonary nature. Technical failure was encountered in 10%. Hip function was excellent or good in 69%. In 40% the ability to walk remained unchanged after the operation. Seventy-five per cent of the patients returned to their own homes, although 51% were more dependent on the social welfare system than before the fracture. The social function prior to the fracture determined the social function after the fracture to a greater extent than did the patient's age.
The Local Skin Blood Flow in Areas at Risk for Pressure Sores Treated With Massage
Authors: Ek AC , Gustavsson G , Lewis DH
Published: May 2023

In order to evaluate methods to prevent pressure sores the effect of massage on the local skin blood flow was studied in normal skin and in skin with discolouration (red or reddish blue). In this study massage is defined as small circular movements with the fingertips using liniment. The cutaneous blood flow was measured with a laser Doppler flowmeter. To study the long term effect of massage on normal skin ten patients were measured over a twenty day period with five days before and after a ten day period with massage. Twenty-nine patients with cerebral haemorrhage were measured for two days each to examine the effect immediately after the massage on normal skin. Fifteen patients with discolouration were measured for one day each both on normal skin and injured skin. The difference in blood flow before and after the ten day period of massage was inconsistent and insignificant. The effect of massage which appeared one to two minutes after the stimulus was implemented varies between individuals and within individuals; significantly more women than men increased their skin blood flow bilaterally after massage. In the centre of the injured skin the basal blood flow was higher than in normal skin and it decreased after the massage was implemented. The results stress the importance of continued research to provide an opportunity for individualization in the selection of methods to prevent and treat pressure sores.
A Brief type-A Scale and the Occurrence of Cardiovascular Symptoms
Authors: Järvikoski A , Härkäpää K
Published: May 2023

A short Type-A behaviour pattern scale was tested on 3,221 Finnish state employees (65% men, mean age 38.7 years, and 22% with at least college-level vocational education). The Type-A sum score varied with age, sex and work status, but not with basic education. Respondents were further assigned to two extreme groups according to the Type-A sum score: the Type A's in the highest and -B's in the lowest quartile. Of those aged 40 years or more (n = 1,460), the persons with the Type-A behaviour pattern reported typical severe angina pectoris symptoms more frequently than the Type B's. There were no differences, however, in the frequency of typical mild angina pectoris symptoms between the Type A's and B's. The Type-A and -B men differed significantly in the frequency of a previous severe chest pain attack suggesting a possible myocardial infarction.
The Effect of Low-Frequency Electrical Stimulation on Denervation Atrophy in Man
Authors: Boonstra AM , Van Weerden TW , Eisma WH , Pahlplatz VB , Oosterhuis HJ
Published: May 2023

The effect of low frequency electrical stimulation (LES) on denervation atrophy and recovery of the muscles was examined in a group of 73 patients with a single or a combined total lesion of the median, ulnar or peroneal nerves. The differences between the patients were evaluated by means of clinical muscle force testing, EMG, dynamometry (ulnar and median nerve lesions), computer tomography (ulnar nerve lesions) and ultrasonography (median and peroneal nerve lesions). A beneficial effect of LES could not be shown.
Vibratory Stimulation Compared to Placebo in Alleviation of Pain
Authors: Lundeberg T , Abrahamsson P , Bondesson L , Haker E
Published: May 2023

The placebo effect of vibratory stimulation was studied in 72 patients with chronic pain syndromes in a double-blind crossover trial using a vibrator and a "placebo unit". Pain alleviation was reported by 48% of the patients during vibratory stimulation compared with 34% for placebo treatment; statistical significance (p less than 0.005).
Behaviour Management Techniques for Organic Psychosocial Deficit Incurred by Severe Head Injury
Authors: Tate RL
Published: May 2023

Subgroups of severe head injured patients exhibit patterns of organic psychosocial deficits resulting in behavioural disturbances. Behavioural management techniques are discussed and two case illustrations are presented in detail: a physically disabled but cognitively well preserved patient who refused to cooperate with therapy programmes; and a permanently severely physically and cognitively disabled patient who screamed and was assaultive whenever physical proximity or contact occurred.
Treatment of Spinal Cord Injuries in the Thoracolumbar Region
Authors: Carlsson CA , Pellettieri L
Published: May 2023

Forty patients with spinal cord injuries in the thoracolumbar region were studied. Clinical and experimental data support the conservative approach. In some patients acute stabilisation is needed and in a few patients operative decompression may be considered. Promising experimental non-invasive techniques to improve recovery are presented, but there are no convincing clinical results so far. The authors believe that regeneration will be the key area for future research.
Cardiac Rehabilitation: Evaluation of a Long-Term Programme of Physical Training for Out-Patients
Authors: Perk J , Hedbäck B , Jutterdal S
Published: May 2023

A community-based long-term cardiac rehabilitation programme (LTP) has been designed for patients who had completed a two-year hospital-based physical training programme after myocardial infarction (MI) and wished to continue with community-based group training sessions. Since the start of LTP 20% of all patients in a consecutive MI population less than 65 yrs have participated. The programme operates on a low-cost base. Its feasibility is supported by a high attendance rate and by the absence of adverse effects during more than 2,000 patient training hours. In order to evaluate LTP 20 participating MI patients were compared with 20 matched control patients, who had completed the hospital-based training, but did not participate in LTP. The main reason for participation was the need for continued group support and social contact (15/20). Reasons for not participating were preference to exercise at home (10/20), long distance (6/20) and working hours (4/20). When compared with the data of the hospital-based programme one year post MI, both groups showed 4 years (average) post MI a slight but significant increase of systolic blood pressure of 12 vs. 18 mmHg. Work performance levels had been maintained (132 vs. 136 W). No patients had started smoking and there were no differences between the groups as to leisure time activities. It is concluded that a long-term training programme can be provided safely and at low cost for those MI patients who need continued support in order to maintain the effectiveness of the hospital-based cardiac rehabilitation.
Correction for Gravity in Isokinetic Dynamometry of Knee Extensors in Below Knee Amputees
Authors: H van der Leeuw G , J Stam H , F van Nieuwenhuyzen J
Published: May 2023

In isokinetic dynamometry of the knee extensors the influence of gravity on the lower limb is often neglected. The aim of this study was to assess the shape, the quantity and reproducibility of the gravity correction curve (GCC). Eight amputees participated in this study. The GCC was produced on an isokinetic dynamometer (QD) throughout the range of motion on the amputated side with prosthesis and on the non-amputated side. The results were compared with the GCC calculated according to the Cybex data reduction computer procedure. The isokinetic torque registration of the QD is, in a mathematical way, a straight line (Pearson correlation coefficient greater than 0.99). The other GCC is shaped like a cosinus curve. The intra-individual reproducibility is high, the inter-individual variability substantial. An explanation for the difference between the two methods is discussed. For an ideal measurement of the muscular torque, one should not only correct for the effect of gravity but for all factors counteracting the effect of the knee extensors. In that case an individual GCC should be made directly with the dynamometer.