bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
„Jetzt trinken wir erst einmal“. Die Rolle des Alkohols bei Oral History-Interviews
Authors: Galbas Michael
Published: June 2022

Der Beitrag reflektiert die Rolle des Alkoholkonsums bei der Durchführung von Oral History-Projekten. Den Ausgangspunkt bilden hierfür die während einer geschichtswissenschaftlichen Untersuchung über die Erinnerungen an den sowjetischen Afghanistankrieg gemachten Beobachtungen in Interviewsituationen. Im Rahmen dieser Studie wurden zwischen den Jahren 2011 und 2015 mit über 30 ehemaligen Kriegsteilnehmern an verschiedenen Orten Russlands lebensgeschichtliche Interviews durchgeführt. Dabei fiel auf, dass die Gesprächspartner bei einem Drittel der Treffen gemeinschaftlich Alkohol konsumierten. Davon ausgehend wird aufgezeigt, welche Auswirkung der Alkoholkonsum auf den Erhebungsprozess und die narrative Ausgestaltung der Lebensgeschichte haben kann. Jenseits ethischer und moralischer sowie gesundheitlicher Aspekte ist die dabei Frage von Relevanz, ob Oral History-Interviews vor allem unter methodischen und inhaltlichen Gesichtspunkten scheitern, wenn Alkohol konsumiert wird.
Emerging Pathophysiological Mechanisms Linking Diabetes Mellitus and Alzheimer’s Disease: An Old Wine in a New Bottle
Authors: Patel Vishvas N. , Chorawala Mehul R. , Shah Maitri B. , Shah Kashvi C. , Dave Bhavarth P. , Shah Manal P. , Patel Tanvi M.
Published: June 2022

Type-2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) is a chronic immuno-inflammatory and metabolic disease characterized by hyperglycemia and insulin resistance with corresponding hyperinsulinemia. On the other hand, Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease involving cognitive impairment, neuronal dysfunction, and memory loss. Several recently published literatures suggest a causal relationship between T2DM and AD. In this review, we have discussed several potential mechanisms underlying diabetes-induced cognitive impairment which include, abnormal insulin signaling, amyloid-β accumulation, oxidative stress, immuno-inflammation, mitochondrial dysfunction, advanced glycation end products, acetylcholinesterase and butyrylcholinesterase, advanced lipid peroxidation products, and apolipoprotein E. All these interconnected mechanisms may act either individually or synergistically which eventually leads to neurodegeneration and AD.
High resolution flow with glazing flow for optimized flow detection in transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic stent shunt (TIPS): First results
Authors: Jung Ernst-Michael , Jung Friedrich , Verloh Niklas , Haimerl Michael , Lürken Lukas , Jage Simon , Stroszczynski Christian , Scharf Gregor
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: Ultrasound follow-up of transjugular intrahepatic portosystemic shunt (TIPS) is challenging due to the bent course of the stent-graft. OBJECTIVE: Aim of this retrospective study was to assess to which extent the combination of HR flow with Glazing Flow improves hemodynamic assessment in the ultrasound follow-up of TIPS. METHODS: Comparative studies with CCDS and High Resolution (HR)-Flow with Glazing Flow were evaluated regarding image quality and artifacts on a 5-point scale (0 = cannot be assessed up to 5 = maximum image quality without artifacts). In all cases, an experienced examiner performed the examinations with a 1–6 MHz probe (Resona 7, Mindray). RESULTS: 61 ultrasound examinations in 48 patients were performed; the mean patient age was 54±14.2 years. The use of HR-Flow with Glazing Flow resulted in an improved flow display in 55/61 cases (90.2%). Both methods correlated well (r = 0.71), but HR flow with Glazing flow values were in general higher than CCDS values. The reading resulted in an average value of 2.52±0.54 for CCDS and 3.52±0.57 for HR flow with Glazing flow (p = 0.013). CONCLUSION: The combination of HR-Flow and Glazing Flow results in improved flow representation and reduction of artifacts in the ultrasound follow-up of TIPS.
Accuracy of conventional ultrasound, contrast-enhanced ultrasound and dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging in assessing the size of breast cancer
Authors: Shi Xian-Quan , Dong Yunyun , Tan Xiaoqu , Yang Peipei , Wang Chunmei , Feng Wei , Lin Yuxuan , Qian Linxue
Published: June 2022

OBJECTIVE: This study was performed to investigate the accuracy of conventional ultrasound (US), contrast-enhanced US (CEUS), and dynamic contrast-enhanced magnetic resonance imaging (DCE-MRI) in assessing the size of breast cancer. METHODS: In total, 49 breast cancer lesions of 48 patients were included in this study. The inclusion criteria were the performance of total mastectomy or breast-conserving surgery for treatment of breast cancer in our hospital from January 2017 to December 2020 with complete pathological results, as well as the performance of conventional US, CEUS, and DCE-MRI examinations with complete results. The exclusion criteria were non-mass breast cancer shown on conventional US or DCE-MRI, including that found on CEUS with no boundary with surrounding tissues and no confirmed tumor scope; a tumor too large to be completely displayed in the US section, thus affecting the measurement results; the presence of two nodules in the same breast that were too close to each other to be distinguished by any of the three imaging methods; and treatment with preoperative chemotherapy. Preoperative conventional US, CEUS, and DCE-MRI examinations were performed. The postoperative pathological results were taken as the gold standard. The lesion size was represented by its maximum diameter. The accuracy, overestimation, and underestimation rates of conventional US, CEUS, and DCE-MRI were compared. RESULTS: The maximum lesion diameter on US, CEUS, DCE-MRI and pathology were 1.62±0.63 cm (range, 0.6–3.5 cm), 2.05±0.75 cm (range, 1.0–4.0 cm), 1.99±0.74 cm (range, 0.7–4.2 cm) and 1.92±0.83 cm (range, 0.5–4.0 cm), respectively. The lesion size on US was significantly smaller than that of postoperative pathological tissue (P < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between the CEUS or DCE-MRI results and the pathological results. The underestimation rate of conventional US (55.1%, 27/49) was significantly higher than that of CEUS (20.4%, 10/49) and DCE-MRI (24.5%, 12/49) (P < 0.001 and P = 0.002, respectively). There was no significant difference in the accuracy of CEUS (36.7%, 18/49) and DCE-MRI (34.7%, 17/49) compared with conventional US (26.5%, 13/49); however, the accuracy of both groups tended to be higher than that of conventional US. The overestimation rate of CEUS (42.9%, 21/49) and DCE-MRI (40.8%, 20/49) was significantly higher than that of conventional US (18.4%, 9/49) (P = 0.001 and P = 0.015, respectively). CONCLUSIONS: CEUS and DCE-MRI show similar performance when evaluating the size of breast cancer. However, CEUS is more convenient, has a shorter operation time, and has fewer restrictions on its use. Notably, conventional US is more prone to underestimate the size of lesions, whereas CEUS and DCE-MRI are more prone to overestimate the size.
Characterization of Early Alzheimer’s Disease-Like Pathological Alterations in Non-Human Primates with Aging: A Pilot Study
Authors: Jester Hannah M. , Gosrani Saahj P. , Ding Huiping , Zhou Xueyan , Ko Mei-Chuan , Ma Tao
Published: June 2022

Background: Sporadic or late onset Alzheimer’s disease (LOAD) is a multifactorial neurodegenerative disease with aging the most known risk factor. Non-human primates (NHPs) may serve as an excellent model to study LOAD because of their close similarity to humans in many aspects including neuroanatomy and neurodevelopment. Recent studies reveal AD-like pathology in old NHPs. Objective: In this pilot study, we took advantage of brain samples from 6 Cynomolgus macaques that were divided into two groups: middle aged (average age 14.81 years) and older (average age 19.33 years). We investigated whether AD-like brain pathologies are present in the NHPs. Methods: We used immunohistochemical method to examine brain Aβ pathology and neuron density. We applied biochemical assays to measure tau phosphorylation and multiple signaling pathways indicated in AD. We performed electron microscopy experiments to study alterations of postsynaptic density and mitochondrial morphology in the brain of NHPs. Results: We found multiple AD-like pathological alteration in the prefrontal cortex (but not in the hippocampus) of the older NHPs including tau hyperphosphorylation, increased activity of AMP-activated protein kinase (AMPK), decreased expression of protein phosphatase 2A (PP2A), impairments in mitochondrial morphology, and postsynaptic densities formation. Conclusion: These findings may provide insights into the factors contributing to the development of LOAD, particularly during the early stage transitioning from middle to old age. Future endeavors are warranted to elucidate mechanisms underlying the regional (and perhaps cellular) vulnerability with aging and the functional correlation of such pathological changes in NHPs.
Informal Caregivers’ Attitude Toward Dementia: The Impact of Dementia Knowledge, Confidence in Dementia Care, and the Behavioral and Psychological Symptoms of the Person with Dementia. A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Teichmann Birgit , Gkioka Mara , Kruse Andreas , Tsolaki Magda
Published: June 2022

Background: Dementia is rapidly increasing worldwide due to demographic aging. More than two-thirds of patients are cared by family members. The quality of care depends on the caregivers’ attitude toward dementia influencing patient care decisions. Objective: The aim of this study is to examine the factors that influence the caregivers’ attitude and whether there is an association between participation in a psycho-educational program and attitude. Methods: We performed a cross-sectional study using a structured closed-ended questionnaire to retrieve socio-demographic information from caregivers and the persons with dementia (N = 86). The study included validated scales such as the Dementia Attitude Scale, the Dementia Knowledge Assessment Tool 2, the Positive Aspects of Caregiving, the Zarit Burden Interview, the Confidence in Dementia Scale, and Spielberger’s State-Trait Anxiety Inventory, as well as a neuropsychological battery to assess the condition of people with dementia. Results: Our final model explains 55.6% of the total variance and shows a significant correlation of five factors with attitude toward dementia: confidence, behavioral and psychological symptoms of dementia, anxiety as a trait, positive aspects of caregiving, and dementia knowledge. The caregivers who participated in a psycho-educational program showed a significantly more positive attitude toward dementia, better dementia knowledge, higher confidence in dementia care, and lower anxiety as a state. Conclusion: The strong correlation of attitude and knowledge, as well as confidence in dementia care, supports the tripartite model of attitude, which hypothesizes the interrelation of affect, cognition, and behavior.
Traumatic Brain Injury and Risk of Alzheimer’s Disease and Related Dementias in the Population
Authors: Mielke Michelle M. , Ransom Jeanine E. , Mandrekar Jay , Turcano Pierpaolo , Savica Rodolfo , Brown Allen W.
Published: June 2022

Background: Epidemiological studies examining associations between traumatic brain injury (TBI) and Alzheimer’s disease and related dementias (ADRD) have yielded conflicting results, which may be due to methodological differences. Objective: To examine the relationship between the presence and severity of TBI and risk of ADRD using a population-based cohort with medical record abstraction for confirmation of TBI and ADRD. Methods: All TBI events among Olmsted County, Minnesota residents aged > 40 years from 1985–1999 were confirmed by manual review and classified by severity. Each TBI case was randomly matched to two age-, sex-, and non-head injury population-based referents without TBI. For TBI events with non-head trauma, the Trauma Mortality Prediction Model was applied to assign an overall measure of non-head injury severity and corresponding referents were matched on this variable. Medical records were manually abstracted to confirm ADRD diagnosis. Cox proportional hazards models examined the relationship between TBI and severity with risk of ADRD. Results: A total of 1,418 residents had a confirmed TBI (865 Possible, 450 Probable, and 103 Definite) and were matched to 2,836 referents. When combining all TBI severities, the risk of any ADRD was significantly higher for those with a confirmed TBI compared to referents (HR = 1.32, 95% CI: 1.11, 1.58). Stratifying by TBI severity, Probable (HR = 1.42, 95% CI: 1.05, 1.92) and Possible (HR = 1.29, 95% CI: 1.02–1.62) TBI was associated with an increased risk of ADRD, but not Definite TBI (HR = 1.22, 95% CI: 0.68, 2.18). Conclusion: Our analyses support including TBI as a potential risk factor for developing ADRD.
Low Serum Insulin-like Growth Factor-I Is Associated with Decline in Hippocampal Volume in Stable Mild Cognitive Impairment but not in Alzheimer’s Disease
Authors: Horvath Alexandra , Quinlan Patrick , Eckerström Carl , Åberg N. David , Wallin Anders , Svensson Johan
Published: June 2022

Background: Serum insulin-like growth factor-I (IGF-I) has shown some association with hippocampal volume in healthy subjects, but this relation has not been investigated in stable mild cognitive impairment (sMCI) or Alzheimer’s disease (AD). Objective: At a single memory clinic, we investigated whether serum IGF-I was associated with baseline magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-estimated brain volumes and longitudinal alterations, defined as annualized changes, up to 6 years of follow-up. Methods: A prospective study of patients with sMCI (n = 110) and AD (n = 60). Brain regions included the hippocampus and amygdala as well as the temporal, parietal, frontal, and occipital lobes, respectively. Results: Serum IGF-I was statistically similar in sMCI and AD patients (112 versus 123 ng/mL, p = 0.31). In sMCI, serum IGF-I correlated positively with all baseline MRI variables except for the occipital lobe, and there was also a positive correlation between serum IGF-I and the annualized change in hippocampal volume (rs = 0.32, p = 0.02). Furthermore, sMCI patients having serum IGF-I above the median had lower annual loss of hippocampal volume than those with IGF-I below the median (p = 0.02). In contrast, in AD patients, IGF-I did not associate with baseline levels or annualized changes in brain volumes. Conclusion: In sMCI patients, our results suggest that IGF-I exerted neuroprotective effects on the brain, thereby maintaining hippocampal volume. In AD, serum IGF-I did not associate with brain volumes, indicating that IGF-I could not induce neuroprotection in this disease. This supports the notion of IGF-I resistance in AD.
RETRACTED: Stationary wavelet transformation based video stabilization and stitching
Authors: Krishnakumar K. , Gandhi S. Indira , Sivaranjani C.K.
Published: June 2022

This article has been retracted. A retraction notice can be found at https://doi.org/10.3233/JIFS-219433.
Novel similarity measures for T-spherical fuzzy sets and their applications in pattern recognition and clustering
Authors: Saad Muhammad , Rafiq Ayesha
Published: June 2022

T-spherical fuzzy sets, the direct extension of fuzzy sets, intuitionistic fuzzy sets and picture fuzzy sets are examined in this composition, and a mathematical examination among them is set up. A T-spherical fuzzy set can demonstrate phenomenon like choice utilizing four trademark capacities indicating the level of choice of inclusion, restraint, resistance, and exclusion, another example of such situation is that human opinion cannot be restricted to yes or no but it can be yes, abstain, no and refusal. T-spherical fuzzy set can deal the said situation with a boundless space. With the assistance of some mathematical outcomes, it is talked about that current similarity measures have a few drawbacks and could not be implemented where the data is in T-spherical fuzzy mode. Thus, some new similarity measures in T-spherical fuzzy environment are proposed, with the assistance of certain outcomes, it is demonstrated that the suggested similarity measures are generalization of current ones. Further the proposed similarity measures are applied in pattern recognition with numerical supportive examples. The maximum spanning tree clustering algorithm has been extended into T-spherical fuzzy context and supports our theory with numerical examples. A parallel investigation of fresh and existing similarity measures have been made and some of the benefits of designated work have been discussed.
Optimal operation for marine hybrid power system: Novel optimization algorithm and comprehensive analysis for penalty functions
Authors: An Qing , Tang Ruoli , Li Xueyan , Zhang Xiaodi , Li Xin
Published: June 2022

In order to optimally control the marine hybrid power system (HPS) under increasingly complex regulation constraints or hardware constraints, an efficient power-flow scheduling model and optimization algorithm are of great importance. This work focuses on the optimal power-flow scheduling of marine HPS, especially on the efficiency improvement of the penalty functions for satisfying complex constraints. To be specific, an optimal operation model of marine HPS is discussed, and the complex model constraints are described as various penalty functions. Secondly, a novel optimization algorithm, namely adaptive multi-context cooperatively coevolving differential evolution algorithm with random topology and mutated context vector (AMCCDE - rt - mcv) is developed to optimize the aforementioned model. In order to ensure the satisfaction of the complex model constraints, the detailed forms for penalty functions are researched and the optimal parameters for penalty functions are comprehensively compared, analysed and tested by a set of numerical experiments. Finally, the developed methodologies are tested by simulation experiments. Experimental results show that the damping factor, exponent parameter and punish strength constant effect the efficiency of penalty functions a lot, and the developed penalty functions can effectively satisfy all the model constraints with fast response speed. With the integration of penalty functions, the developed methodology can obtain promising performance on the optimal scheduling of the evaluated marine HPS.
A chaotic sine cosine algorithm with crossover operator for microgrid energy scheduling considering uncertainty
Authors: Qiu Chenye , Fang Huixing , Liu Ning
Published: June 2022

Microgrid (MG) systems are growing at a rapid pace since they can accommodate the high amount of renewable energy. Since the MG consists of small distributed generators (DG) with volatile characteristics, an efficient energy management system is the main requisite in MG. In this paper, a chaotic sine cosine algorithm with crossover operator (CSCAC) is proposed for the day-ahead MG optimal energy scheduling problem. CSCAC includes a novel non-linear transition parameter based on the chaos system which can help the algorithm escape from local optima. A chaotic search operator is proposed to enhance the local search ability. Furthermore, a crossover operator is devised to combine the advantages of different search strategies and achieve a comparatively better balance of exploration and exploitation. First, the effectiveness of CSCAC is validated on several benchmark functions. Then, it is applied to the day-ahead energy scheduling in a MG with three wind power plants, two photovoltaic power plants and a combined heat and power plant (CHP). Furthermore, it is implemented in two more cases considering the uncertainty and stochastic nature of the renewable power sources. Experimental results demonstrate the superiority of CSCAC over other comparative algorithms in the optimal MG energy management problem.
Understanding the Perseverance of the Muscular Dystrophy Community One-Year into the COVID-19 Pandemic
Authors: Lewis Leann , Eichinger Katy , Dilek Nuran , Higgs Kiley , Walker Michaela , Palmer David , Cooley John M. , Johnson Nicholas , Tawil Rabi , Statland Jeffrey
Published: June 2022

Introduction: In this study, we examined the long-term social and health impacts of the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic on people with muscular dystrophy. Methods: We modified our prior COVID-19 Impact Survey to assess impacts from the continuing pandemic using feedback from muscular dystrophy experts, patients, and advocacy group/registry representatives. The survey assessed COVID-19 medical history, and the effects of the pandemic on social aspects, muscle disease, and medical care. We also used the validated 10-item Perceived Stress Scale. The de-identified, electronic survey was distributed to adults with muscular dystrophy via international patient registries and advocacy group websites from February 8, 2021 to March 22, 2021. Results: Respondents (n = 1243 : 49% Facioscapulohumeral Muscular Dystrophy (FSHD); 43% Myotonic Dystrophy (DM), and 8% Limb-Girdle Muscular Dystrophy (LGMD)) were mostly women and middle-aged (range 18–90 years). Rates of COVID-19 infections were low at 8% with zero deaths. Reported recovery times were also short with only 9% reporting a recovery period greater than eight weeks, and 7% requiring hospitalization with one individual requiring a ventilator. Major challenges reported during the pandemic included stress management, particularly for those with LGMD (27%), and wearing a mask (24%). The majority reported a slight worsening of their disease state. Respondents reported moderate stress levels (stress score = 16.4; range = 0–39), with higher stress levels reported by women and those under age 30 years. Seventy-percent of participants who had telemedicine visits were satisfied with the encounters; however, most reported a preference for in-person visits. Conclusions: People with muscular dystrophy found ways to manage their stress and overcome obstacles during the COVID-19 pandemic. COVID-19 infection rates and medical complications were similar to a general population. Telemedicine visits may have a more permanent role in care.
Genetic Appraisal of Hereditary Muscle Disorders In A Cohort From Mumbai, India
Authors: Khadilkar Satish Vasant , Halani Hiral Amrut , Dastur Rashna , Gaitonde Pradnya Satish , Oza Harsh , Hegde Madhuri
Published: June 2022

Background: Hereditary muscle disorders are clinically and genetically heterogeneous. Limited information is available on their genetic makeup and their prevalence in India. Objective: To study the genetic basis of prevalent hereditary myopathies. Material and methods: This is a retrospective study conducted at a tertiary care center. The study was approved by the institutional ethics board. The point of the collection was the genetic database. The genetic data of myopathy patients for the period of two and half years (2019 to mid-2021) was evaluated. Those with genetic diagnoses of DMD, FSHD, myotonic dystrophies, mitochondriopathies, and acquired myopathies were excluded. The main outcome measures were diagnostic yield and the subtype prevalence with their gene variant spectrum. Results: The definitive diagnostic yield of the study was 39% (cases with two pathogenic variants in the disease-causing gene). The major contributing genes were GNE (15%), DYSF (13%), and CAPN3 (7%). Founder genes were documented in Calpainopathy and GNE myopathy. The uncommon myopathies identified were Laminopathy (0.9%), desminopathy (0.9%), and GMPPB-related myopathy (1.9%). Interestingly, a small number of patients showed pathogenic variants in more than one myopathy gene, the multigenic myopathies. Conclusion: This cohort study gives hospital-based information on the prevalent genotypes of myopathies (GNE, Dysferlinopathy, and calpainopathy), founder mutations, and also newly documents the curious occurrence of multigenicity in a small number of myopathies.
Career satisfaction among working age individuals with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury
Authors: Krause James S. , Dismuke-Greer Clara E. , Jarnecke Melinda , DiPiro Nicole D.
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: Joint studies of multiple sclerosis (MS) and spinal cord injury (SCI), both types of spinal cord dysfunction, have identified barriers and facilitators to employment and key outcomes including earnings and job benefits. However, there has been an absence of research on satisfaction with employment over one’s career. Such knowledge would help to establish the foundation for targeted vocational rehabilitation interventions. as well as differences in quality of employment outcomes, establishing the foundation for targeted vocational rehabilitation interventions. OBJECTIVE: Identify and quantify demographic, educational, vocational, and functional characteristics associated with career satisfaction, a quality employment outcome, among people with MS and SCI. METHODS: There were a total of 3,371 participants, 1,229 with MS and 2,142 with SCI, all of whom were in the traditional working age range (< 65 years old). Participants were identified from the Southeastern and Midwestern regions of the USA and data were collected, processed, and analyzed at a medical university in the Southeastern USA. Econometric modeling identified factors associated with career satisfaction, as defined by a five-item composite scale that was converted to Z-scores, integrating analysis using both diagnostic groups. RESULTS: Participants who were gainfully employed and those who had left the labor force (unemployed with no hopes to return to work), reported higher career satisfaction than those who were unemployed and hoping to return to work. Higher career satisfaction scores were associated with more formal education and having worked in management/professional, natural resources, or service occupations. Higher scores were also observed among those older, not single, and who had fewer functional deficits. No differences were identified as a function of diagnosis, race-ethnicity, sex, or time since injury/diagnosis. CONCLUSION: Career satisfaction was more strongly related to educational attainment, vocational history, and labor force participation, than to demographic and disability factors. Vocational counselors should target those still in the labor force for skills development, job retention, and reacquisition to promote career satisfaction.
Effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation combined with functional electrical stimulation on hand function of stroke: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Yang Zhen , Qiao Linru , He Jianhua , Zhao Xue , Zhang Minyan
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has been widely used for hand function recovery in patients with subacute and chronic stroke. OBJECTIVE: To observe the effect of low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) combined with functional electrical stimulation (FES) on hand function recovery during convalescence of stroke. METHODS: Patients were divided into3 groups of 20 patients in each. All patients received routine training. rTMS group was treated with low-frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS). FES group received functional electrical stimulation (FES) therapy. Observation group was treated with low-frequency rTMS and FES. The changes of TMS-MEP in the 3 groups were observed at the time of enrollment and after 2 courses of treatment, respectively, and the total active activity of fingers (TAM) and Fugl-Meyer assessment (FMA) rating scale were evaluated in wrist and hand parts. RESULTS: The amplitude of TMS-MEP was significantly higher than that of FES group. FMA score and TAM score in the observation group were significantly better than that of rTMS group and FES group. CONCLUSION: Low-frequency rTMS combined with FES treatment can effectively improve the range of motion of fingers, and significantly improve the grasp, pinching and other functions of hands.
Design and control of intelligent bionic artificial hand based on image recognition
Authors: Shi Ping , Fang Kaixin , Yu Hongliu
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: At present, the popular control method for intelligent bionic prosthetic hands is EMG control. However, the control accuracy of this method is low. It is a trend to integrate computer vision into the prosthetic hand. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this paper is to design an intelligent prosthetic hand based on image recognition, improve the control accuracy and the quality of life of the disabled. METHODS: Convolutional neural network is used to recognize the object to be grasped, and the recognition result is used as a trigger signal to control our intelligent prosthetic hand. We have designed a four-bar linkage mechanism and a side swing mechanism in the structure, which can not only achieve the flexion and extension of fingers but also realize the adduction and abduction of the four fingers and the lateral swing of the thumb. RESULTS: Through the method of image recognition, the new intelligent bionic hand can achieve five kinds of Human action. Including grasp, side pinch, three-finger pinch, two-finger pinch, and pinch between fingers. CONCLUSIONS: The experiment result proves that the precision of image recognition control is very excellent, the intelligent prosthetic hand can be completed the corresponding task.
Study of EEG alpha wave response on the effects of video-guided deep breathing on pain rehabilitation
Authors: Ramalingam Vinodhkumar , Cheong Soon Keng , Lee Poh Foong
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: Athletes with chronic ankle pain (CAP) are more inclined to suffer from physical and psychological pain depending on the severity of the injuries, which might trigger the powerless feeling on future sports participation. Therefore, an efficient and simple method is useful to integrate into conventional physiotherapy (CP) for maintaining mental wellness. OBJECTIVE: This research aimed to verify the effects and progress of video-guided deep breathing (DB) integrated into CP through study on the changes of alpha waves and pain scale. METHODS: Alpha waves were recorded using an electroencephalogram (EEG) and a visual analogue scale (VAS) to assess pain intensity before and after the intervention (6 weeks). Thirty CAP participants were recruited and randomly assigned to two groups: group A for video-guided DB integration into their CP and group B for CP. The effects of pre and post intervention were analyzed using a paired t-test with statistical significance set at p< 0.05. RESULTS: Profound results from the research have shown that the participants who received both the DB+CP revealed a significant increase in alpha wave (p< 0.05) at occipital region. CONCLUSION: The significant result reveals an increase in alpha waves in the occipital region after 6 weeks and indicates that the video-guided DB with a smartphone application is able to produce a change in CAP participants. This supports the DB integration to the CP for altering the pain perception.
Occupational hand and wrist disorders among forestry workers: An exposed-control study to investigate preventive strategies
Authors: Masci Federica , Spatari Giovanna , Giorgianni Concetto Mario , Antonangeli Laura Maria , D’Arrigo Andrea , Biasina Alberto Magenta , Priori Alberto , Colosio Claudio
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: In the arboriculture sector, some activities are still manually performed by forestry workers, which result consequently exposed to a high risk of developing muscle skeletal disorders. The Italian Compensation Authority reported an increase of work-related tendinopathies and carpal tunnel syndrome in loggers, but screening protocols are not available yet. OBJECTIVES: The objectives were: a) to evaluate the prevalence of tendinopathies and carpal tunnel syndrome in a sample of loggers and b) identify a sound screening approach. METHODS: 41 loggers and 41 paired control workers were recruited for a total of 164 hands. The protocol included 1) demographic data; 2) medical history; 3) identification of CTS symptoms through a questionnaire and a hand-chart; 4) upper limbs clinical examination; 5) Raynaud’s diseases questionnaire; 6) wrists ultrasound; 7) NCS of the distal median nerve. RESULTS: The prevalence of tendinopathies was statistically significant only in the non-dominant hand (75, 5% in the exposed group and 53, 6% in the non-exposed group). The prevalence of CTS was 32, 2% in the exposed group and 15, 5% in the non-exposed group. The questionnaire had a sensitivity of 56, 7% and a specificity of 75%. The hand-chart had a sensitivity of 30% and a specificity of 92%. The clinical examination had sensitivity of 30% and specificity of 80%. The ultrasound had a sensitivity of 70% and a specificity of 56%. CONCLUSIONS: Loggers are a population at risk of occupational hand and wrist disorders. The hand-chart could be considered, together with the questionnaire, as the best secondary prevention tool to diagnose CTS.
Rasch analysis of the Oxford shoulder score in a non-surgical occupational population
Authors: Henrotin Jean-Bernard , Petit-Gelin Véronique
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: The Oxford shoulder score (OSS) questionnaire for measuring patient perception of shoulder disability, has not tested specifically in a non-surgical population and no study has assessed the OSS with modern psychometrics based on Rasch model (RM). OBJECTIVE: To assess the psychometric properties of the OSS using RM among health-care workers with shoulder disorders and to verify its interest in a non-surgical population. METHODS: In an occupational health department of a French hospital center, a retrospective review was performed of the medical records from June 2019 to October 2020. Responses to 110 questionnaires were examined from 55 subjects (97% of women). A polytomous Rasch model based on the Partial Credit Model was used. RESULTS: Overall fit was satisfactory, the reliability coefficient was high and an ascending order was observed with the 5 categories of the scale. Analysis of the residuals supports unidimensionality and the local independence assumption. Item performance remained stable across the subgroup examined (DIF measures). Scale to-sample targeting indicated a substantial floor effect, and the mildest impairments were not well discriminated. CONCLUSIONS: OSS presents good psychometric qualities. However, it does not clearly discriminate subjects presenting the lowest levels of impairment. Its use in a non-surgical population is questionable.
Participative human-factor evaluation in the context of digital work (re-)design
Authors: Schumacher Jan-Philip , Depenbusch Sarah , Straatmann Tammo , Bender Elena , Schaper Niclas , Hamborg Kai-Christoph
Published: June 2022

BACKGROUND: Challenged by digital transformation, organizations increasingly integrate information and communication technologies into work designs. Often focal points of such digital reengineering initiatives are technical and economic aspects. Yet, as integration of new technologies affects how employee work and interact, there is a need to evaluate human-centered criteria (human-factor evaluation), optimally by involving employees as situational experts. OBJECTIVE: The present study develops an integrative and persona-based evaluation approach of human-centered criteria for application in participative digital (re-)design of work to support the joint optimization of the technical and social system. METHODS: Drawing on methods from usability evaluation, a persona-based approach is developed to facilitate comprehension and application of human-centered evaluation by employees. To that end, human-centered criteria from existing evaluation models are systemized with specific reference to digital transformation of work processes. The developed approach is tested in pilot runs of three German small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). RESULTS: The initial overview shows a divergence of specific human-centered criteria at the detailed level. Simultaneously, a high convergence is found for overarching dimensions and categories. The Integrative Socio-Digital Evaluation Model (ISDEM) is developed to balance complexity and abstraction of criteria. The derived persona-based approach (persISDEM) shows a good applicability in the pilot runs. CONCLUSIONS: The present study provides an amendment to existing work design approaches with an emphasis on employee participation, enabling organizations to foster employees’ comprehension and motivation to engage in evaluations of digital (re-)design of work and to create motivating and healthy jobs for successful digital transformation.
CT image crack segmentation method based on linear feature enhancement
Authors: Zhang Zhi-Bin , Zou Yong-Ning , Huang Ye-Ling , LI Qi
Published: June 2022

Industrial computed tomography (CT) crack segmentation is a key technology in industrial CT image processing. Unfortunately, the interference of artifact and noise in CT image often bring great trouble to the crack segmentation. In order to improve the segmentation accuracy of cracks in CT images, we propose to develop and test a new crack segmentation algorithm based on linear feature enhancement by analyzing the features of cracks in CT images. Firstly, the total variational model is used to denoise the input image. Next, a Frangi multiscale filter is used to extract linear structures in the image, and then the extracted linear structures are used to enhance the contrast of the image. Finally, the cracks in the image are detected and segmented by Otsu algorithm. By comparing with the manual segmentation results, the average intersection-over-union (IOU) reaches 86.10% and the average F1 score reaches 92.44%, which verifies the effectiveness and correctness of the algorithm developed in this study. Overall, experiments demonstrate that the new algorithm improves the accuracy of crack segmentation and it is effective applying to industry CT images.
Potential use of lactic acid in obstetrics and gynecology
Authors:   D.O. Ott Research Institute of Obstetrics, Gynecology, & Reproduction, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, Savicheva A.M. ,   St. Petersburg State Pediatric Medical University, St. Petersburg, Russian Federation, Shadrova P.A. ,   Pirogov Russian National Research Medical University, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: June 2022

nflammatory diseases and dysbiosis provoked by opportunistic microbes currently rank first among lower reproductive tract infections in women. Lactobacilli are predominant in the vaginal microecosystem that is considered the first line of defense against infectious agents. Changes in hormonal profile, the pattern of intimate hygiene and sex life, and other factors impair the vaginal microecosystem. Diseases resulting from the activation of aerobic and anaerobic opportunistic microbes are particularly harmful during pregnancy, since they cause serious reproductive disorders and significantly increase the risks of perinatal complications. Frequent recurrences due to growing antibiotic resistance and the lack of potential antimicrobial treatment in the first trimester of pregnancy force to search for alternative therapeutic tools with good efficacy and safety. Topical agents containing lactic acid decrease vaginal pH and provide unfavorable conditions for the activity of opportunistic microbes, thereby maintaining the protective functions of Lactobacilli. Lactic acid is a natural chemical for this locus. As a result, agents containing this compound are virtually lacking side effects. They can be used along with antibiotics or as monotherapy. KEYWORDS: bacterial vaginosis, aerobic vaginitis, lactic acid, opportunistic microbes, vaginal microbiota, Lactobacilli, dysbiosis, pregnancy, normal flora. FOR CITATION: Savicheva A.M., Shadrova P.A. Potential use of lactic acid in obstetrics and gynecology. Russian Journal of Woman and Child Health. 2022;5(2):138–145 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2618-8430-2022-5-2-138-145.
Functional state of the body of elementary schoolchildren when using e-learning tools
Authors:   National Medical Research Center for Children’s Health, Moscow, Russian Federation, Alexandrova I.E. , Ayzatova M.V. ,   National Medical Research Center for Children’s Health, Moscow, Russian Federation,   Moscow Center of Hygiene and Epidemiology, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: June 2022

Aim: to provide a physiological hygienic basis and regulation for using interactive panels (IP) in class to ensure safe learning in the digital environment. Patients and Methods: the following goals were set: (1) to compare the effects of interactive panels versus school board on the functional state of the body (FSB) of schoolchildren; (2) to analyze FSB of schoolchildren after classes with various duration of IP use. FSB of schoolchildren (mental and visual performance) in classes with the use of IPs (experimental class, n=28) or a classic chalk board (control class, n=26) were compared. A complex of hygienic, physiological, and statistical methods was applied. Results: based on a comparative analysis of mental capacity (MC) indicators of two classes, the tendency of lessons with the use of IPs showed the obvious and excessive fatigue more commonly registered among first-grade pupils (p<0.05), and the number of characters viewed in tests was decreased. The integral performance indicator of the class team changed more significantly after lessons with the use of IPs, reflecting the prevalence of "unsatisfactory" and "poor" proportions of performed proofreading tests over the number of "excellent" and "good". The specified indicator in the experimental class, being twice as high at the beginning of the school day, became 2 times lower by the end of classes versus the control class. The decrease in the parameters of the critical flicker fusion frequency (CFFF), indicating a deterioration in the functional state of the visual system, was more noticeable in the experimental class (p<0.01). The analysis of the average weekly MC indicators also revealed that the control class made fewer mistakes in the tests, they had significantly fewer signs of obvious and excessive fatigue. Conclusion: schoolchildren with unregulated use of IPs (versus the control class equipped with the classic chalk board) commonly had adverse indicators of mental and visual performance. The permissible time for the use of IPs during the lesson was justified, the excess of which leads to a significantly more negative trend among children’s FSB indicators. KEYWORDS: prevention, schoolchildren, hygienic regulations, excessive fatigue, interactive panels. FOR CITATION: Alexandrova I.E., Ayzatova M.V. Functional state of the body of elementary schoolchildren when using e-learning tools. Russian Journal of Woman and Child Health. 2022;5(2):157–163 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2618-8430-2022-5-2-157-163.
Localized scleroderma in a newborn (case report)
Authors:   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation, Akhmina N.I. , Utkin P.S. ,   Children’s Infectious Clinical Hospital No. 6, Moscow, Russian Federation, Shalatonin M.P. ,   Morozov Children’s City Clinical Hospital, Moscow, Russian Federation, Chabaidze Zh.L. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation, Dement’ev A.A. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation, Zaplatnikov A.L. ,   Russian Medical Academy of Continuous Professional Education, Moscow, Russian Federation
Published: June 2022

Scleroderma is a rare condition in pediatrics although it ranks third (after juvenile idiopathic arthritis and systemic lupus erythematosus) among rheumatic diseases in children. Congenital scleroderma is considered casuistic since only single case reports are available in publications worldwide. The etiology of congenital scleroderma remains elusive. The principal pathogenic mechanisms are vascular network impairment, immune system dysfunction with abnormal regulation of cytokine release and altered collagen synthesis with fibroblast proliferation and fibrosis. This paper describes a newborn girl with congenital localized nodular scleroderma whose clinical presentations were detected at birth. The authors discuss difficulties with the diagnosis based on clinical and routine lab and instrumental tests. The role of modern morphological studies (given the lack of specific lab tests) to diagnose scleroderma in a newborn is emphasized. Finally, this paper provides a brief review of published data on congenital scleroderma. KEYWORDS: congenital scleroderma, children, diagnostics, differential diagnosis, morphological studies. FOR CITATION: Akhmina N.I., Utkin P.S., Shalatonin M.P. et al. Localized scleroderma in a newborn (case report). Russian Journal of Woman and Child Health. 2022;5(2):169–172 (in Russ.). DOI: 10.32364/2618-8430-2022-5-2-169-172.
PENGARUH KESESUAIAN KOMPENSASI, SISTEM INFORMASI AKUNTANSI DAN KEEFEKTIFAN PENGENDALIAN INTERNAL TERHADAP KECENDERUNGAN KECURANGAN AKUNTANSI PADA PERBANKAN DI TEMBILAHAN
Authors: MELASARI RANTI , SUKESI SUKESI
Published: June 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk menguji dan mendapatkan bukti empiris pengaruh kesesuaian kompensasi, sistem informasi akuntansi, keefektifan pengendalian internal dan moralitas individu terhadap kecenderungan kecurangan akuntansi pada Perbankan di Tembilahan. Populasi dalam penelitian ini adalah perbankan yang berada di Tembilahan. Sampel yang digunakan sebanyak 45 responden yang diambil secara purposive sampling. Teknik analisis data yang digunakan adalah analisis regresi berganda dengan bantuan software SPSS versi 26 untuk mengolah data. Hasil penelitian ini menujukan bahwa secara parsial variabel kesesuaian kompensasi dan sistem informasi akuntansi berpengaruh terhadap kecenderungan kecurangan akuntansi. Sedangkan variabel keefektifan pengendalian internal tidak berpengaruh terhadap kecenderungan kecurangan akuntansi. Secara simultan kesesuaian kompensasi, sistem informasi akuntansi dan keefektifan pengendalian ineternal berpengaruh terhadap kecenderungan kecurangan akuntansi
PENGARUH PARTISIPASI PENYUSUNAN ANGGARAN, GAYA KEPEMIMPINAN DAN MOTIVASI TERHADAP KINERJA MANAJERIAL PADA RSJ TAMPAN PROVINSI RIAU
Authors: SURYADI NANDA , LINDA ROZA , ALDO SOFYAN MHD.
Published: June 2022

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengetahui adanya pengaruh partisipasi penyusunan anggaran, gaya kepemimpinan dan motivasi terhadap kinerja manajerial. Populasi pada penelitian ini adalah pegawai RSJ Tampan Provinsi Riau. Penentuan sampel penelitian ini menggunakan metode purposive sampling dan diperoleh sampel penelitian yang berjumlah 32 responden. Hasil penelitian ini menunjukkan bahwa (1) Partisipasi penyusunan anggaran berpengaruh positif terhadap kinerja manajerial (2) Gaya Kepemimpinan tidak berpengaruh terhadap kinerja (3) Motivasi berpengaruh positif terhadap kinerja manajerial. (4) Sedangkan secara simultan ketiga variabel bebas partisipasi penyusunan anggaran, gaya kepemimpinan dan motivasi berpengaruh positif terhadap kinerja manajerial
Anesthesia Management in An Adult Patient with Desbuquois Syndrome
Authors: Tümer Murat , Kökten Hazar , Ankay Yılbaş Aysun , Sarıcaoğlu Fatma
Published: June 2022

Desbuquois syndrome (DS) is a rare disease that can be accompanied by a difficult airway. In the literature, there are usually case reports about the mortal forms in childhood. We wanted to share our anesthesia experience in an adult patient with DS who underwent orthopedic surgery. We used videolaryngoscopy for intubation with coronavirus precautions. Adult patients with DS can be managed safely with adequate difficult airway preparation.