bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The value of MRI in the detection of prostate cancer in a peripheral center
Authors: van der Slot Margaretha A , Boerma Michiel O , Koster Kenneth , van Gorp Alexander , Kolderman Stephanie EM , Wolters Tineke
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

This study evaluated the value of pre-biopsy MRI and target biopsy in detection of significant prostate cancer in a peripheral center.

Methods:

A retrospective study included all patients of whom a MRI of the prostate was performed before biopsy, initial and repeated biopsy, between June 2016 and May 2017. Patients underwent transrectal ultrasound guided 8–12 cores prostate biopsy and cognitive fusion target biopsy was performed if a suspicious lesion was seen on MRI. The prostate cancer detection was compared between the MRI cognitive target biopsy and standard random biopsy.

Results:

In a total of 265 patients a MRI was performed of whom 115 underwent prostate biopsy, 96 patients underwent MRI before initial biopsies and 19 patients had previous negative biopsies. In the initial biopsy group 83 MRI’s were abnormal and only 7 (8.4%) target biopsies had an additional value in detecting or upstaging prostate cancer. Prostate cancer was found in 4 of 13 (30.8%) normal MRI’s. In the prior negative biopsy group, 4 of 18 abnormal MRI’s had an additional value in upstaging or detecting prostate cancer.

Conclusion:

In this study the pre-biopsy MRI had a limited additional value compared to standard biopsy in detecting or upstaging prostate cancer.
Sociology in Ireland: Some random reflections
Authors: Corcoran Mary P
Published: July 2021

2021 has been a year for looking back as well as forwards. In this article, I reflect on the state of languishing induced by lockdown, and the intensification of uncertainty in our everyday lives. I offer some biographical details of the early years of my career, which has largely been within a single institution, Maynooth University. The late Professor Liam Ryan was my boss and later my friend from 1990 until his death in 2015. His (typically) acerbic insights on the state of Irish sociology were recorded in 1984 for an issue of the Sociological Association of Ireland Bulletin. Re-visiting his prognosis today, I reflect on North–South relations in the discipline, on the challenge of forging a public role for Irish sociology, and on the growth of a precariat within the academic discipline. I conclude with some comments on the enduring relevance of sociology as we come to terms with post-pandemic life.
Bringing the Virus Back Home: Media Representations of Ukrainian Labour Migrants in a Time of Pandemic
Authors: Tymczuk Alexander
Published: July 2021

In a globalized world where mobility and movement is at its essence, the movement of viruses paradoxically causes a preoccupation with boundaries, containment, and control over borders, and thus keeping the “dangerous” outside separated from the “safe” inside. Through a qualitative thematic and frame analysis of news articles published on 12 Ukrainian news sites, I found that Ukrainian labour migrants conceptually constitute a challenge to such a clear-cut spatial organization in a time of a pandemic. Labour migrants are part of the national “we,” but their presence in the dangerous outside excludes them from the “imagined immunity.” This ambiguity is evident in the way labour migrants were portrayed during the first months of the outbreak in Ukraine. Initially, Ukrainian labour migrants were depicted as a potential danger, and then blamed for bringing the virus back home. However, the framing of the labour migrants as a danger is only part of the story, and the image of a scapegoat was eventually replaced with images of an economic resource and a victim. Thus, Ukrainian labour migrants have been the object of vilification, heroization, as well as empathy during the various phases of the outbreak. I would argue that these shifting frames are connected to the ambiguous conceptualization of Ukrainian labour migrants in general.
The Growing Role of Cognitive Behavior Therapy in the Treatment of Parkinson’s Disease
Authors: Lopes Sneha R. , Khan Sunna , Chand Suma
Published: July 2021

Neuropsychiatric symptoms occur frequently in Parkinson’s disease (PD) patients. Pharmacological treatment of the psychiatric symptoms has been found to be inadequate. Cognitive behavior therapy (CBT) is an evidence based form of psychotherapy that is effective in treating a number of psychiatric disorders. In this article we examine the evidence of CBT in treating common psychiatric symptoms seen in PD patients, namely depression, anxiety, insomnia and impulse control behaviors. Most of the studies adapted CBT to address PD related concerns. Caregivers were frequently part of the CBT programs. Among the studies reviewed, randomized controlled trials showed significant effects in treating depression with CBT in PD patients. Studies have also provided preliminary data for effects of CBT on anxiety, impulse-control behaviors and insomnia. There is a need for more well designed studies with sufficient power for CBT to be established as a useful non-pharmacological treatment for psychiatric symptoms in PD.
Key elements in selection of pre-dialysis patients for home dialysis
Authors: Bonenkamp Anna A , Reijnders Tom D Y , der Sluijs Anita van Eck van , Hagen E Christiaan , Abrahams Alferso C , van Ittersum Frans J , van Jaarsveld Brigit C
Published: July 2021

Background:

Most pre-dialysis patients are medically eligible for home dialysis, and home dialysis has several advantages over incentre dialysis. However, accurately selecting patients for home dialysis appears to be difficult, since uptake of home dialysis remains low. The aim of this study was to investigate which medical or psychosocial elements contribute most to the selection of patients eligible for home dialysis.

Methods:

All patients from a Dutch teaching hospital, who received treatment modality education and subsequently started dialysis treatment, were included. The pre-dialysis programme consisted of questionnaires for the patient, nephrologist and social worker, followed by an assessment of eligibility for home dialysis by a multidisciplinary team. Clinimetric assessment and logistic regression were used to identify domains and questions associated with home dialysis treatment.

Results:

A total of 135 patients were included, of whom 40 were treated with home dialysis and 95 with incentre haemodialysis. The key elements associated with long-term home dialysis treatment were part of the domains ‘suitability of the housing’, ‘self-care’, ‘social support’ and ‘patient capacity’, with adjusted odds ratios ranging from 0.13 for negative to 18.3 for positive associations.

Conclusion:

The assessment of contraindications by a nephrologist followed by the assessment of possibilities by a social worker or dialysis nurse who investigates four key elements, ideally during a home visit, and subsequent detailed education offered by specialized nurses is an optimal way to select patients for home dialysis.
Geometry optimization of a planar double wishbone suspension based on whole-range nonlinear dynamic model
Authors: Niu Zhihua , Jin Sun , Wang Rongrong , Zhang Yansong
Published: July 2021

Dynamic analysis is an essential task in the geometry design of suspension systems. Whereas the dynamic simulation based on numerical software like Adams is quite slowly and the existing analytical models of the nonlinear suspension geometry are mostly based on small displacement hypothesis, this paper aims to propose a whole-range dynamic model with high computational efficiency for planar double wishbone suspensions and further achieve the fast optimal design of suspension geometry. Selection of the new generalized coordinate and explicit solutions of the basic four-bar mechanism dramatically reduce the complexity of suspension geometry representation and provide analytical solutions for all of the time varying dimensions. By this means, the running speed and computational accuracy of the new model are guaranteed simultaneously. Furthermore, an original Matlab/Simulink implementation is given to maintain the geometric nonlinearity in the solving process of dynamic differential equations. After verifying its accuracy with an ADAMS prototype, the presented whole-range model is used in the vast-parameter optimization of suspension geometry. Since both kinematic and dynamic performances are evaluated in the objective function, the optimization is qualified to give a comprehensive suggestion to the design of suspension geometry.
Iterative learning NARMA-L2 control for turbofan engine with dynamic uncertainty in flight envelope
Authors: Lu Feng , Yan Zhaohong , Tang Jie , Huang Jinquan , Qiu Xiaojie , Gao Yahui
Published: July 2021

Nonlinear control of turbofan engines in the flight envelope has attracted much attention in consideration of the inherent nonlinearity of the engine dynamics. Most nonlinear control design techniques rely on the correction theory of reference model parameter to extend the typical flight operations from ground operation. However, dynamic uncertainties in flight envelope lead to the deviation of operating state, and it is negative to control performance. This article is to develop online correction neural network–based speed control approaches for the turbofan engine with dynamic uncertainty in the flight envelope. Two improved online correction nonlinear ways combined with nonlinear autoregressive moving average (NARMA) are proposed, such as gradient search nonlinear autoregressive moving average with feedback linearization (NARMA-L2) control and iterative learning NARMA-L2 control. The contribution of this article is to provide better control quality of fast regulation and less steady errors of engine speed by the proposed methodology in comparison to the conventional NARMA-L2 control. Some important results are reached on both turbofan engine controller design and dynamic uncertainty tolerance at the typical flight operations, and the numerical examples demonstrate the superiority of the proposed control in the flight envelope.
Domestication and microbiome
Authors: Glazko Valeriy I , Zybaylov Boris L , Kosovsky Yu G , Glazko Galina V , Glazko Tatyana T
Published: July 2021

In this paper we discuss two universal characteristics of domesticated species that distinguish them from the wild closely related ancestors – increased socialization and phenotypic variability. Examining evidence accumulated in the literature up to date, we note that the gut microbiome is involved in the increased social behavior of domesticated species through the gut-immune system-brain axis. We further discuss data that point toward clear difference in the microbiome composition between domesticated species and closely related wild ancestors. This difference is related to changes in diet, due to co-habitation with humans, which leads to increase in Bifidobacteria and changes in carbohydrate metabolism. We note that these changes may also influence interaction between microbiome and virome. Virome is linked to the evolutionary changes through incorporation of retro-viruses into the host genome. Together with transposons these mobile genetic elements may also lead to changes in regulatory networks, and increase adaptive potential. Changes in microbiome of animals during co-habitation with humans should be considered as an important event during domestication process.
Modulation of NRF2/ARE pathway- and cell death-related genes during drug-induced liver injury
Authors: Ghanim BY , Ahmad MI , Abdallah QM , Qatouseh LA , Qinna NA
Published: July 2021

Transcriptional factor NRF2 is an emerging tool in reviewing mechanistic behavior of drug-specific injury pathways. Drug-induced liver injury (DILI) represents a major clinical concern that often manifests oxidative stress and cell death. Despite the pivotal role of NRF2 pathway in liver pathologies, it is questioned whether NRF2 activation or regulatory efficiency could be hindered in by the severity of DILI and progression of cell death. In this study, we evaluate NRF2 as a biomarker to DILI in comparison to severity of injury as well as explore stress mediating factors affecting Nrf2 expression. In vivo DILI model was established in C57BL/6 mice by acetaminophen (APAP) at different toxic doses, confirmed by dose-dependent liver pathological changes and accompanied with in vitro time- and dose-dependent depletion of GSH and SOD in isolated primary mouse hepatocytes. Increase in liver NRF2 translocation and cytosolic content was observed in 70 mg/kg APAP-treated mice. At this subtoxic dose, liver Nrf2 transcription was increased in mice by 18.3-fold, a prominent downregulation was seen in ARE (antioxidant response element) genes; Hmox1, Nqo1 and Glcm, and apoptotic Bcl2 regulating genes. In addition, upregulation in necrosis inducer Parp2 was associated to downregulation in Hmgb1. Collectively, expression of genes related to cell survival were regulated at mild APAP hepatotoxicity. By increasing APAP dose, hemorrhagic necrosis and impaired genetic transcription in both Nrf2 and several other genes were evident. In conclusion, NRF2/ARE system and cell death modulation is halted by the increase of chemical stress and found directly associated with DILI severity.
The protective role of curcumin against toxic effect of nonylphenol on bone development
Authors: Suna P Alisan , Cengiz O , Ceyhan A , Atay E , Ertekin T , Nisari M , Yay A
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

In the study, it was aimed to investigate the possible protective effects of curcumin, a potent antioxidant, against the toxic effect of nonylphenol on bone development.

Methods:

Thirty pregnant female Wistar albino rats were used. The rats were randomly divided into the following five groups; the control group, corn oil group (150 µl/kg/day), nonylphenol group (50 µl/kg/day), curcumin group (100 mg/kg/day) and curcumin + nonylphenol group (100 mg/kg/day + 50 µl/kg/day). The doses were given by gavage from the 5th day to the 20th day of gestation. The fetuses were removed out on the 20th day of pregnancy by cesarean at the end of the study. After the sacrifice of the animals, double skeletal staining in front extremity (clavicula, scapula, humerus, radius, ulna) and hind extremity (femur, tibia, fibula), additionally histological and immunohistochemical examinations in femur bone were performed.

Results:

The nonylphenol group offspring have the lowest weights of fetuses and placenta, head-to-hip lengths, biparietal and occipitofrontal length, and also, bone length percentage and percentage of the ossification area in all measurements of the front extremity and hind extremity Interestingly, the groups treated with curcumin showed close to the control group in terms of double skeletal staining, histological, and immunohistochemical examinations.

Conclusions:

Our findings demonstrated an association between bone development and exposure to nonylphenol. The findings suggest that curcumin treatments may be effective in accelerating bone formation.
Gamification and Sugar: A School-Based Pilot Study of Social Marketing and Gamification Approaches to Reduce Sugary Drink Intake in Pasifika School Students
Authors: Sundborn Gerhard , Thornley Simon , Grey Corina , Gentles Dudley , Jackson Rod T. , Swinburn Boyd , Veatupu Loma , Lang Bodo
Published: July 2021

The aim of this study was to investigate a social marketing–gamification intervention to reduce sugary drink intake drawing on popular culture of Pasifika secondary school students in Auckland, New Zealand. Students aged 11 to 14 years from one coeducational high school participated in the 11-week pilot study. The 9-week intervention was undertaken in assemblies and classrooms. Baseline and follow-up measures were completed by 227 and 220 students, respectively, of 298 enrolled students. Retention of the “3-6-9” teaching related to maximum daily sugar intake increased from 9% at baseline to 97% at follow-up ( P < .0001). Significant increases were observed of students who correctly answered sugar content of drinks. Overall consumption of sugary drink decreased at follow-up by 0.46 glasses per day. The main conclusion from this study was that this school-based gamification educational package to convey messages about sugar content of drinks using popular modes of engagement is a promising intervention that was acceptable and well supported by school staff and students.
Access to algorithms post-Robodebt: Do Freedom of Information laws extend to automated systems?
Authors: Ray Andrew , Adams Bridie , Thampapillai Dilan
Published: July 2021

This article analyses how current Freedom of Information (FOI) laws apply to automated decision-making systems. The authors argue that while current law may extend to automated systems, its application is unclear, both to practitioners and government. Instead, amendments to the FOI Act 1982 (Cth) could clarify how the law operates with respect to automated systems and better balance the underpinning objectives of the Act.
Dousing threats and the criminal law in Queensland: Do we need a new offence?
Authors: Lelliott Joseph , Lim Phylicia , Lu Maeve
Published: July 2021

This article examines dousing threats as criminal conduct and a form of domestic and family violence. It points to recent cases of dousing and highlights concerns that the low penalties of applicable offences in Queensland may not reflect the gravity of the harm caused nor the culpability of offenders. The article analyses the current legal framework and argues that a new dousing offence in Queensland would fill a gap in the criminal law, more accurately label such offending and may also contribute to improved police responses to dousing threats.
Addressing employability challenges of business graduates in Bangladesh: Evidence from an emerging economy perspective
Authors: Uddin Mahi
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to explore and address the employability challenges of business graduates in the higher education sector in Bangladesh. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews and analysed applying thematic analysis (N = 35, 77% male, mean age = 34 years). Findings revealed that skill gaps, lack of quality education system, quality teachers, industry-university collaboration, backdated course curriculum, and corruption are important challenges for graduate employability in Bangladesh. The study suggests improving communication skills, updating course curriculum, curbing institutional corruption, limiting student-teacher politics, hiring and promoting quality teachers, and industry-university collaboration as strategies to improve graduate employability. The findings may help employers, managers, graduates, academics, and policymakers in the higher education sector to identify and address graduate employability challenges in an emerging economy such as Bangladesh.
Determining factors of labour market outcomes for recently graduated, underrepresented college students
Authors: Venegas-Muggli Juan I , Cifuentes-Donald Claudia , Rozas-Retamal Mario , González-Clares María José
Published: July 2021

This study examined the factors that determined labour market outcomes for recently graduated, underrepresented college students. Chile’s largest higher education institution, which has a significant number of first-generation students from more deprived social sectors, was considered. A quantitative methodology was applied using logistic and multinomial regression models. Occupational status and income level were chosen as the dependent variables and five dimensions of independent variables were considered: sociodemographic attributes, human capital, academic characteristics, personality traits, and work environment. The results indicated that males, graduates who worked during their studies, heads of households, graduates from technical-professional high schools, those who completed their higher education studies in a timely manner, those who worked for larger private companies, and those who worked in a different geographical region to the one in which they studied had better labour market outcomes. Suggestions for institutional practices to help underrepresented students have successful career transitions are discussed.
The Corpse: Time for Another Look A Review of the Culture of Embalming, Viewing and the Social Construction
Authors: Finney Redmond , Shulman Lisa M. , Kheirbek Raya E.
Published: July 2021

Embalming of the dead is more common in the United States than anywhere else in the world. Battles far from home during the Civil War with concern for contagion from dead bodies being shipped home compelled President Lincoln to direct the troops to use embalming to allow the return of the Union dead to their homes. Viewings were common with war heroes and culminated with the viewing of Lincoln himself. In the 20th century embalming became a tradition despite substantial evidence indicating environmental and occupational hazards related to embalming fluids and carbon dioxide generated from manufacturing steel coffins before placing in concrete burial vaults. Embalming is promoted and considered helpful to the grieving process. Embalmers are expected to produce an illusion of rest, an image that in some ways disguises death for the benefit of mourners. The dead are carefully displayed in a condition of liminal repose where the ‘true’ condition is hidden, and death is removed from the actual event. In this paper we highlight the spiritual and cultural complexities of embalming related issues. We propose an innovative process to empower people facing serious illness, and their families to make shared and informed decisions, especially when death is an expected outcome.
The Prevalence and Morphology of Supernumerary Teeth in Children With Nonsyndromic Cleft Lip and Palate
Authors: Lasota Agnieszka , Siebieszuk Weronika , Pastuszak Przemysław , Mostowska Adrianna
Published: July 2021

Introduction:

Cleft lip with or without cleft palate (CL/P) is congenital deformity associated with hyperdontia.

Objective:

To determine the prevalence and characteristics of supernumerary teeth in patients with CL/P.

Design:

Retrospective descriptive and correlation clinical study.

Patients:

One hundred thirteen children with cleft (age ranged 9.3-19.2; 67 males and 46 females) treated in Clinic of Congenital Facial Deformities Medical University of Lublin were included in the study.

Methods:

Records evaluation was conducted regarding age, gender, cleft type (Q36, Q37— International Classification of Diseases 10th revision), cleft side, and incidence of supernumeraries. In all supernumerary teeth, size, shape, and developmental degree were analyzed and correlation between the incidence of hyperdontia with different variables was checked. Correlations were detected using chi-square and the Yates correction.

Results:

The majority of the examined group were males—59.29% with Q37 (67.26%) and the cleft on the left side (62.83%). Hyperdontia was noted in 26.55%. Only upper lateral incisors were affected. They usually had atypical shape (56.67%), reduced size (83.33%), and delayed development (56.67%).

Conclusions:

The prevalence of supernumerary permanent teeth in patients with cleft was higher than in the general population. Anomaly was more frequent in male patients and occurred mainly on the cleft side. The severity of the cleft did not influenced the frequency of supernumerary teeth, their shape, size, and developmental degree. Supernumerary teeth were characterized by reduced crown size, abnormal structure, incorrect inclination, and delayed development phase.
A New Frame for Orienting Infants With Cleft Lip and Palate During 3-Dimensional Facial Scanning
Authors: Alisha KH , Batra Puneet , Raghavan Sreevatsan , Sharma Karan , Talwar Aditya
Published: July 2021

Background:

Nonradiographic 3-D assessment of soft tissue facial structures is an ideal tool to measure 3-D facial change and smartphone apps like Bellus 3D have brought these technologies to our doorsteps. Although this app works well for adults, it doesn’t do so well with infants as their stabilization is difficult thus proper alignment becomes problematic often leading to distortion. This seriously hampers the repeatability and reliability of the whole process.

Material and Method:

A stainless steel rod of 150-cm length is curved into a semicircle of a radius of 42.5 cm. Bases are fabricated at both the ends to firmly hold the stand on the table. A Teflon ring of one inch is made for adjusting the diameter of the camera holder. A camera holder is then attached to the Teflon ring. The mobile holder mounted is free to move within the arc. A 3-D facial scan of a single patient was carried out with the camera mounted on the frame and once without the frame. The same was compared using side-by-side comparison and superimposition of the .STL files from the frontal, profile, and worm’s eye view.

Result and Conclusion:

It was found that considerable distortion was noted around the nasal and paranasal areas when the scan was performed without the frame as compared to the one that was taken with the frame. This technique avoided distortion and the difficulty in turning the baby’s head to record the lateral portion of the face.
Medication Administration Practices in United States’ Schools: A Systematic Review and Meta-synthesis
Authors: Lowe Ashley A. , Gerald Joe K. , Clemens Conrad , Gaither Cherie , Gerald Lynn B.
Published: July 2021

Schools often provide medication management to children at school, yet, most U.S. schools lack a full-time, licensed nurse. Schools rely heavily on unlicensed assistive personnel (UAP) to perform such tasks. This systematic review examined medication management among K-12 school nurses. Keyword searches in three databases were performed. We included studies that examined: (a) K-12 charter, private/parochial, or public schools, (b) UAPs and licensed nurses, (c) policies and practices for medication management, or (d) nurse delegation laws. Three concepts were synthesized: (a) level of training, (b) nurse delegation, and (c) emergency medications. One-hundred twelve articles were screened. Of these, 37.5% (42/112) were comprehensively reviewed. Eighty-one percent discussed level of training, 69% nurse delegation, and 57% emergency medications. Succinct and consistent policies within and across the United States aimed at increasing access to emergency medications in schools remain necessary.
Husband’s Social Support for Mother of Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Desiningrum Dinie Ratri , Suminar Dewi Retno , Surjaningrum Endang Retno , Suryanto  , Hendriani Wiwin
Published: July 2021

Purpose:

The purpose of the research is to find husband’s social support for mother of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). The problem of this study is how the forms of husband’s social support are perceived by mothers of children with ASD, and what are the factors and impacts for mothers perceived about husband’s social support.

Method:

The research was conducted on family having children with autism aged 5–14 years, employing a qualitative method by interviewing 10 mother participants. Data were analyzed using interpretative phenomenological analysis (IPA).

Results:

The analysis resulted in five themes. First, the impact of disability of children with ASD on marriage relationship; second, the role of husband in parenting children with ASD; third, the perception of mother for husband’s social support; fourth, some factors influences to husband social supports; and fifth, the effects of husband’s social support for mother, children with ASD, and family. The discussion and limitations of this study are considered.

Applications/Originality/Value:

The results of this study are expected to be a reference for scientists, especially in the field of psychology of children with special needs, and can also contribute to the application of science to institutions related to ASD and observers of children with ASD.
Empty Nest Status, Marital Closeness, and Perceived Health: Testing Couples’ Direct and Moderated Associations with an Actor–Partner Interdependence Model
Authors: Tracy Eunjin L. , Putney Jennifer M. , Papp Lauren M.
Published: July 2021

Building on previous examinations of marital outcomes in the empty nest phase that have been based on surveys of individuals (primarily wives), the current study examined the direct effect of no longer living with children in the home (vs. continuing to live with children) on husbands’ and wives’ ratings of marital closeness as well as their perceived health. The study also tested whether couples’ empty nest status moderated the associations between spouses’ marital closeness and health. Analyses were based on 3,765 mixed-sex couples drawn from the Wisconsin Longitudinal Study. Dyadic multilevel modeling and actor–partner interdependence models were used to test hypotheses. Results indicated that, accounting for known covariates, being in the empty nest was directly linked with both husbands and wives reporting higher levels of marital closeness and with wives (only) reporting better health. Moderating findings were less consistent, with the single reliable moderation result indicating that wives’ perceived health was improved at higher levels of their husbands’ marital closeness only among couples who were still living with children in the home. Clinical implications and future research directions are discussed.
How Victims of Strangulation Survived: Enhancing the Admissibility of Victim Statements to the Police When Survivors are Reluctant to Cooperate
Authors: Brady Patrick Q. , Fansher Ashley K. , Zedaker Sara B.
Published: July 2021

Holding perpetrators accountable for family violence is challenged when survivors are reluctant to testify. In light of recent Supreme Court precedents limiting the admissibility of statements to law enforcement in victimless prosecutions, the current study examined 130 cases of nonfatal strangulation (NFS) to determine whether case characteristics and themes across survivors’ on-scene statements can help prosecutors combat common legal defenses raised when victims are unavailable for trial. The history of prior violence and how only 6% of perpetrators stopped strangling victims on their own suggests that NFS complaints should be investigated as an attempted homicide until evidence suggests otherwise.
Exploring the Association between Multimorbidity and Cognitive Impairment in Older Adults Living in the Community: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Wittenberg Grace F. , McKay Michelle A. , O’Connor Melissa
Published: July 2021

Two-thirds of older adults have multimorbidity (MM), or co-occurrence of two or more medical conditions. Mild cognitive impairment (CI) is found in almost 20% of older adults and can lead to further cognitive decline and increased mortality. Older adults with MM are the primary users of home health care services and are at high risk for CI development; however, there is no validated cognitive screening tool used to assess the level of CI in home health users. Given the prevalence of MM and CI in the home health setting, we conducted a review of the literature to understand this association. Due to the absence of literature on CI in home health users, the review focused on the association of MM and CI in community-dwelling older adults. Search terms included home health, older adults, cognitive impairment, and multimorbidity and were applied to the databases PubMed, CINAHL, and PsychInfo leading to eight studies eligible for review. Results show CI is associated with MM in older adults of increasing age, among minorities, and in older adults with lower levels of education. Heart disease was the most prevalent disease associated with increased CI. Sleep disorders, hypertension, arthritis, and hyperlipidemia were also significantly associated with increased CI. The presence of MM and CI was associated with increased risk for death among older adults. Further research and attention are needed regarding the use and development of a validated cognitive assessment tool for home health users to decrease adverse outcomes in the older adult population.
Ophthalmic features of craniosynostosis: A Malaysian experience
Authors: Rafique Ali Abdullah Ashraf , Ismail Fazliana , May May Choo , Mohd Abdullah Azlindarita Aisyah , Khaliddin Nurliza , Hariri Firdaus , Abdul Rahman Zainal Ariff , Iqbal Tajunisah
Published: July 2021

Background:

This study aims to collect local Malaysian data regarding the ophthalmic features and complications in craniosynostosis patients who attended the Combined Craniofacial Clinic (CFC) in University Malaya Medical Centre (UMMC).

Methods:

Retrospective study of medical notes of craniosynostosis patients who attended the CFC in UMMC from 2014 to December 2020.

Results:

Out of 37 patients, 29 had syndromic craniosynostosis, and 8 had non-syndromic craniosynostosis. Visual impairment was present in 32.1% of patients. Causes for visual impairment were as follows – amblyopia (25.0%), exposure keratopathy (3.6%), and optic atrophy (3.6%). Hypermetropia and myopia were each seen in 20.6% of patients. Astigmatism was seen in 47.1% of patients, and 29.1% had anisometropia. Proptosis was present in 78.6% and lagophthalmos in 53.3% of patients. Strabismus in primary position occurred in 51.7% of patients. Thirty-one percent of the patients had exposure keratopathy. Optic disc atrophy was seen in 13.7% of patients, and 8.3% had optic disc swelling. Optic disc swelling was resolved in all patients who underwent craniofacial surgery.

Conclusion:

Our experience in Malaysia was consistent with previously reported data on ophthalmic features of craniosynostosis patients. Additionally, we found that non-syndromic craniosynostosis patients are also at risk of ocular complications just as much as syndromic patients. Appropriate treatment of amblyogenic risk factors, ocular complications, and timely detection of papilledema, and prompt surgical intervention are crucial in preserving long-term visual function in these patients.
Spatial Distribution of Cancer Cases Seen in Three Major Public Hospitals in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Authors: Motlana Mpho KTN , Ginindza Themba G , Mitku Aweke A , Jafta Nkosana
Published: July 2021

Background:

Noncommunicable diseases (NCDs) like cancer are posing a challenge in the health system especially in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). In South Africa, cancer is under-reported due to the lack of a comprehensive cancer surveillance system. The limited knowledge on the extent of cancer burden has led to inaccurate allocation of public health resources. The aim of this study was to describe cancer incidence and spatial distribution of cancer cases seen at 3 main public oncology facilities in KwaZulu-Natal.

Methods:

In this retrospective study, cases of cancer observed from year 2015 to 2017 were extracted from medical records. The crude incidence rate was estimated for the total cancer cases and for different type of cancer reported over that period. Age-standardised incidence rates (ASR) per 100 000 was calculated per year using age groups and sex according to the district population data of KwaZulu-Natal. The comparisons of cancer diagnosed incidences were made between 11 districts using the ASR. Choropleth spatial maps and Moran’s Index were used to assess the ASR cancer spatial distribution along with geographical patterns among the districts. One sample chi-square test was used to assess the significant increase/decrease over time.

Results:

The study lost numerous cases due to incompleteness. A total of 4909 new cases were diagnosed with cancer during 2015 to 2017, 62% of which were female. Both uMgungundlovu and eThekwini districts had the highest ASR among district municipalities of KwaZulu-Natal for both male and female (83.6 per 100 000 per men year for men, 158.2 per 100 000 women per year, and 60.1 per 100 000 men per year and 96.9 per 100 000 women per year, respectively). Random distribution of reported cancer cases in KwaZulu-Natal was observed with a high concentration being in and around 2 metropolitan districts. Spatial variation showed a significant difference from year to year between the districts with the random spatial distribution. Overall, there was a significant decline of cancer incidences observed from 2015 to 2017 ( P < .05) in the province.

Conclusion:

The overall cancer incidence in the study shows that female cancers (breast and cervical) are still on the rise and still need to be given priority as they were most prevalent in KwaZulu-Natal. Spatial analysis (choropleth maps) was used to show a pattern of higher concentration of cancer incidence in the north-western parts of the province.
The Potential of Computer Vision-Based Marker-Less Human Motion Analysis for Rehabilitation
Authors: Hellsten Thomas , Karlsson Jonny , Shamsuzzaman Muhammed , Pulkkis Göran
Published: July 2021

Background:

Several factors, including the aging population and the recent corona pandemic, have increased the need for cost effective, easy-to-use and reliable telerehabilitation services. Computer vision-based marker-less human pose estimation is a promising variant of telerehabilitation and is currently an intensive research topic. It has attracted significant interest for detailed motion analysis, as it does not need arrangement of external fiducials while capturing motion data from images. This is promising for rehabilitation applications, as they enable analysis and supervision of clients’ exercises and reduce clients’ need for visiting physiotherapists in person. However, development of a marker-less motion analysis system with precise accuracy for joint identification, joint angle measurements and advanced motion analysis is an open challenge.

Objectives:

The main objective of this paper is to provide a critical overview of recent computer vision-based marker-less human pose estimation systems and their applicability for rehabilitation application. An overview of some existing marker-less rehabilitation applications is also provided.

Methods:

This paper presents a critical review of recent computer vision-based marker-less human pose estimation systems with focus on their provided joint localization accuracy in comparison to physiotherapy requirements and ease of use. The accuracy, in terms of the capability to measure the knee angle, is analysed using simulation.

Results:

Current pose estimation systems use 2D, 3D, multiple and single view-based techniques. The most promising techniques from a physiotherapy point of view are 3D marker-less pose estimation based on a single view as these can perform advanced motion analysis of the human body while only requiring a single camera and a computing device. Preliminary simulations reveal that some proposed systems already provide a sufficient accuracy for 2D joint angle estimations.

Conclusions:

Even though test results of different applications for some proposed techniques are promising, more rigour testing is required for validating their accuracy before they can be widely adopted in advanced rehabilitation applications.
The theory and evidence behind law enforcement strategies that combat child sexual abuse material
Authors: Christensen Larissa S. , Rayment-McHugh Susan , Prenzler Tim , Chiu Yi-Ning , Webster Julianne
Published: July 2021

This article presents a synthesis of current and innovative law enforcement strategies to combat child sexual abuse material. Six law enforcement strategies were identified through an international literature search and verified by experts via roundtable discussion. Six strategies were identified: public intelligence gathering, polygraph, proactive investigations, risk assessment prioritization, resourced taskforces and collaborative partnerships. Strategies are reported via an adapted version of the ‘EMMIE’ framework: effects, mechanisms, moderators, and implementation considerations. Through applying the adapted framework, this article explains how and why each law enforcement strategy may work, and identifies the factors that may impact each strategy’s success. As a result, this article offers a valuable resource for practice professionals across the globe. The synthesis does not include an assessment of whether prior evidence supports the strategies discussed.
Theoretical fractional formulation of a three-dimensional radio frequency ion trap (Paul-trap) for optimum mass separation
Authors: Seddighi Chaharborj Sarkhosh , Seddighi Chaharborj Shahriar , Seddighi Chaharborj Zahra , Phang Pei See
Published: July 2021

We investigate the dynamics of an ion confined in a Paul–trap supplied by a fractional periodic impulsional potential. The Cantor–type cylindrical coordinate method is a powerful tool to convert differential equations on Cantor sets from cantorian–coordinate systems to Cantor–type cylindrical coordinate systems. By applying this method to the classical Laplace equation, a fractional Laplace equation in the Cantor–type cylindrical coordinate is obtained. The fractional Laplace equation is solved in the Cantor–type cylindrical coordinate, then the ions is modelled and studied for confined ions inside a Paul–trap characterized by a fractional potential. In addition, the effect of the fractional parameter on the stability regions, ion trajectories, phase space, maximum trapping voltage, spacing between two signals and fractional resolution is investigated and discussed.
Reliability and validity of the Glittre-ADL test to assess the functional status of patients with interstitial lung disease
Authors: Alexandre Hellen Fontão , Cani Katerine Cristhine , Araújo Juliana , Mayer Anamaria Fleig
Published: July 2021

The study objective was to investigated the reliability and validity of the ADL-Glittre test (TGlittre) to assess the functional status of patients with interstitial lung disease (ILD). Twenty-one individuals with ILD participated (age: 63 ± 11 years; DLCO: 51.0 ± 12.6%predicted), evaluated with body plethysmography, Saint George Respiratory Questionnaire, modified Medical Research Council dyspnea scale, six-minute walk test (6MWT) and monitoring of physical activity of daily living. Two TGlittre were performed, with an interval of 30 minutes between them. The TGlittre demonstrated high test-retest reliability, with an intraclass correlation coefficient of 0.90 (95%CI: 0.75–0.96; p < 0.001). Nineteen patients (90.5%) performed better on the second test (mean difference between TGlittre 1 and 2: −0.57 ± 0.96 minute; p = 0.001), with a learning effect of 11.6%. The time in TGlittre correlated with 6MWT (r = −0.70; p = 0.002) and with the total energy expenditure in physical activity of daily living (r = −0.52; p = 0.02). In %predicted, TGlittre and 6MWT also correlated (r = −0.50; p = 0.04). Correlations were observed between TGlittre and pulmonary function variables (r = −0.47 to −0.57; p = 0.01 to p = 0.04). There was no difference in the physiological response between TGlittre 1 and 2, and between TGlittre and 6MWT (p > 0.05). In conclusion, the TGlittre is reliable and valid for assessing functional status of patients with ILD.
The Strength of the Corticospinal Tract Not the Reticulospinal Tract Determines Upper-Limb Impairment Level and Capacity for Skill-Acquisition in the Sub-Acute Post-Stroke Period
Authors: Hammerbeck Ulrike , Tyson Sarah F. , Samraj Prawin , Hollands Kristen , Krakauer John W. , Rothwell John
Published: July 2021

Background. Upper-limb impairment in patients with chronic stroke appears to be partly attributable to an upregulated reticulospinal tract (RST). Here, we assessed whether the impact of corticospinal (CST) and RST connectivity on motor impairment and skill-acquisition differs in sub-acute stroke, using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)–based proxy measures. Methods. Thirty-eight stroke survivors were randomized to either reach training 3-6 weeks post-stroke (plus usual care) or usual care only. At 3, 6 and 12 weeks post-stroke, we measured ipsilesional and contralesional cortical connectivity (surrogates for CST and RST connectivity, respectively) to weak pre-activated triceps and deltoid muscles with single pulse TMS, accuracy of planar reaching movements, muscle strength (Motricity Index) and synergies (Fugl-Meyer upper-limb score). Results. Strength and presence of synergies were associated with ipsilesional (CST) connectivity to the paretic upper-limb at 3 and 12 weeks. Training led to planar reaching skill beyond that expected from spontaneous recovery and occurred for both weak and strong ipsilesional tract integrity. Reaching ability, presence of synergies, skill-acquisition and strength were not affected by either the presence or absence of contralesional (RST) connectivity. Conclusion. The degree of ipsilesional CST connectivity is the main determinant of proximal dexterity, upper-limb strength and synergy expression in sub-acute stroke. In contrast, there is no evidence for enhanced contralesional RST connectivity contributing to any of these components of impairment. In the sub-acute post-stroke period, the balance of activity between CST and RST may matter more for the paretic phenotype than RST upregulation per se.
Compensatory Effects of Sequential 4-Channel Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation for the Treatment of Acute, Subacute, and Chronic Dysphagia in a Prospective, Double-Blinded Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Lee So Young , Park Donghwi , Jang Joonyoung , Jang Eun Gyeong , Lee Jun Chang , Park Yulhyun , Cho Seon , Kim Won-Seok , Park Jihong , Kim Bo Ryun , Seo Kyoung-Ho , Park Sungwon , Ryu Ju Seok
Published: July 2021

Background. The precise mechanism of 2-channel neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) treatment is unknown, and controversy remains over its efficacy. The sequential 4-channel NMES was newly developed based on normal contractile sequences of swallowing-related muscles. Objective. To assess the clinical efficacy of sequential 4-channel NMES during swallowing. Methods. In this prospective RCT, 52 inpatients with dysphagia (acute, subacute, and chronic state) after stroke, brain tumor, or encephalitis were enrolled. Participants who underwent a videofluoroscopic swallowing study (VFSS) and clinical evaluation were enrolled and were randomly assigned to the 4-channel NMES or sham group. The 4-channel NMES and sham groups swallowed thin and honey-like fluids under NMES (sequential stimulation on suprahyoid and infrahyoid) and sham stimulation, respectively. The procedures were evaluated with the VFSS. Pre- and post-treatment evaluations were performed with the videofluoroscopic dysphagia scale (VDS), penetration–aspiration scale (PAS), Likert scale, and kinematic analysis. Results. The 4-channel NMES group showed significantly greater improvements than the sham group with respect to oral VDS, pharyngeal VDS, total VDS, and PAS ( P < .05). Furthermore, the Likert scale for satisfaction, easiness, and discomfort for swallowing showed favorable results for the 4-channel NMES group ( P < .05). In the kinematic analysis, the peak speed point, distance, and velocity of hyoid movement were significantly greater in the 4-channel NMES group ( P < .05). Conclusions. Sequential 4-channel NMES activating the suprahyoid, thyrohyoid, and other infrahyoid muscles during swallowing showed significant clinical improvement with respect to VDS, PAS, and kinematic analysis. Therefore, sequential 4-channel NMES is a potential new functional electrical stimulation system for the treatment of dysphagia.