bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Physical Exercise: An Evaluation of a New Clinical Biomarker of Survival in Hospice Patients
Authors: Golčić Marin , Dobrila-Dintinjana Renata , Golčić Goran , Gović-Golčić Lidija , Čubranić Aleksandar 
Published: April 2018

Purpose: Survival analysis is an important issue in palliative care. However, there is a lack of quality clinical biomarkers for assessing survival, especially in bedridden patients. Recent research supports the benefit of physiotherapy in palliative care, as majority of hospice patients are able to perform physical therapy. We propose the hypothesis that the difference in activity during physical exercise can be used as a biomarker of survival in hospice care. Methods: We examined 536 consecutive patients who performed physical exercises in our hospice from March 2013 to July 2017. Univariate, multivariate, and Kaplan-Meier analysis were performed to explore the association between the level of physical exercise activity and survival. Results: Physical exercises were performed by almost 70% of our hospice patients. The patients who initially performed active exercises lived longer, on average, compared to patients who only managed passive exercises (15 days vs 6 days, hazard ratio 0.60, 0.49-0.74). Surprisingly, the difference in survival based on the level of physical activity remained consistent regardless of the patient performance score, emphasizing its usefulness as an independent survival biomarker in a hospice setting. This tool also gave us an option to recognize a significant proportion of bedridden patients performing active exercises (30%), previously unrecognized using standard performance scales, exhibiting longer survival compared to others with the same performance score. Conclusion: Patients’ level of activity during physical exercises has the potential to be a valuable new clinical biomarker in palliative care, whether used individually or combined with commonly used performance scales.
The Role of 3D Reconstruction True-Volume Analysis in Osteochondral Lesions of the Talus: A Case Series
Authors: Walley Kempland C. , Gonzalez Tyler A. , Callahan Ryan , Fairfull Aubree , Roush Evan , Saloky Kaitlin L. , Juliano Paul J. , Lewis Gregory S. , Aynardi Michael C. 
Published: April 2018

Background: Evaluation and management of osteochondral lesions of the talus (OLTs) often warrant advanced imaging studies, especially in revision or cases with cystic defects. It is possible that orthopedic surgeons may overestimate the size and misinterpret the morphology of OLT from conventional computed tomography (CT), thereby influencing treatment strategies. The purpose of this study was to determine the utility of a novel means to estimate the true-volume of OLTs using 3D reconstructed images and volume analysis. Methods: With Institutional Review Board approval, an institutional radiology database was queried for patients with cystic OLTs that failed previous microfracture, having compatible CT scans and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) between 2011 and 2016. Fourteen patients met inclusion criteria. Of these, 5 cases were randomly selected for 3D CT reconstruction modeling. Ten orthopedic surgeons independently estimated the volume of these 5 OLTs via standard CT. Then 3D reconstructions were made and morphometric true-volume (MTV) analysis measurements of each OLT were generated. The percent change in volumes from CT were compared to MTVs determined from 3D reconstructive analysis. Results: On average, the volume calculated by conventional CT scanner grossly overestimated the actual size of the OLTs. The volume calculated on conventional CT scanner overestimated the size of OLTs compared to the 3D MTV reconstructed analysis by 285% to 864%. Conclusions: Our results showed that conventional measurements of OLTS with CT grossly overestimated the size of the lesion. The 3D MTV analysis of cystic osteochondral lesions may help clinicians with preoperative planning for graft selection and appropriate volume while avoiding unnecessary costs incurred with overestimation. Level of Evidence: Level IV, case series.
Does blood flow restriction training increase the diameter of forearm vessels in chronic kidney disease patients? A randomized clinical trial
Authors: Barbosa Jefferson BN , Maia Tuíra O , Alves Priscila S , Bezerra Shirley D , Moura Elaine CSC , Medeiros Ana Irene C , Fuzari Helen KB , Rocha Lívia G , Marinho Patrícia EM 
Published: April 2018

Introduction: Blood flow restriction training can be used as an alternative to conventional exercise in chronic kidney disease patients with indication of arteriovenous fistula. Objective: Evaluating the efficacy of blood flow restriction training in the diameter and distensibility change of the cephalic vein and the diameter and flow of the radial artery, muscle strength and forearm circumference in chronic kidney disease patients with arteriovenous fistula pre-creation. Methods: A blind randomized clinical trial consisting of 26 chronic kidney disease patients allocated into a blood flow restriction training group (blood flow restriction; n = 12) and a group without blood flow restriction training (control group; n = 14). Blood flow restriction was performed at 50% of systolic blood pressure and using 40% of handgrip strength as load for the isometric exercises in both groups. Results: An increase in the diameter of the cephalic vein in the 2 cm (p = 0.008) and 10 cm segments (p = 0.001) was observed in the control group. The diameter of the radial artery increased in all segments in the blood flow restriction group (2, 10 and 20 cm; p = 0.005, p = 0.021 and p = 0.018, respectively) and in the 10 and 20 cm segments (p = 0.017 and p = 0.026) in the control group. Handgrip strength only increased in the control group (p = 0.003). Conclusion: Physical training associated with blood flow restriction increased cephalic vein diameters in both groups and was effective in increasing the diameter of the radial artery; however, it did not demonstrate superiority over the exercise group protocol without blood flow restriction.
A qualitative analysis of trainer/coach experiences of changing care home practice in the Well-being and Health in Dementia randomised control trial
Authors: Fossey Jane , Garrod Lucy , Guzman Azucena , Testad Ingelin 
Published: April 2018

Objectives This study explored the experiences of a range of health and social care professionals employed in the role of trainer/coaches to support care home staff to implement a psychosocial intervention for residents living with dementia. It aimed to identify the factors which are pertinent to these roles, in the context of a cascade model of training. Method A focus group was convened involving dementia trainer/coaches and supervisors who had worked on Well-being and Health for people with Dementia randomised control trial. Twelve participants explored their preparedness for and experiences of their role as ‘Well-being and Health for people with Dementia therapists’. They reflected on their perceptions of the resources and support required. The data were transcribed verbatim and subjected to inductive thematic analysis. Results Three main themes emerged from the data. Within the theme of ‘skills in relationship building’ were two subthemes of developing trust and getting to know individual staff and each care home. In the second main theme of ‘making use of tangible resources’ two subthemes relating to using the Well-being and Health for people with Dementia manuals and the supervision of the therapists arose. The third theme, ‘being an agent for change’ contained three subthemes: effective training methods, creating opportunities for Dementia Champions to reflect and therapists' perceived rewards of their role. Conclusion The findings provide new insights into the trainer/coach role applicable to the practices of services recruiting, training and providing ongoing professional support to practitioners in-reaching into care homes.
A cluster and inferential analysis of myocardial infarction symptom presentation by age
Authors: McKee Gabrielle , Mooney Mary , O’Donnell Sharon , O’Brien Frances , Biddle Martha J , Moser Debra K 
Published: April 2018

Background: Pre-hospital delay time in myocardial infarction is usually longer in older than in younger patients, with symptom presentation known to be a contributing factor. Aim: The aim of this article is to examine symptom presentation differences, by age, in patients with myocardial infarction. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study using secondary analysis of a multi-site randomised controlled trial on pre-hospital delay time. Data were analysed using logistic regression and factor analysis. Results: Post-myocardial infarction patients were recruited prior to discharge ( n=1211), 54% were ≥65 years and 80% male. The average number of symptoms was three, with the ≥65 years age group reporting significantly less symptoms. Logistic regression controlling for gender, diabetes and diagnosis with 11 symptoms (χ2=52.09, p<0.001) was significant. Those ≥65 years had less chest symptoms, sweating, stomach upset and left arm pain, in addition to longer pre-hospital delay time. This group also had less symptom clustering and fewer symptoms within atypical clusters. Non-chest clusters occurred in 22% and 18% of the older and younger group respectively. Of note, two clusters ‘atypical’ (upset stomach/sweating) and ‘typical arm’ (right and left arm pain symptoms), accounted for 14% and 5% of myocardial infarction presentations in the ≥65 years group, within which 25% and 24% had no chest symptoms. Conclusions: The results of this study indicate that myocardial infarction symptom presentation in older patients is likely to be less recognisable and more complex. Increased awareness of the presentation profile of older patients could expedite their triage, diagnosis and, consequently, their prognosis.
Using normalisation process theory to understand barriers and facilitators to implementing mindfulness-based stress reduction for people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Simpson Robert , Simpson Sharon , Wood Karen , Mercer Stewart W , Mair Frances S 
Published: April 2018

Objectives To study barriers and facilitators to implementation of mindfulness-based stress reduction for people with multiple sclerosis. Methods Qualitative interviews were used to explore barriers and facilitators to implementation of mindfulness-based stress reduction, including 33 people with multiple sclerosis, 6 multiple sclerosis clinicians and 2 course instructors. Normalisation process theory provided the underpinning conceptual framework. Data were analysed deductively using normalisation process theory constructs (coherence, cognitive participation, collective action and reflexive monitoring). Results Key barriers included mismatched stakeholder expectations, lack of knowledge about mindfulness-based stress reduction, high levels of comorbidity and disability and skepticism about embedding mindfulness-based stress reduction in routine multiple sclerosis care. Facilitators to implementation included introducing a pre-course orientation session; adaptations to mindfulness-based stress reduction to accommodate comorbidity and disability and participants suggested smaller, shorter classes, shortened practices, exclusion of mindful-walking and more time with peers. Post-mindfulness-based stress reduction booster sessions may be required, and objective and subjective reports of benefit would increase clinician confidence in mindfulness-based stress reduction. Discussion Multiple sclerosis patients and clinicians know little about mindfulness-based stress reduction. Mismatched expectations are a barrier to participation, as is rigid application of mindfulness-based stress reduction in the context of disability. Course adaptations in response to patient needs would facilitate uptake and utilisation. Rendering access to mindfulness-based stress reduction rapid and flexible could facilitate implementation. Embedded outcome assessment is desirable.
Elevated Glucose Levels Preserve Glucose Uptake, Hyaluronan Production, and Low Glutamate Release Following Interleukin-1β Stimulation of Differentiated Chondrocytes
Authors: Rotter Sopasakis Victoria , Wickelgren Ruth , Sukonina Valentina , Brantsing Camilla , Svala Emilia , Hansson Elisabeth , Enerbäck Sven , Lindahl Anders , Skiöldebrand Eva 
Published: April 2018

Objective Chondrocytes are responsible for remodeling and maintaining the structural and functional integrity of the cartilage extracellular matrix. Because of the absence of a vascular supply, chondrocytes survive in a relatively hypoxic environment and thus have limited regenerative capacity during conditions of cellular stress associated with inflammation and matrix degradation, such as osteoarthritis (OA). Glucose is essential to sustain chondrocyte metabolism and is a precursor for key matrix components. In this study, we investigated the importance of glucose as a fuel source for matrix repair during inflammation as well as the effect of glucose on inflammatory mediators associated with osteoarthritis. Design To create an OA model, we used equine chondrocytes from 4 individual horses that were differentiated into cartilage pellets in vitro followed by interleukin-1β (IL-1β) stimulation for 72 hours. The cells were kept at either normoglycemic conditions (5 mM glucose) or supraphysiological glucose concentrations (25 mM glucose) during the stimulation with IL-1β. Results We found that elevated glucose levels preserve glucose uptake, hyaluronan synthesis, and matrix integrity, as well as induce anti-inflammatory actions by maintaining low expression of Toll-like receptor-4 and low secretion of glutamate. Conclusions Adequate supply of glucose to chondrocytes during conditions of inflammation and matrix degradation interrupts the detrimental inflammatory cycle and induces synthesis of hyaluronan, thereby promoting cartilage repair.
Myelin status is associated with change in functional mobility following slope walking in people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: King EM , Sabatier MJ , Hoque M , Kesar TM , Backus D , Borich MR 
Published: April 2018

Background The level of myelin disruption in multiple sclerosis patients may impact the capacity for training-induced neuroplasticity and the magnitude of therapeutic response to rehabilitation interventions. Downslope walking has been shown to increase functional mobility in individuals with multiple sclerosis, but it is unclear if myelin status influences therapeutic response. Objective The current study aimed to examine the relationship between baseline myelin status and change in functional mobility after a walking intervention. Methods The Timed Up and Go test was used to measure functional mobility before and after completion of a repeated, six-session slope walking intervention in 16 participants with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis. Multi-component T2 relaxation imaging was used to index myelin water fraction of overall water content in brain tissue compartments. Results Results demonstrated that the ratio of the myelin water fraction in lesion to normal-appearing white matter (myelin water fraction ratio) significantly predicted 31% of the variance in change in Timed Up and Go score after the downslope walking intervention, where less myelin disruption was associated with greater intervention response. Conclusions Myelin water content fraction ratio may offer a neural biomarker of myelin to identify potential responders to interventions targeting functional impairments in multiple sclerosis.
Good early results obtained with a guided-motion implant for total knee arthroplasty: a consecutive case series
Authors: Hommel Hagen 
Published: April 2018

A bi-cruciate stabilized (BCS) guided-motion total knee arthroplasty (TKA) design was introduced to improve knee kinematics by more closely approximating those of a normal knee. Previous studies have shown a high incidence of complications with this implant type, which led to recent modifications of the design by the manufacturer. The current study was undertaken to assess whether the use of a guided-motion knee system with an extension-first surgical technique is associated with a similar rate of short-term adverse outcome as reported in literature. The secondary aim was to assess if there were any differences between the original and modified implant designs. This retrospective study enrolled 204 consecutive patients (204 knees) undergoing TKA for osteoarthritis of the knee, with the first 154 receiving cemented Journey BCS I implants and the remaining 51 receiving cemented Journey BCS II implants when these became available. At follow-up, patients were tested for the presence of iliotibial friction syndrome (ITB-F) and midflexion instability. Knee score and function score were taken preoperatively, at one year, and at final follow-up. Outcome data between the two implant types were compared using the Mann-Whitney test. No patients were lost to follow-up. Mean follow-up time for the cohort was 24.5 ± 7.8 months (range, 12 - 36 months). There were no cases of stiffness (flexion < 90°). Incidence of ITB-F syndrome was considered low: three (2.0%) knees in the BCS I group and two (3.9%) in the BCS II group (p = 0.367). Five (2.5%) knees presented with mild instability in midflexion, three (2.0%) in the BCS I group and two (3.9%) in the BCS II group (p = 0.367). One patient with a BCS I implant required reoperation for aseptic loosening 23 months postoperatively. At one-year follow-up, there were no significant differences in range of motion, knee score, or function score. When used in combination with an extension-first surgical technique, good early functional results with an acceptable rate of complications were obtained with both the original and the updated Journey BCS knee implant. Long-term follow-up studies are needed to confirm our findings.
Change in mechanical axis alignment highly correlates with increased limb loading after total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Hommel Hagen 
Published: April 2018

Mechanical axis of the lower limb assessed in standing long-leg radiographs was demonstrated to change within the first three postoperative months after total knee arthroplasty (TKA). The underlying mechanism including the influence of limb loading for the change in mechanical axis alignment after TKA has not been evaluated so far. Mechanical axis of the lower limb and limb loading were evaluated in 115 patients 10 days and 12 weeks after TKA. Mechanical axis was measured in standing long-leg radiographs while limb loading was simultaneously assessed using a scale. Absolute and relative limb loading with their correlation to the mechanical axis were calculated. Mechanical axis in patients with postoperative complete extension (n = 100) changed from an initial -0.82° ± 1.9° valgus alignment to a varus axis of +0.6° ± 1.5 (p < 0.01). This change in alignment was accompanied by an increased limb loading from 89.9% 10.7% to 93.0% 7.0% (p < 0.01). The mechanical axis highly/significantly correlated with relative limb loading in both measurements (r = 0.804, p < 0.001 respectively r = 0.562, p < 0.001). These alterations and distinctions were much more pronounced in patients with postoperative incomplete extension. Mechanical axis of the leg significantly changes while limb loading increases within the first three postoperative months after TKA. The postoperative alignment highly correlates with the loading of the lower limb. Therefore, the actual mechanical axis can only be assessed at physiological limb loading in long-leg radiographs at complete extension with full weight bearing.
Long term results after transepiphysal ACL reconstruction in children and adolescent
Authors: Eberle Christian , Schopf Wolfgang , Ellermann Andree 
Published: April 2018

The aim of our study was to review the long term clinical and radiological (MRI) outcomes of adult patients who underwent ACL reconstruction as children or adolescent with emphasize to the features of growth disturbance, angular deformity, meniscal and cartilage damage and revision rate We retrospectively evaluated patient who underwent ACL reconstruction in our clinic with arthroscopic transepiphyseal technique using hamstrings graft in childhood or adolescence between the years 1997 and 2009. A total of 43 Patients were assessed. 25 male and 18 female. The average age at time of surgery was 13,5 years (8 - 16 y.), at time of assessement 22,4 years (18 - 30 y.) . The mean follow up was 10 years (4 - 16 years). The physical development of the patients was assessed with the Lysholm score and the Cincinnati Knee score scale, their satisfaction was recorded on the basis of the IKDC subjective knee evaluation form and the Tegner activity score . Leg deformity or leg length discrepancy was evaluated clinically by the observers. The instrumented Lachman test using KT1000 and manual Pivot shift test was performed to assess knee stability. MRI was used to detect graft integrity, cartilage and meniscal damages. No significant leg deformities or leg length discrepancy had been detected. The average Lysholm score was 91 points (83 - 100), the Cincinnati Knee Score was 90,4 (79 - 100) points on average . The mean IKDC score was 92 points (82 -100). The Tegner-Activity-Score changed from preop 6,8 (2-10) to post op 5,8 (2-9). 2 Patient underwent revision ACL reconstruction due to rerupture (3 and 9 years post op). 2 Patients underwent meniscal surgery during follow up (1 resection and one refixation). KT1000 evaluation showed 67% excellent, 21% good and in 12% bad results. The MRI scan showed 42 intact grafts and one unverifiable graft. One patient with cartilage damage up to 3° (ICRS), 3 patients with meniscal degeneration up to grade 2. Each patient showed a free range of motion Our data underlines that transepiphyseal ACL reconstruction in children and adolescent with hamstrings is a save procedure leading to good long term results without causing angular deformity or growth disturbance