Strength Measurements Research Articles

Characterization of a UV-USP Laser Grooving Process Combined with Plasma Dicing to Support Next Generation Advanced Packaging Trends

In this study, we investigated and characterized the combined process flow of the UV-USP (ultra-short pulse) laser grooving and plasma dicing wafer singulation technologies and discussed the impact on subsequent hybrid bonding steps. We benchmarked UV-USP laser grooving against UV-nanosecond laser grooving to enable plasma dicing by evaluation of imaging and die strength measurements. The results showed the advantages of the UV-USP laser grooving combined with plasma dicing for the current and future semiconductor production flows.

An investigation into the frequency and risk factors of low back pain following surgical treatment of isolated calcaneal fractures.

This study aimed to determine the frequency of low back pain after calcaneal fractures treated with open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) and the risk factors that cause this condition. Thirty-one patients (27 males and 4 females) who underwent surgery for a unilateral calcaneal fracture between 2016 and 2020 and had no complaints of low back pain before fracture surgery were included in the study. The patients were divided into 2 groups: those who developed low back pain after the operation and those who did not. Patients were evaluated with the Life Quality Short Form SF-36, the Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), and American Orthopedic Foot-Ankle Association Score (AOFAS). Sanders' fracture type, joint range of motion (ROM) measurements of injured and uninjured limbs, maximal isometric muscle strength measurements, balance on 1 leg with pedobarographic measurements, and walking time were evaluated. The obtained data were compared among the 2 groups. Low back pain was observed in 71% of the patients and was detected after an average of 6 months from the operation. In ODI, 59.1% of the patients reported that low back pain limited their lives slightly. Patients with low back pain have lower AOFAS scores and worse SF-36 physical functionality than those without low back pain (P < .001, P=.016). Balance time on 1 foot in pedobarographic measurements, foot in ROM, ankle in ankle active, passive plantar flexion, inversion, active hip, passive internal, external rotation, muscle is the foot eversion force. In these measurements, the values of the injured side are intact. It was statistically significantly lower than the other side (interaction P < .1). Low back pain may occur after unilateral calcaneal fractures treated by ORIF. This may be caused by decreased angles of ankle dorsi and plantar flexion, foot inversion, hip abduction, and internal and external rotation. In the rehabilitation program, not only the ankle region but also the hip joint of the affected side should be included, and the kinetic chain that describes the interaction mechanism of the human body should not be forgotten. Level IV, Prognostic Study.

Mechanical strength measurement of needle-shaped CaSO4 microcrystals by a three-point bend test

A simple method for direct measurement of the mechanical strength of needle-shaped microcrystals of calcium sulfate, CaSO4, is proposed. The microcrystals, with a length from 30 to 50 μm and transverse dimensions from 1 to 3 μm, can act as reinforcing filler in various structural and building composites to improve their mechanical properties. The method is based on a three-point bend test, adapted to microscopic objects. The CaSO4 microcrystals were placed on a substrate, which was a twill-weave filter mesh consisting of intertwined steel fibers with diameter of ∼25 μm. Due to the twill weave, the mesh surface is characterized by a periodic distribution of protrusions and depressions. The protrusions act as supports for the placing of microcrystals, and the depressions provide the possibility of deformation and destruction of microcrystals under the action of an increasing vertically acting force, which is applied to the microcrystal through the indenter of the dynamic ultra-micro hardness tester. The moment of destruction of the microcrystals is observed to be dependent on the force on the displacement of the indenter. The measured values of the mechanical strength of CaSO4 microcrystals varied in a range from ∼3.5 to ∼6.0 GPa. The experimental strength values are in good agreement with the values obtained from the results of numerical analysis of the stressed state formed in the volume of CaSO4 microcrystals during the three-point bend test.

MODELING OF THE EXTERNAL MAGNETIC FIELD OF ELECTRIC MACHINES

Powerful electric machines – such as electric generators, electric motors generate a magnetic field of great tension. These fields negatively effect on personnel and can to violate the stability of electronic equipment. To determine safe areas for workers, laying communication cables and placing sensitive electronic equipment, it is advisable to model the propagation of magnetic fields of electrical machines. This will make it possible to rationalize the placing of electrical equipment at design stages. The most common high-power electrical machines are four-pole electrical machines with a dipole-quadrupole structure of the external magnetic field. The purpose of the research is a development of models of the propagation of the external magnetic field generated by alternating current electric machines. Results of the research: it is substantiated that to simulate the propagation of the magnetic field of electric machines, it is advisable to use the Gauss equation for the magnetic scalar potential. This will make it possible to take into account the required number of spatial harmonics of the magnetic field to ensure an acceptable calculation error. An electric machine is considered in a spherical approximation. Calculations were carried out in spherical coordinates. The distances were determined in relative radii of the electric machine - the ratio of the radius of the machine to the definition of field strength. The calculations were made for two planes of spherical coordinates and a three-dimensional image was obtained. As a result of the simulation, it is possible to determine the magnetic field strength of a four-pole electric machine at selected distances and directions around the electric machine with the required accuracy. It has been established that there are points of zero external magnetic field strength around electrical machines. Verification of the simulation results was carried out using the method of full-scale measurements of the magnetic field strength around a real four-pole machine. The measurement results showed acceptable agreement with the calculated data. Conclusions: the chosen approach and the results of modeling the propagation of the external magnetic field of electrical machines can be used to design the placement of electrical equipment, taking into account the requirements for electromagnetic safety and electromagnetic compatibility of technical equipment.

Unveiling the Chaos in Postural Control in Adults with Achondroplasia.

Achondroplasia is a rare genetic skeletal condition characterized by disproportionate short stature. There is limited evidence on postural control in adults with achondroplasia and how lower limb lengthening (intervention) interacts with body dynamics. This study investigated sway variability during quiet standing in adults with achondroplasia with natural growth (N) and with lower limb lengthening (LL). Sixteen adults performed bilateral/unilateral standing tasks. Linear (total excursion, amplitude, and ellipse area) and nonlinear (sample entropy and correlation dimension) center of pressure sway metrics were analyzed in the anteroposterior/mediolateral directions. Relationships between posture metrics, strength, and physical activity were explored. Between-groups statistics were calculated. The LL group exhibited amplified linear sway, indicating larger postural deviations, and reduced sample entropy and correlation dimension, indicative of more rigid and repeated corrections. The N group exhibited more unpredictable and adaptive movement corrections. Numerous correlations emerged between strength and posture measures, with relationships altered by intervention. Adults with achondroplasia display distinct balance strategies influenced by intervention. The results indicate that LL is associated with altered variability and adaptability compared to natural development. Relationships with muscle strength spotlight a key role of muscle capacity in postural control modulation after growth alterations in this population.

Estimation of compressive strength of waste concrete utilizing fly ash/slag in concrete with interpretable approaches: optimization and graphical user interface (GUI)

Geo-polymer concrete has a significant influence on the environmental condition and thus its use in the civil industry leads to a decrease in carbon dioxide (CO2) emission. However, problems lie with its mixed design and casting in the field. This study utilizes supervised artificial-based machine learning algorithms (MLAs) to anticipate the mechanical characteristic of fly ash/slag-based geopolymer concrete (FASBGPC) by utilizing AdaBoost and Bagging on MLPNN to make an ensemble model with 156 data points. The data consist of GGBS (kg/m3), Alkaline activator (kg/m3), Fly ash (kg/m3), SP dosage (kg/m3), NaOH Molarity, Aggregate (kg/m3), Temperature (°C) and compressive strength as output parameter. Python programming is utilized in Anaconda Navigator using Spyder version 5.0 to predict the mechanical response. Statistical measures and validation of data are done by splitting the dataset into 80/20 percent and K-Fold CV is employed to check the accurateness of the model by using MAE, RMSE, and R2. Statistical analysis relies on errors, and tests against external indicators help determine how well models function in terms of robustness. The most important factor in compressive strength measurements is examined using permutation characteristics. The result reveals that ANN with AdaBoost is outclassed by giving maximum enhancement with R2 = 0.914 and shows the least error with statistical and external validations. Shapley analysis shows that GGBS, NaOH Molarity, and temperature are the most influential parameter that has significant content in making FASBGPC. Thus, ensemble methods are suitable for constructing prediction models because of their strong and reliable performance. Furthermore, the graphical user interface (GUI) is generated through the process of training a model that forecasts the desired outcome values when the corresponding inputs are provided. It streamlines the process and provides a useful tool for applying the model's abilities in the field of civil engineering.

Sarcopenia screening of community-dwelling individuals aged 65 and over within the primary care setting

BACKGROUND: The term sarcopenia, referring to declining function with age, has no universally agreed definition. Sarcopenia develops from multifactorial interactions, resulting in health problems such as frailty and increased falls risk; and for which screening may enable timely intervention. As sarcopenia screening equipment recommended by The European Working Group on Sarcopenia in Older People (EWGSOP2) is not always available in primary care, alternate screening strategies are needed. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the efficacy of the SARC-CalF questionnaire for sarcopenia screening in primary care and agreement between SARC-CalF and SARC-F questionnaires, with EWGSOP2 cut-off values. METHODS: Fifty community-dwelling adults aged 65yrs and over completed the SARC-CalF and EWGSOP2 strength and physical performance outcome measures. Calculations for probability of sarcopenia and skeletal muscle mass were completed. Agreement between operational definitions and outcome measures were assessed to establish screening accuracy. RESULTS: Prevalence of probable sarcopenia ranged from 10–48% depending on outcome measure; SARC-CalF increased prevalence by 55% compared to SARC-F. Questionnaires agreed more strongly with probable sarcopenia as measured by leg than grip strength. Gait speed agreed significantly with strength and physical performance measures. CONCLUSIONS: In community-dwelling adults aged 65yrs and over, outcome measure used influenced rates of probable sarcopenia. Within primary care, equations may enable assessment of muscle mass, while formulae may enable assessment of the probability of sarcopenia. Gait speed is recommended for quantification of sarcopenia severity.

ANALISIS BIBLIOMETRIK PERKEMBANGAN MUTAKHIR DALAM STUDI ANISOTROPI SEISMIK (2017 -2022)

The development of seismic anisotropy needs to be studied systematically hence research could be focused on the latest scientific knowledge, therefore a bibliometric analysis is needed as a measurement of citation strength in the form of mapping "co-occurrence", "co-author" and "co- citation", thus the strength of the research direction could be well understood. The software which is used; VOSviewer version 1.6.18 examined at least 494 papers in the SCOPUS domain during 2017 -2020. It appears from the results that the development of the seismic anisotropy are very rapidly dominated by the needs of the applied science and pure science. The heavily publication countries are United States of America, China and Japan. However, in reality, this density does not necessarily correspond to the number of citations between countries, as well with publications in Japan.

How the Crosslinker Amount Influences the Final Properties of Hydroxyethyl Methacrylate Cryogels.

The investigation of the mechanical, thermal, and adsorption properties of hydroxyethyl methacrylate (HEMA) cryogels as a function of a reactant ratio is herein reported to better address materials for specific applications. To this aim, cryogels have been synthesized using different monomer/crosslinker (N,N'-methylene-bisacrylamide-MBAA) ratios. The study of SEM images made it possible to identify the trend in the material's macroporosity. As would be expected, the average measured pore width decreased as the amount of MBAA increased while the number of pores grew. Swelling capacity ranges from 8.7 gW/ggel (grams of water per gram of gel) to 9.3 gW/ggel. These values are strictly connected with the pore's size and distribution, revealing that the water uptake for the most crosslinked sample is inferior to other samples. The equilibrium-adsorption capacity (Qe) towards the methylene violet (MV) was also assessed, revealing no remarkable differences after 24 h of a batch test. As expected, thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) also showed no significant changes in stability that ranged from a maximum weight loss temperature (T Max) of 420 °C to 425 °C, which increased as a function of crosslinker content. Conversely, compression strength measurements showed a notable difference of about 50% in modulus (Ec), moving from the higher to the lower HEMA/MBAA ratio. These new comparative results indicate how slight variations in the reactant's ratio can steadily improve the mechanical properties of the HEMA cryogel without affecting its adsorption efficiency. This can be helpful in the design of materials for water and energy purposes. Since swelling properties are needed in the case of biomedical applications, the HEMA/MBAA ratio should be tuned versus high values.

Unveiling Synergistic Bonds: Exploring Spectroscopic Interactions between Tween 20 and Bromocresol Green for Enhanced Applications

Background: Surfactants and dyes interact in ways that can significantly alter the optical properties of solutions, a phenomenon with broad implications across various scientific fields, including healthcare. Understanding these interactions, especially in aqueous environments, is crucial for developing advanced diagnostic tools and enhancing drug delivery systems. Objective: This study aimed to investigate the interactions between the non-ionic surfactant Tween 20 and the dye Bromocresol Green (BCG) in aqueous solutions. By elucidating these interactions, the research sought to explore the potential for improving the accuracy and efficiency of spectroscopic assays used in medical diagnostics and therapeutic applications. Methods: Aqueous solutions of BCG were prepared in varying concentrations of Tween 20 surfactant. Spectroscopic analyses were conducted at two wavelengths, 510 nm and 520 nm, to observe the effects of surfactant concentration on dye absorbance. The critical micelle concentration (CMC) was determined by analyzing changes in absorbance and reciprocal absorbance (1/A) patterns. Beer’s Law was applied to calculate the molar absorption coefficients, providing a quantitative measure of the interaction strength between the dye and surfactant molecules. Results: The study found that the absorbance of BCG increased linearly with the concentration of Tween 20 up to the CMC, after which the increase continued at a different rate. At 510 nm, absorbance values ranged from 0.277 to 1.627 au as Tween 20 concentration increased from 0.005 mM to 0.017 mM, with molar absorption coefficients (ε) escalating from 0.483 to 2.839 (10^3 cm^2 mmol^-1). Similar trends were observed at 520 nm, underscoring the impact of micelle formation on dye-surfactant interactions. Conclusion: The interaction between Tween 20 and BCG significantly affects the absorbance properties of BCG in aqueous solutions, with marked changes observed upon reaching the CMC. These findings highlight the potential of surfactant-dye interactions to enhance the performance of spectroscopic assays in healthcare settings, offering pathways to more sensitive diagnostic techniques and efficient drug delivery systems.

Association between urinary glyphosate levels and hand grip strength in a representative sample of US adults: NHANES 2013-2014.

Glyphosate, a widely utilized herbicide globally, has been linked to various health issues, including cancer, birth abnormalities, and reproductive issues. Additionally, there is growing experimental support indicating potential harm to skeletal muscles. Despite this, the impact of glyphosate on human muscle health remains unclear. We examined information gathered from the 2013-2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES), which included 1466 adults aged 18 or older. Our primary aim was to investigate the relationship between glyphosate exposure and hand grip strength, as well as its influence on lean muscle mass. Our investigation uncovered a detrimental correlation between glyphosate exposure and all measures of grip strength, except for the second test of the first hand. Specifically, we observed a statistically significant adverse association between glyphosate exposure and combined grip strength, which is calculated as the sum of the highest readings from both hands (ß coefficient of -2.000, S.E. = 0.891, p = 0.040). We did not observe a significant correlation between glyphosate levels, lean muscle mass, and the likelihood of reaching maximum grip strength meeting sarcopenia criteria. Additionally, we observed an interaction between age and glyphosate, as well as between body mass index (BMI) and glyphosate, concerning the association with combined grip strength. In this comprehensive analysis of NHANES data, our study reveals a potential association between glyphosate exposure and hand grip strength in the adult population. Our findings suggest the need for deeper exploration into the health effects of glyphosate exposure and its impact on muscle strength, shedding light on possible public health concerns.

10-Year Prospective Clinical and Radiological Evaluation After Matrix-Induced Autologous Chondrocyte Implantation and Comparison of Tibiofemoral and Patellofemoral Graft Outcomes

Background: Long-term outcomes in larger cohorts after matrix-induced autologous chondrocyte implantation (MACI) are required. Furthermore, little is known about the longer-term clinical and radiological outcomes of MACI performed in the tibiofemoral versus patellofemoral knee joint. Purpose: To present the 10-year clinical and radiological outcomes in patients after MACI and compare outcomes in patients undergoing tibiofemoral versus patellofemoral MACI. Study Design: Case series; Level of evidence, 4. Methods: Between September 2002 and December 2012, 204 patients who underwent MACI were prospectively registered into a research program and assessed preoperatively and at 2, 5, and 10 years postoperatively. Of these patients, 168 were available for clinical review at 10 years, with 151 (of a total of 182) grafts also assessed via magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Patients were evaluated using the Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score, a visual analog scale for pain frequency and severity, satisfaction, and peak isokinetic knee extensor and flexor strength. Limb symmetry indices (LSIs) were calculated for strength measures. Grafts were scored on MRI scans via the MOCART (magnetic resonance observation of cartilage repair tissue) system, with a focus on tissue infill and an overall MRI graft composite score. Results: All patient-reported outcome measures improved (P < .0001) up to 2 years after surgery. Apart from the significant increase (P = .004) in the peak isokinetic knee extensor LSI, no other patient-reported outcome measure or clinical score had changed significantly from 2 to 10 years. At the final follow-up, 92% of patients were satisfied with MACI to provide knee pain relief, with 76% satisfied with their ability to participate in sports. From 2 to 10 years, no significant change was seen for any MRI-based MOCART variable nor the overall MRI composite score. Of the 151 grafts reviewed via MRI at 10 years, 14 (9.3%) had failed, defined by graft delamination or no graft tissue on MRI scan. Furthermore, of the 36 patients (of the prospectively recruited 204) who were not available for longer-term review, 7 had already proceeded to total knee arthroplasty, and 1 patient had undergone secondary MACI at the same medial femoral condylar site because of an earlier graft failure. Therefore, 22 patients (10.8%) essentially had graft failure over the period. At the final follow-up, patients who underwent MACI in the tibiofemoral (vs patellofemoral) joint reported significantly better Knee injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score subscale scores for Quality of Life (P = .010) and Sport and Recreation (P < .001), as well as a greater knee extensor strength LSI (P = .002). Even though the tibiofemoral group demonstrated better 10-year MOCART scores for tissue infill (P = .027), there were no other MRI-based differences (P > .05). Conclusion: This study reports the long-term review of a prospective series of patients undergoing MACI, demonstrating good clinical scores, high levels of patient satisfaction, and acceptable graft survivorship at 10 years. Patients undergoing tibiofemoral (vs patellofemoral) MACI reported better long-term clinical outcomes, despite largely similar MRI-based outcomes.

Comparison of the Flexural Strength of Three Different Aged and Nonaged 3D-Printed Permanent Crown Resins.

The aim of this study was to evaluate the flexural strength properties of three different aged and nonaged 3D-printed resins built by different 3D printing systems used in dental applications. Bars (2 × 2 × 25 mm) were additively fabricated using a 3D printer and different dental crown resins (Saremco Crowntec, Senertek P-Crown V2, and Senertek P-Crown V3) per the manufacturers' recommendations. Each subgroup was divided into aged and nonaged subgroups (n = 10 bars per group). Thermocycling procedures (5° to 55°C; 5,000 cycles) were performed under favorable conditions for the aged subgroups from each material. Flexural strength (MPa) was measured in all samples using a universal test machine. When both aged and nonaged resins are compared, significant differences were found in flexural strength measurements (P < .001). The highest flexural strength was observed in the Saremco Crowntec group, while the lowest flexural strength was observed in the Senertek P Crown V2 group. The flexural strength measurements of Saremco Crowntec and Senertek P Crown V3 displayed no significant difference between their aged and nonaged groups (P > .05), while Senertek P Crown V2 (P = .039) showed significant differences between its aged and nonaged groups. Saremco Crowntec showed the highest flexural strength both in aged and nonaged groups, while Senertek P Crown V2 had the lowest strength. The artificial aging process decreased flexural strength values in all 3D-printed resin groups.

Twelve Weeks of Progressive Resistance Training Positively Improves Physical Fitness and Golf Swing Performance in Talented Youth Golfers.

Shaw, J, Gould, ZI, Oliver, JL, and Lloyd, RS. Twelve weeks of progressive resistance training positively improves physical fitness and golf swing performance in talented youth golfers. J Strength Cond Res 38(6): 1103-1110, 2024-This aim of this study was to investigate the effects of a 12-week resistance training program in talented junior golfers. Eighteen talented youth golfers were pair matched by maturity status and handicap, and subsequently allocated to an experimental (EXP) or control group. During the 12-week intervention, both groups continued with their normal golf practice while the EXP group also completed a progressive twice-weekly resistance training program. At baseline, subjects performed multiple trials of an isometric midthigh pull (IMTP), countermovement jump (CMJ), standing long jump, golf movement screen (GMS), and isometric plank hold. Club head speed (CHS) and carry distance for a 6-iron and driver were also measured using a commercial launch monitor. When controlled for maturity offset, there were significant ( p < 0.05) interaction effects in favor of the EXP group for absolute ( g = 1.29) and relative ( g = 2.06) peak force for the IMTP, CMJ absolute ( g = 0.73) and relative ( g = 0.66) peak power, jump height ( g = 1.05), modified reactive strength index ( g = 1.30), lateral ( g = 0.48-0.88) and horizontal jump distance ( g = 1.20), and GMS total score ( g = 1.07). Significant interaction effects were also reported in 6-iron and driver CHS and carry distance in favor of the EXP group ( p < 0.05; g = 0.41-1.64). These findings indicate that twice-weekly resistance training in combination with regular golf practice can stimulate increases in measures of strength, power, and movement competency in youth golfers, which should contribute to enhanced golf swing performance.

Green encapsulation of textile dyes using lecithin to increase dyeing performance

Purpose The purpose of this study is to use liposome technology in the treatment of fabrics textiles because of its efficient energy saving, reducing time and temperature. Design/methodology/approach The newly prepared lecithin liposome was used to encapsulate dyes for the purpose of increasing dyeing affinity. Different ratios of commercially available lecithin liposomes (1%, 3%, 5% and 7%) were used simultaneously in the dyeing of cotton and wool fabrics. The treated fabrics (cotton and wool fabrics) were confirmed using different analytical procedures such as scanning electron microscope (SEM), Fourier-transition infrared spectroscopy, ultraviolet protection factor, colour strength (K|S) measurements and fastness measurements. Findings The results show that increasing liposome ratios in dyeing baths leads to increased dyeing affinity for cotton and wool fabrics compared with conventional dyeing without using liposomes. In addition to that, the colour strength values, infrared spectra, SEM and fastness properties of non-liposome-dyed fabrics and liposome-dyed fabrics were investigated. Originality/value The research paper provides broad spectrum of green encapsulation fabrics using liposome technology to perform the dye stability, dye strength and fastness.

Completion of a Nutrition-Focused Physical Exam with hospitalized adults and pediatric patients: Secondary analysis of a prospective cohort study.

Nutrition-Focused Physical Exam (NFPE) feasibility is not well-studied. We describe registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN)-reported NFPE completion for hospitalized adult and pediatric patients overall and by assessment parameters. Trained RDNs systematically conducted NFPEs for hospitalized adult and pediatric patients during the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and American Society for Parenteral and Enteral Nutrition Indicators to diagnose Malnutrition multisite cohort study (ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT03928548). RDNs reported their ability to evaluate assessment sites for subcutaneous fat and muscle loss, fluid accumulation, and micronutrient status and to complete handgrip strength (adults and children ≥6 years) and mid-upper arm circumference measurements (children). RDNs noted if they could complete the full NFPE; if not, they noted challenges. We descriptively summarized results and used multilevel logistic regression models to examine relationships between patient characteristics and NFPE completion. RDNs from 39 adult and 29 pediatric US hospitals conducted NFPEs for 327 adults and 214 children aged 1 month to 17.9 years. RDNs reported completing the examination for 44% (n = 145) of adults and 15% (n = 33) of children. They successfully evaluated 25 of 27 and 19 of 26 unique NFPE components in >80% of adults and children, respectively. Common reasons the full NFPE was not completed were limited mobility in adults and patient refusal in children. RDNs had lower odds of completing NFPEs in adults with lower vs higher education levels or higher vs lower nutrition complexity and in younger vs older children. RDNs evaluated NFPE components for a high proportion (>80%) of hospitalized patients.

Intermediate-Term Follow-Up of Biopro® Modular Thumb Implant for Carpometacarpal Arthritis

Purpose: Basilar thumb arthritis is a common condition that can be associated with significant disability. While surgical management has historically consisted of trapeziectomy-type procedures, hemiarthroplasty has become an increasingly common alternative. While outcomes have been promising, they vary according to the implant used. We sought to evaluate the performance of the BioPro® Modular Thumb implant. Methods: This was a retrospective review of 110 thumbs with carpometacarpal arthritis that underwent hemiarthroplasty between the years 2008 and 2016 with the BioPro® device. All thumbs had Eaton-Little Stage II or III arthritis. Patients were asked to complete preoperative and postoperative assessments using QuickDASH, as well as complete strength measurements using a dynamometer. Results: Mean age was 61 years, with average final follow-up at 3.8 years. Forty thumbs completed QuickDASH and showed a 34.78-point improvement at average 2-year follow-up. Implant survivorship was 88.18% at average 3.8-year follow-up. The most common cause of revision was titanium metal allergy. No implants dislocated. Conclusion: Outcomes of hemiarthroplasty using the BioPro® device were comparable or superior to alternatives and support its continued use.

Effects of Priming Intermittent Theta Burst Stimulation With High-Definition tDCS on Upper Limb Function in Hemiparetic Patients With Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Study

Background Preconditioning with cathodal high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) can potentiate cortical plasticity induced by intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) and enhance the after-effects of iTBS in healthy people. However, it is unclear whether this multi-modal protocol can enhance upper limb function in patients with stroke. Objective The aim of this study was to investigate whether priming iTBS with cathodal HD-tDCS over the ipsilesional M1 can augment upper limb motor recovery in poststroke patients. Methods A total of 66 patients with subacute stroke were randomly allocated into 3 groups. Group 1 received priming iTBS with HD-tDCS (referred to as the tDCS + iTBS group), Group 2 received non-priming iTBS (the iTBS group), and Group 3 received sham stimulation applied to the ipsilesional M1. One session was performed per day, 5 days per week, for 3 consecutive weeks. In Group 1, iTBS was preceded by a 20-minute session of cathodal HD-tDCS at a 10-minute interval. The primary outcome measure was the Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) score. Moreover, the secondary outcome measures for muscle strength and spasticity were the Motricity Index-Upper Extremity (MI-UE) and the Modified Ashworth Scale Upper-Extremity (MAS-UE), respectively, and the Hong Kong Version of the Functional Test for the Hemiplegic Upper Extremity (FTHUE-HK) and the Modified Barthel Index (MBI) for activity and participation. Results Significant differences were detected in the changes in FMA-UE, MI-UE, and MBI scores between the 3 groups from baseline to post-intervention (χ2FMA-UE = 10.856, P = .004; χ2MI-UE = 6.783, P = .034; χ2MBI = 9.608, P = .008). Post hoc comparisons revealed that the priming iTBS group demonstrated substantial improvements in FMA-UE (P = .004), MI-UE (P = .028), and MBI (P = 0.006) compared with those in the sham group. However, no significant difference was observed between the iTBS group and the sham group. Moreover, no significant differences were found in the changes in MAS-UE or FTHUE-HK between the groups. Conclusions Priming iTBS with HD-tDCS over the ipsilesional M1 cortex had beneficial effects on augmenting upper limb motor recovery and enhancing daily participation among subacute stroke patients.

Clinical and functional outcomes associated with pulmonary complications after coronary artery bypass grafting

IntroductionCoronary artery bypass grafting(CABG) is a surgical treatment for coronary artery disease aiming at improving symptoms and life expectancy. Despite this, there are pulmonary and functional complications that may arise during the postoperative period due to invasive mechanical ventilation(IMV), cardiopulmonary bypass and immobility, leading to longer hospital stays.ObjectiveTo evaluate the clinical and functional outcomes related to pulmonary complications in the postoperative period of CABG.MethodsProspective cohort. During the ICU stay the patients were divided into: Non Complicated Group(NCG) who did not present complications and Complicated Group(CG) who presented complication. Functional variables were applied as the six-minute walk test(6MWT), gait speed, sit up and stand up test, Timed Up and Go, peripheral muscle strength, ventilatory, pulmonary function and Functional Independence Measure. These tests were applied preoperatively, at ICU discharge, hospital discharge and six months after surgery.ResultsThe study evaluated 90 patients, 59 in the NCG and 31 CG. In the 6MWT there was a 2%(p = 0.43) decrease in the NCG, while the decrease was 13%(p < 0.01) in the CG. In the MRC the drop was 2%(p = < 0.01) in the CNG, while in the CG the drop was 14%(p = < 0.01). In MIP the NCG had a 6%(p = 0.67) decrease, while the CG had a 16%(p = < 0.01) decrease.ConclusionPatients with postoperative complications of CABG may have reduced functional performance, muscle strength, and pulmonary function at hospital discharge and after six months.

Patient-reported difficulty in activities of daily living and corresponding muscle weakness in elderly patients undergoing haemodialysis.

Patients undergoing haemodialysis have reduced muscle strength and impaired activities of daily living (ADL). We examined possible relationship between difficult ADL and corresponding muscle weakness in elderly haemodialysis patients. This was a single-centre, cross-sectional study. Patient-reported ADL difficulty was examined using a questionnaire in six ADL using upper limbs (eating, grooming and dressing) and lower limbs (bathing, toileting and locomotion). We measured six muscle strengths by dynamometers of shoulder flexion, shoulder abduction, elbow flexion, handgrip, hip abduction and knee extension. The muscle strength with the lowest Z-score was considered as the weakest muscle strength for the patient. The six scores of ADL difficulty were all inversely associated with the six muscle strengths in the 81 total participants of whom 71 individuals (87.7%) had any ADL difficulty. Among the six measurements of muscle strength, handgrip strength showed the highest associations with all ADL difficulties. In 25 patients who perceived that the most difficult ADL was an activity using upper limbs, the common weakest muscle strengths were the hip abduction, handgrip and elbow flexion. In 44 patients who perceived that the most difficult ADL was an activity using lower limbs, knee extension was the most prevalent weakest muscle strength. This study suggested preferential relationship between the most difficult ADL and corresponding muscle weakness in elderly haemodialysis patients. This finding may be useful in prevention and treatment.