Sphygmomanometer Cuff Research Articles

The impact of sphygmomanometer placement and cuff placement on blood pressure measurements.

Hypertension is the most significant global risk factor for mortality and morbidity, making standardized blood pressure measurement crucial. To investigate whether the location of blood pressure monitors and the positioning of cuffs yield differing results in blood pressure measurements. Patients admitted to the Affiliated Hospital of Jiujiang College between 1 January 2022 and 30 June 2023 were enrolled in this study and randomly allocated into four groups. These groups were defined based on the positioning of monitoring equipment as follows: varied placements of cuffs on automatic blood pressure monitors, different heights for mercury column blood pressure monitors, varied heights for automatic blood pressure monitors, and different orientations for the cuff airbag tubes on electrocardiogram monitors. Blood pressure was measured and recorded for each group, followed by an analysis of the variations in readings across the different setups. In the first cohort of 763 individuals, mean systolic blood pressure measured at the standard upper arm site was 128.8 ± 10.5 mmHg, compared to 125.3 ± 10.4 mmHg at the elbow fossa. The corresponding diastolic pressures were 79.2 ± 10.7 and 75.0 ± 10.6 mmHg, respectively. The difference in systolic pressure between these positions was significant at 3.48 ± 3.22 mmHg (t₁ = 29.91, p₁ < 0.001) and for diastolic pressure at 4.23 ± 1.31 mmHg (t₂ = 88.98, p₂ < 0.001). For the subsequent groups, involving 253, 312, and 225 individuals, respectively, blood pressure measurements were analyzed and compared across different methods within each group. All p-values exceeded 0.05, indicating no statistically significant differences. Blood pressure values measured at the elbow fossa position using an upper arm-type automatic sphygmomanometer were found to be lower than those measured at the upper arm position, with a difference of 3.48 mmHg for systolic and 4.23 mmHg for diastolic pressures. It is therefore essential to position the cuff correctly, specifically 2-3 cm above the elbow fossa, when utilizing an upper arm-type automatic sphygmomanometer for blood pressure monitoring. Conversely, the placement of the mercury column sphygmomanometer and the automated sphygmomanometer at varying heights had no significant effect on blood pressure readings. Similarly, the orientation of the electrocardiogram's cuffed balloon tube, whether facing upward or downward, did not influence blood pressure measurement outcomes.

The Comparison of Brachial Artery Parameters between the Clinical Cuff, Pneumatic Controlled Air Band (KAATSU), and Elastic Band during Blood Flow Restriction at the same Perceived Tightness

The Blood Flow Restriction (BFR) technique is based on cuffs connected to a pressure device that induces partial arterial inflow. BFR combined with exercise has already been proven to increase strength, muscle mass, and muscular endurance. However, some BFR devices with pneumatic air bands, such as KAATSU (KA), are expensive and less accessible, making either a Sphygmomanometer Cuff (SC) or Elastic Band (EB) an interesting alternative. However, vascular parameters in response to blood flow restriction during KA, EB, and SC have not yet been compared. Purpose: The aim of this study was to compare the brachial blood flow behavior during restriction using bands such as KA, SC, and EB on the same perceived tightness. Methods: Thirty healthy men participated in a prospective crossover study. Participants underwent blood flow measurements before and during KA, SC, and EB use, with KA-perceived tightness taken as a reference. The brachial blood flow volume, the diameter of the artery, and blood flow velocity were measured before and immediately after the cuff’s inflation at a specific tightness. Results: Blood flow volume was significantly reduced in KA (52%, ES: 1.38), SC (61.7%, ES: 1.29), and EB (41.5%, ES: 1.22) (p &lt;.0001). In addition, blood flow velocity was significantly reduced in KA (12.9%, ES: 0.74), SC (23.8%, ES: 1.02), and EB (25.6%, ES: 1.02) (p &lt;.0001). No significant changes were observed in the diameter of the brachial artery for any condition (p &gt; 0.05). Conclusion: Brachial blood flow behavior was similar between pneumatic controlled air band (KA), SC, and EB cuffs at the same perceived tightness. Highlights • Growing evidence suggests that blood flow restriction is an interesting technique to improve muscle mass and strength with less articular impact and practical applications are yet to be explored. • Different bands and devices have been used to apply in patients the technique and but, methods are still too heterogenous to be compared in the expected results. • Although studies in the BFR literature have shown that blood flow restriction is applied according to Arterial Occlusion Pressure (AOP) and the devices and techniques are trying to standardize it, there is still a lack of information on this matter. More studies are needed to evaluate their similarity and also understand their safety.

Effect of sphygmomanometer cuff pressure on the differentiation of veins from arteries on ultrasound imaging: an observational cross-sectional study

Effect of sphygmomanometer cuff pressure on the differentiation of veins from arteries on ultrasound imaging: an observational cross-sectional study

Simplifying Blood Pressure Measurements in Clinical Settings

Background: Upper arm sphygmomanometry is the most commonly used method to measure blood pressure in adults. However, variations in upper arm circumference and use of different cuff-sizes results in different pressure readings. When using the same cuff size, pressure readings will be higher for larger arm circumferences and lower for smaller arm circumferences. The objective of this study was to identify an adjustment factor that will allow pressure readings obtained for any combination of arm circumference and cuff size to be compared.Methods: To investigate the relationship between arm circumferences, cuff size and pressure readings, experiments were conducted using laboratory simulations and blood pressure measurements on nineteen human subjects. Power analysis identified minimum sample size. Results were analyzed using Chi-square and t-tests. The study was conducted between 2019 and 2021 in Boise, Idaho, USA. The University institutional review board approved the use of human subjects.Results: Simulations revealed a 99% linear correlation between changes in arm circumference coverage and changes in pressure readings. Human subject tests showed a 1% change in upper arm coverage by the sphygmomanometer cuff corresponded to a 1mmHg change in both systolic and diastolic pressure readings. Conclusions: The proposed adjustment factor can simplify blood pressure measurements in clinical settings by allowing healthcare providers to use only one sphygmomanometer size. It will also provide the basis for a “reference” against which blood pressure values obtained for any combination of cuff size and arm circumference can be standardized.

Noninvasive Technique to Monitor the Pressure under a Cast: A Mobile Application-Friendly Bluetooth Pressure Sensor.

The purpose of this study was to design a sensor that could monitor the skin-cast contact surface pressure (SCCSP) of a limb under a cast and inform the user via a mobile application when the pressure increases. In this experimental study, an infant sphygmomanometer cuff was initially placed on the forearm of 10 volunteers. A pressure sensor with a Bluetooth chip was then placed on the volar aspect of the forearm. Short arm plaster was applied with synthetic cast material. The SCCSP under the plaster was measured by the sensor and the measured values were transmitted to a mobile application via a Bluetooth chip. The mobile application processed the data from the chip and converted it to mmHg. Intracompartmental pressure (ICP) values were categorized as 0, 10, 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, and 75 mmHg. The highest SCCSP was 75 mmHg CP, while the lowest was 0 mmHg CP. The correlation coefficient of the mean pressure values was 0.993 (p ≤ 0.001) (SD 0.002, range 0.989-0.997), and there was a significant relationship between ICP and SCCSP values (p ≤ 0.05). We can monitor SCCSP, detect limb swelling, and notify the user via a mobile application by using Bluetooth pressure sensors.

Devising a method for predicting a blood pressure level based on electrocardiogram and photoplethysmogram signals

Determining the level of blood pressure (BP) in a non-invasive way and without a sphygmomanometer cuff is of great relevance when conducting continuous monitoring or screening studies. In this regard, a method for predicting BP parameters based on the signals of the photoplethysmogram (PPG) and electrocardiogram (ECG) signals has been developed. It is proposed to use, as informative features, the time of pulse wave propagation (PTT) and a set of calculated pulse parameters of PPG. PTT is defined as the time intervals between the R-wave of the ECG and the corresponding characteristic points on the PPG acquired optically from the finger. As parameters of the PPG pulse, the known characteristics of this signal described in the literature are used, as well as additional informative features selected during the study. In accordance with the above, the tools of machine learning theory were used to construct a classifier model and regression models. The approach described in this paper to determine BP makes it possible to use 10-second ECG signals in any of the 12 common leads and PPG signals from any optical type of sensor. The built model of the classifier detects three levels of BP: low, normal, and high, at the accuracy metric=0.8494. The regression models predict systolic, diastolic, and mean BP parameters in accordance with the requirements of the British Hypertension Society (BHS) standard by the magnitude of the absolute error. The proposed method for assessing the level of BP involves real-time measurements and can be used in the design of measuring equipment for screening studies, as well as in continuous monitoring tasks within the framework of BHS requirements.

Influence of Left Ventricular Morphology and Functions in The Accuracy of Non- Invasive Blood Pressure NIBP Recording Compared to Intra-Arterial Pressure IAP - A Correlative Study

Non-invasive blood pressure measurement with a brachial cuff sphygmomanometer is an important assessment tool in the diagnosis and management of hypertension and disturbed hemodynamic status. However, when compared to intra-arterial BP, the accuracy of BP measured by non-invasive methods remains questionable. The study attempted to estimate the difference in blood pressure measured by the two methods, as well as analyse the impact of left ventricular morphology and functions on the magnitude of the BP difference recorded by invasive and non-invasive methods. Methods: The subjects were patients undergoing diagnostic coronary angiography for the evaluation of chest pain. The morphology and functions of the left ventricle were determined as part of the routine pre procedural screening. NIBP and IAP were measured twice during the CAG at the radial and aortic levels. Noninvasive BP was measured using a brachial cuff of mercury sphygmomanometer by the auscultatory method. Results of our study revealed that in non-invasive BP both the systolic and the diastolic pressures were higher than their corresponding recordings obtained by invasive methods. The ECHO-derived left ventricular hypertrophy and left ventricular diastolic function correlated positively with the systolic and diastolic pressure differences respectively. Conclusion: Hence we suggest evaluation of the above parameters by echocardiography after obtaining a high BP by non-invasive methods can be done before the commencement of antihypertensive drugs A pre-treatment echo will give a clue on the differences.

Assessment of endothelial function in prediabetes using Flow Mediated Dilatation (FMD) by applying sphygmomanometer cuff in a limited resources rural setup: A case control study

Assessment of endothelial function in prediabetes using Flow Mediated Dilatation (FMD) by applying sphygmomanometer cuff in a limited resources rural setup: A case control study

É possível estimar a saturação venosa de oxigênio central a partir da saturação tecidual de oxigênio durante o teste de oclusão venosa?

To test whether tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) after a venous occlusion test estimates central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2). Observational study in intensive care unit patients. Tissue oxygen saturation was monitored (InSpectra Tissue Spectrometer Model 650, Hutchinson Technology Inc., MN, USA) with a multiprobe (15/25mm) in the thenar position. A venous occlusion test in volunteers was applied in the upper arm to test the tolerability and pattern of StO2 changes during the venous occlusion test. A sphygmomanometer cuff was inflated to a pressure 30mmHg above diastolic pressure until StO2 reached a plateau and deflated to 0mmHg. Tissue oxygen saturation parameters were divided into resting StO2 (r-StO2) and minimal StO2 (m-StO2) at the end of the venous occlusion test. In patients, the cuff was inflated to a pressure 30mmHg above diastolic pressure for 5 min (volunteers' time derived) or until a StO2 plateau was reached. Tissue oxygen saturation parameters were divided into r-StO2, m-StO2, and the mean time that StO2 reached ScvO2. The StO2 value at the mean time was compared to ScvO2. All 9 volunteers tolerated the venous occlusion test. The time for tolerability or the StO2 plateau was 7 ± 1 minutes. We studied 22 patients. The mean time for StO2 equalized ScvO2 was 100 sec and 95 sec (15/25mm probes). The StO2 value at 100 sec ([100-StO2] 15mm: 74 ± 7%; 25mm: 74 ± 6%) was then compared with ScvO2 (75 ± 6%). The StO2 value at 100 sec correlated with ScvO2 (15 mm: R2 = 0.63, 25mm: R2 = 0.67, p < 0.01) without discrepancy (Bland Altman). Central venous oxygen saturation can be estimated from StO2 during a venous occlusion test.

Can central-venous oxygen saturation be estimated from tissue oxygen saturation during a venous occlusion test?

ObjectiveTo test whether tissue oxygen saturation (StO2) after a venous occlusion test estimates central venous oxygen saturation (ScvO2).MethodsObservational study in intensive care unit patients. Tissue oxygen saturation was monitored (InSpectra Tissue Spectrometer Model 650, Hutchinson Technology Inc., MN, USA) with a multiprobe (15/25mm) in the thenar position. A venous occlusion test in volunteers was applied in the upper arm to test the tolerability and pattern of StO2 changes during the venous occlusion test. A sphygmomanometer cuff was inflated to a pressure 30mmHg above diastolic pressure until StO2 reached a plateau and deflated to 0mmHg. Tissue oxygen saturation parameters were divided into resting StO2 (r-StO2) and minimal StO2 (m-StO2) at the end of the venous occlusion test. In patients, the cuff was inflated to a pressure 30mmHg above diastolic pressure for 5 min (volunteers’ time derived) or until a StO2 plateau was reached. Tissue oxygen saturation parameters were divided into r-StO2, m-StO2, and the mean time that StO2 reached ScvO2. The StO2 value at the mean time was compared to ScvO2.ResultsAll 9 volunteers tolerated the venous occlusion test. The time for tolerability or the StO2 plateau was 7 ± 1 minutes. We studied 22 patients. The mean time for StO2 equalized ScvO2 was 100 sec and 95 sec (15/25mm probes). The StO2 value at 100 sec ([100-StO2] 15mm: 74 ± 7%; 25mm: 74 ± 6%) was then compared with ScvO2 (75 ± 6%). The StO2 value at 100 sec correlated with ScvO2 (15 mm: R2 = 0.63, 25mm: R2 = 0.67, p < 0.01) without discrepancy (Bland Altman).ConclusionCentral venous oxygen saturation can be estimated from StO2 during a venous occlusion test.

The quality of patients\u2019 self-blood pressure measurements: a cross-sectional study

BackgroundThe accurate and independent measurement of blood pressure (BP) by patients is essential for home BP monitoring (HBPM) and determining the quality of hypertension (HTN) control. This study aimed to evaluate the BP self-measurement techniques of hypertensive patients and their accuracy in accordance with established guidelines. We sought to identify the common errors that patients make and suggest improvements that can be implemented in the primary healthcare setting to increase the reliability of HBPM conducted by hypertensive patients.MethodsOne hundred patients diagnosed with HTN completed a questionnaire inquiring about their health and demographic data and BP monitoring practices. Patients were then observed and filmed while measuring their BP on their own devices in five primary healthcare centres in Kraków, Poland. The correctness of their techniques was assessed in accordance with the European Society of Hypertension guidelines on HBPM.ResultsOnly 3% of patients measured their BP without error; 60% made three or more errors. The most frequent error, made by 76% of subjects, was incorrect sphygmomanometer cuff placement (above or below heart level, or/and the indicator mark was not aligned with the brachial artery). Regarding patients’ previous instruction for the correct use of their devices, 36% of patients referred to their monitor’s user manual, 22% did not receive any prior assistance, and only 29% were adequately counselled by physicians on how to measure their BP correctly.ConclusionsOur findings suggest that primary healthcare physicians and their personnel often do not adequately instruct patients on how to measure their BP correctly. Therefore, healthcare systems must provide patients with more adequate training and reference materials on the best practices of BP monitoring.

Development of a 3D-Printed Navigational Template for Establishing Rabbit VX2 Lung Cancer Model

The CT-guided percutaneous puncture-inoculation for establishing the rabbit VX2 lung cancer model (LCM) is time-consuming, requires repeated CT scans, and has a high complication rate. Therefore, this study aimed to develop a navigational template using 3D technology to provide an alternative method for establishing the model with improved success and complication rates. Ideal pressure was determined using chest CT data from 15 anesthetized rabbits fitted with sphygmomanometer cuff around their chests. Subsequently, a preliminary 3D template with a square window and cross-sign to facilitate precise installation was designed. Using another 20 rabbits fixed with the preliminary template, an ideal common puncture point and parameter were determined, a navigational tunnel was set up on the template surface, and the final puncture navigational template was printed out. Eight-four rabbits (42/group) were assigned to the experimental (template-guided puncture) and control (traditional puncutre) groups and underwent VX2 tumor-fragment inoculation to validate the template. Differences in various parameters between two groups were analyzed. The ideal pressure was 30 mmHg. All rabbits were inoculated successfully and the template adequately fit the rabbit chest. The experimental group displayed significantly better operation time (198.93±36.64 vs 735.14±91.19 seconds); number of CT scans (0 vs 7.19±1.64); pneumothorax (11.9% vs 35.7%), chest seeding (16.7% vs 35.7%), and mid-lung field tumor-bearing (88.1% vs 59.5%) rates than the control group (all, P <0.05). The groups did not differ in rib injury, tumor volume or survival time (all, P > 0.05). We successfully developed a puncture navigational template, providing an alternative method for establishing the rabbit VX2 LCM.

A Case of Rumpel-Leede Phenomenon in Ulnar Artery Catheterization

Rumpel - Leede phenomenon (RLP) was described as early 1909 by Theodore Rumpel and by Stockbridge Leede in 1911 in patients suffering from scarlet fever. Acute development of petechial rashes distal to the application of blood flow occlusive devices such as a blood pressure cuff or tight wrapped bandage, is a typical finding in this phenomenon. Multiple isolated cases of RLP associated with coronary angiogram have been reported. In this report, we present a case of a 53-year-old male who developed RLP after percutaneous intervention of the proximal-mid left anterior descending artery after application of a sphygmomanometer cuff to contain a right forearm hematoma and application of a trans-radial band. We here discuss the etiopathogenesis and management of RLP that develops post coronary angiogram.

THE INFLUENCE OF ISCHEMIC PRECONDITIONING ON NEUROMUSCULAR PERFORMANCE

ABSTRACT Introduction: Ischemic preconditioning (IPC) has been described in the literature as a resource capable of improving physical performance. Objective: The purpose of this randomized double-blind study was to evaluate the influence of IPC on the neuromuscular performance of trained individuals. Methods: Twenty-four (24) resistance training participants (6 of them women) with a mean age of 25.8 ± 4.6 years were selected and divided into two groups: the upper limb group (ULG) composed of 12 individuals (4 women) and the lower limb group (LLG) composed of 12 individuals (2 women). The maximum repetitions test was applied in the bench press for the ULG and in the 45° leg press for the LLG, with 50% of the one-repetition maximum under control, placebo and IPC conditions, at a random interval of 72 hours between tests. The IPC was applied four hours before the tests by means of an analog sphygmomanometer cuff inflated to 220 mmHg on the arm for the ULG and on the thigh for LLG, with three cycles of five minutes each of ischemia and reperfusion, alternating between the right and left sides. For the placebo, the cuff was inflated to 40 mmHg without causing ischemia. The significance level for the Wilcoxon test was p &lt;0.017, due to the Bonferroni correction. The effect size (ES) was also analyzed. Results: With IPC, the ULG performed 34.8 ± 4.8 repetitions, representing an improvement of 11.29% (IPC vs. control, ES = 0.68 and p = 0.002) and the LLG performed 40.5 ± 15.7 repetitions, representing an improvement of 37.47% (IPC vs. control, ES = 0.84 and p = 0.002). No significant improvements were observed for the placebo in either group. Conclusion: Our data showed that IPC positively influenced neuromuscular performance of both the upper and lower limbs. Level of evidence II; Therapeutic studies investigating the results of treatment (Prospectived comparative studye).

In vitro simulation of acute feto-fetal transfusion in case of single intrauterine fetal death in monochorionic twins

IntroductionThanks to shared circulation in monochorionic twins, single intrauterine fetal death (IUD) may lead to acute feto-fetal transfusion (aFFTR). The objective of the study was to describe our model of aFFTR simulation after IUD in monochorionic (MC) twins. MethodsProspective study analyzed 99 fresh MC placentas with the physiological course. A specially designed protocol was used for the preparation and analysis of the placentas. A pair of infusion sets fixed together using a mechanical mercury sphygmomanometer cuff was connected to the cannulated umbilical arteries. The tonometer was pressurized up to 30 and 40 mmHg. A positive finding of aFFTR was determined as the amount exceeding 1 ml of dye flowed out of the umbilical cord simulating a dead fetus. The number and types of anastomoses, types, and distances between cords insertions, and the size of the placental areas for each fetus were also statistically analyzed. The placental angioarchitecture with and without proven aFFTR was statistically compared, odds ratio (OR) and multivariable logistic analysis were performed. ResultsA total of 49/99 (49.5%) cases of aFFTR was proven, and the average transfusion time of 1 ml was 30 s (19–46 s). aFFTR was present in 49/78 (62.8%) of placentas with arterio-arterial (AA) anastomosis. The median diameter of AA anastomoses with the present, and absent aFFTRF was 2.0 mm and 1.0 mm, respectively. The proven interfetal transfusion was 8%, 31%, and 61% in AA anastomoses with a diameter below 0,5 mm, 0,5–1,5 mm, and above 1,5 mm, respectively (p < 0,001). AA anastomoses diameter >1.5 mm had OR of 44.2 (95% CI 5.54–352.39). In the case of coexistence of AA anastomosis and umbilical cord distance ≤5th percentile, the aFFTRF occurred in 90.9%. DiscussionThe potential risk of aFFTR in monochorionic twins is mainly due to the presence and nature of AA anastomoses. The diameter and length of the vessels play a crucial role, which is clinically related to the distance of the umbilical cords insertions.

Sphygmomanometer-induced hemostasis following iatrogenic guidewire perforation during lower extremity angioplasty.

Iatrogenic guidewire perforation is a well-known complication of lower extremity angioplasty that is often benign or can be easily treated with endovascular techniques. However, perforations that occur in arterial side branches may be more challenging to manage. If bleeding persists, open surgery and fasciotomy may be required to evacuate the resulting hematoma and prevent compartment syndrome. These subsequent procedures increase morbidity and, if the angioplasty was performed in the outpatient setting, necessitate patient transfer to a hospital. To address these challenges, we describe a non-invasive hemostasis technique involving serial sphygmomanometer cuff inflations over the affected site in a series of five patients who experienced this complication at our office. We retrospectively reviewed the medical records of consecutive patients undergoing lower extremity angioplasty that were found to have an arterial guidewire perforation on completion angiogram at our outpatient center between February 2012 and February 2017. Patients found to have iatrogenic guidewire perforations were administered intravenous protamine sulfate and were transferred to the surgical recovery room. Patients received ibuprofen or acetaminophen for pain management. A blood pressure cuff was placed around the site of perforation, and patients received serial cuff inflation cycles with repeated examinations of both limbs until patients reported cessation of pain and there were no signs of a developing hematoma. Patients were observed for two hours before they were discharged home. A follow-up duplex ultrasound examination was completed within one week of the intervention. Over the course of five years, 536 angioplasties were performed at our outpatient office. Five of these patients experienced iatrogenic guidewire perforation (0.93%). Perforations occurred in branches of the anterior or posterior tibial artery. All of these patients were successfully managed with the aforementioned hemostasis technique. None of these patients required transfer to a hospital for further management, and no complications were reported at follow-up. Complications of iatrogenic guidewire perforations in lower extremity arterial side branches can be safely and effectively managed by applying external compression around the affected site with an automatic blood pressure cuff.

Efficacy of modified pressure cuff for thrombolytic treatment on lower extremity deep venous thrombosis.

To compare the effectiveness and patient comfort between two methods that block superficial venous blood flow during the thrombolytic treatment of lower extremity deep venous thrombosis (DVT) to provide evidence that informs clinical choice.One hundred twenty patients with lower extremity DVT were randomly divided into sphygmomanometer (group A, n = 40), tourniquet (group B, n = 40), and control group (no blocking, n = 40). All the patients were treated with a daily dosage of urokinase using a dial sphygmomanometer cuff and tourniquet to block lower extremity superficial vein blood flow. The pressure of the dial sphygmomanometer blocking lower extremity superficial vein blood flow was measured during lower extremity venography. Leg swelling reduction rate, venous patency, thrombus removal rate, and average comfort index were observed during the blocking process.The average pressure value for group A was 70 ± 10 mm Hg. The differences in the swelling reduction rate and venous patency were significant between the groups. Comparing the two groups at different time points, the average thrombus clearance rate of group A was higher than that of group B and control group. The leg pain scores of group A were lower than those of group B and control group. The postoperative comfort ratio of group A was higher than that of group B, and the proportion of severe discomfort in group A was lower than that in group B.Compared with the tourniquet, using a dial sphygmomanometer cuff to block lower extremity superficial vein blood flow achieved a better thrombolytic effect on DVT and provided higher patient comfort during treatment.

Deep Learning Methods in Internet of Medical Things for Valvular Heart Disease Screening System

The heart is one of the most important organs of the human body. It circulates blood throughout the human body and delivers oxygen and nutrients to all the organs for metabolism. Cardiac muscle contraction results in blood circulation, which maintains the body temperature at approximately 37 &#x00B0;C. If the cardiac function is abnormal, then the body temperature will be affected. The cardiac function degenerates as the human body ages, and the degeneration can occasionally result in cardiovascular diseases. When the Internet of Medical Things is integrated into heart disease screening systems to detect heart diseases, people can perform self-examinations to evaluate whether their hearts exhibit irregularities for early heart disease detection. STM32 is used in this study as the main Internet-of-Medical Things controller and is combined with the Internet of Things devices&#x2014;a sphygmomanometer cuff, temperature sensor, and pulse sensor&#x2014;for instrument control and data acquisition. This assembly is used to develop a valvular heart disease screening system, whose structure incorporates deep learning for the development of fitting models and analysis. An experiment is performed where blood flow is blocked temporarily and released to observe changes in the surface temperature of the fingertip skin, and the blood supply capability of the heart is assessed indirectly based on the temperature change curve. Eighteen subjects were recruited in the experiment, where one subject exhibited cardiac valve insufficiency and arrhythmia. In the experiment, temperature curve variation data are successfully obtained from the healthy subjects, whereas the temperature curve irregularities of the patient with cardiac valve insufficiency are identified. This subject&#x2019;s temperature range throughout three test steps is smaller by within 0.52 &#x00B0;C compared with those of most of the other subjects. In addition, during blood blocking and release, the overall temperature curve decreases, whereas some curves escalate first before plummeting slowly. The data analysis results show that the temperature curve variation and values of Subject 2 are similar to those of Subject 10, suggesting the incidence of valvular heart disease. This valvular heart disease screening system can successfully analyze and assess the characteristic signal values of patients with valvular heart disease.

A NECK STRENGTH TRAINING PROTOCOL IN HIGH SCHOOL FOOTBALL PLAYERS FOR CONCUSSION RISK REDUCTION

Background:Increased neck strength may be a protective factor for reducing concussions in youth athletes. However, little research exists regarding validated neck strength training methods among this demographic.Purpose:To determine whether a 7-week neck strength training period is sufficient to achieve significant gains in neck strength and size amongst high school football players. Additionally, to assess if increased neck strength influences concussion outcomes.Methods:This study enrolled 54 male high school football players, ages 14-17, in a 7-week strength training protocol in which neck exercises were incorporated into preseason strength and conditioning workouts (figure 1). Pre- and post-neck strength was assessed in four directions: forward flexion (FF), extension (EXT), right lateral flexion (RLF) and left lateral flexion (LLF). Strength was measured as maximal isometric head pressure applied into a pre-inflated sphygmomanometer cuff (figure 2). Concussion totals from the subsequent 2018 season were compared with totals from the 2017 and 2016 seasons per data obtained from the team’s athletic trainer.Results:Fifty athletes in total were analyzed; 4/54 athletes did not complete final testing due to scheduling conflicts. A two sample t-test of neck circumferences revealed a statistically significant increase of 0.37 cm from pre- to post-neck strength training (p=0.0025, figure 3). Single sample strength t-test analysis (corrected for cuff pre-inflation) demonstrated a statistically significant post-test strength increase of 19.8% (FF), 11.0% (EX), 18.8% (RLF), and 18.0% (LLF) (p<0.001, figure 3). The team suffered 4 concussions in the 2018 season, 2 of which were sustained by athletes who did not participate in preseason neck training, compared to 12 concussions in 2017 and 7 concussions in 2016 (figure 3).ConclusionThis study demonstrates that increases in neck size and strength can be achieved amongst high school athletes using easily implemented training methods during a 7-week preseason training period. The additional observation of reduced concussion outcomes is not conclusive, though these initial results are promising. Additional research is needed to investigate the potential of neck strengthening in modifying concussion risk. Funding provided by the Stanford Medical Scholars Fellowship Program Figure 1.Neck ExercisesFigure 2.Strength TestingFigure 3.Results

‘Supposing that truth is a woman, what then?’: The lie detector, the love machine, and the logic of fantasy

One of the consequences of the public outcry over the 1929 St Valentine’s Day massacre was the establishment of a Scientific Crime Detection Laboratory at Northwestern University. The photogenic ‘Lie Detector Man’, Leonarde Keeler, was the laboratory’s poster boy, and his instrument the jewel in the crown of forensic science. The press often depicted Keeler gazing at a female suspect attached to his ‘sweat box’, a galvanometer electrode in her hand, a sphygmomanometer cuff on her arm and a rubber pneumograph tube strapped across her breasts. Keeler’s fascination with the deceptive charms of the female body was one he shared with his fellow lie detector pioneers, all of whom met their wives – and in William Marston’s case, his mistress too – through their engagement with the instrument. Marston employed his own ‘Love Meter’, as the press dubbed it, to prove that ‘brunettes react far more violently to amatory stimuli than blondes’. In this article, I draw on the psychoanalytic concepts of fantasy and pleasure to argue that the female body played a pivotal role in establishing the lie detector’s reputation as an infallible and benign mechanical technology of truth.