Technology and Health Care - Volume 32, issue 1

Authors: Li, Zhongwei | Wang, Di | Hu, Jiashou | Zhang, Guowei | Sun, Jinfeng

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Juxta-papillary duodenal diverticula (JPDD) are common but are usually asymptomatic, and they are often diagnosed by coincidence. OBJECTIVE: To analyse the anatomy and classification of JPDD and its relationship with biliary and pancreatic disorders, and to explore the diagnostic value of multi-slice spiral computed tomography (MSCT) in patients with JPDD. METHODS: The imaging data of patients with JPDD, which was obtained via abdominal computed tomography examination and confirmed via gastroscopy and/or upper gastrointestinal barium enema, in our hospital from 1 January 2019 to 31 December 2020 were retrospectively analysed. All patients were …scanned using MSCT, and the imaging findings, classification and grading were analysed. RESULTS: A total of 119 duodenal diverticula were detected in 96 patients, including 73 single diverticula and 23 multiple diverticula. The imaging findings were mainly cystic lesions of the inner wall of the duodenum protruding to the outside of the cavity. The thin layer showed a narrow neck connected with the duodenal cavity, and the shape and size of the diverticula were different: 67 central-type cases and 29 peripheral-type cases. There were 50 cases of type I, 33 cases of type II, 19 cases of type III and six cases of type IV. Furthermore, there were seven small, 87 medium and 14 large diverticula. The differences in the location and size of the JPDD in MSCT grading were statistically significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The MSCT method has an important diagnostic value for the classification of JPDD, and MSCT images are helpful in the clinical evaluation of patients with JPDD and the selection of treatment options. Show more

Keywords: Juxta-papillary duodenal diverticulum, Lemmel’s syndrome, multi-slice spiral computed tomography, diverticulum types

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220742

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 1-8, 2024

Authors: Peng, Yongyi | Wu, Zhongping | Lin, Kuiqing | Huang, Ruibo | Huang, Jinhai | Lin, Junfeng | Chen, Shubing | Zheng, Jinping | Gao, Yi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: At present, robust quality criteria and methods for the assessment of Peak inspiratory flow meter performance are lacking. OBJECTIVE: A standard flow-volume simulator for quality control analyses of an inhalation assessment device was utilized with different simulated resistance levels in order to propose a quality testing method and associated standard for this device type. METHODS: A standard flow-volume simulator was utilized to assess the performance of an In-Check DIAL ® (Device I) and an intelligent inhalation assessment device (Device P) at a fixed volume and flow rate. Indices …used to evaluate these two instruments included repeatability, accuracy, linearity, and impedance. RESULTS: Both devices exhibited good repeatability ( < ± 3 L/min). The difference between test results and standard simulator values for Device P was less than ± 5 L/min at resistance level R1 but higher than ± 5 L/min at resistance levels R2–5, while Device I were greater than 5 L/min at all resistance levels. The relative error for Device P was < ± 10% at resistance levels R1, R2, and R4, but > 10% at resistance levels R3 and R5. The relative error values for Device I at all five resistance levels were > 10%. Device P passed the linearity test at the R2 resistance level, while Device I partially passed the linearity test at all five resistance levels. CONCLUSION: Standard monitoring methods and standards provide a valuable approach to the more reliable clinical assessment and application of these instruments. Show more

Keywords: Peak inspiratory flow, PIF, quality criteria, inhaler, assessment devices

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220905

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 9-18, 2024

Authors: Shin, Sun-Shil | Yoo, Won-Gyu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: According to previous studies, the relationship between lumbar lordosis and thoracic kyphosis or that between pelvic parameters and thoracic kyphosis have been inconsistent. OBJECTIVE: The purpose of this study was to investigate spinal sagittal alignment and its relationship to global and regional lumbar and thoracic angles, pelvic and sway angles, and C7–S1 distance measurements, followed by a detailed subgroup analysis using an inertial measurement unit system. METHODS: A total of 51 asymptomatic volunteers stood in a comfortable posture with inertial measurement units attached to the T1, T7, T12, L3, and S2 vertebrae. …T1, T7, T12, L3, and S2 sagittal angles were acquired during standing posture using the Eulerian angle coordinate system. All angles are reported as the mean of three 5-s measurements. Following the measurement of lumbar lordosis angles (T12 relative S2), participants were divided into the flat lumbar and normal lordosis groups. RESULTS: There were different correlation patterns between groups because of spinal sagittal imbalance, which was greater in the flat lumbar group than in the normal lordosis group. In addition, sacral inclination proved the ideal parameter to evaluate reciprocal balance in lumbar lordosis, showing a stronger correlation with lower than with upper lumbar lordosis. T1 was the key element in assessing thoracic kyphosis, which showed a stronger correlation with upper than with lower thoracic kyphosis. CONCLUSION: We suggest that when assessing posture, it is necessary to identify the global and regional angles and it is useful to classify spinal sagittal alignment into subgroups according to lumbar lordosis and evaluate the groups separately. Show more

Keywords: Global angle, lumbar lordosis, regional angle, sagittal balance, thoracic kyphosis

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220098

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 19-30, 2024

Authors: Zhao, Xiaoyan | Yang, Cuiyun | Lyu, Yuchao | Xu, Yinghao | Han, Zhihui | Zhao, Haien

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pulse-inversion-based tissue harmonic imaging has been utilized for many years because it can effectively eliminate the harmonic leakage and produce low side-lobe. However, the pulse inversion method is sensitive to imaging object movements, which may result in motion artifacts. Spatial resolution and contrast were limited. OBJECTIVE: To improve ultrasound image quality by a new pulse-inversion-based tissue harmonic imaging technique. METHODS: Continuous wavelet transform is applied to investigate the correlation between mother wavelet and the received echoes from two opposite pulses. To get a better correlation, a novel mother wavelet named ‘tissue wavelet’ …is designed based on the Khokhlov-Zabolotskaya- Kuznetsov (KZK) wave equation. Radio frequency data were obtained from open Ultrasonix SonixTouch imaging system. Experiments were carried on ultrasonic tissue phantom, human carotid artery and human liver. RESULTS: The average improvement of lateral spatial resolution is 49.52% compared to pulse-inversion-based tissue second-harmonic Imaging (PIHI). Contrast ratio (CR) and contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR) increased by 5.55 dB and 1.40 dB over PIHI. Tissue wavelet performs better than Mexh and Morl wavelet in lateral spatial resolution, CR, and CNR. CONCLUSION: The proposed technique effectively improves the imaging quality in lateral spatial resolution, CR, and CNR. Show more

Keywords: Medical information science, ultrasound imaging, correlation study, wavelet transform, signal detection analysis

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220403

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 31-53, 2024

Authors: Chen, Huilian | Dong, Peifang | Zhong, Peng

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The existing patient clothing is not suitable for patients that have to maintain a prone position for a long time after vitrectomy. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the effect of a new design of patient gowns for prone position patients after vitrectomy. METHOD: This study designed a kind of patient’s gown for prone position patients. A non-randomized, concurrent, controlled study was conducted on 212 patients who met the inclusion criteria for the prone position after vitrectomy in Grade III at a Class A hospital department of ophthalmology in Zhejiang Province from April to August …2020. The experimental group (106 patients in prone position) and the control group (106 patients in common position) were managed by the same group of nurses. The study recorded and compared the comfort degree of patients’ clothing used in the course of operation rehabilitation between the two groups and the satisfaction degree of doctors with nurses to patients’ clothing used in the prone position. RESULTS: The satisfaction degree and comfort degree of patients and the health care providers in the experiment group were significantly higher than those in the control group (p < 0.001). CONCLUSION: The process of making patient gowns for prone position patients is simple, which can improve the safety and comfort of patients when they were in the prone position. The new design also facilitated the treatment and nursing procedures of the medical staff and improved satisfaction among patients and medical staff. Show more

Keywords: Prone position patient, vitrectomy, gown, satisfaction, comfort

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220455

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 55-62, 2024

Authors: Yuan, Youyuan | Chen, Jiaqi | Wang, Xueqi | Song, Jialu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Lower extremity arteriosclerosis obliterans (ASO) is the most common occlusive disease of the peripheral blood vessels. OBJECTIVE: To explore the application effect of symptom management-based rehabilitation strategy in postoperative functional exercises in patients with lower extremity ASO. METHODS: The researchers selected 136 patients that underwent lower extremity ASO surgery for the first time in their department from January to September 2020. Patients were divided into a control group (n = 68) and an experimental group (n = 68). The control group implemented …routine discharge rehabilitation education and continuous nursing. On this basis, the experimental group applied the symptom management theory to the rehabilitation management strategy to compare the degree of pain, the ankle-brachial index, self-care ability and quality of life between the two groups before and after the intervention. RESULTS: Three months (P = 0.045) and six months (P = 0.013) after discharge, the experimental group’s degree of pain was significantly lower than that of the control group. At one month (P = 0.019), three months (P = 0.003) and six months (P = 0.000) after discharge, the experimental group recovered significantly better than the control group. At six months after discharge, the self-care ability, mood status and physical pain of the experimental group were significantly higher than in the control group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The rehabilitation management strategy, which is based on symptom management theory, can effectively improve the symptoms, quality of life and self-efficacy of ASO patients in continuous care. This nursing strategy is worthy of clinical promotion. Show more

Keywords: Symptom management, rehabilitation, lower extremity arteriosclerosis obliterans, functional exercise

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220478

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 63-73, 2024

Authors: Chiu, Chien-Hung | Ke, Shih-Wen | Tsai, Chih-Fong | Lin, Wei-Chao | Huang, Min-Wei | Ko, Yi-Hsiu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In practice, the collected datasets for data analysis are usually incomplete as some data contain missing attribute values. Many related works focus on constructing specific models to produce estimations to replace the missing values, to make the original incomplete datasets become complete. Another type of solution is to directly handle the incomplete datasets without missing value imputation, with decision trees being the major technique for this purpose. OBJECTIVE: To introduce a novel approach, namely Deep Learning-based Decision Tree Ensembles (DLDTE), which borrows the bounding box and sliding window strategies used in deep learning techniques to …divide an incomplete dataset into a number of subsets and learning from each subset by a decision tree, resulting in decision tree ensembles. METHOD: Two medical domain problem datasets contain several hundred feature dimensions with the missing rates of 10% to 50% are used for performance comparison. RESULTS: The proposed DLDTE provides the highest rate of classification accuracy when compared with the baseline decision tree method, as well as two missing value imputation methods (mean and k-nearest neighbor), and the case deletion method. CONCLUSION: The results demonstrate the effectiveness of DLDTE for handling incomplete medical datasets with different missing rates. Show more

Keywords: Data science, deep learning, decision trees, classifier ensembles, missing value imputation

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220514

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 75-87, 2024

Authors: Evron, Ilanit | Schwartz, Oren | Sajina, Anna | Grosman-Rimon, Liza | Dudkiewicz, Israel

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The Selfit system was developed to improve the mobility and gait-related functions of stroke patients by providing digital exercises and augmented reality training system. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the effects of a digital exercise and augmented reality training system on mobility, gait-related functions and self-efficacy outcomes in stroke patients. METHODS: A randomized control trial was conducted on 25 men and women diagnosed with an early sub-acute stroke. Patients were randomly assigned to either the intervention (N = 11) or the control groups (N = …14). Patients in the intervention group received a digital exercise and augmented reality training using the Selfit system in addition to the standard physical therapy treatment. Patients in the control group were treated with a conventional physical therapy program. Timed Up and Go (TUG) test, 10-meter walk test, the Dynamic Gait Index (DGI), and the Activity-specific Balance Confidence (ABC) scale were completed before and after the intervention. Feasibility and satisfaction among patients and therapists were also assessed after the completion of the study. RESULTS: The intervention group practiced proportionally more time per session than the control group with a mean change of 19.7% following 6 sessions (p = 0.002). The intervention group showed better improvement in post-TUG score compared to the control group (p = 0.04). ABC, DGI, and the 10-meter walk test scores were not significantly different between the groups. Both therapists and participants demonstrated high satisfaction with the Selfit system. CONCLUSION: The findings suggest that Selfit holds promise as an effective intervention for improving mobility and gait-related functions among patients with an early sub-acute stroke as compared to conventional physical therapy treatments. Show more

Keywords: Stroke, gait, mobility, digital exercise, augmented reality

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220521

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 89-101, 2024

Authors: Thyla, B. | Bai, V. Thulasi

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In wireless communication standard 4G and 5G, the body centric network plays an important role for the wireless communication between various devices. OBJECTIVE: This research relates to a wide-band conformal co-planar waveguide (CPW) antenna for wearable applications. METHODS: The proposed CPW antenna is printed on 0.1 mm thick bio-compatible polymide substrate whose dielectric constant and permittivity are 3.5 and 0.02 respectively. The total area of the antenna is around 17.5 × 15 mm 2 which is significantly smaller than the wearable antennas proposed in literature. …The proposed antenna is designed to operate in new ISM band 5.8 GHz with the bandwidth of 5.3–6.3 GHz with 2:1 Voltage Standing Wave Ratio (VSWR). The antenna is printed on the flexible substrate and hence robustness of device is evaluated by bending analysis. It reveals the superior performance of the designed CPW antenna over the desired spectrum of operation. RESULTS: Specific Absorption Rate (SAR) is calculated after placing the antenna at various places of human phantom model and showed that SAR values are below 1.6 W/Kg which is the maximum margin recommended by Federal Communication Commission (FCC), i.e when tested with 1 g and 10 g of human tissue of phantom model, for the test frequency range of 5.5–6.1 GHz, SAR value falls between 0.9987 and 0.921 W/Kg respectively. The antenna also shows the radiation efficiency around 92% with overall realized gain 5.2 dBi which are substantial values for wearable applications. CONCLUSION: The outcomes of this research revealed the feasibility of the recommended antenna becoming a major contender of future Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Show more

Keywords: Conformal, co-planar antenna, industrial, scientific, medicine (ISM), wearable, Specific Absorption Rate (SAR)

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220534

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 103-115, 2024

Authors: Yabusaki, Yumie | Asai, Kenji | Hisakado, Hiroshi | Takano, Noriyuki

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Short stems are advantageous for revision as they preserve autogenous bone. At present, the method of short-stem installation is determined based on the surgeon’s experience. OBJECTIVE: To provide the guideline for installing a short stem, we aimed to investigate the alignment effect on the initial fixation of the stem, stress transfer, and the risk of failure numerically. METHODS: Models in which the caput-collum-diaphyseal (CCD) angle and flexion angle were hypothetically changed based on the two clinical cases of hip osteoarthritis were analyzed using the non-linear finite element method. RESULTS: …The medial settlement of the stem increased in the varus model and decreased in the valgus model. With varus alignment, the stresses acting on the femur were high in the distal to the femoral neck. In contrast, the stresses in the proximal to the femoral neck tend to be higher with valgus alignment, although the difference in the femur stress between varus and valgus alignment was slight. CONCLUSION: Both initial fixation and stress transmission are lower when the device was placed in the valgus model than in the actual surgical case. In order to obtain initial fixation and suppress stress shielding, it is essential to extend the contact area between the medial portion of the stem and the femur along the bone axis, and to ensure adequate contact between the lateral portion of the stem tip and the femur. Show more

Keywords: Hip joint, arthroplasty, finite element analysis, hip prosthesis, initial fixation, stress shielding

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220591

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 117-130, 2024

Authors: Song, Xiaolong | Wang, Lei | Liu, Min | Pan, Renyou | Song, Jun | Kong, Junhong

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Hypertension is a well-recognized risk factor for cardiovascular, which is also a critical factor in causing myocardial fibrosis (MF). OBJECTIVE: The study aimed to explore the effect of Atractylenolide II (ATL-II) on MF and oxidative stress in spontaneous hypertension rats (SHR). METHODS: The body weight of rats after injection of ATL-II was quantitatively analyzed. The left ventricular function of SHR was evaluated by Echocardiographic. HE staining, Masson trichrome staining, left ventricular mass index (LVMI) and immunofluorescence was applied to investigate the effects of ATL-II on MF. RT qPCR was used to detect …the Collagen I, α -SMA, Fibronectin, and Vimentin mRNA expression levels in myocardial slices. The effect ATL-II on cardiomyocyte apoptosis was detected by TUNEL staining and western blot. An immunohistochemistry assay was conducted to detect α -SMA protein and TGF-β 1 protein. The contents of H 2 O 2 , GSH-PX, SOD, and MDA were measured by colorimetry. RESULTS: ATL-II could dose-dependently improve the BW of SHRs (P < 0.05) and enhance myocardial function. Moreover, ATL-II effectively reduced cardiomyocyte apoptosis in SHRs. Alternatively, ATL-II could inhibit the Collagen I, α -SMA, Fibronectin, and Vimentin mRNA and protein expression levels in SHRs. ATL-II could ameliorate oxidative stress by improving the activities of SOD and GSH-PX and lowering the contents of H 2 O 2 and MDA in ATL-II-treated SHRs, which reach about 80%. CONCLUSION: ATL-II could exert an inhibiting effect on MF and oxidative stress in SHRs. Hence, ATL-II may hold promise for the treatment of MF and oxidative stress in Spontaneous Hypertension. Show more

Keywords: Atractylenolide II, myocardial fibrosis, oxidative stress, spontaneous hypertension rats, apoptosis

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220601

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 131-142, 2024

Authors: Zhang, Mengmeng | Du, Hongxia | Ma, Xiaoxia | Zhao, Wenxing

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Pressure injury (PI) is a local injury of the skin and/or soft tissue located at the bone caused by medical or other equipment and is common in long-term bedridden patients. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the clinical effect of Urgotul foam dressing in the treatment of stage 3 ∼ 4 PI and deep tissue PI. METHODS: A total of 38 patients with stage 3 ∼ 4 PI and deep tissue PI admitted to Jinan Central Hospital from January 2016 to December 2018 were selected and randomly divided into …a control group (dressing change plus silver ion cream dressing) and an observation group (dressing change plus Urgotul Absorb non-border foam dressing), with 19 cases in each group. After 4 weeks of treatment, the pain intensity during dressing change and the treatment efficacy for PI wounds were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: There were no differences in gender (P = 0.740), age (P = 0.130), single wound area (P = 0.673), consultation department (P = 0.972), stage (P = 0.740), presence of undermining (P = 0.721), deep tissue PI (P = 0.721), and systemic antibiotic therapy (P = 1.000) between the two groups, which were comparable. The treatment effect of the observation group was better than that of the control group (P = 0.003), and the pain score of the observation group was lower than that of the control group (P < 0.001). CONCLUSION: Urgotul Absorb non-border foam dressing has a good effect in the treatment of stage 3 ∼ 4 PI and deep tissue PI and can relieve patients’ pain, and is thus worth promoting. Show more

Keywords: Pressure injury, pain intensity, Urgotul Absorb non-border foam dressing, efficacy of wound dressings, clinical effect

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220604

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 143-150, 2024

Authors: Tian, Xiao-Nan | Zhang, Li | Liu, Hong-Ran | Zhang, Xue-Song | Sun, Ying-Cai | Wang, Yong

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the preferred examination approach for patients with suspected cervical spondylotic myelopathy (CSM). OBJECTIVE: To investigate the predictive value of MRI spinal cord swelling on the prognosis of decompression surgery in patients with CSM. METHODS: A retrospective analysis of 115 patients with CSM who underwent decompression surgery was performed. According to whether cervical MRI showed spinal cord swelling, they were divided into a spinal cord swelling group and non-swelling group. The Modified Japanese Orthopaedic Association (MJOA) score, MJOA improvement rate and abnormal spinal cord enhancement rate in the …two groups were compared before and after surgery. Multiple linear regression was used to analyse the influencing factors of the MJOA improvement rate. RESULTS: The time from symptom onset to operation (t = 2.400, p = 0.018) and preoperative MJOA score in the spinal cord swelling group were lower than those in the non-swelling group (t = 3.253, p = 0.002). The body mass index (t = 2.895, p = 0.005), anteroposterior diameter of the spinal canal (t = 4.421, p < 0.001), cross-sectional area (t = 3.136, p = 0.002), postoperative improvement rate (t = 4.277, p < 0.001) and proportion of abnormal enhancement of the spinal cord in the swelling group were higher than those in the non-swelling group (χ 2 = 3.136, p = 0.002). The preoperative MJOA score in the swelling group was lower than that in the non-swelling group (t = 2.583, p = 0.013). A multivariate linear regression model revealed that age and spinal cord swelling were independent predictors of MJOA score improvement, explaining 33.2% of the total variation. CONCLUSION: Patients with CSM with spinal cord swelling have less time from symptoms to surgery, and the degree of preoperative neurological deterioration is more obvious. Spinal cord swelling is an independent predictor of surgical prognosis in patients with CSM. Show more

Keywords: Cervical spondylotic myelopathy, spinal swelling, magnetic resonance imaging, prognosis

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220614

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 151-162, 2024

Authors: Mao, Yongpo | Pan, Shengwang | Song, Yiming | Wang, Wenxiang | Li, Ning | Feng, Binbin | Zhang, Jianhai

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Jingshen Xiaoke decoction (JS) was prepared by studying the classic prescriptions of famous scholars in the past dynasties to prevent and treat diabetes. The related mechanism of JS against hyperlipidemia has yet to be revealed. OBJECTIVE: To investigate the mechanism of action of JS in treating diabetes mellitus by using bioinformatics methods. METHODS: A database was used to search the active ingredients and targets of the JS and targets for type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM). The protein interaction between the intersection targets, and the constructed the PPI network diagram was analyzed using …the STRING database. Furthermore, the gene annotation tool DAVID was used to enrich the intersecting targets for the Gene ontology (GO) function and Kyoto encyclopedia of genes and genomes (KEGG) signaling pathway. Finally, Maestro software was used for molecular docking to verify the binding ability of the active ingredients to the core target genes. RESULTS: A total of 45 active ingredients in JS were screened out corresponding to 239 effective targets, of which 64 targets were potential targets for treating T2DM. The analysis of PPI network diagram analysis revealed that the ingredients’ active components are quercetin, β -sitosterol, stigmasterol, luteolin, and 7-Methoxy-2-methyl isoflavone. GO functional enrichment analysis indicated 186 biological processes (BP), 23 molecular functions (MF) and 13 cellular components (CC). KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed the enrichment of 59 signal pathways. The molecular docking results demonstrated that the active ingredients and core targets had a good docking affinity with a binding activity less than - 7 kcal/mol. Finally, the western blotting illustrated that JS could up-regulate the liver PI3K/AKT-signaling pathway. CONCLUSION: JS can regulate glucolipid metabolism, reduce the inflammatory response, improve insulin resistance and modulate the immune response through PI3K/AKT signaling pathway treating of T2DM and its complications effects. Show more

Keywords: Jingshen Xiaoke decoction, network pharmacology, molecular docking, type two diabetes mellitus, western blot, mechanism of action, biological activity

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220630

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 163-179, 2024

Authors: Mao, Zi-Qing | Fan, Hui-Min | Wu, Hong-Xi | You, Zhi-Peng

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Macular retinoschisis in patients with high myopia is one of the main reasons for a decline in visual function and the perceived deformation of visual objects. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the therapeutic effect of cataract phacoemulsification and foldable intraocular lens implantation (FILI) combined with internal limiting membrane stripping (ILMS) in the treatment of macular retinoschisis in patients with high myopia. METHODS: A total of 52 patients (55 eyes) who had been diagnosed with macular retinoschisis with high myopia between June 2019 and June 2020 were enrolled in the present study. …Patients in the control group (25 eyes) received 23G vitreous surgery and macular ILMS and long-term inert gas (C3F8) filling of the vitreous cavity; patients in the research group (30 eyes) were additionally treated with cataract phacoemulsification and soft intraocular lens on the same treatment basis as the control group. RESULTS: The difference in average BCVA between the control and the research groups was not statistically significant before the surgery (P > 0.05) but was statistically significant 12 months after the procedure (P < 0.05). The minimum foveal thickness was significantly decreased in the two groups after the surgery compared with before the procedure (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Cataract phacoemulsification and FILI further improved the therapeutic effect of ILMS in the treatment of macular retinoschisis in patients with high myopia. Show more

Keywords: High myopia, macular retinoschisis, cataract phacoemulsification, internal limiting membrane stripping

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220681

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 181-190, 2024

Authors: Song, Yu-Jie | Xu, Jiang-Qin | Chen, Xi | Hu, Yi-Wei | Xiong, Hao-Deng-Jie | Ou, Su-Jiao | Zhou, Hui-Lin | Sun, Xing-Lan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chronic heart failure (CHF) is the terminal stage of cardiovascular disease. OBJECTIVE: In this study, the “hospital-to-home + online-to-offline” (H2H + O2O) care scheme was implemented for patients with CHF during vulnerable periods, and its effect was evaluated. METHODS: Patients with CHF in the cardiovascular department of a Class III/Grade A hospital in Jiangxi Province from January to December 2020 were selected using a convenience sampling method and randomly divided into a control and intervention group (n = 100 each). The …patients in the control group received routine in-hospital treatment and out-of-hospital follow-up, while in the intervention group, a multi-disciplinary cooperation team with CHF specialist nurses evaluated and stratified the patients before discharge and formulated individualized prescriptions and care plans. Based on the “Health & Happiness” chronic disease follow-up application designed for this study, the specialist nurses provided patients with one-to-one guidance. After three months, the cardiac function, heart failure knowledge, self-care behavior, and re-hospitalization rate of the patients were compared between the two groups. Cardiac function was evaluated by the serum B-type natriuretic peptide (BNP), the left ventricular ejection fraction (LVEF), and a six-minute walking test (6MWT). Heart failure knowledge and self-care behavior was assessed using specific questionaries. RESULTS: The level of cardiac function in the intervention group was significantly higher than that in the control group, and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.001). The mastery of heart failure knowledge and self-care behavior in the intervention group were significantly higher than those in the control group, and the differences were statistically significant (P < 0.05). The re-hospitalization rate due to CHF in the intervention group was 21.0%, which was lower than that in the control group (35.0%), and the difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The H2H + O2O care scheme can be used for the transition of vulnerable patients with CHF from the hospital to family care to improve the patients’ level of cardiac function, elevate their knowledge level and self-care abilities, and improve their overall health outcomes. Show more

Keywords: Chronic heart failure, vulnerable period, hospital-family, online and offline

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220693

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 191-200, 2024

Authors: Bai, He | Wang, Rui | Dai, Yu | Xue, Yuan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Milling operations of laminae in spinal surgery generate high temperatures, which can lead to thermal injury and osteonecrosis and affect the biomechanical effects of implants, ultimately leading to surgical failure. OBJECTIVE: In this paper, a backpropagation artificial neural network (Bp-ANN) temperature prediction model was developed based on full factorial experimental data of laminae milling to optimize the milling motion parameters and to improve the safety of robot-assisted spine surgery. METHODS: A full factorial experiment design were used to analyze the parameters affecting the milling temperature of laminae. The experimental matrixes were established …by collecting the corresponding cutter temperature T c and bone surface temperature T b for the milling depth, feed speed and different bone densities. The Bp-ANN lamina milling temperature prediction model was constructed from experiment data. RESULTS: Increasing milling depth increases bone surface and cutter temperature. Increasing feed speed had little effect on cutter temperature, but decreased bone surface temperature. Increasing bone density of laminae increased cutter temperature. The Bp-ANN temperature prediction model had best training results in the 10th epoch, and there is no overfitting (training set R = 0.99661, validation set R = 0.85003, testing set R = 0.90421, all temperature data set R = 0.93807). The goodness of fit R of Bp-ANN was close to 1, indicating that the predicted temperature was in good agreement with the experiment measurements. CONCLUSION: This study can help spinal surgery-assisted robot to select appropriate motion parameters at different density bones to improve lamina milling safety. Show more

Keywords: Lamina milling parameter, thermal damage, full factorial experiment, artificial neural network

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220812

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 201-214, 2024

Authors: Yang, Ying | Qian, Qiu-Yang | Yang, Xiao-Yan | Li, De-Sheng | Chen, De-Sheng | Shen, Mei

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Cardiac dysfunction accompanies acute ischemic stroke and affects the effective implementation of early rehabilitation interventions. There is a lack of reference hemodynamic data on cardiac function in the subacute phase of ischemic stroke. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we aimed to identify appropriate cardiac parameters for exercise training utilizing a pilot study. METHODS: We used a transthoracic electrical bioimpedance non-invasive cardiac output measurement (NICOM) device to monitor cardiac function in real time for two groups [i.e., subacute ischemic stroke inpatients group (n = 10) and healthy control group …(n = 11)] using a cycling exercise experiment. The parameters of both groups were compared to highlight the cardiac dysfunction in the subacute phase in patients with ischemic stroke. RESULTS: We considered stroke volume index (SVI) and systemic vascular resistance index (SVRi) as the primary outcomes, and there was significant intragroup difference (stroke group: P < 0.001; control group: P < 0.001, using one-way ANOVA) and significant intergroup difference at each individual time segment (P < 0.01, using independent t -test). Among the secondary outcomes, i.e., cardiac index (CI), ejection fraction (EF), end-diastolic volume (EDV), and cardiac contraction index (CTI), we found significant intergroup differences in CI, EF, and CTI scores (P < 0.01, using independent t -test). Significant interaction with respect to time and group were seen only in the SVRi and CI scores (P < 0.01, using two-way ANOVA). There was no significant inter- or intra-group differences in EDV scores. CONCLUSION: SVRI, SVI, and CI values highlight cardiac dysfunction in stroke patients the most. At the same time, these parameters suggest that cardiac dysfunction in stroke patients may be closely related to the increased peripheral vascular resistance caused by infarction and the limitation of myocardial systolic function. Show more

Keywords: Cycling training, exercise, ischemic stroke inpatients, non-invasive cardiac output, poststroke cardiac dysfunction

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220823

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 215-228, 2024

Authors: Mao, Wenjuan | Jiang, Mingzhu | Chen, Wenduo | Du, Juan | Xiao, Qian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Stress urinary incontinence is prevalent among women and the incidence increases with age. OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of intelligent pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation on elderly female patients with incontinence. METHODS: A total of 209 patients with urinary incontinence who were treated with pelvic floor muscle rehabilitation at Peking University International Hospital from September 2020 to January 2022 were selected by convenient sampling. All subjects were divided into the 50–60 year old patient group (n = 51) and over 60 years old patient group according to age …(n = 158). The subjects of different age group were divided into an experimental group and a control group. The patients in the control group received routine nursing and health education, and the patients in the observation group received a combination of mobile application use and smart dumbbells. Based on this, we constructed an intervention model for intelligent, continuous pelvic floor rehabilitation. After 7 and 12 weeks, pelvic floor muscle function knowledge and exercise compliance in the two groups were evaluated. The improvement of urinary incontinence symptoms, pelvic floor muscle strength grades and quality-of-life scales were evaluated. RESULTS: The results showed that pelvic floor knowledge and exercise compliance in the experimental group were better than in the control group at 7 and 12 weeks after intervention (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference in pelvic floor muscle strength and quality of life between the two groups at 7 weeks after intervention (P > 0.05). However, there was a significant difference in pelvic floor muscle strength and quality of life between the two groups at 12 weeks after intervention (P < 0.05). There was no significant difference between different age groups. CONCLUSION: The intelligent pelvic floor rehabilitation model that combines a mobile application with smart dumbbells can maintain and strengthen the clinical treatment effect for elderly patients with urinary incontinence. Show more

Keywords: Intelligent app, pelvic floor muscle training exercise, older female, urinary incontinence

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220845

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 229-241, 2024

Authors: Hu, Xiaomin | Lu, Jiachun | Wang, Yunyun | Pang, Rizhao | Liu, Jiancheng | Gou, Xiang | Bai, Xingang | Zhang, Anren | Cheng, Hong | Wang, Qian | Chang, Youjun | Yin, Jie | Chang, Cong | Xiao, Hua | Wang, Wenchun

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In recent years, lower limb walking exoskeletons have been widely used in the study of spinal cord injury (SCI). OBJECTIVE: To explore the effect of a lower limb walking exoskeleton on quality of life and functional independence in patients with motor complete SCI. METHODS: This was a multi-center, single blind, randomized controlled trial. A total of 16 SCI patients were randomly assigned to either the exoskeleton-assisted walking (EAW) group (n = 8) or the conventional group (n = 8). Both groups received conventional rehabilitation training, …including aerobic exercise and strength training. The EAW group additionally conducted the exoskeleton-assisted walking training using an AIDER powered robotic exoskeleton for 40–50 minutes, 5 times/week for 8 weeks. World Health Organization quality of life-BREF (WHOQOL-BREF) and the Spinal Cord Independence Measure III (SCIM-III) were used for assessment before and after training. RESULTS: There was an increasing tendency of scores in the psychological health, physical health, and social relationships domain of WHOQOL-BREF in the EAW group after the intervention compared with the pre-intervention period, but there was no significant difference (P > 0.05). SCIM-III scores increased in both groups compared to pre-training, with only the conventional group showing a significant difference after 8 weeks of training (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: A lower limb walking exoskeleton may have potential benefits for quality of life and activities of daily living in patients with motor complete SCI. Show more

Keywords: Exoskeleton, spinal cord injury, quality of life, activities of daily living

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220871

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 243-253, 2024

Authors: Tao, Ying | Jiang, Li-Ming | Zhou, Chang | Lin, Yun-Xiao | Yang, Yan-Qing | Wang, You-Hua

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Research on the genetic mechanisms of hypertension has been a hot topic in the cardiovascular field. OBJECTIVE: To study the correlation between senile hypertension and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) constitution and lipoprotein lipase (LPL) gene polymorphism and to provide the theoretical basis for TCM prevention and treatment of hypertension. METHODS: The elderly population in communities in Shanghai (hypertensive: 264 cases; non-hypertensive: 159 cases) was taken as the research object. Essential data and information on TCM constitution were collected. The LPL gene mutation was detected using the second-generation sequencing method. Statistical analysis was …performed to clarify the relationship between hypertension and senile hypertension. The correlation of TCM constitution with risk factors and LPL gene polymorphisms was studied. RESULTS: The primary TCM constitutions in the hypertension group were phlegm-dampness constitution (51.52%), yin-deficiency constitution (17.42%), balanced constitution (15.53%), and yin-deficiency (9.43%). Logistic regression analysis showed that the phlegm-dampness constitution (P < 0.05, OR = 2.587) and yin-deficiency constitution (P < 0.01, OR = 2.693) were the risk constitutions of hypertension in the elderly. A total of 37 LPL gene mutation loci (SNP: 22; new discovery: 15) were detected in the LPL gene, and the mutation rates of rs254, rs255, rs3208305, rs316, rs11570891, rs328, rs11570893, and rs13702 were relatively high, which were 26.24%, 26.24%, 16.08%, 14.66%, 13.24%, 12.06%, and 10.64%. In the phlegm-dampness group, the proportion of rs254 CC type, rs255 TT type, and rs13702 TT type in the hypertensive group (77.21%, 77.21%, and 93.38%) was higher than that in the non-hypertensive group (56.41%, 56.41%, and 82.05%), The difference was statistically significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The phlegm-dampness constitution and yin-deficiency constitution are the risk factors of hypertension in the elderly; in the phlegm-dampness population, rs254 CC type, rs255 TT type, and rs13702 TT type are the risk factors for elderly hypertension. Show more

Keywords: Elderly, hypertension, LPL gene, TCM constitution

DOI: 10.3233/THC-220908

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 255-267, 2024

Authors: Wu, Jiaqi | Wang, Xiujing | Jiang, Jiuhui | Bai, Yunyang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Polyetheretherketone (PEEK) is a polyaromatic semi-crystalline thermoplastic polymer with mechanical and lubrication properties favorable for biomedical applications. Despite of its aesthetic appearance, ceramic brackets are unsatisfactory in brittleness and thickness, while PEEK is a potential material for aesthetic orthodontic brackets. OBJECTIVE: To fabricate a novel aesthetic orthodontic bracket and evaluate friction properties of PEEK and stainless steel wires. METHODS: All polyether ether ketone (PEEK) and ceramic samples disks were made into disks (diameter, 5 mm; thickness, 2 mm). The tested surfaces of PEEK were ground with #600, #800 and #1200 SiC papers, followed …by polishing with Sof-Lex kit (3M ESPE, USA). The surface roughness was tested using a laser profilometer device (VK-X200, Keyence, Japan). The COFs of the specimens and stainless steel (SS) archwires were tested using a Universal Micro-Tribotester (UMT-3, Bruker, USA). The wear scratches on the materials’ surfaces were examined by using a scanning electron microscope (SEM) (Hitachi SU8010). The elastic modulus and hardness of samples were examined with a nano-indenter (XP, Keysight Technologies, USA). RESULTS: The mean surface roughness of PEEK and Ceramic are 0.320 ± 0.028 μ m and 0.343 ± 0.044 μ m, respectively. PEEK has a lower Friction coefficient than Ceramic and the difference between the two groups was statistically significant (P < 0.05). The abrasive wear of Ceramic was the main wear style and was characterized by the observation of chipping fractures, while PEEK surface looked smooth without obvious scale-like desquamations and granular debris, indicating adhesive wear. CONCLUSION: Within the limitations of the present study, PEEK shows lower coefficient of friction than ceramic. PEEK has excellent properties such as low friction coefficient, smooth surface and good mechanical properties, and thus meets the requirements for orthodontic brackets. It is considered as a potential bracket material with both low friction and aesthetic performance. Show more

Keywords: Polyetheretherketone, orthodontic brackets, esthetics, orthodontic friction, coefficient of friction

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230001

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 269-278, 2024

Authors: Vellappally, Sajith | Naik, Sachin | Hashem, Mohamed | Fouad, Hassan

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Traditionally, alcohol sprays are used for disinfection of acrylic-base denture surfaces. A limited number of studies have assessed the role of antimicrobial photodynamic therapy (aPDT) in this regard; however, it remains debatable whether conventional alcohol sprays are superior to aPDT in terms of antifungal activity or vis versa. OBJECTIVE: The aim of the present in vitro study is to compare the antifungal activity of conventional alcohol sprays and aPDT on acrylic denture resin. METHODS: Individuals wearing complete dentures at least on one arch were included. Dentures were randomly divided into three …groups. Groups 1-3 were disinfected with an alcohol-based antiseptic spray and aPDT, respectively. Assessment of oral yeast growth was done using swab samples. The culture mediums were incubated at 37 ∘ C for 72 hours and viewed through a microscope. The numbers of colony forming units (CFU/ml) were determined. P < 0.05 were considered statistically significant. RESULTS: At baseline, the mean CFU/ml in Groups 1–3 were comparable. After disinfection, a statistically significant reduction in microbial CFU/ml was observed in Groups 1 (P < 0.05) and 2 (P < 0.05) compared with baseline. In Group 3, there was no difference in CFU/ml throughout the study. After disinfection, there was no difference in microbial CFU/ml in dentures in Groups 1 and 2. CONCLUSION: Conventional alcohol sprays are as effective as aPDT towards reducing oral yeasts CFU/ml on acrylic denture resin. Show more

Keywords: Alcohol spray, antimicrobial photodynamic therapy, antifungal, denture, edentulous

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230069

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 279-284, 2024

Authors: Yezdani, Shiza | Khatri, Monisha | Vidhya, Sampath | Mahalaxmi, Sekar

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Undesirable effects of tooth bleaching can alter the biomechanical properties of enamel. OBJECTIVE: To determine the influence of strontium fluorophosphate bioactive glass (Sr-FPG) on color, microhardness and surface roughness of enamel bleached with 35% hydrogen peroxide. METHODS: The labial enamel of 36 extracted intact human anterior teeth were divided into 3 groups (n = 12), group 1 (HP): bleaching with 35% hydrogen peroxide only, group 2 (Sr-HP): bleaching with Sr-FPG incorporated 35% hydrogen peroxide and group 3 (HP-SrFPG): bleaching with 35% hydrogen peroxide followed by remineralization with …Sr-FPG. Four consecutive eight-minute applications of the bleaching gel were done twice in all the groups. Color change (Δ E), microhardness and surface roughness were evaluated at baseline, post-bleaching and post-remineralization using spectrophotometer, Vickers hardness tester and profilometric analysis respectively. RESULTS: The mean Δ E among the groups was statistically similar (p > 0.05). Bleaching with HP significantly reduced microhardness (p < 0.05), whereas bleaching with Sr-HP and HP-SrFPG did not (p > 0.05). Post-bleaching microhardness in Sr-HP was significantly higher than HP-SrFPG (p < 0.05). An increased surface roughness was seen in Sr-HP bleached samples (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The addition of Sr-FPG to hydrogen peroxide significantly improved enamel microhardness than its use post-bleaching. An increase in surface roughness was seen post-bleaching with HP and Sr-HP. Show more

Keywords: Bioglass, dental enamel, hydrogen peroxide, tooth bleaching, tooth remineralization

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230074

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 285-292, 2024

Authors: Zhao, Jie | Liu, Haiming | Qi, Tao | Zhao, Hui | Ye, Tingting | Ning, Peng

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Lung cancer is prone to metastasize to the brain, which is difficult for surgery and leads to poor prognosis due to poor chemotherapy efficacy. OBJECTIVE: Our aim is to evaluate the efficacy and safety of stereotactic body radiotherapy (SBRT) for brain multi-metastases. METHODS: In the retrospective study, a total of 51 non-small cell lung cancer (NSCLC) patients with brain multi-metastases (3–5 metastases) receiving SBRT in the local hospital between 2016 and 2019 were enrolled for analyzing the efficacy and safety of SBRT. The primary endpoints included 1-year local control rate, radiotherapy toxicity, …overall survival and progression-free survival. RESULTS: The median follow-up for the enrolled patients was 21 months, and the 1-year and 2-year OS rates were 82.4% and 45.1%, respectively. Demographic analysis showed no significant differences between SBRT alone and combination with whole brain radiotherapy in clinical characteristics including age, gender and Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status. The 1-year local control rate was 77.3% (17/22) for SBRT alone, which was comparable to 79.3% (23/29) of combined radiotherapy. Cox proportional hazard regression demonstrated that the prognostic benefit of combining WBRT was not significantly superior to SBRT alone (HR = 0.851, P = 0.263). Their radiotherapy toxicity rate was lower in SBRT alone group (13.6%, vs. 44.8% for combination; P = 0.017). CONCLUSION: The current research suggested that SBRT alone could effectively relieve tumor burden and improve the prognosis and quality of life for NSCLC patients with brain multi-metastases, which should be validated in further prospective clinical trials. Show more

Keywords: Stereotactic body radiotherapy, NSCLC, whole brain radiotherapy, brain metastases, safety, efficacy

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230104

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 293-301, 2024

Authors: Tang, Fang | Wu, Ling | Yang, Li | Zhou, Bei-Fang | Qiu, Kun | Wang, Li-Chun | Shi, Lu | Long, Xiao-Feng

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: In view of the lack of attention and predictability in postpartum breastfeeding in primiparas, health education on breastfeeding during pregnancy should be carried out to publicize the benefits of breastfeeding. OBJECTIVE: To investigate how well the primiparas during pregnancy are known of breastfeeding knowledge, and to provide a basis for developing health education measures for them. METHODS: With the adoption of the objective sampling method and the principle of saturation, 10 primiparas in the obstetrics outpatient department of the Hunan Provincial People’s Hospital were selected as the study participants. Semi-structured in-depth interviews …combined with the observation method were used for data collection. The interview data were analyzed and the theme was refined by Colaizzi’s seven-step method. RESULTS: The results of the four themes of the cognition of breastfeeding knowledge among primiparas were as follows: Lack of knowledge and curiosity about breastfeeding in some women, lack of access to correct breastfeeding knowledge, insufficient support from family members for postpartum breastfeeding, and lack of approach to solve problems during breastfeeding among primiparas. CONCLUSION: Due to the current problems of the cognition of breastfeeding knowledge in primiparas, it was imperative to build a health education model suitable for primiparas to improve this knowledge. Show more

Keywords: Primipara, pregnancy, breastfeeding knowledge, cognition, qualitative research

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230129

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 303-312, 2024

Authors: Liu, Linghua | Hui, Ke

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) is a common chronic respiratory disease worsening airflow limitation. OBJECTIVE: To explore pulmonary function rehabilitation, life quality and prognosis in patients with severe COPD. METHODS: Between February 2018 and August 2021, 150 patients with severe COPD cured in our hospital were arbitrarily assigned into the control group (n = 75) and study group (n = 75). The control group received routine treatment and the research group received multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment. The body mass index, airflow obstruction, …dyspnea and exercise (BODE), pulmonary function, the number of acute attacks, 6-minute walking distance (6MWD), Borg score and life quality were compared. RESULTS: There was no remarkable difference in BODE score before treatment (P > 0.05). During the 2- and 6-month following treatment, the BODE score of the study group was lower (P < 0.05). In the study group, FEV1 percentage of the predicted value, forced expiratory volume in one second (PPO-FEV1) and the percentage of forced expiratory volume in one second/forced vital capacity (FEV1/FVC) in the first second were higher (P < 0.05). In the study group, there were fewer acute attacks (P < 0.05). After treatment, the 6MWD of the study group following 2- and 6-month treatment was higher (P < 0.05). The Borg scores of the study group at 2- and 6-months after treatment were lower (P < 0.05). There were no remarkable differences in the score of life quality before treatment (P > 0.05), however, the symptom score, activity score, influence score and total score of the study group were lower after the treatment (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The application of multidisciplinary diagnosis and treatment model can promote the rehabilitation of pulmonary function of patients with severe COPD, improve their prognosis, slow down the development of the disease and enhance their life quality. Show more

Keywords: Body mass index, jaeger pulmonary function tester, BODE index, 6-minute walking distance, St. George’s respiratory questionnaire, LAMA/LABA

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230159

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 313-326, 2024

Authors: Lan, Fang-Fang | Zhao, Wu-Xiao | Gan, Lu

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Amblyopia is a neurological deficit in binocular vision that affects 3% of the population and is the result of disruptions in early visual development. OBJECTIVE: In this study, we used a visual perceptual learning system for the short-term treatment of children with ametropic amblyopia and evaluated the clinical efficacy of this system in terms of visual plasticity. METHODS: We conducted a retrospective analysis of the clinical data of 114 children (228 eyes) with refractive amblyopia, who were aged 6.51 ± 1.51 years. Prior to the treatment, we evaluated all …children with amblyopia using the visual information processing test. We determined the type of amblyopic defect according to the type of amblyopia, corrected visual acuity, and advanced visual function test results. Based on the type of defect, each child with amblyopia was given short-term visual perception training for 10 days. Finally, we compared the results of visual acuity and visual information processing tests before and after the treatment. RESULTS: The best-corrected visual acuity of patients was better after 10 days of visual training than that before training (P < 0.05). The perceptual eye position after training improved with statistically significant differences in horizontal and vertical perceptual eye position (both P < 0.05) compared to that before training. The number of amblyopic children without suppression in both eyes was 81 cases (71.1%) after training which was higher than that (65 cases, or 57.0%) before training, with a statistically significant difference (P < 0.05). Binocular fine stereopsis and dynamic stereopsis improved after training with a statistically significant difference (both P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: In this study, it was found that patients with amblyopia showed visual plasticity. Moreover, continuous visual perceptual learning improved the best-corrected visual acuity and recovered stereopsis in children with refractive amblyopia. Show more

Keywords: Refractive amblyopia, stereopsis, visual perceptual learning, visual plasticity

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230183

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 327-333, 2024

Authors: Cho, Ki-Hun | Lee, Dong-Geon | Song, Won-Kyung | Lee, Gyuchang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: After stroke, gait training is a key component of rehabilitation, and most individuals use a variety of walking aids depending on their physical condition and environment. OBJECTIVE: This study aimed to investigate the potential effect of a one-arm motorized gait device for gait assist of chronic hemiplegic stroke survivors through comparison with traditional gait devices (parallel bar and hemi-walker). METHODS: This study was conducted on 14 chronic hemiplegic stroke survivors. The participants were asked to walk under three conditions using different gait devices, and their gait parameters during walking were collected and …analyzed. The first condition involved walking on parallel bars; second condition, walking using hemi-walkers; and third condition, walking using one-arm motorized gait devices. With the use of a gait analysis system, the spatio-temporal gait parameters in each condition were collected, such as gait velocity, cadence, step length, stride length, single support time, and double support time. RESULTS: In the results by repeated-measures ANOVA or the Friedman test, a significant difference was found in the gait parameters among all three conditions (p < 0.05). The post-hoc test showed a significant change in the spatio-temporal gait parameters (especially, velocity, cadence and affected side single and double support time) when one-arm motorized gait device were used compared with parallel bars and hemi-walkers (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: The results of this study suggest that one-arm motorized gait devices developed for hemiplegic stroke survivors may be more effective potentially than parallel bars and hemi-walkers in gait assistance of chronic hemiplegic stroke survivors. Show more

Keywords: Chronic hemiplegic stroke, gait characteristics, one-arm motorized gait device, parallel bars, hemi-walker

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230197

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 335-342, 2024

Authors: Porwal, Amit | Al Moaleem, Mohammed M. | Adawi, Hafiz Ahmed | Nandalur, Kulashekar Reddy | Satpathy, Anurag | Mehta, Vini | Cicciù, Marco | Minervini, Giuseppe

Article Type: Review Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Various studies have been conducted to analyze data via bibliometric analysis in different dentistry, including prosthetic dentistry. However, these studies evaluated the most cited published articles in dentistry. OBJECTIVE: To analyze and evaluate the characteristic development of several mesh keywords in the Journal of Prosthodontics – Implant, Esthetic, and Reconstructive Dentistry between 1992 and 2022. METHODS: The Scopus databases was searched to retrieve the data related to 8 categories, including published articles, most cited documents, authors and organizations, and maximum articles cited during the evaluation period. The data retrieved were exported to a …Microsoft Excel sheet and were analyzed using the bibliometrix package. The data were first analyzed for ten years and then for 30 years. The highest of 10 were reported for each category, and co-authorship, reoccurrence, and linked data were also reported. RESULTS: 2603 published documents were recorded from the Scopus databases. Articles comprised 87.9% of the total published work, followed by review articles at 5.46%. The most productive decade was between 2013 and 2022. 3793 terms were used during the evaluation period, with the maximum number in 2003–2012 (2481). A total of 5392 keywords were used during 1992–2022, with the highest number (3232) from 2013 to 2022. A total of 6108 authors were acknowledged, with the maximum number (3964) from 2013 to 2022 and the fewest (767) from 1992 to 2002. Authors from different countries increased from 17 countries in 1992–2002 to 52 countries in 2013–2022 (total = 63 countries). Similarly, the number of organizations increased from 312 organizations in 1992–2002 to 1315 organizations in 2013–2022 (total = 1976 organizations). CONCLUSION: The current bibliometric analysis delivered a comprehensive overview about more spread research topics and its impactful role in contemporary dentistry, especially prosthetic dentistry. Show more

Keywords: Bibliographic analysis, citation index, bibliometrix package, prosthesis, implant

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230204

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 343-359, 2024

Authors: Bao, Lingyun | Du, Kun | Gao, Jin | Jiang, Rongrong | Li, Bin | Liu, Tingting

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Although the success rate of resuscitation in preterm infants is increasing, the long length of hospital stay in preterm infants and the need for more invasive operations, coupled with the widespread use of empirical antibiotics, have increased the prevalence of fungal infections in preterm infants in neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) year on year. OBJECTIVE: The present study aims to explore the risk factors of invasive fungal infections (IFI) in preterm infants and to identify some prevention strategies. METHODS: A total of 202 preterm infants with a gestational age of 26 weeks …to 36 + 6 weeks and a birth weight of less than 2,000 g, admitted to our neonatal unit during the 5-year period from January 2014 to December 2018, were selected for the study. Among these preterm infants, six cases that developed fungal infections during hospitalization were enrolled as the study group, and the remaining 196 infants who did not develop fungal infections during hospitalization were the control group. The gestational age, length of hospital stay, duration of antibiotic therapy, duration of invasive mechanical ventilation, indwelling duration of the central venous catheter, and duration of intravenous nutrition of the two groups were compared and analyzed. RESULTS: There were statistically significant differences between the two groups in the gestational age, length of hospital stay, and duration of antibiotic therapy. CONCLUSION: A small gestational age, a lengthy hospital stay, and long-term use of broad-spectrum antibiotics are the high-risk factors for fungal infections in preterm infants. Medical and nursing measures to address the high-risk factors might reduce the incidence of fungal infections and improve the prognosis in preterm infants. Show more

Keywords: Preterm infant, fungal infection, high-risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230218

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 361-367, 2024

Authors: Wang, Yanan | Zhai, Shifen | Liu, Lili | Qu, Bin | Wang, Ziqian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Situation, Background, Assessment, and Recommendation (SBAR) is a structured method for communicating critical information that requires immediate attention and action. OBJECTIVE: To study the effects of empathy nursing combined with the SBAR communication system on the negative emotions and nursing quality of children undergoing tracheotomy. METHODS: This is a clinical observational study. A total of 100 tracheotomy patients who were cared for in the pediatric intensive care unit (subsequent treatment in the tracheotomy clinic or otolaryngology ward) of our hospital from September 2021 to June 2022 were recruited and assigned at a …ratio of 1:1 either into a control group (empathic care) or an observation group (empathic care combined with SBAR) using a randomized method. Further, the postoperative anxiety self-rating scale scores, negative emotions, hope index, and nursing quality were compared between the two groups. RESULTS: After nursing, the psychological resilience scale score of the observation group was higher than that of the control group, whereas the anxiety self-rating scale score was significantly lower than that of the control group (all P < 0.05). Basic and special nursing, knowledge awareness, and safety management of the two groups of patients improved significantly, with higher results in the observation group than in the control group (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: Empathy nursing combined with the SBAR communication system considerably improves postoperative negative emotions and enhances the quality of nursing care for patients undergoing tracheotomy. Show more

Keywords: Tracheotomy, empathy nursing, SBAR communication system, nursing effect, children

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230231

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 369-378, 2024

Authors: Xu, Fan | Zheng, Qihang | Shi, Jia | Yan, Keyu | Wang, Mingwen

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Alzheimer’s disease (AD) endangers the physical and mental health of the elderly, constituting one of the most crucial social challenges. Due to lack of effective AD intervention drugs, it is very important to diagnose AD in the early stage, especially in the Mild Cognitive Impairment (MCI) phase. OBJECTIVE: At present, an automatic classification technology is urgently needed to assist doctors in analyzing the status of the candidate patient. The artificial intelligence enhanced Alzheimer’s disease detection can reduce costs to detect Alzheimer’s disease. METHODS: In this paper, a novel pre-trained ensemble-based AD detection …(PEADD) framework with three base learners (i.e., ResNet, VGG, and EfficientNet) for both the audio-based and PET (Positron Emission Tomography)-based AD detection is proposed under a unified image modality. Specifically, the effectiveness of context-enriched image modalities instead of the traditional speech modality (i.e., context-free audio matrix) for the audio-based AD detection, along with simple and efficient image denoising strategy has been inspected comprehensively. Meanwhile, the PET-based AD detection based on the denoised PET image has been described. Furthermore, different voting methods for applying an ensemble strategy (i.e., hard voting and soft voting) has been investigated in detail. RESULTS: The results showed that the classification accuracy was 92% and 99% on the audio-based and PET-based AD datasets, respectively. Our extensive experimental results demonstrate that our PEADD outperforms the state-of-the-art methods on both audio-based and PET-based AD datasets simultaneously. CONCLUSIONS: The network model can provide an objective basis for doctors to detect Alzheimer’s Disease. Show more

Keywords: Alzhemier’s disease, early detection, pre-training, ensembling, modality

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230571

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 379-395, 2024

Authors: Li, Xingping | Chen, Fuyan | Wang, Wenqing | Liu, Yang | Han, Jiang-Qin | Ke, Zi | Zhu, Hong-Hang

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Hypertension has become one of the most pathogenic diseases in the world. OBJECTIVE: This paper summarizes and analyzes the acupuncture point combinations and treatment principles of acupuncture for hypertension in a systematic way by means of big data mining. METHODS: The literature for this paper was obtained from CNKI, Wanfang, VIP, SinoMed and PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Ovid databases. Thedata were collected to obtain combinations of acupoints with strong associations through association rule analysis, complex networks for screening to obtain core acupoint nuclei, and cluster analysis to derive …treatment principles. RESULTS: A total of 127 acupuncture prescriptions involving 66 acupoints were included in this study. Tai-chong (LR3), Qu-chi (LI11), Zu-san-li (ST36), Feng-chi (GB20), and He-gu (LI4) were the most commonly used acupoints. The large intestine meridian was the preferred meridian, and most of the extremity acupoints, especially the lower extremities, were selected clinically. The association rule reveals that Qu-chi (LI11) and Zu-san-li (ST36) are the dominant combination acupoints. 3 core association points obtained after complex network analysis, the 1st association, Bai-hui (DU20), Tai-xi (KI3), Gan-shu (BL18), Shen-shu (BL23); The 2nd association, Qu-chi (LI11), He-gu (LI4), San-yin-jiao (SP6), Zu-san-li (ST36), Feng-chi (GB20), Tai-chong (LR3); The 3rd association, Qi-hai (RN6), Guan-yuan (RN4), Zhong-wan (RN12), Zhao-hai (KI6), Tai-yang (EX-HN5), Lie-que (LU7), Yang-ling-quan (GB34), Xing-jian (LR2), Yin-ling-quan (SP9). Cluster analysis yielded the treatment principles of nourishing Yin and submerging Yang, pacifying the liver and submerging Yang, tonifying Qi and Blood, and calming the mind and restoring the pulse, improving clinical outcomes. CONCLUSION: By means of big data mining, we can provide reference for acupuncture point grouping and selection for clinical acupuncture treatment of hypertension. Show more

Keywords: Acupuncture, acupoints, hypertension, data mining technology, mechanism

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230581

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 397-410, 2024

Authors: Wei, Wei | Lu, Lin-Xiang | Hao, Ying | Kang, Sheng | Liu, Yonghua | Yu, Jing | Chen, Wenli | Fan, Cheng-Hui

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Chinese chest pain centers (CPCs) have been expanding and maturing for the past decade, but patient wait times for pre-hospital care remain long. OBJECTIVE: To demonstrate that the remote electrocardiogram (ECG) monitoring system can ensure more efficient treatment for patients with ST-elevation myocardial infarction (STEMI) in CPCs, we compared patients with high-risk chest pain who used remote ECG monitoring systems to those who used conventional ECGs in retrospective cohort study. METHODS: Based on the inclusion and exclusion criteria, 290 patients who visited our CPC between June 2019 and March 2022 with acute …chest pain and a diagnosis of STEMI as well as patients who had undergone an emergency primary percutaneous coronary intervention were selected. Among them, 73 patients with STEMI had employed remote real-time dynamic 12-lead ECG monitoring devices, while 217 patients with STEMI (i.e., the controls) had used conventional ECG monitoring. The effectiveness of treatment procedures for the two groups was investigated. As statistical measures, the symptom onset-to-wire times, first medical contact (FMC)-to-wire times, door-to-wire times, major adverse cardiac events in hospital, and the troponin T levels were analyzed. RESULTS: Compared with the control group, the patients with remote real-time dynamic 12-lead ECG monitoring devices showed shorter times for both symptom onset-to-wire (234.8 ± 95.8 min vs. 317.6 ± 129.6 min, P = 0.0321) and from symptom onset-to-FMC (170.5 ± 86.3 min vs. 245.3 ± 115.6 min, P = 0.0287); this group also had a lower 30-day mortality rate (2.73% vs. 4.14%, P = 0.003). The differences between the two groups were statistically significant (P < 0.05). CONCLUSION: With remote real-time dynamic 12-lead ECG monitoring equipment, myocardial ischemia can be treated more quickly, leading to fewer possible cardiac events and a better prognosis. Show more

Keywords: Remote electrocardiogram monitoring, high-risk chest pain, acute myocardial infarction, wearable devices

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230582

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 411-421, 2024

Authors: Allabun, Sarah M.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The monitoring of fetal heart rate (FHR) before intrapartum has been crucial in modern obstetrics. FHR has been used for about 300 years to determine fetal status, leading to the development of monitoring devices to prevent fetal death during gestation. While medical devices like fetal electrocardiograms exist for disease detection, their size and cost limit individual use. OBJECTIVE: To address cardiovascular issues during pregnancy, a mobile system is developed to display heart rates and blood pressure on mobile devices. The system is generated from a medical device with Bluetooth communication, supplementing traditional monitoring. …METHOD: The study focuses on creating a mobile system that connects to mobile operating systems, enhancing treatment, diagnosis, and patient monitoring. The mobile system displays cardiovascular data obtained from the medical device. RESULTS: The results are expected to have an immediate impact on cases where abnormal measurement parameters of the monitoring system occur during pregnancy. The use of mobile systems or applications on smartphones is seen as beneficial in distributing processing and census of embedded health systems. CONCLUSION: The study highlights the potential benefits of mobile systems in distributing processing for health systems, particularly in addressing cardiovascular problems during pregnancy. The creation of a mobile system for displaying cardiovascular data could significantly improve monitoring and early detection. Show more

Keywords: Mobile health, wireless communication interfaces, fetal heart rate, parameters measurement

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230587

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 423-439, 2024

Authors: Duan, Mengyao | Zhang, Yiming | Liu, Yixing | Mao, Boyan | Li, Gaoyang | Han, Dongran | Zhang, Xiaoqing

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Coronary heart disease (CHD) is the first cause of death globally. Hypertension is considered to be the most important independent risk factor for CHD. Early and accurate diagnosis of CHD in patients with hypertension can plays a significant role in reducing the risk and harm of hypertension combined with CHD. OBJECTIVE: To propose a non-invasive method for early diagnosis of coronary heart disease according to tongue image features with the help of machine learning techniques. METHODS: We collected standard tongue images and extract features by Diagnosis Analysis System (TDAS) and ResNet-50. On …the basis of these tongue features, a common machine learning method is used to customize the non-invasive CHD diagnosis algorithm based on tongue image. RESULTS: Based on feature fusion, our algorithm has good performance. The results showed that the XGBoost model with fused features had the best performance with accuracy of 0.869, the AUC of 0.957, the AUPR of 0.961, the precision of 0.926, the recall of 0.806, and the F1-score of 0.862. CONCLUSION: We provide a feasible, convenient, and non-invasive method for the diagnosis and large-scale screening of CHD. Tongue image information is a possible effective marker for the diagnosis of CHD. Show more

Keywords: Coronary heart disease, machine learning, hypertension, early diagnosis, feature fusion

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230590

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 441-457, 2024

Authors: Hoffeld, Kai | Lenz, Maximilian | Meiss, Inken | Eysel, Peer | Oppermann, Johannes

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: The cup inclination in total hip arthroplasty is key to minimising complications. Stereometric effects (parallax) in two-dimensional projections can alter angle measurements. Even for different approaches, fluoroscopy causes different results in the measurement of inclination. A previous study has introduced a corrective factor for intraoperative radiographic cup inclination measurements compared to the postoperative standing radiographs. OBJECTIVE: The aim of this study was to find out whether, first, the correction factor is reproducible and second, whether the correction factor is independent of the surgical approach and C-arm model used. METHODS: A series of …377 cases of primary total hip arthroplasty was reviewed. We compared the cup inclination angle in the intraoperative and postoperative radiographic images. Based on this, it was possible to specify a standard of correction factor in defined ranges. RESULTS: The mean cup inclination in intraoperative images was 37.47 ∘ and the mean angle in postoperative images was 41.42, resulting in a mean difference of 3.95 ∘ with a strong correlation (r = 0.706). CONCLUSION: An added correction factor of 4 ∘ should be respected in intraoperative inclination measurements to adapt for parallax. An increased correction factor of 6 ∘ in particularly low-positioned cups (< 31 ∘ ) and a decreased correction factor of 2 ∘ in particularly steeply positioned cups (> 43 ∘ ) is recommended. Show more

Keywords: Total hip arthroplasty, THA, Cup positioning, Inclination, Intraoperative fluoroscopy Level of evidence: 4

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230651

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 459-466, 2024

Authors: Yin, Liang | Zhao, Xin-Xiu | Gao, Shun-Li | Yuan, Wen-Ling | Wu, Ke | Qian, Wei-Dong | Li, Qian-Qian

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Vascular tortuosity is a prevalent morphological change that frequently occurs in arteries across different parts of the body. OBJECTIVE: To analyze the relationship between the tortuosities of the extracranial internal carotid artery (EICA) and extracranial vertebral artery (EVA) with mild cognitive impairment. METHODS: The tortuosity index (TI), vascular deviation degree, tortuosity degree, and angle number of the EICA and EVA were retrospectively analyzed and calculated in 160 patients who underwent computed tomography angiography (CTA) in this study’s department, and the Montreal cognitive assessment was adopted to evaluate the cognitive function of the …patients. RESULTS: The differences in age, gender, arterial hypertension (AH), and diabetes mellitus (DM) between the normal group and the mild cognitive impairment group were statistically significant (p < 0.01). The TI was negatively correlated with the score of cognitive function. The tortuosities of the EICA and EVA were correlated with mild cognitive impairment (p < 0.05). The reduction in visual-spatial ability was correlated with the right EICA tortuosity, and the reduction in memory was correlated with the EVA tortuosity. Age, gender, HP, DM, and coronary heart disease (CHD) were potential risk factors for carotid tortuosity (p < 0.05). CONCLUSION: There was a significant correlation observed between the TIs of both the EICA and EVA and the presence of mild cognitive impairment. Advanced age, female, HP, DM, and CHD were independent risk factors for EICA and EVA tortuosities. Show more

Keywords: Arterial tortuosity, mild cognitive impairment, pearson correlation analysis, risk factors

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230677

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 467-479, 2024

Authors: Syed, Wajid | Al-Rawi, Mahmood Basil A.

Article Type: Research Article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Several revolutions are currently taking place in the healthcare industry to provide accurate, reliable, and valid healthcare to patients. Among these is artificial intelligence (AI). OBJECTIVE : This study aimed to assess the CP’s awareness, perceptions, and opinions of AI in health care among community pharmacists. METHODS: This cross-sectional survey-based study was conducted over 3 months in 2023 using structured prevalidated 34 items questionnaires. RESULTS: In this study, 94.5% (n = 258) of the CPs were aware of AI, yet 25.6% (n = …70) believed that AI would eventually replace healthcare professionals. However, 63.4% (n = 173) of the CPs concurred that AI is a technology that supports healthcare workers. 12.8% of the CPs believed that there is a risk of losing their jobs if AI is widely used in Saudi Arabia, but 68.9% (n = 188) of them considered that healthcare professionals will benefit from the extensive use of AI. Eighty-four percent of CPs (n = 232) agreed or strongly agreed that AI decreases drug mistakes in clinical practice. Similarly, 86% of the CPs (n = 235) concurred that AI makes it easier for patients to access the service. In contrast, almost 58% of the CPs (n = 232) agreed that AI makes it easier for healthcare professionals to acquire information, and 87.9% of the CPs (n = 240) said that AI helps them make better decisions. CONCLUSION: This study concluded that most of the CPs were aware of AI and agreed that AI is a tool that helps healthcare professionals. In addition, the majority of the CPs thought that AI adoption in healthcare practice will benefit healthcare practitioners. Show more

Keywords: Artificial intelligence, awareness, perceptions, community pharmacists, Saudi Arabia

DOI: 10.3233/THC-230784

Citation: Technology and Health Care, vol. 32, no. 1, pp. 481-493, 2024