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Study Design Retrospective study. Purpose To compare perioperative outcomes, patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) achievement rates for an obese patient cohort between single-level minimally invasive (MIS) transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (TLIF) vs. anterior lumbar interbody fusion (ALIF). Overview of Literature To the best of our knowledge, no study has compared the outcomes of MIS TLIF and ALIF in an obese population. Methods Obese patients (body mass index [BMI] ≥30.0 kg/m2) who underwent single-level MIS TLIF or ALIF at L5/S1 were included in the study. Demographic/perioperative variables, presenting patient pathology, and 1-year arthrodesis statistics were collected. PROM scores for Visual Analog Scale (VAS) back/leg, Oswestry Disability Index, 12-item Short Form Physical Composite Scale, and Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System Physical Function (PROMIS-PF) were collected from preoperative and postoperative (6 weeks, 12 weeks, 6 months, 1 year, 2 years) PROMIS-PF. The obese patients were classified based on the procedure they underwent (MIS TLIF vs. ALIF). Results The criteria were met by 210 patients in total. After coarsened exact matching for Charlson comorbidity index score, degenerative spondylolisthesis, isthmic spondylolisthesis, degenerative scoliosis, foraminal stenosis, insurance, male, and ethnicity, 94 obese patients were included in the total cohort, with 59 receiving MIS TLIF and 35 receiving ALIF. ALIF recipients had higher PROMIS-PF scores at 6 weeks (p=0.014) and 12 weeks (p=0.030), as well as a higher VAS leg at 2 years (p=0.017). Following multiple regression accounting for differences in baseline BMI, only the 6-week PROMIS-PF significantly differed (p=0.028), with no other intergroup differences in mean PROMs between fusion types. Aside from a significantly higher 6-week MCID achievement rate for PROMIS-PF among ALIF recipients (p=0.006), no differences in attainment were observed. Conclusions There were no statistically significant differences in perioperative characteristics, fusion rates, PROMs, or MCID achievement between obese patients receiving MIS TLIF vs. ALIF. As a result, our findings indicate that MIS TLIF and ALIF at L5/S1 are equally effective in an obese patient population.

Study Design This was a retrospective cohort study. Purpose This study investigated the influence of preoperative mental health on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and minimal clinically important difference (MCID) among workers’ compensation (WC) recipients undergoing minimally invasive transforaminal lumbar interbody fusion (MIS TLIF). Overview of Literature No studies have evaluated the impact of preoperative mental functioning on outcomes following MIS TLIF among WC claimants. Methods WC recipients undergoing single-level MIS TLIF were identified. PROMs of Visual Analog Scale (VAS) for back and leg pain, Oswestry Disability Index (ODI), 12-item Short Form Physical and Mental Composite Scale (SF-12 PCS/MCS), and Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information System Physical Function evaluated subjects preoperatively/postoperatively. Subjects were grouped according to preoperative SF-12 MCS:

A framework for the estimation of coseismic deformations in the postliquefaction regime is developed based on an extensive database of available cyclic undrained stress-controlled tests on clean sand samples without static shear bias, covering a wide range of relative densities. Based on fundamental experimental observations, a compliance rate is defined as the postliquefaction shear strain rate per cycle over the shear stress amplitude. Semiempirical relationships of the compliance rate as a function of relative density are developed to provide guidance for estimating postliquefaction shear strains. The proposed framework provides a basis for the calibration of advanced constitutive models capable of capturing postliquefaction strain accumulation. A calibration methodology is proposed using both existing liquefaction resistance curves and the newly developed semiempirical relationships for estimating postliquefaction shear strain accumulation. The validity of the proposed methodology is demonstrated by numerical simulations, using the PM4Sand model, of two well-documented centrifuge tests focusing on liquefaction-induced demands on engineering structures.

This article considers the potential payoffs of the diasporic as an analytical category developed from Indian Ocean histories that are related to and distinct from various castings of the global. Historically tracing the Indian Ocean trajectories of a Sufi Muslim family from Hadhramawt in relation to changing terms of sovereignty from the late-eighteenth century through the interwar period, the contours and crises of a normative framework for collective and individual life are recuperated and reexamined. The history of these individuals and the theory of life they presuppose and at times explicitly predicate or oppose afford the historian a view of the diasporic as capable of materializing the simultaneity of this- and other-worldly modes of existence. The article concludes that mystical interruptions of historical time that a critical diasporic lens again makes legible as an enduring global form of life represent rarely appreciated sites of emancipation.

Byline: Jacob. Chacko, Boby. Maramattom Sir, 'Opsoclonus-myoclonus syndrome' (OMS) in adults or 'Opsoclonus-myoclonus-ataxia syndrome' (OMAS) is a classic neurological disorder with chaotic multidirectional spontaneous eye movements and multifocal myoclonus. It [...]

As globalization lessens the distance between peoples and diversifies the common classroom, teacher education programs lag behind in producing globally-minded educators. One approach used by some teacher education programs to remedy this issue is to offer international student teaching experiences. While the literature related to these programs is rather positive, information related to why students choose to participate in international student teaching experiences and the challenges they encounter while abroad is limited. This study attempts to fill this gap in the literature. Drawing on interview and documentation data from current (n = 3) and former (n = 2) participants, as well as two program administrators, this multiple-case study utilizes a cross-case analysis to draw conclusions within and between the cases. Programmatic recommendations that are applicable to both faculty members and study abroad professionals are included.

Background: Given the variety in mitral valve (MV) pathology and associated surgical techniques, extended reality (XR) holds great potential to assist MV surgeons. This review aims to systematically evaluate the currently available evidence investigating the use of XR and associated technologies in MV surgery. Methods: A systematic database search was conducted of original articles and case reports that explored the use of XR and MV surgery in EMBASE, MEDLINE, Cochrane database and Google Scholar, from inception to February 2022. Results: Our search yielded 171 articles, of which 15 studies were included in this review, featuring 328 patients. Two main areas of application were identified: (i) pre-operative planning and (ii) predicting post-operative outcomes. The articles reporting outcomes relating to pre-operative planning were further categorised as exploring themes relevant to (i) mitral annular assessment; (ii) training; (iii) evaluation of surgical technique; (iv) surgical approach or plan and (v) selecting ring size or type. Preoperatively, XR has been shown to evaluate mitral annular pathology more accurately than echocardiography, informing the surgeon about the optimal surgical technique, approach and plan for a particular patient's MV pathology. Furthermore, XR could simulate and aid ring size/type selection for MV annuloplasty, creating a personalized surgical plan. Additionally, XR could estimate the postoperative MV biomechanical and physiological characteristics, predicting and pre-empting post-operative complications. Conclusion: XR demonstrated promising applications for assisting MV surgery, enhancing outcomes and patient-centred care, nevertheless, there remain the need for randomized studies to ascertain its feasibility, safety, and validity in clinical practice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This article explores the pivotal role of an AACSB-accredited business school at a predominantly Black institution in enhancing social mobility and addressing societal challenges through education and community engagement. It delves into how the institution integrates societal impact into its mission and curriculum, demonstrating a commitment to shaping students who are adept in business and conscious of their societal responsibilities. The article emphasizes a shift towards more socially responsive business education by aligning educational programs with real-world social issues. It highlights various initiatives and centers within the school that drive these efforts, fostering a deep connection between academic pursuits and community needs, ultimately enhancing social mobility and societal impact. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: The purpose of this paper is to examine the relevant economic aspects that could affect the sustainability of the HE sector in the UAE. Design/methodology/approach: Data are collected mainly through secondary sources and based on the relevant information. Two constructs, namely, market factors and educational governance are identified from the literature. An empirical model depicting the different factors that contribute to these two variables is outlined. Findings: Educational governance and market factors are identified as the key pillars which contribute to the economic efficiency in the HE sector in the UAE. These constructs are affected by relevant factors. Some of the issues relating to educational governance could be controlled. Though factors contributing to market conditions could be deemed uncontrollable, HE institutions could come up with better strategies to deal with those issues. Research limitations/implications: The UAE HE sector could be a major contributor to the economy in the future, it is important to identify the main constructs and the associated forces which could impact the economic efficiency of the HE sector. The model proposed could be empirically tested in future studies. Originality/value: This study is a novel attempt to examine sustainability in the HE sector in terms of economic efficiency, while previous studies have focused on the social and environmental aspect of the sustainability in the HE sector. Thus this study tries to address this lacuna in this domain by focusing on the economic efficiency aspect which is an important contributor to the sustainable development. The results may provide valuable insights for universities and regulators in developing appropriate strategies to improve the HE sector.

Introduction: Tongue cleaning has been shown to be effective in preventing plaque formation and reducing oral mutans streptococci (MS) when used in combination with other oral hygiene procedures. However, correlation between MS counts and plaque levels remains to be demonstrated. Aim: To evaluate the effect of tongue scraping and tongue brushing on salivary MS and plaque levels. Materials and Methods: A triple-blind three arm randomized controlled parallel-group trial was carried out among 54, 12–15-year-old boys in a residential school in Bengaluru city. The study participants were randomly allocated into Group A (toothbrushing and tongue scraping; n = 19), Group B (toothbrushing and tongue brushing; n = 18) and Group C (only toothbrushing; n = 17). The clinical procedure included a collection of saliva and recording of plaque index at baseline, 10th and 21st day. Salivary MS counts were determined using mitis salivarius bacitracin Agar media. ANOVA, Wilcoxon's signed-rank sum test, Mann–Whitney U-test and Spearman's correlation test were performed on log-transformed CFU/mL of MS. Results: The tongue scraping and tongue brushing groups showed statistically significant reductions in salivary MS counts after 10 days (4.76 ± 0.54) (4.79 ± 0.44) and 21 days (4.50 ± 0.44) (4.41 ± 0.57) respectively when performed along with toothbrushing. However, differences between the interventions were not statistically significant. Furthermore, there was no statistically significant reduction in plaque levels after 10 and 21 days. Conclusions: Tongue scraping and tongue brushing were equally effective in reducing salivary MS counts when used in combination with toothbrushing, however, their effect on reducing plaque levels was not significant. Hence, tongue cleaning is recommended as an adjunct to toothbrushing.