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Sphygmomanometers typically use a rubber cuff around the upper arm to measure blood pressure, but this method can be uncomfortable. Thus, cuffless sphygmomanometers for continuous blood pressure monitoring in emergencies and healthcare are desirable. While electrical and optical blood pressure sensors offer high sensitivity, they often face issues like limited pressure range, temperature drift, slow response, and wearability problems. To tackle these limitations, the study designs a unique cuffless wearable blood pressure sensor (12 mm × 2 mm × 0.5 mm) featuring two original components: a GeSbS/AsS chalcogenide dual‐microring chip for high sensitivity, and a dual digital optical frequency comb (DDOFC) system for fast response and cost‐effective detection. The sensor is comparable to reported electrical and optical blood pressure sensors in its detection limit (23 Pa) but has a ten‐times faster response rate (2 kHz), a 1000‐times longer stable operation (>4.3 × 107 cycles), and a well‐compensated temperature drift (<0.012 pm/°C) that eliminates the need for temperature control. This innovation shows promise for wearable electronics and mobile healthcare, enabling the capture of critical cardiovascular details for applications like in‐surgery monitoring, orthostatic hypotension studies, and early detection of myocardial ischemia and strokes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension (HTN), especially masked hypertension, is one of the cardiovascular consequences of nephrotic syndrome. Masked hypertension cannot be identified during routine follow-up visits and adversely effects the patients' cardiac function. The purpose of this study was to use ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM) to evaluate the blood pressure status of children with nephrotic syndrome. Methods: Ninety children with nephrotic syndrome (NS) participated in this cross-sectional study, which was carried out at Cairo University Children Hospital's nephrology clinic (CUCH). A sphygmomanometer was used in the clinic to measure blood pressure, and a Meditech monitor was used for 24-hour ambulatory blood pressure monitoring (ABPM). Interventricular septum (IVS) was measured, and heart functions were evaluated, using echocardiography. Results: Two groups comprised the included patients: Group1 (n = 70): HTN group included masked and ambulatory hypertension, and Group 2 (n = 20): non-HTN group included normal blood pressure, white coat HTN and well controlled HTN, 35% of the studied cohort (n = 32/90) had masked HTN.The serum urea was significantly higher in HTN group than non-HTN group with p-value: 0.047, while the serum albumin was significantly lower in HTN group than non-HTN group with p-value: 0.017. The cut-off point of 9.9, the sensitivity and specificity of serum urea to predict the occurrence of hypertension in NS patients was 92.9% and 35% respectively, with p-value : 0.024 and 95% CI (0.534–0.798). The z score of IVS is significantly higher in group 1 (2.5 ± 1.2) when compared to group 2 (1.7 ± 2.1) with p-value: 0.025 and Among group 1, it was noticed that 74% (n = 52/70) of them were systolic non-dipper, also it was observed that the mean serum potassium and cholesterol were significantly higher among systolic non-dipper when compared with systolic dipper patients with p-values: 0.045 and 0.005 respectively. Conclusion: Children with nephrotic syndrome are particularly vulnerable to experience ambulatory hypertension and masked hypertension, which may adversely impact their cardiac condition because they are not detectable by standard blood pressure readings at the clinic. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: This study was designed to find the Correlation Between the Level of Physical Activity and Exercise Capacity in Non-Insulin Dependent Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Purpose: To find the Correlation between the Level of Physical Activity and Exercise Capacity in Non-Insulin Dependent Type 2 Diabetes Mellitus. Materials and Methods: Materials required for this study were Countdown timer(or stopwatch), Two small cones, Chair, Worksheet on a clipboard, Sphygmomanometer. It was a correlational study design. The sampling method used was Convenient type of sampling. Sixty subjects with non-insulin dependent type 2 were included in this study. The written informed consent was taken. Informed consent document was signed, retained by the principal investigator and a copy was given to the participant. Global Physical Activity Questionnaire and 6 Minutes walk test was used to study the Physical Activity and Exercise Capacity respectively. All the data obtained was statistically analysed using proper tests. Results: The results showed positive significant (p value< 0.0001) correlation between the level of physical activity and exercise capacity, Physical activity level correlates statistically with distance walked in percentage. Conclusion: Our study concluded that Physical activity level correlate statistically with distance walked in type 2 diabetic patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: We investigated whether invasive and non-invasive blood pressure (NIBP) measurement technique differences were clinically important. Methods: We compared invasive and two non-invasive measurement techniques (standard automated oscillometry and a mercury sphygmomanometer with flow detection using Doppler ultrasound). Bland--Altman statistical analysis was employed, and clinically important differences were determined using error grid analysis. Natural frequencies (fn) and damping ratios (ζ) were calculated from monitor photographs of fast flush tests. Results: Bland--Altman analysis of 195 systolic and 194 mean pressure measurements revealed small mean differences but wide limits of agreement (LOA), which precluded the interchangeability of measurement techniques. However, error grid analysis revealed that 85% and 15% of paired measurements were in the "no risk" and "low risk" zones, respectively. Natural frequencies and damping ratios (mean, range) were 16.5 Hz (4.8-33.0) and 0.38 (0.03-0.74), respectively. Natural frequencies and damping ratios were poorly predictive of error zone location. Conclusions: This study identified statistically significant differences between invasive and NIBP measurement techniques. Despite the non-interchangeability of techniques, error grid analysis indicated that no patients in our sample would likely have received inappropriate therapy resulting from flawed intra-arterial measurements. In ensuring the accuracy of invasive pressure measurements, fast flush test determination of natural frequencies and damping ratios were unhelpful, mirroring other researchers' findings. Our findings reinforce recommendations that invasive pressures be checked against a reliable NIBP device. A systolic pressure difference > 15 mmHg should prompt an invasive system review. We propose ultrasound-guided systolic pressure measurement as a reliable method for this purpose. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Comadronas attend most births in rural and urban Guatemala where the maternal mortality rate (MMR) is highest in Latin America. Information has been published regarding rural comadronas' response to obstetrical emergencies. Understanding urban comadronas' response to obstetrical emergencies is essential to addressing Guatemala's MMR. Methods: A total of 17 urban comadronas participated in one, 34-min focus group to share their knowledge, practices, and attitudes regarding obstetrical emergencies. We used the long table to analyze the content to develop a matrix of themes. Results: Five themes emerged. Urban comadronas receive consistent training, have hospital transportation, and feel confident in their knowledge, but they lack equipment and feel hospital providers disrespect them. Still, the joy of attending births outweighs the challenges they face. Discussion: Urban comadronas described a different experience of responding to obstetrical emergencies than rural comadronas. Distinct approaches are needed to provide culturally congruent support for urban and rural comadronas when responding to obstetrical emergencies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension is a global health concern that is best managed at the primary care level. In low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) facing resource constraints, collaboration between well-prepared entry-level advanced practice nurses (APNs) and physicians (medical doctors [MDs]) can enhance the care of patients with primary hypertension. Objective: The purpose of this study was to evaluate the effectiveness of collaborative entry-level APNs in primary hypertension management, including patient knowledge, physiological and behavioral outcomes, consultation length, and patient satisfaction. Methods: Sixty-three eligible patients were randomly assigned to either an entry-level APN intervention group or a control group with MDs. Three master's-prepared nurses, trained in hypertension management, acted as entry-level APNs, following the Joint National Committee guidelines in collaboration with a physician. The control group underwent standard clinic consultations. After 1 month, a mixed analysis of variance was used to assess intervention effectiveness, examining both between-groups and within-groups outcomes. Results: Both groups shared similar sociodemographic and baseline characteristics. Significant improvements in blood pressure, body mass index, knowledge, self-management, and medication adherence were found at the 1-month follow-up, with no significant differences in outcomes or patient satisfaction between the entry-level APN and MD groups. However, clinical consultation time was significantly longer for entry-level APNs than for MDs. Conclusions: Collaborative entry-level APNs managing primary hypertension are comparable with MD care; however, larger, longer trials are essential for a thorough assessment. Strengthening the development of entry-level advanced practice nursing roles in low- and middle-income countries is crucial for addressing service gaps in primary hypertension and other chronic diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The accurate measurement of blood pressure (BP) is crucial for effectively treating hypertension, which stands as a primary risk factor for both cardiovascular disease and premature mortality. The shift from mercury to non-mercury sphygmomanometers in developing countries due to environmental concerns prompts an evaluation of the accuracy of these alternatives. Aims and Objectives: The objectives of this study were to evaluate the precision of non-mercury instruments in diagnosing hypertension and to analyze interarm differences in both systolic and diastolic BP using three different sphygmomanometers. Materials and Methods: Sixty subjects aged 18-25 were included. BP measurements were taken from both arms using different types of sphygmomanometers. Statistical analysis involved paired t-tests, Chi-square tests for correlations, and a significance threshold of P < 0.05. Results: Significant differences in systolic BP readings were observed between the gold standard (mercury manometer) and digital/aneroid devices (P = 0.00). Compared to the mercury manometer, both digital and aneroid devices showed limited accuracy in detecting hypertension. Kappa agreement was moderate at 0.57. Despite high specificity (100%), sensitivity was lower at 44.4%, indicating a risk of missing true positive cases. Both devices exhibited a sensitivity of 25%, with fair to poor agreement (kappa values) in identifying cardiovascular risk compared to the mercury reference. Conclusion: This study underscores the diminished reliability of both aneroid and digital devices in detecting hypertension and assessing cardiovascular risk using specified interarm BP criteria. These findings emphasize the crucial need for further research and caution when relying on non-mercury devices in clinical settings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Sensors commonly used to record sub-bandage pressures may be less reliable than is commonly believed. The techniques employed for the calibration or validation of these devices can sometimes produce a highly inaccurate prediction of their performance in vivo. In this review, the various calibration methods referenced in the literature are briefly described and the limitations of each discussed. The significance of these limitations is illustrated by reference to the results of published studies cited in a systematic review which report widely different values for the accuracy of one particular device, the Kikuhime pressure measuring system (ZiboCare, Denmark). The use of inappropriate calibration techniques therefore casts serious doubt upon the pressure values quoted historically in many published scientific and clinical studies in which these particular instruments have been employed. It is proposed that an international standard method be developed to ensure that all sensors intended for the measurement of sub-bandage pressure are characterised using a validated, clinically relevant technique. A programme of education is also required to correct some of the widely held misconceptions often expressed in the literature concerning the use of the Laplace equation to calculate sub-bandage pressure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: With global aging, older adults with functional decline is expected to increase. There is a need for simple and valid tools to assess functional decline that can be applied to different settings. The measurement of hand grip strength (HGS) remains a valuable objective tool that can overcome the barriers of self-reported ones. However, use of dynamometer is greatly limited to specialized geriatrics and rehabilitation services in low-resource countries, creating an increasing demand for alternative devices. The aim was to validate the use of a sphygmomanometer for measuring HGS and to determine its association with functional dependency in older females. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional study included 100 females aged =60 years, recruited from the outpatient clinics and from the caregivers of the inpatients and were subjected to comprehensive geriatric assessment, including functional assessment: activities of daily living (ADL), instrumental ADL (IADL), incidental and planned questionnaire week version, short physical performance battery, and HGS measurements using a Jamar dynamometer and sphygmomanometer. Results: A significant correlation was found between HGS measured by sphygmomanometer and Jamar dynamometer. A conversion equation of the sphygmomanometer readings into Jamar readings was obtained. The recommended cut-off value to predict ADL dependency was =9 for HGS by Jamar with sensitivity 81.4% and specificity 57.9%, while it was =60 mmHg sphygmomanometer with a sensitivity of 58.14% and specificity of 78.9%. Conclusion: The use of a sphygmomanometer for HGS measurements is an acceptable alternative to the Jamar dynamometer. It can predict ADL and IADL dependency in older females. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to the increasing prevalence of respiratory diseases and the importance of early diagnosis. The need for non-invasive and touchless medical diagnostic solutions has become increasingly crucial in modern healthcare to detect lung abnormalities. Existing methods for lung abnormality detection often rely on invasive and time-consuming procedures limiting their effectiveness in real-time diagnosis. This work introduces a novel Touchless Lung Abnormality (TO-LAB) detection model utilizing universal software radio peripherals (USRP) and machine learning algorithms. The TO-LAB model integrates a blood pressure meter and an RGB-D depth-sensing camera to gather individual data without physical contact. Heart rate (HR) is analyzed through image conversion to IPPG signals, while blood pressure (BP) is obtained via analog conversion from the blood pressure meter. This touchless imaging setup facilitates the extraction of essential signal features crucial for respiratory pattern analysis. Advanced computer vision algorithms like Mel-frequency cepstral coefficients (MFCC) and Principal Component Analysis (PCA) process the acquired data to focus on breathing abnormalities. These features are then combined and inputted into a machine learning-based Multi-class SVM for breathing activity analysis. The Multi-class SVM categorizes breathing abnormalities as normal, shallow, or elevated based on the fused features. The efficiency of this TO-LAB model is evaluated with the simulated and real-time data. According to the findings, the proposed TO-LAB model attains the maximum accuracy of 96.15% for real time data; however, the accuracy increases to 99.54% for simulated data for the efficient classification of breathing abnormalities. From this analysis, our model attains better results in simulated data but it declines the accuracy while processing with real-time data. Moreover, this work has a significant medical impact since it presents a solution to the problem of gathering enough data during the epidemic to create a realistic model with a large dataset. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This document discusses the importance of accurate blood pressure (BP) measurement in diagnosing and treating hypertension. The study conducted at Vanderbilt University Medical Center found that a second BP measurement resulted in lower systolic and diastolic BP readings. Factors such as higher initial BP, younger age, male sex, and Asian race were associated with greater decreases in BP with a second measurement. The findings suggest that certain populations, including younger men, Asian individuals, and those with higher initial BP readings, may benefit from a second BP measurement to avoid misdiagnosis or over-treatment of hypertension. [Extracted from the article]

Aim: To find out the prevalence of altered grip strength in weavers. Materials and Methodology: The survey was conducted in Karad. Weavers were selected randomly and were included in this study if they were working for nearly about more than five hours per day. Subjects with any hand injury, fracture, any cervical conditions were excluded as they will have decreased grip strength also people of older age were not selected for the study as grip strength decreases with age. After selecting the participants were told about the study procedure and its importance. Participants were selected willingly. Then the range of motion of the wrist joint was measured using a goniometer of both hands. After measuring the ranges grip strength was measured using a sphygmomanometer by asking the subject to squeeze the cuff of the sphygmomanometer which shows pressure applied by the subject. Both working and non-working hands were assessed for ranges and grip strength. Measurements were noted accordingly. Conclusion: This study concluded that the pincer grip of the working hand was affected more than the cylindrical one. While the cylindrical grip of the working hand was not affected. According to the study pincer grip in weavers is affected more than cylindrical grip of working hand. Workers working for more than 5 years are usually seen to have altered grip strength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract This study evaluated an oscillometric device (OD), Microlife WatchBP Office AFIB, and a hybrid manual auscultatory device (AD), Greenlight 300TM, to determine a suitable blood pressure (BP) measurement device for the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in a mercury‐free context. Adhering to the 2018 Universal Standard's suggested consensus, the study involved 800 subjects (mean age 51.2 ± 17.5 years; 44.3% male), who underwent triplicate BP measurements following 5 min of rest in a randomized order (OD‐first: 398 participants; AD‐first: 402 participants). BP difference was calculated as OD value minus AD value, with results stratified by measurement sequence. The overall BP difference and tolerable error probability were ‐1.1 ± 6.5/‐2.6 ± 4.9 mmHg and 89.2%/92.5% for systolic/diastolic BP (SBP/DBP), respectively. Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was 0.907/0.844 for SBP/DBP (OD‐first/AD‐first: 0.925/0.892 for SBP, 0.842/0.845 for DBP). The overall agreement for hypertension (BP ≥ 140 and/or 90 mmHg) was 0.71 (p

Background Older adults are at high risk for atrial fibrillation (AF). Improving the efficiency of AF screening among the community-based elderly population can help to reduce the risk of AF-related stroke. Objective To compare the screening efficiency of different AF screening methods in the elderly population. Methods A total of 1 300 cases of older adults were selected from three neighborhood committees of Xiangshan, Huangshan, and Luoshan in Jinyang Community, Pudong New Area, Shanghai from July 2022 to January 2023. AF screening was detected using palpation of radial artery pulse, electronic sphygmomanometer with AF detection function, and single-lead ECG recorder. A positive result of any one of the three methods was considered positive for AF, and finally an electrocardiogram (ECG) was performed and interpreted by a physician in the ECG room. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves of the subjects with different screening methods were plotted, the area under the ROC curve (AUC) was calculated to evaluate the screening value; the association between AF stroke score (CHA2DS2-VASc score) and AF was analyzed using the chi-square test for trend. Results AF was detected in 93 of the 1 300 people, including 57 asymptomatic people; 375 people had a positive palpated pulse, 331 people had a positive electronic blood pressure monitor with AF detection function, and 128 people had a positive result of single-lead ECG recorder. The AUCs for the diagnostic value of palpation pulse, electronic sphygmomanometer with AF detection function and single-lead ECG recorder in the elderly was 0.750 (95%CI=0.697-0.803, P

This study evaluated an oscillometric device (OD), Microlife WatchBP Office AFIB, and a hybrid manual auscultatory device (AD), Greenlight 300TM, to determine a suitable blood pressure (BP) measurement device for the Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey in a mercury‐free context. Adhering to the 2018 Universal Standard's suggested consensus, the study involved 800 subjects (mean age 51.2 ± 17.5 years; 44.3% male), who underwent triplicate BP measurements following 5 min of rest in a randomized order (OD‐first: 398 participants; AD‐first: 402 participants). BP difference was calculated as OD value minus AD value, with results stratified by measurement sequence. The overall BP difference and tolerable error probability were ‐1.1 ± 6.5/‐2.6 ± 4.9 mmHg and 89.2%/92.5% for systolic/diastolic BP (SBP/DBP), respectively. Lin's concordance correlation coefficient was 0.907/0.844 for SBP/DBP (OD‐first/AD‐first: 0.925/0.892 for SBP, 0.842/0.845 for DBP). The overall agreement for hypertension (BP ≥ 140 and/or 90 mmHg) was 0.71 (p < 0.0001), and the OD underestimated the overall hypertension prevalence by 5.1%. Analysis of the AD‐first data revealed a lower level of agreement compared to the OD‐first data; however, the observed blood pressure difference adhered to Criterion 1 of the 2018 Universal Standard. Microlife met the Criterion 1 of 2018 Universal Standard but underestimated the prevalence of hypertension. The BP discrepancy increased with higher BP levels, male sex, and smaller AC. With increasing age, the discrepancy decreased for SBP and increased for DBP. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Food patterns are deteriorating and, consequently, not meeting nutritional recommendations. Learning about the adherence to a diet is crucial for understanding children's dietary habits. The objective of the present analysis was to assess the degree of compliance with the ALINFA nutritional intervention and the effectiveness of adherence groups, and to evaluate potential baseline factors predicting a higher adherence to the intervention. A total of 44 children aged 6 to 12 years-old participated in the eight-week intervention. A two-week dietary plan was specifically designed, providing participants with food products, ready-to-eat dishes, and recipes. An intake of 75% of calories of the prescribed diet was defined to divide the participants into high- and low-adherence groups (HA/LA, respectively). From the 44 participants, 24 showed a LA to the intervention, whereas 20 of them were in the HA group. Diet quality improved in both groups (p < 0.001), mainly by increasing cereals and nuts, and reducing pastries. A decrease in BMI z-score was observed (LA: p < 0.001; HA: p = 0.021). Fat mass (p = 0.002), LDL-c (p = 0.036), and CRP (p = 0.023) reductions were only achieved in the HA group, whereas leptin decreased only in the LA group (p = 0.046). All participants ameliorated their dietary habits, but those with better diet quality at baseline experienced greater enhancements in their nutritional status. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Introduction: Previous investigators have developed prediction equations to estimate arterial occlusion pressure (AOP) for blood flow restriction (BFR) exercise. Most equations have not been validated and are designed for use with expensive cuff systems. Thus, their implementation is limited for practitioners. Purpose: To develop and validate an equation to predict AOP in the lower limbs when applying an 18 cm wide thigh sphygmomanometer (SPHYG18cm). Methods: Healthy adults (n = 143) underwent measures of thigh circumference (TC), skinfold thickness (ST), and estimated muscle cross-sectional area (CSA) along with brachial and femoral systolic (SBP) and diastolic (DBP) blood pressure. Lower-limb AOP was assessed in a seated position at the posterior tibial artery (Doppler ultrasound) using a SPHYG18cm. Hierarchical linear regression models were used to determine predictors of AOP. The best set of predictors was used to construct a prediction equation to estimate AOP. Performance of the equation was evaluated and internally validated using bootstrap resampling. Results: Models containing measures of either TC or thigh composition (ST and CSA) paired with brachial blood pressures explained the most variability in AOP (54%) with brachial SBP accounting for majority of explained variability. A prediction equation including TC, brachial SBP, and age showed good predictability (R2 = 0.54, RMSE = 7.18 mmHg) and excellent calibration. Mean difference between observed and predicted values was 0.0 mmHg and 95% Limits of Agreement were ± 18.35 mmHg. Internal validation revealed small differences between apparent and optimism adjusted performance measures, suggesting good generalizability. Conclusion: This prediction equation for use with a SPHYG18cm provided a valid way to estimate lower-limb AOP without expensive equipment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Hypertension is a risk factor for heart and blood vessel diseases, so it is crucial to teach patients how to control their hypertension and follow up on the training implementation. Accordingly, the present study aims to examine the effect of training according to the American Heart Association (AHA) and the American College of Cardiology (ACC) clinical practice guideline, with and without follow-up through telenursing on stage 1 hypertension among older adult patients with stable angina pectoris. Methods: This is quasi-experimental research conducted in 2021 with a pre-test and post-test design and a control group. The study subjects were 59 patients with stage I hypertension suffering from stable angina pectoris who were referred to Ahmadieh Heart Clinic affiliated with Torbat Heydarieh University of Medical Sciences, Torbat Heydarieh City, Iran. The participants were recruited by targeted sampling and were assigned into intervention (n=30) and control (n=29) groups using the balanced block randomization. Both groups underwent lifestyle modification training based on ACC/ AHA clinical practice guideline. In the experimental group, follow-up was done through telenursing once a week for three months, and the control group followed the clinic's standard services. The data were gathered using a demographic set of questions and an aneroid sphygmomanometer. The obtained data were analyzed using the t-test, chi-square test, Mann-Whitney test, Wilcoxon test, and Fisher exact test in SPSS software, version 20. The significance level was set at P<0.05. Results: Compared to before the intervention, systolic blood pressure (P=0.009) and diastolic blood pressure (P=0.019) of the experimental group decreased significantly after the intervention. However, no significant difference was seen in the average pulse pressure (P=0.125) of the intervention group after the intervention. After the intervention, the systolic (P=0.001) and diastolic (P=0.002) blood pressure, as well as pulse pressure (P=0.006) of the intervention group, decreased significantly compared to the control group. Conclusion: Telenursing is suggested as an efficient method of controlling and managing hypertension in older adults with stable angina pectoris. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we proposed a cuff‐less blood pressure measurement using a medical tape sensor with an embedded hetero‐core optical fiber. The tape sensor pasted on the skin can directly detect pulse wave signals with a simple measuring device. Pulse transit time (PTT) was obtained from the time difference between the two pulse waveforms at the neck and foot. Systolic blood pressure (SBP) was estimated from PTT and the regression equation. The result shows that the maximum prediction error was 3.8 mmHg in five healthy young subjects. The SBP data were evaluated using a Bland‐Altman method to assess the agreement of SBP data estimated by the proposed method with those measured by the cuff‐based electronic sphygmomanometer. The mean ± 1.96 standard deviation of the estimated SBP against the reference was −1.3 ± 5.1 mmHg. The results show that the proposed noninvasive blood pressure measurement method can measure blood pressure, and its accuracy is comparable to that of the cuff‐based electronic sphygmomanometer. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to investigate the construct validity of the 2-minute walk test (2MWT) to assess the exercise capacity and the criterion-concurrent validity of the 2MWT and the 6-minute walk test (6MWT) to estimate the cardiorespiratory fitness of ambulatory individuals with chronic stroke. In addition, to provide an equation to predict the distance covered in the 6MWT and another to predict the peak oxygen consumption (VO2peak) for these individuals. This is a cross-sectional and prospective study. A convenience sample with 57 individuals with chronic stroke was recruited. The 2MWT, the 6MWT and the cardiopulmonary exercise test (CPET) were performed in a laboratory. The Spearman's correlation coefficient was used to investigate the validity. To develop the equations, stepwise multiple linear regression analysis was used. A significant correlation of very high magnitude between the distance covered in the 2MWT and the 6MWT was found (rs = 0.93; p < 0.001). A significant correlation of moderate magnitude between the distance covered in the 2MWT and the VO2peak (rs = 0.53; p < 0.001) similar to the correlation between the 6MWT and the VO2peak (rs = 0.55; p < 0,001) were found. Furthermore, an equation was developed to predict the VO2peak (R2 = 0.690; p < 0.001; VO2peak = 13.532 + 0.078*distance walked in the 2MWT +4.509*sex-0.172*age), and another to predict the distance covered in the 6MWT (R2 = 0.827; p < 0.001; MWT = −1.867 + 3.008*distance walked in the 2MWT). 2MWT showed adequate construct and concurrent validity. Furthermore, it is possible to use the prediction equations developed to estimate the VO2peak or the distance covered in the 6MWT. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article presents the discussion on the use of the MESI automated Ankle Brachial Pressure Index in wound care and the opinions of wound care practitioners. Topics include Compression therapy is the mainstay of treatment for venous leg ulcers (VLUs), but such therapy is contraindicated in the presence of PAD; and process also needs to be conducted by a healthcare professional with specialist training in using the equipment and performing the calculations.

The portable Raman spectrometer boasts portability, rapid analysis, and high flexibility. It stands as a crucial and powerful technical tool for analyzing the chemical composition of samples, whether biological or non-biological, across diverse fields. To improve the resolution of grating spectrometers and ensure a wide spectral range, many spectrometer systems have been designed with double-grating structures. However, the impact of external forces, such as installation deviations and inevitable collisions, may cause differences between the actual state of the internal spectrometer components and their theoretical values. Therefore, spectrometers must be calibrated to establish the relationship between the wavelength and the pixel positions. The characteristic peaks of commonly used calibration substances are primarily distributed in the 200–2000 cm − 1 range. The distribution of characteristic peaks in other wavenumber ranges is sparse, especially for spectrometers with double-channel spectral structures and wide spectral ranges. This uneven distribution of spectral peaks generates significant errors in the polynomial fitting results used to calibrate spectrometers. Therefore, to satisfy the calibration requirements of a dual-channel portable Raman spectrometer with a wide spectral range, this study designed a calibration method based on an optical frequency comb, which generates dense and uniform comb-like spectral signals at equal intervals. The method was verified experimentally and compared to the traditional calibration method of using a mercury–argon lamp. The results showed that the error bandwidth of the calibration results of the proposed method was significantly smaller than that of the mercury–argon lamp method, thus demonstrating a substantial improvement in the calibration accuracy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The present study is conducted to evaluate the hemodynamic changes during spinal anaesthesia after preloading with infusion fluids as follows. A) 500ml of 6% Hydroxyethyl starch /Hetastarch B) 500ml of polygeline / Haemaccel. Materials and Methods: This is a comparison study and the study will be conducted in 60 ASA I & II adult patients of either sex scheduled to undergo elective daycare surgeries under spinal anaesthesia at Kurnool Medical College, Kurnool. The study will be conducted for a period of 1 year at Department of Anaesthesia in Kurnool Medical College, Kurnool and Government Medical College/GGH, Nandyal. Results: Sixty patients in the age group of 25 - 60 years of ASA Grade I and II scheduled for elective lower limb surgeries were randomly allocated into two groups. Group 1 received 10 ml/kg of Haemaccel, Group 2 received 10 ml/kg of HES 6%, 15 minutes prior to spinal anaesthesia. After a detailed preanaesthetic evaluation and obtaining informed consent, all the patients were premedicated with oral diazepam. Baseline heart rate, systolic blood pressure and diastolic blood pressure were measured in supine position using a mercury sphygmomanometer. All patients were preloaded. After preloading the PR, SBP, DBP and MAP were recorded and all patients were administered spinal anaesthesia under strict aseptic precautions with 3.2 ml of 0.5% of heavy Bupivacaine. The level of analgesia was achieved up to T8 to T10. Pulse rate, systolic, diastolic and mean arterial blood pressure was recorded every 2 minutes for the first 10 minutes, every 5minutes for the next 50 minutes and every 10 minutes till the end of surgery after subarachnoid block. Hypotension - defined as decrease in systolic blood pressure to less than 90 mm of Hg and 70% of the baseline value whichever is greater. Hypotension was treated by vasopressor, repeated as necessary until the blood pressure was increased to >70 % of the baseline value. Bradycardia when encountered was treated with vagolytic agent. The incidence of hypotension in group 1 was 9% and in group 2 was 4%. The requirement of vasopressor ephedrine to counter hypotension was less in group 2 when compared to group 1. Conclusion: Colloids by increasing the plasma oncotic pressure help to expand the plasma volume by remaining intravascularly for a longer time and it also draws fluid into the intravascular space, offset spinal anaesthesia induced hypotension. Present study confirms that 6% HES is better colloid than Haemaccel in preventing hypotension in patients undergoing surgeries under SAB. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Groin injuries are common in basketball. Reduced adductor strength is a risk factor for injury, so monitoring strength can be important for injury prevention. This research assessed the reliability of an adductor strength test in male professional basketballers in preseason. Strength was tested using a sphygmomanometer between the knees at 0°, 45°, and 90° of hip flexion, in two trials. There was no difference in mean scores between trials. All conditions had moderate or higher intrarater reliability, with 45° hip flexion the most reliable. This test can be used to identify and monitor players with increased adductor injury risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ObjectiveMercury sphygmomanometer (MS) has now been less and less used and no new devices have been manufactured (according to Minamata convention 2013). The application of the electronic sphygmomanometer (ES) in clinical practice has become increasingly common. However, reliable evidence for the use of the ES in high-altitude areas remains scarce. The purpose of this study was to validate the applicability of the ES in high altitude areas.MethodsIn Luhuo County, Sichuan Province, China, 3,400 m above the sea level, two trained physicians measured the blood pressure (BP) of participants using both the mercury sphygmomanometer and the ES. Pearson correlation analysis and paired T-test, respectively, were used to compare the correlation and the difference between the BP values measured by the two devices. The applicability of the ES in high-altitude areas was evaluated according to the validation standards of the 2018 Association for the Advancement of Medical Instrumentation/European Society of Hypertension/International Organization for Standardization (AAMI/ESH/ISO) Collaboration Statement.ResultsIn this study, 257 participants were included. There was a strong correlation between BP values measured by the two devices, with correlation coefficients for systolic blood pressure (SBP) and diastolic blood pressure (DBP) of 0.97 and 0.93, respectively. Compared with the MS, the ES tended to measure the subjects' DBP (76.21 ± 13.29 mmHg vs. 76.53 ± 14.07 mmHg; P = 0.557) accurately, but overestimate the SBP of the subjects (123.32 ± 22.25 mmHg vs. 121.34 ± 22.88 mmHg; P

A continuing education unit (CEU) assessment on health topics like transcranial direct current stimulation and short foot exercises (SFE) from the journal is presented.

Background: Independent testing of home blood pressure (BP) measurement (HBPM) devices is often lacking, particularly among older and multi-morbid patients., Methods: We studied the Bpro G2 (using tonometry), Omron HeartGuide (using occlusive oscillometric technology), and Heartisans (using photoplethysmography) wrist watch HBPM devices against a gold standard brachial sphygmomanometer. To test device performance, we used the ISO81060-2 protocol (though this protocol cannot formally validate cuffless devices). We also used linear mixed models to compare adjusted longitudinal BP measurements between devices. Finally, as a surrogate for usability, we recorded instances of device failure where no BP measurement was returned., Results: We enrolled 128 participants (median [Q1-Q3] age 53 [40-65] years, 51% male, 46% on antihypertensive drugs), of whom 100 were suitable for the primary analysis. All three devices had mean BP values within 5 mmHg of sphygmomanometry. However, due to insufficient reliability (e.g., wider than accepted standard deviations of mean BP), none of the three devices passed all criteria required by the ISO81060-2 protocol. In adjusted longitudinal analyses, the Omron device also systematically underestimated systolic and diastolic BP (- 8.46 mmHg; 95% CI 6.07, 10.86; p < 0.001; and - 2.53 mmHg; 95% CI - 4.03, - 1.03; p = 0.001; respectively). Nevertheless, compared to the Omron device, BPro and Heartisans devices had increased odds of failure (BPro: odds ratio [OR] 5.24; p < 0.0001; Heartisans: OR 5.61; p < 0.001)., Conclusions: While we could not formally validate the cuffless devices, our results show that wearable technologies will require improvements to offer reliable BP assessment. This study also highlights the need for validation protocols specifically designed for cuffless BP measurement technologies., (© 2023. The Author(s), under exclusive licence to Springer-Verlag GmbH Germany.)

Conventional sphygmomanometry with cuff deflation is used to calibrate all noninvasive BP (NIBP) instruments and the International Standard makes no mention of calibrating methods specifically for NIBP instruments, which estimate systolic and diastolic pressure during cuff inflation rather than cuff deflation. There is however increasing interest in inflation-based NIBP (iNIBP) instruments on the basis of shorter measurement time, reduction in maximal inflation pressure and improvement in patient comfort and outcomes. However, we have previously demonstrated that SBP estimates based on the occurrence of the first K1 Korotkoff sounds during cuff deflation can underestimate intra-arterial SBP (IA-SBP) by an average of 14 ± 10 mmHg. In this study, we compare the dynamics of intra-arterial blood pressure (IABP) measurements with sequential measurement of Korotkoff sounds during both cuff inflation and cuff deflation in the same individual. In 40 individuals aged 64.1 ± 9.6 years (range 36-86 years), the overall dynamic responses below the cuff were similar, but the underestimation error was significantly larger during inflation than deflation, increasing from 14 ± 10 to 19 ± 12 mmHg ( P  < 0.0001). No statistical models were found which could compensate for this error as were found for cuff deflation. The statistically significant BP differences between inflation and deflation protocols reported in this study suggest different behaviour of the arterial and venous vasculature between arterial opening and closing which warrant further investigation, particularly for iNIBP devices reporting estimates during cuff inflation. In addition, measuring Korotkoff sounds during cuff inflation represents significant technical difficulties because of increasing pump motor noise., (Copyright © 2024 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.)