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Within the past decade, injuries caused by electric scooter (e-scooter) crashes have significantly increased. A primary cause is front wheel collisions with a vertical surface such as a curb or object, generically referred to as a "stopper." In this study, various e-scooter-stopper crashes were simulated numerically across different impact speeds, approach angles, and stopper heights to characterize the influence of crash type on rider injury risk during falls. A finite element (FE) model of a standing Hybrid III anthropomorphic test device was used as the rider model after being calibrated against certification test data. Additionally, an FE model of an e-scooter was developed based on reconstructed scooter geometry. Forty-five FE simulations were run to investigate various e-scooter crash scenarios. Test parameters included impact speed (from 3.2 m/s to 11.16 m/s), approach angle (30 deg to 90 deg), and stopper height (52 mm, 101 mm, and 152 mm). Additionally, the perpendicular (90 deg) impact scenarios were run twice: once with Hybrid-III arm activation to mimic a rider attempting to break a fall with their hands and once without this condition. Overall, the risks of serious injury to the rider varied greatly; however, roughly half the impact scenarios indicated serious risk to the rider. This was expected, as the speeds tested were in the upper 25th percentile of reported scooter speeds. The angle of approach was found to have the greatest effect on injury risk to the rider, and was shown to be positively correlated with injury risk. Smaller approach angles were shown to cause the rider to land on their side, while larger approach angles caused the rider to land on their head and chest. Additionally, arm bracing was shown to reduce the risk of serious injury in two thirds of the impact scenarios. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Emergency electrocution incidents present with various injuries, which can range from minor to severe injuries including death. Cardiac-related complications have a higher mortality incidence among patients with low-voltage injuries (M. R. Zemaitis et al., 2023). When managing electrical injury patients, the literature recommends managing them as both trauma and cardiac cases. However, the diagnostic approach is based on each individual case and patient presentation. Electrical injury complications include arrhythmias, myocardial tissue damage, and conduction disturbances (Pilecky et al., 2019). The purpose of this case study is to discuss a postelectrocution atrial fibrillation case and common related arrhythmias associated with electrical injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Neurologie Pro Praxi is the property of SOLEN sro and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Electrical accidents caused by bolt looseness in transformers have been frequently reported in recent years. The monitoring, and warning of, axial force as an indicator of looseness is one of the key issues affecting the operation and maintenance of transformers. Traditional ultrasonic testing and a patch-type ultrasonic method, using piezoelectric probes and coupling agents, showed poor repeatability and accuracy in detecting the bolt pre-tightening force, because of the uncertainty of the contact interface produced via manual operation. A permanent thin-film pressure sensor (PMTS), which provides accurate and in-situ stress detection, is more suitable for bolts, to reveal the pretightening force. The key is depositing a nano-zinc oxide (ZnO) piezoelectric film with an excellent measurement performance, which could be tuned using deposition parameters. This paper investigates the effects of the current and bias voltage on the crystal structure and performance of ZnO piezoelectric films. The results show that the crystallinity degree and resistance decrease with the increase in bias voltage, while the target current could increase the crystallinity. However, a high current also brings large particles in the coating surface, which greatly decrease the resistance. The cause is expected to be related to the ion energy, which could be affected by the bias voltage and current. The PMTS deposited with an optimized bias voltage and current revealed excellent measurement performance, and is expected to be applied to the bolt, to detect the pretightening force. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: It has been found that so many biochemical materials, including electrolytes, remain remarkably stable after death while others show varying degrees of change; hence, the analysis of electrolytes in vitreous humour has great medico-legal importance. Method: 95 autopsies were studied by making a puncture 5-6 mm away from the limbus by using a 10 ml sterile syringe and 20 gauze needles. Aspirated vitreous was poured into a rubber stopped vial. The collected fluid was sent to the biochemistry department for electrolyte analysis. The analysis was carried out using the iron selective electrode method, and the results were noted and compared. Results: The PM interval for 27 cases (28.4%) was < 12 hours, 32 cases (33.6%) was between 12-24 hours, and 36 cases (37.8%) was >24 hours. In the study of different electrolytes, the sodium chloride value remained insignificant, but the potassium value had a highly significant p value (p<0.001). The highest mean value of potassium 10.62 (±1.90) in accidental falls and least in snake bite deaths was 6.7 (±0.23). Conclusion: The present pragmatic study has proved that vitreous potassium is the single best parameter to estimate and predict post mortem death accurately. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We report a case of skin dilator combined with titanium mesh to repair scalp and skull defects. An 18-year-old male with a scalp defect and skull necrosis due to high-voltage electrical burns was admitted to our hospital. In the first stage, the wound was debrided, antibiotics were applied to control the infection, and two skin dilators were embedded under the scalp after debridement. In the second stage, necrotic skull material was removed, the skull defect was repaired using titanium mesh, and the scalp defect was repaired by transferring expanded flaps. The patient was followed up for 6 months, recovering well and achieving a satisfactory head shape. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Advancements in technology allow for the utilization of low-voltage battery-powered devices for patients admitted to the hospital. There have been rare cases of burns due to leakage of the internal contents from low-voltage batteries, but to date, there have been no reports of electrical burns caused by low-voltage batteries. We present the case of an 89-year-old female who presented to the general surgery service with a suspected electrical burn from laying on a 9-volt battery. The patient underwent operative debridement with no evidence of a deeper injury. The patient continues to follow up with an outpatient wound clinic and is healing well. This case highlights the importance of teaching and raising awareness of all small devices that may become entangled or lost in patients' linens, such as 9-volt telemetry batteries, to prevent harm. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses unconventional methods of cardioversion, which involve using mechanical, pharmacological, or electrical techniques to convert cardiac arrhythmias into normal sinus rhythm. The authors present a case study where a rectal thermometer inadvertently cardioverted a patient with stable atrioventricular nodal re-entrant tachycardia. They explain that this unconventional method stimulates parasympathetic nerve fibers in the rectum, leading to non-random and reproducible cardioversion. The article also mentions other unusual cases of cardioversion, such as digital rectal examination and collisions with objects. The authors emphasize the importance of keeping an open mind and exploring unconventional approaches in medical practice. [Extracted from the article]

Atrial fibrillation (AF) is a prevalent cardiac arrhythmia with significant morbidity and mortality risks. Electrical shocks can elicit adverse cardiac effects, including arrhythmias, although AF following electrical injuries remains relatively rare. We present the case of a 45-year-old man who developed AF after accidentally touching a live cable carrying 220 volts during home construction. The patient exhibited palpitations and shortness of breath and was admitted to the emergency department. Electrocardiographic monitoring confirmed AF with an irregular heart rate of 106 bpm. Echocardiographic examination revealed AF with normal ejection fraction. Successful pharmacological cardioversion using digoxin restored normal sinus rhythm within 6 h. The mechanisms underlying AF after electrical injury are not fully understood, but they likely involve arrhythmogenic foci formation and alterations in cardiac ion channels. Prompt diagnosis and management are crucial, with digoxin proving effective in this case. AF is a rare but clinically significant occurrence following low-voltage electrical shocks. Early diagnosis and appropriate management are essential in resolving the arrhythmia and optimizing patient outcomes. Further research is needed to understand the mechanisms and risk factors associated with this rare occurrence and explore long-term outcomes and potential complications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A 34-year-old male patient presented with loss of vision in both eyes who sustained a high-voltage electrical shock six months ago. The visual acuity was 8/20 bilaterally. Ophthalmic examination revealed bilateral posterior subcapsular cataract and electric shock maculopathy. In the third month, cataract surgery with phacoemulsification on the left eye was performed, because his vision had not increased. Three months after surgery, his visual acuity was 16/20 in his right eye and 12/20 in his left eye. The right eye showed spontaneous resolution of the maculopathy and the left eye showed persistence. In conclusion, cataract surgery seems to delay the recovery of maculopathy and affect anatomic and functional prognoses after an electrical injury. Therefore, we suggest that cataract surgery should not be performed in patients with electric shock maculopathy in the early period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the use of self-adhesive pads in defibrillation or cardioversion during cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). These pads have become more common, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, as they allow for defibrillation or cardioversion without close contact between the rescuer and patient. They minimize downtime and protect the patient from electric arc formation, skin burns, and fire. The European Resuscitation Council recommends their use in advanced cardiovascular life support. However, some medical staff still prefer conventional paddles due to unfamiliarity with the pads. The article presents a case study of an accidental electric shock to a junior medical staff member using self-adhesive pads and suggests adding an option to the current electric shock protocol to improve safety for staff unfamiliar with the pads. [Extracted from the article]

Background: Pelvic ring injuries are potentially lethal lesions associated with polytrauma patients and need an efficient trauma team for their management. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence of high-energy blunt pelvic ring injuries and the absolute number of polytrauma patients in a single level I trauma center during the 2020 pseudo-lockdown period related to the Coronavirus pandemic, and to compare it with corresponding periods in 2014–2019 in order to better understand the need of organized and dedicated personnel and infrastructures. Methods: This retrospective cohort study was based on data prospectively recorded into the institutional Severely Injured Patients' Registry. Data were obtained for each year period (January 1st to December 31st) and corresponding pseudo-lockdown period (March 16th to June 19th). High-energy blunt pelvic ring injuries inclusion criteria were: (1) Registry entry between January 1st, 2014 and December 31st, 2020; (2) age ≥ 16 years old; and (3) pelvic ring injury presence. Corresponding exclusion criteria were: (1) death before admission; (2) transfer from another institution > 24 h after trauma; (3) penetrating, blast, burn and electrical injuries, drownings; (4) patients living outside the defined institution's catchment area; and (5) any document attesting the patient's will to not participate in any study. Polytrauma patients inclusion criteria were: (1) Registry entry between January 1st, 2014 and December 31st, 2020; (2) age ≥ 16 years old; and (3) Injury Severity Score ≥ 16. Corresponding exclusion criteria were: (1) death before admission; (2) transfer from another institution > 24 h after trauma; and (3) any document attesting the patient's will to not participate in any study. Categorical variables were reported using proportions and continuous variables using medians and interquartile ranges. Because data were exhaustive for the authors' level I trauma center, no inferential statistics were computed. Results: The incidence of high-energy blunt pelvic ring injuries and the absolute number of polytrauma patients remained within range of previous years despite pseudo-lockdown measures. Conclusions: These observations bring better knowledge about pseudo-lockdown's impact on trauma and may help for future health strategy planning by pointing out the importance of maintaining the activity of level I trauma centers in terms of personnel and infrastructures. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite electric scooter use has proliferated in Italy since 2019, actionable data regarding injury incidence and patterns associated with electric scooter accidents are limited. This study aims at analyzing the rate, clinical, and demographic features of electric scooter accidents accessed to the Emergency Department (ED) of Fondazione Policlinico Universitario A. Gemelli IRCSS (Rome, Italy). This retrospective study included all patients older than 18 years riding an electric scooter in the ED from June 2019 to April 2022. Personal data, injury circumstances, helmet use, and health data were collected. Abbreviated Injury Scale (AIS) codes of all diagnoses were recorded, and the Injury Severity Score (ISS) was calculated for each patient. The analysis includes 92 patients admitted to the ED due to an e-scooter accident during the study period, with an increase in years. Thirty-two patients presented bone fractures especially concerning the extremities and the face districts. The median Injury Severity Score in the study cohort was 3, with the highest AIS represented by AIS Pelvic-Extremity and AIS External. Moreover, statistical significance was found between AIS Head-Neck and severity of trauma. E-scooters have become a familiar sight in cities worldwide recently, with many new companies renting them for use. But their arrival has also brought new safety concerns. Although most injuries reported are minor, the meager rate of helmet use is critical. Implementing compulsory helmet use for electric scooters for all ages could be a protective factor for being patient with head trauma on urban streets. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We aimed to identify nonconvulsive seizures (NCS) and nonconvulsive status epilepticus (NCSE) in a pediatric intensive care unit (PICU). A prospective cohort study on 35 patients who underwent continuous electroencephalographic monitoring in the PICU was done. The patients were evaluated to collect data of their demographics, clinical diagnoses, clinical seizures by electroencephalography, and neuroimaging findings. One case with NCSE and 4 cases with NCS were diagnosed among the 35 patients. The etiology of the patient with NCSE showed antiepileptic drug (AED) withdrawal. The etiology of the patients with NCS included electrical injury, head trauma, subarachnoid hemorrhage, and pneumonia. The findings suggest that younger age, epilepsy, acute structural brain abnormalities, abrupt cessation of AED, and clinically overt seizures before NCSE/NCS are associated with significant risk for NCS/NCSE. In addition, the electrical injury may also be considered as a risk factor for electrographic seizure though such a case has not yet been reported. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Assessing the precise body water status in patients with renal disorders is crucial for their health. It has been reported that chronic fluid overload is present even in the early stages of renal insufficiency. If volume overload in a patient with chronic renal failure is not controlled, serious problems such as pulmonary oedema, cardiac remodelling, and diastolic heart failure can develop. Bioelectrical Impedance Analysis (BIA) has emerged as one of the most useful tools, although randomised clinical studies are lacking to support its universal use. Early management of hydration may improve clinical outcomes, as it allows for personalised dialysis prescriptions and nutritional support. BIA practice is utilised as non invasive health monitoring for Body Composition (BC). BIA is a practical and inexpensive method. Moreover, BIA parameters estimated for disease prognosis analysis have been found to be reasonably predictable for both patient status and healthcare. Additionally, BIA is a simple, accurate, portable, quick, easy, and low-cost method. In patients with End-stage Renal Disease (ESRD) undergoing maintenance Haemodialysis (HD) treatment, excessive fluid volume is considered a risk factor for death. Furthermore, fluid elimination to achieve Dry Weight (DW) is a crucial component of HD treatment for ESRD patients. DW is an important concept related to patients undergoing HD. Conventional methods seem to be time-consuming and operator-dependent. BIA is a new and simple method that has been reported to accurately estimate DW. Estimating the dry weight of HD patients is a challenging task. Many tools are available, but not every HD centre has access to them. Several strategies have been used to develop a more standardised method of assessing dry weight in HD patients. The Bio-impedance Spectroscopy (BIS) device has been validated against gold standard methods of volume assessment. Body composition monitoring appears to be a helpful diagnostic tool that reasonably complements existing clinical methods in assessing the DW of HD patients. BIS identifies Fluid Overload (FO) as a virtual "Over Hydration (OH)" compartment, which is calculated from the difference between the measured extracellular volume and the predicted values based on a fixed hydration of lean and adipose tissue mass. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The study of the causes of injuries and ways to solve them at enterprises and industries of the mining, oil and gas and construction sectors has attracted a lot of attention of researchers in recent years. To study this issue, an analysis of injuries in the electric workshop of the Mining and Processing Plant. The methodological basis of the study was the modern provisions of the theory and practice on occupational safety and health, injuries at enterprises and industries of the mining, oil and gas and construction sectors, as well as at enterprises of the electric power industry. The statistical method, comparative analysis, content analysis of regulatory documentation, modeling are used in the work. Also, a statistical method was used to determine the most traumatic areas, and a quantitative assessment of the risk of danger was determined using the Kinney method. According to the results of the study, it was established that the most traumatic are workers with experience from 1 to 4 years, when a specialist is becoming and adapting to working conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated changes in clinical characteristics, including the severity of electric scooter-related damage, before and after revision of the Road Traffic Act that became effective on 13 May 2021. This retrospective single-center observational study was conducted at the Emergency Department (ED) of a tertiary university hospital in Incheon, Republic of Korea. The pre-revision period was set from 13 May 2020, to 30 November 2020, and the post-revision period from 13 May 2021, to 30 November 2021. Patients who visited the ED with E-scooter injuries during the study period were included. Data on patients' demographics, helmet use, alcohol use, Korean Triage and Acuity Scale, diagnosis and location of the injury, stay duration at ED and ED outcomes were collected and analyzed. The primary outcome was a change in Injury Severity Score between the pre-and post-revision periods. A total of 100 patients were included, and the results showed no significant difference between the two periods in Injury Severity Score (3.00 vs. 2.50, p = 0.607), helmet use (1.9% vs. 2.1%, p = 1), alcohol use (5.8% vs. 8.3%, p = 0.708) and stay duration at ED (157.00 vs. 183.00, p = 0.964). The facial area was the most common area of injury during both periods. Despite revision of the Road Traffic Act since May 2021, no significant difference was observed before and after the revision in the behavior of E-scooter users and severity of injuries. We believe that continuing public campaigns, encouraging the use of personal protective gear, promoting responsible attitudes and implementing stricter traffic laws might help reduce E-scooter-related injuries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Addiction is a global concern with a high relapse rate and without effective therapeutic options. Developing new effective therapeutic strategies is impossible without discovering the disease's neurobiological basis. The present systematic review aimed to comprehensively recognize and discuss the role of local field potentials from brain areas essential in forming and storing context‐drug/food associations following the conditioned place preference (CPP) paradigm as a popular animal model of reward and addiction. Qualified studies were incorporated by a broad search of four databases, including Web of Science, Medline/PubMed, Embase, and ScienceDirect, in July 2022, and they were evaluated via appropriate methodological quality assessment tools. The current study found that drug‐seeking behavior in different stages of the CPP paradigm is accompanied by alterations in neural oscillatory activity and adaptations in connectivity among various areas such as the hippocampus, nucleus accumbens, basolateral amygdala, and prelimbic area, intensely engaged in reward‐related behaviors. These findings need to be extended by more future advanced studies to finally recognize the altered oscillatory activity patterns of large groups of cells in regions involved in reward‐context associations to improve clinical strategies such as neuromodulation approaches to modify the abnormal electrical activity of these critical brain regions and their connections for treating addiction and preventing drug/food relapse in abstinent patients. Definitions: Power is the amount of energy in a frequency band and is the squared amplitude of the oscillation.Cross‐frequency coupling refers to a statistical relationship between activities in two different frequency bands.Phase‐amplitude coupling is perhaps the most commonly used method of computing cross‐frequency coupling. Phase‐amplitude coupling involves testing for a relationship between the phase of one frequency band and the power of another, typically relatively higher, frequency band. Thus, within phase‐amplitude coupling, you refer to the "frequency for phase" and the "frequency for power."Spectral coherence has been frequently used to detect and quantify coupling between oscillatory signals of two or more brain areas. Spectral coherence estimates the linear phase‐consistency between two frequency‐decomposed signals over time windows (or trials). [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Raptors are large carnivorous birds, most well known for their scavenging nature. This study evaluates the level of exposure to toxins in raptors and vultures in Albania to assess whether existing legislation and regulations are effectively protecting vultures and other wildlife in Albania. During 2014-2018, at the Wildlife Animals Laboratory, Agriculture University of Tirana, Albania, 35 birds (Circaetus gallicus, Gyps fulvus, Gypaetus barbatus) were tested for exposure to toxins. The results indicated elevated blood lead levels in 65.7% of sampled raptors, while in 17.1% there was evidence of exposure to the non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID) diclofenac, based on visceral gout and the presence of cases with high serum uric acid concentration. Other injuries were found in 17.1% of raptors, with the most frequent being physical damage, traumatic injuries, or fractures caused by farmers, shooting, electric burn injuries from electrocution, injuries from collisions, etc. The results suggest that lead poisoning in raptors could be one of the main reasons for the observed declines in vulture populations in Albania. Furthermore, the apparent evidence for exposure to NSAIDs is concerning and requires further investigation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Copyright of Biomédica: Revista del Instituto Nacional de Salud is the property of Instituto Nacional de Salud of Colombia and its content may not be copied or emailed to multiple sites or posted to a listserv without the copyright holder's express written permission. However, users may print, download, or email articles for individual use. This abstract may be abridged. No warranty is given about the accuracy of the copy. Users should refer to the original published version of the material for the full abstract. (Copyright applies to all Abstracts.)

Soft tissue damage in electric burn injuries is often deep and may expose tendons, bones, or joints in the hand. Here, we present the case of a 76-year-old man treated using perifascial areolar tissue (PAT) transplantation for covering the proximal interphalangeal joint of the middle finger, which had been exposed because of an electric burn. Following ointment therapy, surgery was performed on day 34 postinjury when a deep ulcer with opening of the proximal interphalangeal joint was observed on the dorsum of the right middle finger. After resecting the cartilage of the proximal interphalangeal articular surface, two Kirschner wires were inserted, and arthrodesis was performed. PAT was harvested from the left inguinal region and applied to the joint exposed wound of the middle finger. Full-thickness skin graft was applied over it. Three months after surgery, the preserved middle finger could be used as a functional finger. PAT transplantation does not require microsurgery techniques, is simple and minimally invasive, and has a short treatment period, so it may be an effective option for treating wounds in which exposed ischemic tissue is present. Soft tissue damage in electric burn injuries is often deep and may expose tendons, bones, and joints in the hand, which is the most common affected site. Here, we report a case treated using perifascial areolar tissue (PAT) transplantation for covering the proximal interphalangeal joint of the middle finger, which had been exposed because of an electric burn. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical trauma is associated with significant morbidity and mortality, which have been reduced by improved medical care, as measured by the length of stay (LOS) as a marker for this population's quality of care. This paper will review the clinical and demographic characteristics, LOS in the hospital, and variables related to patients with electrical burns. A retrospective cohort study was conducted at a specialized burn unit in Southwest Colombia. Five hundred seventy-five electrical burn-related admissions from 2000 to 2016 were reviewed for the LOS and variables including patient-related (age, gender, marital status, education, and occupation), location of the accident (domestic vs labor-related), voltage, direct contact, arc, flash, flame, clinical presentation (burn surface area, depth, single or multiple organ injury, secondary infection, and abnormal labs), and treatment (surgical procedures and intensive care unit [ICU] admission). Univariate and bivariate analysis, with its 95% CI (confidence interval). We also performed a multiple logistic regression. LOS was correlated to males, age greater than 20 years, construction workers, high voltage injuries, severe burns by area and depth, infection, ICU admission, and multiple surgical procedures or extremity amputation. LOS due to electrical injury was observed to be significantly associated with the following variables, carpal tunnel release (OR [odds ratio]= 4.25, 95% CI [confidence interval] 1.70–5.20); amputation (OR = 2.81, 95% CI 1.60–5.10); infection (OR = 2.60, 95% CI 1.30–5.20); site of infection, mainly wound (OR = 1.30, 95% CI 1.10–1.44); associated injury (OR = 1.72, 95% CI 1.00–3.24); work or domestic accident (OR = 1.83, 95% CI 1.00–3.32); aged 20–40 years (OR = 1.41, 95% CI 1.00–2.10); CPK (OR = 1.40, 95% CI 1.00–2.00); and third-degree burns (OR = 1.55, 95% CI 1.00–2.80). Risk factors for LOS secondary to electrical injury should be appropriately addressed. Prevention at high-risk workplaces is imperative. Mitigating the injury with appropriate management of infection and timely surgical interventions play an essential role in the successful treatment of these patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Gas production analysis during the thermal runaway (TR) process plays a crucial role in early fire accident detection in electric vehicles. To assess the TR behavior of lithium-ion batteries and perform early warning and risk estimation, gas production and analysis were conducted on LiNixCoyMn1-x-yO2/graphite and LiFePO4/graphite cells under various trigger conditions. The findings indicate that the unique gas signals can provide TR warnings earlier than temperature, voltage, and pressure signals, with an advanced warning time ranging from 16 to 26 min. A new parameter called the thermal runaway degree (TRD) is introduced, which is the product of the molar quantity of gas production and the square root of the maximum temperature during the TR process. TRD is proposed to evaluate the severity of TR. The research reveals that TRD is influenced by the energy density of cells and the trigger conditions of TR. This parameter allows for a quantitative assessment of the safety risk associated with different battery types and the level of harm caused by various abuse conditions. Despite the uncertainties in the TR process, TRD demonstrates good repeatability (maximum relative deviation < 5%) and can be utilized as a characteristic parameter for risk estimation in lithium-ion batteries. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objectives. Hospitals provide direct and indirect employment benefits to medical professionals. Accidents in hospitals often lead to disastrous consequences such as fatalities, property damage and economic losses. It is, therefore, imperative to have an occupational health and safety (OHS) policy that aims to reduce work-related accidents to acceptable levels. This study aims to investigate health risks to staff from various hazards and suggest control measures to prevent recurrence of accidents. Methods. A two-stage fuzzy multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) approach incorporating the fuzzy analytical hierarchical process (FAHP) and fuzzy technique for order preference for similarity to ideal solution (TOPSIS) was applied to assess the hazards in a leading multi-speciality hospital in Chennai. Results. The top three hazards identified in the workplace were electrical hazards, faulty medical equipment, and ventilation and air conditioning hazards. Subsequently, control measures were suggested to reduce the recurrence of hazards. Finally, a survey of hospital accidents occurring in India between 2010 and 2020 was conducted and compared with the results of this study. Conclusions. The survey findings show similarity to the hazard rankings obtained in this work, thus validating the methodology used for the assessment of hazards in hospitals. Electrical hazards and faulty medical equipment should be monitored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The aim of the study was to describe injuries related to electric scooter at a Major-Trauma-Centre in the UK, We reviewed data from January 2020–December 2020. All patient-records mentioning electric-scooter at a major-MTC. Records were reviewed, and data were stratified according to two groups: electric scooter riders and other road users. A predefined survey was completed in all cases where 'e-scooter or electric scooter' was present. This contained variables such as patient demographics, mechanism of injury (including head and body protection), acuity, intoxication, treatment facility and clinical utilisation. Among incidents involving electric scooters, summary statistics on continuous and categorical variables of interest were reported. Healthcare modelling utilising time driven activity-based costing and Patient-Level-Activity-Costing used to conduct a post hoc analysis of health provider costs. 202 e-scooter injuries were identified. Riders were more likely to be young males aged 18–35, a minority of reported cases being associated with the influence of alcohol or drugs (7.4%). They fall independently involving no other party (87%); sustaining both minor and major injuries; with a significant proportion requiring urgent and emergent surgery 23.7% (n = 40) with 60.1% (n = 121) requiring further secondary care follow-up; whilst 16% require immediate admission with a mean LOS of 5.9 days, including 8-ITU admissions. The overall mortality rate was 0.5% (n = 1), and cost per patient was £1482.46/patient, reducing to £927.25/patient if immediate surgery (<12 h s) was not required. Due to an emphasis on social distancing, changes in UK law, e-scooters injuries have increased. Most injuries are reported in riders, and are minor, however the mean health episode cost was over £1000.00/patient due to the minority of serious injuries. Research on interventions to prevent e-scooter injuries including protective clothing like helmet wearing is needed to address this growing area of concern, and unnecessary costly healthcare utilisation. • Large UK study assessing e-scooter injury presentations Major-Trauma-Centre. • Mortality related to injury severity. • Most admissions are related to head, abdominal and chest trauma. • Most injuries are extremity related and managed without admission. • Policy makers need to be aware healthcare costs approach £1000/episode. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical injuries follow a specific pathophysiology and may progressively damage both skin and deeper tissues, frequently ending in amputations. Type and timing of soft tissue reconstruction after electrical burns is crucial for proper outcome. The aim of this study was to assess surgical management and outcome of patients with electrical injuries treated at the Zurich Burn Center over the last 15 years, with emphasis on risk factors for amputation and reconstructive strategy. Patient charts were reviewed retrospectively to identify cases admitted at the Zurich Burns Center (2005–2019). Patient characteristics and surgical management, with a special focus on amputations, reconstruction and outcome were analyzed and risk factors for amputation were assessed. Eighty-nine patients were identified and a total of 522 operations were performed. Escharotomy and fasciotomies were performed in 40.5% and 24.7% of cases, respectively, mainly at admission. The total amputation rate was 13.5% (23 amputations, 12 patients). Development of compartment syndrome, rhabdomyolysis, high myoglobin and CK blood levels, kidney failure, sepsis and respiratory complications during the course were related to higher risk of amputation (p < 0.001). Sixty-six flap-based reconstructions were performed (25% cases): 49 loco-regional flaps, 3 distant pedicled flaps, 14 free flaps. Two flaps were lost (flap failure rate 14%). Both flap losses occurred in cases of early reconstruction (within 5–21 days). Electrical injuries are still cause of elevated morbidity and mortality, with high amputation rate. Predictors for amputation can support physicians in the surgical care and decision-making. Reconstruction remains challenging in this type of injury: the surgical management with early decompression, serial necrectomies and delayed early reconstruction remains the procedure of choice at our unit. • Electrical injuries have a high amputation rate compared to other types of burns. • Predictors for amputation include initial blood values of CK and myoglobin, renal failure, compartment syndrome and sepsis. • Early decompression, serial necrectomies and delayed early reconstruction has shown positive outcome. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To investigate the application effect of transcutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation combined with lower limb rehabilitation robot in the rehabilitation of knee joint anterior cruciate ligament injury after reconstruction. Methods: 120 patients who were treated in our hospital from January 2019 to December 2022 for anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction of the knee joint were selected as the research objects. All patients were divided into observation group and matched group, with 60 cases in each group. The patients in the matched group were treated with conventional postoperative rehabilitation, while the patients in the observation group were treated with transcutaneous electrical stimulation of acupoints combined with lower limb rehabilitation robot rehabilitation. The rehabilitation effects, position sense and motion sense, pain and swelling, knee joint function and quality of life of the two groups were compared. Results: The total effective rate of the observation group was higher than that of the matched group (P<0.05); Before treatment, there was no difference between the two groups in the swelling value of affected limbs and VAS score (P>0.05). After treatment, the swelling value the two groups were reduced, and the observation group was lower than the matched group (P<0.05); Before treatment, there was no difference between the two groups in the knee joint 75 degree, 45 degree and 15 degree position perception, knee extension and knee flexion motion perception (P>0.05). After treatment, the knee joint 75 degree, 45 degree and 15 degree position perception, knee extension and knee flexion motion perception of the patients in the two groups decreased, and the patients in the observation group were lower than those in the matched group (P<0.05); Before treatment, there was no difference between the two groups in terms of knee subjective (IKDC) score and knee function (Lysholm) score (P>0.05). After treatment, the score of the two groups were reduced, and the observation group was lower than the matched group (P<0.05); There was no difference in the scores of quality of life between the two groups before treatment (P<0.05). Conclusion: The application oftranscutaneous acupoint electrical stimulation combined with lower limb rehabilitation robot in the rehabilitation of patients with anterior cruciate ligament injury and reconstruction of the knee joint has a significant effect, which can improve the position sense and motion sense of the knee joint, reduce long-term pain and swelling, improve the function of the knee joint, and improve the quality of life of the patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Featured Application: The triangular interdigitated electrodes proposed in this paper could potentially provide an alternative strategy for designing interdigitated electrodes for catheter-based irreversible electroporation. Irreversible electroporation (IRE) is a promising nonthermal ablation technique that uses high-voltage electrical pulses to create permanent pores in the cell membrane of target tissue. Recently, endoscopic IRE with catheter-based electrodes has attracted significant attention as a potential alternative tool for gastrointestinal tumors, but it has been challenged owing to the limited electric field distribution in an in-plane electrode configuration, in which rectangular interdigitated electrodes (IDEs) are commonly used. Herein, we report an enhanced electrical injury in tissue using triangular IDEs that cause strong electric fields to be induced at the tip of the electrode fingers. A set of 10 pulses with a duration of 100 μs and a frequency of 1 Hz were delivered to the tissue, and a finite element method was used to calculate the electrical injury in the gastrointestinal model. The probability of cell death by electrical injury at the triangular IDEs increases by approximately 10 times compared to that of conventional rectangular IDEs at the same electrode distance. These results could potentially pave the way toward designing electrodes in catheter-based IRE devices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background and objective: Analysis of electrical burns to the upper extremities. Upper limb deformities caused by electrical burns are resurfaced using flaps that are tailored to the individual patient's situation. Methods: During the time period of March 2022 to January 2023, at the Department of Plastic Surgery, ASRAM Medical College and Hospital, Eluru, Andhra Pradesh, India, performed prospective research on a total of 25 patients with post electrical burn defects in upperlimbs with flaps. Result: When compared to electrical burns produced by lightning or higher voltages (>1000 volts), those caused by low-tension (1000 volts), mostly caused by domestic appliances, account for a disproportionately large number of visits to the emergency room. In all, 42 people have only had symptoms in their upper extremities, 22 in their lower extremities, and 16 in other parts of their bodies (scalp, face, neck, trunk, genitalia). One hundred and one people have been diagnosed with the condition affecting their upper limbs (42+22+16+21). Conclusion: The wrist and fingers are the most common places where soft tissues are injured. According to our findings, the groyne flap is the most often used flap, followed by the abdominal flap and the louvre flap. No unrestricted tissue swaps were done. The study population did not have any life-threatening complications, such flap failure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To examine temporal changes in incidence rates of atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF), treatment strategies, and AF readmission rates in patients <65 years. Using Danish nationwide registries, we identified patients <65 years with a first-time AF diagnosis from 2000 to 2018. The cohort was categorized according to calendar periods; 2000–2002, 2003–2006, 2007–2010, 2011–2014, and 2015–2018. In this retrospective cohort study the incidence rate (IR) of AF per 100,000 person years (PY), catheter ablation, electrical cardioversion, use of pharmacotherapy, and AF readmission, were investigated in the first year following AF diagnosis. We identified 60,917 patients; 8150 (13.4%) in 2000–2002, 11,898 (19.5%) in 2003–2006, 13,560 (22.3%) in 2007–2010, 14,167 (23.3%) in 2011–2014, and 13,142 (21.6%) in 2015–2018. Apart from 2015 to 2018, a stepwise increase in the crude IR of AF was observed across calendar periods; 2000–2002: 78.7 (95% CI 77.0;80.4), 2003–2006: 86.3 (84.7;87.8), 2007–2010: 97.9 (96.3;99.6), 2011–2014: 102.3 (100.7;104.0), 2015–2018: 93.6 (92.0;95.2). Over the studied time-periods, we found a stepwise increase in the cumulative incidence of catheter ablation (1.2% to 7.6%) electrical cardioversion (2.0% to 8.7%) and treatment with oral anticoagulant therapy (OAC) (28.5% to 47.8%) within the first year of diagnosis. No temporal differences in incidence of 1-year AF readmission were identified (AF-readmissions: 2000–2002: 32.7%, 2003–2006: 31.1%, 2007–2010: 32.2%, 2011–2014: 32.1% and 2015–2018: 31.7%). The incidence rate of AF in patients <65 years increased from 2000 to 2018, as did the use of catheter ablation, electrical cardioversion and OAC in the first year following AF diagnosis. 1-year AF readmission incidence remained stable around 32% over the study period. [Display omitted] • Incidence of atrial fibrillation/flutter (AF) rose through the study period. • Further use of catheter ablation and electrical cardioversion. • Higher use of oral anticoagulation medication. • Constant rates of AF-readmissions through calendar time. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Supplemental Digital Content is Available in the Text. Topical cooling increased pain ratings to electrical skin stimulation in humans by increasing the likelihood of action potential generation in C-fibre nociceptors during cooling. Low-frequency sinusoidal current applied to human skin evokes local axon reflex flare and burning pain, indicative of C-fibre activation. Because topical cooling works well as a local analgesic, we examined the effect of cooling on human pain ratings to sinusoidal and rectangular profiles of constant current stimulation. Unexpectedly, pain ratings increased upon cooling the skin from 32 to 18°C. To explore this paradoxical observation, the effects of cooling on C-fibre responses to stimulation with sinusoidal and rectangular current profiles were determined in ex vivo segments of mouse sural and pig saphenous nerve. As expected by thermodynamics, the absolute value of electrical charge required to activate C-fibre axons increased with cooling from 32°C to 20°C, irrespective of the stimulus profile used. However, for sinusoidal stimulus profiles, cooling enabled a more effective integration of low-intensity currents over tens of milliseconds resulting in a delayed initiation of action potentials. Our findings indicate that the paradoxical cooling–induced enhancement of electrically evoked pain in people can be explained by an enhancement of C-fibre responsiveness to slow depolarization at lower temperatures. This property may contribute to symptoms of enhanced cold sensitivity, especially cold allodynia, associated with many forms of neuropathic pain. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Despite improvements in burn management, infection is still the biggest challenge in major burn cases globally. Burn causes extensive tissue destruction, immune dysfunction, increases the risk of infection and septicemia with high morbidity and mortality. The aim of this study was to observe the levels of serum fibrin degradation product (FDP), D-dimer and procalcitonin in patients with burn sepsis treated in intensive care unit (ICU). Methods: This observational study was carried out in Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery, Dhaka Medical College Hospital, Dhaka from February 2018 to January 2019. Forty (40) patients with major burns, from (15% to 50% total body surface area burn) with burn sepsis, were recruited for the study. In all cases, plasma level of fibrin degradation product (FDP), D-dimer and procalcitonin were measured and recorded. Result: Male predominance (57.5%) was observed in our study. Eighty five percent (85%) patients had total body surface area burn (TBSA) 20% to 50%. Sixteen patients (40%) suffered from flame burn, 13 (32.5%) patients from scalds and 11 (27.5%) patients had high voltage electric burn. The value of FDP was raised in 62.5% patients, Ddimer in 67.5% patients. Serum procalcitonin level was high (> 2ng/ml), indicating burn sepsis in 47.5% cases but it was not significant (2 sample t - test reveals no significant relationship between rise of serum level of procalcitonin and presence of burn sepsis) Conclusion: Fibrin degradation product (FDP) and D-dimer were raised in two-thirds of burn cases while procalcitonin in two-fifths cases. Measurement of serum level of FDP, Ddimer and procalcitonin may give an idea regarding early onset of bacterial infection and burn sepsis and can serve as an indicator for burn sepsis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electricity is the set of physical phenomena associated with the presence and flow of electric charge. Electrical injuries are a relatively common type of mechanical trauma that can be caused by lightning, low-voltage trauma, or high-voltage trauma. They frequently have high morbidity and mortality rates. A hospital based descriptive observational study that was conducted at the SMS Medical College, in the department of forensic medicine in Jaipur, Rajasthan from 20th June 2021 to 19th June 2022. There were 75 death cases from electrocution that were included in the sample. Males made up 92% of cases, while females made up only 8% of cases, for a male to female ratio of 11.5 to 1. The majority of the subjects (34.67%) are between the ages of 21 and 30. Age group 31-40 (26.67%) came next. There are 54 (72% of the total) rural residents in the area where the subject resides. The majority of the subjects, or 39 (52%), fell into the lower middle class according to the Modified Kuppuswamy scale. Mortality rate in fatal electrocution cases can be reduced by providing immediate and adequate resuscitation. Although accidental electrocution accounts for the majority of fatalities, suicidal and homicidal electrocution should also be taken into account. In each of these situations, the incident's history, along with a thorough investigation of the crime scene and an autopsy report may enable us to determine the death's cause and manner, allowing us to use the information to plan and put into action preventive measures to lower the likelihood of future occurrences. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Electrical energy plays an important role in human life from the past to the future. However, electricity can cause fatal injuries. The electric shock is commonly one of the electrical accidents, and it is caused by current passing a human body through ground. To the best of authors' knowledge, there is no specific sensor for detecting leakage electricity in both alternating and direct electrical systems. Therefore, this research proposes an alternating and direct electrical leakage sensor. This sensor consists of 3 circuits: a rectifier circuit, a comparator circuit, and a notification circuit. The sensor has been designed to resist the maximum voltage at 339.41 V. It can detect the minimum alternative voltage around 16.7 - 37.3 V and the minimum direct voltage around 12.44 - 12.96 V. When the sensor detects the electrical leakage, it yields the Light Emitting Diode (LED) notification and output direct voltage around 2.96 - 3.54 V which can be applied to a general microcontroller. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Highlights: 1. Electrical burns may progress even when the source has been removed. 2. The most common age group to suffer from electrical burns was the 26–35 years old group. 3. There was a significant association between electrical burns and the productive age of male employees who work in the private sector. Abstract Introduction: Burns are direct or indirect damage to the skin tissue and can reach internal organs. This study aimed to investigate the incidence pattern of electrical burn patients at the Department of Plastic Surgery Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya, from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2017, focusing on the age, gender, and occupation aspect of the patients. Methods: This was a descriptive retrospective study evaluating 50 patients treated for electrical burns from 1 January 2014 to 31 December 2017 using the patients’ medical records. The parameters assessed were age, gender, occupation, cause of injury, and annual incident. The data was collected from the medical records Dr. Soetomo General Academic Hospital, Surabaya. Results: Most electrical injuries occurred in May, as many as 12 (24%) patients. There were 49 (98%) male and 1 (2%) female patients. The patients ranged from 8–60 years old, with 17 (34%) patients in the 26-35 age group. 76% of patients were private employees. Work accidents caused approximately 82% of electrical injuries. Conclusion: There was a significant association between electric burns with males at productive age and working as private employees. Many electric accidents occurred while working, especially in May.

Electrical burn injuries are injuries that can be of high or low voltage and result in variety of injuries ranging from skin burns to damage to internal organs including neurologic complications. Tissue damage can result directly from the current passing through the body or conversion of the electrical energy to heat energy as it is met with various levels of resistance within the different tissues in the body. Neurologic complications can be of early or late onset in electrical injuries and show variable levels of recovery over long period of time. We have presented here a patient that sustained high voltage electrical burn and developed late onset quadriparesis that significantly improved within a period of one week following the initiation of dexamethasone. Multidisciplinary approach and long term follow up of such patients is necessary to achieve best possible outcome

Burst suppression is a brain state consisting of high-amplitude electrical activity alternating with periods of quieter suppression that can be brought about by disease or by certain anesthetics. Although burst suppression has been studied for decades, few studies have investigated the diverse manifestations of this state within and between human subjects. As part of a clinical trial examining the antidepressant effects of propofol, we gathered burst suppression electroencephalographic (EEG) data from 114 propofol infusions across 21 human subjects with treatment-resistant depression. This data was examined with the objective of describing and quantifying electrical signal diversity. We observed three types of EEG burst activity: canonical broadband bursts (as frequently described in the literature), spindles (narrow-band oscillations reminiscent of sleep spindles), and a new feature that we call low-frequency bursts (LFBs), which are brief deflections of mainly sub-3-Hz power. These three features were distinct in both the time and frequency domains and their occurrence differed significantly across subjects, with some subjects showing many LFBs or spindles and others showing very few. Spectral-power makeup of each feature was also significantly different across subjects. In a subset of nine participants with highdensity EEG recordings, we noted that each feature had a unique spatial pattern of amplitude and polarity when measured across the scalp. Finally, we observed that the Bispectral Index Monitor, a commonly used clinical EEG monitor, does not account for the diversity of EEG features when processing the burst suppression state. Overall, this study describes and quantifies variation in the burst suppression EEG state across subjects and repeated infusions of propofol. These findings have implications for the understanding of brain activity under anesthesia and for individualized dosing of anesthetic drugs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Various methods have been used to improve function and manage facial nerve injury. Although electrical stimulation therapy is frequently used to treat facial paralysis, its effects have been found to vary and no clear standards have been developed. The current review describes the results of preclinical and clinical studies evaluating the effectiveness of electrical stimulation therapy in promoting the recovery of a peripheral facial nerve injury. Evidence is presented showing the efficacy of electrical stimulation in promoting nerve regeneration after peripheral nerve injuries in both animal models and human patients. The ability of electrical stimulation to promote the recovery of facial paralysis was found to depend on the type of injury (compression or transection), the species of animal tested, the type of disease, the frequency and method of electrical stimulation, and the duration of the follow-up. Electrical stimulation, however, can also have potential negative outcomes, such as reinforcing synkinesis, including mistargeted axonal regrowth via inappropriate routes; excessive collateral axonal branching at the lesion site; and multiple innervations at neuromuscular junctions. Because of the inconsistencies among studies and the low quality of evidence, electrical stimulation therapy is not currently regarded as a primary treatment of facial paralysis in patients. However, understanding the effects of electrical stimulation, as determined in preclinical and clinical studies, is important for the potential validity of future research on electrical stimulation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• During the 31-month study period, there were 1048 ED presentations related to e-mobility, the vast majority (90.8%) involving e-scooters, with males accounting for 64.3% of cases, the most common age group being 25–34 years, and weekends being the most common period of the week for presentations. • The most common injury was fractures (37%), and the upper extremities and head/face were the most commonly injured body regions, around 85% of patients requiring imaging, 14% requiring operations, and 72% requiring outpatient follow-up. • Overall, helmet use, alcohol use, and speed were poorly recorded, so results for these contributory factors are an underestimate yet still there were 16% of cases reportedly not wearing a helmet, 27% reported to be under the influence of alcohol, and over one-third reported travelling at speeds of 20 km per hour or higher. The rapid increase in e-mobility globally, including in Australia, has seen a concurrent increase in e-mobility-related injuries. Monitoring and understanding the patterns of injuries is essential to preserving community safety and making responsive and effective policy decisions regarding their safe use. This study reports on the first phase of the E-MODES study, a proactive injury surveillance initiative to examine the incidence and nature of injuries, their circumstances, contributing factors, and treatment, presenting to three hospital emergency departments (EDs) in Brisbane, the first Australian city to trial shared e-scooters. During the 31-month study period, there were 1048 ED presentations related to e-mobility, the vast majority (90.8%) involving e-scooters, with males accounting for 64.3% of cases, the most common age group being 25–34 years, and weekends being the most common period of the week for presentations. The most common injury was fractures (37%), and the upper extremities and head/face were the most commonly injured body regions. Contributing risk factors of alcohol use, not wearing a helmet, and speeding, were prevalent, though poorly recorded and only alcohol use proportions varied by age and gender, with males being more likely than females to have alcohol use reported. Recommendations to support e-mobility-related injury surveillance and safety outcomes include improved data standardisation and sharing. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The incidence of injuries associated with the use of electric scooter (e-scooter) has consistently increased since the launch of the first shared e-scooter systems in late 2017. The aim with this review was to investigate the epidemiological characteristics of fractures related to e-scooter accidents. Methods: A systematic review of the all published papers was conducted regarding epidemiologic characteristics of traumatic fractures following e-scooter-related injuries. Multiple databases of PubMed, Web of Science, EMBASE, and Cochrane library were searched and relevant clinical studies reporting incidence for traumatic fractures from e-scooter-related injuries were included. All other types of studies and those including patients with non-orthopedic injuries were excluded. The Methodological Index for Non-randomized Studies (MINORS) was used to assess the quality of the included studies. The characteristics of patients were analyzed by the mean and the standard deviation for continuous variables. Results: Eleven published studies (6579 patients) were identified which have been reported from Nov, 2019 to Sep, 2021. Periods of research in each study were different from May, 2017 to July, 2020. In the majority of cases, the mechanism of injury was a fall from the scooter (84.8%), which was followed by e-scooter motor vehicle accident (7.4%) and collision (5.5%). Regarding the fractures, upper limb injuries were the most prevalent (65%) and radial fracture was the most common fracture type of the upper limb (28.2%). Lower limb fractures were recorded in 475 (25.3%) patients, the most common being tibial fractures (8.4%). Conclusions: As e-scooter market continues to considerably rise, the incidence of major orthopedic traumas is also likely to increase. Despite potential selection and reporting biases, our systematic review suggested up-to-date guidelines for the epidemiology of fractures following e-scooter injury. According to the results found in the present study, we believe that it is reasonable to mandate helmet use and the obligation to wear other types of safety equipment such as elbow and knee pads should be discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Recently, there has been a considerable rise in the popularity and use of electric scooters. Because of this, the number of accidents involving them has also risen. Head and neck injuries are the most common. The aim of the study was to determine the most frequent craniofacial injuries resulting from accidents involving electric scooters, and to identify the risk factors directly related to their placement and severity. The study carried out a retrospective analysis of the medical records of patients of the Clinic of Maxillofacial Surgery over 2019–2022, in terms of craniofacial injuries suffered as a result of e-scooter-related accidents. In the study population (31 cases), of which 61.3% were men, the median age was 27 years. At the time of the accident, 32.3% patients were under the influence of alcohol. Accidents were most common in the 21–30 age group; more often than not, they occurred during warm months and on weekends. The study identified a total of 40 fractures in the patients. The most common craniofacial injuries were mandibular fractures (37.5%), zygomatic-orbital fractures (20%) and frontal bone fractures (10%). A multidimensional correspondence analysis was also performed, which showed that at an age of under 30, alcohol consumption and female gender were associated with a higher likelihood of mandibular fracture. Proper education on the risks associated with the use of e-scooters is essential, with particular emphasis on the impact of alcohol on the driver. It is important to develop diagnostic and therapeutic algorithms for doctors, both in ED and in specialised departments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate electrocardiography (ECG) changes in patients with electrical burn injury and determine their predictive extent during hospitalization. The study population consisted of all patients with electrical injury admitted to Velayat Hospital, Rasht, Iran, during 2007-2019. The ECG information of all patients assessed by a cardiologist in terms of dysrhythmic and ischemic changes at the time of admission, demographic information including age, gender, voltage, the severity and path of the current, and degree of burn were recorded in the relevant checklist. The data were analyzed using the SPSS software version 18 (IBM, USA). Out of 192 studied patients, 183 (95%) were male, and the mean age of patients was 32 years. The ECGs of 167 patients were normal (86%), 13 cases had arrhythmia (6.7%), and 12 individuals had ischemia (6.2%). Arrhythmic and ischemic abnormalities in the ECGs of patients had no predictive value during hospitalization (P<0.05). Heart injury caused by electrical injury may be deadly in some cases, and it can be complicated to save the patient. Moreover, the predictive value of ECG in predicting the consequences and duration of hospitalization is weak. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Abstract: When persons seek medical help after an electrical injury, physicians have to inquire on the type (AC/DC) and strength of current (>1000V is considered "high voltage") as well as the exact circumstances (loss of consciousness, falls) of the accident. In the advent of high-voltage accidents, loss of consciousness, arrhythmias, abnormal ECG or elevated troponin levels, in-hospital rhythm monitoring is warranted. In all other cases, the type of extra cardiac injury primarily directs the management. Superficial skin marks may disguise more extensive thermal injuries of inner organs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective: To analyze the bioelectrical impedance parameters of the lower limbs of individuals with hip osteoarthritis and healthy individuals. Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting: The study was carried out at the Hip Surgery Outpatient Clinic. Participants: The volunteers had to be between 45 and 70 years of age, of both sexes, with a clinical and radiological diagnosis of hip osteoarthritis for at least three years, unilateral involvement, or a significant complaint in one hip. Methods: This was a cross-sectional study. Fifty-four individuals were recruited for the study, 31 individuals with hip osteoarthritis (OA group) and 29 healthy individuals for the control group (C group). Demographic and anthropometric data were collected and then the Numerical Pain Rating Scale, WOMAC, Harris Hip Score, and bioimpedance assessment were applied. Main outcome measure(s): Electrical bioimpedance parameters. Phase angle (PhA), impedance, reactance, and muscle mass. Results: There was a significant difference in phase angle (PhA), impedance, and muscle mass at 50 kHz frequency on the side affected by OA when compared to the contralateral side. In the OA group, there was a significant decrease in phase angle (PhA) -0.54 (-0.85 to -0.23) and muscle mass − 0.29 (-0.40 to -0,19), as well as an increase in impedance at the 50 kHz frequency on the side affected by OA when compared to contralateral side 21.71 (13.69 to 29.74). In the C group, there was no difference between the dominant and non-dominant sides (P > 0.05). Conclusion: The segmental electrical bioimpedance equipment can detect differences between limbs affected and unaffected by hip osteoarthritis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Literature has demonstrated hypoglossal nerve stimulation to be a safe and effective treatment for patients with obstructive sleep apnea nonadherent to positive airway pressure therapy. However, the recommended criteria for patient selection are still unable to identify all the unresponsive patients, highlighting the need for improved understanding about hypoglossal nerve stimulation for obstructive sleep apnea. Case presentation: A 48-year-old Caucasian male patient with obstructive sleep apnea had been successfully treated with electrical stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve trunk, documented by level 1 polysomnography data. However, due to snoring complaints, he underwent postoperation drug-induced sleep endoscopy for evaluation of electrode activation during upper airway collapse, aiming to improve electrostimulation parameters. Concurrent surface electromyography of the suprahyoid muscles and masseter was obtained. Activation of electrodes 2, 3, and 6 promoted upper airway opening most strongly at the velopharynx and tongue base during drug-induced sleep endoscopy. The same channels also significantly increased the electrical activity on suprahyoid muscles bilaterally, but predominantly on the stimulated side (right). The masseters also presented a considerable asymmetry in electrical potential on the right side (> 55%). Conclusion: Beyond the genioglossus muscle, our findings demonstrate recruitment of other muscles during hypoglossal nerve stimulation, which may be attributed to the electrical stimulation of the nerve trunk. This data provides new insights on how stimulation of the hypoglossal nerve trunk may contribute to obstructive sleep apnea treatment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]