Kirk Peck

The development of a low-cost three-dimensional printed shoulder, arm, and hand prostheses for children.

Background and aim: The prosthetic options for higher level amputees are limited and costly. Advancements in computer-aided design programs and three-dimensional printing offer the possibility of designing and manufacturing transitional prostheses at very low cost. The aim of this project was to describe an inexpensive three-dimensional printed mechanical shoulder prosthesis to assist a pre-selected subject in performing bi-manual activities. Technique: The main function of the body-powered, manually adjusted three-dimensional printed shoulder prosthesis is to provide a cost-effective, highly customized transitional device to individuals with congenital or acquired forequarter amputations. Discussion: After testing the prototype on a young research participant, a partial correction of the patient’s spinal deviation was noted due to the counterweight of the device. The patient’s family also reported improved balance and performance of some bimanual activities after 2 weeks of using the device. Limitations of the design include low grip strength and low durability. Clinical relevance The prosthetic options for higher level amputees are limited and costly. The low-cost three-dimensional printed shoulder prosthesis described in this study can be used as a transitional device in preparation for a more sophisticated shoulder prosthesis.

Catholic and Jesuit Identity in Higher Education

This study incorporated an instrumental embedded case study design to explore how 15 faculty members and an administrator at one Catholic institution of higher education describe their responsibility to promote the academic mission of Ignatian spirituality. Interviews included Jesuit, Catholic, and non-Catholic faculty, and the president of Holy University. It was determined that participants’ ability to foster Ignatian spirituality was dependent upon their religious beliefs and a willingness to promote values common to Catholic and Jesuit faith traditions, despite facing multiple challenges to fulfilling the academic mission. A conceptual model developed that demonstrated relationships among academic administrators, faculty, and students, and how the interactions influence the ability to foster Ignatian spirituality and preserve a faith-based identity at Holy University. Additional perspectives from members at Holy University and other Jesuit institutions of higher learning need to be explored to develop a greater understanding of the academic mission of Ignatian spirituality.