bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Industry Payments to Foot and Ankle Surgeons and Their Effect on Total Ankle Arthroplasty Outcomes
Authors: Safavi Kiya Shazadeh , Rezvani Aryan , Healy Nicholas , Jupiter Daniel , Panchbhavi Vinod K. , Janney Cory
Published: January 2022

Category:

Ankle; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

The Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) Open Payments public (OPP) database provides a means for increased transparency of physicians' financial relationships with industry. Total ankle arthroplasty is a procedure with long term clinical implications and variable outcomes published in the existing literature. We compared physician-reported conflict-of-interest (COI) disclosures in Foot and Ankle International (FAI) with CMS database information to evaluate for discrepancies.

Methods:

Articles published in FAI reporting clinical outcomes of total ankle arthroplasty from 2015 and 2019 were reviewed. Payment information in the CMS database was cross-referenced with disclosure statements and International Committee of Medical Journal Editors (ICMJE) forms associated with the manuscript. Statistical analysis was performed to determine if industry payments were appropriately disclosed or influenced outcomes.

Results:

We reviewed 173 articles pertaining to ankle arthroplasty with 27 meeting inclusion criteria. Of 120 total authors with 98 unique authors, 114 (95%) disclosed appropriately in disclosure statements. Twenty-two papers (82%) had appropriate declarations for the entire manuscript. For the 27 senior authorships, only two discrepancies between manuscript disclosure and the OPP database were noted, showing 13 total disclosures in the OPP database vs 11 disclosed in the manuscript. We found there was no relationship between industry payment and the outcome of the manuscript (P =.725).

Conclusion:

The majority of author disclosure statements accurately reflected the OPP data. Additionally, payments were not significantly associated with positive outcomes reported for the specific implant. Overall, authors publishing on ankle arthroplasty in FAI are disclosing appropriately per our review.
Lesser Tarsal Metatarsal Joint Fusion Using Nitinol Staples, Bone Marrow Aspirate Concentrate and a Calcaneal Bone Dowel: A Retrospective Comparative Analysis
Authors: Scott Jared , Thompson Jay , Johnson Mark , Anderson Michael , Hawkins Bryan J.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Midfoot/Forefoot; Lesser Toes

Introduction/Purpose:

Estimates suggest nonunion rates following lesser tarsometatarsal (TMT) fusion are up to 11.4%. Various techniques have been employed to improve fusion rates; however, none have shown significant improvement compared to other techniques. Autologous bone dowels, bone marrow aspirate concentrate (BMAC) and continuous compression devices (CCDs), such as nitinol staples, have each shown promising fusion rates in orthopedic literature. There is limited data that suggests using these techniques in conjunction with one another has been successfully employed in the fusion of lesser TMT joints. The aim of this study was to describe our technique using autologous calcaneal bone graft, CCDs and BMAC for lesser TMT fusion and to investigate whether this method improves fusion rates and decreases time to fusion in comparison to traditional constructs.

Methods:

All patients undergoing arthrodesis of the lesser (2nd/3rd) TMT joints from January 2015 to January 2020 were identified. Exclusion criteria included inadequate clinical or radiographic follow-up, those with only 1st TMT joint arthrodesis, and those less than 18 years old. Chart review allowed patient demographics, risk factors and surgical approach to be identified. Twenty patients (28 lesser TMT joints) treated with arthrodesis by the senior surgeon met inclusion criteria. These patients were then divided into two groups: 1) novel treatment (Nitinol staple, BMAC and calcaneal dowel) and 2) traditional treatment (compression plate and screw construct). We then assessed for radiographic union, time to union and complications.

Results:

All lesser TMT joints in the novel treatment arm went on to successful clinical and radiographic fusion. The radiographic union rate of the traditional treatment arm was 92% (P=.08). Overall time to fusion was 56 and 82 days for the novel and traditional constructs respectively (P <.05). All patients, regardless of construct, had returned to full weight bearing and maintained hardware at most recent follow-up (minimum 6 months).

Conclusion:

Continuous compression devices such as the nitinol staple and use of biologic adjuvants appear to decrease nonunion rates and significantly shorten overall time to fusion in lesser TMT joints. Further investigation towards identifying patient specific factors for nonunion is warranted.
Lateral Dorsal Cutaneous Nerve and Anastomotic Branch to the Intermediate Dorsal Cutaneous Nerve: A Review of Cadaveric Data and Comparison with 3 Tesla MRI
Authors: Shah Vrajesh J. , Mitchell Brendon , Ghetti Claudio B. , Huang Brady K. , Kent William , Foran Ian M.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Other; Hindfoot

Introduction/Purpose:

The lateral dorsal cutaneous nerve (LDCN) and anastomotic branch to the intermediate dorsal cutaneous nerve (AICN) can be injured during foot and ankle surgery. Cadaveric specimen studies are limited by small sample size.1-11 We sought to use high-field 3-tesla (3T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to examine a significantly larger cohort and obtain a more representative sample of the course of the LDCN and AICN. A more generalizable understanding of the course and position of these structures will aid surgeons intraoperatively in avoiding iatrogenic injury when performing the sinus tarsi approach, as well as during percutaneous intramedullary fixation of the 5th metatarsal.

Methods:

High-field 3T MRI studies performed between January 2015 to January 2020 were reviewed. Three blinded reviewers at a single academic center measured the coronal distances of LDCN and AICN from the fifth metatarsal styloid (5MS). Intraclass correlation coefficients (ICC) were calculated to assess reviewer reliability. Foot and ankle MRIs with major structural abnormalities, such as tumor or the presence of hardware, were excluded.

Results:

A total of 125 foot and ankle 3T MRIs were identified. Intraclass correlation coefficient was excellent at 0.87 for LDCN to 5MS and 0.88 for AICN to 5MS. The mean distance of the LDCN to the 5MS was 0.8 cm (range 0.3-1.4 cm, CI 0.8-0.8 cm) and that from the AICN to the 5MS was 2.1 cm (range 1.6-3.2 cm, CI 2.0-2.2 cm. Height had no significant correlation with the nerves' distance from bony landmarks with r values of 0.14 and 0.29 for the LDCN and AICN, respectively. Similarly, we did not find BMI to significantly correlate, with r values of 0.10 and 0.30 for the LDCN and AICN, respectively.

Conclusion:

Our study demonstrated the LDCN and AICN can be found on average 0.8 cm and 2.1 cm, respectively, above the 5MS with no clear association to patient height or BMI. Literature studying the range of distances the LDCN is found from the 5MS is scarce, but one study noted the range to be 0.7-1.2 cm, which is significantly smaller than our range of 0.3-1.4 cm.3 To our knowledge, our study is first to note the range of distances the AICN can be found from the 5MS, which is 1.6-3.2 cm.
Minimally Invasive Management of a Rare Giant Cell Tumor of Talus: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Sonawane Sandip S.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Ankle; Hindfoot; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Giant cell tumor (GCT) of small bones of hand and feet is rare. A benign but locally aggressive neoplasm with a tendency for local recurrence with undifferentiated mesenchymal stromal cells and the presence of abundant, multinucleated giant cells. It occurs in a slightly younger age group with usually an expansile and eccentric epiphyseo-metaphyseal region lytic lesion. A 22 yrs. old patient, presenting as lytic expansile lesion of talus, suspected Giant cell tumor (GCT) of talus preoperatively and intraoperatively and proven subsequently, is presented along with review of literature. This patient is the young and nearly 24th case reported in the literature for GCT of talus.

Methods:

Author reviewed the literature for the GCT of talus from 1964 to till 2021. The author reported a case of left ankle joint pain and swelling for 6 months in a 22 yrs. old male, which turns out to be aneurysmal bone cyst of talus on radiographs, Computed tomography and aspiration cytology. Campanacci grade II lesion was planned for the curettage and autologous bone grafting.

Results:

Retrospectively, the intraoperative biopsy confirmed the lesion as giant cell tumor with aneurysmal bone cyst. After 4 years the lesion showed the near complete resolution on radiographs and CT scan. However, because of the historical recurrence and metastasis reports of GCT, author is continuously monitoring patient's ankle with yearly follow up. Author reviwed the literarue for the GCT of talus from 1964 to till 2021. Author found total of 23 reported cases for GCT of talus in literature, out of which 2 cases showed recurrence and distant metastasis to chest which is 8.69 percent of total cases.

Conclusion:

Author concludes that the Campanacci grade I and II can be managed with mini-open lesional curettage and autologous bone grafting while grade III and IV needed osteotomy, en-bloc excisions and tibio-calcaneal fusion or below knee amputation in recurrent or aggressive lesions. As author found 8.69 percent cases of distant pulmonary metastasis out of total reported cases, he recommends yearly follow up of the lesions and look for distant metastasis in suspected cases.
Pes Planus Does Not Negatively Affect Clinical Outcomes after Hallux Valgus Surgery
Authors: Tay Adriel You Wei , Goh Graham , Thever Yogen , Yeo Nicholas , Koo Kevin
Published: January 2022

Category:

Bunion; Hindfoot; Midfoot/Forefoot; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Pes planus is associated with hallux valgus development. Increased forefoot abduction and pressure through the hallux during the heel-rise phase of the gait in a pes planus foot is believed to contribute to hallux valgus formation. These abnormal forces through the hallux may result in poorer healing and more residual pain after surgical correction. We investigated if patients with increasing severity of pes planus presented with more severe hallux valgus deformity and whether these patients had more residual pain and poorer function following hallux valgus surgery.

Methods:

We evaluated 191 consecutive cases of hallux valgus surgery with Scarf osteotomy as the primary procedure. American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) hallux metatarsophalangeal-interphalangeal scale, visual analog scale (VAS), Short Form-36 physical component summary (SF-36 PCS), mental component summary (SF-36 MCS) and a satisfaction questionnaire were assessed at baseline, 6 months and 24 months postoperatively. Pes planus angles measured were the talonavicular coverage angle (TNCA), lateral talus-first metatarsal angle (Meary's angle) and lateral talocalcaneal angle (LTCA). The cohort was stratified into controls (0°-4.0°), mild (4.1°-14.9°), moderate (15.0°-30.0°) and severe (>30.0°) pes planus groups according to Meary's angle. Clinical outcomes were compared among the groups. Multiple regression was used to determine association between pes planus angles and outcomes.

Results:

There were 78 controls, 95 mild, 18 moderate and no severe cases of pes planus. Meary's angle was independently associated with preoperative HVA (beta 0.408, 95% CI 0.104-0.712, P =.009). Patients with mild and moderate pes planus had significantly greater preoperative HVA (P <.001) compared to controls. Pes planus angles were not associated with pre- or postoperative VAS, AOFAS score, SF-36 PCS or SF-36 MCS. Among controls, mild and moderate pes planus groups, there were no significant differences in pre- or postoperative clinical scores (Table 1), and satisfaction was 84.6, 80.0% and 77.8%, respectively (P =.667).

Conclusion:

Patients with increasing severity of pes planus presented with greater severity of hallux valgus deformity. However, patients with pes planus had similar pre- and postoperative clinical outcomes and satisfaction after hallux valgus surgery in comparison to patients with neutral foot arches.
Early Results of a Novel Intramedullary Fixation Device for Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Fractures
Authors: Umbel Benjamin D. , Sharpe B. Dale , Hockman Taylor , Philbin Terrence M.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Midfoot/Forefoot; Sports; Trauma

Introduction/Purpose:

Proximal fifth metatarsal fractures are commonly treated surgically due to their poor healing capacity. While intramedullary screws may be the most popular operative treatment choice, newer fixation methods continue to develop that offer fracture compression in addition to maintenance of length, alignment and rotation. We present a case-series utilizing a novel intramedullary fixation device for proximal fifth metatarsal fractures. To our knowledge, no other study in the literature has assessed the safety and efficacy of this novel fixation method

Methods:

A retrospective analysis was performed for 16 patients with proximal fifth metatarsal fractures who underwent fixation with the same novel intramedullary device. Patient charts were reviewed for fracture union, plantar fracture gapping, time to weightbearing, refracture, perioperative complications, and secondary surgeries.

Results:

Sixteen patients with an average age of 43.3 years old underwent fixation with this novel device from 2015 to 2020. Mean follow-up was 32.4 weeks. Fifteen of the 16 patients achieved radiographic union at a mean of 8.9 weeks. One patient suffered a non-union. Mean time to full weight-bearing in, and out of, a walking boot was 6.4 and 9.8 weeks, respectively, for healed fractures. Mean plantar fracture gap improved from 1.22 mm to 0.88 mm following surgery. There were zero infections, refractures or hardware complications. Three patients suffered iatrogenic distal diaphyseal fracture during implant insertion, however postoperative progression to weightbearing was not altered in these patients relative to the remainder of the cohort.

Conclusion:

To our knowledge, this is the first report of early results for this novel intramedullary device. Excellent union rates, acceptable time to weight bearing, and a low complication profile can be achieved. Additionally, plantar fracture gapping, which has been shown to delay time to union, was improved using this novel implant. Based on our early findings, we propose a viable treatment option that is safe and effective for proximal fifth metatarsal fracture stabilization.
Return to Run Rates Following Hallux Valgus Correction: A Retrospective Comparison of Metatarsal Shaft Osteotomies vs the Modified Lapidus Procedure
Authors: Unangst Alicia M. , Ryan Paul M.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Bunion; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Hallux valgus affects 23 -36% in general populations. The purpose of this study was to evaluate return to run following either a modified Lapidus procedure or a metatarsal osteotomy. We hypothesized that there would be no difference in the ability to return to running.

Methods:

A Retrospective review of a consecutive series of patients at a single institution with surgical correction was performed. 51 patients were identified. 35 were treated with a metatarsal shaft osteotomy and 16 with a modified Lapidus.

Results:

No difference was found between the cohorts in terms of age, sex, or pre- operative hallux valgus angle (HVA). 27/35 (77%) with metatarsal shaft osteotomy were able to return to running versus 13/16 (81%) with modified Lapidus. There was no significant difference in the ability to return to running between cohorts (p=1.00).

Conclusion:

Our study showed no statistical difference for the modified Lapidus versus metatarsal osteotomies relative to return to running.
Underutilization of Patient Reported Outcomes Data in the Recent Foot and Ankle Literature
Authors: Vander Griend Robert A.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

The importance of collecting outcomes information was promoted by Ernest Codman in the early 1900's. He stated the importance of 'Following every patient treated long enough to determine whether or not the treatment has been successful, then inquire-if so or if not- WHY?', ' He stressed the importance of evaluating outcomes for each patient as an individual and not from groups of patients. Since that time numerous outcomes measures have been validated and are in current use. The purpose of this study was to review all publications in Foot and Ankle International from 2019-2020 which included outcomes data. Then to determine if these principles (use of individual versus group data and WHY treatment was successful or not) were followed.

Methods:

All articles published in Foot and Ankle International during 2019-2020 were reviewed. Articles which included patient outcomes data were selected for further review. This review then included assessment of outcomes measure(s) used, organization of outcomes data, utilization of this data by the study, analysis of individual versus group data, and any assessment of WHY the outcomes scores had improved or not.

Results:

Eighty-five publications were selected. Eleven different outcomes measurement tools were used. All were reportedy validated tools except for the AOFAS scoring system. Every study reported outcomes data as group means (some with standard deviations, some with range of scores). These studies then compared group means (of different treatment groups or preop vs post op). No specific individual patient outcomes data was provided. There was no specific assessment of WHY scores improved or not. There was also no analysis of individual questions from these outcomes tools (e.g. can you put on your own shoes?–if patient answered 'no' there was no further explanation of why this response was selected). When the range of scores were provided it was common to have scores on the low end of the scale before and after treatment with overall conclusion of improvement based on group means but no assessment of why individual patients improved or not.

Conclusion:

Outcomes measures are generally considered to be part of the 'standard of care'. They may be considered important by third party payers, used in evaluation treatment options, and are usually necessary for publication. However trhis data is being underutilized. It is commonly reported as group means +/- range or standard deviations with provides little information about the individuals in a group or groups. Even with methodologies to minimize Type I or II errors evaluation of group means can obscure significant progress, lack of progress, or decline by individual patients. Methods to more effectively utilize outcomes measures are needed.
Does Surgical Placement of Syndesmosis Screws Affect Breakage Rate? A Retrospective Comparative Study
Authors: Vander Maten Josh W. , McCraken Matt , Roebke Logan , Liu Jiayong
Published: January 2022

Category:

Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Fixation of syndesmosis disruption with metal screws remains a frequent and efficacious treatment modality. Screw breakage remains a complication seen in many patients following metal fixation. Overtime physiologic rotation or the tibia and fibula can lead to bone erosion and pain in patients with screw breakage. The purpose of this study is to compare patients with syndesmosis screw breakage and patients with intact screws based surgically controlled variables.

Methods:

A retrospective analysis of patients who underwent syndesmotic screw fixation from 2008 - 2020 was performed. Ninety-seven patients were found to have syndesmosis screw breakage, of which 88 met inclusion criteria. A control group of patients without syndesmosis screw breakage was selected at random and analyzed until 88 patients met inclusion criteria. The number of screws used, width, length, fracture type and number of cortices were all collected. Further analysis included radiographic measurement syndesmosis screw angle and height of placement above the tibial plafond. A regression analysis was performed to compare to the two groups, including a separate analysis comparing unbroken screws within syndesmosis screw breakage cohort versus their broken screws, as this provided an absolute control group. A stratified analysis of screw placement and angle was also performed based on standard deviation.

Results:

The average screw width in the breakage group was 3.67 (SD =.38) and 4.06 (SD =0.04) in the intact group (P =<.001). Average screw angle was 94.82 (SD = 12.75) in the breakage group and 94.67 (SD 12.31) in the intact group (based on 90 degrees relative to tibial plafond). Screw placement of the tibial plafond was 20.39 (SD =10.389) in the breakage group and 16. 75 (SD = 9.28) in the intact group. 70.3% of broken screws were placed > 20mm above the tibial plafond, compared to 64.0% in the control group. Most screws were placed at angle > 82 degrees relative to the tibial plafond; 76% (n =92) of broken screws and 81.2% (n=211) of intact screws). Decreased screw width (P =<.001) and screw placement > 20mm above the tibial plafond (P =<.001) were all associated with an increased risk of screw breakage.

Conclusion:

Metal screw fixation remains an efficacious treatment method of syndesmotic disruption. Despite extensive research the cause of syndesmosis screw breakage and the necessity of screw removal remains without consensus. The is study aims to analyze surgical variables in attempt to find correlation with screw breakage. An increased BMI was seen to predispose to screw breakage. Placement of the syndesmosis screw <20 mm above the tibial plafond and increased screw width provide protection against syndesmosis breakage. No significant differences were found between groups based on screw angle, number of cortices, screw length, or number of screws used.
Defining Return to Sport: A Systematic Review
Authors: Vopat Bryan G. , Doege Joshua , Ayres Jack M. , Mackay Matthew , Tarakemeh Armin , Brown Symone M. , Mulcahey Mary K.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Sports

Introduction/Purpose:

Return to sport (RTS) commonly serves as a measure for assessment of clinical outcomes in orthopaedic sports medicine surgery. Unfortunately, while RTS is commonly utilized in research for this purpose, currently, there is no widely accepted or standardized definition for when an athlete has officially returned to his or her sport. The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review to evaluate and report the differences in specific definitions of return to sport (RTS) utilized in the orthopaedic surgery literature.

Methods:

A systematic review was performed using PubMed, Embase and Cochrane databases per PRISMA guidelines. Search terms consisted of variations of 'RTS' combined with variations of 'orthopedic surgery' and 'define' to capture as many relevant articles as possible. The definition of return to sport was recorded and analyzed.

Results:

718 articles were identified in the initial search, 29 of which met eligibility criteria, providing a clear definition of RTS. Of the 29 studies included, 20 (69.0%) defined RTS as an athlete competing in a game or other competitive play, and these definitions are further broken down in Table 1. Three (10.3%) defined this as the athlete competing in a game or other competitive play, but with an explicitly stated competition-level modifier of the athlete returning to their pre-injury level of competition. Two articles (6.9%) included returning to training or practice and the remaining four articles (13.8%) used terminology other than the standard RTS.

Conclusion:

There is variability in the definition of RTS used in the literature. Most studies refer to the athlete competing in a game or other competitive play. Other variants include returning to practice/training and explicitly defined competition levels and objectives. Future studies should aim to standardize the definition of RTS to facilitate more precise assessment of outcome following sports medicine surgery. Using terminology that describes components of the recovery and rehabilitation process, such as 'return to participation' and 'return to performance' in addition to RTS will allow us to better understand the athlete's recovery and associated level of competition or performance.
The Lateral Drawer Test: A Novel Clinical Test to Assess Mortise Instability in Weber B Fibula Fractures
Authors: Zhao John Z. , Williams Caroline , Broughton Kimberly K. , Miller Christopher P. , Kwon John Y.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Trauma; Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

Assessment of mortise stability is paramount in determining appropriate management of ankle fractures. While instability is readily apparent in bimalleolar or trimalleolar ankle fractures, determination of instability in the apparent isolated Weber B fibula fracture often requires further investigations such as stress radiography. While several authors have previously demonstrated poor predictive value of physical examination findings such as tenderness, ecchymosis and swelling with instability, no previous investigation has examined the ability of a translational test to determine deltoid ligament injury. The goal of this study is to test the validity of a novel clinical test, the lateral drawer test, in determining mortise instability in a cohort of patients with Weber B fibula fractures.

Methods:

Patients presenting with isolated fibula fractures were prospectively identified by an orthopaedic nurse practitioner or resident. Three views of the ankle as well as gravity stress views (GSV) were obtained. Prior to examining radiographs, two foot & ankle fellowship-trained orthopaedic surgeons (JYK, CPM) performed and graded the lateral drawer test. (Grade 0: no instability/symmetric to contralateral ankle, Grade I: translation < 5mm, Grade II: translation >= 5mm) While the surgeons were made aware of the presence of a Weber B fibula fracture, radiographs were not visualized prior to conducting the drawer test. Medial clear space (MCS) was measured. VAS pain scores were obtained before and after testing. The results of the lateral drawer test results were compared with radiographic measurements of MCS.

Results:

The study enrolled 57 consecutive patients with Weber B ankle fractures. Twenty-nine (51%) patients demonstrated radiographic instability with widening of the medial clear space >= 5 mm on GSV. When correlated with MCS measurement, the lateral drawer test demonstrated a sensitivity of 83.3%, specificity of 96%, positive predictive value (PPV) of 96% and negative predictive value (NPV) of 84% for determining instability. There was a strong correlation between the lateral drawer test grade and amount of MCS widening (⍴=0.82, p<0.001). Patients tolerated the lateral drawer test well with an average increase of 0.8 points on the VAS pain scale after testing.

Conclusion:

The lateral drawer test demonstrates high sensitivity, specificity, PPV and NPV for detecting instability in patients presenting with Weber B fibula fractures. While further validation is required in a larger cohort of patients, the lateral drawer test may offer an adjunct tool via physical examination to predict mortise stability.
Erianthus germplasm collection in Thailand: genetic structure and phylogenetic aspects of tetraploid and hexaploid accessions
Authors: Tsuruta Shin-ichi , Srithawong Suparat , Sakuanrungsirikul Suchirat , Ebina Masumi , Kobayashi Makoto , Terajima Yoshifumi , Tippayawat Amarawan , Ponragdee Werapon
Published: January 2022

Background

The genus Erianthus, which belongs to the “Saccharum complex”, includes C4 warm-season grasses. Erianthus species are widely distributed throughout Southeast Asia, East Asia and South Asia. Erianthus arundinaceus (Retz.) Jeswiet is highly adaptable to the environment, has a high percentage of dry matter, and is highly productive. Recently, this species has attracted attention as a novel bioenergy crop and as a breeding material for sugarcane improvement. Such interest in E. arundinaceus has accelerated the collection and conservation of its genetic resources, mainly in Asian countries, and also evaluation of morphological, agricultural, and cytogenetic features in germplasm collections. In Thailand, genetic resources of E. arundinaceus have been collected over the past 20 years and their phenotypic traits have been evaluated. However, the genetic differences and relatedness of the germplasms are not fully understood.

Results

A set of 41 primer pairs for nuclear simple sequence repeats (SSRs) developed from E. arundinaceus were used to assess the genetic diversity of 121 Erianthus germplasms collected in Thailand; of these primer pairs, 28 detected a total of 316 alleles. A Bayesian clustering approach with these alleles classified the accessions into four main groups, generally corresponding to the previous classification based on phenotypic analysis. The results of principal coordinate analysis and phylogenetic analysis of the 121 accessions on the basis of the SSR markers showed the same trend as Bayesian clustering, whereas sequence variations of three non-coding regions of chloroplast DNA revealed eight haplotypes among the accessions. The analysis of genetic structure and phylogenetic relationships, however, found some accessions whose classification contradicted the results of previous phenotypic classification.

Conclusions

The molecular approach used in this study characterized the genetic diversity and relatedness of Erianthus germplasms collected across Thailand. This knowledge would allow efficient maintenance and conservation of the genetic resources of this grass and would help to use Erianthus species as breeding materials for development of novel bioenergy crops and sugarcane improvement.
Neuropsychiatric symptoms and subsyndromes in patients with different stages of dementia in primary care follow-up (NeDEM project): a cross-sectional study
Authors: García-Martín Victoria , de Hoyos-Alonso M. Canto , Ariza-Cardiel Gloria , Delgado-Puebla Rosalía , García-Domingo Paula , Hernández-Melo Erika , de Haro-de Torres Javier López , del Cura-González Isabel
Published: January 2022

Background

The objective was to describe the prevalence and intensity of neuropsychiatric symptoms (NPSs) isolated and grouped into subsyndromes in patients with dementia in primary care (PC) to analyse their distribution based on stages of dementia and the relationship between them and the intensity of symptoms.

Methods

Design: Cross-sectional study. Setting and population: Patients with dementia, not institutionalized, in a PC follow-up. Variables: Sociodemographic and clinical variables. Assessment instruments: The frequency and intensity of NPSs were measured with the Neuropsychiatric Inventory (NPI), and the stages of dementia with the Global Deterioration Scale (GDS). Statistical analysis: The number of NPSs per patient, the mean NPI value, and the prevalence and intensity of NPSs isolated and grouped into subsyndromes were calculated, as were their 95% confidence intervals (CIs). The analyses were performed on an overall basis and by GDS scores. To analyse the association between the NPI and GDS scores, multivariate analysis was performed with a generalized linear model.

Results

Overall, 98.4% (95% CI 94.5;99.8) of the patients presented some type of NPS, with an average of five symptoms per patient. The most frequent symptoms were apathy [69.8% (95% CI 61.1;77.5)], agitation [55.8% (95% CI 46.8;64.5)] and irritability [48.8% (95% CI 39.9;57.8)]. The more intense NPSs were apathy [NPI 3.2 (95% CI 2.5;3.8)] and agitation [NPI 3.2 (95% CI 2.5;4.0)]. For subsyndromes, hyperactivity predominated [86.0% (95% CI 78.8;91.5)], followed by apathy [77.5% (95% CI 69.3;84.4]). By phase of dementia, the most common isolated symptom was apathy (60.7–75.0%). Affective symptoms and irritability predominated in the initial stages, and psychotic symptoms predominated in advanced stages. The mean NPI score was 24.9 (95% CI 21.5;28.4) and increased from 15.6 (95% CI 8.2;23.1) for GDS 3 to 28.9 (95% CI 12.6;45.1) for GDS 7. Patients with in the most advanced stages of dementia presented an NPI score 7.6 (95% CI 6.8;8.3) points higher than the score for mild dementia with adjustment for the other variables.

Conclusions

A high prevalence of NPSs was found among patients with dementia treated in PC. Symptoms change and increase in intensity as the disease progresses. Scales such as the NPI allow these symptoms to be identified, which may facilitate more stage-appropriate management.
Factors associated with the use of deworming drugs during pregnancy in Tanzania; an analysis from the 2015–16 Tanzanian HIV and malaria indicators survey
Authors: Bankanie Vicent , Moshi Fabiola Vincent
Published: January 2022

Background

The use of deworming drugs is one of the important antenatal strategies in preventing anaemia in pregnancy. Little is known about the factors associated with the use of deworming drugs, which accounts for the aim of this study.

Method

The study used data from the 2015–16 Tanzania HIV Demographic and Health Survey and Malaria Indicators Survey (2015–16 TDHS-MIS). A total of 6924 women of active reproductive age from 15 to 49 were included in the analysis. Both univariate and multiple logistic regression analyses were used.

Results

The majority of interviewed women 3864(60.1%) took deworming drugs. In a weighed multiple logistic regression, women residing in urban areas reported greater use of deworming drugs than women residing in rural areas [AOR = 1.73, p = 0.01, 95% CI (1.26–2.38)]. In the four areas of residence, compared to women residing in mainland rural areas, women residing in mainland urban areas and Pemba islands reported greater use of deworming drugs [mainland urban (AOR = 2.56 p < 0.001,95% CI(1.78–3.75), and Pemba Island (AOR = 1.18, p < 0.001, 95% CI(1.17–1.20)]. However, women residing in Zanzibar Island (Unguja) were less likely to use deworming drugs compared to women in mainland rural women (AOR = 0.5, p < 0.001, 95% CI (0.45–0.55).

Similarly, compared to women under 20 years of age, women between 20 to 34 years reported significantly greater use of deworming drugs [20 to 34 years (AOR = 1.30, p = 0.03, 95% CI(1.02–1.65).

Likewise, greater use of deworming drugs was reported in women with a higher level of education compared to no education [higher education level (AOR = 3.25, p = 0.01,95% CI(1.94–7.92)], rich women compared to poor [rich (AOR = 1.43, p = 0.003, 95% CI (1.13–1.80)] and in women who initiated antenatal care on their first trimester of pregnancy compared to those who initiated later [AOR = 1.37, p < 0.001, 95% CI (1.17–1.61)].

Conclusion

Women who were more likely to use the deworming drugs were those residing in urban compared to rural areas, aged between 20 and 34 years, those with a higher level of formal education, wealthier, and women who book the antenatal clinic (ANC) within their first trimester of pregnancy. Considering the outcomes of anaemia in pregnancy, a well-directed effort is needed to improve the use of deworming drugs.
Oral extrusion of a vertebral body replacement device after chordoma tumor growth and radiation: case report and review
Authors: Gutiérrez-González Raquel , Zamarrón Álvaro , Ortega Celia , Hamre Frank , Kalantari Teresa , Rodríguez-Boto Gregorio
Published: January 2022

Background

Screw migration following anterior cervical discectomy and fusion is a very rare complication and it is often related to device failure. Even more exceptional is the extrusion of an intervertebral graft.

Case presentation

We report the second case of migration and extrusion through the oral cavity of a cervical vertebral body replacement device (expandable cylinder) in a patient that had undergone cervical corpectomy due to a vertebral chordoma.

Conclusion

The antecedent of radiation therapy as well as progressive tumor re-growth may have favored the development of this complication. A literature review is added.
Women’s attitudes towards negotiating safe sexual practices in Nigeria: Do family structure and decision-making autonomy play a role?
Authors: Imo Chukwuechefulam Kingsley , Odimegwu Clifford O. , De Wet-Billings Nicole
Published: January 2022

Background

The risk of contracting sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) is related to women’s sexual attitudes, beliefs, and power dynamics within marriages in developing countries. Despite the interventions towards improving women’s sexual health and well-being, women are disproportionately affected by the risk of STIs transmission compared with their male counterparts in most sub-Saharan African countries including Nigeria. This study examined the roles of family structure and decision-making autonomy on women’s attitudes towards negotiating safe sexual practices in Nigeria.

Methods

The study involved analyses of data from a nationally representative and weighted sample size of 28,219 ever-married/cohabiting women aged 15–49 years from the 2018 Nigeria Demographic and Health Survey. Descriptive and statistical analyses were carried out, including frequency tables, Pearson’s chi-square test, and multivariable binary logistic regression model.

Results

The overall prevalence of having positive attitudes towards negotiating safe sexual practices were 76.7% and 69.6% for a wife justified in asking the husband to use a condom if he has an STI and refusing to have sex with the husband if he had sex with other women, respectively. The results further showed that polygamous unions negatively influenced urban and rural women’s attitudes towards negotiating safe sexual practices, but women’s decision-making autonomy on how to spend their earnings was found to be a protective factor for having positive attitudes towards negotiating safe sexual practices with partners. Surprisingly, there were significant variations in attitudes towards negotiating safe sexual practices among urban and rural women who enjoyed decision-making autonomy on their healthcare (aOR 1.70; CI 1.32–2.18 and aOR 0.52; CI 0.44–0.62, respectively). Plausibly, such women might have constrained them to compromise their sexual relationships for fear of being neglected by partners.

Conclusion

The outcomes of this study have some policy implications for both maternal and child health. There is the need to intensify programmes aimed at improving women’s sexual health and rights towards achieving sustainable development goals of preventing deaths of newborns, ending STIs and creating gender in Nigeria.
Adaptation strategies in transnational education: a case study of an australian Master of Health Administration Course offered to chinese managers
Authors: Liu Chaojie , Wu Qunhong , Liang Zhanming , Karimi Leila , Ferrier J. Adamm , Sheats Jane , Khalil Hanan
Published: January 2022

Background

Management decisions in health influence patient care outcomes; however, health management development courses in China are rare. This study aims to document and evaluate a transnational Master of Health Administration (MHA) course launched in 2000 for the benefit of Chinese health managers.

Methods

A case study of the MHA program jointly run by an Australian university and a Chinese Medical University was conducted. We reviewed the development of the MHA course through a document analysis (key events recorded in achieves, minutes, and audits) followed by reflection (by two course coordinators), extracting key themes related to adaptative strategies. We then conducted a questionnaire survey of 139 graduates seeking their views on relevance, satisfaction and challenges associated with each subject within the course, the relevance of key management skills (as determined by the Australasian College of Health Service Management competency framework), and the impact of the course on their personal career trajectories. Chi-square tests identified differences in the responses by age, gender, pre-training position, and current workplace.

Results

The curriculum pedagogy followed the principles of practice-based reflective learning. Research findings and student feedback shaped the curriculum design and subject content, to enhance management practices of the students. Survey participants expressed high levels of satisfaction and confirmed the relevance of all study subjects. Two subjects, health economics and data management, were perceived as being the most challenging. Of the ten management skills we assessed, relatively low self-rated confidence was found in “strategic thinking” and “planning”. Younger and less experienced graduates were more likely to report learning challenges (p < 0.05). Frontline managers were least likely to obtain promotion by changing employers (χ2 = 6.02, p < 0.05) or being seconded to another position (χ2 = 9.41, p < 0.01).

Conclusions

This case study illustrates the suitability of cross-country partnerships in health management training, which offers opportunities for managers to systematically explore and acquire a comprehensive set of management skills applicable to their career needs. Opportunities for developing training aligned to career development opportunities are critical for attracting and developing a competent and well-prepared health service management workforce in China.
Quantitative analysis of the MRI features in the differentiation of benign, borderline, and malignant epithelial ovarian tumors
Authors: Xiao Fuxia , Zhang Lin , Yang Sihua , Peng Kun , Hua Ting , Tang Guangyu
Published: January 2022

Objective

This study aims to investigate the value of the quantitative indicators of MRI in the differential diagnoses of benign, borderline, and malignant epithelial ovarian tumors (EOTs).

Materials and methods

The study population comprised 477 women with 513 masses who underwent MRI and operation, including benign EOTs (BeEOTs), borderline EOTs (BEOTs), and malignant EOTs (MEOTs). The clinical information and MRI findings of the three groups were compared. Then, multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to find the independent diagnostic factors. The receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were also used to evaluate the diagnostic performance of the quantitative indicators of MRI and clinical information in differentiating BeEOTs from BEOTs or differentiating BEOTs from MEOTs.

Results

The MEOTs likely involved postmenopausal women and showed higher CA-125, HE4 levels, ROMA indices, peritoneal carcinomatosis and bilateral involvement than BeEOTs and BEOTs. Compared with BEOTs, BeEOTs and MEOTs appeared to be more frequently oligocystic (P < 0.001). BeEOTs were more likely to show mild enhancement (P < 0.001) and less ascites (P = 0.003) than BEOTs and MEOTs. In the quantitative indicators of MRI, BeEOTs usually showed thin-walled cysts and no solid component. BEOTs displayed irregular thickened wall and less solid portion. MEOTs were more frequently characterized as solid or predominantly solid mass (P < 0.001) than BeEOTs and BEOTs. The multivariate logistic regression analysis showed that volume of the solid portion (P = 0.006), maximum diameter of the solid portion (P = 0.038), enhancement degrees (P < 0.001), and peritoneal carcinomatosis (P = 0.011) were significant indicators for the differential diagnosis of the three groups. The area under the curves (AUCs) of above indicators and combination of four image features except peritoneal carcinomatosis for the differential diagnosis of BeEOTs and BEOTs, BEOTs and MEOTs ranged from 0.74 to 0.85, 0.58 to 0.79, respectively.

Conclusion

In this study, the characteristics of MRI can provide objective quantitative indicators for the accurate imaging diagnosis of three categories of EOTs and are helpful for clinical decision-making. Among these MRI characteristics, the volume, diameter, and enhancement degrees of the solid portion showed good diagnostic performance.
Pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia with carcinoma in situ with repeated distally localized pancreatitis: a case report
Authors: Tanji Yoshiaki , Furukawa Kenei , Shirai Yoshihiro , Haruki Koichiro , Onda Shinji , Gocho Takeshi , Ikegami Toru
Published: January 2022

Background

Acute pancreatitis could be an early symptom of pancreatic cancer. However, repeated pancreatitis caused by pancreatic cancer is very rare.

Case presentation

A 69-year-old man was referred to our hospital with severe abdominal pain, and serial imaging studies showed acute distally localized pancreatitis with a pseudocyst. Although he had successful conservative medical treatment followed by discharge from the hospital, he was re-admitted with severe abdominal pain for recurrent distal pancreatitis with splenic artery aneurysm followed by its rupture. No pancreas mass was detected by imaging studies including endoscopic ultrasound and cytologic studies of the pancreas juice did not show any malignant cells, although slight dilatation of distal pancreas duct was observed only in the initial computed tomography. Because of the episodes of repeated distally localized pancreatitis caused by possible pancreatic ductal neoplasm, we planned and performed laparoscopy-assisted distal pancreatectomy after full-informed consent. Pathological examination revealed pancreatic intraepithelial neoplasia (PanIN) with carcinoma in situ in the distal main pancreas duct. The post-surgical course of the patient was uneventful and he was discharged 10 days after surgery from recurrent disease for over a year.

Conclusions

We encountered a case of repeated episodes of acute distally localized pancreatitis, for which distal pancreatectomy was performed, resulting in pathological diagnosis of PanIN with carcinoma in situ.
The READ-IT study protocol for a feasibility randomised controlled trial of using a support worker/family carer mediated online reading programme to teach early reading skills to adults with intellectual disabilities
Authors: Moody Gwenllian , Coulman Elinor , Gillespie David , Goddard Mark , Grindle Corinna , Hastings Richard P. , Hughes Carl , Ingarfield Kate , Taylor Zac , Denne Louise
Published: January 2022

Background

Many individuals with intellectual disability (ID) have not learnt basic reading skills by the time that they reach adulthood, potentially limiting their access to critical information. READ-IT is an online reading programme developed from the Headsprout® Early Reading (HER®) intervention and supplemented by support strategies tailored for adults with ID. HER® has been successfully used to teach adults with ID to read in a forensic setting by trained staff. The aim of this study is to assess the feasibility of delivering READ-IT to adults with ID by family carers/support workers and will assess whether it would be feasible to conduct a later definitive randomised controlled trial (RCT) of the effectiveness of the programme. The study will aim to contribute to the evidence base on improving outcomes for adults with ID and their caregivers.

Methods

This study is a feasibility RCT, with embedded process evaluation. Forty-eight adults with ID will be recruited and allocated to intervention: control on a 1:1 basis. Intervention families will be offered the READ-IT programme immediately, continuing to receive usual practice and control participants will be offered the opportunity to receive READ-IT at the end of the trial follow-up period and will continue to receive usual practice. Data will be collected at baseline and 6 months post-randomisation.

Discussion

The results of this study will inform a potential future definitive trial, to evaluate the effectiveness of READ-IT to improve reading skills. Such a trial would have significant scientific impact internationally in the intellectual disability field.

Trial registration

ISRCTN11409097