bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Elite Athletes Successfully Return to the Preinjury Level of Sport Following Ankle Syndesmosis Injuries: Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Tan Eric W. , Bolia Ioanna K. , Bogdanov Jacob , Schoell Kyle , Petrigliano Frank A. , Weber Alexander E.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Sports; Ankle

Introduction/Purpose:

No meta-analysis has been conducted to examine the clinical outcomes following operative and nonoperative management of high ankle sprain injuries in elite athletes. the purpose of this systematic review was (1) To report the rate and time to return to sport (RTS) following high ankle syndesmotic injury in elite athletes (2) To examine the rate and time of RTS as well as the postoperative complications in elite athletes who underwent surgical treatment of high ankle syndesmotic injury with screw versus suture button fixation.

Methods:

Three electronic databases were searched for eligible articles. Two reviewers independently screened the titles, abstract and full-text articles using pre-specified criteria. Eligible articles were those that reported the rate of return to sport following operative and nonoperative treatment of ankle syndesmotic injuries in elite athletes (collegiate or professional level). Data collected were type of sport, type of treatment received (operative versus nonoperative), surgical technique (screw versus suture button fixation), rate and time to return to the preinjury level of competition, and complications. A random-effects model was used for meta-analysis.

Results:

The estimated overall rate of RTS was 99% (95% CI 95.5-99.9). The mean time to RTS was 38 +- 18 (range: 14-137) days. Of the 440 athletes, 269 (269/440,61%) were treated nonoperatively (nonoperative group); the rate of RTS was 99.6% and the athletes returned at a mean time of 29+-14 (range: 13-45) days. A total of 171 athletes (171/440,39%) underwent surgical treatment (operative group); All (171/171,100%) athletes returned at a mean time of 50.3+-13 (range:41-137) days. Almost all athletes who underwent surgery had suture button fixation (164/171 athletes,96%) and the mean time to RTS was 7 weeks with 9.1% complication rate.

Conclusion:

Elite athletes with ankle syndesmosis injury return to sport at an extremely high rates, following operative or nonoperative treatment. Suture button fixation remains the gold standard technique in elite athletes with syndesmotic injury requiring surgical treatment. Return to the preinjury level of competition should be expected at 4 weeks and 7 weeks in high-level athletes who undergo nonoperative and operative management, respectively.
Effect of Weight Bearing Variations & Heel Height on Forefoot Width for Orthopaedic Imaging
Authors: Tan Gerald , Zarugh Adel , Toh Eugene
Published: January 2022

Category:

Basic Sciences/Biologics; Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

The biomechanics of a foot when weight bearing change significantly due to the changes in the function through the gait cycle. Variations in heel height are known to influence load distribution in weightbearing, thus affecting change in forefoot widths. Weight bearing in radiographs are commonly used to identify these changes, which may have clinical relevance. However, there are limited studies that accurately quantify the extent of these differences in the forefoot to be analysed effectively. Hence, there is a need to investigate different weight bearing conditions and its influence on forefoot width changes required for accurate analysis of imaging. This study's aim is to evaluate the significance and degree of foot splaying with different modes of weight-bearing and heel height to achieve optimum increase in forefoot width.

Methods:

32 volunteers with no clinical issues with their feet were selected for this study. Weight bearing photographs of their feet were reviewed by 2 foot and ankle surgeons (under blinded conditions) to ensure they were normal morphologically. The forefoot width is measured using sliding callipers between the medial margin of the first metatarsal head and lateral margin of the fifth metatarsal head when non weight bearing - NWB, partial weight bearing - PWB (dual leg stance) and full weight bearing - FWB (single leg stance). Single leg stance measurement is also taken at increasing heel heights of 2cm (FWB1), 4cm (FWB2) and 6cm (FWB3) using polyurethrane blocks. Each individual foot non weight-bearing width will act as its own control for the changes in the differing positions measured.

Results:

Statistical analysis of data demonstrated the results with the use of student t-test analysis via SPSS which showed statistically significant differences in forefoot width in both genders(p<0.05). There is an increasing trend of forefoot width as weightbearing conditions increase up to 2cm of elevated heel height. However, forefoot width decreases as heel height increases beyond 2cm in both genders. Female subjects have a higher trend of percentage of increase in mean forefoot width compared to males in all weightbearing conditions except for full weightbearing with 6cm heel height elevation.

Conclusion:

In conclusion, there is a linear trend of increase in forefoot width with increase from non-weightbearing up to 2cm heel height inclination. Full weightbearing with 2cm heel height inclination produces the widest foot splaying in this study. Larger future studies will need to be conducted to validate these findings.
Disuse Osteopenia Development with Non Weight-Bearing in Lower Extremity Trauma: CT Hounsfield-Unit-Based Analysis
Authors: Walton David M. , Farrar Nicholas , Eichman Jack , Fuster Francisco J. , Perdue Aaron , Hake Mark , Ahn Jaimo
Published: January 2022

Category:

Trauma; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Disuse osteopenia develops in individuals with decrease lower limb use especially after injury necessitating non-weightbearing, hospitalization or both. However, the nature of this change is not well characterized and, therefore, cannot be appropriately addressed. Conventional CT produces a reliable evaluation of bone quality as Hounsfield Units (HU) and offers the opportunity to longitudinally study bone density in activity-altered patients. The purpose of this study is to estimate the degree of osteopenia in non-weightbearing hospitalized patients and to identify patient-related factors associated with this loss.

Methods:

Initial screening criteria included patients who presented to the emergency department between January 1, 2010 to August 1, 2020; baseline lower extremity orthopaedic trauma evaluated by CT. Further criteria included CT imaging capturing the ipsilateral hip at the time of admission; a second CT scan, for any indication (eg, small bowel obstruction, diverticulitis, etc) that include that same hip; strict non-weightbearing in between scans. Exclusion criteria included change in weightbearing status and CT imaging changes that would not allow eBMD analysis (eg, intervention). Estimated BMD (eBMD) was measured at baseline and and at the secondary time point via HU approximation 12mm inferior to superior aspect of femoral neck on axial CT. The change in eBMD was calculated as a proxy for disuse osteopenia and the relationship between relative bone loss (as a nominal rate of osteopenia, eBMD loss/time) and patient-specific factors was explored.

Results:

Of 200,000 patients who received CT evaluation including their hip during the targeted timeframe, seventeen patients met our inclusion and exclusion criteria. There was an average of 7.3 days (median = 6 days; mode = 4 days; interquartile range: 4 - 8.5 days) between CT scans. The average rate of disuse osteopenia in the cohort was a net average decrease of 7.5 +- 5.8 HU/day. To place in a standardized clinical context, this change is estimated to correlate linearly with respect to change in DEXA BMD T-Score and may be clinically relevant when HU approach values <100. Associated patient factors that may further precipitate osteopenia whilst non-weightbearing are smoking, female gender, and diabetes.

Conclusion:

We report novel, preliminary data estimating the rate of disuse osteopenia in admitted, non-weightbearing orthopaedic trauma patients. This data underscores an important consideration all physicians should make when non- weightbearing status is being considered or required after injury or admission.
Comparison of Revolving Scarf Osteotomy and Double Metatarsal Osteotomy for Treating Severe Hallux Valgus with an Increased Distal Metatarsal Articular Angle
Authors: Wang Xinwen , Xiaojun Liang
Published: January 2022

Category:

Midfoot/Forefoot

Introduction/Purpose:

The aim of this study was to introduce a new surgical procedure defined as revolving scarf osteotomy (RSO) and compare the clinical and radiological results of RSO and double metatarsal osteotomy (DMO) performed for treating severe hallux valgus (HV) with an increased distal metatarsal articular angle (DMAA).

Methods:

First metatarsal osteotomies were performed in 56 patients (62 feet) with severe HV with an increased DMAA in Honghui Hospital from January 2015 to December 2017. RSO was performed in 32 feet and DMO was performed in 30 feet. Clinical assessments were performed using the American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) score and visual analog scale (VAS) score. Radiographic evaluations of the hallux valgus angle (HVA), intermetatarsal angle (IMA), DMAA, and first metatarsal length (FML) were compared preoperatively and postoperatively in the two groups, and the rates of complications were also compared.

Results:

The mean AOFAS score, VAS score, HVA, IMA, and DMAA showed significant improvements in both groups after surgery, but with no significant differences between the two groups. The postoperative FML was significantly larger in the RSO group than in the DMO group (p<0.001). One of the 30 feet (3.3%) in the DMO group exhibited transfer metatarsalgia at 12 months postoperatively, while another foot (3.3%) in same group had avascular necrosis of the metatarsal head. One of the 30 feet (3.1%) in the RSO group had hallux varus.

Conclusion:

No differences in the clinical and radiographic results were observed between the two groups with severe HV and an increased DMAA. However, RSO may reduce postoperative complications compared to DMO. A long-term, randomized, controlled prospective study with a larger sample would provide higher-level evidence for confirming the clinical efficacy and safety of RSO.
Prospective Observational Study of an Integrated Therapeutic Initiative for Extremities (POSITIVE): Implementation of an Integrated Orthotic and Rehabilitation Program in the Civilian Setting
Authors: Wohler Andrew , Seymour Rachel , Churchill Christine , Roomian Tamar , Jenks Michael A. , Fawcett Jeffrey D. , Elgart Mark L. , Strickland Tarey , Hsu Joseph R.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Trauma; Other

Introduction/Purpose:

The Return to Run (RTR) pathway currently utilized in the military have been demonstrated to facilitate return to duty, recreation and physical activity and decrease pain in high functioning patients who have sustained high energy lower extremity trauma. A recent study also demonstrated that the processes and outcomes are translatable across military settings, however, to date there is no evidence on implementation of this pathway in the civilian setting. We sought to evaluate the feasibility of implementation of a similar, Return to Performance (RTP), pathway at a high volume, level I civilian trauma center. RTP combines a custom Variable Cadence Ankle-Foot Orthosis (VCAFO) with an 8-week exercise program designed to improve performance and reduce pain.

Methods:

A prospective observational study was conducted to enroll all patients eligible for the VCAFO. Patients were followed from initial referral through one year. A large, national prosthetic and orthotic company was utilized for brace manufacture and fitting. Physical therapy services were provided in the outpatient setting.

Results:

The RTP pathway has been fully operational for five years. There was an initial two year run in period for initial training of therapists and prosthetists and logistic implementation at our institution. 58 patients participated in the full RTP pathway, and 21 received RTP via remote rehabilitation delivered through a manual. An additional 6 patients met with the lead PT for at least 1 visit. All expenses for prostheses as well as therapy sessions have been covered by insurance. 32 prosthetists have been trained locally in the fabrication of the brace with an additional 70 trained at the brace manufacturers most recent national meeting. 13 physical therapists have been trained to perform functional rehabilitation through the RTP pathway.

Conclusion:

Implementation of the Return to Performance pathway can be translated and scaled to the civilian setting. The study has successfully replicated the brace fabrication necessary for optimal outcome in the RTR pathway, although there are remaining questions about scaling of physical therapy. This provides evidence that the process can be de-centralized and the benefits of dynamic bracing in high functioning patients following lower extremity trauma can be translated to the civilian population.
Correlation of Patient Wearable Outcomes to Self-Reported Patient Outcome Measures
Authors: Yergensen C. Jordan , Kress Kristin L. , Plummer Otho R. , Jaffe David E.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Other; Sports

Introduction/Purpose:

Patient reported outcome measures (PROMs), especially computerized adaptive testing (CAT), are the gold standard for outcome reporting in the field of orthopaedic surgery. Wearable technology (fitbit, apple watch, etc) and other health monitoring capabilities available on smart phones applications (i.e. apple health) are rapidly evolving and being considered as alternative methods of measuring outcomes in orthopaedics. This patient wearable outcome (PWO) method has yet to be directly compared to PROMs, nor evaluated as a viable option for outcome measurement in orthopaedics. The purpose of this study is to directly compare PWOs to PROMs and determine the advantages and disadvantages of using the health monitoring capabilities of smart phones as outcome measuring tools in orthopaedics.

Methods:

This study is designed as a nonrandomized prospective cohort focused on a small subset of subjects within the field of orthopaedics. Subjects were recruited from an orthopaedic foot and ankle clinic with diagnoses of ankle sprain, plantar fasciitis, and achilles tendonitis. These conditions were chosen as these would generally represent nonoperative conditions at presentation. Subjects under 16 years of age and surgical candidates were ineligible. Standard PROM surveys, all of which have been previously validated by the AOFAS for outcome measurement were administered at enrollment and then electronically delivered at 3 and 7 weeks. Surveys utilized were the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM), Visual Analog Scale (VAS), and PROMIS physical function, mobility and pain interference scores. An application (ActiveTrack) is installed on the subjects' smartphones to pull all past and future health data including step counts, distance traveled, etc. Statistical analysis was then performed to correlate PWO's with PROMs.

Results:

28 subjects consented and enrolled in the study. This has provided strong encouragement for the goals of the study. 21 patients were observed at 3 weeks with a Pearson correlation of step count of 0.6975 (95% CI: 0.3804-0.8679). 7 subjects were observed at 7 weeks with a Pearson correlation of step count of 0.8387 (95% CI: 0.2325-0.9756). We found that step counts and FAAM scores generally increased after treatment, and that the correlation between the changes was positive. The strongest signal was obtained from the FAAM ADL subscale.

Conclusion:

This study shows that there is a correlation between a patient's self-reported function (PROMs) and their activity (PWOs). PWO data may represent a more accurate measurement of a patient's activity and therefore may be a great tool in assessing functionality before and after an intervention (be it surgical or nonoperative treatments). Further analysis of the data obtained from this prospective study over time may help establish a new standard of care for measuring patients' response to orthopaedic treatment.
A Patient Cohort Comparison of Radiographic Correction and Early Complications Between Percutaneous and Open Lapidus Procedures for Hallux Valgus
Authors: Younger Alastair S. , Cardoso Diogo , Wing Kevin J. , Veljkovic Andrea N. , Penner Murray J.
Published: January 2022

Category:

Bunion

Introduction/Purpose:

Hallux valgus can be corrected by a variety of procedures. The Lapidus procedure corrects the first ray position in three planes using a first tarsometatarsal fusion (TMTF) and distal release and realignment. In a single surgeon practice the procedure was performed open until 2017, when burrs became available to perform the procedure percutaneously. This study compares the early radiographic results and complications of the percutaneous procedure with the open procedure.

Methods:

47 patients undergoing the percutaneous procedure were compared with 44 patients undergoing the open procedure prior to July 2017. Radiographic measures preoperatively were compared to the postoperative measures for intermetataral angle (IMA), Hallux valgus angle (HVA), foot width (FW), distal metatarsal articular angle (DMMA), sesamoid station, metatarsus adductus angle (MAA), first metatarsal to second metatarsal length, and elevation of the first metatarsal. Early 30 day complications were recorded, as well as repeat surgeries. Demographics: There were 81 female and 10 male patients; The average age was MIS 58+/- 13, open 62+/-13. BMI was 28.4 vs 25.1. 1% of patients had diabetes, and 15% were smokers. Statistical analysis was performed using ANOVA. Because of multiple comparisons p<0.005. Error is quoted as 95% standard deviation. Grouped statistics were compared with a chi square test.

Results:

There is less correction in the MIS group in HV angle. The IM angle reduced from 15.8o+/-4.6 o to 6.3 o +/- 3.3 o compared to 17.7 o to 4.8 o +/- 3.6 o for the open group (p<0.05 and p>0.005). The change was 9.5 o compared to 12.9 o. HVA in the MIS group went from 34.6 o +/- 9.1 o to 14.5 o +/- 7.9 o (20.1 o change) compared to the open group where HVA went from 40.7 o +/- 10.5 o down to 11.6 o +/- 6.1 o (29.1 o change) (p<0.001). The wound complication rate trended higher in the open group (4 versus 0) out of 51 in each group (p>0.05). The nonunion rate was higher in the open group (0 MIS vs 4). The revision rate for deformity correction was the same in both groups (2 versus 2).

Conclusion:

In this single surgeon series between the two cohorts the MIS group showed a trend towards less correction than the open group. In particular the correction of the Hallux valgus angle was less. At the current time the distal release and realignment may not be as effective as in the open surgery, so more Aitken osteotomies may be required.However there was a trend for less wound complications and less non unions in the MIS group. The comparison included the initial experience with MIS as so the correction may not be as good as the technique evolves.
Obesity Increases Risk for Surgical Site Infections and Wound Dehiscence after Pediatric Foot Surgery: A Retrospective Cohort Review using the NSQIP-Pediatric Database
Authors: Zide Jacob R. , Farahani Farzam , Rodriguez Joel , Wukich Dane K. , Riccio Anthony
Published: January 2022

Category:

Other

Introduction/Purpose:

Both the incidence of childhood obesity and the number of obese children undergoing surgical procedures are increasing in pediatrics. As such, pediatric orthopaedic surgeons will likely encounter obese patients more frequently in their practice and a better understanding of the unique risks associated with obesity is valuable to maximize patient safety. The purpose of this study is, therefore, to retrospectively evaluate the relationship between obesity and post-operative outcomes in pediatric orthopaedic surgery patients across multiple institutions using a large national database.

Methods:

Pediatric patients who had undergone foot surgery were retrospectively identified by cross-referencing reconstructive foot-specific CPT codes with ICD-9/ICD-10 diagnosis codes using the American College of Surgeons 2012-2017 Pediatric National Surgical Quality Improvement (ACS-NSQIP-Pediatric) database. Patients were stratified into normal weight and obese cohorts based upon Center for Disease Control BMI-to-age growth charts. Patient demographics, comorbidities, intra-operative, and post- operative factors were compared between these two cohorts via univariate analysis with false discovery rate adjustment. Multivariable logistic regression models were then generated to assess for obesity as an independent predictor of post-operative complications.

Results:

Of the 3,924 patients identified, 1,063 (27.1%) were obese. Obese patients were more often male (64.7% vs 58.7%; p=0.001) and taller (56.3in vs 51.3in; p<0.001) than normal weight patients. There were no differences in pre-operative comorbidities between the two cohorts. Obese patients had a higher overall post-operative complication rate compared to normal weight patients (3.01% vs 1.32%; p=0.001). There was a significantly higher rate of wound dehiscence in obese patients (1.41% vs 0.59%; p=0.039) as well as a higher surgical site infection (SSI) rate that trended towards, but did not reach, statistical significance (1.32% vs. 0.59%; p=0.061). No differences were noted in unplanned readmissions (1.03% vs 0.9%; p=0.968) or unplanned reoperations (1.03% vs. 0.45%; p=0.175) within 30 days of surgery between the two groups. In multivariate analysis, obesity was found to be an independent predictor of both wound dehiscence (adjusted OR=2.16; 95%CI=1.05-4.50; p=0.037) and SSI (adjusted OR=3.03; 95%CI=1.39-6.61; p=0.005).

Conclusion:

Obese children undergoing foot surgery had higher overall complication rates than normal weight patients. Obese children undergoing foot surgery may be at higher risk for wound complications and surgical site infections than those of normal weight. This information may be useful in assessing and discussing surgical risks with patients and their families.
Improving interpreters’ normative ethics discourse by imparting principled-reasoning through case analysis
Authors: Dean Robyn K , Pollard Robert Q
Published: January 2022

The vocabulary available to community interpreters regarding professional ethics is typically limited to a set of prohibitions—what interpreters should not do. These prohibitions are disproportionately more prevalent in ethical documents and discourse than guidance on what interpreters should do. Both types of guidance are examples of normative ethical messages. However, when interpreters are asked to justify decisions which lead to them taking action rather than refraining from action, they are left with insufficient vocabulary to do so. Without a broader normative vocabulary allowing conversation regarding action-taking, interpreters tend to rely on unhelpful, non-normative language such as metaphors which fail to advance professional dialogue and development of the field. Ethics scholars link such discourse deficiencies with underdeveloped reasoning abilities, often citing the need to ground normative discourse within the principles and values of a profession. “Principled-reasoning” in part involves the ability to weigh the import of conflicting ethical obligations, such as principles that compel action versus inaction. Ethicists consider principled-reasoning to be the highest order of ethical reasoning. While there are theoretical and pedagogical developments in community interpreting that can further principled-reasoning skills, there remain significant barriers. One is the profession’s failure to incorporate widely recognised ethical principles such as non-maleficence, beneficence, justice, and autonomy in its normative messaging and discourse. Another is the profession’s lack of normative terms to convey intermediate ethical concepts. A third is the still-limited adoption of structured reflective practices, such as case analysis and supervision, to impart principled-reasoning skills both during and after interpreters’ formal education years.
Otherwise than Empire: Psychotherapeutic Implications of Brueggemann’s Prophetic Imagination
Authors: Horton George R.
Published: January 2022

This article draws on theologian Walter Brueggemann’s analysis of the prophetic tradition in the Hebrew and Christian scriptures to suggest implications for psychotherapists who wish to understand and intervene with patients in more hermeneutically grounded ways. It begins with a brief biographical contextualization of Walter Brueggemann’s work as an Old Testament scholar followed by an extrapolation of key themes in his work. These are (1) the ubiquity of empire, (2) the critical dismantling of empire through grief, and (3) the penetration of despair through the resuscitation of imagination that sees a future otherwise than empire. The article then moves to implications for a hermeneutically sensitive psychotherapy that makes use of the prophetic tradition to fashion a “prophetic sensibility.” Finally, the clinical practice of a prophetic sensibility is demonstrated through an examination of relevant case material.
QTL mapping for growth-related traits by constructing the first genetic linkage map in Simao pine
Authors: Wang Dawei , Yang Lin , Shi Chen , Li Siguang , Tang Hongyan , He Chengzhong , Cai Nianhui , Duan Anan , Gong Hede
Published: January 2022

Background

Simao pine is one of the primary economic tree species for resin and timber production in southwest China. The exploitation and utilization of Simao pine are constrained by the relatively lacking of genetic information. Construction a fine genetic linkage map and detecting quantitative trait locis (QTLs) for growth-related traits is a prerequisite section of Simao Pine's molecular breeding program.

Results

In our study, a high-resolution Simao pine genetic map employed specific locus amplified fragment sequencing (SLAF-seq) technology and based on an F1pseudo-testcross population has been constructed. There were 11,544 SNPs assigned to 12 linkage groups (LGs), and the total length of the map was 2,062.85 cM with a mean distance of 0.37 cM between markers. According to the phenotypic variation analysis for three consecutive years, a total of seventeen QTLs for four traits were detected. Among 17 QTLs, there were six for plant height (Dh.16.1, Dh16.2, Dh17.1, Dh18.1–3), five for basal diameter (Dbd.17.1–5), four for needle length (Dnl17.1–3, Dnl18.1) and two for needle diameter (Dnd17.1 and Dnd18.1) respectively. These QTLs individually explained phenotypic variance from 11.0–16.3%, and the logarithm of odds (LOD) value ranged from 2.52 to 3.87.

Conclusions

In our study, a fine genetic map of Simao pine applied the technology of SLAF-seq has been constructed for the first time. Based on the map, a total of 17 QTLs for four growth-related traits were identified. It provides helpful information for genomic studies and marker-assisted selection (MAS) in Simao pine.
Study retention and attrition in a longitudinal cohort study including patient-reported outcomes, fieldwork and biobank samples: results of the Netherlands quality of life and Biomedical cohort study (NET-QUBIC) among 739 head and neck cancer patients and 262 informal caregivers
Authors: Jansen Femke , Brakenhoff Ruud H. , Baatenburg de Jong Rob J. , Langendijk Johannes A. , Leemans C. René , Takes Robert P. , Terhaard Chris H. J. , Smit Jan H. , Verdonck-de Leeuw Irma M.
Published: January 2022

Background

Longitudinal observational cohort studies in cancer patients are important to move research and clinical practice forward. Continued study participation (study retention) is of importance to maintain the statistical power of research and facilitate representativeness of study findings. This study aimed to investigate study retention and attrition (drop-out) and its associated sociodemographic and clinical factors among head and neck cancer (HNC) patients and informal caregivers included in the Netherlands Quality of Life and Biomedical Cohort Study (NET-QUBIC).

Methods

NET-QUBIC is a longitudinal cohort study among 739 HNC patients and 262 informal caregivers with collection of patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), fieldwork data (interview, objective tests and medical examination) and biobank materials. Study retention and attrition was described from baseline (before treatment) up to 2-years follow-up (after treatment). Sociodemographic and clinical characteristics associated with retention in NET-QUBIC components at baseline (PROMs, fieldwork and biobank samples) and retention in general (participation in at least one component) were investigated using Chi-square, Fisher exact or independent t-tests (p< 0.05).

Results

Study retention at 2-years follow-up was 80% among patients alive (66% among all patients) and 70% among caregivers of patients who were alive and participating (52% among all caregivers). Attrition was most often caused by mortality, and logistic, physical, or psychological-related reasons. Tumor stage I/II, better physical performance and better (lower) comorbidity score were associated with participation in the PROMs component among patients. No factors associated with participation in the fieldwork component (patients), overall sample collection (patients and caregivers) or PROMs component (caregivers) were identified. A better performance and comorbidity score (among patients) and higher age (among caregivers) were associated with study retention at 2-years follow-up.

Conclusions

Retention rates were high at two years follow-up (i.e. 80% among HNC patients alive and 70% among informal caregivers with an active patient). Nevertheless, some selection was shown in terms of tumor stage, physical performance, comorbidity and age, which might limit representativeness of NET-QUBIC data and samples. To facilitate representativeness of study findings future cohort studies might benefit from oversampling specific subgroups, such as patients with poor clinical outcomes or higher comorbidity and younger caregivers.
Giant dorsal lipofibromatosis in an infant: a case report
Authors: Li Zhiyu , Zou Yuqing , Xu Guangqi , Bi Jianhai , Huo Ran
Published: January 2022

Background

Lipofibromatosis is a rare, benign, soft tissue tumor that usually presents in children. Low incidence and lack of specificity in clinical presentation make its diagnosis difficult.

Case presentation

This is a case report of a patient with a giant lipofibromatosis on the back that resembles an infantile hemangioma, which posed great difficulty in diagnosis due to atypical clinical manifestations. After the postoperative pathological and immunohistochemical examination and fluorescence in situ hybridization, the patient was finally diagnosed with lipofibromatosis.

Conclusions

The incidence of fibromatosis was low. This case presents an atypical clinical manifestation since the tumor growth was on the back, and this can easily cause misdiagnosis. This case suggests that the diagnosis of lipofibromatosis depends on the pathology and fluorescence in situ hybridization.
Genome-wide analysis of cell-Free DNA methylation profiling with MeDIP-seq identified potential biomarkers for colorectal cancer
Authors: Zhang Xin , Li Tao , Niu Qiang , Qin Chang-jiang , Zhang Ming , Wu Guang-ming , Li Hua-zhong , Li Yan , Wang Chen , Du Wen-fei , Wang Chen-yang , Zhao Qiang , Zhao Xiao-dong , Wang Xiao-liang , Zhu Jian-bin
Published: January 2022

Background

Colorectal cancer is the most common malignancy and the third leading cause of cancer-related death worldwide. This study aimed to identify potential diagnostic biomarkers for colorectal cancer by genome-wide plasma cell-free DNA (cfDNA) methylation analysis.

Methods

Peripheral blood from colorectal cancer patients and healthy controls was collected for cfDNA extraction. Genome-wide cfDNA methylation profiling, especially differential methylation profiling between colorectal cancer patients and healthy controls, was performed by methylated DNA immunoprecipitation coupled with high-throughput sequencing (MeDIP-seq). Logistic regression models were established, and the accuracy of this diagnostic model for colorectal cancer was verified using tissue-sourced data from The Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA) and Gene Expression Omnibus (GEO) due to the lack of cfDNA methylation data in public datasets.

Results

Compared with the control group, 939 differentially methylated regions (DMRs) located in promoter regions were found in colorectal cancer patients; 16 of these DMRs were hypermethylated, and the remaining 923 were hypomethylated. In addition, these hypermethylated genes, mainly PRDM14, RALYL, ELMOD1, and TMEM132E, were validated and confirmed in colorectal cancer by using publicly available DNA methylation data.

Conclusions

MeDIP-seq can be used as an optimal approach for analyzing cfDNA methylomes, and 12 probes of four differentially methylated genes identified by MeDIP-seq (PRDM14, RALYL, ELMOD1, and TMEM132E) could serve as potential biomarkers for clinical application in patients with colorectal cancer.
Hybrid gastroenterostomy using a lumen-apposing metal stent: a case report focusing on misdeployment and systematic review of the current literature
Authors: Fabbri Carlo , Binda Cecilia , Fugazzola Paola , Sbrancia Monica , Tomasoni Matteo , Coluccio Chiara , Jung Carlo Felix Maria , Prosperi Enrico , Agnoletti Vanni , Ansaloni Luca
Published: January 2022

Background

Gastric outlet obstruction can result from several benign and malignant diseases, in particular gastric, duodenal or pancreatic tumors. Surgical gastroenterostomy and enteral endoscopic stenting have represented effective therapeutic options, although recently endoscopic ultrasound-guided gastroenterostomy using lumen-apposing metal stent (LAMS) is spreading improving the outcome of this condition. However, this procedure, although mini-invasive, is burdened with not negligible complications, including misdeployment.

Main body

We report the case of a 60-year-old male with gastric outlet obstruction who underwent ultrasound-guided gastroenterostomy using LAMS. The procedure was complicated by LAMS misdeployment being managed by laparoscopy-assisted placement of a second LAMS.

We performed a systematic review in order to identify all reported cases of misdeployment in EUS-GE and their management. The literature shows that misdeployment occurs in up to 10% of all EUS-GE procedures with a wide spectrum of possible strategies of treatment.

Conclusion

The here reported hybrid technique may offer an innovative strategy to manage LAMS misdeployment when this occurs. Moreover, a hybrid approach may be valuable to overcome this complication, especially in early phases of training of EUS-guided gastroenterostomy.
Application of Legendre polynomials based neural networks for the analysis of heat and mass transfer of a non-Newtonian fluid in a porous channel
Authors: Khan Naveed Ahmad , Sulaiman Muhammad , Kumam Poom , Alarfaj Fawaz Khaled
Published: January 2022

In this paper, the mathematical models for flow and heat-transfer analysis of a non-Newtonian fluid with axisymmetric channels and porous walls are analyzed. The governing equations of the problem are derived by using the basic concepts of continuity and momentum equations. Furthermore, artificial intelligence-based feedforward neural networks (ANNs) are utilized with hybridization of a generalized normal-distribution optimization (GNDO) algorithm and sequential quadratic programming (SQP) to study the heat-transfer equations and calculate the approximate solutions for the momentum of a non-Newtonian fluid. Legendre polynomials based Legendre neural networks (LNN) are used to develop a mathematical model for the governing equations, which are further exploited by the global search ability of GNDO and SQP for rapid localization convergence. The proposed technique is applied to study the effect of variations in Reynolds number Re on the velocity profile $(f^{\prime })$
(

f
′

)
and the temperature profile $(q)$
(
q
)
. The results obtained by the LeNN-GNDO-SQP algorithm are compared with the differential transformation method (DTM), which shows the stability of the results and the correctness of the technique. Extensive graphical and statistical analyses are conducted in terms of minimum, mean, and standard deviation based on fitness value, absolute errors, mean absolute deviation (MAD), error in the Nash–Sutcliffe efficiency (NSE), and root mean square error (RMSE).
Exome sequencing identifies a novel GUCY2D mutation in an Iranian family with Leber congenital amaurosis-1: a case report
Authors: Neissi Mostafa , Al-Badran Adnan Issa , Mohammadi-Asl Javad
Published: January 2022

Background

Leber congenital amaurosis (LCA), the severe form of inherited retinal degenerative disorder, is a prevalent disorder in the first year of life. Recently, genetic studies discovered that different gene mutations are responsible for LCA clinical manifestations.

Case presentation

In this study, we applied whole exome sequencing (WES) to identify probable gene defects in an Iranian girl with LCA-1. We found a novel disease-causing GUCY2D gene mutation (c.2348T > C; p.L783P), located in exon 12 (NM_000180), causing a missense mutation that has been changed the coding protein. The WES-identified variant was confirmed by Sanger sequencing for the patient and her healthy parents. Submitted to genetic counseling that the patient was 1-year old and blindness from birth.

Conclusions

Our findings establish that this detected GUCY2D-p.L783P mutation is the pathogenic variant for LCA-1. This is the first genetic study indicating that c.2348T > C missense mutation in the homozygous state in GUCY2D gene is responsible for the LCA-1 phenotype.
A hybrid TEG/evacuated tube solar collectors for electric power generation and space heating
Authors: Al-Tahaineh Hamza , AlEssa Abdullah H. M.
Published: January 2022

The present work aimed to examine the performance of a thermoelectric generator (TEG) augmented with a hydronic evacuated tube solar collector heat exchanger used to heat a cold zone. TEGs were operated on the temperature difference between hot water circulated through the heat exchanger and the cold temperature of the surrounding space. The setup model of a heat exchanger with TEGs installed on the outer surface was examined numerically under steady state conditions for natural and forced convection modes. The results obtained show that 1.03 W of electricity could be produced when the temperature differences across the TEG and air velocity are 60 °C and 0.5 m/s, respectively. Also, an increase of 17.47% of TEG power was achieved for each 5 °C drop in surrounding space temperature and by 11% for each 5 °C rise in circulated hot water temperature. Besides the importance of improving TEG efficiencies, the amount of generated electricity may be valuable when large-surface area heat exchanger units are installed in large systems.
ELECTRONIC COLLECTION OF TEST TASKS FOR THE COURSE "FUNDAMENTALS OF PEDIATRICS AND HYGIENE" : A BANK OF QUESTIONS
Authors: Kozhevnikova O.A.
Published: January 2022

The test tasks are compiled in accordance with the requirements of the Federal State Educational Standard in the direction of "Psychological and pedagogical education" and are designed to control the formation of the following universal general professional and professional competencies: OPK-1 (Able to carry out professional activities in accordance with regulatory legal acts in the field of education and professional ethics) and PC-6 (Capable of ensuring the protection of the life and health of students). Indicators of competence achievement are knowledge of the priority directions of the development of the education system of the Russian Federation, laws and other regulatory legal acts regulating activities in the field of education in the Russian Federation, legislative documents on the rights of the child, the Convention on the Rights of the Child; knowledge of methods and methods of ensuring the safety of students in dangerous situations; ability to apply basic regulatory legal acts in the field of education and professional ethics; the ability to analyze and assess the degree of danger in various situations, the ability to provide conditions for a safe and comfortable educational environment that contributes to the preservation of life and health of students.
Effects of carbon dioxide purities on mitotic index in lymphocyte culture and metaphase chromosome quality
Authors: Purnami Sofiati , Wibisari Indri Permata , Suvifan Viria Agesti , Nurhayati Siti , Ramadhani Dwi
Published: January 2022

Abstract. Purnami S, Wibisari IP, Suvifan VA, Nurhayati S, Ramadhani D. 2021. Effects of carbon dioxide purities on mitotic index in lymphocyte culture and metaphase chromosome quality. Nusantara Bioscience 13: 171-176. The metaphase chromosome spread quality is necessary for a faster individual dose prediction following radiological accidents using dicentric chromosome assay. It is well known that the low-quality metaphase chromosome spreads can lead to false positives of dicentric chromosome identification. Thus, evaluation of the main variable that influences the preparation of high-quality metaphase chromosome spreads is important to perform. Until now, no studies have assessed the effects of CO2 purities on metaphase chromosome spread quality. This study aimed to evaluate the effects of carbon dioxide (CO2) purities on lymphocyte proliferation, and the quality of metaphase chromosome spreads to improve the chromosome aberration assay for cytogenetic biodosimetry purposes. Whole blood samples from three different subjects were cultured and incubated for 48 hours with two different grades of CO2 (high purity and food grades) and without CO2. The mitotic index (MI) from each subject was assessed, and the quality of metaphase chromosome spreads was evaluated by comparing the lengths of chromosomes 1, 2, and 21. Statistical analysis revealed that the difference between manual and automatic MI under three different conditions of CO2 purity was not statistically significant (p = 0.162; p = 0.901). Comparative analysis of the lengths of chromosomes 1, 2, and 21 from 145 metaphases also showed a difference that was not statistically significant (p = 0.745; p = 0.915; p = 0.399). Overall, our findings suggest that CO2 purities do not impair lymphocyte proliferation or metaphase quality. Further investigation should include other technical improvements such as drop-slide optimization.
Short Communication: Floral diversity of honey bee-collected pollen (Apis cerana) colonies in the Ir. H. Djuanda Forest Park, West Java, Indonesia
Authors: Nuriyah Syayidah , Husodo Teguh , Hermawan Wawan , YUSUF ARIEF ANSHORY , Kasmara Hikmat , Kusmoro Joko , Wulandari Indri , Shanida Sya Sya
Published: January 2022

Abstract. Nuriyah S, Husodo T, Hermawan W, Yusuf AA, Kasmara H, Kusmoro J, Wulandari I, Shanida SS. 2021. Short Communication: Floral diversity of honey bee-collected pollen (Apis cerana) colonies in the Ir. H. Djuanda Forest Park, West Jawa, Indonesia. Nusantara Bioscience 13: 185-193. Honey bees, especially Apis cerana Fabr., need feed sources from nectar and pollen. Pollen is essential for sexual reproduction. Various plants in the forest park have not been supported by information on pollinated plants or as feed sources by A. cerana. This study should be conducted as essential information to reveal the pollens as feed sources of A. cerana in the Ir. H. Djuanda Forest Park, West Java. However, there is little information about those plants in the forest park, West Java. This study aimed to reveal the pollens as feed sources of A. cerana in the Ir. H. Djuanda Forest Park. Sampling collection was carried out on 45 honey bee-collected pollen from three cultivation areas. Pollen preparation was carried out using the acetolysis method. Based on the study results, 70 species of pollen flora of 36 families were found in Ir. H. Djuanda Forest Park vegetation also found in the A. cerana. However, further study is needed regarding the frequently visited plants used as feed sources or pollinating by A. cerana. In addition, considering that the honey bees cultivated in the forest park are dominated by A. cerana, further studies are needed on regularly pollinated plants to maximize the yield of honey cultivation.
Nutrition Label Literacy and Food Choices among Mobile Food Pantry Participants
Authors: Martin Shadai , Zagone Leia , Rogus Stephanie
Published: January 2022

Objective: We assessed nutrition label literacy and whether the implementation of traffic light labeling (TLL) would facilitate participants’ perceptions about the usefulness of TLL in making healthier food choices at a university’s mobile food pantry. Methods: TLL was implemented during 3 mobile food pantry distribution sessions on a university campus in the southwestern United States during spring of 2020. College students, staff, and community members utilizing the mobile food pantry selected food items based on the TLL perceptions after receiving nutrition education. We used items from validated surveys, demographic items, and TLL perception questions to collect our data from participants (N = 112). Results: We found statistically significant associations between nutrition label literacy and choosing healthier food items based on TLL perceptions; participants who had lower nutrition label literacy scores perceived the TLL to be the most helpful in selecting healthier food items (p = .02). Statistically significant association also was noted between race/ethnicity and nutrition label literacy (p = .004) and overweight participants perceiving the TLL method to be restrictive when choosing food items(p = .02). Conclusions: Assessing nutrition label literacy and whether the implementation of the TLL would facilitate participants perceptions about the usefulness of the TLL in making healthier food choices identifies opportunities to improve nutrition label literacy among individuals who utilize mobile food pantries; in addition, it highlights the importance of nutrition label literacy in making informed and/or healthy food choices.
Out-of-Plane Structural Performance of Compressed Earth Block Walls Subject to Quasistatic Loading
Authors: Saad Ahmad S. , Ahmed Taha A. , Yassin Mohammad H. , Radwan Ali I. , Ezzedine Aya I.
Published: January 2022

This study constitutes a step forward in the overall effort to evaluate the applicability of compressed earth blocks (CEBs) as an environmentally friendly construction alternative in Kuwait. The study is part of a series of experiments that started by assessing different soil samples from various regions in Kuwait. It was discovered that soils in the northern areas (near Al-Sabriyah district and Boubyan Island) contain a good mixture of clayey and silty deposits that can be used to produce CEBs. The collected soil from this region was used in producing CEBs. Three half-scaled walls were constructed and were laterally tested in the out-of-plane direction using quasistatic loading. One of these walls was strengthened using carbon fiber reinforced polymer (CFRP) laminates. A fourth wall made from regular concrete masonry units (CMU) was also tested and compared with the results from the CEB walls. The tests showed the latter had a significantly reduced lateral capacity compared with the wall made from CMUs. It emerged from the test results that a higher percentage of stabilizer in the CEB production enhances the performance of walls made from these CEB in their out-of-plane direction. This is especially the case in terms of stiffness, strength, displacements, and energy dissipated. Results revealed that strengthening CEB walls can alter their structural behavior from flexural dominated to shear dominated failure with an increase of 116 % in the wall strength (nearly doubled) under lateral loading in the out-of-plane direction.