bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Influence of Talar and Calcaneal Morphology on Subtalar Kinematics During Walking
Authors: Yamamoto Tetsuya , Paulus Paige , Setliff Joshua C. , Hogan MaCalus V. , Anderst William J. 
Published: March 2024

Background: Cadaver biomechanical testing suggests that the morphology of articulating bones contributes to the stability of the joints and determines their kinematics; however, there are no studies examining the correlation between bone morphology and kinematics of the subtalar joint. The purpose of this study was to investigate the influence of talar and calcaneal morphology on subtalar kinematics during walking in healthy individuals. Methods: Forty ankles (20 healthy subjects, 10 women/10 men) were included. Participants walked at a self-selected pace while synchronized biplane radiographs of the hindfoot were acquired at 100 images per second during stance. Motion of the talus and calcaneus was tracked using a validated volumetric model-based tracking process, and subtalar kinematics were calculated. Talar and calcaneal morphology were evaluated using statistical shape modeling. Pearson correlation coefficients were used to assess the relationship between subtalar kinematics and the morphology features of the talus and calcaneus. Results: This study found that a shallower posterior facet of the talus was correlated with the subtalar joint being in more dorsiflexion, more inversion, and more internal rotation, and higher curvature in the posterior facet was correlated with more inversion and eversion range of motion during stance. In the calcaneus, a gentler slope of the middle facet was correlated with greater subtalar inversion. Conclusion: The morphology of the posterior facet of the talus was found to a primary factor driving multiplanar subtalar joint kinematics during the stance phase of gait. Clinical Relevance: This new knowledge relating form and function in the hindfoot may assist in identifying individuals susceptible to subtalar instability and in improving implant design to achieve desired kinematics after surgery.
3D Analysis of Joint-Sparing Charcot-Marie-Tooth Surgery Effect on Initial Standing Foot Alignment
Authors: Song Jae Hwang , Michalski Max P. , Pfeffer Glenn B. 
Published: March 2024

Background: The complex deformities in cavovarus feet of Charcot-Marie-Tooth (CMT) disease are difficult to evaluate. The aim of this study was to quantify the initial standing alignment correction achieved after joint-sparing CMT cavovarus reconstruction using pre- and postoperative weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT). Methods: Twenty-nine CMT cavovarus reconstructions were retrospectively analyzed. Three-dimensional measurements were performed using semiautomated software (Bonelogic 2.1) to investigate changes in sagittal, axial, and coronal parameters. Pre- and postoperative data were compared, along with normative data. Correlation among the preoperative measurements and the amount of correction in sagittal, axial, and coronal parameters were analyzed. Results The sagittal, axial, and coronal malalignment of the hindfoot, and the sagittal and axial malalignment of the forefoot, was significantly improved after corrective surgery ( P < .05). Sagittal Meary angle (from 14.8 to 0.1 degrees), axial talonavicular angle (TNA, from 3.6 to 19.2 degrees), and coronal hindfoot alignment (from 11.0 to −11.1 degrees) showed significant changes postoperatively ( P < .001). Hindfoot, forefoot sagittal, and forefoot axial parameters reached comparable outcomes compared with normative value ( P > .05). Regarding amount of correction, Spearman correlation demonstrated that axial Meary angle and TNA were most strongly related to improvement in sagittal Meary angle and coronal hindfoot alignment. Conclusion: Preoperative and postoperative WBCT measurements demonstrated that joint sparing CMT cavovarus reconstruction significantly improved sagittal, axial, and coronal deformities of CMT, and sagittal Meary angle was restored toward normative values. Apparent axial plane correction, the majority of which occurred at the talonavicular joint, had the strongest correlation with deformity correction in multiple planes. This suggests that soft tissue releases and correction of the talonavicular joint may be a key component of a cavovarus foot correction.
Treatment of Symptomatic Os Supranaviculare in Athletes
Authors: Sugimoto Kazuya , Isomoto Shinji , Miura Kimio , Wakiyama Sayaka , Yoneda Azusa , Taniguchi Akira , Tanaka Yasuhito 
Published: March 2024

Background: Although the incidence of os supranaviculare (OSSN) is generally low, symptomatic OSSN affects athletes. The aim of this study was to assess the variations of OSSN and the results of osteosynthesis between the OSSN and the navicular bone. Methods: Eleven feet of 10 elite athletes with symptomatic OSSN were treated. There were 3 male and 7 female patients with an average age of 19 years. Eight feet exhibited navicular stress fracture (NSF). Operative treatment was performed in 9 feet of 8 patients and 2 conservatively. Seven OSSNs were fixed with 1 or 2 screw(s) according to their size, using an autologous bone graft. The accompanying NSF was also treated surgically in 4 feet. Foot condition was evaluated using the Japanese Society for Surgery of the Foot (JSSF) midfoot rating scale and sports activity score of the Self-Administered Foot Evaluation Questionnaire (SAFE-Q). Results: The median OSSN was 12.7 mm in width, 5.6 mm in length, and 6.6 mm in height. The dorsal surface of the OSSN required at least 70 mm2 to be fixed using 2 screws. Seven OSSNs of 6 patients treated surgically successfully fused with the navicular. Two small OSSNs that were not stabilized with screws also fused after surgical treatment for NSF. However, one of the 2 OSSNs with NSF treated nonoperatively did not achieve fusion. The patients were followed up for 24-161 months. The median JSSF score improved from 87 to 97.7 postoperatively ( P = .00312). The median postoperative SAFE-Q sports score was 84.8. All patients returned to their original activities. Conclusion: Our results suggest that osteosynthesis with autologous bone graft was effective for symptomatic OSSNs. Even when the OSSN was small and not suitable for internal fixation, treatment of NSF was effective for union of OSSNs. The OSSN possibly belongs to a part or subtype of NSF.
Mycotic Pulmonary Artery Aneurysm a Rare Complication of Ventricular Septal Defect With Infective Endocarditis: A Case Report
Authors: Khouchoua Selma , Belkouchi Lina , Lrhorfi Najlaa , El Haddad Siham , Allali Nazik , Chat Latifa 
Published: March 2024

Introduction: Pulmonary artery aneurysms encompass a wide range of presentations and forms. Mycotic aneurysms represent a particular subset of focal dilatation of the vessel wall with high morbidity and mortality rates. Herein, we report the case of a 32 year old patient, with a prior history of ventricular septal defect presenting with a mycotic pulmonary artery aneurysm associated with infective endocarditis and septic emboli. Case presentation: We present the case of a 32 year old male with known history of congenital ventricular septal defect presented to the emergency department with signs of sepsis and dyspnea. Blood cultures were positive for methicillin-sensitive Staphylococcus aureus. An echocardiogram found evidence of endocarditis with multiples intra cavitary vegetations. A CT angiogram demonstrated major right ventricular dilatation, multiple nodules and peripheral opacities, scattered throughout the lungs, indicative of septic emboli. Segmental saccular dilatation of the left lateral basal pulmonary artery consistent with a mycotic aneurysm formation was found. The patient was started on intravenous antibiotics and given the overall satisfactory evolution a conservative approach was pursued. The patient was discharged with antibiotics and scheduled for surgical repair of the ventricular septal defect. Conclusion: To our knowledge, mycotic aneurysms associated to congenital heart malformation like ventricular septal wall defect remains a rare condition with few reported cases in the literature. Being aware of this entity is important for every practicing radiologist to allow for early diagnosis and treatment.
Innovative retrofitting approaches for energy saving in Saudi public schools
Authors: Al-Tamimi Nedhal , Qahtan Abdultawab , Alotaibi Badr Saad , Abuhussain Mohammed Awad 
Published: March 2024

Saudi buildings use approximately 29% of the primary energy and about 80% of the electrical energy. Because of the hot and dry climate, air conditioners consume a lot of electrical energy to attain a comfortable temperature indoors. More than 70% of Saudi buildings need to be thermally insulated. The objective of this study is to assess the existing energy saving of public schools in Saudi Arabia. Indoor thermal environment monitoring of three school buildings has been undertaken by employing LSI LASTEM ‘R-LOG’ data loggers, and electric energy bills of the schools were also collected. The school building was modelled using DesignBuilder software, which was utilized to investigate the impact of various modifications made to the building envelopes, including changes to building orientation, the inclusion of thermal insulation layers, various types of glass and shading devices. According to the findings, implementing appropriate building envelope design techniques for existing schools can lead to significant reductions in cooling and overall energy consumption, with savings of 30% and 19%, respectively. After applying these strategies collectively, the school managed to reduce its total annual electricity consumption by nearly 19.2%, resulting in a decrease from 279.13 MWh to 225.5 MWh per year.
Enhancing the physical properties of recycled low-density polyethylene and virgin low-density polyethylene blend using octanoate starch
Authors: Al Maamori Mohammed Hamza , Habeeb Salih Abbas , Moslem Mohammed Ali 
Published: March 2024

Increasing global consumption of low-density polyethylene leads to more polymeric waste and challenges solid waste management. Therefore, the process of recycling or mixing recycled low-density polyethylene (RLDPE) with the same virgin low-density polyethylene (VLDPE) and enhancing the properties of this blend by adding different amounts of bioplastic such as Octanoate starch (OCST) is a good contribution to getting rid of plastic waste and obtaining new materials. This paper mixed the 20, 30 and 50 wt.% from RLDPE with VLDPE to determine the homogeneous blend. Also, 30, 40, and 50 wt. % from OCST were blended with homogeneous as a 20:80 RLDPE: VLDPE to obtain a new hybrid blend containing bioplastic. The scanning electron microscope (SEM) results showed the high surface roughness of the film RLDPE: VLDPE after adding the OCST. The tensile strength, elastic modulus, and hardness of the 20:80 RLDPE: VLDPE blend were 13.0 ± 1.467 MPa, 0.08 ± 0.016 MPa, and 42.3 ± 2.32 Shore A, while the tensile strength, elastic modulus, and hardness of the 12:48:40 RLDPE: VLDPE: OCST were 14.3 ± 1.626 MPa, 0.1 ± 0.032 MPa, and 50.1 ± 2.78 Shore A respectively. On the other hand, the Fourier-Transform Infrared (FTIR) indicated that the strong bands at 1746 cm−1, 2856 cm−1, and 2927 cm−1 indicated stretching deformation of the ester carbonyl group and the methyl and methylene groups of OCST with blend polymers, respectively. The thermal properties as melting point, heat energy consumption, and heat flow difference increased from 122.52 to 123.73°C, −389.41 to −144.43 (mJ), and −77.88 to −28.89 (J/g) when the OCST content increased from 20:80 RLDPE: VLDPE to 12:48:40 RLDPE: VLDPE: OCST. Thermal decomposition led to the formation of functional groups such as hydroxyl and carbonyl on LDPE baskets and an increase in the carbonyl index after adding OCST to the RLDPE: VLDPE blend. The best hybrid blend was 12:48:40 RLDPE: VLDPE: OCST.
Intramedullary Screw Fixation of Proximal Phalangeal Fractures: Short- to Medium-term Outcomes
Authors: Abbot Hagen , George Adam R. , McCarron Luke , Graham David J. , Sivakumar Brahman 
Published: March 2024

Background: Intramedullary screw fixation of phalangeal and metacarpal fractures has gained popularity as a method of providing rigid internal fixation with minimum tendon disturbance, allowing early mobilization and rehabilitation. Despite this, the literature on outcomes using this technique is limited. Thus, the aim of this study was to assess the short-term to medium-term outcomes of intramedullary screw fixation for proximal phalangeal fracture fixation in an Australian setting. Methods: A retrospective analysis of consecutive patients with a fracture(s) of the proximal phalanx fixated using intramedullary screws between January 2020 and March 2023 was conducted via telehealth. Results: Forty-six phalangeal fractures from 37 patients were included in this study. Mean Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand score of 6.2 (range: 0-61.4, median: 0), mean pain visual analogue scale score of 1.8 (range: 1-7, median: 1), and mean total active motion of 231° (range: 132-282) were noted. A total of 4.4% of fractures sustained a major complication, and 94.6% of patients reported willingness to undergo intramedullary screw fixation again. Conclusion: This study concurs with the prior literature that intramedullary screw fixation is a safe and effective method of stabilizing extra-articular proximal phalangeal fractures in the short to medium term. Superior clinical outcomes, as well as cost-effectiveness and time-effectiveness, render it a viable alternative to plate fixation in this setting.
Diagnosis and treatment of venous thromboembolism during pregnancy relate to genetic polymorphism
Authors: Yang Qingcheng , Wang Xuechang , Wang Rui , Li Aihua 
Published: March 2024

Objectives Previous research had shown that age, a positive family history, comorbidities, major surgical operations, gestation, and use of several medications could increase the incidence of venous thromboembolism (VTE). With the development of medical and clinical individualized treatment, many people exposed to above risk factors did not develop VTE, suggested that genetic factors are also involved in the development of VTE. In this review, we aim to summarize VTE diagnosis and treatment in pregnancy women related to gene polymorphism. Methods A comprehensive electronic search using PubMed, MEDLINE, EMBASE and Web of Science was conducted to find relevant journal articles with key search terms including: “pregnancy OR pregnant,” “venous thromboembolism OR VTE,” “deep vein thrombosis OR DVT,” “pulmonary embolism OR PE,” and “genetic OR gene.” Prominent publications from establishment of database till present were analysed to achieve a deeper understanding of VTE during pregnancy relate to genetic polymorphism, and the information was then collated to form this review. Results The literature review revealed that inherited thrombophilia significantly associated with the development of VTE, especially the factor V Leiden (FVL) and prothrombin gene mutation (PGM). Furthermore, the role of methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) gene mutation in the development of pregnancy-related VTE remains controversial, further study is required. In the present study, Marburg I polymorphism (G511 E), c.1538 G>A and c.1601 G>A in Factor V (FV), JAK2V617 F mutation were reported as an independent risk factor for VTE, there is no sufficient evidence to confirm the gene mutation is related to VTE during pregnancy, these factors appearing as another promising potential diagnostic marker of VTE during pregnancy. Besides, the dosages of heparin in the treatment of VTE during pregnancy need be adjusted according to gene polymorphism of these population, particularly FVL or PGM carriers, and this area is not studied deeply, it is worth further study. Conclusion Inherited thrombophilia significantly associated with the development of VTE, especially the FVL and PGM, however the relation between MTHFR gene mutation and pregnancy-related VTE remains controversial, further study is needed. In addition, the dosages of heparin in the treatment of VTE during pregnancy suggested to adjusted based on gene polymorphism in FVL and PGM, and establish better prediction models is a direction of future research.
Hepatitis B and hepatitis C testing practices and observed seroconversions among dialysis facilities in Georgia
Authors: Butsashvili Maia , Kanchelashvili Giorgi , Aslanikashvili Ana , Kuchuloria Tinatin , Shadaker Shaun , Tskhomelidze Irina , Tsereteli Maia , Kamkamidze George , Handanagic Senad , Patel Priti R , Armstrong Paige A 
Published: March 2024

Background Individuals receiving hemodialysis for end-stage kidney disease are at increased risk of infection with hepatitis C virus (HCV) and hepatitis B virus (HBV) due to regular and frequent receipt of invasive medical treatment in a shared space. Aim This study assessed infection prevention and control practices in dialysis facilities, evaluated HCV and HBV testing practices, and estimated the number of cases of seroconversion for HCV and HBV infection in dialysis facilities in Georgia. Methods We invited all 27 dialysis centers that provide maintenance dialysis in Georgia to participate in a facility-based survey during April–June 2021. Results In total, 68.2% ( n = 15/22) of facilities performed anti-HCV screening upon admission to the center. At the majority of facilities ( n = 21/22, 95.5%), HBV screening was performed upon admission to the center. A total of 329 anti-HCV positive patients were reported from 20 of 22 facilities, 29.5% ( n = 97/329) were HCV RNA positive, 18.2% ( n = 60/329) were HCV RNA negative, and 52.3% ( n = 172/329) were not tested or their result was missing. Overall, 200 HBsAg-positive patients were reported from the same 20 facilities. At 10 facilities: 39 patients from seven facilities seroconverted for HCV infection, and 31 patients from eight dialysis facilities seroconverted for HBV infection. Conclusions We identified a high number of HBV and HCV seroconversions among dialysis patients in Georgia suggesting serious gaps in infection control practices. Strict adherence to infection prevention and control practices is essential to prevent transmission of HCV and HBV infections through contaminated equipment and surfaces.
A comparison of screw and suture button fixation in the management of adolescent ankle syndesmotic injuries
Authors: Verlinsky Luke , Heath David M , Momtaz David A , Christopher Boris , Singh Aaron , Gibbons Steven D 
Published: March 2024

Purpose: Ankle injuries involving the tibiofibular syndesmosis often necessitate operative fixation to restore stability to the ankle. Recent literature in the adult population has suggested that suture button fixation may be superior to screw fixation. There is little evidence as to which construct is preferable in the pediatric and adolescent population. This study investigates outcomes of suture button and screw fixation in adolescent ankle syndesmotic injuries. Methods: A retrospective matched cohort study over 10 years of pediatric patients who underwent ankle syndesmotic fixation at a large Level 1 Trauma Center was conducted. Both isolated syndesmotic injuries and ankle fractures with syndesmotic disruption were included. Preoperative variables collected include basic patient demographics, body mass index, and fracture type. Suture button and screw cohorts were matched based on age, race, sex, and open fracture utilizing propensity scores. Outcomes assessed include reoperation and implant failure. Results: A total of 44 cases of operative fixation of the ankle syndesmosis were identified with a mean age of 16 years. After matching cohorts based on age, sex, race, and open fracture status, there were 17 patients in the suture button and screw cohorts, respectively. Patients undergoing screw fixation had a six times greater risk of reoperation (p = 0.043) and 13 times greater risk of implant failure (p < 0.001). Out of six cases of reoperation in the screw cohort, five were unplanned. Conclusion: Our findings favor suture button fixation in operative management of adolescent tibiofibular syndesmotic injuries. Compared with screws, suture buttons are associated with lower risk of both reoperation and implant failure. Level of evidence: level III therapeutic.
Advancing Community Care and Access to Follow-up After Acute Kidney Injury Hospitalization: Design of the AFTER AKI Randomized Controlled Trial
Authors: Bhatt Meha , Benterud Eleanor , Palechuk Taylor , Bignell Coralea , Ahmed Nasreen , McBrien Kerry , James Matthew T. , Pannu Neesh 
Published: March 2024

Background: Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common complication among hospitalized patients with long-term implications including chronic kidney disease (CKD). Although models are available to predict the risk of advanced CKD after AKI, there is limited evidence regarding follow-up for patients with AKI after hospital discharge, resulting in variable follow-up care. A risk-stratified follow-up approach may improve appropriateness and efficiency of management for CKD among patients at risk of declining kidney function following AKI. Objective: The objective was to compare and evaluate the use of a risk-stratified approach to follow-up care vs usual care for patients with AKI after hospital discharge. Design: This study was a pragmatic randomized controlled trial. Setting: This study was conducted in 2 large urban hospitals in Alberta, Canada. Patients: Hospitalized patients with AKI (KDIGO stage 2 or 3) not previously under the care of a nephrologist, expected to survive greater than 90 days being discharged home. Measurements: We will evaluate whether guideline-recommended CKD care processes are initiated within 90 days, including statin use, angiotensin-converting enzyme inhibitor (ACEi)/angiotensin II receptor blocker (ARB) use in those with proteinuria or diabetes, and nephrologist follow-up if sustained eGFR <30 mL/min/1.73 m2. We will also assess the feasibility of recruitment and the proportion of patients completing the recommended blood and urine tests at 90 days. Methods: Patients with AKI will be enrolled and randomized near the time of hospital discharge. In the intervention group, low risk patients will receive information regarding AKI, medium risk patients will additionally receive follow-up guidance sent to their primary care physician, and high-risk patients will additionally receive follow-up with a nephrologist. Participants in the intervention and usual care group will receive a requisition for urine testing and bloodwork at 90 days following hospital discharge. Telephone follow-up will be conducted for all study participants at 90 days and 1 year after hospital discharge. Bivariate tests of association will be conducted to evaluate group differences at the follow-up time points. Limitations: We expect there may be challenges with recruitment due to the significant co-existence of comorbidity in this population. Conclusions: If the trial shows a positive effect on these processes for kidney care, it will inform larger-scale trial to determine whether this intervention reduces the incidence of long-term clinical adverse events, including CKD progression, cardiovascular events, and mortality following hospitalization with AKI.