bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Keeping track: An intra-UK comparison of orthodontic commissioning and treatment outcome assessments
Authors: Flavell Thomas , Maguire William , Griffiths Andrew , McGrady Joe , Donnell Christopher 
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Across the United Kingdom (UK), National Health Service (NHS) orthodontic treatment is commissioned differently across the devolved nations. There is a relative paucity in the literature describing the way in which the orthodontic services in each country are commissioned and treatment outcomes measured. Objective: To highlight the differences in the following: commissioning of primary care orthodontic services across the UK; assessment of treatment outcomes; and the potential impacts these differences have on contractors, performers and patient care. Materials and methods: Data were collected using an online mixed-methods approach. Systematic content analysis was used to extract the required information from the websites and guidance documents of orthodontic service providers, which was then catalogued and verified electronically by senior dental advisors in the four devolved UK nations. Results: The Index of Orthodontic Treatment Need (IOTN) is a mandatory needs assessment tool used across all four nations, with an agreed minimum threshold of a dental health component (DHC) score of 3 and an aesthetic component (AC) score of 6 for NHS treatment. While the peer assessment rating (PAR) is the most utilised method of assessing post-treatment outcomes, it is applied differently by each country. Conclusion: While NHS orthodontic services across the UK share mutual elements of service delivery, there are significant differences in the prior approval process and assessment of treatment outcomes. More research is required to assess the economic feasibility of orthodontic treatment from the associated treatment outcomes.
Perspectives on early sex assignment and communication with parents in children with disorders of sexual development
Authors: Sadri Husrav , Abootty Sheza , D'Cunha Aureen , Rai Sandeep , Shenoy Rathika Damodara 
Published: June 2022

Disorders of sexual development are a heterogeneous group of disorders in which chromosomal, gonadal or anatomical sex development is atypical. The majority of these children are recognized at birth by ambiguous genitalia. Legal and societal pressures require the physician and parents to assign sex rapidly. Though sex assignment is undebated in several disorders of sexual development, many others need an individualized approach to gender-related concerns. Gender dysphoria is prevalent in disorders of sexual development, and early gender-defining surgeries have potentially lifelong consequences. We use two cases, one of partial androgen insensitivity and another of simple virilizing congenital adrenal hyperplasia to illustrate that in disorders of sexual development, the ethical management principles remain the same at their core despite the vast differences in phenotypes. Sex assignment should maximize functional, psychological and sexual needs. Sex assigned should coincide with gender identity. We propose that we manage such children with the mutual participation of the physician, parents and the child. Though the parents and the physician have the child's best interests when making a decision, the child's developing autonomy should be protected. The communication of the health provider to the parent must be honest if early sex assignment is difficult.
A Functional Assessment Tool to Distinguish Controls From Alzheimer’s Disease in Lima, Peru
Authors: Custodio Nilton , Montesinos Rosa , Chambergo-Michilot Diego , Herrera-Perez Eder , Pintado-Caipa Maritza , Seminario G Wendy , Cuenca José , Mesía Laura , Failoc-Rojas Virgilio E , Diaz Monica M 
Published: June 2022

Background The Alzheimer’s Disease Cooperative Study-Activities of Daily Living (ADCS-ADL) scale is a versatile functional assessment tool for patients with Alzheimer’s disease (ad). We evaluated its performance in controls, Peruvians with MCI or AD. Methods A cross-sectional study of older adults attending a neurology institute in Lima (Peru) with mild cognitive impairment (MCI), ad or cognitively healthy. Test-retest reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient, ICC; internal consistency, Cronbach’s alpha) and validity were assessed. Results We enrolled 276 individuals (ad: 113, MCI: 68, controls: 95) with no age, sex, educational level, and depressive symptom differences. Reliability was ideal (ICC: .996), and Cronbach’s alpha was adequate (.937). The ADCS-ADL could not differentiate MCI from controls but did differentiate ad severity. The ADCS-ADL correlated highly with nearly all tools. Conclusions The ADCS-ADL scale is reliable in a population with ad in Lima, Peru. Future work may validate a tool for Peruvians with lower educational levels.
Novel Positioning Feedback System as a Guidance in Bone Tumor Resection
Authors: Mustahsan Vamiq M , He Guangyu , Helguero Carlos G. , Blum Christopher L. , Komatsu David E , Pentyala Srinivas , Kao Imin , Khan Fazel 
Published: June 2022

Need: Bone resection using customized 3D-printed guides can improve accuracy, but the technique is still associated with clinically significant errors. Technical solution: We developed an inexpensive optical feedback system (OFS) that compares intraoperative 2D camera images to the pre-operative plan, and accurately depicts the surgeon’s guide placement prior to cutting, reducing the errors in resection. Proof of concept: We simulated wide resections of a bone sarcoma on 24 cadaver femurs using 3 cutting guide types. Guide placement was measured using the OFS and compared to CT-scans showing the actual guide position. We carried out a second, controlled study on 20 sawbones, comparing the accuracy of the final bone cuts with and without the surgeon actively using the OFS to adjust the guide position before cutting. Results: For cadavers, in 2 of 3 planes, the position of the jig recorded by the OFS closely matched its actual position, with an accuracy of .87° ± .65°(r = .94) and 1.2° ± 1.3°(r = .81) in the transverse and sagittal planes, respectively. In the second study, OFS increased accuracy of the final cut about the transverse and sagittal planes, respectively by 53.1% (P = .011)/54.7% (P = .04) and 33% (P = .051)/38% (P = .042) in terms of rotation and translation. Next steps: Developing the OFS as a mobile application to reduce the processing time and improve accessibility in the operating room. Conclusion: The OFS could accurately depict the guide placement on the bone and significantly improve the surgical accuracy of 3D printed jigs.
Forearm Lipoma Causing PIN Compression: Literature Review and Meta-Analysis of Predictors for Motor Recovery
Authors: Cheng Christopher , Punjabi Ayesha , Gunther Sven , Chepla Kyle 
Published: June 2022

Background: Lipomas are a rare cause of posterior interosseous nerve (PIN) compression. A systematic review of predictors for motor recovery has not been performed. This study sought to evaluate whether patient or lipoma characteristics are associated with motor recovery and could be used to determine when immediate tendon transfers at the time of excision should be performed. Methods: Articles describing patients with forearm lipomas resulting in PIN compression with motor weakness were included. Patient age, gender, symptom duration, laterality and largest dimension of lipoma, surgical intervention, and motor recovery were identified. Article quality was assessed via the Methodological Index for Non-Randomized Studies criteria. Results: Thirty articles reporting on 34 patients were identified. Average age was 58.2 years. Average largest lipoma dimension was 5.7 cm. All patients underwent lipoma removal, and 2 had concomitant tendon transfers. In all, 73.5% of patients had complete motor recovery at an average of 9.7 months. Patient age and largest dimension of lipoma, and duration of symptoms were not significant predictors of motor recovery. Symptom duration was a significant predictor of motor recovery in binary regression, particularly if < 18 months. Conclusions: The majority of patients with PIN weakness secondary to lipoma are likely to have complete motor recovery after excision alone. Concomitant tendon transfers should be considered for patients symptomatic for greater than 18 months. Further, adequately powered, studies are required to stratify risk factors and evaluate other modalities to identify the minority of patients who would benefit from immediate tendon transfer.
Tortuosity of middle cerebral artery M1 segment and outcomes after mechanical thrombectomy
Authors: Hoshino Takao , Sato Shinsuke , Kushi Kazuki , Tanaka Yukiko , Mochizuki Tatsuki , Ishikawa Tomomi , Shima Shogo , Ryu Bikei , Inoue Tatsuya , Okada Yoshikazu , Niimi Yasunari 
Published: June 2022

Background We aimed to quantify the tortuosity of the middle cerebral artery (MCA) and assess its effects on radiological and clinical outcomes in patients with acute MCA occlusions who received mechanical thrombectomy (MT). Methods This retrospective study enrolled 53 patients with acute ischemic stroke due to MCA M1 or M2 segment occlusion who underwent MT using stent retrievers (SRs). Tortuosity index (TI) was defined to quantify the tortuosity of the MCA M1 segment using the following formula: (actual distance / straight distance) × 100. For each patient, four TIs were measured in the anteroposterior and caudal views for both ipsilateral and contralateral sides to the occluded site (TI-APi, TI-APc, TI-CAUi, and TI-CAUc, respectively) using magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) or computed tomography angiography (CTA). We defined the first-pass effect (FPE) as first-pass mTICI classification ≥2b reperfusion. Results Patients who did not achieve FPE had significantly higher TI-APi (112 vs. 106; P = 0.004), TI-APc (111 vs. 105; P = 0.005), TI-CAUi (110 vs. 105; P = 0.002), and TI-CAUc (110 vs. 105; P = 0.001) than those who achieved FPE. In multivariable analysis, higher TI-APi, TI-CAUi, and TI-APc were independently associated with an increased rate of unsuccessful FPE (odds ratio (OR) [95% confidence interval (CI)]: 1.25 [1.02–1.61], 1.21 [1.01–1.45], and 1.27 [1.03–1.73], respectively). TI-CAUi, TI-APc, and TI-CAUc were also independent predictors of the occurrence of intracranial hemorrhage after MT (OR [95% CI]: 1.15 [1.01–1.38], 1.14 [1.01–1.38], 1.25 [1.02–1.52], respectively). Conclusions The TIs of the MCA M1 segment on both ipsilateral and contralateral sides were associated with unfavourable outcomes after MT.
Association of fine particulate matter to allergic rhinitis: A systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Jia Xiaofei , Shen Zhengzheng , Liu Rongrong , Han Yue , Yang Yanzhong , Chen Qi , Duan Naichao 
Published: June 2022

Objective: Fine particulate matter (PM2.5) has become a major concern for global environmental health, as it can lead to inflammatory diseases, such as allergic rhinitis (AR) and cause a high burden of disease. The aim of this study is to carry out a systematic review and meta-analysis based on available research to present the link between ambient PM2.5 and the risk of AR in global populations. Methods: We systematically searched six databases from their inception to 30 November 2020. An expanded literature search was carried out using the references of the included studies. Data extraction was performed using Excel 2016 software, and meta-analysis and heterogeneity analysis were performed using Review Manager 5.3 software. Results: A total of 14 out of 1361 studies were included in the meta-analysis. The quality assessment showed these studies to be of high quality. Seven out of 14 studies reported a relationship between ambient PM2.5 and AR through Odds ratios (OR, ORoverall = 1.14, 95% CI [1.00, 1.29]), but with a non-significant statistical overall test result (the test result for overall effect was Z = 1.98, p =.05). For subgroups by ages and regions, ORChildren = 1.08 (95% CI [1.04, 1.13]), and OROther ages = 1.50 (95% CI [1.24, 1.81]. The differences between age-related subgroups were significant (p <.01). Meanwhile, the relationship between PM2.5 and the risk of AR in Asia was significant (ORAsia = 1.20, 95% CI [1.01, 1.44], p =.001); whereas the association studies from outside of Asia have reported the relationship as non-significant (OROut-Asia = 1.04, 95% CI [0.82, 1.31], p =.76). Conclusion: There are reports that recognize that the exposure to PM2.5 may contribute to the development of AR. An international framework with a whole-of-society approach, including air quality control efforts and well-being health promotion among AR patients and at-risk populations, should be implemented.
Two-day versus seven-day course of levofloxacin in acute COPD exacerbation: a randomized controlled trial
Authors: Messous Salma , Trabelsi Imen , Bel Haj Ali Khaoula , Abdelghani Ahmed , Ben Daya Yosra , Razgallah Rabie , Grissa Mohamed Habib , Beltaief Kaouthar , Mezgar Zied , Belguith Asma , Bouida Wahid , Boukef Riadh , Boubaker Hamdi , Msolli Mohamed Amine , Sekma Adel , Nouira Semir 
Published: June 2022

Introduction: Duration of antibiotic treatment in acute exacerbation of COPD (AECOPD) is most commonly based on expert opinion. Typical administration periods range from 5 to 7 days. A 2-day course with levofloxacin was not previously assessed. We performed a randomized clinical trial to evaluate the efficacy of 2-day versus 7-day treatment with levofloxacin in patients with AECOPD. Methods and analysis: Patients with AECOPD were randomized to receive levofloxacin for 2 days and 5 days placebo ( n = 155) or levofloxacin for 7 days ( n = 155). All patients received a common dose of intravenous prednisone daily for 5 days. The primary outcome measure was cure rate, and secondary outcomes included need for additional antibiotics, ICU admission rate, re-exacerbation rate, death rate, and exacerbation-free interval (EFI) within 1-year follow-up. The study protocol has been prepared in accordance with the revised Helsinki Declaration for Biomedical Research Involving Human Subjects and Guidelines for Good Clinical Practice. The study was approved by ethics committees of all participating centers prior to implementation (Monastir and Sousse Universities). Results: 310 patients were randomized to receive 2-day course of levofloxacin ( n = 155) or 7-day course ( n = 155). Cure rate was 79.3% ( n = 123) and 74.2% ( n = 115), respectively, in 2-day and 7-day groups [OR 1.3; 95% CI 0.78–2.2 ( p = 0.28)]. Need for additional antibiotics rate was 3.2% and 1.9% in the 2-day group and 7-day group, respectively; ( p = 0.43). ICU admission rate was not significantly different between both groups. One-year re-exacerbation rate was 34.8% ( n = 54) in 2-day group versus 29% ( n = 45) in 7-day group ( p = 0.19); the EFI was 121 days (interquartile range, 99–149) versus 110 days (interquartile range, 89–132) in 2-day and 7-day treatment groups, respectively; ( p = 0.73). One-year death rate was not significantly different between the 2 groups, 5.2% versus 7.1% in the 2-day group and 7-day group, respectively; ( p = 0.26). No difference in adverse effects was detected. Conclusion: Levofloxacin once daily for 2 days is not inferior to 7 days with respect to cure rate, need for additional antibiotics and hospital readmission in AECOPD. Our findings would improve patient compliance and reduce the incidence of bacterial resistance and adverse effects.
An Operational Definition of First Ray Hypermobility
Authors: Glasoe Ward M. 
Published: June 2022

Background: The first ray (metatarsocuneiform) behaves as a load-bearing strut in supporting weight. Due to its functional importance, stress-testing techniques are used to assess the stability of the first ray and objectify evidence of hypermobility. The test and measurement of first ray hypermobility (FRH) is of interest to clinicians and researchers. The condition itself, however, has proven elusive to diagnose. This article defines FRH for the purpose of improving the consistency by which the diagnosis is made. Currently, the lack of a consensus definition prevents research from determining the incidence rates and prevalence of FRH, a commonly reported medical condition. The Definition: Symptomatic FRH presents as dorsal displacement that measures greater than 8 mm, accompanied with signs and symptoms consistent with loading insufficiency of the first ray. The operational definition is objective and if adopted across health care professions, the criterion could become the standard for identifying FRH in patients and research participants. Level of Evidence: Level V, expert opinion
Infinity Ankle Arthroplasty Early Latin-America Experience and Patient Outcomes
Authors: Baumfeld Daniel , Baumfeld Tiago , Fernandes Rezende Ricardo , Nery Caio , Guerreiro Santiago 
Published: June 2022

Introduction The promising data from Ankle Arthroplasty are consequence of the evolution of instruments and implants. Recent studies have shown good results in the short and intermediate follow-up, in addition to high patient satisfaction. The aim of this study is to present the results obtained with 49 cases treated with the Infinity total ankle prosthesis in 2 South America countries. Methods This is a case series of 48 patients (27 women and 22 men), treated with 49 Infinity prostheses in Brazil and Colombia. They underwent surgical treatment between April 1, 2016, and January 18, 2020. We used the visual-analogue pain scale (VAS), the AOFAS score for ankle and hindfoot and the measurement of range of motion (ROM) in the pre- and post-surgical period. The radiological evaluation was performed on ankle radiographs in anteroposterior and lateral views, obtained in orthostasis, measuring the parameters suggested by Hintermann. Average follow-up was 4 years. Results VAS reduced from an average of 7.94 to 1.98; AOFAS increased from 28.02 to 83.16 and ROM increased from 11.45 to 28.08. Distal Tibial Slope is higher for higher improvements in VAS and lower for higher improvements in AOFAS and ROM. We observed 4 wound infections, 1 intra-op medial malleolus fracture. No bone cysts, tibial or talar components subsidence, polyethylene component wear or failure were observed. No salvation procedures were required in this series. Discussion This study results corroborates literature data showing great improvements in pain, functional pattern, and movement. Conclusion Infinity Ankle Arthroplasty is a safe and reproducible procedure with good outcomes at a short-term follow-up. Level of evidences: 4 - Case series
Technology-supported models of nutrition care: Perspectives of health service providers
Authors: Barnett Amandine , Kelly Jaimon T , Wright Charlene , Campbell Katrina L 
Published: June 2022

Objective To determine the perspectives to the adoption, scale-up, sustainability, and spread of technology-supported models of nutrition care, in hospital and ambulatory care settings. Methods Thirty-one health service providers participated in individual semi-structured interviews from a tertiary health service in Queensland, Australia. The Non-adoption, Abandonment, and challenges to the Scale up, Spread and Sustainability (NASSS) framework, designed to evaluate technology-supported models’ success, informed the qualitative design. Results Key findings were that technology-supported models of care could benefit many chronic condition patient groups; dietitians are well suited to adopting this technology: and the value proposition in creating efficiency gains in the health service. However, challenges of transitioning and sustainability were identified. Perceived enablers for technology supported models of care included: previous intentions for technology supported models of care prior to the 2019 novel coronavirus pandemic; opportunity for clinicians to complete higher valued tasks; and integration of technology systems and assisted staff roles. Perceived barriers included: suitability for patients is dependent on experience and ability to use technology, varied confidence by clinicians when conducting clinical assessments; high investment required for set up and ongoing maintenance; and patients desire for adopting face-to-face care over technology. Health service providers perceived that embedding and adapting such models requires maintenance of high-quality service and continued research. Conclusions Health service providers recognize adopting, scaling, and sustaining technology-supported models of nutrition care benefits patients, clinicians, and health services in general. Robust clinical trials and health service evaluations of technology-supported models of care, across practice settings are now needed.
Is There an Association in Young Patients Between Quadriceps or Hamstring Strength After ACL Reconstruction and Graft Rupture?
Authors: Blucher Nicola C. , Feller Julian A. , Devitt Brian M. , Klemm Haydn J. , Whitehead Timothy S. , McClelland Jodie A. , Webster Kate E. 
Published: June 2022

Background: Younger patients who sustain anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) ruptures are at high risk for reinjury after ACL reconstruction. Restoring muscle strength before return to sports (RTS) is regarded as an important factor in reducing the reinjury risk, and quadriceps and hamstring strength assessment is commonly included in RTS testing. However, it is not clear whether reduced strength is a risk factor for subsequent graft rupture in this patient population. Purpose: To investigate the association between quadriceps and hamstring strength at 12 months after primary ACL reconstruction and ACL graft rupture in young patients. Study Design: Case-control study; Level of evidence, 3. Methods: The cohort consisted of 210 patients (100 men and 110 women) who were younger than 20 years at the time of primary ACL reconstruction with a hamstring tendon autograft and who had no previous contralateral ACL injury. Isokinetic strength testing (60 and 180 deg/s) of knee flexors and extensors was performed at 12 months postoperatively, and the limb symmetry index (LSI) for each strength outcome was calculated. RTS rates and the incidence of further ACL graft ruptures were recorded. Results: Measures of central tendency (mean and median) of LSI values ranged from 88 to 98. The percentage of patients with LSI ≥90 was 57% to 69% for quadriceps strength and 45% to 47% for hamstring strength. Overall, 19 patients (9%) sustained an ACL graft rupture. No significant differences were found between the patients who sustained an ACL graft rupture and those who did not in terms of quadriceps and hamstring strength at 12 months. No significant associations were found between achieving LSI ≥90 for quadriceps peak torque and subsequent ACL graft rupture. Conclusion: In young patients who underwent an ACL reconstruction, no association was noted between quadriceps and hamstring strength at 12 months postoperatively and subsequent graft ruptures. The role of strength testing as part of the RTS criteria after ACL reconstruction, and specifically the use of limb symmetry thresholds, warrants further investigation and clarification.