4th Digit Research Articles

DIFFERENCES IN FINGER LENGTH RATIO BETWEEN STUDENTS OF PSYCHOLOGY AND SPECIAL EDUCATION AND REHABILITATION

Background: The disproportionate length of human fingers has generated much interest among researchers. Attention has been drawn to the relationship between the palmar digit (2D:4D) ratio and personality, but the obtained results have been inconsistent. This pilot research project was a qualitative study that aimed to investigate the similarity or differences in the length of fingers 2 and 4 in two groups of students aged 20-21 years from different study programs (psychology and special education and rehabilitation) from Tetova University in Tetova to see if the selection of study program is influenced by the length of certain fingers. Materials and procedure: Single measures of the lengths of the 2nd and 4th digits from the fingertip to the ventral proximal crease of the left and right hand were collected using a ruler calibrated to 0.05 cm. The measurements were anonymous and performed in October of 2023 by the lecturer of teaching subjects in 30 consenting students who participated voluntarily and without any compensation in the participation. At the same time, the data analysis was done statistically using the paired samples test. Results: Means and standard deviations of the parameters with respect to group differences were calculated. We found a nonsignificant group difference in the 2D:4D ratio for the right hand (p=0.402) and for the left hand (p=0.775). Conclusion: Detailed information of finger length parameters and D2:D4 index in a sample study with more participants in the future period will be used from the perspective of neuropsychology.

A rare presentation of cubital tunnel syndrome by accessory anconeus muscle

Cubital tunnel syndrome (Cu TS) is the second most frequent upper extremity compressive neuropathy after carpal tunnel syndrome. Cu TS is idiopathic; however, it has been linked to ulnar nerve vulnerability and anconeus epitrochlearis (AE) muscle hypertrophy. Although there are few studies in the literature that reveal AE muscle as one of the causes of Cu TS, its prevalence is low. The goal of this case report is to raise awareness regarding the existence of AE muscle as a potential cause of Cu TS, as well as the imaging findings of Cu TS in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). A 17-year-old male patient complained of intermittent pain in the medial aspect of the left elbow and paresthesia in the left hand. Examination revealed hyperextension of meta carpalphalangeal joints and flexion of proximal interphalangeal joints of the 4th and 5th digits, besides the sensory deficit along the ulnar border of the 5th digit. A nerve conduction study revealed non-stimulable sensory and motor components of the right ulnar nerve. MRI with T1-weighted fast spin echo, Fat sat proton density-weighted, and gradient echo T2*-weighted sequence showed AE - on the posteromedial aspect of the elbow. The ulnar nerve within the cubital tunnel appeared thickened and edematous with bright perineural fat signals with maintained fascicular architecture, secondary to compression by the anconeus muscle. This paper reviews imaging findings of ulnar neuropathy secondary to accessory anconeus muscle and explains the importance of MRI imaging for accurate diagnosis. Knowing MRI imaging is vital in the modern imaging era for accurate diagnosis.

Cubital Tunnel Syndrome Due to Intraneural Ganglion Cysts of the Ulnar Nerve With Joint-Cyst Connection at the Elbow

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES: The unifying articular theory suggests that intraneural ganglion cysts in the cubital tunnel arise from the elbow joint and are connected to the ulnar nerve through an articular branch. This study aimed to report our clinical experience with these cysts and our surgical findings and outcomes. METHODS: We retrospectively analyzed 13 patients who underwent surgery for cubital tunnel syndrome caused by an intraneural ganglion cyst of the ulnar nerve. Clinical symptoms, physical examination findings, nerve conduction testing electromyography, plain radiography, and ultrasonography were evaluated before and after surgery. MRI was performed in 2 patients. Cyst decompression, disconnection of the articular branch, and ulnar nerve transposition were performed in all. RESULTS: The mean follow-up was 29 months. After surgery, local elbow pain and Tinel sign disappeared in all patients, and the average Numerical Rating Scale dropped from 3.7 (2-5) to 0 (0-0). Two-point discrimination testing was normal (<5.0 mm) in 12 patients. Wartenberg sign and “claw hand” deformity became negative, and muscle function and motor nerve conduction velocity were improved in 12 patients. The Medical Research Council muscle strength grade was M4 or M5 in the flexor carpi ulnaris, flexor digitorum profundus of the 4th and 5th digits, and first dorsal interosseous muscle in 12 patients. Postoperative spontaneous potentials including fibrillation and sharp waves, and motor unit recruitment in the first dorsal interosseous muscle were obviously improved. A cystic articular branch was confirmed during surgery in all patients. No cyst recurred clinically or on follow-up ultrasonography. CONCLUSION: The unifying articular theory of intraneural ganglion cysts applies to those located in the ulnar nerve at the elbow. Surgical disconnection of the articular nerve branch from the ulnar nerve eliminated the pathway for cyst recurrence and achieved good long-term outcomes.

The associations between digit ratio (2D:4D and right - left 2D:4D), maximal oxygen consumption and ventilatory thresholds in professional male football players.

Digit ratio (2D:4D: the relative length of the 2nd and 4th digit) is thought to be a negative correlate of prenatal testosterone. The 2D:4D is related to oxygen metabolism, but the precise nature of this relationship is unclear. The purpose of the present study was to consider associations between digit ratios (right 2D:4D, left 2D:4D, right-left 2D:4D [Dr-l]) and VO2max and ventilatory thresholds (VT1 and VT2). One hundred and thirty-three Caucasian (n = 133) professional football players competing in Cyprus participated in the study. Players underwent anthropometric measurements, and digit lengths were measured from hand scans. They also completed an incremental cardiopulmonary test to exhaustion on a treadmill. There were negative correlations between digit ratios and VO2max (right 2D:4D, r = -.65; left 2D:4D r = -.37, both p < .0001; Dr-l r = -.30, p = .0005). There were no relationships between digit ratios and VT1. For VT2, there were negative relationships with digit ratios (right 2D:4D, r = -.43, p < .0001; left 2D:4D, r = -.21 and Dr-l, r = -.21, both p = .02). Digit ratios are negatively related to VO2max with large (right 2D:4D) and medium (left 2D:4D, Dr-l) effect sizes. For VT2, there were also negative correlations, which were medium (right 2D:4D) and small (left 2D:4D, Dr-l). Our findings may help clarify the relationships between digit ratios and high-intensity actions for extended periods, which are dependent on efficient oxygen metabolism.

Establishment of the Common House Gecko, Hemidactylus frenatus (Duméril &amp; Bibron), on Saba, Dutch Caribbean

The Common House Gecko (Hemidactylus frenatus) is recently being reported from multiple islands across the Lesser Antilles: Antigua, Dominica, St. Barthélemy, St. Eustatius, St. Kitts, St. Lucia, and St. Martin (Brisbane et al. 2021, Dewynter et al. 2022, Griffing et al. 2022, Thorpe 2022, Questel et al. 2023, Thibaudier et al. 2023, Lindsay et al. 2023). Here, we report on the establishment of the species on Saba, Dutch Caribbean. On 27 November 2023, between 19.30–20.30 h, we surveyed buildings, walls, rock crevices and piles of wood, brick, concrete, and metal, including building supplies, on the Fort-Bay Road, adjacent to the Fort Bay harbor on Saba (17.61615, -63.25039). We found H. frenatus at eight locations along a 520-meter stretch of road, either on walls, next to the road between rocks, or between aforementioned materials. At each location one animal was captured, totaling four adults and four juveniles. The lamellae on the 4th and 5th digit were used to confirm species identity (Krysko and Daniels 2005). We collected one adult (Figure 1) that has been provided to Naturalis Biodiversity Center, Leiden, The Netherlands, for deposition in their collections. We note that Hemidactylus mabouia was also found at three sites within the 520-meter stretch, but never closer than ~30 meters to Hemidactylus frenatus, which is a known competitor of other gecko species (Petren &amp; Case 1996).

Radiofrequency Ablation of Palmar Digital Branches of Ulnar Nerve in a Patient with Ulnar Neuropathy

Ulnar Tunnel Syndrome (UTS) is ulnar neuropathy at the wrist or hand typically caused by ganglion cysts, lipomas, wrist or hand compression, carpal bone fractures, carpal tunnel syndrome, or anything else that can impinge on the nerve. The symptoms of UTS can be uncomfortable and debilitating, with numbness and tingling of the 4th and 5th digits being the most common. Weakness of the ulnar portion of the hand can lead to decreased grip strength. UTS is typically managed with conservative treatment including anti-inflammatory oral medications, splinting, physical therapy, activity modification, acupuncture, and stretching. Second line treatment includes corticosteroid injections, although these have shown to have little efficacy. Surgery is also an option but may lead to iatrogenic ramifications. Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) is a treatment modality used for chronic pain, which utilizes heat to target nociceptive fibers. Traditionally, RFA is used in treating cervical and lumbar radiculopathy, but it is less studied in peripheral nerve areas. This case report examines a patient who had clinically significant pain relief after RFA to the palmar digital branches of the ulnar nerve. The patient was 63-year-old male who presented with left ulnar neuropathy that had been ongoing for 3 years. Despite conservative management, his symptoms of pain, paresthesia, and weakness persisted. The patient then elected to have a left cubital tunnel release at the elbow with anterior subcutaneous transposition. The surgery provided relief for three months but then led to worsening contractures and pain in the 4th and 5th digits of the left hand. Due to persistent symptoms after conservative management and surgical intervention, he was referred to interventional pain clinic. A decision was made to trial a digital nerve block of the left medial and lateral digital palmar nerves. Following the nerve block, the patient reported 100% improvement in pain and increased range of motion and function. Four weeks later, the patient returned for a radiofrequency ablation of the same nerves. In the week following the procedure, the patient reported that the pain in the little finger was entirely resolved. While radiofrequency ablation has become increasingly popular for the treatment of chronic back pain, its use in peripheral nerve pain has been limited to case reports and few randomized control trials. This case report highlights the successful use of radiofrequency ablation in the treatment of little finger pain and ulnar neuropathy by targeting the median and lateral branches of the palmar digital nerve.

Koilonychia in a Patient with Severe Iron Deficiency Anemia

Koilonychia is a known sequela of chronic and severe iron deficiency anemia. The pathogenesis is not well understood, but is postulated to be attributed to weakening of the underlying nail connective tissue secondary to poor oxygenation of the distal extremities. Because of the lower prevalence of koilonychia in developed nations, its clinical presentation in the U.S. is of particular significance. In the following case, a female patient presented with angina and heart palpitations of four month duration as well as severe anemia of unknown origin. Physical exam was notable for koilonychia, most prominent in the 1st - 4th digits of the right hand as well as the 1st and 2nd digits of the right foot.

73 Do depression, anxiety, or stress moderate the relationship between simple attention, working memory and verbal learning?

Objective:Working memory is a vital construct in efficient verbal memory encoding (Cotton &amp; Ricker, 2021). Working memory is impacted by attentional capacities (Riccio, Cohen, Garrison, &amp; Smith, 2005). Mood symptoms impact efficient information processing and consolidation of memory (Hubbard, 2016; Lukasik, 2019). This study examines self-reported symptoms of depression, anxiety, and stress as possible moderators of the relationship between working memory and a verbal list-learning task.Participants and Methods:Archival data from 415 adults (Mage= 56.10, SD=18.05; Medu= 15.5 SD=2.2; 53% female; 73% white) were collected at an outpatient clinic. Sex and race were not available in a small percentage of cases included in analyses. The Wechsler Adult Intelligence Scale 4th Edition Digit Span subtest was given to assess attention and working memory. Although Digit Span Forward is a measure of simple attention, not working memory, it was included in initial analyses because the subtest was given as a whole. The three components of Digit Span total, Forward, Backward, and Sequencing were also investigated separately, with the two latter scores being better representations of working memory. Learning was assessed via the California Verbal Learning Test (CVLT-II) total T-Score (Trials 1-5). Mood was assessed via the Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales (DASS-42).Results:Results of a hierarchical linear regression showed a significant effect between total Digit Span performance and total learning on the CVLT-II in the Block 1 (F(3, 411)=14.383, p =&lt;.001 , AR2=.095). Standardized beta weights and p-values for Digit Span Forward, Backward, and Sequencing were (ß=-.50, p=.374), (ß= .159, p=.009), and (ß=.210, p&lt;.001) respectively. In Block 2, when the DASS variables were introduced, the model remained significant F(3,408)=2.602, p=.05 , AR2=.017). The DASS anxiety and stress subscales had significant beta weights in the model (ß=-.172, p=.015) and (ß=.144, p=.039) respectively, with depression being insignificant (ß=--.023, p=.724).Conclusions:Mood symptoms have been shown to be an important consideration when assessing working memory and verbal learning performance (Massey, Meares, Batchelor, &amp; Bryant, 2015). Present results demonstrate that when accounting for working memory, anxiety and stress were significant predictors of performance on a measure of verbal learning. Additionally, as the components best representing working memory, Digit Span Sequencing and Backward were significantly correlated with verbal learning, whereas a measure best representing simple attention, Digit Span Forward, was not significantly correlated with verbal learning.

Relationship between Facial Musculinity and Digit Ratio (2D:4D) Among Hausa Taxi and Tricycle Drivers in Kano Metropolis, Niger

Studies have recognized an association between 2D: 4D ratios and testosterone-dependent traits. The aim of the present study is to determine the relationship of 2D: 4D and facial masculinity. Four hundred and two (402) subjects were selected from the two association in Kano state (Tsaya da Kafarka Taxi Drivers Association and Tricycle Operators Association Kano (TOAKAN), using random sampling methods, the age range of the participants between 18-50 years. The lengths of the 2nd and 4th digits were determined by a direct method of measurement. Photographic approaches were used to capture the face, facial masculinity was derived from facial distances (captured image face). We use several approaches of measuring facial masculinity to study the association with digit ratio. The data were expressed as mean ± SD, Pearson correlation was used to quantify the relationships between the 2D: 4D and facial masculinity. None of the facial masculine- measures correlated with both right and left 2D:4D ratios. Keywords: Facial masculinity, 2D:4D (Digit ratio), Photographic methods, Correlation

Coexistence of rare varieties of palmaris profundus and flexor superficialis muscle.

The superficial layer of the anterior compartment of the forearm is characterized by different morphological variations. During standard anatomical dissection, two morphological variations in the superficial compartment of the forearm were observed. The first one was the palmaris profundus, which originated from the radius and distally fused with the tendon to 3rd digit (from the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle) inserted on the medial phalanx of the third digit. The second variation was a distinct superficial flexor of the 4th digit represented by one muscle belly with originated from a common mass from the medial humeral epicondyle, passes through the carpal tunnel, and is inserted into the medial phalanx of the fourth digit. The flexor digitorum superficialis muscle was located deeply to it and it was divided only into three tendons (to 2nd, 3rd, and 5th digits). Tendons connected to the 2nd and 3rd digits were crossed with each other at the level of carpal tunnel. From the humeroulnar head of the flexor digitorum superficialis muscle, an additional muscle belly was arising and its tendon was fused with the superficial flexor of the fourth digit. Knowledge about morphological variations in this region is clinically important because of the direct correlation with the median nerve, and the possibility to cause carpal tunnel syndrome.

Systematical assessment of digit ratio in a female masculinization disease: polycystic ovary syndrome.

In recent years, the right ratio of 2nd and 4th digit length (2D:4D) is regarded as an anatomical marker of prenatal testosterone exposure. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a female masculinized disease and is determined by prenatal testosterone exposure. Whether the ratio in the right hand of PCOS women is reduced or not compared with non-PCOS women is under debate. To further investigate the relationship between PCOS and digit ratio, we systematically measured all the digit ratios. We recruited 34 non-PCOS women, 116 PCOS women, and 40 men and systematically measured all the ratios of digit length (2D:3D, 2D:4D, 2D:5D, 3D:4D, 3D:5D, and 4D:5D) of right hands and left hands. Left 2D:3D, 2D:4D, and 2D:5D in men were significantly lower than those in non-PCOS women. Significantly lower digit ratios of left 2D:3D and 2D:4D were observed in PCOS compared with non-PCOS women. In the subgroup analysis, the left ratio of digit length in 2D:3D and 2D:5D of the hyperandrogenism subgroup was lower than that of the non-hyperandrogenism subgroup without statistical significance. The logistic regression model of PCOS revealed that 2D:3D, 2D:4D, 2D:5D, and 3D:4D of left hands were statistically related to the diagnosis of PCOS among all the digit ratios. Not only 2D:4D but also other digit ratios, such as 2D:3D and 2D:5D, are a marker of prenatal testosterone exposure and may be an anatomical marker of PCOS. The majority of these significant differences included left 2D, with the following order: non-PCOS women > PCOS women > men.

A Study on Hand Anthropometry in Adult Tribal and Non-Tribal Light Working Women in Rajshahi Division

Background: As the working styles of tribal and non-tribal working women differ, there may be variations in the anthropometric measurements of the hands. Physical prowess and anthropometric measures have strong correlations with various working activity performance levels. Objective: To evaluate the hand anthropometry in adult tribal and non- tribal light working women in Rajshahi Division. Methodology: This Cross-sectional comparative study was done at Department of anatomy, Rajshahi Medical College, Rajshahi in Different zone of Rajshahi division (Babolding Chapainawabgonj, Kolmakandi, Nachol, Chiniatola Rohonpur, Godagari Rajshahi, Bodolgachi Naogaon, Rajshahi University, Karitas Rajshahi, Rajshahi College) from 1 (one) year (July 2017 to June 2018). During the study, two group of women with in the age 18-45 years were randomly selected from different zone of Rajshahi division. Among that one group of tribal women total 135 and another group of non-tribal women total 150 respectively. Results: Throughout the research, 22.2% of tribal participants were 20 or older, whereas almost one-third (30.7%) of non-tribal participants were 20 or older. Moreover, 60 (44.44%) are light workers, whereas 75 (55.6%) are intermediate employees. There are 150 non-tribal employees, with 75 (50%) being light workers and 75 (50%) being moderate workers. palmer width was significantly greater among light worker tribal population than that among their non-tribal counterpart (p &lt; 0.001). 3rd and the 4th digits of the former group were considerably longer than those of the later group (p = 0.073 and p = 0.002 respectively). All other hand anthropometrics were almost identically distributed between the light tribal and non-tribal workers. Conclusion: Hand/Palmer width was significantly greater among light worker tribal population than non-tribal group. In case of light workers 3rd and 4th digits length were longer in tribal than non-tribal group. In case of light workers rests of the .....

Fingerprint patterns in neuropsychological disorder depression among south Indian population.

Depression is a pervasive mental health disorder characterized by persistent sadness and an inability to enjoy activities that were once enjoyable. This study compares the dermatoglyphic patterns of depressed patients with those of healthy, normal individuals in order to determine if dermatoglyphic patterns can be used as biomarkers for early diagnosis and prompt intervention of depression. A total of 100 depressive disorder patients of both sexes between the ages of 18 and 60 were selected for the study. Dermatoglyphic patterns of individual digits were analyzed using the "Ink and Paper" technique. The Whorl, Loop, and Arch patterns, as well as the AFRC, TFRC, and a-b ridge count, were examined using One-Way ANOVA significance and a Chi-Square test using SPSS 20.0. The results showed that the right hand in the depressive diseased group had decreased numbers of Whorls in the 2nd and 5th digits, and decreased numbers of Loops in all five digits. Similarly, decreased numbers of Whorls were found in the 1st, 2nd, 4th, and 5th digits of the left hand, as well as decreased Loops in the 4th digit. However, there were no changes in the Arches of either hand when compared to the control group. The AFRC and TFRC were significantly decreased (p<0.0001), but there was no significant decrease in the a-b ridge count in the depressive diseased group when compared to the control group. Dermatoglyphics, a noninvasive method, can serve as a screening indicator for depressive individuals, the appearance of the decreased count of whorls and loops parameters might be used as an exploratory sign.

Relationship between 2d:4d ratio, handgrip strength, and hamstring muscle length in different sports: a study of volleyball, football and basketball branches

Background and Study Aim. The relationship between the 2nd digit (2D) and the 4th digit (4D) provides much preliminary information about the physiological, psychological, and psychomotor characteristics of individuals. Although there are many studies on the 2D:4D ratio, the number of studies investigating the ratio in different sports is limited. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine the relationship between the 2D:4D ratio, posterior thigh muscle length, and handgrip strength in different sports.&#x0D; Material and Methods. 63 athletes aged 18-29 years from football, volleyball and basketball participated in this study (nFutbol=20, nVoleybol=21, nBasketbol=22). Right and left hand width and length, 2D, 4D, 2D:4D ratio, grip strength, and hamstring muscle length of the participants were determined. When examining the relationship between the parameters, hand grip strength and hamstring muscle length, Pearson correlation analysis was performed.&#x0D; Results. In the study, there was a high correlation between right and left hand width, length, 2D, and 4D measurements and handgrip strength of volleyball and basketball players (p&lt;.05). There was also a high correlation between left 2D:4D ratio in basketball players and handgrip strength (p&lt;.05). There was a moderate correlation between football players’ 2D length of the football players and the length of the hamstring muscle (p&lt;.05). In volleyball and basketball branches, no parameter was associated with hamstring muscle length in volleyball and basketball players. Sport age and right hand 2D:4D ratio were associated in football (p&lt;.05). For volleyball, athletic age was associated with left hand width and length and 2D and 4D measures (p&lt;.05). In basketball, athletic age was associated with left hand width and length.&#x0D; Conclusions. The results of the study suggest that some of the right and left hand measurements can be used to predict performance indicators such as hand grip and hamstring muscle length in the sports of football, volleyball, and basketball.

A retrospective case series of the postoperative outcome for 30 dogs with inflammatory interdigital nodules, surgically treated with carbon dioxide laser and a nonantimicrobial wound-healing protocol.

Inflammatory interdigital nodules (IIN) affecting the paws of dogs is a multifactorial and painful condition. Surgery using carbon dioxide (CO 2 ) laser has been shown to be helpful in the management. To assess a postoperative treatment protocol without use of antibiotics following CO2 laser surgery for IIN treatment. Forty-seven paws, in 30 client-owned dogs, with IINs affecting the interdigital web between the 4th and 5th digits of the forepaws, surgically treated using CO2 laser, were included. Medical records were reviewed for demographic details, medication use and wound healing using a set wound care protocol. Time to resolution of the surgical wounds and the postoperative outcome were assessed. The mean healing time was 34 days. Resolution was seen in 42 of 47 paws with complications in five paws (11%), including development of new fistulae or nonhealing granulation tissue. Surgery was repeated in those five cases. Relapse occurred during the follow-up period of five-19 months in six paws (13%). This study shows that surgical treatment with CO2 laser for interdigital nodules is successful in most cases. The postoperative outcome using a wound-healing protocol avoiding use of antimicrobials can be used without compromising patient care whilst following antimicrobial stewardship guidelines.

The ratio of 2nd to 4th digit length and reproductive function of infertile male patients.

To investigate the relationship between the ratio of index to ring finger lengths (2D:4D ratio), reflecting androgen exposure in utero, and reproductive function among men. Male patients (N=180) who consulted for fertility issues participated in the study. The palms of both hands were scanned, and the 2D:4D ratio was calculated. Data on semen volume, sperm concentration and total motility, total and motile sperm counts, and serum hormone concentrations were obtained. Spearman correlation coefficients between the 2D:4D ratio and hormone and semen quality parameters were calculated. The total sperm count was significantly negatively correlated with the 2D:4D ratio of the left hand (r=-0.154, p =0.039) but not with that of the right hand (r=-0.045, p =0.548). Testosterone showed weak negative correlations with the 2D:4D ratio in the left (r=-0.142, p =0.058) and right (r=- 0.149, p =0.046) hands. Follicle-stimulating hormone levels were negatively correlated with the 2D:4D ratios of the left (r=-0.173, p =0.020) and right (r=-0.164, p =0.027) hands. Other semen quality parameters or luteinizing hormone levels showed no significant correlation with the 2D:4D ratios. No clear associations were observed between the 2D:4D ratios and reproductive function.

The Ratio of Second and Fourth Digit Length: A Biomarker for Methamphetamine Dependence?

The ratio of 2nd and 4th digit length (2D:4D) is considered to be a sexually dimorphic trait. Low 2D:4D is implicated in alcohol dependence and heroin dependence and correlated with psychological traits such as aggression, physical aggression, and sensation. The purpose of this study is to compare the 2D:4D between methamphetamine (METH) dependence and controls and the 2D:4D ratio that is a potential biomarker for METH dependence. In this study, 40 patients diagnosed with METH dependence in Eulji University Gangnam Eulji Hospital and 50 healthy volunteers were all employees in the same hospital. Images of participants' hands were created using a scanning device. The images contained both the right and left hands; computer software was used to measure the 2D:4D ratio for both hands. We compared the ratios, analyzed by t test, between the METH dependence group and the control group. The mean 2D:4D values were 0.941 (right hand) and 0.943 (left hand) for the patients with METH dependence; in contrast, they were 0.961 (right hand) and 0.961 (left hand) for the control group. These values were significantly smaller than the control in patients' right hands (p = 0.003) and left hands (p = 0.012). Patients with METH dependence had smaller 2D:4D ratios than those in the control group, which is similar to the results from the previous substance use disorder studies. Thus, elevated prenatal testosterone levels during the gonadal period could be related to future METH problems. Furthermore, the 2D:4D ratio is a potential marker for the prediction of METH dependence.

Flexor Tendon Injuries in the Pediatric Population.

Flexor tendon injuries are rare in children, posing specific diagnostic and therapeutic challenges. This study aims to describe epidemiologic characteristics of flexor tendon injuries in children and evaluate the outcomes of surgical treatment. We conducted a retrospective study of patients with acute traumatic flexor tendon injuries treated between 2012 and 2019. We analyzed demographics, lesion mechanism, surgical technique, clinical results, complications, and secondary surgical procedures. Functional results were assessed through the Total Active Mobilization score. Twenty patients were included (n=34 tendons), with median follow-up of 7 months (range, 3-34 months) and median age at time of surgery of 13 years (range, 1-17 years). Male sex was predominant (n=16). The most prevalent injury mechanism was a cut (n=17), mostly affecting the 4th digit (n=10) and Verdan's zone II (n=13). Modified Kessler was the suture technique most commonly used (n=31), and polypropylene was the preferred suture material (n=19). All patients were immobilized with a splint for a median time of 4 weeks (range, 1-7 weeks). According to the Total Active Mobilization score, 15 patients reached a score greater than 75%, independently of age (P>.05). Stiffness was the main complication observed. Complications were identified in 37% of patients and were most common in those older than age 10 years (P>.05) and those with zone II lesions (P>.05). Four patients (20%) needed a second surgical intervention. Flexor tendon injuries in children are relatively uncommon and prevail in the male sex, similarly to the adult population. The principal complication observed was stiffness, which was more prevalent in children older than age 10 years, although without relevant functional implications, as surgical treatment enabled good or excellent outcomes in 75% of patients. [Orthopedics. 2023;46(2):82-85.].

The 2nd:4th digit ratio and shooting skill performance in Basketball Players

Abstract&#x0D; &#x0D; The aim of this study was to investigate the effect of 2d:4d digit ratio on shooting performance in basketball players. 30 male and 30 female basketball players who have been actively playing basketball for 3 years at the age of 15±04.1.69 participated in the study. Participants were asked to score 5 shots from the free throw line by scoring between 0 and 5 to determine their basketball shooting skill performance. To determine finger length, the second finger (2D) and fourth finger (4D) (Figure 3) were measured using a 0-150 mm (USA, Cocraft) Vernier digital caliper with an accuracy of 0.01 mm in millimeters (mm). In addition, the 20 Meter Shuttle Running Test was applied to measure the endurance of the participants. Independent sample T-Test and Pearson correlation test were used for statistical analysis. There was no significant difference in the participants' shot parameters, Shuttle Run Test and other 2D and 4D parameters (p&gt;0.05). There was a negative correlation between the 20 Meter Shuttle Running Test and the left hand 2d:4d variables of the participants (p0.05). It was found that there was no effect between 2D: 4D and aerobic performance and shooting in adolescent male and female basketball players. This result may be due to the age, training level and heterogeneity of the sample group.

Regional Intravenous Anaesthesia (Bier's block) in Black-headed Vulture (Coragyps atratus) Submitted to Digit Amputation

Background: The Coragyps atratus flies long distances in search of food and has a marked behaviour of food competition. Since they are frequently found in areas of recent human occupation, they are subject to trauma, which may require surgical interventions. Locoregional blocks are used as part of a balanced-anaesthesia protocol and are currently being evaluated in birds, with brachial plexus block being the main technique described in the literature. However, to our knowledge, this is the first description of intravenous regional anaesthesia (Bier's block) in a vulture. Thus, we aim to report the use of Bier's block with 1% lidocaine, in a black-headed vulture submitted to digit amputation. Case: A black-headed vulture (Coragyps atratus), weighing 2 kg, was rescued and referred to the Veterinary Hospital due to its inability to fly. Physical examination revealed a swollen digit in the right pelvic limb. Radiographic examination confirmed the intermediate phalanx fracture of the 4th digit of the right pelvic limb with signs suggestive of advanced osteomyelitis. The animal was referred to surgery for amputation of the affected digit. Before surgery, water and food were withdrawn for 12 h. Pre-anaesthetic medication consisted of 1 mg/kg midazolam and 0.5 mg/kg morphine intramuscularly (IM). Anaesthetic induction was performed through face mask with isoflurane, followed by orotracheal intubation with a 3 mm-endotracheal tube. Anaesthesia was maintained with isoflurane through a non-rebreathing circuit in 100% oxygen. Using a multiparametric monitor, heart rate (HR), respiratory rate (RR), end-tidal CO2 (EtCO2), oxyhemoglobin saturation (SpO2), electrocardiography (ECG), systolic blood pressure (SBP) and core temperature (CT) were evaluated. Antisepsis of the right pelvic limb was performed and an elastic band was applied around the distal region of the affected tibia to serve as a tourniquet. A scalp vein set was used to access the lateral saphenous vein in the region distal to the tourniquet, and 5 mg/kg lidocaine 1% was injected intravenously. The patient remained stable during the procedure, with no need for analgesic rescue. The tourniquet was gradually released 40 min past its application, being completely removed after 45 min of surgery. The anaesthetic supply was interrupted, with extubation after 4 min; the patient had satisfactory anaesthetic recovery. Discussion: The present report describes the success in using the technique of intravenous regional anaesthesia with 1% lidocaine for digit amputation performed on a specimen of black-headed vulture. The pre-anaesthetic medication provided analgesia, satisfactory sedation for venoclysis, and anaesthetic induction without complications. Anaesthetic induction and maintenance in birds are preferably performed with inhaled anaesthetics, thus the choice of mask induction. Despite the reduction in RR soon after induction, the patient remained on spontaneous ventilation. Bier's block using 5 mg/kg lidocaine showed to be an easy and safe technique in vultures, but doses up to 6 mg/kg lidocaine are not associated with adverse effects in birds. The intravenous regional anaesthesia technique described in this manuscript promoted adequate analgesia for the digit amputation procedure in black-headed vultures and allowed hemodynamic stability without significant anaesthetic complications. Thus, the present report points to the potential use of this locoregional block in other birds. Keywords: locorregional block, lidocaine, anaesthesia. Título: Anestesia regional intravenosa (bloqueio bier) em urubu-de-cabeça-preta (Coragyps atratus) submetido à amputação de dígito. Descritores: bloqueio locorregional, lidocaína, anestesia.