Outcome Criteria Research Articles

The Clinical Application of Double Taylor Spatial Frame in Segmental Tibial Fracture.

Multi-planar external fixation has been used for the management of segmental tibial fractures with severe soft tissue injuries. However, fewer specialized studies have been reported. The primary aim of this study was to describe our experience of treating fractures of this type using the Taylor Spatial Frame and Ilizarov external fixation methods. We retrospectively analyzed 33 patients with segmental tibial fracture treated at our institution between January 2016 and December 2020. The patients were divided into double Taylor Spatial Frame (D-TSF) and Ilizarov groups based on the external fixation structure. Baseline demographic data included sex, age, injury side and cause, open or closed fracture, time from injury to surgery, complications, and external frame removal and fracture healing time. The hip-knee-ankle angle (HKA) was measured from preoperative, immediate postoperative, and final follow-up full-length X-rays of bilateral lower limbs. We determined the degree of deviation in the HKA by calculating the difference between the measured angle and the ideal value of 180°; the absolute value was used to assess recovery of the lower limb force line. At the final follow-up, Johner-Wruhs tibial fracture outcome criteria (J-W TFOC) were used to classify the postoperative function of the affected limb as excellent, good, moderate, or poor. Count data were analyzed with the chi-square test or Fisher's exact test; the Mann-Whitney U test was used for rank data. No statistically significant differences were observed between the two groups in terms of sex, age, side of injury, cause of injury, closed or open fracture, or time between injury and surgery, which indicates that the groups were comparable (p > 0.05). A statistically significant difference was observed in external frame removal and fracture healing time between the D-TSF and Ilizarov groups (36.24 ± 8.34 vs 45.42 ± 10.21 weeks, p = 0.009; 33.33 ± 8.21 vs 42.00 ± 9.78 weeks, p = 0.011). The Johner-Wruhs criteria were used to assess the function of the affected limb, the D-TSF group performed better in correcting the lower limb force line than the Ilizarov group. A statistically significant difference in terms of excellent ratings was observed between the two groups (18/2/1/0 vs 5/5/1/1, p = 0.010). Postoperative follow-up X-rays demonstrated a significant improvement in the HKA in both groups immediately after surgery and at the final follow-up compared to the angle before surgery. At the final follow-up, a statistically significant difference was observed in the degree of deviation in the HKA between the two groups (1.58° ± 0.84° vs 2.37° ± 1.00°, p = 0.023). The D-TSF treatment is associated with minimal secondary damage to soft tissue, a straightforward and minimally invasive procedure, multiplanar stable fracture fixation, and optimization of fracture alignment and lower limb force lines, therefore, it is highly effective therapeutic option for segmental tibial fracture.

Spontaneous breathing trial with pressure support on positive end-expiratory pressure and extensive use of non-invasive ventilation versus T-piece in difficult-to-wean patients from mechanical ventilation: a randomized controlled trial

BackgroundThe aim of this study is to assess whether a strategy combining spontaneous breathing trial (SBT) with both pressure support (PS) and positive end-expiratory pressure (PEEP) and extended use of post-extubation non-invasive ventilation (NIV) (extensively-assisted weaning) would shorten the time until successful extubation as compared with SBT with T-piece (TP) and post-extubation NIV performed in selected patients as advocated by guidelines (standard weaning), in difficult-to-wean patients from mechanical ventilation.MethodsThe study is a single-center prospective open label, randomized controlled superiority trial with two parallel groups and balanced randomization with a 1:1 ratio. Eligible patients were intubated patients mechanically ventilated for more than 24 h who failed their first SBT using TP. In the extensively-assisted weaning group, SBT was performed with PS (7 cmH2O) and PEEP (5 cmH2O). In case of SBT success, an additional SBT with TP was performed. Failure of this SBT-TP was an additional criterion for post-extubation NIV in this group in addition to other recommended criteria. In the standard weaning group, SBT was performed with TP, and NIV was performed according to international guidelines. The primary outcome criterion was the time between inclusion and successful extubation evaluated with a Cox model with adjustment on randomization strata.ResultsFrom May 2019 to March 2023, 98 patients were included and randomized in the study (49 in each group). Four patients were excluded from the intention-to-treat population (2 in both groups); therefore, 47 patients were analyzed in each group. The extensively-assisted weaning group had a higher median age (68 [58–73] vs. 62 [55–71] yrs.) and similar sex ratio (62% male vs. 57%). Time until successful extubation was not significantly different between extensively-assisted and standard weaning groups (median, 172 [50–436] vs. 95 [47–232] hours, Cox hazard ratio for successful extubation, 0.88 [95% confidence interval: 0.55–1.42] using the standard weaning group as a reference; p = 0.60). All secondary outcomes were not significantly different between groups.ConclusionAn extensively-assisted weaning strategy did not lead to a shorter time to successful extubation than a standard weaning strategy.Trial registration The trial was registered on ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT03861117), on March 1, 2019, before the inclusion of the first patient. https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT03861117.

Résultats fonctionnels à court terme de la cystectomie avec dérivation urinaire non continente par laparoscopie robot assistée dans le cadre de troubles du bas appareil urinaire : une étude rétrospective monocentrique

ObjectiveTo assess the short-term functional outcomes and morbidity of robotic-assisted cystectomy (RAC) and intracorporeal urinary diversion (ICUD) in patients with lower urinary tract dysfunction (LUTD). MethodsAll consecutive patients who underwent RAC+ICUD for LUTD in a tertiary hospital center, between July 2018 and May 2021 were retrospectively included. Medical records were systematically reviewed and patient, perioperative and postoperative data were collected. A good short-term functional outcome was defined by the combination of a satisfying urostomy equipment (absence of urine leakage and easy appliance of the urostomy bag), the absence of pelvicaliceal system dilatation on sonography, and the absence of renal function decrease at the 2months post-operative consultation. Intraoperative parameters and post-operative complications were collected to assess morbidity. ResultsThirty-five patients were included. Eight (22.8%) patients needed intraoperative conversion to laparotomy. Twenty-five patients (92,5%) met criteria for a good functional outcome 2months post-operatively. The median operative time was 346min (86.5–407.5). The median blood loss was 100mL (100–290) and 5 patients (18.5%) required blood transfusion. The median times to return of bowel function was 3 days (2–4) and the median length of hospital stay was 10 days (10–18). Peri-operative complications were reported in 16 patients (59.2%): 6 (22.2%) minor complications Clavien ≤ II and 10 (37%) major complications Clavien ≥ III. There was no significative decrease of the renal function (mean preoperative creatininemia of 61.2μmol/L (50.5–74.5) vs 64.5μmol/L (47–85.25) postoperatively) ConclusionRAC+ICUD in LUTD can provide good short-term functional outcomes while limiting blood transfusion, time to return of bowel function and the length of hospital stay. These results should be confirmed by larger prospective study. Level of evidence4

Functional outcome of diaphyseal fractures of forearm in children treated with titanium elastic nailing system

Background: Forearm fractures are common injuries in children, with diaphyseal fractures of the forearm being among the most frequent injuries treated in the pediatric population. This study aimed to assess the functional outcome of diaphyseal fractures of the forearm in children treated with the titanium elastic nailing system. Methods: This prospective observational study was conducted at the Department of Orthopaedics, Mainamoti Medical College, Cumilla, Bangladesh from January 2020 to December 2022. The study included 67 patients aged 6-15 with diaphyseal forearm fractures treated with the titanium elastic nailing system, selected through purposive sampling. MS Office tools were used for data analysis. Results: According to the functional outcome criteria described by Price et al., it was observed that in the highest number of patients (86.56%), the functional outcome was excellent, followed by good, fair, and poor outcomes found in 8.96%, 2.99%, and 1.49% of the cases, respectively. As the postoperative complications, the delayed union was found among 4%, and skin infection was found among 3% of cases. Conclusions: Considering the excellent outcomes and lower complication rate, the titanium elastic nailing system may be considered a very effective and safe treatment method for the management of diaphyseal fractures of the forearm in children.

Descemet Membrane Endothelial Keratoplasty (DMEK) Anesthesia Analysis.

Comparison of safety and clinical results of Descemet membrane endothelial keratoplasty (DMEK) in topical, peribulbar, or general anesthesia. Retrospective, post hoc matched study of 346 patients who received DMEK surgery with different types of anesthesia (n = 54 topical, n = 137 peribulbar, n = 155 general anesthesia). Outcome criteria were intraoperative complications, endothelial cell count (ECC), central corneal thickness (CCT) and graft rejection rate, rebubbling rate, and visual acuity (VA). Mean follow-up time was 9.4 ± 2.8 months. The group with topical anesthesia showed intraoperative difficulties such as vitreous pressure (p = 0.01) and difficult graft unfolding (p = 0.4), possibly leading to a higher rebubbling rate (p = 0.03) and therefore graft failure (p = 0.39). However, rebubbling and graft failure occurred more often when the graft preparation was more difficult (p = 0.2, p = 0.13, respectively), which was independent of anesthesia. All three groups achieved comparable functional results regarding VA, ECC, and CCT after 6 months. DMEK under topical anesthesia is feasible and shows comparable final visual outcomes but should be limited to selected cooperative patients and performed by experienced surgeons due to the potential for increased intraoperative challenges.

Dip eyes in water technique (Akshi Nimanjjana): Efficacy of a simple technique in the management of meibomian gland dysfunction

Abstract Background: Dip eyes in water (DEW) is an ancient technique to improve eye hygiene. Conventionally, the eyes are cleaned by splashing water on them. However, splashing is not very effective as the eyes get closed reflexly when the water is splashed onto the eyes. On the other hand, in the DEW technique, it is conveniently possible to keep eyes fully open when dipped inside the water in the eye cup. Meibomian gland dysfunction (MGD) is a chronic, frustrating disease for which there is no gold standard, and eye hygiene is presumed to play an important role. Aim: The present study was tested in a cohort of MGD patients using the DEW technique. Materials and methods: DEW was prescribed to seven patients who were symptomatic for a period ranging from 6 months to 2 years. The main four symptoms were irritation in the eyes, persistent watering of the eyes, burning sensation, and foreign-body sensation. The scale of assessment of these four symptoms was severe (+++), moderate (++), mild (+), and no symptoms (−). The outcome assessment criteria were complete relief in these four symptoms and were assessed after 1 year of starting treatment. The DEW technique was performed 3–4 times per day. It was added to the ongoing conservative treatment. Once complete relief was obtained, other conservative management measures were stopped, and only the DEW treatment continued. It was advised that the DEW treatment be continued as a part of the regular eye hygiene daily routine. Results: Five out of seven patients reported complete relief in outcome criteria (four symptoms), one had partial relief, and there was no relief in one of the patients. After a follow-up of 1 year, one patient (the one with partial relief) was lost to follow-up. Five out of seven patients had significant relief, and 5/6 patients had sustained relief on long-term follow-up. No adverse effects were reported by any of the patients. Conclusion: The DEW technique is promising in providing significant relief in patients with MGD. The encouraging results of DEW in this series can help prescribe and extend the indications of DEW in managing MGD and other eye disorders, in which eye hygiene plays a therapeutic role and as a daily routine eye-care practice to prevent various eye disorders.

Bilateral Obturator Osteotomy: A Novel Osteotomy for Bladder Exstrophy Closure

BackgroundAbdominal and pelvic closure remains a challenge during bladder exstrophy initial repair. We aimed to report on the feasibility and results of a novel technique of bilateral obturator osteotomy. MethodsRetrospective study of prospective collected data of children who underwent single-stage delayed bladder exstrophy closure combined with RSTM (Radical Soft Tissue Mobilization) for BEEC (Bladder Exstrophy Epispadias Complex) by the same team at different institutions between December 2017 and May 2021. When pubic approximation was not feasible at the end of the procedure, bilateral obturator osteotomy was performed through the same approach, consisting in bilateral divisions of the ilio-pubic rami, ischio-pubic rami, obturator membrane, and detachment of the internal obturator muscle. Pubic bone fragments were approximated together on the midline. Immobilization in a thermoformed posterior splint was indicated for 3 weeks. The main outcome criterion was the bladder dehiscence rate at 6 months, assessed by physical inspection. Secondary outcome criteria included neurovascular obturator pedicle injury, analyzed during orthopedic physical examination, wound or bone infections, gait acquisition, reported by parents and evaluated during medical examination, and vascular penile impairment, judged by penile and glans coloration. Results17 children (11 males, 6 females) were included, at a median age of 2 months [1–33]; and representing 29% (17/58) of the children with bladder exstrophy who underwent the same surgical approach during the time of study. There was no postoperative bladder dehiscence with a median follow-up of 34 months [6–47]. No complication was observed. Pelvic X-rays showed bilateral normal ossification process. Neither gait abnormality, nor clinical indication of obturator nerve deficiency was observed during follow-up. ConclusionWhen pubic bones approximation is not possible, bilateral obturator osteotomy is a useful adjunct in bladder exstrophy closure, feasible by the pediatric urologist through the same approach, and not requiring external fixator. Level of EvidenceIV.

The impact of complementary therapies on dysmenorrhea in young women

HIGHLIGHTS Complementary treatments have been shown to greatly reduce the intesity of dysminorrhea pain. The use of medicinal plants, herbal concoctions, or compresses might reduce dysmenorrhea discomfort more effectively than taking medications like mefenamic acid, ibuprofen, piroxicam, etc. ABSTRACT Objective: The study's objective was to obtain latest data on alternative therapy for dysmenorrhea in adolescent females of reproductive age. Materials and Methods: A scoping review was conducted using the PRISMA ScR protocol. A search was conducted on PubMed, Science Direct, and Wiley, yielding 848 studies. Ten literature studies were identified that satisfied the criteria for population, exposure, and outcome. The studies also incorporated inclusion criteria, focusing on women of reproductive age who had dysmenorrhea. Results: Out of 848 articles, 32 were considered potentially relevant and met the inclusion criteria. The articles indicated that teenagers commonly used warm compresses and herbal drinks as supplementary therapies to alleviate dys-menorrhea due to their perceived effectiveness and comfort. Other complement-ary therapies for the condition included massage, relaxation, herbal products, self-care practices, acupuncture, and therapeutic methods. Conclusion: Herbal and warm water compress are the most commonly applied alternative therapies for treating dysmenorrhea.

A Systematic Review of the Impact of Intergenerational Learning on the Psychosocial Well-being of Primary School Children and Older Adults.

IntroductionIn recent times, there has been a growing emphasis on the significance of fostering intergenerational learning and interaction. This involves individuals from diverse age groups engaging in purposeful and mutually beneficial activities aimed at enhancing their knowledge, skills, and values.ObjectivesThis systematic review was undertaken to explore the psychosocial consequences of intergenerational learning experiences among primary school-age children and older adults.MethodsIn accordance with the PRISMA guidelines, a comprehensive review of both quantitative and qualitative data was conducted. Electronic databases such as PubMed, Scopus, and ERIC were meticulously searched up to July 26, 2022, using the following Population (P) - Exposure (E) - Outcome (O) criteria: primary school-age children and older adults (P), participation in intergenerational learning (E), and psychosocial effects (O). Additionally, we extensively scrutinized the reference lists of included datasets and pertinent review articles (Figure 1). To evaluate the quality of the eligible studies, we employed the Mixed Methods Appraisal Tool (MMAT). Data analysis was structured around a narrative synthesis approach.Results A total of seventeen studies were deemed eligible for inclusion in this review. The findings regarding the psychosocial consequences of engaging in intergenerational activities for both children and older adults predominantly underscored positive improvements in their attitudes, well-being, happiness, and various other aspects of their social and psychological well-being, although certain methodological limitations were identified (Figure 2).Image:Image 2:ConclusionsPromoting intergenerational interactions and learning experiences holds promise as a means to enhance the overall quality of life and well-being for both younger and older members of our communities.Disclosure of InterestNone Declared

Profiling learning strategies of medical students: A person-centered approach.

Students within a cohort might employ unique subsets of learning strategies (LS) to study. However, little research has aimed to elucidate subgroup-specific LS usage among medical students. Recent methodological developments, particularly person-centred approaches such as latent profile analysis (LPA), offer ways to identify relevant subgroups with dissimilar patterns of LS use. In this paper, we apply LPA to explore subgroups of medical students during preclinical training in anatomy and examine how these patterns are linked with learning outcomes. We analysed the LS used by 689 undergraduate, 1st and 2nd-year medical students across 6 German universities who completed the short version of the Learning Strategies of University Students (LIST-K) questionnaire, and answered questions towards external criteria such as learning resources and performance. We used the thirteen different LS facets of the LIST-K (four cognitive, three metacognitive, three management of internal and three management of external resources) as LPA indicators. Based on LPA, students can be grouped into four distinct learning profiles: Active learners (45% of the cohort), collaborative learners (17%), structured learners (29%) and passive learners (9%). Students in each of those latent profiles combine the 13 LS facets in a unique way to study anatomy. The profiles differ in both, the overall level of LS usage, and unique combinations of LS used for learning. Importantly, we find that the facets of LS show heterogeneous and subgroup-specific correlations with relevant outcome criteria, which partly overlap but mostly diverge from effects observed on the population level. The effects observed by LPA expand results from variable-centered efforts and challenge the notion that LS operate on a linear continuum. These results highlight the heterogeneity between subgroups of learners and help generate a more nuanced interpretation of learning behaviour. Lastly, our analysis offers practical implications for educators seeking to tailor learning experiences to meet individual student needs.

A Proposal for Standardization of Early Outcomes Following Robot-Assisted Radical Cystectomy (RARC): RARC Tetrafecta.

Currently, there is no dedicated tool to record the early outcomes of robot-assisted radical cystectomy (RARC), and existing criteria for longer-term outcomes require a minimum of 3 months for assessment. However, early evaluation is essential to prevent future morbidity and mortality, especially in surgeries with a high risk of complications in the short term. We propose a comprehensive approach to report early RARC outcomes and investigate the influence of surgeon experience on these results. We retrospectively analyzed the outcomes of patients who underwent RARC for bladder cancer between April 2009 and April 2020. The cohort was divided chronologically into three groups: patients 1-60 in group 1, 61-120 in group 2, and 121-192 in group 3. Patients with yields of ≥ 16 lymph nodes (LN), negative soft tissue surgical margins, absence of transfusion, and absence of major complications at 30 days were regarded as attaining the RARC tetrafecta. Of the 192 included patients, 93 (48.4%) achieved RARC tetrafecta, with the proportion increasing with surgical experience from 41.7% in group 1 to 55.6% in group 3. Age [odds ratio (OR) 0.947; 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.924-0.970; P = 0.021], LN yield (OR 1.432; 95% CI 1.139-1.867; P = 0.001), and greater surgical experience with RARC (> 120 patients; OR 2.740; 95% CI 1.231-6.100; P = 0.014) were significantly associated with the achievement of RARC tetrafecta. RARC tetrafecta could be a comprehensive method for reporting early outcomes in patients undergoing RARC, with improvements aligned with the surgeon's experience.

Mathematical modeling of droplet collisions in sprays under microgravity conditions

Two-phase flows under microgravity conditions play a crucial role in Space technology and science. Studying the behavior of dispersed droplets suspended in a gas flow and their influence on the characteristics of the carrier flow is the main task of computational modeling of turbulent two-phase flows. To understand the features and predict the behavior of such flows, along with experimental studies, it is necessary to develop mathematical models, which adequately describe all the basic physical and chemical processes in a gas-droplet environment at different scales.In this paper we obtain solutions for the problem of two droplets collision, using solutions for cumulative jets, and propose droplet collision outcome criterion. This research will focus on the process of two interacting droplets coalescence into one and coalescence with subsequent separation into two or more droplets. A semi-analytical method has been developed for application of the solution of the cumulative jet problem to the problem of droplet collision. A differential equation has been obtained that describes the following possible outcomes of droplet collision: coalescence and coalescence with subsequent separation. A criterion for determining the outcome of on-head droplet collision has been obtained. In accordance with the developed criterion, the number and size of formed droplets are obtained. The effect of collision on moving droplet evaporation in a heated atmosphere was regarded.

Severe Sepsis During Treatment for Childhood Leukemia and Sequelae Among Adult Survivors

Children undergoing treatment for leukemia are at increased risk of severe sepsis, a dysregulated immune response to infection leading to acute organ dysfunction. As cancer survivors, they face a high burden of long-term adverse effects. The association between sepsis during anticancer therapy and long-term organ dysfunction in adult survivors of childhood cancer has not been examined. To determine whether severe sepsis during therapy for leukemia in childhood is associated with subsequent chronic health conditions in adult survivors. This cohort study included 644 adult survivors of childhood leukemia who were diagnosed between January 1, 1985, and July 19, 2010, and participated in the St Jude Lifetime Cohort Study. Participants were excluded if they received hematopoietic cell transplant or had relapsed leukemia. Data collection ended June 30, 2017. Data were analyzed from July 1, 2020, to January 5, 2024. Severe sepsis episodes, defined according to consensus criteria as septic shock, acute respiratory distress syndrome, or multiorgan dysfunction associated with infection occurring during anticancer therapy, were abstracted by medical record review for all participants. Common Terminology Criteria for Adverse Events-defined chronic health condition outcomes were independently abstracted. Associations between sepsis and cumulative incidence of chronic health conditions (eg, cardiovascular, pulmonary, kidney, neurological, and neurocognitive outcomes) were compared by adjusted hazard ratios from Cox proportional hazards logistic regression. Inverse propensity score weighting was used to adjust for potential confounders, including age, year of diagnosis, and leukemia type. The study sample consisted of 644 adult survivors of pediatric leukemia (329 women [51.1%] and 315 men [48.9%]; including 56 with a history of acute myeloid leukemia and 585 with a history of acute lymphoblastic leukemia) who were most recently evaluated at a median age of 24.7 (IQR, 21.2-28.3) years at a median time after leukemia diagnosis of 17.3 (IQR, 13.7-21.9) years. Severe sepsis during treatment of acute childhood leukemia occurred in 46 participants (7.1%). Participants who experienced severe sepsis during treatment were more likely to develop moderate to severe neurocognitive impairment (29 of 46 [63.0%] vs 310 of 598 [51.8%]; adjusted hazard ratio, 1.86 [95% CI, 1.61-2.16]; P < .001) significantly affecting attention, executive function, memory and visuospatial domains. Sepsis was not associated with long-term risk of cardiovascular, pulmonary, kidney, or neurological chronic health conditions. In this cohort study of long-term outcomes in survivors of pediatric leukemia, severe sepsis during anticancer therapy for leukemia was associated with a selectively increased risk for development of serious neurocognitive sequelae. Efforts to reduce the effects of anticancer therapy on long-term function and quality of life in survivors might include prevention of severe sepsis during therapy and early detection or amelioration of neurocognitive deficits in survivors of sepsis.

Early HbA1c Levels as a Predictor of Adverse Obstetric Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis.

Background: The objective was to assess the association between early HbA1c levels and pregnancy complications and whether this relationship is affected when HbA1c thresholds are greater than or less than 39 mmol/mol (5.7%). Methods: Electronic searches of the MEDLINE and EMBASE databases up to October 2022 were conducted. We included retrospective and prospective observational studies. The inclusion criteria were as follows: HbA1c measurements taken at <20 weeks' gestation, singleton pregnancy, and no pre-existing diabetes mellitus. Results: We assessed the certainty of the evidence with the GRADE system. We determined the proportion of patients in each group who met the criteria for obstetrical outcomes and pooled data into two subgroups according to the HbA1c threshold: <39 mmol/mol or >39 mmol/mol (5.7%). Sixteen studies with a total of 43,627 women were included. An association between elevated early HbA1c levels and pre-eclampsia, large for gestational age (LGA), macrosomia, and preterm delivery (RR 2.02, 95% CI 1.53-2.66; RR 1.38, 95% CI 1.15-1.66; RR 1.40, 95% CI 1.07-1.83; and RR 1.67, 95% CI 1.39-2.0, respectively) was shown, with a moderate-high grade of certainty. According to the subgroup analysis of all studies, LGA, pre-eclampsia, and labour induction were associated with elevated HbA1c levels only in studies using an HbA1c threshold >39 mmol/mol (5.7%). The association between HbA1c levels and premature birth was statistically significant in studies using both higher and lower HbA1c thresholds. Conclusions: Women with high early HbA1c levels below the range of diabetes presented an increased risk of pregnancy complications such as macrosomia, LGA, and pre-eclampsia. An early HbA1c threshold of >39 mmol/mol (5.7%) showed the strongest association with pregnancy complications.

Criteria of ultrasound-guided closed reduction with percutaneous pinning in unstable humeral lateral condylar fractures: a three-center retrospective cohort study.

Interventions using ultrasound-guided closed reduction and percutaneous pinning (UG-CRPP) of humeral lateral condylar fractures (HLCFs) have been increasingly applied; however, their effectiveness for unstable HLCFs and the criteria for ultrasound outcomes remain unclear. This study assessed the outcomes of UG-CRPP for HLCFs and evaluated the success criteria in children. Data were retrospectively collected from 106 patients with unstable HLCFs admitted to three hospitals between January 2021 and August 2022. Fifty-five cases were left-sided and 51 cases were right-sided: 74 male patients and 32 female patients were included. Perioperative data, elbow function, complications, and criteria for UG-CRPP were analyzed. The mean rate of UG-CRPP was 88%. The mean surgical time was 54.56 ± 21.07 min, and the mean fluoroscopy frequency was 9.25 ± 2.93 times. At the last follow-up, there were significant differences in elbow flexion between the affected side (135.82° ± 6.92°) and the unaffected side (140.58° ± 5.85°) (p = 0.01). The Mayo score of the affected side was 90.28° ± 4.97°, the Baumann angle was 71.4° ± 5.4°, condylar shaft angle was 39.9° ± 6.4°, and the carrying angle was 8.4° ± 3.6°. Seventy patients presented mild lateral spurs and 16 patients exhibited moderate spurs. Fourteen patients presented with pin infection, and one patient exhibited postoperative re-displacement. There was no premature physeal closure, varus, or valgus elbow deformity, delayed union, or non-union. Successful ultrasound-based outcome criteria for UG-CRPP were defined as follows: (i) absent or less than a cartilage thickness step on the cartilage hinge on coronal plane parallel articular surface scanning, (ii) no lateral displacement and intact distal end of the condylar and capitellum on coronal plane vertical articular surface scanning, (iii) no anteroposterior displacement and absent or less than a cartilage thickness step on sagittal plane vertical articular surface scanning, and (iv) intact posterior fracture line or less than a cortex step on posterolateral sagittal plane vertical articular surface scanning. UG-CRPP is a procedure with minimal blood loss, less invasive, cosmetic, and no radiation exposure. It yielded good outcomes in unstable HLCFs. The successful criteria make it suitable for clinical application.

The efficacy of Punica granatum extract gel in the treatment of symptomatic oral lichen planus in an Indian population: A clinical study.

The autoimmune disorder, oral lichen planus (OLP), primarily affects oral mucous membranes. Current drug treatments are only palliative and have serious side effects. Pomegranate has been used as a potential herbal remedy for the treatment of OLP. The study consisted of a sample size of 30 individuals who were diagnosed with symptomatic OLP based on both clinical and histological evidence and were equally assigned to Group A (4% topical Punica granatum seed extract gel, which has been customized for this particular study purpose only) and Group B (0.1% topical steroid). All patients were evaluated for the outcome criteria of pain, burning sensation, and lesion size. In the present study, results were highly statistically significant (P = 0.001) in intragroup observation for both Group A and Group B from baseline to the end of 30 days of follow-up for all three parameters. There was no statistically significant difference between groups for each week of follow-up. P. granatum has been used in very few studies, but this is one of the few where a gel made from P. granatum seed extract is used as an oral gel. In conclusion, it can be said that topical P. granatum extract gel is as good as topical corticosteroids at getting rid of the signs and symptoms of OLP, so it can be used as an alternative treatment.

The relationship between the Hopkins symptom checklist-10 and diagnoses of anxiety and depression among inpatients with substance use disorders

Introduction The Hopkins Symptom Checklist-10 (HSCL-10) is a self-report inventory of anxiety and depression symptoms that may assist clinicians in screening for clinical conditions among patients with substance use disorder (SUD). We examined the HSCL-10 as a screening tool for anxiety and depressive disorders within a general population of SUD inpatients. Methods We used data from a cohort study of 611 SUD inpatients. Receiver operating characteristic (ROC) analyses were conducted, with and without covariates, to evaluate the potential of the HSCL-10 as a screening tool. This was explored using any anxiety disorder, especially posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and any mood disorder, especially major depressive disorders, as the outcome criteria. Candidate covariates included gender, age, education, polydrug use and treatment center. Results: The HSCL-10 had a moderate ability to identify caseness (i.e. having or not having a clinical diagnosis) according to each outcome criterion, with the area under the ROC curve (AUC) varying from 0.64 to 0.66. Adding relevant covariates markedly enhanced the instrument’s ability to identify those who met the criteria for any anxiety disorder (AUC = 0.77), especially PTSD (AUC = 0.82). Conclusion In a real-world clinical setting, the HSCL-10 has fair-to-good clinical utility for identifying SUD inpatients who have comorbid clinical symptoms of anxiety disorders or PTSD, when combined with common background variables. The HSCL-10, a brief self-report screening tool, may serve as an efficient proxy for comprehensive interviews used in research and for clinical anxiety symptom screening among patients with SUD.

Comparison of clinical and functional outcomes of patients who underwent plate osteosynthesis and intramedullary nailing for forearm fractures

Aims: The aim of this study was to compare the functional and radiographic results of patients with forearm diaphyseal fractures after intramedullary nailing (IMN) and plate and screw osteosynthesis.&#x0D; Methods: A total of 58 patients, including 31 patients operated on with the plate osteosynthesis method and 27 patients operated on with the IMN method for forearm diaphyseal fractures between 2017 and 2022, were retrospectively analyzed. The mean age was 35.9±14.5 years in the plate group and 33±13.1 years in the IMN group. The mean follow-up period was 157±83 days in the IMN group and 220±97 days in the plate group. Evaluation criteria for functional outcomes were forearm pronation; supination range of motion; the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (DASH) score; and the Grace-Eversmann score. &#x0D; Results: The mean union time was 66.7 days in the plate group and 54.4 days in the IMN group (p=0.039). The mean length of hospitalization was 3.9±3.44 days in the plate group and 2.93±1.49 days in the IMN group. The mean supination range was 72.5±9.9 degrees in the plate group and 72.2±11.8 degrees in the IMN group. The mean pronation range was 81.2±11.7 degrees in the plate group and 80.3±15.5 degrees in the IMN group. The mean follow-up period was 157±83 days in the IMN group and 220±97 days in the plate group (p=0.011). According to the Association for Osteosynthesis/Orthopedic Trauma Association (AO/OTA) classification, 30 cases were classified as type A, 21 cases as type B, and 7 cases as type C. According to the Grace-Eversmann classification, 2 cases in the plate group were classified as unacceptable, 2 were classified as acceptable, 10 were classified as good, and 16 were classified as excellent, while 2 cases in the IMN group were classified as unacceptable, 4 were classified as acceptable, 5 were classified as good, and 16 were classified as excellent. The mean DASH score was 14.74±10.49 in the plate group and 15.11±12.7 in the IMN group.&#x0D; Conclusion: With the advantages of minimal incision, less soft tissue damage, and no evacuation of the fracture hematoma, the union time and follow-up periods were found to be shorter in the IMN group. Thanks to the bearing force of intracanal intramedullary nails, patients were able to move earlier and satisfactory functional outcomes were obtained.

Acute kidney injury in children undergoing cardiac surgery: predictive value of kidney arterial Doppler-based variables.

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a common condition in critically ill children and is associated with increased morbidity and mortality. This study aimed to assess the performance of point-of-care ultrasonography to predict AKI in children undergoing cardiac surgery. In this prospective study, consecutive children underwent kidney Doppler ultrasound examination within 24h following cardiac surgery, and an experienced operator obtained both renal resistive index (RRI) and renal pulsatility index (RPI). AKI was defined by the Kidney Disease Improving Global Outcome (KDIGO) criteria. The primary outcome was the diagnosis of severe AKI (KDIGO stage 2 or 3) on day 3. A total of 58 patients were included. Median age and weight were 12.9months (IQR 6.0-37.9) and 7.36kg (IQR 5.19-11.40), respectively. On day 3, 13 patients were classified as having AKI, of which 11 were severe. RRI could effectively predict AKI (area under the ROC curve [AUC] 0.83, 95% CI 0.71-0.92; p < 0.001) as well as RPI (AUC 0.81, 95% CI 0.69-0.90; p < 0.001). The optimal cutoff value for RRI was 0.85 (sensitivity, 73%; specificity, 83%; positive predictive value [PPV], 50%; and negative predictive value [NPV], 93%), while for RPI was 1.95 (sensitivity, 73%; specificity, 78%; PPV, 44%; and NPV, 92%). Similar results were found in the analysis for prediction on day 5. Significant correlations were found between Doppler-based variables and estimated GFR and furosemide dose on day 3. Kidney Doppler ultrasound may be a promising tool for predicting AKI in children undergoing cardiac surgery.

Beyond developmental psychopathology: Positive child development.

The field of developmental psychopathology has made significant contributions to our understanding of both typical and atypical development. However, while there are established theories for developmental psychopathology with detailed criteria for pathological outcomes, there is less agreement regarding development under optimal conditions and the definition of positive outcomes. In this conceptual paper, I make the case that a better understanding of positive child development is crucial because it will not only advance our general knowledge on human development but also complement current work on developmental psychopathology. After defining positive development as the development of positive functioning in children, such as skills, strengths, competencies, and wellbeing, rather than the absence of problems, current concepts with relevance for positive development are reviewed, before highlighting gaps in our knowledge on positive development and suggestions for future research. Although several of the reviewed frameworks provide important contributions to the conceptualization of positive development, most of them focus on positive functioning in adults with limited consideration of development in the early years. More research is needed that specifically targets the development of positive outcomes from early childhood onward in order to develop a more comprehensive and holistic theory of positive child development.