Digits Of Hand Research Articles

Nailfold Capillaroscopy in Psoriatic Patients with Metabolic Syndrome: A Comparative Observational Study

Objectives: Psoriasis, a systemic disorder, is linked with metabolic comorbidities. Nailfold capillaroscopy (NFC), a non-invasive technique, is utilised to evaluate microcirculation in the nailfold area. This study aimed at assessing nailfold capillary changes among psoriatic patients with metabolic syndrome (MeS) and compared these finding to those of healthy controls. Materials and Methods: An evaluation of 75 patients with psoriasis and 75 age- and sex-matched healthy controls were done. NFC was performed using universal serial bus videodermatoscope on the 4th and 5th digits of both hand and MeS was diagnosed using National Cholesterol Education Program and Adult Treatment Panel III criteria. Results: Twenty-five (33%) psoriatic patients and 10 (13.3%) healthy control had MeS (P = 0.004). The mean nailfold capillary density in psoriasis patients with and without MeS was significantly less than that in healthy controls (P < 0.005 and <0.001, respectively). Dilated, bushy and dropout capillaries were significantly higher in Psoriatic patients with MeS; whereas, meandering, dilated, giant, bushy, bizarre capillaries, microhaemorrhages, dropouts and avascular areas were significantly higher in psoriatic patients without MeS when compared to respective groups of healthy control with MeS or without MeS. Conclusion: Decreased mean capillary density and higher incidence of budding and bushy capillaries in psoriatic patients with MeS as compared to psoriatic patients without MeS points toward a pathogenic role of MeS in microvascular damage; however, the absence of an association with disease duration and severity suggests that these capillary changes might serve as early markers of MeS, which warrants further investigation in larger and prospective studies.

Handgrip strength and diabetes in postmenopausal women: insights from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey 2014-2019.

This study aimed to investigate the association between handgrip strength (HGS) and diabetes mellitus (DM) in postmenopausal women in Korea relative to the menopausal duration. Data from the Korean National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey conducted between 2014 and 2019 were analyzed. A total of 4,098 postmenopausal women aged 45 to 65 years were included in the study. Handgrip strength was measured using a digital hand dynamometer. Participants were categorized into quartiles based on HGS with Q1 representing the weakest strength and Q4 the greatest strength. The association between DM and HGS was assessed using logistic regression analysis while adjusting for relevant covariates. Postmenopausal women aged 45 to 65 years with stronger HGS were less likely to have DM (P < 0.001). This association persisted even after adjusting for age, body mass index, and comorbidities (P < 0.001). The inverse relationship between HGS and DM prevalence was more pronounced in women who had been postmenopausal for >10 years than in those who had been postmenopausal for a shorter duration (P-interaction <0.001). In addition, compared to their nondiabetic counterparts, women with DM were less likely to be categorized into the Q4 group (P < 0.001). The findings suggest that weaker HGS was associated with likelihood of having DM among postmenopausal women in Korea. Owing to the inherent limitation to the cross-sectional study design, further research is warranted to elucidate the underlying mechanisms of the association between DM and HGS in postmenopausal women.

Concordance of grip strength measurement between a digital handheld dynamometer and a Hydraulic dynamometer.

Assessment of muscle strength is of great interest for the study of age-associated pathologies, including frailty and sarcopenia. However, the cost of some of the equipment necessary for its evaluation could be prohibitive for its generalized use in some settings. The purpose of the present study was to compare two handheld dynamometers to evaluate the measure of concordance between the measurements. Material and methods The study was conducted in the outpatient Geriatrics clinics where 120 community-dwelling participants aged 60 years and more were evaluated using two devices: the JAMAR® Hydraulic Hand Dynamometer and the digital hand dynamometer CAMRY® EH101. We observed a positive correlation between the two devices for dominant hand (DH) Pearson r 0.974 (p < 0.001) and a Spearman ρ 0.973 (p < 0.001) for non-dominant hand (NDH) Lin's coefficient for the DH was 0.98 (p < 0.001) and for the NDH 0.97 (p < 0.001). The intraclass correlation coefficient was 0.971 (95% CI, 0.95-0.97; p < 0.001) for DH and 0.975 (95% CI, 0.96-0.98; p < 0.001) for NDH. In this study, the Camry dynamometer was observed to be reliable for measuring hand grip strength in community-dwelling people 60 years or older.

To assess the relationship between neck pain and handgrip strength due to text neck syndrome in medical students

Background: to evaluate the association between the strength of a student's grasp and text neck syndrome. Methodology: on 60 college students, correlation research was conducted. were assigned into two equal groups (groups A and B) at random; group A represents those who use cell phones for less than four hours each day. Group B is made up of those who use their smartphones for more than four hours each day. individuals with a history of upper limbs or neck traumas, inflammatory joint disease, Genetic spinal deformity, or history of surgery the neck were excluded. The subjects filled out a detailed assessment form that asked for information like Name, age, dominant hand, how many hours were spent using a phone, and Neck Disability Index are also included. Later, the strength of their dominant hand's grip was evaluated using a digital hand dynamometer. Result: the connection between the neck disability index and the power of the hands' grasp test was evaluated using Pearson's correlation coefficient because the data were not regularly distributed. There is no significant difference between the groups. Conclusion: prolonged use of smartphones increases neck pain without affecting on handgrip strength.

Complications and Outcomes of Bone-Anchored Prostheses of the Hand: A Systematic Review

The purpose of this study was to conduct a systematic review evaluating the reported complications and outcomes of bone-anchored prostheses in digit and partial hand amputees. A literature review of primary research articles on osseointegration and bone-anchored prostheses for digit and partial amputees was performed. The Medline, Embase, Scopus, and Cochrane Library databases were queried. Inclusion criteria were journal articles that evaluated osseointegration and bone-anchored prostheses in digit and partial hand amputees. The main outcome measures were reported complications and the need for revision surgery. Secondary outcomes included all reported outcome assessments. Fifteen articles were included with publication dates ranging from 1996 to 2022. The sample sizes ranged from single-patient case reports to a 13-patient retrospective study. Overall, 33 men and 16 women were reported with a mean age of 33.6 years (range: 12-68) and a total of 71 amputated digits. The median follow-up was 2.1 years (IQR: 1.1-6.8 years). A total of 24 complications were reported in 14 digits (19.7%). Complications included superficial infection in 6 digits (8.5%), abutment loosening or failure in 5 (7%), fixture aseptic loosening in 4 (5.6%), deep infection in 1 (1.4%), and soft tissue instability in 1 (1.4%). Sixteen revision surgeries or component changes were reported. Bone-anchored prostheses using osseointegrated implants in the hand are associated with favorable outcomes in the limited number of low-quality studies available for review. Superficial infections and implant-related failures were the most frequently reported complications. Systematic review IV.

036. Sclerotic Therapy as The Management Of Arteriovenous Malformation on Hand: A Case Report

Background: An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) is an abnormal connection between arteries and veins, bypassing the capillary system. There are a number of consequences associated with this illness, such as bleeding and neurological impairments. The situation is complex, which emphasizes the necessity for individualized treatment plans. This case report a 18 years old female with AVM condition. Case: A 18 years old female was admitted to to Prof. IGNG Ngoerah General Hospital with a chief complaint of lump on the left finger. The lump on the left finger has been felt since &gt;10 years ago. The lump appeared suddenly and went bigger each day. Complaints worsened until the patient felt pain in the left finger. On examination of the local status, multiple masses were found on third and fourth digits of the left hand, with unclear border and vein ectasis. MSCT Angiography of the left superior extremity found a soft tissue image of hemangioma on the palmar aspect and interdigiti III-IV to the palmar-dorsal aspect of digit III and the palmar aspect of digiti IV of the left hand and multiple non-suspicious lymphadenopathy in the left axilla region. The scleroterapy treatment was performed and 3 months results shown decreased size of the masses without any complication. Conclusion: An arteriovenous malformation (AVM) of the left hand fingers is a rare case found in Prof Ngoerah Hospital. The sclerotic therapy found to be an effective management for this case.

6427 Impact of Adrenalectomy On Frailty And Muscle Function In Patients With Mild Autonomous Cortisol Secretion: A Prospective Longitudinal Study

Abstract Disclosure: J. Saini: None. V. Fell: None. B. Atkinson: None. S. Achenbach: None. I. Bancos: None. Background: Patients with mild autonomous cortisol secretion (MACS) have a higher prevalence of frailty and reduced muscle strength as compared to patients with nonfunctioning adrenal adenomas or subjects without adrenal disorders. Objective: To determine the impact of adrenalectomy on frailty and parameters of functional strength in patients with MACS. Methods: We conducted a single-center prospective longitudinal study of adults with MACS scheduled for adrenalectomy and referent subjects evaluated between 2018 and 2023. MACS was defined as serum cortisol&amp;gt;1.8 mcg/dL after 1 mg dexamethasone suppression test in patients with adrenal adenomas and no features of overt hypercortisolism. Referent subjects were included if they had abdominal imaging and had no adrenal disorders. Patients and referent subjects had a baseline and a follow-up evaluation at least 10 months later. Differences were assessed using paired t-tests for (1) Frailty Index (FI)--calculated using a questionnaire containing 47 variables on comorbidities, symptoms, and daily living activities (frailty defined as FI&amp;gt;0.25) (2) physical function assessed using handgrip strength (Jamar Plus digital hand dynamometer), timed up-and-go test (time taken to rise from a chair, walk to and from 3 m, and sit down), gait speed, 6-minute walk test, and (3) Advanced Glycation End (AGE) Product (using AGE reader). Results: We evaluated 41 patients before and after adrenalectomy, and 31 referent subjects at baseline and follow-up visit, at a similar interval (median 1.6, IQR 1.2-2.0 vs 1.5 years, IQR 1.0-2.2, P=0.759). While sex distributions were no different between the 2 groups (women, 66% vs 84%, P=0.086), patients with MACS were older than the referent group (median age 57.3, IQR 48.8-66.9 vs 49.0, IQR 41.7-57.9 years, P=0.005). Post-adrenalectomy, FI decreased by a mean of 0.057 (SD 0.08), P&amp;lt;0.001 in patients, and remained unchanged in the referent group. AGE decreased in patients by 0.148 (SD 0.45), P=0.04 but not in referent subjects (-0.047, SD 0.242, P=0.5). Patients demonstrated no improvement in parameters of muscle strength: gait speed (mean change 0.305 m/s, P=0.453), 6-minute walk test (mean change 16.4 meters, P=0.201), dominant (mean Z score change -0.055, P=0.72) and nondominant (mean Z score change -0.199, P=0.192) hand grip muscle strength. At follow-up, both patients (mean change 1.897 seconds, P&amp;lt;0.001) and referent subjects (mean change=1.475 seconds, P&amp;lt;0.001) demonstrated a deterioration on the timed up-and-go test. Conclusions: While no improvement was seen in the parameters of muscle strength, adrenalectomy improved the frailty index in patients with MACS. In addition, AGE, a biomarker associated with cardiovascular morbidity, decreased after adrenalectomy, suggesting a beneficial cardiovascular impact of MACS reversal. Presentation: 6/1/2024

Effect of Muscle Strength on Functionality after Shoulder Tendon Transfer in Brachial Plexus Birth Injury: Is There a Relationship between Them?

Secondary problems in BPBI occur due to decreased muscle strength in the upper extremities. Comprehensive assessment methods are necessary to understand structural problems and to plan appropriate interventions in children with BPBI. We investigated the relationship between distal muscle strength, range of motion (ROM), and functionality by comparing distal muscle strength on the affected and unaffected sides in patients with BPBI who underwent shoulder tendon transfer. A total of 25 children with BPBI, 13 (52%) girls and 12 (48%) boys, aged 4-7 years (mean age: 5.98 ± 1.27 years), who had undergone shoulder tendon transfer surgery at least one year prior to the study were included. The muscle strength of the elbow, forearm, and wrist were assessed using the MicroFET®2 Digital Hand Dynamometer. The ROM of the elbow, forearm, and wrist were measured using the universal goniometer. The Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory (PEDI) was used for functionality assessment. The strength of the elbow flexor-extensor, forearm pronator-supinator, and wrist extensor muscles on the affected side was greater than on the unaffected side in all children (p < 0.001). No correlation was found between muscle strength, ROM, and functionality in the affected extremity (p > 0.005). Although children with BPBI have good shoulder function after shoulder tendon transfer, structural problems in the distal joints may affect their functionality during daily life. Distal joint strengthening and ROM exercises, as well as bimanual functional activities, should be included in the rehabilitation programs of children with BPBI after shoulder tendon transfer.

Correlation of Hand Digit Length Ratio, Anogenital Distance, and Severity of Hypospadias among Prepubertal Boys.

Antenatal androgen exposure has been suggested as a contributing factor in hypospadias etiology. This study aimed to investigate the correlation between anogenital distance (AGD), index finger-to-ring finger ratio (2D:4D ratio), and hypospadias severity in prepubertal boys, with the goal of exploring these parameters as potential markers of genital anomalies in utero. A cross-sectional observational study was conducted on boys under 8 years old presenting to our outpatient department (April 2020-December 2022). Those with hypospadias were included in the study group, whereas those without hypospadias formed the comparator group. Confounding factors (age, weight, and height) were accounted for using multivariate linear regression analysis. AGD, 2D:4D ratio, and hypospadias severity were measured during clinical visits, with still images taken for precise measurements. Statistical analysis was performed using the Mann-Whitney U and student's t-tests (software: STATA Version 14). Data were collected for 100 cases of hypospadias (26 proximal and 74 distal) and 50 controls. There was no significant difference in mean age between groups (P = 0.90). AGD was slightly lower in cases (3.44 ± 1.13 cm) compared to controls (3.70 ± 1.43) (P = 0.88). 2D:4D ratios were marginally higher in cases compared to controls (P = 0.12 for both hands). Although our study did not find significant associations between AGD and 2D:4D ratios with hypospadias severity, it offers insights into the role of prenatal androgen in genital development. The lack of significance underscores the need for region-specific research, suggesting AGD and 2D:4D ratio may not universally apply as hypospadias markers.

Hand Digit Revascularization: Could Be an "Elective-Urgence" Surgery?

Background: A continuous obstacle that has limited access to and implementation of finger replantation surgery is timeliness, as ischemia time is traditionally considered a crucial factor for success. However, claims that the vitality of amputated fingers decreases after 6 h of warm ischemia and 12 h of cold ischemia are mostly based on theoretical considerations. Methods: Here we present a case of multi-digit revascularization after 72 h of warm ischemia using the microsurgical arteriovenous bypass technique. Results: In the reported case, revascularization was performed after a long ischemic period and showed good recovery of motor and sensory function. Conclusions: We identified significant limitations in the literature supporting time limits of ischemia and recent evidence demonstrating the feasibility of delayed finger replantation. The current treatment approach for amputation injuries often requires transfers or nighttime emergency procedures, increasing costs and limiting the national availability of finger replantation. Changes to finger replantation protocols based on evidence could expand access to this service and improve the quality of care.

A cross-sectional study evaluating grip strength and associated factors in Turkish nurses and nursing students

BackgroundGrip strength is an important indicator of muscle strength. Nursing job demands physical power, which is related to their muscle strength. However, studies on nurses’ grip strength remains lacking.ObjectiveThis study aims to examine the differences in grip strength between staff nurses and nursing students and to identify factors associated with grip strength in nursing sample.MethodThis study was designed as descriptive and analytical. Data collected from nursing students and staff nurses in Turkiye, from May 1 to September 30, 2022. A total of 200 staff nurses and 200 nursing students participated. Data tool included a participant information form, the Perceived Stress Scale-4 (PSS-4), and the Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ). Moreover, researchers assessed the anthropometric measurements using the same scale and grip strength using a digital hand dynamometer.ResultsThere was no significant difference in grip strength of staff and student nurses. 48.8% of participants met or exceeded Turkish normative values. 79.5% of staff nurses and 66.0% of nursing students reported musculoskeletal issues in the last 12 months. Height, waist-to-hip ratio, and neck circumference was found to be significant predictors of grip strength, explaining 57% of the variance.ConclusionGrip strength was similar between staff nurses and nursing students, despite differences in age, BMI, and musculoskeletal issues. Height, waist-to-hip ratio, and neck circumference are key predictors of grip strength in this Turkish nursing sample. Understanding the factors influencing grip strength can help in designing targeted interventions to maintain and improve muscle strength in nursing professionals.

Associations of muscle mass, strength, and quality with diabetes and the mediating role of inflammation in two National surveys from China and the United states

AimsThe evidence for joint and independent associations of low muscle mass and low muscle strength with diabetes is limited and mixed. The study aimed to determine the associations of muscle parameters (muscle mass, strength, quality, and sarcopenia) and sarcopenia obesity with diabetes, and the previously unstudied mediating effect of inflammation. Materials and MethodsA total of 13,420 adults from the 2023 China National Health Survey (CNHS) and 5,380 adults from the 2011–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) were included in this study. Muscle mass was determined using bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) in the CNHS, and whole-body dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) in the NHANES. Muscle strength was assessed using digital hand dynamometer. Multivariate logistic regression models were used to evaluate the associations of muscle parameters and sarcopenia obesity with diabetes. Inflammatory status was assessed using blood cell counts and two systemic inflammation indices (platelet-to-lymphocyte ratio (PLR) and system inflammation response index (SIRI)). Mediation analysis was conducted to examine inflammation’s role in these associations. ResultsLow muscle mass and strength were independently related to diabetes. Low muscle quality was associated with elevated diabetes risk. Sarcopenia has a stronger association with diabetes compared to low muscle strength alone or mass alone (CNHS, odds ratio (OR) = 1.93, 95 % confidence interval (CI):1.64–2.27; NHANES, OR = 3.80, 95 %CI:2.58–5.58). Participants with sarcopenia obesity exhibit a higher risk of diabetes than those with obesity or sarcopenia alone (CNHS, OR = 2.21, 95 %CI:1.72–2.84; NHANES, OR = 6.06, 95 %CI:3.64–10.08). Associations between muscle parameters and diabetes were partially mediated by inflammation (mediation proportion: 1.99 %-36.64 %, P < 0.05). ConclusionLow muscle mass and muscle strength are independently or jointly associated with diabetes, and inflammation might be a potential mechanism underlying this association. Furthermore, the synergistic effects of sarcopenia and obesity could significantly increase diabetes risk.

A Novel Variant in the Cyto-Tail of SMO Gene Underlying Isolated Postaxial Polydactyly

Background: Polydactyly is one of the most common hereditary limb malformations, characterized by presence of additional digits in hands and/or feet. It is present either in isolated form or in combination with other features. Preaxial polydactyly with extra digit on the outside of the thumb or big toe, and postaxial polydactyly with extra digit on the outside of the little finger or little toe are the two main forms of polydactyly. Methods and Results: In the present study, two unrelated consanguineous families segregating PAP in an autosomal recessive manner were investigated. Whole exome sequencing, followed by segregation analysis using Sanger sequencing, revealed a homozygous missense variant [c.1792 G>A; p.(Gly598Arg); NM_005631.5] in the SMO in both families. Proteins SMO, PTCH, and GLI act as major components of the Sonic hedgehog pathway, which transmits signals to embryonic cells for cellular differentiation. Homology modeling revealed that the variant in SMO may disrupt proper protein folding and interaction with other molecules. Conclusion: Our study has revealed the second direct involvement of a sequence variant in the SMO causing isolated polydactyly. This study will highlight the importance of the inclusion of the SMO gene in screening individuals presenting polydactyly in hands and feet.

A novel homozygous FAM92A gene (CIBAR1) variant further confirms its association with non-syndromic postaxial polydactyly type A9 (PAPA9).

Polydactyly is a very common digit anomaly, having extra digits in hands and/or toes. Non-syndromic polydactyly in both autosomal dominant and autosomal recessive forms are caused by disease-causing variants in several genes, including GLI1, GLI3, ZNF141, FAM92A, IQCE, KIAA0825, MIPOL1, STKLD1, PITX1, and DACH1. Whole exome sequencing (WES) followed by bi-directional Sanger sequencing was performed for the single affected individual (II-1) of the family to reveal the disease causative variant/gene. 3D protein modeling and structural molecular docking was performed to determine the effect of the identified mutation on the overall protein structure. WES revealed a novel biallelic missense variant (c.472G>C; p.Ala158Pro) in exon 6 of the FAM92A gene. The identified variant segregated perfectly with the disease phenotype using Sanger sequencing. Furthermore, Insilco analysis revealed that the variant significantly changes the protein secondary structure, and substantially impact the stability of FAM92A. We report the second FAM92A disease-causing mutation associated with recessive non-syndromic postaxial polydactyly. The data further confirms the contribution of FAM92A in limb development and patterning.

Leveraging bone age assessment via a novel joint decomposition teacher–student learning paradigm from X-ray images

ABSTRACT Advancements in technology has accelerated the evolution of bone age assessment (BAA) methodologies, one of which is deep learning algorithms, which overcome the drawbacks of conventional approaches. In spite of excellent effectiveness of deep neural networks in detection of the correct class for bone age, they have a significant degree of complexity due to the numerous parameters they employ for each region of interest (ROI). In this paper, we propose a BAA method using a hybrid knowledge distillation (KD) paradigm in order to conquer this difficulty by mapping different ROIs into a single ROI. In this regard, the student receives knowledge from a teacher network that has been pre-trained on six ROIs including bones of five fingers and the wrist, transfers the knowledge of its final response layer and internal layers to the student. Then, six student models each of which is constructed based on just one of these ROIs, while receiving the information of the teacher model. Empirical results on digital hand atlas report that our student model trained on one ROI obtains 95% accuracy on 19 classes of bone age.

Associations between 2D:4D from direct and radiographic measurements with handgrip strength in young adult Tuvans

BackgroundDigit ratio (2D:4D) – the relative lengths of the index and ring finger – is sexually dimorphic (male < female), possibly because of the sex-differentiated impact of prenatal androgenization on fetal development in the 1st trimester. The sex difference remains stable with age and has been reported in children, adolescents, and adults from industrialized and non-industrialized societies. Handgrip strength (HGS) also is sexually dimorphic (males > females) and correlates negatively with 2D:4D. AimsTo examine in a sample of young adult Tuvans from Siberia (Russian Federation): i) the association between 2D:4D measured directly from the palms with 2D:4D measured from radiographic images of the same individuals and ii) the associations between 2D:4D and HGS in Tuvan men and women. Study design and subjectsThe study was cross-sectional. Participants were Tuvans (n = 185; 80 men; mean age = 21.02 years). 2D:4D was measured with a caliper from the ventral surface of the palm (both hands) and from radiographic images (left hand). HGS of both hands was measured with a digital hand dynamometer. Body height and weight were measured with an anthropometer and a body composition scale. Results2D:4D ratios and anthropometric measures (including HGS) were sexually dimorphic. Men had lower 2D:4D and higher HGS than women. Direct measures of 2D:4D correlated positively with 2D:4D measured from radiographs. Body mass index (BMI) was a significant predictor of HGS for both sexes. Male right 2D:4D and female right and left 2D:4D correlated negatively with HGS after controlling for the influence of BMI. There were no associations with radiographic measurements of 2D:4D. ConclusionOur findings provide evidence of sexual dimorphism in 2D:4D among young adult Tuvans. Together with previous research on Tuvan children and adolescents, these findings provide clear evidence of 2D:4D sexual dimorphism in pre- and postpubertal Tuvans. The small negative association between 2D:4D and HGS corresponds to similar reports across populations, suggesting that 2D:4D is a weak correlate of muscular fitness.

Congenital Single Digit Deformities: Series of Cases in Multiple Families in Remote Villages of Haryana

Abstract Background and Purpose: Congenital deformities occur due to abnormal development of limbs in the intrauterine life. The exact cause of this type of defect is not known but can be associated with environmental factors (drug history or exposure of chemical effluents from factory) or genetic predisposition. Cases involving the occurrence of single digits in all four limbs were witnessed, and the aim was to study and trace the cause of such deformities. Knowledge of thalidomide induced phocomelia which has already being published in the literature also contributed to our knowledge and understanding. Objectives: (1) Primary objective was to identify the causative agent or genetic factor for the occurrence of single digits in hands and feet in multiple families. (2) Secondary objective was to create awareness among patients and the general public as well as local government authorities regarding such families of “Divyang” patients. We present a case series of multiple families with complete absence of all fingers and toes except one across villages in Haryana. Materials and Methods: Clinical setting: (1) Study was based on a detailed questionnaire which was taken from multiple villagers (Tarawari Village, Nilokheri Village, etc.) and (2) phenotypic examination. Five affected patients from multiple families for 1 year were taken for study from March 2022 to March 2023. Their habitus, lifestyle, and environmental status were all studied and compared with other studies. Efforts were taken to study the license and toxic effluent treatment plan of a chemical factory present in the near vicinity. Results: A strong genetic association was suggested for the occurrence of single digits in the hands and feet of multiple patients across multiple villages close to a chemical factory. They have well adjusted with writing, eating, riding bikes, and four-wheelers with single fingers and toes. Conclusion: There is a need to establish genetic analysis so that the cause of such deformities could be known and prevented. There is also a need for general and government awareness toward pollutants released from chemical factories and their effects.

From empathetic hearts to digital hands: A study of compassion and donation behavior in social media advertising

In an era of global humanitarian challenges, an understanding of compassion and supportive behaviors is paramount. This study conducted an online experiment involving social media users within the United States, examining the interplay between compassion, empathetic concern, perceived impact, anticipated affect, and intentions to donate time and money. Structural equation modeling revealed that compassion influenced empathetic concern, perceived impact, and anticipated affect. Specifically, empathetic concern influenced intentions to donate time and money, while perceived impact primarily influenced monetary donations. Moreover, place attachment moderated these relationships, indicating that emotional bonds to a specific place can play a crucial role in shaping potential donors’ responses to compassion-based appeals. Our findings contribute to an understanding of how place attachment and compassion intersect in the digital age, informing innovative strategies for philanthropic campaigns on social media platforms.

Effects of mid-season camp period loading on sports injury anxiety and physical performance of professional male soccer players

ObjectiveThis study aimed to investigate the effects of 3-week mid-season camp period loading on sports injury anxiety level and physical performances of professional male soccer players. MethodsThirty-four male soccer players [mean age 21.76 (3.42) y] were included in the study. Sports injury anxiety level with the Sports Injury Anxiety Scale, quadriceps muscle strength was assessed with the digital hand dynamometer, flexibility was assessed with the sit-and-reach test, dynamic balance was assessed with the Y balance test, power was assessed with the single-leg jump test, agility was assessed with the t-test, and sprint was assessed with the 20-m sprint test. ResultsThere was no significant difference between the pretest and posttest values of Sport Injury Anxiety Scale scores (p = 0.657). A significant difference was found between the pretest and posttest values of quadriceps muscle strength and dynamic balance (p = 0.040, p = 0.048, respectively). There was no significant difference between the pretest and posttest values of flexibility, single-leg jump, agility, and sprint (p = 0.289, p = 0.128, p = 0.064, p = 0.471, respectively). ConclusionThe 3-week mid-season camp period loading improved quadriceps muscle strength and dynamic balance, but did not affect the sports injury anxiety level, flexibility, jumping performance, agility, and sprint. The results should be considered by sports professionals. It is recommended that further studies be conducted on the effects of different camp period contents, durations and loads in regions with different physical conditions (sea level, high altitude, etc.).

The association and underlying mechanism of the digit ratio (2D:4D) in hypospadias.

The second-to-fourth digit (2D:4D) ratio is thought to be associated with prenatal androgen exposure. However, the relationship between the 2D:4D ratio and hypospadias is poorly understood, and its molecular mechanism is not clear. In this study, by analyzing the hand digit length of 142 boys with hypospadias (23 distal, 68 middle, and 51 proximal) and 196 controls enrolled in Shanghai Children's Hospital (Shanghai, China) from December 2020 to December 2021, we found that the 2D:4D ratio was significantly increased in boys with hypospadias ( P < 0.001) and it was positively correlated with the severity of the hypospadias. This was further verified by the comparison of control mice and prenatal low testosterone mice model obtained by knocking out the risk gene (dynein axonemal heavy chain 8 [ DNAH8 ]) associated with hypospadias. Furthermore, the discrepancy was mainly caused by a shift in 4D. Proteomic characterization of a mouse model validated that low testosterone levels during pregnancy can impair the growth and development of 4D. Comprehensive mechanistic explorations revealed that during the androgen-sensitive window, the downregulation of the androgen receptor (AR) caused by low testosterone levels, as well as the suppressed expression of chondrocyte proliferation-related genes such as Wnt family member 5a ( Wnt5a ), Wnt5b , Smad family member 2 ( Smad2 ), and Smad3 ; mitochondrial function-related genes in cartilage such as AMP-activated protein kinase ( AMPK ) and nuclear respiratory factor 1 ( Nrf-1 ); and vascular development-related genes such as myosin light chain ( MLC ), notch receptor 3 ( Notch3 ), and sphingosine kinase 1 ( Sphk1 ), are responsible for the limitation of 4D growth, which results in a higher 2D:4D ratio in boys with hypospadias via decreased endochondral ossification. This study indicates that the ratio of 2D:4D is a risk marker of hypospadias and provides a potential molecular mechanism.