Low Arch Research Articles

The Relationship of Dynamic Foot Posture with Injuries and Other Related Factors in Recreational Long Distance Runners

Foot posture is one of the risk factors that is thought to play a role in the occurrence of running-related injuries. This research aims to see if there is an association between foot posture and running-related injuries in long-distance recreational runners. Methods A cross-sectional research was conducted on 131 recreational long-distance runners (94 men and 42 women). Foot posture was determined by Arch Index values calculated from static and dynamic footprints, then tested whether it was associated with running-related injuries. The results showed that dynamic and static foot posture were not associated with running-related injuries in recreational long-distance runners (OR=0.67(0.21-2.20), 95% CI, p=0.516), (OR=0.87(0.29-2.61), 95% CI, p=0.806). On dynamic examination, low arch and high arch foot postures were not associated with running-related injuries in recreational long distance runners (OR=0.67(0.21-2.19), 95% CI, p=0.508), (OR=0.86(0.07-10.67), 95% CI, p=1.00). Most subjects had low arch foot posture on dynamic (83.8%) and static (82.4%) examination. Running-related injuries were found to be 28.7%, with most injuries in the knee (19.5%), calf (17.9%), and sole (15.6%) areas. The conclusions and suggestions in this research are that dynamic and static foot posture are not associated with running-related injuries in long-distance recreational runners, so further prospective research needs to be done to get a clearer picture of other risk factors that cause running-related injuries.

The distribution and biomechanical characteristics of foot deformities among elderly diabetic patients based on community screening

Objective: To analyze the distribution characteristics of foot deformities and the biomechanical features of the feet among elderly diabetic patients in the community. Methods: A total of 3 148 elderly diabetic patients (6 296 feet) who participated in the diabetic foot screening program in Jinshan District, Shanghai, from March to May 2023 were included, with 1 357 males and 1 791 females, aged (70.7±6.0) years. According to arch deformities, the severity of hallux valgus, and the presence or absence of other toe deformities (hammer foot, mallet foot, and claw foot), the patients were grouped and compared in terms of biomechanical parameters such as plantar pressure, force-bearing area, foot axis angle, footprint length, and load ratio. Results: The the most common foot deformity was the combination of arch deformities, accounting for up to 41.0% (2 581/6 296), it was followed by hallux valgus at 21.8% (1 371/6 296) and other toe deformities at 13.4% (846/6 296). A total of 56.5% (3, 557/6 296) of the patients had at least one type of foot deformity, and 29.0% (1 032/3 557) presented with tow or more types of foot deformities. When grouped according to arch deformities, the patients in the low arch group, mild low arch group, normal arch group, mild high arch group, and high arch group was 343, 1 282, 3 715, 595, and 361 cases, respectively; and there were statistically significant differences in maximum pressure, mean pressure, force-bearing area, foot axis angle, anterior-posterior and lateral offsets of the center of plantar pressure, anterior-posterior foot load ratio, and medial-lateral load ratio among all the groups (all P<0.001). The high arch group exhibited the highest maximum and mean pressures on the plantar surface, with the smallest force-bearing area, while the opposite was true for the low arch group (all P<0.001). There were 4 925, 731, 640 cases in the no hallux valgus group, mild hallux valgus group, and moderate-to-severe hallux valgus group respectively when grouped according to the severity of hallux valgus. The moderate-to-severe hallux valgus group had the lowest medial load (P=0.002) and the highest lateral load ratio (P=0.001). Compared to the group without other toe deformities (n=5 450), the group with other toe deformities (n=846) exhibited higher maximum plantar pressure [(214.43±112.85) vs (202.88±113.63) kPa, P<0.001], a lower forefoot load ratio (54.35%±13.31% vs 55.94%±12.58%, P=0.001), and a higher hindfoot load ratio (45.65%±13.31% vs 44.06%±12.58%, P=0.001). Conclusions: Among elderly diabetic patients, the incidence rate of foot deformities is as high as 56.5%, with arch deformities being the most common. Foot mechanics analysis indicates that the high arch group has the highest maximum and average plantar pressures, but the smallest force-bearing area, while the opposite is true for the low arch group. Toe deformities can affect the patient's plantar load ratio.

Plantar Pressure Characteristics with Foot Postures and Balance Abilities in Indigenous Taiwanese: A Preliminary Exploration.

BACKGROUND Although Indigenous Taiwanese are generally known for having excellent athleticism and balance abilities, the correlation between foot characteristics and balance abilities has rarely been discussed. This study aimed to explore the characteristics of plantar pressure profiles associated with foot posture and balance abilities among Indigenous Taiwanese. MATERIAL AND METHODS We recruited 165 Indigenous college students and 183 healthy age-matched students. Bipedal static plantar pressure distributions (PPDs) with arch index (AI) and centers of gravity balance were examined using the JC Mat. Foot posture was determined by estimating the rearfoot postural alignment. RESULTS Indigenous Taiwanese in the study generally had low-arched feet with increased plantar loads at the medial (left: 1.21±0.43%; right: 1.20±0.46%) and lateral longitudinal arches (left: 24.51±5.26%; right: 24.45±6.64) (P<0.01) and the medial metatarsals (left: 21.78±3.81%; right: 22.19±3.91) (P<0.01). Footprint images illustrated pronounced cuboid and navicular collapses. Performances of balance abilities (left: 49.53±4.38%; right: 50.47±4.38) (P<0.01) and rearfoot postural angles (left: 1.37±1.25°; right: 1.32±1.17°) (P<0.05) were better than those of controls. CONCLUSIONS The feet in Indigenous Taiwanese had low arches and higher plantar loads at the medial and lateral longitudinal arches and medial metatarsals, while their centers of gravity were symmetrical and rearfoot posture was normal. These results may facilitate further studies on the relationship between foot characteristics, potential athleticism, and musculoskeletal injuries in Indigenous Taiwanese.

Muscular Activation Levels of Subjects with Low Medial Longitudinal Arch During Single-Leg Squat and Single-Leg Balancing Exercises on Surfaces of Different Hardness.

The primary aim of this study is to examine the effect of the stiffness of rehabilitation material on muscle activation in individuals with low medial longitudinal arch. The secondary aim is to compare the effects of single-leg balancing and single-leg squat exercises on the activation of the muscles around the ankle in the same individuals. Twelve individuals with low medial longitudinal arch and 18 healthy control participants were included. Participants were asked to perform the single-leg balance and single-leg squat exercises on Theraband stability trainers of three different stiffness levels. Activation of the peroneus longus, peroneus brevis, tibialis anterior, medial and lateral gastrocnemius muscles during exercises was evaluated by surface electromyography. The single-leg balancing exercise performed on soft and very soft ground was more effective than single-leg squat in increasing the activation of the lateral gastrocnemius muscle in participants with a low medial longitudinal arch. It was determined that performing single-leg squat exercise on a very soft surface instead of hard ground caused more muscular activation in the peroneus brevis, tibialis anterior, and medial gastrocnemius in the same individuals. The exercise progression to be applied on different surfaces to increase the activation of the muscles around the ankle in individuals with a low medial longitudinal arch and in healthy individuals without a low medial longitudinal arch was different.

Conventionally and digitally fabricated removable complete dentures: manufacturing accuracy, fracture resistance and repairability

ObjectivesConventionally and digitally manufactured removable complete dentures with different dentition forms were examined for manufacturing accuracy (trueness, precision), fracture forces under torsional loading and subsequent repairability. MethodsA total of 90 mandibular prostheses were manufactured. Ten were made using the injection molding technique and finished with prefabricated teeth. 40 bases each, were manufactured subtractively and additively. Digitally the prosthesis’ dental arch was divided either into two quadrants or three sextants, or kept as full arch. Afterwards, ten additive and subtractive bases were finished with prefabricated teeth and ten of each with milled quadrants, sextants and full arches. After manufacturing, all specimens were rescanned for accuracy comparisons using the Root Mean Square (RMS). Lastly, all specimens were tested to failure under torsional loading. ResultsConventionally manufactured dentures showed the greatest deviation in accuracy. The type of base manufacturing did not determine the fracture resistance of the prostheses. The dentition form had a significant influence. While prefabricated teeth (86.01 ± 19.76 N) and quadrants (77.89 ± 9.58 N) showed a low fracture resistance, sextants (139.12 ± 21.41 N) and full arches (141.05 ± 17.14 N) achieved the highest fracture forces. Subtractive bases with prefabricated teeth or quadrants were assessed to be repairable, digital dentures with full arch were assessed as not repairable. SignificanceThe presented testing set-up is suitable to determine the fracture behavior of dentures rather than of standards. With the possibility of digital design and individual manufacturing, dentures’ mechanical stability can be significantly increased, especially with suitable dentition forms.

Does plantar pressure in short-term standing differ between modular insoles selected based upon preference or matched to self-reported foot shape?

Prolonged workplace standing is commonplace and associated with a range of lower limb issues. Evaluating footwear interventions aiming to modify plantar pressure during standing is essential as the body is static, creating a different requirement for footwear. Previous research associates medial midfoot pressure with greater perceived comfort and identifies arch height as the most variable element of foot shape. Targeting footwear mass customization within this area may better address differences within the target wearers. This study aims to evaluate a modular insole system for its ability to modify plantar pressure during standing. Twenty-five participants completed a static and dynamic standing protocol for 60 seconds whilst measuring in-shoe peak and mean plantar pressure (KPa) and contact area (%). Individuals wore three insole options targeted towards different medial arch shapes (A– low arch, B– medium arch, C– high arch) and rated them for comfort. Participants received guidance to self-identify foot shape (low, medium, or high arch). Comparisons were drawn across the three insole profiles and between the insole rated as most comfortable (preferred), and the insole that matched the self-identified foot shape (matched). As insole arch height increased, medial midfoot pressure and contact area significantly increased, alongside significant reductions in first metatarsal pressure and contact. Preference was spread across insoles A, B, and C (56%, 32%, 12% of participants, respectively). Sixteen participants had different matched and preferred insoles, with significantly greater medial midfoot pressure and contact in the matched insole. The modular insole enabled different wear experiences, however, results suggest that individuals selected insoles lower than their foot shape. Providing adequate medial arch support enables redistribution of pressure which may enable greater comfort during the workday.

Measurement of Posture in Children Aged 4-6 Years at Aisyah Makam Haji 1 Kartasura Kindergarten

Health screening is a form of monitoring children's growth and development, which involves evaluating growth and development status based on weight gain and addressing problems that may arise at each stage of a child's development. Physical health is measured by age, weight and height. The importance of conducting health checks on children early on is a crucial effort in detecting and preventing various health problems that may arise, including the problem of poor posture better known as bad posture. Bad posture is a condition in which the body's position deviates from the normal state which can cause various health problems. The possible negative consequences of bad posture include problems such as kyphosis, lordosis and scoliosis. Regular health checks on children, especially at early developmental stages such as in kindergarten, are important to identify early any potential health problems, including posture problems. By detecting such problems early, preventive measures can be taken immediately to avoid potentially more serious long-term impacts on children's health. Therefore, regular health check-ups in children are a necessity that cannot be ignored to maintain the health and well-being of future generations. In realizing the research results with quantitative methods, measurable and numerical-based data collection is involved to gain a deeper understanding of the posture characteristics of children in that age range. This provides a solid foundation for implementing appropriate preventive and posture corrective measures. The conducted research revealed intriguing findings regarding the posture of children at Aisyah Makam Haji 1 Kartasura Kindergarten. Among the observations: 56% of children were underweight, 10 children exhibited low arches on both feet, and 22% showed signs of scoliosis with a vertebral curve of 0°. While most children displayed normal limb length differences, some exhibited abnormalities in this aspect. These findings underscore the significance of posture screening for children aged 4-6 years, even if they seem physically healthy. Preventive measures, such as education for parents, are needed to prevent postural disorders that could potentially arise in the future.

Understanding the Mechanisms of Main Bronchial Compression in Patients with Intracardiac Anomalies

BackgroundThe study focuses on vascular compression of the main bronchus in the aortopulmonary space, examining potential contributors within the same axial plane. Its goal is to uncover mechanisms of bronchial compression in patients with intracardiac anomalies and review surgical outcomes, aiming to enhance future results. MethodsThe morphology and topology of structures within the axial plane of the aortopulmonary space were objectively analyzed, including the sternum, ascending aorta, heart, pulmonary artery, descending aorta, and other relevant elements. Identified deviations from the normal configuration were systematically identified. Operative procedures included mobilizing and removing the compressing vessel, followed by suspending the airway wall to a rigid prosthesis (external stenting), vertebra, or ascending aorta. ResultsComputed tomography revealed potential factors contributing to bronchial stenosis, including anteriorly deviated descending aorta (20 patients), dilated pulmonary artery (6), cardiomegaly (12), flat chest (7), funnel chest (3), posteriorly deviated ascending aorta after arterial switch operation (3), low aortic arch (3), and aberrant subclavian artery (2). Kaplan-Meier analysis demonstrated operative survival rates of 96% at 1 year, 87% at 5 years, and 80% at 8-15 years. Ten-year follow-up computed tomography after external stenting procedure revealed the narrowest diameter of the stented bronchus as 94.4% of the reference. ConclusionsConsistent long-term airway patency was observed post-surgery. While the pulmonary artery and descending aorta exert direct compressive effects in most cases, various other potential mechanisms may contribute to bronchial compression. Identifying and addressing these factors through a multidisciplinary approach is crucial for sustaining bronchial patency and preventing complications.

Radiographic Analysis of Valgus Ankle Deformity With or Without Medial Longitudinal Arch Collapse.

Establishing a surgical plan for ankle deformities necessitates a comprehensive understanding of the deforming forces involved, and the morphology of the ankle deformity plays an important role as well. Valgus tibiotalar tilt development has mostly been described in patients with a low medial longitudinal arch, as seen in progressive collapsing foot deformity (PCFD). However, some valgus ankles demonstrate no radiographic evidence of a collapsed medial arch. This study aims to investigate whether there are differences in the radiographic morphology of valgus ankle deformities between patients with and without a low medial longitudinal arch to explore if they have different etiologies. We retrospectively reviewed patients who underwent surgical treatment for asymmetric valgus ankle deformity at our institution between 2017 and 2021. Patients with a valgus tibiotalar tilt (TT) greater than 4 degrees and Meary angle greater than 30 degrees (mean: 38.9) were included in the PCFD group (n = 29). The non-PCFD group (n = 24) with TT greater than 4 degrees and Meary angle less than 4 degrees (mean: 0.3) was also established. In the weightbearing ankle anteroposterior view, the TT and medial distal tibial angle were measured. Additionally, to assess the mediolateral position of the talus, the talar center migration (TCM) and lateral talar dome-plafond distance (LTD-P) ratio in the coronal plane were measured. In weightbearing computed tomography (WBCT), the degree of axial plane talocalcaneal subluxation and the prevalence of sinus tarsi bony impingement were assessed. Intergroup comparison was conducted. Both groups demonstrated a similar degree of TT, with a mean of 11.6 degrees in the PCFD group and 13.7 degrees in the non-PCFD group (P = .2330). However, the PCFD group showed a significantly greater TCM and LTD-P ratio compared with those of the non-PCFD group (P < .0001), indicating that PCFD patients have a more medially translated talus in ankle anteroposterior radiographs. WBCT showed that the PCFD group on average had 18 degrees greater axial plane talocalcaneal subluxation (P < .0001) and 52% higher prevalence of sinus tarsi bony impingement (P = .0002) compared with the non-PCFD group. This study suggests that valgus ankles may exhibit different radiographic morphologies depending on the status of the longitudinal arch. Valgus ankles in PCFD patients tend to have a more medially translated talus. This finding may suggest the presence of different deforming forces between the 2 groups and may indicate the need for different treatment strategies to address talar tilt. Level III, case-control.

First Report of Root-Knot Nematode, Meloidogyne javanica, Infecting Stachys byzantina in São Paulo, Brazil

Stachys byzantina belongs to the Labiatae and is known by the names "peixinho-da-horta" (Brazil) and "lamb's ear" (USA). Its importance is associated with its medicinal properties (Bahadori et al. 2020) and nutritional aspects (Milião et al. 2022). Root-knot nematodes cause severe damage to plants and suppress production. In January 2021, plants of S. byzantina in the municipality of Jaboticabal (21°14'38.7"S, 48°17'10.6"W) showed symptoms of reduced growth, yellowed leaves and the presence of galls in the roots. Initially, samples of roots from a S. byzantina were analyzed at the Nematology Laboratory (LabNema/UNESP), Jaboticabal, Brazil, estimating 20,000 eggs and juveniles of Meloidogyne sp. in 10 g of roots. To confirm the host ability of the species, a pathogenicity test was performed using Koch's postulate. For this purpose, the test was conducted in a greenhouse where 3,000 eggs and second-stage juveniles (J2) were inoculated onto three plants (n=3) of S. byzantina. After 90 days, the inoculated plants showed the same symptoms as those observed in the field. No symptom or nematode was detected in the uninoculated plant (control). Nematodes were extracted from the roots of inoculated plants and quantified. The perineal pattern of females (n=10) (Netscher and Taylor, 1974) and the labial region of males (n=10) (Eisenback and Hirschmann, 1981) were analyzed and compared with the morphological characteristics of the original description of the species (Chitwood, 1949). For analysis based on esterase isozyme phenotype, the α-method of Esbenshade and Triantaphyllou (1990) was used, and females (n=7) were examined. To confirm identification, whole genomic DNA from an adult female (n=1) was extracted using the Qiagen DNeasy® Blood &amp; Tissue Kit and this sample was used for both genetic sequencing and the sequence-characterized amplified region techniques (SCAR). PCR amplifications were performed for the 18s rRNA gene using primers 988F and 1912R from Holterman et al (2006). Our sequence was deposited in GenBank (NCBI) under the identifier OP422209. Finally, species-specific SCAR primers (Fjav/Rjav, Me-F/Me-R, and Finc-F/Finc-R) designed by Zijlstra (2000) were used to identify Meloidogyne spp. Koch's postulate analysis yielded the following results: (n=1) 9,280 eggs and J2 (Reproduction factor, RF = 33.09); (n=2) 111,720 eggs and J2 (RF = 37.24); (n=3) 59,700 eggs and J2 (RF = 19.9) (RF mean = 30.08). The following characteristics were observed in the perineal region of females: Low and rounded trapezoidal dorsal arch with two distinct lateral lines clearly separating the dorsal and ventral arch regions, similar to the morphological features of the species description by Chitwood (1949). Males had a convex labial plate with a non-raised labial disk joining the submedial labia, a non-rugged labial region, the basal tubercles were usually wider than high, and a rounded tail tip (Eisenback and Hirschmann 1981). The α-esterase enzyme profile showed the J3 phenotype typical of M. javanica (Rm [×100] = 46.0, 54.5, and 58.9). The 18s rRNA sequences grouped Meloidogyne sp. with species such as M. enterolobii, M. incognita, and M. javanica. A DNA fragment of about 700 bp was amplified with Mj (Fjav/Rjav) primers, but not with Me (Me-F/Me-R) and Mi (Finc-F/Finc-R) primers, which confirmed the identification of M. javanica. Accurate identification and characterization of the occurrence of new hosts of M. javanica will allow us to determine the range and geographic distribution of the species. This is the first report on the occurrence of M. javanica on S. byzantina in Brazil. This report is important so that management strategies can be applied to prevent the spread of the pest to other areas.

The early west front of Lincoln Cathedral: the threshold to the Heavenly Jerusalem?

ABSTRACT This paper is the result of an archaeological survey of what remains of the Romanesque chambers and staircases found within the west front of Lincoln Cathedral. It provides evidence, for the first time, that Remigius had begun to build a symmetrically planned west front, complementing the three arched bays to the west and the arch to the south, with a further one on the north west elevation, not the plain wall and low arch we see today. It is argued that, rather than an example of an early fortified church or lord’s tower, as proposed by some scholars, the Romanesque west front of Lincoln Cathedral has within it evidence of a liturgical architectural form which was to be developed fully in thirteenth century west fronts, most famously at Wells and Salisbury.

Static and dynamic plantar foot shape following long-term use of military boots

Foot structure can be influenced by various factors, such as footwear, body weight and physical activity. A change in foot structure can alter shock absorption and force transition. The main objective of this study is to investigate the effect of the long-term use of military boots on foot shape parameters. Thirty military and thirty non-military subjects participated in this case-control study. All participants had been regularly wearing military boots for the past 12 years. After introducing the experiment, static and dynamic footprints were recorded via paper and ink while standing and walking. The footprints were analysed using ImageJ software to extract foot width indices, area indices, truncated arch index, footprint index and arch angle index. The findings indicated no significant difference in comparison static and dynamic variables in the military and non-military groups (p ≥ 0.05). However, there was a significant difference between the two groups in both static (midfoot area, arch index (AI), truncated arch index, footprint index and arch angle index) and dynamic (midfoot width, Staheli Index (SAI), truncated arch index and arch angle index) conditions, when static and dynamic variable were compared (p &lt; 0.05). Findings revealed the military personnel have low arch, making them susceptible to musculoskeletal disorders. To mitigate this risk, it is recommended that military boots be reassessed or that insoles be used. Furthermore, it is suggested that military boots be limited to specific activities and fewer hours of usage to avoid potential health issues.

Aortic Coarctation Associated with Distal Aortic Arch Hypoplasia in Neonates Can Be Effectively Repaired through Left Thoracotomy

Objectives. Aortic coarctation in neonates remains a clinical challenge. Low weight, arch hypoplasia and ductal dependence have been identified as risk factors for recurrent coarctation. We hypothesized that a tailored surgical technique may prevent recurrence. Methods. Retrospective evaluation of neonates treated for coarctation through thoracotomy was done. No primary percutaneous procedure was performed and repairs through sternotomy were excluded. Aortic hypoplasia was defined as a ratio arch diameter (mm)/patient’s weight (kg) &lt; 1. Extended end-to-end anastomosis (EEEA), subclavian flap (Waldhausen) and Amato aortoplasty were performed. Mortality and recurrent obstruction requiring re-intervention were assessed. Results. Records of 340 consecutive patients (2003–2019) were analyzed. Preoperative median age and weight were, respectively, 10 days (1–30) and 3080 grams (1400–5180). Arch hypoplasia was documented in 31 patients (9.1%). Prostaglandin was infused in 220 (65.3%). Critical preoperative status was documented in 35 (10.8%). EEEA repair was performed in 273 (80.3%), Waldhausen was performed in 42 (12.4%), and Amato was performed in 25 (7.4%). The last two were more likely to be performed in the presence of arch hypoplasia ( p &lt; 0.0001). Hospital mortality occurred in 2 patients (0.6%). Thirty-six procedures (31 percutaneous/5 surgical) were performed for recurrent arch obstruction in 33 patients. Three late deaths occurred. Low-weight, hypoplastic arch, and ductal dependency did not influence the outcome. All survivors were free from residual coarctation at a mean follow-up of 3.6 ± 3.4 years postoperatively. Conclusions. Surgical repair remains the procedure of choice for neonatal coarctation. A tailored approach using alternative techniques seemed to offer comparable results even in presence of associated risk factors.

Research on the Mechanical Performance of a Mountainous Long-Span Steel Truss Arch Bridge with High and Low Arch Seats

The Loushui River Bridge is a mountainous long-span steel truss arch bridge with high and low arch seats. The design and construction of the bridge follow the principle of minimizing environmental damage and promoting sustainable development. In this article, the mechanical performance of this bridge is investigated experimentally and numerically at both the construction and operation stages. A series of validated finite element models were established for linear and nonlinear analyses by introducing geometric imperfections, geometric nonlinearities, and material nonlinearities. Then, several optimized models based on different types of design are compared with the original structure. The results indicate that the stability of the asymmetric bridge met the design requirements in both the construction and operation stages. However, the lateral stability and stiffness of the asymmetric bridge are weak due to the wind hazard that occurred in its mountain ravine. The out-of-plane instability from the short half-arch is the dominant failure mode, and the weakest area is where the arch ribs intersect with the bridge deck. It can be solved by adding more cross bracings without affecting the clearance above the bridge deck or by improving the material intensity of the arch.

The Effect Of Variation Of Welding Camp On The Strength Of The Arc Joint Welding Sheltered Metal Arc Welding (SMAW) On Steel St 37

In this study will discuss the extent to which the strength of the st37 steel or low carbon steel arch test after welding Shielded Metal Arc Welding (SMAW). ST37 steel or low carbon steel is formed into specimens with three models of kampuh, namely Double V kampuh 60°, single V kampuh 60° and single slope kampuh 30° as many as 9 (nine) specimens. Furthermore, welding with a current of 90 A and electrode e 6013 then performed a curved test to determine its mechanical properties through the test Universal Testing Machine (UTM) type Tarno Test UPH 100 kN at the State Polytechnic Laboratory Medan. From the data obtained after the analysis can be concluded that the specimen of Type V double camber has the highest value of curved strength is the value of the average curved strength of 1063.96 MPa, of Type V single and single slope camber. This is possible because there are two sides of welding and a large angle of 60° which makes the Weld strong. While the type of single slope welding camp has the lowest arch strength value due to the small welding angle of 30° which makes the welding process difficult and the electrode is not completely filled at the root of the Weld.

AMS, HISTORICAL, AND ARCHAEOLOGICAL DATING OF OPONICE CASTLE

ABSTRACT The fifth season of excavations of Oponice Castle in 2020 was located in the lower castle’s courtyard. The research led to discovery of an original clay floor being heavily burned with charred plank and a rectangular stone-brick construction. The construction has collapsed upper part with a fallen low brick arch. The whole area was covered with numerous stove tiles and one clay mold for the production of stove tiles. The construction was identified as a pottery kiln dated to the second half of the 16th until the first half of the 17th century AD by the findings from excavated layer identified to the kiln destruction. Also, written sources mention a large fire in 1645 which destroyed the castle. The aim of this article is to use different methods of dating and refine the chronology of the context through microarchaeology and Bayesian modeling. For these purposes different types of samples were collected. The sampling focused on site formation process determination of pottery kiln use and the way of its destruction. Applying Bayesian analysis improved overall dating, through modeled time interval of the three individual sequences and helped recreated historical events during the period, when the calibration curve fluctuates.

Effects of Foot Structure Type on Core Stability in University Athletes.

This study assessed the impact of different types of medial foot arch on postural stability and core center of gravity muscle activity among collegiate athletes. The study sample included 103 university-level athletes across various sports (soccer, rugby, basketball, volleyball, field tennis, table tennis, karate, and cheerleading) from the College of Magdalena (Colombia) who exhibited distinct types of medial foot arch: 32 high, 35 low, and 36 neutral arches. Surface electromyography (sEMG) was employed to assess conduction velocity, magnitude values, latency, and fatigue in focal muscles including the spinal erector (SE), internal oblique (IO), external oblique (EO), and rectus abdominis (AR), while measurements of static and dynamic postural control were also considered. Post hoc analysis was performed with Bonferroni correction for all electromyographically measured muscle groups, as well as for measurements of static and dynamic postural stability. Pearson's or Spearman's correlation tests were used to compare the different types of feet. There were no substantial differences observed between the distinct types of feet in terms of focal muscle activity, static stability, or dynamics. Even though the mean values indicated higher muscle activity and stability among those with high foot arches and lower values among those with low arches compared to the neutral foot type, this observed difference was deemed statistically insignificant. We also observed a positive correlation between internal oblique muscle activity and the average power of dynamic postural stability, which remained consistent across all foot types. Our findings indicate that static instability is directly correlated with dynamic instability in the anteroposterior direction, while a clear inverse relationship was established in the lateral direction upon examining the variable correlations. The presence of high or low foot arches did not significantly impact the activity of the muscles responsible for maintaining the body's center of gravity or postural stability among university-level athletes. This suggests the existence of neuromuscular compensation mechanisms that attempt to restore balance and compensate for any changes in postural stability caused by varying foot types. Through targeted training that emphasizes activation of the internal oblique muscle, athletes may see improved postural stability. Our findings indicate that static stabilization exercises can also prove beneficial in improving dynamic stability in the anteroposterior plane, while a more dynamic approach may be required to improve dynamic stability in the lateral plane.

Is there an association between plantar fasciitis and knee osteoarthritis?

Knee osteoarthritis (OA) and plantar fasciitis share similar risk factors including ageing, occupation, obesity, and inappropriate shoe wear. However, the association between knee OA and heel pain caused by plantar fasciitis has received limited attention to date. We aimed to assess the prevalence of plantar fasciitis using ultrasound in patients with knee OA and to identify factors associated with plantar fasciitis in these patients. We conducted a cross-sectional study including patients with Knee OA, fulfiling the European League Against Rheumatism criteria. The Western Ontario and McMaster Universities Osteoarthritis (WOMAC) and the Lequesne indexes were used to evaluate pain and function of the knees. The Manchester Foot Pain and Disability Index (MFPDI) was used to estimate foot pain and disability. Each patient underwent a physical examination, plain radiographs of the knees and the heels, and an ultrasound examination of both heels to find signs of plantar fasciitis. Statistical analysis was performed using SPSS. We included 40 knee OA patients, with a mean age of 59.85±9.65years [32-74] and a male-to-female ratio of 0.17. The mean WOMAC was 34.03±19.9 [4-75]. The mean Lequesne for knees was 9.62±4.57 [3-16.5]. Among our patients, 52% (n=21) experienced heel pain. The heel pain was severe in 19% (n=4). The mean MFPDI was 4.67±4.16 [0-8]. Limited ankle dorsiflexion and plantar flexion were noted in 47% of patients (n=17) each. High and low arch deformities were seen in 23% (n=9) and 40% (n=16) of patients. Ultrasound revealed a thickened plantar fascia in 62% (n=25). An abnormal hypoechoic plantar fascia was noted in 47% (n=19), with the loss of normal fibrillar architecture in 12 cases (30%). No Doppler signal was exhibited. Patients with plantar fasciitis had significantly limited dorsiflexion (n=2 (13%) versus n=15 (60%), p=0.004) and plantar flexion (n=3 (20%) versus n=14 (56%), p=0.026). The range of supination was also less important in the plantar fasciitis group (17.73±4.1 vs. 12.8±6.46, p=0.027). The low arch was statistically more present in patients with plantar fasciitis (G1: 36% [n=9] vs. G0: 0% [n=0], p=0.015). However, the high arch deformity was statistically more present in patients without plantar fasciitis (G1: 28% [n=7] vs. G0: 60% [n=9], p=0.046). Multivariate analysis showed that the risk factor for plantar fasciitis in knee OA patients was limited dorsiflexion (OR=3.889, 95% CI [0.017-0.987], p=0.049). In conclusion, our work showed that plantar fasciitis is frequent in knee OA patients, with reduced ankle dorsiflexion being the main risk factor for plantar fasciitis in these patients.

Meloidogyne paramali n. sp. (Nematoda: Meloidogyninae) and First Report of M. marylandi in maple and yacca tree from Japan.

Meloidogyne paramali n. sp. was detected from Japanese maple trees (Acer palmatum) from Chiba, Japan during quarantine inspections in China. This species is characterized by second-stage juveniles (J2) with short tail length 32.2 (24-36.8) μm, finely rounded to broadly pointed tail terminus with extremely short hyaline tail terminus 4.3 (3.0-4.9) μm; perineal patterns of females characterized by an oval or irregular appearance, with round and low dorsal arch, and fine and smooth striae. M. paramali n. sp. is very similar to M. mali in that the perineal pattern has fine, smooth striae and both J2 have a short tail, but it can be distinguished from the latter by perineal pattern of the female (lateral field distinct vs. indistinct), shorter J2 hyaline tail terminus (4.3 [3.0-4.9] μm vs. 8.2 [4.8-12.7] μm, and by J2 tail with finely rounded to broadly pointed tail terminus, never sharply pointed vs. finely rounded and almost pointed. The polytomous key codes of the new species are as follows: Female: A21, B2, C32, D4; Male: A21, B3, C2, D1, E2, F2; J2: A2, B23, C43, D34, E12, F34. Detailed phylogenetic analysis based on partial 18S, ITS, D2-D3 28S, and partial mtCOI sequences also confirmed it as a new species, which is very close to M. mali and M. vitis and forms molecular group VIII. M. marylandi and other Meloidogyne species detected from plants from Japan in China are also discussed.

Comparative Gut Microbiome Differences between High and Low Aortic Arch Calcification Score in Patients with Chronic Diseases.

Gut dysbiosis can induce chronic inflammation and contribute to atherosclerosis and vascular calcification. The aortic arch calcification (AoAC) score is a simple, noninvasive, and semiquantitative assessment tool to evaluate vascular calcification on chest radiographs. Few studies have discussed the relationship between gut microbiota and AoAC. Therefore, this study aimed to compare the microbiota composition between patients with chronic diseases and high or low AoAC scores. A total of 186 patients (118 males and 68 females) with chronic diseases, including diabetes mellitus (80.6%), hypertension (75.3%), and chronic kidney disease (48.9%), were enrolled. Gut microbiota in fecal samples were analyzed by sequencing of the 16S rRNA gene, and differences in microbial function were examined. The patients were divided into three groups according to AoAC score, including 103 patients in the low AoAC group (AoAC ≤ 3), 40 patients in the medium AoAC group (3 < AoAC ≤ 6), and 43 patients in the high AoAC group (AoAC > 6). Compared to the low AoAC group, the high AoAC group had a significantly lower microbial species diversity (Chao1 index and Shannon index) and increased microbial dysbiosis index. Beta diversity showed that the microbial community composition was significantly different among the three groups (p = 0.041, weighted UniFrac PCoA). A distinct microbial community structure was found in the patients with a low AoAC, with an increased abundance at the genus level of Agathobacter, Eubacterium coprostanoligenes group, Ruminococcaceae UCG-002, Barnesiella, Butyricimonas, Oscillibacter, Ruminococcaceae DTU089, and Oxalobacter. In addition, there was an increased relative abundance of class Bacilli in the high AoAC group. Our findings support the association between gut dysbiosis and the severity of AoAC in patients with chronic diseases.