Systematic Review Of The Literature Research Articles

Osseointegration: A new approach to improve functional performance of prostheses – a systematic review of the literature

Background: Individuals with amputations experience functional limitations in their daily activities, depending on the level of their injuries. They often encounter problems with socket-based prostheses. Osseointegration is a new method in prosthetic rehabilitation that aims to enhance the performance of amputees and reduce the issues associated with current prostheses. The objective of this review was to assess the advantages and disadvantages of this novel approach in the rehabilitation of amputees. Method: A search was conducted in various databases, including Google Scholar, PubMed, ISI Web of Knowledge, Embase, and Scopus. The search terms used were “osseointegration,” “prosthesis,” and “amputation.” The quality of the studies was evaluated using the Down and Black tool. Results: The search using the aforementioned keywords yielded 18 papers. Out of these, 10 papers focused on the use of osseointegration for lower limb amputations, while 5 papers focused on upper limb amputations. Additionally, 3 papers examined the occurrence of stump infections associated with this method. The quality of the studies ranged from 15 to 20. Conclusion: Based on the available literature, osseointegration addresses some of the challenges associated with socket-based prostheses. Furthermore, it improves the performance of prostheses. However, there are several issues with this method, including high costs, stump infections, and the need for extensive expertise to insert the implant. Further large-scale studies are necessary to determine the various limitations and advantages of this approach for different levels of amputations.

Simultaneous diagnosis of adult-onset Still's disease and lymphoma: A case report and systematic review of the literature.

Differentiating Adult-Onset Still's Disease (AOSD) from lymphoma is challenging. A 23-year-old female presented with polyarthralgia, fever, rash, lymphadenopathy, and abnormal labs. She met AOSD criteria and was diagnosed with non-Hodgkin lymphoma. Treatment led to improvement. The differentiation between Adult-onset Still's Disease (AOSD) and lymphoma remains challenging in our context. The Faustrel score facilitates the simultaneous diagnosis of these conditions. A 23-year-old woman presented with chronic polyarthralgia in a febrile context. A physical examination revealed peripheral joint syndrome, a maculopapular rash on the trunk, and peripheral lymphadenopathy. Laboratory tests showed neutrophils leukocytosis, hyperferritinemia, and a glycosylated ferritin fraction of 12%. A lymph node biopsy revealed a malignant non-Hodgkin lymphoma, and the patient met the diagnostic criteria for AOSD according to Faustrel. She received corticosteroid therapy and four courses of Rituximab. After 6 months, clinical and biological improvements were noted. It is essential to consider the possibility of an association between atypical clinical presentations of lymphoma and AOSD.

In Vivo Imaging Techniques for the Human Scalp: A Systematic Review of the Literature.

Scalp inflammation and alopecia are distressing conditions for which patients regularly present to dermatology. Although some diagnoses can be made clinically, others require biopsy, which carries the risk of pain, infection, bleeding, and scarring. This review examines the existing literature regarding noninvasive in vivo imaging techniques and their evidence and utility in evaluating scalp pathology, with a focus on the diagnostics of hair conditions. A systematic literature search was conducted using the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines without timeframe restrictions. The PubMed and Clarivate (Web of Science) databases were searched using the terms ("imaging" OR "in-vivo imaging" OR "non-invasive imaging" OR "non-invasive in vivo imaging" "imaging," "in-vivo imaging) AND ("human scalp disorders" OR "scalp" OR "hair loss" OR "alopecia"). Peer-reviewed randomized control trials (RCTs), prospective studies, retrospective studies, and case series or reports discussing in vivo imaging of the scalp published before 2022 were selected. Forty-two studies were included and discussed; modalities included laser devices (n = 27), ultrasound (US) (n = 13), infrared thermography (n = 1), skin capacitance imaging (SCI), and ultraviolet light-enhanced visualization (ULEV) (n = 1). The most common laser devices used were reflectance confocal microscopy (RCM), multiphoton microscopy (MPM), and optical coherence tomography (OCT). US techniques included high-frequency US (HFUS) and US biomicroscopy (UBM). Quality imaging of the scalp in the setting of alopecic, neoplastic, and inflammatory diseases is highly sought after. Many of these noninvasive imaging techniques show promise, each with individual advantages and disadvantages in imaging-specific conditions. Ultimately, noninvasive imaging techniques may be used to optimize patient management and minimize morbidity associated with scalp biopsies.

Applications and efficacy of radically open dialectical behavior therapy (RO DBT): A systematic review of the literature.

Radically open dialectical behaviour therapy (RO DBT) is a transdiagnostic treatment, originally developed as a variant of dialectical behaviour therapy (DBT), that emerged as a novel treatment approach for those presenting with excessive or maladaptive overcontrol. Despite RO DBT's growing popularity among clinicians as a treatment for chronic depression, personality disorders and eating disorders, to date, no systematic review has been conducted to summarise the evidence on this therapy. Therefore, the aim of this study was to systematically review the literature to provide a current and comprehensive summary of the available evidence on the clinical applications and efficacy of RO DBT. Articles were included if they were original research studies that described the use of RO DBT in the treatment of any psychological disorder, condition or symptom, published in the English language in a peer-reviewed journal. Four electronic databases were searched, and screening, selection, risk of bias assessment and data extraction were all conducted by two independent reviewers. Fourteen articles were included in this review, including two qualitative articles, one case study, five case series studies, four quasi-experimental studies, and two articles describing one randomized control trial. Findings indicated there is emerging evidence for the use of RO DBT in both adolescents and adults, for disorders characterized by excessive self-control, such as anorexia nervosa and autism, as well as for treatment-resistant depression. While RO DBT shows promise as a treatment for disorders of overcontrol, further research is needed. This review outlines current gaps and identifies areas for future research.

Paraneoplastic Neurologic Syndromes Associated With Merkel Cell Carcinoma.

To define the clinical and immunologic profile of patients with paraneoplastic neurologic syndromes (PNSs) associated with Merkel cell carcinoma (MCC). Retrospective analysis was conducted on patients with suspected MCC-related PNS assessed at the French Reference Center, and cases were identified by a systematic review of the literature (MEDLINE, Embase) following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses guidelines. A total of 17 patients were identified in our center and 30 in the systematic review, resulting in an overall cohort of 47 patients. The median age was 65 years (range 41-90), and 30 of 46 (65%) were men. Lambert-Eaton myasthenic syndrome (LEMS) (14/47, 29%), rapidly progressive cerebellar syndrome (11/47, 23%), and encephalomyelitis (EM) (8/47, 17%) were the most common associated clinical phenotypes. The most frequently associated neural antibodies (Abs) were voltage-gated calcium channel (VGCC)-Abs (14/45, 31%), followed by Hu-Abs (8/45, 17%) and neurofilament (NF)-Abs (8/45, 17%). Patients with NF-Abs only exhibited CNS disorders (8/8, 100%) and often had antibodies against >1 NF subunit (6/8, 75%). At onset, 26 of 43 patients (60%) had no identifiable primary skin tumor but had lymph node metastasis; these patients were more frequently men (21/26, 80%, vs 7/17, 41%; p = 0.007), had more frequently VGCC-Abs (12/26, 46%, vs 2/17, 11%, p = 0.02) predominantly among those with LEMS, and presented reduced mortality than patients with a known primary tumor (5/25, 20%, vs 8/15, 53%; p = 0.02). MCC-related PNSs present as a heterogeneous clinical spectrum including central and/or peripheral nervous system disorders such as LEMS, RCPS, and EM, mainly associated with VGCC-Abs, NF-Abs, and Hu-Abs. NF-Abs were only seen among patients with CNS disorders. At onset, the absence of a primary skin tumor but presence of lymph node metastasis is frequently observed, and this particular clinical presentation is linked to reduced mortality, highlighting distinctive clinical and immunologic features of MCC-related PNS.

Determinants and patterns of self-medication: A comprehensive literature review

Background- Self-medication is a major public health concern practiced worldwide. Research indicates that improper self-medication leads to adverse drug reactions, masks underlying diseases, results in incorrect diagnoses, escalates morbidity, contributes to drug interactions, fosters antibiotic resistance, and strains resources within the healthcare system. Many studies on self-treatment have been published for certain countries or diseases, in addition to specific demographics, including teenagers, senior citizens, and medical pupils. The issue of self-treatment and related antibiotic resistance poses a serious threat to global public health, as there has been a reported rise in self-medication practices over the past ten years. To obtain a thorough yet equivalent awareness of related issues and to make more definitive and practical conclusions for future action planning than those derived from reviews on the topic, it may be beneficial to integrate the current global self-medication data. Therefore, we set out to undertake a study to fully understand the prevalence, sample demographics, medications consumed, target ailment, and reasons for self-medication. Methods-Using the terms "self-medication, “Factors associated with it," and "non-prescription," a systematic review of the literature on self-medication practices was conducted using the databases PubMed, Medline, and Web of Science. The search was limited to cross-sectional study articles published between 2018 and 2022. Results- This analysis comprised 23 studies comprising 8,445 individuals in total. Headache, pain, and fever were shown to be among the most prevalent indications for self-treatment, followed by cold and cough. A summary of 20 studies inferred that Analgesics, antipyretics, and NSAIDs were the most self-practiced medications. Conclusion- Self-medication is widely practiced worldwide. It is critical to control and oversee appropriate self-medication practices through the enactment of strict laws and the involvement of legislators and medical experts. Large-scale public health awareness efforts on a variety of platforms, efficient medication distribution regulation, and legal proceedings against medical malpractice should all receive a great deal of attention. More cross-sectional studies employing a standard methodological framework are needed to have a deeper understanding of the incidence and practices of self-medication worldwide.

AI in neurodegenerative disorders: A neurosurgical perspective

This paper investigates the application of artificial intelligence (AI) in diagnosing and managing neurodegenerative disorders that require neurosurgical intervention, such as Parkinson's disease (PD) and Alzheimer's disease (AD). A systematic review of the literature was conducted to identify studies that utilized AI techniques for diagnosis, treatment planning, or post-operative monitoring of these conditions. The results demonstrate the potential of AI to improve early detection, treatment outcomes, and patient care. However, challenges such as data quality, explainability, and ethical considerations must be addressed to ensure the responsible and effective integration of AI into clinical practice.

Hybrid Meat Sausages with Cereal Ingredients: A Systematic Review and Development Trial with the Assessment of Physicochemical and Sensory Attributes

A number of consumers in developed countries are now reducing the amount of meat in their diets, so the development of novel alternatives for conventional meat products is becoming a challenge for the meat industry. The aim of this study was to analyse the possibility of developing hybrid meat sausages with cereal ingredients, based on a systematic review of the literature, as well as a development trial of a hybrid dry snack stick sausage with groats with an assessment of its physicochemical and sensory attributes. A systematic review of peer-reviewed studies about hybrid meat sausages with cereal ingredients, including bibliometric network analysis, was conducted. The development trial was conducted including physicochemical analyses and sensory assessment of the hybrid semi-dry sausages, produced as a ready-to-eat snack (cabanossi) with groats, obtained on an industrial scale. Among the studied hybrid meat products with cereal ingredients, there were patties, frankfurters, salami, and other sausages, while the cereal products added included various components obtained from rice, wheat, chia, and oats. The usefulness of the applied cereal components was emphasised in order to obtain a product of a potential better nutritional value and higher health-promoting properties, as well as being acceptable, or sometimes even better, and described as being products of a good quality. The development trial allowed us to obtain the hybrid semi-dry ready-to-eat cabanossi sausages with groats, which were compared with the hybrid semi-dry ready-to-eat cabanossi sausages with sunflower seeds. Both studied products were characterised by a composition in agreement with requirements, but of a reduced fat content (with hybrid semi-dry ready-to-eat cabanossi sausages with groats being even lower than for those with sunflower seeds; p < 0.0001). Their sensory properties were acceptable, even if the plant-based components were recognisable. The characteristics of the hybrid meat products with cereal ingredients both in the literature and development trial were acceptable, and what is even more important is that they are characterised by a potential to be presented as a product of a better nutritional value and higher health-promoting properties.

Diagnostic yield of clinical cardiac screening in first-degree relatives of SADS and unexplained cardiac arrest probands: a systematic review of the literature

Abstract Background First-degree relatives of SADS victims (defined as a sudden death of a previously healthy individual where no cause can be found despite post-mortem examination) or individuals suffering an Unexplained Cardiac Arrest (defined as a sudden cardiac arrest with successful resuscitation where no cause can be found despite thorough investigation) are recommended to undergo clinical cardiac evaluation for potential inherited cardiac conditions (ICC). However, data on the yield of family screening in these populations remains scarce. Aim This study aimed to perform the first systematic review of the diagnostic yield of clinical screening of first-degree relatives of SADS or UCA probands. A secondary aim was to compare the diagnostic yield of adult-aged and paediatric-aged relatives. Methods The systematic review was prospectively registered on PROSPERO and was undertaken utilising PRISMA guidelines. The online databases Embase, Medline and Web of Science were searched for original articles published in English from 1946 to June 2023. Included studies described the clinical cardiac screening and diagnostic yield of first-degree relatives of SADS and UCA probands. Quality of selected studies were assessed using a modified Joanna Briggs Institute (JBI) checklist. Results 14 studies met the inclusion criteria, which together included 1646 first-degree relatives of SADS probands and 656 first-degree relatives of UCA probands. 11 out of the 14 studies were retrospective cohort studies and cohort size varied from 56 – 398 (median 108, IQR 82-215). Of those studies that reported follow up length (n=8), screening ranged from one-off clinical evaluation to serial clinical screening. Overall diagnostic yield described by included studies ranged from 0 – 25%. The combined mean diagnostic yield of SADS relatives was 11.7% ± 7.5. This did not differ significantly from that of relatives of UCA probands (6.9% ± 7.4) [p=0.246]. Three studies described outcomes of clinical screening in 235 paediatric relatives, with an overall reported yield of 9.4% ± 3.4, which is not significantly different to adult populations (10.4% ± 8.4 [p=0.849]). The most common diagnosis in relatives was Long QT Syndrome followed by Brugada Syndrome. Despite probands having no heart muscle phenotype on post-mortem or clinical evaluation, 22 relatives were diagnosed with a cardiomyopathy (9.3% of all diagnoses). Conclusion Whilst there is a clear indication for clinical screening of first-degree relatives for ICCs following a SADS death or an Unexplained Cardiac Arrest, a lack of well-designed large population-based studies means that the evidence base supporting when or how relatives should be screened is not robust. The diagnostic yield in reported literature varies considerably with no difference between SADS and UCA cohorts and a similar yield in paediatric and adult relatives. This supports systematic screening for all first-degree relatives regardless of age.PRISMA Flow Diagram

A multi-dimensional framework of dynamic capabilities in emerging economies’ multinationals: a systematic review of the literature

PurposeThe growth and significance of emerging economies’ multinationals (EEMs) in the global economy have transformed the business landscape. This study constructs a conceptual framework that displays and links the prerequisites of the formation, composition and development stages of dynamic capabilities (DCs) that lead to competitive advantages in EEMs.Design/methodology/approachThis study follows the preferred reporting items for systematic review and meta-analysis (PRISMA) guidelines (excluding meta-analysis) to present a systematic review of 111 empirical and conceptual academic articles published in the past 24 years in the A+, A and B tier categories in scientific journal indexes.FindingsThe findings illustrate the DCs of EEMs in terms of four components: prerequisites for formation, composition, development process and outcomes. Among these, the compositions of DCs contain four types: management capabilities of available and desired resources, agile organizational capabilities, fast-learning modes and predictive capabilities. The authors also explain the developmental stages of DCs in EEMs, which is seen as a continuous process of anticipating change, consisting of high sensitivity to opportunities, advanced knowledge absorption, resource optimization and adjustment. Additional analysis also reveals the challenges in researching and measuring DCs.Originality/valueThis study provides a highly synthesized multi-dimensional framework of EEMs’ DCs, which fills the research gap and contributes to the enrichment of extant theories. The results can guide most EEMs, particularly those in the manufacturing, IT and service industries, in cultivating entrepreneurship and creating a more efficient operational team to achieve competitiveness.

Systematic review of the literature about immunogenity and antibodies persistance of Tdap vaccination

Abstract Introduction In industrialized countries, routine use of pertussis vaccines has shifted the burden of pertussis disease from children to infants, adolescents and adults, leading to the necessity of booster doses. Materials and methods We prepared the review following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) with the aim of a) to describe the immunogenity of the main available vaccines for adolescents and adults b) to describe antibodies persistance after immunization with the main vaccines available in childhood and adults and, also, possible co-administration and c) to identify the gold standard for adolescent and adult immunizations. Results Of 6906 records identified, after removing duplicate records, 12 RCT were included (people aged 11-73): of these 7 studies had only 1 control group, 4 studies had 2 control group and 1 had 5 control group; moreover, of the 12 studies included only 2 regarding co-administration and all were about immunogenity. 9 out 12 studies had a Jadad score above 3 points and 10 out 12 meet the criteria of Cocrane Back Review Group Criteria List for Methodological Quality Assessment. Discussion and conclusions We found a limited number of good-quality RCTs investigating our object. The five component vaccines, although containing a lower dosage of antigen, are found to be more effective than one components vaccines for prevention. Evidences support the use of 5- components vaccines for booster sessions in adolescence and adulthood. Key messages • Although 3-component and 5-component vaccines contain a lower dose of antigen, they are more effective than 1-component vaccines in the prevention of diphtheria-tetanus and Bordetella pertussis. • The robustness of the data and the analytical tests support the use of vaccines with reduced antigen concentration for decennial booster sessions in adolescence and adulthood.

The Significance of the Myocardial Performance Index and Fetal Doppler Abnormalities in Growth-Restricted Fetuses: A Systematic Review of the Literature

Introduction: This review aims to investigate the clinical implications of using the myocardial performance index (MPI), obtained through tissue Doppler imaging (TDI) and spectral Doppler, in assessing fetal cardiac function in growth-restricted fetuses. It explores the MPI’s potential in predicting adverse perinatal outcomes and its utility when combined with conventional pulsed-wave Doppler assessments for enhanced fetal well-being evaluations. Material and Methods: A systematic search of PubMed and Google Scholar databases spanning from 2004 to 2023 was conducted to identify pertinent articles on the MPI’s clinical application in managing growth-restricted fetuses. Inclusion criteria followed the Fetal Medicine Barcelona definition of fetal growth restriction (FGR) to mitigate study group heterogeneity. The research sources were PubMed and Google Scholar databases, and the review was conducted without any specific clinical or laboratory setting. Only articles meeting the inclusion criteria for FGR, as per the Fetal Medicine Barcelona definition, were considered. Six studies meeting these criteria were included in the review. The review analyzed the correlation between MPI values and conventional Doppler parameters, investigating the progression of myocardial function impairment and its association with the risk of fetal demise. The primary outcome measures included the relationship between MPI values, fetal well-being, and the potential for prenatal cardiac dysfunction in growth-restricted fetuses. Results: The findings indicate that as conventional Doppler parameters deteriorate, MPI values increase, suggesting progressive myocardial dysfunction. The MPI may cross the 95th percentile before abnormal flow in the ductus venosus and aortic isthmus, highlighting the potential for diastolic dysfunction preceding hypoxia in growth-restricted fetuses. Elevated MPI levels were observed in both growth-restricted and small-for-gestational-age (SGA) fetuses, indicating prenatal cardiac impairment. The strong association between an abnormal MPI and perinatal mortality has been shown for early FGR. Conclusions: MPI alterations appear to precede abnormal Doppler parameters in early- and late- onset FGR, potentially indicating diastolic dysfunction preceding hypoxia. Additionally, the MPI correlates with the risk of fetal demise. However, larger studies are needed to establish its sensitivity and specificity. Furthermore, the significance of prenatal cardiac impairment in some SGA fetuses raises questions about its potential impact on perinatal outcomes and cardiovascular programming.

Effectiveness of psychological interventions in endometriosis: a systematic review with meta-analysis

IntroductionEndometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease associated with chronic debilitating pain, poor mental health and quality of life. The objective of this paper is to evaluate the effectiveness of psychological interventions aimed at improving the pain, quality of life and mental health of women with endometriosis.MethodsA systematic review (SR) of the literature with meta-analysis (MA) was carried out. MEDLINE, Embase, PsycINFO and CENTRAL were searched to locate Randomized Controlled Trials (RCTs). The risk of bias assessment of each study was conducted using the Cochrane Collaboration’s RoB 2.0 tool.ResultsSeven RCTs were included (N = 757). The data obtained suggest that psychological interventions reduce dyspareunia [standardized mean difference (SMD): -0.54, 95% CI: −0.86, −0.22] and dyschezia [mean difference (MD): -2.90, 95% CI: −4.55, −1.26] and increase mental health levels (SMD: 0.70, 95% CI: 0. 42, 0.99); they also point to a large reduction in levels of trait anxiety (MD: -6.63, 95% CI: −8.27, −4.99) and depression (MD: -2.49, 95% CI: −3.20, −1.79), and a likely reduction in state anxiety (MD: -9.72, 95% CI: −13.11, −6.33) experienced by women with endometriosis. It was also identified that psychological interventions probably slightly reduce pelvic pain and may increase physical health. However, most of the included studies have a high overall risk of bias or have certain concerns, which limit conclusions about the certainty of the evidence.DiscussionThe available evidence indicates that psychological interventions are effective in improving the pain, quality of life and mental health variables of women with endometriosis.Systematic review registrationhttps://www.crd.york.ac.uk/prospero/, CRD42024516100.

Outcome of a Physical Rehabilitation Program on Functionality and Impact on Quality of Life in Postoperative Liver Transplant Patients: A Systematic Review

Objectives: To conduct a systematic review of the literature on the outcomes of a physical rehabilitation program on functionality and identify possible impacts on quality of life in patients after liver transplantation. Methods: Controlled clinical trials and observational studies were selected from the PubMed, SciELO, and BIREME databases that "t the PICO (P – population; I – intervention; C – comparison; O – outcomes) question “what are the bene"ts of a physical rehabilitation program on functionality and quality of life outcomes in patients undergoing liver transplantation?” Studies written in English, Portuguese, and Spanish, published in the last 10 years were selected. After selection, the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro) scale was used to perform the methodological evaluation of the studies. Results and Discussion: A total of "ve interventionist articles were selected, most of which had good methodological quality. Only one study did not associate resistance training with aerobic exercises, but all had signi"cant results regarding increased functional capacity and reduced perception of fatigue after liver transplantation. Conclusion: !e studies indicated that the association of a resistance training program associated with aerobic training is bene"cial in terms of muscle strength gain, exercise capacity, and perception of fatigue.

A Systematic Literature Review: Emotional Intelligence, Positive Affect, and Customer Satisfaction in Tourism

Objective: To perform a rigorous systematic review of the literature, with the aim of identify the most relevant studies on emotional intelligence and positive affect and their relationship with customer satisfaction in the tourism industry, and a bibliometric analysis of scientific production to lay the foundations of such relationships. Theoretical Framework: This paper presents the key concepts and theories that underpin the research. Emotional intelligence, positive affect and customer satisfaction in the tourism industry are highlighted to provide a solid basis for understanding the context of the research. Method: The methodology used in this research is based on the Constructivist Knowledge Development Process (Proknow-C), which facilitates the organisation of a systematic literature review to select and analyse bibliographical references and generate the necessary knowledge. Results and Discussion: The resulting portfolio of 17 relevant articles in line with the object of the study made it possible to identify the main approaches proposed by the authors on this subject. In essence, the review of the literature showed a clear consensus on the relationship between the emotional intelligence and positive affect of service providers and customer satisfaction in the tourism industry. Research Implications: This research is useful for the academic community in conducting significant and relevant research on the study axes, laying the foundations to continue advancing in future lines of research. In addition, the results are profitable from a professional standpoint. Organizations in the tourism sector may reflect on and promote best practices in developing emotional and positive affect skills among their service staff given their influence on customer satisfaction. Originality/Value: This study contributes to the literature as scientific research on this subject remains scarce. Furthermore, the results can have an impact on the performance of tourism businesses and thus on the economic development of the destination.

Ultrasound-Guided Intranodal Lipiodol Lymphangiography for the Assessment and Treatment of Chylous Leaks: A Retrospective Case Series from a Single Center in Switzerland and a Systematic Review of the Literature

Background: Lymphatic leaks are well-known complications of major thoracic or abdominal surgeries, which significantly heighten morbidity and mortality rates. While the existing literature provides insights into managing these post-operative leaks, with a step-up approach from conservative measures (CMs) to surgical intervention, there are no standardized treatment guidelines. The purpose of this paper is to offer a management algorithm of post-operative lymphatic leaks based on a systematic literature review (SLR) of the therapeutic effect of Lipiodol lymphangiography (LL), completed by a case series of five patients who underwent LL in our department. Methods: In this IRB-approved study, we conducted an SLR following the PRISMA guidelines, using a PICOS. A quality assessment was performed for each study. The case series consisted of consecutive patients who underwent LL for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes at our institution between September 2018 and December 2020. Results: A total of 39 observational studies were included in the SLR comprising 11 retrospective case reviews (Group 1), and 3 case series as well as 25 case reports (Group 2). In total, these studies report cases of 557 patients (51.52% presenting oncological diagnoses; 43.98% having benefited from lymphadenectomy). Lymphatic or chylous fistulas were the most encountered complication, followed by chylothorax. The median volume of Lipiodol injected during lymphography was 11.7 mL (range: 9.8–75 mL). Overall, LL was technically successful in 77.7% (366/471) of patients. The clinical success of all technically successful LLs was 80.6% (295/366). Time-to-leak resolution after lymphography varied between 1 and 31 days. The factors associated with treatment failure were a high leak output (>500 mL/day) and Lipiodol extravasation on post-LL imaging. Our case series consisted of five patients (mean age: 62 ± 9.24 years; 20% female; 100% oncological diagnoses; 60% having beneficiated from lymphadenectomy). Technical and clinical successes were 80% (4/5) and 75% (3/4), respectively. Time-to-leak resolution varied between 1 and 4 days. The volume and technique of LL was not different from that identified in the SLR. Conclusions: LL is a safe procedure with high technical and clinical success rates that could be proposed as both a diagnostic and therapeutic solution for patients with post-operative central lymphatic lesions.

Hand Osteomyelitis: A Systematic Review of the Literature and Recommendations for Diagnosis and Management.

Hand osteomyelitis is a complex condition to diagnose and treat, with an opportunity to improve care through organization of existing evidence. The literature was systematically searched for series of hand osteomyelitis between 1990 and 2022 for evidence regarding diagnosis and treatment, to formulate recommendations. Twenty-one series reported at least 5 cases of hand osteomyelitis in adults, with a total of 666 cases. Surgical debridement is central to treatment and oral antibiotics are sufficient for individuals without diabetes, renal or vascular disease, after debridement and resolution of associated sepsis. A 4- to 6-week duration of antibiotic therapy according to organism sensitivities is recommended, or a 2-week course after amputation. Delayed presentation is common and if over 6 months is associated with high amputation rates. Hand osteomyelitis with renal failure is associated with systemic complications. Reconstruction options include antibiotic-eluting spacers, osteosynthesis or arthrodesis, vascularized bone or adipose, regional soft tissue coverage and silicone implant arthroplasty.Level of Evidence: IV.

High variability exists in 3D leg alignment analysis, but underlying principles that might lead to agreement on a universal framework could be identified: A systematic review.

To (1) investigate the hypothesis that there is high variability in the reported methods to derive axes and joint orientations from three-dimensional (3D) bone models to (a) perform 3D knee-related leg alignment analysis and (b) define coordinate systems for the femur, tibia and leg and (2) identify underlying principles that might lead to agreement on a universal 3D leg alignment analysis framework. A systematic review of the literature between January 2006 and June 2024 was performed. Articles explicitly reporting methods to derive axes and joint orientations from CT-based 3D bone models for alignment parameters and/or coordinate systems of the femur, tibia and leg were included. Study characteristics and reported methods were extracted and presented as a qualitative synthesis. A total of 93 studies were included. There was high variability in the reported methods to derive axes and joint orientations from 3D bone models. Nevertheless, the reported methods could be categorized into four groups, and several underlying principles of the four groups could be identified. Furthermore, the definitions of femoral and tibial coordinate systems were most frequently based on the mechanical axis (femoral, 13/19 [68%]; tibial, 13/26 [50%]) and a central medial-lateral axis (femoral, 16/19 [84%]; tibial, 12/26 [46%]); no leg coordinate system was reported. Interestingly, of the included studies that reported on leg alignment parameters (76/93, 82%), only a minority reported expressing these in a complete coordinate system (25/76, 33%). There is high variability in 3D knee-related leg alignment analysis. Therefore, universal 3D reference values for alignment parameters cannot yet be defined, and comparison of alignment parameter values between different studies is impossible. However, several underlying principles to the reported methods were identified, which could serve to reach more agreement on a future universal 3D framework for leg alignment analysis. Level I (1).

A new playbook: preparing young team athletes for diverse futures

This article highlights innovative approaches to the development of young athletes in team sports, focusing on strategies that facilitate a successful transition to adulthood. Through a systematic review of the literature in high-impact databases, we investigate the role of positive development, the promotion of transferable skills, the fostering of a growth mindset, and the importance of diversity and inclusion in the sports context. We observe the need for athlete-centered approaches that emphasize autonomy, the development of technical, tactical, and cognitive competencies, and the importance of socio-emotional skills such as leadership, teamwork, and resilience. Another important factor found was the relevance of constructive feedback and effective communication in optimizing learning and improving sports performance. Therefore, the implementation of these innovative strategies in teaching and training contributes to the holistic development of young athletes, preparing them not only for sports success but also for facing future challenges in adult life. This study offers significant insights for researchers, coaches, and educators involved in the sports development of young athletes, highlighting the need for integrated and athlete-centered approaches to promote positive development and a successful transition to adult life.

Tests employed in the psychometric validation of the Insulin Treatment Appraisal Scale (ITAS) in T2DM patients; a systematic review of the literature

BackgroundPsychological Insulin Resistance (PIR) and negative perceptions regarding insulin treatment are noteworthy challenges in T2DM management, which hinder the timely initiation of insulin treatment. To get past these obstacles a reliable tool is required to evaluate patients’ perspectives on insulin administration. Our study aims to conduct a comprehensive systematic review to evaluate the validity and reliability of different validation tests used in the psychometric validation of the ITAS in T2DM patients.MethodsA literature search was carried out, using PubMed, Google Scholar, EMBASE, Cochrane Library and Science Direct. Only those studies assessing content validity, construct validity, concurrent validity, discriminant validity, internal consistency reliability (Cronbach’ α), and items-total correlation were retrieved.ResultsA total of 14 studies illustrated the validity and reliability of ITAS in T2DM patients. Content validity results of S-CVI was 0.97, and I-CVI was 0.8–1.00. Construct validity with factor loading was greater than the threshold value of 0.3. The concurrent validity of ITAS vs. PAID, WHO-5, and SPI was 0.35 (P < 0.05), −0.14 (P < 0.05), and 0.80 (P < 0.001) respectively. The mean difference between insulin and non-insulin group was significant (P < 0.001) showing reliable discriminant validity. Reported results of Cronbach’s α for the main scale (0.79–0.89), subscale-1 (0.72–0.9), and subscale-2 (0.61–0.89) showed “good to excellent” internal consistency reliability of ITAS. Item-total correlation results for the main scale, subscale-1, and subscale-2 were (0.40–0.82), (0.31–0.74) and (0.34–0.58) respectively. Test-retest reliability of ITAS was 0.571–0.87.ConclusionsStudy findings confirm the robustness of various validation tests utilized in the psychometric validation of ITAS in T2DM patients. ITAS is a well-validated and reliable tool for determining the perspectives, PIR, and changes in patients’ perception over time and it can be used to overcome hurdles in the timely initiation of insulin treatment in T2DM patients.