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The article highlights the finalists of the Ultimate Men's Health Guy contest of the journal "Men's Health," celebrating men who exemplify physical strength, mental resilience, and social connection. Topics include Noah Galloway's reflections on the journey of becoming the first Ultimate Men's Health Guy, the inspirational stories of finalists like Ryan Lennon and Aaron Sanchez, and the importance of mental health in the lives of these men.

The article focuses on the men's health guys of 2024, Darryl Partridge, Leo Moore, and Saul Bautista, who embody physical and mental resilience, generosity, and inspiration, making them the ultimate. It reports Leo Moore's extraordinary survival and renewed commitment to his medical career after a life-threatening surgery complication. It highlights Darryl Partridge's journey to overcome the loss of a limb and become a personal trainer for amputees.

Howard Smith, MD, writes about what he calls a “hypothetical” example of medical malpractice that begins in a hospital’s emergency room. An adult male, over 40 years old, presents at the ER with ulcers on both heels. He is not diabetic, but he is a smoker suffering from hypertension. A diagnosis of peripheral artery disease results in admission to “Dr. X’s” service. Dr. X is a vascular surgeon with a special interest in endovascular devices for PAD, but he happens to be out of the country. Another surgeon, “Dr. Y,” is covering. A week later, Dr. Y performs a conventional femoral popliteal bypass on the right leg, presumably, to prevent amputation. After another week, Dr. X returns to work and ends up operating on the left leg, implanting a state-of-the-art endovascular device to replace a portion of the femoral artery he determined to be blocked. Sometime later, the care team that included a vascular surgery resident, podiatrist, and a hospitalist (but neither surgeon) determined that the right leg was in jeopardy and recommended below-theknee amputation. The patient and his family requested transfer to another in-system hospital with a reputation for saving limbs. For six days, the patient is moved from ICU and then to several rooms with different care teams (hospitalists and nurses). Wound care is inconsistent, and finally the left-foot ulcers advance to the point of introducing life-threatening sepsis. The left leg is amputated, and with stump revision, becomes an above-the-knee removal. While in the rehab unit, the wound-care team discovered a possible infection in the right heel bone. The patient is finally transferred to the hospital with the limb-salvage reputation where debridement and excision successfully salvaged the right leg. This begs the question: Could the left leg have been saved if the patient were transferred sooner? Smith asks whether the amputation was an example of malpractice or just part of the background risk. Several medical plaintiff attorneys declined to represent the patient, so Smith concluded that since they work on a contingency basis, “it simply means this case is just not worth their time or effort to litigate.” [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article discusses the considered creation of the Unbroken project to serve as a national rehabilitation center in the Ukrainian city of Lviv as of September 2023. Topics covered include Lviv's transition into a humanitarian hub for displaced people across Ukraine, its use of urban design to address recovery challenges, and its offering of such features as a swimming pool, and facilities for occupational therapy and outdoor navigation training. Also noted is its close community connection.

A patent application has been submitted for an "Adaptive Compressive Prosthetic Device" by inventor Joe Johnson. Traditional prosthetic devices have limitations in accommodating shape and volume fluctuations of residual limbs, leading to discomfort and potential damage. The new technology aims to provide a versatile and cost-effective prosthetic socket system that can adapt to a user's needs by utilizing compression cells to secure the residual limb within the socket. This innovative approach allows for anatomically directed compression and soft tissue expansion, addressing the shortcomings of traditional prosthetic systems. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application by inventor Sven Bone introduces computer-implemented systems, software, and methods for dental prosthetic design and evaluation using risk analysis. The application highlights the historical evolution of dental prosthetics and the advancements in materials science, CAD/CAM techniques, and digital imaging technologies. The software aims to simulate stresses and fatigue on dental prostheses, providing a risk analysis of potential mechanical failure and offering corrective solutions to improve prosthetic design and materials selection. This innovative approach seeks to enhance patient outcomes and reduce the risk of prosthetic failure in modern dental care. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers from the University of Sao Paulo in Brazil focused on the environmental enrichment of captive bearded dragons in zoological and botanical gardens. The study aimed to evaluate food enrichment strategies to increase foraging behavior in both non-disabled and disabled bearded dragons. The results showed that the more complex the food enrichment challenge, the greater the frequency of foraging behavior in the dragons. The study concluded that more research should be conducted on reptiles to improve their quality of life and promote natural behaviors, even in animals with anatomical disabilities. [Extracted from the article]

Tulavi Therapeutics Inc. has been granted a patent for methods of creating a nerve barrier to address the issue of neuromas, which are benign tumors that can develop from neural tissue after trauma or surgery. Neuromas can cause chronic neuropathic pain, especially in amputees. The patent describes different techniques for forming a physical barrier to inhibit abnormal nerve regeneration and reduce pain. One method involves identifying the severed end of the nerve, placing it in a cavity, introducing a media to surround the nerve, and allowing the media to transform into a protective barrier. The patent also includes additional claims related to the method. [Extracted from the article]

The article describes a journey of a British soldier from Doncaster, South Yorkshire, Britain on how he became world's first triple amputee as of October, 2024 to sail solo across the Pacific Ocean, describing his challenges due to unpredictable weather, huge waves, and sleep deprivation.

A patent application has been submitted for a hybrid prosthesis and delivery system that aims to treat aneurysms in the vascular system. The prosthesis is designed to be inserted into the aneurysm sac to restore the dimensions of the natural blood vessel and block the aneurysm. The device can be used for treating abdominal aortic aneurysms and thoracoabdominal aortic aneurysms. It includes a stented tubular part and a branched tubular body with multiple branch lumens for connecting with natural vessels or for surgical manipulation. The device allows for early perfusion and can be used in off-pump procedures, offering advantages over traditional surgical methods. The patent application also outlines a method for implanting the device in a patient's aorta. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Melbourne explores a new approach to controlling prosthetic arm movement. The study suggests that current control methods for gross arm movements suffer from output fluctuation caused by input signal variations. The researchers propose a novel Uncertainty-Aware Discrete-Target Prosthesis Control (UA-DPC) approach, which includes an uncertainty-aware classification scheme and real-time trajectory planning. Human-in-the-loop experiments conducted in a virtual reality environment demonstrate that the UA-DPC approach provides more efficient task completion with fewer misclassification instances and smoother limb and prosthesis movement. This research offers valuable insights into improving prosthetic arm control and movement. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial, NCT06585280, has been launched to investigate the satisfaction of individuals using assistive devices. Assistive devices are important for the independence and participation of disabled individuals in society. The study aims to evaluate the satisfaction of individuals using orthotic and prosthetic assistive devices in a multifaceted way. The trial will use surveys such as the Quebec User Evaluation of Satisfaction with Assistive Technology (QUEST) and the Orthotics and Prosthetics Users Survey (OPUS) to assess user satisfaction. The study is being conducted by Istanbul Medipol University Hospital. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application titled "Prosthetic Hand System With An Integrated Image Recognition Subsystem" has been published online by the US Patent and Trademark Office. The patent application, filed by inventors Soumya Bandyopadhyay and Justin A. Weibel, and assigned to Purdue Research Foundation, describes a prosthetic hand assembly that includes a camera and a processor. The camera captures images of objects, and the processor analyzes these images to determine characteristics of the objects. Based on these characteristics, the processor drives the actuators in the prosthetic hand to affect movement. The invention aims to eliminate inherent latencies in reacting to stimuli, improving the functionality of prosthetic hands. [Extracted from the article]

The US Patent and Trademark Office has published a patent application titled "Patient-Specific Bone Fracture Prostheses And Methods Of Making The Same." The inventors have developed a method for manufacturing prostheses tailored to individual patients with fractured long bones. This method involves obtaining data of the fractured bone, designing a prosthesis specific to the patient, and manufacturing it with patient-specific features. The aim is to reduce the risk of osteonecrosis and ensure that the bone fragments are mechanically loaded according to the patient's needs. The assignee for this patent application is Howmedica Osteonics Corp. [Extracted from the article]

A research study from James Cook University highlights the lack of evidence-based guidelines for travel health practitioners when it comes to providing care for travelers with prosthetic limbs. The study emphasizes the importance of addressing the unique challenges faced by this neglected population, including trip preparation, packing considerations, traveling by plane, and navigating airports and airport security. The researchers provide preliminary recommendations for clinical practice, updates in education, and suggestions for further research to improve the quality of care for travelers with prostheses. This is the first paper on travel with a prosthetic limb in any field, making it a valuable resource for travel health practitioners. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial, NCT06556082, is being conducted to investigate the impact of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF)-based upper extremity strengthening exercises combined with core stabilization training on the physical fitness of amputee football players. The study will randomly assign participants to either a training group or a control group. The training group will receive PNF-based exercises and core stabilization training, while the control group will receive upper extremity strengthening exercises with free weights and core stabilization training. Various tests and measurements will be used to assess postural control, balance, core stability, muscle strength, and athletic performance. The study is currently not recruiting participants and is expected to be completed by June 2026. [Extracted from the article]

The article from the University of California, Los Angeles (UCLA) presents new insights into the real-world use of tralokinumab for treating atopic dermatitis, focusing on the baseline characteristics of the first 100 patients in the TRACE study. Topics discussed include patient demographics, disease burden and impact on quality of life, and the effectiveness and safety of tralokinumab as a treatment option.

A patent application by the California Institute of Technology has been made available online for a front-leg assistive ankle exoskeleton. The invention aims to address the limitations of existing ankle exoskeletons, which are often bulky, highly specialized, and not widely adopted in clinical settings. The new design utilizes compact and flexible actuators to create a lightweight and versatile exoskeleton that can provide meaningful assistance during walking. The exoskeleton includes a shin mount, a foot mount, and a connector housing an actuator that generates torque about the ankle to modify a person's gait. [Extracted from the article]

Embla Medical, a global provider of mobility solutions, has announced that the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) has approved extended coverage for lower-limb active K2 amputee patients in the United States to access bionic prosthetic solutions. This decision expands access to high activity K3 knees for a large patient group of active K2 amputees, who were previously restricted to lower-level knee options. The CMS decision is based on research showing that advanced prosthetic devices can lead to significant clinical benefits, including reduced fall rates and improved mobility. The extended coverage will take effect on September 1, 2024, and healthcare professionals will need to establish medical documentation to determine eligibility for the bionic knee technology. Additionally, the extended coverage may also grant access to a compatible high active K3 foot solution for these patients. Embla Medical welcomes this decision and believes it will greatly improve the lives of active K2 amputees, allowing them to become more independent and perform daily activities more easily. [Extracted from the article]

The article reflects on the journey of the author in becoming the first Ultimate Men's Health Guy, emphasizing personal battles and the importance of mental health.

A recent study conducted by the University of Cadiz in Spain has developed an anthropomorphic robotic hand prosthesis specifically designed for children between the ages of eight and twelve. The prosthesis, called HandBot-Kid, aims to address the limitations of commercially available prosthetic hands for children, which often do not fit well in terms of shape and size. HandBot-Kid features a length of 16 cm, width of 7 cm, thickness of 3.6 cm, and weight of 328 g, with a total of fifteen degrees of freedom allocated to each finger. The design process integrated 3D printing technology and aluminum machining to streamline the manufacturing process. The study concluded that HandBot-Kid exhibits finger movement and mechanical advantages similar to a real human finger, and it underwent various tests to compare its functionality with other commercial solutions for children. For more information, readers can refer to the journal article "Anthropomorphic Robotic Hand Prosthesis Developed for Children" published in Biomimetics. [Extracted from the article]

Tulavi Therapeutics' de novo clearance covers an absorbable hydrogel that encases the end of a severed nerve, preventing it from trying to regenerate. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A patent application has been submitted for a "Robust Adaptable Foot Prosthesis" by inventors James M. Colvin, Evandro M. Ficanha, Murray E. Maitland, and Matthew M. Wernke. The application describes a prosthetic foot device that aims to mimic the functions of a normal foot by allowing adaptation in the medial-lateral direction. The device includes a linkage system with articulations, a platform, and a base. It is designed to improve walking, running, and other forms of bipedal motion for individuals with prosthetic feet, as well as benefit legged robotic devices. The patent application provides detailed descriptions and claims for the device. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from Massachusetts General Hospital discusses the use of pain sketches as a predictive tool for surgical outcomes in lower extremity amputees undergoing targeted muscle reinnervation (TMR) for neuropathic pain. The study found that pre-operative pain sketches drawn by patients could help predict pain outcomes following surgery. Focal pain sketches were associated with the most improvement, while radiating pain sketches were associated with worse outcomes and were more prevalent in patients with diabetes or depression. This research suggests that pain sketches could be a useful tool in assessing surgical outcomes for amputees undergoing TMR. [Extracted from the article]

Hospitals unable to provide adequate care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A recent study conducted by the University of Electro-Communications focuses on the development of a body-powered upper-limb prosthesis for children with congenital digit defects. The prosthesis allows children to perform pinching motions using their own residual digits and joints, even in the absence of a thumb. The researchers designed the prosthesis to convert the flexion and rotation power of the residual digits into the power of the opposing prosthetic digit, enhancing the function of the residual digit. The evaluation of the prosthesis in children with digit defects showed promising results, enabling them to engage in activities such as throwing and catching a ball and using scissors in daily life. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Granada in Spain focused on the musculoskeletal disorders related to upper limb disability in lung cancer survivors one year after lung resection surgery. The study found that patients who underwent lung cancer surgery experienced upper limb impairment and musculoskeletal disorders, which could limit their functionality and quality of life. The research highlights the importance of addressing upper limb impairment in lung cancer survivors to improve their independence and overall well-being. This study provides valuable insights for healthcare professionals and patients dealing with the long-term effects of lung cancer surgery. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application for a robotic pronator has been filed by inventors Revanth Damerla, Evelyn Sorgenfrei, and Vasil lakimovitch. The application describes an upper limb prosthesis that aims to meet user needs in terms of weight, dexterity, speed, strength, and functionality. The assembly includes a frame, a motor, a screw, a nut, and a crank, among other components. The patent application also discusses an assembly with two motors and two nut assemblies that move out of phase with each other. Additionally, the application mentions a system consisting of an active wrist assembly and an active pronator assembly positioned within a robotic or prosthetic forearm. The patent application provides detailed descriptions and claims for these inventions. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a method of producing a breast prosthesis with an adjustable volume. The method involves connecting four plastic films to create a template with three chambers, filling the upper and lower chambers with a crosslinkable silicone compound, and crosslinking the compound. The resulting breast prosthesis is a film bag filled with a deformable material, allowing for volume adjustment. Additional components such as phase change materials or porous granulate can be added to improve comfort and reduce weight. The patent was filed by Amoena Medizin-Orthopadie-Technik GmbH. [Extracted from the article]

Medtronic Inc. has been granted a patent for a balloon-expandable stent used in the transcatheter implantation of a cardiac valve prosthesis. The patent describes the design and features of the stent, including its inflow and outflow portions, as well as a transition portion. The stent is intended to be delivered and deployed within a blood vessel, where it supports a prosthetic valve that regulates blood flow. The patent provides various options for the stent's configuration and the prosthetic valve's design. It also includes technical specifications and claims related to the functionality of the transcatheter valve prosthesis. [Extracted from the article]

A study conducted by the Naval Health Research Center in San Diego, California, examined outpatient prescription medication use among U.S. military service members who had experienced combat-related amputations and traumatic brain injuries. The study found that prescription medications, particularly opioids, were commonly prescribed during the first year following the injuries. The research also identified factors such as race/ethnicity, injury severity, and mental health conditions that were associated with prescription medication use. The findings of the study can help inform the optimization of prescription medication benefits and reduce potential risks. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the Capital University of Physical Education and Sports in Beijing, China compared the lower limb strength of male college athletes in table tennis, badminton, and tennis. The study included 60 athletes, with 20 from each sport. The results showed significant differences in the squat jump and counter-movement jump assessments between the three sports. Badminton players outperformed table tennis players in terms of peak power and peak velocity, while tennis players exhibited lower peak force indicators than badminton players. The study concluded that these findings can help coaches and athletes develop better vertical jump training programs. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at West Park Healthcare Center in Toronto, Canada compared the geometric and clinical differences between manually- and digitally-designed prosthetic sockets for lower-limb amputees. The study found that there were no significant geometric differences between the two types of sockets, and participants reported similar comfort scores for both. The study concluded that a randomized control trial will be conducted to further investigate these findings and improve digital design procedures. This research provides valuable insights for improving prosthetic socket design for amputees. [Extracted from the article]

A preprint abstract from medrxiv.org discusses the lack of consensus among sports physiotherapists regarding the key items to consider when conducting a comprehensive biopsychosocial upper or lower limb pain assessment with athletes. To address this, a real-time Delphi study was conducted with international sports physiotherapists to develop recommendations for an athlete pain assessment framework. The study involved 41 sports physiotherapists who voted on 86 pain assessment items, resulting in 64 items meeting the criteria for consensus. The study provides stakeholder-generated recommendations and priorities for athlete pain assessment. However, it is important to note that this preprint has not been peer-reviewed. [Extracted from the article]

Researchers at the University of Rzeszow in Poland conducted a study to investigate the relationship between the strength of the upper and lower limbs and the technical-tactical training of kickboxing athletes. The study involved 15 high-level kickboxing athletes who regularly participate in K1 competitions. The researchers found that kickboxers exhibit a symmetric profile of upper limb strength, while the lead leg of athletes showed a higher level of muscular strength and offensive activity. The study suggests that developing the strength of the lower limbs can improve a fighter's starting condition. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at the Walton Centre in Liverpool, United Kingdom, examined the use of onabotulinumtoxinA (onabotA) for the treatment of upper and lower limb spasticity in individuals with central nervous system disorders. The study found that concurrent treatment with onabotA resulted in reduced pain, improved quality of life, and decreased disability in participants. The research involved 744 participants, with 39.3% being new to onabotA treatment. The study concluded that onabotA is a safe and effective treatment option for spasticity. [Extracted from the article]

A patent has been issued for a system and methods for residual limbs of amputees. The patent describes a prosthetic cover with an array of sensors that transmit signals to an array of electrodes in a liner that fits over the residual limb. By interacting with the prosthetic cover through touch and visual feedback, amputees can modulate different neurons in response to touch, which can help alleviate symptoms of phantom limb syndrome. The system allows for simultaneous sensory feedback from touch, vision, and electrical current, inducing neuroplasticity in the brain and reducing symptoms of phantom limb syndrome. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted at Chandigarh University in Punjab, India, focused on the quality of life and prosthetic satisfaction in below-knee amputees. The researchers aimed to examine the factors that influence the quality of life and body image satisfaction in patients with unilateral knee amputations. The study found a strong correlation between patient satisfaction with assistive technology and integration into productive activities and social life. The researchers concluded that prostheses play a social function in the lives of amputees, allowing them to avoid social stigmatization and facilitating their social integration. [Extracted from the article]

A recent report from King Saud University in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, highlights the significant impact of nanomaterials on the development of prosthetic devices. Nanotechnology has allowed for the creation of prosthetics that closely mimic natural limb behavior and respond to user intentions. The integration of biomedicine and materials science has played a crucial role in enhancing the functionality, comfort, and lifespan of prosthetic devices. However, the study also identifies areas for future research, including the need for long-term biocompatibility studies, standardization of nanocomposites and components, and addressing ethical concerns related to nanoscale sensors and neural interfaces. The researchers suggest that combining nanotechnology with other emerging technologies like artificial intelligence and robotics could lead to even more advanced and adaptable prosthetic devices. [Extracted from the article]

A patent application for a valve prosthesis with a durable prosthetic valve has been filed by inventors from Irvine and Los Angeles, California. The valve prosthesis is designed to address issues such as stenosis and insufficiency in heart valves. The prosthesis includes a one-piece molded valve with commissures and reinforcement members applied to the commissures. The patent application provides detailed descriptions and diagrams of the valve prosthesis and its components. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Vic in Spain explored the feasibility of a home-based Graded Motor Imagery (GraMI) intervention for amputees with phantom limb pain. The study involved twenty individuals with upper or lower limb amputations who experienced phantom limb pain. The participants followed the GraMI protocol, which consisted of three consecutive application techniques designed to reorganize maladaptive changes after amputation. The study found that the intervention was feasible, with high recruitment rates, adherence, and compliance. While no significant differences were observed between groups, the experimental group showed a significant reduction in phantom limb pain. The researchers concluded that further clinical trials are needed to verify the effectiveness of the intervention. [Extracted from the article]

A clinical trial, NCT06424249, is currently underway in France to explore the potential benefits of virtual reality in rehabilitating individuals with unilateral transtibial amputations. The trial aims to determine if a virtual reality protocol for dynamic balance can improve assessment criteria when compared to conventional rehabilitation methods. The study hypothesizes that personalized treatment using virtual reality and movement analysis will result in improved gait patterns and increased independence for amputees. The trial, which is expected to be completed by December 2024, will enroll 20 participants and compare the effectiveness of virtual reality-based rehabilitation with standard methods. [Extracted from the article]

A recent study conducted by researchers at the University of Exeter in Devon, United Kingdom, explored the feasibility and acceptability of using immersive virtual reality (iVR) to measure upper limb motor performance in typically developing children and adolescents. The study involved 36 participants who used a custom-built virtual environment and a Meta-Quest-2 headset to draw circles. The results showed that iVR is a viable method for measuring upper limb motor performance in this population, suggesting its potential value in pediatric physiotherapy practice. The study found good levels of acceptability and usability when participants used the iVR headset, with no adverse effects reported. [Extracted from the article]