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Benchmark artifacts provide the industry with an easy and affordable way to evaluate the geometrical and dimensional performance of multiple AM printers. However, this approach generates large data sets that are difficult to analyze in order to rank the printers and provide an overview of their performance. This paper proposes innovative overall indicators that provide a summary of each printer's performance relative to the others, based on the concepts of trueness and precision defined by ISO 5725-1, and axes homogeneity of behavior, fit has been successfully tested on four Material Extrusion (MEX) printer-material pairs. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Industrial Internet of Things (IIoT) has significantly transformed manufacturing by enabling the integration of physical and digital systems, resulting in extensive data generation. However, extracting actionable insights from this heterogeneous data poses significant challenges due to its distributed nature and the varied architectures and formats from multiple vendors. A unified access method for data processing is essential to overcome these obstacles. This paper introduces the concept of an Independent Event Log Layer (IELL), leveraging the Resource Description Framework (RDF) and ontology-based knowledge representation to standardise and analyse event logs from disparate formats like eXtensible Event Stream (XES) and Comma-Separated Values (CSV). Utilising the RDF Mapping Language (RML), we propose a novel approach to convert event logs into RDF files, creating a unified knowledge base that enhances process mining capabilities. This semantic abstraction facilitates advanced knowledge retrieval and analysis, linking various events and attributes to optimise IIoT processes. A proof-of-concept implementation demonstrates the feasibility of our approach using openly available event log data and RML tooling. The findings underscore the potential of IELL to streamline process mining in IIoT environments, providing unified access for knowledge retrieval and process optimisation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Flash floods are one of the most dangerous hydrometeorological events in the world. The current study investigates flash floods on the northern Black Sea Coast. The data about stochastic and relatively stable factors of flash flood formation (such as hydrological, meteorological, lithological, geomorphological, and anthropogenic parameters) were collected for 22 events. The main trigger of flash floods is heavy rainfall of high intensity in the region but in some cases flash flood occurrence is connected with combinations of several "non-critical" factors. The small watershed area (≤351 km2) of river basins experiencing flash floods promotes very rapid flow concentration. Analysis of extreme precipitation demonstrates significant increasing trends in river basins on the Crimean Peninsula and decreasing a maximum precipitation amount in 5 days (r5d) and 1 day (r1d) in river basins in the Caucasus Black Sea Coast in the 21st century as determined by processing of Integrated Multi-satellite Retrievals for Global precipitation measurement (IMEGR) satellite data. At the same time land network data indicates increasing r5d at the Anapa and r1d at the Tuapse meteorological stations in 1961–2020. More frequent occurrence of flash floods has been suggested in the area due to statistical analysis of the longest precipitation ranges. The main reason for significant social and economic damage is uncontrolled human activity in flooded areas on the northern Black Sea Coast. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The MoPyc radial head arthroplasty (RHA) is a monopolar implant with a pyrocarbon head that obtains rigid fixation via controlled expansion of the titanium stem. The aim of this study was to evaluate the short-term to midterm outcomes of MoPyc RHA. Between 2002 and 2021, 139 MoPyc RHA were implanted in 139 patients with a RH fracture. The mean follow-up was 5.9 years ± 3.5 (range 1-16). Range of motion, mean Mayo Elbow Performance Score (MEPS), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand score, visual analog scale (VAS), radiographic outcome, and reason for failure were recorded. The mean MEP, Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand, and VAS scores were 89.1 ± 2.2 (range, 45-100), 17.5 ± 16.7 (range, 0-78), and 0.8 ± 1.6 (range, 0-50), respectively. Stress shielding (SS) and osteolysis around the stem were identified in 92 (66%) and 20 (14%) patients. A total of 47 (29%) patients experienced at least 1 complication and 29 (21%) of them required re-intervention. Persistent stiffness (n = 12; 9%) was the most common complication. No painful loosening was noted. Osteolysis around the stem, presence of an autoexpanding stem, and overstuffing were associated with a lower MEPS and an increase in VAS (P <.05). SS was associated with an increase in MEPS (adjusted beta coefficients= 6.92; P <.001) and lower VAS (adjusted beta coefficients= −0.69; P =.016). The autoexpending stem increased the likelihood of SS after RHA (adjusted odds ratio = 1.49; P =.001). A well-fixed MoPyc RHA provided satisfactory short to midterm outcomes, without painful loosening. However, the autoexpanding stem system was associated with poorer functional outcomes and increased the likelihood of SS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total knee arthroplasties (TKAs) exhibit an 8 to 30% risk of suboptimal outcomes, resulting in persistent symptoms, individual morbidity, and revision surgery, prompting a contemporary focus on risk reduction and outcome improvement. This study introduces hierarchical cluster analysis as a way of preoperatively assessing the likelihood of success/failure of TKA based on several patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs), which have been analyzed both intact and with component questions as individual variables. The study utilized data on 1,433 TKAs from The Miriam Hospital's Function and Outcomes Research for Comparative Effectiveness in Total Joint Replacement registry. Outcomes are expressed as Knee Injury and Osteoarthritis Outcome Score pain and function scores. Criteria for success/failure were developed with an integrative, anchor-based, minimum clinically important difference. Preoperative and postoperative PROMs were studied by cluster analysis. There were three sequential cluster analyses that revealed clusters of patients, based upon preoperative patient responses that were predictive of surgical outcomes. Clusters varied most significantly in their responses to individual component questions of preoperative PROMs. Extracting and combining the clinically meaningful patient-reported component questions yielded a new, and clinically relevant, outcome measure that has the potential to preoperatively predict postoperative outcomes of TKA. In contrast to a single medical, psychological, or social variable, cluster analysis offers the opportunity to develop a whole-patient profile that reflects the contextual interactions of sociodemographic and clinical variables in predicting outcomes. In the context of determining clinical meaningfulness, cluster analysis has one of its major strengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Emergency resuscitative thoracotomy is a procedure rarely performed in French trauma centers. • However, it is a procedure that can reduce mortality and should be included in protocols for the management of severe trauma. • It is particularly effective in cases of patients with penetrating trauma arriving with signs of life. Emergency resuscitative thoracotomy (ERT) has been described as a potentially life-saving procedure for trauma patients who have been admitted in refractory shock or with recent loss of sign of life (SOL). This nationwide registry analysis aimed to describe the French practice of ERT. From 2015 to 2021, all severe trauma patients who underwent ERT were extracted from the TraumaBase→ registry. Demographic data, prehospital management and in-hospital outcomes were recorded to evaluate predictors of success-to rescue after ERT at 24-hour and 28-day. Only 10/26 Trauma centers have an effective practice of ERT, three of them perform more than 1 ERT/year. Sixty-six patients (74% male, 49/66) with a median age of 37 y/o [26–51], mostly with blunt trauma (52%, 35/66) were managed with ERT. The median pre-hospital time was 64 mins [45–89]. At admission, the median injury severity score was 35 [25–48], and 51% (16/30) of patients have lost SOL. ERT was associated with a massive transfusion protocol including 8 RBCs [6–13], 6 FFPs [4–10], and 0 PCs [0–1] in the first 6 h. The overall success-to-rescue after ERT at 24-h and 28-d were 27% and 15%, respectively. In case of refractory shock after penetrating trauma, survival was 64% at 24-hours and 47% at 28-days. ERT integrated into the trauma protocol remains a life-saving procedure that appears to be underutilized in France, despite significant success-to-rescue observed by trained teams for selected patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cognitive decline and dementia have been reportedly linked to atherosclerosis, the main cause of cardiovascular disease. Cohort studies identifying early brain alterations associated with subclinical atherosclerosis are warranted to understand the potential of prevention strategies before cerebral damage becomes symptomatic and irreversible. The Progression of Early Subclinical Atherosclerosis (PESA) study is a longitudinal observational cohort study that recruited 4,184 asymptomatic middle-aged individuals (40-54 years) in 2010 in Madrid (Spain) to thoroughly characterize subclinical atherosclerosis development over time. In this framework, the PESA-Brain study has been designed to identify early structural, functional and vascular brain changes associated with midlife atherosclerosis and cardiovascular risk factors. The PESA-Brain study targets 1,000 participants at the 10-year follow-up PESA visit and consists of thorough neuropsychological testing, advanced multimodal neuroimaging, and quantification of blood-based neuropathological biomarkers. We hypothesize that, in middle-age, the presence of cardiovascular risk factors and a high burden of subclinical atherosclerosis will be associated with structural, functional and vascular brain alterations, greater amyloid burden and subtle cognitive impairment. We further hypothesize that the link between subclinical atherosclerosis and poor brain health in midlife will be mediated by cerebrovascular pathology and intracranial atherosclerosis. The PESA-Brain study started in October 2020 and is estimated to be completed by December 2024. This study is in a unique position to unveil novel relationships between cardiovascular and brain alterations in the health-to-disease transition, which may have important implications for interventional and therapeutic approaches. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT01410318. Hypothesized mechanisms underlying the association between subclinical atherosclerosis and brain health disruption in midlife. Pathways illustrated by arrows represent the working hypothesis underlying the specific objectives of the PESA-Brain study. CVRFs, cardiovascular risk factors; WMHs, white matter hyperintensities; CBF, cerebral blood flow; AD, Alzheimer's disease; Aβ, amyloid-β. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biomechanical Taping has been shown to effectively reduce pain and enhance function in patients with musculoskeletal pain. When used as an adjunct to physiotherapy, BMT may contribute to increased stability, leading to improved pain management and functionality. Telehealth has emerged as an effective and cost-efficient alternative to traditional physiotherapy. The Go PainFree Telehealth System, employs BMT to alleviate pain and improve functionality, enhancing the overall effectiveness of online therapy services for patients with musculoskeletal conditions. The study determined the usability of the system in managing musculoskeletal conditions for patients accessing healthcare online, focusing on its usefulness, ease of use and learnability, interface quality, interaction quality, reliability, satisfaction, and future use. Also, the study examined the effectiveness of BMT on pain and function in individuals with musculoskeletal conditions when integrated into the system after a single session. This retrospective study reviewed the records of the system between November 2022 and February 2023. Evaluating the system's usability involved the integration of the Telehealth Usability Questionnaire within the system survey, serving as a reliable instrument for assessing the quality of telehealth applications from the users' perspective. Participants rated various parts, including usefulness, ease of use and learnability, interface quality, interaction quality, reliability, and satisfaction and future use. To determine the effectiveness of BMT, the 100-mm Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) was used before and after a single session. Data analysis was conducted using descriptive statistics, allowing for the summarization of demographic information and the reporting of average mean (95 % (CI)) for each usability category of the TUQ. The effectiveness of BMT on pain and function was determined using the Wilcoxon test for paired samples after one session. P < 0.05 indicates significant improvement in pain and function. This study involved 33 participants, with a mean (SD) age of 34.94 ± 2.04, who used the system between November 2022 and February 2023. The majority of reported musculoskeletal conditions pertained to the upper extremity (n = 19), followed by the lower extremity (n = 8), and spine (6). The findings revealed that participants generally considered the system useful, easy to use and learn, and had good interface and interaction quality, as shown by average scores of five in these categories, indicating "somewhat agree." Conversely, participants expressed reservations about the system's reliability, with an average score of 3 reflecting "somewhat disagree." As for their satisfaction with the system and the likelihood of future use, participants showed mixed opinions, with an average score of 4 representing "neither agree nor disagree." The study showed BMT significantly reduced pain scores (Z = −4.80, p < 0.001, two-tailed) and enhanced function scores (Z = −4.87, p < 0.0001, two-tailed) for participants with musculoskeletal conditions. The system was generally regarded by the participants as useful, user-friendly, and characterized by high-quality interface and interaction. Despite these positive perceptions, concerns about the platform's reliability emerged, and opinions about satisfaction and future use were mixed. Still, the integration of BMT into the system yielded significant reductions in pain and improvement in function for the participants with musculoskeletal conditions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Information security training is becoming increasingly relevant in recent years. Common learning methods experience an evolution towards both real-world scenarios (such as phishing simulations), as well as gamified learning and training materials. In this paper, we attempt to shed light on the role the game design as well as the target audience play in its effectiveness. For our study, we used four games that were developed over the course of three years. The games cover a spectrum of design decisions: We compare (1) simulation games (e.g. games that simulate a workspace) to games that are more abstract, (2) games with an attacker-perspective to games with a defender-perspective and (3) whether prior experience of the player with IT security incidents have an impact. To this end, we conducted an empirical study built on the Gamefulquest questionnaire to assess the perceived gamefulness. We found that most studied factors show no statistically significant impact. This is a surprising result and can have major implications for the cost-benefit calculus during development stages. One statistically significant and surprising result is the role a subject's prior exposure to IT-security incidents has: Subjects who have been exposed find some games more difficult than subjects who have not. This effect might lead to counterproductive results: Subjects without exposure can be mislead into a false sense of acuity. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We sought to assess if the medullary diameter to cortical width ratio (MD:CW), canal flair index (CFI), and canal fill (CF) of the proximal radius were associated with the presence of stress shielding (SS) after a MoPyC radial head arthroplasty. We conducted a retrospective, international, multicenter (4 centers) study. A total of 100 radial head arthroplasties in 64 women and 36 men with a mean age of 58.40 years ± 14.90 (range, 25.00-91.00) were included. Radiographic measurements, including MD:CW, CFI, CF, and postoperative SS were captured at a mean follow-up of 3.9 years ± 2.8 (range, 0.5-11). SS was identified in 60 patients. Mean preoperative MD:CW, CFI, and CF were 0.55 ± 0.09, 1.05 ± 0.18, and 0.79 ± 0.11, respectively. The presence of SS was significantly associated with MD:CW (adjusted odds ratio = 13.66; P =.001), and expansion of the stem (adjusted odds ratio = 3.78; P =.001). The amount of the SS was significantly correlated with expansion of the stem (aβ 4.58; P <.001). Our study found that MD:CW was an independent risk factor of SS after MoPyc radial head arthroplasty. Autoexpansion of the MoPyc stem significantly increased the risk of SS and its extent. Further studies involving multiple implants designs are needed to confirm the preliminary observations presented in the current study. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Breast augmentation ranks among the most popular plastic surgery procedures. Yet, reports on post-operative patient-reported quality of life (QoL) and satisfaction remain conflicting. A systematic review was conducted following the PRISMA guidelines. Three databases were searched for eligible studies that reported pre-and/or post-operative Breast-Q™ augmentation scores for patient QoL (psychosocial, sexual, and physical well-being) and/or satisfaction. A total of 39 studies (53 patient cohorts and 18,322 patients) were included in the quantitative synthesis. The pairwise meta-analysis revealed significant improvements in patient-reported psychosocial (MD: +38.10) and sexual well-being (MD: +40.20) as well as satisfaction with breast (MD: +47.88) (all p < 0.00001). Physical well-being improved slightly after breast augmentation (MD: +6.97; p = 0.42). The single-arm meta-analysis yielded comparable results, with Breast-Q™ scores in psychosocial and sexual well-being as well as satisfaction with breast increasing from 37.2, 31.1, and 26.3 to 75.0, 70.6, and 72.7, respectively (all p < 0.00001). Physical well-being improved by 8.1 (75.8 pre-operatively to 83.9 post-operatively; p = 0.17). Subgroup analyses highlighted higher QoL and satisfaction following breast augmentation for purely esthetic purposes and alloplastic mammaplasty. Although patient-reported physical and sexual well-being increased in the long term, psychosocial well-being was the highest in the short term. Patient satisfaction with breast, psychosocial, and sexual well-being increased significantly after breast augmentation. In contrast, patient-reported physical well-being yielded ambivalent results, varying by mammaplasty technique and post-operative follow-up time. Plastic surgeons should be sensitized about our findings to refine eligibility criteria and gain a deeper understanding of the patients' perceived surgical experience. CRD42023409605. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The epidemiology, care, and outcomes of perineal and genital burns (PG) in high-income countries have been previously described, but an analysis of this topic in LMICs has yet to be performed. We use the World Health Organization's Global Burn Registry to fill this gap. The GBR was searched from inception to November 2023 to identify all burn patients, excluding cases from high-income countries. Demographics and mechanism of injury were retrieved. Primary outcomes were length of hospital stay (LOHS), surgical intervention, discharge with physical impairment, and mortality. A multivariate regression analysis was performed controlling for burnt total body surface area (TBSA), age, sex, inhalation injury, mechanism of burn and care center characteristics. Of 9041 patients identified, 1213 (13.4 %) had PG burns with 136 (1.6 %) isolated to the PG region. PG patients had higher TBSA (p < 0.001) and more inhalation injury (p < 0.001). They had better access to rehabilitation and lower access to theater space for burns (p < 0.001). Multivariable analysis showed that PG patients had longer LOHS (p = 0.001), greater mortality (p < 0.001), were less likely to undergo surgery (p = 0.01) or be discharged home with physical impairment (p = 0.03). Similarities and differences exist between high- and low/middle-income countries in terms of the patterns of injury, care, and recovery in patients with PG burns. The longer LOHS and higher mortality among PG patients, previously reported in high-income countries, are verified. This highlights the importance of greater vigilance when caring for such patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The upper quarter y-balance test (YBT-UQ) is a functional screening tool used to detect musculoskeletal injury risk, aid rehabilitation, and monitor dynamic function, strength and control, yet little is currently known about intrinsic and extrinsic factors that influence reach scores. This systematic review aimed to determine if age, sex, or interventions influenced reach scores and whether between-limb differences were common in non-injured sporting populations, with a secondary aim to identify if sport impacted YBT-UQ reach. Web of Science, PubMed, and SportDiscus were systematically searched from January 2012 to November 16, 2023, revealing twenty-three studies satisfying inclusion criteria of published in English between 2012 and 2023, healthy participants of any age including both males and females, athletic populations, YBT-UQ use to assess upper limb mobility/stability, report normalised reach scores, and peer-reviewed full-texts. Methodological quality was evaluated via National Institutes of Health (NIH) quality assessment tools for controlled interventions, observational cohort and cross-sectional designs, and pre-post with no control group. Age, sex, sport, and fatigue were influencing factors; greater reach scores were achieved in older athletes (i.e. >18 years), males, and in a well-rested state. Between-limb differences were not common in sporting populations; therefore, asymmetries may be useful for practitioners to aid injury risk identification. This is the first systematic review investigating YBT-UQ influencing factors and thereby provides context for clinicians regarding characteristics that impact reach scores in sporting populations, from which normative values could be determined and further aid clinical decisions or areas to improve regarding injury risk. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) effectively treats severe obesity, but some patients may require revisional surgery like limb lengthening (LL) for postoperative weight gain. This study aims to compare 30-day serious complications and mortality rates between LL and primary RYGB, given limited safety data on LL. Patients who underwent LL and RYGB were identified from the 2020 and 2021 MBSAQIP databases, the only years in which LL data were available. Baseline characteristics and 30-day rates of serious complications and mortality were analyzed. A total of 86,990 patients underwent RYGB and 455 underwent LL. Patients undergoing RYGB were younger (44.4 versus 49.8 yr, P <.001), had a higher body mass index (BMI) (45.5 versus 41.8 kg/m2, P <.001) and higher rates of comorbidities including diabetes (30.0 versus 13.6%, P <.001). RYGB and LL had similar operative duration (125.3 versus 123.2 min, P =.5). There were no statistical differences between cohorts for length of stay (LOS) (1.6 RYGB versus 1.6 LL d, P =.6). After LL, there were higher 30-day rates of reoperation (3.3 versus 1.9%, P =.03) and deep surgical site infections (1.3 versus.5%, P =.03) compared to RYGB. There were no differences in overall serious complications (5.1 LL versus 5.0% RYGB, P = 1.0) and mortality (.2 LL versus.1% RYGB, P =.5). Multivariable logistic regression adjustment found that previous venous thromboembolism was associated with serious complications after LL. When compared to primary RYGB, LL has a favorable safety profile with similar 30-day rates of serious complications and mortality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Total knee arthroplasty (TKA) is the standard of treatment for end-stage knee osteoarthritis. On January 1, 2018, the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid (CMS) officially removed TKA from their inpatient-only list. The clinical impact of this change is not fully understood yet. Electronic records were retrospectively reviewed for patients who underwent TKA between January 1 to June 30, 2017, or January 1 to June 30, 2018. Patients completed Function and Outcomes Research for Comparative Effectiveness in Total Joint Replacement surveys which assessed patient reported outcomes prior to and following TKA. Hospital statistics for the 2 time points were determined and compared. This was a single institution study resulting in 351 patients in the pre-CMS change group and 350 patients in the post-CMS change group. Analysis of the pre-CMS and post-CMS transition cohorts indicated no significant difference in activities of daily living (ADLs), pain, or pain catastrophizing scale preoperatively or 12-months postoperatively. Additionally, there was no difference in the median change between preoperative and postoperative ADL scores (P =.866), yet pain scores approached significance with a P value of.054. The pre-CMS transition group stayed significantly longer in the hospital postoperatively and was more commonly discharged to a skilled nursing facility. No difference was seen in 30-day readmission rates (P =.253). Results showed that patients had similar scores for ADL, quality of life, pain, and pain catastrophizing 12-months following their TKA. Movement of TKA from the Medicare inpatient only list did not have an immediate negative impact for patient reported outcomes and 30-day readmissions at our institution in the 6-month transition period. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In colorectal cancer (CRC), HER2 targeting is a promising treatment and immune infiltrate is an important area of research and strategy. Data regarding HER2 status and immune infiltrate are lacking. The aim of this study was to compare the immune infiltrate between HER2 amplified and non-amplified categories in proficient MisMatchRepair (pMMR)/microsatellite stable (MSS) CRC. HER2 immunohistochemistry (IHC) and fluorescence in situ hybridization were performed in a retrospective series of 654 CRC. Lymphocyte infiltrate was analysed by anti-CD3, CD8 and CD4 IHC and evaluated digitally using QuPath software. Among the 654 CRC, we first observed a decreased CD3+ and CD8+ infiltrate between HER2 amplified (all IHC 3+ except one 2+) and non-amplified HER2 2+ IHC CRC (p = 0.059 and 0.072 respectively). A supplementary analysis of 258 pMMR/MSS CRC from the previous cohort, displaying all the IHC scores (0, 1+, 2+, 3+), showed a lower CD3+ infiltrate between HER2 amplified versus HER2 0 (p = 0.002), 1+ (p = 0.088) and non-amplified 2+ (p = 0.081) IHC cases. Our original findings suggest that in pMMR/MSS CRC, the immune infiltrate is reduced in HER2 amplified versus other HER2 categories. These data might be useful for future strategies combining anti-HER2 treatments and immune checkpoint inhibitors and need to be confirmed in larger CRC cohorts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Extensive full-thickness soft-tissue defects remain a challenge in reconstructive surgery. NovoSorb® Biodegradable Temporising Matrix (BTM) represents a novel dermal substitute and was evaluated in wounds deriving from different aetiologies and to highlight risk factors for poor take rates. All patients treated with BTM at our department between March 2020 and October 2022 were included. Differences in univariate and linear regression models identified predictors and risk factors for take rates of BTM and split-thickness skin grafts (STSG). Three hundred patients (mean age 54.2 ± 20.1 years, 66.3% male, 59.7% burns, 19.7% trauma and 20.6% others) were evaluated. Mean take rates of BTM and STSG after BTM delamination were 82.7 ± 25.2% and 86.0 ± 22.6%, respectively. Multiple regression analyses showed that higher body mass index (BMI, OR 0.43, 95% CI 0.86, −0.01, p = 0.44), prior allograft transplantation (OR 15.12, 95% CI 26.98, −3.31, p = 0.041), longer trauma-to-BTM-application intervals (OR 0.01, 95% CI 0.001, −0.001, p = 0.038), positive wound swabs before BTM (OR 7.15, 95% CI 13.50, −0.80, p = 0.028) and peripheral artery disease (OR 10.80, 95% CI 18.63, −2.96, p = 0.007) were associated with poorer BTM take. Higher BMI (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.76, −0.08, p = 0.026), increasing BTM graft surface areas (OR 0.58, 95% CI −1.00, −0.17, p = 0.005), prior allograft (OR 12.20, 95% CI −21.99, −2.41, p = 0.015) or autograft transplantations (OR 22.42, 95% CI 38.69, −6.14, p = 0.001), tumour as the aetiology of the wound (OR 37.42, 95% CI 57.41, −17.83, p = 0.001), diabetes (OR 6.64, 95% CI 12.80, −0.48, p = 0.035) and impaired kidney function (OR 5.90, 95% CI 10.94, −0.86, p = 0.021) were associated with poorer STSG take after delamination of BTM, whereas higher BTM take rates were associated with better STSG take (OR 0.40, 95% CI 0.31,0.50, p < 0.001). Extensive complex wounds of different aetiologies unsuitable for immediate STSG can be successfully reconstructed by means of two-staged BTM application and subsequent skin grafting. Importantly, presence of wound contamination or infection and prior allograft coverage appear to jeopardise good BTM and STSG take. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Imaging with late gadolinium enhancement (LGE) magnetic resonance (MR) and 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose (18F-FDG) PET allows complementary assessment of myocardial injury and disease activity and has shown promise for improved characterization of active cardiac sarcoidosis (CS) based on the combined positive imaging outcome, MR(+)PET(+). This study aims to evaluate qualitative and quantitative assessments of hybrid MR/PET imaging in CS and to evaluate its association with cardiac-related outcomes. A total of 148 patients with suspected CS underwent hybrid MR/PET imaging. Patients were classified based on the presence/absence of LGE (MR+/MR−), presence/absence of 18F-FDG (PET+/PET−), and pattern of 18F-FDG uptake (focal/diffuse) into the following categories: MR(+)PET(+) FOCAL , MR(+)PET(+) DIFFUSE , MR(+)PET(−), MR(−)PET(+) FOCAL , MR(−)PET(+) DIFFUSE , MR(−)PET(−). Further analysis classified MR positivity based on %LGE exceeding 5.7% as MR(+/−) 5.7%. Quantitative values of standard uptake value, target-to-background ratio, target-to-normal-myocardium ratio (TNMRmax), and T2 were measured. The primary clinical endpoint was met by the occurrence of cardiac arrest, ventricular tachycardia, or secondary prevention implantable cardioverter-defibrillator (ICD) before the end of the study. The secondary endpoint was met by any of the primary endpoint criteria plus heart failure or heart block. MR/PET imaging results were compared between those meeting or not meeting the clinical endpoints. Patients designated MR(+) 5.7% PET(+) FOCAL had increased odds of meeting the primary clinical endpoint compared to those with all other imaging classifications (unadjusted OR: 9.2 [95% CI: 3.0-28.7]; P = 0.0001), which was higher than the odds based on MR or PET alone. TNMRmax achieved an area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve of 0.90 for separating MR(+)PET(+) FOCAL from non-MR(+)PET(+) FOCAL , and 0.77 for separating those reaching the clinical endpoint from those not reaching the clinical endpoint. Hybrid MR/PET image–based classification of CS was statistically associated with clinical outcomes in CS. TNMRmax had modest sensitivity and specificity for quantifying the imaging-based classification MR(+)PET(+) FOCAL and was associated with outcomes. Use of combined MR and PET image–based classification may have use in prognostication and treatment management in CS. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While vitamin B12 (B12) deficiency is considered as the hallmark of pernicious anemia (PA), iron deficiency (ID) is also prevalent. Indeed, this auto immune gastritis is responsible for parietal cell atrophy and increase in gastric pH, leading to impaired iron absorption. We compared PA patients' features according to their iron status at PA diagnosis, and we assessed the iron status recovery after oral or intravenous iron supplementation. We prospectively included patients presenting with a newly diagnosed PA in a tertiary referral hospital between November 2018 and October 2020. Iron status was assessed at PA diagnosis then regularly during a standardized follow-up. In case of ID, the decision of treatment with oral and/or intravenous iron supplementation was left to the clinician convenience. We included 28 patients with newly diagnosed PA. ID was observed in 21/28 (75.0%) patients: from the PA diagnosis in 13 patients, or during the follow-up in 8 patients. Iron deficient PA patients had higher plasma B12 (p = 0.04) and lower homocysteine levels (p = 0.04). Also, ID was independently associated with the 'APCA (anti-parietal cell antibodies) alone' immunological status (absence of anti-intrinsic factor antibodies) after adjustment for age, gender and B12 level (aOR 12.1 [1.1–141.8], p = 0.04). High level of APCA was associated with lower ferritin level. After 3 months of supplementation, 3/11 PA patients normalized the iron status with oral iron supplementation, versus 7/8 with intravenous iron supplementation (p = 0.02). The high frequency of iron deficiency in PA highlights the interest of regular assessment of iron status in this condition. ID was associated with a profile including APCA alone and less pronounced B12 deficiency. Intravenous iron supplementation seemed to be more efficient than an oral supplementation in these preliminary data. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Safety and feasibility of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) without balloon aortic valvuloplasty (BAV) using the SAPIEN 3 balloon-expandable device has been previously demonstrated. The impact on long-term valve hemodynamic performances and outcomes remains however unknown. We evaluate long-term clinical and hemodynamic results according to the implant strategy (direct TAVR vs BAV pre-TAVR) in patients included in the DIRECTAVI randomized trial (NCT02729519). Clinical and echocardiographic follow-up until January 2023 was performed for all patients included in the DIRECTAVI trial since 2016 (n = 228). The primary endpoint was incidence of moderate/severe hemodynamic valve deterioration (HVD), according to the Valve Academic Research defined Consortium-3 criteria (increase in mean gradient ≥10 mmHg resulting in a final mean gradient ≥20 mmHg, or new/worsening aortic regurgitation of 1 grade resulting in ≥ moderate aortic regurgitation). Median follow-up was 3.8 (2.2-4.7) years. Mean age at follow-up was 87 ± 6.7 years. No difference in incidence of HVD in the direct implantation group compared to the BAV group was found (incidence of 1.97 per 100 person-years and 1.45 per 100 person-years, respectively, P = 0.6). Prevalence of predicted prothesis-patient mismatch was low (n = 13 [11.4%] in the direct TAVR group vs n = 15 [13.2%] in BAV group) and similar between both groups (P =. 7). Major outcomes including death, stroke, hospitalization for heart failure and pacemaker implantation were similar between both groups, (P =. 4, P =. 7, P =. 3, and P =. 3 respectively). Direct implantation of the balloon-expandable device in TAVR was not associated with an increased risk of moderate/severe HVD or major outcomes up to 6-year follow-up. These results guarantee wide use of direct balloon-expandable valve implantation, when feasible. NCT05140317. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Studies of leg-length discrepancies (LLD) have been the subject of debate for almost 200 years. A large number of studies have emerged, most frequently using assessment criteria based on painful symptoms or joint damage. While many authors argue for a threshold of 10–20 mm to establish a link between pain and LLD, most publications based on radiography show lesion stigmata on lumbar, hip and knee joints as early as 6 mm. This would be linked to comorbidities. Some studies argue forcefully that leg-length correction below 20 mm is of no benefit. The authors of the present article, on the other hand, evoke the notion of lesion risks in the absence of correction, even for small deviations in the presence of certain associated factors and according to their importance. The authors argue for the need to define in the future a lesion significance score that would not be correlated to painful symptomatology, but rather to the presence of co-morbidities such as age, anatomical variability, sports practice and/or patients' professional activities. Other parameters, such as mobility, should also be taken into consideration, while gender, height and weight do not appear to be significantly related. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

MPS is a chronic disorder caused by myofascial trigger points, leading to pain and limited neck movements due to impacted fascia. Studies have reported reduced fascia slides in chronic low back pain, but limited fascia slides in MPS patients are still unreported. We determined differences in upper trapezius' deep fascia slides between MPS and non-MPS participants. Between January–August 2019, participants from diverse work sectors were recruited in Manila. An expert physiotherapist diagnosed MPS, while non-MPS participants performed full painless cervical movements. Participants underwent upper trapezius deep fascia scans on both shoulders while performing six cervical movements. An HS1 Konica Minolta ultrasound recorded the data. Two blinded physiotherapists used Tracker 5.0 © 2018 to analyze videos and quantify deep fascia slides by measuring the distance between two x-axis points. The Multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA) assessed deep fascia slide differences in six active cervical movements. Pillai's Trace, with a range of 0–1 and a p-value of <0.05, was set. Effect sizes in individuals with and without MPS were calculated using Hedges' g and Cohen's d. Of the 327 participants (136 non-MPS, 191 MPS), 101 MPS participants had shoulder pain for <1 year and 103 experienced unilateral pain. The study examined 3800 ultrasound videos but found no significant difference in deep fascia slides across cervical movements between MPS and non-MPS groups (Pillai's Trace = 0.004, p = 0.94). Minor differences in deep fascia displacement were observed, with small effect sizes (g = 0.02–0.08). A limited deep fascia slide does not characterize MPS participants from non-MPS participants. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

[Display omitted] • Interventional CMR enables diagnostic RHC under sole CMR guidance. • Interventional CMR allows simultaneous balloon catheter visualization. • CMR-RHC was feasible and safe. • CMR-RHC had a unique clinical impact on diagnosis and therapeutic decision-making. Real-time cardiac magnetic resonance generates spatially and temporally resolved images of cardiac anatomy and function, without the need for contrast agent or X-ray exposure. Cardiac magnetic resonance-guided right heart catheterization (CMR-RHC) combines the benefits of cardiac magnetic resonance and invasive cardiac catheterization. The clinical adoption of CMR-RHC represents the first step towards the development of cardiac magnetic resonance-guided therapeutic procedures. To describe the feasibility, safety and diagnostic yield of CMR-RHC in consecutive all-comer patients with clinical indications for right heart catheterization. From December 2018 to May 2021, 35 consecutive patients with prespecified indications for right heart catheterization were scheduled for CMR-RHC via the femoral route under local anaesthesia in a 1.5T cardiac magnetic resonance suite equipped for interventional cardiac magnetic resonance. The duration of various procedural components and safety data were recorded. Success rate (defined by the ability to record all prespecified haemodynamic measurements and imaging metrics), adverse events and patient/physician perprocedural comfort were assessed. One patient withdrew his consent before the study, and scanner troubleshooting occurred in one case. Among the 33 remaining patients, prespecified cardiac magnetic resonance imaging metrics were obtained in all patients, whereas full CMR-RHC measurements were obtained in 30 patients (91%). A dedicated cardiac magnetic resonance-compatible wire was used in 25/33 procedures. CMR-RHC was completed in 29 ± 16 minutes, and the total duration of the procedure, including conventional cardiac magnetic resonance imaging, was 62 ± 20 minutes. There were no adverse events and no femoral haematomas. Procedural comfort was deemed good by the patients and operators for all procedures. CMR-RHC significantly impacted diagnosis or patient management in 28/33 patients (85%). CMR-RHC seems to be a feasible and safe procedure that can be used in routine daily practice in consecutive adults with an impactful clinical yield. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Ankle injuries account for 15% to 25% of all sports injuries resulting in significant pain and loss of function. The purpose of this cross-sectional study was to validate a scale to help surgeons quantify the psychological readiness to Return To Sport (RTS) in patients undergoing ankle fracture surgery. ALR-RSI was used to assess the psychological readiness for RTS in athletic patients who underwent ankle fracture fixation between January 2020 and January 2021. Participants filled out ALR-RSI and 2 Patient-Related Outcome Measurement (PROM) tools: Olerud-Molander Ankle Score (OMAS) and Self-Reported Foot and Ankle Score (SEFAS). A total of 93 patients were included. There was a strong correlation between ALR-RSI and both OMAS and SEFAS, with Pearson coefficients of r = 0.58 and 0.53, respectively. ALR-RSI was significantly higher in the RTS group than in those who no longer practiced their main preinjury sport. Moreover, the discriminant validity of ALR-RSI (AUC = 0.81) was better than that of the SEFAS and OMAS (AUC = 0.64 and 0.65, respectively, p =.001). The intra-class correlation coefficient ρ of 0.94 showed excellent reproducibility. At an optimal cutoff value of 76.7, ALR-RSI had a sensitivity of 81% and a specificity of 75% with a Youden index of 0.56. In conclusion, ALR-RSI was a valid and reproducible tool to evaluate the psychological readiness for RTS in an active population after an ankle fracture. This score could help surgeons identify athletes who may have unfavorable postoperative outcomes and provide support on the ability to RTS. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Primary total hip arthroplasty (THA) is increasingly being performed in the outpatient setting. However, there is little known regarding the differences in same-day discharge (SDD) rates and complications of operative approach in same-day total hip arthroplasty in the ambulatory surgery center (ASC) setting. A retrospective chart review was performed between July 2019 and October 2021 for all patients who underwent primary THA in a single freestanding ASC. Successful SDDs, surgical approaches, lengths of surgery, estimated blood losses (EBL), complications, and readmission events were recorded for each patient. Complications were compared using Pearson Chi -Squares, while EBL and surgery lengths were compared with 1-way analysis of variances (ANOVA) (alpha = 0.5). There were 17 total complications in 326 total hip arthroplasties (5.2%), including direct admissions to the emergency department, 30-day and 90-day readmissions, wound complications, instability, infection, and revision surgery. Among all complications, there were 5 direct admissions, making the successful SDD rate 98.5%. Complications and direct admissions were not associated with approach. The 30-day readmission rates were associated with approach, with no readmissions in the direct anterior approach (DAA) or the antero-lateral approach (AL) cohorts and 3 (4.3%) in the posterior approach (PA) cohort. In the ASC setting, patients undergoing THA regardless of approach showed no difference in successful SDDs or complications aside from 30-day readmissions. Same-day THA can be safely performed in the DAA, AL, and PA to the hip. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A variety of breast reconstruction (BR) options are available. The significance of timing on outcomes remains debated. This study aims to compare complications in breast cancer patients undergoing implant-based and autologous BR immediately after mastectomy or at a delayed time point. We reviewed the ACS-NSQIP database (2008–2021) to identify all female patients who underwent BR for oncological purposes. Outcomes were stratified by technique (implant-based versus autologous) and timing (immediate versus delayed), and included 30-day mortality, reoperation, (unplanned) readmission, and surgical and medical complications. A total of 21,560 patients were included: 11,237 (52%) implant-based (9791/87% immediate, 1446/13% delayed) and 10,323 (48%) autologous (8378/81% immediate, 1945/19% delayed). Complications occurred in 3666 (17%) patients (implant-based: n = 1112/11% immediate, n = 64/4.4% delayed cohorts; Autologous: n = 2073/25% immediate, n = 417/21% delayed cohorts). In propensity score weighting (PSW) analyses, immediate BR was associated with significantly more complications than delayed BR (p < 0.0001). This was the case for both implant-based and autologous BR, with a greater difference between the two time points noted in implant-based. Confounder-adjusted multivariable analyses confirmed these results. At the 30-day time point, delayed BR is associated with significantly lower complication rates than immediate BR, in both the implant-based and autologous cohorts. These findings are not a blanket recommendation in favor of immediate and/or delayed BR. Instead, our insights may guide surgeons and patients in decision-making and help refine patients' eligibility in a case-by-case workup. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To increase the accuracy of indirect position-controlled dual motor rack-and-pinion drives, a new approach is being proposed that uses the encoders of both motors on a test bench. By electrically preloading these motors, backlash does not occur simultaneously in both drive trains. Continuous contact between the pinion and rack and thus force-transmission to the table is ensured, by switching away from the signal with backlash. Backlash is therefore eliminated from the control loop and the system accuracy without direct table position sensing can be increased. Experiments show that the tracking error is reduced by 59 % compared to indirect control. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Virtual reality head-mounted display (VR-HMD) is increasingly used for balance evaluation and rehabilitation. However, more studies must be conducted on virtual environments (VE) effects. This study aimed to assess the impact of an outdoor VE projected in a high-quality VR-HMD and of the VR-HMD mass on postural stability, postural control and leaning. This study involved ten healthy young men who performed five 30-s stabilometric trials. Four experimental conditions were randomly performed: eyes open (EO) or eyes closed (EC), with (VR) or without (No VR) VR-HMD. Postural stability (antero-posterior (AP) and medio-lateral (ML) ranges of the center of pressure (CoP), 90% confidence ellipse area), postural control (CoP velocity (global, AP and ML)) and standard deviation of the CoP mean position), and postural leaning (AP/ML CoP mean position) were assessed. The comparisons between EO VR and EO No VR were used to analyze the VE effects and comparisons between EC VR and EC No VR for the VR-HMD mass effects. Spatiotemporal parameters that characterised postural stability and postural control, except ML velocity (p > 0.05), were significantly influenced by the simulated VE with higher values in EO VR than EO No VR (p < 0.05), but not by the VR-HMD mass. The mean position of the CoP showed no significant differences between conditions. Postural stability and postural control modification due to the VE used in this study revealed that this VE could be interesting for VR-HMD rehabilitation and assessment. VR-HMD is not a factor to be considered for stabilometric analysis. • Effect of head-mounted display mass and outdoor virtual environment on balance. • Spatio-temporal parameters of the center of pressures were analysed. • The outdoor virtual environment affects postural control and stability. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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• The OSATS scale is a benchmark in the scientific literature for assessing skills in the operating theatre. • It is a generic scale applicable to all types of surgery. • Its French translation was validated, with good inter-assessor reproducibility. • This scale can be incorporated into the assessment of surgical interns in French-speaking countries. The OSATS rating scale is one of the tools most widely used in the scientific literature for assessing technical surgical skill. The aim of this study was to translate this scale into French (OSATS-FR) and validate it. OSATS was translated into French by two independent translators. The two translations were pooled and back-translated by a third translator into English to produce a consensus version (OSATS-FR). Three independent assessors then used it to assess surgical skill in tracheostomy videos. The reproducibility of the scoring was measured. The OSATS-FR version was easily understood and used by all three assessors. In all, 18 procedures were assessed, performed by 14 interns and 4 senior surgeons. The mean OSATS-FR score was 18.6 ± 4.08 for the interns and 31.6 ± 1.62 for the seniors (p < 0.0001). The Pearson correlation coefficient was 0.937 CI95% [0.867–1.269] between assessors 1 and 2, 0.977 CI95% [0.899–1.149] between assessors 1 and 3, and 0.965 CI95% [0.876–1.196] between assessors 2 and 3. Cronbach's alpha was greater than 0.9 for each assessor. OSATS-FR can distinguish between two groups with different surgical expertise and assess surgical skill with an inter-assessor reproducibility and internal consistency comparable to those of the English version. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Metabolic and Bariatric Accreditation and Quality Improvement Program (MBSAQIP) Bariatric Surgical Risk/Benefit Calculator was developed to provide patient-specific information to assist surgical decision-making. To date, no study has characterized which patients are being evaluated with this tool. We sought to characterize the use and impact of the MBSAQIP calculator. MBSAQIP collects data from 955 centers in North America. The 2021 MBSAQIP database was evaluated for the use of the calculator on preoperative counseling for patients undergoing bariatric surgery. Patient characteristics, operative techniques, and outcomes were compared with bivariate analysis. Multivariable modeling evaluated factors including use of the calculator independently associated with serious complications and mortality. Our study included 210,710 patients, 35,158 (16.7%) of whom were evaluated using the calculator. Patients with whom the calculator was used preoperatively were older (43.8 ± 11.6 yr versus 43.6 ± 11.7 yr; P <.001) and were more likely to have insulin-dependent diabetes, hypertension, gastroesophageal reflux disease, renal insufficiency, and sleep apnea. More patients underwent Roux-en-Y gastric bypass in the calculator cohort compared with the cohort that did not use the calculator (29.6% versus 28.6%; P <.003). The rate of serious complication was significantly less in the calculator cohort (3.1% versus 3.4%; P <.030). Multivariable modeling evaluating serious complications showed that use of the calculator was independently associated with reduced risk of serious complications (odds ratio.87, CI.82–.93, P <.001) but was not associated with mortality. The use of the risk calculator may help to reduce the incidence of complications by opening a dialogue between healthcare professionals and patients, setting realistic expectations, and identifying modifiable risk factors. • MBSAQIP risk calculator estimates the risk of bariatric surgery complications. • Use of the calculator is associated with reduction in serious complications. • The MBSAQIP risk calculator is seldom used to evaluate patients. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The use of negative pressure wound therapy (NPWT) in superinfected wounds is controversial. The mechanism of action is unclear, but recent studies have shown lower atmospheric oxygen levels within the dressing. Therefore, different oxygen-favoring bacteria and fungi might benefit or face impaired thriving conditions. The aim of this in vitro study is to investigate the influence of NPWT on bacterial and fungal growth. Salmonella enterica subsp. enterica serovar Typhimurium, Pseudomonas aeruginosa and Candida albicans strains were cultured on concentrated agars and attached to a standard NPWT-device. After 48 hours, colonies were separately harvested from the agar and foam. Optical density (OD) was obtained in order to estimate bacterial loads. For all tested microorganisms, no overall significant differences were found compared to controls. Subanalysis showed lower OD levels from the agar beneath the foam in the NPWT-group. NPWT removed bacteria and fungi from the wound surface but accumulation is found within the foam. The use of NPWT showed no influence on bacterial or fungal growth selection. With superinfected wounds, the use of NPWT should thoroughly be evaluated as toxins and virulence factors may not fully be evacuated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• VNS is a safe and effective treatment option for refractory IGE. • VNS-related side-effects are common but rarely result in treatment discontinuation. • VNS is a viable option for females of childbearing age with refractory IGE who have failed multiple treatments, including valproate. Refractory idiopathic generalised epilepsy (IGE; also known as genetic generalised epilepsy) is a clinical challenge due to limited available therapeutic options. While vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is approved as an adjunctive treatment for drug-resistant focal epilepsy, there is limited evidence supporting its efficacy for refractory IGE. We conducted a single-centre retrospective analysis of adult IGE patients treated with VNS between January 2003 and January 2022. We analysed the efficacy, safety, tolerability, stimulation parameters and potential clinical features of VNS response in this IGE cohort. Twenty-three IGE patients were implanted with VNS between January 2003 and January 2022. Twenty-two patients (95.65%) were female. The median baseline seizure frequency was 30 per month (interquartile range [IQR]= 140), including generalised tonic-clonic seizures (GTCS), absences, myoclonus, and eyelid myoclonia with/without absences. The median number of baseline anti-seizure medications (ASM) was three (IQR= 2). Patients had previously failed a median of six ASM (IQR= 5). At the end of the study period, VNS therapy remained active in 17 patients (73.9%). amongst patients who continued VNS, thirteen (56.5% of the overall cohort) were considered responders (≥50% seizure frequency reduction). Amongst the clinical variables analysed, only psychiatric comorbidity correlated with poorer seizure outcomes, but was non-significant after applying the Bonferroni correction. Although 16 patients reported side-effects, none resulted in the discontinuation of VNS therapy. Over half of the patients with refractory IGE experienced a positive response to VNS therapy. VNS represents a viable treatment option for patients with refractory IGE, particularly for females, when other therapeutic options have been exhausted. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pectus arcuatum is often mistaken for a type of pectus carinatum. However, pectus arcuatum is a unique clinical form of pectus caused by premature obliteration of the sternal sutures (manubrial sternum, four sternebrae and xiphoïd process), whereas pectus carinatum is due to abnormal growth of the costal cartilage. In order to better describe pectus arcuatum, we analysed the files of patients with pectus arcuatum followed in our centers. Multicenter retrospective study of young patients' files diagnosed with pectus arcuatum. The clinical diagnosis of pectus arcuatum was made in 34 patients with a mean age at diagnosis of 10.3 years (4–23 years). A chest profile X-ray or a CT scan was performed in 16 patients (47%) and confirmed the diagnosis of PA by the presence of a sternal fusion. It was complete in 12 patients. A malformation was associated in 35% of cases (Noonan syndrome 33%, scoliosis 25% or cardiopathy 16%). 11 patients (32%) had a family history of skeletal malformation. Orthopedic treatment was initiated in 3 patients without any success. 11 patients underwent surgical correction, which was completed in 7 of them. The diagnosis of pectus arcuatum is based on clinical experience and if necessary, on a profile chest X-ray showing the fusion of the sternal pieces. It implies the search for any associated malformations (musculoskeletal, cardiac, syndromic). Bracing treatment is useless for pectus arcuatum. Corrective surgery, based on a sternotomy associated with a partial chondro-costal resection, can be performed at the end of growth. IV. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The diagnostic evaluation of coronary artery disease is undergoing a dramatic transformation with a new focus on atherosclerotic plaque. This review details the evidence needed for effective risk stratification and targeted preventive care based on recent advances in automated measurement of atherosclerosis from coronary computed tomography angiography (CTA). To date, research findings support that automated stenosis measurement is reasonably accurate, but evidence on variability by location, artery size, or image quality is unknown. The evidence for quantification of atherosclerotic plaque is unfolding, with strong concordance reported between coronary CTA and intravascular ultrasound measurement of total plaque volume (r >0.90). Statistical variance is higher for smaller plaque volumes. Limited data are available on how technical or patient-specific factors result in measurement variability by compositional subgroups. Coronary artery dimensions vary by age, sex, heart size, coronary dominance, and race and ethnicity. Accordingly, quantification programs excluding smaller arteries affect accuracy for women, patients with diabetes, and other patient subsets. Evidence is unfolding that quantification of atherosclerotic plaque is useful to enhance risk prediction, yet more evidence is required to define high-risk patients across varied populations and to determine whether such information is incremental to risk factors or currently used coronary computed tomography techniques (eg, coronary artery calcium scoring or visual assessment of plaque burden or stenosis). In summary, there is promise for the utility of coronary CTA quantification of atherosclerosis, especially if it can lead to targeted and more intensive cardiovascular prevention, notably for those patients with nonobstructive coronary artery disease and high-risk plaque features. The new quantification techniques available to imagers must not only provide sufficient added value to improve patient care, but also add minimal and reasonable cost to alleviate the financial burden on our patients and the health care system. [Display omitted] • Significant advances in coronary CTA now allow for detailed measurement of atherosclerosis and could be very helpful to guide preventive care, including automated quantification of stenosis severity and atherosclerotic plaque and its compositional subgroups. • Coronary artery dimensions vary by age, sex, heart size, coronary dominance, and race and ethnicity. Accordingly, quantification programs excluding smaller arteries affect accuracy for women, patients with diabetes, and other patient subsets. • Limited prognostic evidence is available to report on the thresholds for high-risk status on the basis of newer automated measurements of atherosclerotic plaque. • The promise of automation with coronary CTA enhances the feasibility of imaging of atherosclerosis and the possibility of coronary CTA-guided preventive care. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis (ATTRwt) is associated with multiple ligament disorders (LD) such as carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS), lumbar spinal stenosis (LSS), and spontaneous tendon rupture (STR). No studies have investigated the prevalence of these LD in the same cohort of ATTRwt patients. Furthermore, the clinical characteristics and prognostic implications of such disorders have not been studied. From 2017 to 2022, 206 consecutive patients with ATTRwt were diagnosed and followed prospectively to the time of death or the censoring date of September 1st, 2022. Patients with and without LD were compared, and the presence of LD was used along with the baseline clinical, biochemical, and echocardiographic characteristics to predict hospitalization with worsening heart failure and death. CTS surgery was performed in 34 % of the patients, 8 % were treated for LSS, and 10 % had experienced an STR. The median follow-up time was 706 days (312–1067). Hospitalization with worsening heart failure occurred more frequently in patients with LD compared to patients without LD (p = 0.035). Presence of LD or surgery for CTS were found to be independent predictors of worsening heart failure with a hazard ratio of 2.0 (p = 0.01). The mortality was comparable between patients with and without LD (p = 0.10). Orthopedic disorders are prevalent in ATTRwt cardiomyopathy, and presence of LD was an independent predictor of hospitalization with worsening heart failure. [Display omitted] • Ligament disorders can predict hospitalization in wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis. • Ligament disorders were prevalent in 45 % of patients with wild-type transthyretin amyloidosis. • Hospitalizations with heart failure were more frequent with wild-type ligament disorders. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Biallelic mutations in LIG4 encoding DNA-ligase 4 cause a rare immunodeficiency syndrome manifesting as infant-onset life-threatening and/or opportunistic infections, skeletal malformations, radiosensitivity and neoplasia. LIG4 is pivotal during DNA repair and during V(D)J recombination as it performs the final DNA-break sealing step. This study explored whether monoallelic LIG4 missense mutations may underlie immunodeficiency and autoimmunity with autosomal dominant inheritance. Extensive flow-cytometric immune-phenotyping was performed. Rare variants of immune system genes were analyzed by whole exome sequencing. DNA repair functionality and T-cell–intrinsic DNA damage tolerance was tested with an ensemble of in vitro and in silico tools. Antigen-receptor diversity and autoimmune features were characterized by high-throughput sequencing and autoantibody arrays. Reconstitution of wild-type versus mutant LIG4 were performed in LIG4 knockout Jurkat T cells, and DNA damage tolerance was subsequently assessed. A novel heterozygous LIG4 loss-of-function mutation (p.R580Q), associated with a dominantly inherited familial immune-dysregulation consisting of autoimmune cytopenias, and in the index patient with lymphoproliferation, agammaglobulinemia, and adaptive immune cell infiltration into nonlymphoid organs. Immunophenotyping revealed reduced naive CD4+ T cells and low TCR-Vα7.2+ T cells, while T-/B-cell receptor repertoires showed only mild alterations. Cohort screening identified 2 other nonrelated patients with the monoallelic LIG4 mutation p.A842D recapitulating clinical and immune-phenotypic dysregulations observed in the index family and displaying T-cell–intrinsic DNA damage intolerance. Reconstitution experiments and molecular dynamics simulations categorize both missense mutations as loss-of-function and haploinsufficient. This study provides evidence that certain monoallelic LIG4 mutations may cause human immune dysregulation via haploinsufficiency. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) has been associated with futile outcome after transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR). Data on outcomes according to COPD severity are warranted to aid identification of patients who may not benefit from TAVR. We aimed to examine the association between risk of COPD exacerbation and 1-year mortality after TAVR. Using Danish nationwide registries we identified patients undergoing first-time TAVR during 2008-2021 by COPD status. COPD severity levels were defined as low or high risk of acute exacerbation of COPD (AE-COPD) and treatment intensity levels (none or short-term, mono/dual, triple therapy, or home oxygen). Kaplan-Meier functions and adjusted Cox regression models were used to assess 1-year mortality comparing COPD severity groups with patients without COPD. We identified 7,047 patients with TAVR of whom 644 had a history of COPD (low risk of AE-COPD: 439, high risk of AE-COPD: 205). The median age of the TAVR cohort was 81.4 years (IQR: 76.8-85.1) and 55.8% were males. One-year mortality for TAVR patients without COPD was 8.5% (95% CI: 7.8-9.2) and 15.4% (95% CI: 12.5-18.2) for those with COPD (adjusted HR: 1.63 [95% CI: 1.28-2.07]). Patients with low or high risk of AE-COPD had 1-year mortality of 13.1% (95% CI: 9.8-16.3) and 20.2% (95% CI: 14.6-25.8) corresponding to adjusted HRs of 1.31 (95% CI: 0.97-1.78) and 2.44 (95% CI: 1.70-3.50) compared with patients without COPD. Patients with high risk of AE-COPD and no/short term therapy or use of home oxygen represented the subgroups of patients with the highest 1-year mortality (31.6% [95% CI: 14.5-48.7] and 30.9% [95% CI: 10.3-51.6]). Among patients undergoing TAVR, increasing risk of exacerbation with COPD was associated with increasing 1-year mortality compared with non-COPD patients. Patients with a high risk of exacerbation with COPD not using any guideline recommended COPD medication and those using home oxygen had the highest 1-year mortality. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a method for generating urban blocks. Urban blocks are the basis from which urban processes are modelled and assessments of the current situation are made. The proposed method allows with the additional land use data, clustering algorithms and computational operations to obtain a more complete representation of urban blocks. The resulting refined blocks are more suitable for modelling and assessing processes of urban environmental change. Huge blocks (most often encountered outside the city) are divided by the cluster of buildings into smaller blocks that are connected to the road network, which allows them to be considered as full-fledged blocks and not only as a group of buildings. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This work experimentally addresses aluminum combustion in steam, pure or mixed with diluents, for aluminum particles in size range 40∼80 µm, using an electrodynamic levitator. High-speed videos unveil an unreported and complex mechanism in steam, not observed in other oxidizers. The detached flame is quite faint and very close to the surface. Alumina smoke around the droplet rapidly condenses and coalesces into a large, single orbiting alumina satellite. It eventually collides the main aluminum droplet while generating secondary alumina droplets. A unique feature is the presence of several distinct oxide lobes on the droplet, which merge only at the end of burning and encapsulate the remaining aluminum, possibly promoting an incomplete combustion. The measured burning times in pure water vapor are longer than expected and the efficiency of steam is found to be 30% that of oxygen, lower than the usually accepted value of 60%. A general correlation on burning time, including the major oxidizers, is proposed. Direct numerical simulations are conducted and are in line with experiments, in terms of burning rate or flame stand off ratio. Combustion in steam seems mostly supported by surface reactions, giving a faint flame with low gas temperatures and high hydrogen content. It is speculated that those two specific features could help explain the peculiarity of steam. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Palpation evaluates the fascia, a three-dimensional web of connective tissues. We propose altered fascia system displacement in patients with myofascial pain syndrome. This study determined the concurrent validity of palpation and musculoskeletal ultrasound (MSUS) videos played on Windows Media Player 10 (WMP) when evaluating the direction of the fascia system's displacement at the end of the cervical active range of motion (AROM). This cross-sectional study used palpation as index test and MSUS videos on WMP as reference test. First, three physical therapists palpated right and left shoulders for each cervical AROM. Second, during cervical AROM, PT-Sonographer recorded the fascia system displacement. Third, using the WMP, the physical therapists evaluated the direction of skin, superficial and deep fascia displacements at the end of cervical AROM. MedCalc Version 19.5.3 determined the "exact" Clopper-Pearson Interval (CPI). We found strong accuracy between palpation and MSUS videos on WMP when determining the direction of skin displacement during cervical flexion and extension (CPI= 78.56 to 96.89). There was moderate agreement between palpation and MSUS videos on WMP when determining the direction of the skin, superficial fascia, and deep fascia displacements during cervical lateral flexion and rotation (CPI= 42.25 to 64.13). Skin palpation during cervical flexion and extension may be useful in evaluating patients with myofascial pain syndrome (MPS). It is unclear what fascia system was evaluated when shoulders were palpated at the end of cervical lateral flexion and rotation. Palpation as diagnostic tool for MPS was not investigated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The Trivers-Willard hypothesis predicts that parents in good condition are positively biased towards sons, while parents in poor condition are positively biased towards daughters. An extensive literature testing this hypothesis has accumulated in the last five decades. We take stock of results concerning humans in a systematic review, which yielded 87 articles, reporting a total of 821 hypothesis tests. A p-curving analysis did not reveal a pattern of p -values consistent with p-hacking. Effects are consistent with the Trivers-Willard hypothesis overall. We then went on to check whether there was a difference between sex ratio and post-birth investment. Theoretical work suggests that, the conditions under which the Trivers-Willard hypothesis is verified should be more restrictive in the case of post-birth investment than for sex ratio. We explored this question in two ways and obtained mixed results. We put forward recommendations for future studies that aim to further assess the validity of the Trivers-Willard hypothesis or mechanisms subtending it, and we discuss the implications of different ways of measuring parental status and investment. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Vulvar cancers are usually diagnosed at an advanced stage and require wide surgical resections in the form of vulvectomy. Immediate vulvar reconstruction can potentially reduce the reoperation rate and postoperative complications. With this objective, we introduced a protocol for immediate vulvar reconstruction. This study, five years after its introduction, assesses the impact of this intervention on the postoperative evolution of vulvectomy patients. In January 2017 we introduced a protocol for immediate vulvar reconstruction that considered four criteria of high risk for postoperative dehiscence. Patients who meet the criteria were reconstructed at the time of the vulvectomy. To assess the impact of the protocol, we prospectively registered all included patients over a 5 years period (2017-2022). As a control group, we reviewed the vulvectomised patients at our centre from January 2012 to January 2017 (5 years) who would have met the protocol. No statistically significant differences were found in the epidemiological data (age, diabetes mellitus diagnosis, and obesity diagnosis) or in the tumour characteristics (tumour size). We obtained a statistically significant difference in the incidence of complications and need for reintervention, in favour of the reconstruction group. Our study shows the medical and economic benefits for vulvar cancer patients of immediate vulvar reconstruction. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Some micronutrients have key roles in immune defence, including mucosal defence mechanisms and immunoglobulin production. Altered micronutrient status has been linked with COVID-19 infection and disease severity. We assessed the associations of selected circulating micronutrients with anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA seropositivity in the Swiss community using early pandemic data. Case-control study comparing the first PCR-confirmed COVID-19 symptomatic cases in the Vaud Canton (May to June 2020, n = 199) and controls (random population sample, n = 447), seronegative for IgG and IgA. The replication analysis included seropositive (n = 134) and seronegative (n = 152) close contacts from confirmed COVID-19 cases. Anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA levels against the native trimeric spike protein were measured using the Luminex immunoassay. We measured plasma Zn, Se and Cu concentrations by ICP-MS, and 25-hydroxy-vitamin D 3 (25(OH)D 3) with LC-MS/MS and explored associations using multiple logistic regression. The 932 participants (54.1% women) were aged 48.6 ± 20.2 years (±SD), BMI 25.0 ± 4.7 kg/m2 with median C-Reactive Protein 1 mg/l. In logistic regressions, log 2 (Zn) plasma levels were negatively associated with IgG seropositivity (OR [95% CI]: 0.196 [0.0831; 0.465], P < 0.001; replication analyses: 0.294 [0.0893; 0.968], P < 0.05). Results were similar for IgA. We found no association of Cu, Se, and 25(OH)D 3 with anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG or IgA seropositivity. Low plasma Zn levels were associated with higher anti-SARS-CoV-2 IgG and IgA seropositivity in a Swiss population when the initial viral variant was circulating, and no vaccination available. These results suggest that adequate Zn status may play an important role in protecting the general population against SARS-CoV-2 infection. ISRCTN18181860. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Valve-sparing aortic root replacement with the David procedure is an alternative to the Bentall procedure in patients with aortic root aneurysm. The aim of this study was to describe our long-term experience with this technique and the predictive factors of late failure. Between January 1998 and August 2019, 300 consecutive patients underwent a David procedure. Clinical and echocardiographic early- and long-term outcomes were analyzed. Median follow-up was 7.0 years (range, 4.1-11.5), with 98.3% complete. Early mortality was 1%. No early valve-related reoperations occurred. There were 9 cardiac-related deaths and 22 reinterventions (19 valve-related). All patients survived reoperation. In 3 patients reintervention consisted of transcatheter aortic valve implantation. Overall survival rates were 95.3% (95% confidence interval [CI], 92.0-97.2), 91.1% (95% CI, 86.5-94.2), and 82.9% (95% CI, 75.3-88.4) at 5, 10, and 15 years, respectively. Freedom from postoperative aortic insufficiency (AI) grade ≥ 2 was 84.8% (95% CI, 79.9-88.6) and 74.3% (95% CI, 67.4-79.9) at 5 and 10 years, respectively. Freedom from reintervention for aortic valve disease was 97.1% (95% CI, 94.2-98.5), 92.9% (95% CI, 88.2-95.7), and 92.5% (95% CI, 87.1-95.7) at 5, 10, and 15 years, respectively. Preoperative AI ≥ 2 (hazard ratio, 1.782; 95% CI, 1.352-2.350) and a ventriculoaortic junction ≥ 29 mm (hazard ratio, 3.379; 95% CI, 1.726-6.616) were predictive factors for postoperative AI ≥ 2 in a multivariate analysis (P <.001). Preoperative AI ≥ 2 and a ventriculoaortic junction ≥ 29 mm were identified as risk factors for late postoperative AI ≥ 2. [Display omitted] [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

FPGA devices have great benefits over traditional computational hardware like CPUs and GPUs that can be exploited in order to have greater performance on specialized tasks. This article aims to showcase some of these benefits and compare a small use-case with real world metrics. Previous researches have shown that ASIC devices can perform better on specialized tasks due to low latency but an FPGA device might be the key in developing a reconfigurable hardware that suits most Neural Network training algorithms for development purposes, without compromising performance. The test environment results show clearly the benefits and pitfalls of this approach. Using custom, modular processing cores can help developers in creating their own processing units that enhance the developer experience and have the benefit of faster processing times. In order to prove these claims we implement a few of the proposed cores, test them against conventional CPUs and GPUs and showcase the potential flexibility during development. The results highlight that FPGA devices can be faster than conventional processing units and developers can increase their productivity via the performance gains, but for the best results, the hardware choices need to be made according to project and budget constraints. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]