Unveiling the Influence of Brightness Heterogeneity in Fluorescence Correlation Spectroscopy of Perovskite Nanocrystals.

Nanoparticles (NPs), including perovskite nanocrystals (PNCs) with single photon purity, present challenges in fluorescence correlation spectroscopy (FCS) studies due to their distinct photoluminescence (PL) behaviors. In particular, the zero-time correlation amplitude [g2(0)] and the associated diffusion timescale (τD) of their FCS curves show substantial dependency on pump intensity (IP). Optical saturation inadequately explains the origin of this FCS phenomenon in NPs, thus setting them apart from conventional dye molecules, which do not manifest such behavior. This observation is apparently attributed to either photo-brightening or optical trapping, both lead to increased NP occupancy (N) in the excitation volume, consequently reducing the g2(0) amplitude [since g2(0) α 1/N] at high IP. However, an advanced FCS study utilizing alternating laser excitation at two different intensities dismisses such possibilities. Further investigation into single-particle blinking behaviors as a function of IP reveals that the intensity dependence of g2(0) primarily arises from the brightness heterogeneity prevalent in almost all types of NPs. This report delves into the complexities of the photophysical properties of NPs and their adverse impacts on FCS studies.

Reamputation prevalence after minor feet amputations in patients with diabetic foot, a cross sectional study. / Prevalencia de reamputación en amputaciones menores del pie en pacientes con pie diabético, estudio de corte transversal.

INTRODUCTION: Reported prevalence for reamputation in diabetic foot is diverse, risk factors are not clear for minor amputations. This study aims to determine the prevalence for reamputation in diabetic foot from minor amputations and to evaluate associated factors for such outcome. METHODS: Cross sectional study developed in 2hospitals. Patients hospitalized for diabetic foot ulcer requiring a minor amputation were included. A descriptive analysis of all variables is presented, as well as prevalence ratios (PR) and a multivariate logistic regression. RESULTS: The prevalence was of 48% for 15 years. Toes were the most frequent minor amputation that required reamputation and above the knee amputation was the most frequent reamputation level (45%). Variables whose PR was associated to reamputation risk were: smoking history (PR 1.32, CI 95%: 1.02-1.67, P=0.03), vascular occlusion in doppler (PR 1.47, CI 95%: 1.11-1.73, P=0.01), revascularization (PR 1.73, CI 95%: 1.31-2.14, P=0.00002), Wagner> 3 (PR 1.75, CI 95%: 1.16-1.84, P=0.01) and leucocytosis> 11,000 (PR 1.39, CI 95%: 1.07-1.68, P=0.01). Leucocytosis> 11,000, Wagner> 3, vascular occlusion in doppler and revascularization were the variables that best predicted the outcome. Furthermore, leucocytosis was the best variable for predicting reamputation (OR 2.4, CI 95%: 1.1-5.6, P=0.04). CONCLUSIONS: Reamputation prevalence was 48%. The toes were the minor amputation more frequently requiring reamputation and above the knee was the most frequent reamputation level. Risk for reamputation was associated with variables related to vascular compromise and infection.

Características clínicas de pacientes con enfermedad del pie relacionado a la diabetes mellitus que acudieron al Hospital Nacional 2022-2023

Introducción: las enfermedades del pie relacionadas a la diabetes mellitus representan una de las causas de mayor morbilidad e incapacidad en las personas con diabetes mellitus tipo 2, siendo la causa más frecuente de ingreso hospitalario en dicho grupo. Objetivo: describir las características clínicas de los pacientes con enfermedad del pie relacionadas a la diabetes mellitus del Hospital Nacional 2022-2023. Metodología: se seleccionaron 113 pacientes portadores de diabetes mellitus tipo 2 con pie diabético mayores de 18 años. Se evaluaron las variables demográficas, medidas antropométricas, características de la enfermedad, comorbilidades y características clínicas del pie. Resultados: de los 113 estudiados 42 pacientes (37 %) correspondieron al sexo femenino y 71 (63 %) al sexo masculino, promedio de edad fue de 65 años DE 12,191. 75 pacientes (66 %) presentaron pie diabético, con lesión Wagner grado 4. El 81 % (92) tenía hipertensión arterial, sedentarismo 65 % (84), en menor frecuencia pacientes con sobrepeso 38 % (43), obesidad 25 % (38), tabaquismo 23 % (26) y dislipidemia 18 % (20). Conclusión: las características clínicas de los pacientes con diabetes tipo 2 con lesión en el pie coinciden con otros trabajos obtenidos a nivel mundial. Es muy importante prestar atención a este grupo de riesgo, mediante medidas preventivas y realizar el tratamiento precoz para disminuir las complicaciones.

Introduction: foot diseases related to diabetes mellitus represent one of the causes of greatest morbidity and disability in people with type 2 diabetes mellitus, being the most frequent cause of hospital admission in said group. Objective: to describe the clinical characteristics of patients with foot disease related to diabetes mellitus at Hospital Nacional 2022-2023. Methodology: 113 patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus with diabetic foot over 18 years of age were selected. Demographic variables, anthropometric measurements, disease characteristics, comorbidities, and clinical characteristics of the foot were evaluated. Results: of the 113 studied, 42 patients (37 %) were female and 71 (63 %) were male, average age was 65 years SD 12,191. 75 patients (66 %) presented diabetic foot, with Wagner grade 4 lesion. 81 % (92) had high blood pressure, sedentary lifestyle 65 % (84), less frequently overweight patients 38 % (43), obesity 25% (38) ), smoking 23 % (26) and dyslipidemia 18 % (20). Conclusion: the clinical characteristics of patients with type 2 diabetes with foot injury coincide with other works obtained worldwide. It is very important to pay attention to this risk group, through preventive measures and carry out early treatment to reduce complications.

The pie-crusting release of the medial collateral ligament in arthroscopic partial meniscectomy is associated with improved clinical outcomes without altering radiological measurements.

PURPOSE: The aim of this study was to evaluate how the pie-crusting technique affects clinical and radiological outcomes in patients undergoing arthroscopic partial meniscectomy. METHODS: A total of 68 patients with Kellgren-Lawrence (K-L) grade 2 who underwent arthroscopic partial meniscectomy between 2015 and 2021 were evaluated and divided into two groups as arthroscopic partial meniscectomy (36 patients) and arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with pie-crusting (32 patients) according to whether the pie-crusting technique was applied or not. All patients were evaluated at a minimum 2-year follow-up in terms of Lysholm score, Tegner activity score, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) score and Visual Analogue Scale (VAS) score. To assess the impact of the pie-crusting technique, radiological measurements were conducted using radiographs taken before and after pie-crusting, as well as postoperative radiographs. RESULTS: Lysholm, Tegner, IKDC and VAS scores exhibited statistically significant differences after surgery compared to preoperative evaluations in both groups (p < 0.05). Furthermore, these scores were significantly superior in the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with pie-crusting group compared to the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy group at 24 months postoperatively (p < 0.05). While the radiological measurements in the arthroscopic partial meniscectomy with pie-crusting group showed statistically significant differences before and after pie-crusting (p < 0.05), no significant difference was observed between before pie-crusting and 12 and 24 months postoperatively (n.s.). CONCLUSION: The current study is the first to demonstrate the true effectiveness of the pie-crusting technique. The application of the pie-crusting technique when necessary results in a statistically significant improvement in clinical scores without affecting radiological measurements for patients undergoing arthroscopic partial meniscectomy compared to not utilising it. LEVEL OF EVIDENCE: Level III.

The pie-crust surgical technique for medial collateral ligament release: enhancing visualization of the medial compartment in knee arthroscopy.

This study presents a comprehensive surgical technique for performing a 'pie-crust' release of the medial collateral ligament (MCL) to enhance visualization of the medial compartment during arthroscopic knee procedures. The primary objective of this research is to improve the precision of diagnosis and treatment for injuries specifically affecting the posterior horn and posterior root of the medial meniscus. Arthroscopic knee procedures have become increasingly common in orthopedic surgery, offering the advantage of minimally invasive techniques for treating a wide range of knee conditions. However, accessing and visualizing the posterior structures within the medial compartment can be challenging. To overcome this limitation, the surgical technique presented in this study offers a systematic approach that includes patient positioning, precise identification of anatomical landmarks, and a detailed, step-by-step procedural description. The process begins with meticulous marking of anatomical landmarks to provide reference points. Precisely identifying the location for the MCL release is of utmost importance. This involves making needle punctures with guidance from arthroscopic visualization and applying valgus strain to the knee as necessary. One of the key advantages of this described surgical technique is its focus on safety and efficacy. Surgeons can work more confidently and precisely by reducing the risk of iatrogenic cartilage damage and facilitating access to the posterior structures within the medial compartment. Clinical outcomes from this approach have demonstrated consistently favorable results, leading to improved patient recovery and reduced complications. Furthermore, it is noteworthy that the postoperative use of a brace is not mandatory, adding to the appeal of this technique for both patients and surgeons. This surgical technique's enhanced visualization and optimized treatment outcomes make it a valuable tool in the arsenal of orthopedic surgeons specializing in knee arthroscopy. In conclusion, this study's surgical technique has the potential to significantly improve the diagnosis and treatment of patients with meniscal injuries in the medial compartment, ultimately leading to better clinical outcomes and patient satisfaction.

Intervenções terapêuticas não farmacológicas para o tratamento de úlceras no pé diabético: revisão integrativa / Intervenciones terapéuticas no farmacológicas para el tratamiento de las úlceras diabéticas: revisión integral de la literatura / Non-pharmacological therapeutic interventions for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers: an integrative literature review

Introdução: As úlceras no pé diabético surgem da interação complexa entreneuropatia periférica e doença arterial periférica, comprometendo a cicatrização após traumas. Objetivo: Explorar a diversidade de intervenções terapêuticas não farmacológicas que têm sido estudadas e avaliadas quanto à sua eficácia e segurança no tratamento de úlceras no pé diabético. Metodologia: Pesquisa do tipo revisão integrativa da literatura. Para obtenção dos resultados foi realizado um levantamento nas plataformas PubMed e Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde. Para elaboração dos resultados foram selecionados 21 artigos. Resultados: As intervenções encontradas foram oxigenoterapia hiperbárica, terapia de feridas por pressão negativa, uso de matriz dérmica, plasma rico em plaquetas, plasma atmosférico frio, tratamentos com curativos especiais e uso de solas rígidas, entre outros. Mostraram uma variabilidade na taxa de cicatrização e no tempo de fechamento da ferida, bem como na melhoria da regeneração tecidual. Conclusão: As pesquisas mostram uma diversidade de intervenções terapêuticas não farmacológicas utilizadas no tratamento de úlceras no pé diabético, ressaltando a necessidade de abordagens individualizadas e mais estudos para determinar a eficácia e segurança de cada intervenção (AU).

Introduction:Diabetic foot ulcers arise from the complex interaction between peripheral neuropathy and peripheral arterial disease, compromising wound healing after traumas. Objective:To explore the diversity of non-pharmacological therapeutic interventions that have been studied and evaluated for their effectiveness and safety in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers. Methodology: An integrative literature review was conducted. The search for results was performed on the PubMed and Virtual Health Library platforms. Twenty-one articles were selected for result elaboration.Results:The identified interventions included hyperbaric oxygen therapy, negative pressure wound therapy, use of dermal matrix, platelet-rich plasma, cold atmospheric plasma, treatments with special dressings, and the use of rigid soles, among others. They exhibited variability in the healing rate and wound closure time, as well as improvement in tissue regeneration.Conclusion:The research demonstrates a diversity of non-pharmacological therapeutic interventions used in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers, emphasizing the need for individualized approaches and further studies to determine the effectiveness and safety of each intervention (AU).

Introducción: Las úlceras en el pie diabético surgen de la interacción compleja entre neuropatía periférica y enfermedad arterial periférica, comprometiendo la cicatrización después de traumas.Objetivo: Explorar la diversidad de intervenciones terapéuticas no farmacológicas que han sido estudiadas y evaluadas en cuanto a su eficacia y seguridad en el tratamiento de úlceras en el pie diabético.Metodología: Investigación del tipo revisión integrativa de la literatura. Para obtener los resultados se realizó un estudio en las plataformas PubMed y Biblioteca Virtual en Salud. Para la elaboración de los resultados se seleccionaron 21 artículos. Resultados: Las intervenciones encontradas fueron oxigenoterapia hiperbárica, terapia de heridas por presión negativa, uso de matriz dérmica, plasma rico en plaquetas, plasma atmosférico frío, tratamientos con curativos especiales y uso de suelas rígidas, entre otros. Mostraron una variabilidad en la tasa de cicatrización y en el tiempo de cierre de la herida, así como en la mejora de la regeneración tisular. Conclusión: Las investigaciones muestran una diversidad de intervenciones terapéuticas no farmacológicas utilizadas en el tratamiento de úlceras en el pie diabético, resaltando la necesidad de enfoques individualizados y más estudios para determinar la eficacia y seguridad de cada intervención (AU).

Pie diabético tratados con injerto obtenido por bioimpresora, a propósito de una serie de casos / Diabetic foot treated with graft obtained by bioprinter, about a series of cases

El riesgo de amputaciones en pacientes con diabetes es 10 a 20 veces más frecuente en comparación con no diabéticos. El equipo biotecnológico desarrollado por ROKIT Healthcare, Inc., de procedencia surcoreana: Dr. INVIVO, es un equipo de biotecnología que ofrece una terapia eficaz para el tratamiento del pie diabético, con una plataforma de regeneración de órganos hiperpersonalizados que mediante la inteligencia artificial, escanea la lesión para así, fabricar un parche que contiene células madres autólogas, matriz extracelular y materiales específicos de tejido, para posteriormente aplicarla a la herida, y con esto, lograr la cicatrización y regeneración completa. El propósito del presente reporte apunta a demostrar la efectividad del tratamiento en úlceras en pie diabético y exponer los resultados de 3 casos clínicos con extensas lesiones posteriores a amputaciones de miembros inferiores, atendidos en el Hospital Distrital de Ñemby, Paraguay, utilizando esta tecnología.

The risk of amputations in patients with diabetes is 10 to 20 times more frequent compared to non-diabetics. The biotechnological team developed by ROKIT Healthcare, Inc., of South Korean origin: Dr. INVIVO, is a biotechnology team that offers an effective therapy for the treatment of diabetic foot, with a hyper-personalized organ regeneration platform that, through artificial intelligence, scan the injury in order to manufacture a patch that contains autologous stem cells, extracellular matrix and specific tissue materials, to later apply it to the wound, and with this, achieve complete healing and regeneration. The purpose of this report aims to demonstrate the effectiveness of treatment in diabetic foot ulcers and present the results of 3 clinical cases with extensive injuries after lower limb amputations, treated at the District Hospital of Ñemby, Paraguay, using this technology.

Nivel de conocimiento sobre educación y autocuidado de los pies en pacientes con Diabetes Mellitus que reciben atención multidisciplinaria

Introducción: Educación y autocuidado son pilares en el tratamiento de la Diabetes Mellitus (DM) y prevención de complicaciones como la enfermedad del pie relacionada a la diabetes (EPRD). Objetivo: Determinar el nivel de conocimiento de DM y el autocuidado de los pies en pacientes con DM tipo 2. Materiales y métodos: Estudio observacional descriptivo, prospectivo, corte transversal; realizado en pacientes adultos con DM tipo 2, que acudieron a consulta endocrinológica y podológica en Hospital Central del Instituto de Previsión Social, en un periodo de 9 meses, desde setiembre 2022 a junio 2023. Tras al menos 2 consultas en cada especialidad, se solicitó el llenado de los cuestionarios DKQ24 y APD-UMA para evaluar conocimiento sobre DM y autocuidado de los pies respectivamente. Resultados: Se incluyó a 103 pacientes, 57% mujeres, 63±11 años de Diabetes, 14±8,45; 29% educación primaria, índice de masa corporal 30,56±5,31, hipertensión arterial 83,5%, 11,6% tabaquistas, retinopatía 35,9%, pérdida de la sensibilidad protectora (PSP) en pies 53,4%, enfermedad arterial periférica 20,4%, deformidades 49,5% y lesiones previas 27,2% en pies; amputación menor 2,9%, amputación mayor 1 %. HBA1c media 8% (±1,3), clearence de creatininia 78,2 mg/dL/m2 (±21,42). Niveles de conocimiento: bueno 68 (66%), regular 34 (33%) y escasos 1(1%). Autocuidado de los pies: promedio de respuestas entre muy adecuadas y adecuadas: 87,4 (84,8%), regular: 9,4 (9,2%); entre inadecuadas y muy inadecuadas 7 (6,8%). Conclusión: Los pacientes con DM2 que acuden a consulta multidisciplinaria tienen un alto conocimiento sobre su patología y autocuidado de los pies, lo que ayudaría a la prevención de complicaciones, teniendo en cuenta que son un grupo de riesgo para EPRD.

Introduction: Education and self-care are pillars in the treatment of Diabetes Mellitus (DM) and prevention of complications such as diabetes-related foot disease (DPERD). Objetive: Determine the level of knowledge of DM and foot self-care in patients with type 2 DM. Materials and methods: Descriptive, prospective, cross-sectional observational study; performed in adult patients with type 2 DM, who attended an endocrinological and podiatric consultation at the Central Hospital of the Institute of Social Security, in a period of 9 months, from September 2022 to June 2023. After at least 2 consultations in each specialty, a filling out the DKQ24 and APD-UMA questionnaires to evaluate knowledge about DM and foot self-care respectively. Results: 103 patients were included, 57% women, 63±11 years of Diabetes, 14±8.45; 29% primary education, body mass index 30.56±5.31, high blood pressure 83.5%, 11.6% smokers, retinopathy 35.9%, loss of protective sensitivity (PSP) in feet 53.4%, peripheral arterial disease 20.4%, deformities 49.5% and previous injuries 27.2% in the feet; minor amputation 2.9%, major amputation 1%. HBA1c mean 8% (±1.3), creatinine clearance 78.2 mg/dL/m2 (±21.42). Knowledge levels: good 68 (66%), regular 34 (33%) and poor 1 (1%). Foot self-care: average of responses between very adequate and adequate: 87.4 (84.8%), regular: 9.4 (9.2%); between inadequate and very inadequate 7 (6.8%). Conclusion: Patients with DM2 who attend multidisciplinary consultation have an elevated level of knowledge about their foot pathology and self-care, which would help prevent complications, considering that they are a risk group for EPRD.

Precision medicine: "Point of Care Ultrasound" (PoCUS) in the diagnostic approach to the patient with hyponatremia.

Hyponatremia is a multifactorial disorder defined as a decrease in plasma sodium concentration. Its differential diagnosis requires an adequate evaluation of the extracellular volume (ECV). However, ECV determination, simply based on the clinical history, vital signs, physical examination, and laboratory findings can leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. The use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (POCUS), through the combination of Lung Ultrasound (LUS), Venous Excess UltraSound (VExUS) and Focused Cardiac Ultrasound (FoCUS), allows a much more accurate holistic assessment of the patient's ECV status in combination with the other parameters.

The potency of hematopoietic stem cell reprogramming for changing immune tone.

Innate immune memory endows innate immune cells with antigen independent heightened responsiveness to subsequent challenges. The durability of this response can be mediated by inflammation induced epigenetic and metabolic reprogramming in hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells (HSPCs) that are maintained through differentiation to mature immune progeny. Understanding the mechanisms and extent of trained immunity induction by pathogens and vaccines, such as BCG, in HSPC remains a critical area of exploration with important implications for health and disease. Here we review these concepts and present new analysis to highlight how inflammatory reprogramming of HSPC can potently alter immune tone, including to enhance specific anti-tumor responses. New findings in the field pave the way for novel HSPC targeting therapeutic strategies in cancer and other contexts of immune modulation. Future studies are expected to unravel diverse and extensive effects of infections, vaccines, microbiota, and sterile inflammation on hematopoietic progenitor cells and begin to illuminate the broad spectrum of immunologic tuning that can be established through altering HSPC phenotypes. The purpose of this review is to draw attention to emerging and speculative topics in this field where we posit that focused study of HSPC in the framework of trained immunity holds significant promise.

Initial handgrip strength as a predictive factor for amputation risk in diabetic foot patients.

BACKGROUND: We aimed to analyze the prognostic significance of handgrip strength as predictor of lower extremity amputation at 1 year follow up in patients with type 2 diabetes. METHODS: We evaluated 526 patients with type 2 diabetes between August 2020, and, June 2022. We collected from the electronic medical records demographic variables, laboratory data and history of amputation. The handgrip strength was assessed using a handheld Smedley digital dynamometer following the NHANES Muscle Strenght/Grip Test Procedure. Low handgrip strength was defined for women as less than 16 kg and for men less than 27 kg. Outcome variable was major or minor lower extremity amputation. RESULTS: A total of 205 patients with complete data entered the study. Patients mean age was 59 years old, 37% were women and the mean diabetes disease duration was 14 years. Seventy-seven (37%) patients suffered from lower extremity mputations (26 major and 51 minor amputations). After controlling for age, gender, presence of peripheral artery disease, body mass index and white cell counts as confounder variables, patients with low handgrip had an increased risk for amputations (Odds Ratio 2.17; 95% confidence Interval: 1.09-4.32; <0.001). CONCLUSION: Low handgrip stregth is an independent prognostic marker for lower limb amputation at one year in patients with diabetes.

Medicina de precisión: «Point of Care Ultrasound» (PoCUS) en el abordaje diagnóstico del paciente con hiponatremia / Precision medicine: “Point of Care Ultrasound” (PoCUS) in the diagnostic approach to the patient with hyponatremia

La hiponatremia es un trastorno multifactorial definido como una disminución en la concentración plasmática de sodio. Su diagnóstico diferencial requiere una evaluación adecuada del volumen extracelular. Sin embargo, la determinación del volumen extracelular, simplemente basada en la historia clínica, las constantes vitales, el examen físico y los hallazgos de laboratorio, conducen en ocasiones a un diagnóstico erróneo por lo que el enfoque terapéutico puede ser equivocado. El empleo de ecografía a pie de cama (Point-of-Care Ultrasound [PoCUS]), mediante la combinación de ecografía pulmonar (Lung Ultrasound [LUS]), Venous Excess UltraSound (VExUS) y la ecocardioscopia (Focused Cardiac Ultrasound [FoCUS]) permiten, en combinación con el resto de los parámetros, una valoración holística mucho más precisa del estado del volumen extracelular del paciente.(AU)

Hyponatremia is a multifactorial disorder defined as a decrease in plasma sodium concentration. Its differential diagnosis requires an adequate evaluation of the extracellular volume. However, extracellular volume determination, simply based on the clinical history, vital signs, physical examination, and laboratory findings can leads to misdiagnosis and inappropriate treatment. The use of Point-of-Care Ultrasound (PoCUS), through the combination of Lung Ultrasound (LUS), Venous Excess UltraSound (VExUS) and Focused Cardiac Ultrasound (FoCUS), allows a much more accurate holistic assessment of the patient's extracellular volume status in combination with the other parameters.(AU)

Osteotomía de descarga ambulatoria mínimamente invasiva en el tratamiento de la úlcera de pie diabético: análisis de 25 pacientes / Minimally invasive offloading osteotomy in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer: Analysis of 25 patients

Introducción: La diabetes mellitus y sus complicaciones suponen uno de los mayores problemas sanitarios en la actualidad. La úlcera del pie diabético es una de las complicaciones más características. Material, métodos y objetivo: El objetivo es describir los resultados y complicaciones obtenidos en una serie de 25 casos de úlcera neuropática tratada mediante osteotomías de descarga mínimamente invasivas y ambulatorias. Resultados: Del total de intervenciones, 18 fueron sobre úlceras refractarias a un tratamiento conservador previo de una duración media±desviación estándar de 29,28±18,42 meses. El período de seguimiento fue 26,46±4,89 meses. Las tasas agrupadas de respuesta al tratamiento fueron: 100% cicatrización de la úlcera (tiempo medio de cicatrización 22,41±7,01 días), 5,56% recurrencia de la úlcera, 16,67% translocación de la úlcera. En 7 casos se realizó una intervención preventiva sobre áreas con lesiones preulcerosas. Del total, únicamente 3 presentaron infección leve en la zona de la intervención. Conclusiones: La osteotomía de descarga mínimamente invasiva ambulatoria es un procedimiento técnicamente sencillo, que presenta una alta tasa de éxito con mínimas complicaciones en nuestra serie. (AU)

Introduction: Diabetes mellitus and its complications are one of the main burdensome health problems at the present time. The diabetic foot is one of the most characteristic complications. Material, methods and objective: The objective of this work is to describe the results and complications obtained in a series of 25 cases of diabetic foot treated by minimally invasive offloading osteotomies. Results: Of the total number of interventions, 18 were performed on refractory ulcers with prior conservative treatment, for a mean (±SD) duration of 29.28±18.42 months. The mean follow-up period was 26.46±4.89 months. Weighted pooled rates of response to treatment were as follows: 100% for ulcer healing (with a mean healing time of 22.41±7.01 days), 5.56% for ulcer recurrence, and 16.67% for ulcer transfer. In 7cases, a preventive intervention was performed on areas with pre-ulcerative lesions. Of the total number of cases, only 3presented mild infection in the intervention area. Conclusions: Minimally invasive offloading osteotomy is a technically simple intervention, which presents a high success rate with minimal complications in our series. (AU)

Precision soft tissue balancing: grid-assisted pie-crusting in total knee arthroplasty.

Introduction: The varus and valgus knee deformities result from imbalance in tension between medial and lateral soft tissue compartments. These conditions need to be addressed during total knee arthroplasty (TKA). However, there is no consensus on optimal soft-tissue release techniques for correcting varus and valgus deformities during TKA. We assessed the efficacy of a novel grid-based pie-crusting technique on soft-tissue release. Methods: Cadaver knees were dissected, leaving only the femur and tibia connected by an isolated MCL or the femur and fibula connected by an isolated LCL. Bone cuts were made as performed during primary TKA. Mechanical testing was performed using an MTS machine. A 3D-printed 12-hole grid was placed directly over the MCL and LCL. Using an 18-gauge needle, horizontal in-out perforations were made 3 mm apart. Deformation and stiffness of the ligaments were collected after every 2 perforations. Means were calculated, and regression analyses were performed. Results: A total of 7 MCL and 6 LCL knees were included in our analysis. The mean medial femorotibial (MFT) space increased from 6.018 ± 1.4 mm-7.078 ± 1.414 mm (R2 = 0.937) following 12 perforations. The mean MCL stiffness decreased from 32.15 N/mm-26.57 N/mm (R2 = 0.965). For the LCL group, the mean gap between the femur and fibula increased from 4.287 mm-4.550 mm following 8 perforations. The mean LCL stiffness decreased from 29.955 N/mm-25.851 N/mm. LCL stiffness displayed a strong inverse relationship with the number of holes performed (R2 = 0.988). Discussion: Our results suggest that using this novel grid for pie-crusting of the MCL and LCL allows for gradual lengthening of the ligaments without sacrificing their structural integrity. Our proposed technique may serve as a valuable piece in the soft-tissue release toolkit for orthopaedic surgeons performing TKA in varus and valgus deformed knees.

Sequential surgery for the treatment of type I knee ankylosis: a series of 62 cases.

BACKGROUNDS: The lack of systematic classification and standard treatment principles for knee ankylosis prevents optimal treatments. This study explored treatments for type I (mild) knee joint ankylosis. METHOD: This retrospective study analysed patients with knee joint ankylosis admitted from March 2013 to January 2018 who underwent sequential arthroscopic release. RESULT: The 62 patients had 12-36 (average, 18) months of follow-up. Thirty-eight patients were released; of these, 18 were assisted by limited incision with partial quadriceps femoris expansion myotomy and released according to arthroscopy. Six patients underwent lengthening and release of the quadriceps femoris. All surgeries combined with full-course rehabilitation resulted in improved joint mobility. The range of motion (ROM) of the knee joint recovered to a range of 0° to 85°-140° (mean: 118.32 ± 9.42°) from the preoperative range of 30°-70° (mean: 45° ± 15.50°). The clinical effect was evaluated according to the Judet criteria at the final follow-up. The outcomes at the last follow-up (at least for 1 year) were excellent in 55 cases, good in six cases, and fair in one case. CONCLUSION: Sequential arthroscopic release, minimal selective invasion of limited incision of partial quadriceps femoris expansion myotomy, assisted by pie-crusting technique to release, or quadriceps femoris lengthening, and release surgery for type I knee joint ankylosis, accompanied by early rehabilitation training provided satisfactory results without significant complications.

The potential impact and diagnostic value of inflammatory markers on diabetic foot progression in type II diabetes mellitus: A case-control study.

BACKGROUND: The wound-healing process in diabetic foot is affected by pro and anti-inflammatory markers, and any disruption in the inflammatory reaction interferes with tissue homeostasis, leading to chronic non-wound healing. AIM: This study aimed to determine the diagnostic value and effect of CRP, IL-6, TNF, and HbA1c on initiation the and progression of diabetic foot ulcers. METHOD: ELISA was used to quantify IL-6, TNF, CRP, and HbA1c in 205 patients with diabetes, and 105 were diabetic foot free. The prevalence and progression of diabetic foot were also evaluated. The area under the curve (AUC) was calculated using the receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curve to analyze the predictive values. Forward stepwise logistic regression analysis was used to compute the odds ratio (OR) and the corresponding 95% confidence intervals (CIs). RESULTS: CRP, IL-6, and FBS were found to be significant predictors of diabetic foot (OR=1.717, 95% CI=1.250-2.358, P=0.001; OR=1.434, 95% CI=1.142-1.802, P=0.002; and OR=1.040, 95% CI=1.002-1.080, P=0.037), respectively. The AUCs for CRP, IL-6, and HbA1c in predicting diabetic foot were 0.839, 0.728, and 0.834, respectively, demonstrating a good predictive value for each diagnostic marker. CONCLUSION: The current study demonstrated that IL-6, CRP, and HbA1c may be useful biomarkers to indicate diabetic foot progression. Furthermore, our findings showed a substantial relationship between CRP and HbA1c in individuals with diabetic foot conditions.

Práticas de autocuidado com os pés realizadas por homens com diabetes mellitus / Foot self-care practices performed by men with diabetes mellitus

Identificar o conhecimento e as formas de adesão as práticas de autocuidado com os pés por homens com diabetes mellitus. Método: Pesquisa do tipo exploratória, descritiva com abordagem qualitativa, realizada em duas unidades de atenção primária e uma unidade de atenção secundária do município de Fortaleza-CE. recebeu aprovação do Comitê de Ética em Pesquisa da UNIFOR de n. 5.100.589. Resultados: Dentro do universo de homens com diabetes foram entrevistados 26 homens na faixa etária de 45 a 81 anos, predominando-se aqueles com 48 a 69 de idade (84,6%), a escolaridade variou do analfabeto a ensino superior completo, sendo em sua maioria com fundamental incompleto (42,3%). Conclusão: Percebeu-se que os pacientes com maior nível de conhecimento apresentaram mais chances de praticar o autocuidado. Entretanto, notou-se que os déficits mesmo quando são isolados, podem oferecer o mesmo potencial de risco.(AU)

To identify the knowledge and forms of adherence to foot self-care practices by men with diabetes mellitus. Method: This is an exploratory, descriptive study with a qualitative approach, carried out in two primary care units and one secondary care unit in the city of Fortaleza-CE. The study received approval from the UNIFOR Research Ethics Committee (n. 5.100.589). Results: Within the universe of men with diabetes, 26 men aged between 45 and 81 were interviewed, with a predominance of those aged between 48 and 69 (84.6%). The level of education ranged from illiterate to complete higher education, with the majority having incomplete primary education (42.3%). Conclusion: Patients with a higher level of knowledge were more likely to practice self-care. However, it was noted that deficits, even when isolated, can offer the same risk potential.(AU)

Identificar el conocimiento y las formas de adherencia a las prácticas de autocuidado de los pies por hombres con diabetes mellitus. Método: Se trata de un estudio exploratorio, descriptivo, con abordaje cualitativo, realizado en dos unidades de atención primaria y una unidad de atención secundaria de la ciudad de Fortaleza, Ceará. El estudio recibió aprobación del Comité de Ética en Investigación de la UNIFOR (n. 5.100.589). Resultados: Dentro del universo de hombres con diabetes, fueron entrevistados 26 hombres con edades comprendidas entre 45 y 81 años, predominando los de edades comprendidas entre 48 y 69 años (84,6%), su nivel de escolaridad osciló entre analfabetos y estudios superiores completos, siendo la mayoría con estudios primarios incompletos (42,3%). Conclusión: Los pacientes con un mayor nivel de conocimientos eran más propensos a practicar el autocuidado. Sin embargo, se observó que los déficits, incluso aislados, pueden ofrecer el mismo potencial de riesgo.(AU)

Exploring the extension quantities of a medial collateral ligament pie-crusting model using a finite element method.

Medial collateral ligament (MCL) pie-crusting can balance the soft tissue during total knee arthroplasty but requires more studies with the finite element method (FEM). We have developed three models of MCL pie-crusting utilizing FEM, treating the MCL in the following ways: (1) as a singular elastic body with both ends attached to the bone (model A), (2) as 19 bundled elastic bodies, each attached to both ends of the bone (model B), and (3) as 19 bundled elastic bodies with an adhesive component in the gap, attached to both ends of the bone (model C). The pie-crusting model was created by adding a cut around the center of each model. The left side of the model was fixed and forces of 80 and 120 N in the positive direction of the x-axis were applied. Model A was extended by 0.0068 and 0.010 mm for approximately 10 punctures. Model B-2 was extended by 1.34 and 2.01 mm, approximately twice as much as model B-1. Model C was extended by 0.34 and 0.50 mm for every 10 punctures added. These findings clarify that the model composed of aggregates of fibers with adhesive parts (model C) is suitable for MCL pie-crusting analysis.

Complicaciones vasculares en pacientes diabéticos con hemoglobina glicosilada alterada internados en el Centro Médico Nacional - Hospital Nacional periodo 2022 - 2023 / Vascular complications in diabetic patients with altered glycated hemoglobin admitted to Centro Médico Nacional - Hospital Nacional period 2022 ­ 2023

Introducción: la diabetes mellitus es una enfermedad crónica que, al no ser controlada, puede desencadenar en complicaciones macro y microvasculares. Uno de los indicadores de un adecuado control glucémico es la hemoglobina glicosilada. Objetivos: determinar la frecuencia de complicaciones macro y microvasculares en pacientes diabéticos tipo 2 con hemoglobina glicosilada alterada internados en el Hospital Nacional de Itauguá periodo 2022 - 2023 Metodología: estudio observacional, descriptivo de corte transversal que incluyó a 170 pacientes adultos internados en el servicio de clínica médica del Hospital Nacional (Itauguá, Paraguay) durante los años 2022 y 2023. Resultados: la edad media fue de 58 ± 12 años, con predominio del sexo femenino (51 %). La complicación más frecuentemente diagnosticada fue la enfermedad del pie relacionada a la diabetes con 83 pacientes (49 %), seguido por retinopatía diabética 23 (14 %). El valor promedio de hemoglobina glicosilada fue de 10 ± 2 %. Solamente 6 (4 %) del total de pacientes presentó un valor de HbA1C≥ 7,1 %. La comorbilidad asociada más frecuente fue la hipertensión arterial 87 (51 %). El 91 % de los pacientes conocía ser portador de la enfermedad, el 80 % recibía algún tipo de tratamiento. Conclusiones: el pie diabético fue la complicación vascular diagnosticada con mayor ,frecuencia, especialmente en pacientes con HbA1C≥ 7,1 %.

Introduction: diabetes mellitus is a chronic disease that, if not controlled, can lead to macro- and microvascular complications. One of the indicators of adequate glycemic control is glycosylated hemoglobin. Objectives: to determine the frequency of macro and microvascular complications in type 2 diabetic patients with altered glycosylated hemoglobin admitted to the Hospital Nacional from 2022 to 2023 Methodology: this was an observational, descriptive, cross-sectional study that included 170 adult patients admitted to the Internal Medicine service of the Hospital Nacional (Itauguá, Paraguay) during the years 2022 and 2023. Results: the mean age was 58 ± 12 years, with a predominance of the female sex (51 %). The most frequently diagnosed complication was foot disease related to diabetes with 83 patients (49 %), followed by diabetic retinopathy 23 (14 %). The average value of glycosylated hemoglobin was 10 ± 2 %. Only 6 (4 %) of the total patients had an HbA1C value ≤7 %. The most frequent associated comorbidity was arterial hypertension 87 (51 %). 91 % of the patients knew they were carriers of the disease, 80 % received some type of treatment. Conclusions: diabetic foot was the most frequently diagnosed vascular complication, especially in patients with HbA1C ≥7.1 %.

[Minimally invasive offloading osteotomy in the treatment of diabetic foot ulcer: Analysis of 25 patients]. / Osteotomía de descarga ambulatoria mínimamente invasiva en el tratamiento de la úlcera de pie diabético: análisis de 25 pacientes.

INTRODUCTION: Diabetes mellitus and its complications are one of the main burdensome health problems at the present time. The diabetic foot is one of the most characteristic complications. MATERIAL, METHODS AND OBJECTIVE: The objective of this work is to describe the results and complications obtained in a series of 25 cases of diabetic foot treated by minimally invasive offloading osteotomies. RESULTS: Of the total number of interventions, 18 were performed on refractory ulcers with prior conservative treatment, for a mean (±SD) duration of 29.28±18.42 months. The mean follow-up period was 26.46±4.89 months. Weighted pooled rates of response to treatment were as follows: 100% for ulcer healing (with a mean healing time of 22.41±7.01 days), 5.56% for ulcer recurrence, and 16.67% for ulcer transfer. In 7cases, a preventive intervention was performed on areas with pre-ulcerative lesions. Of the total number of cases, only 3presented mild infection in the intervention area. CONCLUSIONS: Minimally invasive offloading osteotomy is a technically simple intervention, which presents a high success rate with minimal complications in our series.