Dendrogram for Anthropometric and Biomechanical Variables Causing Foot Deformities by Using Hierarchical Cluster Analysis: A Cross-Sectional Study.

Objective: The purpose of this study was to determine the factors associated with pathomechanical conditions and to determine the clustering tendency of the variables by dendrogram. Methods: The cross-sectional study was carried out with 108 physiotherapy students aged 21.36 ± 1.35 years. The variables included in the study were quadriceps (Q), subtalar, and valgus angles and medial longitudinal arch (MLA) and hallux valgus angles. The MLA and metatarsal width were measured and navicular drop tests performed under weighted and nonweighted conditions. Hierarchical cluster analysis was used to determine the clustering tendency of the variables and see how these clusters might converge. Results: Two main clusters of variables were obtained using hierarchical cluster analysis. In the first main cluster, the weighted and nonweighted metatarsal widths of the left and right sides, age, hallux valgus angle, and subtalar pronation angles of the left and right sides were found to be significantly related to each other. In the second main cluster, the weighted and nonweighted MLA, knee valgus and Q angles, weight, body mass index, weighted and nonweighted navicular drop values, gender, and height were found to be significantly related to each other. Conclusion: The relationships between variables such as MLA, hallux valgus angles, knee valgus and Q angles, weight, body mass index, weighted and nonweighted navicular drop values, gender, and height seem to be associated with pathomechanical conditions.

New Distinct Component Patterns for Plantar Pressure Variables by Using Principal Component Analysis.

BACKGROUND: It is important to determine the plantar pressure distribution of schoolchildren by applying static and dynamic foot analyses using a pedobarography device. However, it is difficult to obtain clear interpretations from results that can be explained by a large number of plantar pressure variables. The aim of this study was to use principal component analysis (PCA) to predict the main components for reducing the size of big data sets, provide a practical overview, and minimize information loss on the subject of plantar pressure assessment in youths. METHODS: In total, 112 schoolchildren were included in the study (mean ± SD: age, 10.58 ± 1.27 years; body mass index, 18.86 ± 4.33). During the research, a pedobarography device was used to obtain plantar pressure data. Each foot was divided into six anatomical regions and evaluated. Global and regional plantar pressure distributions, load and surface areas, pressure-time integrals, weight ratios, and geometric foot properties were calculated. RESULTS: The PCA yielded ten principal components that together account for 81.88% of the variation in the data set and represent new and distinct patterns. Thus, 137 variables affecting the subject were reduced to ten components. CONCLUSIONS: The numerous variables that affect static and dynamic plantar pressure distributions can be reduced to ten components by PCA, making the research results more concise and understandable.

Investigation of the factors affecting the e-learning process in occupational therapy education during the pandemic with principal component analysis.

Introduction: The aim of this study is to examine the factors affecting the e-learning process in occupational therapy education in the COVID-19 period. Method: In the study, a form containing personal information and questions about the e-learning process, the International Physical Activity Questionnaire, the Academic Self-Efficacy Scale, the Perceived Stress Scale, and the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale were applied to 253 occupational therapy students via the Google form. Principal component analysis was used to evaluate the data. Results: A large number of questionnaires were applied in the study, and principal component analysis, an advanced statistical method that enables the interpretation of this type of big data more effectively, was used. 13 components were determined, and a variance of 88% was explained. The main components were listed as students' self-perception about the education system, learning methods, home and university environment, information technologies, physical activity level, and academic performance/participation. Conclusion: We hope that the results of our study will provide a perspective on what innovations can be made for quality improvement in occupational therapy education. It would be beneficial to increase student feedback by applying similar studies in other education programs.

The effect of postural control and balance on femoral anteversion in children with spastic cerebral palsy.

[Purpose] The aim of the study was to investigate the relationships between femoral anteversion and functional balance and postural control in children with spastic cerebral palsy. [Subjects and Methods] Twenty children with spastic cerebral palsy (mean age=12.4 ± 4.5) with grosss motor functional classification system levels I, II, and III were recruited for this study. Functional balance was evaluated using the Pediatric Balance Scale, postural control was evaluated using the Trunk Control Measurement Scale, and femoral anteversion was assessed with a handheld goniometer using the great trochanter prominence method. [Results] The results indicated that there was significant correlation between femoral anteversion and Trunk Control Measurement Scale dynamic reaching score. There were no significant correlation between femoral anteversion and the Trunk Control Measurement Scale static sitting balance, Trunk Control Measurement Scale selective movement control, total Trunk Control Measurement Scale and Pediatric Balance Scale results. [Conclusion] Increased femoral anteversion has not correlation with functional balance, static sitting, and selective control of the trunk. Femoral anteversion is related to dynamic reaching activities of the trunk, and this may be the result of excessive internal pelvic rotation. It is important for the health professionals to understand that increased femoral anteversion needs to be corrected because in addition to leading to femoral internal rotation during walking, it also effects dynamic reaching activities of spastic children with cerebral palsy.