The Influence of Lead and Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris) on Generation of Pisum sativum Defense Signaling Molecules and Expression of Genes Involved in Their Biosynthesis

The main aim of this study was to understand the regulation of the biosynthesis of phytohormones as signaling molecules in the defense mechanisms of pea seedlings during the application of abiotic and biotic stress factors. It was important to identify this regulation at the molecular level in Pisum sativum L. seedlings under the influence of various concentrations of lead-i.e., a low concentration increasing plant metabolism, causing a hormetic effect, and a high dose causing a sublethal effect-and during feeding of a phytophagous insect with a piercing-sucking mouthpart-i.e., pea aphid (Acyrthosiphon pisum (Harris)). The aim of the study was to determine the expression level of genes encoding enzymes of the biosynthesis of signaling molecules such as phytohormones-i.e., jasmonates (JA/MeJA), ethylene (ET) and abscisic acid (ABA). Real-time qPCR was applied to analyze the expression of genes encoding enzymes involved in the regulation of the biosynthesis of JA/MeJA (lipoxygenase 1 (LOX1), lipoxygenase 2 (LOX2), 12-oxophytodienoate reductase 1 (OPR1) and jasmonic acid-amido synthetase (JAR1)), ET (1-aminocyclopropane-1-carboxylate synthase 3 (ACS3)) and ABA (9-cis-epoxycarotenoid dioxygenase (NCED) and aldehyde oxidase 1 (AO1)). In response to the abovementioned stress factors-i.e., abiotic and biotic stressors acting independently or simultaneously-the expression of the LOX1, LOX2, OPR1, JAR1, ACS3, NCED and AO1 genes at both sublethal and hormetic doses increased. Particularly high levels of the relative expression of the tested genes in pea seedlings growing at sublethal doses of lead and colonized by A. pisum compared to the control were noticeable. A hormetic dose of lead induced high expression levels of the JAR1, OPR1 and ACS3 genes, especially in leaves. Moreover, an increase in the concentration of phytohormones such as jasmonates (JA and MeJA) and aminococyclopropane-1-carboxylic acid (ACC)-ethylene (ET) precursor was observed. The results of this study indicate that the response of pea seedlings to lead and A. pisum aphid infestation differed greatly at both the gene expression and metabolic levels. The intensity of these defense responses depended on the organ, the metal dose and direct contact of the stress factor with the organ.

Postzygotic mosaicism of a novel PTPN11 mutation in monozygotic twins discordant for metachondromatosis

Genetic mosaicism caused by postzygotic mutations is of a great interest due to its role in human disease. Monozygotic twins arising from a single zygote are considered as genetically identical, and any differences likely to be caused by postzygotic events. Thus, phenotypically discordant monozygotic twins offer a unique opportunity to study genotype-phenotype correlation. Here, we present a three-generation family starting from a pair of monozygotic twins discordant for metachondromatosis due to postzygotic p.(Gln175His) variant in the PTPN11 gene. Both phenotypically discordant monozygotic twins harbor p.(Gln175His), however significant differences in mosaic ratio is observed not only between twins, but also within different tissue types within one individual. Phenotypic manifestation of p.(Gln175His) in examined family clearly depends on allele variant fraction (VAF). Individuals harboring constitutional mutation (VAF 50%) present typical metachondromatosis. Milder phenotype is observed in twin harboring high-level mosaicism in the tissue of ectodermal origin (VAF 45%), but not in a blood (VAF 5%). Finally, her twin sister harboring low-level mosaicism in blood (VAF 2%) and nonblood (VAF 12%) tissues is phenotypically normal. Our results provide insights into biological role of mosaicism in disease and further support the usefulness of nonblood tissues as an optimal source of DNA for the identification of postzygotic mutations in phenotypically discordant monozygotic twins.

High-resolution, three-dimensional magnetic resonance imaging axial load dynamic study improves diagnostics of the lumbar spine in clinical practice

BACKGROUND

The response to axial physiological pressure due to load transfer to the lumbar spine structures is among the various back pain mechanisms. Understanding the spine adaptation to cumulative compressive forces can influence the choice of personalized treatment strategies.

AIM

To analyze the impact of axial load on the spinal canal’s size, intervertebral foramina, ligamenta flava and lumbosacral alignment.

METHODS

We assessed 90 patients using three-dimensional isotropic magnetic resonance imaging acquisition in a supine position with or without applying an axial compression load. Anatomical structures were measured in the lumbosacral region from L1 to S1 in lying and axially-loaded magnetic resonance images. A paired t test at α = 0.05 was used to calculate the observed differences.

RESULTS

After axial loading, the dural sac area decreased significantly, by 5.2% on average (4.1%, 6.2%, P < 0.001). The intervertebral foramina decreased by 3.4% (2.7%, 4.1%, P < 0.001), except for L5-S1. Ligamenta flava increased by 3.8% (2.5%, 5.2%, P < 0.001), and the lumbosacral angle increased.

CONCLUSION

Axial load exacerbates the narrowing of the spinal canal and intervertebral foramina from L1-L2 to L4-L5. Cumulative compressive forces thicken ligamenta flava and exaggerate lumbar lordosis.

The orthopaedic surgeon's clinical and experimental experience affect methods used for the fracture healing assessment (FHA) - An International Survey

Detection of fracture healing (FH), which depends on assessment methods, is a crucial factor affecting treatment. The study aimed to examine orthopedic surgeons in terms of practical methods of fracture healing (FHA) assessment (physical, imaging, measurement, and laboratory) and to check whether surgeons participating in clinical and laboratory experiments or only clinical practitioners prefer different FHA methods. An International Survey on Fracture Healing Assessment Methods was developed and distributed through the Web-based survey portal. Ninety-three orthopedic surgeons, on average age 41.46 years, from 24 countries participated in the study. Thirty-one respondents (33.3%) reported dealing with fractures both in the clinic and in experimental studies, six (6.5%) reported dealing with fractures only in laboratory research work, and fifty-six (60.2%) indicated that they dealt with fractures only clinically. The survey's internal consistency was significantly high (Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranged from 0.84 to 0.96). The majority of respondents (80.83%) use specific clinical criteria to define a fracture union. The FHA was mainly based on the physical examination and plain radiograms. Laboratory findings, patient-oriented outcomes scores, and quantitative methods are rarely used. Orthopaedic surgeons dealing with fractures both in the clinic and in laboratory fracture research studies are more likely to use more quantitative FHA methods. Future research is needed to improve the international standard of the FHA methods for use in research, clinical trials, and clinical practice. Using a quantitative, reliable, and standardized approach, including online support, can be valuable for increasing compliance in the orthopedic surgeon population, effectively improving the adherence of fracture healing assessment in clinical conditions, and improving early detection of fracture healing disorders, improving fracture efficiency treatment.

Iranian Clinical Nurses' and Midwives' Attitudes and Awareness Towards Telenursing and Telehealth: A cross-sectional study

Objectives

This study aimed to examine the attitudes and awareness of Iranian clinical nurses and midwives towards telenursing and telehealth also referred to as e-health.

Methods

The cross-sectional study was conducted from February to August 2019 in Iran. Nurses and midwives were randomly recruited from hospitals affiliated with Mashhad University of Medical Sciences in Mashhad, Iran using a stratified cluster random sampling method. Data were collected using a reliable and valid Persian-language questionnaire consisting of 32 close-ended survey items to examine Internet/computer access, daily Internet use and awareness of and general attitude towards telehealth and telenursing; statistical analyses were performed.

Results

A total of 523 nurses and midwives were included in this study (response rate: 94.4%). The mean age and duration of clinical practice were 33.36 ± 7.46 and 8.88 ± 6.73 years, respectively. The majority of participants recognised the definition of telenursing (66.7%) and telehealth (80.1%). A positive attitude towards telenursing and telehealth was reported by 73.0% of the participants. Clinical nurses and midwives with a master’s degree were more aware of the definition of telehealth compared to those with undergraduate bachelor degrees (P = 0.03). Additionally, midwives significantly more frequently presented a positive attitude towards telehealth and telenursing compared to nurses (86.2% versus 71.2%; P = 0.01).

Conclusion

The positive attitude of the current participants was an important factor in the promotion of telenursing and telehealth. The implementation of educational and infrastructure developmental programs can help speed up executional processes in these fields.

Does Quantitative Ultrasound at the Calcaneus Predict an Osteoporosis Diagnosis in Postmenopausal Women from the Silesia Osteo Active Study?

The aims of the study were to assess the clinical conformity between quantitative ultrasound (QUS) and densitometry with use of the standard World Health Organization T-score thresholds to determine optimal diagnostic cutoff values for QUS T-scores in different age groups. Three hundred sixty-five postmenopausal Caucasian women were enrolled into the study and divided into two age groups (<65 y and ≥65 y). Skeletal status was assessed using QUS measurements at the calcaneus and bone densitometry at the spine and proximal femur (Hologic Explorer, Bedford, MA, USA). QUS measurement results expressed as the stiffness index (SI) correlated significantly with both femoral neck bone mineral density (r = 0.51, p < 0.0001) and lumbar spine bone mineral density (r = 0.52, p < 0.0001). On the basis of receiver operating characteristic curve analyses, the thresholds for correspondence between QUS T-score values and T-score -2.5SD in dual X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) were established. They ranged between -1.63SD and -1.70SD in relation to femoral neck DXA and between -1.22SD and -1.51SD in relation to lumbar spine DXA, depending on age category. In conclusion, the study described here confirmed that QUS measurements at the calcaneus may provide information comparable to DXA examinations at the femoral neck and lumbar spine in postmenopausal women.

LuluDB-The Database Created Based on Small RNA, Transcriptome, and Degradome Sequencing Shows the Wide Landscape of Non-coding and Coding RNA in Yellow Lupine (Lupinus luteus L.) Flowers and Pods

Yellow lupine (Lupinus luteus L.) belongs to a legume family that benefits from symbiosis with nitrogen-fixing bacteria. Its seeds are rich in protein, which makes it a valuable food source for animals and humans. Yellow lupine is also the model plant for basic research on nodulation or abscission of organs. Nevertheless, the knowledge about the molecular regulatory mechanisms of its generative development is still incomplete. The RNA-Seq technique is becoming more prominent in high-throughput identification and expression profiling of both coding and non-coding RNA sequences. However, the huge amount of data generated with this method may discourage other scientific groups from making full use of them. To overcome this inconvenience, we have created a database containing analysis-ready information about non-coding and coding L. luteus RNA sequences (LuluDB). LuluDB was created on the basis of RNA-Seq analysis of small RNA, transcriptome, and degradome libraries obtained from yellow lupine cv. Taper flowers, pod walls, and seeds in various stages of development, flower pedicels, and pods undergoing abscission or maintained on the plant. It contains sequences of miRNAs and phased siRNAs identified in L. luteus, information about their expression in individual samples, and their target sequences. LuluDB also contains identified lncRNAs and protein-coding RNA sequences with their organ expression and annotations to widely used databases like GO, KEGG, NCBI, Rfam, Pfam, etc. The database also provides sequence homology search by BLAST using, e.g., an unknown sequence as a query. To present the full capabilities offered by our database, we performed a case study concerning transcripts annotated as DCL 1–4 (DICER LIKE 1–4) homologs involved in small non-coding RNA biogenesis and identified miRNAs that most likely regulate DCL1 and DCL2 expression in yellow lupine. LuluDB is available at http://luluseqdb.umk.pl/basic/web/index.php.

Decreased Vertical Trunk Inclination Angle and Pelvic Inclination as the Result of Mid-High-Heeled Footwear on Static Posture Parameters in Asymptomatic Young Adult Women

The influence of high-heel footwear on the lumbar lordosis angle, anterior pelvic tilt, and sacral tilt are inconsistently described in the literature. This study aimed to investigate the impact of medium-height heeled footwear on the static posture parameters of homogeneous young adult standing women. Heel geometry, data acquisition process, as well as data analysis and parameter extraction stage, were controlled. Seventy-six healthy young adult women with experience in wearing high-heeled shoes were enrolled. Data of fifty-three subjects were used for analysis due to exclusion criteria (scoliotic posture or missing measurement data). A custom structured light surface topography measurement system was used for posture parameters assessment. Three barefoot measurements were taken as a reference and tested for the reliability of the posture parameters. Two 30-degree wedges were used to imitate high-heel shoes to achieve a repeatable foot position. Our study confirmed the significant (p < 0.001) reduced vertical balance angle and pelvis inclination angle with large and medium-to-large effects, respectively, due to high-heel shoes. No significant differences were found in the kyphosis or lordosis angles. High-heeled shoes of medium height in young asymptomatic women can lead to a straightening effect associated with a reduced vertical balance angle and decreased pelvic inclination.

Polish Validation of the SarQoL®, a Quality of Life Questionnaire Specific to Sarcopenia

Recently, SarQoL® (Sarcopenia and Quality of Life), a quality of life (QoL) questionnaire specific to sarcopenia, was successfully developed. For practical reasons, there is a great interest in validating this questionnaire in other populations. The aim of this cross-sectional study was to translate and adjust the SarQoL® into Polish and to standardize the validity of this method for the assessment of sarcopenic individuals in Poland with regard to psychometric properties. The English version was used for the translation process. A total of 106 community-dwelling Caucasian subjects aged 73.3 ± 5.94 years (65.1% females) were studied, with 60 participants being diagnosed sarcopenic. The translation and cross-cultural adaptation was carried out in five phases according to specific standard guidelines. There were no major linguistic issues in the translation process. The data confirmed a good discriminant validity, i.e., significantly lower scores for all domains (reduced global QoL in sarcopenic subjects compared to non-sarcopenic ones; 54.9 ± 16.5 vs. 63.3 ± 17.1, p = 0.013), and high internal consistency (Cronbach's alpha coefficient was 0.92). The significant correlation of the SarQoL® scores with those of other questionnaires (SF-36v2® Health Survey and EuroQoL-5-Dimension) that are supposed to have similar dimensions indicated the consistent construct validity of the SarQoL®-PL questionnaire. No floor/ceiling effects were found. An excellent agreement was found between the test and the re-test (intraclass coefficient correlation (ICC): 0.99). The first Polish version of the SarQoL® questionnaire is valid and consistent and therefore may be used with reliability for clinical and research purposes regarding QoL assessment of sarcopenic individuals. However, further research, in particular prospective studies, is needed to determine potential limitations and the suitability of the new tool for the Polish scenario and specificity.

De novo Transcriptome Profiling of Flowers, Flower Pedicels and Pods of Lupinus luteus (Yellow Lupine) Reveals Complex Expression Changes during Organ Abscission

Yellow lupine (Lupinus luteus L., Taper c.), a member of the legume family (Fabaceae L.), has an enormous practical importance. Its excessive flower and pod abscission represents an economic drawback, as proper flower and seed formation and development is crucial for the plant's productivity. Generative organ detachment takes place at the basis of the pedicels, within a specialized group of cells collectively known as the abscission zone (AZ). During plant growth these cells become competent to respond to specific signals that trigger separation and lead to the abolition of cell wall adhesion. Little is known about the molecular network controlling the yellow lupine organ abscission. The aim of our study was to establish the divergences and similarities in transcriptional networks in the pods, flowers and flower pedicels abscised or maintained on the plant, and to identify genes playing key roles in generative organ abscission in yellow lupine. Based on de novo transcriptome assembly, we identified 166,473 unigenes representing 219,514 assembled unique transcripts from flowers, flower pedicels and pods undergoing abscission and from control organs. Comparison of the cDNA libraries from dropped and control organs helped in identifying 1,343, 2,933 and 1,491 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) in the flowers, flower pedicels and pods, respectively. In DEG analyses, we focused on genes involved in phytohormonal regulation, cell wall functioning and metabolic pathways. Our results indicate that auxin, ethylene and gibberellins are some of the main factors engaged in generative organ abscission. Identified 28 DEGs common for all library comparisons are involved in cell wall functioning, protein metabolism, water homeostasis and stress response. Interestingly, among the common DEGs we also found an miR169 precursor, which is the first evidence of micro RNA engaged in abscission. A KEGG pathway enrichment analysis revealed that the identified DEGs were predominantly involved in carbohydrate and amino acid metabolism, but some other pathways were also targeted. This study represents the first comprehensive transcriptome-based characterization of organ abscission in L. luteus and provides a valuable data source not only for understanding the abscission signaling pathway in yellow lupine, but also for further research aimed at improving crop yields.

Monitoring of spine curvatures and posture during pregnancy using surface topography - case study and suggestion of method

Background

Low back and pelvic pain is one of the most frequently reported disorders in pregnancy, however etiology and pathology of this problem have not been fully determined. The relationship between back pain experienced during pregnancy and posture remains unclear. It is challenging to measure reliably postural and spinal changes at the time of pregnancy, since most imaging studies cannot be used due to the radiation burden. 3D shape measurement, or surface topography (ST), systems designed for posture evaluation could potentially fill this void. A pilot study was conducted to test the potential of monitoring the change of spine curvatures and posture during pregnancy using surface topography. A single case was studied to test the methodology and preliminarily assess the usefulness of the procedure before performing a randomized trial. The apparatus used in this study was metrologically tested and utilized earlier in scoliosis screening.

Case presentation

The subject was measured using a custom-made structured light illumination scanner with accuracy of 0.2 mm. Measurement was taken every 2 weeks, between 17th and 37th week of pregnancy, 11 measurements in total. From the measurement the thoracic kyphosis and lumbar lordosis angles, and vertical balance angle were extracted automatically. Custom-written software was used for analysis. Oswestry Low Back Pain Disability Questionnaire (ODI) was done with every measurement. The values were correctly extracted from the measurement. The results were: 50.9 ± 2.4° for kyphosis angle, 58.1 ± 2.1° for lordosis angle and 4.7 ± 1.7° for vertical balance angle. The registered change was 7.4° in kyphosis angle, 8.4° in lordosis angle and 5.5° in vertical balance angle. The calculated ODI values were between moderate disability and severe disability (22 to 58 %).

Conclusions

This case study presents that surface topography may be suitable for monitoring of spinal curvature and posture change in pregnant women. The ionizing radiation studies are contraindicated during pregnancy. Surface topography data connected with information from pain level questionnaires allows to investigate the connection between changes in posture and back pain.

The role of physical activity in early adulthood and middle-age on bone health after menopause in epidemiological population from Silesia Osteo Active Study

BACKGROUND

Osteoporosis is a growing problem in women after menopause. Among factors protecting from this disease is a physical activity (PA).

AIM

The objective of the study was to evaluate the influence of PA in early adulthood and at middle-age on bone health after menopause.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

The study group consisted of 362 randomly recruited postmenopausal women after menopause. Mean age was 65.2±6.9 years. Medical history was collected from all participants, and they completed questionnaires assessing PA in early adulthood and at middle-age. Physical capacity was estimated using the Duke scale. Bone status was measured with use of densitometry (DXA) for lumbar spine and hip and calcaneus quantitative ultrasound (QUS) measurements.

RESULTS

Physical activity and healthy lifestyle activity in early adulthood did not correlate with bone health, but current PA did (for QUS parameters r=.11; P<.05). Physical capacity correlated with all QUS parameters (r=.2 to .22; P<.05) and femoral neck (FN) BMD and T-score (for both r=.16; P<.05). Current PA frequency at the level of several times a week has the highest positive impact on FN DXA results (P=.01). Bone mass in DXA and QUS variables is related to the type of exercises (P<.05).

CONCLUSION

Physical activity, especially several times a week, at middle-age is a major factor influencing bone health in women after menopause. Further studies concerning the type of exercises are needed.

12th International Conference on Conservative Management of Spinal Deformities – SOSORT 2015 Annual Meeting

O1 The functional properties of paraspinal muscles in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS): A systematic review of the literature

Eric Parent, Alan Richter

O2 The importance of the lateral profile in the treatment of idiopathic scoliosis

Angelo Gabriele Aulisa, Vincenzo Guzzanti, Paolo Pizzetti, Andrea Poscia, Lorenzo Aulisa

O3 Radiological outcome in Adolescent idiopathic scoliosis patients 20 years after treatment

Ane Simony, Steen Bach Christensen, Mikkel O Andersen

O4 Junctional Kyphosis, how can we detect and monitor it during growth?

Alessandra Negrini, Sabrina Donzelli, Laura Maserati, Fabio Zaina, Jorge H Villafane, Stefano Negrini

O5 Usefulness of the clinical measure of trunk imbalance in adolescent idiopathic scoliosis

Carole Fortin, Erin Grunstein, Hubert Labelle, Stefan Parent, Debbie Ehrmann Feldman

O6 Can ultrasound imaging be used to determine curve flexibility when designing spinal orthoses?

Edmond Lou, Rui Zheng, Doug Hill, Andreas Donauer, Melissa Tilburn, Jim Raso

O7 Reliability of the Schroth curve type classification in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis (AIS)

Sanja Schreiber, Eric Parent, Greg Kawchuk, Douglas Hedden

O8 Can Trunk Appearance Perception Scale (TAPS) be used as a descriptive tool of scoliosis severity?

Judith Sánchez-Raya, Antonia Matamalas Adrover, Elisabetta D’Agata, Joan Bagó Granell

O9 Magnitude of the Cobb angle on an X-ray in relation to the angle of trunk rotation in children who come to the “Troniny” Scoliosis Treatment Centre

Marek Kluszczynski, Anna Kluszczyńska, Jacek Wąsik, Marta Motow-Czyż, Adam Kluszczyński

O10 Cobb angel measurement without X-ray, a novel method

Ane Simony, Karen Hojmark Hansen; Hanne Thomsen; Mikkel Meyer Andersen; Morten Vuust

O11 The postural tone magnitude and distribution in patients diagnosed with an adolescent idiopathic scoliosis: a preliminary study

Irmina Blicharska, Jacek Durmała, Bartosz Wnuk, Małgorzata Matyja

O12 From studies on the function of the respiratory system in children with body posture defects

Andrzej Szopa, Małgorzata Domagalska-Szopa, Weronika Gallert-Kopyto, Tomasz Łosień, Ryszard Plintla

O13 Scoliosis as the “first” sign of various diseases

Franz Landauer, Karl Vanas

O14 The effectiveness of core stabilization exercises versus conventional exercises in addition to brace wearing in patients with adolescent idiopathic acoliosis

Gozde Gur, Necdet Sukru Altun, Yavuz Yakut

O15 The effect of physiotherapy techniques on the body balance in patients with scoliosis treated with corrective appliances

Piotr Gawda, Piotr Majcher

O16 New combine method treating AIS – preliminary results

Lior Neuhaus Sulam

O17 Does a 4-week intensive course of ScolioGold therapy reduce angle of trunk rotation in scoliotic patients: a retrospective case series.

Michael Bradley, David Glynn, Alex Hughes, Erika Maude, Christine Pilcher

O18 Schroth physiotherapy method without bracing is an effective treatment for scoliosis in improving curves and avoiding surgery and should be offered as a treatment option for scoliosis in Canada: case series

Andrea Lebel, Victoria Ashley Lebel, Judit Orbán

O19 Rotation of the trunk and pelvis and coupled movements in the sagittal plane in double support stance in adolescent girls with idiopathic scoliosis

Agnieszka Stępień, Krzysztof Graff

O20 Curve progression analysis in Risser 0 patients orthotically managed with compliance monitors

D. Speers

O21 Conservative treatment in Scheuermann’s kyphosis: comparison between lateral curve and variation of the vertebral geometry

Angelo Gabriele Aulisa, Vincenzo Guzzanti, Giuseppe Mastantuoni, Andrea Poscia, Lorenzo Aulisa

O22 The plaster cast in the conservative treatment of idiopathic scoliosis can still play a positive role?

Angelo Gabriele Aulisa, Vincenzo Guzzanti, Francesco Falciglia, Andrea Poscia, Lorenzo Aulisa

O23 Bracing for Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis (AIS) and Scheuermann Kyphosis : The issue of overtreatment in Greece

Nikos Karavidas

O24 Efficacy of Milwaukee brace for correction of scheurmann kyphosis

Mohammadreza Etemadifar

O25 The three dimensional analysis of the Sforzesco brace correction

Sabrina Donzelli, Fabio Zaina, Monia Lusini, Salvatore Minnella, Luca Balzarini, Stefano Respizzi, Stefano Negrini

O26 Quality of Life in adolescents with idiopathic scoliosis: A comparison measured by the Kidscreen 27 between scoliotic patients and healthy controls

Kathrin Güttinger

O27 The degree of illness acceptance in young women with idiopathic scoliosis treated with orthopedic braces: a preliminary study

Jacek Durmała, Irmina Blicharska, Agnieszka Drosdzol–Cop, Violetta Skrzypulec–Plinta

O28 Which are the personality traits of the patients with Adolescent Idiopathic Scoliosis?

Elisabetta D’Agata, Judith Sánchez-Raya

O29 How many Scolioses do exist in the same person? A zoom vision on the perception of the patient

Judith Sánchez-Raya, Elisabetta D’Agata

P1 The algorithm for the automatic detection of the pelvic obliquity based on analysis of the PA viev of the x-ray image

Sławomir Paśko, Wojciech Glinkowski

P2 Monitoring of spine curvatures and posture during pregnancy using surface topography – case study and method assessment

Jakub Michoński, Katarzyna Walesiak, Anna Pakuła, Robert Sitnik, Wojciech Glinkowski

P3 Spinal rotation under static and dynamic conditions: a prospective study comparing normative data vs. scoliosis

Helmut Diers

P4 The principle of non-surgical treatment of idiopathic scoliosis right-sided breast depending on the volatility of the formation of the intervertebral discs and vertebral bodies

Piotr Majcher, Piotr Gawda

P5 Unexpected late progression of adolescent idiopathic scoliosis treated with short-term, aggressive, full-time bracing and Schroth physiotherapy with excellent preliminary result: case study

Andrea Lebel, Victoria Ashley Lebel

P6 Visible posture in relation to the neuroanatomical and neurodynamical features in spinal deformations

Piet van Loon, Ruud van Erve, Andre Grotenhuis

P7 Immediate effects of scoliosis-specific corrective exercises on the Cobb angle after 1 week and after 1 year of practice

Karina Zapata, Eric Parent, Dan Sucato

P8 Retrospective analysis of idiopathic scoliosis medical records coming from one out-patient clinic for compatibility with Scoliosis Research Society criteria of brace treatment studies

Krzysztof Korbel, Mateusz Kozinoga, Łukasz Stoliński, Tomasz Kotwicki

P9 Adult female with severe progressive scoliosis possibly secondary to benign tumor removal at age 3 treated with scoliosis specific Schroth physiotherapy after refusing surgery: case study

Andrea Lebel, Victoria Ashley Lebel

P10 New aspects of scoliosis therapy planning and monitoring

Helmut Diers

P11 Outcome of intensive outpatient rehabilitation in an adult patient with M. Scheuermann evaluated by radiologic imaging – a case report

Hagit Berdishevsky

P12 The effectiveness of a Scoliosis Specific Home Exercise Program and bracing to reduce an idiopathic scoliosis curve with more than 90 % success in less than a year of exercises. Case report.

Hagit Berdishevsky

High regional genetic diversity and lack of host-specificity in Ostrinia nubilalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) as revealed by mtDNA variation

The European corn borer (Ostrinia nubilalis) infests a wide array of host plants and is considered one of the most serious pests of maize in Europe. Recent studies suggest that individuals feeding on maize in Europe should be referred to O. nubilalis (sensu nov.), while those infesting dicots as Ostrinia scapulalis (sensu nov.). We test if the clear genetic distinctiveness among individuals of O. nubilalis living on maize vs. dicots is tracked by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA). We used fragments of COI and COII genes of 32 individuals traditionally recognized as O. nubilalis collected on three host plants, maize, mugwort and hop, growing in different parts of Poland. In addition, we reconstructed the mtDNA phylogeny of Ostrinia species based on our data and sequences retrieved from GenBank to assess host and/or biogeographic patterns. We also compared haplotype variation found in Poland (east-central Europe) with other regions (Anatolia, Eastern Europe, Balkans, Far East, North America). Our study showed high mtDNA diversity of O. nubilalis in Poland in comparison with other regions and revealed rare haplotypes likely of Asian origin. We did not find distinct mtDNA haplotypes in larvae feeding on maize vs. dicotyledonous plants. Phylogenetic analyses showed an apparent lack of mtDNA divergence among putatively distinct lineages belonging to the O. nubilalis group as identical haplotypes are shared by Asian and European individuals. We argue that human-mediated dispersal, hybridization and sporadic host jumps are likely responsible for the lack of a geographic pattern in mtDNA variation.

Telemedicine as a special case of machine translation

Machine translation is evolving quite rapidly in terms of quality. Nowadays, we have several machine translation systems available in the web, which provide reasonable translations. However, these systems are not perfect, and their quality may decrease in some specific domains. This paper examines the effects of different training methods when it comes to Polish-English Statistical Machine Translation system used for the medical data. Numerous elements of the EMEA parallel text corpora and not related OPUS Open Subtitles project were used as the ground for creation of phrase tables and different language models including the development, tuning and testing of these translation systems. The BLEU, NIST, METEOR, and TER metrics have been used in order to evaluate the results of various systems. Our experiments deal with the systems that include POS tagging, factored phrase models, hierarchical models, syntactic taggers, and other alignment methods. We also executed a deep analysis of Polish data as preparatory work before automatized data processing such as true casing or punctuation normalization phase. Normalized metrics was used to compare results. Scores lower than 15% mean that Machine Translation engine is unable to provide satisfying quality, scores greater than 30% mean that translations should be understandable without problems and scores over 50 reflect adequate translations. The average results of Polish to English translations scores for BLEU, NIST, METEOR, and TER were relatively high and ranged from 7058 to 8272. The lowest score was 6438. The average results ranges for English to Polish translations were little lower (6758-7897). The real-life implementations of presented high quality Machine Translation Systems are anticipated in general medical practice and telemedicine.

Telehealth and telenursing perception and knowledge among university students of nursing in poland

OBJECTIVE

Telehealth and telenursing are becoming the new reality in studying nursing. Little is known whether undergraduate nursing students receive adequate education on telenursing for patient care. The aim for this study was to evaluate the knowledge and attitude of nursing students toward telenursing.

SUBJECTS AND METHODS

Students of nursing faculties from medical universities in Poland were invited to complete a survey about telehealth and telenursing. The survey was conducted utilizing a Web-based surveying platform ( www.mini-ankiety.pl ).

RESULTS

We surveyed 308 undergraduate students of nursing faculty-291 females (94%) and 17 males (6%)-from medical universities in Poland. There were 116 students in their first year (course) (38%) and 96 students each in the second and third years (31%). Most of the students (220 [71%]) in the study group were in the age range from 20 to 23 years. The accurate definition of telemedicine was identified by 251 (82%) respondents. The definition of telenursing was recognized properly by 230 (75%) respondents. Of the students, 207 (67%) would anticipate telenursing service implementation into the national healthcare system, and 214 (69.49%) would appreciate the addition of telenursing classes to the curriculum. Students from a few universities showed significantly higher willingness to introduce telenursing classes into nursing curriculum and the intention to use telenursing services in their future nursing practice. The difference among universities could be influenced by regional e-health initiatives. This study has shown the rise of trust in technology along with the increase in the year of nursing study.

CONCLUSIONS

The current generation of university students of nursing seems to be well educated in medical informatics and technology use. They are better prepared for and open to information society membership, including the practice of telehealth. The advancement in university education has an influence on positive attitudes toward telenursing and may become a milestone in the development of e-health in Poland.

Automatic recognition of surface landmarks of anatomical structures of back and posture

Faulty postures, scoliosis and sagittal plane deformities should be detected as early as possible to apply preventive and treatment measures against major clinical consequences. To support documentation of the severity of deformity and diminish x-ray exposures, several solutions utilizing analysis of back surface topography data were introduced. A novel approach to automatic recognition and localization of anatomical landmarks of the human back is presented that may provide more repeatable results and speed up the whole procedure. The algorithm was designed as a two-step process involving a statistical model built upon expert knowledge and analysis of three-dimensional back surface shape data. Voronoi diagram is used to connect mean geometric relations, which provide a first approximation of the positions, with surface curvature distribution, which further guides the recognition process and gives final locations of landmarks. Positions obtained using the developed algorithms are validated with respect to accuracy of manual landmark indication by experts. Preliminary validation proved that the landmarks were localized correctly, with accuracy depending mostly on the characteristics of a given structure. It was concluded that recognition should mainly take into account the shape of the back surface, putting as little emphasis on the statistical approximation as possible.

Telediagnostic 3D school screening of back curvatures and posture using structured light method - pilot study

BACKGROUND

Several studies consider the school scoliosis screening as controversial. Many authors postulate to improve its clinical effectiveness.

AIM

Authors assumed that three dimensional telediagnostic surface topography measurements allowing measuring several postural deformity indexes and angles of curvatures in sagittal plane may enhance current practice. The study was designed to determine usefulness of school screening back evaluation performed utilizing the three dimensional telediagnostic measurement system.

METHODS

The measurement module is based on structured light method using "3D Orthoscreen" system. The technique for 3D image acquisition of back shape is based on temporal phase shifting and Gray codes. Measurement data was securely archived for remote access by investigator over the secure Internet connection. Acquired "images" were transferred to Telediagnostic Center for clinical evaluation. Spine parameters and deformation indexes like Posterior Trunk Symmetry Index (POTSI), Deformity in the Axial Plane Index (DAPI), kyphosis and lordosis angle were measured. The preliminary study was performed in 2 selected schools (basic and middle schools). The study was approved by Bioethical Committee. Clouds of points representing back topography of assessed subjects were acquired at schools in March and May 2011 and stored for remote evaluation and analysis.

RESULTS

758 children averagely aged 11.1 years (from 5 to 16), 387 females and 371 males, were examined. Their average body mass was 45.13 kg [16-105; STD 16.4] and average height was 151.43 cm, [110-192; STD 18.3]. The average values of back assessment parameters were as follows: POTSI 15.97% [0-73.4; STD 10.3]; DAPI 0.88% [0-5.9; STD 0.76]; kyphosis angle 10.19° [0-32; STD 5.82]; and lordosis angle 32,82° [0-56; STD 9.86].

CONCLUSION

Technical and clinical issues of the practical implementation allowed to elaborate preliminary protocol for cohort studies addressed to subject (i.e. parents acceptance of examination of undressed back) and technical issues (i.e. upload data and retrieval, network transfer velocity). Postural telediagnostics was found sufficiently feasible for further implementation of remote, cohort 3D back shape evaluations including school screening. Permanently saved 3D data allow monitoring back surface of the individual subjects.

Method of pectus excavatum measurement based on structured light technique

We present an automatic method for assessment of pectus excavatum severity based on an optical 3-D markerless shape measurement. A four-directional measurement system based on a structured light projection method is built to capture the shape of the body surface of the patients. The system setup is described and typical measurement parameters are given. The automated data analysis path is explained. Their main steps are: normalization of trunk model orientation, cutting the model into slices, analysis of each slice shape, selecting the proper slice for the assessment of pectus excavatum of the patient, and calculating its shape parameter. We develop a new shape parameter (I(3ds)) that shows high correlation with the computed tomography (CT) Haller index widely used for assessment of pectus excavatum. Clinical results and the evaluation of developed indexes are presented.

Clinical experiences with ultrasonometric measurement of fracture healing

INTRODUCTION

The use of noninvasive, acoustic methods like ultrasonometry is becoming increasingly interesting in the quantitative assessment of fracture healing. A reliable measurement technique has been described using ultrasonic transducers placed across the fracture gap. Ultrasonic image aiming is useful for accurate transducers location, on both sides of the gap. The study was designed to assess the clinical application of measurement of ultrasonic wave propagation through the fracture callus.

MATERIAL AND METHODS

Contact testing was performed with a prototype ultrasonic bone tester UTTK-01 device. The measuring technique was validated experimentally on human long bones in vitro, as well on volunteers. Twenty four diaphyseal fractures of long bones were prospectively assessed. Transducers put on a fixed distance frame were properly placed with ultrasonographic focusing.

RESULTS

Average ultrasound propagation time was 1917 m/s. The measured values for fractures rose with time after injury. The average speed of sound measured between 10th and 21st day after fracture was 1200,85 m/s, after 7 to 8 weeks - 1559,35 m/s, after 12 weeks - 1640,64 m/s, after 16 weeks - 1735,72 m/s.

CONCLUSIONS

We conclude that the technique for measuring long bone ultrasound velocity with ultrasonographic centering on the fracture gap allows repetitive positioning of ultrasonic transducers for measurement. Ultrasonic measurement of bone union may support or modify clinical decision. However, further studies are required to make the ultrasonometric method easier and more user friendly for clinical studies.

Discopathy on the internet

A wide selection of websites is presented, in order to show how the Internet can and should be used to gain information on the anatomy, pathology, and treatment of the intervertebral disc, and to learn about scientific achievements in this respect.

Morphology and properties of intervertebral discs - selected issues (part I)

Back pain is a major public health problem in industrialized countries. Own experience and literature review confirms that back pain is strongly associated with degeneration of the intervertebral disc. Disc degeneration alters disc height and their physics and chemistry. Those changes alter mechanics of the rest of the spinal column, possibly adversely affecting the behaviour of other spinal structures such as muscles and ligaments. <br /> Authors shortly review the morphology and selected properties of normal discs and the changes that arise during degeneration what may influence an understanding of the etiology of this disorder and its treatment.

Shoulder arthroscopy complications

Shoulder arthroscopy has become a popular diagnostic and therapeutic procedure during the past two decades. In many centers shoulder arthroscopy has become a standard procedure. Complications associated with shoulder arthroscopy are relatively rare. Most of the complications can be minimized through proper surgical technique, good instrumentation, clinical experience and familiarity with anatomy. We evaluated cases from own clinical experience and reviewed the literature on complication of arthroscopic shoulder surgery and their management. Complications can be divided into general, generic to all shoulder procedures, and the type of procedure performed. Complications specific to shoulder arthroscopic procedures may affect articular capsule, brachial plexus nerves and wound healing. Serious and rare complications, like upper limb DVT, pneumothorax or rotator cuff jatrogenic injury require immediate recognition and treatment. Proper patient selection, attention to operative procedure (patient positioning, proper traction, anatomic portal placement), and careful post-operative care can minimize the morbidity associated with complications if they occur.

Shoulder arthroscopy in the net

Autorzy dokonali przegladu stron internetowych poświeconych artroskopowej chirurgii barku. Opisano cechy charakterystyczne wybranych witryn, zwracajac uwage na ich walory dydaktyczne i praktyczne, zarówno dla lekarza, jak i pacjenta.

Arthroscopic treatment of subacromial impingement syndrom

Background. Subacromial impingement syndrome is a frequently seen disorder of the shoulder, however it is also often misdiagnosed. The aim of the study was the assessment of the clinical value of the arthroscopic subacromial decompression. <br /> Material and methods. From January 1999 to December 2002 sixty five patients were included to our study. The main complaints of patients was severe, long-lasting and progressing pain of the shoulder. Sixty one patients had failed conservative treatment (physical therapy, NSAID's, multiple steriod injections). Average duration of pain before surgery was 20 months, ranged from 1 to 50 months. On examination, restricted range of abduction and narrowing of subacromial space to 5 mm (3-8 mm) on plain AP X-ray view were found. The patients were followed up after six and twelve months after surgery.<br /> Results. Finally, we noted full range of movement and absence of pain in neutral shoulder position in 38 patients. Four patients presented persistent pain while moving their shoulders, but no resting pain. In two cases pain relief was achieved but shoulder joint ROM restriction by 20 degrees abduction and 10 degrees external rotation. <br /> Conclusions. Based on performed study we conclude that treatment emploing arthroscopic subacromial decompression is a valuable method, allowing to achieve very good outcomes and to introduce early rehabilitation.

Tecnological standards of teleradiology function in orthopedics and trauma care

Digital Image is a relatively new quality in orthopedic diagnostics, which allows transmitting the image instead of the patient. Digital or digitized image can be transmitted via Internet, e-mail or local net. Observations derived form literature and own experience indicate that teleradiology may effectively provide radiologic consultation or even improve the detailed radiologic evaluation. This article describes sufficiently the technologic problems of teleradiology and explains terminology used for this branch, what allows understanding the fundamentals of teleradiology even for person having little technical and informatics knowledge. Authors describe equipment demands and standards of function for teleradiologic services.

Antomy of the Proximal Femur -geometry and architecture. Morphologic investigation and literature review

Material and methods. To analyze morphology and endosteal anatomy of the proximal ends of the femur of 40 cadaver femora were x-rayed, dissected and measured. Various variables including trabecular pattern, calcar size, and cortical bone were measured and correlated. Observations were compared to literature concerns the various aspects of anatomy of the proximal femur. <br /> Results. One must recognize that much of the information that we gather in every day practice is two dimensional, namely, x-rays of the hip. Morphological data with three-dimensional perspective demonstrate internal architecture of proximal femur including calcar femorale. Authors pointed out lower values of neck shaft angle than observed in other examined populations.<br /> Conclusions. They found that topographic and angular position of calcar femorale depends on anteversion angle. Shadow of the calcar on X-ray of the femur in Lauenstein's view may become invisible in some cases what is correlated to its real dimension. Calcar femorale as a anatomical structure has no strict topographic coincidence with "calcar resorption" observed in some total hip replacements.

eMedicine - e-mail, teleconsulation in orthopedics and traumatology of the motor apparatus

Electronic mail e-mail entered into daily medical practice. It allows various medical activities. An article describes use of e-mail in many aspects of medical practice and orthopaedics as well. Application to use an e-mail between physicians, patient-physician and electronic mailing list attendance dedicated to a specially. Benefits and potential pitfalls associates with the use of e-mail between physicians were described and requirements and necessities for eConsultations as well.

Some remarks concerning basic anatomy of joints

Many clinical disciplines demand revision of anatomical description. Classic anatomical description does not always fit to physiologic and functional observations. However, most of the anatomical nomina are clear and enough to be valid for all medical disciplines. Authors present some remarks concerning basic anatomical knowledge of diarthrodial joints.

Anatomical determinations of surgical approaches to the hip joint and their modifications for revision hip arthroplasty

Authors present basic anatomical review of surgical approaches to the hip joint and some considerations of modifications of standard approaches during revision hip arthroplasty.

Fractura and dislocation of the thoracic spine without spinal cord injury in a patient with ankylosing spondylitis: A case report

This article presents a rare case of a fracture of the thoracic spine accompanied by significant dislocation but without spinal cord injury in a 74-year-old male patient with ankylosing spondylitis. A literature search failed to reveal a similar case. Conservative treatment produced a good outcome.

Lexicon of synovial bursae

A synovial bursa (bursa synovialis) is a recess in the articular cavity, formed at a point where the fibrous layer of the articular capsule has become thin and the synovia is able to extrude beyond it. Many bursae lose their connection with the articular cavity they accompany. Their function is to enhance the sliding of muscles, tendons, and other soft tissues in relation to movable bone structures, and to shift loads between bones and soft tissues. The anatomy of bursae is of importance in the endoscopic surgery of joints and of the bursae themselves. In many clinical situations the dominant symptoms may originate from particular synovial bursae. The Terminologia Anatomica (1998) lists ca. 50 bursae. The authors review the current state of knowledge regarding the anatomy of synovial bursae. Those of particular clinical importance are identified and suggestions are made for reconciling differences in clinical and anatomical terminology.

Nutrient foramina in the diaphyses of long bones

This paper presents the localization and number of nutrient foramina in human long bones. Based on the literature and their own observations, the authors describe the sites and courses of nutrient vessels in the humerus, radius, ulna, femur, tibia, fibula and other long bones.

Ultrasonographic monitoring of bone union after fractures of long bones

Bone union after fracture was monitorem using ultrasonography to evaluate the progres sof 15 long bone fractures treated conservatively or surgically (intramedullary nail or external stabilizer). The USG images of late postfracture changes were assessed in 21 patients an average of 60 weeks post trauma. The course of changes observed in USG imaging was observed to be generally parallel to the indications of bone union confirmed in clinical and radiological examinations. The phases of echogenic changes in callus were essentially similar to the scheme described by other authors, but there was some delay in their occurrence. After an average time of 59,43 (20-486) weeks post fracture, callus could still be seen as a convexity or slight depression in the course of the echo of dense matter. The image of an echo originating from the intramedullary nail could still be seen for up to 15 weeks after fracture. Ultrasonography brings additional qualitative data on the progress of fracture healing, but one should keep in mind that it is subjective in nature and dependent on the operator.

The anatomy of surgical approaches to the cervical spine

The authors present the anatomical basis of surgical approaches to the cervical spine. The posterior, anterior, and transpharyngeal approaches are described, with particular attention to orientation structures, incisions, surgical dissection, and anatomical considerations regarding various hazards encountered during surgery of the cervical spine.

Decision Support Systems (DSS) in fracture treatment

Systems for analysis and verification of final treatment results (outcomes) play articular role in medical sciences. Data collected by Decision Support Systems (DSS) allows the making of multivariable analysis and optimalized clinical decision. The options of applying the Decision Support Systems (DSS) in orthopaedics traumatology based on fracture treatment with special interest in fracture diagnostics and healing monitoring are described. The paper explains value of operational systems, central database, sort of data collected, analytical tools and data delivery system. Authors also emphasize telemedicine approach to DSS of fracture treatment.