Catalyzing communities of research rigour champions.

The biomedical sciences must maintain and enhance a research culture that prioritizes rigour and transparency. The US National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke convened a workshop entitled 'Catalyzing Communities of Research Rigor Champions' that brought together a diverse group of leaders in promoting research rigour and transparency (identified as 'rigour champions') to discuss strategies, barriers and resources for catalyzing technical, cultural and educational changes in the biomedical sciences. This article summarizes 2 days of panels and discussions and provides an overview of critical barriers to research rigour, perspectives behind reform initiatives and considerations for stakeholders across science. Additionally, we describe applications of network science to foster, maintain and expand cultural changes related to scientific rigour and opportunities to embed rigourous practices into didactic courses, training experiences and degree programme requirements. We hope this piece provides a primer for the wider research community on current discussions and actions and inspires individuals to build, join or expand collaborative networks within their own institutions that prioritize rigourous research practices.

A retrospective review of congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia.

Thirty-three children with congenital pseudarthrosis of the tibia seen from 1970 to 1997 at the Shriners Hospitals for Children in Lexington, KY were retrospectively reviewed. Twelve children were excluded due to follow-up of less than 2 years. Data was collected on age, sex, side and associated neurofibromatosis from the medical records of the remaining 21 children. Lesions were classified as to status at birth. The number of surgical attempts for union was recorded. Presence of bony union, deformity, and limb length discrepancy was noted. The mean age at last follow-up was 13 years. Union was reported in 10 children (48%). There was no union after more than 3 surgical attempts. The 11 children without union had an average of 4 surgical attempts (range 2-6). Amputation was performed in 7 of the 11 children without union. No predictor for nonunion was identified. Amputation was frequently needed.