bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of Clinical Pharmacist Practitioner Management of Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease in the Ambulatory Care Setting
Authors: Haddon Alexa M. , Gross Kylee R. , Mozes Cassandra J.
Published: January 2023

Objectives: To evaluate the impact of clinical pharmacist practitioner (CPP) management on potentially inappropriate use of inhaled corticosteroids (ICS) in the ambulatory care setting. Design: Multicenter, prospective quality assurance/improvement (QA/QI) project. Setting: Erie Veterans Affairs Medical Center (VAMC) and surrounding Ashtabula, Crawford, and Venango County Community-Based Outpatient Clinics (CBOCs). Participants: Thirty-five participants with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) who met inclusion criteria were included in the project. Interventions: Participants were contacted to schedule an initial sixty-minute telephone visit with a CPP. Exacerbation history, rescue inhaler use, and symptom burden were assessed using the COPD Assessment Test (CAT) and Modified Medical Research Counsel Breathlessness Scale (mMRC) scales. Medication regimens were optimized based on guideline recommendations with an emphasis on appropriate use of ICS. Participants were scheduled for follow-up telephone visits with the CPP every 4 weeks. Main Outcome Measures: The primary project outcome was potentially inappropriate use of ICS without a long-acting muscarinic antagonist (LAMA)/long-acting beta agonist (LABA). Secondary project outcomes included ICS de-escalation, vaccinations, and smoking cessation. Results: The primary outcome of reducing use of ICS without a LAMA/LABA was achieved in thirty-one (88.6%) participants. ICS de-escalation was achieved in twenty-three (65.7%) participants. Rates of recommended vaccinations and smoking cessation with nicotine replacement therapy increased as a result of pharmacist intervention. Conclusion: Pharmacist management of COPD in the ambulatory care setting was associated with a decrease in potentially inappropriate use of ICS and an increase in preventative care measures.
Managing Chronic otitis media with Effusion in Children with non-Syndromic Cleft Palate: Short-Term Ventilation Tubes Versus Surveillance
Authors: Maina Grace , Pollock Danielle , Lockwood Craig , Cook Lachlan , Ooi Eng
Published: January 2023

Objective

To compare the effectiveness of short-term ventilation tubes compared to surveillance on conductive hearing loss in children with non-syndromic orofacial clefting involving the muscular palate.

Introduction

Chronic otitis media with effusion is a common finding in children with cleft palate. The accepted convention is insertion of short-term ventilation tubes at the time of palate repair, but some centres are choosing conservative management. Each approach has its advantages but there is currently no consensus on the most appropriate management in children with non-syndromic cleft palate.

Inclusion criteria

Children <18 years with cleft lip and palate, or isolated cleft palate, not associated with a genetic syndrome, who have been diagnosed with chronic otitis media with effusion.

Methods

A systematic search of MEDLINE, CINAHL, Embase and Scopus databases was conducted. Grey literature searches were conducted through Central Register of Controlled Trials, Clinicaltrials.gov and ProQuest. Two reviewers screened the studies, conducted critical appraisal, assessed the methodological quality, and extracted the data. Where possible, studies were pooled in statistical meta-analysis with heterogeneity being assessed using the standard Chi-squared and I2 tests.

Results

Four studies met the inclusion criteria but were of low quality with a moderate risk of bias. Only data on hearing thresholds could be pooled for analysis which found no statistically significant difference. Other outcomes were presented in narrative form. Certainty of evidence for all outcomes was deemed low to very low using GRADE criteria.

Conclusions

No definitive conclusions can be drawn regarding most effective management at improving conductive hearing loss. Missing data and inconsistent reporting of outcomes limited capacity for pooled analysis.
Consequences of Multigenerational Services Adoption Behavior: Global Client Engagement
Authors: Sood Ashish , Gupta Shaphali , Kumar V.
Published: January 2023

This study uses adoption and usage data on the client and firm–client interactions across four technology generations of new-age products/services from 13 developed and emerging markets over an eight-year period to describe how multigenerational service (MGS) adoption behavior influences direct (purchases) and indirect (references and feedback) global client engagement and whether this relationship is moderated by product/service failures and cultural factors. The authors propose metrics to measure the number of generations adopted (MGD), the number of products and features within a generation (MGFs), and the adoption time between generations (MGT). They find that client usage revenue (CUR) is enhanced by greater MGD and higher MGFs combined with lower MGT. However, CUR varies by differences in the needs of clients' own customers, failures, and culture. Greater direct engagement affects reference and feedback behavior, moderated by cultural differences in individualism, power distance, and masculinity. For a typical client in the United States and Canada, a one-unit improvement in MGD and MGFs and a one-year improvement in MGT enhance CUR by $8,150, $5,200, and $2,310 per client, respectively, versus a corresponding enhancement of $4,820, $3,640, and $1,620, respectively, per client in Colombia and Mexico. These findings provide several implications for executives who manage multigenerational innovations across countries regarding client engagement, launching MGS, market entry, and failure recovery.
Optical coherence tomography angiography patterns of type 1 macular neovascularization in age-related macular degeneration patients
Authors: Barayev Edward , Meshi Amit , Gershoni Assaf , Segal Ori , Dotan Assaf , Hadayer Amir , Schaap Fogler Michal , Ehrlich Rita , Gal-Or Orly
Published: January 2023

Purpose

To compare morphologic characteristics of type 1 macular neovascularization (MNV) flow pattern in treatment-naïve and previously treated patients with age-related macular degeneration (AMD) as assessed by optical coherence tomography angiography (OCTA).

Study Design

Cross-sectional study

Materials and Methods

Macular OCT angiography images were acquired using RTVue XR Avanti with AngioVue. Distinct morphologic biomarkers and quantifiable features of the neovascular membranes were studied on en-face projection images comparing treatment-naïve and previously treated patients.

Results

The study included 68 eyes of 58 patients. Among them, 24 eyes were treatment-naïve, and the remaining eyes had received a mean of 19.6 injections. Immature lesions were more associated with treatment-naïve eyes and hyper-mature lesions were associated with previously treated eyes (p = 0.005). Tangle pattern was associated with treatment-naïve eyes (p = 0.013), whereas mature core vessels and sea fan pattern were associated more with previously treated eyes (p = 0.001 and p = 0.044, respectively). Vascular density of the neovascular membrane was higher in the treatment-naïve group (p = 0.036) and the average MNV area was similar between the 2 groups (p = 0.683).

Conclusions

Based on OCTA, morphologic biomarkers of type 1 MNV might be an indication of previous treatment. The MNV pattern can improve our understanding of its maturation under anti-VEGF treatment and might be valuable to better guide therapeutic decisions and provide more personalized care to patients with AMD.
Life after Whitehall: The career moves of British special advisers
Authors: Orchard Daniel , Gouglas Athanassios , Pickering Heath
Published: January 2023

The article examines the post-government career moves of 521 former British special advisers who served from 1997 to 2017. Analysis of an original dataset mapping the first job each special adviser ‘landed-in’ after leaving government shows the vast majority land in corporate lobbying and policy advocacy roles. A minority become politicians, although many continue to work in political organisations. The least popular choice is public service. The findings challenge the ‘lure of power’ hypothesis and lend weight to increasing concerns about former political staff revolving to shadow lobbying. The findings point to potential lobbying regulation loopholes first raised by the UK Committee of Standards in Public Life. A multi-nominal logistic regression shows how party affiliation and occupational path dependency constrain career moves. Labour special advisers are less likely to become corporate lobbyists than Conservative and Liberal Democrat ones. Special advisers also tend to revolve back to similar professional roles held before an appointment.
A longitudinal examination of Internet users’ privacy protection behaviors in relation to their perceived collective value of privacy and individual privacy concerns
Authors: Meier Yannic , Krämer Nicole C
Published: January 2023

People’s perception of privacy can primarily be directed to themselves or to the value of privacy for society. Likewise, privacy protection can repel both individual and collective privacy threats. Focusing on this distinction, the present article examines Internet users’ privacy protection behaviors in relation to individual privacy concerns and their perceived collective value of privacy over time. We conducted a longitudinal panel study with three measurement points ( N = 1790) to investigate relations between and within persons. The results of a random-intercept cross-lagged panel model revealed positive relations between the perceived value of privacy, privacy concerns, and privacy protection between persons. At the within-person level, only a temporal increase in the perceived value of privacy was related to increased protection behaviors. This suggests that individual privacy concerns are not as important for temporal protection as assumed, but that a recognition of collective privacy may temporarily change people’s privacy behavior.
A qualitative interpretive meta-synthesis of social workers’ experience in end-of-life care
Authors: Dewar Simone , Mensinga Jo , Redman-MacLaren Michelle , Johns Lise
Published: January 2023

Social workers are an integral part of end-of-life (EOL) care interdisciplinary services and provide comprehensive psychosocial support to dying people. However, despite the rewards, EOL care social work is wrought with challenges. There is currently limited research into the experience of EOL care social workers. Therefore, this qualitative interpretive meta-synthesis (QIMS) study examines the experience of EOL care social workers as revealed in existing literature. The QIMS methodology was used to synthesize and interpret findings from four original qualitative studies to elicit an in-depth response to the research question: What is the experience of social workers who work in EOL care?

Findings

The theme “EOL care social work is a privilege and a struggle” emerged, with six associated contributing factors: Privilege—(1) death is sacrosanct, (2) death is an opportunity for growth and healing, and (3) the religious/spiritual element of EOL care. Struggle—(1) ongoing pain and heightened emotions, (2) conflict of values, and (3) contextual challenges. This QIMS study serves as a preliminary phase to a subsequent, larger study.

Applications

This QIMS study provides a foundation for further narrative research into the experience of EOL care social workers. In addition, findings from this QIMS study highlights areas for further attention to foster the well-being of EOL care social workers. Finally, findings from this QIMS study could augment relevant EOL care content in undergraduate social work education.
Collaborative sensemaking through photos: Using photovoice to study gas pipeline development in Appalachia
Authors: Brock Carlson Erin , Caretta Martina Angela
Published: January 2023

Photovoice is an increasingly popular research method across disciplines due to its flexibility and capacity for generating rich data. This article argues that while its practical virtues are abundant, the theoretical contributions of photovoice to qualitative research are just as important. We argue that photographs can act as boundary objects that enable collective sensemaking at multiple stages of a research study. This is fulfilled through a case study of gas extraction and distribution networks and their social consequences in West Virginia, a state in the United States deeply entrenched geographically and culturally in natural resource extraction. Ultimately, this case study demonstrates that photovoice as a process and photographs as artifacts are sites for rich collaborative interpretation and provides a model of how to operationalize photos in multiple stages of research so that study designs are centered around participant experiences.
Liminal consumption within Nigerian wedding rituals: The interplay between bridal identity and liminal gatekeepers
Authors: Fagbola Ladipo , McEachern Morven G , Raftopoulou Effi
Published: January 2023

This article combines the theoretical lenses of bridal identity and liminal consumption to illustrate the processes of problem-solving, negotiation and reconciliation through which the bride creates her bridal identity, in the Global South context of Nigeria. Most wedding ritual studies typically emphasise the processes of creating and negotiating a successful bridal identity, but few acknowledge the possibilities of failure and its effect upon the liminars. In addition, within liminal consumption studies, the role of liminars’ mentors is often under-theorised. Thus, we contribute to the field by expanding on the concept of ‘liminal gatekeepers’ as the individuals and institutions who control and enforce certain norms associated with the liminal experience. Following an interpretivist approach, the article also advances our understanding of the ways in which the demands of liminal gatekeepers affect the liminars’ experiences and identifies three novel bridal identity outcomes, namely, (i) Embedded Bridal Identity; (ii) Synthesised Bridal Identity; and (iii) Marginalisation. In this way, we advance marketing research around how a liminal consumer identity such as bridal identity is co-constructed between liminars and gatekeepers.
Pulse Parameters and Thresholds for (ir)Reversible Electroporation on Hepatocellular Carcinoma Cells in Vitro
Authors: Lindelauf K. H. K. , Baragona M. , Baumann M. , Maessen R. T. H. , Ritter A.
Published: January 2023

Hepatocellular carcinoma is a leading cause of cancer-related death in many parts of the world. Traditional treatment options are not always effective. During the promising minimally invasive electroporation-based therapies, biological cell membranes are exposed to an external, sufficiently high, pulsed electric field which creates so-called nanopores into the lipid bilayer of the cell membrane. These pores can either be permanent (irreversible electroporation (IRE)), leading to apoptosis, or repairable (reversible electroporation (RE)), with continued cell function. In tumor therapy, RE is used to increase the diffusion of a chemotherapeutic drug during electrochemotherapy. For both IRE and RE, the success of the treatment is dependent on application of the appropriate electric field. Therefore, this study aims to define the pulse parameters and thresholds for IRE and RE on hepatocellular carcinoma (HepG2) cells in-vitro.

In a custom-made in-vitro setup, HepG2 cell viability (0, 5, 10, and 15 min), and the peak temperature were measured after electroporation with the different IRE and RE pulsing protocols, to determine the most successful settings for IRE and RE. A CAM/PI flow cytometric assay was performed to confirm cell permeabilization for the RE pulsing protocols with the highest cell viability.

The results indicated that an IRE pulsing protocol (70 pulses, 100 µs pulse length, and 100 ms interval) with an electric field strength of 4000 V/cm was needed as threshold for almost complete cell death of HepG2 cells. A RE pulsing protocol (8 pulses, 100 µs pulse length, and 1000 ms interval) with an electric field strength of 1000 V/cm was needed as threshold for viable and permeabilized HepG2 cells. The low peak temperatures (max 30.1°C for IRE, max 23.1°C for RE) within this study indicated that the reduction in HepG2 cell viability was caused by the applied electric field and was not a result of Joule heating.
Molecular Classification, Treatment, and Genetic Biomarkers in Triple-Negative Breast Cancer: A Review
Authors: Lu Boya , Natarajan Elango , Balaji Raghavendran Hanumantha Rao , Markandan Uma Devi
Published: January 2023

Breast cancer is the most common malignancy and the second most common cause of cancer-related mortality in women. Triple-negative breast cancers do not express estrogen receptors, progesterone receptors, or human epidermal growth factor receptor 2 and have a higher recurrence rate, greater metastatic potential, and lower overall survival rate than those of other breast cancers. Treatment of triple-negative breast cancer is challenging; molecular-targeted therapies are largely ineffective and there is no standard treatment. In this review, we evaluate current attempts to classify triple-negative breast cancers based on their molecular features. We also describe promising treatment methods with different advantages and discuss genetic biomarkers and other prediction tools. Accurate molecular classification of triple-negative breast cancers is critical for patient risk categorization, treatment decisions, and surveillance. This review offers new ideas for more effective treatment of triple-negative breast cancer and identifies novel targets for drug development.
Endogenous models of binary choice outcomes: Copula-based maximum-likelihood estimation and treatment effects
Authors: Hasebe Takuya
Published: January 2023

In this article, I describe the commands that implement the estimation of three endogenous models of binary choice outcome. The command esbinary fits the endogenously switching model, where a potential outcome differs across two treatment states. The command edbinary fits the endogenous dummy model, which includes a dummy variable indicating the treatment state as one of the explanatory variables. After one estimates the parameters of these models, various treatment effects can be estimated as postestimation statistics. The command ssbinary fits the sample-selection model, where an outcome is observed in only one of the states. The commands fit these models using copula-based maximumlikelihood estimation.
qpair: A command for analyzing paired Q-sorts in Q-methodology
Authors: Akhtar-Danesh Noori , Wingreen Stephen C.
Published: January 2023

In this article, we introduce qpair as a new command written in Stata for the analysis of paired Q-sorts in Q-methodology, which is used for studying subjective issues and is a combination of qualitative and quantitative techniques. The quantitative component of Q-methodology employs a by-person factor analysis technique. However, currently there is no systematic approach for analyzing paired Q-sorts or longitudinal data in Q-methodology. We introduce the only statistical command available for the analysis of paired Q-sorts. The qpair command employs the factor extraction and factor rotation techniques in Stata. The command is illustrated using a dataset representing perceptions of 50 information technology professionals on person–organization fit regarding their training and development priorities.
Effect of oral Calendula officinalis on second-degree burn wound healing
Authors: Rezai Soraya , Rahzani Kobra , Hekmatpou Davoud , Rostami Alireza
Published: January 2023

Background

Treatment of wounds and burn injuries is very important. Nowadays, the tendency to research complementary medicine has increased.

Method

In this clinical trial, 60 patients hospitalized in the burn ward who met the inclusion criteria were randomly assigned to two groups: intervention (n = 30) and control (n = 30). In addition to treatments, the intervention group received one capsule (2 g) of Calendula officinalis daily, for two weeks, and the control group received the placebo. Wound status was assessed with the Bates-Jensen Wound Assessment Tool (BWAT) on the 1st, 7th, and 15th days of the study in both groups.

Results

The mean total score of wound status using BWAT at the 1st, 7th, and 14th days in the intervention group was 48.23, 35.93, and 22.97, respectively, and in the control group was 48.90, 42.57, and 37.8. Statistically, wound condition on the first day was at the same level for both groups. Wound healing scores in the two groups increased during the 1st to 15th days of the study (P <0.001). However, in the intervention group, the range of wound healing changed on days seven and 15 and was greater than in the control group.

Conclusion

Based on the results of this study, C. officinalis may have beneficial healing properties and be effective in accelerating the healing of second-degree burn wounds and can be used as a supplement to treat wounds.
Comparison of Locking-Loop Suture Bridge Repair and Single-Row Suture Anchor Repair in Small to Medium Rotator Cuff Tears: A Prospective Cohort Study With Clinical and Ultrasound Evaluations
Authors: Wang Yu-Chun , Chen Hung-Chou , Wong Chin-Chean , Chang Wen-Pei , Lin Chun-Hao , Liaw Chen-Kun , Chen Chih-Hwa , Weng Pei-Wei
Published: January 2023

Background:

Single-row (SR) and double-row repair techniques have been described to treat rotator cuff tears. We present a novel surgical strategy of arthroscopic-assisted mini-open repair in which a locking-loop suture bridge (LLSB) is used.

Purpose:

To compare the functional outcomes and repair integrity of LLSB technique to the SR technique for arthroscopic-assisted mini-open repair of small to medium rotator cuff tears.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

Included were 39 patients who underwent LLSB repair (LLSB group) and 44 patients who underwent SR suture anchor repair (SR group) from 2015 to 2018. We evaluated all patients preoperatively and at 3, 6, 12, and 24 months postoperatively using the visual analog scale (VAS) for pain, Oxford Shoulder Score (OSS), and American Shoulder and Elbow Surgeons (ASES) score. Also, shoulder sonography was performed at 12 months postoperatively to evaluate repair integrity using the Sugaya classification system. The independent-sample t test was used to analyze functional outcomes (VAS, OSS, and ASES scores), and the Fisher exact test was used to analyze postoperative sonography results.

Results:

Patients in both the LLSB and SR groups saw a significant improvement on all 3 outcome measures from preoperatively to 24 months postoperatively ( P < .001 for all). However, when comparing scores between groups, only the scores at 3 months postoperatively differed significantly (VAS: P = .002; OSS: P < .001; ASES: P = .005). Shoulder sonography at 12 months postoperatively revealed no significant difference in repair integrity between the LLSB and SR groups (retear rate: 10.26% and 6.82%, respectively; P = .892).

Conclusion:

Better outcome scores were seen at 3-month follow-up in the LLSB group, with no difference in retear rates compared with the SR group at 12 months postoperatively. The LLSB technique was found to be a reliable technique for rotator cuff repair of small- to medium-sized tears.
Book review: Anasua Chatterjee, Margins of Citizenship: Muslim Experiences in Urban India
Authors: Das Sujata
Published: January 2023

Anasua Chatterjee, Margins of Citizenship: Muslim Experiences in Urban India. New Delhi: Routledge, 2017, 192 pp., ₹695 (Paperback). ISBN: 9781138038264 (hardback).
Simulation Analysis of Torsion Beam Hydroforming Based on the Fluid-Solid Coupling Method
Authors: Huang Yu , Li Jian , Yang Jiachun , Peng Yongdong , Zhang Weixuan
Published: January 2023

Hydroformed parts are widely used in industrial automotive parts because of their higher stiffness and fatigue strength and reduced weight relative to their corresponding cast and welded parts. This paper reports a hydraulic-forming experimental platform for rectangular tube fittings that was constructed to conduct an experiment on the hydraulic forming of rectangular tube fittings. A finite element model was established on the basis of the fluid–solid coupling method and simulation analysis. The correctness of the simulation analysis and the feasibility of the fluid–solid coupling method for hydraulic forming simulation analysis were verified by comparing the experimental results with the simulation results. On the basis of the simulation analysis of the hydraulic process of the torsion beam using the fluid–solid coupling method, a sliding mold suitable for the hydroforming of torsion beams was designed for its structural characteristics. The effects of fluid characteristics, shaping pressure, axial feed rate, and friction coefficient on the wall thicknesses of torsions beams during formation were investigated. Fluid movement speed was related to tube deformation. Shaping pressure had a significant effect on rounded corners and straight edges. The axial feed speed was increased, and the uneven distribution of wall thicknesses was effectively improved. Although the friction coefficient had a nonsignificant effect on the wall thickness of the ladder-shaped region, it had a significant influence on a large deformation of wall thickness in the V-shaped area. In this paper, a method of fluid-solid coupling simulation analysis and sliding die is proposed to study the high pressure forming law in torsion beam.
Fasciola gigantica vaccine construct: an in silico approach towards identification and design of a multi-epitope subunit vaccine using calcium binding EF-hand proteins
Authors: Das Kanhu Charan , Konhar Ruchishree , Biswal Devendra Kumar
Published: January 2023

Continuous attempts have been made to pinpoint candidate vaccine molecules and evaluate their effectiveness in order to commercialise such vaccines for the treatment of tropical fascioliasis in livestock. The pathophysiology of fascioliasis can be related to liver damage brought on by immature flukes that migrate and feed, as well as immunological reactions to chemicals produced by the parasites and alarm signals brought on by tissue damage. Future research should, in our opinion, concentrate on the biology of invasive parasites and the resulting immune responses, particularly in the early stages of infection. The goal of the current study was to use the calcium-binding proteins from F. gigantica to create a multi-epitope subunit vaccine. The adjuvant, B-cell epitopes, CTL epitopes, and HTL epitopes that make up the vaccine construct are all connected by certain linkers. The antigenicity, allergenicity, and physiochemical properties of the vaccine construct were examined. The vaccine construct was docked with toll-like receptor 2, and simulations of the molecular dynamics of the complex's stability, interaction, and dynamics were run. After performing in silico cloning and immunosimulation, it was discovered that the construct was suitable for further investigation. New vaccination technologies and adjuvant development are advancing our food safety procedures since vaccines are seen as safe and are accepted by the user community. This research is also applicable to the F. hepatica system.
Phage-antibiotic synergy reduces Burkholderia cenocepacia population
Authors: Mankovich Anna G. , Maciel Kristen , Kavanaugh Madison , Kistler Erin , Muckle Emily , Weingart Christine L.
Published: January 2023

Background

Burkholderia cenocepacia is an opportunistic pathogen that can cause acute and chronic infections in patients with weakened immune systems and in patients with cystic fibrosis. B. cenocepacia is resistant to many antibiotics making treatment challenging. Consequently, there is a critical need for alternative strategies to treat B. cenocepacia infections such as using bacteriophages and/or bacteriophages with subinhibitory doses of antibiotic called phage-antibiotic synergy.

Results

We isolated a bacteriophage, KP1, from raw sewage that infects B. cenocepacia. Its morphological characteristics indicate it belongs in the family Siphoviridae, it has a 52 Kb ds DNA genome, and it has a narrow host range. We determined it rescued infections in Lemna minor (duckweed) and moderately reduced bacterial populations in our artificial sputum medium model.

Conclusion

These results suggest that KP1 phage alone in the duckweed model or in combination with antibiotics in the ASMDM model improves the efficacy of reducing B. cenocepacia populations.
Survival and analysis of prognostic factors for severe burn patients with inhalation injury: based on the respiratory SOFA score
Authors: Ji Qiang , Tang Jun , Li Shulian , Chen Junjie
Published: January 2023

Background

It is important to determine the severity of inhalation injury in severely burned patients. The oxygenation index PaO2/FiO2(PF) ratio is a key clinical indicator of inhalation injury. Sequential organ failure assessment (SOFA) is developed to assess the acute incidence of critical illness in the population. We hope to provide an assessment of survival or prognostic factor for severely burned patients with inhalation injury based on the respiratory SOFA score.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study of all admissions to Department of Burn and Plastic Surgery at West China Hospital of Sichuan University from July 2010 to March 2021. Data was analyzed using Cox regression models to determine significant predictors of mortality. Survival analysis with time to death event was performed using the Kaplan–Meier survival curve with the log-rank test. All potential risk factors were considered independent variables, while survival was considered the risk dependent variable.

Results

One hundred eighteen severe burn patients with inhalation injury who met the inclusion and exclusion criteria were admitted, including men accounted for 76.3%. The mean age and length of stay were 45.9 (14.8) years and 44.3 (38.4) days. Flame burns are the main etiology of burn (74.6%). Patients with the respiratory SOFA score greater than 2 have undergone mechanical ventilation. Univariate Kaplan–Meier analysis identified age, total body surface area burned (TBSA), ICU admission and the respiratory SOFA score as significant factors on survival. Cox regression analysis showed that TBSA and the respiratory SOFA score were associated with patient survival (p < 0.001). In some patients with severe burns and inhalation damage, the survival probability drops to less than 10% (TBSA greater than 80%: 8.9% and respiratory SOFA score greater than 2: 5.6%). This study statistically found that the TBSA with the respiratory SOFA score model (AUROC: 0.955) and the rBaux score (AUROC: 0.927) had similar predictive value (p = 0.175).

Conclusion

The study indicates that a high respiratory system SOFA score was identified as a strong and independent predictor of severely burned patients with inhalation injury during hospitalization. When combined with TBSA, the respiratory SOFA scores can dynamically assess the severity of the patient's lung injury and improve the predictive level.
Clinical performance of digital breast tomosynthesis–guided vacuum-assisted biopsy: a single-institution experience in Japan
Authors: Ido Mirai , Saito Masayuki , Banno Hirona , Ito Yukie , Goto Manami , Ando Takahito , Kousaka Junko , Mouri Yukako , Fujii Kimihito , Imai Tsuneo , Nakano Shogo , Suzuki Kojiro , Murotani Kenta
Published: January 2023

Background

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the clinical performance of Digital Breast Tomosynthesis guided vacuum-assisted biopsy (DBT-VAB) for microcalcifications in the breast.

Methods

Retrospective review of 131 mammography-guided VABs at our institution were performed. All of the targets were calcification lesion suspicious for cancer. 45 consecutive stereotactic vacuum-assisted biopsies (ST-VABs) and 86 consecutive DBT-VABs were compared. Written informed consent was obtained. Tissue sampling methods and materials were the same with both systems. Student’s t-test was used to compare procedure time and the Fisher’s exact test was used to compare success rate, complications, and histopathologic findings for the 2 methods.

Results

The tissue sampling success rate was 95.6% for ST-VAB (43/45) and 97.7% (84/86) for DBT-VAB. Time for positioning (10.6 ± 6.4 vs. 6.7 ± 5.3 min), time for biopsy (33.4 ± 13.1 vs. 22.5 ± 13.1 min), and overall procedure time (66.6 ± 16.6 min vs. 54.5 ± 13.0 min) were substantially shorter with DBT-VAB (P < 0.0001). There were no differences in the distribution of pathological findings between the 2 groups.

Conclusion

Depth information and stable visibility of the target provided by DBT images led to quick decisions about target coordinates and improved the clinical performance of microcalcification biopsies.
Perspectives of health service providers in delivering best-practice care for Aboriginal mothers and their babies during the postnatal period
Authors: Jones Jocelyn , Durey Angela , Strobel Natalie , McAuley Kimberley , Edmond Karen , Coffin Juli , McAullay Daniel
Published: January 2023

Background

Evidence suggests that Aboriginal babies in Western Australia are not receiving adequate primary health care in their first 3 months of life, leading to questions about enablers and constraints to delivering such care. This paper presents findings from a qualitative research project investigating health providers’ perceptions and experiences of best and current practice in discharge planning, postnatal care and health education for Aboriginal mothers and their newborn babies.

Methods

Constructivist grounded theory guided this research involving 58 semi-structured interviews conducted with health providers who deliver care to Aboriginal mothers and infants. Participants were recruited from hospital-based and primary health sites in metropolitan Perth, and regional and remote locations in Western Australia.

Results

Structural factors enabling best practice in discharge planning, postnatal care, and health education for mothers included health providers following best practice guidelines and adequate staffing levels. Organisational enablers included continuity of care throughout pregnancy, birth and postnatally. In particular, good communication between services around discharge planning, birth notifications, and training in culturally respectful care. Structural and organisational constraints to delivering best practice and compromising continuity of care were identified as beyond individual control. These included poor communication between different health and social services, insufficient hospital staffing levels leading to early discharge, inadequate cultural training, delayed receipt of birth notifications and discharge summaries received by Aboriginal primary health services.

Conclusion

Findings highlight the importance of examining current policies and practices to promote best practice in postnatal care to improve health outcomes for mothers and their Aboriginal babies.
Should we screen for colorectal cancer in people aged 75 and over? A systematic review - collaborative work of the French geriatric oncology society (SOFOG) and the French federation of digestive oncology (FFCD)
Authors: Guittet Lydia , Quipourt Valérie , Aparicio Thomas , Carola Elisabeth , Seitz Jean-François , Paillaud Elena , Lievre Astrid , Boulahssass Rabia , Vitellius Carole , Bengrine Leila , Canoui-Poitrine Florence , Manfredi Sylvain
Published: January 2023

Background

We have done a systematic literature review about CRC Screening over 75 years old in order to update knowledge and make recommendations.

Methods

PUBMED database was searched in October 2021 for articles published on CRC screening in the elderly, and generated 249 articles. Further searches were made to find articles on the acceptability, efficacy, and harms of screening in this population, together with the state of international guidelines.

Results

Most benefit-risk data on CRC screening in the over 75 s derived from simulation studies. Most guidelines recommend stopping cancer screening at the age of 75. In private health systems, extension of screening up to 80–85 years is, based on the life expectancy and the history of screening. Screening remains effective in populations without comorbidity given their better life-expectancy. Serious adverse events of colonoscopy increase with age and can outweigh the benefit of screening. The great majority of reviews concluded that screening between 75 and 85 years must be decided case by case.

Conclusion

The current literature does not allow Evidence-Based Medicine propositions for mass screening above 75 years old. As some subjects over 75 years may benefit from CRC screening, we discussed ways to introduce CRC screening in France in the 75–80 age group.

IRB

An institutional review board composed of members of the 2 learned societies (SOFOG and FFCD) defined the issues of interest, followed the evolution of the work and reviewed and validated the report.
Prevalence and determinants of early onset neonatal sepsis at two selected public referral hospitals in the Northwest Ethiopia: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Akalu Tadesse Yirga , Aynalem Yared Asmare , Shiferaw Wondimeneh Shibabaw , Desta Melaku , Amha Haile , Getaneh Dejen , Asmare Bayachew , Alamneh Yoseph Merkeb
Published: January 2023

Introduction

Globally, neonatal mortality is decreasing, and road maps such as the Early Newborn Action Plan set ambitious targets for 2030. Despite this, deaths in the first weeks of life continue to rise as a percentage of total child mortality. Neonatal sepsis with early onset continues to be a significant cause of death and illness. The majority of sepsis-related deaths occur in developing nations, where the prevalence and causes of newborn sepsis are yet unknown. As a result, the goal of this study was to determine the prevalence of early-onset sepsis and identify determinant factors.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 368 study participants in referral hospitals of East and West Gojjam Zones from March 1stto April 30th, 2019. Study participants were selected at random using lottery method. Face-to-face interviews with index mothers for maternal variables and neonatal record review for neonatal variables were used to collect data using a structured pretested questionnaire. Data were entered into Epidata 3.1 and then exported to STATA/SE software version 14. Finally, the logistic regression model was used for analysis. Statistical significance was declared atP < 0.05 after multivariable logistic regression.

Results

A total of 368 newborns and their index mothers took part in this study. The mean age of the newborns was 4.69 days (± 1.93SD). Early-onset neonatal sepsis was seen in 34% of the babies. Nulliparity (AOR: 3.3, 95% CI: 1.1–9.5), duration of labor > 18 h after rupture of membranes (AOR: 11.3, 95% CI: 3.0—41.8), gestational age of 32–37 weeks (AOR: 3.2, 95% CI: 1.2—8.5), and neonates who require resuscitation at birth (AOR: 4, 95% CI: 1.4 -11.8) were all found to be significantly associated with early-onset neonatal sepsis.

Conclusion and recommendation

Early-onset neonatal sepsis was found to be high in this study. Early-onset neonatal sepsis was found to be associated with maternal, obstetric, and neonatal variables. Comprehensive prevention strategies that target the identified risk factors should be implemented right away.
Spatial analysis of measles vaccination coverage in the State of São Paulo
Authors: de Aguiar Pontes Pamplona Ysabely , do Nascimento Anderson Marcos Vieira , de Olinda Ricardo Alves , Barbieri Carolina Luisa Alves , Braga Alfésio Luís Ferreira , Martins Lourdes Conceição
Published: January 2023

Background

Measles is a contagious viral disease that seriously affects children. The measles vaccine is widely recommended in Brazil and in the world; however, the disease remains relevant for the health authorities. The aim of the present study was to evaluate first and second dose of measles vaccine coverage (VC) in the cities of São Paulo and its spatial dynamics between 2015 and 2020. Method: In this mixed-type ecological study, we used secondary, public domain data from 2015 to 2020, extracted from the Digital Information System of the National Immunization Program, Mortality Information System and the National Live Birth Information System. After calculating the VC, the following four categories were created: very low, low, adequate, and high, and the spatial autocorrelation of VC was analyzed using the Global and Local Moran’s statistics.

Results

A steady decline in adherence to the vaccination was observed, which dynamically worsened until 2020, with a high number of cities fitting the classification of ineffective coverage and being potentially harmful to the effectiveness of the immunization activities of their neighbors.

Conclusion

A direct neighborhood pattern was observed between the units with low vaccination coverage, which implied that the reduction in measles VC was somehow related to and negatively influenced by the geographic location and social culture of these areas.
Prevalence and determinants of breast self-examination practices among women in their reproductive age in Namibia: an analysis of the 2013 Namibia demographic and Health Survey
Authors: Okyere Joshua , Dey Nutifafa Eugene Yaw , Owusu Ansah Kenneth , Thywill Sonu Elijah , Duodu Precious Adade
Published: January 2023

Background

In resource-constrained settings like Namibia, breast self-examination (BSE) is considered an important cost-effective intervention that is critical to the early detection of breast cancer, and better prognosis. Even though BSE is a simple, quick, and cost-free procedure, its practice varies across different contexts. Knowing the determinants of BSE is necessary to inform the implementation of policies and targeted interventions to improve the practice across the population. In Namibia, estimating the magnitude of BSE practice and its determinants using nationally representative data has received limited scholarly attention. Hence, the present study sought to examine the prevalence and determinants of BSE practices among women of reproductive age in Namibia.

Methods

This study relied on the 2013 Namibia Demographic and Health Survey (NDHS), analysing data from women aged 15–49 years. Statistical analyses including bivariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were done using Stata version 14. Adjusted odds ratio (AOR) and confidence interval (CI) are presented. We followed the ‘Strengthening the Reporting of Observational Studies in Epidemiology’ (STROBE) statement.

Results

Only 30.67% of the respondents practiced BSE. The odds of performing BSE were higher among those with health insurance coverage [AOR = 1.59, 95% CI: 1.34, 1.89], those who were separated from their spouses [AOR = 1.36, 95% CI: 1.03, 1.80], those within the richest wealth index [AOR = 1.69, 95% CI: 1.23, 2.33, p ≤ 0.001], and among Catholics [AOR = 0.84, 95% CI: 0.71, 0.98]. Women with secondary [AOR = 2.44, 95% CI:1.78, 3.35, p ≤ 0.001] or higher education [AOR = 3.39, 95%CI:2.24, 5.14] had higher odds of performing BSE. Women aged between 20–49 years had a significantly higher likelihood to practice BSE. Compared to women who live in Khomas, those living in Erongo, Karas, and Omaheke, were more likely to practice BSE than those in Kavango, Ohangwena, Omusati, Oshana, and Oshikoto.

Conclusion

We conclude that the determinants of BSE practice are age, educational level, marital status, health insurance coverage, religion, mobility in the last 12 months, early sexual debut, parity, household wealth index, and region of residence. Any policy or intervention to improve BSE practice among Namibian women of reproductive age must target adolescent girls, those with no formal education, those without health insurance coverage, multiparous women, and those in the poorest wealth index.
Modified minimally invasive surgery in reconstructing the temporomandibular joint disk by transplantation of the temporalis myofascial flap
Authors: Li Chen-xi , Yu Peng , Gong Zhong-cheng , Liu Xu
Published: January 2023

Objective

The transplantation of temporalis myofascial flap (TMF) is an indispensable method to treat severe temporomandibular joint disorders with disk failure. How to select the indication and the ways of transplantation is still a challenging topic for achieving the ideal effect. We reported the new methods and follow-up results of the patients treated with pedicled TMF transplantation.

Methods

Retrospective case series was performed at Temporomandibular Joint Specialist Clinic, the First Affiliated Hospital of Xinjiang Medical University, from December 2014 to August 2022. 39 patients (50 sides) included anterior disk displacement without reduction and disk perforation who underwent discectomy and immediate reconstruction with pedicled TMF. The initial and postoperative maximum mouth opening (MMO), and pain visual analogue scale (VAS) were compared via paired t-test and Wilcoxon signed-rank sum test, respectively.

Results

The average of follow-up time was 30.07 months. The reconstructed temporomandibular joints basically achieved stable occlusion, good function, and satisfactory effect. The patients displayed a remarkable reduction of VAS score of pain, and improvement of the MMO compared with that before operation (P <  0.001). MR scanning revealed the grafts in joint space showed band-shaped soft tissue density of medium signal and had the clear edges, without interruption and fragment.

Conclusion

Reconstruction of the temporomandibular joint disk by transplantation of the TMF applying modified minimally invasive surgery was a feasible method, which could improve the function of joints and prevent adhesion, without obvious complications in donor region.
Comparing and contrasting different herbal products intended for the management of obesity approved in the Palestinian markets
Authors: Eid Ahmad M. , Issa Linda , Kamal Karmah , Hosheya Omran , Sara Hla , Alkader Sally Abed
Published: January 2023

Background

The use of conventional medical therapies has proven to have many setbacks and safety concerns that need further improvement. However, herbal medicine has been used for over 2000 years, and many studies have proven the use of herbs to be effective and safe. This article discussed the efficacy of different herbal products used in the management of obesity. To evaluate the efficacy of seven herbal-based weight loss products currently available on the Palestinian market, using in vitro assays to screen for antioxidants, anti-amylase, and anti-lipase effects for each product.

Method

Pancreatic lipase and salivary amylase inhibitory activities, as well as antioxidant analysis, were tested in vitro on a variety of herbal products. Then the IC50 was measured for each test.

Results

The anti-lipase assay results, IC50 values in (μg/mL) of each of the seven products (Product A, product B, product C, product D, product E, product F, and product G) were 114.78, 532.1, 60.18, 53.33, 244.9, 38.9, and 48.97, respectively. The IC50 value for orlistat (Reference) was 12.3 μg/ml. On the other hand, the IC50 value for alpha amylase inhibition of the seven products (Product A, product B, product C, product D, product E, product F, and product F) were 345.93, 13,803.84 (Inactive), 73.79, 130.91, 165.95, 28.18, and 33.11 μg/ml respectively, while acarbose (Reference) was 23.38 μg/ml. The antioxidant activity (IC50 values) for the seven products (Product A, product B, product C, product D, product E, product F, and product F) were 1258.92, 707.94, 79.43, 186.20, 164.81, 17.53, and 10.47 μg/ml respectively. While the IC50 value for Trolox was 2.70 μg/ml.

Conclusion

It can be concluded that the seven products showed varied anti-lipase, anti-amylase, and antioxidant effects. However, products F and G showed superiority in all categories.