bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
From Black Theology to Black Lives Matter and Back Again
Authors: Reddie Anthony G.
Published: November 2023

This article is written by a descendant of enslaved Africans and explores the theological significance of Black bodies. Black bodies have been commodified, controlled and coerced by White hegemony, often lacking agency and self-determination. Using personal experience and contextual analysis, this article, drawing on Black theology inspired reflections, argues that we need to rethink how we conceive of Black bodies ethically, if Black lives are to really matter. The rehabilitation of Black bodies is achieved through a theological reappraisal of holiness and sacraments, underpinned by an embodied pneumatology, in which Black bodies are shown to be sacramental and worthy of mattering in a world underpinned by White supremacy.
Three-dimensional analysis of reconstructed skulls using three different open-source software versus commercial software
Authors: Yap Abdullah Johari , Manaf Abdullah Abdul , Zaim Syafawati , Hadi Helmi , Husein Adam , Ahmad Rajion Zainul , Malin Abdullah Jafri
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to compare the 3D skull models reconstructed from computed tomography (CT) images using three different open-source software with a commercial software as a reference. The commercial Mimics v17.0 software was used to reconstruct the 3D skull models from 58 subjects. Next, two open-source software, MITK Workbench 2016.11, 3D Slicer 4.8.1 and InVesalius 3.1 were used to reconstruct the 3D skull models from the same subjects. All four software went through similar steps in 3D reconstruction process. The 3D skull models from the commercial and open-source software were exported in standard tessellation language (STL) format into CloudCompare v2.8 software and superimposed for geometric analyses. Hausdorff distance (HD) analysis demonstrated the average points distance of Mimics versus MITK was 0.25 mm. Meanwhile, for Mimics versus 3D Slicer and Mimics versus InVesalius, there was almost no differences between the two superimposed 3D skull models with average points distance of 0.01 mm. Based on Dice similarity coefficient (DSC) analysis, the similarity between Mimics versus MITK, Mimics versus 3D Slicer and Mimics versus InVesalius were 94.1, 98.8 and 98.3%, respectively. In conclusion, this study confirmed that the alternative open-source software, MITK, 3D Slicer and InVesalius gave comparable results in 3D reconstruction of skull models compared to the commercial gold standard Mimics software. This open-source software could possibly be used for pre-operative planning in cranio-maxillofacial cases and for patient management in the hospitals or institutions with limited budget.
Phenomenology and its phantoms: Maurice Merleau-Ponty and Michel Leiris
Authors: Noland Carrie
Published: November 2023

My essay focuses on the figure of the phantom in the work of phenomenologist Maurice Merleau-Ponty and the ethnographer Michel Leiris. I study their evocation of gestures as a site of communication and argue that within the colonial situation all communication—including the gestural—is ghosted by histories and cultural understandings that remain opaque.
Productive Performance of Indian Food Manufacturing Industry: A Sub-Sectoral Analysis in a Stochastic Frontier Framework
Authors: Meena Jai Ram
Published: November 2023

This article examines the productive performance of the Indian food manufacturing industry measured in terms of technical efficiency (TE) of its 13 sub-sectors under the organised sector. For estimating their TE, it makes the use of the Cobb–Douglas production technology with the truncated normal distribution of stochastic inefficiency term ( Stevenson, 1980 ) via Jondrow et al. (1982) estimator of cross-sectional data. Data are sourced from the Annual Survey of Industries, 2017–2018. The results show that this industry, as a whole, observed 92% TE in 2017–2018, but among its sub-sectors, it varied between 100% and 74%, that is, they exhibited differential productive performance. Modern sub-sectors, such as fruits and vegetables, edible oils, bakery and beverage products, realised frontier-level efficiency, while sugar and starch products were identified as marginal performers in the industry. The robustness of the results is confirmed by the non-parametric estimates of TE from the data envelopment analysis. The results are expected to be useful in framing specific policies for these two different groups of food processors. In the case of sub-sectors performing below the frontier, policy actions aiming at pure technical and scale efficiencies, such as capacity building, research, skill programmes, and extension activities, need to be operationalised, while for sub-sectors performing at the frontier, only technological progress needs to be prioritised.
Valgus-impacted subcapital neck of femur fractures: a systematic review, meta-analysis with cost analysis of fixation in-situ versus nonoperative management
Authors: Vidakovic Herv , Kieser David , Hooper Gary , Frampton Chris , Wyatt Michael
Published: November 2023

Background:

The management of the valgus-impacted neck of femur fracture (AO/OTA 31-B1) remains contentious. The objective of this study was to determine whether operative intervention is cost-effective.

Methods:

We conducted a systematic review using electronic databases (Medline, Embase, Cochrane, Ebsco, Scholar) identifying studies published in the English language concerning valgus-impacted neck of femur fractures until June 2022. Additional studies were identified through hand searches of major orthopaedic journals, and bibliographies of major orthopaedic textbooks. MeSH terms (hip fracture and femoral neck fracture) and keywords (undisplaced, valgus-impacted, valgus, subcapital, Garden) connected by the Boolean operators “AND” and “OR” were used to identify studies. 2 reviewers independently extracted the data using standardised forms and recording spreadsheet. Methodological validity prior to inclusion in the review using standardized critical appraisal instruments from the Joanna Briggs Institute Meta-analysis of Statistics Assessment and Review Instrument. Meta-analysis was undertaken. Outcome measures were rate of displacement, avascular necrosis, non-union, mortality and requirement of further operative intervention. A cost utility analysis was then conducted to compare the 2 groups on the basis of the cost of initial treatment and the potential requirement of secondary intervention to hemiarthroplasty.

Results:

47 studies met the inclusion criteria. Meta-analysis data demonstrated a significant difference in the displacement rate of 22.8% and 2.8% between the nonoperative and internal fixation groups respectively ( p = 0.05). The overall incidence of further operative intervention for each group was 23% and 10% respectively. There was no significant difference with respect to avascular necrosis, mortality or union rates. The cost utility analysis revealed nonoperative management to be approximately 60% more costly than initial internal fixation when the costs of subsequent surgery were included.

Conclusions:

This meta-analysis of the existing literature concludes that whilst nonoperative management is possible for valgus impacted neck of femur fractures, it is associated with higher complication rates and greater expense than management by internal fixation.
Placemaking Eichstätt: Perspectives and Intersections
Authors: Costa Richard
Published: November 2023

This is a short essay on the conference “Taking Place and Making Place: Celebrating 25 Years of Space and Culture” at the Catholic University of Eichstätt-Ingolstadt (June 23–25, 2022). Based on a handful of notes and personal impressions, this is an unqualified research note and a descriptive overview of this conference from the perspective of a literary scholar. This perspective includes some brief reflections on Nietzsche’s perspectivism and Genevieve Lloyd’s reading of Spinoza as an alternative epistemology to Cartesian mind–body dualism, which approach critical engagement through a set of perspectives arising from the intersections between different fields.
Police body-worn cameras and privacy: Views and concerns of officers and citizens
Authors: Poirier Brigitte , Charbonneau Étienne , Boivin Rémi
Published: November 2023

Police body-worn cameras (BWC) have been lauded for their potential to increase transparency and accountability by documenting officers’ actions and interactions with citizens. However, despite their widespread use in recent years, several law enforcement agencies have been hesitant to adopt this technology because of privacy concerns. This article explores the views of police officers and citizens from the Canadian province of Quebec towards the use of BWCs. Specifically, it seeks to: (a) understand how officers feel about being monitored by BWCs and (b) assess citizens’ privacy concerns towards police BWCs. A mixed-method research design was used, including interviews and focus groups with 78 police officers, including 46 officers from four pilot sites, and a telephone survey of 1609 residents from the same sites. The results show that officers are concerned about the potential effects of BWCs on their privacy and the privacy of the public. One major area of concern is the impact it may have on their work performance and the use of adaptative measures that support them in carrying out challenging duties. By contrast, most citizens have no reservations about being recorded by a BWC. Certain individual characteristics—such as age and perceptions of the police—however, were associated with heightened privacy concerns. Without neglecting citizens’ privacy, this study provides insights into the development of BWC policies that preserve officers’ right to privacy and ability to fulfill their duty.
The effect of information seeking behaviour on trust in AI in Asia: The moderating role of misinformation concern
Authors: Neyazi Taberez Ahmed , Khai Ee Tan , Nadaf Arif , Schroeder Ralph
Published: November 2023

Public opinion on new technologies, like artificial intelligence (AI), is influenced by media coverage. However, it remains unclear as to what extent seeking news and information about AI on legacy media as opposed to social media can shape trust in AI. A cross-national survey conducted across Malaysia, Indonesia, Singapore and India investigated the impact of information seeking behaviour on trust in AI, as well as the moderating role of concern about misinformation online. Results indicate a positive relationship exists between seeking AI information on social media and trust across all countries. However, for traditional media, this association was only present in Singapore. When considering misinformation, a positive moderation effect was found for social media in Singapore and India, whereas a negative effect was observed for traditional media in Singapore. These findings have implications for the adoption of novel technologies and highlight the importance of understanding the role of media in shaping public trust.
The Modern Slavery Core Outcome Set: A Survivor-Driven Consensus on Priority Outcomes for Recovery, Wellbeing, and Reintegration
Authors: Jannesari Sohail , Damara Bee , Witkin Rachel , Katona Cornelius , Sit Queenie , Dang Minh , Joseph Jeanet , Howarth Emma , Triantafillou Olivia , Powell Claire , Rafique Sabah , Sritharan Anitta , Wright Nicola , Oram Sian , Paphitis Sharli Anne
Published: November 2023

There is no consensus on the outcomes needed for the recovery and reintegration of survivors of modern slavery and human trafficking. We developed the Modern Slavery Core Outcome Set (MSCOS) to address this gap. We conducted three English-language reviews on the intervention outcomes sought or experienced by adult survivors: a qualitative systematic review (4 databases, 18 eligible papers, thematic analysis), a rapid review of quantitative intervention studies (four databases, eight eligible papers, content analysis) and a gray literature review (2 databases, 21 websites, a call for evidence, 13 eligible papers, content analysis). We further extracted outcomes from 36 pre-existing interview transcripts with survivors, and seven interviews with survivors from underrepresented groups. We narrowed down outcomes via a consensus process involving: a three-stage E-Delphi survey (191 respondents); and a final consensus workshop (46 participants). We generated 398 outcomes from our 3 reviews, and 843 outcomes from interviews. By removing conceptual and literal duplicates, we reduced this to a longlist of 72 outcomes spanning 10 different domains. The E-Delphi produced a 14-outcome shortlist for the consensus workshop, where 7 final outcomes were chosen. Final outcomes were: “long-term consistent support,” “secure and suitable housing,” “safety from any trafficker or other abuser,” “access to medical treatment,” “finding purpose in life and self-actualisation,” “access to education,” and “compassionate, trauma-informed services.” The MSCOS provides outcomes that are accepted by a wide range of stakeholders and that should be measured in intervention evaluation.
Implementation of Overdose Prevention in Maryland: Implications for Resource Allocation, Program Scale-Up, and Evaluation
Authors: Tomko Catherine , Rouhani Saba , Johnson Renee M. , Susukida Ryoko , Byregowda Himani , Parnham Taylor , Schneider Kristin E. , Gibson Marianne , Heath Teresa , Rickard Robin , Boyd Christine E. , Park Ju Nyeong
Published: November 2023

Overdose mortality in the United States continues to climb, with Maryland being one of the hardest hit states. We summarized implementation of overdose prevention and response programs in Maryland and identified associations between opioid overdose deaths by jurisdiction in 2019 and implementation of overdose programs by 2021. Data on program implementation are from Maryland’s Opioid Operational Command Center (OOCC) Program Inventory. OOCC coordinates the state’s response to overdose, and their Program Inventory tracks implementation of 145 programs across 12 domains (e.g., public health, education, and judiciary), including 10 programs designed to broaden naloxone access. The level of program implementation was dichotomized as substantial implementation versus other levels (i.e., partial, planned, and none). We estimated associations between per capita opioid overdose deaths and substantial implementation of: all 145 programs in the Inventory, programs within each of 12 domains, and 10 naloxone programs. Data on program implementation and overdose mortality are summarized at the jurisdiction level. Across jurisdictions, the median proportion of programs with substantial implementation was 51% across all programs and 70% among naloxone programs. Overdose mortality was associated with subsequent substantial implementation of programs within the public health domain ( p = .04), but not in the other 11 domains. We did not find evidence that per capita overdose deaths in 2019 spurred overdose program implementation by 2021, with the exception of public health programs. The OOCC Program Inventory is a novel way to track implementation across jurisdictions. Findings can inform the implementation and evaluation of overdose programs in other jurisdictions across the United States.
And Harm Reduction for All
Authors: Herrera Celina D.
Published: November 2023

The Harm Reduction Act, a groundbreaking piece of legislation in New Mexico, provided for the legal use of paraphernalia by New Mexican residents so long as they could present their yellow sharps cards. Unfortunately, tribal governments in New Mexico were not consulted in these changes in harm reduction practices. As a result, Native American persons in New Mexico cannot access harm reduction services as freely as any other New Mexican can—and harm reduction programs are desperately needed in New Mexico. In this commentary, I examine the impact that the Harm Reduction Act has had on Native American populations in New Mexico and suggest opportunities for improving collaboration between state and tribal governments and community-based organizations.
Is Handgrip Strength Associated With Parkinson’s Disease? Longitudinal Study of 71 702 Older Adults
Authors: Mey Rochelle , Calatayud Joaquín , Casaña José , Núñez-Cortés Rodrigo , Suso-Martí Luis , Andersen Lars Louis , López-Gil José Francisco , López-Bueno Rubén
Published: November 2023

Background

To date, no study has longitudinally assessed the dose–response association between handgrip strength and incidence of Parkinson’s Disease (PD).

Objectives

to investigate the longitudinal association between handgrip strength and the development of PD within a representative European population of older adults.

Methods

Individuals aged 50 years and older from 27 European countries and Israel participated. We retrieved data from the Survey of Health, Ageing and Retirement in Europe waves 1, 2, 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8. Handgrip strength was measured using a hand dynamometer and participants reported whether they had a medical PD diagnosis. Time-varying exposure and covariates were modeled using both Cox regression and restricted cubic splines.

Results

A total of 71 702 participants (mean age 65.2 years) were followed over a median period of 5.0 years. Among them, 314 participants developed PD. In the fully adjusted model, we observed a higher risk (hazard ratio [HR]: 2.50; 95% CI:1.92-3.32) of PD for participants with lower handgrip strength (third 1) and a lower risk of PD for participants in the second third (HR: 1.41; 95% CI: 1.06-1.87). In dose–response analyses, men showed lower risk of PD from 27 kg (HR:0.94; 95% CI: 0.91-0.97) to 59 kg (HR:0.10; 95% CI: 0.04-0.22), whereas women showed significant reductions from 24 kg (HR:0.68; 95% CI: 0.46-0.99) to 38 kg (HR:0.44; 95% CI: 0.22-0.88).

Conclusions

Handgrip strength ought to be incorporated as one of the measures in the prognostic toolbox for the screening of older adults who are possibly at risk of developing PD.
Impact of Bariatric Surgery on Mortality of Mitral Valve Surgery: A National Analysis
Authors: Benck Kelley N. , Alnajar Ahmed , Lamelas Joseph
Published: November 2023

Objective:

Obesity is a common comorbidity of cardiac surgery patients. The goal of this study is to determine if a lower weight achieved through bariatric surgery has any association with mitral valve (MV) replacement or repair surgery mortality.

Methods:

This study used a retrospective analysis of the National Inpatient Sample dataset from 2012 to 2020. Adult patients who underwent MV surgery with normal weight following bariatric surgery ( n = 1,125) and patients with obesity ( n = 48,555) were compared. The primary outcome was in-hospital mortality.

Results:

This study included 49,680 patients. The median age was 64 (55 to 71) years, and the majority were female (55%). Bariatric surgery was found to significantly decrease the odds of mortality, even after adjusting for important covariates, indicating a reduction of mortality risk by 54% (adjusted odds ratio = 0.46, p = 0.024). Other significant protective factors include isolated and elective surgery. Significant risk factors were older age, female sex, and diabetes mellitus. Patients who were obese demonstrated longer lengths of stay (LOS), greater transfers to other facilities, and higher hospital costs.

Conclusions:

In patients receiving MV surgery, bariatric surgery demonstrated significant survival benefits during hospitalization, in addition to reducing LOS and cost. Our data support prior evidence of bariatric surgery improving cardiovascular outcomes. Therefore, bariatric surgery may be a meaningful method of weight loss to improve surgical patient outcomes in patients with obesity. However, longer-term data are needed.
Increasing nursing and midwifery research leadership: impact evaluation of the National Institute for Health and Care Research Senior Nurse and Midwife Research Leader Programme at 1 year
Authors: Menzies Julie C , Brand Sarah , Bench Suzanne , Bramley Louise , Smith Vikki , Henshall Catherine
Published: November 2023

Background:

Although nurses and midwives make up the largest sector of the National Health Service (NHS) workforce, studies have identified a lack of knowledge, skills and confidence to engage and lead research. In 2018, the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) invested in the development of a 3-year Senior Nurse Midwife Research Leader (SNMRL) Programme aimed at developing nursing and midwifery research capacity and capability. This review was conducted at the end of year one as part of an ongoing impact evaluation of the programme.

Aim:

To evaluate the impact of activities undertaken by NIHR SNMRL at the end of year one of the programme.

Method:

The content of anonymised end-of-year one activity, self-reported by SNMRL, was coded independently and deductively analysed by a project team using the modified Visible ImpaCT Of Research framework (VICTOR). Exemplar case studies were selected by the team to illustrate activity within domains. Working group members coded two reports independently then compared them in pairs to increase inter-rater reliability and the quality and consistency of coding.

Results:

Reports from 63 of 66 SNMRL were submitted and included for analysis. Reporting reflected progress towards NIHR programme objectives. These included acting as a programme ambassador, creating a vibrant research culture, supporting staff recruitment and retention, enhancing organisational reputation and clinical academic outputs. Networking and collaboration locally, regionally and nationally were widely reported.

Conclusions:

The SNMRL cohort reported initiating multiple initiatives aimed at influencing organisational research culture, service provision and supporting nursing/midwifery engagement with research. Evaluation indicated progress to address barriers to research engagement within NHS Trusts.
Entrepreneurship education, entrepreneurship intentions, and entrepreneurship motivation on students’ entrepreneurship interest in entrepreneurship among higher education students
Authors: Listyaningsih Erna , Mufahamah Euis , Mukminin Amirul , Ibarra Florante P , Santos Ma. Ruby Hiyasmin M. Delos , Quicho Rosario F
Published: November 2023

One of the initiatives to strengthen the Indonesian economy is entrepreneurship. Concern has been raised about how little entrepreneurship is being pursued by recent college graduates. Several earlier studies have discovered that an entrepreneur can successfully run his business if there is an interest in entrepreneurship. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to investigate how entrepreneurship education, entrepreneurship intentions, and entrepreneurship motivation affect students’ entrepreneurship interest in entrepreneurship among higher education students in Bandar Lampung, Indonesia. Regarding the geopolitical constellations at the international, national, and regional levels, Bandar Lampung, Indonesia, is in a very favorable position. Thus, 180 students who had taken entrepreneurship courses at nine universities in Bandar Lampung were asked to complete a questionnaire, and the information was then analyzed using PLS-SEM. It was determined that entrepreneurship education had no discernible impact on entrepreneurship motivation. Furthermore, entrepreneurship interest was not significantly impacted by entrepreneurship motivation. Additionally, there was no discernible mediating effect of entrepreneurial motivation on entrepreneurial education to entrepreneurship interest. However, the relationship between entrepreneurship motivation and entrepreneurship education was significantly impacted by entrepreneurship intention. These results imply that students at the university in Bandar Lampung believe that entrepreneurship education is like other lectures and do not develop an interest in entrepreneurship.
The microtubule inhibitor eribulin demonstrates efficacy in platinum-resistant and refractory high-grade serous ovarian cancer patient-derived xenograft models
Authors: Ho Gwo Yaw , Vandenberg Cassandra J. , Lim Ratana , Christie Elizabeth L. , Garsed Dale W. , Lieschke Elizabeth , Nesic Ksenija , Kondrashova Olga , Ratnayake Gayanie , Radke Marc , Penington Jocelyn S. , Carmagnac Amandine , Heong Valerie , Kyran Elizabeth L. , Zhang Fan , Traficante Nadia ,   Australian Ovarian Cancer Study, Huang Ruby , Dobrovic Alexander , Swisher Elizabeth M. , McNally Orla , Kee Damien , Wakefield Matthew J. , Papenfuss Anthony T. , Bowtell David D. L. , Barker Holly E. , Scott Clare L.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Despite initial response to platinum-based chemotherapy and PARP inhibitor therapy (PARPi), nearly all recurrent high-grade serous ovarian cancer (HGSC) will acquire lethal drug resistance; indeed, ~15% of individuals have de novo platinum-refractory disease.

Objectives:

To determine the potential of anti-microtubule agent (AMA) therapy (paclitaxel, vinorelbine and eribulin) in platinum-resistant or refractory (PRR) HGSC by assessing response in patient-derived xenograft (PDX) models of HGSC.

Design and methods:

Of 13 PRR HGSC PDX, six were primary PRR, derived from chemotherapy-naïve samples (one was BRCA2 mutant) and seven were from samples obtained following chemotherapy treatment in the clinic (five were mutant for either BRCA1 or BRCA2 ( BRCA1/2), four with prior PARPi exposure), recapitulating the population of individuals with aggressive treatment-resistant HGSC in the clinic. Molecular analyses and in vivo treatment studies were undertaken.

Results:

Seven out of thirteen PRR PDX (54%) were sensitive to treatment with the AMA, eribulin (time to progressive disease (PD) ⩾100 days from the start of treatment) and 11 out of 13 PDX (85%) derived significant benefit from eribulin [time to harvest (TTH) for each PDX with p < 0.002]. In 5 out of 10 platinum-refractory HGSC PDX (50%) and one out of three platinum-resistant PDX (33%), eribulin was more efficacious than was cisplatin, with longer time to PD and significantly extended TTH (each PDX p < 0.02). Furthermore, four of these models were extremely sensitive to all three AMA tested, maintaining response until the end of the experiment (120d post-treatment start). Despite harbouring secondary BRCA2 mutations, two BRCA2-mutant PDX models derived from heavily pre-treated individuals were sensitive to AMA. PRR HGSC PDX models showing greater sensitivity to AMA had high proliferative indices and oncogene expression. Two PDX models, both with prior chemotherapy and/or PARPi exposure, were refractory to all AMA, one of which harboured the SLC25A40-ABCB1 fusion, known to upregulate drug efflux via MDR1.

Conclusion:

The efficacy observed for eribulin in PRR HGSC PDX was similar to that observed for paclitaxel, which transformed ovarian cancer clinical practice. Eribulin is therefore worthy of further consideration in clinical trials, particularly in ovarian carcinoma with early failure of carboplatin/paclitaxel chemotherapy.
Sternoclavicular septic arthritis in a healthy adult: A case report and a review of the literature
Authors: Jlidi Mohamed , Bouaicha Walid , Nouicer Saffet , Mallek Karim , Chaabane Imene , Bachrouch Sabrine , Daas Selim
Published: November 2023

Sternoclavicular joint septic arthritis is rare and commonly associated with specific risk factors. We report the case of a 58-year-old female with no previous medical or surgical history who presented complaining of a warm, indurated mass overlying the right sternoclavicular joint. Computed tomography of the chest showed erosion of the sternal end of the clavicle and the manubrium sternum associated with thickening of the synovium and a sternoclavicular joint space narrowing, suggestive of an infective process. Intraoperative finds a purulent collection extending both over the clavicle and the sternum. Limited destruction of small parts of the sternoclavicular joint was noted. The abscess was drained. Simple debridement and limited curettage were preferred to en bloc resection given the limited size of necrotic tissues. Sternoclavicular joint septic arthritis is a condition with significant morbidity and potential mortality. All medical practitioners must maintain a high degree of suspicion, even in healthy patients, as it can lead to serious complications.
Benign proliferating pilar tumor excised with Slow Mohs surgery: A case report
Authors: Stewart Krystal , Itani Doha , Mulherin Andrew , Hayes Robert
Published: November 2023

Proliferating pilar tumors are rare, benign, exophytic neoplasms, which can closely resemble a squamous cell carcinoma. We describe a patient with a large benign exophytic tumor on the scalp that had been slowly growing over 10 years. While this class of benign follicular tumors is rare, the standard of care is typically excision with clear histologic margins. In this case, this large scalp tumor was surgically excised with clear margins/permanent section margin control using “Slow Mohs” technique, with subsequent repair using a skin substitute dressing, followed by a delayed skin graft.
Exploring the rise of telehealth services in Malaysia: A retrospective study
Authors: Loo Jason SE , Yow Hui Yin , Ten Yi Yang , Govindaraju Kayatri , Megat Mohd Zubairi Megat Helmi , Oui Hui Che , Abdul Rahim Nusaibah
Published: November 2023

Background

Telehealth services have gained popularity in Malaysia, providing convenient consultations during the COVID-19 pandemic. However, there is limited research on their usage, user demographics and prescribed medications. This study aims to fill that gap by investigating telehealth service utilisation in community pharmacies and identifying trends in common diagnoses and medications prescribed.

Methods

A retrospective observational study was conducted using a telehealth services database in Malaysian community pharmacies. Consultation records from January 2019 to December 2021 were extracted using a data collection form. The study identified the service usage over time, demographic profiles of users and the most common diagnoses and prescribed medications. Diagnoses were classified using the International Classification of Disease, 10th Revision (ICD-10), and medications were classified using the Anatomical Therapeutic Chemical (ATC) system.

Results

The study included 835,826 telehealth service records, with 88.8% being assisted consultations with e-prescriptions and 11.2% direct consultations. The user population consisted of primarily Malaysians (96.9%), with a mean age of 50 ± 21 years. Both telehealth services saw an increase in unique users over the 3-year study period. There was a moderate correlation between active COVID-19 cases and monthly user count. Assisted consultations were more widely used than direct consultations.

Conclusion

This study found an increased usage of telehealth services and its potential to remain as a healthcare system feature in community pharmacies. Further investigation into the impact on medication safety, quality and healthcare delivery is warranted.
Mental Health Nurses’ Perceptions of Providing Pharmaceutical Care in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alyousef Seham Mansour , Alhamidi Sami Abdulrahman
Published: November 2023

Working with medication is an important role of mental health nurses. However, little attention has focused on these nurses’ perspectives on where the responsibility of nurses for safe, competent medication management of their patients rests. The aim of this current study was to investigate psychiatric mental health nurses’ perspectives on their role in pharmaceutical care (PC). This study used a qualitative exploratory focus group discussion approach with nine experienced psychiatric mental health nurses. Inductive data were gathered using open-ended probes and theoretical sampling and were analyzed to yield themes and subthemes. Principal themes and subthemes emerged from the data analyzed. These themes illuminated nurses’ experiences with respect to the use of pharmaceutical medication in the mental health setting, including (a) nurses’ responsibilities for psychiatric pharmaceutical medications, (b) work experiences in multi-disciplinary teams, (c) nurses’ knowledge and education regarding medication, and (d) struggles faced by Psychiatric/Mental Health Nurses. Nurses involved in pharmaceutical care need additional education, training, interprofessional collaboration, and clearly codified parameters to guide their professional practice in this aspect of care.
Role of Female Successors in Family Business Innovation: Some Insights From the Largest Matrilineal Muslim Society
Authors: Games Donard , Sari Dessy Kurnia
Published: November 2023

This study was conducted to examine innovation and succession planning of some Minangkabau family business using the institutional logic approach. It is important to note that the Minangkabau is completely a Muslim society in Indonesia and one of the largest matrilineal societies in the world. Moreover, innovation and succession planning are important factors and interlinked concepts signifying the dynamics of a family business. A qualitative approach was implemented in this study and this involved interviewing 17 Minangkabau people from six family businesses after which thematic analysis was utilized to examine the collected data. It was discovered that there were two consecutive major patterns regarding family business innovation and succession planning based on business, community or socio-cultural values, and family logic. Moreover, two possible paths were identified with the interviewees observed to have one which involved the importance of succession planning and its consequences on business innovation. This means family business innovation in real organizations needs to be based on trustworthiness as well as the adoption of appropriate changes and strategies.
From Radiographic Evaluation to Treatment Decisions in Neurologically Intact Patients With Thoraco-lumbar Burst Fractures
Authors: Dvorak Marcel F. , Öner Cumhur F. , Schnake Klaus , Dandurand Charlotte , Muijs Sander
Published: November 2023

We propose that the key to improving care for these patients is to truly understand the processes that take place from the interpretation of radiographic findings, through the assessment of the severity of various injuries, to inclusion within a classification category and finally to selecting a specific treatment.
Effect of Purposely Induced Asymmetric Walking Perturbations on Limb Loading After Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction
Authors: Halkiadakis Yannis , Davidson Noah , Morgan Kristin D.
Published: November 2023

Background:

Patients often sustain prolonged neuromuscular dysfunction after anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR). This dysfunction can present as interlimb loading rate asymmetries linked to reinjury and knee osteoarthritis progression.

Purpose/Hypothesis:

To evaluate how asymmetric walking protocols can reduce interlimb loading rate asymmetry in patients after ACLR. It was hypothesized that asymmetric walking perturbations would (1) produce a short-term adaptation of interlimb gait symmetry and (2) induce the temporary storage of these new gait patterns after the perturbations were removed.

Study Design:

Descriptive laboratory study.

Methods:

Fifteen patients who had undergone ACLR were asked to perform an asymmetric walking protocol during the study period (2022-2023). First, to classify each limb as overloaded or underloaded based on the vertical ground-reaction force loading rate for each limb, participants were asked to perform baseline symmetric walking trials. Participants then performed an asymmetric walking trial for 10 minutes, where one limb was moving 0.5 m/s faster than the other limb (1 vs 1.5 m/s), followed by a 2-minute 1 m/s symmetric deadaptation walking trial. This process was repeated with the limb speeds switched for a second asymmetric trial.

Results:

Participants adopted a new, symmetric interlimb loading rate gait pattern over time in response to the asymmetric trial, where the overloaded limb was set at 1 m/s. A linear mixed-effects model detected a significant change in gait dynamics ( P < .001). The participants exhibited negative aftereffects after this asymmetric perturbation, indicating the temporary storage of the new gait pattern. No positive short-term gait adaptation or storage was observed when the overloaded limb was set to a faster speed.

Conclusion:

Asymmetric walking successfully produced the short-term adaptation of interlimb loading rate symmetry in patients after ACLR and induced the temporary storage of these gait patterns in the initial period when the perturbation was removed.

Clinical Relevance:

These findings are promising, as they suggest that asymmetric walking could serve as an effective gait retraining protocol that has the potential to improve long-term outcomes in patients after ACLR.
Benefits of a Postoperative Hip Orthosis After Routine Arthroscopy of the Hip: A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Wentzel Dylan , Enos Jake , Smoak Jason , Goodman Ian , Mar Damon , Vopat Bryan , Mullen Scott , Schroeppel John Paul
Published: November 2023

Background:

No consensus currently exists among orthopaedic surgeons regarding the benefits of hip orthosis after routine hip arthroscopy.

Purpose:

To compare patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) and reoperation rates between patients who were braced versus those who were not braced after routine hip arthroscopy.

Study Design:

Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.

Methods:

A retrospective review was conducted of 193 patients who underwent hip arthroscopy for femoroacetabular impingement (FAI) from January 1, 2018, to December 31, 2021, by 2 orthopedic surgeons at a single institution. Patients before July 1, 2019, were immobilized in a hip orthosis after hip arthroscopy (braced group; n = 101), whereas those after July 1, 2019, were not (nonbraced group; n = 92). Baseline PROMs (visual analog scale for pain, modified Harris Hip Score, Single Assessment Numeric Evaluation, and Veterans Rand 12-Item Health Survey [VR-12] Physical Component Summary and Mental Component Summary) were obtained for all patients and were repeated postoperatively at 2 weeks, 4 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years. The study groups were compared to evaluate differences in PROMs over time and 2-year postoperative reoperation rates. Group comparisons were also stratified by patient sex.

Results:

There were no significant differences on any PROM between the braced and nonbraced cohorts at any timepoint. There were also no significant group differences in reoperation rates, with 8 braced patients (7.9%) undergoing reoperation and 1 nonbraced patient (2.3%) undergoing reoperation ( P = .208). In the sex-stratified analyses, nonbraced male patients had significantly higher VAS pain and lower VR-12 Mental Component Summary scores at 6 months postoperatively compared with braced male patients ( P = .043 and .026, respectively).

Conclusion:

The study findings suggested that the use of an orthosis after routine hip arthroscopy for FAI does not improve patient-reported outcomes or negatively affect the 2-year reoperation rate. Postoperative bracing increases perioperative cost, and by foregoing routine bracing, patients may avoid the morbidity associated with wearing a brace for a prolonged period.
Rhinoscleroma in a 9-year old boy: Rare case report
Authors: Kabila Badr , Zhim Meriem , Naggar Amine , Hadad Siham el , Allali Nazik , Chat Latifa , Elouazzani Hafsa , Cherradi Nadia
Published: November 2023

Rhinoscleroma is a rare benign granulomatous disease in children, the pathogen of which is Klebsiella rhinoscleromatis. Rhinoscleroma almost always affects the respiratory tract, the nasal cavities are the most common site, but can also be found over the entire extent of the respiratory tree, clinically the patient often presents with nasal obstruction with other non-specific signs, Histology is the basis of the diagnosis of rhinoscleroma. Early and appropriate medical treatment improves the prognosis and prevents progression to disabling sequelae. We present the case of a 9-year-old child who presented to the pediatric emergency department with a 2-month history of nasal obstruction unresponsive to medical treatment (Oxymetazoline). This was accompanied by mild nasal swelling and intermittent episodes of epistaxis. A CT scan of the paranasal sinuses was performed, ruling out a malignant tumor in the nasal cavity due to the absence of bone lysis. A nasal cavity biopsy with histopathological examination was conducted, confirming the diagnosis of rhinoscleroma. This was supported by the presence of an infiltrate rich in histiocytes and plasma cells, along with the identification of Russell bodies during PAS (Periodic Acid Schiff) staining. The patient underwent a medical treatment regimen involving a sulfamide-based antibiotic therapy (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole) for 8 weeks, along with a short-term corticosteroid therapy at a dose of 1 mg/kg/24 hours. At the first follow-up after 1 month, there was a noticeable reduction in nasal swelling and an improvement in nasal obstruction. A second follow-up 3 months later showed favorable results, with complete disappearance of both the swelling and nasal obstruction. Considering the possibility of recurrence, an annual follow-up was decided upon.
Peculiar Histological Features of Oral Intravascular Papillary Endothelial Hyperplasia
Authors: Lopes-Santos Gabriela , Preto Kaique Alberto , Soares Cléverson Teixeira , Oliveira Denise Tostes
Published: November 2023

A 55-year-old male patient with single and well-circumscribed nodule in the lower lip. Accurate diagnosis is based only on histopathological examination using hematoxylin and eosin and immunohistochemical approach, which a large, organized thrombus within the dilated lumen of a poorly demarcated vein, associated with papillary projections of endothelial proliferation occupying vascular spaces. The final diagnosis was intravascular papillary endothelial hyperplasia (IPEH) associated with a thrombus. Oral IPEH is rare and has historically been difficult to diagnose due to its resemblance to other oral lesions. However, the distinctive histological features of oral IPEH associated with a thrombus now allow for its diagnosis through hematoxylin and eosin staining alone, without the need for additional techniques. Therefore, it is crucial for pathologists to be familiar with these unique morphological features to accurately diagnose oral IPEH and differentiate it from more common benign, malignant, or reactive vascular lesions in the oral cavity.
Rural-Urban disparities in self-reported physical/mental multimorbidity: A cross-sectional study of self-reported mental health and physical health among working age adults in the U.S.
Authors: Rhubart Danielle , Kowalkowski Jennifer , Yerger Jordan
Published: November 2023

Purpose

Self-rated physical health (SRPH) and self-rated mental health (SRMH) are both linked to excess morbidity and premature mortality and can vary across rural and urban contexts. This can be particularly problematic for rural residents who have less access to important health care infrastructure. In this paper, we assess the prevalence of and rural-urban disparities at the intersection of SRPH and SRMH, specifically self-rated physical/mental multimorbidity (SRPMM) overall and across rural-urban contexts.

Methods

Using a cross-sectional demographically representative national dataset of over 4000 working age adults in the U.S., we expose rural-urban differences in the prevalence of SRPMM and explore individual-level factors that may explain this disparity.

Results

Approximately 15 percent of working age adults reported SRPMM, but rural adults were at higher risk than their urban counterparts. However, this disadvantage disappeared for remote rural working-age adults and was attenuated for metro-adjacent rural working-age adults when we controlled for the fact that rural adults had lower household incomes.

Conclusion

Findings reveal a higher risk of SRPMM among rural adults, in part because of lower incomes among this group. This work acts as the foundation for facilitating research on and addressing rural-urban disparities in SRPMM.
Pleomorphic Adenoma Arising From Frontozygomatic Region: An Ectopic Localization
Authors: Mattos Ricardo P. , De-Moraes Sylvio Luiz C. , Fares Raissa D. , de Mello Andre Luiz S. , Ribeiro da Silva Jonathan
Published: November 2023

Study Design: Case report.

Objective: Pleomorphic adenoma is pathologically characterized as an epithelial lesion intermixed with mesenchymal elements. It is characterized by being a slow-growing, asymptomatic, usually nodular, firm consistency lesion that can reach large dimensions, especially when it affects the parotid gland. The present study aims to report a case about an atypical presentation of pleomorphic adenoma found in frontozygomatic region.

Methods: The tumor mass was removed through resection, under general anesthesia, by cutaneous approach, preserving aesthetics and noble structures as temporalis muscle, orbicularis oculi muscle and frontal branch of the facial nerve. Intra-operative macroscopic assessment showed an encapsulated tumor. After resection, the surgical specimen was sent to the pathology laboratory for histological analysis confirming the diagnosis of Pleomorphic Adenoma.

Conclusions: After 1 year of follow-up the patient had an excellent evolution, without signs of disease recurrence. It demonstrates that, until now, the surgical approach constituted the resolving therapy, even for a lesion in a rare localization.
The lifelong natural history of clonal hematopoiesis and its links to myeloid neoplasia
Authors: Fabre Margarete A. , Vassiliou George S.
Published: November 2023

The study of somatic mutations and the associated clonal mosaicism across the human body has transformed our understanding of aging and its links to cancer. In proliferative human tissues, stem cells compete for dominance, and those with an advantage expand clonally to outgrow their peers. In the hematopoietic system, such expansion is termed clonal hematopoiesis (CH). The forces driving competition, namely heterogeneity of the hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) pool and attrition of their environment, become increasingly prominent with age. As a result, CH becomes progressively more common through life to the point of becoming essentially ubiquitous. We are beginning to unravel the specific intracellular and extracellular factors underpinning clonal behavior, with somatic mutations in specific driver genes, inflammation, telomere maintenance, extraneous exposures, and inherited genetic variation among the important players. The inevitability of CH with age combined with its unequivocal links to myeloid cancers poses a scientific and clinical challenge. Specifically, we need to decipher the factors determining clonal behavior and develop prognostic tools to identify those at high risk of malignant progression, for whom preventive interventions may be warranted. Here, we discuss how recent advances in our understanding of the natural history of CH have provided important insights into these processes and helped define future avenues of investigation.