bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Review of Ruxolitinib for Treatment of Non-Segmental Vitiligo
Authors: Hwang Jacqueline R. , Driscoll Marcia S.
Published: December 2022

Objective:

To review the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety of topical ruxolitinib for treatment of nonsegmental vitiligo.

Data Sources:

Literature published between January 1983 and October 2022 was reviewed from MEDLINE and ClinicalTrials.gov.

Study Selection and Data Extraction:

Relevant articles in English and data from clinical trials were included.

Data Synthesis:

In 2 phase II trials, treatment with ruxolitinib cream showed significant improvements in Vitiligo Area Scoring Index (VASI) scores compared with controls. The 1.5% concentration applied twice daily showed the best results after 52 weeks, with 50% VASI improvement in 58% of patients, 75% VASI improvement in 52% of patients, and 90% VASI improvement in 33% of patients. In 2 phase III trials, more patients achieved at least 75% improvement in facial VASI at 24 weeks (primary endpoint; trial 1: 29.9%, trial 2: 29.9%) than controls (trial 1: 7.5% [ P < 0.0001], trial 2: 12.9% [ P < 0.01]). Common adverse effects were erythema, pruritus, and acne; all events were mild.

Relevance to Patient Care and Clinical Practice in Comparison to Existing Drugs:

This review summarizes the pharmacokinetics, efficacy, and safety data regarding topical ruxolitinib for vitiligo. Ruxolitinib is associated with significant clinical improvements with low bioavailability and minimal adverse effects compared with conventional topical steroids, calcineurin inhibitors, phototherapy, and depigmentation agents.

Conclusions:

Ruxolitinib cream is the first therapy approved by the Food and Drug Administration for repigmentation of nonsegmental vitiligo. Clinicians should consider these benefits when recommending treatment as conventional therapies may be time-intensive and carry greater risks of adverse effects.
Clinical Outcomes of Fusion in Type II Accessory Naviculars With or Without Asymptomatic Flatfeet
Authors: Sun Nian , Chen Junjian , Chen Zhuhong , Zeng Canjun , Guo Hao
Published: December 2022

Background:

Few studies have reported the clinical outcomes of fusion surgeries for type II accessory naviculars. Whether the combination of accessory naviculars and asymptomatic flatfoot will result in worse outcomes in accessory navicular surgeries remains to be elucidated. Our study aims to report the clinical outcomes of fusion for type II accessory naviculars and make a subgroup comparison among accessory navicular patients with or without asymptomatic flatfeet.

Methods:

From May 2017 to June 2021, all painful type II accessory naviculars with or without asymptomatic flatfeet in our inpatient center were reviewed, and those who only underwent fusion surgeries were included in the retrospective study. Visual analog scale (VAS) scores, American Orthopaedic Foot & Ankle Society (AOFAS) midfoot scores, Tegner activity level scores, complications, patient-reported satisfaction, and imaging results (Meary angle in the weightbearing lateral view, talo–first metatarsal angle and talonavicular coverage angle in the weightbearing anteroposterior view) were used to describe outcomes.

Results:

Thirty-two eligible patients responded to the latest follow-up request and were included in this study. The mean follow-up duration was 37.1 ± 16.0 months. The average VAS pain score improved from 4.7 ± 1.8 preoperatively to 0.9 ± 1.2 at the latest follow-up ( P<.001). The average AOFAS midfoot score improved from 67.1 ± 8.5 preoperatively to 90.2 ± 10.7 at the latest follow-up ( P<.001). The preoperative and postoperative Tegner activity level scores were similar (3.3 ± 1.5 vs 3.5 ± 1.6, P=.136). The overall complication rate was 37.5%. The most common complication was nonunion (31.3%). The overall satisfaction rate was 90.6%. Similar outcomes were observed between the flatfoot and the nonflatfoot subgroups.

Conclusion:

Fusion for painful type II accessory naviculars resulted in good symptom relief, function improvement, and patient satisfaction at midterm follow-up, but the nonunion rate was relatively high. Fusion for painful type II accessory naviculars with or without asymptomatic mild to moderate flatfoot brought about similar clinical outcomes.

Level of Evidence:

Level III, retrospective comparative study.
An investigation of active enclosed-space noise control with a nonlinear loudspeaker
Authors: Lu Ze-Qi , Liang Zhong , Zhu Li-Ping , Ding Hu , Chen Li-Qun
Published: December 2022

Active control algorithms are widely used in enclosed-space noise control with the nonlinearities of secondary-source loudspeakers ignored. Inspired by nonlinear energy transfer resulting from nonlinear stiffness, this work concerns using a nonlinear loudspeaker to improve enclosed-space noise control. An enclosed-space active noise control system with a nonlinear loudspeaker is modeled. Based on the model, an approximate frequency response function of the noise control system is derived analytically via the harmonic balance method and verified using numerical methods. A globally consistent and bounded Lyapunov function is derived. The effects of the mass, nonlinear stiffness, volume, and area ratio on the noise reduction are also explored. Both analytical and numerical results demonstrate that the improved nonlinear loudspeaker is effective in improving the low-power characteristics of the loudspeaker, increasing noise reduction and improving fault-tolerant and robustness of the active noise control system.
Border Rioting and Crossings Between Disciplines and Professions, Countries and Cultures, Science and Society: An Assemblage of Autoethnographic Stories From the High North
Authors: Reinertsen Anne B. , Stien Kirsten Elisabeth , Merzliakova Elena , Chernik Valerii , Afonkina Julia , Zoglowek Herbert , Kuzmicheva Tatiana
Published: December 2022

We are seven experienced academics and researchers from the high north. All within the field of education. We represent different disciplines, countries, and cultures. What we have in common is a wish to cross borders, collaborate, and learn: make space for storied experiences. Our stories are open ended—we start and end in complexities, and embedded in some sort of post- or trans- perspective be it modernisms, -structuralisms, -humanisms, -colonialisms, -feminisms . . . No conclusions or commonalities are necessary. Rather, we want to draw attention to the metatextualities and freedoms of our storying and the inseparability of opposites. We are learning academics beginning where we are. We are learning academics wanting lives of becoming rather than copying or reinforcing what is already there.
Model Characterization: Total Body Irradiation or Busulfan for Conditioning in Human Cell Therapy Toxicology and Tumorigenicity Studies using NOD/SCID/IL2Rγnull (NSG) Mice
Authors: Ballesteros Cristina , Wong Karen , Abrahim Maia Araujo , Li Christian , Authier Simon
Published: December 2022

The NOD/SCID/IL2Rγnull (NSG) mouse is a relevant model for toxicology and tumorigenicity studies evaluating human cell therapies. Data was compiled from toxicology study control NSG mice exposed to gamma irradiation (0 or 200 cGy) or busulfan. Retrospective data evaluation included mortality, clinical observations, body weights, hematology, and external and internal macroscopic observations. There was no mortality in any of the 129 toxicology control (irradiated and non-irradiated) mice up to the 20-week observation period. Mortalities occurred between Days 1 and 25 among animals given busulfan ≥25 mg/kg/day at 1 or 2 doses via intraperitoneal (i.p.) injection. There were 4/10, 6/10 and 4/10 deaths at 25, 30 and 35 mg/kg/day busulfan, respectively. Busulfan-treated mice presented with dose-dependent clinical signs including signs of anemia in some individuals. Hematology, including white blood cell (WBC) and neutrophil (NEUT) counts, from irradiated mice at Weeks 12 and 20 revealed comparable values to non-irradiated animals. In contrast, irradiated mice treated with a positive control (HL-60) were euthanized prior to Week 12. There were no irradiation-related differences in macroscopic observations with lymphoid atrophy identified comparably in irradiated and non-irradiated groups. These results suggest that irradiation was suitable for conditioning to enable cell engraftment in NSG mice in the context of regulatory toxicology and tumorigenicity studies. Busulfan administered at 20 mg/kg/day for 2 days, i.p. was also well-tolerated, and it could be considered for toxicology studies of genetically modified human cells.
Re-defining Plurality of Autonomous, Unmerged Voices and Consciousnesses in Bakhtin’s Theory of the Novel
Authors: Majumdar Saikat , Sarkar Sandip
Published: December 2022

Historical investigation of novel changes over the ages. It demands observations from different dimensions, confronting one another and sometimes presenting opposite views provided by additional studies. Considering literary analysis about the emergence, structure, component, or features of novels somewhat has diffused the discussion. This paper reviewed the comprehensive theory of Mikhail Mikhailovich Bakhtin regarding the novel, the most celebrated discourse of books. The world merges into an open-ended, multi-voiced, dialogic reality as a novel gives way to distributing entirely incompatible parts among different perspectives of equal importance. Bakhtin opposes monologic speech and acknowledges dialogic speech, which determines social relations where the speaker is embedded. The dialogic discourse offers a radical liberalization of both the self and the concept of culture. The present paper traced the implied dialogism or the social relations within the framework of culture and subculture. Thus language which functions in a novel is not “symptomatic” of “persons,” but persons are the bearer of the language, with the “specific set of social and ideological valuations” that entails in a novel.
The use of dialectical behavior therapy in adolescent anger management: A systematic review
Authors: Haktanir Abdulkadir , Aydil Duygu , Baloğlu Mustafa , Kesici Şahin
Published: December 2022

Adolescence brings about many changes that are observed biologically, psychologically, and socially. This period is viewed as challenging in many cultures and can be a time when adolescents have difficulty controlling their emotions. Researchers focusing on the emotional state of adolescence emphasized that uncontrollable anger negatively affects' adolescent mental health and social relationships. In this systematic review article, studies using Dialectical Behavior Therapy (DBT) or DBT-informed studies assessing anger among adolescents have been examined. Characteristics as well as findings of these studies have been discussed. In general, DBT is a promising psychotherapy approach in increasing adolescent anger management; however, more methodologically rigorous experimental and meta-analysis studies are warranted.
Analysis of low-frequency vibration in a steam turbine based on closed-loop system identification
Authors: Yabui Shota , Kotsuchihashi Hiroki , Inoue Tsuyoshi
Published: December 2022

Steam turbines are used to generate thermal power in electric power plants. They are important industrial equipment that support societal infrastructure. The stable operation of steam turbines is necessary to maintain long-term electrical power supply. However, low-frequency vibration, which is referred to as steam-whirl-induced vibration, is a self-excited vibration that can damage turbines and hinders stable operation. Therefore, a prediction model and stable margin for steam-whirl-induced vibration in steam turbines should be developed. In this study, we propose a method for modeling steam-whirl-induced vibration using closed-loop system identification. This method directly creates a vibration model from the rotor displacement data. The gain, damping, and natural frequency of the vibration were calculated using this model. Moreover, an equation for the relationship between the damping and load was derived using the model, and the stable margin for increasing the load was estimated. Steam-whirl-induced vibration was modeled using the proposed method for the displacement data obtained from an actual steam turbine. The characteristics of the model are in good agreement with the experimental results, indicating the feasibility of using the model to predict steam-whirl-induced vibration.
The sakan shababiyy, or the world improvised: Displacement and masculine domestic space in Lebanon
Authors: Dinger Samuel
Published: December 2022

This article is an ethnographic study of a sakan shababiyy––a non-familial domestic space shared by young Syrian men living in exile. Based on fieldwork carried out in Lebanon between 2017 and early 2020, the article describes the texture of everyday life in a space where young men attempt to make home together in exile amidst the escalating pressures of housing discrimination, political repression, and economic collapse. The narration critically engages Bourdieu’s famous analysis of the Kabyle house as a frame for considering the ambiguous ‘reversals and reflections’ that structure domestic space in the aftermath of war and displacement. As a group of formerly middle-class young men rebuild lives upended by violence, peer cohabitation produces a masculine domesticity that is both an improvised and creative response to the exigences of exile and the grounds for orienting towards more optimistic imagined futures.
Creating a family centre by categorising clients in a steering group meeting interaction
Authors: Räsänen Jenni-Mari , Raitakari Suvi , Juhila Kirsi
Published: December 2022

This paper studies the creation of organisations via people processing (Prottas 1979), taking as its case study a new and developing family centre that aims to offer various social and health services under the same roof. The study draws on ethnomethodology, meaning that organisations are herein understood as being created and continuously produced in and through interaction. The data consist of 11 audio-recorded meetings from the centre’s steering group, which includes managers from different service fields and welfare agencies. In analysing the creation of the centre through people processing, this paper scrutinises how the meeting participants orient themselves toward and produce the centre’s client categories, what characteristics they connect to these categories, and how they do boundary work regarding which categories belong or not to the centre’s target groups. The meeting participants produce three different family based client categories. The first category is ordinary families, those without any special problems who just pop into the centre to see other people. These families are distinguished from the second category, best matching families, who are defined as having problems that would benefit from the integrated, multi-professional work conducted at the centre. The third category, families with too specific needs, refers to client groups whose service needs are at least partly beyond the centre’s expertise and resources. The centre needs these people-processing activities to make sense of its mission, clients and co-partners; this ongoing reasoning process allows the emerging centre to exist and find its place in the local service system.
Nonconsensual Condom-Use Deception: An Empirically Based Conceptualization of Stealthing
Authors: Gómez-Durán Esperanza L. , Martin-Fumadó Carles
Published: December 2022

In recent years, the act of stealthing, also termed nonconsensual condom removal (NCCR), has become an emerging important topic related to nonconsensual sexual experiences. We performed a rapid review by searches in Web of Science (245 articles), Medline (157 articles), and PsycINFO (72 articles). The studies, in English, French, Italian, or Spanish, that reported empirical data on stealthing were included, except for those focusing on the legal response to the phenomenon. The final sample of 16 articles of various design is analyzed. According to this review, more than 10% of women experience stealthing in their lifetime, and men having sex with men also experience stealthing. The article describes the empirical research literature in the field, explores terminological and conceptual challenges, and proposes a new and more comprehensive term (nonconsensual condom-use deception), and a revised definition and categorization of the behavior, according to the concrete manifestation of consent breach, the associated practices, or the underlying motivation. We argue that research, as well as policy and practice responses to this growing problem need to be guided by a conceptual framework that uses information gathered directly from those who experienced it.
Legal Protection of Revenge and Deepfake Porn Victims in the European Union: Findings From a Comparative Legal Study
Authors: Mania Karolina
Published: December 2022

The use of images of persons in a pornographic context (without the prior consent of the person concerned) on the internet is an increasingly widespread infringement. Unlawful activities carried out with the use of generated images and artificial intelligence are a variant of this phenomenon. “Revenge porn” and “deepfake porn” illustrate the inadequacy of legal systems vis a vis the fast-changing reality. Using the comparative law method, a comparison was made between the current laws of nine EU Member States to create a map of protection for victims of revenge porn. As the results showed, in three of the studied countries there is a separate incrimination of revenge porn; however, the conceptual scope of its definition is significantly different and it is these differences that determine the legal way for the victims to assert their rights. This article is a comparison of the current legal regulations of selected European Union countries and the means of legal protection used by the victims. The text presents the differences occurring in the legal systems adopted in the countries subject to analysis, as well as an assessment of possible solutions at the legal and technological level to face the existing problem.
Wear failure mechanism analysis of self-lubricating fabric composites at high temperature
Authors: Yu Mingming , Zhang Min , Fang Lin , Ren Musu , Liang Lei , Xie Wang , Ma Pibo
Published: December 2022

The friction and wear properties of self-lubricating fabric composites were closely related to fiber properties. In this paper, polyimide (PI), polyetheretherketone (PEEK), polyisophthalamide (PMIA) and cyclic aramid (Aramid III) fibers were selected as reinforcing fibers to compare and investigate the friction and wear properties of self-lubricating fabric composites at high temperature. The tribological behavior of self-lubricating fabric composites was evaluated by ball-on-disk friction test. The wear mechanism was investigated by scanning electron microscope and mechanical test. As a result, the composite with PI as warp and weft reinforcing fiber has outstanding wear resistance because of the higher modulus of PI fiber. Its wear rate is 1.29 × 10−8 mm3/(N·mm). It shows that the stronger the rigidity of the reinforcing fiber at high temperature, the better the wear resistance of the composite. However, the friction coefficient of composites with PI as weft reinforcing fibers is about 0.8, which is much higher than that of composites with PMIA, PEEK and Aramid III as weft reinforcing fibers. Their friction coefficients are about 0.1. In addition, the self-lubricating fabric composites with different warp and weft reinforcing fibers were prepared as self-lubricating joint bearing liners to evaluate bearing applications.
Effects of a Clinical Exercise Program on Health-Related Fitness and Quality of Life in Spanish Cancer Patients Receiving Adjuvant Therapy
Authors: GilHerrero Lucía , Courneya Kerry S. , McNeely Margaret L. , Castellanos Mónica , González Marquez Ana Isabel , Pollan Marina , Casla-Barrio Soraya
Published: December 2022

Objective:

To report the feasibility and effectiveness of a newly developed clinical exercise program for improving maximal cardiorespiratory fitness in Spanish cancer patients receiving adjuvant chemotherapy or radiation. We also examined the effectiveness of the exercise program for improving maximal muscular strength, body composition, fatigue, and quality of life, and explored if the effectiveness varied based on selected patient characteristics.

Design:

The study was a single group implementation feasibility study using a pre-posttest design.

Methods:

Participants performed a 12-week, twice-weekly, supervised, multi-component exercise program during adjuvant therapy. Paired t-tests were used to assess pre-post changes, and analyses of covariance were used to compare effectiveness based on selected patient characteristics.

Results:

We had 100 cancer patients referred to the clinical exercise program of which 85 (85%) initiated the exercise program and 76 (89%) completed the post-intervention fitness assessment. Exercise significantly improved VO2max by 4.8 mL/kg/minutes ( P < .001, d = 0.74). Exercise also significantly improved chest strength ( P < .001, d = 0.82), leg strength ( P < .001, d = 1.27), lean body mass ( P < .001, d = 0.11), skeletal muscle mass ( P < .001; d = 0.09), fat mass ( P < .001; d = 0.10), % body fat ( P < .001; d = 0.17), quality of life ( P = .0017; d = 0.41), and fatigue ( P = .007; d = 0.46). Treatment modality, cancer type, and age affected some exercise responses, especially related to body composition changes.

Conclusions:

A 12-week, supervised, multi-component exercise program was effective for improving health-related fitness and quality of life in Spanish cancer patients receiving adjuvant therapy. Our results show the benefits of incorporating clinical exercise programming into the supportive care of cancer patients receiving treatments.

Registration:

The study protocol is registered at ClinicalTrials.gov (NCT05078216).
Revision of Flexor Tendon Repair: Factors Associated With Flexor Tenolysis
Authors: Demers Alex J. , Moran Thomas E. , Bustos Francis P. , Forster Grace L. , Natal Eduardo , DeGeorge Brent R.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Tenolysis restores mobility to the flexor tendon through the lysis of adhesions that inhibit and negatively impact functional outcomes following flexor tendon repair. Despite extensive literature on operative techniques and therapy protocols used to minimize adhesion formation, there are limited data examining the association of patient, injury, and postoperative factors with tenolysis. This study aims to: (1) quantify tenolysis rates following flexor tendon repair or reconstruction; and (2) identify patient demographic factors, medical comorbidities, injury characteristics, postoperative diagnoses, and complications associated with tenolysis.

Methods:

PearlDiver was used to identify patients who underwent a flexor tendon repair or reconstruction from 2010 to 2020. Patients were stratified by whether or not flexor tenolysis was performed. Patient demographics, comorbidities, injury characteristics, postoperative diagnoses, and complications were recorded. Logistic regression analysis was used to identify independent risk factors associated with tenolysis.

Results:

Database review identified 10 264 patients who underwent either flexor tendon repair or reconstruction, with 612 patients (6.0%) subsequently undergoing tenolysis. Logistic regression analysis determined that vascular injury preceding flexor tendon repair, surgical wound disruption, nerve injury diagnosed postoperatively, postoperative tendon rupture, and need for repeat flexor tendon repair were associated with an increased odds of tenolysis. Patient age, sex, and comorbidities were not associated with performance of tenolysis.

Conclusions:

Although tenolysis rates may differ according to physician and patient preferences, identification of factors associated with tenolysis following flexor tendon repair allows surgeons to risk-stratify patients prior to surgery and help guide postoperative expectations if complications arise.
Warning Signs: Occult Diabetes and Dysglycemia in the Hand Surgery Patient Population
Authors: Nelson Johnny T. , Gay Samuel S. , Diamond Scott , Gauger Mitchell , Singer Richard M.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Diabetes mellitus often exists for many years prior to diagnosis, and very little is known about the role of the prediagnosis stage of metabolic impairment in contributing to hand and upper-extremity pathology. The goal of this study is to determine the prevalence of undiagnosed glucose dysregulation in patients presenting with the 2 most commonly treated conditions of the hand and wrist.

Methods:

A retrospective study was performed of hand surgery patients with no established diagnosis of prediabetes or diabetes referred for a 2-hour glucose tolerance test according to American Diabetes Association criteria. Patients were divided into 3 groups: peripheral neuropathies, trigger finger, and controls with various upper-extremity diagnoses. Rates of undiagnosed prediabetes and diabetes were compared between groups, including subgroup analysis of patients based on unilateral or bilateral presentation. Binary logistic regression analysis was also used to calculate odds ratios for multiple variables.

Results:

Patients with neuropathy had a significantly higher incidence of undiagnosed dysglycemia compared with the control group. Of those patients, 51.3% were prediabetic and 12.8% were diabetic. The control group had significantly lower rates. Within the bilateral neuropathy patients, 59.6% had prediabetes and 15.4% had diabetes, versus 34.6% with prediabetes and 7.7% with diabetes in the unilateral group.

Conclusions:

Hand surgeons encounter a patient population with high rates of undiagnosed prediabetes and diabetes, with some presentations as much as 6 times higher than the general population. Certain patient presentations should prompt appropriate diagnostic testing and referral, especially those presenting with bilateral compression neuropathy and elevated body mass index.
Delayed Scaphoid Fracture Union in Patients With Comorbid Psychiatric Diagnoses: A Retrospective Analysis of 20 340 Patients
Authors: Albright J. Alex , Rebello Elliott , Chang Kenny , Testa Edward J. , Daniels Alan H. , Katarincic Julia A.
Published: December 2022

Background:

Psychiatric comorbidities have been shown to influence outcomes of various orthopedic pathologies. This study aimed to compare rates of delayed scaphoid union and surgical intervention for fractures in patients with and without comorbid psychiatric diagnoses.

Methods:

A matched retrospective cohort study was performed using the PearlDiver database to determine the association of depression, anxiety, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia with delayed union rates within 3 and 6 months and rates of nonacute surgical intervention (fixation or grafting) within 6 and 12 months of scaphoid fracture. Analyses were completed using multivariate logistic regression.

Results:

Among 20 340 patients, a comorbid psychiatric diagnosis was associated with increased rates of delayed scaphoid union at 3 months (odds ratio [OR] = 1.29; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.14-1.45) and 6 months (OR = 1.23; 95% CI, 1.10-1.38). At 3 months, women with any psychiatric disorder (OR = 1.58; 1.29-1.66), depression (OR = 1.68; 1.31-2.17), and schizophrenia (OR = 5.32; 95% CI, 1.06-26.79) were more likely to experience delayed union, with similar results at 6 months. Men with bipolar disorder experienced increased delayed union rates at 6 months (OR = 1.40; 1.03-1.91). A comorbid psychiatric diagnosis (OR = 1.10; 1.01-1.20) was associated with increased rates of surgical intervention, whereas schizophrenia was associated with decreased rates (OR = 0.58; 0.34-0.99).

Conclusion:

Patients with comorbid psychiatric conditions experienced increased rates of delayed scaphoid union. These results underscore the importance of understanding factors that may place patients at risk of impaired recovery.
Examining the Public’s Most Frequently Asked Questions About Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and Appraising Online Information About Treatment
Authors: Shepard Samuel , Sajjadi Nicholas B. , Checketts Jake X. , Hughes Griffin , Ottwell Ryan , Chalkin Brian , Hartwell Micah , Vassar Matt
Published: December 2022

Background:

Carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) is the most common entrapment neuropathy. Patients often search online for health information regarding common musculoskeletal complaints. Thus, the purpose of this study was to use language processing information from Google to assess the content of CTS frequently asked questions (FAQs) searched online and the transparency and quality of online CTS information.

Methods:

On March 11, 2021, we searched Google for 3 terms “carpal tunnel syndrome treatment,” “carpal tunnel syndrome surgical treatment,” and “carpal tunnel syndrome non-surgical treatment” until a minimum of 100 FAQs and their answer links were extracted from each search. We used Rothwell classification to categorize the FAQs. The Journal of the American Medical Association’s benchmark criteria were used to assess information transparency. Information quality was assessed using the Brief DISCERN tool.

Results:

Our Google search returned 124 unique FAQs. Fifty-six (45.2%) were value based and most were related to the evaluation of treatment options (45/56, 80.4%). The most common source type was medical practices (26.6%). Nearly half of the answer sources (45.9%) were found to be lacking in transparency. One-way analysis of variance revealed a significant difference in mean Brief DISCERN scores among the 5 source types, F(4, 119) = 5.93, P = .0002, with medical practices averaging the worst score (13.73/30).

Conclusions:

Patients are most commonly searching Google to gain information regarding CTS treatment options. Online sources such as medical practices should use widely accepted rubrics for ensuring transparency and quality prior to publishing CTS information.
Building Resilience in Qualitative Research: Challenges and Opportunities in Times of Crisis
Authors: Suadik Maine
Published: December 2022

The COVID-19 pandemic has significantly impacted qualitative researchers, especially those whose research involves face-to-face interactions with the community in the field. Implementing various mitigation measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19 entailed modifying, postponing and/or cancelling many research projects. Based on the attributes of the COVID-19 pandemic, which are unpredictable and pose serious threats, developing a highly structured and tested data collection approach that can reflect experiences and social realities from ‘below’ during a crisis is necessary. As the latest global crisis marker of this millennium, the extent of the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the knowledge production process in marginalised indigenous communities is largely unknown. This study contributes to the debate on how to ensure qualitative research methods possess the flexibility and adaptability to study such communities during a crisis.
Role of imaging in ENT disorders for GPs
Authors: Agarwal Tanvi , Parkins Kristie , McKnight Jonathan
Published: December 2022

Imaging plays a significant role in the diagnosis, management and monitoring of various otorhinolaryngological conditions, both in emergency and routine cases. It is important for GPs to consider the indications and relevance of radiological investigations, including some initiated in secondary care. Some of these investigations can be requested by GPs to aid diagnosis. Appropriate treatment can then be initiated earlier, sometimes avoiding the need for secondary care referral. In some cases, GPs can request the appropriate investigation at the same time as referral to the ear, nose and throat (ENT) department. The patient can then be reviewed with the results to enable diagnosis and further management at the same ENT appointment, saving time and appointments for the patient. This article aims to provide insights into imaging investigations in patients presenting with ENT problems, including indications and interpretation relevant to both GPs and trainees.
A rare case report of a myxoid liposarcoma arising from the broad ligament
Authors: Sassi Farah , Sahraoui Ghada , Charfi Lamia , Ines Zemni , Mrad Karima , Doghri Raoudha
Published: December 2022

Myxoid liposarcoma (MLPS) is the second most prevalent subtype of liposarcoma. It is usually found in the deep tissues of the lower limbs and rarely in gynecologic tract. Herein we present the second case in the English literature of a primary MLPS arising from the broad ligament which was thought to be a borderline ovarian tumor. The aim is to discuss its clinical and pathological characteristics. A 42-year-old woman presented with pelvic pain for the last 6 months. Magnetic resonance imaging was not specific. She underwent a surgical resection of the tumor mass, and pathological examination confirmed the diagnosis of MLPS deriving from the broad ligament. She received radiotherapy and the patient is doing well at 3 months follow-up. The clinical aspects, pathological diagnosis, prognosis, and therapy approach of broad ligament MLPS are all poorly understood. Complete surgical resection with or without radiotherapy is the mainstay of treatment in located MLPS.
RANKL neutralisation prevents osteoclast activation in a human in vitro ameloblastoma-bone model
Authors: Pape Judith , Bakkalci Deniz , Hosni Rawiya Al , Simpson Benjamin S , Heikinheimo Kristiina , Fedele Stefano , Cheema Umber
Published: December 2022

Ameloblastoma is a benign, locally invasive epithelial odontogenic neoplasm of the jaw. Treatment of choice is jaw resection, often resulting in significant morbidity. The aim of this study was to recapitulate ameloblastoma in a completely humanised 3D disease model containing ameloblastoma cells, osteoblasts and activated osteoclasts to investigate the RANKL pathway within the ameloblastoma stromal environment and its response to the RANKL antibody denosumab. In vitro bone was engineered by culturing human osteoblasts (hOB) in a biomimetic, dense collagen type I matrix, resulting in extensive mineral deposits by day 21 forming alizarin red positive bone like nodules throughout the 3D model. Activated TRAP + human osteoclasts were confirmed through the differentiation of human CD14+ monocytes after 10 days within the model. Lastly, the ameloblastoma cell lines AM-1 and AM-3 were incorporated into the 3D model. RANKL release was validated through TACE/ADAM17 activation chemically or through hOB co-culture. Denosumab treatment resulted in decreased osteoclast activation in the presence of hOB and ameloblastoma cells. These findings stress the importance of accurately modelling tumour and stromal populations as a preclinical testing platform.
Papers N Parcels: Fill the gap by an app–teenager created initiatives in courier service
Authors: Ahmed Jashim U , Ahmed Asma , Faroque Anisur R , Fatema Kaniz
Published: December 2022

Papers N Parcels (hereafter PnP) is an end-to-end logistics business organization founded in 2018 by Tilak Mehta, who was a teenager at the time. The capital that supported the initial activity of the company was derived from family investments. The company has an efficient business model and gains a competitive advantage by setting up its primary objectives and strategies, which position it for success. PnP aims to deliver its products within 4–8 h of an order, which is the fastest rate among existing delivery companies. The parcels are picked up from the end customers and delivered to the recipient company’s main hub. From there, the parcel is sent to the final recipient with the help of the PnP app. This approach streamlines the process, and the time involved is very minimal. The business model of this fast-moving company was new and unique. The case study highlights how effectively PnP capitalizes on the vast network of dabbawalas (lunchbox deliverymen) in Mumbai who use the PnP app.
An updated audit of the patient selection process for pain management programmes in a speciality care service before and during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Buscemi Valentina , Chicken Joe , Mahy Tim , Knight Lucie , Scott Whitney
Published: December 2022

Background

The provision of pain management programmes (PMPs) changed substantially in response to the COVID-19 pandemic with virtual delivery implemented in many services. Little is known about patient selection processes for virtual PMPs and how this might differ from in-person programmes. The aim of this audit was to document the patient selection process for PMPs at a speciality pain service prior to and during the pandemic.

Methods

This retrospective audit used data from consecutive patients attending a multidisciplinary assessment to determine the suitability of a PMP. Anonymized data were extracted from assessment letters and hospital records in the months prior to the pandemic (n =168) and during the start of the pandemic once the service began delivering virtual PMPs (n =171).

Results

For the standard pain management pathway, most patients were offered a PMP option within the service before and during the pandemic, although a greater proportion of patients were offered treatment during the pandemic. For the neuromodulation pathway, most patients were offered a pre-neuromodulation PMP option, and this was similar before and during the pandemic. Psychosocial complexities and unwillingness to engage in a pain management approach that does not principally focus on pain reduction were the most common reasons that patients were not offered a programme.

Discussion

This audit points to a pattern of more inclusive assessment outcomes within our service over time and particularly during the pandemic. Offering a range of in-person and virtual PMPs can meet a wider range of patient need. Research is needed to understand how to best assess and match patients with the breadth of treatment delivery formats now available.
Modeling the Relationships Between Academic Boredom, Self-Compassion, and Quality of Academic Life Among University Students
Authors: Abdellatif Mohamed Sayed
Published: December 2022

Academic boredom and self-compassion are among the numerous variables that affect the academic life quality of university students, although the literature investigating these variables together is scarce. In this study, we develop a model to indicate the direct and indirect relationships and effects between academic boredom, self-compassion, and the quality of academic life of university students. The research sample comprised 478 male and female students from the Faculty of Education at Assiut Al-Azhar University. Academic boredom, academic quality of life, and self-compassion scales were used for data analysis. The results revealed that the proposed structural model achieved a satisfactory goodness-of-fit level with the participants’ data and that the research variables had direct and indirect relationships and effects. The findings also demonstrated that self-compassion partly mediated the relationship between academic boredom and academic quality of life. Recommendations and research suggestions are also provided.
Assessing Expected Long-term Benefits for the Olympic Games: Delphi-AHP Approach from Korean Olympic Experts
Authors: Han Seung-Jin , Lee Won-Jae , Kim So-Hee , Yoon Sang-Hoon , Pyun Hyunwoong
Published: December 2022

The Olympic legacy framework was proposed by the International Olympic Committee; however, it has not yet been discussed much in academia. This study identified a set of key dimensions and items out of 7 dimensions and 39 items from the Olympic legacy framework, along with the weight of each dimension and item. Based on the judgments of 12 Korean Olympic experts collected via the Delphi-analytical hierarchal process method, the results indicate that social development through sport is the most significant dimension, followed by economic value and brand equity, and urban development. The results also reveal that the most crucial of the 39 items are health and well-being benefits from the practice of recreational sport and physical activity from the social development through sport dimension, while the intangible cultural heritage of Olympism from the culture and creative development dimension was considered the least important. The results provide useful insight for evaluating the Olympic legacy framework for host or candidate cities and countries, as well as the International Olympic Committee.
Examining the Learning Progression of Undergraduate Students’ Scientific Imagination: A Measurement Perspective
Authors: Wang Chia-Chi , Ho Hsiao-Chi , Cheng Chih-Ling
Published: December 2022

This study aimed to examine the learning progression (LP) model of scientific imagination among undergraduate students using the Scientific Imagination Test-Verbal (SIT-Verbal) and investigated the influence of students’ demographic characteristics including gender, age, and discipline on their scientific imagination. Six hundred and sixteen undergraduates from a university in southern Taiwan participated in this study. The SIT-Verbal covered four key components of the scientific imagination process: brainstorming, association, transformation/elaboration, and conceptualization/organization/formation. The multiple validities of SIT-Verbal were assessed via a Rasch partial credit model. The results indicated that the SIT-Verbal had good model–data fit, supporting that undergraduate students’ scientific imagination in four stages from brainstorming, association and transformation/elaboration to conceptualization/organization/formation. Additionally, the results showed that the SIT-Verbal was suitable for measuring students’ scientific imagination at the university level. The study also provided abundant evidence verifying the SIT-Verbal and supported the learning progression for undergraduate students’ scientific imagination.
General vs Local Anesthesia for Percutaneous Endoscopic Lumbar Discectomy (PELD): A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Mooney James , Laskay Nicholas , Erickson Nicholas , Salehani Arsalaan , Mahavadi Anil , Ilyas Adeel , Mainali Bipul , Nowak Błażej , Godzik Jake
Published: December 2022

Study Design

Systematic review

Objectives

It remains unknown whether general anesthesia (GA) or local ± epidural anesthesia (LA) results in superior outcomes with percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy (PELD). The present study sought to examine the impact of anesthesia type on patient-reported outcomes (PROs) and complications with PELD.

Methods

Systematic review and meta-analysis examining PELD performed under GA or LA was conducted. Patient-reported outcomes including Visual Analog Scale (VAS)-leg/back, and Oswestry Disability Index (ODI) scores were collected. Complication, recurrent disc herniation, durotomy, and reoperation rates as well as surgical data were recorded. All outcomes were compared between pooled studies examining GA or LA.

Results

Sixty-eight studies consisting of 5269 patients (724 GA, 4465 LA) were included in the meta-analysis. Overall complication rate was significantly higher in the GA group (9% vs 4%, P = .003). Durotomy rates, length of stay, recurrent disc herniation and reoperation rates were similar between groups. At the first follow-up timepoint, the LA group demonstrated significant improvements in VAS back and ODI scores ( P < .05) while the GA group did not ( P > .05). At the final follow-up (> 6 months), the percent of patients achieving an excellent McNab score was significantly higher in the GA vs LA group ( P < .001).

Conclusions

Percutaneous endoscopic lumbar discectomy with LA may be associated with greater short-term improvement in VAS back pain and ODI scores. General anesthesia may be associated with more durable pain relief but a higher complication rate. Further systematic investigation is necessary to determine what short and long term benefits are associated with PELD performed under LA and GA.
Epidemiology of Work-Related Neck Pain Among Spine Surgeons
Authors: Abolfotouh Sameh M. , Alnori Omar , Choma Theodore , Moore Don , Abolfotouh Mostafa A.
Published: December 2022

Study Design

Cross-sectional survey.

Objectives

This study aimed to investigate work-related neck pain among AO spine surgeons in different regions by estimating its prevalence, predictors, consequences, and management methods.

Methods

A cross-sectional survey of 411 spine surgeon members of AO spine was conducted during March–May 2021, using the Modified Nordic Questionnaire and the Neck Disability Index. Data on neck pain experience during the last 12 months and its consequences and risk factors were collected. Logistic regression analysis was done to identify significant predictors of neck pain. Significance was set at P < .05.

Results

The 1-year neck pain was experienced by 66.7% of surgeons. According to the Neck Disability Index, more than one-half (52.8%) experienced disability due to neck pain of mild (45.5%), moderate (6.5%), and severe (.8%) grades. Neck pain was responsible for stopping work in 17.5% of surgeons, with a median of 3.5 (IQR, 2-7.8) days off work. One-half of the participants (56.3%) were treated by medical care, 31.5% by physiotherapy, and 16.5% requested rest days and sick leave. Physical stress (P < .001) and non-exercising (P = .04) were the significant predictors of neck pain.

Conclusion

The 12-month prevalence of neck pain was high among spine surgeons, with an impact on activities of daily living, mainly of a mild degree, reported by one-half of surgeons. Physical stress was the only significant predictor, while sports practice was a protective factor against neck pain. Medication was the primary management adopted—an increased focus on pain prevention through improved workplace ergonomics and sports activity programs is recommended.
Physiological Mechanisms and Associated Pathophysiology of Dysphagia in Older Adults
Authors: Estupiñán Artiles Constantino , Regan Julie , Donnellan Claire
Published: December 2022

Dysphagia can be a common secondary sequela of neurological and neurodegenerative disorders in older adults. Early screening, identification, and management of dysphagia is essential to avoid serious complications, including malnutrition, dehydration, aspiration pneumonia; and promote quality of life. Although individuals of all ages may experience swallowing difficulties, dysphagia and its complications are more common in older adults. This literature review aims to provide an overview of the physiological mechanisms of normal swallowing in healthy individuals and age-related changes to swallowing function, the pathophysiology of dysphagia associated with three common neurological disorders affecting older adults (stroke, Parkinson’s disease, and dementia), and implications for interdisciplinary clinical practice. Increased awareness of these issues may contribute to a more timely and efficient identification of older adults with dysphagia and to improve overall dysphagia management.