bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Laryngeal Primary Myoepithelial Carcinoma: Case Report and a Systematic Review of Literature
Authors: Zhou Lanzhu , Zhou En-Hui 
Published: March 2023

Myoepithelial carcinoma of the head and neck is a rare malignant tumor that usually arises from the salivary glands but rarely from the larynx. Here, we describe 11 cases (one treated by us and 10 previously published) of laryngeal myoepithelial carcinoma. Our patient was a 60-year-old male who initially presented with hoarseness and throat pain. The patient had suffered from continuing hoarseness and throat pain for one month before he consulted an otorhinolaryngologist. Computed tomography (CT) scan showed a polypoid tumor involving the right vocal cords. Biopsy was performed, and the disease was pathologically diagnosed as myoepithelial carcinoma of the larynx by hematoxylin-eosin and immunohistochemical staining. The total follow-up period was 15 months. Repeated laryngoscopies or CT scans revealed no recurrence or residual lesion during the post-surgical course.
Building Surgical Expertise Through Deliberate Practice
Authors: Wollstein Yael , Jabbour Noel 
Published: March 2023

Objective To characterize the role of deliberate practice in the changing landscape of surgical training. Methods A review examining various applications of deliberate practice was conducted, with a focus on the surgical training space and utility of this methodology in otolaryngology residency. Results With many programs turning to simulation-based practice and other learning modalities based outside the operating room, deliberate practice is emerging as a promising method for more efficient and efficacious learning. Conclusion Identifying and addressing weak areas, maintaining motivation to continue to grow and reach new milestones, and continually responding to external feedback from instructors can lead to improvement in a variety of skills essential for success in surgical fields. Further implementation of deliberate practice methodology could improve surgical training at all levels.
Digital transformation enablers in high-tech and low-tech companies: A comparative analysis
Authors: Sergei Titov , Arkady Trachuk , Natalya Linder , Pathak RD , Samson Danny , Husain Zafar , Sushil S 
Published: March 2023

Digital transformation (DT) is a complex, socio-technical, strategic, and often radical change influenced by various aspects, among which non-technological, organizational factors play significant roles. The literature on DT enablers suggests sensitivity to the organizational context, especially to the technology intensity of companies. This article analyzes the variations in non-technological DT enablers in high-tech and low-tech manufacturing companies. Through a systematic literature review, using coding techniques and cluster analysis, we created 20 aggregated enabler categories. With the Decision Making Trial and Evaluation Laboratory (DEMATEL) method, clustered DT enablers in high-tech and low-tech companies were compared. High-tech companies enable DT with the factors related primarily to organizational flexibility and dynamism. In contrast, low-tech firms propel DT with the enablers connected to more stable, traditional, managerial practices. JEL Classification: 031 and 032
Investigating ESWL success rate in the treatment of renal and ureteral stones in children
Authors: Soleimani Mohammad Javad , Shahrokh Hossein , Soraki Vahid Vahedi , Fakhar Vahid , Ghaed Mohammad Ali , Narouie Behzad 
Published: March 2023

Objective: Extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) is one of the most important methods of treatment for stone in children. Therefore, this study was conducted to determine the success rate of ESWL in the treatment of kidney and ureteral stones in children referred to Hasheminejad kidney center during the second half of 2018. Patients and methods: This observational prospective study was conducted on 144 children referred to Hasheminejad kidney center during the 2018. The patients were selected using the convenience sampling method. The study was investigating the success rate of ESWL in the treatment of kidney and ureteral stones and effective factors in this regard. Results: A total of 133 patients (92.4%) had stone passage and 37.5% of patients had residual stones, 28.5% of which were less than 5 mm in diameter. Successful results were seen in 131 cases (91%). Successful results were significantly higher in males ( p = 0.011) and lower in simultaneous stones in the middle calyx and lower calyx ( p = 0.0001). Conclusion: According to the results of this study, it can be inferred that ESWL success rate was above 90% in the treatment of kidney and ureteral stones in children in such a way that with an ESWL session in patients who have been properly selected for this procedure, a success rate of about 62.5% will be available to remove any residual fragments, and nearly 28.5% have residual fragments with a diameter of smaller than 5 mm, which is basically hopeful for a high urinary passage. The present study shows that type and stone location are the factors contributing to the successful ESWL and shows the female gender and the presence of stone in the lower and middle calyx are the risk factors for the lower ESWL success rate.
Pluronic-phosphatidylcholine mixed polymeric nanomicellar formulation for curcumin drug bioavailability: Design, fabrication, characterization and in vitro bioinvestigations
Authors: Patel Hemil S , Kunjadiya Anju , Rahdar Abbas , Sharma Rakesh K 
Published: March 2023

Curcumin (CUR), obtained from turmeric, has biological advantages, but low aqueous solubility restricts its pharmaceutical applications. In the present work, a mixed polymeric nanomicellar formulation composed of bioactive Pluronic P123, Pluronic F68, and biocompatible phosphatidylcholine (PC) was designed and examined as the nanovehicles for overcoming the major barriers of poor bioavailability related to CUR. The CUR-incorporated P123/F68/PC mixed nanomicellar formulation (CUR-PFPC) was fabricated by the thin film technique and investigated in vitro. The fabrication of CUR-PFPC was optimized through D-optimal design. CUR-PFPC morphology, size distribution, zeta potential, drug encapsulating and incorporation efficiency, compatibility, and crystallinity were characterized using DLS, TEM, FTIR, XRD, and DSC analysis. Moreover, the cumulative drug release, antioxidant assays, and antimicrobial properties of formulations were also examined. The CUR-PFPC formulation exhibited a micellar size of 67.43 nm, a zeta potential of −15.1 mV, a PDI of 0.528, and a spherical shape. The mixed micellar formulation showed excellent compatibility and stability. The in vitro release profile of the CUR-PFPC reached over 60% in comparison to the 95% release of CUR, indicating a slow and sustained release. The DPPH assay showed that the CUR-PFPC had 96% antioxidant activity. Results show that the CUR-PFPC has powerful antibacterial and antifungal properties, which separates it from the free CUR. These findings suggest that the fabricated CUR-PFPC mixed polymeric nanomicellar formulation is thermodynamically and kinetically stable and may be considered a novel nanovehicle for hydrophobic antimicrobial drugs like CUR. Graphical Abstract [Formula: see text]
Social Support for Breastfeeding Practice During the COVID-19 Second Wave in Thailand: A Cross-Sectional Study
Authors: Nuampa Sasitara , Kuesakul Kornkanok , Prasong Sudhathai , Sudphet Metpapha 
Published: March 2023

Background: Since December 2020, the second wave of COVID-19 in Thailand has had a considerable impact, and mothers have struggled to receive breastfeeding support in hospitals. In this situation, there has been limited research that addresses social support for breastfeeding and the influences of support in determining breastfeeding outcomes. Research Aims: (1) To describe the influence of COVID-19 on social support for breastfeeding and breastfeeding practices in the Thai context, and (2) to examine breastfeeding duration with different levels of social support from families and healthcare providers. Method: This descriptive, cross-sectional online survey design was part of a larger multi-methods project about breastfeeding behaviors and experiences among postpartum mothers during the COVID-19 pandemic. Online questionnaires were administered from August to November 2021 to participants ( N = 390) who were from three provinces in Thailand and had given birth 6–12 months prior to the survey. Results: Exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months was observed in less than half of the participants ( n = 146, 37.4%). Perceptions of breastfeeding support were generally high overall among both family (Mdn = 45, IQR = 7) and healthcare providers (Mdn = 43, IQR = 7). Participants who perceived more breastfeeding support from families than the median had significantly longer exclusive breastfeeding durations than those who perceived less breastfeeding support than the median ( z = −2.246, p = .025). The same pattern was present for breastfeeding support from healthcare providers ( z = −2.380, p = 0.017). Conclusions: While the exclusive breastfeeding rate was better than the pre-pandemic rate, successful breastfeeding was more common when participants perceived that they had received breastfeeding support. Policymakers should execute breastfeeding support systems along with COVID-19 management.
Reasons for incomplete STI vaccination among men who have sex with men in an English sexual health service
Authors: Armstrong Heather L , Scholfield Clare , Symonds Ynez , Nadarzynski Tom , Graham Cynthia A 
Published: March 2023

Background In England, vaccination for human papillomavirus, hepatitis A, and hepatitis B is recommended for men who have sex with men (MSM). However, uptake is sub-optimal and some men do not complete all recommended vaccine doses. This service evaluation aimed to explore reasons for lack of uptake for each of these vaccines among MSM in one English sexual health service and to inform improvements in service delivery to increase full dose completion rates. Methods MSM, ≥18 years, who had previously attended NHS Solent Sexual Health for at least one vaccination, and who had not completed the full dosing regimen for at least one of these vaccines, were invited to participate in an anonymous, online survey between 14/12/2020-11/04/2021. Results Among 246 MSM ( M = 42.1 years), the most common reason for non-vaccination was that participants thought it was unneeded and had not been recommended by a doctor or healthcare provider. None reported vaccine hesitancy. Likewise, the most common reasons for vaccination were doctor/healthcare provider recommendation (51.7–65.6%) and self-protection (60.9–68.1%). The most common reason for not having completed the full course of vaccination was being unaware that the next dose was due (30.0–37.8%). Many participants who had not completed vaccination indicated that a doctor/healthcare provider recommendation would be a motivating factor and that reminder messages and being able to book subsequent appointments in advance would facilitate vaccination. Conclusions Sexual health clinicians should be encouraged to discuss STI vaccination with MSM and services should explore possibilities to improve ease and access to vaccine appointments to increase uptake and completion rates.
Methods for Biomechanical Testing of Posterior Malleolar Fractures in Ankle Fractures: A Scoping Review
Authors: Stake Ingrid K. , Douglass Brenton W. , Husebye Elisabeth E. , Clanton Thomas O. 
Published: March 2023

Background: The treatment of posterior malleolar fractures (PMFs) is debated, including the need for surgery and method of fixation. Recent literature has suggested that fracture pattern, rather than fragment size, may be an important predictor for ankle biomechanics and functional outcome. Biomechanical studies have been conducted to provide evidence-based treatment on the effects of fracture and fixation on contact pressure and stability. The objective of this scoping review is to summarize the methodologies used in biomechanical studies on PMFs and assess whether they are sufficient to test the need for surgery and method of fixation. Methods: A scoping review of publications before January 2022 was performed. PubMed/Medline and Embase Ovid were searched for cadaver or finite element analysis (FEA) studies that created and tested the effects of PMFs in ankle fractures. Both cadaver and FEA studies were included. Data about fragment characteristics, mode of testing, and outcomes were charted by 2 persons from the study group. The data were synthesized when possible and compared. Results: We included 25 biomechanical studies, including 19 cadaver studies, 5 FEA studies, and 1 cadaver and FEA study. Aside from the fragment size, few other fragment characteristics were reported. Mode of testing varied with different loads and foot positions. Strong conclusions on the effects of fracture and fixation on contact pressure and stability could not be made. Conclusion: Biomechanical studies on PMFs demonstrate wide variability in fragment characteristics and mode of testing, which makes it difficult to compare studies and draw conclusions on the need for surgery and method of fixation. Additionally, limited reporting of fragment measurements questions the applicability to clinical practice. The biomechanical literature on PMFs would benefit from the use of a standard classification and universal fragment measurements to match clinical injuries in future biomechanical studies. Based on this review, we recommend the Mason classification, which addresses the pathomechanism, and use of the following fragment measurements in all 3 anatomic planes when creating and describing PMFs: fragment length ratio, axial angle, sagittal angle or fragment height, and interfragmentary angle. The testing protocol needs to reflect the purpose of the study. Clinical Relevance: This scoping review demonstrates wide methodological diversity of biomechanical studies. Consistency in methodology should enable comparison of study results, leading to stronger evidence-based recommendations to guide surgeons in decision making and offer PMF patients the best treatment.
Recovery Curve for Patients With Pilon Fractures Using Patient-Reported Outcome Measurement Information System
Authors: Kellam Patrick J. , Cutshall Zachary A. , Dekeyser Graham J. , Rothberg David L. , Higgins Thomas F. , Haller Justin M. , Marchand Lucas S. 
Published: March 2023

Background: The time frame in which patients can expect functional improvement after open reduction internal fixation (ORIF) of pilon fractures is unclear. The purpose of this study was to determine the trajectory and rate at which patients’ physical function improves up to 2 years postinjury. Methods: The patients studied sustained a unilateral, isolated pilon fractures (AO/OTA 43B/C) and followed at a level 1 trauma center over a 5-year period (2015-2020). Patient-Reported Outcomes Measurement Information Systems (PROMIS) Physical Function (PF) scores from these patients at defined follow-up times of immediately, 6 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year, and 2 years after surgery defined the cohorts and were retrospectively studied. Results: There were 160 patients with PROMIS scores immediately postoperatively, 143 patients at 6 weeks, 146 patients at 12 weeks, 97 at 24 weeks, 84 at 1 year, and 45 at 2 years postoperatively. The average PROMIS PF score was 28 immediately postoperatively, 30 at 6 weeks, 36 at 3 months, 40 at 6 months, 41 at 1 year, and 39 at 2 years. There was a significant difference between PROMIS PF scores between 6 weeks and 3 months ( P < .001), and between 3 and 6 months ( P < .001). Otherwise, no significant differences were detected between consecutive time points. Conclusion: Patients with isolated pilon fractures demonstrate the majority of their improvement in terms of physical function between 6 weeks and 6 months postoperatively. No significant difference was detected in PF scores after 6 months postoperatively up to 2 years. Furthermore, the mean PROMIS PF score of patients 2 years after recovery was approximately 1 SD below the population average. This information is helpful in counseling patients and setting expectations for recovery after pilon fractures. Level of Evidence: Level III, prognostic.
Composite collaborative acoustic metamaterials: Isolating shaft vibration of guide roller in printing machine
Authors: Lei Xiaofei , Wu Hengliang , Zha Zhaoshuan , Xu Zhuofei , Hou Heping , Wu Nan 
Published: March 2023

During the operation of the unit type gravure press, the violent mechanical vibration generated by the guide roller will seriously affect the stability of the unit operation, and causing transmission faults such as wrinkle, offset, scratch or fracture, and reducing the printing accuracy. To this problem, a novel multi-approach composite collaborative vibration isolator which combines the local resonator and multi-layer composite structure is proposed to solve the problems of vibration suppression in the single frequency and vibration energy dissipation in the full frequency band, respectively, and the theoretical model on the proposed isolator is established basing on dynamic stiffness method. For demonstrating isolation performance, the regularized normalized modal displacement, power loss density, elastic strain energy density, total kinetic energy, and vibration transmission ratio can be discussed. The results show that the composite vibration isolator has a wide vibration isolation band, and the vibration wave has two attenuation bands within 0–2000 Hz. The first attenuation band is 188–224 Hz and the width is 36 Hz; the second attenuation band is greater than 328 Hz. When the band of the vibration isolator is above 700 Hz, the vibration transmission ratio shows a monotonous decreasing trend. Furthermore, an experimental platform for the vibration isolation device of the guide roller is established to verify the vibration isolation performance. When the drive motor frequency is 20 Hz, the composite vibration isolator has the best vibration isolation effect. At the same time, the vibration isolation effect gradually decreases with the increase of the guide roller speed, but it still has preferable vibration isolation performance under various working conditions.
Measuring hope and resilience in carers of people living with dementia: The positive psychology outcome measure for carers (PPOM-C)
Authors: Pione Richard D , Stoner Charlotte R , Cartwright Anna V , Spector Aimee 
Published: March 2023

Objectives Positive psychology outcome measures aim to quantitatively document the character strengths that people use to maintain their wellbeing. Positive aspects of caregiving including the use of character strengths is gaining credence in dementia carer literature but there remain few psychometrically robust tools by which to capture this. The current study evaluated the psychometric properties of a newly developed measure of hope and resilience for family carers of people living with dementia. Methods An online study where family carers (n = 267) completed the newly adapted Positive Psychology Outcome Measure – Carer version (PPOM-C), the Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale – Depression subscale (HADS-D), The Short Form Health Survey (SF-12), and The Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS). Results Psychometric analysis indicated strong properties for the PPOM-C in family carers, with two items dropped to improve the internal consistency. Convergent validity was established, with strong correlations between the hope, resilience, depression symptomology, quality of life and social support. A Confirmatory Factor Analysis indicated acceptable model fit. Discussion The PPOM-C is a psychometrically robust tool that can be recommended for use in large scale psychosocial research. The use of this measure in research and practice will provide a more nuanced understanding of the caregiving role and how to support wellbeing in this population.
A novel technique to reach the contralateral iliac artery in Leriche syndrome
Authors: Celik Aziz Inan , Bezgin Tahir , Cagdas Metin 
Published: March 2023

Background/Objective The endovascular approach is the first choice of treatment in high-risk patients suffering from Leriche syndrome. Although many techniques and devices have been developed, there are still difficulties in accessing the true lumen. Herein, we reported a novel technique to increase the support and ease of crossing the lesion. Method We presented a case report of a 45-year-old male patient with Leriche syndrome. The patient refused surgery; therefore, he was scheduled for endovascular treatment. Results We attempted to cross the right and left common iliac occlusions by intraluminal crossing. The left common iliac artery couldn’t be cannulated despite the stiff wires and percutaneous intentional extraluminal revascularization (PIER). Afterward, a cross-over approach was performed from the right side to reach the ostium of the left common iliac artery. To increase the support, a non-absorbable suture was stitched up to the tip of the guiding catheter and kept slightly taut like a lasso. Finally, successful penetration was achieved with the novel assistive technique. Conclusion Endovascular treatment for Leriche syndrome is a precious alternative to open surgery. Intraluminal crossing, PIER, and re-entry devices are the most preferred techniques. Increasing the technical success of intraluminal crossing and PIER leads to an apparent reduction in cost.
Covariate-constrained randomization with cluster selection and substitution
Authors: Crisp Amy M , Halloran M Elizabeth , Longini Ira M , Vazquez-Prokopec Gonzalo , Dean Natalie E 
Published: March 2023

Background: An ongoing cluster-randomized trial for the prevention of arboviral diseases utilizes covariate-constrained randomization to balance two treatment arms across four specified covariates and geographic sector. Each cluster is within a census tract of the city of Mérida, Mexico, and there were 133 eligible tracts from which to select 50. As some selected clusters may have been subsequently found unsuitable in the field, we desired a strategy to substitute new clusters while maintaining covariate balance. Methods: We developed an algorithm that successfully identified a subset of clusters that maximized the average minimum pairwise distance between clusters in order to reduce contamination and balanced the specified covariates both before and after substitutions were made. Simulations: Simulations were performed to explore some limitations of this algorithm. The number of selected clusters and eligible clusters were varied along with the method of selecting the final allocation pattern. Conclusion: The algorithm is presented here as a series of optional steps that can be added to the standard covariate-constrained randomization process in order to achieve spatial dispersion, cluster subsampling, and cluster substitution. Simulation results indicate that these extensions can be used without loss of statistical validity, given a sufficient number of clusters included in the trial.