bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The Eflfectiveness of Assertive Training Program on the Level of Anxiety, Assertive Behaviour and Sociality in the Persons with Mental Illness
Authors: Kim Yeon Hwa
Published: October 2024

The ultimate aim in the management of the persons with mental illness is to help them develope meaningful social relationships in their daily lives and th readapt themeslves to their family and social life as an independent indivadual.These goals might be attained by modifying their behaviour patterns and /or inappropriate way of thinking.Recently, social skill trainning such as assertive behaviour has become regarded as a significant therapeutic method.This study was to provide baseline date in order to develope nurse skill in an assertive training program as a prospective psychiatric nurse specialist. The subjects were persons with mental illness who were admitted in psychiatric inpatient unit or day care center of J Clinic in K City and date were collected from June 15 to September 17,1993.The study was one group pretest-posttest experimental design.As a study tool, assertive training program developed by Rakos & Schroeder and another assertive training program developed by Alberti & his colleagues were reformed and packaged for this stydy.The level of anxiety wes tested by spielberger’s scales on trait and state anxiety. The level of assertiveness was tested by Rathus’ assertive behaviour scale and that of sociality was tested by social situation questionaire developed by Trower, Bryand and Argyk.The data were analyzed by Wilcoxon matched - pair signed- ranks test.The results of this study were summarized as follows :1. The scores of state anxiety in posttest were significantly decreased(T=2.5, P<.01), but there were no significant differences in the scores of trait anxiety between pre and posttest (T=12.5,n.s.) 2. The scores of assertiveness in posttest were significantly increased(T=—5.5, P<.025).3. There were no significant differences in the scores of sociality scores between pre and posttest (T=12.0, n.s.).
Assessment of the Potential Impacts of Climate Change on the Hydrology and Canola Yield Using the DRAINMOD Model
Authors: Ndulue Emeka Leonard , Sri Ranjan Ramanathan
Published: October 2024

Highlights

Total precipitation and average temperature are projected to increase in the Interlake region of Manitoba.

DRAINMOD model results suggest that controlled drainage (CD) would significantly decrease subsurface drainage.

Due to dry stress, canola yield is projected to decrease under free drainage (FD) and controlled drainage (CD).

Simulation results suggest that capturing, storing, and reusing drainage water could be an adaptive and mitigative strategy for climate change impacts.

Abstract.Climate change is a major concern for agricultural production regions like the Canadian Prairies. Therefore, understanding the hydrologic and crop yield response to climate change is important to developing adaptative and mitigative strategies. Downscaled climate model projections from two GCMs for historical (1981-2010), midcentury (2041-2070), and late-century (2071–2100) periods under three representative concentration pathways (RCP2.6, RCP4.5, and RCP 8.5) were used as climate inputs to drive a calibrated and validated DRAINMOD model under two water management scenarios: free drainage (FD) and controlled drainage (CD). Field data, including water table depth, was collected for two canola growing seasons at the PESAI (Prairies East Sustainable Agriculture Initiative) research site in Arborg, Manitoba, Canada. The model was calibrated and validated using the 2019 and 2020 water table depth. The projected changes in the climatic variables showed a slight increase in the mean annual precipitation and the mean temperature across the seasons. DRAINMOD simulation results suggest that CD would significantly decrease subsurface drainage, while water loss through evapotranspiration (ET) and surface runoff are projected to increase considerably under CD and FD. Furthermore, results showed that the relative canola yield would decrease under FD and CD. Stressor analysis showed that canola yield reduction was driven by dry stress due to the projected temperature rise, which outweighs the slight increase in precipitation. Simulation results suggest that the capture, storage, and reuse of drainage water could be an adaptive and mitigative strategy to address the predicted impacts. Keywords: Canola yield, Climate change, DRAINMOD model, Subsurface drainage.
Tree-PointNet: A Novel Neural Network for Dormant Apple Trees Using Semi-Circle-Based Point Cloud for Robotic Pruning
Authors: Li Lingfeng , Ma Shaochun , Li Yechen , Huo Peng , Peng Cong , Li Wenzhi
Published: October 2024

Highlights

Tree-PointNet, a novel neural network, integrates geometric down-sampling for efficient pruning.

A Semi-Circle-Based point cloud dataset of apple trees was collected to aid in automated pruning.

Enhanced algorithm performance was investigated, showing significant improvements in model accuracy.

Abstract. Pruning during the dormant season is one of the most costly and labor-intensive operations in the production of specialty crops. In winter, many trained seasonal workers have to carefully remove branches from hundreds of trees according to pre-defined rules. The aim of automated pruning is to reduce this reliance on the large amount of labor currently required for the operation. The first step in the automatic application of pruning rules is the acquisition of point cloud data from trees. To match the optical vision system of an ideal automatic pruning robot, a brand new and challenging apple tree dataset was collected in which the point clouds were all based on semicircular shapes, rather than the carefully crafted point clouds of complete apple trees. 1000 Semi-Circle-Based point clouds of apple trees were used. For the brand-new structure of point cloud part segmentation, a neural network model (namely Tree-PointNet) was proposed. A Semi-Circle-Based point cloud of apple tree was segmented by the Tree-PointNet with the segmentation result consisting of a trunk and primary branches. With a weight size of only 7.9% of PointStack, the best OA of 95.6% was obtained by the Tree-PointNet network proposed in this paper. The GDS was also used, which could obtain more key points in the Branch-to-Trunk connection region as input to the proposed network. On the other hand, the OA and mIoU of the model improved by 10.2% and 7.98%, respectively, compared to the PointNet++. Keywords: Dormant apple trees, Part segmentation, PointNet++, Semi-circle-based point cloud.
Hip Arthroplasty in a Patient with Severe Pulmonary Hypertension- Case Report
Authors:   University of Notre Dame Medical School, Darlinghurst NSW 2010, Australia., Prevedoros Stephanie L , Binnekamp Maurits ,   Department of Cardiology, St George Private Hospital, 1 South Street Kogarah NSW 2217 Australia., Kirsh George ,   Department of Orthopaedics, St George Private Hospital, 1 South Street Kogarah NSW 2217 Australia., Prevedoros Harry P ,   Department of Anaesthesia, St George Private Hospital, 1 South Street Kogarah NSW 2217 Australia.
Published: October 2024

A 58-year-old man suffered cardiac arrest during anaesthetic preparation for a total hip replacement (THR). Post-resuscitation investigation revealed severe pulmonary hypertension. 12 months later, he was re-presented to another hospital with now unbearable pain from his hip arthritis for a THR. A multidisciplinary approach to management, perioperative care in an appropriately equipped facility and an understanding of the events at the first presentation which may have contributed to cardiac arrest were central to successful management. Keywords: Nitric oxide, Non-cardiac surgery, Pulmonary hypertension, Pulmonary vasodilator, Right ventricular failure.
Perioperative Management Challenges and Anaesthetic Considerations for a HIV Positive Patient of Multiple Symmetric Lipomatosis (Madelung Disease): A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Anaesthesiology & Critical Care, Armed Forces Medical College, Wanowrie, Pune, Maharashtra, India., Kulkarni Kapil A , Nair Vipin V ,   Department of Surgery, Armed Forces Medical College, Wanowrie, Pune, Maharashtra, India., Kumar Anuj ,   Department of Anaesthesiology & Critical Care, Armed Forces Medical College, Wanowrie, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Published: October 2024

A 60-year-old man with obstructive sleep apnea and human immunodeficiency virus positive status presented to this hospital with a huge mass at the base of his neck which caused him to sleep on his left side for the past 6 years; he was eventually diagnosed with Madelung’s disease. He was scheduled for the removal of the tumor through reconstructive surgery. Madelung’s disease is a rare disorder characterized by the development of benign fatty tumors in a symmetrical pattern primarily in the upper body. Considering the patient’s American Society of Anaesthesiologists grade, co-morbidities, and specific challenges such as difficult airway and prone positioning, careful planning for anaesthesia was crucial. Therefore, the decision was made to use general anaesthesia with awake fiberoptic intubation to reduce the possible dangers of difficult airway complications during the initial stages of the procedure. Management of Madelung’s disease requires a multidisciplinary approach and thorough pre-operative assessment, patient counseling, meticulous monitoring and airway planning to achieve patient comfort and safety. Continuous monitoring, pain treatment and adequate follow-up after surgery all help to ensure a smooth recovery. Keywords: Multiple symmetric lipomatosis, General anaesthesia, HIV infection, Awake fiberoptic intubation.
Successful Management of a Parturient with Patent Foramen Ovale Presented for Elective Cesarean Section: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical care, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Shahdara, Delhi, India., Kapoor Ruchi , R Lakshmi ,   Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical care, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Shahdara, Delhi, India., Pratibha Pratibha ,   Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical care, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Shahdara, Delhi, India., Aggarwal Archit ,   Department of Anaesthesiology and Critical care, University College of Medical Sciences and Guru Teg Bahadur Hospital, Shahdara, Delhi, India.
Published: October 2024

Introduction: Patent foramen ovale (PFO) is a congenital anomaly found in 25–30% of the general population, typically asymptomatic until the physiological alterations of pregnancy heighten the risk of cerebral infarction. Pregnant women with PFO are at an increased risk of complications impacting the brain, heart, lungs, and peripheral vasculature, with stroke being the predominant concern. Case Presentation: We report a case of successful anaesthetic management of a 32-year-old parturient with pre-eclampsia and PFO presenting for cesarean section. Pre-anaesthetic evaluation, diagnosis, and management of PFO were crucial to avoid complications. Spinal-epidural anaesthesia was chosen to minimize cardiopulmonary compromise, and hemodynamic parameters were maintained throughout the procedure. Postoperatively, the patient was monitored in the intensive care unit and received thromboprophylaxis. Conclusion: This case highlights the importance of early identification of PFO in pregnancy, vigilant monitoring of hemodynamic parameters, and the prevention of thrombosis throughout pregnancy and the postpartum period. Keywords: Patent foramen ovale, Cesarean section, Pre-eclampsia, Thromboprophylaxis.
Congenital Complete Heart Block and General Anaesthesia for Caesarean Section
Authors:   Department of Anaesthesiology, Symbiosis Medical College for Women, Symbiosis International Deemed University, Lavale, Munshi, Pune, Maharashtra, India., Acharya Geetha R , Naik Swapna ,   Department of Anaesthesiology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Centre, Pune, Maharashtra, India., Sawant Rahul D. ,   Department of Anaesthesiology, Deenanath Mangeshkar Hospital and Research Centre, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Published: October 2024

Congenital complete heart block (CHB) can be either asymptomatic or can present with a syncopal episode. Sudden cardiac death has been described in these patients, when untreated, putting them at high risk for anaesthesia, making them high risk for anaesthesia. If an obstetric patient presents with CHB, for anaesthesiologists as an anaesthesiologist, our goal is to preserve the heart rate maintain hemodynamic stability and minimize fetal compromise. Here, in this case report, we present the case of elective cesarean section for an obstetric indication with congenital CHB. We managed this case with a multidisciplinary approach using general anaesthesia with a temporary pacemaker, which helped in maintaining hemodynamic stability and perioperative heart rate control. Keywords: CHB, LSCS, Temporary pacemaker
Propagation characteristics of a circular Airyprime Gaussian beam in a gradient refractive index medium
Authors: Zhao Zihan , Wang Wenxuan , Mi Zhiwei , Wei Ruojun , Zhang Liping , Wang Benyi , Man Zhongsheng , Ge Xiaolu
Published: October 2024

In this paper, the focusing characteristics of a circular Airyprime Gaussian beam (CAPGB) propagating in a gradient refractive index (GRIN) medium is studied for the first time, to the best of our knowledge, and some interesting features are observed. We find that the CAPGB exhibits periodic focus–defocus behavior and completes a period propagation process with two focal points within a half variation period L/2 of the GRIN medium. Meanwhile, the CAPGB has singularity at the positions of z=(2j+1)L/4 on the optical axis. The focal lengths of bifocal points, the distance between two focal points, the focal intensity, and the focusing ability can be manipulated by beam parameters and the GRIN factor. It is noteworthy that the number (one or two) of focal points in one focusing period, and the focusing period or frequency of the CAPGB in the GRIN medium could be controlled by the beam distribution factor and GRIN factor, respectively. Moreover, the focusing ability of the CAPGB is much higher than that of a circular Airy Gaussian beam in the GRIN medium.
Ge-on-Si single-photon avalanche diode using a double mesa structure
Authors: Wanitzek Maurice , Schulze Jörg , Oehme Michael
Published: October 2024

We present experimental results of Ge-on-Si single-photon avalanche diodes based on a novel, to our knowledge, double mesa structure. Using this structure, the electric field at the mesa edges is suppressed compared to a traditional single mesa, leading to significant performance improvements. The dark current in linear mode shows a smaller increase for larger reverse voltages, resulting in a reduction by more than 260 times at low temperatures. Operated in the Geiger-mode at 110 K, the dark count rate in the double mesa is 100 times smaller. The devices achieve a dark count rate of 953 kHz, a single-photon detection efficiency of 7.3%, and a record-low jitter of 81 ps at an excess bias of 17.6% and a temperature of 110 K.
Demonstration of a kHz-repetition-rate extreme ultraviolet laser at 41.8 nm
Authors: Tissandier F. , Jurkovičová L. , Gautier J. , Staněk M. , Finke O. , Albrecht M. , Nejdl J. , Hort O. , Sebban S.
Published: October 2024

We demonstrate the operation of a plasma-based extreme ultraviolet (XUV) laser at a 1 kHz repetition rate driven by infrared pump pulses of less than 20 mJ. The 41.8 nm laser pulses were generated in a Xe plasma created by optical-field ionization by the L1 Allegra laser at ELI Beamlines. The output power of the XUV laser lies in the few microwatt range, and the energy efficiency of this pumping scheme opens the way for further scaling in repetition rate and average power.
Topological traveling-wave radiation based on chiral edge states in photonic Chern insulators
Authors: Han Jianfei , Liang Feng , Huang Daosheng , Zhao Yulin , Liu Jiale , Zhao Deshuang , Wang Bing-Zhong
Published: October 2024

Topological chiral edge states in photonic Chern insulators, which
exhibit the one-way propagation property with reflection-free behavior
and excellent robustness against perturbations, have become an
important frontier in topological photonics. Currently, there have
been many studies on its robust propagation behavior, but few studies
have focused on its radiation properties. In developing functional
photonic devices (e.g., topological antennas) for real-world
applications, studying traveling-wave radiation characteristics based
on chiral edge states deserves more attention. In this Letter, we
propose a topological traveling-wave radiation system based on chiral
edge states in photonic Chern insulators that show a steerable beam
and reflection-free property. By introducing the perturbation
controlled by magnetic fields, we demonstrate that exploiting a
certain strength of perturbation can flexibly manipulate the radiation
beam. In particular, the proposed dual-channel topological
traveling-wave radiation system can not only improve the gain but also
overcome the issue of impedance matching. The proposed configurations
provide a novel way to manipulate topological-wave radiation and have
potential applications for designing topological traveling-wave
antennas with a reflection-free property.
Effect of interfacial thermal resistance on the near-field photoacoustic signal from gold nanorod in water: a numerical study
Authors: Gan Yong
Published: October 2024

The near-field photoacoustics of gold nanoparticle in water has received much attention for its biomedical applications and is strongly affected by the gold–water interfacial thermal resistance. However, the effect of interfacial thermal resistance on near-field photoacoustics has been very little studied. Here we present the numerical simulations of near-field photoacoustic signal generation from a single gold nanorod in water by considering different thermal resistances at the gold–water interface. It is shown that, different from the reported reduction of far-field photoacoustic signals by interfacial thermal resistance, enhancement of near-field photoacoustic signals is obtained with the typical gold–water interfacial thermal resistance. Further analysis reveals that the higher rate of net heat transfer to the surrounding water at the typical interfacial thermal resistance, which corresponds to faster thermal expansion of the surrounding water, accounts for such enhancement of near-field photoacoustic signal and that the enhancement of near-field photoacoustic amplitude is mainly present at a distance within thermal diffusion length.
Mice employ a bait-and-switch escape mechanism to de-escalate social conflict
Authors: Clein Rachel S. , Warren Megan R. , Neunuebel Joshua P.
Published: October 2024

Intraspecies aggression has profound ecological and evolutionary consequences, as recipients can suffer injuries, decreases in fitness, and become outcasts from social groups. Although animals implement diverse strategies to avoid hostile confrontations, the extent to which social influences affect escape tactics is unclear. Here, we used computational and machine-learning approaches to analyze complex behavioral interactions as mixed-sex groups of mice, Mus musculus, freely interacted. Mice displayed a rich repertoire of behaviors marked by changes in behavioral state, aggressive encounters, and mixed-sex interactions. A distinctive behavioral sequence consistently occurred after aggressive encounters, where males in submissive states quickly approached and transiently interacted with females immediately before the aggressor engaged with the same female. The behavioral sequences were also associated with substantially fewer physical altercations. Furthermore, the male’s behavioral state could be predicted by distinct features of the behavioral sequence, such as kinematics and the latency to and duration of male–female interactions. More broadly, our work revealed an ethologically relevant escape strategy influenced by the presence of females that may serve as a mechanism for de-escalating social conflict and preventing consequential reductions in fitness.
Exploring the relationship between telehealth utilization and treatment burden among patients with chronic conditions: A cross-sectional study in Ontario, Canada
Authors: Tahsin Farah , Steele Gray Carolyn , Shaw Jay , Shachak Aviv
Published: October 2024

One in five Canadians lives with one or more chronic conditions. Patients with chronic conditions often experience a high treatment burden because of the work associated with managing care. Telehealth is considered a useful solution to reduce the treatment burden among patients with chronic conditions. However, telehealth can also increase the treatment burden by offloading responsibilities on patients. This cross-sectional study conducted in Ontario, Canada examines the association between telehealth utilization and treatment burden among patients with chronic conditions. This study aimed to explore whether and to what extent, telehealth use is associated with treatment burden among patients with chronic conditions. The secondary objective was to explore which sociodemographic variables are associated with patients’ treatment burden. An online survey was administered to community-dwelling patients with one or more chronic conditions. The Treatment Burden Questionnaire (TBQ-15) was used to measure the patient’s level of treatment burden, and a modified telehealth usage scale was developed and used to measure the frequency of telehealth use. Data was analyzed using descriptive statistics, correlations, analyses of variance, and hierarchical linear regression analysis. A total of 75 patients completed the survey. The participants’ mean age was 64 (SD = 18.93) and 79% were female. The average reported treatment burden was 72.15 out of 150 (a higher score indicating a higher level of burden). When adjusted for demographic variables, a higher frequency of telehealth use was associated with experiencing a higher treatment burden, but the association was not statistically significant. Additionally, when adjusted for demographic variables, younger age, and the presence of an unpaid caregiver were positively related to a high treatment burden score. This finding demonstrates that some patient populations are more at risk of experiencing high treatment burden in the context of telehealth use; and hence, may require extra support to utilize telehealth technologies. The study highlights the need for further research to explore how to minimize the treatment burden among individuals with higher healthcare needs.
Towards women’s digital health equity: A qualitative inquiry into attitude and adoption of reproductive mHealth services in Bangladesh
Authors: Jonayed M. , Rumi Maruf Hasan
Published: October 2024

Health equity in Bangladesh faces a large chasm over the economic conditions, socio-cultural factors and geographic location despite the push for digitalization of the health sector. While some research has been conducted assessing the viability of digital health solutions in Bangladesh, gender dynamics of digital healthcare have been absent. This study dived into healthcare equity for women with a focus on reproductive health services delivered through mobile devices. This paper reported the findings of a qualitative study employing in-depth interviews conducted among 26 women about their behavioral intention to use mHealth services for reproductive health and the underlying factors influencing this intention with the help of the Integrative Model of Planned Behavior (IMPB). A snowball sampling technique were used to interview those university educated women, aged 21–31, based on their familiarity and exposure of mHealth services from seven universities in Bangladesh. The findings suggested that users of mHealth services find it more convenient and secure compared to visiting healthcare facilities, especially for trivial issues and inquiries regarding their reproductive health. Although promoting such services is lagging behind traditional healthcare, the attitude toward reproductive health services in Bangladesh is generally favorable resulting increasing adoption and use. Because such information-related mobile services (apps, websites, and social media) served as a first base of knowledge on reproductive health among many young girls and women in Bangladesh, who are generally shy to share or talk about their menstruation or personal health problems with family members, peers, or even health professionals due to socio-cultural factors and stigmatization. Conversely, urban centric services, availability of experts, quality management, security of privacy, authenticity of the information, digital divide, lack of campaign initiatives, lack of equipment and technology, lack of sex education, and outdated apps and websites were identified as obstacles that constrain the widespread use of reproductive mHealth services in Bangladesh. This study also concluded that promotion will be crucial in reforming conservative norms, taboos, and misconceptions about women’s health and recommended such endeavors to be initiated by the policy makers as there is a substantive need for a specific policy regulating emerging digital health market in Bangladesh. Notwithstanding, women-only sample, low sample size, narrow focus on mHealth users and absence of perspectives from healthcare providers were among shortcomings of this study which could be addressed in future research. Further quantitative explorations are must to determine the usage patterns of reproductive mHealth services and their effectiveness that would identify implementation challenges in terms of customization and personalization in reproductive healthcare in a developing country like Bangladesh.
Are we preparing healthy & responsible adolescents? Exploratory qualitative study to understand the health and social issues of adolescent living in Karachi, Pakistan
Authors: Rizvi Narjis , Saleem Sarah , Mukhtar Ahmed Jawaria , Reza Sayyeda Ezra , Jabeen Rawshan , Jessani Saleem
Published: October 2024

This study aimed to understand the lives of adolescents living in squatter settlements of Karachi, Pakistan regarding their assigned roles and responsibilities, health and social issues, their decision-making process, and mechanism and channels of information. An exploratory descriptive qualitative study design was employed. Purposive sampling techniques were used to carry out Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) with adolescents (n = 10, Participants = 190), adolescents’ parents (n = 10, Participants = 180), and In-Depth Interviews of with key adolescent stakeholders (n = 20). Adolescent stakeholder mapping was conducted for enrolling participants. The data were analysed thematically using deductive and inductive approaches. Based on gender norms parents assign specific roles and responsibilities to adolescent girls and boys. Due to societal norms, communication gap exists between adolescents and their parents. The most popular information channels are social media platforms and friends. Adolescents reported being subjected to a variety of physical, sexual, mental, social, and environmental pressures. Lack of guidance from parents, inadequate knowledge and skills to deal with physical, sexual, mental, social and environmental hazards, and misuse of social media lead to risky decisions, injuries, and social instability. This study underlines the urgent need for targeted interventions for addressing gender issues and improving adolescents’ decision-making and life skills. We recommend Behavior Change Communication interventions to dismantle gender stereotypes and support a balanced domestic environment for children’s education and well-being, awareness raising among parents, teachers, and healthcare providers about adolescent risks emphasizing their role in youth guidance, and advocacy for youth-led forums to co-create educational content engaging parents, educators, and health professionals focusing on life skills. These strategies would turn demographic transitions into productive dividends.
A global snapshot on health systems capacity for detection, monitoring, and management of acute kidney injury: A multinational study from the ISN-GKHA
Authors: Wainstein Marina , Nlandu Yannick , Viecelli Andrea , Neyra Javier A. , Arruebo Silvia , Caskey Fergus J. , Damster Sandrine , Donner Jo-Ann , Jha Vivekanand , Levin Adeera , Nangaku Masaomi , Saad Syed , Tonelli Marcello , Ye Feng , Okpechi Ikechi G. , Bello Aminu K. , Johnson David W. , Cerda Jorge
Published: October 2024

Acute kidney injury (AKI) is a significant cause of morbidity and mortality, especially in low and lower-middle income countries. Data from the third iteration of the International Society of Nephrology Global Kidney Health Atlas (ISN-GKHA) were used to evaluate the organization of structures and services for the provision of AKI care in world countries and ISN regions. An international survey of key stakeholders (clinicians, policymakers, and patient advocates) from countries affiliated with the ISN was conducted from July to September 2022 to assess structures and services for AKI care across countries. Main findings of the study show that overall, 167 countries or jurisdictions participated in the survey, representing 97.4% of the world’s population. Only 4% of countries had an AKI detection program based on national policy or guideline, and 50% of these countries used a reactive approach for AKI identification (i.e., cases managed as identified through clinical practice). Only 19% of national governments recognized AKI as a healthcare priority. Almost all countries (98% of the countries surveyed) reported capacity to provide acute hemodialysis (HD) for AKI, but in 31% of countries, peritoneal dialysis (PD) was unavailable for AKI. About half of all countries (44% of countries surveyed) provided acute dialysis (HD or PD) via public funding, but funding availability varied across ISN regions, including less than a quarter of countries in Oceania and South East Asia (17%) and Africa (24%) and highest availability in Western Europe (91%). Availability increased with the increasing country income level. Initiatives have been developed to propose and promote optimal care for AKI (including the ISN 0-by-25 initiative), but capacity for optimal AKI care remains low, particularly in low- and lower-middle-income countries. Concerted efforts by the global community are required to close these gaps, to improve AKI outcomes across the world.
A global chromoblastomycosis strategy and development of the global chromoblastomycosis working group
Authors: Smith Dallas J. , Queiroz-Telles Flávio , Rabenja Fahafahantsoa Rapelanoro , Hay Roderick , Bonifaz Alexandro , Grijsen Marlous L. , Blaizot Romain , Messina Fernando , Song Yinggai , Lockhart Shawn R. , Jordan Alexander , Cavanaugh Alyson M. , Litvintseva Anastasia P. , Chiller Tom , Schito Marco , de Hoog Sybren , Vicente Vania Aparecida , Cornet Muriel , Dagne Daniel Argaw , Ramarozatovo Lala S. , de Azevedo Conceição de Maria Pedrozo e Silva , Santos Daniel Wagner C. L.
Published: October 2024

Chromoblastomycosis, an implantation mycosis, is a neglected tropical disease that causes decreased quality of life, stigma, and disability. The global burden of disease is unknown and data on disease epidemiology and outcomes are severely limited by a lack of access to needed diagnostic tools and therapeutics. The World Health Organization outlined targets for chromoblastomycosis in the Road Map for Neglected Tropical Diseases 2021–2030, but little progress has been made in initiating and implementing an effective control program globally. This lack of guiding policy and progress led to the recent formation of a Global Chromoblastomycosis Working Group which has developed a global chromoblastomycosis strategy. We describe this strategy, which outlines specific steps needed to improve technical progress, strategy and service delivery, and enablers. Clinicians, researchers, public and government officials, patients, and policy makers can align their time, expertise, and resources to improve the lives of communities affected by chromoblastomycosis through this strategy.
Evaluation of the sustainable development of logistics based on local characteristics: Matching logistics architecture with resources
Authors: Wen Xin , Liu Yan
Published: October 2024

This paper sets out to investigate the alignment between the logistics architecture and resources across China’s nine logistics regions, while also examining the individual advantages these regions possess. With the goal of establishing an evaluative framework for sustainable logistics development, the research introduces the principle of logistics equilibrium to augment traditional evaluation metrics, thus forming an assessment index system designed to quantify the congruence between logistics architecture and resources.Utilizing a democratic evaluation approach that emphasizes individual regional advantages, and leveraging empirical data from the decade spanning 2011 to 2020, this paper reveals a general upward trajectory in the matching level of logistics resources to architecture albeit with notable regional disparities. It is observed that while certain areas have made significant strides, others lag, underscoring the varied pace of development among different logistics regions.The research also brings to light the distinct advantage characteristics that emerge as each region evolves, suggesting that these attributes can be harnessed to foster a more environmentally conscious and forward-thinking approach to logistics. By implementing a democratic evaluation to rank these regions, this paper aims to identify exemplars that are not only recognized for their achievements but also serve as models for the formulation of green and sustainable logistics strategies tailored to each region’s specific needs and potential.
Improving case-detection of severe wasting among under-five-year-old children in Timor Leste: A secondary analysis of data from the 2020 national cross-sectional food and nutrition survey
Authors: Mutunga Mueni , Chiwile Faraja , de Araujo Moniz Natalia dos Reis , Bahwere Paluku
Published: October 2024

The World Health Organization recommends using weight-for-height Z-score (WHZ) <-3 or Mid-Upper Arm Circumference (MUAC) <115 mm as independent criteria for diagnosing severe wasting. However, there are several challenges in using the WHZ criterion. As a result, the MUAC (and edema)-only approach for identifying children needing treatment for severe wasting has been developed and is being rapidly scaled-up globally, including in Timor-Leste. But previous studies reported that MUAC<115 mm has poor diagnostic accuracy for detecting children with WHZ<-3. The two options being explored globally for improving the identification of these children in MUAC (and edema)-only programming contexts include expanding MUAC cut-off and the combination of the indicators MUAC and Weight-for-Age Z-score (WAZ). This study explored the accuracy for diagnosing severe wasting (WHZ<-3) of these two options in Timor-Leste. We conducted a secondary analysis of data from the 2020 national Timor-Leste Food and Nutrition Survey. We tested the accuracy of various MUAC cut-offs, and predefined case definitions in five age groups (0–5 months, 6–23 months, 24–59 months, 6–59 months, and 0–59 months). We calculated the standard diagnostic test parameters (sensitivity, specificity, Youden Index, and others) and used the Youden Index as the principal criterion for rating the overall level of accuracy. The sample analyzed comprised 11,056 children with complete information on our key variables (anthropometric data, age, and sex), of whom 52.2% were boys. The age groups 0 to 5 months, 6 to 23 months, and 24 to 59 months represented 9.0%, 33.7%, and 57.3% of the sample, respectively. We found that the optimal diagnostic MUAC cut-off varied across the age groups between 117 mm and 142 mm, with the Youden Index remaining < 55% in all the age groups considered. The use of case definitions combing MUAC and WAZ optimized the identification of children with WHZ<-3. The case definition MUAC<130 mm or WAZ<-3 Z-score had the best diagnostic accuracy in all the age groups except for the 0 to 5 months age group for which the case definition MUAC<110 mm or WAZ<-2 Z-score had the highest Youden Index. Our findings show that it is challenging to significantly improve diagnostic accuracy for identifying children with WHZ<-3 by only expanding the MUAC cut-off in under five Timorese children. However, In settings facing challenges in using WHZ, the combination of MUAC and WAZ indicators offers a promising approach. Further research is needed to confirm the effectiveness of the proposed combination of MUAC and WAZ indicators case definitions in a programmatic context in Timor-Leste, and other similar contexts.
Association between blood total mercury and psoriasis: The NHANES 2005–2006 and 2013–2014: A cross-sectional study
Authors: Tuo Yanan , Li Yali , Guo Tao
Published: October 2024

An inflammatory skin condition called psoriasis results from immune system interactions that are out of balance. Reactive oxygen species are produced as a general mechanism of mercury toxicity. This study aimed to determine whether there was an association between blood total mercury and psoriasis in US adults. Utilizing data from the National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (NHANES) 2005–2006 and 2013–2014. NHANES is a national research survey program every two years to assess the population’s nutritional and physical health. The relationship between blood total mercury and psoriasis was studied using multivariable logistic regression models and smooth curve fitting. Subgroup analysis and interaction tests were used to investigate if this association was stable across populations. After adjusting for several factors, we found a positive association between blood total mercury and psoriasis in 6086 participants. According to the fully adjusted model, each 1-unit increase in blood total mercury was associated with an 8% increase in the prevalence of psoriasis [1.08 (1.03, 1.14)]. The favorable association seems to be more pronounced in non-diabetes. Our research shows a positive association between psoriasis and blood total mercury in US adults. The results of this study need to be supported by additional prospective research.
Enhancement of paclitaxel production by Neopestalotiopsis vitis via optimization of growth conditions
Authors: Rezazadeh Hamzeh , Ghanati Faezeh , Bonfill Mercedes , Nasibi Fatemeh , Mohammadi Ballakuti Narjes
Published: October 2024

Accessibility of paclitaxel and other taxoids from natural resources is restricted. Endophytic fungi are novel, rapidly growing resources for producing these compounds. Neopestalotiopsis vitis (N. vitis) has been recently isolated from Corylus avellana, and its ability to produce a variety of taxoids has been detected and confirmed by analytical methods. Simultaneous growth and high production of taxoids by application of different sorts and concentrations of carbon and nitrogen were targeted in the present research. These criteria were assessed in different acidities (pH 4.0–7.0), carbon sources (sucrose, fructose, glucose, mannitol, sorbitol, and malt extract), and nitrogen forms (urea, ammonium nitrate, potassium nitrate, ammonium phosphate, and ammonium sulfate) by testing one parameter at a time approach. The first analysis introduced pH 7.0 as the best acidity of the medium for N. vitis, where the highest paclitaxel yield was generated. Further analysis introduced 3% Malt extract as the best carbon-providing medium. In the next step, the effects of nitrogen forms on the growth rate, paclitaxel yield, alkaloids, and amino acid contents were evaluated. Based on the results of this experiment, 5 mM ammonium sulfate was selected as the best nitrogen source to obtain the maximum biomass and paclitaxel yield. Overall, the results introduce a medium containing 3% (w/v) malt extract and 5 mM ammonium sulfate at pH 7.0 as the best medium in which N. vitis produces the highest paclitaxel yield coincident with rapid and sustainable growth. The findings pave the way for industrial manufacturing of taxoids.
Role of servicescape in patients’ clinic care waiting experience: Evidence from developing countries
Authors: Rauf Abdul , Muhammad Norhilmi , Mahmood Hamid , Yee Yen Yuen , Rashid Muhammad Haroon , Naseem Warda
Published: October 2024

The aim of this research is to investigate the role of servicescape on re-patronage and recommended intention through pleasure feeling and satisfaction in healthcare settings that put substantial contribution in the process of healthcare service delivery. Data were collected through cross-sectional convenience sampling via a self-administered survey questionnaire from 431 clinical outpatients who revisit the same hospital of metropolitan areas of Punjab, Pakistan. Structural Equation Modeling (SEM) was carried out for path analysis through AMOS (24.0 V), while statistical measures were analyzed using SPSS (25.0 V). The present study results revealed that patients’ intention optimistically triggered through partial mediation and affirm the direct and indirect association with servicescape. It also revealed that patient-recommended and re-patronage intentions to visit the clinic were statistically substantial and positively influenced by intervening constructs of pleasure feeling and satisfaction. Additionally, it is found that servicescape and pleasure feeling contributed to 30% change in satisfaction. Moreover, pleasure feeling, and satisfaction contributed to 50% change in re-patronage and 31% change in recommendation intention of the patients. The current study findings contribute significantly to servicescape literature from a theatrical perspective and reevaluate the patterns and operations in healthcare. It also helps managers and administrators of private hospitals to make strategies to increase patient satisfaction.
Prediabetes increases the risk of pancreatic cancer: A meta-analysis of longitudinal observational studies
Authors: Huang Xuefang , Li Huan , Zhao Lisha , Xu Lingli , Long Hui
Published: October 2024

Background

Glycemic disorder is closely related to the risk of pancreatic cancer, but previous studies focused on the influence of diabetes. The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate the influence of prediabetes, an intermediate state between normoglycemia and diabetes, on the risk of pancreatic cancer.

Methods

Relevant longitudinal observational studies were identified through a search of Medline, Embase, and Web of Science databases. To minimize the influence of between-study heterogeneity, a randomized-effects model was used to pool the results.

Results

Nine cohort studies including 26,444,624 subjects were available for the meta-analysis. Among them, 2,052,986 (7.8%) had prediabetes at baseline, and the participants were followed for a mean duration of 5.9 years. It was found that, compared to people with normoglycemia, those with prediabetes had a higher incidence of pancreatic cancer (risk ratio [RR]: 1.42, 95% confidence interval: 1.36 to 1.49, p<0.001) with no statistical heterogeneity (I2 = 0%). Sensitivity analysis performed by excluding one dataset at a time did not significantly change the results (RR: 1.38 to 1.45, p all <0.05). Subgroup analyses indicated that the association between prediabetes and increased risk of pancreatic cancer was not significantly impacted by study characteristics such as study design, location, age, and sex of participants, definition of prediabetes, duration of follow-up, or adjustment for alcohol intake (p for subgroup difference all >0.05).

Conclusions

Prediabetes may be associated with an increased risk of pancreatic cancer compared to normoglycemia.
Healthcare professionals’ perceptions on providing support to informal carers within stroke care
Authors: Jammal Melissa , Kolt Gregory S. , Liu Karen P. Y. , Dennaoui Nariman , George Emma S.
Published: October 2024

Background

The sudden nature of stroke onset does not provide carers with sufficient time to prepare for the demands associated with caring. Healthcare professionals can have a vital role in providing carers with support and training, which may reduce carer stress and strain, and allow for better health and rehabilitation outcomes for the stroke survivor. The experiences of healthcare professionals on supporting carers in stroke care, however, remain unclear.

Objective

To understand the experiences and perceptions of healthcare professionals working in stroke care on implementing resources and support to informal stroke carers.

Methods

Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 11 healthcare professionals (5 occupational therapists, 5 physiotherapists, 1 psychologist) with at least 12 months’ experience in working with stroke survivors. Interviews ranged from 25–70 minutes in duration, and were recorded, transcribed, and analysed using thematic analysis.

Results

Three overarching categories that were explored were: (1) Experiences of working in stroke care and supporting carers; (2) Recommendations for a program designed for carers; and (3) Future priorities in stroke care. Participants discussed a variety of strategies they utilised to support carers including collaborating with other healthcare professionals and utilising skills and experience. Healthcare professionals highlighted the need for additional resources that are designed specifically for carers and explored key topics including carer stress and fatigue, support services, stroke education, and how to look after oneself. Participants identified priorities for stroke care including additional professional training and resource availability.

Conclusion

This study provided a unique insight from the perspectives of healthcare professionals on supporting carers. Participants identified the need for additional training and resources to equip healthcare professionals to better support carers. Future programs designed for carers should be informed by the needs and experiences of both informal carers and healthcare professionals.