bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unlocking the potential: A systematic analysis of big data applications in Ghanaian academic libraries
Authors: Ofori Wilhemina Odarkor , Cobblah Mac-Anthony
Published: January 2024

Big data can be described as a collection of varying information sets that are expanding at exponential rates and which may be gathered by companies and analysed to extract valuable insights. The purpose of this systematic review was to explain the possible benefits and difficulties that big data may present for Ghanaian academic libraries. A federated search was conducted in several academic databases subscribed to by the Consortium of Academic and Research Libraries in Ghana (CARLIGH) on the terms big data and academic libraries. Relevant articles searched and retrieved were based on abstract and title and spanned the years 2001 to 2023. Of the total documents retrieved, 65 met the inclusion criteria set by the researchers.

Key findings were that big data is useful for enhancing collections of academic libraries, developing personalized services, analysing user behaviour, and assisting in decision-making. To maximise gains, addressing issues including protecting user privacy, managing data, and shortage of skilled personnel is necessary. Academic libraries in Ghana are advised to collaborate with several important stakeholders on using big data while ensuring the proper setting is available and accessible. The study contributes to the literature on big data in academic libraries by integrating researchers’ scientific insights and recommendations. It also outlines the main implementation issues based on a thorough examination of recent relevant literature in the field. It is recommended that an effective data management plan and other strategies be implemented by academic libraries that seek to incorporate big data in their operations.
Therapeutic changes of systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) patients in pregnancy and feto-maternal outcomes: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Al-Husban Naser , Abu-Hassan Diala Walid , Saleem Ro’ya Ali Abu , Al-Abdallat Lara , Alhusban Alhareth Eid , Adwan Marwan H
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Patients with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) frequently show non-compliance with their medication. We evaluated the compliance of patients with SLE in Jordan with their medication and the relationships with fetal and maternal outcomes.

Methods

We performed a retrospective cohort study of patients with SLE who had no co-morbidities or antiphospholipid syndrome; and were taking only prednisolone, hydroxychloroquine, and/or antiplatelet and anticoagulant medication.

Results

We studied 173 pregnancies. Prednisolone was administered around pregnancy in 50 (28.9%) of these. The compliance with hydroxychloroquine, prednisolone, and anticoagulant and antiplatelet medication was 87.5%, 91.4%, and 97.3%, respectively. Non-compliance with anticoagulant/antiplatelet therapy was significantly associated with pregnancy-related complications. No complications developed in participants who were non-compliant with prednisolone therapy. The mean pre-pregnancy Systemic Lupus Erythematosus Disease Activity Index (SLEDAI) for the pregnancies was 3.7, indicating low disease activity. Pregnancies with high pre-pregnancy SLEDAI scores tended to be more likely to have preterm deliveries, intrauterine growth restriction, and stillbirth. Postpartum relapse tended to be associated with higher pre-pregnancy SLEDAI.

Conclusions

In patients with pre-conceptional low SLE activity, changes in therapeutic compliance during pregnancy are not associated with adverse outcomes. In addition, post-partum relapse is not associated with pre-pregnancy SLEDAI score in therapeutically compliant patients.
Mechanical characterization of polyhydroxyalkanoate reinforced with Alfa fibers: Influence of fiber content and strain rate
Authors: Zaafouri Ismahen , Laurent Hervé , Zrida Montassar , Hamzaoui Ahmed Hichem
Published: January 2024

Biocomposites made from renewable resources have a lower environmental impact than inorganic composites. However, these new biocomposites must have the same mechanical properties as traditional composites to be able to replace them. The main objective of this study is to analyze the influence of strain rate and fiber content on the mechanical behavior of a new biocomposite composed of a biodegradable PolyHydroxyAlkanoate (PHA) matrix reinforced by Alfa fibers. These biocomposites were elaborated after an alkaline treatment and fiber bleaching procedure. SEM and chemical analysis showed that these treatments remove the non-cellulosic materials such as pectin, hemicellulose and lignin, and improve the cellulose content. Three fiber contents of 5, 10 and 15%wt and three strain rates were investigated to analyze their dependence on uniaxial tensile tests. By increasing the amount of fiber and the strain rate, the mechanical response was improved with higher Young’s modulus and tensile strength but lower elongation at break. Poisson’s ratio have also shown dependence on strain rate and fiber contents. These results underline the good mechanical properties of this PHA/Alfa biocomposite which could be an interesting alternative in the development of products, such as automotive interior parts or some packaging applications.
Influence of diamond-like carbon coatings and micro-texturing on friction and wear of seal interfaces: Experiment and simulation study
Authors: He Weilin , Ahmat Mutellip , Zhou Huafeng , Li Zhenhua , Qiu Wei , Li Duanzheng
Published: January 2024

For mechanical seal friction vice in dry friction conditions, due to friction wear serious failure, is the slurry pump and other instruments in the operation of the process of the urgent need to solve the problem. In this paper, in order to optimize and enhance the friction and wear problem of mechanical seal end face of slurry pump. Surface treatment of mechanical sealing rings with diamond-like carbon (DLC) coating and surface microtexturing, and at different rotational speeds and normal forces, the surface hardness, wear coefficient and dry friction coefficient of the sealing rings were analyzed by experimental comparison, and the wear morphology was collected by electron microscopy, having analyzed the results of the sets of, the end face structure of the mechanical seal was optimized. Based on Archard wear model simulation calculations, the seal ring wear depth and wear quality were obtained. The results show: under dry friction conditions, the synergistic effect of the DLC coating and the surface micro-texture (MT), the coefficient of friction is reduced by approx. 68% and the quality and depth of wear is minimized. Excessive speeds and normal forces are more prone to wear behavior caused by abrasive wear. Simulation results of surface treatment groups, DLC / MT group maximum wear depth is the smallest; wear quality test and simulation of the maximum error within 15.7%. The results of the study can provide a basis for a phosphoric acid plant slurry pump mechanical seal design.
Child development, film evidence, and epidemiological sciences: Elwyn James Anthony and the 1957 Zurich International Congress of Psychiatry
Authors: Evans Bonnie
Published: January 2024

In 1957, the British-Indian child psychiatrist Dr Elwyn James Anthony travelled to the Zurich International Congress of Psychiatry to show a film featuring 70 children with such complex symptomatology and behaviour that they betrayed the certainty of contemporary theories of developmental psychology and psychoanalysis. This article examines the significance of Anthony’s film to the creation of new scientific models in international developmental psychology and psychiatric epidemiology. It marked a significant change in the use of filmed evidence that sought to create a truly global and universalist approach to atypical child development based purely on scientific observations. This new observational work was important in shaping new internationally ratified models to study the epidemiology of children’s psychiatric conditions.
Morinda officinalis polysaccharide promotes the osteogenic differentiation of human bone marrow-derived mesenchymal stem cells via microRNA-210-3p/scavenger receptor class A member 3
Authors: Wu Yue , Chen Dan , Li Longguang
Published: January 2024

Morinda officinalis polysaccharide (MOP) is the bioactive ingredient extracted from the root of Morinda officinalis, and Morinda officinalis is applied to treat osteoporosis (OP). The purpose of this study was to determine the role of MOP on human bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (hBMSCs) and the underlying mechanism. HBMSCs were isolated from bone marrow samples of patients with OP and treated with MOP. Quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction was adopted to quantify the expression of microRNA-210-3p (miR-210-3p) and scavenger receptor class A member 3 (SCARA3) mRNA. Cell Counting Kit-8 assay was employed to detect cell viability; Terminal-deoxynucleotidyl Transferase Mediated Nick End Labeling assay and flow cytometry were adopted to detect apoptosis; Alkaline Phosphatase (ALP) activity assay kit was applied to detect ALP activity; Western blot was executed to quantify the expression levels of SCARA3, osteogenic and adipogenic differentiation markers. Ovariectomized rats were treated with MOP. Bone mineral density (BMD), serum tartrate-resistant acid phosphatase 5b (TRACP 5b), and N-telopeptide of type I collagen (NTx) levels were assessed by BMD detector and Enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay kits. It was revealed that MOP could promote hBMSCs’ viability and osteogenic differentiation and inhibit apoptosis and adipogenic differentiation. MOP could also upregulate SCARA3 expression through repressing miR-210-3p expression. Treatment with MOP increased the BMD and decreased the TRACP 5b and NTx levels in ovariectomized rats. MOP may boost the osteogenic differentiation and inhibit adipogenic differentiation of hBMSCs by miR-210-3p/SCARA3 axis.
‘When in Rome do as the Romans do’ or ‘Rome is for Romans only’? How the search for a classification of the Finns Party could clear a way through the taxonomical jungle of the European far-right
Authors: Arter David
Published: January 2024

The first aim of this study is to put the Finns Party on the academic map of the European far-right. Whilst averaging almost one-fifth of the vote over the last four general elections, it has been curiously absent from the comparative parties’ literature. The second aim is to consider how the search for an appropriate classification of the Finns Party might help to navigate a way through the terminological maze of parties parading under the European far-right umbrella. The starting point is a simple, working definition of the two main sub-types – radical right and extreme right – which the article provides. It also canvasses wider recognition of the intraparty dynamics and coalitional character of far-right parties and the need to incorporate a greater role for social media into work on party classification, not least in providing a mouthpiece for extremist elements. In the Finns Party’s case, an online extreme-right faction was able to exert disproportionate influence within, and ultimately capture the party.
Effects of pre-existing psychiatric illness on traumatic brain injury outcomes: A propensity-matched cohort study
Authors: Benavides Francisco , Liporaci Jorge , Getchell John , Weinberger Jason , Caplan Richard , Rojas Elianne , Kaspresnki Andrea , Cardenas Luis
Published: January 2024

Introduction

There are limited data on how patients with pre-existing psychiatric disorders fare after sustaining a traumatic brain injury (TBI). The purpose of this study was to evaluate the impact of pre-existing psychiatric illness on clinical outcomes after TBI.

Methods

A retrospective review was conducted at a regional level 1 trauma center of patients who suffered a TBI between 2012 and 2020. Propensity scores were used to match patients with psychiatric disorder 1:1 to controls. The matched population was used in analyses.

Results

Totally, 5343 patients sustained TBI in the study period of which, 977 (18%) had a pre-existing psychiatric disorder. These patients had 1.6 times longer hospital length of stay (LOS) and 1.2 times longer ICU LOS, though days on a ventilator were not longer. TBI readmission, unrelated to the initial head injury, which was more frequent for patients with psychiatric disorder (OR = 2.6 [1.5, 4.6]).

Conclusion

In patients sustaining a TBI, having a pre-existing psychiatric disorder is an independent risk factor for increased LOS, and TBI readmission. Identifying psychiatric patients as being of higher risk may allow for targeted modifications toward head injury prevention.
Examining final comment questions with requests for written and oral answers
Authors: Höhne Jan Karem , Claassen Joshua
Published: January 2024

Self-administered web surveys provide respondents only limited opportunities for feedback. Therefore, many web surveys include so-called “final comment questions” (FCQs) that allow respondents to elaborate on the survey in general and the survey questions in particular. Typing in open answers in text boxes is burdensome – especially via smartphones with virtual on-screen keypads – so that respondents frequently provide short or no answers at all. In this study, we make use of new technological advancements in web survey methodology and investigate FCQs with requests for written and oral answers. For this purpose, we conducted an experiment in a smartphone survey ( N = 1,001) in a German online panel. The results reveal that FCQs with a request for written and oral answers do not differ with respect to item-nonresponse. However, oral answers are substantially longer than written answers pointing to more in-depth information. The oral answer condition also results in more positive comments than the written answer condition. This study is a methodological showcase for innovative web survey design that contributes to the improvement of data quality.
The Stress of Advancement: A Nurse Practitioner’s Exploration in Providing Culturally Competent Obesity Prevention Counseling in Black Women
Authors: Berry Jasmine A. , Cranford Joan , Powell Rachel
Published: January 2024

Background

Black women are diagnosed, disabled, and die from obesity and associated chronic diseases at higher rates than any other sex or race. Advanced practice registered nurses (APRN) can potentially improve culturally relevant health education and counseling by using health literacy communication tools.

Objective

Explore individualized barriers and APRNs’ role in providing obesity prevention education and counseling by assessing the efficacy of the Teach-Back Method (TBM) to understand health habits and attitudes.

Methods

Black women aged 18–45, previously diagnosed as overweight or obese, and identified with perceived barriers were recruited from a predominantly Black church in Atlanta. They engaged in weekly, 1-hour educational sessions via Zoom, addressing four common barriers identified in the literature. Sessions ended with a 5–10 minute Teach-Back session. Pre- and post-intervention Readiness to Change Questionnaire (RCQ) were completed. Descriptive statistics and quantitative data from surveys and pre- and post-RCQ were analyzed.

Results

Twenty women completed the intervention. Paired sample t-test revealed no statistical significance or correlation between pre- and post-RCQ scores after using TBM in educational sessions. However, Pearson’s correlation showed positive associations between elevated body mass index levels as one advances their education and annual income, with a p-value of 0.05.

Discussion

Increased rates of obesity are experienced despite higher educational attainment or pay. Stress and high-coping mechanisms contributed to disordered eating, decreased physical activity engagement, and decreased motivation toward habit change. Clinicians should be held accountable for delivering culturally sensitive care using the TBM, addressing social determinants of health, performing routine stress assessments, and checking their implicit biases.
The Coalition of National Health Education Organizations: Recent Advances to Strengthen the Health Education Profession
Authors: Hancher-Rauch Heidi , Auld M. Elaine
Published: January 2024

The Coalition of National Health Education Organizations (CNHEO) has existed since 1972, with a mission of bringing together national and international health education organizations who serve within the United States to seek joint actions in support of the health education profession. Much success and collaboration have occurred over the last 50 years, including developing and implementing the 2018–2025 strategic plan. The nine member organizations of the Coalition paused to review individual and collaborative work in addressing shared goals and objectives around policy and mandates, preparation and professional development, credentialing, identity and value of health education, health education workforce and diversity, and research and practice. Findings of this mid-progress strategic plan review suggest that great value is provided to the profession via the collaborative work of organizations (sharing of advocacy alerts and work, supporting training and certification efforts, etc.), but areas for improvement exist (more joint policy statements, better study and support for the profession, etc.). This article outlines important Coalition history for the profession, describes goal and objective accomplishments related to the CNHEO 2018–2025 strategic plan, and makes suggestions for future improvement designed to affect the health of the public and the health education profession.
Community Nurses’ Perspectives on Conceptual Challenges Related to the Need for Nursing Care in Germany: A Constructivist Grounded Theory Study
Authors: Laepple Miriam , Beil-Hildebrand Margitta B.
Published: January 2024

In Germany, a person's need for nursing care is assessed by evaluators according to the federal legal definition of the statutory long-term care insurance (LTCI). This definition and the associated standardized assessment tool constitute the conditions for providing nursing care in a community care setting in Germany. Furthermore, the community care setting is regulated by state law and negotiations between long-term care funds and associations of providers of nursing care. During nursing care, nurses engage in a variety of interactions with people. The extent to which the legal definition of the need for nursing care leads to challenges in these interactions is unclear. To address this knowledge gap, we conducted 22 problem-centered interviews with nurses in the community and analyzed the data using the constructivist grounded theory. The results revealed that the negotiation processes are settled within professional-family relationships and vary between the constructs of closeness and distance, advocacy and submission of responsibility, and ethos and technocracy; these are the central challenges nurses encounter in this setting. We discuss the implications and questions that arise from the findings for the nursing profession regarding its own current and future role as well as the design of nursing support in the community, to nurture more advanced nurse practitioners and community health nurses.
Can Residents With Late-Stage Dementia Still Engage?
Authors: Trudeau Scott A. , Slotnick Scott D. , Gately Megan E.
Published: January 2024

Institutionalized persons with dementia often lack access to meaningful activity, which can lead to agitation, loneliness, and depression. Engagement in activity may improve negative symptoms but is difficult in most settings. In this study, we investigated the degree to which the Reading Buddies Program, in which occupational therapy graduate students read books with residents with dementia, engaged residents. We further assessed whether the level of engagement was affected by various parameters, including those related to interaction, environment, attention, attitude, and activity. The primary outcome measure was engagement percentage–duration of time the book was read divided by duration of time the person with dementia engaged with the book. As expected, increased attention, attitude, and activity parameters were associated with increased engagement. None of the environmental parameters significantly affected engagement. Overall, we found that reading with persons with dementia led to a very high level of engagement and appeared to reduce negative symptoms.
The Children and Young People’s Books Lexicon (CYP-LEX): A large-scale lexical database of books read by children and young people in the United Kingdom
Authors: Korochkina Maria , Marelli Marco , Brysbaert Marc , Rastle Kathleen
Published: January 2024

This article introduces the Children and Young People’s Books-Lexicon (CYP-LEX), a large-scale lexical database derived from books popular with children and young people in the United Kingdom. CYP-LEX includes 1,200 books evenly distributed across three age bands (7–9, 10–12, 13+) and comprises over 70 million tokens and over 105,000 types. For each word in each age band, we provide its raw and Zipf-transformed frequencies, all parts-of-speech in which it occurs with raw frequency and lemma for each occurrence, and measures of count-based contextual diversity. Together and individually, the three CYP-LEX age bands contain substantially more words than any other publicly available database of books for primary and secondary school children. Most of these words are very low in frequency, and a substantial proportion of the words in each age band do not occur on British television. Although the three age bands share some very frequent words, they differ substantially regarding words that occur less frequently, and this pattern also holds at the level of individual books. Initial analyses of CYP-LEX illustrate why independent reading constitutes a challenge for children and young people, and they also underscore the importance of reading widely for the development of reading expertise. Overall, CYP-LEX provides unprecedented information into the nature of vocabulary in books that British children aged 7+ read, and is a highly valuable resource for those studying reading and language development.
The influence of language-specific properties on the role of consonants and vowels in a statistical learning task of an artificial language: A cross-linguistic comparison
Authors: Lador-Weizman Yaara , Deutsch Avital
Published: January 2024

The contribution of consonants and vowels in spoken word processing has been widely investigated, and studies have found a phenomenon of a Consonantal bias (C-bias), indicating that consonants carry more weight than vowels. However, across languages, various patterns have been documented, including that of no preference or a reverse pattern of Vowel bias. A central question is how the manifestation of the C-bias is modulated by language-specific factors. This question can be addressed by cross-linguistic studies. Comparing native Hebrew and native English speakers, this study examines the relative importance of transitional probabilities between non-adjacent consonants as opposed to vowels during auditory statistical learning (SL) of an artificial language. Hebrew is interesting because its complex Semitic morphological structure has been found to play a central role in lexical access, allowing us to examine whether morphological properties can modulate the C-bias in early phases of speech perception, namely, word segmentation. As predicted, we found a significant interaction between language and consonant/vowel manipulation, with a higher performance in the consonantal condition than in the vowel condition for Hebrew speakers, namely, C-bias, and no consonant/vowel asymmetry among English speakers. We suggest that the observed interaction is morphologically anchored, indicating that phonological and morphological processes interact during early phases of auditory word perception.
Creating Societal Impact Through Learner Empowerment
Authors: Opatrny-Yazell Chris M. , Solon Keira N. , Peck Marlys R.
Published: January 2024

An increased interest in social entrepreneurship at the organizational level has a broad impact on human resource development (HRD) professionals. Organizations with an enhanced social consciousness may employ HRD training to create awareness of social issues and facilitate social movement learning. At present, HRD literature lacks guidance on fostering social responsibility among employees. This study, utilizing Q Methodology, examines the efforts of faculty members to change the perceptions of social issues held by learners enrolled in a “business as force for good” course at their university. The findings of this study have implications for faculty members and HRD professionals tasked with improving the social consciousness of their workforce.
Health and safety of health workers in the Suame Municipality of Ghana – Lessons learnt from the COVID-19 outbreak in infection prevention and control for future pandemics
Authors: Darko David Oppong , Opoku Douglas Aninng , Ayisi-Boateng Nana Kwame , Mohammed Aliyu , Ashilevi Jennifer , Amponsah Obed Kwabena Offe , Mate-Kole Ayongo , Egblewogbe Dora , Darko Bridgetta Addai , Agyemang Ebenezer , Okyere Paul
Published: January 2024

Objectives:

Effective adherence to infection prevention and control practices is needed to reduce the rate of healthcare-acquired infections among healthcare workers. Policies to control healthcare-acquired infections among healthcare workers can be designed and implemented using information on adherence to infection prevention and control practices adherence and its determinants. This study, therefore, sought to assess the adherence to infection prevention and control practices among healthcare workers during the 2019 Coronavirus disease pandemic.

Methods:

A multicentre cross-sectional study was conducted among 323 randomly selected healthcare workers in four health facilities in the Suame Municipality, Ghana. Data on participants’ socio-demographics, knowledge of infection prevention and control practices and adherence to infection prevention and control practices were collected using a pre-tested structured questionnaire. Multivariate logistic regression analysis was used to examine the effect of demographic characteristics and knowledge of infection prevention and control on adherence to infection prevention and control practices among study participants.

Results:

Over three-quarters (75.9%) of the study participants had adequate knowledge of infection prevention and control practices with a significant knowledge gap in the colour coding of bin liners for waste segregation (35.6%). The proportion of study participants who reported good adherence to infection prevention and control practices was 86.7%. Healthcare workers who were 33 years and above (Adjusted odds ratio (AOR): 0.27; 95% Confidence interval (CI): 0.08–0.92) and absence of an infection prevention and control committee at the facility AOR: 0.25; 95% CI: 0.08–0.73) had reduced odds of good adherence to infection prevention and control practices. Nursing staff (AOR: 9.49, 95% CI: 2.51–35.87) and having adequate knowledge of infection prevention and control practices (AOR: 2.66; 95% CI: 1.19–5.97) were associated with increased odds of good adherence to infection prevention and control practices.

Conclusion:

Adherence to infection prevention and control practices was high among this sample of Ghanaian healthcare workers. Interventions and strategies to improve adherence should include the setting up of infection prevention and control committees, education and strict observance of colour coding of bin liners for waste segregation and intensification of training of healthcare workers in infection prevention and control practices.
Hospital Resources and Practice Patterns for Congenital Cardiac Surgery in Pakistan: A Nationwide Status Report
Authors: Malik Mahim Akmal , Fatimi Asad Saulat , Martins Russell Seth , Amanullah Muneer , Jalal Anjum
Published: January 2024

Objective: Low- and middle-income countries such as Pakistan bear the brunt of the global burden of congenital heart disease (CHD), This nationwide study assessed hospital resources and surgical practice patterns pertaining to CHD surgery across Pakistan. Methods: A nationwide hospital facility survey was conducted, targeting all health centers performing CHD surgery in Pakistan. Descriptive data analysis was performed, with categorical variables being presented as frequencies and percentages and continuous variables being reported as means and standard deviations. Results: Seventeen surgeons across 17 different centers participated in the study. Eight of 17 (47%) surgeons were under 45 years of age, while the rest were older than 45 years. More respondents were employed at public/government-owned hospitals (11/17, 65%) and at specialized cardiac centers (13/17, 76%), with a majority of centers reported as having a special ICU designated for congenital cardiac patients (11/17, 65%). With regard to operative volume, 7 of 17 (41%) centers reported more than 350 cases per year, with 7 of 17 reported >10 neonatal cases per year (6/12, 50%). Only one center reported national and international collaborations for research, most centers carrying out less than five research projects in a year. Conclusion: This study has identified key areas that require the attention of local administrative bodies as well as international organizations and societies. The existing centers in Pakistan are unable to meet the demands of the population, leaving a large number of untreated patients, especially for neonatal lesions.
Textbook Outcome for Superior Cavopulmonary Connection: A Metric for Single Ventricle Heart Surgery
Authors: Prabhu Neel K. , Moya-Mendez Mary E. , Kang Lillian , Medina Cathlyn K. , McCrary Andrew W. , Allareddy Veerajalandhar , Overbey Douglas , Turek Joseph W.
Published: January 2024

Background: To develop a more holistic measure of congenital heart center performance beyond mortality, we created a composite “textbook outcome” (TO) for the Glenn operation. We hypothesized that meeting TO would have a positive prognostic and financial impact. Methods: This was a single center retrospective study of patients undergoing superior cavopulmonary connection (bidirectional Glenn or Kawashima ± concomitant procedures) from 2005 to 2021. Textbook outcome was defined as freedom from operative mortality, reintervention, 30-day readmission, extracorporeal membrane oxygenation, major thrombotic complication, length of stay (LOS) >75th percentile (17d), and mechanical ventilation duration >75th percentile (2d). Multivariable logistic regression and Cox proportional hazards modeling were used. Results: Fifty-one percent (137/269) of patients met TO. Common reasons for TO failure were prolonged LOS (78/132, 59%) and ventilator duration (67/132, 51%). In multivariable analysis, higher weight [odds ratio, OR: 1.44 (95% confidence interval, CI: 1.15-1.84), P = .002] was a positive predictor of TO achievement while right ventricular dominance [OR 0.47 (0.27-0.81), P = .007] and higher preoperative pulmonary vascular resistance [OR 0.58 (0.40-0.82), P = .003] were negative predictors. After controlling for preoperative factors and excluding operative mortalities, TO achievement was independently associated with a decreased risk of death over long-term follow-up [hazard ratio: 0.50 (0.25-0.99), P = .049]. Textbook outcome achievement was also associated with lower direct cost of care [$137,626 (59,333-167,523) vs $262,299 (114,200-358,844), P < .0001]. Conclusion: Achievement of the Glenn TO is associated with long-term survival and lower costs and can be predicted by certain risk factors. As outcomes continue to improve within congenital heart surgery, operative mortality will become a less informative metric. Textbook outcome analysis may represent a more balanced measure of a successful outcome.
Analysis of available software for material tracking at mines: An approach for data verification and reconciliation
Authors: Cudjoe Monica N.M.
Published: January 2024

A comprehensive approach for material measurement, tracking, and reconciliation of actual and planned is required for a successful metal accounting system. For ore and metal accounting, the mining industry has mostly relied on spreadsheets to track material flow. The broad use of spreadsheets in metal accounting and mining operations is investigated in this paper. The paper also provides a comparative review of four commonly used software packages, namely (a) Deswik, (b) MineRP, (c) Snowden, and (d) Mapteks’ MRT systems. The capacity to track materials in real-time from the pit or underground to the surface is a standout feature for all the applications. Although there are limitations in dealing with discrepancies in production variables such as mass, grade, fragmentation, density, spatial coordinates, and moisture content, a conceptual data verification and reconciliation process with an improvement strategy aligned with best practices for effective ore tracking at mines is proposed.
Reconstruction of a Chronic, Retracted Proximal Hamstring Rupture Using Achilles Tendon Allograft
Authors: Swanson David R. , Nemec Sophie M. , Winn Julie , Kimball Hervey L. , Miller Suzanne L.
Published: January 2024

Background:

Chronic, retracted proximal hamstring ruptures are a challenging problem and can be a significant cause of pain and disability if left untreated. Allograft augmentation is a viable surgical option with good clinical outcomes.

Indications:

Indications are symptomatic patients with chronic hamstring ruptures unable to be primarily repaired. Patients typically present with pain, instability, or lack of push of strength.

Technique Description:

An L-shaped extensile incision is made at the level of the gluteal crease. The gluteus maximus is retracted proximally. The sciatic nerve is identified, neurolysed, and tagged. Following the release of adhesions of the native tendon and confirmation of the inability to complete a primary repair, the Achilles tendon allograft is prepared. The allograft is incorporated with the native tendon and the subsequent hamstring construct is fixed and reduced to the ischial tuberosity with suture anchors. After copious irrigation, the incision is closed with Monocryl and Dermabond (Johnson and Johnson) and a sterile dressing is applied. The patient is placed in a hip brace locked in extension.

Results:

In a study by Rust et al, examining 72 patients with proximal hamstring ruptures, patients who underwent allograft reconstruction reported activities of daily living and postoperative sports activity equal to those of chronic repair, and inferior to those of acute repair. However, there were no significant differences between groups for patient-reported outcomes among acute and chronic repairs and allograft reconstruction. Moreover, a systematic review, by Van Der Made et al, published in the American Journal of Sports Medicine, included 13 studies that found that Achilles allograft repair for delayed proximal hamstring repair results in outcomes comparable to acute primary repair.

Discussion/Conclusion:

Although the literature on chronic proximal hamstring repair is fairly limited, studies have shown that proximal hamstring repair with allograft augmentation can be favorable in symptomatic patients. Allograft augmentation for chronic, retracted proximal hamstring ruptures provides increased functional outcomes in comparison with nonoperative management.

Patient Consent Disclosure Statement:

The author(s) attests that consent has been obtained from any patient(s) appearing in this publication. If the individual may be identifiable, the author(s) has included a statement of release or other written form of approval from the patient(s) with this submission for publication.
Medical image fusion based on machine learning for health diagnosis and monitoring of colorectal cancer
Authors: Peng Yifeng , Deng Haijun
Published: January 2024

With the rapid development of medical imaging technology and computer technology, the medical imaging artificial intelligence of computer-aided diagnosis based on machine learning has become an important part of modern medical diagnosis. With the application of medical image security technology, people realize that the difficulty of its development is the inherent defect of advanced image processing technology. This paper introduces the background of colorectal cancer diagnosis and monitoring, and then carries out academic research on the medical imaging artificial intelligence of colorectal cancer diagnosis and monitoring and machine learning, and finally summarizes it with the advanced computational intelligence system for the application of safe medical imaging.In the experimental part, this paper wants to carry out the staging preparation stage. It was concluded that the staging preparation stage of group Y was higher than that of group X and the difference was statistically significant. Then the overall accuracy rate of multimodal medical image fusion was 69.5% through pathological staging comparison. Finally, the diagnostic rate, the number of patients with effective treatment and satisfaction were analyzed. Finally, the average diagnostic rate of the new diagnosis method was 8.75% higher than that of the traditional diagnosis method. With the development of computer science and technology, the application field was expanding constantly. Computer aided diagnosis technology combining computer and medical images has become a research hotspot.
Psychosocial characteristics of potential and actual living kidney donors
Authors: Cholin Liza K. , Ramos Everly F. , Yahr Jordana , Schold Jesse D. , Poggio Emilio D. , Delvalle Christina L. , Huml Anne M.
Published: January 2024

The psychosocial assessment is an essential component of the living kidney donor (LKD) evaluation. However, it remains uncertain how specific psychosocial factors impact LKD eligibility. We performed a retrospective chart review of LKD candidates who initiated the evaluation process and who had completed a required, in-person licensed social work (LSW) visit. LSW notes were reviewed for frequency of psychosocial factors that may impact the success of LKD candidate approval by the selection committee. 325 LKD candidates were included in the study: 104 not-approved and 221 approved. Not-approved LKD candidates were more likely to receive a negative family reaction to wanting to donate than approved LKD candidates (8.7% vs 1.4%, p < 0.01). On multivariate analysis, Black race, history of psychiatric illness, highest level of education being high school, and high psychosocial risk score assignment were all associated with a lower odds ratio of being approved. The majority of not-approved LKD candidates were disqualified for medical reasons (N = 76, 73.1%). In conclusion, psychosocial factors impact donation even after LKD candidates make it to an in-person evaluation.
Genetic variants in the FOXO1 and ZNF469 genes are associated with keratoconus in Sweden: a case-control study
Authors: Wonneberger Wolf , Sterner Bertil , MacLean Ulrika , Claesson Margareta , Johansson Lena Havstam , Skoog Ingmar , Zetterberg Madeleine , Zettergren Anna
Published: January 2024

Background

Keratoconus (KC) is characterized by pathological thinning and bulging of the cornea that may lead to visual impairment. The etiology of sporadic KC remains enigmatic despite intensive research in recent decades. The purpose of this study was to examine the relationship between previously highlighted genetic variants associated with KC and sporadic KC in a Swedish cohort.

Methods

A total of 176 patients (age 16–70 years) with sporadic KC diagnosed by Scheimpflug-topography (Pentacam) were included. The control group (n = 418; age 70 years) was a subsample originating from the Gothenburg H70 Birth Cohort Studies of ageing. Extraction of DNA from blood samples was performed according to standard procedures, and genotyping was performed using competitive allele specific PCR (KASP) technology. A total of 11 single nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs) were selected for analysis.

Results

Statistically significant associations (p = 0.005) were found between the SNPs rs2721051 and rs9938149 and sporadic KC. These results replicate earlier research that found associations between genetic variants in the FOXO1 and BANP-ZNF469 genes and sporadic KC in other populations.

Conclusion

Genetic variations in the FOXO1 and BANP-ZNF469 genes may be involved in the pathogenesis of sporadic KC.
Massive neurocysticercosis in a ten-year-old girl: a case report
Authors: Xiao Guoguang , Shu Min
Published: January 2024

Background

Massive neurocysticercosis is a rare form of neurocysticercosis, and can lead to serious conditions and even death.

Case presentation

Here we present a case of ten-year-old Tibetan girl who developed headache and vomiting. Her brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) illustrated lots of intracranial cystic lesions, and no obvious extracranial lesions were found. Serum immunoglobulin G antibodies against cysticerci were positive by the use of an enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA). These results in combination with her medical history were in line with massive neurocysticercosis. The patients recovered well after supportive management and antiparasitic treatment.

Conclusions

This case provides insights on the diagnosis and treatment of massive neurocysticercosis. The treatment of patients with massive neurocysticercosis should be in an individualized fashion, and the use of antiparasitic drugs in these patients must be decided after carefully weighing the risks and benefits.
3D printing assisted MIPO for treatment of complex middle-proximal humeral shaft fractures
Authors: Hu Chaoran , Qiu Bing , Cen Chaode , Luo Qin , Cao Yongfei
Published: January 2024

Background

This study was designed to explore the clinical efficacy of 3-dimensional (3D) printing assisted minimally invasive percutaneous plate osteosynthesis (MIPO) technique by comparing the clinical outcomes with traditional open reduction and internal plating fixation (ORIF) for treating complex middle-proximal humerus fractures (AO 12C fracture type).

Materials and methods

The data of 42 participants who received a complicated middle-proximal humerus fracture from the beginning of 2018 to the end of 2022 were retrospectively analyzed. All patients were assigned to two groups: MIPO with detailed preoperative planning assisted by 3D printing technique (MIPO group), and traditional ORIF (ORIF group).

Results

This study included 21 patients in the ORIF group and 21 patients in the MIPO group. All patients were followed-up for at least one year (mean: 16.12 ± 4.13 months), and no difference was observed in the range of shoulder joint motion (ROM), Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (QuickDASH) scores and Constant scores between the two groups. However, the occurrence of complications (surgical incision site infection, implant loosening, bone nonunion and radial nerve palsy) in ORIF group was remarkably higher compared to the MIPO group. All the cases achieved bone union within the MIPO group. Significant differences were found in surgical time, intraoperative blood loss and fracture healing time between the two groups.

Conclusion

Preoperative 3D printing assisted MIPO technique exhibits obvious advantages in high operational efficiency and low occurrence of complications, which is worthy of clinical application for treating complex middle-proximal humeral shaft fractures.
Risk factors for perioperative blood transfusion in patients undergoing total laparoscopic hysterectomy
Authors: Cao Xianghua , Liu Xueliang , Zhang Xingxing , Zhang Kefang , Chen Chuan , Yang Qinfeng , Wang Jian , Li Xueping , Wei Ling
Published: January 2024

Purpose

The goal is to identify risk factors associated with receiving a blood transfusion during the perioperative period in patients who undergo total laparoscopic hysterectomy (TLH) using a large-scale national database.

Methods

In this retrospective analysis, data from the Nationwide Inpatient Sample (NIS) was utilized to review the medical records of all patients who underwent TLH from 2010 to 2019. The researchers identified patients who had received a blood transfusion during the perioperative period and compared with those who had not. The subsequent factors associated with blood transfusion were examined: hospital characteristics (type of admission and payer, patient demographics (age and race), bed size, teaching status, location, and region of hospital), length of stay (LOS), total charges during hospitalization, in-hospital mortality, comorbidities, and perioperative complications. The data was analyzed using descriptive statistics. The independent risk factors of perioperative blood transfusion after TLH was identified by performing multivariate logistic regression.

Results

A total of 79,933 TLH were captured from the NIS database, among which 3433 (4.40%) patients received a perioperative blood transfusion. TLH patients affected by blood transfusion were 2 days longer hospital stays (P < 0.001), higher overall costs (P < 0.001), the patients who received a transfusion after a long-term hospitalization had a significantly higher rate of mortality (0.5% vs. 0.1%; P < 0.001). Perioperative blood transfusion after TLH was associated with chronic blood loss anemia, deficiency anemia, coagulopathy, congestive heart failure, fluid and electrolyte disorders, renal failure, metastatic cancer, sepsis, weight loss, deep vein thrombosis, gastrointestinal hemorrhage, shock, acute myocardial infarction, and pneumonia, stroke, hemorrhage, pulmonary embolism, and disease of the genitourinary system.

Conclusion

Studying the risk factors of perioperative blood transfusion after TLH is advantageous in order to ensure proper management and optimize outcomes.