bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factors Affecting Patient and Caregiver Preferences for Treatment of Myeloma and Indolent Lymphoma
Authors: Tan Chia Jie , Tan Melinda Si Yun , Nagarajan Chandramouli , Chng Wee Joo , Chee Yen-Lin , Ooi Melissa , Ng Lawrence Cheng Kiat , Chen Yunxin , Yoong Joanne Su Yin , Wong Xin Yi , Jen Wei-Ying
Published: October 2023

PURPOSE

Treatment options for myeloma and indolent lymphoma are increasing exponentially, with distinct efficacy, side effects, and cost. We aim to determine the factors influencing patient and caregiver treatment preferences.

METHODS

Patients and caregivers of patients with myeloma and indolent lymphoma were recruited from two cancer centers in Singapore. Preferences were elicited using a discrete choice experiment. Attributes and levels were selected based on a previous qualitative study. The relative preference for levels within each attribute (part worth utility values) and the extent to which an attribute would influence decision making (relative importance) were calculated. Patient and caregiver participation in the treatment plan selection process were assessed using the Control Preference Scale.

RESULTS

One hundred ninety-nine patients and 169 caregivers were recruited. Patients placed the highest importance on out-of-pocket costs (relative importance = 35%), followed by efficacy (25%), persistent side effects (19%), administration route (8%), treatment duration (7%), and short-term side effects (5%). Caregivers ranked efficacy (27%) as the most important attribute, over out-of-pocket costs (24%). Most patients preferred a collaborative role in the shared decision-making process, while similar proportions of caregivers favored active and collaborative roles.

CONCLUSION

Our study demonstrates that both patients and caregivers consider cost seriously when making treatment decisions. Furthermore, as patient and caregiver preferences may differ, there are implications for treatment selection and counseling, especially in cultures where caregivers have more prominent roles in treatment planning.
Digital Equity in Hematology-Oncology Fellowship Websites: Toward Standardization, Quality, and Transparency
Authors: Godby Richard Curtis
Published: October 2023

Improving trainee program websites may help applicants and programs in the era of virtual interviews
Attempting Escape
Authors: Williams Luke
Published: October 2023

The artwork of sculptor, draftsperson, and installation artist Michael Richards (1963 – 2001) challenges prevalent assumptions about the physical properties, and therefore the aesthetic application, of suspension in Black cultural production. As an African American of Jamaican and Costa Rican descent, Richards grappled with questions of citizenship, racism, and freedom, frequently using motifs of flight and gravity. Although Richards created his work before his untimely death in the September 11 attacks on the World Trade Center, his piece titled Tar and Feather nevertheless anticipates the possibilities, and important limitations, of suspension as a theoretical framework. When placed in conversation with the theoretical discourse that now exists surrounding suspension, Richards's material sculptures and archival sketches posthumously anticipate the limits of conventional strategies for Black possibility. This paper argues that Tar and Feather illustrates the asymptotic imbrication of blackness and freedom, which renders the plot as both a diagram of forces and an abstract aesthetic geography from which to create.
Reveal and Restraint
Authors: Aranke Sampada , Moor Ayanah
Published: October 2023

Sampada Aranke and Ayanah Moor dialogue on the myriad ways Moor intervenes upon art histories of abstraction in her studio practice. This conversation leads to threads and themes in her practice that open up avenues for rethinking liminality, suspension, and ongoingness that are central to this issue of liquid blackness. Moor calls her method “social abstraction,” by reconsidering how abstraction, a practice mis-categorized as one that transcends identity, might be precisely the form for centering black subjectivity. Moor is invested in the racial and gendered aspects that might be latent in abstract practices; where, for example, collage does and does not serve as an operation for encountering black interior or romantic space. Throughout her work, there is a careful attention to restraint as a method of protection, precision, and engagement. Moor's enactment of the processual and suspended logics of form as an aesthetic and social process resonate in the worlds of her paintings as they also leap beyond the panel itself. It's almost as if Moor is allowing her viewer to relish in and embrace the unfixity of a shape, the emergence of a figure, the suspension of a line, as a way to embrace the ongoingness of their own becoming.
Endoscopic Endonasal Approach for Tuberculum Sellae Meningioma: 2-Dimensional Operative Video
Authors: Cavallo Luigi Maria , Solari Domenico , d’Avella Elena , Colangelo Manuel , Cappabianca Paolo
Published: October 2023

INDICATIONS: CORRIDOR AND LIMITS OF EXPOSURE:

Ideal indications for tuberculum sellae meningiomas (TSM) removal through endoscopic endonasal approach (EEA) are midline tumors (<3.5 cm), possibly with no optic canal invasion and no vessels encasement. The EEA is favored by a wide tuberculm sellae (TS) angle and a deep sella at the sphenoid sinus (SS).
1
Adequate removal of paranasal structures provides a wider surgical corridor ensuring exposure at the suprasellar area and safe instruments manuevrability.
2

ANATOMIC ESSENTIALS: NEED FOR PREOPERATIVE PLANNING AND ASSESSMENT:

The endoscopic transtuberculum transplanum approach allows for wide suprasellar intradural exposure.
3
Removal of the supraoptic recess (SOR) provides further lateral extension over the planum sphenoidale (PS) and proper management of dural involvement at the optic canal.
4

ESSENTIAL STEPS OF THE PROCEDURE:

The patients have consented to the procedure. Bone removal starts at the upper sella and TS and is extended anteriorly over the PS and laterally, upon needs, at the SORs. On dural opening, tumor devascularization, dedressing, debulking, and dissection are run. Skull base reconstruction is performed using the 3F technique.
5

PITFALLS/AVOIDANCE OF COMPLICATIONS:

In those cases with vessel encasement, possibility of achieving total resection has to be balanced with risk of vascular injury.
6
Optic canal dural invasion precludes tumor total removal; however, bony decompression is maximal using the EEA. Concerning postoperative cerebrospinal fluid fistula, nowadays the rates have dropped to <2%.

VARIANTS AND INDICATIONS FOR THEIR USE:

A wider skull base osteodural opening allows for the removal of selected meningiomas extending to the PS and cribriform plate.
Bilateral Laser Interstitial Thermal Therapy for Butterfly Gliomas Compared With Needle Biopsy: A Preliminary Survival Study
Authors: Daggubati Lekhaj C. , Ramos-Fresnedo Andres , Merenzon Martin A. , Bhatia Shovan , Morell Alexis A. , Berry Katherine M. , Chandar Jay , Shah Ashish H. , Komotar Ricardo J. , Ivan Michael E.
Published: October 2023

BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVES:

Bilateral/butterfly glioblastoma (bGBM) has a poor prognosis. Resection of these tumors is limited due to severe comorbidities that arise from surgical procedures. Laser interstitial thermal therapy (LITT) offers a minimally invasive cytoreductive therapy for deep-seated tumors such as bGBM. The objective of this study was to evaluate the safety of bilateral LITT in patients with bGBM.

METHODS:

Medical records of all consecutive patients diagnosed with bGBM by a single surgeon at a single institution from January 2014 to August 2022 were reviewed. Clinical, safety, and radiographic volumetric data were obtained. In addition, an exploratory analysis of survival was performed.

RESULTS:

A total of 25 patients were included; 14 underwent biopsy only, and 11 underwent biopsy + LITT (7 underwent bilateral and 4 underwent unilateral LITT). No (0%) intraoperative or postoperative complications were recorded in the treatment group. Tumor volume negatively correlated with extent of treatment (r2 = 0.44, P = .027). The median progression-free survival was 2.8 months in the biopsy-only group and 5.5 months in the biopsy + LITT group (P = .026). The median overall survival was 4.3 months in the biopsy-only group and 10.3 months in the biopsy + LITT group (P = .035).

CONCLUSION:

Bilateral LITT for bGBM can be safely performed and shows early improvement of the progression-free survival and long-term survival outcomes of these patients.
Impact of high-fat diet and exposure to constant light on reproductive competence of female ICR mice
Authors: Teeple Kelsey , Rajput Prabha , Scinto Sara , Schoonmaker Jenna , Davis Corrin , Dinn Michayla , McIntosh Mackenzie , Krishnamurthy Sairam , Plaut Karen , Casey Theresa
Published: October 2023

Obesity and exposure to light at night are prevalent in modern society and associated with changes in physiology and behavior that can affect a female's ability to support offspring growth during pregnancy and lactation. A 2X3 factor study of ICR mice was conducted to determine the effect of diet [control (CON; 10% fat) or high fat (HF; 60% fat)] and exposure to regular 12 h light:dark cycles (LD) or continuous low (L5) or high (L100) lux of light on gestation length, birth litter size, milk composition and litter growth to lactation day 12. HF diet reduced birth litter size, but increased postnatal d 12 litter weight (P<0.05), whereas constant light tended to increase litter weight (P=0.07). Continuous light increased gestation length, altered dam feed intake, increased serum prolactin and increased final dam and mammary gland weight (P<0.05), while decreasing mammary ATP content and milk lactose (P<0.05). Correlation analysis indicated a positive relationship between final litter weight and mammary size, metabolic stores (e.g. maternal fat pad weight), kcal of feed intake, and gestation length (P<0.05). Although CON mice spent more time eating than HF dams, the calorically dense HF diet was related to greater rates of litter growth to peak lactation. Constant light circadian disrupting effects appear to be confounded by a potential long day photoperiod response exemplified by higher circulating levels of prolactin and increased body and mammary weight of females exposed to these conditions. Other model systems may be better to study the interacting effects of obesity and circadian disruption on reproductive competence.
Field physiology in the aquatic realm: ecological energetics and diving behavior provide context for elucidating patterns and deviations
Authors: Costa Daniel P. , Favilla Arina B.
Published: October 2023

Comparative physiology has developed a rich understanding of the physiological adaptations of organisms, from microbes to megafauna. Despite extreme differences in size and a diversity of habitats, general patterns are observed in their physiological adaptations. Yet, many organisms deviate from the general patterns, providing an opportunity to understand the importance of ecology in determining the evolution of unusual adaptations. Aquatic air-breathing vertebrates provide unique study systems in which the interplay between ecology, physiology and behavior is most evident. They must perform breath-hold dives to obtain food underwater, which imposes a physiological constraint on their foraging time as they must resurface to breathe. This separation of two critical resources has led researchers to investigate these organisms’ physiological adaptations and trade-offs. Addressing such questions on large marine animals is best done in the field, given the difficulty of replicating the environment of these animals in the lab. This Review examines the long history of research on diving physiology and behavior. We show how innovative technology and the careful selection of research animals have provided a holistic understanding of diving mammals’ physiology, behavior and ecology. We explore the role of the aerobic diving limit, body size, oxygen stores, prey distribution and metabolism. We then identify gaps in our knowledge and suggest areas for future research, pointing out how this research will help conserve these unique animals.
Knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding male infertility: A cross-sectional study among infertile couples visiting fertility clinics in Indonesia’s urban areas
Authors: Mushlih Yusuf , Adli Imam , Araysi Leo Alfath , Suryoadji Kemal Akbar , Indra Rachman Rinaldo , Nurullah Ghifari , Indy Christanto Roberto Bagaskara , Savira Missy , Shah Rupin , Agarwal Ashok , Widyahening Indah Suci , Pratama Gita , Duarsa Gede Wirya Kusuma , Adriansjah Ricky , Parikesit Dyandra , Atmoko Widi , Rasyid Nur , Birowo Ponco
Published: October 2023

Background: In many countries, the stereotype that women are to blame for infertility in relationships remains prevalent, even though approximately half of the cases are caused by male factors. This study aimed to determine the knowledge, attitudes, and practices of infertile couples in urban areas with regard to male infertility. Methods: A web-based survey was conducted among infertile couples who visited fertility clinics in three cities in Indonesia. Sociodemographic information and knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding male infertility were obtained through self-reported questionnaires. Results: A total of 378 participants completed the questionnaire (210 men and 177 women); 66.9% had good knowledge, 72.5% had positive attitudes, and 70.1% had good practices related to male infertility. Knowledge moderately correlated with attitudes (r = 0.280, p = 0.016), whereas the correlation with practices was not significant (r = 0.140, p = 0.186). The correlation between attitudes and practices was moderate (r = 0.251, p = 0.031). Among all participants, 82% visited an obstetrician-gynecologist first. A total of 39.9% of fertility examinations were conducted first on the wife, 11.4% on the husband, and 48.7% on both. Conclusion: Most participants in our study at fertility clinics in urban areas visited an obstetrician-gynecologist first rather than a urologist, despite having good knowledge, attitudes, and practices regarding male infertility. The government needs to conduct health education and further public health efforts regarding male infertility to reduce the negative stigma and misperceptions about infertility in society.
On solving system of differential-algebraic equations using adomian decomposition method
Authors: Thota Srinivasarao , P Shanmugasundaram
Published: October 2023

Background: In this paper, we focus on an efficient and easy method for solving the given system of differential-algebraic equations (DAEs) of second order.

Methods: The approximate solutions are computed rapidly and efficiently with the help of a semi-analytical method known as Adomian decomposition method (ADM). The logic of this method is simple and straightforward to understand.

Results: To demonstrate the proposed method, we presented several examples and the computations are compared with the exact solutions to show the efficient. One can employ this logic to different mathematical software tools such as Maple, SCILab, Mathematica, NCAlgebra, Matlab etc. for the problems in real life applications.

Conclusions: In this paper, we offered a method for solving the given system of secondorder nonlinear DAEs with aid of the ADM. We shown that the proposed method is simple and efficient, also one can obtain the approximate solutions quickly using this method. A couple of examples are discussed for illustrating this method and graphical and mathematical assessments are discussed with the analytical solutions of the given problems.
The role of transvaginal sonography in diagnosis of female infertility: a study protocol
Authors: Thaker Nirja , Dhande Rajasbala
Published: October 2023

Infertility has an increased incidence in today’s world. It has a negative impact on both the psychological and physical aspects of a person. In order to tackle this issue, it is necessary to know the cause of infertility. Transvaginal ultrasound is an accurate, cost-effective and rapid method in diagnosing the causes of infertility which can reduce the need of invasive procedures like hysteroscopy.  The main aim of this study is to describe the role of transvaginal ultrasonography in diagnosing various causes of female infertility.
Exploring the experiences of family caregivers of stroke survivors in Burkina Faso: A qualitative study protocol
Authors: Ouédraogo Fatimata , Kiki Gbètogo Maxime , Atigossou Orthelo Léonel Gbètoho
Published: October 2023

Background: Stroke survivors in sub-Saharan Africa frequently require continuous assistance from their relatives for daily activities and personal hygiene care. In Burkina Faso, the experiences of these caregivers are not documented. Purpose: This protocol describes a study that aims to explore in-depth the experiences of the family caregivers of stroke survivors in this region in order to better understanding the real impacts of caregiving on their overall lives. Methods: A convenience sample of twenty family caregivers recruited from both urban and semi-urban regions will be used to conduct a qualitative study. Participants will take part in individual semi-structured online interviews using an interview guide pre-designed by the authors. The interviews will be recorded and transcribed verbatim. The data will then undergo abductive thematic analysis guided by the International Classification of Functioning, Disability, and Health (ICF) framework. Expected results: Four main potential themes could eventually emerge. 1) Health and well-being of family caregivers (e.g., physical, psychological, and social impacts, health management, conflicts, and priorities); 2) Balancing caregiving responsibilities and personal life (e.g., daily caregiving management and the impact of caregiving role on social participation); 3) Impact of environment on the caregiving role (e.g., social and physical environment factors); 4) Personal experience and perceptions of the caregiving role (e.g., self-assessment as a caregiver, expectations and needs). Conclusions: To the best of our knowledge, this will be the first study of its kind conducted in this country. Therefore, it will make a substantial contribution to stroke research in sub-Saharan Africa, specifically in Burkina Faso. Ethical approval: This study was approved by the Research Ethics Committee of the Burkina Faso Ministry of Health (No: 2023-07-183). It will be conducted following the prescribed guidelines respecting the confidentiality of participants.
Assessment of general population knowledge, attitude, and practice on safe unused and expired drugs disposal: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Mohammed Abd-ul Munaf , Al-Hamadani Fadya
Published: October 2023

Background The appropriate disposal of medication is a well-recognized issue that has convened growing recognition in several contexts. Insufficient awareness relating to appropriate methods for the disposal of unneeded medicine may result in notable consequences. The current research was conducted among the public in Iraq with the aim of examining their knowledge, attitude, and practices regarding the proper disposal of unused and expired medicines. Methods The present study used an observational cross-sectional design that was community-based. The data were obtained from using an online questionnaire. The study sample included people of diverse genders, regardless of their race or occupational status. The study mandated that all participants meet two criteria: firstly, they had to be a minimum of 18 years old, and secondly, they needed to have permanent residency status in Iraq. Results The research population consisted of 591 participants from general population. The majority of participants were men (64.8%) with average age of 33.5±9.1 years. The majority of participants (˃50%) answered four out of eight knowledge questions correctly. There were significant (P-value ˂0.05) differences in four knowledge items about disposing of unused/expired medications according to the educational level. Elder participants had significantly higher knowledge about the disposing of unused/expired medications compared to younger ones. More than 84% correctly agreed that improper disposal of unused and expired medication has adverse effects on environment. Although the majority of the participants had positive attitude toward the safe disposal of unused/expired medications, their actual practice was improper for these medications. Approximately 70% of the participants have disposed unused/expired medications into their home trash can. Conclusion Despite increasing awareness from the general populace about the possible harm and substantial hazards linked to expired medicines, there is an absence of understanding concerning the proper techniques for disposing of and managing these prescriptions.
Programmatic mapping and estimating the population size of female sex workers, men who have sex with men, people who inject drugs and transgender populations in Kenya
Authors: Musimbi Janet , Musyoki Helgar , Mugambi Mary , Kaosa Shem , Kioko Japheth , Aluko Diane , Wanjiru Waruiru , Wambua Solomon , Prakash Ravi , Isac Shajy , Bhattacharjee Parinita , Emmanuel Faran
Published: October 2023

Introduction Effective coverage of Human Immunodeficiency Virus prevention services for Key Populations (KPs) including female sex workers (FSWs), men who have sex with men (MSM), people who inject drugs (PWID) and transgender (TG) people necessitates periodic validation of physical venues and size estimates. Kenya conducted a robust size estimation of KPs in 2012 and a repeat mapping and size estimation exercise was conducted in 2018 to update KP Size Estimates and sub-typologies within each County for calculation of realistic program indicators. Methods A prospective mixed methods programmatic mapping approach adopted comprised two steps. The first step involved consolidating and documenting all known venues where KPs congregate while the second step included visiting and validating these venues confirming their active status. Data were collected in 34 out of 47 Counties in Kenya between January and March 2018. Data collected included estimated number of KPs (range), venue typology and timing of operation of each venue. Results We estimated a total number of 167,940 (129,271 to 206,609) FSWs; 32,580 (24,704 to 40,455) MSM; 16,063 (12,426 to 19,691) PWIDs; 10,951 (8,160 to 13,742) and 4,305 (2,826 to 5,783) transgender people congregating at 10,250, 1,729, 401 and 1,218 venues respectively. Majority of the venues for FSW (81%), MSM (64%) and transgender people (67%) were bars with and without lodging, PWIDs were mostly found on streets and injecting dens (70%). Around 9% of FSW and MSM and11% of PWIDs were below the age of 18 years. Conclusion This study provided information on young KPs, female PWIDs, MSWs and for the first time, TG people in Kenya. The exercise updated size estimates of KPs by typology and provided new evidence for resource allocation, planning of interventions and targets. Programmatic mapping continues to be a useful approach supporting programs to achieve high levels of coverage and prioritize resources.
Probability theory with elements of mathematical statistics, theory of random processes and econometrics
Authors: Sigal Anatoliy
Published: October 2023

The textbook outlines the main sections of probability theory, mathematical statistics, theory of random processes and econometrics. The presentation of theoretical information is illustrated by numerous numerical examples. It contains questions and tasks for students to self-check the degree of assimilation of the material presented, as well as tasks for independent solution.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students of higher educational institutions studying in the field of training "Business Informatics". The manual will also be useful for students studying in other areas of training who may need to use probabilistic and statistical modeling methods in their future professional activities.
Philosophy of history
Authors: Ivanov Andrey , Voronov Vasiliy
Published: October 2023

The textbook describes in detail the basic concepts of historical development, taking into account the achievements of such sciences as economics, sociology, psychology, political science, conflictology. The textbook, through the prism of an interdisciplinary approach, helps students to get acquainted with various points of view on the problem of the correlation of traditions and innovations in history, to identify the driving forces of historical progress and regression. The material is structured according to the author's approach according to the problem principle.
Meets the requirements of the federal state educational standards of higher education of the latest generation.
For students studying in the areas of training 46.03.01 "History" and 47.03.01 "Philosophy".
Management of advanced development of high-tech industries and organizations
Authors: Chursin Aleksandr , Nesterov Evgeniy
Published: October 2023

The monograph describes modern theoretical and practical approaches to managing the advanced development of high-tech industries and industrial organizations in conditions of economic instability. The mechanisms of transition of organizations to the trajectory of advanced development are described. Approaches to the creation of radically new products are proposed in order to achieve advanced development, as well as the development of the fundamentals of the theory of competitiveness management. The methodological apparatus and tools for assessing and managing the advanced development of high-tech industries and organizations have been formed, taking into account the main factors affecting their development.
For scientists, economists and practitioners: managers and specialists of industrial and scientific production organizations dealing with management and building business processes, as well as students and postgraduates studying in areas of training and specialties related to economic sciences.
Geoecology
Authors: Grigor'eva Iya
Published: October 2023

The textbook highlights the problems and history of the formation of geoecology as a science; basic concepts and definitions in the system of geoecological knowledge; theoretical provisions on the structure, dynamics and interaction of the Earth's geospheres. The main types of anthropogenic impacts and reactions of the Earth's ecosystems to them are considered. The formal-logical and theoretical-methodological foundations of the organization of natural and natural-technical systems are given; attention is paid to the ecological consequences of the functioning of natural-technical systems of various types: urban, industrial, agricultural, energy, etc. An idea of the information bases and approaches in geoecology is given.
For students and postgraduates studying in the fields of training (specialties) "Geology", "Geography", "Ecology and nature management". It can be used by specialists engaged in solving problems of geoecology and rational nature management.
Policy Learning with Adaptively Collected Data
Authors: Zhan Ruohan , Ren Zhimei , Athey Susan , Zhou Zhengyuan
Published: October 2023

In a wide variety of applications, including healthcare, bidding in first price auctions, digital recommendations, and online education, it can be beneficial to learn a policy that assigns treatments to individuals based on their characteristics. The growing policy-learning literature focuses on settings in which policies are learned from historical data in which the treatment assignment rule is fixed throughout the data-collection period. However, adaptive data collection is becoming more common in practice from two primary sources: (1) data collected from adaptive experiments that are designed to improve inferential efficiency and (2) data collected from production systems that progressively evolve an operational policy to improve performance over time (e.g., contextual bandits). Yet adaptivity complicates the problem of learning an optimal policy ex post for two reasons: first, samples are dependent and, second, an adaptive assignment rule may not assign each treatment to each type of individual sufficiently often. In this paper, we address these challenges. We propose an algorithm based on generalized augmented inverse propensity weighted (AIPW) estimators, which nonuniformly reweight the elements of a standard AIPW estimator to control worst case estimation variance. We establish a finite-sample regret upper bound for our algorithm and complement it with a regret lower bound that quantifies the fundamental difficulty of policy learning with adaptive data. When equipped with the best weighting scheme, our algorithm achieves minimax rate-optimal regret guarantees even with diminishing exploration. Finally, we demonstrate our algorithm’s effectiveness using both synthetic data and public benchmark data sets.

This paper was accepted by Hamid Nazerzadeh, data science.

Funding: This work is supported by the National Science Foundation [Grant CCF-2106508]. R. Zhan was supported by Golub Capital and the Michael Yao and Sara Keying Dai AI and Digital Technology Fund. Z. Ren was supported by the Office of Naval Research [Grant N00014-20-1-2337]. S. Athey was supported by the Office of Naval Research [Grant N00014-19-1-2468]. Z. Zhou is generously supported by the New York University’s 2022–2023 Center for Global Economy and Business faculty research grant and the Digital Twin research grant from Bain & Company.

Supplemental Material: The data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2023.4921 .
Disability of post-stroke patients in the context of self-care and self-nursing, taking into account their sex, place of residence and attitude towards rehabilitation
Authors: Borkowska Bogusława Maria , Grzywacz Elżbieta , Chmielowiec Jolanta , Masiak Jolanta , Manulik Stanisław , Machnik Roger , Chmielowiec Krzysztof
Published: October 2023

Introduction. A stroke is considered a medical emergency. It is an occurrence of brain disorders lasting more than 24 hours. Survivors are likely to be permanently disabled in a variety of ways. It is for this reason that numerous measures have been taken to reduce the mortality and degree of disability of these patients. Rehabilitation is an integral and extremely important part of the
treatment of people who suffered a stroke – both ischemic and hemorrhagic. It should be started as soon as possible, because how quickly and to what extent the patient recovers depends on it.
Aim. The aim of the study was to analyze and evaluate the deficit of self-care and self-nursing of 100 post-stroke patients at the Department of Neurology with the Stroke Sub-department of the University Hospital in Zielona Góra.
Material and methods. A self-study questionnaire was used prior to the study.
Results. Among the subjects of the study, ischemic stroke was the most common (84%). Almost half of the subjects had a physical disability that limited their freedom of movement to a minor degree (47%). A significant degree of limitation was reported by 32% of the subjects. Statistical analysis showed a significant increase in the frequency of moderate pain reported by
individuals after physical rehabilitation that restored their mobility – p<0.000001. The strength of the observed effect was moderate (Cramer’s V = 0.43, 95% CI (0.27; 0.56)).

Keywords: disability, stroke, self-care, rehabilitation.
Clinical presentation of feline urolithiasis and associated diagnostic testing
Authors: Jepson Rosanne E.
Published: October 2023

Feline urolithiasis affecting the lower urinary tract is a common presentation and urolithiasis affecting the upper urinary tract is increasingly recognised. The clinical presentation of cats with upper and lower urinary tract uroliths can be variable, ranging from an incidental finding through to cats with obstructive disease requiring emergency management. When evaluating a cat where there is concern for urolithiasis, a comprehensive evaluation of the entire urinary tract is important to ensure that the full stone burden is identified and can be considered in urolith management strategies. A combination of information from signalment, urinalysis and radiographic appearance is frequently useful to identify the most likely urolith type in advance of any treatment. Careful clinical assessment for other risk factors for urolith formation and concurrent disease is also important as part of urolith prevention in the future.
Fostering Student Agency Through Ungrading: Project- and Portfolio-Based Methods and Case Studies
Authors: Tijerina Tiffani
Published: October 2023

Students in service writing courses, particularly those enrolled in non-writing majors, often struggle with low confidence in their writing ability, resulting in a desire to “just get through” the class with a passing grade. Furthermore, instructors of such courses often struggle with a balance between what students actually need to learn in order to be successful in their careers and the level at which they want students to be proficient in writing practices–and students struggle with the same notions. Using a pedagogy called “ungrading,” students are released from their fear of “bad grades” caused by the feeling of being at the mercy of their instructor–this release fosters empowered students who can focus on their actual learning and improvement in writing. Using case studies from my TCOM 2010: Technical Writing and TCOM 3030: Instructional Design courses at Kennesaw State University, this innovative practices article introduces two methods for implementing ungrading in any class, including resources from my classes and considerations for implementing these methods in other fields.
Bibliometric Study of Open Educational Resources, Open Textbooks, and Academic Librarianship: Assessing Trends and Scholarly Productivity in Library and Information Science
Authors: Chandler Rachel
Published: October 2023

Open Educational Resources (OER) play a key role in reducing the financial burden and increasing the accessibility of learning for students in higher education. OER can be considered an important field of research for academic librarians and supports the democratic mission of academic libraries. This study aimed to track the publication of scholarly literature about OER and higher education from 2002 to 2022 using a bibliometric research methodology. In addition, this research sought to assess the productivity of Library and Information Science (LIS) scholarship on this topic and investigate research trends, like open textbooks. Web of Science (WOS) was searched for publications and the search results were mapped to determine publication productivity, core authors, core journals, and research topics in the scholarly literature about OER and higher education. Research on OER has been steadily increasing since 2002, and this study indicates that research has increased significantly on the topic in the last six years. The data in this study support that most productivity in research on this topic is in the field of Education, but also found a presence of scholarship on the topic in the field of LIS.
Ecotoxicology of Nanocomposite Materials
Authors: S Manikandan , D Inbakandan , Nachiyar C Valli , G Preethi , Nellore Jayshree , M Bavanilatha
Published: October 2023

Nanocomposites are hetero materials made up of at least one nanoscale phase called a "nanofiller" that is spread in a second phase called a "matrix" to combine the unique features of its ingredients. Contemporary uses for nanocomposites are expanding constantly, and they are being used in many different industries. Nanocomposites are used in a variety of products, such as solid polymer electrolytes for batteries, impellers and blades, oxygen and gas barriers, food packaging, thin-film capacitors for computer chips, and fuel tanks and engine parts. As drug - delivery techniques, anti-corrosion shield coatings, UV protection gels, oils, scratch-free paint, new scrape resist materials, new fire-retardant materials, superior fibres and films, etc., they also find extensive application. Extensive use of these composites led to the discloses of these stuffs into the environment and properties of these materials are greatly influenced by the presence of pollution. The physico-chemical properties of these nanocomposites are very important for predicting their fortune and behavior in the environment and their toxicity to living organisms. Limited data on the ecotoxicity of these materials are available and even those are confined to a few organisms like bacteria, algae, invertebrates, fishes and mammals. Detailed studies on the adsorption, distribution, metabolism and excretion on higher organisms is the need of the hour. Presently the environmental risk assessment of nanomaterials is being performed using the existing methodologies and modification of the methodologies are required. This review summarizes the toxicity of nanocomposites and the current toxicological tests carried out.
Cellobiose Dehydrogenase from Schizophyllum commune Bcc26414: Purification and Characterization
Authors: Yadav Vinita , Nighojkar Sadhana
Published: October 2023

CDH, an enzyme produced by wood-decomposing fungi, has diverse applications in biosensor production, bioremediation, and biomedical industries. In this study, CDH from Schizophyllum commune BCC26414 was purified using ammonium sulfate precipitation, DEAE-cellulose chromatography, and Sephadex G-200 chromatography. The purification fold achieved was 65.81 with a specific activity of 1612.34 U/mg. The purity and molecular weight of CDH was confirmed using native and SDS PAGE. Optimal temperature and pH were found to be 30°C and 5, respectively. The purified CDH exhibited stability over a wide pH range (3.5 to 6.5) for 24 hrs and retained complete activity at 40°C, with reduced activity at 50°C when observed for 150 min. KCl, MgSO4, ZnSO4, and NiCl2 at a concentration of 5 mM enhanced CDH activity and HgCl2 and CuSO4 inhibited the enzyme activity. The kinetic constants, Km and Vmax of CDH for lactose were observed to be 125 mM and 13.26 U/ml, respectively. The purified CDH may be utilized commercially in various applications.
Evaluation of Drug Utilization Pattern in Patients with Chronic Kidney Disease
Authors: B Sangeetha , S Thangamani
Published: October 2023

Background: Chronic kidney disease is a major public health issue which requires complex pharmacotherapy. This study was aimed to evaluate drug utilization pattern in chronic kidney disease patients. Method: A prospective observational study was conducted at Nephrology department in Rajiv Gandhi Cooperative Multispecialty hospital, Palakkad for a period of 6 month from July 2022 to January 2023. Medications were assessed by using WHO prescribing indicator and classified in the basis of Anatomic Therapeutic Classification. Results: A total of 120 patients were examined. According to the ATC categorization, out of a total of 921 medicines, cardiovascular drugs were most frequently administered. The average number of drugs per prescription was 7.6%. 11.3% of those medications were prescribed by their generic names. 49.9% of drugs were prescribed on the accordance with essential medicine list. The patient prescribed with an injection was 46% and patients prescribed with antibiotic were 25.5%. Poly pharmacy was executed in 86% of patients. Antihypertensive drugs were most frequently recommended class of drugs followed by hematopoietic drugs and vitamin and minerals in therapeutic wise classification of drugs. Conclusion: Of all drugs prescribed, cardiovascular drugs were commonly prescribed and prevalence of poly pharmacy is high in patients due to co morbidities.
Satisfactory medium- to long-term outcomes of cemented rotating hinge prosthesis in revision total knee arthroplasty
Authors: Matar Hosam E. , Bloch Benjamin V. , James Peter J.
Published: October 2023

Aims

The aim of this study was to evaluate medium- to long-term outcomes and complications of the Stanmore Modular Individualised Lower Extremity System (SMILES) rotating hinge implant in revision total knee arthroplasty (rTKA) at a tertiary unit. It is hypothesized that this fully cemented construct leads to satisfactory clinical outcomes.

Methods

A retrospective consecutive study of all patients who underwent a rTKA using the fully cemented SMILES rotating hinge prosthesis between 2005 to 2018. Outcome measures included aseptic loosening, reoperations, revision for any cause, complications, and survivorship. Patients and implant survivorship data were identified through both prospectively collected local hospital electronic databases and linked data from the National Joint Registry/NHS Personal Demographic Service. Kaplan-Meier survival analysis was used at ten years.

Results

Overall, 69 consecutive patients (69 knees) were included with a median age of 78 years (interquartile range 69 to 84), and there were 46 females (66.7%). Indications were septic revisions in 26 (37.7%), and aseptic aetiology in the remining 43 (62.3%). The mean follow-up was 9.7 years (4 to 18), and the overall complication was rate was 7.24%, all with patellofemoral complications. Failure rate with ‘any cause revision’ was 5.8%. There was one case of aseptic loosening of the femoral component. At ten years, 17/69 patients (24.63%) had died, and implant survivorship was 92.2%.

Conclusion

In our experience, the SMILES rotating hinge prosthesis achieves satisfactory long-term outcomes with ten-year implant survivorship of 92.2% and a patellofemoral complication rate of 7.24%.

Cite this article: Bone Jt Open 2023;4(10):776–781.
Flora da Bahia: Jatropheae (Euphorbiaceae)
Authors: Moreira Ariane dos Santos , Arruda Evilli , Silva Otávio Luis Marques da , Cordeiro Inês , Carneiro-Torres Daniela Santos
Published: October 2023

Apresentamos aqui o tratamento taxonômico da tribo Jatropheae (Euphorbiaceae) na Bahia como contribuição ao conhecimento da flora do estado. Foram reconhecidos dois gêneros: Joannesia, com apenas uma espécie (J. princeps), e Jatropha, com 12 espécies: J. calcarea, J. curcas, J. elliptica, J. gossypiifolia, J. hastifolia, J. longibracteata, J. martiusii, J. mollissima, J. mutabilis, J. paganuccii, J. palmatipartita e J. ribifolia. São apresentados chave de identificação, descrições, ilustrações e comentários sobre os táxons, bem como mapas de distribuição das espécies no estado
Posterior Cruciate Ligament Avulsion with Posterior Tibial Rim Fracture: A Case Report
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India., Sai Krishna M L V , Mittal Ravi ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India., Chauhan Nitin ,   Department of Orthopaedics, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, New Delhi, India.
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Posterior cruciate ligament (PCL) avulsion fractures are the most common type of isolated PCL injuries. Avulsion from the tibia is more common than femoral attachment. They can present as isolated tibial avulsion or as a component of posterior tibial rim fractures. The size, geometry of the fragment, and associated ligamentous injury dictate the method of fixation. Case Report: A 32-year-old patient presented with posterior rim tibial plateau fracture with PCL avulsion after a motor vehicle accident. We used Burke and Schaffer approach and fixed the ligamentous avulsion and rim fracture using high tensile sutures and knotless swivel lock anchors. Conclusion: PCL avulsions can present either as an isolated injury or as a part of a complex injury involving the anterior or posterior tibial rim. These complex injuries occur due to the hyperextension mechanism which results in either anterior tibial plateau compression fracture or posterior rim avulsion injuries. The treatment of such injuries requires addressing both ligamentous and bony components. The size, geometry of the fragment, and associated ligamentous injury dictate the method of fixation. We described the fixation of both ligamentous and rim avulsion using sutures and knotless anchors. Keywords: Posterior cruciate ligament avulsion, tibial rim fractures, sutures, anchors.
Atypical Cervical Potts Spine with Multiple Level Epidural Collection: A Case Series of Three Patients
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab, India,, Singh Jagdeep , Gupta Pranav ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab, India,, Singh Ajaybir ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Guru Gobind Singh Medical College and Hospital, Faridkot, Punjab, India,, Singh Amrinder ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Civil Hospital, Fatehgarh Sahib, Punjab, India.
Published: October 2023

Introduction: Cervical Pott’s constitutes about 10% of all Pott’s spine cases. In tuberculous spondylitis, initially there occurs destruction of vertebral bodies and further progression may result in adjacent abscesses, leading to cord compression. Objective is to excise the diseased focus and to provide spinal stability. Case Report: We are presenting 3 rare cases of cervical Pott’s spine with epidural collection at multiple levels in the cervical region without significant vertebral body destruction that were followed up for a period of 1 year postoperatively. Patients underwent single-level corpectomy and decompression from anterior aspect. In all three cases, we were able to decompress the cord and remove all the collections and also achieved spinal stabilization. Patients had a gradual and complete recovery of motor power within 6 months to 1 year after surgery. Conclusion: Technique used allows accurate visual assessment of the extent of the disease and allows complete decompression of the cord at multiple levels in cervical spine without causing much instability. Keywords: Antituberculosis therapy, cartridge-based nucleic acid amplification testing, epidural abscess, feeding tube, Pott’s spine.
Strategic changes in the public sphere: modern prerequisites for effective management
Authors: Kozachenko Tetiana , Aliushyna Nataliia , Boiko Olena , Grabovskiy Viacheslav , Statsenko Nataliia
Published: October 2023

The purpose of this study is to investigate transformation processes in the field of public administration in Ukraine and the possibility of implementing change management. This article uses a case-study methodology, with both primary source statistics and archival materials, to evaluate the extent of decentralisation reforms in Ukraine. We demonstrate that reforms have been partial, which we attribute to an inefficient and opaque system that frustrates reform efforts. The main gaps of the Ukrainian authorities are observed in the inability to effectively influence the distribution of resources, in particular, to ensure the functioning of newly created territorial units. The article provides evidence that the existing problems that are the result of inefficient public administration in Ukraine, regarding poverty, inflation, the growing gap between rural and urban population, and the growth of unemployment, can be solved by implementing change management. The decentralisation reforms initiated in Ukraine have often been extolled in various quarters for their potential to enhance administrative and governance efficiency. Nevertheless, a comprehensive and empirical assessment detailing the full extent and depth of these reforms remains conspicuously absent. Such a gap in the literature underscores the need for a rigorous examination to ascertain the real magnitude of changes and their tangible impacts on the ground. The novelty of the study consists in the focus on the approach of the three-dimensional design of public administration proposed by Ukrainian researchers in the context of ‘management–administration–management’.