bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptation of a Sensory Reactivity Assessment for Use With Children in the Western Cape Province, South Africa
Authors: Watkyns Ann Frances , Cloete Lizahn Gracia , Parham Linda Diane
Published: July 2024

Background: Sensory reactivity (SR) difficulties are characterised by problems regulating an individual’s responses to sensory input such that it interferes with occupational performance in daily tasks. South African occupational therapists use assessments developed in the United States to identify SR difficulties in children. These have been found to be inappropriate for the South African context. This study reports on the methodology used to adapt an assessment for use in the Western Cape Province of South Africa.

Method: The SPM‐2 Child and Preschool caregiver self‐report questionnaires and seven tests of the performance‐based Evaluation in Ayres Sensory Integration (EASI) that assess SR were identified for adaptation. A qualitative methodology was used to identify challenges using the assessment in a sample of the Western Cape population. Cognitive interviews were conducted with six community members from diverse socioeconomic groupings. Inductive analysis was used to identify and group the emerging themes. The test adaptation was conducted by expert occupational therapists based on these findings.

Findings: Challenges were grouped into two themes, namely, language challenges, of which there were three subcategories and inappropriate or threatening assessment tasks. Fifty‐three changes were made to the assessment.

Conclusion: A detailed methodology was developed to adapt a SR assessment for use in the Western Cape Province. Challenges in using the assessment were elicited primarily from community members rather than professionals.
Assessment of Noise Levels of Churches in the Kpone Katamanso Municipal Assembly in Ghana
Authors: Sackey Lyndon N. A. , Abugre Joel , Fei-Baffoe Bernard , Amuah Ebenezer Y. E. , Amoako Richmond Yeboah
Published: July 2024

Different sound levels are encountered by pastors, ministers, and the whole congregation during church services, which may extend for hours, and also by people living close to these churches. This can have an adverse effect on their health. The maximum allowable noise level in worship places is 65 dB (A), according to the Ghana Standards Authority (GSA). The aim of the study was to quantify the noise pollution levels of the churches in Kpone Katamanso Municipal Assembly (KKMA) and assess the equivalent noise levels of the churches’ indoor and outdoor spaces. This investigation is being conducted due to the high number of churches and the noise emanating from these churches in the Kpone Katamanso Municipality and the possible impact on human health. Thirty churches were chosen at random for the study; on Sundays between the hours of 7.30 and 12.0 pm, sound levels in churches were measured using a portable General Class 1 Meter type DSM403SD with a data logging system. MS Excel was used to evaluate the data and determine characteristics including noise exposure levels (NEL), background noise level (L90), severe noise level (L10), and equivalent noise level (Leq). The indoor equivalent noise level ranges from 74.5 dB (A) to 104.1 dB (A), and the outdoor equivalent noise level ranges from 52.6 dB (A) to 85.3 dB (A). All of the noise levels found indoors of the churches were greater than the 65 dB (A) safe allowable limit, putting the congregants and residents at risk for a variety of physiological and psychological problems.
Acute Myocardial Infarction in the Setting of Pulmonary Hypertension due to a Patent Foramen Ovale and Paradoxical Embolism
Authors: Franke Madeline , Safdar Zeenat
Published: July 2024

A 67‐year‐old woman with pulmonary hypertension (PH) presented with a 1‐day history of worsening shortness of breath and pleuritic chest pain and was found to have a troponin T level of 3755 ng/L (ref. range 0–19 ng/L). An initial diagnostic workup in the emergency department (ED) led to an urgent left heart catheterization which revealed a 90% occlusive right coronary artery blood clot, even though a recent heart catheterization less than a month prior was completely unremarkable. Further workup led to the discovery of a patent foramen ovale (PFO) and an aneurysmal interatrial septum, suggesting the presence of a paradoxical embolism. While typically asymptomatic, a PFO is an important clinical entity that can lead to irreversible cardiac damage. Suspicion should be high for this finding in the case of an acute myocardial infarction (MI) with no clear cause, especially in a patient with elevated right heart pressures.
Influence of Environmental Factors on the Dynamics and Toxicology of Microcystis and Anabaena in Eutrophic Ponds
Authors: Sultana Sunzida , Khan Saleha , Rahman Zinia , Hena Sadia Momota , Ahmed Md Sayem , Haque Md Mahfuzul , Mahmud Yahia
Published: July 2024

Blooms of Microcystis are common in fish ponds in Bangladesh which vary distinctly with season to season. A study on the seasonal changes of Microcystis and Anabaena was carried out over a period of 12 months from March 2021 to February 2022 in two rural fish ponds to see the effect of environmental factors on the seasonal dynamics of these two species. Cyanobacterial community comprised of seven genera and 15 species of which Microcystis was found to be the most dominant genus. Overabundance of Microcyctis may suppress the growth of Anabaena and other microalgal species. In both ponds, Microcyctis was found to be the dominant during the summer and the spring, whereas Anabaena was only characterized in summer. Moderately higher temperature, nitrate–nitrogen, and phosphate–phosphorus enrichment increased the biomass of both Microcystis and Anabaena. Microcystin was found in all the seasons with the highest quantity in summer in the cyanobacteria samples collected from both of the ponds. The highest concentrations of MCs were 22 and 65 μg/L of the sampled water during the peak bloom period of blue‐green algae in pond 1 and pond 2, respectively. The high concentration of microcystin in water seems to be a pernicious warning for aquatic organisms as well as human health. Further studies in detail on the relationship between microcystin and cyanobacterial growth under different environmental factors seem to be necessary.
Longitudinal Extensive Transverse Myelitis due to Varicella‐Zoster Virus Infection in an Undiagnosed HIV‐Positive Patient
Authors: Yaghmaei Elahe , Najafi Ahmad , Daneshvar Kakhki Reza
Published: July 2024

Introduction. Longitudinal extensive transverse myelitis (LETM) has four main causes: inflammatory, malnutrition, vascular, and infectious causes. Among the commonly described viral causes leading to LETM are the Herpesviridae family, HIV, and HTLV‐1. Case Presentation. A 43‐year‐old man presented with asymmetric weakness of the lower limbs (the left side was weaker), urinary retention, and flank pain. The symptoms began five days after shingle eruption and progressed over twelve days. He was diagnosed with longitudinal extensive transvers myelitis extending from T4 to T6, which corresponded to the same dermatome involved in shingles. The PCR result of cerebrospinal fluid was positive for varicella‐zoster virus with a viral load of 500 copies/ml. Additionally, the initial HIV enzyme‐linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) test was positive, and his CD4 count was 72 cells/mm3. Other lab results were normal. Based on the appearance of LETM in the thoracic MRI at T4‐T6, VZV myelitis was diagnosed, and treatment was initiated with acyclovir (30 mg/kg divided daily for twenty‐one days), methylprednisolone (1 g/day for three days), prophylactic antibiotics (trimethoprim/sulfamethoxazole, rifampin, and isoniazid), and antiretroviral therapy (dolutegravir and Truvada). After 2‐month follow‐up, he was nearly free of symptoms. Conclusion. Infection is one of the critical causes of transverse myelitis. When a patient presents with skin shingles along with myelopathy, varicella‐zoster myelitis should be considered, and the patient should be evaluated in terms of immune system dysfunction. Treatment with acyclovir has been shown to be effective in reducing clinical symptoms in such cases.
Relationship between Knowledge Management and Social Value among Iranian Nurses
Authors: Rezaei Leili , Dehghan Nayeri Nahid , Ashrafizadeh Hadis , Hajibabaee Fatemeh , Jamshidi Orak Roohangiz
Published: July 2024

Aim. This study was conducted to determine the association between knowledge management and social value among nurses working in hospitals of Tehran University of Medical Sciences. Background. Knowledge management plays a significant role in healthcare systems. Healthcare providers require knowledge in every aspect of their work, and they must be able to rely on a knowledge management system to access the newest research and practice to ensure the highest quality of care. One of the evident goals of knowledge management is creating value in organizations. Creating value does not necessarily mean creating economic value, but creating social value is a category proposed as a prerequisite for knowledge management. Methods. This research is a descriptive‐analytical study conducted in Tehran in 2021 on two groups of nurses (N = 228) selected through a stratified random method. The data collection tools were Choi knowledge management questionnaire and a researcher‐made questionnaire on social value validated in Iranian society. Results. There was a positive and significant correlation between the variables of knowledge management and social value in Bachelor of Science (BSc) nurses (P value ≤0.01, r = 0.43), and no significant correlation was observed in Master of Science (MSc) nurses (P value >0.05, r = 0.14). Conclusions. In the BSc nurses’ group, a direct and significant association was found between knowledge management and social value of BSc nurses so that by increasing the score of knowledge management in the nursing community, individuals feel more self‐worth, resulting in achieving a favorable level of customer satisfaction. Implication for Nursing Management. It is suggested that an accurate program should be designed for all academic levels of nurses in hospitals, the principal elements of creating knowledge and learning and its provision should be assessed, and the necessary measures should be taken.
Supplementary Table 6 from Stratification to Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy in Rectal Cancer by Regimen and Transcriptional Signatures
Authors: Mahmood Umair , Blake Andrew , Rathee Sanjay , Samuel Leslie , Murray Graeme , Sebag-Montefiore David , Gollins Simon , West Nicholas P. , Begum Rubina , Bach Simon P. , Richman Susan D. , Quirke Phil , Redmond Keara L. , Salto-Tellez Manuel , Koelzer Viktor H. , Leedham Simon J. , Tomlinson Ian , Dunne Philip D. , Buffa Francesca M. , Maughan Tim S. , Domingo Enric
Published: July 2024

Supplementary Table 6
Supplementary Table 3 from Stratification to Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy in Rectal Cancer by Regimen and Transcriptional Signatures
Authors: Mahmood Umair , Blake Andrew , Rathee Sanjay , Samuel Leslie , Murray Graeme , Sebag-Montefiore David , Gollins Simon , West Nicholas P. , Begum Rubina , Bach Simon P. , Richman Susan D. , Quirke Phil , Redmond Keara L. , Salto-Tellez Manuel , Koelzer Viktor H. , Leedham Simon J. , Tomlinson Ian , Dunne Philip D. , Buffa Francesca M. , Maughan Tim S. , Domingo Enric
Published: July 2024

Supplementary Table 3
Supplementary Figure 3 from Stratification to Neoadjuvant Radiotherapy in Rectal Cancer by Regimen and Transcriptional Signatures
Authors: Mahmood Umair , Blake Andrew , Rathee Sanjay , Samuel Leslie , Murray Graeme , Sebag-Montefiore David , Gollins Simon , West Nicholas P. , Begum Rubina , Bach Simon P. , Richman Susan D. , Quirke Phil , Redmond Keara L. , Salto-Tellez Manuel , Koelzer Viktor H. , Leedham Simon J. , Tomlinson Ian , Dunne Philip D. , Buffa Francesca M. , Maughan Tim S. , Domingo Enric
Published: July 2024

Supplementary Figure 3
Green Strategy to Maintain Sustainable Growth and Competitive Advantage in Companies After the COVID 19 Pandemic
Authors: Anggoro Tri Priyo
Published: July 2024

The Covid-19 pandemic in early 2020 caused a huge shock in various sectors, including the business world. In this situation, all entrepreneurs must be able to develop their business recovery strategies and be optimistic about facing the post-pandemic period. In addition, this study proposes an integration of the "three greens"; elements of the model, which have also not been studied in the existing literature. This study presents a version for the applications of revolutionary green strategy approach. The consequences of this conceptual model display that it could be generalized mainly to industries which includes oil, gas, and petrochemicals, and may offer modern techniques that offer sound recommendations for the employer's roadmap for the next organizational development. The study provides strategic thinking for the long-term development of a company to achieve a sustainable balance between economic, social and environmental benefits, therefore, business managers are encouraged to carefully consider practical measures to improve environmental protection, because this will inevitably improve competitiveness.
Psychosemantic Research of the Psychological Well-Being of Artists
Authors: Vakarina Elena A.
Published: July 2024

Background. Psychological well-being ensures the positive functioning of the artist's personality, which includes internal (subjective) and external (objective) factors. The dynamism of the art market, instability of demand and orders, displacement of individuality by mass art lead to emotional tension, increased anxiety and, as a consequence, to a decrease in the level of well-being and to the growth of psychological insecurity of artists. Psychosemantic space reflects social representations that reveal the most significant and prioritised sources of maintaining an optimal level of psychological well-being for artists. Objectives. The aim of the study was to identify and describe meaning groups of sources of psychological well-being of artists. Study Participants. The research participants were 57 people aged 19 to 60. Data processing was carried out by content analysis. The criterion for selecting the sample was the profile education obtained in a specialized secondary or higher education institution. Methods. A survey with an open type of questions about well-being among artists was conducted. Data processing was carried out by content analysis and by the method of condensation of meaning. Results. The most frequently occurring semantic groups of factors of psychological well-being are identified. External factors of psychological well-being of artists include environment, relationships, quality of life and educational environment. The internal factors of artists' psychological well-being include: health and self-perception. Conclusions. The selected semantic groups are reflections of emotional, communicative and behavioral components of external and internal sources of psychological well-being of artist. They determine the psychosemantic space of the studied phenomenon. Practical application of the results. The findings give rise to the study of social representations of artists’ psychological well-being. These results can be used by artists to optimize their current state; by psychologists and teachers to develop psycho-corrective and psycho-prophylactic programmes aimed to increase the level of well-being through the actualization of artists' personal resources.
Validation of the Well-being Manifestations Measurement Scale (WBMMS) on a Sample of Russian Students
Authors: Fomina Tatiana G. , Bondarenko Irina N.
Published: July 2024

Background. The article presents a comparative analysis of diagnostic tools used to assess various aspects of psychological well-being. It also outlines trends in the development of modern survey methods for its assessment. The objective of this study is to substantiate the advantages of the methods that allow diagnosing both the general level of psychological well-being and its separate components (eudemonic and hedonic), taking into account contextual and age-related aspects. The results of the validation of the questionnaire “Well-being Manifestations Measurement Scale (WBMMS)” on a sample of Russian students are presented. Study Participants. The sample consisted of 435 Russian university students, the age ranging from 16 to 28 years (Mage = 19.72, SD = 1.67). Of these, 56.41% were female and 44.52% were male. Methods. The following methods were employed: the scale of general level of subjective well-being (Life Satisfaction Scale) by E. Diener, the scale of optimism (Test of Dispositional Optimism, TDO-P), and the Depression Scale of the Center for Epidemiological Studies, CES-D. Results. The results of the confirmatory factor analysis (CFA) supported our initial hypothesis that the well-being construct could be adequately represented by a single common factor, formed by two lower-order factors. These factors, eudemonistic and hedonistic, respectively, were significantly correlated with each other, and with the subjective well-being of participants. The instrument demonstrated good convergent validity with these variables, as indicated by the positive correlation with subjective well-being and the negative correlation with optimism. The questionnaire scales exhibited satisfactory reliability values. A comparison of female and male samples on the scales of the SPPB questionnaire indicated the necessity to consider gender in the development of the questionnaire norms. Conclusions. The scale of manifestations of psychological well-being meets contemporary psychometric standards and allows for the assessment of psychological well-being in accordance with the latest theoretical approaches. The results obtained contribute to both the theoretical understanding of the construct of well-being and its measurement.
Different Types of Professional Effectiveness and Professionally Important Qualities in Police Officers Recommended for Higher Position (the Example of Arkhangelsk)
Authors: Korneeva Yana А. , Rykalov Roman А. , Martirosova Natalia V. , Simonova Natalia N.
Published: July 2024

Background. Determining the types of professional performance in police officers through correlating the effectiveness and “cost” of activities and identifying the expression of professionally important qualities for each of them allows us to develop and implement programmes of psychological support for employees to preserve their professional health and longevity Objectives. The aim of the study is to identify the professionally important qualities of Arkhangelsk police officers with different types of job performance, recommended for a higher position. Study Participants. The study involved 78 employees of the Arkhangelsk police department (56 males, 22 females) aged from 24 to 55 years Methods. The parameters of effectiveness and “cost” of the activity were assessed using questionnaires, instrumental methods and the M. Luscher colour test. Professionally important qualities were diagnosed with a battery of psychological testing methods recommended for use at police departments. Statistical methods included descriptive statistics, two-stage cluster analysis, χ2 for contingency tables and multivariate analysis of variance. Results. Four types of professional performance have been identified in police officers: 1) high performance, 2) average efficiency while saving resources, 3) efficiency due to the “cost” of the activity, 4) reduced performance. It has been established that there are no statistically significant differences between police officers with different types of professional performance regarding age, work experience, and professional orientation. Conclusions. Police officers with different types of professional performance differ in their attitude to work, cognitive and intellectual abilities, socio-psychological, emotional-volitional and leadership qualities.
Tarenna charlesii, a new species of Tarenna (Rubiaceae) from southern Western Ghats
Authors: MAYA SUKUMARAN NAIR , PILLAI SUNILKUMAR THRIVIKRAMAN , ANTONY VALIIYAVEETTIL THOMAS
Published: July 2024

Tarenna charlesii (Rubiaceae), a new species from Palakkad district of Kerala, southern parts of Western Ghats is described. Detailed descriptions, distribution, key to the south Indian species are provided along with SEM comparison of the pollen.
A new species of planthopper in the genus Myxia (Hemiptera: Auchenorrhyncha: Fulgoromorpha: Delphacoidea: Cixiidae) from the cloud forest in Costa Rica
Authors: BARRANTES EDWIN A. BARRANTES , ECHAVARRIA MARCO A. ZUMBADO , BARTLETT CHARLES R. , HELMICK ERICKA E. , BAHDER BRIAN W.
Published: July 2024

A new species of Myxia is described from light collecting in Villa Blanca, Costa Rica. The new species possesses an unusual large areolet on the anterior portion of the vertex. Maximum Likelihood analyses based on the 18S rRNA gene, D9–D10 expansion region of the 28S gene, H3 gene and 5’ region of the COI gene support the monophyly of Myxia, with the new species nested deeply within the genus.
Review of the genus Pamirospila Wolf, 1970 (Hymenoptera, Pompilidae), with description of a new species
Authors: LOKTIONOV VALERY M.
Published: July 2024

Seven species of the genus Pamirospila Wolf, 1970 are reviewed, of them, P. montana Loktionov, sp. nov., is newly described and illustrated from Tajikistan based on female. The new species is clearly distinguished from all congeners by the shape of the vertex. Diagnoses of the genus and species are clarified. Lectotype of Psammochares pamirus Haupt, 1930 is designated. A new combination is proposed for Pamirospila stjenkarasini (Wolf, 1977), comb. nov. An updated key to the species is provided.
Fabrication and Characterization of Formaldehyde Sensor Based on LaFeO3 Nanospheres
Authors: Yang Nuo , Ran Wenyan , Liu Liangyi , Xu Han , Yang Xiaozhan
Published: July 2024

In this study, a low cost and simple process method for the preparation of gas sensor based on LaFeO3 is proposed. Three-dimensional LaFeO3 nanospheres were prepared by citric acid complexation method and were characterized by X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning
electron microscopy (SEM), energy dispersive X-ray spectroscopy (EDS) and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). The results show that the LaFeO3 nanospheres have the characteristics of good crystallinity, high purity, regular structure, smooth surface, high proportion of OV
and OC, etc. The fabrication of the sensor is based on an Al2O3 ceramic tube with parallel Au electrodes and Pt wires. The gas sensor prepared in this paper is tested at different temperatures and different concentrations of formaldehyde gas, the sensor can
provide reliable response to various concentrations of formaldehyde gas at the optimal operating temperature of 300 °C and shows the rapid conversion of response and recovery. The experimental results demonstrate the great potential of formaldehyde gas sensors based on LaFeO3
nanospheres, particularly in confined spaces such as car cabins.
A nationwide dataset of de-identified activity spaces derived from geotagged social media data
Authors: Poorthuis Ate , Chen Qingqing , Zook Matthew
Published: July 2024

In this article, we present a historical dataset of activity spaces, originally based on publicly posted and geotagged social media sent within the United States from 2012 to 2019. The dataset, which contains approximately 2 million users and 1.2 billion data points, is de-identified and spatially aggregated to enable ethical and broad sharing across the research community. By publishing the dataset, we hope to help researchers to quickly access and filter data to study people’s activity spaces across a range of places. In this article, we first describe the construction and characteristics of this dataset and then highlight certain limitations of the data through an illustrative analysis of potential bias—an important consideration when using data not collected through representative sampling. Our goal is to empower researchers to create novel, insightful research projects of their own design based on this dataset.
Comparing online and onsite simulation modules for improving knowledge and confidence in disaster preparedness among undergraduate medical students
Authors: Krishnan S Vimal , Katyal Aaditya , Nair Soumya S , Nayak Kirtana Raghurama
Published: July 2024

Background

Disaster preparedness is one of the critical strategies for effectively managing disasters and has been an area of high focus in the healthcare sector over the past few decades. The current Indian medical undergraduate curriculum does not describe any novel methods for disaster preparedness training. There is a need for a better understanding of novel teaching-learning methods and modes for administering disaster preparedness training among Indian medical students.

Objectives

Describe the undergraduate medical students’ baseline knowledge and confidence level of disaster preparedness. Compare undergraduate medical students’ knowledge scores and confidence levels on disaster preparedness after online and onsite delivery of the disaster preparedness module.

Methods

In this educational interventional study, 103 medical students were divided into two groups and subjected to an online or onsite session of the validated disaster preparedness module (based on the COVID-19 pandemic), encompassing a simulation-based tabletop exercise. Baseline testing was done for 52 participants in the online group and 51 in the onsite group of the study. Post-intervention, they were assessed with single-response type MCQs for knowledge and Likert scale-based questions for confidence scores. The pretest and posttest scores were collected, and the data were analysed using two-tailed t-tests for paired analysis of within-group (online group or onsite group) and heteroscedastic analysis of between-group datasets.

Results

One hundred and three participants completed the exercise—52 participants were from the online group, and 51 were from the onsite group. After the intervention, there was a statistically significant increase in knowledge and confidence in both online and onsite groups. There is, however, no significant difference in the ‘percentage change’ in ‘knowledge’ or ‘confidence’ between the groups.

Conclusions

Our study indicates that the disaster preparedness module, delivered online and onsite, improves knowledge and confidence among undergraduate medical students. However, there is no superiority between one mode of delivery and the other. We conclude that online training can facilitate disaster preparedness training as a corollary to the prescribed traditional training methods for undergraduate medical students in India.
Metabolomics combined with network pharmacology reveals the potential development value of Campanumoea javanica Bl. and its metabolite differences with Codonopsis Radix
Authors: Peng Jie , Liu Sha , Wu Xuanlin , Li Shuo , Xie Jian , Wang Yong , Yao Qiuyang , Wu Faming , Zhang Delin
Published: July 2024

Campanumoea javanica Bl. (CJ) traditionally used in Southwestern China, is now widely consumed as a health food across the nation. Due to its similar efficacy to Codonopsis Radix (CR) and their shared botanical family, CJ is often used as a substitute for CR. According to the Chinese Pharmacopoeia, Codonopsis pilosula var. modesta (Nannf.) L.T. Shen (CPM), Codonopsis pilosula (Franch.) Nannf. (CP), and Codonopsis tangshen Oliv. (CT) are the primary sources of CR. However, details on the differences in composition, effectiveness, and compositional between CJ and CR are still limited. Besides, there is little evidence to support the application of CJ as a drug. In this study, we employed widely targeted metabolomics, network pharmacology analysis, and molecular docking to explore the disparities in metabolite profiles between CJ and CR and to predict the pharmacological mechanisms of the dominant differential metabolites of CJ and their potential medicinal applications. The widely targeted metabolomics results indicated that 1,076, 1,102, 1,102, and 1,093 compounds, most phenolic acids, lipids, amino acids, and flavonoids, were characterized in CJ, CPM, CP, and CT, respectively. There were an average of 1061 shared compounds in CJ and CRs, with 95.07% similarity in metabolic profiles. Most of the metabolites in CJ were previously unreported. Twelve of the seventeen dominant metabolites found in CJ were directly associated with treating cancer and lactation, similar to the traditional medicinal efficacy. The molecular docking results showed that the dominant metabolites of CJ had good docking activity with the core targets PIK3R1, PIK3CA, ESR1, HSP90AA1, EGFR, and AKT1. This study provides a scientific basis for understanding the similarities and differences between CJ and CR at the metabolome level, offering a theoretical foundation for developing innovative medications from CJ. Additionally, it significantly enhances the metabolite databases for both CJ and CR.
Effect of inferior caval valve implantation on circulating immune cells and inflammatory mediators in severe tricuspid regurgitation
Authors: Mattig Isabel , Hewing Bernd , Knebel Fabian , Meisel Christian , Ludwig Antje , Konietschke Frank , Stangl Verena , Stangl Karl , Laule Michael , Dreger Henryk
Published: July 2024

Background

Interventional valve implantation into the inferior vena cava (CAVI) lowers venous congestion in patients with tricuspid regurgitation (TR). We evaluated the impact of a reduction of abdominal venous congestion following CAVI on circulating immune cells and inflammatory mediators.

Methods

Patients with severe TR were randomized to optimal medical therapy (OMT) + CAVI (n = 8) or OMT (n = 10). In the OMT + CAVI group, an Edwards Sapien XT valve was implanted into the inferior vena cava. Immune cells and inflammatory mediators were measured in the peripheral blood at baseline and three-month follow-up.

Results

Leukocytes, monocytes, basophils, eosinophils, neutrophils, lymphocytes, B, T and natural killer cells and inflammatory markers (C-reactive protein, interferon-gamma, interleukin-2, -4, -5, -10, and tumor necrosis factor-alpha) did not change substantially between baseline and three-month follow-up within the OMT + CAVI and OMT group.

Conclusion

The present data suggest that reduction of venous congestion following OMT + CAVI may not lead to substantial changes in systemic inflammation within a short-term follow-up.

Clinical trial registration

NCT02387697

Graphical Abstract
Psychometric properties of the maternal breastfeeding evaluation scale: a confirmatory factor analysis
Authors: Escribano Silvia , Herrero-Oliver Raquel , Oliver-Roig Antonio , Richart-Martínez Miguel
Published: July 2024

Background

It has been suggested that maternal satisfaction should be included as an additional and appropriate outcome indicator in relation to the breastfeeding process. The aim of this study was to analyze the psychometric properties of various existing versions of the Maternal Breastfeeding Evaluation Scale in a Spanish sample.

Methods

This was a longitudinal observational study, evaluated at three different time points: in the hospital after delivery, and then at five and 12 months after delivery in a Spanish sample. A total of 690 mother participated in this study.

Results

Confirmatory factor analysis results indicated an improved fit of the data to the original model (CFI = 0.984; TLI = 0.982; RMSEA = 0.079). All dimensions of the Maternal Breastfeeding Evaluation Scale are positively associated with breastfeeding rates and negatively associated with perceived difficulty in continuing to breastfeed after returning to work at five months postpartum. Moreover, the scale can predict breastfeeding behavior at 12 months postpartum.

Conclusions

The results of this study indicate that the structure of the original version of the Maternal Breastfeeding Evaluation Scale mean it is a is valid and reliable tool for assessing maternal perceptions of the breastfeeding experience in Spain. This research enhances our understanding of maternal satisfaction with the breastfeeding experience and its potential implications for supporting breastfeeding practices. It is an opportunity for the academic, healthcare, and policy sectors to develop more effective interventions to improve breastfeeding rates and ensure a positive experience for mothers.
Investigating the effects of artificial intelligence on the personalization of breast cancer management: a systematic study
Authors: Sohrabei Solmaz , Moghaddasi Hamid , Hosseini Azamossadat , Ehsanzadeh Seyed Jafar
Published: July 2024

Background

Providing appropriate specialized treatment to the right patient at the right time is considered necessary in cancer management. Targeted therapy tailored to the genetic changes of each breast cancer patient is a desirable feature of precision oncology, which can not only reduce disease progression but also potentially increase patient survival. The use of artificial intelligence alongside precision oncology can help physicians by identifying and selecting more effective treatment factors for patients.

Method

A systematic review was conducted using the PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science databases in September 2023. We performed the search strategy with keywords, namely: Breast Cancer, Artificial intelligence, and precision Oncology along with their synonyms in the article titles. Descriptive, qualitative, review, and non-English studies were excluded. The quality assessment of the articles and evaluation of bias were determined based on the SJR journal and JBI indices, as well as the PRISMA2020 guideline.

Results

Forty-six studies were selected that focused on personalized breast cancer management using artificial intelligence models. Seventeen studies using various deep learning methods achieved a satisfactory outcome in predicting treatment response and prognosis, contributing to personalized breast cancer management. Two studies utilizing neural networks and clustering provided acceptable indicators for predicting patient survival and categorizing breast tumors. One study employed transfer learning to predict treatment response. Twenty-six studies utilizing machine-learning methods demonstrated that these techniques can improve breast cancer classification, screening, diagnosis, and prognosis. The most frequent modeling techniques used were NB, SVM, RF, XGBoost, and Reinforcement Learning. The average area under the curve (AUC) for the models was 0.91. Moreover, the average values for accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and precision were reported to be in the range of 90-96% for the models.

Conclusion

Artificial intelligence has proven to be effective in assisting physicians and researchers in managing breast cancer treatment by uncovering hidden patterns in complex omics and genetic data. Intelligent processing of omics data through protein and gene pattern classification and the utilization of deep neural patterns has the potential to significantly transform the field of complex disease management.
Whole-body hypothermia in mild neonatal encephalopathy: protocol for a multicentre phase III randomised controlled trial
Authors: Garegrat Reema , Montaldo Paolo , Burgod Constance , Pant Stuti , Mazlan Munirah , Palanisami Balamurugan , Chakkarapani Ela , Woolfall Kerry , Johnson Samantha , Grant Patricia Ellen , Land Sarah , Mahmoud Mariam , Brady Tony , Cornelius Victoria , Adams Eleri , Dorling Jon , Aladangadi Narendra , Fleming Paul , Pressler Ronit , Shennan Andrew , Petrou Stavros , Soe Aung , Basset Paul , Shankaran Seetha , Thayyil Sudhin
Published: July 2024

Background

Mild hypoxic ischemic encephalopathy is associated with sub optimal cognition and learning difficulties at school age. Although whole-body hypothermia reduces death and disability after moderate or severe encephalopathy in high-income countries, the safety and efficacy of hypothermia in mild encephalopathy is not known. The cooling in mild encephalopathy (COMET) trial will examine if whole-body hypothermia improves cognitive development of neonates with mild encephalopathy.

Methods

The COMET trial is a phase III multicentre open label two-arm randomised controlled trial with masked outcome assessments. A total of 426 neonates with mild encephalopathy will be recruited from 50 to 60 NHS hospitals over 2 ½ years following parental consent. The neonates will be randomised to 72 h of whole-body hypothermia (33.5 ± 0.5 C) or normothermia (37.0 ± 0.5 C) within six hours or age. Prior to the recruitment front line clinical staff will be trained and certified on expanded modified Sarnat staging for encephalopathy. The neurological assessment of all screened and recruited cases will be video recorded and centrally assessed for quality assurance. If recruitment occurs at a non-cooling centre, neonates in both arms will be transferred to a cooling centre for continued care, after randomisation. All neonates will have continuous amplitude integrated electroencephalography (aEEG) at least for the first 48 h to monitor for seizures. Predefined safety outcomes will be documented, and data collected to assess resource utilization of health care. A central team masked to trial group allocation will assess neurodevelopmental outcomes at 2 years of age. The primary outcome is mean difference in composite cognitive scores on Bayley scales of Infant and Toddler development 4th Edition.

Discussion

The COMET trial will establish the safety and efficacy of whole-body hypothermia for mild hypoxic ischaemic encephalopathy and inform national and international guidelines in high income countries. It will also provide an economic assessment of whole-body hypothermia therapy for mild encephalopathy in the NHS on cost-effectiveness grounds.

Trial registration number

NCT05889507 June 5, 2023.
Time to recovery and its predictors among under-five children admitted with severe pneumonia in East Wallaga Zone public hospitals, western Ethiopia, 2023; a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Dinka Imana Raga , Seyoum Dejene , Debelo Sidise , Fikadu Gudetu , Regasa Misganu Teshoma , Abdena Hunde Fayera , Jiren Roba Tolessa , Ayana Worku Garuma
Published: July 2024

Background

Globally, pneumonia is one of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality as well as hospitalization burden for under-five children. Despite significant initiatives implemented to reduce morbidity and mortality from pneumonia in under-five children, little is known regarding the time to recovery and its predictors among under-five children admitted with severe pneumonia in Ethiopia. Hence, this study intended to estimate the median time to recovery and its predictors among under-five children admitted with severe pneumonia in East Wallaga zone public hospitals, western Ethiopia; 2023.

Methods

An institution-based retrospective cohort study was conducted among 383 under-five children who were admitted with severe pneumonia in East Wallaga zone public hospitals from January 2017 to December 2022. A systematic sampling method was used to select eligible medical records. EpiData Version 4.6 was used to enter the data and analyzed using STATA Version 17.0. Cox-proportional hazard assumption test and model fitness were checked. Variables with P-value ˂ 0.25 at bivariable Cox regression analysis were selected for the multivariable Cox proportional model. A multivariable Cox regression model with 95% CI and Adjusted Hazard Ratio (AHR) was used to identify a significant predictor of time to recovery from severe pneumonia at a P-value < 0.05.

Results

At the end of the follow-up, 356 observations were developed an event (recovered) with the median time to recovery of 4 days with IQR of 3–5 days. The overall incidence rate of recovery was 22.26 per 100 (95% CI: 20.07–24.70) person-days observations. Being rural residency (AHR: 0.75, 95% CI: 0.60–0.93), late presenters for seeking care (AHR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.53–0.93), presence of danger sign at admission (AHR = 1.46, 95% CI: 1.15–1.83), and presence of comorbidity (AHR = 1.63, 95% CI, 1.31–2.04) were found to have a statistically significant association with prolonged recovery time.

Conclusion

The median time to recovery from severe pneumonia was long, and factors such as Residence, co-morbidity, presence of danger signs, and duration prior to seeking care were statistically significant predictors of recovery time from severe pneumonia. Hence, due attention has to be given to increasing the community’s health-seeking behavior to visit health facility early and especial attention should be given for children with danger signs and comorbidity.
Physical inactivity and its associated factors among pre-retirement government healthcare workers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia
Authors: Dapari Rahmat , Wahab Mohamad Rabani Abdul , Zamzuri Mohd ‘Ammar Ihsan Ahmad , Hassan Mohd Rohaizat , Dom Nazri Che , Rahim Syed Sharizman Syed Abdul
Published: July 2024

Introduction

The rising worldwide concern of Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD) is alarming as it is associated with 80% of annual global mortality. NCD threat is rising due to, among others, the increasing ageing population, thus putting the efforts to promote health ageing at the forefront of many countries’ health agenda. Physical activity has been recognised as one of the significant factors in the pursuit of healthy ageing. Nevertheless, approximately one third of individuals in Malaysia are physically inactive. The aim of this study is to determine the prevalence of physical inactivity and its associated factors among pre-retirement government healthcare workers.

Methods

This cross-sectional study was conducted from May to June 2023 among pre-retirement government healthcare workers in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. The sample size required was 233 and proportionate random sampling was used to recruit potential respondents who answered self-administered online questionnaires. Global Physical Activity Questionnaire (GPAQ) was used to measure the level of physical activity and data analysis was performed using SPSS version 29.

Results

A total of 214 complete responses were received from the 233 questionnaires distributed, giving a response rate of 91.8%. The prevalence of physical inactivity among pre-retirement healthcare workers was 39.7% as compare only 29.9% in general population. Significant predictors for physical inactivity included higher education levels (SPM, STPM, or certificate holders) (AOR = 13.4, 95% CI: 2.47–72.65), non-Malay ethinicity (AOR = 4.7, 95% CI: 1.23–18.38), personal barriers (AOR = 1.6, 95% CI:1.35–1.79), social barriers (AOR = 1.21, 95% CI: 1.06–1.39), and physical environment barriers (AOR = 1.468, 95% CI: 1.221–1.765).

Conclusion

This study shows a worrying prevalence of physical inactivity among pre-retirement healthcare workers that is even higher than the general population in Malaysia. The findings highlight the importance of focusing the preventive strategies among non-Malay workers and those with lower education levels. It is also vital to address all the physical, social, and environmental barriers towards physical inactivity. By prioritising these factors, employers and stakeholders will be able to establish better workplace health promotion and address the issue of physical inactivity more efficiently.
“It’s what we perceive as different”: an interpretative phenomenological analysis of Nigerian women’s characterization of their health during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Ndu Mary , Teachman Gail , Martin Janet , Nouvet Elysee
Published: July 2024

Background

Health has historically been adversely affected by social, economic, and political pandemics. In parallel with the spread of diseases, so do the risks of comorbidity and death associated with their consequences. As a result of the current pandemic, shifting resources and services in resource-poor settings without adequate preparation has intensified negative consequences, which global service interruptions have exacerbated. Pregnant women are especially vulnerable during infectious disease outbreaks, and the current pandemic has significantly impacted them.

Methods

This study used an interpretive phenomenological analysis study with a feminist lens to investigate how women obtained healthcare in Ebonyi, Ogun, and Sokoto states Nigeria during the COVID-19 pandemic. We specifically investigated whether the epidemic influenced women’s decisions to seek or avoid healthcare and whether their experiences differed from those outside of it.

Results

We identified three superordinate themes: (1) the adoption of new personal health behaviour in response to the pandemic; (2) the pandemic as a temporal equalizer for marginalized individuals; (3) the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on maternal health care. In Nigeria, pregnant women were affected in a variety of ways by the COVID-19 epidemic. Women, particularly those socially identified as disabled, had to cross norms of disadvantage and discrimination to seek healthcare because of the pandemic’s impact on prescribed healthcare practices, the healthcare system, and the everyday landscapes defined by norms of disadvantage and discrimination.

Conclusion

It is clear from the current pandemic that stakeholders must begin to strategize and develop plans to limit the effects of future pandemics on maternal healthcare, particularly for low-income women.
Construction and application of an ICU nursing electronic medical record quality control system in a Chinese tertiary hospital: a prospective controlled trial
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Quan Yin Yin , Chen Juanhong
Published: July 2024

Background

ICU nurses provide critical care and meticulously document electronic medical records (EMRs), tracking vital signs, interventions, and medication hourly. Despite China’s ICUs effectively integrating real-time monitor and ventilator data into EMRs, challenges persist. Patient movements can introduce inaccuracies, and the demands of critical care may lead nurses to miss assessments like pain and nutrition. Traditional manual EMR verification is inefficient and error-prone, highlighting the urgent need for standardized, technology-aided EMR practices in ICU nursing.

Objective

This study aimed to describe the development and evaluation of an electronic medical records quality control system implemented in a Chinese tertiary care ICU setting, where current practices impact the accuracy of electronic medical records.

Methods

A prospective controlled trial was conducted with 600 ICU patients in Zhejiang Province from January to December 2023. An automated EMR quality control system was implemented in July 2023, facilitating real-time data collection and quality control for vital signs, medication management, and nursing evaluations.

Results

After implementing the ICU nursing electronic medical record quality control system, the prevalence of false data on vital signs decreased from 9 to 1.33%. Additionally, the incidence of incomplete medication administration dropped from 3.33 to 1.67%, and the rate of missing evaluations of assessment items in EMRs was reduced from 8 to 1.33%. Besides, the average time spent on quality control of the electronic medical records was 62 (48,76) seconds per record, which was significantly lower than the 264 (195.5,337.5) seconds using the traditional method. The nurses’ satisfaction with the nursing electronic medical record quality control was (105.73 ± 9.31).

Conclusions

The ICU nursing electronic medical record quality control system has led to substantial improvements in the quality and reliability of EMRs. The reduction in false data on vital signs, instances of incomplete medication administration, and missing evaluations of assessment items demonstrates the system’s positive impact on nursing documentation practices. These improvements not only enhance the accuracy of patient records but also contribute to better patient care and safety within the ICU setting.