bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Gear fault diagnosis based on bidimensional time-frequency information theoretic features and error-correcting output codes: A multi-class support vector machine
Authors: Rai Akhand , Kim Jong-Myon , Kumar Anil , Balaji Palani Selvaraj
Published: June 2024

Fault diagnosis of gears plays an important role in reducing downtime and maximizing efficiency of rotating machinery. Vibration is popular parameter for gear fault detection. The occurrence of faults produces recurring transient impulses in the gear vibration signals. However, these transient features are heavily masked by background noises making it difficult to investigate gear faults. Furthermore, the development of automated fault diagnosis techniques requiring minimal human supervision poses another big challenge. Consequently, in this paper, an automated fault diagnosis technique based on a novel information theoretic (IT)-derived-feature set and an artificial intelligence technique called as error-correcting output codes-support vector machine (ECOC-SVM) is proposed. The gear vibration signals are first processed by continuous wavelet transform to obtain the corresponding time-frequency distributions (TFDs). The TFDs of the faulty signals are then discriminated from those of the healthy ones by introducing IT measures, namely, Kulback-Leibller divergence (KLD), Jensen-Shannon divergence (JSD), Jensen-Rényi divergence (JRD), and Jensen-Tsallis divergence (JTD). These uni-dimensional-IT measures are modified to accommodate the bidimensional TFDs, and the resultant features are referred to as bidimensional time-frequency information theoretic divergence (BTF-ITD) features. The BTF-ITD features are then used to train the ECOC-SVM model. Finally, the trained ECOC-SVM model is used for testing the gear faults. The ECOC approach rectifies the biases and errors in SVM model predictions. The experimental results confirm that the proposed approach provides higher classification accuracy than time-domain features; voting-based-multiclass SVM; and deep learning techniques, such as those based on the stacked sparse autoencoder (SSAE), deep neural network (DNN), and convolution neural network (CNN).
Factors Associated With Outcomes of Facial Reconstruction After Mohs Micrographic Surgery
Authors: Ji Jenny , Alexander Nora , Enin Kwasi , Spataro Emily
Published: June 2024

Study Design

Retrospective cohort study.

Objective

To determine patient, defect, and surgical factors associated with facial reconstructive outcomes.

Methods

Post-Mohs Micrographic Surgery (MMS) facial reconstructions performed at a single institution between 2015-2020 were reviewed. Patient demographics, comorbidities, defect characteristics, type and timing of reconstruction, and postoperative complications and revisions were collected. Data was analyzed with multivariable logistic regressions.

Results

245 defects in 220 patients (median age 66 years, 143 (65%) female) were included. Most were located on the nose (68%), and median size was 3.0 cm2 (IQR 1.32-7.5 cm2). Defect size over 10 cm2 (OR 5.176, 95% CI 1.353-19.808) and two-staged melolabial flaps (OR 4.021, 95% CI 1.525-10.603) were associated with complications after univariate analysis. Nasal tip defects (OR 2.324, 95% CI 1.076-5.019) were associated with minor revisions. Major revisions were associated with nasal sidewall (OR 2.873, 95% CI 1.125-7.336) and tip (OR 2.780, 95% CI 1.145-6.749) defects, ear cartilage grafts (OR 3.373, 95% CI 1.382-8.231), two-staged paramedian forehead flaps (OR 19.273, 95% CI 6.864-54.112), and delayed reconstruction over 14 days (OR 5.727, 95% CI 1.298-25.281). On multivariable analysis, defect size over 10 cm2 (aOR 4.972, 95% CI 1.286-19.073) and two-staged melolabial flaps (aOR 4.575, 95% CI 1.628-12.857) were independently associated with complications, while two-staged paramedian forehead flaps (aOR 14.421, 95% CI 3.976-52.310) were independently associated with major revisions.

Conclusions

More complex reconstructions with larger defects and interpolated flaps were associated with revision surgery and complications of facial reconstruction following MMS.
The incurably incredulous living saint: a multidisciplinary approach to Mother Teresa’s spiritual darkness
Authors: Alpion Gëzim
Published: June 2024

Mother Teresa’s spirituality has been under scrutiny following the revelation that she suffered from the dark night of the soul. This three-part study initially covers the Church's reactions to her aridity from 1999 to 2007. The second part focuses on three main approaches—theological, psychological, and medical—in academic writings to her emptiness, interpreting it as indicative of holiness and a mental health condition. Having acknowledged sporadic attempts to see Teresa’s ministry and spiritual dryness as being interrelated, employing both the “sociological imagination” and a biographical approach, the final part highlights the significance of exploring this relationship as a causality in the context of an array of interrelated personal, familial, and ethno-spiritual milieus. The study contends that Teresa’s desolation was a lifelong condition which determined her choice of vocation and every decision thereafter, including the charism of the Missionaries of Charity and the stages of her ministry.
Mid- to Long-Term Outcomes in Patients After Hip Arthroscopy With Labral Reconstruction: A Systematic Review
Authors: Kim David Nam-Woo , Fong Scott , Park Nancy , Simington Jacquelyn , Atadja Louise , Pettinelli Nicholas , Lee Michael S. , Gillinov Stephen M. , Maldonado David R. , Jimenez Andrew E.
Published: June 2024

Background:

There is a paucity of aggregate data documenting mid- to long-term outcomes of patients after hip arthroscopy with labral reconstruction.

Purpose:

To report mid- to long-term outcomes in patients after undergoing either primary or revision hip arthroscopy with labral reconstruction for the treatment of irreparable labral tears.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.

Methods:

A systematic review of the PubMed, Cochrane, and Scopus databases in May 2022 was conducted with the following keywords: “hip arthroscopy,”“labral reconstruction,”“irreparable,”“labrum,”“reconstruction,”“five-year,”“midterm,”“5 year,”“long-term,”“10 year,” ten-year,” and “femoroacetabular impingement” using the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses criteria. Midterm was defined as mean 5-year follow-up, and long-term was defined as mean 10-year or longer follow-up. For each included article, the demographic, radiographic, intraoperative, and surgical variables, as well as patient-reported outcomes (PROs), psychometric thresholds, and secondary surgeries were recorded. Forest plots were created for PROs that were reported in ≥3 studies; heterogeneity was assessed using I2 values.

Results:

Out of 463 initial articles, 5 studies including 178 hips with primary and 41 hips with revision surgeries were included. One study had an average 5-year follow-up, three studies had a minimum 5-year follow-up and one study had a minimum 10-year follow-up. The most common indications for hip arthroscopy with labral reconstruction were irreparable labral tears. The most common PRO was the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), which was reported in all 5 studies. The mean preoperative mHHS ranged from 58.9 to 66, and the mean postoperative mHHS at minimum 5-year follow-up ranged from 80.2 to 89. The preoperative and postoperative mHHSs for the single long-term follow-up study were 60 and 82, respectively. All 5 studies demonstrated significant improvements in reported PROs. All 5 studies reported secondary surgery rates, with 1 study reporting rates at both 5- and 10-year follow-up. Conversion to total hip arthroplasty ranged from 0% to 27%, while overall secondary surgery rates ranged from 0% to 36%.

Conclusion:

Findings demonstrated that patients undergoing primary and revision hip arthroscopy with labral reconstruction experienced favorable outcomes and high rates of clinical benefit and survivorship at mid- to long-term follow-up.
Capsular Repair Versus No Repair After Hip Arthroscopy in Patients Without Dysplasia or Generalized Ligamentous Laxity: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Shen Lin-Yi , Li Qian-Ru , Xue Xiao-Ao , Li Hong , Li Hong-Yun
Published: June 2024

Background:

Many recent studies have shown that patients who undergo capsular repair after hip arthroscopy achieve superior clinical outcomes compared with those who do not. However, patients with dysplasia or generalized ligamentous laxity (GLL) were not excluded from most of these studies, which may have affected the outcomes.

Purpose:

To determine whether capsular repair influences the outcomes of hip arthroscopy for patients without dysplasia or GLL.

Study Design:

Systematic review; Level of evidence, 1.

Methods:

Under the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines, randomized controlled trials comparing the outcomes of capsulotomy with versus without repair were included, but studies that included patients with dysplasia or GLL were excluded. The study outcomes were patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) at 6 months and 2 years postoperatively—including the modified Harris Hip Score (mHHS), Hip Outcome Score–Activities of Daily Living (HOS-ADL), and Hip Outcome Score–Sport-Specific Subscale (HOS-SSS)— and were compared between the repair and no-repair groups. A narrative analysis and meta-analysis were performed to integrate and compare the results of the 2 groups. In the meta-analysis of the outcome measures, studies with significant differences in the preoperative scores between the repair and no-repair groups were excluded because previous studies have shown that these can affect the outcomes.

Results:

A total of 761 studies were initially identified, of which 3 were included. Of the 322 included patients, 136 underwent capsular repair, and 186 underwent capsulotomy with no repair. The meta-analysis showed that capsular repair was associated with significantly higher postoperative PROMs: the mHHS at 2 years ( P = .03), the HOS-ADL at 6 months ( P = .02) and 2 years ( P < .0001), and the HOS-SSS at 6 months ( P = .02) and 2 years ( P = .001).

Conclusion:

Capsular repair after hip arthroscopy was associated with superior clinical outcomes when compared with no capsular repair in patients without dysplasia or GLL.
Repoliticizing the technological turn in sustainability governance: Moralities, power, space
Authors: Rodima-Taylor Daivi , Campbell-Verduyn Malcolm , Bernards Nick
Published: June 2024

This article Introduces a theme issue on ‘Repoliticizing the technological turn in sustainability governance’. The collection examines the spatial politics implicit in what we call the ‘technological turn’ in sustainability governance: the increasingly frequent resort to experiments with novel technologies to govern myriad sustainability challenges. This article introduces the articles in the collection and outlines three core themes addressed across the issue: How the technological turn often centres on articulating new forms of legibility at a distance; the ways that experiments with new technologies articulate new kinds of relationships across space and across the public/private boundary; and the implications of these changes for questions of accountability, power, and decision-making.
Spatial modelling of psychosocial benefits of favourite places in Denmark: A tale of two cities
Authors: Amegbor Prince M , Dalgaard Rikke , Nainggolan Doan , Jensen Anne , Sabel Clive E , Panduro Toke E , Jensen Mira SR , Dybdal Amanda E , Puig Marianne
Published: June 2024

Living in urban areas is known to increase the risk of psychosocial disorders, including stress, depression, and anxiety. Existing studies suggest that experiential places, including places of interest or favourite places, can mitigate these negative effects on psychological and physical health often associated with urban living. This study aims to model the spatial patterns of the benefits derived from favourite locations in two cities in Denmark: an urban metropolitan area (the capital city) and a provincial commuter town. Additionally, it examines the influence of individual and household socioeconomic factors on the benefits derived from these favourite places. Employing an online Public Participatory Geographic Information System (PPGIS) approach, data on favourite locations, derived benefits, and socioeconomic characteristics of 1400 respondents were collected. Bayesian modelling with Stochastic Partial Differential Equations under the Integrated Nested Laplace Approximation framework (INLA-SPDE) was utilized to predict the spatial patterns of four types of benefits – restorative, physical activity, socializing, and cultural – associated with enjoying favourite places in the two municipalities. This geostatistical approach allows for the identification of specific locations within the cities with perceived benefits and areas lacking such benefits. The findings provide insights into potential inequalities in the spatial distribution of perceived benefits of favourite places in Copenhagen and Roskilde, thereby informing urban planning policies and programs aimed at addressing these disparities.
Exploring the dual pandemic experiences of Black male engineering students
Authors: Elmouden Fatima , Hines Erik M , Slack Tyron , Davis Jared L , Benjamin Le Shorn S , Horton David , Schaefer Kristin L , Henderson Jerrod A
Published: June 2024

In 2020, the COVID-19 pandemic had a widespread effect on students, and accompanying it was the social unrest following the murder of George Floyd. Scholars have called this melding of a global health crisis and the social realization of the value (or lack thereof) of Black life as the “dual pandemic.” Despite the proliferation of studies highlighting the effect of the dual pandemic on students in general, fewer published studies have foregrounded the experiences of Black men in engineering undergraduate programs and how they experienced these phenomena. Therefore, in this study, we aimed to investigate how Black male engineering students experienced these two phenomena to better understand how to support Black men’s success in engineering not only during troubling times but at all times. We conducted semi-structured interviews with 20 Black male engineering students. Using thematic analysis , we developed three themes: (1) feelings of estrangement, (2) adaptation, and (3) resilient reintegration, which illuminate the resilience of Black male engineering students. Though the participants reported setbacks due to the effect of the pandemic and social unrest on their academic pursuits, they ultimately demonstrated an unwavering ability to adapt and reframe those setbacks in positive ways that allowed them to push forward.
vSNP: a SNP pipeline for the generation of transparent SNP matrices and phylogenetic trees from whole genome sequencing data sets
Authors: Hicks Jessica , Stuber Tod , Lantz Kristina , Torchetti Mia , Robbe-Austerman Suelee
Published: June 2024

Background

Several single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) pipelines exist, each offering its own advantages. Among them and described here is vSNP that has been developed over the past decade and is specifically tailored to meet the needs of diagnostic laboratories. Laboratories that aim to provide rapid whole genome sequencing results during outbreak investigations face unique challenges. vSNP addresses these challenges by enabling users to verify and validate sequence accuracy with ease- having utility across various pathogens, being fully auditable, and presenting results that are easy to interpret and can be comprehended by individuals with diverse backgrounds.

Results

vSNP has proven effective for real-time phylogenetic analysis of disease outbreaks and eradication efforts, including bovine tuberculosis, brucellosis, virulent Newcastle disease, SARS-CoV-2, African swine fever, and highly pathogenic avian influenza. The pipeline produces easy-to-read SNP matrices, sorted for convenience, as well as corresponding phylogenetic trees, making the output easily understandable. Essential data for verifying SNPs is included in the output, and the process has been divided into two steps for ease of use and faster processing times. vSNP requires minimal computational resources to run and can be run in a wide range of environments. Several utilities have been developed to make analysis more accessible for subject matter experts who may not have computational expertise.

Conclusion

The vSNP pipeline integrates seamlessly into a diagnostic workflow and meets the criteria for quality control accreditation programs, such as 17025 by the International Organization for Standardization. Its versatility and robustness make it suitable for use with a diverse range of organisms, providing detailed, reproducible, and transparent results, making it a valuable tool in various applications, including phylogenetic analysis performed in real time.
Reproduction-associated pathways in females of gibel carp (Carassius gibelio) shed light on the molecular mechanisms of the coexistence of asexual and sexual reproduction
Authors: Jacques Florian , Tichopád Tomáš , Demko Martin , Bystrý Vojtěch , Křížová Kristína Civáňová , Seifertová Mária , Voříšková Kristýna , Fuad Md Mehedi Hasan , Vetešník Lukáš , Šimková Andrea
Published: June 2024

Gibel carp (Carassius gibelio) is a cyprinid fish that originated in eastern Eurasia and is considered as invasive in European freshwater ecosystems. The populations of gibel carp in Europe are mostly composed of asexually reproducing triploid females (i.e., reproducing by gynogenesis) and sexually reproducing diploid females and males. Although some cases of coexisting sexual and asexual reproductive forms are known in vertebrates, the molecular mechanisms maintaining such coexistence are still in question. Both reproduction modes are supposed to exhibit evolutionary and ecological advantages and disadvantages. To better understand the coexistence of these two reproduction strategies, we performed transcriptome profile analysis of gonad tissues (ovaries) and studied the differentially expressed reproduction-associated genes in sexual and asexual females. We used high-throughput RNA sequencing to generate transcriptomic profiles of gonadal tissues of triploid asexual females and males, diploid sexual males and females of gibel carp, as well as diploid individuals from two closely-related species,C. auratusandCyprinus carpio. Using SNP clustering, we showed the close similarity ofC. gibelioandC. auratuswith a basal position ofC. carpioto bothCarassiusspecies. Using transcriptome profile analyses, we showed that many genes and pathways are involved in both gynogenetic and sexual reproduction inC. gibelio; however, we also found that 1500 genes, including 100 genes involved in cell cycle control, meiosis, oogenesis, embryogenesis, fertilization, steroid hormone signaling, and biosynthesis were differently expressed in the ovaries of asexual and sexual females. We suggest that the overall downregulation of reproduction-associated pathways in asexual females, and their maintenance in sexual ones, allows the populations ofC. gibelioto combine the evolutionary and ecological advantages of the two reproductive strategies. However, we showed that many sexual-reproduction-related genes are maintained and expressed in asexual females, suggesting that gynogenetic gibel carp retains the genetic toolkits for meiosis and sexual reproduction. These findings shed new light on the evolution of this asexual and sexual complex.
Effects of biochar types on seed germination, growth, chlorophyll contents, grain yield, sodium, and potassium uptake by wheat (Triticum aestivum L.) under salt stress
Authors: Duan Sumei , AL-Huqail Arwa Abdulkreem , Alsudays Ibtisam Mohammed , Younas Mobeen , Aslam Alishba , Shahzad Ahmad Naeem , Qayyum Muhammad Farooq , Rizwan Muhammad , Alhaj Hamoud Yousef , Shaghaleh Hiba , Hong Yong Jean Wan
Published: June 2024

Soil salinity is a significant challenge in agriculture, particularly in arid and semi-arid regions such as Pakistan, leading to soil degradation and reduced crop yields. The present study assessed the impact of different salinity levels (0, 25, and 50 mmol NaCl) and biochar treatments (control, wheat-straw biochar, rice-husk biochar, and sawdust biochar applied @ 1% w/w) on the germination and growth performance of wheat. Two experiments: a germination study and a pot experiment (grown up to maturity), were performed. The results showed that NaCl-stress negatively impacted the germination parameters, grain, and straw yield, and agronomic and soil parameters. Biochar treatments restored these parameters compared to control (no biochar), but the effects were inconsistent across NaCl levels. Among the different biochars, wheat-straw biochar performed better than rice-husk and sawdust-derived biochar regarding germination and agronomic parameters. Biochar application notably increased soil pHs and electrical conductivity (ECe). Imposing NaCl stress reduced K concentrations in the wheat shoot and grains with concomitant higher Na concentrations in both parts. Parameters like foliar chlorophyll content (a, b, and total), stomatal and sub-stomatal conductance, and transpiration rate were also positively influenced by biochar addition. The study confirmed that biochar, particularly wheat-straw biochar, effectively mitigated the adverse effects of soil salinity, enhancing both soil quality and wheat growth. The study highlighted that biochar application can minimize the negative effects of salinity stress on wheat. Specifically, the types and dosages of biochar have to be optimized for different salinity levels under field conditions.
Seed germination ecology of endangered plant Horsfieldia hainanensis Merr. In China
Authors: Liu Xiongsheng , Xiao Yufei , Wang Yong , Wang Renjie , Huang Ronglin , Liang Huizi , Jiang Yi , Jiang Ying
Published: June 2024

Background

Horsfieldia hainanensis Merr., an indicator species of China’s humid tropical rainforests, is endangered due to difficulties with population regeneration. In this study, the biological characteristics and germination adaptability of the seeds were studied for the first time, in order to provide a basis for analyzing the causes of endangerment and strategies for the artificial cultivation of H. hainanensis. The effects of biological characteristics (population, arils, seed coat, seed weight, seed moisture content) and environmental factors (temperature, light, drought, substrate, burial depth) on seed germination and seedling growth of H. hainanensis were studied.

Results and discussion

The fruits were found to be capsules containing seeds wrapped in a pericarp and fleshy aril, which provide protection and assist in seed dispersal, but also pose risks to the seeds, as the peel and fleshy aril can become moldy under high temperature and humidity conditions. There were significant differences in fruit morphology and germination characteristics among different populations, and the seed quality of populations in Niandian village, Daxin County, Chongzuo City, Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region was better. The arils significantly inhibited seed germination, the germination of large seeds was better, and seedling growth from medium seeds was superior. H. hainanensis seeds were sensitive to dehydration, and intolerant to drought and low temperature, which is typical of recalcitrant seeds. The seeds are suitable for germination on a moist substrate surface with good water retention and breathability at 30–35℃.
The impact of hyperkalemia on ICU admission and mortality: a retrospective study of Chinese emergency department data
Authors: Sun Jian , Liu Qingyuan , Seery Samuel , Sun Lu , Yuan Yuan , Wang Wenwen , Wang Yan , Cui Ziwei , Wang Yueguo , Wang Yulan , Zhu Jiashan , Zhang Mengping , Lai Yinglei , Jin Kui
Published: June 2024

Objective

This study assesses the influence of hyperkalemia on both disease severity and the risk of mortality among patients admitted to the emergency room.

Methods

This retrospective observational study utilized data from the Chinese Emergency Triage Assessment and Treatment database (CETAT, version 2.0), which was designed to evaluate and optimize management strategies for emergency room (ER) patients. Patients were systematically categorized based on serum potassium levels. Relationships between serum potassium levels, risk of mortality, and the severity of illness were then analyzed using multifactorial logistic regression and through Receiver Operating Characteristic (ROC) analysis. The effectiveness of various treatments at lowering potassium levels was also investigated.

Results

12,799 emergency patients were enrolled, of whom 20.1% (n = 2,577) were hypokalemic and 2.98% (n = 381) were hyperkalemic. Among hyperkalemic patients, the leading reasons for visiting the ER were altered consciousness 23.88% (n = 91), cardiovascular symptoms 22.31% (n = 85), and gastrointestinal symptoms 20.47% (n = 78). Comparative analysis with patients exhibiting normal potassium levels revealed hyperkalemia as an independent factor associated with mortality in the ER. Mortality risk appears to positively correlate with increasing potassium levels, reaching peaks when blood potassium levels ranged between 6.5 and 7.0. Hyperkalemia emerged as a strong predictor of death in the ER, with an Area Under the Curve (AUC) of 0.89. The most frequently prescribed treatment for hyperkalemia patients was diuretics (57.32%, n = 188), followed by intravenous sodium bicarbonate (50.91%, n = 167), IV calcium (37.2%, n = 122), insulin combined with high glucose (27.74%, n = 91), and Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) for 19.82% (n = 65). Among these, CRRT appeared to be the most efficacious at reducing potassium levels. Diuretics appeared relatively ineffective, while high-glucose insulin, sodium bicarbonate, and calcium preparations having no significant effect on the rate of potassium decline.

Conclusion

Hyperkalemia is common in emergency situations, especially among patients with altered consciousness. There is a strong positive correlation between the severity of hyperkalemia and mortality risk. CRRT appears to be the most effective potassium reducting strategy, while the use of diuretics should be approached with caution.
A deep learning-based model for detecting Leishmania amastigotes in microscopic slides: a new approach to telemedicine
Authors: Sadeghi Alireza , Sadeghi Mahdieh , Fakhar Mahdi , Zakariaei Zakaria , Sadeghi Mohammadreza , Bastani Reza
Published: June 2024

Background

Leishmaniasis, an illness caused by protozoa, accounts for a substantial number of human fatalities globally, thereby emerging as one of the most fatal parasitic diseases. The conventional methods employed for detecting the Leishmania parasite through microscopy are not only time-consuming but also susceptible to errors. Therefore, the main objective of this study is to develop a model based on deep learning, a subfield of artificial intelligence, that could facilitate automated diagnosis of leishmaniasis.

Methods

In this research, we introduce LeishFuNet, a deep learning framework designed for detecting Leishmania parasites in microscopic images. To enhance the performance of our model through same-domain transfer learning, we initially train four distinct models: VGG19, ResNet50, MobileNetV2, and DenseNet 169 on a dataset related to another infectious disease, COVID-19. These trained models are then utilized as new pre-trained models and fine-tuned on a set of 292 self-collected high-resolution microscopic images, consisting of 138 positive cases and 154 negative cases. The final prediction is generated through the fusion of information analyzed by these pre-trained models. Grad-CAM, an explainable artificial intelligence technique, is implemented to demonstrate the model’s interpretability.

Results

The final results of utilizing our model for detecting amastigotes in microscopic images are as follows: accuracy of 98.95 1.4%, specificity of 98 2.67%, sensitivity of 100%, precision of 97.91 2.77%, F1-score of 98.92 1.43%, and Area Under Receiver Operating Characteristic Curve of 99 1.33.

Conclusion

The newly devised system is precise, swift, user-friendly, and economical, thus indicating the potential of deep learning as a substitute for the prevailing leishmanial diagnostic techniques.
Medication non-adherence and its associated factors among kidney transplant patients in a large teaching hospital in Ethiopia
Authors: Derejie Meskerem Nimani , Dereje Erimas Nimane , Alemu Dirijit Mamo , Tesfay Yemane Gebremedhin , Hunduma Fufa , Temie Negash Miniwye
Published: June 2024

Background

This study examines medication adherence among kidney transplant patients at St. Paul’s Hospital Millennium Medical College (SPHMMC) in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, focusing on the level of adherence and associated factors to immunosuppressant medicines.

Methods and materials

A cross-sectional study was conducted on 270 patients from October 2021 to January 2022 using a structured questionnaire analyzed with SPSS version 26. The prevalence of medication adherence was computed, and a binary logistic regression was fitted to estimate the association. Medication adherence level measurement in post-kidney transplant patients was assessed using the Simplified Medication Adherence Questionnaire (SMAQ) and Basel Adherence Assessment Scale in Immunosuppressants (BAASIS). A 95% confidence interval and p-value < 0.05 were used for statistical significance.

Results

The study found that 71.5% of kidney transplant patients were male, with a median age of 37 and a mean duration of 3.55 years. Medication adherence in post-kidney transplant patients was 81.9%. Post-transplant duration above 5 years and missing follow-up visits more than two times was associated with a 92.6% and 91.2% in medication non-adherence rate respectively. Additionally, forgetfulness was associated with a 90.6%, non-adherence level compared to drug unavailability and financial reasons.

Conclusion and recommendation

The study indicates that our patients exhibit higher medication adherence than WHO-measured levels, suggesting the need for healthcare providers to strengthen their intervention, especially for those above 5 years post-kidney transplant. The reason for increased adherence could be explained by the health education program about the medication name, dosing, frequency of ingestion and adverse effects of the drug, and effects of non-adherence.
Fear of cancer recurrence in adolescent patients with malignant bone tumors: a cross-section survey
Authors: Ye Qun , Xue Meng , Yu Qun-fei , Ren Ying , Long Yao , Yao Yu-hong , Du Jin-lei , Ye Tian , Feng Xiu-qin
Published: June 2024

Background

Adolescent malignant-bone tumor patients' fear of cancer recurrence is a significant psychological issue, and exploring the influencing factors associated with fear of cancer recurrence in this population is important for developing effective interventions. This study is to investigate the current status and factors influencing fear of cancer recurrence (FCR) related to malignant bone-tumors in adolescent patients, providing evidence for future targeted mental health support and interventions.

Design

A cross-sectional survey.

Methods

In total, 269 adolescent malignant-bone tumor cases were treated at two hospitals in Zhejiang Province, China from January 2023 to December 2023. Patients completed a General Information Questionnaire, Fear of Progression Questionnaire-Short Form (FoP-Q-SF), Family Hardiness Index (FHI), and a Simple Coping Style Questionnaire (SCSQ). Univariate and multivariable logistic regressions analysis were used to assess fear of cancer recurrence.

Results

A total of 122 (45.4%) patients experienced FCR (FoP-Q-SF ≥ 34). Logistic regression analysis analyses showed that per capita-monthly family income, tumor stage, communication between the treating physician and the patient, patient's family relationships, family hardiness a positive coping score, and a negative coping score were the main factors influencing FCR in these patients (P < 0.05).

Conclusions

FCR in malignant-bone tumor adolescent patients is profound. Healthcare professionals should develop targeted interventional strategies based on the identified factors, which affect these patients; helping patients increase family hardiness, helping patients to positively adapt, and avoid negative coping styles.
Associations between perceived and actual risk of HIV infection and HIV prevention services uptake among men who have sex with men in Shandong province, China: a cross-sectional study
Authors: Lin Yuxi , Li Chuanxi , Liao Meizhen , Jiao Kedi , Ma Jing , Yan Yu , Li Yijun , Wu Taoyu , Cheng Chunxiao , Cao Yanwen , Jia Wenwen , Zhao Zhonghui , Wang Lina , Hua Dongdong , Li Ruixiao , Guo Ningning , Meng Jing , Ma Wei
Published: June 2024

Background

Associations between perceived and actual risk of HIV infection and HIV prevention services uptake are inconclusive. This study aimed to evaluate the discrepancy between the perceived and actual HIV risk, and quantify the associations between perceived and actual risk of HIV infection and three HIV prevention services utilization among men who have sex with men (MSM) in Shandong province, China.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted in Shandong province in June 2021. Participants were eligible if they were born biologically male, aged 18 years or older, had negative or unknown HIV status, and had sex with men in the past year. Participants were recruited online. The discrepancy between their perceived and actual risk of HIV infection was evaluated by calculating the Kappa value. Bayesian model averaging was used to assess the associations between perceived and actual risk of HIV infection and HIV prevention services uptake.

Results

A total of 1136 MSM were recruited, most of them were 30 years old or younger (59.9%), single (79.5%), with at least college education level (74.7%). Most participants (97.4%) perceived that they had low risk of HIV infection, and 14.1% were assessed with high actual risk. The discrepancy between their perceived and actual risk of HIV infection was evaluated with a Kappa value of 0.076 (P < 0.001). HIV testing uptake had a weak association with perceived high HIV prevalence among social networks (aOR = 1.156, post probability = 0.547). The perceived high HIV prevalence among national MSM was positive related to willingness to use PrEP (aOR = 1.903, post probability = 0.943) and PEP (aOR = 1.737, post probability = 0.829). Perceived personal risk (aOR = 4.486, post probability = 0.994) and perceived HIV prevalence among social networks (aOR = 1.280, post probability = 0.572) were related to history of using PrEP. Perceived personal risk (aOR = 3.144, post probability = 0.952), actual risk (aOR = 1.890, post probability = 0.950), and perceived risk among social networks (aOR = 1.502, post probability = 0.786) were related to history of using PEP.

Conclusions

There is discordance between perceived and actual personal risk of HIV infection among MSM in China. HIV risk assessment and education on HIV prevalence among MSM should be strengthened to assist high-risk populations aware their risk accurately and hence access HIV prevention services proactively.
Assessment of patterns and related factors in using social media platforms to access health and oral health information among Sri Lankan adults, with special emphasis on promoting oral health awareness
Authors: Jayasinghe Yovanthi Anurangi , Kanmodi Kehinde Kazeem , Jayasinghe Rasika Manori , Jayasinghe Ruwan Duminda
Published: June 2024

Background

Social media has evolved beyond its conventional purpose of communication and information sharing to become a potent tool for disseminating health and oral health awareness. This study seeks to assess the patterns and related factors of using social media platforms to access health and oral health information among Sri Lankan adults, with special emphasis to promotion of oral health awareness.

Methods

In March 2023, individuals aged ≥ 18 years residing in Sri Lanka, who are users of social media participated in this electronic questionnaire-based survey. Statistical analyses of the collected data were done using the SPSS version 21 software, with a p-value of < 0.05 set to determine the level of statistical significance.

Results

A total of 421 persons participated in this survey. Majority (68.4%) belonged to the age category of 18 to 30 years, and 55.5% were females. WhatsApp (96.8%) was the most frequently used social media platform across all age groups and both genders. Statistically significant differences were identified between genders in the usage of Telegram, Twitter, and Viber within the 18–30 years age category, with a higher percentage of males using these platforms (p ≤ 0.05). Similar significant differences were observed in the 31–40 years age group for WhatsApp and Telegram (p ≤ 0.05). Among 95.4% of online health information seekers, YouTube (74.9%) was the most popular platform. One-quarter of the respondents preferred social media platforms, and 22.3% preferred websites for obtaining oral health information. Furthermore, 74.9% had positive opinions on obtaining oral health information via social media, while only 17% reported pleasant experiences with social media platforms for oral health promotion. In assessing the reliability of oral health information on social media, 48% relied on the quality of the information. The most preferred source of oral health information was short videos from professionals (43.1%). Additionally, 69.5% reported changes in their oral health behaviours after accessing information through social media.

Conclusion

Social media is a viable platform for promoting public oral health awareness in Sri Lankan; hence, workable strategies need to be employed, to further ensure its effective and wider use in a culturally and socioeconomically diverse country like Sri Lanka.
Medial malleolar osteotomy in the treatment of osteochondral lesions of the Talus – incidence and impact on functional outcome: a retrospective analysis based on data from the German Cartilage Register (KnorpelRegister DGOU)
Authors: Klein Lukas , Bode Gerrit , Wenning Markus , Behrens Max , Schmal Hagen , Kühle Jan
Published: June 2024

Background

There has long been discussion regarding the impact of medial malleolar osteotomies (MMO) as an adjunctive treatment for osteochondral lesions of the talus (OCLT). MMO may improve the visibility and accessibility of the talus, but they also pose a risk of periprocedural morbidity. There is a lack of research about the prevalence and consequences of MMO in the surgical treatment of OCLT.

Methods

This study retrospectively evaluated data from the German Cartilage Register (KnorpelRegister DGOU) from its implementation in 2015 to December 2020. The impact of MMO on patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs) was investigated. Wherever possible, subgroups were built and matched using a propensity score which matched a group undergoing OCLT without MMO. Matching included age, sex, weight, localization of the OCLT, the international cartilage repair society (ICRS) grading, surgical procedure and preoperative symptoms using the Foot and Ankle Ability Measure (FAAM) and the Activities of Daily Living Subscale (ADL).

Results

The prevalence of MMO in the operative treatment of OCLT was 15.9%. Most of the osteotomies were performed in OCL of the medial talar dome (76.8%) and in more serious lesions with an ICRS grade of III (29.1%) and IV (61.4%). More than half of the osteotomies (55.6%) were performed during revision surgery. A matched pair analysis of n = 44 patients who underwent AMIC® via arthrotomy and MMO vs. arthrotomy alone showed no significant differences in patient-reported outcome measures (PROMs, i.e. FAAM-ADL, and FAOS) at 6,12 and 24 months.

Conclusions

MMO are mostly used in the treatment of severe (≥ ICRS grade 3) OCL of the medial talar dome and in revision surgery. Functional and patient-reported outcome measures are not significantly affected by MMO compared to arthrotomy alone.

Trial registration

The German Cartilage Register (KnorpelRegister DGOU) was initially registered at the German Clinical Trials Register (https://www.drks.de, register number DRKS00005617, Date of registration 03.01.2014) and was later expanded by the ankle module.
Superficial thrombophlebitis in the forearm leading to entrapment of the radial nerve branch: a first case report and literature review
Authors: Zhang Yinwei , Zhou Weijie , Zhou Jun , Chu Weitao , Fan Jun , Lu Hui
Published: June 2024

This article reports a case of a female patient admitted with swelling and subcutaneous mass in the right forearm, initially suspected to be multiple nerve fibroma. However, through preoperative imaging and surgery, the final diagnosis confirmed superficial thrombophlebitis. This condition resulted in entrapment of the radial nerve branch, leading to noticeable nerve entrapment and radiating pain. The surgery involved the excision of inflammatory tissue and thrombus, ligation of the cephalic vein, and complete release of the radial nerve branch. Postoperative pathology confirmed the presence of Superficial Thrombophlebitis. Through this case, we emphasize the importance of comprehensive utilization of clinical, imaging, and surgical interventions for more accurate diagnosis and treatment. This is the first clinical report of radial nerve branch entrapment due to superficial thrombophlebitis.
Rebamipide gargle and benzydamine gargle in prevention and management of chemo-radiotherapy and radiotherapy-induced oral mucositis in head and neck cancer patients (randomized clinical trial)
Authors: Elsaadany Basma , Anayb Samah M. , Mashhour Karim , Yossif Mohammed , Zahran Fat’heya
Published: June 2024

Objectives

This study aimed to evaluate the preventive and therapeutic effects of rebamipide gargle in comparison with benzydamine in head and neck cancer patients undergoing radiotherapy with or without chemotherapy.

Materials and methods

Phase III randomized clinical trial was conducted from January 2021 till August 2022 on one hundred patients with head and neck cancer receiving high doses of radiotherapy. These patients were equally allocated into either rebamipide group or benzydamine group, The measured outcomes were the incidence of oral mucositis ≥ grade1, according to the WHO mucositis scale, in addition to the duration, and the onset of oral mucositis.

Results

There was no statistically significant difference between the two groups, regarding the incidence of a severe grade of oral mucositis (WHO grades 3), as well as the onset and duration of oral mucositis. Both gargles succeeded to prevent the development of WHO grade 4 oral mucositis. Side effects reported were mainly burning sensation in benzydamine group and nausea in rebamipide group.

Conclusion

Rebamipide mouthwash was as beneficial as benzydamine mouthwash in minimizing the incidence of severe oral mucositis induced by treatment of head and neck cancer. However, rebamipide gargle proved to be superior to benzydamine in terms of reduction in the severity of the radiation-induced oral mucositis.

Trial registration

The trial was registered in the protocol Registration and Result system of Clinical Trials (Registration ID: NCT04685395)0.28-12-2020.
Knowledge sharing among academics from Egyptian medical schools during the COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Elsayed Amany Mohamed , Saleh Emad Isa , El-Kassas Mohamed Mahmoud , Khalil Haidy Samir
Published: June 2024

Background

Sharing knowledge among scientists during global health emergencies is a critical issue. So, this study investigates knowledge-sharing behavior and attitude among staff members of 19 Medical schools in Egyptian universities during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Methods

Across-sectional study was conducted using a web-based questionnaire. A total of 386 replies from the 10,318 distributed questionnaires were analyzed. Descriptive statistics were computed using SPSS (version 22) to summarize the demographic data. Inferential statistics such as the independent and chi-square test were used to achieve the study aims.

Results

More than half of the respondents (54.4%) indicated that their levels of knowledge of COVID-19 were good. Most participants (72.5%) reported that scientific publications and international websites were the most reliable source of their knowledge concerning COVID-19. More than 46% stated they sometimes share their knowledge. The lack of time to share and organizational culture were the most important factors that could affect their knowledge sharing. Additionally, about 75% of participants shared knowledge about treatment.
Precision cut lung slices: an integrated ex vivo model for studying lung physiology, pharmacology, disease pathogenesis and drug discovery
Authors: Koziol-White Cynthia , Gebski Eric , Cao Gaoyaun , Panettieri Reynold A.
Published: June 2024

Precision Cut Lung Slices (PCLS) have emerged as a sophisticated and physiologically relevant ex vivo model for studying the intricacies of lung diseases, including fibrosis, injury, repair, and host defense mechanisms. This innovative methodology presents a unique opportunity to bridge the gap between traditional in vitro cell cultures and in vivo animal models, offering researchers a more accurate representation of the intricate microenvironment of the lung. PCLS require the precise sectioning of lung tissue to maintain its structural and functional integrity. These thin slices serve as invaluable tools for various research endeavors, particularly in the realm of airway diseases. By providing a controlled microenvironment, precision-cut lung slices empower researchers to dissect and comprehend the multifaceted interactions and responses within lung tissue, thereby advancing our understanding of pulmonary pathophysiology.