bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of the financial and economic effect of the implementation of artificial intelligence systems in healthcare using the example of the Webiomed platform.
Authors:   PhD in Economics, expert in public health., Prokhorenko N. F.
Published: December 2024

One of the barriers to the widespread use of artificial intelligence systems in healthcare is the lack of financial and economic justification for their implementation. Using the experience of using the domestic Webiomed platform in solving problems of cardiovascular disease
prevention, a model for assessing economic efficiency is proposed. The total potential effect is 117.9 million rubles / 1 million population per year, which corresponds to the payback of the implementation project from the first year of use on a population starting from 64 thousand people. The development of the implementation of the platform in question in the long term will improve the efficiency and validity of management decisions. The use of artificial intelligence systems with a proven positive impact on the efficiency of financial resources allows creating conditions for achieving the target indicators of state programs in healthcare.
Comparing Treatment Outcomes of Eligible Patients Consenting to or Declining Randomization in a Randomized Clinical Trial
Authors: Ibounig Thomas , Suter Cyrill , Sumrein Bakir O. , Launonen Antti P. , Czuba Tomasz , Järvinen Teppo L.N. , Taimela Simo , Paavola Mika , Rämö Lasse ,   and the FISH Investigators
Published: December 2024

Background:

The Finnish Shaft of the Humerus (FISH) trial compared open reduction and internal plate fixation (ORIF) with functional bracing in adult patients with displaced, closed humeral shaft fractures. Here, we compare the results of the patients in the randomized clinical trial (RCT [the randomized cohort]) with those of the cohort of patients who were also eligible but declined randomization (the nonrandomized cohort) to investigate if patients’ treatment preference was associated with the outcomes during a 2-year follow-up.

Methods:

A total of 321 patients were treated at 2 university hospitals in Finland between November 2012 and January 2018. Of the 140 eligible patients, 82 were randomized to ORIF or functional bracing. Of the 58 patients declining randomization, 42 consented to participate in a nonrandomized cohort in which the patients were able to choose the treatment method. The primary outcome of this study was the Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder and Hand (DASH) score. Patients in the randomized cohort and the nonrandomized cohort were analyzed separately in 3 groups: those who had (1) initial surgery, (2) successful functional bracing, and (3) late surgery due to failed functional bracing. We used mixed-model, repeated-measures analysis of variance to compare the treatment effect among the 3 groups.

Results:

In the randomized cohort, 38 patients had an initial surgical procedure. Of the 44 patients randomized to functional bracing, 30 (68%) healed successfully and 14 (32%) underwent a late surgical procedure. In the nonrandomized cohort, 9 patients preferred an initial surgical procedure. Of the 33 patients preferring functional bracing, 26 (79%) healed successfully and 7 (21%) underwent late surgery. The DASH scores in the randomized cohort and the nonrandomized cohort were 6.8 (95% confidence interval [CI], 2.3 to 11.4) and 12.3 (95% CI, 0.3 to 24.3) for the initial surgery groups, 6.0 (95% CI, 1.0 to 11.0) and 3.4 (95% CI, 0 to 9.3) for the bracing groups, and 17.5 (95% CI, 10.5 to 24.5) and 20.5 (95% CI, 9.4 to 31.6) for the late surgery groups at 2 years.

Conclusions:

The results of the randomized cohort and the nonrandomized cohort were comparable and suggest that patients’ treatment preferences are not associated with the treatment outcomes of these injuries.

Level of Evidence:

Therapeutic Level I. See Instructions for Authors for a complete description of levels of evidence.
Establishing a workflow for near-seamless digital elevation model creation in the Great Lakes for ADCIRC modeling
Authors: Spurgeon Scott , Sylvester Charlene
Published: December 2024

This report introduces a workflow to create near-seamless, regional digital elevation models (DEMs) for use in coupled Advanced Circulation and Simulating Waves Nearshore modeling. The workflow is based in Esri ArcGIS Pro, leveraging the Mosaic Dataset architecture to organize and mosaic survey data sets into near-seamless DEMs. This workflow includes data collection and preprocessing, creation of source and derived mosaic data sets, manual editing of the data set seamlines, the creation of spatial metadata products, and quality assurance and control measures. These steps were implemented for each Great Lake to provide a high-resolution, near-seamless DEM product for modelers. The workflow may also have utility for other regional-scale investigations.
Efektivitas Kegiatan Ecoprint pada Anak Usia 5-6 Tahun: Stimulasi Peningkatkan Kreativitas Anak
Authors: Kurlillah Anis , Yuandana Tarich
Published: December 2024

The low creativity of early childhood children at TK Negeri Pembina Bangkalan is caused by teacher-dominated learning, monotonous learning materials, and the use of tools and equipment that are less engaging. Additionally, classroom activities are not interesting and do not involve environmental resources. The purpose of this study was to improve the creativity of children aged 5-6 years through ecoprint activities at TK Negeri Pembina Bangkalan. This study employed an experimental method with a Pre-Experimental Design (Non-Designs), specifically using the One Group Pretest-Posttest Design. The population of this study consisted of all children in Group B at TK Negeri Pembina Bangkalan, totaling 33 children, with the sample also consisting of 33 children. Data collection methods included observation, interviews, and documentation. Based on the results of the analysis conducted through the pre-test, treatment, and post-test stages, the findings on the effectiveness of ecoprint techniques in developing creativity in children aged 5-6 years at TK Negeri Pembina Bangkalan showed that in the pre-test, 100% of children were categorized as "beginning to develop". In contrast, the post-test results showed that 48% of children were categorized as "developing as expected" and 52% were categorized as "developing very well". The N-Gain Score was 0.7368, which reflects the difference between the pre-test and post-test results. This indicates that the effectiveness of ecoprint activities in increasing the creativity of children aged 5-6 years at TK Negeri Pembina Bangkalan is 73%, which falls under the category of "moderately effective." The findings of this study contribute to offering an alternative activity to foster creativity in early childhood
Pembentukan Karakter Islami Anak Usia Dini: Tinjauan Peran Pendidik
Authors: Aliyatuz Zulfa Nadia , Sutrisno Sutrisno , Sari Nurita
Published: December 2024

This study explores the role of educators in instilling Islamic character in early childhood through the habituation of daily prayer memorization. The main issue identified is the lack of structured Islamic character education and the minimal habituation of daily prayers as part of moral education. This is often due to a lack of understanding and effective strategies from educators in applying Islamic character education. The aim of this research is to examine the role of educators in shaping Islamic character in young children through the habituation of daily prayer memorization and to explain how this practice can be applied based on the teachings of the Qur'an and Hadith. A phenomenological approach was used, with data collection techniques including observation, interviews, and documentation. Primary data was sourced from the Qur'an, Hadith, and supporting materials such as journals, books, and articles. The research findings indicate that Islamic character education aims to develop children with Qur'anic morals and good habits in their daily lives. The habituation of daily prayers, such as those taught by the Prophets, can be incorporated into daily routines with the guidance of educators. The role of the educator is crucial, including gathering the prayers to be memorized, providing explanations, setting a good example, and motivating children who struggle with memorization. Furthermore, educators collaborate with parents to ensure the continued practice of daily prayers at home. The implications of this study emphasize the importance of Islamic character education through daily prayer memorization as a foundation for moral development in early childhood and encourage educational institutions to integrate Islamic character education into their curricula to shape a Qur'anic character in future generations.
QUALITY ANALYSIS OF USED COOKING OIL REFINING RESULTS WITH BIOADSORBENT COMPOSITION OF PALM FIBER WASTE AND BLEACHING EARTH
Authors: Darmawan Muhammad Indra , Ilmannafian Adzani Ghani , Kiptiah Mariatul , Husna Khatimatul
Published: December 2024

Minyak jelantah adalah minyak hasil dari sisa penggorengan berulang-ulang sehingga dapat menimbulkan berbagai penyakit dan mencemari lingkungan. Oleh karenanya sebagai limbah perlu dilakukan upaya pemanfaatan limbah minyak jelantah yang salah satunya melalui regenerasi menggunakan bioadsorben limbah fiber kelapa sawit dan bleaching earth. Tujuan penelitian ini adalah untuk menganalisis kualitas bioadsorben dari limbah fiber kelapa sawit serta menganalisis kualitas hasil pemurnian minyak jelantah dengan bioadsorben limbah fiber kelapa sawit, dan bleaching earth. Metode penelitian yang dilakukan yaitu pembuatan bioadsroben dari limbah fiber kelapa sawit, pemurnian minyak minyak menggunakan biadsorben limbah fiber kelapa sawit dan bleaching earth dengan variasi F1 (0%:100%), F2 (25%:75%), F3 (50%:50%), F4 (75%:25%), dan F5 (100%:0%), lalu di analisis hasil pengujian. Hasil menunjukkan bahwa kualitas bioadsorben ini memenuhi standar SNI 06-3730-1995 dalam parameter kadar air, kadar abu, karbon aktif murni, bagian yang hilang pada pemanasan 950℃, dan parameter daya serap iodin. Hasil terbaik permunian minyak jelantah dengan bioadsorben fiber kelapa sawit dan bleaching earth yaitu pada 50% bioadsorben fiber kelapa sawit dan 50% bleaching earth, yang mengalami penurunan nilai kadar air, asam lemak bebas, bilangan asam, dan bilangan peroksida walaupun masih belum sesuai dengan SNI-3741:2013 dan SNI-7709:2019.
Kata kunci: Bioadsorben, Bleaching earth, Fiber, Pemurnian Minyak.
A New Approach for Material Characterization to Predict Casing Behavior for High Temperature Geothermal Applications
Authors: Desdoit E. , Patou J. , Mauger P.
Published: December 2024

Manufacturers follow the Qualification of casings connections for thermal wells Protocol (ISO/TS 12835:2022(E)) to design and qualify casing threaded connections for geothermal applications. This standard considers Finite Element Analyses (FEA) to highlight the critical configurations. To better simulate connection behavior according to the ISO/TS 12835 protocol, an enhanced material law is required. This paper proposes an approach to characterize and model the material behavior of an API carbon steel (L80) for geothermal applications considering cyclic behavior, temperature dependance and stress relaxation. Simple strain driven cyclic tests at various temperatures including holding times were used to separate the cyclic hardening and the viscoplastic responses. This allowed to characterize the behavior of the material over the target range of temperatures, from 20°C to 450°C. A specific data treatment was used to properly estimate the creep strain rate as a function of the stress level allowing to formulate a creep law able to predict the stress relaxation which occurs during the holding times. Tensile tests were also performed to assess the static plasticity of the material.

Yield strength (YS) derating for L80 described a reduction of YS up to 18.1% at 350°C compared to YS at room temperature. The specific strain-controlled cyclic tests have displayed stress relaxation phases during each constant strain step which emphasize a creep behavior even at low temperature but with a very significant increase between 350°C and 450°C. It also shows a progressive softening of the material (reduction of the maximum stress with the number of cycles achieved) especially at room temperature. The material test results were used to create a material law in the commercial software ABAQUS®. The impact of this enhanced material law on the response of a threaded connector to the ISO/TS 12835 protocol highlights new potential structural and functional failure modes consistent with those reported on real cases in literature.
Real-Time and Cloud-Based Fiber Optic Well Monitoring, Part 1: Surface Casing Vent Flow
Authors: Izadi H. , Rampurawala M. , Andriianov A. , Wallis P. , Palmer G. , Keough D. , Melnychuk M. , Mirzavand R.
Published: December 2024

Real-Time monitoring surface casing vent flow (SCVF) and enhancing its efficiency through accurate disturbance profiling has traditionally relied dominantly on acoustic logging tools and data. However, with the rise of distributed sensing technology over the past decade, the use of distributed fiber optic sensing (DFOS) for quantitative disturbance profiling has gained significant traction. This technology allows for acquiring high-resolution acoustic data along the wellbore, offering detailed insights into the acoustic signatures linked to potential gas leaks. This work presents an integrated workflow for analyzing distributed acoustic signals, supported by two real world case studies. The application of distributed acoustic sensing (DAS) technology for gas leak detection has the potential to greatly improve the accuracy and reliability of well integrity monitoring.

The developed solution enhances our qualitative disturbance profiling software by providing a quantitative assessment of intervals more prone to gas leakage. During development, we utilized two supercomputers to efficiently process large-scale DAS data and apply multiple algorithms to extract key features related to gas leakage. To quantify the DAS responses, we created an algorithm that extracts frequency-domain information, enabling spectral analysis to compare DAS signals across different frequency ranges. By aggregating waterfall plots generated from raw phase data, we were able to identify potential gas leak zones.

Our solution was applied in a blind test to two abandoned wells with gas leakage, as identified by the operator's analysis. Potential gas leak intervals were detected in Well #1 and Well #2, all of which were subsequently confirmed by the operator. The integration of DFOS technologies represented a significant advancement in well monitoring and management, offering continuous, high-resolution data while addressing the limitations of traditional methods. The final version of the developed software is optimized for conventional computers. It can efficiently read HDF5 files, reduce the large DAS data size by a factor of 100, and provide real-time visualization. To enhance security, the analysis results are encrypted before being stored in the cloud, ensuring secure remote access for operators to monitor gas leaks and other well activities seamlessly.

The novelty of this work lies in the real-time, cloud-based monitoring of SCVF using DAS technology in oil and gas wells, offering quantitative insights into the monitoring process. Real-world case studies demonstrate substantial improvements in SCVF monitoring through the proposed approach. These advancements will enable the industry to improve decision-making strategies related to the integrity and management of abandoned wells.
Optimizing Ultra Heavy Oil Recovery by Enhancing Steam Injection Conformance Using Autonomous Outflow Control Devices
Authors: Moradi Mojtaba , Chanaga Arlen , Konopczynski Michael
Published: December 2024

Ultra-heavy oil recovery presents unique challenges due to the oil's high viscosity and the limitations of traditional steam injection methods, particularly in ensuring efficient steam distribution. Steam-Assisted Gravity Drainage (SAGD) is a widely used technique; however, its effectiveness is often reduced by uneven steam conformance and high steam-oil ratios (SOR). This research introduces a novel application of Autonomous Outflow Control Devices (AOCDs and OCDs) to address these challenges. Unlike conventional passive devices (OCDs), AOCDs dynamically adjust steam flow rates in real-time based on reservoir conditions, ensuring more uniform steam distribution and reducing heat loss.

Using advanced dynamic reservoir simulation and wellbore modeling software, this study evaluates the performance of AOCDs in improving steam injection conformance and enhancing oil recovery. The results show a 15% increase in oil recovery and a 10% reduction in SOR, demonstrating the effectiveness of AOCDs in optimizing thermal efficiency. These findings offer valuable insights for improving SAGD operations, providing a more sustainable and cost-effective solution for ultra-heavy oil reservoirs.
Metal concentration in ghost shrimp and contamination levels of sandy beaches contrasted with anthropogenic impacts in Southeast Brazil
Authors: José-Silva Juliano , Trevizani Tailisi H. , Almeida Alaor A. , Pinheiro Marcelo A. A.
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates the contrast in the concentration of seven metallic elements (As, Cd, Cr, Cu, Hg, Mn, and Pb) in tissues (G, gonads; H, hepatopancreas; and M, musculature) of the ghost shrimp Callichirus corruptus, as a response to sediment contamination in two sandy beaches in Southern Brazil with different anthropogenic status (JUR, Juréia; and STS, Santos). The biotic and abiotic samples were collected with a suction pump, and subjected to metal quantification by Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry technique. Statistical analyses were performed in R-Studio. In JUR, the sediment had Cr, Cu, and Mn concentrations two times lower when compared to STS (t ≤ 7.80; p ≤ 0.01), while STS had Hg concentrations between the Interim Sediment Quality Guideline (ISQG) and Probable Effect Level (PEL) parameters. Three metals (Cd, Cr, and Cu) presented concentrations above the Maximum Tolerated Limit indicated by the Brazilian Health Regulatory Agency (Anvisa), with prawn bioaccumulation up to eight times greater in STS than JUR (t ≥ 4.42; p ≤ 0.03). Therefore, this study confirms higher metal concentrations in the biotic and abiotic compartments of Santos, which has a high human population density and a significant industrial and port complex, in contrast to Juréia, which is located in an extremely preserved ecological station. Furthermore, the research presents novel information on trace elements in the sandy sediments of the studied sites. Additionally, it provides unprecedented evidence on metal concentration for C. corruptus, which can be used in monitoring programs for sandy beaches due to its metal bioaccumulation potential.
Does lauromacrogol 3% alone is effective in management of pelvic congestion syndrome through transcatheter ovarian vein embolization?
Authors: El-Mageed Mohamed Kamel Abd , El-khalek Shrief Ramadan Abd , Al-Kholy Mohamed Ramadan , Mohamed Mohamed Rashad , Elhemeily Mohammad Hicham
Published: December 2024

Background: Pelvic congestion syndrome (PCS) refers to non-cyclical, persistent pelvic pain that lasts longer than six months and is primarily felt by women during the childbearing years. Trans-catheter ovarian vein embolization is now thought to be the 1st line of therapy for pelvic congestion syndrome. The goal of this research was to evaluate the role of trans-catheter gonadal vein embolization in treatment of pelvic venous disorder in females having Symptomatic PCS. We chose the sclerosant foam (Lauromacrogol 3%) as an embolic material to assess its efficacy in management of PCS as the cost of other embolic materials including embolization plugs, coils and glue is very high to our populations in Egypt.
Methods: This prospective cohort research has been performed on fifty female cases (with mean age 30.7 years) with CPP persistent for over six months poorly responsive to medical treatment. All cases have been referred to the IR unit for gonadal veins embolization. We chose Sclerosant foam (Lauromacrogol 3%) as an embolic material then the patients underwent 6-month monitoring duration to evaluate the outcomes and recurrence rates using VAS and transvaginal ultrasound.
Results: VAS declined dramatically from 8.8±1.2 (mean +/- SD) pre-procedure to 1.8±1.4 (mean +/- SD) post-procedure (highly significant P value <0.001). The technical success rate of pelvic vein embolization was 100%; the clinical success has been determined by the TVUS, which demonstrated either complete resolution of the pelvic varices or static varices, and the VAS, which demonstrated a marked improvement.
Conclusions: The management of pelvic congestion syndrome through gonadal vein embolization using Sclerosant foam (Lauromacrogol 3%) is an effective and safe procedure with 100% technical success rate and dramatic improvement of pelvic pain and varices. Moreover it is a cost effective procedure.
MGSR:MSL - An Integrated Mathematical GeometricalSpatial Reasoning with Mizo Sign Language forAugmented Cognitive and Communicative Synergies
Authors: Ramsiej Barrister , V.D Ambeth Kumar , Kumar Kunal , Samikannu Ravi , Badruddin Irfan Anjum , Yahya Abid , Kamangar Sarfaraz , Shukur Mohamed Ghouse , D Ashok Kumar V , C Vanlalnunpuia
Published: December 2024

Sign language serves as a crucial means of communication for the deaf and mute community, facilitating their integration intosociety. There exist many sign languages in the world like ASL, ISL etc. in which much research have already been done. Thispaper represents the first effort to create a dataset for Mizo sign language, as no previous dataset exists for this low resourcelanguage. The work have been carried out by capturing hand gestures using high-quality camera Kinect V2. The differenthand gestures are captured on a different time periods such as morning, afternoon, evening and night time to capture therealistic scenarios faced by the deaf and dumb community. This dataset consists of 25 different sign alphabets with differenthand gestures for each alphabet in the Mizo languages. The original captured hand gestures in the dataset occupy a size of 3GB, the original data are resized to further enhance the computational time and better utilizes computational resources. Theresized data are then the fed through novel normalization technique to expand the dataset which results in a final dataset witha size of 10 GB. The uniqueness of our contribution lies in filling this gap by capturing and annotating sign language gesturesspecific to the Mizo language, which has not been documented in digital or structured formats before. This foundational step iscritical as it lays the groundwork for future research and development in sign language recognition for Mizo speakers.
Genome surveillance of SARS-CoV-2 variants in Wuhan in June 2023
Authors: Yan Yi , Pan Zhiyong , Mao Liangwei , Niu Peihua , Lu Fei , Li Yirong , Li Zhiqiang
Published: December 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic caused by SARS-CoV-2 has had a significant impact on global social and economic activities. The continuous emergence of new SARS-CoV-2 variants has made the global pandemic of COVID-19 difficult to predict. Therefore, it is of great significance to closely monitor the SARS-CoV-2 epidemic and understand the evolution and transmission characteristics of SARS-CoV-2. In this study, we reported 36 SARS-CoV-2 infected cases in Wuhan in June 2023. Genomic surveillance revealed that this outbreak was caused by Omicron XBB variants, among which FY.3 and its descendants FY.3.1 and FY.3.2 dominated, this trend was consistent with the prevalence of SARS-CoV-2 nationwide in June and July. Analysis of mutations within hosts and between populations suggested that the S and ORF8 genes undergone positive selective pressure, which may due to their important roles in host adaptation. These findings may provide insights into predicting the evolutionary direction of SARS-CoV-2 in terms of variant competition, developing multipart vaccines, and supporting the evaluation and adjustment of surveillance, prevention, and control strategies in the Wuhan region.
Evaluation of the Quality and Reliability of Turkish and English YouTube Video Contents on Gingival Recession Treatment
Authors: Yelbay Murtaza , Karacaoglu Fatma , Kurumlu Meriç
Published: December 2024

Background
The aim of this study is to evaluate the quality and reliability of Turkish and English YouTube video contents regarding the treatment of gingival recession.
Material Methods:
The terms "gingival recession treatment", "receding gum treatment", and "gingival recession surgery" were searched on the YouTube video platform using Turkish and English. 42 Turkish and 67 English videos that met the inclusion criteria were evaluated. Video title, origin, content type, duration, upload date, number of views, number of likes/dislikes, viewing rate and interaction index of the videos were recorded. The Global Quality Scale (GQS) and the DISCERN tool were used to evaluate the quality and reliability of the videos.
Results
In the study, the reliability scores of Turkish and English videos were found to be 2 and 3, respectively, according to DISCERN criteria. Both the content evaluation score and reliability scores of Turkish videos were found to be lower than those of English videos. The majority of Turkish videos were scored as GQS 1, while the majority of English videos were scored as GQS 2. 97% of both Turkish and English videos had low quality content.
Conclusion
In this study, we found that 97% of the evaluated videos had low quality content. In order to prevent the spread of misinformation and to ensure that patients can access accurate information, it would be beneficial for educational institutions and specialist to prepare interesting videos with comprehensive content that are easy to understand for patients and share them on internet platforms such as YouTube.
Significant Microvascular Abnormalities Are Present in Autonomic Dysfunction: Results of a Prospective Study
Authors: Mumtaz Sehreen , Arca Karissa , Majithia Vikas , Cheshire William , Hodge David , Berianu Florentina
Published: December 2024

Purpose
The prevalence and phenotype of capillaroscopic abnormalities in patients with autonomic nervous system dysfunction has not been investigated. Multiorgan involvement in dysautonomia entails abnormal vasoreactivity. We aim to corelate the diagnosis of autonomic dysfunction with certain clinical manifestations that may provide prognostic or diagnostic information using a noninvasive technique: nailfold video capillaroscopy (NVC).
Methods
Patients with autonomic nervous system dysfunction were recruited from rheumatology and neurology clinic with voluntary NVC procedure from 1/31/24 to 10/1/24 and a comparison with normal controls was done. Additional information recorded includes demographics, diagnosis of type of autonomic dysfunction with autonomic testing including but not limited to reflex screen, sweat test, Valsalva maneuver, nerve fiber density, electromyography (EMG), serology, history of autoimmune disease. NVC was performed on a total of 27 patients. The study was approved by the Mayo Clinic Institutional Review Board.
Results
Autonomic dysfunction group consisted of small fiber neuropathy (37%), orthostatic hypotension (48%), autonomic neuropathy (30%), limited autonomic neuropathy (7%), POTS (7%) and connective tissue disease (7%) amongst other types. Patient with autonomic dysfunction had statistically significant increased microhemorrhages, dilated capillaries and ramifications compared to controls. There was statistically significant correlation of age with capillary ramifications and BMI with capillary density and dilated capillaries.
Conclusion
Autonomic dysfunction was associated with statistically significant microvascular abnormalities compared to normal controls with a distinct NVC pattern. There was statistically significant correlation of age and BMI with microvascular abnormalities. We demonstrate diagnostic potential of NVC in autonomic dysfunction and advocate for further study of capillary structure in autonomic dysfunction.
Serum total cholesterol serves as an independent risk factor for the progression of disease in idiopathic membranous nephropathy.
Authors: Chang Nan , Wang Yue , Bai Xueli , Chu Fulu , Si Yuanquan , Shen Yajuan
Published: December 2024

Background
This study sought to uncover potential risk factors linked to disease development by analyzing the medical and renal histology features of individuals with idiopathic membranous nephropathy associated with nephrotic syndrome.
Methods
Our retrospective research involved 373 patients who met the specified inclusion criteria and had a kidney biopsy diagnosis between January 2016 and August 2023. The crowds recorded the clinical and pathological characteristics at baseline and assessed the outcomes during the follow-up period. Researchers used a binary logistic regression analysis to identify the risk factors associated with disease progression in individuals with membranous nephropathy. We categorized the patients into two distinct groups: those with progressing renal disease and those without.
Results
Thirty-six (9.65%) people experienced nephropathy progression following an average follow-up period of 15 (inter-quartile range 9,24) months. Serum total cholesterol levels had a substantial negative connection with albumin, as evidenced by Spearman's rho = -0.39 (p < 0.001). The ROC curve for serum total cholesterol indicated a sensitivity of 69.4% and a specificity of 76.9% in predicting nephropathy development. The area beneath the curve was 0.789 (p < 0.001, 95% CI: 0.725–0.852). Logistic multivariate analysis revealed that total cholesterol levels in the blood (OR = 1.554, 95% CI: 1.294–1.861, p < 0.001) constitute an independent risk factor for nephropathy development.
Conclusion
In patients with membranous nephropathy and nephrotic syndrome, serum total cholesterol levels act as a separate danger indicator for disease advancement.
Application of magnetic resonance imaging parameters of knee joints in the diagnosis of lateral patellar compression syndrome
Authors: Zhu Yupeng , Shi Weili , Xu Jun , Wang Qizheng , Zeng Shan , Zhu Songyue , Zhang Songlin , Yang Yuping , Lang Ning
Published: December 2024

Background
Lateral patellofemoral compression syndrome (LPCS) is a condition characterized by increased lateral patellofemoral joint pressure caused by long-standing lateral patella tilt, adaptive lateral retinaculum tightening, and an imbalance in stress between the lateral and medial femoral condyles. Diagnosis of LPCS is challenging because of its complex and diverse etiology and pain mechanisms, thus we lack objective diagnostic criteria.
Purpose
This study aimed to explore the feasibility of various structural measurement parameters of MRI of the knee to diagnose LPCS and to identify new MRI diagnostic indicators to as references and guidance for LPCS clinical diagnosis.
Methods
This study enrolled 168 patients, who were divided into three groups: The LPCS group, the simple osteoarthritis (SO) group, and the normal control group (n = 56 participants per group). Diagnosis of all patients was carried out at the Department of Sports Medicine, Peking University Third Hospital. A standardized MR scanning protocol was used, including sagittal and coronal fat-suppressed proton density-weighted imaging and sagittal T1-weighted imaging. Two radiologists used the picture archiving and communication system to analyze the MR images and measure the patellarpatellar tibial angle (P-PTA), the quadriceps-patellar angle (Q-PA), the patellar length (LP), the patellar tendon length (LT), the LP/LT ratio, and the Insall-Salvati ratio (ISR).
Results
The LPCS group had significantly lower P-PTA and LP values, but higher LT and ISR values, compared with those in the normal and SO groups (all P < 0.05). Compared with that in the normal group, the LPCS groups' Q-PA value was higher (P = 0.034). According to receiver operating characteristic analysis, the optimal cut-off values for PPTA, LP, LP/LT, and ISR were 146.45°, 41.10mm, 0.85, and 1.19, with sensitivities and specificities of 67.86%/59.82%, 78.57%/55.36%, 67.86%/58.93%, and 66.07%/60.71%, respectively.
Conclusion
Measurement parameters of MRI, particularly P-PTA and ISR, can serve as important tools to assist in the diagnosis of LPCS. Assessment of these parameters should be included in the clinical diagnostic process for LPCS to improve diagnostic accuracy.
Persistence of fluoxetine, escitalopram, and sertraline for depression in children and adolescents: a nationwide population-based study in South Korea
Authors: Lee Dong Yun , Cha SangHun , Park Rae-Wong , Jeon Soo Min
Published: December 2024

Background
This study aimed to evaluate persistence and treatment changes of three widely used selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors (SSRIs)—fluoxetine, escitalopram, and sertraline—in children and adolescents with depression.
Methods
We conducted a nationwide population-based retrospective cohort study using the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service database of South Korea (2007–2019). Children and adolescents aged 5–19 years who were newly prescribed fluoxetine, escitalopram, or sertraline for depression between 2009 and 2018 were enrolled. Over a one-year follow-up period, we estimated treatment persistence and examined four treatment changes: simple discontinuation, switching, augmentation, and initiation of antipsychotics. Adjusted hazard ratios and 95% confidence intervals were estimated using Cox proportional hazards models, adjusting potential confounders.
Results
Only approximately 3% of patients remained on their SSRI after one year. Most treatment changes occurred through simple discontinuation, followed by switching, initiation of antipsychotics, and augmentation. Fluoxetine had the lowest risk of treatment change, with the lower risk of augmentation and initiation of antipsychotics compared to escitalopram and sertraline. In contrast, escitalopram had lower switching rates, while sertraline was associated with a lower risk of simple discontinuation. Sociodemographic factors and comorbidities significantly influenced treatment changes.
Conclusions
While each SSRI exhibited distinct patterns in treatment changes, none consistently outperformed the others, underscoring the importance of individualized SSRI selection based on patient-specific factors. These findings highlight the need for tailored treatment approaches when selecting SSRIs for pediatric and adolescent patients with depression.
What went wrong?: Patient reasons for nonattendance at women’s health physiotherapy
Authors: Reed Phil , Carter Elizaeth , Davis Emily , Javaid Aemaan , Lewis Hannalee , Whittell Catherine M. , Emery Simon , Osborne Lisa A.
Published: December 2024

Nonattendance at women’s health physiotherapy sessions involves considerable cost in time and resources. Uncovering factors associated with nonattendance is one priority, and the current research aimed to enhance understanding of this issue. In each of two studies, women referred for women’s health physiotherapy were interviewed. Study 1 (N = 80) compared patients who did and did not attend their appointment, and Study 2 (N = 61) compared reasons for nonattendance given by women with pelvic-floor muscle dysfunction and pelvic girdle pain. The results corroborated several key issues associated with nonattendance noted in previous reports, such as problems in the administration of appointments. Results further suggested attention to the information given by healthcare professionals at the time of referral may help remove some barriers to attendance. The issue of transport to appointments was raised, and developing links to affordable and reliable systems is critical, including development of dedicated transport systems. Finally, the psychological of patients who do not attend appeared to differ and addressing these issues could form part of their treatment. Although each recommendation does involve cost, the savings from reduction in nonattendance may well far outweigh any initial costs of set up.
Factors Influencing the Treatment Outcomes of Patients Undergoing Urethroplasty for Urethral Stricture at Muhimbili National Hospital
Authors: Mtafu Naomi Herbert , Mtaturu Gabriel Francis , Muhsin Aboud , Alexandre Amini Mitamo , Mhaya Joachim Kulwa , Mwanga Ally Hamis , Nyongole Obadia Venance , Mkony Charles A.
Published: December 2024

Background: Urethral stricture disease poses a substantial challenge in Sub-Saharan Africa, where the prevalence is notably high. This condition predominantly impacts men, and the underlying causes in the region are diverse and varied. There is a significant research gap in understanding the patient-related factors that contribute to the outcomes of urethroplasty for urethral strictures at Muhimbili National Hospital.
Objectives: To determine the factors influencing treatment outcomes among patients undergoing urethroplasty for urethral stricture at Muhimbili National Hospital.
Methodology: This cross-sectional analytical study was carried out at Muhimbili National Hospital. Through convenient sampling, data from the hospital’s patient database, specifically from patients aged 10 years and above, were extracted using a structured abstraction form. Patient information, clinical findings, treatment offered and treatment outcomes were collected. The collected data were analyzed using SPSS 23.
Results: This study examined 126 patients with urethral stricture who underwent urethroplasty at MNH between January 2020 and December 2022. The mean age was 51 years, with the bulbar urethra being the most common stricture site (54%) and trauma the leading cause (44.4%). The success rate of urethroplasty was 85.7%, with a 15.9% complication rate. Early complications included surgical site infections (54.5%), painful scrotum (36.4%), and wound dehiscence (9.1%). Late complications predominantly consisted of irritative lower urinary tract symptoms (83.3%), stress incontinence (5.6%), and erectile dysfunction (11.1%). Younger patients (<60 years) and those with infectious etiologies had significantly higher success rates. The type of stricture, length of stricture, surgical approach, and catheter type did not significantly impact outcomes.
Conclusion: Urethroplasty had a high success rate of 85.7%, particularly in younger patients and those with infectious etiologies. Trauma was identified as the most common cause of urethral strictures, primarily affecting the bulbar urethra. Postoperative complications, both early and late, were observed, indicating the need for careful postoperative monitoring. Factors such as stricture level, length, surgical approach, and catheter type did not significantly impact the success of urethroplasty.
The Impact of Perioperative Aspirin Utilization on Postoperative Hemorrhagic Complications in Idiopathic Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus: A Single-Center Retrospective Analysis
Authors: İsikay Ahmet İlkay , Cekic Efecan , Charehsaz Amin , Uyaniker Zeynep Arzum , Cakmaklı Gul Yalcın , Gocmen Rahsen , Hanalioglu Sahin , Elibol Bulent
Published: December 2024

Background and Objectives Idiopathic normal pressure hydrocephalus (iNPH) is a neurodegenerative condition predominantly affecting the elderly population, for which ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunt surgery is the standard treatment. Many iNPH patients need aspirin (ASA) treatment to prevent thromboembolic events since they have significant cardiovascular risks. Stopping ASA raises the chance of these side effects. The effect of perioperative ASA administration on hemorrhagic complications in iNPH patients having VP shunt surgery is investigated in this work. Methods Patients who underwent VP shunt surgery for iNPH between January 2020 and September 2024 comprised this retrospective cohort research. Two groups, no ASA (n = 50) and ASA continuous (n = 51), were formed from patients depending on their usage of perioperative ASA. Among the data gathered were demographics, surgical specifics, ASA dosage, and ASA use indications. The main results were occurrences of early and late postoperative bleeding. MRI or CT scans were part of postoperative follow-up at regular intervals—mean ≈ one year. SPSS version 23.0 was used for statistical analyses, including Chi-square tests and independent samples t-tests, and Mann-Whitney U tests were used to examine group variances. Results The study cohort had 101 patients with a mean age of 69.5 ± 7.6 years, 41.6% female and 58.4% male. Early postoperative hemorrhage occurred in 5% of patients, including epidural (1), intraparenchymal(3), and intraventricular hematoma(1). Late postoperative hemorrhages occurred in 4% of patients ( 4 patients in the no-ASA group), with two cases each of unilateral and bilateral subdural hematoma. No significant differences in hemorrhagic outcomes were observed between the ASA continuation and non-use groups (p = 0.092). The mean follow-up period was 300 days. One patient died in the non-ASA group due to neurodegenerative disease. Conclusion These findings, specific to our patient cohort, suggest that continuing ASA in iNPH patients undergoing VP shunt surgery does not significantly increase the risk of perioperative hemorrhagic complications, which may have implications for perioperative antiplatelet management in similar patient populations. This is a particularly important issue for patients with high cardiovascular risk.
The Fate of The Jailed Branch: Challenging the Dogma of PDA Stenting in Cases with Pulmonary Artery Branch Originating from PDA
Authors: Ng'eno Mercy , Gordon Brent M. , Rao Rohit , Ryan Justin R. , Haley Jessica , Ganta Srujan , Nigro John , El-Said Howaida
Published: December 2024

Background
Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) stenting is evolving as the preferred method for establishing stable pulmonary blood flow in cyanotic infants, offering lower mortality, faster recovery, and shorter hospital stays. However, stenting may lead to branch pulmonary artery (BPA) jailing, potentially restricting blood flow to the jailed branch. This study analyzes patient characteristics, cardiovascular anatomy, stenting techniques, and outcomes involving BPA jailing where the BPA originates from the PDA, with a focus on the growth of the jailed BPA.
Methods
A retrospective review was conducted of infants with duct-dependent pulmonary blood flow who underwent PDA stenting at Rady Children’s Hospital San Diego from 2013 to 2024.
Results
Of 70 infants, 22 (31%) experienced BPA jailing due to the BPA originating from the PDA. The median age and weight at stenting were 9.5 days and 3275g, with PDA as the sole source of pulmonary blood flow in 72% of cases. PDA type III was the most prevalent (77%). The jailed BPA showed significant distal growth (mean Nakata index increase of 117.35 mm²/m², p = 0.0001), with symmetry maintained. Re-intervention for hypoxia was required in 55% of cases and involved procedures such as ballooning, re-stenting, and strut dilation. There were no 30-day mortalities (2 late deaths occurred). Progression to Glenn palliation occurred in 12 patients, 5 had a definitive repair, 1 underwent left pulmonary artery plasty and a BT shunt and 2 await repair.
Conclusion
PDA stenting in infants with a BPA originating from the PDA is feasible with notable distal BPA growth despite frequent re-interventions. Patients maintained pulmonary artery symmetry with excellent survival.
A healthy live birth after preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements and Bionano revealed exceptionally complex chromosome rearrangements.
Authors: Han Chanlin , Meng Xia , Xu Huiling , Zhang Han , Li Shifen , Li Xuemei
Published: December 2024

Background
Complex chromosome rearrangements (CCRs) are extremely rare in the general population, and it is hard to get a healthy delivery in these cases. A recent paper in Scientific Reports reported that 3.6% (45/1,264) of BCR carriers had cryptic complex chromosome rearrangements (CCCRs), and the transferable embryo rate was 7.5% when the CCCR involved three chromosomes [1].
Case presentation
A couple of patients were diagnosed with recurrent spontaneous abortion (RSA) and were admitted to our department because of chromosomal abnormalities. We identified the man’s complex chromosome rearrangement (CCR) via preimplantation genetic testing for structural rearrangements (PGT-SRs) and Bionano. In addition to reciprocal translocation, we recognized the insertion in the man’s chromosome after two cycles of PGT-SR. The results Bionano revealed that the CCR of the man involved (i) an insertion between chromosomes 2 and 3, (ii) an intrachromosomal insertion of the q25.31q26.32 band on chromosome 3 into the p12.3 band on the same chromosome, and (ii) reciprocal translocation between chromosomes 3 and 6. In the second PGT-SR cycle, two embryos were detected as euploid. One of the euploid embryos was transferred, and amniocentesis was performed. The results revealed that the karyotype of the fetus was 46, XN, t(3;6)(q26.2;q21)pat. A phenotypically normal baby was born.
Conclusion
CCRs are rare, and some CCRs cannot be identified via traditional cytogenetic methods. Bionano is the latest and most advanced technology that can detect unrevealed chromosomal abnormalities. Combined with the PGT-SR, it is beneficial for infertile patients with CCR. This case stresses the point of relevance and feasibility of the PGT-SR procedure in cases of complicated CCRs.
A Novel Method to Define Personalized Post-orthodontic Treatment Dental Arch Form
Authors: Su Yingying , Zhang Jiachao , Ma Hanyan , Zheng Xu
Published: December 2024

Background
The dental arch is a fundamental aspect of orthodontic treatment and has considerable implications in planning and therapy. Since arch forms differ (e.g. tapered, ovoid, square), determination of posttreatment arch form should take each patient’s dental arch features into account. This study aims to develop a method to predict optimal post-orthodontic treatment dental arch form.
Methods
Mandibular dental casts of 55 patients who underwent non-extraction treatment and presented with functional occlusion according to functional occlusion criteria were selected. The casts were scanned and digitalized, 18 landmarks were collected and the spatial coordinates were utilized to compute tooth size and intermolar width. Several mathematical functions were then used to ensure a best-fitting mandibular arch form, including beta function, polynomial equations and polynomial combined with circle equations.
Results
After applying several mathematical functions, we developed a mixed model made of two simple geometrical curves. The anterior segment of the dental arch was fitted with a circle and the posterior segment with a quartic curve; both could be calculated simply using tooth size.
Conclusions
The present study presents a new approach to determine an individualized post-orthodontic treatment dental arch form, using the combined width of the lower teeth. The proposed method offers a simple and practical solution that can be easily implemented in clinical practice. These findings hold great promise for digital personalized treatment and the development of customized orthodontic appliances.