bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Antral membrane balloon technique versus Densah bur in crestal sinus lift with simultaneous implant placement: a randomized clinical trial
Authors: Alajami Mohamed Mahmoud , Elsheikh Heba Abo-Elfetouh , Abo El-Farag Shaimaa Ahmed , Mansour Noha Ahmed
Published: August 2024

Background

The posterior maxilla presents challenges for implant insertion because of the poor bone quality as well as the loss of vertical bone height. Indirect transcrestal sinus lift techniques are advised when a few millimeters of additional height are needed. This study aimed to evaluate the clinical and radiographic outcomes of antral membrane balloon technique versus Densah burs for transcrestal maxillary sinus lifting with simultaneous implant placement.

Materials and methods

This randomized clinical trial was conducted on 22 patients received 32 dental implants for replacement of missed maxillary posterior teeth after crestal maxillary sinus lifting. The patients were randomly divided into two groups. Group 1, patients underwent crestal sinus floor elevation with simultaneous implant placement using antral membrane balloon technique. Group 2, patients underwent crestal sinus floor elevation with simultaneous implant placement using Densah burs. Patients were evaluated clinically and radiographically using cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) at regular time intervals immediately, 6 months and 12 months after surgery. All clinical and radiographic parameters were statistically analyzed.

Results

All dental implants were successful for 12 months of follow up. Regarding implant primary stability, there was a statistical significant difference between the study groups in favor of Densah group (P = 0.004), while there was no significant difference after 6 months (P = 0.07). Radiographically, balloon group showed a statistically significant immediate postoperative vertical bone height (P < 0.0001), and significant reduction in vertical bone height after 6 months (P < 0.0001). Densah group showed significant increase in bone density (P ≤ 0.05).

Conclusion

Both techniques demonstrated successful clinical and radiographic outcomes for crestal sinus lift. The antral membrane balloon group demonstrated better immediate postoperative vertical bone gain, while Densah burs had higher implant primary stability and bone density.

Trial registration

This study was registered in Clinical-Trials.gov PRS (https://register.clinicaltrials.gov) under identification number NCT05922592 on 28/06/2023.
The effect of two different contemporary chelating agents on vital pulp therapy in mature permanent teeth with irreversible pulpitis using bioceramic material: randomized clinical trial
Authors: Sobh Yasmin Tawfik Mohamed , Ahmed Mona Rizk Aboelwafa
Published: August 2024

Background

Vital pulp therapy maintained functionality, vitality, and asymptomatic teeth. Compared to normal root canal treatment, pulpotomy was more helpful for irreversible pulpitis in adult permanent teeth. The research was aimed to assess effectiveness of vital pulp therapy using mineral trioxide aggregate with Apple Vinegar and Ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (17%) for five minutes in adult carious exposed pulp of permanent teeth.

Methods

Forty patients between 18 and 50 years old with a clinical diagnosis of symptomatic irreversible pulpitis but no periapical radiolucency were then divided randomly into two groups based on the irrigation method; ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid or apple vinegar. If pulpal bleeding could not be managed in less than six minutes, the assigned procedure was abandoned. After mineral trioxide aggregate application as a pulpotomy agent, glass ionomer and composite restoration were placed. Using a visual analogue scale, the pre and post-operative pain were recorded after 2,6,24,48, and 72 h. Success was assessed using radiographic and clinical examination data at three, six, and twelve months.

Results

The success rate was discovered to be non-statistically significant in both groups after a year follow-up. Apple vinegar had a lower mean value than ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid at the preoperative baseline pain level, which was significant.Postoperatively, the ethylene diamine tetraacetic acid group reported the greatest mean value after two hours while Apple vinegar group reported the lowest mean values after 48 h (P < 0.05). After 72 h, pain level recorded insignificant difference.

Conclusion

Apple vinegar yielded a marginally successful outcome but substantially improved pain alleviation.

Trial registration

The trial was registered in Clinical trials.gov with this identifier NCT05970536 on 23/7/2023.
Evidence for motivational interviewing in educational settings among medical schools: a scoping review
Authors: Lei Leonard Yik Chuan , Chew Keng Sheng , Chai Chee Shee , Chen Yoke Yong
Published: August 2024

Background

Motivational interviewing (MI) is a person-centred approach focused on empowering and motivating individuals for behavioural change. Medical students can utilize MI in patient education to engage with patients’ chronic health ailments and maladaptive behaviours. A current scoping review was conducted to 1) determine the types of MI (conventional, adapted, brief and group MI) education programs in medical schools, delivery modalities and teaching methods used; 2) classify educational outcomes on the basis of Kirkpatrick’s hierarchy; and 3) determine the key elements of MI education via the FRAMES (feedback, responsibility, advice, menu of options, empathy, self-efficacy) model.

Methods

This scoping review was conducted via the framework outlined by Arksey and O’Malley. Two online databases, CINAHL and MEDLINE Complete, were searched to identify MI interventions in medical education. Further articles were selected from bibliography lists and the Google Scholar search engine.

Results

From an initial yield of 2019 articles, 19 articles were included. First, there appears to be a bimodal distribution of most articles published between the two time periods of 2004--2008 and 2019--2023. Second, all the studies included in this review did not use conventional MI but instead utilized a variety of MI adaptation techniques. Third, most studies used face-to-face training in MI, whereas only one study used online delivery. Fourth, most studies have used a variety of interactive experiences to teach MI. Next, all studies reported outcomes at Kirkpatrick’s Level 2, but only 4 studies reported outcomes at Kirkpatrick’s Level 3. According to the FRAMES model, all studies (n=19; 100%) reported the elements of responsibility and advice. The element that was reported the least was self-efficacy (n = 12; 63.1%).

Conclusion

Our findings suggest that motivational interviewing can be taught effectively in medical schools via adaptations to MI and a variety of teaching approaches. However, there is a need for further research investigating standardized MI training across medical schools, the adequate dose for training in MI and the implementation of reflective practices. Future studies may benefit from exploring and better understanding the relationship between MI and self-efficacy in their MI interventions.
Perspectives on the comparative benefits of body-powered and myoelectric upper limb prostheses
Authors: Engdahl Susannah M. , Gonzalez Michael A. , Lee Christina , Gates Deanna H.
Published: August 2024

Background

Patient access to body-powered and myoelectric upper limb prostheses in the United States is often restricted by a healthcare system that prioritizes prosthesis prescription based on cost and perceived value. Although this system operates on an underlying assumption that design differences between these prostheses leads to relative advantages and disadvantages of each device, there is limited empirical evidence to support this view.

Main text

This commentary article will review a series of studies conducted by our research team with the goal of differentiating how prosthesis design might impact user performance on a variety of interrelated domains. Our central hypothesis is that the design and actuation method of body-powered and myoelectric prostheses might affect users’ ability to access sensory feedback and account for device properties when planning movements. Accordingly, other domains that depend on these abilities may also be affected. While our work demonstrated some differences in availability of sensory feedback based on prosthesis design, this did not result in consistent differences in prosthesis embodiment, movement accuracy, movement quality, and overall kinematic patterns.

Conclusion

Collectively, our findings suggest that performance may not necessarily depend on prosthesis design, allowing users to be successful with either device type depending on the circumstances. Prescription practices should rely more on individual needs and preferences than cost or prosthesis design. However, we acknowledge that there remains a dearth of evidence to inform decision-making and that an expanded research focus in this area will be beneficial.
Swyer–James–Macleod syndrome mimicking pulmonary embolism in adults: a case report
Authors: Lema Girma Deshimo , Melaku Ermiyas Endewunet , Tekle Haile Abebe , Aydagnuhm Getachew Bizuneh , Gebeyaw Enguday Demeke
Published: August 2024

Background

Swyer–James–MacLeod syndrome (SJMS) is a rare lung condition characterized by a unilateral lung hyperlucency and reduction in the pulmonary vasculature, with or without the presence of bronchiectasis. In the 1950s, Swyer, James, and Macleod simultaneously characterized the syndrome for the first time. It is typically diagnosed in childhood. Adult-onset cases are extremely rare, with little literature available on its clinical presentation and diagnostic challenges. Swyer–James–MacLeod syndrome can mimic other lung disorders, resulting in misdiagnosis and improper treatment.

Case presentation

A 49- year-old woman from Debre Berhan, Ethiopia, presented to the emergency department of Hakim Gizaw Teaching Hospital with symptoms and radiographic findings mimicking acute pulmonary embolism. On the basis of the clinical presentation and radiographic findings, the patient was first treated as a probable case of pulmonary embolism. Anticoagulant therapy and oxygen support were initiated. Nevertheless, additional testing using a chest computed tomography angiography revealed left lung hyperlucency, decreased vascularity, bronchiectasis, and a negative result for pulmonary embolism. As a result, Swyer–James–MacLeod syndrome was diagnosed.

Conclusion

The symptoms of Swyer–James–MacLeod syndrome can be mistaken for pulmonary embolism, which could lead to ineffective treatment and needless expenses. In individuals presenting with symptoms suggestive of pulmonary embolism, this case emphasizes the significance of considering Swyer–James–MacLeod syndrome as a differential diagnosis, especially in the absence of established risk factors for pulmonary embolism.
Enhancing analyst decisions for seismic source discrimination with an optimized learning model
Authors: Abdalzaher Mohamed S. , Moustafa Sayed S. R. , Farid W. , Salim Mahmoud M.
Published: August 2024

Sustainable development in urban areas requires a wide variety of current and theme-based information for efficient management and planning. In addition, researching the spatial distribution of earthquake (EQ) clusters is an important step in reducing seismic risks and EQ losses through better assessment of seismic hazards, therefore it is desirable to acquire an uncontaminated database of seismic activity. Quarry blasts (QBs) conducted over the mapped area have tainted the seismicity inventory in the northwestern region of Egypt, which is the focus of this paper. Separating these QBs from the EQs is hence preferable for accurate seismicity and risk assessments. Consequently, we present a highly effective ML model for cleaning up the seismicity database, allowing for the accurate delineation of EQ clusters using data from a single seismic station, “AYT”, which is part of the Egyptian National Seismic Network. The magnitudes $$\le 3$$

≤
3

that are very uncertain as EQs or QBs and need a significant amount of time to analyze are the primary focus of the model. In order to find the best way to classify EQs and QBs, the method looks at a number of ML models before settling on the best one using eight features. The results show that the suggested method, which uses the quadratic discrimination analysis model for discriminating, successfully separates EQs and QBs with a 99.4% success rate.
Predictive digital twin for wind energy systems: a literature review
Authors: Kandemir Ege , Hasan Agus , Kvamsdal Trond , Abdel-Afou Alaliyat Saleh
Published: August 2024

In recent years, there has been growing interest in digital twin technology in both industry and academia. This versatile technology has found applications across various industries. Wind energy systems are particularly suitable for digital twin platforms due to the integration of multiple subsystems. This study aims to explore the current state of predictive digital twin platforms for wind energy systems by surveying literature from the past five years, identifying challenges and limitations, and addressing future research opportunities. This review is structured around four main research questions. It examines commonly employed methodologies, including physics-based modeling, data-driven approaches, and hybrid modeling. Additionally, it explores the integration of data from various sources such as IoT sensors, historical databases, and external application programming interfaces. The review also delves into key features and technologies behind real-time systems, including communication networks, edge computing, and cloud computing. Finally, it addresses current challenges in predictive digital twin platforms. Addressing these research questions enables the development of hybrid modeling strategies with data fusion algorithms, which allow for interpretable predictive digital twin platforms in real time. Filter methods with dimensionality reduction algorithms minimize the computational resource demand in real-time operating algorithms. Moreover, advancements in high-bandwidth communication networks facilitate efficient data transmission between physical assets and digital twins with reduced latency.
An analysis of prescribing data in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder for adolescents and adults in Scotland
Authors: Radley Andrew , Melia Barry , Maciver Donald , Rutherford Marion , Boilson Marie
Published: August 2024

Background

Medication, combined with environmental and psychosocial support, can mitigate adverse outcomes in attention-deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). There is a need for research into regional and national prescription volumes and patterns, especially among adults.

Aims

This study analysed prescribing patterns for medications commonly used to treat ADHD in adolescents and adults.

Method

Data was extracted from the NHS Scotland Prescribing Information System on prescriptions for 7806 adolescents (aged 10–19 years) and 4998 adults (aged 20–59 years) in 2019. This included medications listed under Section 4.4 of the British National Formulary. We explored 2019 prescription patterns across different regions and estimated ADHD prevalence levels. Additionally, we assessed changes in dispensed prescriptions, defined daily dose and costs, compared with figures from 2010.

Results

Between 2010 and 2019, prescriptions for ADHD medications increased (dispensed prescriptions +233.2%, defined daily dose +234.9%, cost +216.6%). Despite these increases, analysis indicated that in 2019, considering a 5% estimated ADHD prevalence among adolescents, 73% were not prescribed medication, increasing to 81% at a 7% estimated prevalence. Similarly, among adults with a 2% estimated prevalence, 91% were not prescribed medication, rising to 96% at a 4% estimated prevalence. Regional disparities were evident, with 41–96% of adolescents and 85–100% of adults, based on ADHD prevalence estimates, not receiving a prescription, depending on area.

Conclusions

Although prescription rates for ADHD medication have increased over time, the data do not indicate excessive use of medication. Instead, they suggest that for some groups there is a lower use of medication compared with expected prevalence figures, especially among adults.
Reply to A. Mathew et al
Authors: Sehrawat Amit , Khanna Mridul , Kayal Smita , Ganesan Prasanth
Published: August 2024

Gender disparities in young-onset CRC highlight health care access barriers in LMICs & changing global incidence trends. Increased awareness is crucial. #JCOGO @JCOGO_ASCO.
Factors Associated With Survival Among Patients With Multiple Myeloma in Northeastern Tanzania
Authors: Raza Faryal M. , Mkwizu Elifuraha W. , Leak Steven A. , Sadiq Abid M. , Lyamuya Furaha S. , Chamba Nyasatu G. , Kilonzo Kajiru G. , Shao Elichilia R. , Ahmed Eijaaz A. , Ndale Eliasa K. , Costantine Andrew R. , Kamabu Eugenie M. , Eliah Doreen T. , Nziku Eliada B. , Henke Oliver
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

This study sought to delineate the clinical, laboratory, and imaging characteristics during multiple myeloma (MM) diagnosis, outline the treatment modalities administered, and ascertain the survival rates among patients with MM over a comprehensive 5-year span in Tanzania.

METHODS

This retrospective cohort study investigated patients diagnosed with MM at the Cancer Care Clinic, Kilimanjaro Christian Medical Centre, between January 2017 and June 2022. Demographic data, clinical profiles, and survival outcomes were collected. The study employed the Kaplan-Meier method to determine overall survival (OS) and survival rates, supported by univariate analysis and a multivariate Cox regression model with significance of P < .05.

RESULTS

In this study of 76 patients with MM, bone pain was the most common complaint (76.3%), and patients were age typically older than 50 years (82.5%). Laboratory tests showed frequent abnormalities, such as anemia (51.3%) and hypercalcemia (23.9%). Most patients were at stage III according to Durie Salmon Staging (82.7%), with imaging revealing various bone abnormalities. The median OS was 18.0 months, with 46.1% of patients passing away during the study period. Factors linked to shorter survival included anemia, renal failure, and bone involvement. Infection was the primary cause of death among these patients. The presenting complaint of bone pain significantly affected survival outcomes.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a comprehensive understanding of MM within the Sub-Saharan African context, highlighting age-related disparities in diagnosis, predominant presenting symptoms like bone pain, factors contributing to delayed diagnoses, and the impact on survival rates. The findings underscore the critical need for early recognition, improved diagnostics, and tailored interventions to enhance outcomes for patients with MM in this region.
Quality of Life Gain Following Treatment Among Breast Cancer Survivors With and Without HIV
Authors: Dykstra Michael P. , Sadigh Katrin S. , Nkele Isaac , Bvochora-Nsingo Memory , Martei Yehoda M. , Wester James , Manyake Kutlo , Efstathiou Jason A. , Vuylsteke Peter , Tapela Neo M. , Dryden-Peterson Scott
Published: August 2024

PURPOSE

Women living with HIV (WLWH) experience decreased breast cancer survival. We sought to determine whether WLWH surviving breast cancer also experienced different quality of life (QOL) gain.

METHODS

Women who enrolled in the Thabatse Cancer Cohort across oncology centers in Botswana for the initial treatment of stage I-III breast cancer from October 2010 to February 2022 were included. Exclusion criteria were no documented definitive therapy and incomplete data at treatment end or 24 ± 3 months after treatment. QOL was measured quarterly using the SF-8 questionnaire. G methods using weighted exposure and outcome modules were used to mitigate potential bias from imbalances in demographic and cancer characteristics by HIV status. Primary analysis was change in physical component summary (PCS) and mental component summary (MCS) from treatment end to 24 months after treatment for WLWH compared with women without HIV.

RESULTS

Of 603 women enrolled, the final analysis included 298, comprising 85 WLWH and 213 women without HIV. Most common reasons for exclusion were no documented definitive treatment (n = 114) and death before 21 months after treatment (n = 137). WLWH were younger, were less wealthy, and had more estrogen receptor/progesterone receptor positive tumors. Overall, PCS and MCS significantly increased from treatment end to 24 months after treatment, from 50.8 to 52.8 and 51.8 to 53.7, respectively. There was no difference in the change of the PCS or MCS with HIV infection, 2.2 (95% CI, –0.4 to 4.9) and 0.6 (95% CI, –1.7 to 2.9), respectively.

CONCLUSION

HIV infection did not impede QOL gain at 24 months after treatment in women surviving breast cancer. Further work is needed to clarify the role of HIV on specific treatment-related morbidities and in other malignancies.
Young-Onset Colorectal Cancers in Men Versus Women: Is There a Difference in Incidence
Authors: Boby Jeffrey Mathew , Benny Jame Mathew , Mathew Aju
Published: August 2024

Check out this study on the gender disproportion in the incidence of CRC among younger patients in India.
ANÁLISE DO MARKET SHARE DO MERCADO DE AUDITORIA INDEPENDENTE APÓS A CHEGADA DA COVID-19 NO BRASIL
Authors: Guerhardt Jenifer de Oliveira , Durso Samuel de Oliveira , Amaral Ana Clara Fonseca
Published: August 2024

Este estudo teve como objetivo analisar as mudanças ocorridas no market share das empresas de auditoria externa após a pandemia da Covid-19 no Brasil. Para isso, foram analisadas as informações de 416 companhias de capital aberto para o período de 2019 a 2021. Os dados coletados foram investigados por meio de análises descritivas e testes estatísticos. Os resultados ressaltam a concentração de mercado do grupo Big Four. Não obstante, quando se compara o ano de 2019 com o de 2021, foi possível notar uma diferença estatisticamente significativa para o market share das empresas de auditoria atuantes no país. A pesquisa permite concluir que a BDO e a Grant Thornton, em conjunto com as EY, KPMG, PWC e Deloitte, formaram o grupo Big Six de auditoria para o mercado brasileiro de empresas de capital aberto. A investigação ajuda a entender os efeitos da Covid-19 para o mercado de auditoria no país.
PERCEPÇÃO DOS GESTORES MUNICIPAIS E AUDITORES FISCAIS SOBRE AS PRIORIDADES PARA A AÇÃO GOVERNAMENTAL NOS MUNICÍPIOS DO ESTADO DA PARAÍBA
Authors: Silva Ana Maria Vicente da
Published: August 2024

Este trabalho visa analisar a percepção dos gestores municipais e auditores fiscais sobre as prioridades para a ação governamental nos municípios da Paraíba. A investigação utilizou uma análise multicritério, com aplicação do Diagrama de Mudge, abrangendo dois grupos de respondentes: auditores do Tribunal de Contas da Paraíba (TCE), ligados ao Sistema de Acompanhamento da Gestão dos Recursos da Sociedade (SAGRES), e gestores municipais. Os resultados revelam que, apesar de a literatura adotar um conjunto variado de indicadores para avaliar a gestão municipal, em regiões menos desenvolvidas, os atores governamentais estão mais preocupados em garantir elementos básicos para a população. Solucionar problemas de materialidade, como renda, serviços básicos, saúde e alimentação, é considerado essencial para que a população comece a priorizar aspectos como participação e responsabilização. Essas constatações refletem a realidade econômica e social da região onde a pesquisa foi conduzida: uma área economicamente atrasada, com grandes problemas sociais e uma forte presença de políticas assistencialistas. Indicadores relacionados à participação e interação, apesar de fortemente destacados na literatura, foram menos avaliados por ambos os grupos de respondentes. Isso sugere que, em contextos de maior vulnerabilidade socioeconômica, a atenção governamental tende a se concentrar mais em necessidades imediatas e fundamentais, relegando a segundo plano aspectos de governança que envolvem maior participação cidadã. Conclui-se que, para regiões como a Paraíba, a melhoria das condições básicas de vida é uma prioridade antes de se avançar em questões de participação e responsabilização governamental.
An operational radiation safety intervention: Minimizing dose in lab spaces due to photon sources in adjacent storage room
Authors: Sideri Pinelopi , Petropoulos Nikolaos
Published: August 2024

The Nuclear Engineering Laboratory of NTUA operates a radiography installation incorporating a 200 kVp -x ray unit in a basement vault. During licensing characterization phase of the control, supervised and general public zone(s) by the Regulator, it was made obvious that there existed potentially harmful dose, greater than the background, within the control zone(s). At a limited number of points, easy to be avoided, dose reached 1.5 μSvh-1. This dose was due to -γ emitting sources stored in adjacent to the control zone(s) storage room. The situation was further investigated by dose measurements collected using a portable radiation monitor. The collection grid was set to about 0.5´0.7 m for approximately the following elevations: 0.00 m (floor), 1.00 m, 1.70 m and 2.20 m. Maps in 2D were then drawn numerically for these elevations using the kriging method. Results demonstrated that photons contributing to dose emerged at a height of about 1.00 m, from the NW wall of the vault, behind which the source storage room of the Laboratory is located. It was then realized that photon sources were placed behind this wall in drums without any particular shielding. It was consequently decided to move the sources away from this wall to the SW side of the storage room and shield them circumferentially with standard lead bricks. The result of this intervention was verified by remapping the dose rate in the control zone(s) for the worst case scenario of the 1.0 m elevation. New doses were found close to the background.
Code and Data Repository for: Controlling Homophily in Social Network Regression Analysis by Machine Learning
Authors: Liu Xuanqi , Huang Ke-Wei
Published: August 2024

he goal of this code is to fit a Hidden Markov Model (HMM) to data with multiple linear constraints imposed on the HMM's transition and emission probability matrices via the LDKB-FISTA algorithm. Alongside our LDKB-FISTA, we have also uploaded the scripts for running Matlab-Fimincon method, as well as the traditional Baum Welch method. The code are written in Matlab.
Estimating and Testing Long-Run Risk Models: International Evidence
Authors: Fulop Andras , Li Junye , Liu Hening , Yan Cheng
Published: August 2024

We estimate and test long-run risk models using international macroeconomic and financial data. The benchmark model features a representative agent who has recursive preferences with a time preference shock, a persistent component in expected consumption growth, and stochastic volatility in fundamentals characterized by an autoregressive gamma process. We construct a comprehensive data set with quarterly frequency for 10 developed countries and employ an efficient likelihood-based Bayesian method that exploits up-to-date sequential Monte Carlo methods to make full econometric inference. Our empirical findings provide international evidence in support of long-run risks, time-varying preference shocks, and countercyclicality of the stochastic discount factor. We show the existence of a global long-run consumption factor driving equity returns across individual countries.

This paper was accepted by Lukas Schmid, finance.

Funding: A. Fulop acknowledges support from CY Initiative of Excellence [Grant “Investissements d’Avenir” ANR-16-IDEX-0008], and H. Liu acknowledges support from National Science Foundation of China [Grant 72141305].

Supplemental Material: The internet appendix and data files are available at https://doi.org/10.1287/mnsc.2022.04054 .
APPLICATION OF THE AHP METHOD IN SELECTING BASEBALL PITCHERS
Authors: Teppa-Garran Pedro , Fernández-Da Costa Carlos
Published: August 2024

The use of scientific methods to determine performance results and analyze the effectiveness of sports players constitutes a powerful tool that can help coaches and teams make better decisions and adequately use available resources. Pitcher selection is a strategic decision that significantly influences the performance of a professional baseball team. In this study, Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP) models were built to rank the performance of baseball pitchers in Major League Baseball (MLB) in the United States. There are three relevant aspects of this research.  First, the models allow the evaluation of the overall performance of the pitcher, considering his skills and performance as a pitcher as well as his fielding and batting contributions. To evaluate the overall performance of a pitcher, well-known standard professional baseball statistics were used. Second, to highlight the flexibility of the model, four models were created according to the type of pitcher (starter or reliever) and the league in which he plays (American or National league). Finally, a distinctive feature of the models is their general scope. The experts were only required to determine the best criteria and subcriteria and the priorities of the hierarchical structure of the models, but they were not needed to rank the pitchers (alternatives). The models were applied to different emblematic MLB awards and the results produced by the models coincide with the pitchers who actually won the awards.
ADOPTION OF ANALYTIC NETWORK PROCESS TO STRENGTHEN HALAL INTEGRITY IN BROILER CHICKEN SUPPLY CHAIN
Authors: Anggraini Wresni , S. Ciptono Wakhid , Lusiantoro Luluk , K.Tjahjono Heru
Published: August 2024

This study aims to propose a strategy to strengthen the halal integrity in the food supply chain through investigating and exploring the practice of a traceability system in the broiler chicken supply chain by adopting the Analytic Network Process (ANP) approach. This strategy was developed using an embedded single case study on an end-to-end broiler chicken supply chain in Riau Province, Indonesia. The three distinct data collection methods were in-depth semi-structured interviews guided by the Delphi principle, field observations, and document analysis. Subsequently, the data were meticulously coded and analyzed using NVivo 14 software through template analysis. The development of themes and sub-themes from the final template facilitated the construction of the ANP model, comprising four clusters with a total of 28 criteria. The results indicated that in the business actor and activity cluster, the end consumer criterion was the priority with a weighting value of 0.222. In the stakeholder cluster, the priority was the Halal Inspection Agency (HIA) criterion with a weighting value of 0.178. Meanwhile, the business actors’ awareness of halal integrity assurance criterion had a weighting value of 0.217 in the barriers and challenges to adopting a halal traceability system. The criterion lean knowledge management process (LKM) for all supply chain actors is the priority for cluster strategy to strengthen halal integrity with weighting value of 0.338. This study showed the importance of upholding halal integrity within food supply chains, which are becoming increasingly complex.
Dorsal Scapular Osteochondroma in a Young Male: A Case Report and Literature Review
Authors:   Department of Orthopaedics, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India., Jangir Rajat , Kumar Mohit ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India., Berwal Ayush ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India., Muzahid Mohammed ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India., Tailor Rajat Raj ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India., Dulhanani Mohit ,   Department of Orthopaedics, Mahatma Gandhi Medical College and Hospital, Jaipur, Rajasthan, India.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Osteochondromas are a unique group of benign bone tumors that are characterized by bony outgrowth covered by Cartilage. It has a peculiar micro-architecture as its cortices are extensions of those of parent bone and there is a continuity of medullary cavity; this is akin to branching in plants, rightly earning the name “Exostosis.” Case Report: We report a case of a 21-year-old male who presented with complaints of swelling on the upper back associated with mild discomfort. Examination confirmed a bony mass on the dorsal aspect of the scapula without any restricted range of motion of the shoulder joint. On the confirmation of diagnosis, en bloc excision was performed. Conclusion: In conclusion, dorsal scapular osteochondromas are a rarity, and excision of the lesion is an effective management for symptomatic lesions. Keywords: Osteochondroma, exostosis, scapula, orthopedic tumor.
Case Report of a Delayed Rare Pipkin Type III Fracture in Adult Male Patient
Authors:   Department of Orthopedics, B.J. Government Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India., Paigude Prithviraj A , Katkar Minish R ,   Department of Orthopedics, B.J. Government Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India., Kumarjuvekar Saiel A ,   Department of Orthopedics, B.J. Government Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India., Kakad Mohit ,   Department of Orthopedics, B.J. Government Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India., Rochwani Sparsh ,   Department of Orthopedics, B.J. Government Medical College, Pune, Maharashtra, India.
Published: August 2024

Introduction: Femoral head fractures are relatively rare compared to other hip pathologies. Despite being infrequent, these fractures can give rise to various complications, even after a successful surgical fixation. To categorize these fractures, Pipkin introduced a classification system, distinguishing them into four types. Among these, Type III (31C.3) fractures are associated with femoral neck fractures and are notably less common, often leading to unfavorable outcomes. Case Report: We present a case of a Type III Pipkin fracture in a 35-year-old male resulting from a road traffic accident. The patient underwent management with open reduction and internal fixation, utilizing headless compression screws and cancellous cannulated screws. Post-operative, the patient was instructed to remain non-weight bearing, and subsequent follow-ups were conducted to monitor for any potential complications. Conclusion: Femoral head fractures are recognized for their complexity, with outcomes becoming even more diverse when associated with neck fractures. Effective pre-operative planning, coupled with timely reduction and fixation, plays a pivotal role in the management of these fractures. Keywords: Pipkin, femoral head fracture, classification, complications, outcomes, surgical treatment.
When XGBoost Tree Meets Humanity: An Exploration of Implementing New Machine Learning Techniques Into Everyday Fundraising Practice
Authors: Pelletier Marianne M.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: As the discipline of data science grows, more complex algorithms are applied to an ever-larger variety of—and size of—data sets. The good news is that an R 2 value of .97 is now plausible without the help of omniscience. The bad news is that a machine learning algorithm can produce as many as 500 rules from a random forest model, and those 500 rules need to be programmed (often by hand) into a nonprofit’s reporting tool. The use of statistics for prospect segmentation has permeated the nonprofit sector since the 1990s. With the availability of enhanced software that can run data scraping, machine learning, and artificial intelligence tools, linear and logistic regression are no longer the most accurate way to identify major gifts prospects. Machine learning and artificial intelligence have enabled users to build segments with as few as five records—a result that would make a bell curve model fail but that allows a single decision tree limb in a random forest to succeed. This article explores a variety of strategies to relieve the tension between the 500 or so rules that come out of a forest or trees model and the programmer who has to implement them in SQL (or ClickView, Crystal Reports, etc.). I examine possible solutions through three case studies that detail our work with three different clients: (1) a model requiring significant programming in the client’s customer relationship management system or data mart, (2) a model with complex segmentation rules that the client will use either in a macro-enabled Excel document or coded into the reporting tool, and (3) a model built in an external machine learning tool with results fed back to the client as scores.
Leveraging Insights From Other Industries to Accelerate Data-Driven Success in University Fundraising
Authors: Dries Jim , van Heyningen Hendrik Kits
Published: August 2024

Abstract: This article examines the parallels between analytics teams at large corporate sales organizations and at university fundraising organizations, comparing the overall missions of each organization type, as well as the specific roles, responsibilities, priorities, and challenges faced by their respective analytics professionals. The substantial parallels create a tremendous opportunity for universities to expand the network of organizations to which they can look for replicable examples of data-driven growth strategies. This concept is applicable to universities regardless of timing or macroeconomic trends; however, in times of depressed economic conditions, the need for creativity when building efficient fundraising strategies takes on greater relevance. Thus, it is recommended that universities actively leverage some of the successful strategic data practices more commonly associated with large corporate sales and marketing organizations. To provide examples of such practices, the article concludes with a discussion of technical and quantitative tools that can be adapted in order to address common challenges, and it provides a particularly detailed look at how predictive models can be crafted to address the effects of human bias.
Hidden Voices: Using Social Listening to Uncover Audience Insights and Boost Advancement
Authors: Jeppson Amanda K. , Stapley Rebecca C.
Published: August 2024

Abstract: As the higher education landscape changes and new challenges evolve, especially difficulties related to funding, colleges and universities can harness the innovative power of social listening to better understand target audiences, including voices that may otherwise be absent, to build and maintain affinity and sense of community, and to ultimately support advancement efforts. Social listening is the research approach of processing online mentions of a specified topic and distilling that data into actionable insights to guide data-driven decisions. Using “Midwest College” (a pseudonym) as a case study, this article illustrates the types of data observations and subsequent strategic insights gleaned from social listening that can be applied to benefit advancement efforts. These insights are recommended in the context of improving campaign communications, marketing, and, potentially, gifting behaviors. While the article’s specific findings may not be generalizable to college campuses outside of Midwest College, social listening as an overarching approach to advancement in higher education is universal in its potential to unlock complex findings and unearth context-specific revelations that power advancement offices and their approach to sustained affinity, sense of community, and shared experience. With alumni giving as the second largest source of funding to colleges and universities, colleges and universities cannot afford to miss the opportunity to simply listen.
Online Buzz Evolution Patterns and Crowdfunding Campaign Performance
Authors: Fan-Osuala Onochie
Published: August 2024

Abstract: Online crowdfunding (fundraising whereby groups of individuals collectively contribute money to back different projects and endeavors through the Internet) has proven to be a viable alternative for raising funds. Businesses, entrepreneurs, and individuals have used this alternative fundraising channel to raise finances to support their businesses, ideas, creative projects, or personal goals. Despite the growing importance and popularity of crowdfunding, and the documented impact of online buzz (word-of-mouth messages, shares, and tweets on online/social media platforms) in online crowdfunding performance, it is not clear what types of evolution patterns (dynamics) online buzz exhibit during online crowdfunding campaigns, and the relationship between these buzz evolution patterns and crowdfunding campaign performance. In this study, I explore the buzz evolution patterns associated with online crowd-funding and establish a relationship between the identified buzz evolution patterns and crowdfunding campaign performance. The exploratory analysis reveals four distinct online buzz evolution patterns in crowdfunding campaigns. Further, the analysis shows a link between the online buzz evolution patterns and backer activity. Finally, I develop a model based on the patterns of buzz intensity and show that, comparatively, it is better at predicting crowdfunding campaign outcomes than a model based on the campaign organizer’s social network size.
Data Modernization: A Case Study in Improving Data Architecture for Advanced Analytics
Authors: Gough John
Published: August 2024

Abstract: The term “digital transformation” was originally minted to describe the transition from analog data stores to digital. In recent years, it has been repurposed to denote the shift from on-premise digital data storage to cloud-management platforms. The University Development Office at the University of Texas at Austin has undertaken a multimonth project to modernize its data architecture in a move away from an ill-governed legacy environment to one that is well-governed and developed to support advanced analytics solutions that are both automated and scalable. During the initial phases of the project, multiple courses of action were explored, including an examination of two large cloud-management platforms, assessment of vendors for implementation, and evaluation of differing approaches to data modeling. The initial solution and resulting work products provide an instructive case study for understanding the considerations, challenges, and opportunities associated with engaging in this type of digital transformation.
Patterns of Philanthropy: Using Pattern Mining for Predictive Analysis in Advancement and Fundraising
Authors: Mueller Klaus , Papenhausen Eric
Published: August 2024

Abstract: To support their academic mission, universities and colleges have become increasingly dependent on raising capital via advancement channels. As these institutions compete for the attention and funds of donors, advanced data analysis is a key to success. We present a method and system that can identify specific groups of donors that share sets of demographic, academic, and other features. This information can then be used to shape specific fundraising efforts and evaluate their expected profitability. We demonstrate our system using an advancement dataset we obtained via collaboration with a public university.
Single-point-diamond-turned GaAs disk resonator with over a million optical quality factor
Authors: Suresh Mallika , Platt Lily , Azeem Farhan , Trainor Luke , Schwefel Harald
Published: August 2024

Gallium arsenide optical resonators have been identified as platforms for light-matter interactions ranging from optomechanics to quantum electrodynamics involving nonlinear optics. Here we present a 5-mm-diameter whispering gallery mode resonator made of undoped gallium
arsenide. The fabrication was done using single-point diamond turning followed by polishing with diamond solutions of varying grain size. The resulting resonator was optically characterized to have a quality factor of more than a million.
Uptake of human papilloma virus vaccination among adolescent girls living with HIV in Uganda: A mixed methods study
Authors: Nakibuuka Violet , Muddu Martin , Kraehenbuhl Jean Pierre , Birungi Caroline , Semitala Fred C. , Tusubira Andrew K.
Published: August 2024

Background

Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) vaccination can prevent more than 90% of cancers caused by HPV. Although this vaccination is recommended and provided at no cost to all adolescent girls aged 9 to19 years in Uganda, its uptake remains low. We sought to determine the uptake of, and factors associated with HPV vaccination among adolescent girls living with HIV in Uganda.

Methods

We conducted an explanatory sequential mixed methods study, among adolescent girls living with HIV, attending HIV care at the Mulago ISS HIV clinic in Kampala, Uganda. We administered a structured questionnaire to elicit data on HPV vaccination and its covariates to a systematic random sample of 264 adolescent girls with HIV. A participant who had received all the three recommended HPV vaccine doses was classified as fully vaccinated. We then conducted four focus group discussions among adolescent girls living with HIV (n = 32), eight in-depth interviews among their parents and five Key informant interviews among their healthcare providers. We conducted descriptive statistics and logistic regression analyses for the quantitative data before thematic analysis for the qualitative data.

Result

Of 264 adolescent girls, 31% (83/264) had at least one HPV vaccine dose; 22% (59/264) two doses, while 8.0% (21/264) were fully vaccinated (received three doses). While most participants received their first and second doses (48% (40/83)) and 57.6% (34/59), respectively) from school, the largest number of participants (47.1% (12/21)) received their third dose at community outreaches. Participants who received counseling from community members were three times more likely to get fully vaccinated compared to those who did not receive counseling (aOR 3.28, Cl:1.07–10.08, P = 0.038). From the qualitative follow-up, three major themes were identified: (1): Limited information about HPV vaccination, which gave room for misconceptions and doubts about the vaccine; (2) Parental influence on adolescent decisions was strong despite parents having limited knowledge about HPV vaccination and (3) Inadequacy of HPV vaccination services at the hospital and in the schools.

Conclusion

Full HPV vaccination was low among adolescent girls living with HIV. Counseling of the adolescents by community members, alongside HPV vaccination community outreaches, provided a platform for vaccination. There should be strategies to provide adequate information about HPV vaccine to health workers, parents, and the adolescents. In addition to schools, community-based initiatives, including outreaches and lay-health workers can be utilized to improve HPV vaccine uptake among girls with HIV.