bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Substance abuse among new patients attending main government hospitals in Malaysia from 2018–2021: A comparison between before and during COVID-19 pandemic
Authors: Muhamad Nor Asiah , Chemi Norliza , Ma’amor Nur Hasnah , Rosli Izzah Athirah , Leman Fatin Norhasny , Mohamad Isa Mohd Fadzli , Johari Mohammad Zabri , Abdullah Norni , Ibrahim Nor Ashikin , Chan Huan-Keat , Abu Hassan Muhammad Radzi ,   on behalf of My Substance Abuse Study Group
Published: October 2024

Background

Substance abuse admission to health facilities following the pandemic is often met with challenges. COVID-19 is causing an insurmountable psychosocial impact on the whole of mankind. Marginalized communities, particularly those with substance use disorders (SUDs), are also likely to suffer from greater psychosocial burden.

Objectives

This study sought to evaluate substance abuse trends before and during the pandemic.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among patients attending selected government hospitals in Malaysia. Data from the year 2018 to 2021 was utilized.

Results

A total of 9,606 patients consisting of 7881 males and 1725 females were identified. Most of the patients involved with substance abuse from 2018 to 2021 were males, aged between 26 and 44 years old, Malays, high school students, singles, workers of private sectors and those residing in urban areas. The most abused substances over the four years were tobacco (61.8%), followed by amphetamine-type stimulants (ATS) (43.1%), alcohol (39.7%), cannabis (17.2%), opioids (13.0%), and kratom (8.8%). Those who worked in the private sector and were self-employed or unemployed were more associated with substance abuse during the pandemic compared to those who worked in the government sector. Those with a history of psychiatric illness were more associated with abuse of substances during the pandemic than those without the history (adjusted OR: 1.18, 95% CI 1.09–1.29, p <0.001).

Conclusions

Targeted exploration of factors affecting substance abuse in Malaysia is essential. The results of this study assist in identifying variations in substance abuse treatment characteristics for those admitted to treatment in Malaysia.
Impact of variable titer COVID-19 convalescent plasma and recipient SARS-CoV2-specific humoral immunity on survival in hospitalized patients
Authors: Iasella Carlo J. , Hannan Stefanie J. , Lyons Emily J. , Lieber Sophia C. , Das Antu , Dimitrov Dimiter , Li Wei , Saul Melissa , Popescu Iulia , Koshy Ritchie , Burke Robin , Lape Braidon , Brown Mark J. , Chen Xiaoping , Sembrat John C. , Devonshire Kaitlyn , Kitsios Georgios D. , Konstantinidis Ioannis , Snyder Mark E. , Chen Bill B. , Merlo Christian A. , Hager David N. , Kiss Joseph E. , Yazer Mark H. , Wells Alan H. , Morris Alison , McVerry Bryan J. , McMahon Deborah K. , Triulzi Darrell J. , McDyer John F.
Published: October 2024

COVID-19 convalescent plasma (CCP) was one of the first therapies to receive emergency use authorization for management of COVID-19. We assessed the effectiveness of CCP in a propensity-matched analysis, and whether the presence of antibodies in the recipient at the time of treatment or the titer of antibodies in the administered CCP influenced clinical effectiveness. In an inpatient population within a single large health system, a total of 290 CCP patients were matched to 290 controls. While CCP increased titers of anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD IgG titers post-CCP (p = <0.0001), no differences in 30-day survival were observed between CCP patients and controls in univariate and multivariate analyses. Survival at 30 days was numerically lower in recipients who were seronegative prior to CCP administration, compared to those with low titer and high titer anti-SARS-CoV-2 RBD IgG, respectively, but did not reach statistical significance (56% vs 82% vs 75%, p = 0.16). Patients who received 2 units of high-titer CCP had numerically better survival versus those who received fewer high-titer units, but this was not statistically significant (p = 0.08). CCP did not improve 30-day survival compared to propensity matched controls. Together these data support that CCP therapy provides limited benefit to hospitalized patients with SARS-CoV-2 infection.
A fuzzy ontology-based case-based reasoning system for stomach dystemperament in Persian medicine
Authors: Shojaee-Mend Hassan , Ayatollahi Haleh , Abdolahadi Azam
Published: October 2024

Background

In Persian medicine, early diagnosis and treatment of stomach dystemperament is crucial for preventing other diseases. However, traditional medicine diagnosis often involves ambiguous and less structured information making it challenging for practitioners. Integrating fuzzy ontology with case-based reasoning (CBR) systems can enhance diagnostic accuracy in this filed.

Objectives

This study aimed to develop and evaluate a fuzzy ontology-based CBR system for diagnosing and treating stomach dystemperament in Persian medicine.

Methods

This was a mixed-methods research in which a fuzzy ontology-based CBR system was developed based on the fuzzy features, utilizing trapezoidal, triangular, right shoulder and left shoulder membership functions to represent linguistic variables such as hunger level and digestion power. The research phases included identifying relevant terms, concepts, and relationships, developing the fuzzy case-base ontology using the IKARUS-Onto methodology, and subsequently designing and implementing the CBR system. The system performance was evaluated in terms of its sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and F1-score.

Results

Initially, a case-base fuzzy ontology was created. Then, the database was built up using 88 expert-validated medical records. Of these cases, 72% (63 cases) were diagnosed with phlegmatic dystemperament, 18% (16 cases) with cold-dry dystemperament, and 10% (9 cases) had no stomach dystemperament. The CBR system was developed and evaluated using sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, precision, and F1-score which were 97.5%, 87.5%, 96.6%, 98.7%, and 98.1%, respectively.

Conclusions

Our fuzzy ontology-based CBR demonstrated high performance in diagnosing stomach dystemperament in Persian medicine. This system shows promise in improving diagnostic accuracy and facilitating the identification of similar cases. While initial results are encouraging, further evaluation in a real clinical environment is recommended to fully assess its practical utility.
Research on technology innovation path of Intelligent Manufacturing enterprises—Based on qualitative comparative analysis of fuzzy sets under TOE framework
Authors: Li Shichuan , Zhao Fanxiang
Published: October 2024

Intelligent manufacturing enterprises play a crucial role in the modern industrial system and are key to high-quality economic development. However, most current research on intelligent manufacturing technology innovation focuses on single variables, lacking a comprehensive analysis from a linkage grouping perspective. This paper constructs an analytical framework for the technology innovation path of intelligent manufacturing enterprises from three dimensions: technology level, organization level, and environment level. Six antecedent variables are selected: R&D investment, digital transformation, human capital structure, profitability, government support, and competitive position. Using the fuzzy sets of qualitative comparative analysis (fsQCA) methodology, the paper examines the technological innovation paths of intelligent manufacturing enterprises in China. The research indicates that no single antecedent variable is necessary for high technological innovation; instead, the innovation path results from the synergistic effect of multiple conditions. The study identifies three paths leading to high technological innovation in intelligent manufacturing:"Government and Human Resource driven types," "Environmental-Organizational linkage types,"and"Organizational Resilience dominant types." This analysis provides reference suggestions for enterprises to adopt suitable development strategies based on their competitive positions.
The experience of people living with heart failure in Ethiopia: A qualitative descriptive study
Authors: Mulugeta Henok , Sinclair Peter M. , Wilson Amanda
Published: October 2024

Background

Heart failure is a serious chronic medical condition that negatively impacts daily living. Living with heart failure can be challenging due to the physical symptoms, unpredictable nature of the disease, and lifestyle changes required. The objective of this study was to explore and describe the experiences of people living with heart failure and how it affects their health-related quality of life in Ethiopia.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive design was employed to explore the experience of people living with heart failure, guided by the Theory of Symptom Management. A purposive sample of 14 participants was recruited from the cardiac outpatient clinics at two tertiary-level public hospitals in Ethiopia. Data were collected using a semi-structured interview. The recorded interviews were transcribed verbatim in Amharic, translated into English, and entered NVivo statistical software for analysis. An inductive-deductive hybrid thematic analysis method was used to analyse the data.

Results

Three themes were identified deductively, while an additional three themes emerged inductively:—“Journey from diagnosis to daily life with heart failure”; “Symptom experience”; “Impact of heart failure on health-related quality of life”; “Perception of health-related quality of life and influencing factors”; “Symptom management and coping strategies”; and “Challenges faced in the journey of living with heart failure”. Fatigue, and depression were the most frequently reported symptoms. Participants described how their condition affected their overall physical functioning. Participants utilized consistent follow up-care, adhered to their medications, ensured adequate rest, made dietary modifications, sought social support and engaged in spiritual activities to manage their symptoms and cope with their condition. Challenges they faced included financial difficulties, unavailability of medications, and a lack of continuity of care.

Conclusion

People living with heart failure in Ethiopia experience various symptoms. The impact of heart failure on various aspects of their lives, combined with the challenges they face while living with heart failure, significantly affect their health-related quality of life. Health care providers caring for these people need to understand their experiences and the impact on their daily life. Effective multimodal interventions are needed to reduce the impact of heart failure and improve health-related quality of life in this population.
Clinical validation of the suppressive impact of letrozole on liver fibrosis in patients with breast cancer undergoing continuous letrozole administration: A retrospective study
Authors: Ohkawa Kazuyoshi , Nakabori Tasuku , Mukai Kaori , Kozumi Kazuhiro , Urabe Makiko , Kai Yugo , Takada Ryoji , Ikezawa Kenji , Yamaguchi Yuko , Nagao Takuya , Enomoto Hatsune , Tachiki Hidehisa , Higuchi Ayako , Watanabe Noriyuki , Nakayama Takahiro
Published: October 2024

Treatment strategies for preventing liver fibrosis have not yet been established. Letrozole, widely used for breast cancer, has recently been reported to suppress liver fibrosis in murine models. Therefore, we aimed to validate the suppressive effects of letrozole on liver fibrosis in the clinical setting. From 2006 to 2020, 23 consecutive patients who received continuous letrozole treatment for 24 months or more and had a liver fibrosis marker FIB-4 index of ≥ 2.30, were included. Forty-three patients who underwent anastrozole treatment for 24 months or more and had a liver fibrosis marker FIB-4 index of ≥ 2.30, were also included as controls. The Fisher exact, chi-square, unpaired Student t, and paired Student t test were used to analyze the data. The patient characteristics were similar between the letrozole- and anastrozole-treated patient groups. Among the letrozole-treated patients, the mean FIB-4 index tended to decline during letrozole treatment; a significant decrease was observed at 18 and 24 months compared with the baseline values (p = 0.044 and p = 0.013). In addition, the mean aspartate aminotransferase-to-platelet ratio index (APRI) decreased during letrozole treatment; the values at 18 and 24 months were significantly lower than those at baseline (p = 0.024 and p = 0.026). In contrast, among anastrozole-treated patients, the mean FIB-4 index and APRI did not change during anastrozole treatment. When changes in the FIB-4 index were further examined in a limited number of patients with a FIB-4 index ≥ 2.67, a significant reduction in the FIB-4 index at 24 months compared with baseline was also observed in letrozole-treated patients (p = 0.023), but not in anastrozole-treated patients. In conclusion, our findings support a possible suppressive effect of letrozole on liver fibrosis in the clinical setting. Further studies are required to better understand the pharmacological effects of letrozole.
The mediation of the dynamic capacity for innovation between managerial skills and organizational performance in MSMEs located in the department of Caquetá, Colombia
Authors: Penagos Guzman Fernando , García Solarte Mónica
Published: October 2024

Objectives

The purpose of this study is to analyze how the dynamic capacity for innovation mediates the relationship between the managerial skills and organizational performance of micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) located in the department of Caquetá.

Methods

The hypotheses are statistically tested via structural equation modeling (SEM), where the dynamic capacity for innovation mediates the relationship between the managerial skills and organizational performance of MSMEs located in the department of Caquetá, with a cross-sectional sample of 496 MSMEs.

Results

The results indicate that the relationship between managerial skills and organizational performance is mediated by the dynamic capacity for innovation of the MSMEs of the department of Caquetá, Colombia. In addition, the robust adjustment values obtained for this model are an RMSEA of 0.044 and a CFI of 0.862. Both values meet the requirements to conclude that the model has a good fit and is therefore reliable.

Conclusions

This study shows that managers, administrators or legal representatives use the constructs presented in this publication. In addition, it is shown that the dynamic capacity for innovation mediates the relationship between managerial skills and the organizational performance of MSMEs located in the department of Caquetá, Colombia.
The effect of CEO’s compensation in driving corporate ESG greenwashing: Evidence from China
Authors: Li Kaile , Lin Tzu-Yu , Zhu Guifang
Published: October 2024

This study examines the relationship between CEO compensation schemes and ESG greenwashing behavior in Chinese listed firms during the period 2013–2022. We find that a CEO’s cash (equity) compensation has a significantly positive (negative) correlation with corporate ESG greenwashing behavior. From mechanism analysis, consistent with the agency problem view, firms engage in more severe ESG greenwashing behavior under a higher proportion of cash in the CEO compensation structure. Such distortion behavior is mitigated by higher internal control quality in firms having an equity incentive for their CEO under the convergence of interest viewpoint. Additional analysis reveals that corporates audited by large accounting firms and those with more media coverage exacerbate the positive correlation between CEO cash compensation and ESG greenwashing behavior, while government environmental regulations reinforce the inhibitory effect of CEO equity compensation on ESG greenwashing. Our results imply that different CEO compensation schemes can have opposite effects on limiting firms’ ESG greenwashing behavior in the Chinese context. Furthermore, we highlight that the question of form over substance principle to certain external governance mechanisms, leading CEO to exacerbate impression management of ESG disclosure.
Enhancing bulb yield through nitrogen fertilization and the use of hybrid onion (Alluim cepa L.) varieties in northwest Ethiopia
Authors: Yeshiwas Yebirzaf , Alemayehu Melkamu , Adgo Enyew
Published: October 2024

Onions are among the most important cash crops in developing countries, including Ethiopia. However, its production and productivity are very low, which is associated with inappropriate fertilization and the use of low-yielding varieties. Therefore, the present study was conducted to evaluate the effects of the nitrogen fertilizer rate on the growth, yield, and quality of hybrid onion varieties in northwest Ethiopia. The experiment was conducted at three locations (Koga, Woreta, and Woramit) during the 2021/2022 cropping season under irrigated conditions. The treatments consisted of three hybrid onion varieties (Russet, Jambar, Red Coach) and one open-pollinated onion variety (Bombay Red) and four nitrogen rates (0, 41, 82, and 123 kg ha-1), which were laid out in a randomized complete block design with a factorial arrangement of 4*4 in three replications. The results of the present study revealed that onion growth, yield and quality were influenced by the nitrogen fertilizer rate and onion variety across all locations. Compared with the open pollinated Bombay Red variety, the hybrid varieties (Russet and Jambar) performed well in terms of bulb diameter, bulb weight, total yield, marketable bulb yield, and pungency. Nitrogen fertilizer applied at a rate of 82 kg ha-1 resulted in the highest growth and yield parameters of onion. The Russet and Jambar varieties recorded the highest marketable bulb yields of 26.50 t ha-1 and 24.57 t ha-1, respectively. Onion varieties treated with the highest nitrogen fertilizer dosage of 123 kg ha-1, particularly the Bombay Red variety, exhibited the longest duration to reach maturity. Onion plants supplied with 82 kg ha-1 nitrogen presented the highest marketable bulb yields, with a value of 26.77 t ha-1. Too much nitrogen above 82 kg ha-1 leads to decreased yield; hence, excess nitrogen is lost to the environment. Furthermore, the Jambar and Russet hybrid varieties and the application of 82 kg ha-1 nitrogen fertilizers provided the highest net benefit. The hybrid varieties Jambar and Russet and the application of 82 kg ha-1 nitrogen fertilizer can be recommended for onion production in the study area and areas with similar agroecosystems. Since this study is the first of its kind, considering other hybrid onion varieties and optimizing agronomic practices such as spacing and phosphorus fertilizer are also recommended in future research.
Applying sigma metrics to assess quality control processes in the transfusion transmissible infection screening laboratory of a blood center
Authors: Bhatnagar Sonu , Westgard Sten , Dung Nguyen Thi Thanh , Que Tran Ngoc , Khanh Bach Quoc , Thanh Nguyen Ha
Published: October 2024

In the field of healthcare, quality and efficiency are of paramount importance to ensure the provision of safe and reliable diagnostic services. Blood screening laboratories play a critical role in detecting and preventing the spread of infectious diseases, ensuring the safety of blood transfusions, and supporting medical diagnoses. To enhance the quality of processes in such laboratories, the Six Sigma methodology has gained significant recognition for its ability to systematically identify and minimize variations, thereby improving overall efficiency and reducing errors. This retrospective study aims to explore the application of Six Sigma metrics in the context of blood screening laboratories, providing an in-depth analysis of its implementation, benefits, and challenges. The performance of three serology assays, i.e., anti-HCV, HIV Ag/Ab combo, and HBsAg, using internal quality control (IQC) daily data extracted from six Alinity i instruments (Abbott GmbH, Germany), from February to April 2023, was evaluated. Mean, standard deviation (SD), and coefficient of variation (CV%) was calculated for positive controls. Bias was calculated using peer group data. Sigma metrics were calculated using allowable total error (TEa %) based on difference between the observed mean of the positive control and the s/co cut-off of assay. The observed CV% for positive controls was ≤10%. The TEa% ranged from 66% to 79% for the analytes using the observed mean. All the assays showed Six Sigma performance (σ>6) with and without bias. The study observed that the serology assays showed very high sigma values (σ>6) and thus, simplified statistical quality control (SQC) design based on Westgard Sigma rules could be implemented without compromising blood safety.
Macro tax burden, FDI, and national innovation efficiency: A study on the impact of macro tax burden on national innovation efficiency
Authors: Shen Xiaobo , Dai Pingsheng
Published: October 2024

Based on a panel dataset of 54 countries from 2008 to 2019, this article uses the mediation effect model to examine the relationship between macro tax burden, FDI and innovation efficiency. We find that:(i) the macro tax burden is positively correlated with the innovation efficiency; (ii) there is a non-linear effect of FDI on innovation efficiency conditional on macro tax rate. When the macro tax burden is greater than the critical value (25.28%), it indirectly limits innovation efficiency by hindering FDI inflows. This means that in order to promote innovation efficiency at the national level, the macro tax rate should be maintained at a reasonable level, because that can make the government raise more money to invest in and subsidy the innovation activities.
Enhanced automated detection of outbreaks of a rare antimicrobial-resistant bacterial species
Authors: Hosaka Yumiko , Hirabayashi Aki , Clark Adam , Baker Meghan , Sugai Motoyuki , Stelling John , Yahara Koji
Published: October 2024

Surveillance of antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is a crucial strategy to combat AMR. Using routine surveillance data, we could detect and control hospital outbreaks of AMR bacteria as early as possible. Previously, we developed a framework for automatic detection of clusters of AMR bacteria using SaTScan, a free cluster detection tool integrated into WHONET. WHONET is a free software used globally for microbiological surveillance data management. We applied this framework to data from the Japan Nosocomial Infections Surveillance (JANIS), one of the world’s most comprehensive and largest national AMR surveillance systems. Although WHONET-SaTScan has several cluster detection algorithms, no published studies have compared how different algorithms can produce varying results in cluster detection. Here, we conducted a comparison to detect clusters of vancomycin-resistant enterococci (VRE), which has been rare in Japan, by analyzing combinations of resistance to several key antimicrobials (“resistance profiles”) using the comprehensive national routine AMR surveillance data of JANIS and validated the detection capabilities of each algorithm using publicly available reports of VRE clusters. All publicly reported VRE hospital outbreaks were detected as statistical clusters using the space-time uniform algorithm implemented in WHONET-SaTScan. In contrast, only 18.8% of the publicly reported outbreaks were detected using another algorithm (space-time permutation). The space-time uniform algorithm was also effective in identifying hospital wards affected by outbreaks attributed to specific resistance profiles. Although half of the publicly reported outbreaks were attributed to VRE resistant to five particular antimicrobials, four other resistance profiles also contributed to the outbreaks, highlighting the diversity of AMR bacteria within these occurrences. Our comparison revealed a clear advantage in using an algorithm (space-time uniform) for detecting VRE clusters in WHONET-SaTScan based on national surveillance data and further demonstrated the capability to distinguish detected clusters based on resistance profiles.
Weekends admitted adult medical patients have higher in-hospital mortality in Ethiopia: An implication for quality improvement
Authors: Arega Balew , Solela Gashaw , Tewabe Elias , Agunie Asnake , Zeleke Amanuel , Tefera Ermiyas , Minda Abraham , Getachew Yitagesu
Published: October 2024

Background

Weekend effect’ is a term used to describe the increased mortality associated with weekend emergency admissions to hospitals compared with admissions on weekdays. This effect was not investigated in Ethiopia among adult patients admitted to hospitals. We aimed to find out whether the weekend effect exists in the country’s a teaching hospital.

Methods

The study was conducted among adult medical patients admitted at Yekatit 12 Hospital Medical College, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, from September 2020 to September 2023. We extracted the data from the electronic medical records, and those with missed outcomes, length of hospital stays, and diagnosis were excluded. We used a multivariable logistic regression model to determine the association between the outcome and risk factors. The Cox proportional hazard model was utilized to establish the correlation between admission times and mortality risk incidence. Statistical significance was determined using a P value of less than 0.05. The Kaplan-Meier curve was utilized to estimate the risk of in-hospital mortality over the duration of the hospital stay.

Results

A of 5564 patients were admitted to medical wards (n = 5001) and intensive care unit (ICU) (n = 563) during the study periods. In binary multivariable analysis, weekend medical wards and ICU admitted adult medical patients had a 38% (AOR, 1.38, 95% CI, 1.17, 1.65) and 50% (AOR, 1.50, 95% CI, 1.02, 2.20) higher in-hospital mortality compared weekdays admitted patients, respectively. The cumulative mortality risk incidence was higher among medical ward-admitted patients (AHR, 1.26, 95% CI, 0.09, 1.46, P value = 0.051) and significantly higher among ICU-admitted adult patients (AHR, 1.28, 95% CI, 1.21, 1.75, P value = 0.01) during the weekends. There was no statistically significant mortality difference among night versus day or office hours versus off-office hours admitted patients. Moreover, we did identify significant differences in the duration of hospital stays between weekends and weekdays.

Conclusions

In this study, weekend-admitted adult medical patients in wards or ICUs have higher in-hospital mortality rates. This underscores a need for comprehensive nationwide data to improve weekend admitted patients’ quality of care and treatment outcomes.
Somatotype, anthropometric characteristics, body composition, and global flexibility range in artistic gymnasts and sport hoop athletes
Authors: González Macías Mirvana Elizabeth , Flores Jaime
Published: October 2024

The objective of the study was to analyze the somatotype, anthropometric characteristics, body composition, and the global flexibility battery test. A total of 48 athletes of both sexes from Women’s Artistic Gymnastics, Men’s Artistic Gymnastics, and Hoop Sport (mean ± standard deviation, age 12.50 ± 2.67 years, body mass 43.16 ± 11.00 kg, height 150.15 ± 11.91 cm). Anthropometric data were obtained using the ISAK protocol. The somatotype was analyzed using the Heath-Carter method. The results indicate significant differences in fat, bone, and residual mass, as well as in the proportions of endomorphy, mesomorphy, and ectomorphy (p <0.05). The somatocard revealed that most athletes were classified as endomorphic mesomorph or ectomorphic mesomorph, with variations between groups. Positive and negative correlations were identified between the anthropometric variables, somatotype, body composition, and global flexibility. All positions of the global flexibility battery test showed negative correlations with residual mass, indicating that the greater the range of flexibility, the lower the residual mass.
The clinical features and operation experience of multilobar involved congenital lung malformation: A retrospective cohort study
Authors: Cheng Kaisheng , Yuan Miao , Yang Gang , He Taozhen , Luo Dengke , Liu Chenyu , Wang Zongyu , Yang Jiayin , Xu Chang
Published: October 2024

Background

Congenital lung malformation (CLM) is usually characterized by single-lobe involvement and multilobe involvement is uncommon. There is a lack of experience in the clinical features and surgical treatment of unilateral multilobar CLM. Therefore, this study aims to summarize the clinical characteristics and evaluate the safety and feasibility of thoracoscopic lung sparing resection in the treatment of unilateral multilobar CLM.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted on 34 patients with unilateral multilobar CLM, and 34 unilobar patients were randomly selected as the control group in West China Hospital of Sichuan University from 2014.1 to 2021.1. Clinical, operation and follow-up outcomes were compared between the two groups.

Results

Twelve (35.2%) patients developed preoperative symptoms in the multilobar group more than 4(11.7%) the unilobar group (p = 0.02), the main preoperative symptom was infection; The multilobar group and unilobar group showed significant differences in mean intraoperative blood loss (13.3 mL vs. 7.5 mL; p = 0.02) and mean surgical time (95.6 min vs. 47.5 min; p = 0.037). The median length of postoperative hospital stay and the median chest tube placement time in the multilobar group were significantly longer (5 d vs.3 d, p = 0.045; 2 d vs.1 d, p = 0.031). There were one (2.9%) patient in unilobar group and 4(11.7%) patients in multilobar group developed complications postoperatively, which is no significant differences between the two groups(p = 0.16). No complications such as thoracic deformity, mediastinal deviation, scoliosis or recurrence were observed in either group at follow-up.

Conclusions

Unilateral multilobar CLM cases are more susceptible to develop symptoms than unilobar cases. Thoracoscopic lung sparing resection in the treatment of unilateral multilobar CLM has high safety and can effectively avoid serious complications of unilateral multiple lobectomy or pneumonectomy.
Coupling and de-coupling of the El Niño Southern Oscillation to the supply of larval fishes to benthic populations in the Hawaiian Islands
Authors: Carlon David B. , Garcia S. Maria , Faucci Anuschka
Published: October 2024

Several recent high intensity ENSO events have caused strong negative impacts on the adult phases of foundational species in coral reef ecosystems, but comparatively little is known about how climatic variables related to recent ENSOs are impacting the supply of larvae to benthic populations. In marine fishes and invertebrates, reproductive adults and planktonic larvae are generally more sensitive to environmental variability than older, non-reproductive adults. Further, the transport of larvae in ocean currents may also be strongly ENSO dependent. The interactions between the dynamics of larval survivorship and larval transport could lead to population bottlenecks as stronger ENSO events become more common. We tested the predictions of this hypothesis around the Main Hawaiian Islands (MHI) by constructing a correlation matrix of physical and biological time series variables that spanned 11 years (2007–2017) and multiple ENSO events. Our correlation matrix included four types of variables: i. published ENSO indices, ii. satellite-derived sea surface temperature (SST) and chlorophyll variables, iii. abundance and diversity of larval fishes sampled during the late winter spawning season off Oahu, and iv. abundance and diversity of coral reef fish recruits sampled on the western shore of the Big Island of Hawaii. We found that the abundance and diversity of larval fishes was negatively correlated with the Multivariate El Niño Index (MEI), and that larval variables were positively correlated with measures of fall recruitment (September & November), but not correlated with spring-summer recruitment (May & July). In the MHI, SST variables were not correlated with the MEI, but two successive El Niño events of 2014–15 and 2015–2016 were characterized by SST maxima approaching 30°C. Two large pulses of benthic recruitment occurred in the 2009 and 2014 recruitment seasons, with > 8000 recruits observed by divers over the summer and fall months. Both events were characterized by either neutral or negative MEI indices measured during the preceding winter months. These patterns suggest that La Niña and the neutral phases of the ENSO cycle are generally favorable for adult reproduction and larval development in the spring and summer, while El Niño phases may limit recruitment in the late summer and fall. We hypothesize that episodic recruitment during non-El Niño phases is related to favorable survivorship and transport dynamics that are associated with the formation of pairs of anticyclonic and cyclonic eddies on the leeward sides (western shores) of the Main Hawaiian Islands.
Stakeholders’ perceptions towards patients’ participation in promoting hand hygiene among health care workers in Wakiso district, Uganda
Authors: Buregyeya Esther , Atusingwize Edwinah , Nuwematsiko Rebecca , Mugambe Richard K. , Ssekamatte Tonny , Tenywa Ronald , Twinomugisha Fred , Yakub Habib , Moe Christine
Published: October 2024

Introduction

Hand hygiene compliance is one of the key performance indicators for infection prevention and control programmes, patient safety and quality of health services. WHO guidelines and the patient centred approach stress the need to increase patient involvement in hand hygiene promotion in healthcare settings. Patients’ and health care workers’ perspectives are critical for developing interventions to foster patient involvement in promoting hand hygiene. This study explored perceptions of health care workers and patients towards patients’ involvement in hand hygiene promotion.

Methods

An exploratory qualitative study was conducted in four health facilities: three public, and one private non-profit in central Uganda. We conducted key informant interviews (KIIs) with health care workers and focus group discussions (FGDs) with patients. Respondents were asked their views about a patient reminding a health care worker to practice hand hygiene and how best this can be done. Interviews were audio-recorded, and transcribed. Thematic content analysis was used.

Results

We led seven FGDs grouped by sex (6 participants each), with patients from different units of the study health care facilities and 23 KIIs with the in-charges of the health care facilities, wards, and infection control committee members. The majority of the KIIs were in the age category 30 to 45 years (10/23), females (14/23), and 7/23 were nurses by cadre. For the FGD participants, the majority were aged 30 to 45 years (23/42), 24/42 were females, 21/42 had attained secondary education as their highest level of education and 21/42 were Catholics. The health care workers’ and patients’ views towards patients’ participation in promoting hand hygiene among health care workers are presented according to the four themes that emerged: i) Patients reminding health care workers to practice hand hygiene was offensive; ii) Patients fear of negative response from health care workers, including being denied or receiving poor quality services; iii) Role of management in influencing hand hygiene (patient reminding a health care workers to wash hands could be acceptable in private health facilities compared to the public ones); iv) Suggestions on how patients’ reminders to health care workers can be done, included empowering patients to do the reminders in a friendly and polite approach to the HCW.

Conclusion

Patients are reluctant to remind health workers to practice hand hygiene, because they feel it is confrontational and embarrassing, while health care workers find it offensive. Patient involvement seems to threaten patient-provider relationships. However patient empowerment was reported to be critical in promoting it and this is in-line with the hand hygiene guidelines.
Catheter-based examination for pulmonary microcirculatory function in patients with pulmonary hypertension
Authors: Yamaji Kazunori , Sasaki Ken-ichiro , Nakano Masaharu , Yoshiga Takumi , Sasaki Masahiro , Sugiyama Yoichi , Ishimatsu Takashi , Itaya Naoki , Nakayoshi Takaharu , Mitsutake Yoshiaki , Tahara Nobuhiro , Fukumoto Yoshihiro
Published: October 2024

A device that can evaluate human pulmonary microcirculation is currently unavailable. This study aimed to establish a novel approach for assessing pulmonary microcirculation in patients with pulmonary hypertension (PH). We used a guidewire embedded with temperature and pressure sensors to measure the following pulmonary microcirculatory function indicators: pulmonary flow reserve, pulmonary index of microcirculatory resistance (PIMR), and pulmonary resistive reserve ratio. Adenosine was administered to patients to induce hyperemia in the pulmonary artery for assessment. The correlation between these indicators and various parameters, including serum biomarkers, hemodynamic and respiratory functions, and exercise capacity, were examined. The procedure was performed in 19 patients with moderate PH, without major complications. The minimum effective adenosine dosage for maximal hyperemia, without severe side effects, was 150 μg∙kg−1∙min−1. Multivariate stepwise analysis revealed a positive correlation between the hyperemic PIMR and serum uric acid (p < 0.001) and N-terminal probrain natriuretic peptide levels (p = 0.014). Therefore, this catheter-based method offers an effective means to assess pulmonary microcirculatory function in patients with PH, and the optimal dose of adenosine for this evaluation was 150 μg∙kg−1∙min−1.
The SWI/SNF subunit ARID1B is important for regenerative ability of hematopoietic stem cells in normal hematopoiesis
Authors: Arnold Olivia , Bluemn Theresa , Stelloh Cary , Rao Sridhar , Zhu Nan
Published: October 2024

The Switch/Sugar non-fermenting (SWI/SNF) nucleosome remodeling complexes are essential for normal hematopoiesis. The Brg1/Brm associated factor (BAF) is a form of mammalian SWI/SNF that is distinguished by the presence of either ARID1A or ARID1B protein. In this study, we used hematopoietic specific Cre mouse models to assess the function of Arid1b in blood development. We found Arid1b loss did not affect steady state hematopoiesis or hematopoietic regeneration. Nonetheless, Arid1b null hematopoietic stem and progenitor cells have reduced ability to reconstitute hematopoietic system compared to wild type cells. Overall, our data indicate Arid1b is largely dispensable for normal hematopoiesis but impairs the regenerative ability of HSPCs.
A protocol to simultaneously examine cardiorespiratory, cerebrovascular and neurophysiological responses inside a hypobaric chamber
Authors: Hutcheon Evan A. , Ferguson Sherri , Claydon Victoria E. , Ribary Urs , Doesburg Sam M.
Published: October 2024

We describe a protocol to examine neurophysiological (electroencephalography, EEG), cerebrovascular (ultrasound assessments of middle cerebral artery blood velocity, MCAv) and cardiorespiratory (blood pressure, oxygen saturation, end-tidal gases, respiratory rate) responses inside a hypobaric chamber. This procedure aims to standardize the methodology in experiments conducted within a hypobaric chamber such as comparing normobaric and hypobaric hypoxia. This is important because current understanding of relationships between neurophysiological activity, and cerebrovascular and cardiorespiratory responses under varying environmental conditions remains limited. This procedure combines simultaneous neurophysiological, cardiorespiratory and cerebrovascular evaluations, allowing a comprehensive understanding of electro-neurophysiological activity. Our protocol requires an hour and a half of equipment setup, 1–1.5 hours of participant set-up, and 30 minutes of experimental data collection. Since multiple simultaneous physiological recordings, including EEG in this environment, can be fraught with pitfalls, we also provide practical considerations for experimental design and recording setup. Advanced knowledge of hypobaric chamber operation is required, alongside expertise in EEG and transcranial Doppler ultrasonography. Following our procedure one will acquire simultaneous recordings of neurophysiological, cerebrovascular and cardiorespiratory data.
Chronic Ischemic Gastritis in a Patient With a History of Cancer and Atherosclerotic Disease
Authors: Parisi Ignazio Marzio , Vattiato Claudia , Caramia Vitantonio , Sottotetti Federico , Ciarfella Antonio , Vjero Katerina
Published: October 2024

Chronic mesenteric ischemia is an uncommon disease presenting with nonspecific symptoms. The large number of differential diagnoses may result in diagnostic delays and progression to acute mesenteric ischemia. A 74-year-old woman with a history of breast cancer and carotid atherosclerosis complained of postprandial abdominal pain, vomiting, and weight loss. Endoscopic examination showed active chronic gastritis Helicobacter pylori negative. Contrast-enhanced computed tomography revealed stenosis in the mesenteric arterial district. Chronic gastritis resistant to treatment in a patient complaining of postprandial abdominal pain and weight loss should be investigated for chronic mesenteric ischemia, although history of cancer could be a misleading factor.
Design strategy for the prototyping of 3D-printed continuous fiber-reinforced components for solar-powered vehicle
Authors: Babbi Giulia , Minak Giangiacomo
Published: October 2024

Continuous fiber fused filament fabrication is an advanced 3D printing method that allows designers to produce high-performing lightweight structures, leading toward innovative design philosophies and sustainable production chains. In this work, we proposed a design strategy to manufacture selected components for a solar-powered vehicle, which consists of three stages. Firstly, the prototypes’ CAD models are developed, considering their geometric and manufacturing requirements. Then, a finite element analysis is carried out to ensure optimal fiber reinforcement of prototypes’ critical regions. Lastly, the manufacturing stage involves the slicing process and optimization of the time and cost of the printed part employing Markforged® technology. Adopting the proposed methodology, the experimental campaign investigated the print quality and performance of several prototypes of each component by adjusting printing parameters.
Least Squares Approximation Method for Estimation of Volterra Fractional Integro-differential equation using Hermite Polynomial as the basis functions
Authors: Akinsanya Ayodeji , Agholor Gabriel
Published: October 2024

This research work utilizes the least squares approximation method to estimate approximate solutions for fractional-order integro-differential equations, with Hermite polynomials as basis functions. The process begins by assuming an approximate solution of degree N, which is then substituted into the fractional-order integro-differential equation under investigation. After evaluating the integral, the equation is rearranged to isolate one side, allowing the application of the least squares method. Three examples were solved using this approach. In Example 1, the numerical results for α=0.9 and α=0.8 were compared to the exact solution for α=1. In Examples 2 and 3, the results for α=1.9 and α=1.8 were compared to the exact solution for α=2. These comparisons showed favorable alignment with the exact solutions. The numerical results and graphical illustrations demonstrate the validity, competence, and accuracy of the proposed method.
Penetralan pH Air Asam Tambang Menggunakan Metode Pasif Open Limestone Channel dengan Penambahan Fly Ash, Zeolite, dan Pasir Silika Pada Pengujian Skala Laboratorium
Authors: Ananda Rizky , HAR Rusli , Prabowo Heri , Rahman Harizona Aulia
Published: October 2024

Air Asam Tambang memiliki pH yang rendah dengan kandungan logam terlarut yang tinggi. Kondisi ini apabila tidak dilakukan pengelolaan akan memberikan dampak buruk bagi lingkungan, seperti turunnya kualitas air sungai sehingga mengganggu ekosistem sungai terutama. Untuk itu penelitian ini perlu dilakukan dengan berfokus pada upaya penetralan pH air asam tambang atau air tambang dengan memanfaatkan cara pengelolaan pasif yaitu saluran kapur terbuka batu kapur (Open Limestone Channel) dengan memodifikasi melalui penambahan beberapa bahan yang dianggap mampu menetralkan pH berdasarkan penelitian sebelumnya seperti pencampuran air asam tambang dengan fly ash, penambahan zeolit pada saluran open limestone channel, dan pemanfaatan pasir silika sebagai penyaring air sehingga dapat meningkatkan pH air yang ada. Nilai pH awal air asam tambang yang digunakan pada penelitian ini adalah dengan pH 3,75, dan dari hasil pengujian yang dilakukan diperoleh nilai rata-rata pH akhir sebesar 6,59 dan efisiensi peningkatan pH dari pH awal pada setiap pengujiannya dengan rata-rata 76%.
Geovisualisasi Kondisi Air Tanah pada Akuifer Tidak Tertekan di Kecamatan Ngemplak Kabupaten Sleman
Authors: Sejati Sadewa Purba , Panji Panji
Published: October 2024

Penelitian ini bertujuan untuk mengidentifikasi kondisi air tanah, mengetahui kemampuan sistem informasi geografis (SIG) berbasis web sebagai media geovisualisasi kondisi air tanah, dan merumuskan strategi manajemen lingkungan air tanah. Kondisi air tanah diidentifikasi menggunakan data kedalaman air tanah, daya hantar listrik (DHL), suhu, warna, bau, dan rasa air tanah. Data dikumpulkan dengan metode survei lapangan. Sampel ditentukan menggunakan metode systematic random sampling. Data dianalisis menggunakan perangkat lunak ArcGIS 10.6 dengan metode interpolasi spasial untuk menghasilkan informasi tematik. Informasi tematik digunakan untuk menyusun geovisualisasi berbasis web menggunakan ArcGIS Online Web App Builder. Strategi manajemen lingkungan air tanah dirumuskan menggunakan matriks SWOT berdasarkan geovisualisasi kondisi air tanah. Hasil penelitian menunjukkan bahwa air tanah di daerah penelitian didominasi oleh kedalaman kurang dari 3,5 meter. Nilai DHL berada pada rentang 143-520 microsiemens/cm, suhu air tanah berada pada rentang 25-28,50celcius. Kualitas air tanah secara umum masih baik dengan kondisi air yang tidak berbau, tidak berasa, dan tidak berwarna. Geovisualisasi berbasis web dapat dioperasikan pada berbagai macam perangkat elektronik. Tipe prosesor dan kapasistas memori sangat mempengaruhi aksesibiltas perangkat eletronik terhadap program tersebut. Semakin besar kapasitas ram dan semakin terkini prosesor yang digunakan maka waktu yang dibutuhkan untuk mengakses program semakin cepat. Geovisualisasi berbasis web memiliki kelebihan, yaitu tampilan lebih menarik, paperless, dan integrasi dengan berbagai macam data kewilayahan mudah dilakukan. Strategi manajemen lingkungan air tanah di daerah penelitian terdiri dari tiga bagian, yaitu strategi aksesibilitas terhadap air tanah, strategi untuk menjaga kuantitas air tanah, dan strategi untuk menjaga kualitas air tanah.